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Abstract Background Innovations in cancer treatment have contributed to the improved survival rate of cancer patients. The cancer survival rates have been growing and nearly two third of those survivors have been exposed to clinical radiation during their treatment. The study of long-term radiation effects, especially secondary cancer induction, has become increasingly important. An accurate assessment of out-of-field/peripheral dose (PDs) is necessary to estimate the risk of second cancer after radiotherapy and the damage to the organs at risk surrounding the planning target volume. This study was designed to measure the PDs as a function of dose, distances, and depths from Telecobalt-60 (Co-60) beam in water phantom using thermoluminescent dosimeter-100 (TLD-100). Methods The PDs were measured for Co-60 beam at specified depths of 0 cm (surface), 5 cm, 10 cm, and 15 cm outside the radiation beam at distances of 5, 10, and 13 cm away from the radiation field edge using TLD-100 (G1 cards) as detectors. These calibrated cards were placed on the acrylic disc in circular tracks. The radiation dose of 2000 mGy of Co-60 beam was applied inside 10 × 10 cm2 field size at constant source to surface distance (SSD) of 80 cm. Results The results showed maximum and minimum PDs at surface and 5 cm depth respectively at all distances from the radiation field edge. Dose distributions out of the field edge with respect to distance were isotropic. The decrease in PDs at 5 cm depth was due to dominant forward scattering of Co-60 gamma rays. The increase in PDs beyond 5 cm depth was due to increase in the irradiated volume, increase in penumbra, increase in source to axis distance (SAD), and increase in field size due to inverse square factor. Conclusion It is concluded that the PDs depends upon depth and distance from the radiation field edge. All the measurements show PDs in the homogenous medium (water); therefore, it estimates absorbed dose to the organ at risk (OAR) adjacent to cancer tissues/planning target volume (PTV). It is suggested that PDs can be minimized by using the SAD technique, as this technique controls sources of scattered radiation like inverse square factor and effect of penumbra up-to some extent.

Teratogenic and embryotoxic effect of diclofenac sodium (DS) on different developmental stages of the chick-embryos was investigated by examining different parameters such as its mortality rate, hatching, morphological measurements, weighing its internal organs and calculation of different indices. Experiment was divided into four trials with different dose (0.1 mL, 0.2 mL, 0.3 mL in groups A, B, and C, respectively and group D received 0.3 mL saline solution (0.9% NaCl) and group E remained un-injected) administration and observation. Results of first and second trial showed statistically (p0.05) when compared with the control groups. In trial 4, forelimb, hindlimb length, heart weight, CSI and HSI were statistically (p0.05). The mortality rate was increased with increase dose of DS and also affected the hatching. DS effect on chick embryos can be applied to humans because the early development of mammals and birds are closely related. So, it was concluded that DS should be used with caution during pregnancy especially during first trimester of pregnancy.

IntroductionMedicinal plants like Punica granatum (pomegranate) have traditional uses against diabetes, inflammation and other diseases. The study was initiated to get an insight into the interaction tendency of P. granatum derived compounds with diabetes associated human thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP). High glucose in diabetes induces production of TXNIP resulting in β-cells apoptosis. Its inhibition might reduce the diabetes incidence.MethodsTo elucidate the therapeutic potential of P. granatum peel against diabetes through GC-MS based identification of extracted compounds followed by application of computational algorithms. P. granatum peel extracts were screened for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, antimicrobial and wound healing properties. Phytochemical and GC-MS based analysis were performed to identify the bioactive compounds. Molecular docking analysis was performed by Auto Dock Vina to predict the binding tendency of P. granatum derived compounds with TXNIP.Results and DiscussionThe peel exhibited antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic activities, which were attributed to phytochemicals like phenols, tannins and steroids. GC-MS analysis identified 3,5-octadien-2-one, 1H-pyrrole -2,5-dione, Beta-D-lyxofuranoside, 5-O-(beta-D-lyxofuranosyl)-decyl, diethyl phthalate, 9-octadecenoic acid (Z)-, methyl ester, hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester, n-hexadecanoic acid, tetradecane, 2,6,10-trimethyl, bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, decane, 3,8-dimethyl, 9-octadecenoic acid (Z)-, methyl ester and bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate in P. granatum peel extracts. Docking analysis revealed high binding affinities of bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate and 9-octadecenoic acid with TXNIP i.e., –4.5 and –5.0 kcal/mol, respectively, reflecting these compounds as potent antidiabetic agents. This study validates the traditional uses of P. granatum peel and demonstrates how computational approaches can uncover pharmacologically active phytochemicals. The results suggest P. granatum peel is a promising source of novel therapeutics against diabetes, inflammation, and oxidation. Further studies on the optimization of identified ligands are warranted.

Objective: To document the initial presentation of COVID-19 cases among different age groups of healthcare workers in a tertiary care rehabilitation hospital. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: COVID-19 Ward at AFRIM, Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Mar 2021 to Mar 2022. Methodology: Doctors and healthcare workers in the COVID-19 ward at a tertiary care rehabilitation hospital were included. Demographic data of all patients was noted. The primary data sources were patients' presenting complaints, history, examination, and medical records. Results: Out of 159 patients, 46(28.9%) were from age group 15-29 years, 103(64.8%) were from 30-45 years and 10(6.3%) from 46-60 years. General duty staff (including patient attendants, ward boys, and stretcher-bearers) was the most common (18.9%) to be affected among rehabilitation health care professionals. The most common symptoms were fever 112(70.4%), sore throat 86(54.1%), cough 74(46.5%) and fatigue 69(43.4%). Most HCWs were 30-45 years age group 103(64.8%). Most patients had duration of symptoms for 3-5 days 107(67.3%). Conclusion: Healthcare professionals working in rehabilitation medicine facilities were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic globally. Most of our general duty HCWs aged 30-45 years were infected with COVID-19. However, symptomology was similar to what has been reported in the literature.

The purpose of this study was to synthesize ecofriendly nano-composite in which agricultural waste (seeds of Tamarindus indica) was used to synthesize tamarind seed polysaccharides (TSP) and its composite with copper nanoparticles (Cu-NPs) for the purpose of green and clean environment as well as reduction of green-house gases. Confirmation of extracted TSP, synthesized nanocomposite was carried out using FTIR, SEM, PXRD and EDX techniques. In FTIR analysis TSP gives a strong broad peak at 3331 cm−1 due to –OH group and in case of composite its intensity is reduced which might be due to the interactions between –OH and Cu+2 ions. SEM analysis gives that TSP have irregular and rough surface while Cu-NPs exhibited spherical morphology and composite showed clustering of spherical shape to rough surface. EDX analysis quantitatively represented copper having atomic ratio 0.57 % which confirms the synthesis of composite. Furthermore, synthesized composite demonstrated excellent antibacterial activity against gram-positive (S.aureus) and gram-negative bacteria (E.coli) even greater than standard medicine (ciprofloxacin). From this study it was revealed that agriculture waste can be utilized to make environment green as well as synthesized composite from agricultural waste seed also displayed excellent antimicrobial activities which directs that they can be utilized in medical field. This study aims to assess the antimicrobial properties of the nanocomposite, aiming to contribute to the development of effective antimicrobial agents. Through these objectives, the research seeks to bridge the gap between green technology and antimicrobial efficacy, offering a promising avenue for both environmental conservation and healthcare advancements.

