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Abstract Background Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health concern in Pakistan, which is ranked fifth among high‐burden TB nations worldwide. The growing frequency of drug‐resistant TB strains, particularly multidrug‐resistant TB (MDR‐TB), creates new obstacles. Socioeconomic factors, a lack of awareness, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure all contribute to the spread of the disease. Objective This study investigates the mechanisms contributing to the growth in tuberculosis cases in Pakistan, the implications for public health, and multifaceted approaches to prevention and control. Methods A comprehensive literature study was undertaken, including an analysis of peer‐reviewed articles, World Health Organization (WHO) data, and government sources, to identify factors driving tuberculosis prevalence, control issues, and disease‐fighting tactics. Result: Several factors like Poverty, overcrowding, malnutrition, stigma, and restricted access to healthcare services are all factors contributing to an increase in tuberculosis incidence in Pakistan. The prevalence of MDR‐TB, along with a lack of an integrated healthcare response, complicates efforts to contain the disease's spread. Tuberculosis has a profound social, mental, and financial impact on individuals and communities. Public health efforts, such as the National Tuberculosis Control Program (NTP) and international partnerships, have been created to eradicate tuberculosis, although considerable hurdles persist. Objective This study investigates the mechanisms contributing to the growth in tuberculosis cases in Pakistan, the implications for public health, and multifaceted approaches to prevention and control.

Pancreatitis can produce several complications such as pseudocyst, which can happen in acute and chronic pancreatitides. Pseudocysts are typically found in the abdomen but can rarely extend into the mediastinum. Atypical symptoms such as dyspnea, dysphagia, coughing, vomiting, abdominal or chest pain, and hemoptysis are usually the notable complaints. CT scan, MRI, and endoscopic ultrasound are valuable diagnostic modalities. Drainage and surgical removal of the pseudocyst are the treatment options. Herein, we outline the case of a young female with episodic chest and epigastric discomfort, dysphagia, and weight loss. Previously, she was incorrectly diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease and peptic ulcer. A mediastinal pseudocyst secondary to chronic pancreatitis was found to be the cause. The patient underwent surgical removal of the pseudocyst and a pancreaticojejunostomy. Significant improvement was noticed at follow-up. This article highlights the possibility of such unusual conditions and the importance of a proper assessment while treating patients with epigastric pain.

Purpose—The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of spiritual leadership on knowledge-hiding behavior in agriculture research institutes of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The study aims to analyze theoretical and empirical evidence regarding the mediation pathway, specifically professional commitment, in order to clarify the significant association between spiritual leadership and subordinates’ knowledge-hiding behavior. Design/methodology—This survey-based study used cross-sectional data and a five-point Likert scale to investigate the given hypotheses. In order to address the primacy effect and mitigate any potential for common method bias, data were collected at two distinct time points, with a four-week interval between them. Smart PLS4 was used to assess a sample of 298 complete and valid responses for hypothesis testing. Findings—The results show that spiritual leadership has a negative impact on employees’ knowledge-hiding behavior. Additionally, this relationship is mediated by professional commitment. Originality/value—First, in contrast to the majority of previous studies, which focused on the factors influencing knowledge sharing, the present study investigates the influence of spiritual leadership on employees’ knowledge-hiding behaviors, which are two contrasting concepts. Secondly, the study empirically examined the mediation effect of professional commitment. These three variables have not previously been studied together.

Background: Bovine babesiosis, a global disease, has not been studied so far in Kashmir valley, which is having temperate type of climate as compared to rest of India having tropical to sub-tropical climate, so we felt the need to investigate it. Methods: To diagnose the babesiosis in clinically suspected cattle (n=450), peripheral blood film examination and PCR tests using generic and species-specific primers targeting Babesia/Theleria genera and B. bigemina, B. bovis as well as B. divergens, respectively were conducted. Four PCR products were sequenced and subjected to BLASTn analysis. Ticks were collected from the clinically suspected animals and identified as per the standard morphological keys. Results: The prevalence of babesiosis among suspected cattle in central Kashmir by peripheral blood film examination and PCR technique was 11.11% and 33.62%, respectively. The 18S rRNA gene of Isolate B1 of Babesia spp. showed 99.0 to 100% nucleotide sequence homology with 18S rRNA gene of different isolates of B. bigemina registered in the GenBank, while as 18S rRNA gene of Isolate Z showed 98.5 to 99.2% and 93.1 to 93.9% nucleotide sequence homology with 18S rRNA gene of different isolates of Babesia spp. and B. bigemina, respectively, registered in the GenBank. Rhipicephalus spp. and Haemaphysalis spp. were the two major tick genera identified in the present study. Conclusion: Bovine Babesiosis in Kashmir is attributed to B. bovis, B. bigemina and some other Babesia spp. or strains which needs further investigation. To our knowledge, this is the first report of Babesia bovis from northern India in cattle.

