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Abstract The sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) juice, a beverage with fascinating track record of health promoting potential, loaded with phenolics, flavonoids, the bioactives, is capable of high antioxidant activities. The mint is a reliable herbal plant, with loads of phytochemicals and hundreds of food applications. However, sugarcane juice added with mint is normally consumed without any processing and preservation. Therefore, it is important to employ green processing technologies on sugarcane-mint juice blend, in order to process and preserve this nutritional juice with optimum retention of bioactives. In the current study sugarcane-mint blend juice was developed to study the synergistic effect of sonication (20 kHz, 70% amplitude, 5, 10 and 15 min) and microwave (90 °C, 400 W, 120 s) on pH, titratable acidity, total soluble solids (TSS), total phenolics (TPC), total flavonoids (TFC) and antioxidant activity of developed beverage, at 7 days interval, during 21 days of storage period. Increment in sonication time and advancement in storage days, both resulted in an increase in pH, and decrease in titratable acidity and TSS of blend juice. Sonication for 15 min along with microwave exhibited significant (p ≤ 0.05) results in terms of rise in TPC, TFC and antioxidant ability of blend juice, as compared to 10 and 5 min, sonication. Whereas, untreated juice samples exhibited significantly (p ≤ 0.05) less contents of TPC, TFC and antioxidant capacity, which were further significantly (p ≤ 0.05) decreased during 21 days of storage. Our results highlighted the significance of synergism of sonication and microwave in improvement of physicochemical and phytochemical quality of sugarcane-mint blend juice.

Abstract Objectives Intraoperative frozen-section evaluation is a valuable technique for detecting positive margins intraoperatively for oral squamous cell carcinoma. We conducted this study to determine the diagnostic accuracy of frozen section in detecting margin status and the effect of tumor grade and stage on diagnostic accuracy. Results A total of 251 biopsy-proven cases of oral squamous cell carcinoma were included in this study. The tissue specimen resected during surgery was sent to the laboratory for frozen section evaluation. The frozen section results were then compared with the permanent section results to determine the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and diagnostic accuracy. The mean age of the patients included in the study was 51.65 ± 10.03 years, with male predominance (55.4%). The overall sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and diagnostic accuracy of frozen section were 88.81%, 94.84%, 95.20%, 88.10%, and 91.63%, respectively. We conclude that frozen section is a useful technique in determining the margin status intraoperatively in oral cancers, with high diagnostic accuracy. Moreover, certain clinical parameters such as age, gender, disease duration, and tumor stage and grade appear to affect the diagnostic accuracy of frozen section.

Despite being nutrient-dense fruits with loads of bioactives, strawberries have a limited shelf life due to highly perishable nature. Therefore, to develop powders and extracts from these fruits through implementation of novel technologies is gaining importance. In current work strawberries pulp was dried through spray drying followed by ultrasonic assisted extraction using 70 % ethanol, to compare phytochemicals of fresh strawberries and strawberry powder. Both fresh strawberries and spray dried strawberry powder were found rich source of fiber, ash, protein and important minerals, however, strawberry powder presented significantly high fiber (4.72 %), ash (3.88 %) and protein (6.12 %). Total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), total carotenoid content (TC), DPPH free radical scavenging activity, total anthocyanins, vitamin C and β-carotene were found in significantly high amounts in ultrasonic assisted extracts of spray dried strawberry powder with values 480.18 mg GAE/100 g, 233.90 mg CE/100 g, 250.18 mg/100 g, 82.48 mg AAE/100 g, 8.04 mg/100 g, 32.16 mg/100 g and 92.03 mg/100 g, respectively. As compared to the ultrasonic assisted ethanolic extracts of fresh strawberries, the extracts of dried powder exhibited significantly high (p ≤ 0.05) antimicrobial activities. Thus, aforementioned techniques could prove useful for optimum retention of bioactives in strawberry powder.

Purpose: Out Patient Department (OPD) is one of the most accessed departments with high influx and multiple clinical & allied facilities for public. OPD in District Head Quarter Hospital of Bhimber city in Azad Kashmir Pakistan has been a major OPD for public in city and influx has rapidly increased in recent pandemic and pre-pandemic times, raising questions about sustainable future usage and optimum services delivery. Methodology: Hence the user satisfaction with respect to environmental variables was a major concern and thus was explored through the observational study with help of a checklist and pictorial record was followed by data collection from medical and patient side end users of the facility using a questionnaire. Data was collected in both summer season (106 respondents) and winter (114 respondents) season. Findings: Major issues were indoor color design, air freshness, noise level, temperature, humidity, seating comfort, cleanliness of rest rooms due to their non presence at all and poor signage. Apart from these poor landscape design and seating for end users was also reported missing. Implications: As a result, design interventions were proposed at the end of the research which mainly included solarization, hybrid HVAC system integration, multiple nursing station additions and additions of internal storage and toilets through prefabricated units.

Background: Osteporosis is increasingly observed as a major public health concern as it leads to poor quality of life, pain and often disability for those effected. Especially in the developing countries, its prevalence in alarming in the face of poor awareness and management. Objective: To assess the risk factors for osteoporosis in females coming to a tertiary care hospital of Karachi. Methods: This was hospital based case control study conducted in a private tertiary healthcare facility of Karachi. It was carried out in 2012. 57 cases and 60 controls were selected through WHO Sample size calculator. Matching among cases and controls was based on gender, socioeconomic status and age group. Data was collected through questionnaire based personal interviews. Data entry and analysis was done using Epi Info. Association between categorical variables was found using chi square. Odds ratio was calculated for finding association between different risk factors and osteoporosis. The study was cleared through the Ethical review board. Results: One hundred and seventeen cases and controls were taken in this study with the age range of 45+ years (mean age 56.8 ± 11.8). Statistically significant difference was found in under 50 age group where cases were only n=8 (14%) as compared to controls n=25(42%). Parsi ethnicity showed strong association with osteoporosis (OR 2.23). Strong association was observed between smoking and osteoporosis with an Odds Ratio of 4.0. Strong association was observed with Rheumatoid arthritis (OR 2.8, CI at 95% 1.2-6.3) and Calcium deficiency (OR 2.2, CI at 95% 1.1-4.7). Conclusion: The study revealed specific to Parsi ethnicity, family history, smoking, rheumatoid arthritis and Vitamin D deficiency were found to be potent risk factors. Therefore as reaffirmed from our study also, risk factors except from the non modifiable ones should be tackled well in advance through health education and interventions. Key Words: Osteoporosis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Bone Density

The present study was designed to improve the aqueous solubility and dissolution rate of citreorosein, a poorly water soluble drug, by producing its nanoparticles (NPs) using an “antisolvent precipitation with a syringe pump” (APSP) method. Various process parameters including flow rate, stirring speed, temperature, drug concentration and solvent-antisolvent ratio were investigated and optimized to obtain the smallest particle size of citreorosein. The prepared NPs were subjected to different analytical techniques such as SEM, FTIR, XRD and DLS. The NPs were tested for different dissolution parameters including difference (f1) and similarity factors (f2), dissolution efficiency (DE) and mean dissolution time (MDT). The antioxidant potential of citreorosein and its NPs were evaluated using DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP models, while their cytotoxicity was tested on various cancer cell lines such as breast (MDA-MB-231), lung (A549) and liver (HepG2), using the MTT assay. The specificity of the test compound was investigated against two normal human primary epithelial cells including renal (HRPTEpiC) and alveolar (HPAEpiC) cells. DLS analysis revealed that the prepared NPs were less than 200 nm in size while SEM and XRD confirmed their rod shape and amorphous nature, respectively. Citreorosein-NPs exhibited enhanced solubility and dissolution rate in all medias as compared to pure citreorosein. The NPs displayed significant antioxidant effects against ABTS, DPPH and FRAP models, with IC50 values of22.6, 21.45 and 27.30 µg/ml, respectively. Moreover, it showed significant cytotoxic activity against MDA-MB-231, A549 and HepG2 cells, with IC50 values of 3.45, 4.5 and 6.23 µg/ml, respectively. Furthermore, the NPs demonstrated high selectivity index values for the aforementioned cell lines as compared to reference drugs. This study demonstrated that APSP method successfully produced citreorosein-NPs and hence, showed better aqueous solubility, dissolution rate, antioxidant and cytotoxic activities than the pure compound.

