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The оutbreаk оf соrоnа virus diseаse (СОVID-19 pandemic) hаs аffeсted theРаkistаni eсоnоmyseverely.Mаjоr viсtims оf the СОVID-19 оutbreаk аre miсrо, smаll, аnd medium-sized enterрrises (MSMEs). This study аims tо аssess the imрасt оf СОVID-19 pandemic оn the businesses of MSMEs аnd рrоvide роliсy reсоmmendаtiоns tо helр MSMEs in reduсing business lоsses аnd survive thrоugh the сrisis. Finаnсiаl engineering is а multidisсiрlinаry field invоlving finаnсiаl theоry, methоds оf engineering, tооls оf mаthemаtiсs аnd the рrасtiсe оf рrоgrаmming. It hаs аlsо been defined аs the аррliсаtiоn оf teсhniсаl methоds, esрeсiаlly frоm mаthemаtiсаl finаnсe аnd соmрutаtiоnаl finаnсe, in the рrасtiсe оf finаnсe. Islamic Finаnсiаl Engineering (IFE) рlаys а key rоle in the сustоmer-driven derivаtives business whiсh enсоmраsses quаntitаtive mоdeling аnd рrоgrаmming, trаding аnd risk mаnаging derivаtive products. The aimof the study is tо exрlоre whether the Islаmiс finаnсiаl engineeringсоntributes or not tо resоlve the issues of СОVID-19 in Раkistаn i.e: (а) tо identify the imроrtаnt rоle оf Islаmiс finаnсiаl engineering tоwаrd СОVID-19 Issues remedies in Раkistаn (b) tо identify the imроrtаnt rоle оf IFE tо соmbаt СОVID-19 issues in Раkistаn (с) tо exрlоre mоre finаnсiаl рrоduсts tо соver uр the dent оn рооr рeорle due tо соvid-19 (d) tо imрrоve the rоle оf Islаmiс miсrоfinаnсe institutiоns with the help of IFE tools tо help the рeорle get rid of роverty (e) tо analyze роliсy imрliсаtiоns under IFE аnd reсоmmendаtiоn tо ассelerаte in аttаining the revivаl аfter СОVID-19. This study аdорts аn exрlоrаtоry methоdоlоgy that reviewes the аvаilаble literаture соmрrehensivelyon роliсy dосuments, reseаrсh рарers аnd reроrts. The study focuses on the above discussed objectives by examining the performance of MSMEs during and after COVID-19 pandemic. A comparision is given to depict the main variables in these periods i.e prior -during and after COVID-19 pandemic till July 2021. Recommndations hasbeengiven to the Government and regulators of financial and non-financial sectors to arm them to cope with such plausible issues in future.

Real-time in-stu structural health monitoring (SHM) of composite structure developed through highly sensitive and flexible smart sensors based on colloidal solution of Silver Nano Particles (AgNPs). Synthesis of AgNPs through chemical reduction method by citrate and then in Haxen phase transferred by using surfactant Cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). Colloidal solution of AgNPs-Haxen and Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) - Haxen has been followed by mixed, calcined and deposited that thick paste on flexible Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) film. These sensors become more sensitive than metallic foil made sensors and farther this sensor pasted on polymer composite for monotonic loading like tensile loading. The data extracted from sensors was monitored effectively by data acquisitioning technique using Keithley KUSB-3100. This research based on chemical synthesis of metallic nanoparticles like silver, its functionalization, protection of these nanoparticles from environment by capping agents and by creating inert atmosphere respectively. Then these functionalized capped nanoparticles are embedded on the surface of thermoplastic Urethane (TPU) film to make piezo resistive semi conductive strips which serve as flexible strain gauge/smart sensor. One other technique is also being used to make sensor is that colloidal solution of metallic Nanoparticles sprays over TPU substrate using Connective Self Assembly (CSA) method. The sensor then properly attached to Glass fabric reinforced polymer (GFRP) composite and calibrated using data acquisitioning (DAQ) under different mode of testing.

This study investigated the effects of adding natural renewable mustard oil (Mo) as a rejuvenator, and reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) to asphalt mixes for pavement maintenance and rehabilitation. Mo was utilized 10% by weight of binder with 30% RAP in modified asphalt mixes using two types of aggregate gradations. Performance characteristics of neat and modified asphalt mixes are evaluated through fatigue resistance, rutting resistance, and moisture damage resistance testing. The experimental results revealed that the addition of 10% Mo effectively rejuvenates asphalt mixes containing RAP by softening the aged binder typically from 6% to 14%. The bending fatigue resistance of modified asphalt mixes improves from 14% to 26%, rutting resistance decreases from 12% to 14% whereas moisture damage resistance also decreases from 12% to 16% respectively as compared to neat mixes. This research presents sustainable and cost-effective solution for utilizing Mo and RAP used in asphalt mixes for pavement maintenance and rehabilitation.

This article explores a combined approach of Qur’ānic counseling with psychotherapy to deal with the process of trauma recovery by highlighting spiritual wisdom with evidence-based psychological interventions. Trauma can leave deep wounds inside a person, affecting their mind and emotions. To heal these wounds, we look at two different approaches: Qur’ānic counseling and psychotherapy. The Qur’ān, a holy book in Islam, offers guidance and wisdom on how to cope with difficulties and find strength in hard times. Stated Allah Almighty in the Holy Qur’ān "And We send down of the Qur'an that which is healing and mercy for the believers, but it does not increase the wrongdoers except in loss," (Qur’ān, 17: 82). Islamic teachings provide wealth of insight and direction for dealing with adversity. Psychotherapy, on the other hand, offers strategies for understanding and managing trauma-related symptoms to help people overcome their psychological struggles. By combining psychotherapy with Qur'ānic teachings, a holistic approach to trauma recovery is created. This integrated method uses proven psychotherapy techniques and spiritual guidance from the Qur'ān to support trauma survivors effectively. Overall, this article aims to show how blending spiritual guidance with psychological support can offer hope and healing to those who have experienced trauma.

Traditional healers have used the shrub Calotropis procera (CP) for many years for various therapies. The present study investigated the bioactive constituents of ethanolic extract of CP leaf and dried latex using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy. The identification and characterization of the compounds were confirmed by examining the constituents' mass spectrum fragmentations and FT-IR spectra and comparing the results with those in the literature. The tail-flick method was used to investigate the analgesic properties of the extract and its anti-inflammatory activities using a rat model of formalin-induced oedema. Acute oral toxicity in rats was studied per OECD recommendations. Twenty male rats were divided into four groups and received an ethanolic extract of the leaves and dried milky sap of CP (200 mg/Kg) in groups 1, 2, and 3. Group 4 rats were administered aspirin 50 mg/kg as a positive control. The CP dried latex extract has the highest content of lupeol and its acetate derivative compared to its leaf extract. The CP dried latex extract inhibited inflammation more significantly than the ethanolic leaf extract and the drug indomethacin at a higher dosage (200 mg/kg). The ethanolic extracts showed analgesia comparable to aspirin. It suggests that fatty acids and their esters, particularly ethyl linoleate (8.96%), ethyl palmitate (7.99%), ethyl linoleate (6.98%), and palmitic acid (5.18%), may be valuable biomarkers for characterizing leaf and latex samples and describing the medicinal potential of CP.

Phoenix dactylifera, commonly called date palm, has great importance as a fruiting plant. The hot methanolic extract of date seeds (HMEDSE), was further fractionated into three fractions (F1, F2, and F3) through column chromatography. The three fractions were composed of various bioactive constituents which was analysed through GC-MS and FT-IR analysis. The results revealed remarkable antibacterial properties of crude HMEDSE against various pathogenic microorganisms affecting humans. The spectrum of activity of HMEDSE against various human pathogenic bacteria showed the following sequence based on its efficacy, Escherichia coli (17.6 ± 2.5 mm), Klebsiella pneumoniae (16.3 ± 2.5 mm), Staphylococcus aureus (16.3 ± 1.5 mm), Streptococcus pyogenes (15 ± 2.6 mm), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (15 ± 2 mm), and lastly, Bacillus subtilis (14.3 ± 2 mm). Furthermore, HMEDSE exhibited cytotoxicity, with an IC50 of 73.5 ± 0.5 µg/mL against MCF-7 ATCC breast cancer cells, leading to gradual apoptosis.

