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Soil salinity is a major abiotic stress that severely affects crop production in different regions of the globe. Barley is an essential cereal crop and there is a significant genetic variation among barley varieties for tolerance towards salt stress. Understanding of salinity tolerance mechanisms assists in developing salt tolerant barley varieties in a hydroponics experiment. There were twelve barley varieties and two NaCl stress levels (Control, 100 and 200 mM) in this study. The nursery of barley was seeded in sand and at two-leaf stage; plants were transplanted into hydroponic tubs. The plants were grown under salt stress for 65 days and data regarding several morpho-physiological parameters were collected. The statistical analysis of the collected data was implemented by using completely randomized design (CRD) with factorial arrangement. Exposure to NaCl stress significantly reduced shoot and root growth and relative leaf water contents (RLWC), while increasing Na+ concentration, with B-9006 showing the highest root dry weight (0.39 g) and YSM1 recorded the lowest root dry weight (0.10 g) under 100 mM NaCl. The maximum (232 ppm) Na+ concentration in leaf sap was observed in variety B-15011 (70 % from control) and minimum was observed in B-15018. Maximum K+ mM concentration in leaf sap was found as 72 % in Aia-03 and minimum was observed as 50 % in B-15035. At stress level of 200 mM, highest shoot dry weight (2.52 g) was observed in ZP2 (73 % decreased from control) while minimum shoot dry weight (0.19 g) (96 % decrease from control) was recorded in Franklin genotype. Maximum root dry weight (0.24 g) was observed in B-9006 genotype while minimum root dry weight (0.04 g) was recorded in Gairdner. Maximum K+/Na+ ratio (1.20) was recorded in B-15018 and minimum (0.14) was seen in B-15035. Therefore, based on our results, barley genotypes can be classified into salt-tolerant (B-9006, B-15018, Yerong, Aia-03), salt-sensitive (Gairdner, Franklin, B-15035, B-05011), and moderately tolerant groups at both 100 and 200 mM NaCl levels.

Abstract The abnormal heart conduction, known as arrhythmia, can contribute to cardiac diseases that carry the risk of fatal consequences. Healthcare professionals typically use electrocardiogram (ECG) signals and certain preliminary tests to identify abnormal patterns in a patient’s cardiac activity. To assess the overall cardiac health condition, cardiac specialists monitor these activities separately. This procedure may be arduous and time-intensive, potentially impacting the patient’s well-being. This study automates and introduces a novel solution for predicting the cardiac health conditions, specifically identifying cardiac morbidity and arrhythmia in patients by using invasive and non-invasive measurements. The experimental analyses conducted in medical studies entail extremely sensitive data and any partial or biased diagnoses in this field are deemed unacceptable. Therefore, this research aims to introduce a new concept of determining the uncertainty level of machine learning algorithms using information entropy. To assess the effectiveness of machine learning algorithms information entropy can be considered as a unique performance evaluator of the machine learning algorithm which is not selected previously any studies within the realm of bio-computational research. This experiment was conducted on arrhythmia and heart disease datasets collected from Massachusetts Institute of Technology-Berth Israel Hospital-arrhythmia (DB-1) and Cleveland Heart Disease (DB-2), respectively. Our framework consists of four significant steps: 1) Data acquisition, 2) Feature preprocessing approach, 3) Implementation of learning algorithms, and 4) Information Entropy. The results demonstrate the average performance in terms of accuracy achieved by the classification algorithms: Neural Network (NN) achieved 99.74%, K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN) 98.98%, Support Vector Machine (SVM) 99.37%, Random Forest (RF) 99.76 % and Naïve Bayes (NB) 98.66% respectively. We believe that this study paves the way for further research, offering a framework for identifying cardiac health conditions through machine learning techniques.

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with marked increase in insulin resistance. The objective of study is to determine the relation of gestational diabetes with serum leptin and serum insulin levels during pregnancy and postpartum period. Methods: This case control study conducted on total ninety samples that include cases and controls taken after 24 weeks of gestation. The case sample included 40 pregnant women with GDM and 10 women with GDM at postpartum stage. The control sample included 30 normal pregnant women with no GDM and 10 normal women at postpartum. Fasting serum leptin and fasting serum insulin were measured by ELISA. HOMA index was calculated by fasting serum insulin and fasting blood glucose. Results: Serum leptin (30.89 ± 1.35), serum insulin (27.67 ± 1.32) and HOMA index (8.33 ± 0.53) significantly high in gestational diabetic women than normal pregnant (p

Objective: Curriculum viability refers to the sustainability and effectiveness of an educational curriculum. This study was done to assess curriculum viability inhibitors in an undergraduate medical curriculum at the University College of Medicine and Dentistry, Lahore, Pakistan. Methodology: This qualitative exploratory study was conducted from November 2023 till March 2024, including 8 faculty members with more than 5 years ofexperience from both the clinical and basic sciences of undergraduate MBBS program at UCMD. The questionnaire filled in before conducting FGD contained 6 viability inhibitors, which included Educational Program Inhibitors; Disciplinary Cultural Inhibitors; Social Interaction Inhibitors; Institutional Policies Inhibitors; Communication Practices inhibitors; and Faculty Involvement Inhibitors. There were total of 25 items collectively under these six inhibitors. The FGD that followed was conducted for two hours, involving two main interviewers, two observers and one interpreter for recording the data. Results: All of the 8 participants of the cohort unanimously agreed that there were no issues in the educational program and the curriculum was designed according to the major outcomes of the institute and was being followed in letter and inspirit. However, they highlighted 3 out of 25 items which according to them were not effective. First two items belonged to institutional policies inhibitors (item 12, and 15), and one belonged to faculty involvement inhibitors (item 25). The data underwent rigorous thematic analysis,involving the meticulous manual examination of transcribed data. Conclusion: While the faculty was generally satisfied with the curriculum, minor challenges exist that can be addressed through collaborative SWOT analysis meetings with stakeholders. The report emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and stakeholder engagement for a sustainable and responsive curriculum.

Cirrhinus mrigala is an important edible fish with a significant aquaculture contribution in Southeast Asian countries. The current study aims to enhance our understanding of the developmental biology of Cirrhinus mrigala, which is crucial for implementing sustainable fish farming practices. To induce spermiation and ovulation in Cirrhinus mrigala brooders, the synthetic hormone Ovaprim® (GnRH + dopamine inhibitor) was administrated as a single injection dose of 0.2 mL/kg to males and 0.4 mL/kg to females. After induction, the fish spawned, and the eggs produced were fertilized artificially and cell division commenced successfully. The characteristics of each larval developmental stage were closely observed and recorded using a time-lapse imaging technique. The fertilized eggs were spherical, demersal, and non-adhesive throughout their incubation period. The spawned eggs ranged in diameter from 2.1 mm to 2.13 mm and possessed circular yolk sacs. The gastrula stage initiated approximately 4 h after fertilization, with 25% of the yolk sphere covered by blastoderm, reaching 75% coverage at the end of the gastrula stage, approximately 6 h post fertilization. Organogenesis was marked by the formation of notochord and the visibility of rudimentary organs such as the heart, eyes, and gills, followed by tail movement, which was observed at the time of hatching. Compared to other cyprinid fishes, C. mrigala exhibited distinct features at certain stages of embryonic development. Blood circulation was observed to start at the onset of hatching. The lengths of the newly hatched larvae ranged from 2.9 to 3.2 mm, smaller than other reports on induced breeding in carps. The findings of the present study provide a detailed reference for the embryonic development of C. mrigala, which will assist its future research endeavors and large-scale seed production for sustainable aquaculture.