The chondroitin sulfate/polyvinyl alcohol based pH-sensitive hydrogels (CHS/PVA hydrogels) were synthesized by a free radical polymerization technique for controlled delivery of diclofenac sodium up to 72 h. Polymers chondroitin sulfate and polyvinyl alcohol were crosslinked with monomer acrylic acid by a cross-linker ethylene glycol dimethylacrylate in the presence of initiator ammonium persulfate. The process of polymerization was continued for 24 h at 65 °C. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) indicated successful polymerization and crosslinking among the hydrogel contents. Differential scanning calorimetric (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) studies demonstrated that fabricated hydrogel has higher thermal stability. The pH sensitivity of designed CHS/PVA hydrogel was investigated by performing dynamic swelling and in vitro drug release tests in pH 1.2, 4.6, and 7.4 medium. Maximum swelling was observed at pH 7.4 when compared to pH 1.2 and 4.6. The sequence of drug release from the developed hydrogel was; pH 7.4 > 4.6 > 1.2. It has been shown that porosity, swelling, and release rate of diclofenac increased with the addition of chondroitin sulfate and acrylic acid, while decreased with increasing PVA composition. Cytotoxicity studies showed that the prepared hydrogel has no toxic effect on T84. Therefore, it can be demonstrated from the results that the CHS/PVA cross-linked hydrogel can be considered as a potential delivery carrier for the controlled release of diclofenac sodium.

Heavy metal pollution in aquatic environments threatens marine life and lowers the quality of freshwater supplies. This research aimed to quantify the heavy metal concentration in fish, avian tissue, and water of the Mangla reservoir. Concentrations of heavy metals such as Cu, Cd, Cr, and Pb were determined in five vital organs of six species of fishes (Cirrhinus cirrhosis, Catla catla, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, Wallagu attu, Cyprinus carpio, Sperata seenghala) and five species of migratory birds (Anas strepera, Aythya ferina, Anas platyrhynchos, Anas crecca, Anas clypeata) and water of Mangla dam. Heavy metal concentration was observed with AAS’ help after the samples’ complete chemical digestion. The average concentration of these metals in water samples was higher than the mean values in fish and birds. Heavy metals damaged fish and birds in the same order: Cd > Cu > Cr > Pb. The results of this research will hopefully prompt further consideration on the dangers of heavy metal contamination in freshwater ecosystem.

Contagious caprine pleuropneumonia causes oxidative stress and immune disturbances in affected goats. Hence these derogative alterations aggravate the pathogenesis and severity of this disease, thus, necessitating utilization of antioxidants and/or immunomodulators in the therapeutic regimes of contagious caprine pleuropneumonia. Present study evaluated ameliorative effects of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) and alpha tocopherol (vitamin E) in association with primary antibiotic tylosin treatment in contagious caprine pleuropneumonia affected test goats in comparison to antibiotic only treated goats (n=6) and healthy goats (n=6). N-acetyl cysteine given at a dose of 12 mg per kg of body weight orally daily for 7 days, showed better antioxidant effect by significantly ameliorating oxidative stress (41.4%) compared to other treatments; besides, decreasing total oxidative status (TOS) and increasing total antioxidant status (TAS). Immunomodulatory potential of alpha tocopherol given at a dose of 10 mg per kg of body weight orally daily for 7 days, was found to be comparatively better than NAC in decreasing percentage of neutrophils and increasing percentage of lymphocytes; besides, decreasing the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) when the modulation of total leukocyte count and differential leukocyte count was comparable between the two. Thus, it can be concluded from this study that NAC acts as a comparatively better antioxidant and alpha tocopherol as better immunomodulator when used in the therapeutic regimes of contagious caprine pleuropneumonia.

Abstract The purpose of this pilot study was to explore the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of vidofludimus calcium (VC) in the treatment of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). This was a single‐arm open‐label pilot study with a cohort of 18 patients with PSC. Study patients received VC for a period of 6 months. The study was undertaken at two sites, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, and Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ. The primary endpoint of the study was improvement of serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) at the end of the study. Secondary endpoints included assessment of other liver biomarkers (bilirubin, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase). Of 18 patients enrolled, 11 completed the 6 months of study treatment. Patients who completed treatment versus those who did not were similar other than a significantly higher direct bilirubin at baseline in the group that completed treatment (mean ± SD, 0.4 ± 0.3 versus 0.1 ± 0.1, p = 0.04). By intent to treat analysis, the primary outcome was met in 16.7% (3/18) of patients. By per‐protocol analysis, including only patients who completed treatment, normalization of ALP occurred in 27.7% (3/11) at week 24 (95% confidence interval, 6.0% to 61.0%). VC was well tolerated with no drug‐related serious adverse events. Conclusion: This proof of concept study provides support for further exploration of VC in patients with PSC.

