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Human economic decisions are based on their preferences and motivations, which maximize their degree of happiness and lead to a better outcome in their lives. The majority of saving decisions are made by households. Different demographic, societal, and economic factors influence these choices. This study uses primary data from 243 salaried class households to investigate the behavioral aspects that influence human decision making. The main factor that affects the decision to save money is financial hardship. Households of the salaried class experience financial stress due to impulsive behavior, consumer debt, consumer financing products, pro-consumptive behavior, family financial support, and domestic externalities. The marginal effects of the agreed upon region, or "agree" and "strongly agree," demonstrate that important factors play a role in determining financial stress. Consumer loans account for 7.5% of financial stress, family financial support for 3.8%, and domestic externalities for 4.3%. The marginal effects of the Ordinary Logit saving model in the accepted region demonstrate that consumer loans have a 3.5% impact on saving behavior, while pro-consumptive behavior has a 3.6% impact and domestic externalities have a 1.9% impact. The consumer loan, pro consumptive behavior, and domestic externalities all have a negative effect on the saving behavior of the salaried class, according to the saving OLOGIT model. Government should give pro saving households special incentives. Government can help consumers by providing expensive goods with 0% interest in the event of hire purchasing.

Thyroid cancer is the most common malignancy of the endocrine glands, and during last couple of decades, its incidence has risen alarmingly, across the globe. Etiology of thyroid cancer is still debatable. There are a few worth mentioning risk factors which contribute to initiation of abnormalities in thyroid gland leading to cancer. Genetic instability is major risk factors in thyroid carcinogenesis. Among the genetic factors, the Src family of genes (Src, Yes1, Fyn and Lyn) have been implicated in many cancers but there is little data regarding the association of these (Src, Yes1, Fyn and Lyn) genes with thyroid carcinogenesis. Fyn and Lyn genes of Src family found engaged in proliferation, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, and metastasis in different cancers. This study was planned to examine the effect of Fyn and Lyn SNPs on thyroid cancer risk in Pakistani population in 500 patients and 500 controls. Three polymorphisms of Fyn gene (rs6916861, rs2182644 and rs12910) and three polymorphisms of Lyn gene (rs2668011, rs45587541 and rs45489500) were analyzed using Tetra-primer ARMS-PCR followed by DNA sequencing. SNP rs6916861 of Fyn gene mutant genotype (CC) showed statistically significant threefold increased risk of thyroid cancer (P 0.0001). In case of rs2182644 of Fyn gene, mutant genotype (AA) indicated statistically significant 17-fold increased risk of thyroid cancer (P 0.0001). Statistically significant threefold increased risk of thyroid cancer was observed in genotype AC (P 0.0001) of Fyn gene polymorphism rs12910. In SNP rs2668011 of Lyn gene, TT genotype showed statistically significant threefold increased risk of thyroid cancer (P 0.0001). In case of rs45587541 of Lyn gene, GA genotypes showed statistically significant 11-fold increased risk in thyroid cancer (P 0.0001). Haplotype analysis revealed that AAATAG*, AGACAG*, AGCCAA*, AGCCAG*, CAATAG*, CGCCAG* and CGCCGA* haplotypes of Fyn and Lyn polymorphisms are associated with increased thyroid cancer risk. These results showed that genotypes and allele distribution of Fyn and Lyn are significantly linked with increased thyroid cancer risk and could be genetic adjuster for said disease.

Purpose: The aim of the current study was to assess the prognostic value of the Chk1 gene in the DNA damage response pathway in gastric cancer (GC). Methods: Expression levels of the Chk1 were measured in 220 GC tumor tissues and adjacent healthy/noncancerous tissues using real-time PCR and immunohistochemical staining. Genomic instability in GC patients was measured using the long-run real-time PCR technique for DNA-damage quantification assay and comet assay. Results: Significantly downregulated expression of Chk1 was observed at the mRNA level (p

Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) deficiency in soils limit plant growth. Consequently, chemical fertilizers are applied to fulfill crop nutrient demands. However, low nutrient utilization can make these fertilizers unprofitable for low-income smallholding farmers. Therefore, we studied the influence of Bradyrhizobium sp. and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (Pseudomonas) on N and P utilization by mungbean crop from fertilized nutrient-deficient soil. We inoculated novel Bradyrhizobium sp. TAL-377 and Pseudomonas sp. 54RB strains alone or their combination with seeds of mungbean varieties (C-MUNG, NM-06, and NM-11). A basal dose of chemical fertilizers was applied at the rate of 60 kg N and 90 kg P ha−1 in the form of urea and single super phosphate in all plots before crop sowing. All inocula increased soil mineral N and P compared to control (P < 0.05). Co-inoculation increased mineral N by 30%, 18%, and 18% than Bradyrhizobium sp. alone and increase in P was 22, 29 and 43% than Pseudomonas sp. in C-MUNG, NM-06, and NM-11, respectively. This resulted in 35%, 45%, and 36% higher shoot N uptakes than Bradyrhizobium sp., and 46%, 84%, and 62% higher shoot P uptake than Pseudomonas sp. in the varieties. Similarly, root nodulation, mungbean grains, and biological yields were higher in co-inoculation treatments than single strain (p < .05). Hence, co-inoculation of Bradyrhizobium sp. and phosphorus solubilizing bacteria (Pseudomonas sp.) is a vital strategy to increase mungbean growth, yield, N and P utilization from chemical fertilizers applied in nutrient-deficient soils.

Floristic composition and Phytosociological studies on the flora of Bara Gali District Abbottabad, Pakistan was conducted. The altitudinal range of the Bara Gali is from 2100-2370 meter. From the study area 50 species belong to 33 families were recorded. Herbaceous flora was dominant with 35 species, shrubs with 10 species and tree with 5 species. Asteraceae was dominant having 6 species. Microphyll dominant leaf size spectra and hemicryptophytes were dominant life form in the study area. This study provide information about the floristic composition of Bara Gali.

The Pakistani Federation has vested more autonomy to the provinces through the 18th constitutional amendment. This autonomy has evidenced impetus for the continuing demands of sub-national sets and provincial minorities for the creation of new provinces in Pakistan. The identity crisis and politics of ethnicity have been reawakened after the 18th constitutional amendment. The Hazarawal (variousethnolinguistic groups inhabited in Hazara) of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province have been striving for a separate province since the 1950s, andthe voice for separate identity re-emerged as a full-fledged movement after the 18th amendment. This analytical study proposes that the movement seems quite fruitful in attaining some of its essential objectives.Nevertheless, the movement is still far away from achieving its prime and chief political terminus, i.e., the creation of a separate Hazara province.In this context, this paper tries to explore the identity crisis and politics of ethnicity in the Hazara region. The paper contends that without adopting some more effective and substantial measures, the movement could not attain its goalmouth in the near future. However, a more flexible, inclusive and accommodate approach would boost the chance of its ultimate success.

District Tor Ghar is phytosocilogically unexplored region in the western Himalaya. Present study was conducted in district Tor Ghar during the summers of 2012 and 2013 to study floristic diversity of herbaceous flora in the region. The district Tor Ghar is located on 34° 32′ - 34° 50′ N, and 72° 48′ - 72°58′ E. A total of 229 herb species belonging to 168 genera and 66 families were identified. Herbaceous vegetation was sampled from 1 × 1 m quadrats. For vegetation classification into plant communities, presence, absence (1,0) data on 229 herbaceous species and 64 locations were analyzed in PCORD version 5 via Cluster and Two Way Cluster Analyses. Six plant communities were established. Plant abundance data were treated in CANOCO version 4.5 to measure the ecological gradient of plant species and communities of the region. Detrended Correspondence Analysis (DCA) a type of indirect gradient analysis reconfirmed the results of Cluster and Two way Cluster Analysis. Moreover the study furnishes useful information for improvement, protection and management of present vegetation status for future generation. A comprehensive conservation measure with practical implementation is utmost necessary for conservation of rapidly depleting plant resources of the area.