Swarm-inspired computing techniques are the best candidates for solving various nonlinear problems. The current study aims to exploit the swarm intelligence technique known as Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) for the numerical investigation of a nonlinear system of latently infected CD4+T cells. The strength of the Mexican Hat Wavelet (MHW) based unsupervised Feed Forward Artificial Neural Network (FFANN) is used to solve the nonlinear system of latently infected CD4+T cells. The function approximation of unsupervised ANN is used to construct the mathematical model of the latently infected CD4+T cells by defining the error function in the mean square manner. The adjustable parameters called the unknowns of the network are optimized by using the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Nedler Mead Simplex Method (NMSM), and their hybrid PSO-NMSM. The PSO applied for the global optimization of weights aided by the NMSM algorithm for rapid local search. Finally, a Comprehensive Monte Carlo simulation and statistical analysis of the analytical method, numerical Range Kutta (RK) method, ANN optimized with Genetic Algorithm (GA) aided with Sequential Quadratic Programming (SQP) known as GA-SQP, ANN-PSO-SQP and the proposed MHW-HIVFFANN-PSO-NMSM are performed to validate the effectiveness, stability, convergence, and computational complexity of each scheme. It is observed that the proposed MHW-FFANN-HIVPSO-NMSM scheme has converged in all classes at $10~^{-6}$ , $10^{-7}$ , and $10~^{-8}$ and solved the nonlinear system of latently infected CD4+ T cells more accurately and effectively. The absolute error lies in $10^{-3}$ , $10^{-4}$ , $10^{-4}$ , and $10^{-5}$ for numerical, ANN-GA-SQP, ANN-PSO-SQP, and proposed MHW-ANN-PSO-NMSM respectively. Moreover, the proposed scheme is stable for the large number of independent runs. The values for global statistical indicators’ global mean squared error are lies 8.15E-09, 3.25E-10, 4.15E-09, and 3.15E-10 for class X(t), W(t), Y(t), and V(t) respectively whereas the global mean absolute deviation lies in range 7.35E-09, 8.50E-10, 2.10E-10 and 7.10E-09.

Several technologies provide cellular connectivity to transmit data to end devices (EDs) in the indoor environment. These technologies have short-range; complex network architecture; short lifespan; and high power consumption. In this paper, LoRa is utilized to design the Building Internet of Things (BIoT) system for electronic shelf labels (ESL) to provide long-range connectivity. To minify the transmission losses, the concurrent data exploits data parallelism for updating transmission parameters at the network server (NS) for non-interruptive communication between the centroid gateways (GWs) and allocated EDs. The EDs are deployed by K-means at different locations in each cluster based on spreading factor (SF) and data rate (DR) to avoid data congestion and intra-SF interference for the SF and hybrid (DR/SF) models. The varying bandwidths (BWs) and duty cycles (DCs) enhance the lifespan of the EDs, while the Bayesian game parameter selection (BGPS) method minimizes the power losses among the EDs. The one-slope estimates medium losses; the adjusted R-square predicts variance; and Pearson finds a correlation among the measured values. The hybrid model improves the network’s performance to a spiraling average efficiency of 90.48 % and 89.64 %, with network saturation of 10.185 % and 10.337 % for pure and slotted ALOHA, respectively. The overall results illustrate a packet loss ratio (PLR) of 20.11 % for the SF model and 4.861 % for the hybrid model. The energy dissipation plunged to 0.06032 J per day, prolonging the EDs’ life span to 14265.34 days.

This work addresses the significant issue of plasma waves interacting with non-linear dynamical systems in both perturbed and unperturbed states, as modeled by the generalized Whitham–Broer–Kaup–Boussinesq–Kupershmidt (WBK-BK) Equations. We investigate analytical solutions and the subsequent emergence of chaos within these systems. Initially, we apply advanced mathematical techniques, including the transform method and the G′G2 method. These methods allow us to derive new precise solutions and enhance our understanding of the non-linear processes dominating plasma wave dynamics. Through a systematic analysis, we identify the conditions under which the system transitions from orderly patterns to chaotic behavior. This investigation provides valuable insights into the fundamental mechanisms of non-linear wave propagation in plasmas. Our results highlight the dynamic interplay between non-linearity and variation, leading to chaos, which may be useful in predicting and potentially controlling similar phenomena in practical applications.

As a result of oversimplified anti-cubic non-linearity, we are interested in form optical solitons to the nonlinear Schrödinger equation (NLSE). The modified G′G2 creates new solitons that include periodic type solitons in chirped forms. These findings are extremely beneficial to the study of optics. The acquired outcomes are confirmed and explained using various graphs. Computational results show that the preceding analytical expansion scheme is efficient. We present some sufficient conditions for the presence of random quasi-periodic measures for various partial differential equations and sufficient conditions for the presence of quasi-periodic measurements and satisfaction of the NLSE equation. It is discovered that a saddle point bifurcation causes the transition from periodic to quasi-periodic actions in a sensitive area. Further investigation reveals favorable conditions for the multidimensional bifurcation of increasingly complex solutions. Our results provide insight into the complex interplay between periodic and quasi-periodic behaviors and further our understanding of the complex dynamics displayed by these PDE‘s. The outcomes that are being given broaden the field's current understanding and provide opportunities for more investigation into the intricate mathematical structures that underlie partial differential equation solutions.

Abstract Early seed germination significantly influences crop growth and production, prompting the exploration of seed priming as a pivotal technique. Despite the acknowledged importance of faster germination and emergence for successful seedling establishment, oilseed crops like Sinapis alba have received limited attention concerning seed priming methods, unlike cereal and grain crops. This study aimed to bridge this gap by subjecting S. alba seeds to six priming treatments: T1 = control, T2 = distilled water, T3 = NaCl (0.5%), T4 = KNO3 (0.5%), T5 = CaCl2 (0.5%), and T6 = Moringa leaf extract at a 1:30 ratio (30 times diluted), to assess their impact on various growth and yield parameters. The data analysis revealed significant effects of seed priming on various parameters, with exceptions in plant height unaffected by seed soaking. Seed priming notably enhanced germination percentage, germination rate index, and seedling vigor index, while reducing mean germination time to emergence significantly. Furthermore, primed seeds exhibited significant increases in seedling fresh and dry weights, crop growth rate, net assimilation rate, root and shoot lengths, leaf area, chlorophyll content, early flowering, branch numbers, pod counts, and 1000‐seed weight compared to non‐primed seeds. The biological yield was relatively higher in treated seeds. Additionally, seed yield and oil content were found to be higher in primed seeds compared to the control. Among the treatments, KNO3 along with Moringa, displayed the most desirable outcomes across overall seedling parameters, suggesting their recommendation for effective priming treatments to improve the growth and yield of S. alba.

Abstract In this study, a polar extract of Aconitum lycoctonum L. was used for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), followed by their characterization using different techniques and evaluation of their potential as antioxidants, amylase inhibitors, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agents. The formation of AgNPs was detected by a color change, from transparent to dark brown, within 15 min and a surface resonance peak at 460 nm in the UV–visible spectrum. The FTIR spectra confirmed the involvement of various biomolecules in the synthesis of AgNPs. The average diameter of these spherical AgNPs was 67 nm, as shown by the scanning electron micrograph. The inhibition zones showed that the synthesized nanoparticles inhibited the growth of Gram-positive and negative bacteria. FRAP and DPPH assays were used to demonstrate the antioxidant potential of AgNPs. The highest value of FRAP (50.47% AAE/mL) was detected at a concentration of 90 ppm and a DPPH scavenging activity of 69.63% GAE was detected at a concentration of 20 µg/mL of the synthesized AgNPs. 500 µg/mL of the synthesized AgNPs were quite efficient in causing 91.78% denaturation of ovalbumin. The AgNPs mediated by A. lycoctonum also showed an inhibitory effect on α-amylase. Therefore, AgNPs synthesized from A. lycoctonum may serve as potential candidates for antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic agents.