Background: This study aims to describe our surgical technique and results for endoscopic transnasal dacryocystorhinostomy for the blocked nasolacrimal passage in patients presented in the department of Otolaryngology and ophthalmology at a tertiary care center. Methods: A consecutively presenting case series of blocked nasolacrimal passage were selected for transnasal endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy. Bone removal done by cold instruments and the drill was used to remove the bone over the superior aspect of the sac. Medial wall of the sac was removed to marsupialize the sac in the nasal cavity. Septoplasty was done in 13 patients (17.10 %). The specific surgical approach with or without septoplasty and the use of endolight was discussed. Postoperative follow up including endoscopic examination and results are documented. Results: A total of 76 cases were included. Mean age was 37.32 (range 6-76)). An endolight was used in all cases to localize the site of nasolacrimal sac72 cases (94.74 %) have successful outcome in terms of relief of symptoms, whereas 4(5.26 %) cases had persistent epiphora. Revision procedure were done and 3(3/4, 75 %) cases had successful outcome. The overall success rate in our series of primary and revision ETDCR is 98.68 %. Conclusion: Endoscopic transnasal dacryocystorhinostomy is an effective treatment for nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Use of the endolight to localize and the power drill to expose the sac and septoplasty; contribute to the ultimate surgical success Key Words: Dacryocystorhinostomy, Nasoendoscopy, Dacryocystitis, Epiphora

Objective: To determine the correlation of renal ultrasonographic parameters with serum creatinine levels in patients with chronic kidney disease. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Armed Forces Institute of Radiology and Imaging, Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Sep 2020 to April 2021. Methodology: One hundred thirteen patients with chronic kidney disease (Stages 1 to 4) were enrolled in a cross-sectional study. Detailed history and examination were carried out. Serum creatinine levels were carried out, and findings were noted. All patients underwent renal ultrasonography evaluation, kidney parameters were assessed, findings were noted, and statistical analysis was performed. Results: The mean age of the patients was 42.96±12.71 years, the duration of Chronic kidney disease was 30.38±14.59 months, the length of the kidneys was 7.15±1.84 cm, the volume of the kidneys was 59.4±12.7 ml, the thickness of the renal cortex was 3.78±1.41 cm, thickness of renal parenchyma was 8.33±1.71 mm and serum creatinine levels were 5.36±2.63. Renal ultrasound parameters negatively correlated {for length of kidneys r=-0.187 (p=0.047), for volume r=-0.133 (p=0.161), for cortical thickness r=-0.285 (p=0.002) and parenchymal thickness r=-0.083 (0.382)} with serum creatinine level and only cortical thickness and length of kidneys had significant correlation with it. Conclusion: Ultrasound assessment is an easy and reliable tool. Measurement of cortical thickness and length of kidneys must be routinely incorporated in the ultrasonographical assessment of patients with Chronic kidney disease.

Purpose – This study aims to identify the impact of ethical leadership on ethical voice by determining two paths covering relational identification and psychological safety. The first path focused on relational identification and psychological safety. Alternatively, the second path focused on organizational identification and psychological ownership leading to ethical voice. The specific objective of the study is to develop and test an integrated model of ethical leadership. Design/methodology/approach – The objectives were achieved through the adoption of quantitative research techniques. Two hundred forty-eight samples were collected from the banking sector using quantitative research techniques, and data was gathered through a self-administrated questionnaire. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were used through AMOS to generate the results and test hypotheses. Findings – The results suggested a significant impact of ethical leadership on ethical voice, while the other paths’ results, such as relational identification, psychological safety, organizational identification and psychological ownership, suggested partial mediation. The study result adds new insights into ethical leadership and social exchange theory since it tested overlooked paths in the literature, such as relational identification and psychological safety. Research limitations/implications – The research highlights the significance of ethical voice as a desirable organizational behavior. Ethical voice contributes to a culture of accountability, transparency and ethical decision-making. Organizations should establish channels and platforms for employees to voice ethical concerns and suggestions. This may involve regular feedback sessions, anonymous reporting mechanisms and protection policies for whistleblowers. Leaders should actively encourage and value ethical voices as a valuable contribution to the ethical climate of the organization. Practical implications – The study found that ethical leaders influence their followers in such a way that they adopt ethical behavior. It is also validated that organizational ethics are shared by employees who interact with ethical leaders. So, departments should train such leaders because ethical leadership positively affects followers’ attitudes and behaviors, and organizations should encourage ethical behavior in supervisors and subordinates. The study also found that relational and organizational identification helps employees develop psychological capabilities, which leads to reporting workplace misconduct. The current study tested these mechanisms collectively and found that ethical leadership significantly contributes to ethical voice. Social implications – The current study highlighted the role of ethical leaders in promoting ethical behavior, improving employee well-being and engagement, cultivating collaboration and inclusion, and making a contribution to the overall ethical climate within organizations and society as a whole. Organizations can have a positive impact on the social fabric by cultivating a culture of ethics, respect and social responsibility if they make these considerations their top priorities. Originality/value – The current study is unique since it is intended to develop and test an integrated model of ethical leadership and ethical voice. This research combines an integrated model, focusing on employees’ identities and self-concepts and examining ethical voice as a behavioral outcome.

Abstract Objective There are reports of a potential rise in a teaching hospital’s morbidity and mortality rates during the trainee turnover period, i.e., with the induction of new residents and house staffs, and the changeover of clinical teams. The published literature displays mixed reports on this topic with lack of reproducible observations. The current study was conducted to explore existence of any such phenomenon (January effect) in Pakistan. Methods This retrospective cohort study was conducted at Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan. Five-year (2013–2018) record of all the patients in all age groups related to these outcomes was retrieved and recorded in specifically designed questionnaire. Different outcome measures were used as indicators of patient care and change in these outcomes at the time of new induction was related to possible January effect. Results During the five-year study period, more than 1100 new trainees were inducted into the post graduate medical education program (average of 237 per year) with more than 22,000 inpatient admissions (average of 45,469 per year). Some patterns were observed in frequencies of surgical site infections, medication errors, sentinel events, patient complaints, and adverse drug reactions. However, these were not consistently reproducible and could not be directly attributed to the trainee turnover. All other indicators did not show any pattern and were considered inconclusive. No effect of overlap was observed. Conclusions Inconsistency in the patient care quality indicators do not favor existence of January effect in our study. Further research is recommended to establish our results.

Objective: The present study aimed to measure correlational link of bidirectional work family conflict (work to family conflict & family to work conflict) and religiosity with mental well-being among medical doctors. Study Design: The design of present study was correlational research design. Place and Duration of Study: Study was conducted under research supervision of University of Gujrat. Gujranwala Hospitals including DHQ Hospital, Med care International, Gondal Medical Complex, Chattha Hospital, Jinnah Memorial Trust Hospital, Social Security hospital were approached for the data collection. Duration of the study March 2020 to October 2020. Materials and Methods: Population of the present study included medical professionals of Gujranwala hospitals. Sample of 130 medical doctors were selected through simple random sampling technique. Questionnaires involved Work Family Conflict Scale to measure work to family conflict & family to work conflict, Religious Commitment Inventory-10 to measure religiosity and Warwick Edinburgh's Mental Wellbeing Scale to measure mental well-being. Artificial neural network model and multiple regression analysis was run to analyze the data. Results: Analyses of artificial neural network revealed the predictive relationship between the independent variables and the mental well-being. Regression analysis revealed that work to family conflict & family to work conflict both are the negative predictors and religiosity is the positive predictor of mental wellbeing. Conclusion: Present study revealed the association between the variables which were under consideration. Based on findings it can be concluded that work family conflict may negatively impact mental health of a professional and religiosity can reduce that influence and improve mental health. Study identified the need of organizational and individual level strategic plans and interventions to reduce the work life imbalance problem and to raise the mental wellbeing of medical professionals.