Objective: Genome-wide association studies have demonstrated that single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are important risk factors for the development of prostate cancer (PCa). Preliminary studies have suggested that the incidence of PCa in Saudi males is low but is probably familial or genetically related. Methods: To identify any possible association of SNP with PCa development in Saudi patients, we investigated a group of SNPs in Saudi PCa patients (n=85) and compared the outcomes to healthy normal controls (n=115) and nodular hyperplasia patients (n=120). DNA was extracted from paraffin-embedded formalin fixed tissue or whole blood from both patients’ groups and healthy control group. A total of thirteen SNPs were genotyped using TaqMan® minor groove binder polymerase chain reaction assay. Results: The rs16901979A, s629242T and rs1447295A alleles were found at significantly higher frequency in PCa patients than controls (p

Cucurbitaceae family fruits, especially melons, offers significant quantities of minerals carotenoids and phenolic compounds, contributing to their antioxidant activity. However, seeds of these fruits are usually discarded as waste by products. In current study, seeds of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) and muskmelon (Cucumis melo) were separated, dried, grounded and extracted, with 70% ethanol, to investigate total phenolic content (TPC), flavonoid content (TFC), carotenoid content (TC) content, and total antioxidant activity (TAA). Further, antimicrobial activities of these extracts were tested against selected bacterial and fungus strains. Results showed that extracts of both cucurbits presented significant amounts of phytochemicals, with higher quantities presented by watermelon seeds. In watermelon seeds, TPC were found 156.50 mg/GAE 100 g, TFC 56.78 mg CE/100 g, TC 36.65 mg/100 g, and TAA 71%, and these amounts were significantly higher than those found in muskmelon seeds. Antimicrobial study results showed that extracts of both seeds exhibited significant zone of inhibitions against three bacterial and three fungal species, and these values were very comparable to the reference antimicrobial drug used, Ciprofloxacin. Findings of current research work provided significant grounds for presence of phytochemical bioactives in two melon fruits seeds, providing the basis for extraction and utilization of these bioactives, through processing and fortification different pharma foods.

Mangifera indica L., a member of the Anacardiaceae family, is widely cultivated across the globe. The leaves of M. indica are renowned for their medicinal properties, attributed to the abundance of bioactive compounds. This study investigated the effects of mango leaf extract on oxidative stress in HeLa cells. Notably, the n-hexane fraction (MLHx) significantly enhanced antioxidant response element (ARE)-luciferase activity at a concentration of 100 µg/mL, surpassing other fractions. MLHx also promoted the expression of HO-1 mRNA by increasing nuclear NRF2 levels. The molecular mechanism of MLHx involves increased phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and stabilization of NRF2. Bioactivity-guided isolation resulted in the identification of six oxylipins: 13(R)-hydroxy-octadeca-(9Z,11E,15Z)-trienoic acid (C-1), 9(R)-hydroxy-octadeca-(10E,12Z,15Z)-trienoic acid (C-2), 13(R)-hydroxy-(9Z,11E)-octadecadienoic acid (C-3), 9(R)-hydroxy-(10E,12Z)-octadecadienoic acid (C-4), 9-oxo-(10E,12E)-octadecadienoic acid (C-5), and 9-oxo-(10E,12Z)-octadecadienoic acid (C-6). These structures were elucidated using comprehensive spectroscopic techniques, including MS and 1H NMR. Additionally, compounds C-7 (9-oxo-(10E,12Z,15Z)-octadecatrienoic acid) and 8 (13-oxo-(9E,11E)-octadecadienoic acid) were characterized by LC-MS/MS mass fragmentation. This study reports the isolation of compounds 1–6 from M. indica for the first time. When tested for their effect on NRF2 activity in HeLa cells, compounds 3, 5, and 6 showed strong stimulation of ARE-luciferase activity in a dose-dependent manner.

Introduction. Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most prevalent type of head and neck cancer and is associated with high mortality, particularly in Southeast Asian countries. Areca nut usage, smoking, and alcohol consumption are the most common risk factors for OSCC. Areca nut chewing is highly prevalent in Pakistan and has been attributed to an increase in OSCC cases. This study aimed to determine the association between areca nut usage and various clinicopathological features of OSCC and further evaluate the association of clinicopathological parameters of OSCC with tumor recurrence. Materials and Methods. The study was conducted using the data of 228 patients with OSCC resected at Liaquat National Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan, over 5 years between 2018 and 2022. Clinicopathological data were collected from hospital archives, and associations between various risk factors and clinicopathological parameters were determined. Results. Males were more commonly affected (77.2%), and the most common age group was

Abstract In the current study, the solubility and permeability of Osthole-loaded microemulsion were enhanced, which increased bioavailability. In addition, Carbomer 940 was added for prolonged drug delivery. The microemulsion was prepared after the screening of Kukui oil, Labrasol (surfactant), and transcutol-P (co-surfactant). Pseudoternary phase diagrams were employed to find the microemulsion region. Box Behnken Design (BBD) was employed for optimizing microemulsions. Variables were related and compared using mathematical equations and response surface plots (RSP). MEBG was then compared with control gel on the basis of stability studies, drug permeation, skin irritation studies, and anti-inflammatory studies. Microemulsion preparations depicted a pH of 5.27 - 5.80, a conductivity of 139 - 185 μS/cm, a poly-dispersity index of 0.116 - 0.388, a refractive index of 1.330 - 1.427, an average droplet size of 64 - 89 nm, homogeneity, spherical shape, viscosity 52 - 185 cP. Predicted values of Optimized microemulsions showed more reasonable agreement than experimental values. The microemulsion was stable and non-irritating on Rabbit skin. MEBG showed a significant difference from control gel for percent edema inhibition from the standard. The permeation enhancing capability of MEBG using a suitable viscosity fabricates it promising carrier for transdermal delivery of Osthole.

The aim of this work was to assess the effects of typical and optimal use of sunscreens in photosensitivity under UV exposure during the COVID-19 pandemic. First, a cross-sectional study was conducted among 384 participants to find out about photosensitivity in COVID-19 pandemic using a validated questionnaire involving demographic characteristics and Fitzpatrick skin type to measure skin phototypes that also included information about skin reactions upon sun exposure, the incidence of photosensitivity, and photoprotection behaviour. It was further extended by finding photosensitivity among 200 medical staff and patients that were recovered from COVID-19 infection. Next, the study involved 22 participants in two groups: optimal use with 2 mg per cm2 sunscreen and typical use for 7 days. The sunscreen used was an SPF 50+ product with various ingredients. Instrumental measurements were taken at baseline and 7th day visits to quantify skin melanin and erythema values. 54.9 % of participants had a history of photosensitivity, skin redness after sun exposure (38.0 %), skin protection (74.2 %), always using sunscreen (21.1 %), and applying sunscreen twice a day (12.2 %). A significant association between age, photoprotection behaviour, and photosensitivity was found. The incidence rate of photosensitivity in the population was 90/1000. 63.5 % of the participants agreed to specific skin related manifestations of COVID-19; preventive measures for COVID-19 infection made their skin sensitive (65 %); enhanced photosensitivity of the skin after taking preventive measures (53.5 %); use of hand sanitizers made their skin sensitive (63.5 %); and use of sunscreens was helpful in treating photosensitivity (58.5 %). In addition, there was a decrease in skin melanin and erythema values with optimal use of sunscreen and an increase in skin melanin and erythema values with typical use of sunscreen. When the paired sample t test was applied, the result was found to be significant. It was determined that the COVID-19 pandemic had a high incidence of photosensitivity. Skin sensitivity was increased by using hand sanitizers. Additionally, it is important to prioritise using sunscreen optimally to avoid skin photosensitization. More work on large numbers of participants of different populations in various regions is required in the direction of population guidance.