ObjectiveThis meta-analysis includes the systematic literature review and meta-analysis involving clinical trials to assess the efficacy and safety of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation for treating T1DM and T2DM.MethodsWe searched PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, clinicaltrials.gov, and Cochrane Library for “published” research from their inception until November 2023. Two researchers independently reviewed the studies’ inclusion and exclusion criteria. Our meta-analysis included 13 studies on MSC treatment for diabetes.ResultsThe MSC-treated group had a significantly lower HbA1c at the last follow-up compared to the baseline (MD: 0.95, 95% CI: 0.33 to 1.57, P-value: 0.003< 0.05), their insulin requirement was significantly lower (MD: 0.19, 95% CI: 0.07 to 0.31, P-value: 0.002< 0.05), the level of FBG with MSC transplantation significantly dropped compared to baseline (MD: 1.78, 95% CI: -1.02 to 4.58, P-value: 0.212), the FPG level of the MSC-treated group was significantly lower (MD: -0.77, 95% CI: -2.36 to 0.81, P-value: 0.339 > 0.05), and the fasting C-peptide level of the MSC-treated group was slightly high (MD: -0.02, 95% CI: -0.07 to 0.02, P-value: 0.231 > 0.05).ConclusionThe transplantation of MSCs has been found to positively impact both types of diabetes mellitus without signs of apparent adverse effects.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) 21 Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) was successfully launched on 10 November 2022. To ensure the required instrument performance, a series of Post-Launch Tests (PLTs) were performed and analyzed. The primary calibration source for NOAA-21 VIIRS Reflective Solar Bands (RSBs) is the Solar Diffuser (SD), which retains the prelaunch radiometric calibration standard from prelaunch to on-orbit. Upon reaching orbit, the SD undergoes degradation as a result of ultraviolet solar illumination. The rate of SD degradation (called the H-factor) is monitored by a Solar Diffuser Stability Monitor (SDSM). The initial H-factor’s instability was significantly improved by deriving a new sun transmittance function from the yaw maneuver and one-year SDSM data. The F-factors (normally represent the inverse of instrument gain) thus calculated for the Visible/Near-Infrared (VISNIR) bands were proven to be stable throughout the first year of the on-orbit operations. On the other hand, the Shortwave Infrared (SWIR) bands unexpectedly showed fast degradation, which is possibly due to unknown substance accumulation along the optical path. To mitigate these SWIR band gain changes, the NOAA VIIRS Sensor Data Record (SDR) team used an automated calibration software package called RSBautoCal. In March 2024, the second middle-mission outgassing event to reverse SWIR band degradation was shown to be successful and its effects are closely monitored. Finally, the deep convective cloud trends and lunar collection results validated the operational F-factors. This paper summarizes the preliminary on-orbit radiometric calibration updates and performance for the NOAA-21 VIIRS SDR products in the RSB.

Geckos and their products have been used in Asian traditional medicine. Medicinal properties of desert-dwelling Gecko species, Crossobamon orientalis remain unexplored. In this study, natural bioactive macromolecules present in oil extracted from C. orientalis (COO) and their biological activities were evaluated. Chemical constitution of COO was explored by using gas chromatography mass spectrometry. Antioxidant, antiviral, and antibacterial activities of COO extracts were assessed using various assays, including DPPH free-radical-protocol, HET-CAM method, in ovo-antiviral technique, and disc-diffusion method. GC-MS study reported 40 different compounds in COO. n-hexane and methanol extracts of COO demonstrated highest DPPH radical inhibition, with values of 70 and 63.3%, respectively. Extracts of COO in solvents, namely 1-butanol, methanol, diethyl ether, and n-hexane significantly inhibited the proliferation of four pathogenic viruses. Maximum zone of inhibition was observed for Escherichia coli (13.65 ± 0.57 mm). These findings suggest that COO possesses potent antioxidant and antimicrobial properties against viral and bacterial strains, thanks to its biologically active components having no side effects. Further studies are essential to isolate and identify individual bioactive compounds present in COO and to investigate their potential as therapeutic agents.

Patient satisfaction is essential to the patient-centered approach in health services delivery, but little is known about satisfaction with physiotherapy services in Afghanistan. This study evaluated patients’ satisfaction with physiotherapy services and related factors in this country. This study was conducted on 420 recipients of a physiotherapy center in Afghanistan. A questionnaire was used to collect data that measured satisfaction in 4 dimensions: treatment process, logistics, organizational factors, and overall. The scale of the questionnaire was 5-point Likert. The highest possible score was 100. Statistics methods included Spearman's correlation coefficient, Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests for univariate analysis, and Linear Regression for multivariate analysis. The average overall satisfaction score was 84.82 ± 13.24. Among the demographic variables, the relationship between education level and overall satisfaction score was significant. The findings of the linear regression model showed that the 3 dimensions of satisfaction, including the treatment process, logistics, and organizational factors, had statistically significant relationships with overall satisfaction. The level of satisfaction was high in all dimensions. To maximize satisfaction, reducing waiting time and better communication with patients, as components of logistics and organizational factors, are suggested. Patients also need to receive feedback from physiotherapists that are an essential components of the treatment process dimension.

Euphorbia prostrata (E. prostrata) and Crotalaria burhia (C. burhia) are widely found in flora of the Cholistan Desert of Bahawalpur, Pakistan and are traditionally used to treat pain and chronic disease. The current study aimed to evaluate their phytochemical screening, antioxidant activity, in-vivo phagocytic activity, and analgesic activity. Both the plant extracts were investigated for phytochemical screening, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis, in-vitro antioxidant by 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method, in-vivo immunomodulatory activity by macrophages phagocytosis using carbon clearance rate assay and analgesic activity by acetic acid produced writhing method. Phytochemical screening showed the presence of carbohydrates, saponins, tannins, phenols, quinines, proteins, terpenes, glycosides, and alkaloids. FTIR analysis revealed the existence of different functional groups in both extracts. The DPPH method showed that E. prostrata exhibited a high antioxidant potential with an IC50 of 62.5 μg/ml whereas C. burhia showed a lower antioxidant potential. At the dose of 200 mg/kg body weight (b. wt), both the extracts showed a significant increase in the phagocytic index by 5.2 ± 0.2, and, 4.8 ± 0.1 (p

Design of orthopedic implants is a challenging task to cope with desired properties, therefore, numerous metal-alloy and coating were utilized in the fabrication of implants as alternative options. Magnesium (Mg)-based alloys are among the unique materials owing to their promising properties to avoid cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, and carcinogenicity; however, the fast degradation of Mg limits its clinical applications. In this study, hydroxyapatite (HA) nano-powder was coated on pure Mg as the compositions of both materials are promising biodegradable bone-compatible materials. The electrophoretic deposition (EPD) technique was used to produce a bioactive coating on pure Mg. The research novelty highlighted for the first time, the EPD parameters were optimized via the full Design of Experiment (DoF) approach during HA coating of Mg, while the weight loss of pure Mg and HA coated Mg were investigated in SBF for 7, 14, 21, and 28 days. The surface morphologies of both materials were investigated before and after coating. The bioactivity of the coated samples was examined in Simulated Body Fluid (SBF) and investigated using SEM. Surface roughness, contact angle measurement, scratch test, wear test, an in-vitro study in SBF, electrochemical corrosion, and cellular studies were conducted according to the standard approaches. The results show that HA coated Mg samples are compatible for orthopedic implants in terms of surface roughness, wettability, adhesion, wear sustainability, HA growth, corrosion rate, and cell viability. Thus, the biological, mechanical, and cellular properties of HA-coated implants are suitable and recommended as alternatives to biodegradable implants.