Incidences of drug-resistant tuberculosis have become common and are rising at an alarming rate. Aminoacyl t-RNA synthetase has been validated as a newer target against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Leucyl t-RNA synthetase (LeuRS) is ubiquitously found in all organisms and regulates transcription, protein synthesis, mitochondrial RNA cleavage, and proofreading of matured t-RNA. Leucyl t-RNA synthetase promotes growth and development and is the key enzyme needed for biofilm formation in Mycobacterium. Inhibition of this enzyme could restrict the growth and development of the mycobacterial population. A database consisting of 2734 drug-like molecules was screened against leucyl t-RNA synthetase enzymes through virtual screening. Based on the docking scores and MMGBSA energy values, the top three compounds were selected for molecular dynamics simulation. The druggable nature of the top three hits was confirmed by predicting their pharmacokinetic parameters. The top three hits—compounds 1035 (ZINC000001543916), 1054 (ZINC000001554197), and 2077 (ZINC000008214483)—were evaluated for their binding affinity toward leucyl t-RNA synthetase by an isothermal titration calorimetry study. The inhibitory activity of these compounds was tested against antimycobacterial activity, biofilm formation, and LeuRS gene expression potential. Compound 1054 (Macimorelin) was found to be the most potent molecule, with better antimycobacterial activity, enzyme binding affinity, and significant inhibition of biofilm formation, as well as inhibition of the LeuRS gene expression. Compound 1054, the top hit compound, has the potential to be used as a lead to develop successful leucyl t-RNA synthetase inhibitors.

Abstract This study estimates the timing of unconformity between marine–continental transitional sequence of the Kuldana Formation and continental sequence of the Murree Formation for the first time across the Hazara-Kashmir syntaxis, western Himalaya, Pakistan. The ages of the studied units are constrained using detrital zircon U–Pb geochronology. The maximum depositional ages constrained by weighted mean and youngest detrital zircon age are 37 ± 1.7 Ma and 22.5 ± 0.6 Ma for top of Kuldana and base of Murree formations, respectively. Based on this age, the duration of hiatus is estimated to be ~ 14.5 Ma. The comparison of this unconformity and sedimentation pattern along strike suggests that the initial collision occurred in the central segment causing its early uplift and erosion with development of the unconformity. The sedimentation in the central segment culminated at ~ 37 Ma and resumed at ~ 22.5 Ma. The wider gap in central segment becomes narrower at western and eastern margin suggesting discontinuous deposition due to gradually closure of western and eastern margin. This supports the diachronous collision of the Indian and Asian plates with initial contact at the central segment.

Water security is an emerging national security challenge for Pakistan. Combined with water scarcity, the quality of drinking water is rapidly deteriorating; the available drinking water is contaminated for many reasons, impacting the ecological chain in a pronounced way. Despite the government's strong commitment to the provision of clean drinking water to the citizens, and the use of smart technology for irrigation, which consumes 60%−70% of the water, to conserve the available water resources, the implementation of the policy is a daunting challenge. This study argues that surface and subsurface drinking water in Pakistan is being contaminated very quickly, creating several health risks and potential human security issues. The study examines the quality of drinking water through laboratory tests by collecting samples from selected urban and rural areas as a case study and examining them against the minimum safe ranges given in the international and national parameters for clean drinking water. As a result of laboratory testing, it has been revealed that the quality of drinking water in Pakistan is deteriorating sharply and the developing situation, if not addressed in time, has the potential to become the biggest health risk in the coming years. As water quality continues to worsen and water availability is gradually decreasing, the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) on water by 2030 is becoming a remote possibility. As a timely input to relevant institutions and government ministries, this study comprehensively highlights the challenges of water scarcity and water quality in Pakistan and provides recommendations for addressing the multidimensional water security issues in a sustainable manner and achieving UNSDG number 6 on access to clean water and sanitation for all by 2030.

Plants belonging to the genus Prosopis L. (family Fabaceae, subfamily Mimosoideae) have gained significant popularity in traditional medicine due to their potential as anticancer, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial compounds. The primary objective of this work was to determine the phytochemical composition of the ethanolic extract derived from Prosopis juliflora leaves, as well as to assess its antibacterial and cytotoxic properties. The phytochemical screening using GC-MS revealed the presence of phytosteroids, ketone, esters, diisooctyl phthalate, and triterpenes. Besides, varying amounts of some silicon derivatives, which were reported to have antimicrobial activity, were detected with octasiloxane, which showed the highest amount (18.47%). 6-Ethoxy-6-methyl-2-cyclohexenone (antioxidant, antidiabetic, antiobesity, and antimicrobial) was detected in considerable quantity. Cytotoxic activity was seen in human breast cancer (MCF-7), human ovary adenocarcinoma (A2780), and human colon adenocarcinoma (HT-29) cell lines, as well as in normal human fetal lung fibroblasts (MRC-5), when subjected to the MTT assay. The plant extract exhibited the highest level of activity (5.75 μg/mL) against the A2780 cell line, with the MCF-7 cell line showing a somewhat lower level of activity (18.49 μg/mL). The antibacterial effect of the plant extracts was evaluated against four standard Gram-positive and four standard Gram-negative. The antimicrobial potential was observed only against Staphylococcus aureus which recorded a 14.5 ± 0.05 mm inhibition zone. The present study has demonstrated the identification of bioactive constituents in P. juliflora plant extracts, which exhibit significant cytotoxic activity against breast and colon malignancies. The study also highlighted P. juliflora extract as an antibacterial against S. aureus.

The goal of this study was to use High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with an Analytical Quality by Design (AQbD) approach to measure the amount of caffeine in selected coffee samples available in the local Jazan market in Saudi Arabia. The experiment was performed on a Waters HPLC system equipped with a Raptor C-18 column. To achieve chromatographic separation, a mobile phase of ammonium acetate buffer (10 mM; pH 4.0) and acetonitrile in a 90:10 v/v ratio was used with a flow rate of 1 mL/min for 5 minutes at 274 nm. AQbD was used to optimize chromatographic conditions using a central composite design (CCD). A factorial design of 23 (two factors and three responses) was used with Stat-Ease Inc.'s Design Expert 13.0.3.0 software, Minneapolis, USA. The HPLC method was validated using ICH and USP guidelines, and it met all acceptance criteria. In the dilution range of 2–28 µg/mL, the procedure was shown to be linear. The caffeine content of all five samples (5 g/100 mL) was found to be 20.59–25.38 mg, which was below the level of toxicological concern recommended by the USFDA.

The study examines the propagation of solitary waves in optical fibers controlled by the Radhakrishnan–Kundu–Lakshmanan model (RKL) equation, which includes a cubic–quintic non-Kerr refractive index. The first step in this study involves utilizing the extended algebraic method to derive solitonic solutions for the given equation. These solutions are subsequently graphically represented for a variety of parameter values. The proposed strategy allows for the discovery of a range of solutions.The controlling model is incorporated into a planar dynamical system via the Galilean transformation, resulting in the transformation of the governing model. The effects of both the quintic nonlinearity and self-phase modulation on the perturbed and unperturbed systems are explored using the effective potential and related phase portrait. The governing model is thus transformed into a planar dynamical system. Furthermore, this study harnessed a variety of numerical techniques. These methods encompassed time series analysis, phase portraits examination, and meticulous sensitivity inspections. Additionally, we employed a Poincaré section to assess the equation’s responsiveness to external perturbations. The outcomes reveal a fascinating observation: the perturbed system’s behavior shifts from a quasi-periodic state to a chaotic one, contingent upon the amplitude and frequency of the external perturbation. Moreover, we conducted multistability analysis for specific sets of physical parameters, uncovering the equation’s tendency to exhibit multistability in such scenarios.

