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To obtain a cost-effective and eco-friendly natural dye, Olea europaea fruit waste aqueous extract (OFW-AE) has been investigated for its potential to dye grey fabric. The dye obtained as OFW-AE was tested under the effect of different factors related to the dyeing process. Characterization of the extract was done using UV-visible and FTIR analysis techniques that confirmed the presence of different phytochemicals including different pigments. UV-visible spectra showed absorption in the spectral region from 390 to 500 nm which is mainly due to different colorants present in the OFW-AE. FTIR analysis indicated different functional groups associated with phytoconstituents present in the extract. Different factors of the dyeing process were also optimized to achieve maximum dyeing efficiency of the OFQ-AE. The factors including dye/extract concentration (10 and 20%), time (20, 30, and 40 min), temperature (50, 60, 70, and 80 °C), pH (8 and 6), and mordant (NaCl) were investigated. The impact of these factors on the dyeing process was evaluated by measuring the color yield (K/S) and the fastness properties of the raw cotton dyed fabric samples. Better results of fastness properties were shown by the fabric dyed using metallic mordant (NaCl) with 10% concentration of OFW-AE at pH 8. Results indicated that the use of metallic mordant at higher temperatures increased the access of the dye molecules to the mordanted fabric and thus improved the K/S values and fastness properties of the dyed fabric. These results confirmed that natural dye from OFW-AE has potential applications for cotton dyeing and can be a viable alternative to synthetic colorant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In the present study, citrus pectin-stabilized copper/iron bimetallic nanoparticle (NP) catalyst has been used for the degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye in wastewater produced from the food industry. Methods: The P@Cu/Fe composites were synthesized by co-precipitation and the sol-gel methods. Results and discussion: The characterization of the composites was carried out using UV, FTIR, SEM, and XRD techniques, revealing that P1@Cu/FeNPs synthesized through co-precipitation had a particle size of 150-35 nm with an irregular spherical and hexagonal shape. P2@Cu/FeNPs, synthesized using the gel combustion method using triethylamine as fuel, proved to be a better nanocatalyst with spherical particles having a uniform structure and size distribution of 105-23 nm. The mean zeta potential value of P1@Cu/FeNPs was found to be between 0 and 5mv, showing the composite to be less stable and 13 mv for more stable P2@Cu/FeNPs. The degradation of MB by P1@Cu/FeNPs was recorded up to 23.57% after 35 min and the nanocomposite synthesized by the sol-gel method exhibited 97.28% degradation in 30 min. The P2@Cu/FeNPs performed the best degradation due to their synergistic impact. In essence, this research represents a step toward the synthesis of bimetallic NPs using a biomaterial (citrus pectin) with improved synergistic photocatalytic potential that can induce different features in nanomaterials. Pectin-functionalized NPs using different metals should be synthesized and tested for different catalytic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional medicinal plants play an important role in primary health care worldwide. The phytochemical screening and activities of Geranium pusillum were investigated in this research. The dried plant leaves were extracted with ethanol, n‐hexane, chloroform, dichloromethane, methanol, acetone, and aqueous solvents. These extracts were qualitatively analyzed, GC–MS, antimicrobial activities by using the disc diffusion method, antioxidant activity was determined by 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picryl‐hydrazyl‐hydrate (DPPH) radical scavenging, and cytotoxic activity was analyzed by the hemolytic activity of human red blood cells. The results showed phytochemicals such as flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids, phenols, saponins, tannins, and cardiac glycosides were detected in plant leaves. The ethanol extract at a concentration of 10 mg/mL showed a maximum inhibition zone 17.5 ± 0.09, 15.6 ± 0.11, 14.2 ± 0.17, 18.4 ± 0.11, 16.6 ± 0.15, 12.5 ± 0.13, 15.9 ± 0.10, and 13.1 ± 0.11 mm, and at 15 mg/mL showed 24.5 ± 0.09, 27.2 ± 0.12, 26.3 ± 0.17, 28.4 ± 0.10, 27.9 ± 0.16, 22.5 ± 0.13, 27.1 ± 0.10, and 24.1 ± 0.16 mm against Escherichia coli, Pasturella multocida (gram‐negative), Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilus (gram‐positive), Rhizopus solani, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, and Alternaria alternate (fungal strain), respectively, and dichloromethane showed a minimum inhibition zone as compared to other extracts against bacterial as well as fungal strains. Chloroform extract had maximum antioxidant activity (45.00 ± 0.08%) and minimum in dichloromethane (12.20 ± 0.04%). Cytotoxic activity was found maximum in acetone extract (19.83 ± 0.07%) and minimum in ethanol extract (4.72 ± 0.04%). It is concluded that phytochemicals like phenols, flavonoids, and others may be responsible for these activities, which is why this plant is used for traditional medicine. Research Highlights: Geranium pusillum has therapeutic properties that exhibit various biological activities beneficial for human