Assessing treatment response is extremely important in management of brain tumours. Response assessment in neuro-oncology (RANO) was introduced in 2008 for the purpose of making recommendations for it by addressing and countering the limitations in previously reported response criteriae. Subsequently, multiple RANO working groups have been formed to cater to different tumour types and to update their previous recommendations to counter the limitations in their criteria. Herein we have a summarized list of RANO criteria for adult brain tumours. Keywords: RANO, neuro-oncology, brain tumour, outcome

Objectives: To assess awareness, perceptions and use related to evidence-based revision methods by undergraduate medical students. Method: The descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in three medical colleges of Rawalpindi-Islamabad, Pakistan, from December 01, 2019, to January 31, 2020, after approval from the ethics review committee of Army Medical College, Rawalpindi. The sample comprised undergraduate medical students of either gender. Data was collected online using a 10-item standardised questionnaire. Students were asked about the revision methods they used routinely and their perceptions of conventional and evidence-based revision methods. Data was analysed using SPSS 23. Results: Of the total 136 respondents, 92(67%) were females and 44(32.3%) were male students. The response from pre-clinical and clinical years was 67 (50.7%) and 69(49.2%), respectively. Highlighting was the most widely used revision method among students (70 students, 51%), followed by re-reading important points (65 students, 47.7%). 126 students (92%) had the opinion that conventional revision methods were effective learning tools. Only 52 students (38.2%) were aware of the term ‘evidence-based revision methods’. Digital tools based on principles of evidence-based revision were used by a minority of students which included use of online question banks by 21 students (15.4%), osmosis by 40 students (29.4%), sketchy pharma by 35 students (25%), flashcards by 19 (14%) and picmonic by only 3 (2.2%). More than 80% (114 students) responded that they wanted evidence-based revision methods to be incorporated into curriculum, and 85% (116 students) said they would like to have a workshop on these techniques. Conclusion: Most medical students were not aware of and were not using evidence-based revision methods, and relied on conventional revision tools. They were, however, eager to learn about newer revision strategies. Key Words: Medical education, Undergraduate, Learning strategies, Evidence-based revision methods, Active recall.

Vegetables are important agricultural products with numerous health benefits. Excessive chemical fertilization to meet the food challenge has resulted in environmental and soil health hazards. Considering this aspect, the current study was conducted with the aim to introduce biostimulants as an alternative to chemical fertilizers to improve soil quality, crop quality, and yield. In the first experiment, the response of radish was noted against the application of glycine (GLY), aspartic acid (ASP), lysine (LYS), vitamin B complex (VBC), and chemical fertilizers (CF). The biostimulants were sourced from Sigma Aldrich and Martin Dow Market Ltd. The results indicated that ASP has significantly improved the phenolic contents in shoot (1.01%) and root (12.23%) compared with CF. Additionally, total protein was significantly increased in shoot with GLY (251.81%) and in root with ASP (57.06%). Shoot ascorbic acid contents were significantly improved with ASP (179.90%), VBC (159.91%), and LYS (139.92%). Plant fresh and dry weight was improved with VBC (478.31%) and ASP (364.73%). The N and P concentrations in radish root were higher in VBC (25.93%) and LYS (100%). Soil organic matter was improved ASP (61.51%), followed by VBC (60.13%). Soil available P concentration was also enhanced with LYS (40.43%), ASP (31.20%), and VBC (23.19%). The second experiment was focused on identifying the response of turnip crop against the following treatments: chemical fertilizers (CF), Isabion® (ISA), 25% CF + LYS + GLY (CLG), 25% CF + ASP + GLY (CAG), and 25% CF + ASP + LYS (CAL). The biostimulants were sourced from Sigma Aldrich Syngenta, Pakistan. The results denoted that CAL and ISA significantly improved the phenolic contents in turnip shoot and root. The ascorbic acid in turnip shoot was improved with CAL (19.27%), CAG (18.13%), ISA (17.68%), and in root with CLG (26.96%). The P concentration in turnip shoot was significantly higher in ISA (19.25%), CLG (16.85%), and CAG (12.26%). Soil total N was improved in all treatments. ISA improved the available P concentration, whereas CF (67.87 mg kg−1) followed by ISA (65.93 mg kg−1) improved the soil available K. Both studies conclude that biostimulants capable of improving vegetable quality.

CdS nanorods were successfully synthesized using a hydrothermal method and their photocatalytic degradation activity was tested on methylene blue (MB) at different pH levels. The synthesis of CdS nanorods was confirmed using various techniques including UV–Vis and FTIR spectrometers, X-ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM). UV–Vis analysis showed an absorption peak at 385 nm in the CdS nanorods suspension. FTIR spectroscopy revealed the presence of different functional groups responsible for stabilizing the nanorods. TEM analysis showed that the particles had a rod-like morphology with crystallite sizes ranging from 2 to 10 nm, consistent with the DLS studies. XRD analysis confirmed the crystalline nature of CdS. A photocatalytic reactor was used to degrade methylene blue at different pH values, and the residual concentration was monitored using UV–Vis spectroscopy. The photocatalytic activity of CdS nanorods was found to be improved by adjusting the pH of the solution. The nanorods showed high efficiency in degrading methylene blue, with degradation performance of approximately 32 % and 35 % after just 30 min under sunlight at pH 4 and pH 10, respectively. This research has potential applications in the photodegradation of harmful pollutants in both industrial wastewater and domestic water supplies.

With advances in molecular genetics, exploring targetable mutations for treating glioblastoma (GBM) patients, has become a centre of interest in modern day neuropathology. BRAF mutation has been extensively reported in several brain tumours. Recent studies report identification of BRAF mutation in GBM patients, especially isocitrate dehydrogenase wildtype glioblastomas (IDH-WT GBM), and its potential role in patient outcomes. Here we discuss the existing literature on the prognostic value of BRAF mutation in GBM. Keywords: Glioblastoma, BRAF mutation, prognosis

AbstractObjective The purpose of this study was to determine whether a single session of trans-cranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) of the cerebellum and M1 has any advantages over one another or sham stimulation in terms of balance, gait and lower limb function.Methods A total of 66 patients who had experienced their first ever stroke were recruited into three groups for this double-blinded, parallel, randomized, sham-controlled trial: cerebellar stimulation group (CbSG), M1 stimulation group (MSG) and sham stimulation group (SSG). A single session of anodal tDCS with an intensity of 2 mA for a duration of 20 min was administered in addition to gait and balance training based on virtual reality using an Xbox 360 with Kinect. Balance, gait, cognition and risk of fall were assessed using outcome measures before intervention (T0), immediately after intervention (T1) and an hour after intervention (T2).Results Across group analysis of all outcome measures showed statistically non-significant results (p > .05) except for Six Minute Walk Test (p value T0 = .003, p value T1 = .025, p value T2 = .016). The training effect difference showed a significant difference in balance, gait and cognition, as well as cerebral and cerebellar stimulation, in comparison to sham stimulation (p .05).Conclusions In addition to Xbox Kinect-based rehabilitation training, a single session of anodal tDCS to the M1 or cerebellum may be beneficial for improving lower limb function, balance and gait performance.