Lemon is one among the fruits of a highly respectable class known as citrus, well known for its nutritious juice and beverage products, rich with a range of micro and macro elements, and functional bioactives. After extraction of juice, the pomace left has great potential as a sustainable agricultural processing by-product, due to its vast application in the food, feed and pharma industries. Lemon pomace powder was prepared from the by-product obtained after the extraction of juice from the lemon. Dried lemon pomace powder contained fiber (60.12 g 100 g-1), moisture (10.67 g 100 g-1), protein (4.89 g 100 g-1), fat (2.17 g 100 g-1), sugar (4.81 g 100 g-1) and ash (3.21 g 100 g-1), indicating higher amounts of ash, fat and fiber contents than wheat flour. The water-holding and oil-holding capacities of lemon pomace powder were noticed 5.9 and 3.2 g, respectively. Lightness (L*) and yellowness (b*) of powder were decreased while redness (a*) was increased in powder as compared to raw pomace. Water activity was decreased, while dry matter and pH of pomace powder were significantly increased as compared to raw pomace. Microbiological analyses revealed lower mold, yeast and total viable counts in lemon pomace powder as compared to raw lemon pomace. Dried lemon pomace powder was replaced with wheat flour at concentrations of 0%, 5%, 10% and 15% in biscuits. The biscuits were evaluated for chemical and sensory properties. Data revealed that the incorporation of lemon pomace powder improved the chemical and sensory properties of biscuits significantly. Highly acceptable biscuits with good sensory properties were obtained by incorporating 10% lemon pomace powder, with the potential use of promoting health.

Thermophysical Properties of Building Materials are Considered to have high importance in predicting building thermal performance, calculating thermal loads inside building, and optimizing the use of a building and insulating materials. Due to the lack of measurements of local building materials properties, designers and air- conditioning engineers have no choice but to use the published foreign data, which probably leads to inaccurate predictions of thermal loads and may give a false thermal performance. At the same time, it leads to an over-designed capacity of air- conditioning systems that lead to increased energy consumption in the building. Thus, it is clear that it was important to conduct this research to evaluate the thermal conductivity and thermal resistance of Iraqi building materials. The number of the local building materials were listed, and specimens were collected from their sites, factories, and suppliers such as bricks, stones, concrete products, gypsum, etc. Those samples were dimensioned to the specific size required when a measurement was conducted by the Hot Wire method. All measurements were carried out at room temperature. The relationship between thermal conductivity, density, moisture content, and pressure for a number of materials was Studied. A comparison between the measurements of the Iraqi building materials and results published in the ASHRAE, CIBS Guide, Australian Specifications, and Jordanian Specifications was made. However, the availability of such data is important for the climatic design of buildings, thermal load calculations for air- conditioning, and choosing the insulating materials.

Several studies have been found in the literature about the phytochemistry, nutritional profiles, and pharmacological potential of pumpkin and pumpkin-based food products but a very few data have been found about the impact of the addition of pumpkin powders on physical and rheological behaviors of bakery products. The present research work was conducted to investigate that powder of which part of pumpkin and in what percentage could prove the most acceptable to develop good quality biscuits with optimum rheological and physical characteristics, which will be very useful to utilize pumpkin waste streams with effective and efficient mechanism for benefit of mankind in terms of development of new variety of bakery items. Peel, flesh, and seeds of pumpkin were utilized in the form of dried powder at 0, 5, 10, and 15% replacement levels to develop biscuits. Farinographic studies revealed that water absorption and dough development time were significantly increased to 65.69 ± 0.60% and 5.80 ± 0.012 min, respectively, at 15% pumpkin peel powder replacement, whereas dough stability was significantly decreased for 15% replacement level of pumpkin peel, flesh, and seed powders. Mixing tolerance index was significantly increased by these replacements. Mixographic studies revealed that mixing time of control dough was 3.55 ± 0.029 min, which was significantly decreased to 3.03 ± 0.015, 2.94 ± 0.023, and 3.23 ± 0.017 min for 15% replacement level of pumpkin peel, flesh, and seed powders, respectively. Similarly, peak height values were significantly decreased as replacement levels of pumpkin powders were increased up to 15%. Width and spread factor were significantly decreased, whereas thickness was significantly increased by these replacements. These replacements of pumpkin powders with white flour did not pose negative impact on rheological behavior of composite flours, which ultimately resulted in the development of improved quality biscuits.

The main objective of this article is to use the logistic regression model as one of the generalized linear models to determine some factors that influence academic tripping at the University of Tabuk. In this case, student status (tripped, non-tripped) is considered as a binary variable. The data of this article were collected using a survey based on a questionnaire. The results showed that the most important factors affecting student’s academic tripping have focused on the items of educational & academic, and family & economic factors, namely (a) the current speciality does not meet student’s aspiration, (b) it is difficult for the student to understand and accommodate some lectures, (c) it is difficult for the student to reconcile the academic load with the offered courses, (d) participation in extra-curricular activities, (e) difference between university and secondary schools systems, and (f) student does not receive a college bursary regularly.

Free radicals, mostly consist of reactive oxygen species, are generated in human body by several exogenous and endogenous systems. Overproduction of free radicals is known to cause several degenerative disorders including cancer. The aim of this study is to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using root extract of Reynoutria japonica and to investigate its antioxidant and cytotoxic potential. AgNPs were synthesized by green approach and subsequently characterized using UV–vis spectroscopy, SEM, TEM, FTIR, XRD, EDS and DLS. The antioxidant activity was investigated using DPPH, FRAP, H2O2, and ABTṠ+ radical scavenging assays while the cytotoxic effect was assessed using different human cancer cell lines including lung (A549), liver (Hep-G2) and breast (MDA-MB-231) by MTS assay. Moreover, the specificity of NPs was assessed against two normal human cell lines e.g. alveolar and renal primary epithelial cells (HPAEpiC and HRPTEpiC). The UV–vis spectra confirmed the synthesis of AgNPs by producing a characteristic peak at 410 nm. Further analysis confirmed that AgNPs were crystalline in nature, predominantly spherical in shape, with an average width and area of 17.34 nm and 164.46 nm2, respectively. DLS analysis revealed that NPs possess a high negative zeta potential value (−28.5 mV), thus facilitating its electrostatic stabilization. AgNPs showed dose dependent antioxidant activity against DPPH, FRAP, H2O2 and ABTS with IC50 values 19.25, 22.45, 24.20 and 18.88 µg/ml, respectively. The AgNPs depicted significant cytotoxic effects against A549, Hep-G2 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines with IC50 values of 4.5, 5.1 and 3.46 µg/ml, respectively. Moreover, the NPs exhibited highest selectivity index (>2.0) for A549, Hep-G2 and MDA-MB-231, confirming its specificity towards cancer cell lines. In conclusion, AgNPs prepared from root extract of R. japonica possess strong antioxidant and cytotoxic potential which suggests that they should be investigated further in order to develop safe and effective antioxidant and/or cytotoxic formulations.

Abstract Medicinal plants are highly used in the ethnoveterinary practice as considerable livestock resources in remote areas. The aim of the present study is to explore the ethnoveterinary medicinal practices in three different communities and discuss the cross‐cultural consensus on the usage of medicinal plants for the treatment of animals. The field survey was conducted by the animal healers of the area during the different seasons of plant growth. A total of 83 informants were interviewed through Semi‐structured interview involving experts of traditional knowledge in 21 localities of the three regions (Zhob, D. I. Khan and Mianwali) were conducted. Findings of the study were quantitatively analyzed through the informant consensus factors to identify the homogeneity information provided by the informants. Furthermore, cross‐culture consensuses were analyzed and recorded data were represented in a tabulated and Venn diagrams. In particularly, 59 species of plants were documented in the comparative analysis. Among them, 32 plant species were recorded in Pashto community, while Punjabi and Sarakai communities exhibited nine and four plant species, respectively. Whereas cross‐cultural analysis showed 14 medicinal plants that were commonly utilized by three different ethnic communities, that indicated low interregional consensus in regard to ethnoveterinary practices of medicinal plants. The current study showed that different communities and ethnic groups sharing some traditional knowledge and cross‐culturally approaches have been reported from traditional uses of plants against livestock's diseases. Therefore, current findings are the opportunities to scrutinize the plants for the discovery of new drug sources for humans and animals.

