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PurposeRecent performance appraisal (PA) literature suggests that alongside cognitive biases, rating distortions may stem from rater disposition and PA context. The study investigated the role of social value orientation (rater disposition), PA purposes and rater accountability (PA context) toward rating distortions at both performance levels, i.e. good and poor.Design/methodology/approachThe authors designed an experimental study and elicited data from N = 110 undergraduate students about two video-taped performances of good and poor performers. In these videos, two managers conducted assessment interviews of two different employees for the job of a sales representative at an information technology organization. To ensure the validity of performance ratings, the authors invited 10 senior managers to provide benchmark ratings of the video-taped performances. While being placed in two separate groups, the study participants gave performance ratings on both the video-taped performances. The authors used repeated-measures analysis to analyze data.FindingsThe results revealed that rating distortions took place not because of rater social value orientation, but the PA context. Different rating distortion patterns emerged for different levels of ratees' performance.Originality/valueThis study’s findings furnish new insights for assessing rating distortions for poor as well as good performers. Moreover, the results support previous findings that for good performers, accountable raters are tempted toward accurate ratings and refrained from deflation. Similarly, for poor performers, accountable raters do not inflate ratings. The findings will open research avenues to examine the role of PA purposes in rating distortions for different performance levels.

Objective: To evaluate the antierosive effect of epigallocatechin gallate extract (EGCG) on dental erosion and to compare it with potassium nitrate containing mouthwash. Materials and Methods: This invitro study was conducted in Sardar Begum Dental College and Peshawar dental hospital, Peshawar, KPK. The Scanning electron microscope study was carried out in Centralized Resource Laboratory (CRL), University of Peshawar while Microhardness in University of Engineering and Technology (UET), Peshawar. Total 042 healthy human premolars and impacted third molars were divided into 3 groups: Group I as control (distilled water), Group II was treated with potassium nitrate containing mouthwash while Group III was treated with EGCG. The samples were placed in artificial saliva for six hours. Afterwards teeth were placed in 10ml of the respective test solutions (For each group) for 4 minutes. Samples were kept in commercial beverage for fifteen min with constant stirring at (20-25 °C) afterwards washed with distilled water and then placed in artificial saliva for an hour. The process of erosion was done in four cycles. Finally, the samples were kept in deionized water. The samples were then subjected to Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and micro-hardness.Averages were taken for statistical analysis.LSD post hoc (ANOVA) test was done for analysis of the groups. Results: There was detectable difference in the dentinal tubule occlusion and hardness between the three groups. EGCG and Potassium nitrate containing mouthwash yielded better results. Conclusion: It was concluded from the present study that EGCG and potassium nitrate demonstrated antierosive effects. Keywords: Dentin hypersensitivity, Dentinal Tubule, Potassium nitrate, EGCG

Rumex dentatus L. (Polygonaceae), also known as toothed dock or Aegean dock, is a medicinal plant with a high culinary value in addition to being used as an ethnomedicinal plant. This review focuses on the botanical, nutritional, phytochemical, and pharmacological activities of R. dentatus, as well as the future prospects for systematic investigations into these areas. R. dentatus has been subjected to scientific evaluation, which has confirmed its traditional uses and demonstrated a wide range of biological and pharmacological potentials, including antioxidant, anticancer, antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and other biological properties. Phytochemical analyses showed the presence of anthraquinones, chromones, flavonoids, and essential oils. As a result of this current review, the medicinal significance of R. dentatus has been confirmed, and future research on its unexplored aspects, such as the identification of pharmacologically active chemical constituents and related mechanisms and safety, may be stimulated, with the goal of developing it into a drug.