health.G. pusillum has significant inhibitory effects against bacterial and fungal strains.Chloroform solvent extract indicates potential free radical scavenging abilities.Acetone extract exhibits notable effects on human red blood cells and demonstrates significant cytotoxic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The most common type of cancer is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The current study aimed to induce hepatocellular injury in the Wistar rat model through the administration of arsenic at a dose rate of 5mg/kg. In the context of treating induced liver toxicity, biocompatible nanocomposites were proposed as a drug delivery system. The proposed intervention involved administering a nanomaterial consisting of zinc oxide and Albizia lebbeck intraperitoneal at a dose rate of 10 mg/kg for 8 weeks. For this research, 24 Wistar rats were divided into four distinct groups. Except for the normal control group, rats from each group were administered intraperitoneal injections of arsenic oxide every other day for 56 days, at a dosage of 5 milligrams per kilogram of body weight, to induce hepatocellular carcinoma. The HCC that has been developed went under evaluation through various methods, including histopathology, complete blood count, health markers, and ultrasonography. The decrease in HCC dimensions was ascertained through the use of ultrasonography. The statistical analysis of the acquired data was involved the use of ANOVA and the least significant difference at a significance level of 5%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: According on the proportion of fibroglandular tissue to fatty tissue, the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) divides breast density into 4 groups and offers radiologists standardized communication tools. OBJECTIVE: To determine the association of breast density with development of breast cancer in local Asian population. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Total 108 female patients were included in the cross-sectional study. A full-field digital mammography equipment was used for the mammograms. For bilateral breasts, four mediolateral oblique and craniocaudal images were acquired. The American College of Radiology Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) was used to guide the interpretation of mammogram. The categories were recorded as follows: 1) Almost entirely fat (25% fibroglandular tissue); 2) Scattered fibroglandular (26%- 50%); 3) Heterogeneously dense (51%-75%); and 4) Extremely dense (>75%). Stratification was done and post stratification Chi square test or Fisher s exact test was applied. P-value 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The categories of BI-RADS were found as 16(14.8%) had category A, 48(44.4%) had category B, 38(35.2%) had category C and 6(5.6%) had category D. The breast cancer was noted in 5(31.3%) cases of category A, 24(50%) of cases of category B, 30(78.9%) of cases of category C and 5(83.3%) cases of category D, the breast cancer was significantly associated with the categories of BI-RADS (p=0.002). CONCLUSION: There is a significant association between the risk of breast cancer inour population with mammographic breast tissue density categorized by BI-RADS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver, being the major organ for metabolism and detoxification of different drugs and substances, is more prone to injury. Drug induced hepatotoxicity is a fetal condition and needs fast and effective treatment options. Orange and banana peel are known to have therapeutic hepatoprotective efficacy against oxidative stress. This study was aimed to investigate therapeutic potential of orange and banana peel powder against paracetamol induced oxidative stress. To achieve this, fifty adult and healthy rabbits were purchased, and hepatotoxicity was induced by using paracetamol at a dose of 2g/kg. Afterwards, these animals were randomly divided into five equal groups. In this trial of 21 days, animals of group A and B were treated with orange peel at the dose of 0.5 and 1 gm/kg BW respectively. Similarly, group C and D was served with banana peel at the dosage of 0.5 and 1 g/kg BW respectively. Group E served as control group and was treated with Hepa-Merz®. Blood samples were collected from rabbits at baseline (prior to induction of hepatotoxicity), at day 0 (after establishment of hepatotoxicity and initiation of respective treatments), at day 3, 7, 14 and 21 (after the start of treatment) while two rabbits from each group were slaughtered at each sampling time point for histopathology of liver. The efficacy of the treatments was evaluated through Liver function tests (ALT, AST and total bilirubin), total antioxidant capacity, serum total oxidant status and histopathological examination of liver. ANOVA and DMR tests were applied to analyze the data. All the five groups showed significant decrease in the elevated serum levels of ALT, AST, Total bilirubin and TOS at day 21. While TAC levels dramatically increased in all the groups. Histopathology also verified the improvement in histopathological architecture. Group B and C gave more hepatoprotective response demonstrating that the orange and banana peel have dose dependent hepatoprotective response furthermore, orange peel is more potent hepatoprotective agent than that of banana peel. The present study demonstrated that the orange and