Introduction: Iron deficiency anemia is one of the major global public health issue causes many serious diseases mostly found in the women and children of developing world. Objective: To evaluate and assess the occurrence and disorder related to iron deficiency in the population of district Dir (Lower). Materials and Methods: From all volunteers blood samples were collected from Vein through syringe and kept it in the EDTA tubes. Hemoglobin concentration was determined by the help of Hematology Analyzer. Following the guidelines of WHO, the value of a hemoglobin (Hb) was

This paper considers the concomitant based double ranked set sampling (CDRSS) for estimating the population proportion and compares with existing concomitant based ranked set sampling (CRSS) and si...

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infection of the respiratory system caused by single standard RNA viruses named as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The disease appeared as a serious problem and the leading cause of death in human beings throughout the world. The main source of different phytochemicals are plants, which helps in the development of new drugs against various ailments. Islam is comprehensive religion and a complete code of life for Muslims. The teaching of Islam, according to the Holy Quran and Hadith are universal for the benefit of humanity. Islam believes that every ailment is from God and who made the disease definitely made its medication. There is a complete guideline with regard to taking measures against infectious diseases such as quarantine and seeking medicinal treatment. The research objective is to gather the knowledge of medicinal plants described in the Holy Quran or utilized by the Prophet (SAW) for the treatment of different ailments or advised to use them to boost immunity and strengthen the body. Scientists across the globe have found these plants beneficial for many diseases and have antiviral potential. In present study, the six plant species including Olea europaea , Nigella sativa, Allium Sativum, Allium cepa, Zingiber officinale and Cassia senna were selected which contain phytochemicals like Calcium Elenolate, Thymoquinone, S-Allylcysteine, Dipropyl Disulfide, Sesquiterpene, Monoterpene, Pelargonidin 3-Galactoside ion and Kaempferol. The phytochemicals monoterpene (from Zingiber officinale) shows best interaction with target proteins RdRP, 3CLPro, ACE2. Calcium Elonate (from olive) bonds with 3CLPro, ACE2 and Kemoferol and Pelargomidine (from Senna Makki) bonds with RdRP, ACE2. The ligands show a unique set of intersections i.e. hydrogen bonding, and alkyl interaction. These medicinal plants can be utilized immediately for the treatment of COVID-19 as their safety is already established. This treatment can enhance recovery when combined with other treatments. Furthermore, the screening of bioactive compounds or phytochemicals found in these plants can be utilized to design new therapeutic drug to treat COVID-19 pandemic.

Medicinal plants are the basic source of medicinal compounds traditionally used for the treatment of human diseases. Calotropis gigantea is a medicinal plant belonging to the family of Apocynaceae in the plant kingdom and subfamily Asclepiadaceae usually bearing multiple medicinal properties to cure a variety of diseases. Background: The Peptide Mass Fingerprinting (PMF) identifies the proteins from a reference protein database by comparing the amino acid sequence that is previously stored in a database and identified. Method: The calculation of insilico peptide masses is done through the ExPASy PeptideMass and these masses are used to identify the peptides from MASCOT online server. Anticancer probability is calculated from the iACP server, docking of active peptides is done by CABS-dock the server. Objective: The purpose of the study is to identify the peptides having anti-cancerous properties by in silico peptide mass fingerprinting. Results : The anti-cancer peptides are identified with the MASCOT peptide mass fingerprinting server, the identified peptides are screened and only the anti-cancer are selected. De-novo peptide structure prediction is used for 3D structure prediction by PEP-FOLD 3 server. The docking results confirm strong bonding with the interacting amino acids of the receptor protein of breast cancer BRCA1 which shows the best peptide binding to the active chain, the human leukemia protein docking with peptides shows the accurate binding. Conclusion : These peptides are stable and functional and are the best way for the treatment of cancer and many other deadly diseases.

Career guidance had been a strong variable for consideration in democratic societies at global level. Individual autonomy and choice making is imperative for indulging in better market economy. Career guidance programs, if introduced at university level are very helpful for students in overcoming hesitation in career choices and selecting desirable study paths. The study compared career guidance needs among students at higher education level in Pakistan with reference to gender. Mix method design was adopted to extract data from graduating students enrolled in Management Sciences through questionnaire and semi structured interviews (male=100, female=100). Findings illuminated that male students (μ=4.1) have a clear idea about career guidance through internship programs whereas female students (μ=3.1) differed in their views about it. Male students suggested that career planning strategies, if implemented in their course may help designing lifelong careers whereas female students’ focus was towards development of effective career skills only. It is suggested that career guidance is on the brink of coming a national reality at all of the educational levels, so it may be included as a vital part in curriculum. Furthermore, as female students in our society are given less projection so they may be provided with more chances of exposure towards their future careers. Keywords: Perceptions, career guidance, career skills, career planning

Current study was conducted on family Aeshnidae from Hazara region of Pakistan. During the survey a total of 125 members were collected and identified into 2 species under single genus. The present study focuses on molecular characterizations and phylogenetics of family Aeshnidae. Phylogenies of the analyzed taxa were elaborated with maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony and Bayesian analysis. We sequenced both mitochondrial genes i.e., COI and 16S rRNA, separate and combined CO1+16S data sets revealed evolutionary relationship within Aeshnidae at the species and genera level. Mean Pairwise Distances (MPD) of each species were ranged from 0.00 to 84.60%. Evolutionary rate differences among two categories Gamma distribution and Invariant were recorded as 0.07 and 1.20 substitutions per site. DNA based identification using CO1, 16S and combined CO1+16S data set, for all Aeshnidae species shared genetic similarities having bootstrap values MLB=70–100%, MPB= 52–100% and BPP=0.75–1% respectively. The analysis of the combined (COI+16S) data set produced trees with complete stronger bootstrap support than analyses of either gene alone. These findings had shown that the taxonomic position of Aeshnidae species based on morphological characters could be verified, further improved and confirmed by the use of modern molecular biological tools which involve the nucleotide sequences of genes used in phylogenetic investigations. © 2021 Friends Science Publishers

In this paper, we propose a partial randomized response technique to collect reliable sensitive data for estimation of population proportion in ranked set sampling (RSS) scheme using auxiliary information. The idea is to increase confidence and (or) co-operation of the respondents by providing them the option of both ‘direct’ and ‘randomized’ response for the inquired sensitive question. This option is quite logical because perception of sensitive (insensitive) inquiry can vary among respondents. The properties of the proposed method are discussed and compared with existing randomized response techniques. Cost analysis is also carried out to prove supremacy of the suggested method. Finally, an application to clinical trial on AIDS is included.