Acetaminophen is a white crystalline odorless drug. It decreases the formation of prostaglandins by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase enzyme (COX-3), thus, used in the relieving of pain and fever. The recommended dose of acetaminophen is very high. Due to high dose intake, certain severe adverse effects such as hepatotoxicity and skin rashes are produced. Thus, a drug carrier system is needed to sustain the release of the acetaminophen and also enhance the patient compliance. Therefore, the current study was focused on the development of a new drug delivery system based on polyethylene glycol, sodium polystyrene sulfonate and acrylic acid, used for the controlled delivery of acetaminophen. The prepared hydrogel networks were subjected to a series of studies. An increment was seen in gel fraction, percent porosity, swelling, and drug release with the increasing concentrations of polymers and monomer while a decrease was detected in sol fraction. Similarly, biodegradation study indicated a slow degradation rate for the monomer content as compared to polymers contents. pH-sensitivity of the prepared hydrogel was investigated at three various pH values i.e., 1.2, 4.6, and 7.4 by both swelling and drug release studies. Cytotoxicity study presented no toxic effects on T84 human colon cancer cells. Furthermore, characterizations such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Thermogravimetric Analysis, Differential Scanning Calorimetry and X-ray Diffraction studies were performed to assess their effects on the developed hydrogel. Conclusively, we can demonstrate that the developed hydrogel could be used as a potential candidate for the controlled release of acetaminophen.

Abstract Multiple theories, including family systems, epigenetics, attachments, and many others, have proposed mechanisms for trauma transmission from generation to generation. Intergenerational trauma is today one of the most important psychosocial issues affecting Afghans’ mental health and psychology, with the potential to affect subsequent generations. A variety of factors have impacted the mental health of the Afghan population over the years, including years of conflict, socioeconomic instability, natural disasters, chronic drought conditions, economic turmoil, and food insecurity, all of which have been exacerbated by recent political turbulence and the The Coronavirus pandemic COVID‐19 pandemic that has further increased the susceptibility to intergenerational trauma among the Afghan population. International bodies must play a role in addressing intergenerational trauma among Afghans. Breaking the chain in future generations will be possible by resolving political issues, providing adequate health facilities, financial support, and eliminating stigmas associated with mental health issues.

With the rapidly progressing world in the field of manufacturing, non-conventional machining still requires numerous advances. The requirement of machining a material with a Brinell hardness greater than 200 BHN with utmost precision and intricate geometric features is catered, to some extent, by Wire Electric Discharge Machining (WEDM). WEDM is a non-conventional electro-thermal contactless machining process in which the cutting operation involves a thin strand of metallic wire with a pulsating current flowing through to create a spark between the workpiece and wire. The complexity of this operation demands countless input parameters to be optimized to produce the best possible results. Various techniques have been used by researchers for this purpose. This paper reviews five such techniques of optimization including the Taguchi technique, Design of Experiments (DOE), Response Surface Methodology (RSM), the Genetic Algorithm (GA) and a combination of different techniques. Furthermore, an analysis is provided for the best three approaches for each technique. This paper also discusses an in-depth knowledge of the applications of these techniques along with the process flow diagram to summarize the process.

While the Coronavirus pandemic continues to spread havoc across the world, countries like Pakistan are faced with another challenge: the steady rise of vector borne diseases alongside a spike in COVID-19 cases. Moreover, signs and clinical manifestations of multiple arbovirus infections mimic those experienced in COVID-19, causing further complications in management and diagnosis. Without urgent adequate management and testing equipment, the recent surge of COVID-19 along with the steady rise in Vector Borne Diseases (VBDs) could collapse the exhausted Pakistani healthcare system. This article explores the impact of COVID-19 on the management, diagnosis, and treatment of the common arbovirus infections of Pakistan, including dengue (DENV), malaria, chikungunya (CHIKV), and other foreign infections that are on a hazardous rise.

Efficient and excellent nanoparticles are required for the degradation of organic dyes in photocatalysis. In this study, silver–manganese oxide nanoparticles (Ag-Mn-NPs) were synthesized through a wet chemical precipitation method and characterized as an advanced catalyst that has enhanced photocatalytic activity under sunlight irradiation. The nanoparticles were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), XRD, UV–vis light spectra, and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, revealing their spherical and agglomerated form. The EDX spectra confirmed the composition of the nanoparticles, indicating their presence in oxide form. These bimetallic oxide nanoparticles were employed as photocatalysts for the degradation of malachite green (MG) dye under sunlight irradiation in an aqueous medium. The study investigated the effects of various parameters, such as irradiation time, catalyst dosage, recovered catalyst dosage, dye concentration, and pH, on the dye’s photodegradation. The results showed that Ag-Mn oxide nanoparticles exhibited high photocatalytic activity, degrading 92% of the dye in 100 min. A longer irradiation time led to increased dye degradation. Moreover, a higher catalyst dosage resulted in a higher dye degradation percentage, with 91% degradation achieved using 0.0017 g of the photocatalyst in 60 min. Increasing the pH of the medium also enhanced the dye degradation, with 99% degradation achieved at pH 10 in 60 min. However, the photodegradation rate decreased with increasing dye concentration. The Ag-Mn oxide nanoparticles demonstrate excellent potential as a reliable visible-light-responsive photocatalyst for the efficient degradation of organic pollutants in wastewater treatment.