banana peel have hepatoprotective efficacy against paracetamol induced toxicity, and they can be used as therapeutic agents in cases of oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine visual outcomes and post-operative complications after Lucidis 124M EDOF IOL implantation after phacoemulsification and to see the effect of these lenses on Quality of life of the patients. Study Design: Mixed study design (Quasi Experimental and qualitative analysis). Place and Duration of Study: WAPDA Teaching Hospital and Acuity Eye Centre, Lahore, from November 2017 to October 2022. Methods: Hundred eyes of seventy five patients underwent Lucidis EDOF IOL implantation after phacoemulsification using 2.75 mm clear posterior corneal incisions. Criteria used to document visual outcomes were uncorrected and corrected distance and near vision measurements. Quality of life (QoL) was assessed by interviewing the patients at least 6 months postoperatively using google forms. Results: Hundred eyes of 75 patients were enrolled. There were 39 (52%) males and 36 (48%) females. Mean age was 1.48 ± 0.50 years. Mean baseline un-corrected visual acuity (UCVA) was 2.83 ± 1.48. Eighty two percent eyes had corrected vision of 6/6 and 75 eyes achieved N.6 for near. Fifty patients out of 75 responded to the questionnaire regarding QoL. Sixteen percent patients had glare, 85% reported no difficulties during night driving and 68% had no problem in watching TV without glasses. Sixty eight percent did not experience any itching, watering, or discomfort and 90% responded that their QoL had improved. None of the patients had lens deposits, discoloration or decentration. One had endophthalmitis. Conclusion: Lucidis EDOF IOL are safe and effective lenses in terms of visual outcomes and spectacle independence resulting in better quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functional foods and nutraceuticals are gaining popularity as they are being developed and commercialized with the aim of reducing the risk of various diseases and their treatment. In this study, antiradical activity guided fractionation of Pariploca aphylla (P. aphylla) crude extract was conducted. A crude methanolic extract of P. aphylla was prepared and then fractionated using different solvents, including hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, butanol, and water. This approach allowed for the isolation and characterization of different fractions of P. aphylla with potential antioxidant activity. These fractions were tested for the determination of total phenolic content, antiradical (DPPH• and ABTS•+) potential and HPLC quantification of phenolic acids. Among all the tested fractions, butanol fraction exhibited highest phenolic content and significant antiradical potential. Butanol faction was further subfractionated using a silica gel-loaded column and 18 sub-fractions were obtained. Antiradical potential of all 18 sub-fractions was determined and sub-fraction 12 was found having highest radical scavenging potential. Structures of compounds in sub-fraction 12 were identified and quantified using GC-MS. Among all the identified compounds, 7-Trimethylsilyloxytridecane (C16H36OSi) and 1,2-bis(trimethylsiloxy)ethane (C8H22O2Si2) were found in highest ratio. All of the compounds can be declared having high antiradical potential that can be extracted or synthesized for possible exploitation as functional food or nutraceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research is focused on synthesis of Cu-TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) by bio-mediated method using Phoenix dactylifera fruit extract. The lignocellulosic entities of P. dactylifera fruit extract used as reducing and capping agent due to presence of higher contents of phenolics and flavonoids. These synthesized NPs are characterized by ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Cu-TiO2 NPs synthesized by bio-mediated method are cost effective and environmental friendly. Results showed the average size of NPs was found to be 32.07 nm. Furthermore, these NPs act as very effective and suitable nano-catalyst for dyes degradation and reduces the concentration of Rhodamine-B to 89.8% and methyl orange to 95.3% dyes in wastewater. Results revealed that the synthesized NPs could possibly be employed for degradation of other toxic pollutants particularly dyes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare postoperative refractive outcomes predicted by ultrasonic and optical biometry after phacoemulsification. Study Design: Descriptive observational. Place and Duration of Study: WAPDA Teaching Hospital and Acuity Eye Center in Lahore Pakistan from January 2022 to May 2022. Methods: The study included 59 eyes with cataracts and required phacoemulsification and implantation of a foldable intraocular lens. They were divided into two groups; (29 in the ultrasonic biometry group and 30 in the optical biometry group). The first group was subjected to ultrasound biometry, whereas the second was subjected to optical biometry. We compared ocular refractions following cataract surgery in two groups. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the mean absolute refractive error (MAE). The operating surgeon was the same in both the groups. Results: All the participants were between 40 and 70 years of age. The preoperative mean target refraction in the ultrasonic group was 0.05 ± 0.13D (range: -0.01 to + 0.17D) and 0.12 ± 0.33D in the optical group (range: -0.01 to +0.49D). Thus, there was a non-significant difference between both groups regarding target refraction (P = 0.58, U = 398.5). The MAE measured for the first group was 0.14 ± 0.46D and for the second group was 0.60 ± 0.53D. The comparison between both the biometry procedures showed that the difference was non-significant between the biometry methods (P = 0.430). Conclusion: The difference between Post-Operative MAE of patients undergoing two different biometry procedures (Optical and Ultrasonic) after cataract surgery was non-significant at P > 0.05. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eosin Y (EY) is a toxic dye and has adverse effects on human beings as well as on aquatic organisms. During the last few decades, various methods such as physio-chemical and biological methods have been reported for the degradation of this toxic dye. Many researchers reported degradation of EY using different polymer stabilized metal nanoparticles synthesized employing green methods. Mono-metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) stabilized by polymeric systems are the most widely used tools for the degradation of many toxic dyes including EY. Characterization as well as morphology assessment of the nanoparticles is done by different analytical techniques including UV-visible, FTIR, SEM, TEM and XRD. In this review article, synthesis, characterization, chemistry of the polymeric stabilized nanoparticles has been reported. In addition, mechanism, kinetics and thermodynamics of catalytic degradation of EY using polymeric stabilized nanoparticles, have been discussed. This review also carries the discussion on various nano catalytic systems which have been used for the degradation of EY to link the most recent work on water purification from EY dye. This review will be helpful in understanding the spectrum of already published work describing role of polymeric stabilized nanoparticles for EY degradation. It will also motivate researchers to design their future work and commercial applications of polymeric stabilized nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study assesses the performance of a developing economy's educational sector by comparing some fundamental educational statistics from Pakistan to those of ten better performing nations, and it outlines the required levels of education for the following decade. It presents a road map for the educational sector in Pakistan for the next ten years after identifying the gap between the existing and required levels of educational statistics. For each level of education, projections for the following variables are created. The required levels of Gross enrolment ratios, student-teacher ratios, the number of enrolments and the number of teachers. The required distribution of government spending across educational levels. Normed Planning approach is followed for the purpose by using panel data of 10 selected countries over the time period 2003-2017. It has also been observed that enrolments at each level of education are far below the required level based on international norms. In primary and secondary education, there are significant disparities between actual and necessary student-teacher ratios. In Pakistan, educational funding appears to be unbalanced, with primary and secondary education receiving more public funds than tertiary education. The analysis also demonstrates that the percentage of capital spending in total government expenditure on education is lower than what is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focusses on the synthesis of polyaniline (PANI) and polyaniline base adsorbent utilizing Citrus limon leaves (CL) powder. The polyaniline base adsorbent with C. limon was synthesized using the same process as polyaniline synthesis, but with the addition of leaves powder. PANI and PANI based adsorbent with C. limon leaves powder (PANI/CL) were characterized by Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR), UV-Visible spectroscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). This synthesized material was employed for the removal of congo red (CR) dye from industrial wastewater. Furthermore, the Langmuir, Temkin and Freundlich isotherms were also applied to evaluate experimental results. PANI is an efficient adsorbent for CR removal with 71.9 mg/g, while PANI/CL is an efficient adsorbent with 80 mg/g removal of dye according to a comparison of maximal adsorption capabilities. The data concludes that the prepared adsorbents could possibly be employed for the removal of toxic dyes from industrial effluents at large scale and ultimately could help in improving the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current therapies used to cure diabetes mellitus viz. based on some oral hypoglycemic preparations or insulin are not sufficient and accompany a lot of side effects. Complementary and alternative remedies are being considered in managing diabetes. Therefore, the current study was planned to investigate the anti-diabetic efficacy of Sphaeranthus indicus and Nigella sativa (alone and in combination) in comparison to rational anti-diabetic drug metformin. For this purpose, 54 albino rats were selected and randomly divided into six equal groups after inducing diabetes. Extracts of Sphaeranthus indicus and Nigella sativa were given alone and in combination to animals of three