AbstractIn an age of depleting earth due to global warming impacting badly on the ozone layer of the earth system, the need to employ technologies to substitute those engineering practices which result in emissions contributing to the death of our earth has arisen. One of those technologies is one that can sufficiently replace overdependence on laboratory activities where oxides of carbon and other toxins are released. Also, it is one technology that brings precision to other engineering activities especially earthwork design and construction thereby reducing to lower ebb the release of carbon oxides due to inexact utilization of materials during geotechnical practices. In this review, the use of artificial intelligence techniques in geotechnics has been explored as a precise technique through which geotechnical engineering works don’t impact on our planet due to precision. The intelligent learning algorithms of ANN, Fuzzy Logic, GEP, ANFIS, ANOVA and other nature-inspired algorithms have been reviewed as they are applied in the prediction of geotechnical and geoenvironmental problems and system. It is a complex exercise to conduct experimental protocols during the design and construction of earthwork infrastructures. Most times, such experimental exercises don’t meet the required condition for sustainable design and construction. At other times, certain errors as a result of experimental set up or human misjudgment may mar the accuracy of measurements and release unexpected emissions. The employment of the evolutionary learning methods has solved most of the lapses encountered in repeated laboratory measurements. So, in this review work, the relevant computational intelligent techniques employed at different times, under different laboratory protocols and utilizing different materials, have been presented as a comprehensive guide to future researchers in this innovative and evolving field of artificial intelligence. With this extensive review, a researcher would not have to look far to get a technical and state of the art guide in the utilization of various intelligent techniques that would enable engineering models in a more efficient, precise and more sustainable approach to forestall multiple practices that release carbon emissions into the environment.

Background: The Ancient system of medicine showed the limelight on the use of herbal remedies and was found to possess minimal side effects and acceptable therapeutic outcomes. In this context, Prosopis juliflora gained importance in managing chronic diseases such as cancer, dermatological diseases, and chronic inflammatory disorders. Hence, P. juliflora was selected for further investigation associated with diabetes and inflammation. Aim: The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-diabetic activity in chemically induced experimental rats and explore the nature of phytocomponents that may produce this activity. Methods: Experimentally, diabetes was induced by a single administration of streptozotocin at 50 mg/kg intraperitoneally in Wistar rats. The animals were treated orally with P. juliflora at low and high doses (200 and 400 mg/kg) for 10 days. Blood collected from the retro-orbital plexus was analyzed for parameters like blood glucose levels, insulin, adiponectin, Keap1 and Nrf2. PPAR-γ, AMPK and GLUT 2 levels were analyzed in the pancreatic tissue. Besides, at the end of the experiment, animals were sacrificed, and the pancreatic tissue sections were subjected for histopathological, morphometrical and immune histochemical exploration. The phytochemical composition of the plant was investigated by GC–MS. Results: The administration of P. juliflora higher dose showed a significant decrease (**p

Objective: To compare the effects of microwave and light emitting diode disinfection on the dimensional stability of two denture base materials; polymethyl methacrylate and polyamide. Study Design: In-vitro study Place and Duration of Study: Peshawar Dental College and Material Research Laboratories, University of Peshawar from 10 June 2021 to 8 December 2021. Materials and Methods: Fifteen specimens each for polymethylmethacrylate and polyamide were divided into three groups, control, microwave & light emitting diode. The specimens for microwave group were irradiated at 1000W for 3 minutes, thrice a week. The specimens for light emitting diode group were disinfected in a device for 30 minutes, thrice a week. The control group specimens were placed in distilled water for 4 weeks. Dimensions were measured before disinfection, and four weeks after the assigned disinfection. The mean and the standard deviation of the differences between three groups were statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA and after obtaining significant values, through post hoc Tukey HSD. Results: For polymethylmethacrylate highest dimensional difference (-9.02mm) was noted for microwave disinfected group while the control group showed the lowest value (-6.99mm). For polyamide, the highest dimensional changes were recorded for light emitting diode group (8.66mm) and the lowest (-7mm) for the control group. Statistical analysis showed that the differences were significant for both polymethylmethacrylate and polyamide when compared with the control (p0.05) Conclusion: No significant difference in dimensional stability of both the denture base resins was observed after disinfection with microwave and light emitting diode.

This paper deals with the development of a novel time-domain analytical method to perform an aeroelastic stability analysis of a high aspect ratio wing. The aerodynamic model in this paper is built upon the frequency domain of Theodorsen aerodynamics. An inverse Fourier transform technique is applied to convert the Theodorsen frequency domain transfer function to the Wagner time-domain response function. Later, lift and moment expressions, containing aerodynamic lag states are obtained using the indicial function approach which performs the convolution of the unit step response Wagner lift function with arbitrary input and its time derivative using the principle of superposition. Additional equations containing the derivative of aerodynamic lag states are coupled with previously obtained lift and moment expressions to fully get the complete unsteady aerodynamic model in the time-domain. This time-domain unsteady aerodynamic model is then coupled with a combined bending torsion beam finite element model, using the state space approach. A complex eigenvalue analysis of this state space system is performed, using MATLAB, to determine both the static and dynamic aeroelastic stability boundary. Finally, in this paper, aeroelastic stability analysis of the high aspect ratio wing is performed using the current method and results are validated with MSC Nastran aeroelastic analysis and those available in the literature.

Abstract The advancement of non‐fullerene acceptors with crescent‐shaped geometry has led to the need for polymer donor improvements. Additionally, there is potential to enhance the photovoltaic parameters in high‐efficiency organic solar cells (OSCs). The random copolymerization method is a straightforward and effective strategy to further optimize photoactive morphology and enhance device performance. However, finding a suitable third component in terpolymers remains a crucial challenge. In this study, a series of terpolymer donors (PTF3, PTF5, PTF10, PTF20, and PTF50) is synthesized by introducing varying amounts of the trifluoromethyl‐substituted unit (CF3) into the PM6 polymer backbone. Even subtle changes in the CF3 content can significantly enhance all the photovoltaic parameters due to the optimized energy levels, molecular aggregation/miscibility, and bulk‐heterojunction morphology of the photoactive materials. Thus, the best binary OSC based on the PTF5:Y6‐BO achieves an outstanding power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 18.2% in the unit cell and a PCE of 11.6% in the sub‐module device (aperture size: 54.45 cm2), when using halogen‐free solvent o‐xylene. This work showcases the remarkable potential of the easily accessible CF3 unit as a key constituent in the construction of terpolymer donors in high‐performance OSCs.

Diabetic foot ulcer disease is the combination of vasculopathy, neuropathy and infection. It is important to identify the main aetiology and to treat it for optimal ulcer healing so that limb amputation may be prevented. A literature review spanning five years (2017-2021) was performed to assess the current understanding of these aetiologies and management options for their treatment. Peripheral artery disease is prevalent in patients with diabetes. Before performing any amputations, whether minor or major, vascular supply in these patients needs to be evaluated and, if needed, improved. Diabetic neuropathy is a long-term complication of uncontrolled diabetes. Patients’ education is very important with respect to selfcare and prevention of foot complications arising out of minor trauma in diabetic population. ---Continue

Due to their autotrophic nature, algae capture large quantities of CO _2 from the atmosphere and convert it to chemical energy in the form of biomolecules and cell mass for various applications. Such bio-based CO _2 capture plays an important role in global carbon neutrality, while making innovative and sustainable food and industrial products for human and animal use. This review broadly illustrates the total CO _2 emissions of the Southeast Asian region, named as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), while estimating CO _2 capture by regional commercial algae. Among all these nations, the top CO _2 emitter in the ASEAN region is Indonesia (625 Mt yr ^−1 ) followed by Vietnam (311 Mt yr ^−1 ), Thailand (289 Mt yr ^−1 ), Malaysia (249 Mt yr ^−1 ), the Philippines (154 Mt yr ^−1 ), Singapore (52 Mt yr ^−1 ), Myanmar (49 Mt yr ^−1 ), Cambodia (16 Mt yr ^−1 ), Laos and Brunei (7 Mt yr ^−1 ). Indonesia is also ranked first in commercial algae production (9918 400 tons yr ^−1 ), followed by the Philippines (1500 326 tons yr ^−1 ) and Malaysia (188 110 tons yr ^−1 ). Similarly, the highest estimated algal CO _2 capture is made by Indonesia (11 327 817 tons yr ^−1 ) followed by the Philippines (1705 871 tons yr ^−1 ) and Malaysia (214 279 tons yr ^−1 ), with other ASEAN countries having negligible algal CO _2 capture due to either low algae production or a lack of data. The ASEAN region may play a pivotal role in the bio-capture of CO _2 with the help of the phytoplanktonic aquaculture industry for value-added products. The rapid emergence of the algal industry in the ASEAN region was due to increased global demand for carrageenophyte seaweeds (98.63% of global), such as Eucheuma sp ., from Indonesia and Kappaphycus alvarezii from Malaysia and the Philippines. Due to its tropical climate, high aquatic biodiversity, sufficient water and nutrient resources, and long coastlines, the ASEAN regional governments took prompt action and implemented policies for increased seaweed industry in the region. Conclusively, it is desirable to further strengthen the algal industry in these regional countries for useful products and efficient CO _2 capture.