Smart and intelligent xanthan gum/pluronic F-127 hydrogels were fabricated for the controlled delivery of atomoxetine HCl. Different parameters such as DSC, TGA, FTIR, XRD, SEM, drug loading, porosity, swelling index, drug release, and kinetics modeling were appraised for the prepared matrices of hydrogels. FTIR confirmed the successful synthesis of the hydrogel, while TGA and DSC analysis indicated that the thermal stability of the reagents was improved after the polymerization technique. SEM revealed the hard surface of the hydrogel, while XRD indicated a reduction in crystallinity of the reagents. High gel fraction was achieved with high incorporated contents of the polymers and the monomer. An increase in porosity, drug loading, swelling, and drug release was observed with the increase in the concentrations of xanthan gum and acrylic acid, whereas Pluronic F-127 showed the opposite effect. A negligible swelling index was shown at pH 1.2 and 4.6 while greater swelling was observed at pH 7.4, indicating a pH-responsive nature of the designed hydrogels. Furthermore, a higher drug release was found at pH 7.4 compared to pH 1.2 and 4.6, respectively. The first kinetics order was followed by the prepared hydrogel formulations. Thus, it is signified from the discussion that smart xanthan gum/pluronic F-127 hydrogels have the potential to control the release of the atomoxetine HCl in the colon for an extended period of time.

Climate change is considered an important factor contributing to increased mortality and morbidity. Particularly, climate change in Kabul, Afghanistan has affected the health of millions of people by increasing their susceptibility to infectious diseases, respiratory problems, and other health conditions. Prompt climate preservation and health-related interventions could be a community-wide approach to improve the current conditions. In this review paper, we highlight the health implications associated with climate change in Afghanistan and discuss preventive measures to tackle the climate-associated adverse health conditions in the future.

Darmalak Ali Kach Game Reserve (District Kohat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan), has variety of habitats. Field survey was conducted using count method; block method etc. The total number of individuals counted during study was 528. Shannon-Wiener Diversity Index was 3.195 which indicate a high level of biodiversity. The highest number of each bird species observed and data was tabulated and statistical analysis was carried out using Microsoft Excel sheets. Relative Abundance of bird species was also calculated along with species evenness, richness and Shannon-Wiener Diversity Index. During the present survey 27 bird species, belonging to 8 orders and 15 families, were recorded. Out of these, 15 bird species were resident, 5 winter visitors and 6 summer breeders. The present report represents a preliminary data on the avifauna diversity of this game reserve, with the hope that the information will be used in the development of a working plan for the reserve.

Lead-free double perovskite halides are emerging optoelectronic materials that are alternatives to lead-based perovskite halides. Recently, single-crystalline double perovskite halides were synthesized, and their intriguing functional properties were demonstrated. Despite such pioneering works, lead-free double perovskite halides with better crystallinity are still in demand for applications to novel optoelectronic devices. Here, we realized highly crystalline Cs2AgBiBr6 single crystals with a well-defined atomic ordering on the microscopic scale. We avoided the formation of Ag vacancies and the subsequent secondary Cs3Bi2Br9 by manipulating the initial chemical environments in hydrothermal synthesis. The suppression of Ag vacancies allows us to reduce the trap density in the as-grown crystals and to enhance the carrier mobility further. Our design strategy is applicable for fabricating other lead-free halide materials with high crystallinity.

Telehealth facility was launched to extend veterinary services throughout Kashmir valley. It was also desired for continuation of veterinary internship during the COVID-19 lock-down period. A total of 714 response forms were received from the participating veterinary faculty of clinical disciplines in six months. The majority (n=504, 70.6%) of the cases pertained to the dairy cattle. Thirty per cent (n=9/30) of the designated specialists participated. The tele-health facility was availed by interns (44.25%), farmers/animal owners (36.51%), field veterinarians (15.28%) and the para-veterinarians (3.97%) in significantly decreasing order. Telephone mobile calls, WhatsApp messages (text, photos and videos), and the SMS text messages were the platforms used. The animals with medical problems (67.66%) were significantly more than those showing gynaecological (18.25%) and surgical (14.09%) ailments. More than half (52.58%) of the cases were reported from the nearby three districts. The remaining (47.42%) animal owners resided in rest of the seven districts. Most of the complaints pertained to skin and appendages (27.18%), alimentary (25.79%) and reproductive tract (18.25%) in the affected cattle respectively. Udder and teat affections, metabolic diseases, and repeat breeding were tentatively diagnosed in majority of the cows. From this preliminary study, it is concluded that the veterinary telehealth service can reach far-off places and education can be continued amidst lockdown period. Short duration and lack of the follow up details are the weakness of this study. Additionally, more veterinary specialists need be persuaded to participate in telehealth modality.