groups, respectively, whereas metformin was administered as standard therapy to animals of the respective group. One group served as positive control while the other one as a negative control. Evaluation criteria were based on serum glucose and insulin levels, oxidative stress biomarkers and gene expression. Provision of respective treatments led to a statistically significant decrease in serum glucose levels and vice versa in serum insulin levels; this change was statistically non-significant among all the treated groups at the end of the study period. A similar trend was observed in the case of oxidative stress biomarkers viz. total oxidative stress and total antioxidant capacity, where the former was decreased and later was increased significantly after provision of treatments. Similarly, the provision of Sphaeranthus indicus and Nigella sativa alone or in combination upregulated the insulin signaling pathway genes while downregulated the genes for MAPK downstream JNK pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apot experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of various treatments of poultry manure (0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%) on the nutritional status of two maize hybrids (Pearl and MMRI). It is evident from the results that the nutritional status of both maize hybrids was significantly improved by growing in soil amended with 50% and 75% of poultry manure as compared to their respective control. Similar responses were also recorded for antioxidants of both hybrids. It is also inferred that use of 50% poultry manure in soil amendment is eco-friendly and economically most effective option for maize growers to get quality production with maximum profit per anum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore student's perceptions regarding impact of kinesics (facial expressions, gestures, head movements and postures) on undergraduate medical education. Methods: A qualitative exploratory online survey was conducted from July-Sept 2020 among purposively chosen final year BDS students (n=150) of three dental colleges of Islamabad during COVID-19 lockdown phase. Semi-structured survey questions were validated and piloted before execution. Thematic analysis was performed, and consensus was built among all authors regarding findings, hence ensuring analytical triangulation. Results: Response rate was 46% (69/150). Twenty sub-themes emerged under three domains of kinesics. Participants told that 'neutral expressions' frequently used by teachers create 'boring learning environment' and 'hesitation among students to ask questions.' A smile of teacher imparts 'new degree of interest in the subject' and gives 'freedom of expression' to the students. On contrary, anger 'demotivate' students, instills 'fear among them', make them anxious therefore, they are 'unable to understand lectures' which ultimately leads to 'loss interest in the subject'. Use of gestures by teachers creates 'enjoyable teachinglearning process' but movements such as clearing throat or shaky legs produce 'constant split-second interruption'. Moreover, standing posture of teachers bring 'interest and alertness among students'. Conclusion: Nonverbal communication can have positive or negative impact on undergraduate medical education. Therefore, teachers may start lecture with a smile and anger should be avoided to produce friendly and healthy learning environment. Faculty training is required for the effective use of nonverbal communication strategies to create an optimal learning environment for the students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mayer-rokitansky-kuster-hauser syndrome is a rare congenital syndrome occurring in approximately lout of 4500 to 1 out of 5000 women.4,7 There is a defect in the embryonic development of para mesonephric ducts leading to aplasia or hypoplasia of the uterus and proximal 2/3 of vagina, despite normal hormonal status and female karyotype.3,4 It is divided into three types: Type 1 an isolated deformity of the uterus and cervix Type 2 is associated with renal and ovarian disorders (atypical form) Type 3 shows anomalies including anal atresia, tracheoesophageal fistula, renal, cardiac and vertebral deformities.1,3,4,7 Typical MRI findings of this disorder can be helpful in the diagnosis of this syndrome. Therefore, we have presented here a case of an 8-year-old who was diagnosed with Mayer-rokitansky-kuster-hauser syndrome and her MRI pelvis findings along with other investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To determine the diagnostic accuracy of MRI in detection of invasive fungal sinusitis taking histopathology as gold standard. METHODS: Cross sectional study conducted in department of radiology of a tertiary care hospital in Karachi in 6 months period from 27-04-2018 to 26-10-2018.The data was collected by evaluating digital records of patients collected over specified period of time. RESULTS: A complete analysis of cross sectional examination of 282 patients were carried out for evaluation of invasive fungal sinusitis. The study include 149 male and 133 females with a median age of 39.6 years. Among the study population invasive fungal sinusitis confirmed with histopathology seen in 46 patients. CONCLUSION: The present study indicates that MRI should be used as a screening modality for invasive fungal sinusitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, different