BackgroundDecline in cardio-metabolic health, immunity, and physical activity is associated with old age. Old people also find it difficult to engage in structured exercise programs. Therefore, there is a need to investigate common daily chores as an alternative for exercise that may also help in maintaining cardio-metabolic and immune health.ObjectiveWe aimed to investigate whether Salat, an obligatory Islamic prayer involving various physical movements and closely resembling yoga, enhances the benefits conferred by the current guidelines for physical activity.MethodsA total of 30 overweight adults (mean (SD) age of 53.5 (8.7) years) participated in this study. For a 4-week duration, we compared the effects of Salat before/after meals (Pre-MS/Post-MS) on selected immunological and metabolic parameters in serum samples. We also compared the effects of both Pre-MS/Post-MS regimens in young and old subjects to observe any age-related effects.ResultsMost of the baseline metabolic parameters and the count of immune cells were normal. Post-MS resulted in a significant reduction in body weight and percent body fat (%BF). Overall, Post-MS resulted in a clear leukocytosis with a significant increase in granulocytes, monocytes, and lymphocytes. When analyzing the lymphocyte compartment, a clear numerical increase was noted for T, B, and NK cells. The number of CD8+ T cells showed a statistically significant increase. Similarly, Post-MS induced leukocytosis in both young and old individuals, while the increase in granulocytes, monocytes, and lymphocytes was statistically significant in old subjects only.ConclusionThis study demonstrated that the Islamic obligatory and congressional Salat practice is capable of mimicking desirable pro-immune and pro-metabolic health effects.Clinical trial registration(UMIN000048901).

Background and Objectives: The uterine smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP) are tumors with pathological characteristics similar to leiomyosarcoma, but that do not satisfy histological criteria for leiomyoma. These are problematic lesions with intermediate morphologic features; thus, diagnosis and treatment are difficult. This narrative review aims to review data in the literature about STUMPs, particularly focusing on management and therapeutic options and strategies for women who desire to preserve fertility. Material and Methods: authors searched for “uterine smooth muscle tumor of uncertain malignant potential” in PubMed and Scopus databases, from 2000 to March 2023. Pertinent articles were obtained in full-text format and screened for additional references. Only articles in English language were included. Studies including full case description of patients with histopathological diagnosis of STUMP in accordance with Stanford criteria were included. Results: The median age was 43 years old. Symptoms are similar to those of leiomyomas, with a mean diameter of 8.0 cm. Total hysterectomy with or without bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy is the standard care for women if fertility desire is satisfied. Myomectomy alone can be considered for young patients. Although these tumors have not a high malignant potential, several studies described recurrence and metastases. Conclusions: STUMPs are complex uterine smooth muscle tumors, with a rare but reasoned clinical–diagnostic management. Considering the high clinical and histological complexity of these tumors, high level of expertise is mandatory.

Parasites are a significant component of biodiversity. They negatively affect fish appearance, growth, and reproduction. In this study, the prevalence of infection, diversity, and mean intensity of parasites were examined in 9 freshwater fish species (45 samples per fish species). Ecto-parasites were examined on the skin, gills, and fins with a hand lens. Wet mounts were prepared using mucosal scrapings from all the external and internal organs of the sampled fish. Microscopy, muscle compression, and the pepsin-HCL artificial digestion technique were also performed. In this study, 26 species of parasites were identified including three taxa belonging to 9 species of protozoan parasites, 11 treamtodes, and 6 monogenean parasites. The identified protozoan parasites were Entamoeba histolitica, Chilodonella sp., Coccidia sp., Costia sp., Cryptobia sp., Ichthyopthiris-multifilis, Microsporidia, Piscinoodinium sp., and Ichthyobodo necator. The identified trematode parasites were Fasciola gigantica, Echinostoma revolutum, Fasciola hepatica, Haplorchis pumilio, Brachylaima cribbi, Echinostoma cinetorchis, Neascus sp., Deropegus sp., Trematode Soldier, Centrocestus formosanus, and Clinostomum marginatum. The identified monogenean parasites were Dactylogyrus limipopoensis, Dactylogyrus anchoratus, Dactylogyrus myersi, Dactylogyrus vastator, Gyrodactylus salaris, and Ancyrocephalus. The diversity of parasites was maximum at the Okara site. The host’s organs that were targeted for parasitic infection included the intestine, liver, gills, fins, skin, and kidneys. The majority of the parasites were identified in Labeo rohita followed by Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, Ctenopharyngodon idella, Oreochromis niloticus, Cyprinus carpio, and Wallagu attu. Two species appeared to be resistant species because none of the parasites were observed in Notopterus notopterus or Sperata seenghala. This study also concluded that the prevalence of parasites increased with increasing length, size, and age of fish.

The peel from Citrus-sinensis L. is a medicinally significant food waste, and its extract (O-Ext) could be significant against oxidative stresses and skin aging, However, the penetration barriers, instability in formulation, undefined toxicities, and enzymatic activities make the O-Ext difficult to formulate and commercialize. The goal of this study was to evaluate O-Ext against oxidative stress, prepare O-Ext-loaded nano-lipid carriers (O-NLCs), and load them into topical O/W-emulsion (O-NLC-E) to improve O-Ext permeation and its in vivo antiaging effects. TPC, TFC, DPPH activity, and mineral/metal contents of O-Ext were determined via atomic-absorption spectroscopy. For bioactive compounds profiling, GC-MS analysis was carried out. O-NLCs were prepared and tested for physicochemical attributes, while HaCaT and fibroblast cells were used to study permeation and cytotoxicity. The kinetic characteristics of ex vivo permeation through rat skin were established, following the Higuchi model. Following written consent, safety investigations were conducted on human volunteers for three months, where optimized O-NLC-E and B-NLC-E were regularly applied on cheeks. Non-invasive procedures were used to assess the volunteer’s skin erythema, TEWL, sebum level, melanin, hydration, pH, elasticity, and pore sizes after specified intervals. The results demonstrated that applying O-NLC-E formulation to the skin of volunteers directed significant antiaging benefits. The study offers nanotechnology-based sustainability approach against skin ageing.

The DNS firewall plays an important role in network security. It is based on a list of known malicious domain names, and, based on these lists, the firewall blocks communication with these domain names. However, DNS firewalls can only block known malicious domain names, excluding communication with unknown malicious domain names. Prior research has found that machine learning techniques are effective for detecting unknown malicious domain names. However, those methods have limited capabilities to learn from both textual and numerical data. To solve this issue, we present a novel unified learning approach that uses both numerical and textual features of the domain name to classify whether a domain name pair is malicious or not. The experiments were conducted on a benchmark domain names dataset consisting of 90,000 domain names. The experimental results show that the proposed approach performs significantly better than the six comparative methods in terms of accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-Score.

Abstract Background In order to find a new natural resource for pain-relief, the analgesic effects of Ilex dipyrena crude extract, fractions, and subfractions were evaluated in in-vivo mouse models with possible mechanism of action. Methods Analgesic effects of crude extract (100 and 200 mg/kg body weight), fractions and subfractions (75 mg/kg body weight) were screened using heat-induced (tail-immersion and hot plate test) and chemical-induced (formalin and acetic acid) nociception models in mice. The samples were also tested for the elucidation of a possible mechanism through opioidergic and GABAergic systems. Results The administration of crude extract, fractions and subfractions produced analgesic responses in acetic acid, formalin, tail immersion, and hot plate model for pain similar to those obtained with the standard. Naloxone antagonized the antinociceptive effects of the tested samples, whereas bicuculline showed partial inhibition. Considering the analgesic response, crude extract, fractions, and subfractions demonstrated promising inhibitory activity against all test models for pain, which was further supported by the possible involvement of opioidergic and GABAergic systems. Conclusion The results suggest that this plant may be useful in the development of new analgesic drugs. Further research with regard to the isolation of bioactive compounds is required to verify these findings.