Recently, several methods has been used for the synthesis of bimetal oxide nanocomposite, however, very few studies are available on the solvent free mechanochemical synthesis of nanomaterials. In this study, mortar and pestle assisted fabrication of copper oxide-zirconium dioxide nanocomposite (CuO–ZrO _2 NC) was carried out and was calcined at 300, 600 and 900 °C. The variation in crystallographic parameters was examined through x-ray diffraction (XRD) and the crystallite size was found to be gradually increased with increasing calcination temperature. The morphological changes with increasing calcination temperature were traced during scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. The percentage elemental composition was verified through energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) spectroscopy whereas the functional group analysis was done through Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, where the intensity of peaks assigned to hydroxyl moiety decreased with increasing calcination temperature. The CuO–ZrO _2 NCs were used as a photocatalysts for the degradation of the Fluorescein in the presence of solar light and highest photodegradation (77.27%) was noticed for the CuO–ZrO _2 NC calcined at 900 °C.

Fundamental functions of the intestinal epithelium include the digestion of food, absorption of nutrients, and its ability to act as the first barrier against intruding microbes. Campylobacter jejuni is a major zoonotic pathogen accounting for a substantial portion of bacterial foodborne illnesses. The germ colonizes the intestines of birds and is mainly transmitted to humans through the consumption of contaminated poultry meat. In the human gastrointestinal tract, the bacterium triggers campylobacteriosis that can progress to serious secondary disorders, including reactive arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease and Guillain–Barré syndrome. We recently discovered that C. jejuni serine protease HtrA disrupts intestinal epithelial barrier functions via cleavage of the tight and adherens junction components occludin, claudin-8 and E-cadherin. However, it is unknown whether epithelial damage is mediated by the secreted soluble enzyme, by HtrA contained in shed outer-membrane vesicles (OMVs) or by another mechanism that has yet to be identified. In the present study, we investigated whether soluble recombinant HtrA and/or purified OMVs induce junctional damage to polarized intestinal epithelial cells compared to live C. jejuni bacteria. By using electron and confocal immunofluorescence microscopy, we show that HtrA-expressing C. jejuni bacteria trigger efficient junctional cell damage, but not soluble purified HtrA or HtrA-containing OMVs, not even at high concentrations far exceeding physiological levels. Instead, we found that only bacteria with active protein biosynthesis effectively cleave junctional proteins, which is followed by paracellular transmigration of C. jejuni through the epithelial cell layer. These findings shed new light on the pathogenic activities of HtrA and virulence strategies of C. jejuni.

Focusing on the Lower Bari Doab Canal (LBDC) command area, characterized by its heavy reliance on agriculture, this study addresses the critical issue of groundwater table fluctuations in response to diverse pumping scenarios. Herein, we comprehensively evaluated the dynamic interplay between crop water requirements and groundwater pumping within the expansive canvas of the LBDC, which is facing water shortages. Using the Penman–Monteith equation, we calculated annual average evapotranspiration for major crops—wheat, maize, cotton, rice, and sugarcane. Three-dimensional MODFLOW-based numerical modeling was used to analyze the dynamics of groundwater regimes. MODFLOW was calibrated from 2010 to 2020. Thereafter, we simulated water table changes under a 20% increase and decrease in groundwater extraction up to 2040s. Results revealed significant variations in water demands among these crops, with sugarcane requiring the highest average annual evapotranspiration at 1281 mm. Spatiotemporal analysis revealed substantial declines in the water table in the tail-end command areas, particularly Sahiwal and Khanewal where the decline was 0.55 m/year between 2010 and 2020. The upper reaches, such as Balloki and Okara, experienced milder declines. In considering management scenarios, a 20% increase in groundwater extraction up to September 2040 was projected to raise pumping to 4650 MCM/year. and decrease the net water balance to −235 MCM/year. Alternatively, a 20% decrease in groundwater extraction up to September 2040 could reduce pumping to 4125 MCM/year and increase the net water balance to 291 MCM/year. This study sheds light on major crop water requirements, spatiotemporal groundwater dynamics, and the implications of groundwater extraction in the LBDC command area. Scenarios presented here, encompassing increased and decreased groundwater extraction, offer invaluable guidance for policymakers and stakeholders seeking a balance between agricultural productivity and long-term groundwater sustainability.

Abstract Background The 7β-(3-ethyl-cis-crotonoyloxy)-1α-(2-methylbutyryloxy)-3,14-dehydro-Z-notonipetranone (ECN), a sesquiterpenoid isolated from the Tussilago farfara Linneaus (Asteraceae), was evaluated against acute Carrageenan and chronic complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritis in mice. Methods Acute and chronic arthritis were induced by administering Carrageenan and CFA to the intraplantar surface of the mouse paw. Edema, mechanical allodynia, mechanical hyperalgesia, and thermal hyperalgesia were assessed in the paw. Similarly, histological and immunohistological parameters were assessed following arthritis induced by CFA. Antioxidants, inflammatory cytokines, and oxidative stress markers were also studied in all the treated groups. Results The ECN treatment significantly attenuated edema in the paw and elevated the nocifensive threshold following induction of this inflammatory model. Furthermore, ECN treatment markedly improved the arthritis index and distress symptoms, while attenuating the CFA-induced edema in the paw. ECN treatment also improved the histological parameters in the paw tissue compared to the control. At the same time, there was a significant reduction in edema and erosion in the ECN-treated group, as measured by radiographic analysis. Using the Comet’s assay, we showed that ECN treatment protected the DNA from chronic CFA-induced arthritis. Immunohistochemistry analysis showed a marked decrease in the expression level of p-JNK (phosphorylated C-Jun N-terminal kinase), NF-κB (Nuclear factor-kappa B), COX-2 (Cyclooxygenase-2), and TNF-α (Tumour necrosis factor-alpha) compared to the CFA-treated group. Biophysical analysis involving molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and binding free energies of ECN were performed to explore the underlying mechanism. Conclusion ECN exhibited significant anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity against Carrageenan and CFA-induced models.

IntroductionIntellectual disability (ID) is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous disorder. It drastically affects the learning capabilities of patients and eventually reduces their IQ level below 70.MethodsThe current genetic study ascertained two consanguineous Pakistani families suffering from autosomal recessive intellectual developmental disorder-5 (MRT5). We have used exome sequencing followed by Sanger sequencing to identify the disease-causing variants.Results and discussionGenetic analysis using whole exome sequencing in these families identified two novel mutations in the NSUN2 (NM_017755.5). Family-A segregated a novel missense variant c.953A>C; p.Tyr318Ser in exon-9 of the NSUN2. The variant substituted an amino acid Tyr318, highly conserved among different animal species and located in the functional domain of NSUN2 known as “SAM-dependent methyltransferase RsmB/NOP2-type”. Whereas in family B, we identified a novel splice site variant c.97-1G>C that affects the splice acceptor site of NSUN2. The identified splice variant (c.97-1G>C) was predicted to result in the skipping of exon-2, which would lead to a frameshift followed by a premature stop codon (p. His86Profs*16). Furthermore, it could result in the termination of translation and synthesis of dysfunctional protein, most likely leading to nonsense-mediated decay. The dynamic consequences of NSUN2 missense variant was further explored together with wildtype through molecular dynamic simulations, which uncovered the disruption of NSUN2 function due to a gain in structural flexibility. The present molecular genetic study further extends the mutational spectrum of NSUN2 to be involved in ID and its genetic heterogeneity in the Pakistani population.