Abstract Internet of Things (IoT) vision has astoundingly transcended environmental sensing with integrated computing systems and smart devices, providing seamless connectivity among humans, machines, and their environment to cooperate for convenience and economical benefits. Apart from all the tremendous benefits of IoT, this paradigm still suffers from challenges of security and privacy vulnerabilities and demands a secure system for effective utilization of services in real-world IoT scenarios relying on which the IoT consumers expect secure and trustworthy communications. Trust Management (TM), which is a crucial aspect of security, plays a vital role in ensuring the exchange of information in a secure manner and maintaining the reliability of a system by measuring the degree of trust on IoT devices, reducing the uncertainties and risks involved in the systems. Thus, in recent years, Blockchain technology has been utilized for developing security innovations in TM field for different classes of IoT applications. It can provide tamper-proof data by enabling more reliable trust information and integrity verification, ultimately enhancing its availability and privacy when storing and sharing information. This paper provides a comprehensive survey that aims at analyzing and assessing Blockchain-based decentralized trust management systems (BCDTMS) for IoT. The contributions of this study are threefold; first, we provide the comprehensive and comparative analysis of state-of-the-art BCDTMS devised for different IoT classes such as Internet of Medical of Things (IoMT), Internet of Vehicles (IoV), Industrial IoT (IIoT), and Social IoT (SIoT). To make it an extensive study, we perform a detailed assessment of the existing BCDTMS in the literature in the aspects of Blockchain and TM. Second, we present requirements for developing Blockchain-based TM systems for IoT, and third we have highlighted the challenges in the context of using Blockchain for TM in various IoT applications.

Raman Spectroscopy (RS) is one of several techniques being used to identify tumour tissue during brain surgery. It is emerging as a novel investigative and diagnostic tool. The application of RS in cancer treatment has displayed promising results. This review centers around its clinical implication in brain tumours. Keywords: Raman spectroscopy, brain tumour, neurosurgery

Schwannomas are benign tumours of the peripheral nerve sheath. When they occur in spine, they are most commonly found in intradural-extramedullary location. Surgery is the mainstay of treatment. Radiation has a limited role in the management of residual or recurrent lesions not suitable for surgery. Here we discuss the existing literature on the outcomes of spinal schwannoma after surgery. Continue...

Usability has always been an area of debate and researchers have always been calling for clear and improved scope in terms of usability, its techniques, methodologies, tools, models and frameworks. However, despite such contributions, large number of gaps are still observed in the area of usability causing user dissatisfaction from the end product. This study attempts to provide a comprehensive survey by reviewing the contributions that have already been put forward in the area of usability. It extracts the unaddressed missing gaps and limitations in existing practices by performing the analysis of reviewed contributions. The study categorizes the contributions under four important usability concerns: requirement prioritization and classification, web design attributes, interface intuitiveness, and usability quality assessment. Moreover, this survey also attempts to identify and report the usability bugs being experienced by the end users and then proposes a taxonomy for categorizing the identified bugs. The findings of this survey would help to understand the neglected usability concerns that are actually important for producing highly usable applications thus building good user experiences. The reported limitations and concerns can later be addressed by proposing appropriate models and frameworks in further continuation of this study.

The aim of this contemporary work was to formulate a controlled release mucoadhesive nanoparticle formulation for enhancing the oral bioavailability of Ticagrelor (TG), a BCS class IV drug, having low oral bioavailability of about 36%. The nanoparticles can act as efficient carriers for hydrophobic drugs, due to having high surface area and hence can improve their aqueous solubility due to their hydrophilic nature. The nanoparticles (NPs) of TG were formulated using chitosan (CH) as polymer and sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP) as cross-linker, by ionic gelation technique with varying concentrations of polymer with respect to TG and TPP. Characterization of prepared nanoparticles was carried out to assess zeta potential, size, shape, entrapment efficiency (EE) and loading capacity (LC), using zeta sizer, surface morphology and chemical compatibility analysis. Drug release was observed using UV-Spectrophotometer. By increasing concentration of CH the desired size of particles (106.9 nm), zeta potential (22.6 mv) and poly dispersity index (0.364) was achieved. In vitro profiles showed a controlled and prolonged release of TG in both lower pH-1.2 and neutral pH-7.4 mediums, with effective protection of entrapped TG in simulated gastric conditions. X-ray diffraction patterns (XRD) showed the crystalline nature of formed NPs. Hence, this effort showed that hydrophobic drugs can be effectively encapsulated in nanoparticulate systems to enhance their solubility and stability, ultimately improving their bioavailability and effectiveness with better patient compliance by reducing dosing frequencies as well.

The aim of the research was to analyze the media visibility of transgenders. The study was conducted via a multi-modal analysis of photographs of trans-genders published in two leading dailies of Pakistan. The analysis was conducted on two levels according to the meta-functions of the visual design as proposed by Kress & van Leeuwen (1996), which are ideational and interpersonal. On the ideational level, five themes emerged which were categorized as images showing confidence, glamour, deprivation, protest, and harassment. The number of images with the themes of confidence and glamour was significantly more in number in comparison to the themes of deprivation, harassment, and protests which were significantly fewer in number although they bear the closest affinity to the everyday lives of the subjects. On the interpersonal level, it is interesting that most of the photographs maintained direct eye contact between the subject and the viewer and thus create an interpersonal bond. A major anomaly that was observed referred to the absolute exclusion of female to male transgenders or trans-males, which is another case of symbolic annihilation.

In this paper, the global complexities of a stochastic virus transmission framework featuring adaptive response and Holling type II estimation are examined via the non-local fractal-fractional derivative operator in the Atangana-Baleanu perspective. Furthermore, we determine the existence-uniqueness of positivity of the appropriate solutions. Ergodicity and stationary distribution of non-negative solutions are carried out. Besides that, the infection progresses in the sense of randomization as a consequence of the response fluctuating within the predictive case's equilibria. Additionally, the extinction criteria have been established. To understand the reliability of the findings, simulation studies utilizing the fractal-fractional dynamics of the synthesized trajectory under the Atangana-Baleanu-Caputo derivative incorporating fractional-order α and fractal-dimension ℘ have also been addressed. The strength of white noise is significant in the treatment of viral pathogens. The persistence of a stationary distribution can be maintained by white noise of sufficient concentration, whereas the eradication of the infection is aided by white noise of high concentration.

Cadmium (Cd) contamination of soils is an environmental concern, as cadmium harms food crops and can therefore impact human health. The use of combinations of biochar (seeded with Rhizobium leguminosarum) and Vigna radiata (as an intercrop) has the potential to reduce the mobilization of Cd from soil via mustard plants (Brassica juncea). Mustard plants are grown as a food and oil production crop that is consumed worldwide. However, this plant has the property of hyperaccumulation; thus, it bioaccumulates Cd in its tissues, which in turn, if eaten, can become part of the human food chain. Hence, reducing Cd bioaccumulation in mustard plants is crucial to making these plants a reliable and safe source of food for consumption. To improve soil sorption capacity and immobilization efficiency, biochar (in the form of wheat husk) was mixed with R. leguminosarum and intercropped (using V. radiata) with mustard plants for further investigation. Sampling was performed at an early growth stage (i.e., at 30 days) and at maturity (i.e., at 60 days) to determine the impact of Cd on a plant’s morphophysiological attributes. Data were analyzed in two ways: first by analysis of variance (ANOVA) and then by the post hoc Tukey’s honestly significant difference (HSD) test. The statistical analysis concluded that combinations effectively improved plant traits by 65%–90% in the early growth stage and by 70%–90% in the maturity stage. The T6 treatment combination [i.e., biochar + R. leguminosarum + V. radiata (BC + RL + VR)] provided the most effective results in terms of growth, biomass, pod yield, and pigmentation content. In addition, this combination reduced the translocation of Cd in mustard plants by 70%–95%. The combination of BC + RL + VR effectively reduced Cd contamination of mustard tissue and provided a suitable growing environment for the plants. A post-harvesting soil analysis using X-ray diffraction (XRD) found that Cd was undetectable in soil. This provides clear confirmation that these approaches can lead to Cd soil remediation. Moreover, this study provided insight into the responses of different morphophysiological attributes of mustard plants to Cd stress and could aid in developing Cd stress tolerance in mustard plants.