Melatonin, an antioxidant hormone secreted by the pineal gland, has been recognized as a regulator for numerous biological events. The deleterious effects of juglone, a polyphenolic extract of walnut trees, on embryo development has been previously reported. In the current study, we aimed to display the impact of melatonin administrated during in vitro oocyte maturation (IVM) on juglone-treated oocytes. Thus, in vitro matured oocytes were collected after 24 h post incubation with juglone in the presence or absence of melatonin. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione (GSH) content, mitochondrial distribution, and the relative abundance of mRNA transcription levels were assessed in oocytes, in addition, oocytes were in vitro fertilized to check the competency levels of oocytes to generate embryos. We found that administration of melatonin during the maturation of oocytes under juglone stress significantly improved the cleavage rate, 8-16 cell-stage embryos and day-8 blastocysts when compared to the sole juglone treatment. In addition, the fluorescence intensity of ROS increased, whereas the GSH decreased in juglone-treated oocytes compared to melatonin–juglone co-treated and untreated ones. Additionally, a significant increase in the mitochondrial aberrant pattern, the pattern that was normalized following melatonin supplementation, was observed following juglone administration. The mRNA analysis using RT-qPCR revealed a significant upregulation of autophagy and oxidative-stress-specific markers in the juglone-treated group compared to the co-treatment and control. In conclusion, the study reveals, for the first time, a protective effect of melatonin against the oxidative stress initiated following juglone treatment during the in vitro maturation of oocytes.

Over the past decade, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has become a major source of biofilm formation and a major contributor to antimicrobial resistance. The genes that govern biofilm formation are regulated by a signaling mechanism called the quorum-sensing system. There is a need for new molecules to treat the infections caused by dangerous pathogens like MRSA. The current study focused on an alternative approach using juglone derivatives from Reynoutria japonica as quorum quenchers. Ten bioactive compounds from this plant, i.e., 2-methoxy-6-acetyl-7-methyljuglone, emodin, emodin 8-o-b glucoside, polydatin, resveratrol, physcion, citreorosein, quercetin, hyperoside, and coumarin were taken as ligands and docked with accessory gene regulator proteins A, B, and C and the signal transduction protein TRAP. The best ligand was selected based on docking score, ADMET properties, and the Lipinski rule. Considering all these parameters, resveratrol displayed all required drug-like properties with a docking score of −8.9 against accessory gene regulator protein C. To further assess the effectiveness of resveratrol, it was compared with the commercially available antibiotic drug penicillin. A comparison of all drug-like characteristics showed that resveratrol was superior to penicillin in many aspects. Penicillin showed a binding affinity of −6.7 while resveratrol had a score of −8.9 during docking. This was followed by molecular dynamic simulations wherein inhibitors in complexes with target proteins showed stability inside the active site during the 100 ns simulations. Structural changes due to ligand movement inside the cavity were measured in the protein targets, but they remained static due to hydrogen bonds. The results showed acceptable pharmacokinetic properties for resveratrol as compared to penicillin. Thus, we concluded that resveratrol has protective effects against Staphylococcus aureus infections and that it suppresses the quorum-sensing ability of this bacterium by targeting its infectious proteins.

Abstract Objectives Radial artery occlusion is a silent complication of a transradial approach to cardiac catheterization that may complicate subsequent transradial procedures in patients undergoing cardiac catheterization. A transradial band reduces vascular complications and provides brisk, powerful and effective haemostasis. The purpose of this study was to assess the frequency of radial artery occlusion in 180 patients undergoing transradial coronary catheterization. Results The median age of the study cohort was 58 years. Radial artery occlusion was found in 14 (7.8%) patients. When stratifying by age group and sex, there was no significant difference in radial artery occlusion between age groups and sex. It was likewise found that comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension and smoking, increased the risk of radial artery occlusion however this was observed to be significant only for diabetes mellitus. We therefore conclude that a transradial pneumatic pressure band is an extremely helpful and safe strategy to prevent radial artery occlusion.

For improving the seed germination of Prosopis juliflora and Dalbergia sissoo different treatments were tested, including side cutting, abrasion, overnight soaking in boiling water, scalding in actively boiling water for 1 minute and immersion in 30%, 60% and 95% H2SO4 solution. Results showed that abrasion with sandpaper and side cutting were the most effective methods to break seed dormancy in both species, while scalding in actively boiling water for 1 minute, overnight soaking and different concentrations of H2SO4 gave low to zero seed germination. Based on the positive effects of scarification it was concluded that seed dormancy in both species was due to water impermeability of the seed coat. Mutation breeding involves the treatment of large quantities of seeds, therefore abrasion with sandpaper was the most efficient and less labour-intensive method; this method was subsequently used for determination of LD50 as it is a prerequisite in a mutation breeding program. Abrasion before irradiation had a positive effect on P. juliflora whereas it had a negative effect on D. sissoo seeds. Seeds of both species were exposed to different doses of gamma rays such as 0, 100, 200, 300, 400 and 500 Gy using a 60Co source. The LD50 for P. juliflora was 651 Gy based on the rate of seed germination indicating that P. juliflora had tolerance to irradiation and low radiosensitivity to gamma ray. A high LD50 of 1097 Gy was observed for D. sissoo, suggesting high tolerance to irradiation and very low radio sensitivity. These findings will help to initiate a mutation breeding program in both species to obtain desirable mutants with desirable characteristics such as thornless genotypes, better tree form, disease resistance and increased genetic diversity.

Highly-configurable systems are such systems which are not developed for single scenario. However, perhaps they have variable functionality and they are developed for hybrid scenarios. Producing a good highly-configurable system within time and with customer satisfaction is not easy. Handling requirements effectively in such a way that it take least time to market, is one of the most difficult tasks in highly-configurable system. In this paper, a quantitative requirement prioritization technique for highly-configurable systems is proposed. This technique involves all stakeholders and can be used primarily for large scale software projects. The proposed technique is evaluated by taking a case study of the highly-configurable point of sale for automotive industry. The result shows that the proposed technique provides promising results and can be enhanced with more future work.

Pumpkin is a well-known vegetable, among the members of Cucurbitaceae family, due to its importance as pharma food. Keeping in view the antidiabetic and plasma lipids lowering potential of pumpkin, the present study was conducted to investigate that, which part of pumpkin (peel, flesh, and seeds), possess more bioactive compounds, exhibiting antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic potential. Albino rats with 190-210 g body weight were divided into 11 groups. Five rats were included in each group; group A was negative control, group B was positive control, and groups C to K were diabetic rats fed with pumpkin peel, flesh, and seed powders. Diabetes was induced in rats with the help of alloxan monohydrate. During 28 days of experimental period, blood glucose level of different rat’s groups was checked with the help of glucometer, at every 7 days interval and at the end of 28 days study, plasma lipids were checked with the help of commercial kits. A significant decrease in blood glucose level (128.33±1.67 mg/dl), TC (88.43±0.66 mg/dl), TG (69.79±0.49 mg/dl), and LDL-C (21.45±0.08 mg/dl) was recorded in rat groups fed with 15 g pumpkin seed powder, at the end of study. After pumpkin seeds, second significant antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic effect was recorded in rat’s groups fed with 15 g pumpkin peel powder. Pumpkin flesh powder effect in lowering blood glucose level and plasma lipids was less significant as compared to seeds and peel powder. As the dose of the pumpkin powders was increased from 5 to 10 and then 15 g, the blood glucose-lowering and plasma lipid-lowering effect became more significant. Similarly, as the experimental duration was expanded from first week to 28 days, this antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic effect became more significant. These results were sufficient to conclude that pumpkin has high potential to be used in human diet to cope with noncommunicable diseases like diabetes and hypercholesterolemia.