OBJECTIVES Haemodialysis (HD) is a form of renal replacement therapy commonly prescribed for chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. However, it is not without deleterious haemodynamic responses which may occur either during or immediately after the termination of the procedure. These may include hypotension or hypertension. The objective of this study was to determine the frequency of intradialytic blood pressure changes in chronic kidney disease patients on maintenance hemodialysis. METHODOLOGY Patients with chronic kidney disease on maintenance hemodialysis were enrolled. Predialysis and immediate post dialysis blood pressure was recorded. Increase in postdialysis blood pressure by >20mmHg was called intradialytic hypertension and decrease by >20mmHg was called intradialytic hypotension. RESULTS A total of 203 patients on maintenance hemodialysis were enrolled. Age of the patients ranged from 18 to 50 years. Mean age of the patients was 39.80 ± 5.245 years. Male to female ratio was 1.8:1. Intradialytic hypotension was observed in 36 patients (17.7%) while intradialytic hypertension was observed in 22 patients (10.8%). CONCLUSION Intradialysis blood pressure fluctuations such as hypotension and hypertension are common complications during hemodialysis. Intradialytic hypotension is more frequent.

Despite being an essential trace element for numerous metabolic processes and micronutrients, copper (Cu) has induced adverse effects on the environment and public health due to its continuous and widespread use for the last several decades. The current study assessed the hematological and histopathological alterations in the freshwater fish (Labeo rohita) exposed to graded concentrations of copper sulfate. For this purpose, L. rohita fish (n = 72), weighing ~200–215 g, were randomly divided into four experimental groups and then exposed to acute doses of CuSO4, i.e., control, 0.28, 0.42, and 0.56 μgL−1. For comparative analysis of hematological and biochemical changes, blood/serum samples were obtained on 12, 24, and 36 days. Overall, the body weight of fish decreased with the time and dose of CuSO4; as the dose increases, body weight decreases. Dose and time-dependent results were observed in other parameters also. Results showed a significant increase in leukocytes, whereas red blood cells count, Hb, and Hct were significantly reduced in treated groups compared to the control. The mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MHC) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) showed a non-significant decrease in treated groups compared to the control group. Serum biochemical parameters, including total proteins, albumin, and globulin, decreased significantly (p < 0.05). At the same time, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), glucose, and cholesterol were significantly (p < 0.05) increased in the treated groups compared to the control group. Significantly (p < 0.05) increased levels of lipid peroxidation while decreased values of antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and reduced glutathione (RGSH) in the blood of fish were recorded. Histopathological examination of fish gills, liver, and kidneys showed inflammation and degenerative changes due to CuSO4 exposure. In the brain tissue, degenerative changes like neuron necrosis, intracellular edema, cytoplasmic vacuolization, and congestion were observed. In conclusion, the study indicates that exposure to copper sulfate, even in smaller concentrations, can cause adverse hematological and histopathological changes in L. rohita fish.

Abstract Purpose Women of reproductive age who carry fragile X premutation (PM) alleles have 56 to 200 CGG repeats in the 5′-untranslated region of FMR1 gene are at increased risk for producing children with intellectual disabilities (ID) or autism spectrum disorders (ASD) due to expansion of PM alleles to full mutation alleles (> 200 repeats) during maternal transmission. Methods In present study fragile X PM carrier screening was performed in total 808 women who were consulting primary health care centers for preconception care in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region of Pakistan between April, 2018 and December, 2020. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed for detection of PM carrier women and the CGG repeats number was confirmed by Southern blotting and capillary electrophoresis. Results The prevalence rate for PM carriers among preconception women was found to be 0.7% that was contributed by 0.5% women in risk group (RG1) with family history of ID and 0.2% in risk group 2 (RG2) with family history of ASD. PM carrier women had at least one affected child or sibling. In addition, the preconception women with FMR1 PM alleles were found to be at increased risk for primary ovary insufficiency (RG1: P = 0.0265, RG2: P = 0.0389), postpartum depression (RG1: P = 0.0240, RG2: P = 0.0501) and neuropsychiatric disorders (RG1: P = 0.0389, RG2: P = 0.0432). Conclusions Current study provides first evidence of fragile X PM carrier screening in Pakistani preconception women in primary care consultation. Findings of current study may help to improve preconception care and to reduce burden of fragile X associated disorders in our population.

Endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) has evolved as minimally invasive method of treating infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) with perioperatively mortality of less than 1% compared with 5% with open AAA repair as suggested by many randomized control trials. Computed tomography angiography is the imaging of choice for appropriate selection of a patient with EVAR. For patients with unsuitable anatomy, advanced EVARs techniques, such as fenestrated, branch, and chimney EVARs, are also increasingly being offered to patients with equal success. Patients with ruptured AAA are treated with this minimally invasive procedure. Percutaneous EVAR emerged with less of wound-related complications. Endoleaks are the most common complications peculiar to this procedure, and most are preventable by preoperative planning. They are detected on completion angiogram or on the surveillance imaging. This review discusses indications of EVAR, its selection criteria, procedural steps, and common complications associated with this procedure and advanced EVARs.

Over the last two decades, medical management of carotid artery patients has improved significantly. Most patients remain stable on best medical therapy (BMT), making interventions unnecessary in all patients. “Selective” intervention is advocated for only those few patients who are having vulnerable or unstable carotid artery plaques. Literature search was done to explore current concept and role of available investigations to identify vulnerable carotid plaques. Vulnerable plaque is defined as those plaques having active inflammation, high large necrotic lipid content, neovascularity, thin capsule, surface irregularity, or intraplaque hemorrhage. Ultrasound (US) is the simple, noninvasive, cost-effective investigation to differentiate soft (echolucent) from fibrocalcified (echogenic) plaques. It can also comment on other high-risk plaque features such as plaque volume and area. Contrast-enhanced US can visualize neovascularization and plaque surface irregularities better than conventional US. Computed tomography is limited in identifying most high-risk plaque features and is not useful. High-resolution magnetic resonance imaging is the most accurate and externally validated investigation to characterize most high-risk plaque components. Positron emission tomography has emerged as the most promising dynamic investigation to identify and quantify inflammatory plaques and will be clinically very useful in decision making.

Peripheral arterial disease in diabetic patients is often overlooked due to associated neuropathy. The very first presentation of these patients is with an ischemic ulcer or toe gangrene. Diabetics have a very high amputation rate compared to non-diabetic patients due to diffuse multi-segmental disease in the calcified tibial arteries. Early detection of the condition is a challenge in these patients. Even ankle-brachial pressure index may not be reliable. Both surgical and endovascular options are effective in wound healing. Endovascular techniques include percutaneous transluminal angioplasty with and without stenting, sub-intimal angioplasty, percutaneous transluminal angioplasty with drug-coated balloons, covered stents, and use of atherectomy devices. The current narrative review was planned to discuss the essentials of diagnosing peripheral arterial disease in diabetic patients and its various treatment options. Key Words: Diabetic foot, Foot ulcer, PAD, Peripheral vascular disease.