Hypothetical proteins (HPs) are those whose sequence is present but nothing is known about their structural and functional annotations. Elucidation of structural and functional insights would be effective enough in perceiving the protein interactions and their involvement in various pathways and networks. Ananas comosus is considered as third most essential tropical fruit and is given more consideration from the commercial point of view; therefore, in this research, it is taken for analysis using different approaches of bioinformatics. On the basis of subcellular localization and secondary structure analysis, it was suggested that HP is the nuclear protein consisting of α helices and more abundant coils. Homology modeling has been done through Swiss Model to determine their template structure but template identity score is not enough which uncover the fact that the protein OAY63476.1 is unpredicted in-vitro. In order to predict the 3D structure of protein, Phyre 2 server is utilized. Results are validated by different strategies revealing the stability of the developed model. The quality factor of this protein is 45.28. Functional analysis and domain identification have been performed by using NCBI-CDD and Pfam which suggested that protein contains ring variant domain. Comparative genome analysis has been performed with other proteins of plants which demonstrate that the selected protein has the highest similarity. This study paves the way in order to determine the structural and functional annotations of other uncharacterized proteins and effective in exploring other novel proteins along with their functions in the same way as that of this research study.

Aim: We aimed to evaluate the role of selected single nucleotide polymorphisms of DNA damage response pathway genes in breast cancer (BC). Materials & methods: In present study, 500 BC patients and 500 controls was used to estimate the frequency of single nucleotide polymorphisms of DNA damage response pathway genes. Tetra-amplification refractory mutation system-PCR technique was used for screening of the six selected polymorphisms. Results: Logistic regression analysis showed that heterozygous mutant genotype of rs1800057 (p < 0.0001) and homozygous mutant genotype of rs1801516 (p < 0.0001) was associated with significant increased risk of BC. In the ATR gene, heterozygous mutant genotype of rs2227931 (p < 0.0001) was associated with significant increased risk of BC. However, significant decreased risk of BC was found associated with heterozygous mutant genotype of rs2227928 (p < 0.0002) and homozygous mutant genotype of rs2229032 (p < 0.0001) in patients compared with controls. Conclusion: The present results showed that alteration in DNA damage response pathway gene ( ATM & ATR) results in increased BC risk.

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) or coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the largest death-causing reasons in developing countries. Approximately, every year 15 million deaths due to IHD are reported worldwide. PLG (Plasminogen), PCSK9 (Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin type 9), CXCL12 (C-X-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 12), and EDNRA (Endothelin Receptor type A) genes were selected for the study due to their higher rate of mutations in IHD. Drugs that are being used to cure IHD were reformulated by structurally modifying them for repurposing. Reformulated drugs were further analyzed for side effects, toxicity, and ADMET (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excreation, Toxicity) properties. Molecular docking studies of reformulated drugs with selected genes were performed to determine their efficacy to cure IHD. Interacting amino acid residues in the docked complex of aspirin were identified as Aspartic acid, Arginine, Tyrosine, Proline, Valine, Alanine, Threonine, Iso Leusine, Lysine, Triptophan, Aspargine, Histadine, Cystine. Similarly, for isoxsuprine the residues were Valine, Aspargine, Leucine, Argining, Iso Leucine, Glutamic acid, Lysine, Glycine, Proline, Threonine, Aspartic acid, Histadine and Arginine. In reformulated compounds, the addition of sulfur in the aspirin compound reduced the toxicity from class 3 to class 5 and in isoxsuprine, the addition of nitrogen hydrogen bond in the second aromatic ring reduced its toxicity from class 3 to class 4. It is suggested that both aspirin and isoxsuprine analogs are more effective having least predicted side effects and toxicities than already existing aspirin and isoxsuprine. In the future, these drugs can be used as potential drugs for the treatment of IHD than original drugs because of their low toxicity and side effects. This study can be validated in vitro to confirm its efficacy.

An rare pandemic of viral pneumonia occurs in December 2019 in Wuhan, China, which is now recognized internationally as Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), the etiological agent classified as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it has so far expanded to more than 213 countries/territories worldwide. Our study aims to find the viral peptides of SARS-COV-2 by peptide mass fingerprinting (PMF) in order to predict its novel structure and find an inhibitor for each viral peptide. For this reason, we calculated the mass of amino acid sequences translated from the SARS-CoV2 whole genome and identify the peptides that may be a target for inhibition. Molecular peptide docking with Moringa oleifera, phytochemicals (aqueous and ethanolic) leaf extracts of flavonoids (3.56 ± 0.03), (3.83 ± 0.02), anthraquinone (11.68 ± 0.04), (10.86 ± 0.06) and hydroxychloroquine present therapy of COVID-19 in Pakistan for comparative study. Results indicate that 15 peptides of SARS-CoV2 have been identified from PMF, which is then used as a selective inhibitor. The maximum energy obtained from AutoDock Vina for hydroxychloroquine is –5.1 kcal/mol, kaempferol (flavonoid) is –6.2 kcal/mol, and for anthraquinone –6 kcal/mol. Visualization of docking complex, important effects are observed regarding the binding of peptides to drug compounds. In conclusion, it is proposed that these compounds are effective antiviral agents against COVID-19 and can be used in clinical trials. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma

Purpose: This study was planned to examine the effects of Src and Yes1 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) on the risk of thyroid cancer in 499 patients and 500 controls. Materials & methods: Three SNPs of Src gene and three SNPs of Yes1 gene were analyzed using Tetra-primer ARMS-PCR followed by sequencing. Results: rs121913314 of Src gene genotype TT showed 32-fold increased risk of thyroid cancer and rs2305994 of Yes1 genotypes TT and CT showed 2.7-fold and 16-fold increased risk in thyroid cancer (p < 0.0001). Haplotype analysis revealed that CATGCC, CATGCT, CATGTC, CATGTT, TATGCC and TATGTTA haplotypes are associated with thyroid cancer risk. Conclusion: Results showed that genotypes and allele distribution of Src and Yes1 genes are significantly linked with increased risk of thyroid cancer.

Achromatopsia (ACHM) is a genetically heterogeneous visual disorder, also known as rod monochromatism, in which human get affected due to cone cells. Mutation in five genes viz. CNGA3, CNGB3, GNAT2, PDE6C, and PDE6H have been reported in ACHM. These genes encode essential constitutes of the cone-specific photo transduction cascade. Present study was focused on CNGB3 gene that accounts 40%-50% mutations of all ACHM cases. A new approach for analyzing drug-drug interactions based on modularity was adopted. This approach depends on the behavioral relationship of drugs against CNGB3 for ACHM, particularly the ADME and toxicity between drugs. Data of 2475 compounds were retrieved, out of which 185 were selected on the basis of Lipinski rule of five. In total, eight clusters were made for which the strongly interacted DDI networks were build based on their modularity values. Strong DDI and minimum toxic values indicates that 5 drugs are effective, but on the basis of docking only 2 drugs indicated no bumps, which shows that they are most appropriate for treating ACHM. Our findings revealed that drug-drug interactions disclose the intervention of drug nature and can also successfully diagnose new indications and more convincing drugs for other diseases as well. Keywords: Achromatopsia, CNGB3, In silico, Integrated drugs

Acinetobacter is an important nosocomial pathogen to cause infections such as pneumonia, bloodstream infections, meningitis, wound and surgical site infections including flesh eating bacterium necrotizing fasciitis and urinary tract Infections. A. baumannii can be spread through direct contact with surfaces, objects and the skin of contaminated persons. Acinetobactter has acquired resistance to most of the antibiotics and can play havoc in hospital environment due to its ability to survive desiccation and in moist environment in the presence of disinfectants. Currently, there are 32 genospecies of Acinetobacter known. Among these, A. baumannii is the most important in the clinical context, since it is the most frequently isolated in nosocomial infections and the one associated with the highest mortality rate. Objective To find out the frequency of A. baumannii causing surgical site infections after cardiac surgery and best antibiotic options for its treatment in patients admitted in Rawalpindi Institute of Cardiology. Materials and Methods A retrospective study was carried out to find out bacterial cultures in admitted patients at Rawalpindi Institute of Cardiology with surgical site infections from July 2017 to August 2018. A total of 405 pus specimens collected from patients with suspected surgical site infections were tested for bacterial culture and antimicrobial susceptibility test. Patient profile was noted from centralized hospital data. Results Out of total 405 specimens 13 were culture positive for A. baumannii (3.2%). Ten isolates were Pan Drug Resistant (PDR). Conclusion A. baumannii infection although infrequent in our set up is mostly pan resistant. Infection control practices & surveillance are important to avoid its spread in hospitalized patients.