We have previously reported that juglone, a natural compound found in Juglandaceae with a wide range of biological activities, can reduces the developmental competence of bovine oocytes. In the current study, we investigated the possible mechanisms behind the toxicity of juglone and the relationship with PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling during the in vitro maturation (IVM) of oocytes. Results show that oocyte exposure to juglone was associated with a significant decrease in filamentous actin (F-actin) accumulation. The RT-qPCR showed downregulation of the meiosis progression indicator GSK-3A, oocyte development marker BMP15, mitochondria fusion controlling MFN1, oxidative stress-related OGG1, and histone methylation-related EZH1, EZH2, SUZ12, G9a, and SUV39H2 genes in juglone-treated oocytes. In addition, glycolysis- (PFK1 and GLUT1), ATP synthesis- (ATPase8 and ATP5F1B), and OXPHOS-specific markers (SDHA and SDHD), as well as the oocyte survival regulators (SOD2, VEGF, and MAPK1) significantly decreased upon juglone treatment. Moreover, lower expression of PI3K, AKT, and mTOR was observed at the transcriptional and/or translational level(s). The autophagy markers LC3B and beclin-1 as well as the DNA damage-specific marker 8-OxoG displayed overexpression in juglone-exposed oocytes. Taken together, our results show that administration of juglone during the IVM can reduce the quality and developmental health of bovine oocytes through downregulation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and its downstream signaling cascades.

Effect of climatic and physiographic factors on surface runoff is critical to study for soil conservation and water harvesting. In this study, the spatial variations of climatic and physiographic factors and their spatial correlation with surface runoff was investigated. The rainfall and temperature records were used for mapping climatic factors. Digital Elevation Model (DEM) was utilized in estimation and mapping of physiographic factors as well as watershed delineation and runoff estimation. The models were generated using runoff and influencing factors (rainfall, temperature, slope and elevation). The relationship between runoff and influencing factors was derived by developing statistically sound regression models. The spatial correlation indicated that the maximum surface runoff was generated in the areas receiving high rainfall (>1450 mm) whereas, runoff tend to decrease with rise in temperature above a certain value (18 ˚C). The runoff also showed significant variability with slope and elevation changes. Maximum change in runoff was predicted by one unit change in temperature followed by elevation, slope and then rainfall. The regression model was found to be adequately fit to the predicted runoff by using influencing factors. The study identified potential water harvesting sites for sustainable water supply in Rawalpindi district.

Resistance to antimicrobial agents are rendering therapies ineffective around the globe, leading to increased mortality and treatment cost. Likewise, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and analgesics possess several side effects particularly peptic ulcer and gastrointestinal problems. Metallic nanoparticles significantly enhances the therapeutic efficacy of natural extracts owing to improved bioavailability thereby lowering the dose and side effects. The purpose of this research was to investigate the efficacy of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). In this study, Sambucus wightiana whole plant aqueous extract was used for rapid and eco-friendly synthesis of AuNPs. They were characterized by various analytical techniques including UV–Visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), transmission and scanning electron microscopy (TEM and SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Zetasizer, X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR). The UV–Vis spectra revealed a distinct absorption peak at 539 nm; TEM and SEM images confirmed the formation of heterogeneously dispersed AuNPs with an average area of 152.77 nm2 and width of 15.96 nm. The AuNPs showed significant inhibitory zones against Escherichia coli (25 mm), Staphylococcus epidermis (23 mm) and Salmonella enteritidis (18 mm) with MIC values 0.13, 0.11 and 0.16 mg/ml, respectively. Among fungal strains it showed highest percent inhibition against Fusarium solani (90%) and Microsporum canis (80%) with MIC values 0.02 and 0.01 mg/ml, respectively. It showed maximum anti-inflammatory activity (43.70, 48.80 and 57.08%) at 20 mg/kg dose at both early and late hours of inflammation. Likewise, in vitro models depicted concentration dependent inhibition of 5-LOX and COX-2 enzymes. AuNPs showed highest antioxidant activity (68.7% inhibition) at 1000 µg/ml, compared to ascorbic acid that showed 77.8% inhibition at the same concentration. Similarly, it exhibited significant (P ≤ 0.001) dose dependent analgesic effect with maximum inhibition (56.22%) at 20 mg/kg. In conclusion, the above findings suggest that AuNPs should be studied further in order to develop safe and effective formulations.

New York State’s (NYS) Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA) requires that 100% of the state’s electricity supply be greenhouse gas emissions-free by 2040 and that 6000 megawatts (MW) of solar energy must be installed in NYS by 2025. This study aims to evaluate the environmental impact of electricity generation from New York State distributed solar photovoltaic systems. This cradle-to-grave life cycle assessment (LCA) follows the International Standardization Organization (ISO) framework for LCA, including the goal and scope definition, inventory analysis, impact assessment, and interpretation. The study is based on operational data from 120 existing solar installations. Global Warming Potential varies substantially by site, with the minimum and maximum impact values varying from 25.2 to 88.5 gCO2eq/kWh, and with a mean of 45.6 gCO2eq/kWh. Regression analysis shows this range is attributable to differences in site location, capacity factor, and system design (i.e., monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels, area power ratio). Based on absolute percentage, the inclusion of the end-of-life process reduces the total environmental impact from 2% in Ozone Depletion to 16% in Acidification, indicating a positive impact of engaging in end-of-life management across all categories. This analysis can help policymakers understand the implications of the solar PV installation mandate.

Although Mangifera indica L. extract (M-Ext) of the peel and kernel possesses potent antioxidant and excellent antiaging qualities, the effects are only partially seen because of the skin’s limited ability to absorb it. M-Ext was loaded into nanolipid carriers (M-NLCs) in this work to create a green topical formulation that would boost antiaging efficacy and address penetration deficit. Compound identification was done using GCMS and atomic absorption spectroscopy for heavy metals in M-Ext. M-Ext was also evaluated against oxidative stress antioxidant enzymes. The M-NLCs were fabricated and evaluated for their physicochemical characterizations. Cytotoxicity and cell permeation analysis of M-Ext and M-NLCs were carried out in fibroblasts and HaCaT cell lines. An ex vivo permeation study of M-Ext and M-NLC-loaded emulsion was performed through rat skin and the kinetic parameters were determined. Kinetic data showed that the ex vivo permeation of M-NLC-loaded emulsion through rat skin followed the Higuchi model. The safety profile was evaluated in human volunteers after written consent. Three months’ in vivo investigations were conducted using the optimized M-NLC-loaded emulsion and vehicle (B-NLC-loaded emulsion) on human cheeks for comparison. The volunteers’ skin erythema level, melanin contents, TEWL index, moisture contents, sebum level, elasticity, pH, and pore size were examined after the first, second, and third month via noninvasive techniques. There were significant findings for physicochemical characterizations and in vitro and ex vivo studies. The findings demonstrate that the green nanolipid carriers amplified the overall antioxidant effectiveness and may represent an emerging treatment strategy for oxidative stresses and aging.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection can trigger the adaptive and innate immune responses, leading to uncontrolled inflammatory reactions and associated local and systematic tissue damage, along with thromboembolic disorders that may increase the risk of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in COVID-19 patients. The neuropilin (NRP-1) which is a co-receptor for the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), integrins, and plexins, is involved in the pathogenesis of AIS. NRP-1 is also regarded as a co-receptor for the entry of SARS-CoV-2 and facilitates its entry into the brain through the olfactory epithelium. NRP-1 is regarded as a cofactor for binding of SARS-CoV-2 with angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), since the absence of ACE2 reduces SARS-CoV-2 infectivity even in presence of NRP-1. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to clarify the potential role of NRP-1 in COVID-19 patients with AIS. SARS-CoV-2 may transmit to the brain through NRP-1 in the olfactory epithelium of the nasal cavity, leading to different neurological disorders, and therefore about 45% of COVID-19 patients had neurological manifestations. NRP-1 has the potential capability to attenuate neuroinflammation, blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability, cerebral endothelial dysfunction (ED), and neuronal dysfunction that are uncommon in COVID-19 with neurological involvement, including AIS. Similarly, high NRP-1 serum level is linked with ED, oxidative stress, and the risk of pulmonary thrombosis in patients with severe COVID-19, suggesting a compensatory mechanism to overcome immuno-inflammatory disorders. In conclusion, NRP-1 has an important role in the pathogenesis of COVID-19 and AIS, and could be the potential biomarker linking the development of AIS in COVID-19. The present findings cannot provide a final conclusion, and thus in silico, experimental, in vitro, in vivo, preclinical, and clinical studies are recommended to confirm the potential role of NRP-1 in COVID-19, and to elucidate the pharmacological role of NRP-1 receptor agonists and antagonists in COVID-19.