Fungi are the most important phytopathogens that cause yield losses. The mycotoxins released by fungi cause spoilage of stored food consumed by humans and feed supplied to animals. Fungi-antagonistic microbes are gaining attention as potential biocontrol agents (BCAs). This study was designed to isolate bacterial isolates from different crops and evaluate their in vitro antifungal assay against three phytopathogens, plant growth promoting (PGP) characteristics, molecular identification, and in vivo efficiency against the most devastating phytopathogenic fungus Fusarium oxysporum Schltdl. In the in vitro experiment, the 3 isolates BA, GL-1, and 5a out of 360 isolates showed more than 60% inhibitory activity against the selected fungi in this study. On the basis of 16S rRNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis, BA isolate was identified as Bacillus velezensis. All three isolates produced indole acetic acid (IAA), hydrogen cyanide (HCN), and cellulase enzymes, while the BA and GL-1 isolates also produced siderophores and the BA isolate also produced ammonia. BA was selected on basis of not only Biocontrol efficacy but also maximum PGPR activity compared to GL-1 and 5a. In vivo assay, the isolate BA showed a significant decrease in disease severity caused by Fusarium oxysporum by 64.97% after 100 days of inoculation on wheat (FD-08) seedlings in a greenhouse assay and enhanced the shoot root height, fresh and dry mass. The wide-ranging antagonistic action of Bacillus velezensis isolated from the phyllosphere of wheat crops showed promising fungicidal and plant growth-promoting capabilities, suggesting it can be used as a biofungicide.

Terminalia arjuna possesses significant cardioprotective, antidiabetic and antioxidant properties as these properties are described in Ayurveda. In the present study, three flavonoids were isolated through the separation and chromatographic purification of the whole plant material of T. arjuna. Spectroscopic characterization identified one of them as a new flavonoid “Terminalone A (1)” and two known flavonoids i.e., 6-hydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-7-methoxy-4H-chromen-4-one (2) and 2-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-5,7-dihydroxy-4H-chromen-4-one (3). The bioactivity studies showed considerable antibacterial and antioxidant (DPPH radical scavenging) potential for all the three compounds 1–3 where the compound 1 showed strong antibacterial and antioxidant activity.

This study investigates pH-sensitive hydrogels based on biocompatible, biodegradable polysaccharides and natural polymers such as chondroitin sulfate and alginate in combination with synthetic monomer such as acrylic acid, as controlled drug carriers. Investigations were conducted for chondroitin sulfate/alginate-graft-poly(acrylic acid) hydrogel in various mixing ratios of chondroitin sulfate, alginate and acrylic acid in the presence of ammonium persulfate and N′,N′-Methylene bisacrylamide. Crosslinking and loading of drug were confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Thermal stability of both polymers was enhanced after crosslinking as indicated by thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimeter thermogram of developed hydrogel. Similarly, surface morphology was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, whereas crystallinity of the polymers and developed hydrogel was investigated by powder X-ray diffraction. Furthermore, swelling and drug-release studies were investigated in acidic and basic medium of pH 1.2 and 7.4 at 37 °C, respectively. Maximum swelling and drug release were detected at pH 7.4 as compared to pH 1.2. Increased incorporation of hydrogel contents led to an increase in porosity, drug loading, and gel fraction while a reduction in sol fraction was seen. The polymer volume fraction was found to be low at pH 7.4 compared to pH 1.2, indicating a prominent and greater swelling of the prepared hydrogels at pH 7.4. Likewise, a biodegradation study revealed a slow degradation rate of the developed hydrogel. Hence, we can conclude from the results that a fabricated system of hydrogel could be used as a suitable carrier for the controlled delivery of ketorolac tromethamine.