Nanocomposites consisting of polyvinyl alcohol embedded with nanoparticles of Zn0.80Co0.1Ni0.1Fe2O4 and ZnFe2O4 were successfully synthesized by employing a facile two-steps process. The nanoparticles of Zn0.80Co0.1Ni0.1Fe2O4 and ZnFe2O4 were synthesized via a micro emulsion procedure and then embedded into a polyvinyl alcohol matrix by an ultrasound-assisted in-situ emulsion. The result showed that the prepared nanoparticles of Zn0.80Co0.1Ni0.1Fe2O4 & ZnFe2O4 diffuse homogeneously in a polyvinyl alcohol matrix, maintaining the particle shape and size of the Zn0.80Co0.1Ni0.1Fe2O4 nanoparticles. Transmission electron microscope images revealed that polyvinyl alcohol chains have encircled the Zn0.80Co0.1Ni0.1Fe2O4 & ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles. The interaction between the polyvinyl alcohol and the nanoparticles in the prepared nanocomposites was confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy via the shifting of bands revealed from the Fourier-transform infrared spectra. Dielectric studies explained the decreasing trend by varying concentrations of nanoparticles with a constant polymer concentration. The dielectric constant and dielectric loss both revealed a decreasing trend by varying the concentration of the nanoparticles with a constant polymer concentration. This occurred due to the grain boundary effect which becomes dominant at low frequencies. The Transmission electron microscope images result shows that polycrystalline Zn0.80Co0.1Ni0.1Fe2O4 & ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles with an average size of 10–15 nm were incorporated with PVA to form nanocomposites. Keywords: Nanocomposites, Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), Ultrasound-assisted, In-situ emulsions

Illnesses caused by human pinworm remains a pediatric health problem in developing nations including Pakistan. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of Enterobius vermicularis in school children of four districts in Malakand region, Pakistan. Four hundred faecal specimens were screened from May 2014 to July 2017 using normal saline and Lugol Iodine solution. Twenty three (5.75%) individuals were found infected with E. vermicularis. Five children (1.25%) were infected with only E. vermicularis and eighteen (4.5%) were mixed with other helminths. E. vermicularis 23 (5.75%), hookworm 11 (2.75%), Ascaris lumbricoides 5 (1.25%), Taenia saginata 2 (0.5%) and Trichuris trichuira 4 (1%) were detected. Age wise 5-8 years were more parasitized followed by 13-15 and 9-12 years of age (0.0296, P

Extensive field surveys were carried out to explore the distribution of Leisler’s Bat Nyctalus leisleri (Kuhl, 1819) in selected area of FATA regions, Pakistan. Specimens of Leisler’s Bat Nyctalus leisleri (Kuhl, 1819) (n5) were collected from Kurram Agency (Shublan) (N33.8229788 E70.1634414) at elevation 1427m and Khyber Agency (Landi Kotel) (N34.0909899 E71.1457517) at elevation 1091m for two years survey extending from May 2013 through August 2015. The mean head and body length, hind foot length, ear length and tail length the Nyctalus leisleri specimens captured from the study area was 65.08 ± 1.58 mm, 44.06 ± 0.52 mm, 8.38 ± 0.60 mm, 13.20 ± 0.99 mm and 39.46 ± 1.46 mm, respectively. For molecular analysis the sequences of COI gene were obtained and analyzed. The mean intraspecific divergences of Nyctalus leisleri was 0.04%. The mean interspecific divergences of Nyctalus noctula and Nyctalus leisleri was 0.2%. The mean concentration of each nucleotides was A = (26.3%), T = (32.8%), G = (15.9%) and C = (25.0%). The mean A+T contents were 59.2%and C+G were 40.9%. In the phylogenetic tree Nyctalus leisleri and Nyctalus noctula clustered with significant bootstrap support value. Resumo Extensas pesquisas de campo foram realizadas para explorar a distribuição do morcego de Leisler Nyctalus leisleri (Kuhl, 1819), em uma área selecionada das regiões das FATA, Paquistão. Espécimes do morcego de Leisler Nyctalus leisleri (Kuhl, 1819) (n = 5) foram coletados na Agência Kurram (Shublan) (N33.8229788 E70.1634414), na elevação 1.427 m, e na Agência Khyber (Landi Kotel) (N34.0909899 E71.1457517), na elevação 1.091 m, por dois anos de pesquisa, estendendo-se de maio de 2013 a agosto de 2015. Os comprimentos médios da cabeça, do corpo, do pé traseiro, da orelha e da cauda dos espécimes de Nyctalus leisleri capturados na área de estudo foram de 65,08 ± 1,58 mm, 44,06 ± 0,52 mm, 8,38 ± 0,60 mm, 13,20 ± 0,99 mm e 39,46 ± 1,46 mm, respectivamente. Para análise molecular, foram obtidas e analisadas as sequências do gene COI. A média das divergências intraespecíficas de Nyctalus leisleri foi de 0,04%. As divergências interespecíficas médias de Nyctalus noctula e Nyctalus leisleri foram de 0,2%. A concentração média de cada nucleotídeos foi A = 26,3%, T = 32,8%, G = 15,9% e C = 25%. Os conteúdos médios de A + T foram de 59,2% e de C + G foram de 40,9%. Na árvore filogenética, Nyctalus leisleri e Nyctalus noctula agruparam-se com um valor significativo de suporte de bootstrap.