Background and objectives: COVID-19 patients exhibit a broad range of manifestations, presenting with a flu-like respiratory tract infection that can advance to a systemic and severe disease characterized by pneumonia, pulmonary edema, severe damage to the airways, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS, causing fatality in 70% of COVID-19 cases). A ‘cytokine storm’ profile is found in most severely influenced COVID-19 patients. The treatment protocol of the disease also includes tocilizumab, which is a humanized monoclonal antibody used to treat autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. This study was designed (1) to assess the role of tocilizumab in COVID-19 patients regarding therapeutic efficacy through evaluation of cytokine release syndrome (CRS) resolution and anticoagulant effect, analyzing clinical safety via monitoring of associated adverse effects profile; and (2) to compare the clinical safety and therapeutic efficacy of institutional treatment regimen (alone) versus tocilizumab added to an institutional treatment module in COVID-19 patients. Materials and Methods: In this study, the endpoints parametric assessment of severely diseased patients of COVID-19 was performed (total n = 172, control group (institutional protocol treatment provided), n = 101 and test group (tocilizumab provided), n = 71) at the Khyber Teaching Institution, MTI, Peshawar. The assessments were compared using non-parametric analyses at baseline and after a follow-up of 12–18 days until the patient discharged or expired. Results: Results of the study revealed an insignificant difference among the control vs. test group in resolving inflammatory parameters (C-reactive protein (CRP) 21.30 vs. 50.07; p = 0.470, ferritin 482.9 vs. 211.5; p = 0.612, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) 29.12 vs.18.8; p = 0.0863, and D-dimer 464 vs.164.4; p = 0.131). However, a statistically significant difference was found between the control group and test group regarding coagulation parameters (international normalized ratio (INR) 0.12 vs. −0.07; p ≤ 0.001; activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) 0.42 vs. −1.16; p ≤ 0.001; prothrombin time (PT) 0.31 vs. −0.96; p ≤ 0.001; platelet count −12.34 vs. −1.47; p = 0.012) and clinical survival rate (89.10 vs. 90.14; p < 0.001). Furthermore, there was significantly higher infection rates and raised alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) associated with the tocilizumab group as compared to those receiving institutional treatment (bacterial infections: 0.99% vs. 15.49%; p ≤ 0.01, ALT: 3.96% vs. 28.16%; p ≤ 0.01, ALP: 1.98% vs. 22.53%; p ≤ 0.01). Conclusions: From this study, it was concluded that tocilizumab can be a better drug of choice in terms of efficacy, particularly in resolving coagulopathy in severe COVID-19 patients.

This study has investigated the impact of globalisation on gender-based gaps in the labor market (GBGLM) of Pakistan for the period 1982-2017. Particularly, the study has estimated the impact of trade openness(OPEN), foreign direct investment (FDI), workers’ remittance inflows(WRI) and exchange rate(ER) on gender-based labour force participation rate differential (LFPRD) and wage differential (WD). The study has applied the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model and Johansen’s cointegration approach on two models estimated for LFPRD and WD. The error correction models (ECM) have confirmed an error correction mechanism as reflected by negative and significant coefficients of lagged ECM terms. The study has applied all relevant diagnostic tests to ensure the validity of empirical findings. The results of the study indicated that in the long run, OPEN reduced LFPRD and WD, whereas, FDI augmented LFPRD. ER depreciation decreased LFPRD and augmented WD. WRI also augmented LFPRD and WD. The study concluded that OPEN and Real GDP are prominent factors in reducing WD and LFPRD of Pakistan, whereas, FDI and WRI augmented LFPRD. This is a very important finding in the context of the stagnant real sector of Pakistan where agriculture and industry have performed lower than rapidly growing services sector of Pakistan. Since most of the exports emanate from the real sector of Pakistan, therefore, relatively more focus on real sector as compared to financial inflows can play a crucial role in reducing GBGLM of Pakistan. The policy implication based on results is that to reduce GBGLM of Pakistan, trade liberalisation with special focus on the commodity-producing sector is right policy option in Pakistan

Treatment of microbial infections and inflammatory conditions have many challenges in terms of efficacy and safety issues. Novel approaches such as nanoparticles based drug delivery system have shown promising results to solve some of these problems. The aim of this study was to exploit the efficacy of the synthesized silver nanoparticles. In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were biosynthesized using root extract (aqueous) of Duchesnea indica. They were characterized using different techniques such as, ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectrophotometry, transmission and scanning electron microscopy (TEM and SEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and zetasizer. The UV–Vis spectra gave a characteristic peak at 423 nm; XRD confirmed its crystalline structure; FTIR confirmed the involvement of phytochemicals in their capping and reduction; TEM images confirmed their spherical shape with average width of 20.49 nm and average area of 319.25 nm2. Various biological activities were performed on these NPs, such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and muscle relaxant, which showed significant results as follow. Among bacterial strains, Salmonella typhi (MIC: 0.01 mg/ml) and Escherichia coli (MIC: 0.01 mg/ml), while among that of fungal Microsporum canis (MIC: 0.53 mg/ml) and Alternaria alternata (MIC: 0.51 mg/ml) were most susceptible. The AgNPs showed maximum anti-inflammatory activity (46.15 and 56.85%) at 20 mg/kg after 3 and 5 h of drug administration, comparable to that of standard. In-vivo model exhibited concentration dependent inhibition of both COX-2 and 5-LOX enzymes. Similarly, it exhibited maximum analgesic activity (54.24%) at 20 mg/kg dose after 60 min. of pain induction. Furthermore, they depicted maximum muscle relaxation (P

Morchella conica (M. conica) Pers. is one of six wild edible mushrooms that are widely used by Asian and European countries for their nutritional value. The present study assessed the anti-diabetic potential of M. conica methanolic extract (100 mg/kg body weight) on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice. STZ was used in a single dose of 65 mg/kg to establish diabetic models. Body weights, water/food intake and fasting blood glucose levels were measured. Histopathological analysis of the pancreas and liver were performed to evaluate STZ-induced tissue injuries. In addition, in vitro assays such as α-amylase and protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) inhibitory, antiglycation, antioxidant and cytotoxicity were performed. The in vitro study indicated potent PTP1B inhibitory potential of M. conica with an IC50 value of 26.5 μg/ml as compared to the positive control, oleanolic acid (IC50 36.2 μg/ml). In vivo investigation showed a gradual decrease in blood sugar level in M. conica-treated mice (132 mg/dl) at a concentration of 100 mg/kg as compared to diabetic mice (346 mg/dl). The extract positively improved liver and kidney damages as were shown by their serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase, serum glutamic oxaloacetate, alkaline phosphatase, serum creatinine and urea levels. Histopathological analysis revealed slight liver and pancreas improvement of mice treated with extract. Cytotoxicity assays displayed lower IC50 values. Based on the present results of the study, it may be inferred that M. conica are rich in bioactive compounds responsible for antidiabetic activity and this mushroom may be a potential source of antidiabetic drug. However, further studies are required in terms of isolation of bioactive compounds to validate the observed results.

Abstract Objectives Ki67 is the most commonly used marker to evaluate proliferative index in breast cancer, however no cutoff values have been clearly defined for high ki67 index. Cancer management should be according to loco-regional profile; therefore, we aimed to determine ki67 index in 1951 cases of intrinsic breast cancer subtypes and its association with other prognostic parameters in our set up. Results Triple negative breast cancers showed highest ki67 index (mean 50.9 ± 23.7%) followed by Her2neu (mean 42.6 ± 21.6%) and luminal B cancers (mean 34.9 ± 20.05%). Metaplastic and medullary breast cancers significantly showed higher ki67 index as compared to ductal carcinoma, NOS. No significant association of ki67 index was noted with any of the histologic parameters in different subtypes of breast cancer expect for tumor grade. Although, ki67 index is a valuable biomarker in breast cancer, however no independent prognostic significance of ki67 could be established in our study.