Abstract Data on environmental contamination of the parasites of zoonotic importance is scarce in Pakistan. Soil contamination with feces of dogs hide infective stages of the parasite represents a health-risk to humans. This study was aimed to assess the eggs of gastrointestinal parasites of stray dogs and household dogs in lower Dir district, Pakistan with special consideration to those that can be spread to humans. One hundred and fifty two stool specimens from (stray dogs=90 and household dogs=62) were collected. The helminth eggs were processed by direct smear method and centrifugation techniques and identified by microscopic examination. Of the total examined dogs 26.8% (n=41 /152) were found to be infected with one or more intestinal parasites. The intestinal helminths detected were Dipylidium caninum (n =18, 11.8%), followed by Toxocara canis (n =16, 10.5%), Taenia spp., (n=10, 6.57%) Ancylostoma caninum (n=6, 3.94), Toxascaris spp., Capillaria spp., and Trichuris vulpis (n=2, 1.31% each) in order of their prevalence. Pattern of infection revealed that 27 (65.8%) dogs have single, 13(31.7%) double and 1(2.43%) triple infection. The stray dogs were highly infected 34.4% (n=31) than house hold dogs 16.1% (n=10). The prevalence of infection with intestinal parasites was significantly different among these two groups (p = 0.0097). This study highlight a severe environmental contamination by frequent parasitic stages infectious to humans. There is a higher risk of zoonotic transmission from dogs which indicate an immediate need for the controlling of these parasites and educating the public to take wise action relating to the parasites and pets.

This study tests Jensen’s free cash flow theory which states that managers overinvest retained earnings in negative NPV projects. A data set of 238 firms listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange for the period 1999 to 2016 is used. The results of the panel regression model show a significant positive association of the earnings response coefficient and dividend payout ratio, which supports the free cash flow theory in listed Pakistani firms. Moreover, the imposition of the capital gains tax and the financial crisis has further strengthened the positive relationship between ERC and dividend payout ratio.

Purpose This study examined the effect of leverage, debt maturity on corporate financial performance of non-financial firms listed at the Pakistan Stock Exchange. Targeted population of this study was 100 firm listed at PSX as KSE-100 index out of which 74 non-financial firms were selected from 28 different sectors for the period of 5 years 2013 to 2017. Design/Methodology/Approach: Financial performance measured by ROA, ROE, while leverage, short term leverage, long term leverage taken as independent variables, four variables were taken as control which are size, current ratio, sale growth, tangibility. On the basis of Hausman test, results of random effect model were found appropriate. Findings: ST and LT Leverage have a negative significant and insignificant effect on financial performance (ROA) respectively, moreover long term leverage has a positive and significant but short has a negative and insignificant effect on ROE. The results of the control variables showed that size has a negative and significant effect on ROA and ROE, whereas current ratio has insignificant and negative effect on ROA, ROE. Sale growth has a positive and insignificant effect on firms ROA and ROE. Tangibility has insignificant and negative effect on financial performance. Implications/Originality/Value: This study is consistent with traditional trade-off theory and recommended that management of the non-financial firms listed at the PSX should employ minimal debt level or use an optimal level of capital structure and also to attract good management thus to improve their financial performance.

This research study investigates the role of board gender diversity in mitigating the risk of corporate expropriation of listed companies in Pakistan. For this purpose, data from 2009 to 2019 has been collected for 223 firms randomly selected from 24 non-financial sectors. The current study used panel data analysis techniques i.e. random vs fixed-effect regression models were estimated for testing the relationship of board gender diversity and corporate expropriations. The results of the panel data analysis showed that Hausman test results support the random effect models for the analysis of the data. The results of the random effect models showed that board gender diversity has a negative significant effect on the dividend ratios and director loans, which are used as a proxy for corporate expropriations. Moreover, external audit quality, growth, and leverage are also found to hurt corporate expropriations. However, managerial ownership, net profit margin, and size variables are found to have a positive effect on corporate expropriations. The results of the study will be helpful for the corporate managers and policy makers regarding the corporate governance and provide a deep insight in to the role of the gender in managing and aligning the benefits of the outsider shareholders by reducing the corporate expropriations of controlling large shareholders. The study is novel in its nature as being the first study that has been conducted in the context of Pakistan and has studied the role of gender in managing corporate expropriations.

In this study, we try to answer several empirical questions related to testing of asset pricing models in Pakistan. First, we test the assumptions of capital asset pricing model (CAPM) using cross-sectional regression methodology of Fama and MacBeth (FMB) (1973). Second, we test the conditional relationship between beta and expected returns using FMB cross-sectional regressions. Third, we test and compare the explanatory power of CAPM and Fama and French (1993) three factor models using time-series regressions. For all of the above empirical tests, we use sufficiently large data set of weekly data from January 2006 to December 2018 of non-financial firms listed at the Pakistan Stock Exchange. Results of the cross-sectional regressions suggest that beta cannot explain expected returns. However, there is weak evidence that a conditional relation exits between beta and expected returns. Results of the time-series regression suggest that both CAPM and three factor model do well in explaining expected returns. However, GRS-based test of regression intercepts and regressions R2 indicate that Fama and French model better captures variations in observed stock returns than the CAPM.