Tapeworms of zoonotic importance have been described as a leading public health problem. Current research was aim to assess the prevalence of tapeworms among 5-12years school children residing in district Lower Dir, Pakistan from January 2019-December 2019. The wet mount preparation in saline/iodine/methods were used for stool examination. Data was analyzed using appropriate descriptive, static methods. Of the 400 children studied 71.7% were infected with one or more species of intestinal parasites. Single infection of cestode species was found in 69 individuals with 17.2% prevalence and multiple parasitic infections were identified in 19.7% (n=79/400) individuals. The multiple infection were comprised as 10% (n=40) double, 6.75% (n=27) triple and 3% (n=12) quadruple. A total of 9 species of helminths and one species of protozoan infection. Among the helminths Ascaris lumbricoides was the most prevalent 33.1% (n=95), Taenia saginata 22.6% (n=65), hookworm 19.8% (n=57), Hymenolepis nana 18.8% (n=54), Enterobius vermicularis and Hymenolepis diminuta 1.39% (n=4each), Trichuris trichura 1.04% (n=3), Toxocara spp 0.69% (n=2) and Schistosoma japonicum 0.34% (n=1) were reported. One protozoan species was Cryptosporidium spp 0.69% (n=2) in current study. In case of A.lumbricoides, hookworm, E.vermicularis, T.trichura, T.saginata, H.nana and H.diminuta the male children of below 8 years of age were highly infected. Other infections are reported in the same prevalence with slight difference if any. We conclude that there is a need for mass scale campaigns to create awareness regarding health and hygiene in children and the need for development of effective poverty control programs because deworming alone is not adequate to control parasitic infections. Resumo As tênias de importância zoonótica têm sido descritas como um dos principais problemas de saúde pública. A pesquisa atual teve como objetivo avaliar a prevalência de tênias entre crianças em idade escolar de 5 a 12 anos que residem no distrito de Lower Dir, Paquistão, de janeiro de 2019 a dezembro de 2019. Os métodos de preparação para montagem úmida em solução salina/iodo foram usados para exame de fezes. Os dados foram analisados usando métodos descritivos e estáticos apropriados. Das 400 crianças estudadas, 71,7% estavam infectadas com uma ou mais espécies de parasitas intestinais. Infecção única de espécies de cestóides foi encontrada em 69 indivíduos com prevalência de 17,2% e infecções parasitárias múltiplas foram identificadas em 19,7% (n = 79/400) indivíduos. As infecções múltiplas foram compostas por 10% (n = 40) dupla, 6,75% (n = 27) tripla e 3% (n = 12) quádrupla. Um total de 9 espécies de helmintos e uma espécie de infecção por protozoários. Entre os helmintos, Ascaris lumbricoides foi o mais prevalente 33,1% (n = 95), Taenia saginata 22,6% (n = 65), ancilóstomo 19,8% (n = 57), Hymenolepis nana 18,8% (n = 54), Enterobius vermicularis e Hymenolepis diminuta 1,39% (n = 4cada), Trichuris trichura 1,04% (n = 3), Toxocara spp 0,69% (n = 2) e Schistosoma japonicum 0,34% (n = 1). Uma espécie de protozoário foi Cryptosporidium spp 0,69% (n = 2) no estudo atual. No caso de A.lumbricoides, ancilostomíase, E.vermicularis, T.trichura, T.saginata, H.nana e H.diminuta, as crianças do sexo masculino com menos de 8 anos de idade estavam altamente infectadas. Outras infecções são relatadas na mesma prevalência, com ligeira diferença, se houver. Concluímos que há uma necessidade de campanhas em massa para criar consciência sobre saúde e higiene em crianças e a necessidade de desenvolvimento de programas eficazes de controle da pobreza, porque a desparasitação por si só não é adequada para controlar infecções parasitárias.

Aim: In this study, we evaluated the effect of selected polymorphisms of mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt) pathway in 500 head and neck cancer (HNC) patients and 500 healthy controls from Pakistan. Materials & methods: The experiments were conducted using tetra-ARMS PCR followed by DNA sequencing. Results: Multivariate analysis showed that AA genotype of rs3782116 showed fivefold, GG genotype of rs6598072 approximately twofold and CC genotype of rs4946936 and TT genotype of rs12212067 showed twofold increased risk of HNC. Furthermore, haplotype analysis showed that certain haplotypes of UPRmt pathway single nucleotide polymorphisms have significant association with increased HNC risk. Conclusion: These results show that genetic aberrations in UPRmt pathway genes have association with increased HNC risk and can be an indicator of advance clinical outcome especially invasion and metastasis.

Endometrial cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women. It arises from the endometrium and accompanied by the abnormal growth of the cells. Sign and symptoms include pelvic pain and abnormal vaginal bleeding. It has two categories. Type 1 tumors are estrogen-dependent and they have mutations in PTEN, PIK3CA while Type 2 tumors are more sensitive and have mutations in TP53. Overactivation of the signaling pathway (PI3K) results in anti-apoptosis. Here, this study aims to identify Tumor-Specific Antigen for germline mutations in endometrial cancer which can be used as a potential vaccine candidate. The germline mutations data are obtained from cancer gene census of the cosmic database. Genes mutating with crucial role in endometrial cancer are considered. Peptides libraries are generated using peptide design library. Human leukocyte antigen alleles are identified for the peptide library through NetMHC. Binding affinities of alleles with peptide are determined. Linear regression is performed to generate graphs. PTEN, TP53, PIK3CA, KRAS, and CTNNB1 proved to have critical role. About 575 overlapping peptide libraries are generated and each peptide has a length of 18-20 amino acids. Approximately 58 HLAs are identified, having strong interactions with HLAs. Regression analysis shows that the no. of mutations are directly associated with a binding affinity of peptides. From this, we suggest that the identified TSA can be used as personalized peptide vaccines that directly target the mutated genes in endometrial cancer. This research work can be used in the laboratories for further validation.

Lung Cancer is a type of serious cancer that causes 1.37 million deaths every year all over the world and accounts for almost 18% of all cancer death. PI3Ks establish a lipid kinase family that is important to integrate disparate dimensions of cell functions including cell survival, vesicular trafficking, proliferation, and cell migration. This is an essential pathway in the oncogenesis and advancement of lung cancer. In preclinical studies, PIK3 inhibitors deliver exploratory antitumor activity. The study was established to realize perception and molecular mechanisms that are crucial for potent inhibitors of PIK3CA. In this research work, mutated proteins of PIK3CA were selected, models of pharmacophore were designed and hit compounds were obtained against reference feature pharmacophore by virtual screening. These hit compounds were then docked with the mutated proteins of PIK3CA. Three important features were shown by Pharmacophores, Hydrogen bond donor (HBD), Hydrogen bond acceptors (HBA) and aromatic rings (AR). Through virtual screening, 8 hit compounds were obtained before docking Lipinski rule of five was applied and the compounds that achieved all properties were docked with mutated proteins of PIK3CA. 3 compounds fulfilled all properties and demonstrated the stability of ligands. It is suggested that these compounds can be used for curing PIK3CA involved in lung cancer and on the basis of shared feature novel compounds can be designed against a mutation in PIK3CA involved in lung cancer.

In a field experiment, various strengths of Hoagland’s nutrient solutions were sprayed to mitigate the deleterious effects of nutrient stresses at different growth stages on mash bean cultivars. Ho...