Abstract Background Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a cellular oncoprotein which is overexpressed in many human cancers including a subset of endometrial cancers. Immunohistochemical (IHC) expression of EGFR has been investigated in previous studies; Role of EGFR in endometrial carcinoma as a prognostic biomarker has not been studied in our population; therefore we aimed to evaluate the expression of EGFR in cases of endometrial carcinoma in loco-regional population and its association with histologic variables. Methods Total 89 cases of endometrial carcinoma were selected from records of pathology department archives. All patients underwent surgeries at Liaquat National hospital, Karachi from January 2012 till December 2017 over a period of 6 years. Slides of all cases were retrieved and reviewed by two senior histopathologists and pathologic characteristics were evaluated. Moreover, representative tissue blocks of all 89 cases were selected for EGFR immunohistochemistry. Results 73% (65 cases) showed no EGFR expression, while 21.3% (19 cases) showed low EGFR expression and 5.6% (5 cases) revealed high EGFR expression. Significant association of EGFR expression was noted with histologic type. Serous carcinoma and carcinosarcoma showed high expression of EGFR. On the other hand, no significant association of EGFR with other histopathologic parameters was found. Conclusion Overall, we found a low EGFR expression in endometrial carcinoma in our population without any significant pathological association except for its high expression in serous carcinoma and carcinosarcoma; however, more large scale studies are warranted to validate these findings.

Abstract Introduction Triple-negative breast cancers are a poor prognostic group of breast cancers that don’t respond to conventional hormonal and her2neu targeted therapy. A subset of triple-negative breast cancer is known to overexpress epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR); however prognostic significance of this biomarker has not been widely studied in our population. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the frequency of EGFR overexpression in triple-negative breast cancer in our setup and its association with prognostic and predictive factors. Methods We performed EGFR immunohistochemistry on 150 cases of triple-negative breast cancers. Intensity and percentage of EGFR expression were combined to formulate an EGFR score, that was compared with prognostic features of breast cancer and recurrence status of patients. Results Positive EGFR expression was noted in 18.7% ( 28 cases); out of which 16% (24 cases) showed low EGFR expression, whereas high EGFR expression was seen in 2.7% ( 4 cases). No significant association of EGFR expression was noted when compared with various clinicopathological parameters and recurrence status of the patients. Conclusion We found EGFR protein expression in 18.7% of cases while high expression was seen in only 2.7 % cases of triple-negative breast cancer which may harbor underlying genetic alterations like altered EGFR gene copy number, chromosome 7 copy number or average EGFR gene: chromosome 7 ratio; therefore we suggest that molecular tests like FISH to evaluate these EGFR molecular alterations should be performed in EGFR over expressing triple negative breast cancers in our setup to identify patients that can benefit from anti-EGFR targeted therapy. Moreover, regional difference in EGFR expression (high expression in chinese population compared to our population) are may be due to different underlying genetic alterations in triple-negative breast cancers, further necessitating a need of devising personalized therapeutic protocols for locoregional population.

Abstract Background p16 is the protein product of most commonly involved gene in bladder carcinogenesis. Therefore, we performed an immunohistochemical study to evaluate association of p16 overexpression with prognostic parameters in bladder cancer. Methods p16 immunohistochemistry was performed on 121 cases of bladder cancer and association with tumor grade, lamina propria invasion, muscularis propria invasion and survival status was noted. Results Low expression of p16 was noted in 86% (104 cases), whereas 14% (17 cases) revealed high p16 expression. We found significant association of p16 expression with tumor grade (p = 0.000), muscularis propria invasion (p = 0.001), lamina propria invasion (p = 0.001) and survival status (p = 0.020). Univariate binary logistics showed that low grade tumors were less likely to express high p16 expression as compared to high grade tumors. Similarly, patients with lamina propria and muscularis propria invasion were more likely to exhibit high p16 expression. Significant association of high p16 expression was noted with worse long term survival (p = 0.020), while univariate logistic regression showed that patients with low p16 expression were at low risk (HR = 0.194) to die of disease as compared to patients with high p16 expression. Conclusion p16 is an important biomarker in bladder cancer as it can be used for prognostic stratification of patients with bladder cancer. Moreover, we suggest that molecular studies should be performed in our population in order to correlate abnormal p16 expression with underlying gene mutations.

Abstract Objectives T/E fusion results in constitutive expression of ERG oncoprotein resulting in enhanced proliferation and invasive potential of prostatic cancer cells. In the present study we aimed to evaluate the ERG overexpression in 78 cases prostate acinar adenocarcinoma and its association with other prognostic parameters. Results ERG protein expression was noted in 39.7% (31 cases), out of which 3 cases (3.8%) showed low ERG expression, 10 cases (12.8%) showed intermediate expression and 18 cases (23.1%) revealed high ERG expression. Significant association of ERG expression was noted with gleason score (p = 0.009), WHO grade group (p = 0.008) and perineural invasion (p = 0.043). We found a significant proportion of our patients of prostatic acinar adenocarcinoma to over-express ERG protein which can help in devising therapeutic protocols. Significant association of ERG protein expression with gleason score and perineural invasion signifies its prognostic significance in prostatic carcinoma. Moreover, we also suggest that molecular studies should be performed in patients with prostatic carcinoma to look for T/E fusion gene and its correlation with ERG protein expression.

Flavonoids are one of the most exciting types of phenolic compounds with a wide range of bioactive benefits. A series of flavone derivatives (F1–F5) were previously synthesized from substituted O-hydroxy acetophenone and substituted chloro-benzaldehydes. The titled compounds F1–F5 in the present study were evaluated for their anticholinesterase potential (against AChE and BuChE). The obtained results were then validated through a molecular docking approach. Compound F5 was found to be the most potent inhibitor of AChE (IC50 = 98.42 ± 0.97 µg/mL) followed by compound F4, whereas compound F2 was found to be the most promising inhibitor of BuChE (IC50 = 105.20 ± 1.43 µg/mL) among the tested compounds. The molecular docking analysis revealed a similar trend in the binding affinity of compounds with the targeted enzymes and found them to be capable of forming highly stable complexes with both receptors. The selected compounds were further subjected to in vivo assessment of cognitive function in a scopolamine-induced amnesic animal model, in which almost all compounds F1–F5 significantly attenuated the amnesic effects as evaluated through Y-Maze Paradigm and novel object discrimination (NOD) tasks, findings that were further supported by ex vivo experimental results. Among (F1–F5), F5 showed significant anti-amnesic effects in scopolamine-induced amnesic models and ameliorated the memory loss in behavioral model studies as compared to counterparts. In ex vivo study, noteworthy protection from oxidative stress in the brains of scopolamine-induced amnesic mice was also recorded for F5. These findings also confirmed that there were no significant differences among the in vivo and ex vivo results after administration of F1–F5 (7.5 or 15 mg/kg) or donepezil (2 mg/kg). These synthesized flavonoids could serve as potential candidates for new neuroprotective and nootropic drugs. However, further studies are needed to validate their observed potential in other animal models as well.

Money transfer through third-party mobile payment platforms has become common nowadays in western countries. While in developing countries, the adoption of mobile payment channels still at the infancy stage. The current study based on diffusion of innovation theory investigates the antecedents of intention to use mobile payment channels through trust's mediating role. The survey method was used to collect data from the 250 consumers using the mobile payments services of JazzCash and Easypaisa in Pakistan. Partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) technique employed to test the collected data statistically. Results found the significant impact of mobility, customization, and security on trust that intends to utilize mobile-payment channels. The current study's findings provide guidelines to the administration of mobile payment systems to improve security features, mobility, and customization that wins customers' trust and is inclined to use mobile payment platform.