The aim of this study is to examine whether google search volume index (GSVI) as a tool of investor’s attentions can be of great used to forecast stock returns. In this paper we answer the question whether “price pressure hypothesis “would hold true for Pakistan stock markets. The nature of current study is quantitative in nature and research design is used to test the hypothesis developed to examine google search volume index and stocks return behavior. We used balanced panel data for the period from 2003 to 2019 for companies listed in Pakistan stock exchange. In this paper, we use regression technique for econometrics estimation. The results showed that high and a positive return is associated with high google search volume. To be more accurate, we can say that a google search volume index is an important and useful predictor for both the directions and magnitude of excess returns. We suggest that, this study will be helpful for the information of profitable trading strategies. With this study, we complement all previous work done in developed countries on the correlation between stock trading behavior and search intensity by using more robust statistical techniques and large sample size.

Conventional formulations of antiviral drug acyclovir have various limitations such as low bioavailability. The current study was aimed at developing polymeric matrices for the controlled delivery of acyclovir using sericin as polymer and acrylic acid (AA) as a monomer. The free radical polymerization technique was used for hydrogel formulation. Briefly, sericin was chemically cross-linked with acrylic acid. N′-N′-methylene bis-acrylamide (MBA) and ammonium persulfate (APS) were used as cross-linker and initiator, respectively. FTIR spectra showed that acyclovir was successfully loaded into sericin hydrogel. SEM micrographs revealed that the outer surface was solid-like and smooth. According to DSC thermograms, the developed polymeric network was thermally stable. Amorphous nature of acyclovir was observed in XRD. The pH of medium and reactants’ concentration affected swelling dynamics and acyclovir release pattern. In addition, drug release occurred through a diffusion-controlled process. Sericin hydrogel suspension was well tolerable up to 3800 mg/kg of rabbits’ body weight. Haematology and serum chemistry results were well within the range signifying normal liver and kidney functions. Similarly, histopathology slides of the rabbit’s vital organs were also in normal condition without causing any histopathological change. It was concluded from the findings that sericin-co-AA polymeric matrices are ideal for the pH-dependent delivery of acyclovir.

In human, no studies are available regarding changes in kisspeptin1 receptor (KISS1R) sensitivity during pubertal transition. In this study, healthy boys were classified into 5 Tanner stages of puberty (n=5/stage). Human kisspeptin-10 was administered to boys at each Tanner stage and to adult men (n=5) as an IV bolus for comparison. Serial blood samples were collected for 30 min pre- and 120 min post-kisspeptin injection periods at 30 min interval for measuring plasma LH and testosterone levels. There was insignificant effect of kisspeptin on LH and testosterone levels in boys of Tanner stages I–III. At Tanner stage IV, the effect of kisspeptin on plasma LH was insignificant. However, a paired t-test on a log-transformed data showed a significant (P

Four varieties of mungbeans (Ramazan, Swat mungI, NM92 and KMI) from different research stations of KPK (Khyber Pukhtunkhwa) in Pakistan were grown hydroponically in pots containing sand giving nutrient solutions with and without Zn. Each variety was applied with Zn solutions at three levels i.e. 0, 1 and 2 μM concentrations. Plant samples were taken 2 months after transplant and the effect of Zn supply was observed on plant growth rate, protein, minerals and chlorophyll contents of mungbean leaves. Plant growth, chlorophyll contents, crude proteins and Zn contents were noted to be higher when greater supply of zinc doses was applied. Plant phosphorous contents declined with supply of Zn from 1 μM to 2 μM compared to the control signifying a Zn/P complex foundation possibly in roots of plant, preventing the movement of P to plant. Plant copper and Mg contents increased whereas Fe showed competitive behavior with Zinc while K, Na and Mn plant contents were non-significantly depressive with Zn increase from control to 2 μM. Zinc application at 2 μM concentrations in solution culture turned out to be the best treatment for improving the growth and quality parameters of mungbean.

The paper presents design and development of mobile phone using Quality Function Deployment. Quality Function Deployment is one of the total quality management tools used to convert customers’ needs into design specifications. A market survey is conducted to find out the voice of customer. The Voice of the Customer is converted into customers’ needs. Relative importance is assigned to customers’ needs. A list of technical requirements that could fulfill the customers’ needs is produced. A relationship matrix is developed between the customers’ needs and the technical requirements. The relationship matrix is converted into the House of Quality. Output from the House of Quality is used in concept generation of mobile phone. Concept generation is followed by concept selection. Final improved model of the mobile phone is presented.