Water is an important natural element of our environment, and its management and security are also serious concerns. Agricultural non-point source pollution (NPSP) is one of the major sources of contaminants causing water quality degradation. A riparian buffer zone is a vegetative cover adjacent to water channels that positively contributes to pollutant filtration and sediment trapping. It has the potential to filter nutrients, reduce nutrients and pesticide leakage, provide habitat and protection against floods, minimize erosion issues, improve biodiversity and ecological connectivity, and add aesthetics to the area. Moreover, it is inexpensive and requires little maintenance making buffer zone an attractive approach to NPSP control. In this review, we have enlightened the effects of the riparian buffer zone on water quality and agricultural NPSP and how its structures and mechanisms contribute to controlling water pollution effectively. We conclude that the riparian buffer zone is an effective technique for water safety, NPSP control, and creating a suitable environment for terrestrial and aquatic species. Moreover, it has the potential to reduce the water temperature due to the shading effect and sustain water habitat acting as a climate adaptation tools. Buffer zones should be adopted for agricultural non-point source pollution and achieve environmental sustainability. However, the long-term influence of the riparian buffer zone on trapping NPS pollutants, soil properties, and groundwater quality is s research gap.

Introduction: Migraine is considered one of the most disabling neurological disorders worldwide. Migraine has recently been shown to effect population with a severe cascade of symptoms. With still a huge gap in understanding of pathogenesis of migraine, knowledge regarding migraine symptomatology is mandatory for effective diagnosis and treatment. Aims & Objectives: To compare symptoms of migraine between two groups migraineurs (M) and migraineurs with high blood pressure (MBP). Place and duration of study: The study was conducted at Shaikh Zayed Postgraduate Medical Institute, Department of Physiology and Lahore General Hospital, from January 2015 to June 2015. Material & Methods: It was a cross-sectional comparative study. The study population was 35 diagnosed migraine patients (M) and 29 migraine patients with high blood pressure (MBP). Patients were questioned about various migraine symptoms based on the standard criteria for diagnosing migraine and the responses were recorded in written on a predesigned proforma. Collected data was studied and interpreted by using SPSS 23 , p value ? 0.05 was taken as significant. Results: Symptoms of migraine were compared between two groups, migraineurs (M) and migraineurs with high blood pressure (MBP). The mean age of the patients was 25±7years in migraineurs (M) and 38±6 years in migraineurs with high blood pressure (MBP). The incidence of vomiting was significantly higher in patients who had both migraine and high BP, (p-value = 0.008). Collected data was studied and interpreted by using SPSS 23. The difference in the rest of the symptoms was nonsignificant between the two groups studied by using One Way Anova and T-test frequency and percentages. Chi- square test was applied using cross-tabulation to check the association of family history of migraine which was statistically non-significant. Conclusion: Migraine is a female dominant disorder mostly affecting people in their 30's. There was no significant difference in major diagnostic migraine symptoms in both groups. However, among minor diagnostic symptoms, the frequency of vomiting was higher in patients with migraine with high BP.

Straw incorporation is a widespread practice to promote agricultural sustainability. However, the potential effects of straw incorporation with the prolonged time on nitrogen (N) runoff loss from paddy fields are not well studied. The current study addresses the knowledge gap by assessing the effects of straw incorporation on the processes influencing N runoff patterns and its impacts on crop yield, N uptake, total N (TN), and soil organic matter (SOM). We conducted field experiments with rice (Oryzasativa L.)–wheat (Triticumaestivum L.) rotation, rice–tobacco (Nicotianatabacum L.) rotation, and double-rice cropping in subtropical China from 2008 to 2012. Each rotation had three N treatments: zero N fertilization (CK), chemical N fertilization (CF), and chemical N fertilization combined with straw incorporation (CFS). The treatment effects were assessed on TN runoff loss, crop yield, N uptake, soil TN stock, and SOM. Results showed that TN runoff was reduced by substituting part of the chemical N fertilizer with straw N in the double rice rotation, while crop N uptake was significantly (P

Background: Neurobiology of schizophrenia involves impairment of glutamatergic neurotransmission. In this context, polymorphism in glutamate Ionotropic receptor a-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-propionic acid (AMPA) type subunit 1 encoded by Glutamate Ionotropic Receptor AMPA Type Subunit 1 Gene (GRIA), (rs1127386, G/A) can be considered as a substantial contributor in pathogenesis of schizophrenia. Therefore, a pilot study was planned to find out if the single nucleotide polymorphism of GRIA (rs1127386, G/A) is a risk factor for schizophrenia in the population of Pakistan. It maps at 5q33, a schizophrenia susceptible locus as per genome-wide association studies. Methodology: Following Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 5 (DSM 5) criteria guidelines, 50 schizophrenia cases were incorporated in this case-control study and 51 controls, individuals without any psychiatric illness. The sternness of illness was figured out using positive and negative syndrome scale score (PANSS) score. Genomic DNA was extracted from blood, and further analysis was done on gel electrophoresis after conducting ARMS (amplification refractory mutation system) PCR. Frequencies of reported genotype and allele within both groups were determined using the chi-square test. Results: Statistically significant difference was not found in genotype and allele frequencies of (rs1127386, G/A) (p>0.05) between cases and controls in the study population. The severity status of the disease was also independent of the polymorphism (p>0.05). Conclusion: This pilot study specifies that polymorphism rs1127386 is not a risk factor for schizophrenia, at least in the Pakistani population.

BackgroundBalance and gait impairments are major motor deficits in stroke patients that require intensive neuro-rehabilitation. Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation is a neuro-modulatory technique recently used in stroke patients for balance and gait improvement. Majority of studies focusing on tDCS have assessed its effects on cerebral motor cortex and more recently cerebellum as well but to our best knowledge the comparison of stimulating these two regions in stroke patients is not investigated so far.ObjectiveThe current study aimed to compare the effect of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation on cerebellar and cerebral motor cortex M1 in stroke patients.Materials and methodsThis double-blinded, parallel, randomized, sham controlled trial included 66 patients with a first-ever ischemic stroke were recruited into three groups; Cerebellar stimulation group (CbSG), M1 Stimulation Group (MSG), and Sham stimulation group (SSG). A total of three sessions of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation were given on consecutive days in addition to non-immersive virtual reality using Xbox 360 with kinect. Anodal tDCS with an intensity of 2 mA was applied for a duration of 20 min. Primary outcome measures berg balance scale (BBS), timed up and go test (TUG), BESTest Balance Evaluation–Systems Test (BESTest) and secondary outcomes measures montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA), mini mental state examination (MMSE), Johns Hopkins Fall Risk Assessment Tool (JHFRAT), twenty five feet walk test (25FWT), six minute walk test (6MWT), and tDCS Adverse Effects was assessed before initiation of treatment (T0) and at the end of third session of stimulation (T1).ResultsThe results of between group’s analysis using mean difference showed a significant difference with p-value 0.05 but MMSE was improved having significant p-value (p = 0.013). However, 6MWT and 25FWT showed non-significant results for both between group and within group analysis. In pairwise comparison both the cerebellar and cerebral stimulation groups showed Significant difference with p-value

Increased digitalisation and globalisation forced contemporary business organisations to look for ways to cultivate innovation at different levels such as individual, team and organisational. To cultivate innovation at the individual level, organisations need to focus on employee creativity and to provide a favourable working environment. This short commentary aims to conduct an extant literature review to identify if Leader-Member Exchange (LMX) have an impact on employee creativity and if workplace innovation plays any role to strengthen this relationship. Based on the social exchange theory, the literature on LMX, employee creativity, and workplace innovation has been explored. It was conceptualised that LMX an impact on employee creativity and workplace innovation mediates this relationship. The conceptual model of this study could help the managers in managing the employees' creativity, innovation and LMX within the organisations to enhance creativity and supportive leadership could help in minimising the uncertainties. Findings of this study suggest that organisations should implement better LMX practices, better interaction with employees help in the cultivation of ideas to improve employee creativity.