Fish provides main source of high quality protein to more than one billion people in the world. Fish parasites directly affect the productivity of fish and indirectly on human health. This research was aimed to assess the helminth parasites in Schizothorax plagiostomus (the snow trout) from river Panjkora, KP, Pakistan. A total of 88 fish samples (n= 88) were collected from the upper, middle and lower regions of the river through cast nets, hand nets and hooks. All the collected fish samples were examined in the Parasitology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Malakand for helminth parasites during July 2018 to February 2019.Among these fishes nematodes, trematodes, cestodes and acanthocephalan were isolated and identified. Overall prevalence of the fish parasites was 60.22% (53/88). The intensity of the parasite was observed from 1.7% to 4.61%. Highest prevalence was reported in summer season 86.36% while lowest in the winter season 36.36%. This study shows that summer season affects the fish business and result in poor quality fish meat with risk of zoonotic diseases. Adults were highly infected 82.25% while no infection was found in juvenile specimens. Female fish samples had higher prevalence 68.22% than males 48.22%. Fishes of the lower reaches had highest prevalence 60.22% than the upper reaches 40.0%. Fish samples with maximum length and weight were highly 76.92% infected than small sized fish with low body weight. Present study addresses that Rhabdochona schizothoracis in the intestine and Diplozoon paradoxum in gills of snow trout fish has a long term relationship and call as a natural infection in cyprinids and it is zoonotic threat to human. Resumo O peixe é a principal fonte de proteína de alta qualidade para mais de um bilhão de pessoas no mundo. Contudo, parasitas afetam diretamente a produtividade de peixes e, indiretamente, a saúde humana. Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo avaliar os parasitas helmintos em Schizothorax plagiostomus (truta da neve) do rio Panjkora, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Paquistão. Foram coletadas 88 amostras de peixes (n = 88) dos trechos alto, médio e baixo do rio por meio de redes de arrasto, redes de mão e varas de pesca. Todas as amostras de peixes coletadas foram examinadas no Laboratório de Parasitologia do Departamento de Zoologia, da Universidade de Malakand, quanto a parasitas helmintos durante o período de julho de 2018 a fevereiro de 2019. Entre esses peixes, nematódeos, trematódeos, cestóideos e acantocéfalos foram isolados e identificados. A prevalência geral de parasitas de peixes foi de 60,22% (53/88). A intensidade do parasita foi observada de 1,7 a 4,61%. A maior prevalência (86,36%) foi relatada no verão, enquanto a menor (36,36%), no inverno. Este estudo mostra que a temporada de verão afeta o ramo da pesca e resulta em carne de baixa qualidade, com risco de doenças zoonóticas. Os adultos foram altamente infectados (82,25%), enquanto nenhuma infecção foi encontrada em jovens. As amostras de peixes do sexo feminino apresentaram maior prevalência (68,22%) do que as do sexo masculino (48,22%). Os peixes coletados no trecho baixo do rio tiveram maior prevalência (60,22%) do que os do trecho alto (40%). Amostras de peixes com comprimento e peso máximos foram altamente infectadas (76,92%) do que peixes de pequeno porte e baixo peso corporal. O presente estudo aborda que Rhabdochona schizothoracis no intestino e Diplozoon paradoxum em brânquias de peixes de truta da neve possuem uma estreita relação que causa uma infecção natural em ciprinídeos, sendo uma ameaça zoonótica ao ser humano.

This paper considers the concomitant-based rank set sampling (CRSS) for estimation of the sensitive proportion. It is shown that CRSS procedure provides an unbiased estimator of the population sensitive proportion, and it is always more precise than corresponding sample sensitive proportion (Warner SL (1965)) that based on simple random sampling (SRS) without increasing sampling cost. Additionally, a new estimator based on ratio method is introduced using CRSS protocol, preserving the respondent’s confidentiality through a randomizing device. The numerical results of these estimators are obtained by using numerical integration technique. An application to real data is also given to support the methods.

Graphical abstract, Introduction Researchers worldwide with great endeavor searching and repurpose drugs might be potentially useful in fighting newly emerged coronavirus. These drugs show inhibition but also show side effects and complications too. On December 27, 2020, 80,926,235 cases have been reported worldwide. Specifically, in Pakistan, 471,335 has been reported with inconsiderable deaths. Problem statement Identification of COVID-19 drugs pathway through drug-gene and gene−gene interaction to find out the most important genes involved in the pathway to deal with the actual cause of side effects beyond the beneficent effects of the drugs. Methodology The medicines used to treat COVID-19 are retrieved from the Drug Bank. The drug-gene interaction was performed using the Drug Gene Interaction Database to check the relation between the genes and the drugs. The networks of genes are developed by Gene MANIA, while Cytoscape is used to check the active functional association of the targeted gene. The developed systems cross-validated using the EnrichNet tool and identify drug genes' concerned pathways using Reactome and STRING. Results Five drugs Azithromycin, Bevacizumab, CQ, HCQ, and Lopinavir, are retrieved. The drug-gene interaction shows several genes that are targeted by the drug. Gene MANIA interaction network shows the functional association of the genes like co-expression, physical interaction, predicted, genetic interaction, co-localization, and shared protein domains. Conclusion Our study suggests the pathways for each drug in which targeted genes and medicines play a crucial role, which will help experts in-vitro overcome and deal with the side effects of these drugs, as we find out the in-silico gene analysis for the COVID-19 drugs.

Pakistan is one of a few sites, associated with the earliest known independent domestication event in the evolutionary history of chicken, which is socio-economically and historically the most important poultry bird in the country. However, the divergence, past population dynamics, and demographic history of Pakistani chickens have not been addressed so far. Therefore, we herein investigated the indigenous Pakistani chickens using mitogenomic markers. We first prepared individual DNA samples from the chicken feathers, and generated nucleotide sequence data, which was then subjected to various population genetics analyses. In molecular phylogenetic analysis, the Pakistani chickens were clustered under nine different clades. Among the wild fowls, the Indian red jungle fowl (IRJF) shared very close affinities to Pakistani chickens. The Bayesian skyline plot showed an increase in the effective population size of Pakistani chickens during the last 50 years. Finally, a time-calibrated phylogeny inferred molecular divergence of the Pakistani chickens. A molecular rate of 3.6 × 10

For the proper growth of fish, it is necessary to feed the fish with a proper and balanced diet. A study was conducted to find out the effect of different protein-based diets on fingerlings of Tor putitora (mahseer). A feed with dietary protein levels of 35%, 40%, 45%, and 50% were prepared. The effect of different protein-based feed on weight gain, standard growth rate (SGR), food conversion ratio (FCR), percent weight gain, food conversion efficiency (FCE), and protein efficiency ratio (PER) was studied. An increase was observed in the growth rate with an increase in protein concentration up to 45%. The fingerlings fed a 45% protein diet shown the highest growth, followed by 50%, 40%, and 35%. The SGR value was greatest for 45% protein diet (8.56) followed by 50% and 40%, while the least values were observed for 35% protein feed (1.57). The same trend was observed for FCE. The highest PER values was observed in fishes fed 45% protein-based feed (0.65) followed by 50% (0.56), 40% (0.38) and35% (0.17). The food conversion ratio was lowest for 45% protein diet (3.41), while the greatest for 35% protein feed (16.85). It was concluded that a 45% protein-based diet was the best feed formulation for higher production of Tor putitora. However, research on the same percentage of protein diet is recommended for yearlings. Resumo Para o bom crescimento dos peixes, é necessário alimentá-los com uma alimentação adequada e balanceada. Um estudo foi realizado para descobrir o efeito de diferentes dietas à base de proteínas em alevinos de Tor putitora (mahseer). Foi preparado um alimento com níveis de proteína dietética de 35%, 40%, 45% e 50%. O efeito de diferentes alimentos à base de proteína no ganho de peso, taxa de crescimento padrão (SGR), taxa de conversão alimentar (FCR), ganho de peso percentual, eficiência de conversão alimentar (FCE) e taxa de eficiência proteica (PER) foi estudado. Foi observado um aumento na taxa de crescimento com um aumento na concentração de proteína de até 45%. Os alevinos alimentados com dieta de 45% de proteína apresentaram o maior crescimento, seguidos de 50%, 40% e 35%. O valor de SGR foi maior para dieta com 45% de proteína (8,56), seguido de 50% e 40%, enquanto os menores valores foram observados para ração com 35% de proteína (1,57). A mesma tendência foi observada para FCE. Os maiores valores de PER foram observados em peixes alimentados com 45% de ração à base de proteína (0,65), seguido por 50% (0,56), 40% (0,38) e 35% (0,17). A taxa de conversão alimentar foi menor para a dieta com 45% de proteína (3,41), enquanto a maior para a dieta com 35% de proteína (16,85). Concluiu-se que a dieta à base de proteína de 45% foi a melhor formulação alimentar para maior produção de Tor putitora. No entanto, a pesquisa sobre a mesma porcentagem de dieta proteica é recomendada para animais de um ano.