organic (moringa and neem leaf powder) and inorganic (alum) coagulants were used for the wastewater treatment. Results revealed that all the coagulants at various doses significantly affected the pH, electrical conductivity (EC) and turbidity of wastewater. The maximum decrease in all the attributes was observed when 10 g of coagulants were used. Similarly, maximum adsorption potential was observed in case of moringa leaf powder. Maximum decrease in all physiochemical attributes such as pH (13%), EC (65%), turbidity (75%), total dissolved solids (TDS; 51%), total suspended solids (TSS; 48%), total hardness (TH; 29%), chloride contents (66%) and phosphate contents (44%) was observed. Regarding the heavy metals, maximum decrease for Cadmium (Cd; 96%), Lead (Pb; 88%), Arsenic (As; 23%), Iron (Fe; 90%), Manganese (Mn; 96%) and Zinc (Zn; 48%) was observed in same treatment. The decreasing order in terms of their adsorption potential for coagulants was moringa leaf powder > Alum > neem leaf powder. However, the maximum effect of coagulants was observed in case of textile wastewater as compared to the hospital wastewater. Based on the analyses, it is concluded that the moringa leaf powder has maximum adsorption potential for the remediation of wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the assessment of health risk potential by quantifying some selected metals (Cd, Cr, Fe, Cu, Mn, Zn, Ni, Pb) in vegetables and soil irrigated with different sources of water. The physicochemical parameters of irrigating water were within the safe limits except for SAR in sewage water (18.723 mg/kg) and industrial wastewater (40.332 mg/kg). The Mn (19 mg/kg) was higher than the safe limit in vegetable and soil irrigated with tube well water. The sewage water irrigated vegetable had high level of cadmium (1.557 mg/kg), lead (2.307 mg/kg) and chromium (3.566 mg/kg) than safe limits. The canal water had high level of cadmium (0.286 mg/kg) and lead (0.569 mg/kg). The vegetable irrigated with tube well water was best for human health while vegetable irrigated with sewage water, canal water, and industrial wastewater was of poor quality and unfit for human health due to high level of toxic metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Education and economic growth nexus is one of the abundantly researched topics in economics. The social returns of education in addition to its private returns makes it public good and justifies the use of public funds. While most of the studies conclude the positive relationship between the two, examples also exist of the negative relationship. However, there is a gap in the literature to find and compare the effect of education on the growth of agriculture, industry and services sector separately. This paper is particularly aimed to analyze the impact of different levels of education of employed persons on level and growth of national output, agriculture, industry & services sector output in Pakistan. The method of analysis is the autoregressive distributed lag model (ARDL). Each level of education is found to have a positive effect on the output per employed person both in the short-run and long-run except for agriculture sector. In the agriculture sector, each education level is negatively associated. The deeper analysis showed that the greater negative effect of employment evades the positive effect of education in the agriculture sector. The comparison of different sectors shows that primary education contributes more to the industrial sector. While the contribution of the secondary & tertiary education is highest in the services sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current micro-level study explores the impact of education on life satisfaction of individuals in Pakistan via six mediating factors that are health, employment status, marital status, number of children, the scale of income and freedom of choice. The differences based on gender, marital status and the scale of income are also analyzed by using data from Wave 6 (2010-2014) of the World Values Survey. The marginal mediation technique by Barrett (2018) is used. It is observed that education plays a significant role in affecting life satisfaction. The channels of health, freedom and scale of income are found significant in the analysis of the full sample. Different paths are found operative for opposite genders. Comparison based on the scale of income shows that more channels are found effective for the middle class as compared to rich and poor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This cross-sectional study was carried out to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAPs) of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection among dentists of five tertiary hospitals in Islamabad. A total of 192 participants were approached using a convenient sampling technique, over a period of three months from January 2018 to March 2018. Data were collected using self-administered structured questionnaire and analyzed by using SPSS version 22. The response rate was 100% (n=192). The results showed that the mean age of the participants were 28.5 ± 3 years with most of them were females (82%). More than 80% of the study participants had an adequate knowledge on risk factors for HBV, its mode of transmissions, and preventions. Majority (97.9%) of the participants had positive attitude towards following infection control guidelines. The