Objectives: Plants are the most prevalent primary natural source of active medications. Berberis baluchistanica Ahrendt is known for the treatment of various ailments. Bioactive components, nutritional and antioxidant capacity of Berberis baluchistanica bark and leaves ethanolic extracts were evaluated in this study. Methods: Total phenolics, flavonoids, antioxidant, nutritional and anti-nutritional contents were analyzed. Analysis of bioactive components identified the presence of tannins, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, coumarin, alkaloids, phenolics, saponins, steroids, anthraquinones and terpenoids. The capability of donating hydrogen was analyzed by their 50% inhibition concentration (IC50). Results: The bark possessed lower IC50 = 0.678 mg/mL and higher inhibition percentage of DPPH radical, compared to leaves IC50 = 0.785 mg/mL. The Ferric reducing antioxidant power of bark was relatively higher IC50 = 0.871 mg/mL than leaves IC50 = 0.996 mg/mL. The phenolic content of bark was 37.52 ± 1.56 mg GAE/g and that of leaves 28.32 ± 0.66 mg GAE/g, the total flavonoid contents in bark and leaves were 8.68 ± 0.93 and 11.81 ± 1.49 mg QE/g. Total proteins of the bark and leaves were 7.69 ± 0.65 mg BSAE/g and 3.63 ± 0.54 mg BSAE/g and carbohydrate contents of the bark and leaves were 4.46 ± 0.55 mg GE/g and 8.38 ± 0.71 mg GE/g respectively. The oxalate contents of bark were 0.12 ± 0.02 mg/g and leaves were 0.14 ± 0.19 mg/g and the phytate % composition of bark was 0.17 ± 0.24 % and leaves were 0.25 ± 0.08 % respectively. Conclusions: The determination of these compounds attaining a range of medicinal properties helps in maintaining the traditional use of bark and leaves extracts of Berberis baluchistanica in various biomedical fields.

In human medical practice, a hematological rule of three has been validated for healthy human populations. One such formula is estimating hemoglobin (Hb) levels as 1/3rd of Packed Cell Volume (PCV). However, no such hematological formulae have been devised and validated for veterinary medical practice. The present study was devised with an aim to evaluate the relationship between hemoglobin (Hb) concentration and Packed Cell Volume (PCV) in camels (n = 215) being reared under pastoralism, and to devise a simple pen-side hematological formula for estimation of Hb from PCV. The PCV was determined through microhematocrit method whereas Hb estimation by cyanmethaemoglobin method (HbD). The Hb was also calculated as 1/3rd of PCV and was dubbed as calculated Hb (HbC). Overall HbD and HbC were significantly (P≥0.05) different. Similar results were attained for all study groups i.e. males (n = 94) and females (n = 121), and young (n = 85) and adult (n = 130) camels. The corrected Hb (CHb) was deduced through regression prediction equation attained from linear regression model. Scatterplots were drawn, linear regression was carried out, and Bland Altman chart was built for agreement of both methods of Hb estimation. A non-significant (P≥0.05) difference was noticed between HbD and CHb. Bland Altman agreement analysis revealed satisfactory agreement between HbD and CHb and the data was distributed closely around the mean difference line (Mean = 0.1436, 95% CI = 3.00, -2.72). A simplified pen-side hematological formula for deducing Hb concentration from PCV is accordingly recommended viz. Hb concentration (g/dL) = 0.18(PCV)+5.4 for all age and gender groups of camels instead of its calculation as one-third of PCV.

Radiobasilic transposition arteriovenous fistula (RBTAVF) is often ignored as an option for haemodialysis access. We present the case of a 57-year-old male patient who presented at the AKUH vascular clinic, Karachi, for the creation of long-term haemodialysis vascular access. He had small-sized forearm cephalic vein (1.5 mm), but reasonable sized basilic vein. He underwent successful RBTAVF. Most of the guidelines recommend brachiocephalic fistula (BCF) as the second choice following radiocephalic AVF. This case recommends the inclusion of RBAVF as the second choice for vascular access in international guidelines, in addition to BCF and BBF. Keywords: Chronic kidney disease, Fistula, Haemodialysis access.

Epoxy composite coatings are used to reduce friction in mechanical components. The epoxy composites at high temperatures cause serious frictional effects due to poor surface characteristics. Hence, there is a need to find a substitute to improve their frictional behaviour in high-temperature conditions. Adding fillers and lubrication are key solutions to improve tribological properties. In this research work, diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) epoxy resin was coated on steel, and silica powder (5% by weight) was used as filler. The experiments were conducted under dry and lubricated conditions with and without filler. The coefficient of friction (COF) was examined at different temperatures. The results show that the COF increases with an increase in temperature. In addition, the minimum average COF was observed in the case of epoxy coating with the filler under lubrication conditions. For that case, up to 94.4% decrease in COF was observed as compared to epoxy coating without filler under dry conditions, a 48.33% decrease in COF to epoxy coating without filler under lubricated conditions and a 17.98% decrease in COF than epoxy coating with the filler under dry condition was perceived. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and surface roughness analyses were also conducted to examine the surface of the specimen after the experiment. A worn and rougher surface was observed in the case of epoxy without filler under dry conditions. The more coefficient of friction at high temperatures is due to the thermal degradation of the epoxy matrix at high temperatures, which results in a rougher surface.

Visfatin, a multifunctional adipocytokine, is particularly important in the regulation of apoptosis and inflammation through an unidentified mechanism. Clarifying the control mechanisms of visfatin on inflammation and apoptosis in RAW264.7 cells and mice immunological organs was the goal of the current investigation. In order to create a pathophysiological model, the RAW264.7 cells were stimulated with 200 ng/mL visfatin and 20 μg/mL lipopolysaccharide (LPS), either separately or combined. The effects of exogenous visfatin on inflammation and apoptosis in RAW264.7 cells were investigated by flow cytometry assay, RNA-seq analysis and fluorescence quantitative PCR. According to the findings, exogenous visfatin exhibits dual effects on inflammation by modulating the expression of IL-1α, TNFRSF1B, and LIF as well as taking part in various signaling pathways, including the MAPK and Rap1 signaling pathways. By controlling the expression levels of Bcl2l1, Bcl2a1a, and Fas and primarily participating in the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and Hippo signaling pathway, exogenous visfatin can inhibit apoptosis in RAW264.7 cells. The visfatin inhibitor FK866 was used to further confirm the effects of visfatin on inflammation and apoptosis in mice immune organs. Subsequently, mice spleen and thymus were collected. It is interesting to note that in LPS-treated mice, suppression of endogenous visfatin might worsen the immune system’s inflammatory response and even result in rapid mortality. Additionally, endogenous visfatin promotes the apoptosis in mice immune organs by regulating the expression levels of Bcl2l1, Fas, Caspase 3, Bcl2a1a, and Bax. Together, these results imply that visfatin is a multifaceted molecule that regulates inflammation and apoptosis in RAW264.7 cells and mice immunological organs by taking part in a variety of biological processes and regulating the amounts of associated cytokines expression. Our findings offer additional understandings of how visfatin affects apoptosis and inflammation.

Deep learning, a branch of artificial intelligence, has achieved unprecedented performance in several domains including medicine to assist with efficient diagnosis of diseases, prediction of disease progression and pre-screening step for physicians. Due to its significant breakthroughs, deep learning is now being used for the diagnosis of arthritis, which is a chronic disease affecting young to aged population. This paper provides a survey of recent and the most representative deep learning techniques (published between 2018 to 2020) for the diagnosis of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The paper also reviews traditional machine learning methods (published 2015 onward) and their application for the diagnosis of these diseases. The paper identifies open problems and research gaps. We believe that deep learning can assist general practitioners and consultants to predict the course of the disease, make treatment propositions and appraise their potential benefits.