Abstract Curcumin is a phytochemical isolated from the dried rhizome of Curcuma longa L. family Zingiberaceae which possesses versatile biological activities and has hydrophobic properties. The current study was conducted to fabricate, and optimize curcumin loaded chitosan and Sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) nanoparticles (NPs) to improve the bioavailability of curcumin. NPs were fabricated employing the Ionic gelation method. Four formulations were developed based on the selected variables like STPP and chitosan concentration, rotations per minute (rpm), temperature, and pH of chitosan solution. NPs were characterized for morphology, drug-polymer compatibility, yield, particle size, encapsulation efficiency, release behavior, anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity compared to curcumin and standard drug. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) shows nanoparticle compatibility. The maximum yield was 60%. Entrapment efficiency ranged from 45 to 65%. Curcumin NPs and standard drug 600 µg/ml shows 59% and 70% anti-inflammatory activity by HRB membrane stabilization method respectively which are greater than curcumin alone whereas anti-arthritic activity by protein denaturation method which is also comparable to standard drug and greater than curcumin was 66 and 70% respectively. Statistical analysis shows the mean significant difference at p ≤ 0.05. The study concluded that curcumin-loaded chitosan and STPP NPs formulated successfully by the Ionic gelation method, which increased curcumin absorption leading to a reduced dosing rate and improved patient compliance.

Streamflow forecasting is highly crucial in the domain of water resources. For this study, we coupled the Wavelet Transform (WT) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) to forecast Gilgit streamflow at short-term (T0.33 and T0.66), intermediate-term (T1), and long-term (T2, T4, and T8) monthly intervals. Streamflow forecasts are uncertain due to stochastic disturbances caused by variations in snow-melting routines and local orography. To remedy this situation, decomposition by WT was undertaken to enhance the associative relation between the input and target sets for ANN to process. For ANN modeling, cross-correlation was used to guide input selection. Corresponding to six intervals, nine configurations were developed. Short-term intervals performed best, especially for T0.33; intermediate intervals showed decreasing performance. However, interestingly, performance regains back to a decent level for long-term forecasting. Almost all the models underestimate high flows and slightly overestimate low- to intermediate-flow conditions. At last, inference implicitly implies that shorter forecasting benefits from extrapolated trends, while the good results of long-term forecasting is associated to a larger recurrent pattern of the Gilgit River. In this way, weak performance for intermediate forecasting could be attributed to the insufficient ability of the model to capture either one of these patterns. HIGHLIGHTS Good, decent, and low performances were observed corresponding to short, long, and intermediate forecasting.; Models underestimate at high flow and overestimate at low to intermediate flow conditions, implying a limited sample for model training.; Short-term forecasting follows short-term trends, while long-term follows larger recurrent patterns probably associated with snow accumulation and melting.;

Herein bimetallic nanocomposites Ag with nickel and cobalt were synthesized by using the extract of W. coagulans. Nanocomposites synthesis were confirmed by using UV-Visible at 430 nm for and 504 nm for Ag@Ni and Ag@Co respectively. From XRD technique it was established that nanocomposites have crystalline nature and face-centered cubic structure. A strong antibacterial behavior toward Gram-positive Bacteria Staphylococcus aureus with 48.9% and 32.1% inhibition for Ag@Co and Gram-negative bacteria E. coli with 33.1% and 25.7% inhibition zone were observed for Ag@Ni respectively. Next the composites exhibited electrifying 90.2% and 82% degradation for Ag@Co and Ag@Ni against methyl orange (MO) through photocatalysis. Furthermore, Ag@Ni and Ag@Co nanocomposites showed efficient adsorption capacity of heavy metal (lead) at pH 7 within 45 min and 90% for adsorptive removal of lead ions from water with significant antioxidant potential. The current finding suggested, silver-based nanocomposites as an appropriate and promising candidate for efficient adsorptive and catalytic potentials removal of toxic pollutants.

Many Bacillus species are essential antibacterial agents, but their antibiosis potential still needs to be elucidated to its full extent. Here, we isolated a soil bacterium, BP9, which has significant antibiosis activity against fungal and bacterial pathogens. BP9 improved the growth of wheat seedlings via active colonization and demonstrated effective biofilm and swarming activity. BP9 sequenced genome contains 4282 genes with a mean G-C content of 45.94% of the whole genome. A single copy concatenated 802 core genes of 28 genomes, and their calculated average nucleotide identity (ANI) discriminated the strain BP9 from Bacillus licheniformis and classified it as Bacillus paralicheniformis. Furthermore, a comparative pan-genome analysis of 40 B. paralicheniformis strains suggested that the genetic repertoire of BP9 belongs to open-type genome species. A comparative analysis of a pan-genome dataset using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Cluster of Orthologous Gene groups (COG) revealed the diversity of secondary metabolic pathways, where BP9 distinguishes itself by exhibiting a greater prevalence of loci associated with the metabolism and transportation of organic and inorganic substances, carbohydrate and amino acid for effective inhabitation in diverse environments. The primary secondary metabolites and their genes involved in synthesizing bacillibactin, fencing, bacitracin, and lantibiotics were identified as acquired through a recent Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) event, which contributes to a significant part of the strain`s antimicrobial potential. Finally, we report some genes essential for plant-host interaction identified in BP9, which reduce spore germination and virulence of multiple fungal and bacterial species. The effective colonization, diverse predicted metabolic pathways and secondary metabolites (antibiotics) suggest testing the suitability of strain BP9 as a potential bio-preparation in agricultural fields.