mean score for HBV related practices was 4.76±1.15 revealing good practices among the study participants. In conclusion, this study reveals that majority of the dentists working in tertiary hospitals of Islamabad have good knowledge, attitude and practices towards HBV. However, it is recommended to improve this percentage through health education campaigns and settings so that a greater number of dentists could be benefited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the evolution of techniques for scleral fixation, haptic externalization, and tucking in phakic rehabilitation for patients without capsular support. The use of anterior chamber (AC) IOL or scleral-fixated posterior chamber IOL (SF-PC IOL) is considered in these cases. The article highlights various techniques and modifications that have been developed to improve the outcomes of these procedures, including the "handshake" method for haptic externalization and the use of different needle sizes for externalizing the IOL haptics. The article emphasizes the importance of collaboration between surgeons and the industry to develop safer and more efficient techniques for haptic externalization and tucking. [Extracted from the article]

We report a case of a sciatic neuroma presenting 4 months after above knee amputation. Patients developing neuroma following a limb amputation can present with stump pain which is commonly resistant to medical intervention. The duration of presentation of clinical symptoms are very variable. Diagnosis relies on clinical suspicion, accurate assessment, radiological imaging, surgical exploration and histopathology.1 MRI provides a better soft tissue definition. The aim of treatment for symptomatic neuroma is pain relief and improvement of function. This is often achieved by surgical excision of neuroma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Life time management of diabetes by synthetic drugs has been found cost effective with severe side effects as well. Herbal remedies are gaining popularity. Black cumin and garlic are found effective against hypoglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and hypercholesterolemia. Present study was designed to evaluate the relative antidiabetic potential of garlic aqueous (AGE) and petroleum ether (EGE) extracts compared to black cumin (Nigella sativa oil; NSO) and insulin. Alloxan induced diabetic rats were post treated with plant extracts (150 mg/kg) and serum samples were collected from overnight fasted diabetic rats on day 15 to observe thepercent changes in blood glucose levels and lipid profile. Garlic extracts have shown the significant (p<0.001) hypoglycemic activity with no considerable effect on mean body weight of rats (ns, p>0.05) as compared to diabetic rats. The AGE treatment has significantly reduced the blood glucose level (56%), however, the EGE treatment was found effective in normalizing the lipid contents of diabetic rats. The black cumin oil treatment has resulted in significant (p<0.001) increase (48%) in body weight of diabetic rats, but found less active in regulating other biochemical parameters. However, significant role of garlic extracts; especially the ether extract (EGE) was noted in normalizing the biochemical attributes. On the basis of findings, it is recommended that the garlic ether extract should be applied in herb-drug combinations commonly used as antidiabetic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dental caries and the resulting pulpitis is a reality of modern day life style. Important determinant for dental caries progression may be socioeconomic status (SES), gender, race, oral hygiene and habits like tobacco consumption. An association of dental caries with SES is still questionable. The objectives this study are to access the prevalence of untreated dental caries using PUFA index among 12 to 14 years old school going children and to determine an association of PUFA index with the socioeconomic status (SES) of parents. A cross sectional study of three months duration was conducted among 12 -14 years old school going children reporting at the Operative Dentistry department of Margalla institute of Health Sciences Rawalpindi. An assessment of teeth and adjacent soft tissues of 300 children was carried out with mouth mirror. PUFA score of the whole sample was 1.42. The "P" component formed the majority of PUFA score (80%). Children with poor SES had a mean PUFA score of 1.32 while children with middle class SES had a mean PUFA score of 1.48. A statistically significant association was seen between SES and P component of PUFA (p≤0.001). These results with high degree of pulpal involvement in children belonging to middle class SES highlight the fact that there is a need for educating both parents and children regarding deleterious effects of refined sugars on oral health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of treated and untreated dental caries experience and its association with oral hygiene and dietary habits 5-6 years children in Gulraiz, Rawalpindi. A cross-sectional survey on 384 school going children of 5-6 years age group was carried out. Multi stage random sampling was employed. Overall the deft prevalence for the sample of 384 children is 50.9% and the prevalence of pufa is 15.9%. The 'd' component formed majority of the def codes (41.7%) and the 'p' component was majorly responsible for pufa codes (14.3%). No significant association between gender, tooth brushing frequency and supervised tooth brushing, and def and pufa were found (p = > 0.05). However, the lunch that children consumed during school lunch breaks was found to have highly significant association with the 'd' and 'f' component of def index (p = < 0.001). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron–copper bimetallic nanoparticles (Fe-Cu BNPs) were prepared via a green synthesis route. Ixora finlaysoniana has been used in this study as a capping and stabilizing agent in the modification of Fe-Cu BNPs. As-synthesized BNPs were characterized using different techniques including UV/Vis spectrophotometry, FTIR, XRD and SEM. A particle size analyzer and SEM studies indicated the particle size to be in the range of 50–200 nm. In addition, degradation of MB dye in an aqueous system and radical-scavenging potential in a DPPH assay were also examined using BNPs. Methylene blue dye degradation in 17 min was monitored with UV/Vis spectrophotometry, which exhibited the efficiency of Fe-Cu BNPs. Bimetallic nanoparticles were also found to be efficient in neutralizing DPPH free radicals. Furthermore, kinetic studies of both dye degradation and radical scavenging potential are reported in this article. Subsequently, Fe-Cu BNPs synthesized via a green and sustainable method can be employed for dye degradation and free radical-scavenging activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Objective: Low back pain (LBP) is an ever-increasing menace in the young men as well as women. Many factors causing it have been identified, the most common being improper spinal posture. LBP has been targeted by physicians, anesthetists, surgeons and rehabilitation medicine specialists. We compared the effects of Kinesio Taping and dry needling on pain reduction and disability improvement in patients diagnosed with mechanical chronic LBP. Method: A randomized control trial (RCT) was conducted at Rawal General and Dental Hospital and Al-Nafees hospital in Islamabad from January 2020 to October 2021. Probability-based sampling method was used to select participants for the study (simple random sampling). Thirty patients, aged 18 to 75 y were included. Sample size was calculated with Epitools. The selected patients were divided in two groups i.e., 15 patients in the Kinesio taping group (KT group) and 15 in the dry needling group (DN group). Two patients in the needling group were dropped. Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and Roland-Morris Disability Index Questionnaire (RMDQ) were used to assess the pain and the disability at baseline, two weeks post-intervention and four weeks post-treatment. Chi-Square test was use to find association. Results: The mean age of the patients was 39.60 ± 13.69 y for KT group and 37.15 ± 12.54 y for DN group. The mean BMI for KT group was 27.15 ± 6.70 kg/m² and for DN group 27.52 ± 5.13 kg/m². Before treatment, there were no differences between the groups for NPRS and RMDQ. Both dry needling and Kinesio taping produced significant improvements in NPRS and RMDQ after two and four weeks of treatment (P < 0.05). However, statistical analysis results showed that there was no association between pain and disability in patient with non-specific low back pain. (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Both, Kinesio taping and dry needling, significantly reduced pain and disability after two- and four-weeks treatment in patients with low back pain, but there was no statistical differences between the pain and disability in both groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to determine the etiology and pattern of tooth extractions in permanent dentition. A cross sectional prospective study was conducted at the department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faisalabad Medical University, Faisalabad from October 2018 to March 2019. A total of 1656 patients were picked through non-probability consecutive sampling and data was collected by a skilled clinician using a specially designed performa after informed verbal consent from the patient. Quantitative variables like age were presented as mean and standard deviation. Qualitative data like gender, reason of extraction of tooth, tooth loss pattern and socioeconomic status were presented as frequencies and percentages. In 1656 patients, a total of 2253 teeth were extracted. There were 639 (38.6%) males and 1017 (61.4%) females with a male to female ratio of 1:1.6. Majority of the patients 1235 (74.6%) belong to lower socioeconomic status and 421 (25.4%) belong to middle socioeconomic status. The main etiology of tooth extraction in this study was caries 1503 (66.7%) followed by periodontal diseases 288 (12.8%) and impaction 237 (10.5%). The pattern of tooth removal showed that third molar tooth was the frequently extracted tooth 522 (23.1%) followed by the first molar tooth 438 (19.4%) in both the arches. The results of this study showed that caries followed by periodontal disease were the major cause for tooth extractions. These are largely preventable causes of tooth extraction therefore there is a need for commencement of far reaching preventive actions. Significant consideration should be applied to expand people's awareness and recognition of their overall dental health and change of their viewpoint and behaviour in connection to oral care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]