Molecular hydrogen is renowned as an odorless and colorless gas. The recommendations developed by China suggest that the inhalation of hydrogen molecules is currently advised in COVID-19 pneumonia treatment. The therapeutic effects of molecular hydrogens have been confirmed after numerous clinical trials and animal-model-based experiments, which have expounded that the low molecular weight of hydrogen enables it to easily diffuse and permeate through the cell membranes to produce a variety of biological impacts. A wide range of both chronic and acute inflammatory diseases, which may include sepsis, pancreatitis, respiratory disorders, autoimmune diseases, ischemia-reperfusion damages, etc. may be treated and prevented by using it. H2 can primarily be inoculated through inhalation, by drinking water (which already contains H2), or by administrating the injection of saline H2 in the body. It may play a pivotal role as an antioxidant, in regulating the immune system, in anti-inflammatory activities (mitochondrial energy metabolism), and cell death (apoptosis, pyroptosis, and autophagy) by reducing the formation of excessive reactive O2 species and modifying the transcription factors in the nuclei of the cells. However, the fundamental process of molecular hydrogen is still not entirely understood. Molecular hydrogen H2 has a promising future in therapeutics based on its safety and possible usefulness. The current review emphasizes the antioxidative, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory effects of hydrogen molecules along with the underlying principle and fundamental mechanism involved, with a prime focus on the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19). This review will also provide strategies and recommendations for the therapeutic and medicinal applications of the hydrogen molecule.

An ever-increasing population has issued an open challenge to the agricultural sector to provide enough food in a sustainable manner. The upsurge in chemical fertilizers to enhance food production had resulted in environmental problems. The objective of the current study is to assess the utilization of biostimulants for sustainable agricultural production as an alternative to chemical fertilization. For this purpose, two pot experiments were conducted to examine the response of radish against individual and combined applications of biostimulants. In the first experiment, the effects of chemical fertilizer (CK), glycine (G), lysine (L), aspartic acid (A), and vitamin B complex (V) were studied. The results demonstrated that V significantly improved the transpiration rate (81.79%), stomatal conductance (179.17%), fresh weight (478.31%), and moisture content (2.50%). In the second experiment, tested treatments included chemical fertilizer (CK), Isabion® (I), glycine + lysine + aspartic acid (GLA), moringa leaf extract + GLA (M1), 25% NPK + M1 (M2). The doses of biostimulants were 5g L−1 glycine, 1g L−1 lysine, 2g L−1 aspartic acid, and 10 ml L−1 moringa leaf extract. The photosynthetic rate improved significantly with GLA (327.01%), M1 (219.60%), and M2 (22.16%), while the transpiration rate was enhanced with GLA (53.14%) and M2 (17.86%) compared to the Ck. In addition, M1 increased the stomatal conductance (54.84%), internal CO2 concentration (0.83%), plant fresh weight (201.81%), and dry weight (101.46%) as compared to CK. This study concludes that biostimulants can effectively contribute to the sustainable cultivation of radish with better growth and yield.

OBJECTIVE: To explore the predictable relationship of emotional states such as stress and aggression along with coping strategies and quality of life in patients diagnosed with either hypertension or hypotension. METHODOLOGY: This Cross-Sectional Correlational study conducted at Department of Psychology, University of Gujrat from December 2019 to July 2020. One hundred eighty patients diagnosed with blood pressure disorders purposively selected from different hospitals in Gujrat and Lalamusa. Urdu versions of Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Buss and Perry Aggression Questionnaire (BPAQ), Coping Styles Scale (CSS), and a shorter version of World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) used in the study. The Cronbach’s alpha reliability index (α) for these scales is 0.75, 0.83, 0.74, and 0.87 respectively on the present sample. RESULTS: In total of 180 participants, 75% females suffered from blood pressure disorder above age of 30 years (75%), living in rural areas (54%) with primary education (49%). 86% respondents have monthly income less than 50000. 81% patients were married, living in joint family system (51%). There is a significant negative correlation of PSS and BPAQ with WHOQOL. Significant correlation coefficients had been found among perceived stress, aggression, problem solving coping style, emotional coping style and quality of life. Moreover, perceived stress, aggression, and coping strategies significantly predicted quality of life in patients with hyper- and hypotension. CONCLUSION: The results have posited that quality of life in patients with blood pressure disorders is predictable by perceived stress, aggression, and coping strategies used.

Accuracy of solar irradiance forecasting is imperative for the effective utilization and integration of solar energy into the power system. To forecast global horizontal irradiance based on a multivariate meteorological data; this study first evaluates five standalone models, including recurrent deterministic policy gradient (RDPG), long short term memory (LSTM) neural network, extreme gradient boosting (XGB), Gaussian process regression (GPR), and support vector regression (SVR). The RDPG model outperforms the standalone counterparts by demonstrating 2.485 W/m2, 20.591 W/m2, 18.316 W/m2, and 23.176 W/m2 reductions in RMSE compared to the LSTM, XGB, GPR, and SVR models. Afterward, the performance of the RDPG model is further enhanced, by developing two-stage hybrid models, including improved complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with additive noise-RDPG (ICEEMDAN-RDPG) and variational mode decomposition-RDPG (VMD-RDPG). The subsequent construction of the hybrid model ICEEMDAN-SE-VMD-RDPG (ISVR) results in the further improvement of the two-stage hybrid models. The ISVR surpasses all the established models including VMD-RDPG, ICEEMDAN-RDPG, RDPG, LSTM, XGB, GPR, and SVR by displaying 18.401 W/m2, 13.908 W/m2, 33.223 W/m2, 53.111 W/m2, 67.704 W/m2, 67.502 W/m2 and 69.943 W/m2, respectively, decrease in RMSE. The overall results are enlightening and reveal the extension feasibility of the IVSR model for the other forecasting tasks, e.g., renewable energy integration and electrical load forecasting.

Mentha arvensis or mint is a renowned medicinal and aromatic plant. It is annual plant and cultivated in the tropical and sub-tropical regions under irrigation. Its cultivation has significant importance, such as for food flavoring, medicinal applications, essential oil applications, and also using in traditional purposes. Its essential oil contains many components phenolic, aldehydes, ketones, and carbohydrates. Menthol is a fundamental component of Mentha arvensis essential oil. Menthol has also several industrial applications, especially in food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and by-products. There are many types or variations of menthol found in Mentha arvensis depending on the species or cultivars as well as cultivation conditions, such as weather, irrigation, soil type, pruning, and other agronomical practices. It has interesting and valuable botany, morphology, and ecology. Its growth rate is strongly affected by the change of variables, such as pH, temperature, and nutritional values of soil. The extraction of essential oil and the post-harvest analysis are done by using traditional methods for Mentha arvensis oil production in developing countries. Research on oil extraction methods, maximizing yield per hectare, and optimum preservation are needed for the further, especially in post-harvest of mint leaves and roots.