Abstract Background Mastitis is one of the major diseases causing economic loss to the dairy industry by reducing the quantity and quality of milk. Thus, the objective of this scientific study was to find new biomarkers based on genes for the early prediction before its severity. Methods In the present study, advanced bioinformatics including hierarchical clustering, enrichment analysis, active site prediction, epigenetic analysis, functional domain identification, and protein docking were used to analyze the important genes that could be utilized as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for mastitis. Results Four differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in different regions of the mammary gland (teat cistern, gland cistern, lobuloalveolar, and Furstenberg’s rosette) that resulted in 453, 597, 577, and 636 DEG, respectively. Also, 101 overlapped genes were found by comparing 27 different expressed genes. These genes were associated with eight immune response pathways including NOD-like receptor signaling pathway (IL8, IL18, IL1B, PYDC1) and chemokine signaling pathway (PTK2, IL8, NCF1, CCR1, HCK). Meanwhile, 241 protein-protein interaction networks were developed among overlapped genes. Fifty-seven regulatory events were found between miRNAs, expressed genes, and the transcription factors (TFs) through micro-RNA and transcription factors (miRNA-DEG-TF) regulatory network. The 3D structure docking model of the expressed genes proteins identified their active sites and the binding ligands that could help in choosing the appropriate feed or treatment for affected animals. Conclusions The novelty of the distinguished DEG and their pathways in this study is that they can precisely improve the detection biomarkers and treatments techniques of cows’ Escherichia coli mastitis disease due to their high affinity with the target site of the mammary gland before appearing the symptoms. Graphical abstract

Abstract Background Serine/threonine kinase 3 (AKT3) is a protein-coding gene that is associated with several cattle immune diseases including different tumors and cancers. The objective of this study was to investigate the differences in structures and functions of AKT3 of cow and buffalo cattle. Methods The sequence differences of gene-coding sequence (CDS) and core promoter region of AKT3 in cow and buffalo were analyzed by using bioinformatics tools and PCR sequencing. Also, the functional analysis of promoter regulating gene expression by RT-PCR was performed using 500 Holstein cows and buffalos. And, evaluation of AKT3 inflammatory response to the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced mastitis was performed between both species. Results The results revealed the variation in 6 exons out of 13 exons of the two species of CDS. Also, 4 different regions in 3-kb promoters of the AKT3 gene were significantly different between cow and buffalo species, in which cow’s AKT3 promoter sequence region was started from − 371 to − 1247, while in buffalo, the sequence was started from − 371 to − 969 of the promoter crucial region. Thus, the promoter was overexpressed in cows compared to buffaloes. As a result, significant differences (P < 0.05) between the two species in the AKT3 gene expression level related to the LPS stimulation in their mammary epithelial cell line. Conclusions This study emphasized the great importance of the structural differences of AKT3 between the animal species on their different responses against immune diseases like mastitis.

Objective: To determine the variations in clinical presentation, neuroimaging and electroencephalography patterns of subacute sclerosing panencephalitis. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Children’s Hospital & Institute of Child Health, Lahore, Pakistan, from Jul to Dec 2020. Methodology: We recruited children presented with clinical features suggestive of subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, along with positive anti-measles antibodies on cerebrospinal fluid. Association between variables was determined to formulate an early diagnosis of subacute sclerosing panencephalitis. Results: Out of 47 children, 29 were males with a mean age of 6.54 ± 2.9 years. Only 23% were fully immunized against measles, 36.2% were unvaccinated and 40.4% received partial immunization. The mean age of measles infection was 1.49 ± 1.2 years; the mean interval between measles and onset of SSPE was 4.13 ± 3 years. Atypical clinical presentation was seen in 38.3% with intractable epilepsy (8.5%), focal deficit (8.5%) and extrapyramidal symptoms (8.5%) being commonest followed by coma (6.4%), visual loss (4.3%) and psychosis (2.1%). Neuroimaging was suggestive of cortical hyperintensities in 46.8% and was normal in 46.8%. Electroencephalography showed burst suppression in 55.3% and atypical findings in 19.1%. Younger age (1-1.5 years) of measles and unimmunized status were associated with early onset of SSPE with a p-value of 0.001 and 0.05 respectively. Non-immunized status was associated with atypical presentation of SSPE (p-value

PurposeThis study aimed to apply “multi-criteria decision approach and attitude-change theory” to examine post-COVID-19 impact on entrepreneurial mindset by investigating the link between entrepreneurs social capital (trust on three elements of ecosystem i.e., experts & enterprises, media, and government) and entrepreneurial success (both individual and organizational). Specifically, this study analyzed entrepreneurs' dispositional factor (startup behavior) as an underlying mechanism to bridge trust and entrepreneurial success. Furthermore, it also analyzed entrepreneurs' situational factor (entrepreneurial strategy) as boundary condition.Design/methodology/approachWe applied time-lagged data collection from 505 industrial entrepreneurs. Survey method was used for data collection. A 7-point Likert scale was used for the respondent response. Hayes developed PROCESS models 4 and 7 were used to test the hypothesis.FindingsThe direct impact of trust on three elements of the ecosystem was found significantly positive on both startup behavior and entrepreneurial success. The direct impact of startup behavior on entrepreneurial success is also significantly positive. The impact of startup behavior on indirect mediation between trust and entrepreneurial success is visibly positive. The moderated and moderated mediation impact of entrepreneurial strategy found positively significant at low and medium values. However, this study found an insignificant moderated impact at high values of entrepreneurial strategy between trust on media and startup behavior. Furthermore, this study also found insignificant moderated mediation impact at high values of entrepreneurial strategy by interacting with two elements of ecosystem (trust on media and trust on government) through startup behavior on entrepreneurial success.Originality/valueThe authors suggested that startup behavior is an underlying mechanism through which industrial entrepreneurs trust achieved desired entrepreneurial success. The authors also suggested that the influencing role of “low level of entrepreneurial strategy” in comparison with “high level entrepreneurial strategy” is more helpful to achieve entrepreneurial success.ImplicationsThis study contributed to the literature on entrepreneurial strategy for its conditional indirect moderated impact on startup behavior and moderated mediation impact on firm entrepreneurial success. It also contributed to owners of the manufacturing industry for their startup behavior as an underlying mechanism through which trust influences entrepreneurial success.

In spite of the significant importance of the donkeys (Equus ascinus) as draft animal in resource-poor countries like Pakistan, they are equines not receiving the appropriate care. They face challenges including injuries, diseases, lack of basic environment and mismanagement by their owners. The present study aims to provide a brief update on the current status of management of healthcare and the welfare of domestic donkeys using participatory epidemiological tools. These tools can help to provide better strategies for improving their productivity and inclusion in human society. This study was mainly focused only on donkeys and horses, mules and ponies were excluded from the study. We carried out a systematic review of the relevant available published literature and shortlisted 50 articles reporting on the different health related characteristics of donkeys. A comprehensive questionnaire was completed by 191 donkey owners, including nine farriers (all men, average age = 38.24 ± 12.43) over a time span from October 2021 to March 2022. Multivariate Odds Ratios (MORs) and 95% confidence intervals were used to assess the predictions of health management and welfare measures for the surveyed donkeys. The most common observed medical problems in donkey health were hyperlipaemia (28.06%), lameness (16.33%) and dental (20.41%) problems. One-third (34.31%) of the donkeys were underweight. The dull donkey with poor appetite needs a clinical emergency owing to a high risk of developing hyperlipemia, which may be life-threatening. These findings are quite useful for the improvement of healthcare management and the welfare of donkeys.

The model predictive control (MPC) technique is widely employed in process industries as a control scheme. The quality of the model used greatly influences the performance of the MPC. In time-varying systems, the plant model plays a critical role in determining the controller’s performance, as the controller’s control action relies on an adaptive model. Therefore, updating the system parameters rapidly and symmetrically in time-varying systems becomes necessary. To address this need, in the proposed work, a non-minimal state space model of a time-varying system is utilized for parameter estimation, and these parameters are updated at every sampling instant using a multi-innovation recursive least squares (MIRLS) scheme, which enables the timely updates of system parameters. We have explored various extensions of the recursive least square (RLS) scheme, such as the multi-innovation recursive least squares (MIRLS) method. This extension aims to achieve a higher convergence rate for parameter estimation. Furthermore, we have focused on the parameter estimation of a non-minimal state space time-varying system, where the system parameters change at each time interval. Additionally, we have incorporated a time-varying objective function into the MPC formulations, which enables adaptability to change the system dynamics. To demonstrate the applicability of our proposed approach, we have conducted simulation experiments using a benchmark time-varying model. These experiments showcase the effectiveness and benefits of our proposed methodology in dealing with time-varying systems.