Fish is consumed as a rich and cheaper source of white meat and proteins all over the world. Fish farming is the leading source of income generation throughout the world. The present research study was conducted with aims to investigate the ecto and endo parasitic fauna of S. plagiostomus (snow trout) in River Swat. A total of 96 fish samples were collected on monthly basis from July-2018 to February-2019, from upper, middle and lower reaches. Fish samples were collected with the help of cast net, hand net and fishing rods. Local fishermen and experts help were also sought out for fish collection. 61 out of 96 fishes were found infected by helminth parasites. The total prevalence and intensity of 63.54% and 2.90 was observed respectively during data analysis. Highest monthly prevalence of 83.33% was recorded during July and August, while lowest prevalence of 33.33% was noted during February. Five species of helminths parasites were detected from S. plagiostomus, of which two were trematodes (Rhabdochona shizothoracis and Rhabdochona species), one species of Monogenia (Diplozoon paraddoxum), one species of Cestodes (Nippotaenia species), and one species of Acanthocephalan (Neoechynorhynchus devdevi). Highest parasite wise prevalence, intensity and relative density of 21.87%, 4.09 and 0.895 was noted for R. schizothoracis while the lowest prevalence, intensity and relative density of 4.16%, 1.25 and 0.052 was noted for N. devdevi. Highest infection of 76.08% was observed in adults host while lowest, 40% infestation rate was observed in young fish samples. 73.68% prevalence was observed in female hosts while only 56.90% prevalence was observed in male individuals. Higher infection (83.33%) was noticed during summer season, while lowest infection (44.44%) was observed during winter season. Similarly 71.79% fishes were found infected that were collected from lower reaches of the River Swat than the fish samples collected from upper reaches (52%). Resumo O peixe é consumido mundialmente por ser uma fonte rica e barata de carne branca e proteínas. A piscicultura é a principal fonte de geração de renda em todo o mundo. O presente estudo foi conduzido com o objetivo de investigar a fauna ecto e endoparasitária de S. plagiostomus (truta da neve) no rio Swat. Foram coletadas mensalmente 96 amostras de peixes, no período de julho de 2018 a fevereiro de 2019, nos trechos alto, médio e baixo com auxílio de redes de arrasto, redes de mão e varas de pesca. Pescadores locais e especialistas também ajudaram na coleta de peixes. Dos 96 peixes encontrados, 61 estavam infectados por parasitas helmintos. A prevalência de 63,54% e a intensidade total de 2,90 foram observadas durante a análise dos dados. A maior prevalência mensal de 83,33% foi registrada nos meses de julho e agosto, enquanto a menor, de 33,33%, em fevereiro. Cinco espécies de parasitas helmintos foram detectadas de S. plagiostomus, dos quais dois eram trematódeos (espécies Rhabdochona shizothoracis e Rhabdochona), uma espécie de monogenia (Diplozoon paradoxum), uma espécie de cestóideos (espécie Nippotaenia) e uma espécie de acantocéfalo (Neoechynorhynchus devdevi). As maiores prevalências de parasitas (21,87%), intensidade (4,09) e densidade relativa (0,895) foram observadas em R. schizothoracis, enquanto as menores prevalências de parasitas (4,16%), intensidade (1,25) e densidade relativa (0,052), em N. devdevi. A infecção mais alta (76,08%) foi constatada em adultos hospedeiros, ao passo que a taxa de infestação mais baixa (40%) foi encontrada em amostras de peixes jovens. A prevalência de 73,68% foi verificada em hospedeiros do sexo feminino, enquanto a de 56,90%, em indivíduos do sexo masculino. Maior infecção (83,33%) foi observada durante a temporada de verão, e a menor infecção (44,44%), durante o inverno. Da mesma forma, 71,79% dos peixes encontrados infectados foram coletados no trecho baixo do rio Swat, enquanto 52%, no trecho alto.

Malakand region is an endemic area for cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). However, there are limited number of studies of this disease in Pakistan. Therefore, a study was conducted to understand the level of awareness attitude and practice among the residents of Makaland towards CL and the disease vectors. This study adopted a cross-sectional approach with a total of 400 respondents (n=93 rural and n= 307 urban). Overall, the population in Malakand region (61.2%) were well-informed in the role of sand fly in transmitting diseases, but most lack knowledge on the vector’s behavior and almost a quarter (24.5%) were unable to provide knowledge on proper control measures. Alarmingly, the practice and attitudes of the general population was not satisfactory as close to half (49.8%) of the population did adopt any control method. This study calls for increase in awareness through health education campaign to reduce the risk of cutaneous leishmaniasis outbreaks in the future. Resumo A região de Malakand é uma área endêmica para leishmaniose cutânea (CL). No entanto, há um número limitado de estudos sobre esta doença no Paquistão. Portanto, foi realizado um estudo para entender o nível de atitude e prática de conscientização entre os residentes de Makaland em relação aos CL e os vetores da doença. Este estudo adotou uma abordagem transversal com um total de 400 entrevistados (n = 93 rural e n = 307 urbano). No geral, a população da região de Malakand (61,2%) estava bem informada sobre o papel da mosca na transmissão de doenças, mas a maioria não possui conhecimento sobre o comportamento do vetor e quase um quarto (24,5%) foi incapaz de fornecer conhecimento sobre medidas de controle adequadas . De maneira alarmante, a prática e as atitudes da população em geral não foram satisfatórias, pois cerca da metade (49,8%) da população adotou algum método de controle. Este estudo apela ao aumento da conscientização por meio de campanhas de educação em saúde para reduzir o risco de surtos de leishmaniose cutânea no futuro.

The present study was conducted to explore morphometric variations of Pteropus medius (the Indian flying fox) and the roosting trees in Lower Dir, Pakistan. The bats were captured from Morus alba, Morus nigra, Brousonetia papyrifera, Pinus raxburghii, Hevea brasiliensis, Platanus orientalis, Populous nigra, Melia azedarach, Eucalyptus camaldulensis and Grevillea robusta through sling shot and mess net methods. A total of 12 bats were studied for the differential morphological features based on age and sex. Male bats were recorded higher in weight than females. The variations were found in body mass (821.1±34.65gm), circumference of body with wings (25.43±0.39cm), wingspan (112.58±1.90cm), Body length (20.73±0.68cm), Snout length (3.42±0.04cm), Eye length (1.45±0.033cm), Length of ear (3.56±0.05cm), Width of ear (2.46±0.04cm), Length b/w ear (5.51±0.11cm), Circumference of neck (12.23±0.24cm), Circumference of body without wings (18.68±0.31cm), Arm wing length (23.2±1.03cm), Length of thumb (5.43±0.1cm), Length of nail (1.89±0.05cm), Hand wing length (29.1±0.51cm), Maximum width of wing (21.03±0.68cm), Length b/w tip of wing to 5th digit (29.39±0.30cm), Length b/w 5th digit to foot (22.97±1.09cm), Length b/w feet (18.31±0.74cm) and Length of foot claw (4.23±0.05cm). This study was designed for analysis of external morphological variations for P. medius (the Indian flying fox) that may help in identification of these bats and their roosting sites. Resumo O presente estudo foi conduzido com o intuito de explorar variações morfométricas de Pteropus medius (raposa-voadora indiana) e árvores de repouso em Lower Dir, Paquistão. Os morcegos foram capturados de Morus alba, Morus nigra, Broussonetia papyrifera, Pinus roxburghii, Hevea brasiliensis, Platanus orientalis, Populus nigra, Melia azedarach, Eucalyptus camaldulensis e Grevillea robusta por meio de estilingues e redes. Doze morcegos foram estudados quanto às características morfológicas diferenciais com base na idade e no sexo. Os morcegos machos apresentaram maior peso do que as fêmeas. As variações foram encontradas em massa corporal (821,1 ± 34,65 g), circunferência do corpo com asas (25,43 ± 0,39 cm), envergadura (112,58 ± 1,90 cm), comprimento do corpo (20,73 ± 0,68 cm), comprimento do focinho (3,42 ± 0,04 cm), comprimento do olho (1,45 ± 0,033 cm), comprimento da orelha (3,56 ± 0,05 cm), largura da orelha (2,46 ± 0,04 cm), comprimento entre as orelhas (5,51 ± 0,11 cm), circunferência do pescoço (12,23 ± 0,24 cm), circunferência do corpo sem asas (18,68 ± 0,31 cm), comprimento da asa da pata dianteira (23,2 ± 1,03 cm), comprimento do polegar (5,43 ± 0,1 cm), comprimento da unha (1,89 ± 0,05 cm), comprimento da asa até a ponta do dedo (29,1 ± 0,51 cm), largura máxima da asa (21,03 ± 0,68 cm), comprimento entre a ponta da asa e o quinto dedo (29,39 ± 0,30 cm), comprimento entre o quinto dedo e a pata (22,97 ± 1,09 cm), comprimento entre as patas (18,31 ± 0,74 cm) e comprimento da garra da pata (4,23 ± 0,05 cm). Este estudo foi desenvolvido para análise de variações morfológicas externas de P. medius (raposa-voadora indiana) e pode auxiliar na identificação desses morcegos e seus locais de nidificação.