BackgroundSoil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections are global health problem, especially in low-income countries. Main objectives of this study were to estimate the prevalence and intensity of STH and its risk factors among school children in Kandahar city of Afghanistan.Methodology/principal findingsThis was a school-based cross-sectional analytical study, with data collected during eight-month-period (May-December, 2022) from 6- and 12-years old school children in Kandahar city, Afghanistan. All the stool samples were examined by saline wet mount method and Kato-Katz technique. Data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics, Chi square test, and multivariate logistic regression. A total of 1275 children from eight schools of Kandahar city were included in this study. Mean age of these children was 8.3 years with 53.3% boys. The overall prevalence of any intestinal parasitic infection was 68.4%. The overall prevalence of STH infection was 39.1%, with Ascaris lumbricoides (29.4%) as the most prevalent STH species. Mean intensity of overall STH infection was 97.8. Multivariate logistic regression revealed playing barefoot (AOR 1.6, 95% CI 1.1-2.2), not washing hands after defecating and before eating (AOR 1.3, 95% CI 1.0-1.7), having untrimmed nails (AOR 1.4, 95% CI 1.1-1.8), and belonging to poor families (AOR 1.3, 95% CI 1.0-1.7) as the risk factors associated with the predisposition of school children for getting STH in Kandahar city of Afghanistan.Conclusions/significanceThere is high prevalence of STH among school children of Kandahar city in Afghanistan. Most of the risk factors are related to poverty, decreased sanitation, and improper hygiene. Improvement of socioeconomic status, sanitation, and health education to promote public awareness about health and hygiene together with periodic mass deworming programs are better strategies for the control of STH infections in Afghanistan.

The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of the application of common plain salt for the treatment of umbilical granuloma in infants. The study design was descriptive case series and was conducted over a period of 12 months at the paediatric unit, Mardan Medical Complex, Mardan, Pakistan. For this study a total of 50 infants with clinically evident umbilical granuloma were selected. Application of a pinch of common plain salt was advised on the granuloma twice a day for three consecutive days. Outcomes in the shape of complete resolution of the granuloma, adverse effects, and recurrence of granuloma were assessed. The number of patients responding well to the treatment was 45 (90%). The treatment showed good response and there was not any adverse effect or recurrence. ---Continue

Objective: To describe clinical manifestations of COVID-19 infection in Persons with disability (PWD) in Pakistan. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility (IRF) of Armed Forces Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine (AFIRM), Rawalpindi, from Feb to Oct 2021 Methodology: All PWDs admitted in IRF of AFIRM who tested positive for COVID-19 infection were included by convenience sampling. Patients who tested negative for COVID-19 by PCR were excluded. Data of patients and laboratory and radiological investigations, were recorded. Follow-up after one month was done via phone call. Results: Twenty patients tested positive for COVID-19, of which 20(95%) were males. The mean age of patients was 38.6 ± 2.5 years. Most patients had Spinal Cord Injuries followed by amputations, and five had co-existing disorders. 11(52.4%) of patients were asymptomatic. Fever, myalgias and cough were common among symptomatic patients. Those who were symptomatic had only one symptom at the time of presentation. All patients had mild disease and recovered gradually without complications at one month of follow-up. Conclusion: A high index of suspicion of SARs CoV-2 infection should be kept when PWDs present with myalgias or fever inthe current scenario and post-COVID-19 era since PWDs have fewer symptoms of COVID-19 as compared to their peers. Keyswords: Amputations, COVID-19, Pakistan, Persons with disability, Spinal cord injury.

Abstract Previous studies have demonstrated that environmental and temporal factors may affect the incidence of acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD). Here, we aimed to investigate the hypothesis that national holidays and weekends influence the incidence of surgery for ATAAD. For the period 1st of January 2005 until 31st of December 2019, we investigated a hypothesised effect of (country-specific) national holidays and weekends on the frequency of 2995 surgical repairs for ATAAD at 10 Nordic cities included in the Nordic Consortium for Acute Type A Aortic Dissection (NORCAAD) collaboration. Compared to other days, the number of ATAAD repairs were 29% (RR 0.71; 95% CI 0.54–0.94) lower on national holidays and 26% (RR 0.74; 95% CI 0.68–0.82) lower on weekends. As day of week patterns of symptom duration were assessed and the primary analyses were adjusted for period of year, our findings suggest that the reduced surgical incidence on national holidays and weekends does not seem to correspond to seasonal effects or surgery being delayed and performed on regular working days.

In the present study, chitosan/gelatin/hydroxyapatite (HA) coating was developed on 316L stainless steel (SS) via electrophoretic deposition (EPD). This type of film exhibits a hierarchical structure consisting of hydroxyapatite particles dispersed in a chitosan/gelatin matrix. An array of different analytical, electrochemical, and bioactive techniques was used to investigate the coatings. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images showed that HA particles are well dispersed in the chitosan/gelatin matrix. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results revealed that phosphorus is well bonded to the oxygen and well confirmed by the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum. The electrochemical studies of the chitosan/gelatin/HA and bare 316L SS were conducted by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization. The results indicated that corrosion resistance (conducted in simulated body fluid (SBF)) is mainly contributed by the HA particles embedded in the chitosan/gelatin matrix. Moreover, pitting potential of the composite coatings increased compared to that of the bare 316L SS. Chitosan/gelatin/HA developed apatite crystals upon immersion in SBF, thus confirming the bioactive nature of the coating. Furthermore, the coating was cyto-compatible and allows the osteoblast cells to proliferate and grow. The chitosan/gelatin/HA is a suitable candidate for biomedical applications regrading to mechanical and chemical attack.

Background: The world's main crop for producing staple foods is wheat. In South Asia's cotton-wheat cropping system, however, a late cotton harvest causes a delayed wheat planting, which causes significant production losses. Therefore, this study investigated genetic diversity among wheat genotypes for late sowing. Additionally, associations between several yield-related parameters were discovered, along with their direct and indirect implications on the choice of the best genotypes suitable for late planting. Methods: Twenty wheat genotypes/advance lines were evaluated under two sowing times, i.e., normal sowing and late sowing for two consecutive years (2019–2021). Data regarding post anthesis traits were collected. Results: The findings showed that planting dates and genotypes substantially (p

Introduction: The area of “Green Synthesis of Nano-medicine,” as compared to its synthetic counterparts, is a relatively safer research technology for various biomedical applications, including identification, therapeutic application, and prevention of pathological conditions, pain control, safety, and development of human wellness. The present study explored the synthesis and characterization of AgNPs using the ethanolic extract of Piper cubeba fruit as a reducing and stabilizing agent and its potential as an enzyme inhibitory agent. Urease inhibitors are helpful against many severe diseases, including gastric ulcers induced by Helicobacter pylori.Method: The fruits of the Piper cubeba plant were taken and ground to a fine powder. Plant material was added to 500 ml ethanol, and the mixture was filtered. The solvent of the filtrate was evaporated, and a thick, gummy extract was obtained and stored at 4°C in the refrigerator. AgNPs were green synthesized from solutions of AgNO3 using the P. cubeba extract, which was indicated by a change in the color from light brown to deep brown. The synthesized AgNPs were characterized via Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).Results and Discussion: Analysis showed the reduction of Ag+ to Ag0 at room temperature (25°C), and the average particle size of AgNPs was in the range of 40–80 nm. Consequently, the synthesized AgNPs were evaluated for their anti-urease activity. The maximum urease inhibition of the Piper cubeba ethanolic extract was 88.5% at 5 mg conc., and of derived nanoparticles was 78.6% at 0.05 mg conc. The results were nearly similar to the control drug, i.e., thiourea (0.5 and 0.6 mM conc., respectively).Conclusion: The study concluded that the P. cubeba extract, as well as its green-derived AgNPs, might prove to be a better and safer substitute for their enzyme inhibitory potential in emerging medicine and novel drug delivery techniques to improve and maintain human health.