Schizophrenia is a chronic mental and behavioral disorder characterized by clusters of symptoms including hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thoughts and social withdrawal. It is mainly contributed by defects in dopamine, glutamate, cholinergic and serotonergic pathways, genetic and environmental factors, prenatal infections, oxidative stress, immune system activation and inflammation. Management of schizophrenia is usually carried out with typical and atypical antipsychotics, but it yields modest benefits with a diversity of side effects. Therefore, the current study was designed to determine the phytochemicals as new drug candidates for treatment and management of schizophrenia. These phytochemicals alter and affect neurotransmission, cell signaling pathways, endocannabinoid receptors, neuro-inflammation, activation of immune system and status of oxidative stress. Phytochemicals exhibiting anti-schizophrenic activity are mostly flavonoids, polyphenols, alkaloids, terpenoids, terpenes, polypropanoids, lactones and glycosides. However, well-designed clinical trials are consequently required to investigate potential protective effect and therapeutic benefits of these phytochemicals against schizophrenia.

Uncontrolled prevalence of hepatitis B and C virus infections is known to be a global health problem. Many cases are undiagnosed yet. So, this study focusses on the undiagnosed existence of viral infection of hepatitis B (HBV) and Hepatitis C infection (HCV) in hospitalized patients and outdoor attendees to draw a more accurate picture of the prevalence of HBV and HCV. A cross-sectional observational study at Benazir Bhutto hospital Rawalpindi Pakistan continued for seven months and included hospitalized patients and outdoor attendees. Venous blood collected from 2003 subjects and processed to investigate infection by ELISA. We observed the overall prevalence of HBV was 2.6% and HCV was 10.98%. Further 4.2% was the highest infection rate of HBV in patients of Surgery and Medicine and the lowest in Orthopedics, Urology, Gynecology and Obstetrics, Pediatrics, Intensive Care Unit, Ear Throat and Nose, Eye>0.001%. We found the highest rate of HCV infection was in Medicine 22.90% and the lowest was in Pediatrics>0.001%. For the age, the HBV infection was found to be 4.55% the most prevalent in the age range of 61-75 and the lowest>0.001% in 76-90 years. Age group 46-60 years showed the highest 19.07% and 16-30 years the lowest 6.44% prevalence of HCV infection. Observed HBV-positive participants were 60.78% males and 39.22% females. While among the participants, males contributed 50.90% H C Virus infections and females contributed 49.10% infections. Although undiagnosed but prevalence of hepatitis B and C virus infection is very high. Therefore, some effective strategies should be implemented.

Abstract Background Intravenous iron replacement is recommended for iron-deficient patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but may be associated with hypophosphataemia, predisposing to osteomalacia and fractures. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence and risk factors for hypophosphataemia following intravenous ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) in patients with IBD. Methods This prospective observational study of patients with and without IBD evaluated serum phosphate for 28 days following intravenous FCM, and assessed associations with symptoms, markers of inflammation and vitamin D status. Results Twenty-four patients with IBD (11 with Crohn’s disease [CD], 13 with ulcerative colitis [UC], mean age 45 years [range 19–90], 7 female), and 20 patients without IBD (mean age 56 [22–88] y, 11 female), were included. Overall, serum phosphate declined by a mean of 36% at Day 7, with a mean fall of 42% (SD 19%) at some time point over 28 days (p

The present study was carried out for quantitative assessment of the drinking water quality consumed by people of area under study. Physico-chemical parameters like pH, TH, EC, TDS, Cl-, SO42- HCO3-, NO3—N, o-PO43--P, F-, and Turbidity were determined. Titration and spectroscopic methods were used to analyze SO42-, NO3-—N, o-PO43---P, F-, and Turbidity. The Ca2+ and Mg2+ were measured with complexometric titration procedure, while Na+ and K+ were determined by FAAS. The study showed that pH, nitrate-nitrogen and fluoride were found within the safe limit of the WHO. The TDS (1000 mg/L) and EC (1500 mg/L) of twelve villages were found above permissible limit. Samples of two villages Ali Hassan Mirgh Baloch and Pir Usman Shah Jhaloo showed high TH content. The chloride content was found within the safe limit only in three villages M. Essa Khaskheli, Abdullah Mallah and Haji Gul Muhammad Jat, whereas higher chloride content was found in the remaining villages. Higher sulfate content of 292 mg/L was observed in drinking water of Village Ali Ahmed Mirgh Baloch, while drinking water samples of all other villages under study were found safe for sulphate content. In the water of eight villages turbidity was found higher than allowable limit of 5 (NTU). Concentration of macro elements such as, Ca2+ (191 – 33 mg/L), Mg+2 (22 – 92 mg/L), Na+ (56 – 345 mg/L) and K+ (1 – 11 mg/L) were measured in the groundwater samples. Analytical data revealed that there are different parameters which may cause aesthetic and health hazards in the studied area.

Control chart is a popular technique that is widely used in statistical process control to identify any possible deviations from a stable state of a process. Shewhart charts are famous for identifying larger shifts, while cumulative sum and exponentially weighted moving average control charts are well known for identifying smaller shifts in process parameters. This study examines the performance of a sequential-based EWMA (namely ${\rm SEWMA}_{\text{\texthtp}} $) chart for observing the location of a normally distributed process. The performance of ${\rm SEWMA}_{\text{\texthtp}} $ is oberved by using several overall run length properties (like average, median and standard deviation). The comparative study reveals that the overall performance of the proposed design is better than the existing counterparts. Moreover, the superiority depends on the choice of the design parameters of the proposed chart. A real-life data set from a steel rod manufacturing industry were considered to show the real-life illustration of the proposed design.

Objectives: To determine the frequency of use of various psychoactive drugs among medical students in an urban setting, and to assess the risk category and intervention needs. Methods: The descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from January to June 2018 at four medical education institutions of Karachi; 2 each randomly selected from registered public and private sectors. From the clinical classes of each institution, fourth year was randomly chosen by lottery method. Data was collected using the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test version 3.0. Data was analysed using SPSS 20. ---Continue

Several empirical researches imply that cognitive behaviour therapy can be effective in treating psychiatric disorders. In the context of Pakistan, some researches with Culturally Adapted Cognitive Behaviour Therapy were found to be effective for depression, anxiety, bipolar and psychotic disorders. The present study theoretically underpinned the model of Adapted Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (ACBT) based on the inclusion of Tasbeehs (Rosary) derived from the Quran and Sunnah to be fruitful in producing the desirable change in a single case of Dysthymia with anxious distress which was assessed with the help of the Urdu versions of Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS) and Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation (BSS). ACBT produced profound differences in pre-test and post-test scores in a patient. The Tasbeeh or Rosary could provide a therapeutic means for treating psychiatric illnesses irrespective of the religious and cultural differences. Continue..

Objective This study was designed to study resistance loss due to plasmid elimination under experimental conditions including withdrawal of antibiotics and administration of starvation conditions. Methodology This experimental study was conducted at Department of Pathology, King Edward Medical University, Lahore, from September 2019 to December 2019. A single sensitive clinical isolate of Escherichia coli, showing resistance towards ampicillin was collected and separately sub-cultured in three different culture broths: tryptic soya broth, minimal broth and control broth for a period of one month under standard laboratory conditions. Minimum inhibitory concentrations of the strains were calculated after every 7 days to check antibiotic susceptibility. Results MIC value of the initial strain of E.coli measured on Day 1 was 6mg/mL and it became sensitive after continual sub-culturing in the absence of antibiotics in 21 days. Due to starvation conditions the bacterial strain exhibited sensitivity to an even lower antibiotic conc. of 1.5mg/mL on the 28th day. Bacterial growth inhibition zones determined by disc diffusion method using an ampicillin disc of 10µg/mL showed no zone of inhibition. Conclusion In the absence of triggering factors such as antibiotics allow the bacteria to negatively select against the defensive traits exhibiting an onset of gradual loss of resistance over a period of time. Also the unavailability of sufficient nutrients for standard bacterial growth and survival further amplifies the rate of plasmid elimination and the consequent loss of resistance. Key-words: Antibiotic resistance, Plasmid elimination, Antibiotic withdrawal, Resistance loss, Starvation conditions.