Exploration of novel candidates for vaccine development against Mycoplasma capricolum subspecies capripneumoniae (Mccp), the causative agent of contagious caprine pleuropneumonia (CCPP), has recently gained immense importance due to both the increased number of outbreaks and the alarming risk of transboundary spread of disease. Treatment by antibiotics as the only therapeutic strategy is not a viable option due to pathogen persistence, economic issues, and concerns of antibiotic resistance. Therefore, prophylactics or vaccines are becoming important under the current scenario. For quite some time inactivated, killed, or attenuated vaccines proved to be beneficial and provided good immunity up to a year. However, their adverse effects and requirement for larger doses led to the need for production of large quantities of Mccp. This is challenging because the required culture medium is costly and Mycoplasma growth is fastidious and slow. Furthermore, quality control is always an issue with such vaccines. Currently, novel candidate antigens including capsular polysaccharides (CPS), proteins, enzymes, and genes are being evaluated for potential use as vaccines. These have shown potential immunogenicity with promising results in eliciting protective immune responses. Being easy to produce, specific, effective and free from side effects, these novel vaccine candidates can revolutionize vaccination against CCPP. Use of novel proteomic approaches, including sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, immunoblotting, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry, tandem mass spectroscopy, fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC), bioinformatics, computerized simulation and genomic approaches, including multilocus sequence analysis, next-generation sequencing, basic local alignment search tool (BLAST), gene expression, and recombinant expression, will further enable recognition of ideal antigenic proteins and virulence genes with vaccination potential.

Objective: To evaluate the basic knowledge and practice of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the new changes in 2010 American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines for CPR amongst healthcare professionals (doctors and staff nurses) in tertiary care hospitals of Peshawar. Methodology: A structured self-administered questionnaire based on 2010 AHA guidelines of CPR, was used to test the knowledge and practice of CPR among participants. A correct response rate of >70% to a question was considered as excellent awareness, 50-69% was considered as satisfactory awareness while a response rate of 30-49% was considered as poor and

Thirty clinical cases of obstructive urolithiasis, 15 with intact urinary bladder and 15 with ruptured urinary bladder, were used to study the changes in peritoneal fluid cytology. The percentage of neutrophils was highly increased than the normal reference range reported for cattle with slight decrease in lymphocyte percentage. The value for neutrophil percent was almost similar in both intact and ruptured urinary bladder cases. The monocyte/mesothelial cells/macrophage percent, though increased than the normal reference range were identical in both the groups. There was a predominant decrease in eosinophil percentage with more decrease in intact urinary bladder cases. Polymorphonuclear-to-mononuclear cell ratio was same in both the groups, but higher than the normal reference value (1:1). Eosinophils ≤ 8% and neutrophil ≥ 30% could be established as a reference range of peritonitis in calves. Red blood corpuscles (RBCs) were totally absent in the peritoneal fluid samples obtained from intact urinary bladder cases except in one case. However, in the peritoneal fluid samples obtained from ruptured urinary bladder cases, RBCs were found in abundance in 3 cases and very few in 2 cases. The morphology and the different cell type present in the peritoneal fluid samples also varied according to the status of urinary bladder. In intact urinary bladder cases, neutrophils were mature and nondegenerate, while in ruptured urinary bladder cases degenerate and hypersegmented neutrophils were more. Mesothelial cells were equally distributed in both the groups. Bacteria were found extracellularly as well as intracellularly in degenerate neutrophils in 4 cases with ruptured urinary bladder and only extracellularly in 2 cases with intact urinary bladder. Peritoneal fluid cytology can be used for differentiation of peritonitis from normal cases and non septic peritonitis from septic peritonitis besides diagnosing the uroperitoneum in calves.

This study explores the cryptocurrency opportunities & barriers in the context of Pakistani region. With the passage of time cryptocurrency is getting popular day by day. Different countries accept this digital technology. While in the case of Pakistan, this technology is still not legalized. There are some opportunities, and some barriers to this technology in Pakistan. This study focused on different opportunities which attract investors and affect the Pakistan economy, and different barriers which is faced by Pakistani investors while using this currency. A qualitative approach was used by employing a convenience sampling technique through eleven different open ended (semi-structured) interviews comprising of investors, trading firms and state Bank of Pakistan to explore opportunities and barriers of cryptocurrency in Pakistan. Open ended (semi-structured) interviews were conducted from different investors. The results show the different variables of cryptocurrency which is based on demand and supply. Research is based on Block chain technology, while different variables are extracted from opportunities which are profitability, transferability, decentralized technology, stable economy, and tax benefits. Along with that different barrier factors are discussed including lawlessness of cryptocurrency in Pakistan and the restrictions by the government of Pakistan. The results imply that the profitability, secure technology and economy development are the opportunities of cryptocurrency. While few barriers of this technology like no support by government. Government can play vital role in reducing the barriers. This study contributes to the existing research studies to consolidate the different results of this research study. This study contributes to different cryptocurrency investors to know about the different opportunities as well as different barriers of this technology in the Pakistani context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]