The most important and broad-spectrum drug used to control the parasitic worms to date is ivermectin (IVM). Resistance against IVM has emerged in parasites, and preserving its efficacy is now becoming a serious issue. The parasitic nematode Haemonchus contortus (Rudolphi, 1803) is economically an important parasite of small ruminants across the globe, which has a successful track record in IVM resistance. There are growing evidences regarding the multigenic nature of IVM resistance, and although some genes have been proposed as candidates of IVM resistance using lower magnification of genome, the genetic basis of IVM resistance still remains poorly resolved. Using the full magnification of genome, we herein applied a population genomics approach to characterize genome-wide signatures of selection among pooled worms from two susceptible and six ivermectin-resistant isolates of H. contortus, and revealed candidate genes under selection in relation to IVM resistance. These candidates also included a previously known IVM-resistance-associated candidate gene HCON_00148840, glc-3. Finally, an RNA-interference-based functional validation assay revealed the HCON_00143950 as IVM-tolerance-associated gene in H. contortus. The possible role of this gene in IVM resistance could be detoxification of xenobiotic in phase I of xenobiotic metabolism. The results of this study further enhance our understanding on the IVM resistance and continue to provide further evidence in favor of multigenic nature of IVM resistance.

Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi (S. Typhi) is one of the typhoidal Salmonellae that causes typhoid fever. We report the first case of an XDR S. Typhi in a suspected case of Endocarditis with Aortic Valve Replacement and deranged INR. The identification was carried out by an automated system. The antibiogram was performed according to CLSI recommendations. The XDR S. Typhi isolates were found resistant to Azithromycin. Although XDR S. Typhi has been reported in our country and elsewhere, however, till to date no complete resistant isolate of S. Typhi to Azithromycin has been reported in Pakistan. The patient had a smooth recovery on intravenous meropenem. The case highlights the importance of the acquisition of resistance to the last line antibiotics in S. Typhi in our country and is of concern to infectious disease specialists to ensure infection control to avoid its spread. J Microbiol Infect Dis 2021; 11(1):32-35.

The most important and broad-spectrum drug used to control the parasitic worms to date is ivermectin (IVM). Resistance against IVM has emerged in parasites, and preserving its efficacy is now becoming a serious issue. The parasitic nematode Haemonchus contortus (Rudolphi, 1803) is economically an important parasite of small ruminants across the globe, which has a successful track record in IVM resistance. There are growing evidences regarding the multigenic nature of IVM resistance, and although some genes have been proposed as candidates of IVM resistance using lower magnification of genome, the genetic basis of IVM resistance still remains poorly resolved. Using the full magnification of genome, we herein applied a population genomics approach to characterize genome-wide signatures of selection among pooled worms from two susceptible and six ivermectin-resistant isolates of H. contortus, and revealed candidate genes under selection in relation to IVM resistance. These candidates also included a previously known IVM-resistance-associated candidate gene HCON_00148840, glc-3. Finally, an RNA-interference-based functional validation assay revealed the HCON_00143950 as IVM-tolerance-associated gene in H. contortus. The possible role of this gene in IVM resistance could be detoxification of xenobiotic in phase I of xenobiotic metabolism. The results of this study further enhance our understanding on the IVM resistance and continue to provide further evidence in favor of multigenic nature of IVM resistance.

In the present study, conservation status of important vascular flora found in Kalam valley was assessed. Kalam Valley represents the extreme northern part of Swat District in KPK Province of Pakistan. The valley contains some of the precious medicinal plants. 245 plant species which were assessed for conservation studies revealed that 10.20% (25 species) were found to be endangered, 28.16% (69 species) appeared to be vulnerable. Similarly, 50.6% (124 species) were rare, 8.16% (20 species) were infrequent and 2.9% (7 species) were recognized as dominant. It was concluded that Kalam Valley inhabits most important plants majority of which are used in medicines; but due to anthropogenic activities including unplanned tourism, deforestation, uprooting of medicinal plants and over grazing, majority of these plant species are rapidly heading towards regional extinction in the near future. To maintain the biodiversity of the study area, some in-situ and ex-situ conservation measures in the form of protected areas, sustainable grazing, supplying alternative energy sources to the native population, seeds preservation and growing precious medicinal plant species in nurseries established under the supervision of forest department are urgently needed. Key words: Preserving, vascular flora, regional extinction.

Objective To investigate the clinical and angiographic characteristics of coronary artery ectasia (CAE) and its relation with the inflammatory marker, HsCRP. Study design An observational study. Place and duration of study Rawalpindi Institute of Cardiology, Rawalpindi, from April 2015 till November 2016. Methodology Eighty-one patients with CAE and 57 age matched patients with stenotic coronary artery disease (CAD), but without CAE, were included in the study. Clinical, angiographic, and laboratory data were documented. Chi-square test was used to compare coronary risk factors between two groups. T test was used to compare means between the groups. Analysis of variance was used to analyse HsCRP levels among various types of ectasia. Correlation analysis was used to study association of ectasia with different risk factors. Results Males were predominant in both with & without CAE. Hypertension, smoking and obesity were significantly more common among CAE patients than those without (60.5% vs. 52.6%, 56.8% vs. 43.9% and 80.2% vs. 14%, respectively). Diabetes was much less in CAE group (32.1% vs. 42.1%). HsCRP was higher in patients with CAE than those without and was significantly higher in patients with more extensive ectasia. Majority (65.4%) of CAE patients had significant CAD; whereas, only 7.4% had isolated CAE. Most common artery involved was RCA (70.4% of total) and most common pattern was single ectatic vessel. Conclusion Obesity and smoking predispose to CAE, along with male sex and hypertension. While diabetes is negatively associated with CAE. HsCRP levels tend to be higher in ectasia patients, especially those with severe forms. Finally, CAE has a predilection for RCA.