The University of Lahore

This work examines the dynamics of a discrete-time plankton interaction model, in which phytoplankton generate toxins and are vulnerable to external contamination. The model includes a Holling Type-II predation response and uses a piecewise constant argument approach to break it up into smaller pieces. This keeps the ecological realism of the continuous system while making it possible to study complex discrete-time behaviors. Our focus is on the formation of Neimark-Sacker bifurcation, a phenomena associated with the initiation of quasi-periodic oscillations in population densities. We show how toxin buildup and outside contamination can make plankton populations unstable, which could cause blooms to happen in an irregular way, using stability analysis and numerical simulations. The results show how useful discrete-time models are for capturing rapid changes in ecosystems, such damaging algal blooms. They also give ideas for managing ecosystems and reducing blooms.

To compare the effectiveness and safety of endovenous microwave ablation (MWA) versus radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for treating lower limb varicose veins (LLVVs).

A comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases identified relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies comparing MWA and RFA for LLVV. Primary endpoints were occlusion rates and quality of life (QoL). Secondary outcomes included hospitalization days, procedural time, blood loss, and adverse events (AEs). Study quality was assessed using Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool and Newcastle-Ottawa scale. A random-effects meta-analysis was conducted with Review Manager 5.4 (The Cochrane Collaboration, Copenhagen, Denmark), including a leave-one-out sensitivity analysis.

Four studies (1 RCT and 3 cohort studies) with 887 patients (436 who underwent MWA and 451 who underwent RFA) were included. At 1 month, occlusion rates were 100% for both; at 1 year, the pooled occlusion rates remained similarly high (MWA, 97.5%; RFA, 98.0%), with no significant difference observed between groups (odds ratio, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.33-1.92; P = .620; I² = 0%). QoL scores also showed no significant difference between techniques at 1 year. For secondary outcomes, both procedures demonstrated comparable effectiveness (hospitalization days and procedural time) and AE rates. Sensitivity analysis favored RFA, with fewer hospitalization days (mean difference [MD], 0.14; 95% CI, 0.01-0.27; P = .050; I² = 0%) and shorter procedural time (MD, 8.68; 95% CI, 6.45-10.90; P < .00001; I² = 38.0%).

MWA and RFA are safe and highly effective for treating LLVV, demonstrating similar 1-year occlusion rates (97.5% vs 98.0%) and low clinical severity scores.