In this paper, a mathematical model for assessing the impact of COVID-19 on tuberculosis disease is proposed and analysed. There are pieces of evidence that patients with Tuberculosis (TB) have more chances of developing the SARS-CoV-2 infection. The mathematical model is qualitatively and quantitatively analysed by using the theory of stability analysis. The dynamic system shows endemic equilibrium point which is stable when R01. The global stability of the endemic point is analysed by constructing the Lyapunov function. The dynamic stability also exhibits bifurcation behaviour. The optimal control theory is used to find an optimal solution to the problem in the mathematical model. The sensitivity analysis is performed to clarify the effective parameters which affect the reproduction number the most. Numerical simulation is carried out to assess the effect of various biological parameters in the dynamic of both tuberculosis and COVID-19 classes. Our simulation results show that the COVID-19 and TB infections can be mitigated by controlling the transmission rate γ.

In the present study, the optimality approach is applied to find the exact solution of the Landau-Ginzburg-Higgs Equation (LGHE) using new transformations. This method is a direct algebraic method for obtaining exact solutions of nonlinear differential equations. We find suitable solutions of the LGHE in terms of elliptic Jacobi functions by applying transformations of basic functions. Exact solutions of the equations are obtained with the help of symbolic software (Maple) which allows the computation of equations with parameter constants. It is exposed that PIM is influential, suitable, and shortest and offers an exact solution of LGHE.

Herein, a new series of azo ligands HL-1 (5-(2-chloro-6-(phenylcarbonyl)phenyl)diazenyl)-6-hydroxydihydropyrimidines-2,4dione), HL-2 (5-(2-chloro-6-(phenylcarbonyl)phenyl)diazenyl)-6-hydroxy-2-thioxottetrahydropyrimidin-4one), HL-3 (5-(2,4-dichloro-6-(phenylcarbonyl)phenyl) diazenyl)-6-hydroxydihydropyrimidines-2,4dione), HL-4 (5-(2,4-dichloro-6-(phenylcarbonyl) phenyl)diazenyl)-6-hydroxy-2-thioxotetrahydropyrimidin-4one) and their metal complexes with Cu(II) & Ni(II) were synthesized successfully having excellent yield, in reproducible conditions and for structure elucidation different advance spectroscopic techniques (FTIR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and Mass Spectrometry) were applied. In FTIR analysis, the absence of peak at 3450-3550 cm-1 due to –NH2 and presence of a new peak of N=N at 1390-1520 cm−1 confirmed synthesis of the ligands. The 1H NMR spectra of azo ligands showed singlet peak at 11.5–13.5 ppm (Ar-OH) for hydroxyl group and –NH2 signals disappearance of anilines at 4–5 ppm also gives strong indication for the synthesis of azo compounds. On complexation two most important peaks (M-O, M-N) appeared in all the metal chelates in the range of 400–600 cm−1 which were not present in any of the ligands, confirmed the formation of complexes. Molecular ion peaks in mass spectra at 273, 388, 407 and 423 m/z value for ligands as well as for complexes at 803, 835, 871 and 904 m/z also give strong indication that proposed ligands and their metal complexes are produced successfully. Biological screening of the synthesized compounds were also carried out against different bacterial strains (E.coli, S.typhi, and B.subtilis), antifungal (C.albicans, A.niger, and C.glabrata) strains and antioxidant activity. From results it was observed that HL-4 and Cu complexes exhibited maximum inhibition against all bacterial and fungal strains as compared to other ligands and standard drug.

The use of vehicular communications is anticipated to improve safety in road traffic. The traditional radio channel models that describe the effects of radio wave propagation in dynamic vehicular environments have their own limitations. In this paper, machine learning (ML) techniques are applied for radio channel modeling in urban vehicular environments. A large data set of path loss (PL) and root-mean-square Delay spread (RMS-DS) is computed using ray-tracing for a Line-of-Sight (LOS) straight road and a Non-Line-of-Sight (NLOS) intersection road scenario. Fourteen input features are used to train three ML models for vehicular channel prediction. The models considered in this work include Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP), Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), and Random Forest (RF). The results show that RF gives better performance than MLP and CNN models in the prediction of PL and RMS-DS in urban vehicular channels.

Introduction: Bioresorbable stent has the theoretical advantage in the pediatric age group; however, experience in the literature is very limited. Objectives: This pilot study sought to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and performance of iron bioresorbable scaffold (IBS Angel™) as short-term palliation in lesions with noncomplex patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). Materials and Methods: Nine neonates with duct dependent but dual-source pulmonary blood flow (PBF) were included. Major stent-related complications, in-hospital course, stent patency up to 6 months, and unplanned re-interventions were studied, as well the percentage of stent material resorbed in patients in whom the stents were explanted at the surgery. Results: IBS Angel™ was successfully implanted in all nine patients (mean weight range 3.4 ± 0.4 kg). Six were pulmonary atresia with an intact ventricular septum and 1 critical pulmonary stenosis patients where PDA stenting was done together or after balloon dilation. The mean procedure and fluoroscopy times were 89 ± 39 min and 16.3 ± 6.9 min, respectively. There were no major complications such as stent thrombosis or embolization and there were no in-hospital deaths. Post procedure overshunting and prolonged ventilatory support was a prominent feature. The median ventilation days was 3 (1–11 days). One patient died after 1 month due to respiratory syncytial virus pneumonia at the referring hospital. At 6 months follow-up, four had patent stents and four had blocked or restrictive stent flow. One patient received re-stenting at 4 months for restrictive stent flow. In three patients where microcomputed tomography of explanted stent was available, resorption of iron was 15% at 6 months and >65% at 16 months. Conclusions: Ductal stenting with IBS Angel™ is feasible and safe in selected patients. Because of early luminal loss, its use may be recommended for lesions with dual-source PBF with noncomplex PDA morphology that requires a short duration of palliation.

In the relatively new but fast-evolving field of nanomedicine and nanotransport systems, different nanoscale molecules are used to deliver therapeutic agents to precisely targeted sites or potentially function as diagnostic tools. In present review provides up-to-date accurate information on the latest advancements in nanomedicine and nanotechnology DDS through a complete review of nanomaterials discoveries. The potential and difficulties of using nanomedicine to deliver medications from synthetic or natural sources to their intended clinical purposes are also covered. Additionally, we have exclusive data on perspectives and trends in nanomedicine.

We aimed to investigate a hypothesised association between daily mean temperature and the risk of surgery for acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD). For the period of 1 January 2005 until 31 December 2019, we collected daily data on mean temperatures and date of 2995 operations for ATAAD at 10 Nordic cities included in the Nordic Consortium for Acute Type A Aortic Dissection (NORCAAD) collaboration. Using a two-stage time-series approach, we investigated the association between hot and cold temperatures relative to the optimal temperature and the rate of ATAAD repair in the selected cities. The relative risks (RRs) of cold temperatures (≤−5°C) and hot temperatures (≥21°C) compared to optimal temperature were 1.47 (95% CI: 0.72–2.99) and 1.43 (95% CI: 0.67–3.08), respectively. In line with previous studies, we observed increased risk at cold and hot temperatures. However, the observed associations were not statistically significant, thus only providing weak evidence of an association.