Naturally occurring curcumin can be used for the treatment of corneal bacterial infections with its limitation of poor solubility. Aim of the present study was to enhance solubility and permeation of curcumin for the treatment of corneal bacterial infections. For increasing solubility, curcumin and polyethylene glycol (PEG 6000) complex (1:3) was prepared by fusion melting method. Phase solubility studies were used for the calculation of Gibbs free energy of curcumin. Central composite rotatable design (CCRD) was applied for optimization of Curcumin (CUR), PEGylated Curcumin (PEG-CUR), penetration enhancer cremophore (CR). Optimized ointments were further evaluated by mucous permeation, membrane permeability and cell toxicity studies by Transwell cell, ussing chamber and Caco-2 cells respectively. Antibacterial test was also performed by agar well diffusion method. Solubility of PEG-CUR was increased up to 93±3.2% as compared to pure curcumin and content uniformity was in the range of 95-110%. Curcumin permeation from PEG-CUR ointment was increased up to 12 folds. No toxicity of Caco-2 cells for PEG-CUR even after 24h was observed. Activity index of pure CUR, PEG-CUR ointment with or without CR against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa was 97±2.3, 96±1.6, 95±2.5% respectively. Ointment with solubility enhanced PEG-CUR and cremophore can be used as a promising tool for the treatment of corneal bacterial infections.

BackgroundThe coronavirus disease has become a global pandemic, and it continues to wreak havoc on global health and the economy. The development of vaccines may offer a potential eradication of COVID-19. This study evaluated the general knowledge, attitude, and perception of COVID-19 vaccines in the Pakistani population.MethodsA self-reporting e-survey and questionnaire-based survey from vaccination centers of different cities of Pakistan among 502 participants were conducted. The questionnaire comprised four sections inquiring demographics, vaccination status, and perception or attitude towards the vaccine. Univariate logistic regression was applied to predict the knowledge, attitude and behavior of participants.ResultsThe mean age of participants was 50.8±20.3 years. 53% of the participants have both doses of vaccine administered. Pain on the site of injection (49.8%) was the most common symptom, followed by asthenia (43.0%), muscle pain (29.5%), and swelling (24.5%) on the site of vaccine administration. Females complain of more symptoms than males. More severe symptoms were reported after the first dose of vaccine administration; these symptoms subsided within a week for most participants. Overall, the respondents have a positive attitude towards the vaccine. 47.4% are sure about the vaccine's efficacy, 48.6% said getting vaccinated was their own decision, and 79.9% also recommended others to get vaccinated.ConclusionThe study concluded that the Pakistani population has a positive attitude but inadequate knowledge towards COVID-19 vaccines. Immediate awareness and vaccination education programs should be conducted by the authorities to complete the mass vaccination schedule.

Objective: To investigate the possible association of serum and follicular fluids(FF) Vitamin D levels with reproductive outcomes after assisted reproductive techniques (ART). Secondly, to detect Vitamin D Receptors (VDR) in serum and follicular fluid (FF) of ovarian follicle and explore its relationship with Vitamin D levels as well as reproductive outcomes. Methodology: This study was conducted on May 2019 in Aga Khan Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan. A total of 8 infertile female subjects were conveniently recruited. Serum was collected and follicular fluid(FF) was obtained by transvaginal-guided follicular puncture; 34 hours after intramuscular administration of Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin (HCG). Vitamin D and VDR was assessed in serum as well as in FF by Paired Sample t-test. Results: Females 2 out of 8 acquired clinical pregnancy, whereas 3 had pre-clinical abortion or no pregnancy. Vitamin D and VDR were detected highest in those female patients that acquired pregnancy in comparison to the pre-clinical abortion or non-pregnant ones (p value

The current study was conducted to evaluate the anti-termitic potential of four common plant species, namely, Zingiber officinale, Raphanus sativus, Rosa indica, and Aloe vera. The worker and soldier cast of Heterotermes indicola were collected from Populus euramericana, old tree, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan. The extracts of plant species were prepared using Soxhlet Extractor. HR 2118 Philips grinder was used to crush the dried plant material into fine powder. Different concentrations were prepared and 0.5 ml of each concentration was poured on the filter paper and placed in the petri plate (arena). In laboratory bioassay, fifty active workers and five soldiers of H. indicola were added into each arena. The biological activity of ethanolic extracts of these plants was evaluated after 24 h and upto 96 h. The ethanol extract of Z. officinale caused the highest mortality (100%), while the lowest mortality (68%) was observed in R. indica extract. The LT50 for Z. officinale were 24.34, 40.40 and 64.7 h, for the concentrations of 10%, 5% and 3%, respectively. The findings suggested that these plant extracts can provide environmental friendly management of H. indicola. In A. vera, significant mortality was observed against H. indicola, that is, 94%, 64% and 44% on the exposure of 10%, 5% and 3% concentrations, respectively. While, LT50 were 34.66, 65.59, and 100.1 hours against 10%, 5% and 3% concentrations, respectively. In R. sativus, the mortality of H. indicola was 76%, 50% and 30%, while LT50 against them was 59.10, 86.20, and 127.3 h, against the concentrations of 10%, 5% and 3%, respectively. Lowest mortality was observed in R. indica, that is, 68%, 44% and 30%, while LT50 were 64.17, 94.58 and 125.5 h at the concentrations of 10%, 5% and 3%, respectively. This study reports that the extracts of Z. officinale, A. vera and R. Sativus have the potential to be used for termite control, especially against H. indicola, in order to minimize the damage caused by it. Keywords: Aloe vera, Heterotermes indicola, LT50, Raphanus sativus, Zingiber officinale Copyright(c) The Author

Objectives: To assess oral health behaviour & self-practice among HBS undergraduate medical & dental students in Islamabad, Pakistan & to evaluate the variations in oral health behaviour & self-practice based on age, gender, academic program (MBBS/BDS) & education year. Methods: Hiroshima University Dental Behaviour Inventory (HU-DBI) questionnaire in English version consisting of 20 dichotomous responses (Agree/Disagree) was self-administered among 300 undergraduate medical & dental students of HBS Medical & Dental College in Islamabad. Three hundred medical and dental students were selected by convenience sampling. This cross-sectional study was conducted in the month of October 2019 & 38 questionnaire forms were excluded from the study which was incomplete & data was analysed on 262 (51 from dental & 211 from medical students) student's responses using SPSS Version 24 and statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Results: The mean age of students who participated in the study was 21.26 ± 1.90 years with a total number of 109 males & 153 females. A significantly higher HU-DBI score was observed among students from higher years of education only (p-value of 0.015). The majority of students (80.1%) brush their teeth daily. About 64.5% of students mentioned that they use toothbrushes & 15.6% used miswak on daily basis for cleaning their teeth. About 88.6% of students did not use mouthwash & toothpicks regularly. Conclusion: It can be concluded from the results that students belonging to higher years of education showed improved oral health behaviour and attitude as compared to the early years of education. Overall health behaviour observed was adequate.