The present study is aimed at adsorptive removal of Mercury (Hg2+) using highly functionalized nanomaterials based on Graphene Oxide Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework composite (ZIF-67@GO). Solvothermal methodology was used to synthesize ZIF-67@GO composite. Synthesized compounds were confirmed by FTIR, SEM, PXRD and EDX analysis. The as-prepared ZIF-67@GO was tested as efficient adsorbent for effective removal of Mercury (Hg2+) from aquatic environment. The atomic adsorption spectrophotometer was used to monitor the process of adsorption of Hg+2 on ZIF-67@GO. From the adsorption data, the maximum removal efficiency achieved was 91.1% using 10 mg amount of composite for 50 mL using 20 ppm Mercury (Hg2+) solution. Different parameters like pH, contact time, concentration, adsorption kinetics and isotherm were also examined to explore adsorption process. Adsorption data fitted well for Freundlich Model having R2 value of 0.9925 than Langmuir Isotherm with R2 value of 0.9238. Kinetics were rapid and excellently described via 2nd order model with R2 = 0.99946 than 1st order model with R2 value of 0.8836. Freundlich and pseudo 2nd order models validated that multilayer chemisorption occurs during adsorption process due to the presence of highly functionalized sites on ZIF-67@GO composite. The synthesized composite material has shown excellent reusability. Thus, water stable ZIF-67@GO composites can efficiently be used for Mercury (Hg2+) confiscation from water.

Varicose veins are convoluted, expanded, and stretched subcutaneous veins of the lower leg and are the most frequently reported medical condition. This condition has a higher prevalence in Western and developed countries. Inadequacy of the valves results in reflux of blood in the veins of the lower leg. The present study aims to describe the epidemiology and contributing factors (risk factors and pathological factors) in the development of varicose veins disease. PubMed/Medline, Science Direct, Google Scholar, SciFinder, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were explored to include potential research and review articles. Finally, 65 articles were considered appropriate to include in the study. Pain, swelling, heaviness, and tingling of the lower limbs are the most common sign and symptoms caused by varicose veins while in some individuals it is asymptomatic. The Prevalence of varicose veins varies geographically. Currently, it is reported that globally about 2%–73% of the population is affected by varicose veins while the prevalence rate in Pakistan is 16%–20%. Different risk factors associated with the advancement of varicose veins are age, gender, occupation, pregnancy, family history, smoking, BMI and obesity, exercise, genetic factor, and current lifestyle. In varicose veins, some contributory elements may also play an important role in the disease development, incorporating constant venous wall aggravation, hereditary variation, and persistent venous hypertension. This condition has now turned into a curable issue that was previously viewed broadly as less important for treatment, determining the individual’s satisfaction. Moreover, the mechanisms behind the risk factors involve diet, physical work, and hormonal contribution. These are more likely to be explored.

Objective: To determine the spectrum of findings in patients presenting for upper gastrointestinal (UGI) endoscopy and investigate role of age and gender. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Gastroenterology & Internal Medicine, Combined Military Hospital Kharian, from Jul 2017 to Mar 2019. Methodology: The data regarding 638 consecutive patients who underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in the department were collected from the computer-based database and patients were stratified into two groups according to their age: ≤50 and >50 years. Results: The mean age was 50.2 ± 17.4 (range: 7-100) years. There were 431 males and 207 females. The commonest presenting complaint was decompensated chronic liver disease (CLD) 162 (25.4%). The upper gastrointestinal endoscopy was normal in 306 (48%) and abnormal in 332 (52%) patients. The commonest abnormality seen on upper gastrointestinal endoscopy was esophageal varices seen in 167 (26.2%) followed by non-specific gastropathy, and hiatal hernia seen in 28 (4.4%) and 21 (3.3%) patients respectively. No significant differences were observed among males and females for a positive upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Significantly large number of patients of age >50 years had an abnormal upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (p

Mixed metallic oxides are getting increasing attention as novel electrode materials for energy conversion devices. However, low mixed ionic-electronic conductivity and high operating temperature hamper the practical applications of these devices. This study reports an effective strategy to improve the conductivity and performance of the fuel cell at low temperature by partially incorporating graphene in the Li0.1Cu0.2Zn0.7-oxide (LCZ) composite. The proposed cathode material is synthesized via the cost effective conventional solid-state route. Graphene incorporated LCZ shows excellent performance, which is attributed to the favorable charge transport paths offering low area-specific resistance. An X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) are employed for microstructural and surface morphological analyses, respectively. Electrical conductivities of all the materials are determined by the DC four probe method, and interestingly, LCZ-1.5% graphene exhibits an excellent conductivity of 3.5 S/cm in air atmosphere at a temperature of 450 °C with a minimum value of 0.057 Ωcm2 area-specific resistance (ASR) that demonstrates significantly good performance. Moreover, the three-layer fuel cell device is fabricated using sodium carbonated Sm0.2Ce0.8O (NSDC) as an electrolyte, which can operate at low temperatures exhibiting open circuit voltage 0.95 V and shows a peak power density, i.e., 267.5 mW/cm2 with hydrogen as the fuel.

In this article, the applications of the Power Index Method (PIM) are presented to ascertain function solutions of the AKNS equation. We find out adequate explicit general solutions for the AKNS in the form of exponential, trigonometric, and logarithmic functions which have their importance in the physical sciences. We have used function transformations in which indexes of independent variables are nonrestricted parameters. During our investigation, we have seen that the nonlinear AKNS can be reduced to linear ODE by using PIM. All the solutions contain independent variables with parameters, and they are graphically represented by choosing suitable values of parameters.

In this article, we focus on the new exact solutions of Burger’s equation by using a new technique which is known as the power index method (PIM). In this method, we choose suitable indexes of independent variables and similarity transformation so that the partial differential equation may be converted into ODE. We have obtained analytic solution of the ODE by using symbolic package Maple. We have got exact solution of Burgers’ equation by using analytic solution of ODE and similarity transformation. The proposed method has been effectively employed to find new exact solutions for the nonlinear Burgers’ equation. Finally, the proposed resulting answers are compared with the homotopy perturbation, decomposition, and variational iteration solutions.

Abstract This paper is related to some dynamical aspects of a class of predator–prey interactions incorporating cannibalism and Allee effects for non-overlapping generations. Cannibalism has been frequently observed in natural populations, and it has an ability to alter the functional response concerning prey–predator interactions. On the other hand, from dynamical point of view cannibalism is considered as a procedure of stabilization or destabilization within predator–prey models. Taking into account the cannibalism in prey population and with addition of Allee effects, a new discrete-time system is proposed and studied in this paper. Moreover, existence of fixed points and their local dynamics are carried out. It is verified that the proposed model undergoes transcritical bifurcation about its trivial fixed point and period-doubling bifurcation around its boundary fixed point. Furthermore, it is also proved that the proposed system undergoes both period-doubling and Neimark–Sacker bifurcations (NSB) around its interior fixed point. Our study demonstrates that outbreaks of periodic nature may appear due to implementation of cannibalism in prey population, and these periodic oscillations are limited to prey density only without leaving an influence on predation. To restrain this periodic disturbance in prey population density, and other fluctuating and bifurcating behaviors of the model, various chaos control methods are applied. At the end, numerical simulations are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of our theoretical findings.

Objective: To compare the efficacy of subacromial and posterior approach glenohumeral joint injections using triamcinolone acetonide in cases of primary adhesive capsulitis. Study Design: Quasi-experimental study. Place and Duration of Study: Pain Clinics of Armed Forces Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine Rawalpindi and Combined Military Hospital Jhelum, from May to Nov 2014 and from Jan to Jul 2019 respectively. Methodology: We included patients with primary adhesive capsulitis in stage 1 and 2. The pain, measured by Numeric Rating Scale and range of motion of the affected joint measured through goniometer before and four weeks after the injection were the study parameters. A 40-mg injection of triamcinolone acetonide was given blindly into the affected shoulder joint through subacromial injection in 45 patients (group A) and posterior glenohumeral injection in 43 patients (group B). Results: Each group had a significant reduction in mean pain score after four weeks of treatment (p

Abstract In this paper, we introduce and investigate new classes of normalized analytic functions in an open unit disk with bounded radius and bounded boundary rotation by using the subordination. We discuss inclusion results, co-efficient bounds, growth and distortion theorems of the classes. Moreover, we compute the radii of strong starlikeness, convexity and starlikeness of the classes. It is interesting to mention that most of our findings are best possible as compared to the existing results in the literature.

Cannibalism is ubiquitous in natural communities and has the tendency to change the functional connection among prey-predator interactions. Keeping in view the inclusion of prey cannibalism, a novel discrete nonlinear predator-prey model is proposed. Asymptotic stability is carried out around biologically feasible equilibria of proposed model. Center manifold theorem and bifurcation theory of normal form ensure the existence of bifurcation in the system. Our study reveals that periodic outbreaks may result due to incorporation of cannibalism in prey population and this periodic outbreak is limited to prey population only without leaving an effect on predation. In order to control these periodic oscillations in prey population density and other bifurcating and fluctuating behavior of the system, various chaos control strategies are implemented. Ultimately, some extensive numerical simulations are elaborated to demonstrate the effectiveness of our acquired analytical and theoretical results.

In order to see the dynamics of prey-predator interaction, differential or difference equations are frequently used for modeling of such interactions. In present manuscript, we explore some qualitative aspects of two-dimensional ratio-dependent predator-prey model. Taking into account the non-overlapping generations for class of predator-prey system, a novel consistency preserving scheme is proposed. Our study reveals that the implemented discretization is bifurcation preserving. Some dynamical aspects including local behavior of equilibria, phase-plane analysis and emergence of Hopf bifurcation for continuous predator-prey model are studied. Moreover, existence of biologically feasible fixed points, their local asymptotic behavior and phase-plane classification of interior (positive) fixed point are carried out. Furthermore, bifurcation theory of normal forms is implemented to prove that proposed discrete-time model undergoes Neimark-Sacker bifurcation around its unique positive fixed point. Taking into account the bifurcating and fluctuating behaviour of discrete system, three chaos control strategies are implemented. Numerical simulations are provided to illustrate the theoretical discussion and effectiveness of introduced chaos control methods.

A series of 8 new complexes of titanium and zirconium with diamido ligands bearing an ethylene and propylene bridge between the two amido groups were synthesized and tested for ethylene polymerization. Titanium complexes bearing an ethylene bridge between the two amido groups showed higher activities than the derivatives with a propylene bridge. In the case of the zirconium complexes, the propylene bridged complexes were more active than the corresponding ethylene bridged. The introduction of bulky groups on the ligand structure resulted in an increase in the activity. DFT calculations were performed to determine the activation energy barriers for different reaction steps. The calculated activation energy for the insertion of ethylene into an M-CH3 bond is in the range of 12.2-16.8 kcal/mol and the activation energy for the chain termination via β-H transfer reaction is 12.5-14.4 kcal/mol.

This study explores the spatio-temporal distribution and trends on monthly, seasonal, and annual scales of rainfall in the central Punjab districts of Punjab province in Pakistan by using observation and satellite data products. The daily observed data was acquired from the Pakistan Metrological Department (PMD) between 1983 and 2020, along with one reanalysis, namely the Climate Hazard Infrared Group Precipitation Station (CHIRPS) and one satellite-based daily Precipitation Estimation from Remotely Sensed Information Using Artificial Neural Networks climate data record (PERSIANN-CDR) using the Google Earth Engine (GEE) web-based API platform to investigate the spatio-temporal fluctuations and inter-annual variability of rainfall in the study domain. Several statistical indices were employed to check the data similarity between observed and remotely sensed data products and applied to each district. Moreover, non-parametric techniques, i.e., Mann–Kendall (MK) and Sen’s slope estimator were applied to measure the long-term spatio-temporal trends. Remotely sensed data products reveal 422.50 mm (CHIRPS) and 571.08 mm (PERSIANN-CDR) mean annual rainfall in central Punjab. Maximum mean rainfall was witnessed during the monsoon season (70.5%), followed by pre-monsoon (15.2%) and winter (10.2%). Monthly exploration divulges that maximum mean rainfall was noticed in July (26.5%), and the minimum was in November (0.84%). The district-wise rainfall estimation shows maximum rainfall in Sialkot (931.4 mm) and minimum in Pakpattan (289.2 mm). Phase-wise analysis of annual, seasonal, and monthly trends demonstrated a sharp decreasing trend in Phase-1, averaging 3.4 mm/decade and an increasing tendency in Phase-2, averaging 9.1 mm/decade. Maximum seasonal rainfall decreased in phase-1 and increased Phase-2 during monsoon season, averaging 2.1 and 4.7 mm/decade, whereas monthly investigation showed similar phase-wise tendencies in July (1.1 mm/decade) and August (2.3 mm/decade). In addition, as district-wise analyses of annual, seasonal, and monthly trends in the last four decades reveal, the maximum declined trend was in Sialkot (18.5 mm/decade), whereas other districts witnessed an overall increasing trend throughout the years. Out of them, Gujrat district experienced the maximum increasing trend in annual terns (50.81 mm/decade), and Faisalabad (25.45 mm/decade) witnessed this during the monsoon season. The uneven variability and trends have had a crucial imprint on the local environment, mainly in the primary activities.

The synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) using the green route is environmentally harmonious and cost-effective compared to conventional chemical and physical methods. In this study, the green synthesis of silver NPs was carried out using an extract of Debregeasia salicifolia. The synthesized Ag NPs were characterized by means of different techniques i.e., UV-Vis spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy, SEM, and XRD. The XRD pattern exhibited distinctive Bragg’s peaks at (200), (111), (311), and (220). The XRD analysis confirmed the face-centered cubic geometry of the synthesized NPs and revealed that the nature of these NPs is crystalline. The synthesized NPs were verified for their antibacterial activities against Gram-negative Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) bacteria. It showed that antibacterial activity of synthesized silver (NPs) was increased with increasing concentrations of both calcined and non-calcined NPs. The antioxidant activities of Ag NPs were also determined against ABTS at different concentrations for both calcined and non-calcined Ag NPs. Non-calcined Ag NPs have greater antioxidant activity than calcined Ag NPs. This report has a significant medicinal application, and it might open up new horizons in this field.

Land Use/Land Cover (LU/LC) change is among the dominant driving factors that directly influence water balance by transforming hydrological responses. Consequently, a thorough comprehension of its impacts is imperative for sustainable water resource planning and development, notably in developing worlds such as Pakistan, where agriculture is a major livelihood. This research intends to assess the continuing changes in LU/LC and evaluate their probable repercussions on the hydrological regime of the Potohar Plateau. The maximum likelihood classification (MLC) algorithm for land use classification of the high-resolution satellite imageries, the Cellular-Automata Markov Chain Model (CA-MCM) for the projection of LU/LC maps, and the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) in tandem with SWAT-CUP for hydrological modeling were employed in this research. The high-resolution climatic dataset (10 × 10 km) was used in SWAT. The LU/LC analysis revealed a continual propagation of agricultural and built-up lands at the detriment of forest and barren land during the last three decades, which is anticipated to continue in the future, too. Hydrological model calibrations and validations were performed on multi-basins, and the performance was evaluated using different statistical coefficients, e.g., the coefficient of determination (R2), Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE), Kling–Gupta Efficiency (KGE), and Percent Bias (PBIAS). The results yielded that the model performed very well and demonstrated the model’s robustness in reproducing the flow regime. The water balance study revealed that the anticipated LU/LC changes are projected to decrease the mean annual surface runoff, water yield, and streamflow due to an increase in percolation, lateral flow, sub-surface flow, and evapotranspiration. More significant variations of the water balance components were observed at the sub-basin level, owing to the heterogeneous spatial distribution of LU/LC, than at the basin level. The outcome of this study will provide pragmatic details to legislative bodies to develop land and water management ameliorative strategies to harness hydrological changes sustainably.

In recent years, natural polymers have replaced synthetic polymers for antibacterial orthopedic applications owing to their excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability. Zein is a biopolymer found in corn. The lacking mechanical stability of zein is overcome by incorporating bioceramics, e.g., mesoporous bioactive glass nanoparticles (MBGNs). In the present study, pure zein and zein/Zn–Mn MBGN composite coatings were deposited via electrophoretic deposition (EPD) on 316L stainless steel (SS). Zn and Mn were co-doped in MBGNs in order to make use of their antibacterial and osteogenic potential, respectively. A Taguchi design of experiment (DoE) study was established to evaluate the effect of various working parameters on the morphology of the coatings. It was observed that coatings deposited at 20 V for 5 min with 4 g/L concentration (conc.) of Zn–Mn MBGNs showed the highest deposition yield. Uniform coatings with highly dispersed MBGNs were obtained adopting these optimized parameters. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were employed to investigate the morphology and elemental composition of zein/Zn–Mn MBGN composite coatings. Surface properties, i.e., coating roughness and wettability analysis, concluded that composite coatings were appropriate for cell attachment and proliferation. For adhesion strength, various techniques, including a tape test, bend test, pencil hardness test, and tensile test, were performed. Wear and corrosion analysis highlighted the mechanical and chemical stability of the coatings. The colony forming unit (CFU) test showed that the zein/Zn–Mn MBGN composite coating was highly effective against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) due to the presence of Zn. The formation of a hydroxyapatite (HA)-like structure upon immersion in the simulated body fluid (SBF) validated the in vitro bioactivity of the coating. Moreover, a WST-8 assay depicted that the MG-63 cells proliferate on the composite coating. It was concluded that the zein/Zn–Mn MBGN coating synthesized in this work can be used for bioactive and antibacterial orthopedic applications.

Abstract The interaction between prey and predator is one of the most fundamental processes in ecology. Discrete-time models are frequently used for describing the dynamics of predator and prey interaction with non-overlapping generations, such that a new generation replaces the old at regular time intervals. Keeping in view the dynamical consistency for continuous models, a nonstandard finite difference scheme is proposed for a class of predator–prey systems with Holling type-III functional response. Positivity, boundedness, and persistence of solutions are investigated. Analysis of existence of equilibria and their stability is carried out. It is proved that a continuous system undergoes a Hopf bifurcation at its interior equilibrium, whereas the discrete-time version undergoes a Neimark–Sacker bifurcation at its interior fixed point. A numerical simulation is provided to strengthen our theoretical discussion.

Objective: To compare the intra-articular injections of Methylprednisolone (MP) and Triamcinolone (TC) in relieving mean pain and mean functional improvement in osteoarthritis (OA) knees management. Study Design: Randomized clinical trial. Place and Duration of Study: Outpatient department of Rehabilitation Medicine of Combined Military Hospital Peshawar, from Jan 2016 to Jun 2016. Material and Methods: Two hundred and forty cases with OA knees were selected and randomly divided into two groups of 120 each. Cases of group ‘I’ and ‘II’ were injected with MP and TC respectively. Mean visual analogue score VAS score for pain and mean Lequesne Functional Index Score (LFS) for functional status were evaluated at 6th post-injection week. Results: Mean age of group I was 55.05 ± 2.053 where as that of group II was 54.84 ± 2.082. Group I had 47 (39%) males and 73 (61%) females. Group II had 48 (40%) males and 72 (60%) females. Group I had significantly less mean VAS as compared to group II (9.34 ± 1.858 vs 11.38 ± 1.954) (p

Objective: To ascertain different reasons for hospital readmissions in a sample of Pakistani individuals with chronic spinal cord injury. Study Design: A cross-sectional descriptive study. Place and Duration of Study: Armed Forces Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine (AFIRM), Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Nov 2011 to Nov 2012. Material and Methods: It was a cross-sectional survey carried out on individuals with chronic spinal cord injury admitted to the indoor spinal cord injury rehabilitation unit of AFIRM, Rawalpindi. SCI individuals having traumatic SCI of >6 months duration and injury scales of A-D defined by American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS) were included. Results: Out of 51 recruited patients (mean age 35 ± 11 years), majority (90.2%) were male, educated from grade 9-10, and developed SCI following a motor vehicle accident. Cervical neurological level was the commonest and the majority (74.5%) had SCI of AIS-A on readmission. Diabetes mellitus was the commonest co-morbidity. The mean duration post injury was 3.5 years. The common causes of readmission were pain (27.5%), spasticity (25.5%), and pressure ulcers (19.6%).The mean length of stay was 11.6 days. Conclusion: Pain, spasticity, and pressure ulcers were the main reasons for hospital readmissions in our sample of Pakistani people with chronic traumatic SCI.