The diagnosis of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has gained the spotlight of the world's scientific community since December 2019 and it remains an important issue due to the emergence of novel variants around the globe. Early diagnosis of coronavirus is captious to prevent and hard to control. This pandemic can be eradicated by implementing suppressing strategies which can lead to better outcomes and more lives being saved. Therefore, the analysis showed that COVID-19 can only be managed by adopting public health measures, such as testing, isolation and social distancing. Much work has been done to diagnose coronavirus. Various testing technologies have been developed, opted and modified for rapid and accurate detection. The advanced molecular diagnosis relies on the detection of SARS-CoV-2 as it has been considered the main causative agent of this pandemic. Studies have shown that several molecular tests are considered essential for the confirmation of coronavirus infection. Various serology-based tests are also used in the detection and diagnosis of coronavirus including point-of-care assays and high-throughput enzyme immunoassays that aid in the diagnosis of COVID-19. Both these assays are time-consuming and have less diagnostic accuracy. Nanotechnology has the potential to develop new strategies to combat COVID-19 by developing diagnostics and therapeutics. In this review, we have focused on the nanotechnology-based detection techniques including nanoparticles and biosensors to obstruct the spread of SARS-CoV-2.

In the present study, 30 potential germplasm of oat (Avena sativa L.) were subjected to proximate, elemental, and HPLC analysis to provide a scientific basis to genetic diversity present among them. The extracts of the selected germplasms were also evaluated for their antioxidant potentials through DPPH and ABTS assays. Proximate analysis showed protein contents to be in the range 8.35 to 17.72% with the highest protein contents in the accession line 22365 (17.72±0.38%). The genotype-725 showed the highest carbohydrate, and dry matter (53.35±0.01 and 93.50±0.07% respectively) contents whereas, the germplasm-830 contained the highest fat (7.88±0.12%) contents while the highest moisture contents were there in germplasm-22348 (11.95±0.06%). The crude fiber contents (19.67±0.19%) were found high in germplasm-832. The mentioned contents were also correlated to each other where a negative (-0.431*) correlation was noted for crude protein and carbohydrate while ash content to crude protein has a positive (0.38*) correlation. A positive and a negative correlation were there in Crude fats/crude protein (0.30*) and crude fats/moisture contents (-0.39*) respectively. Principal component analysis showed an Eigenvalue of 0.76 with a total variation of 85.01% when applied to proximate components. Based on cluster analysis to proximate composition all the oat germplasms were divided into 5 sub-clusters, where accession numbers 769 and 817 were found to be the most diverse genotypes. The elemental analysis confirmed the presence of magnesium (2.89-7.62 mg/L), sodium (3.71-8.03 mg/L), manganese (0.93-3.71 mg/L), copper (0.35-3.36 mg/L), iron (2.15-6.82 mg/L), zinc (1.30-3.37 mg/L), chromium (0.37-3.34 mg/L), and potassium (50.70-59.60 mg/L) in the selected germplasms. Principal component analysis for elemental composition showed the total variation of 73.75% with the Eigenvalue of 0.97. Cluster analysis on an elemental basis divided all the oat germplasms into 7 sub-clusters where accession numbers 769 and 22350 were found to be the most diverse germplasm. Phytochemical analysis performed through HPLC resulted in the identification of nine possible compounds (malic acid, epigallocatechin gallate, quercetin, morin, ellagic acid, catechin hydrate, rutin, pyrogallol, and mandelic acid) in various germplasm of oat. A concentration-dependent antioxidant response was recorded when extracts were tested as an inhibitor of DPPH and ABTS free radicals. The results revealed that oat grains are a good source of nutrients, minerals, and phytochemicals that can be used as nutraceuticals and as food. The genetic differences revealed that this plant can be grown under varied environmental conditions.

Natural products have been the focus of biomedical and pharmaceutical research to develop new therapies in recent years. 2-methoxy-6-acetyl-7-methyljuglone (2-methoxystypandrone, MAM) a natural bioactive juglone derivative, is known to have various levels of pharmacotherapeutic efficacies as an anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-HIV activities. MAM fights cancer progression by inducing apoptosis, necroptosis and deregulating signaling pathways through H2O2-induced JNK/iNOS/NO and MAPK, ERK1/2 pathways, JNK activation, and the RIP1/RIP3 complex. In this review, we summarize the pharmacological importance of MAM in the field of drug discovery. Furthermore, this review not only emphasizes the medicinal properties of MAM, but also discusses its potential efficacy in future medicinal products.

Nanotechnology has shown promising advancements in the field of drug development and its delivery. In particular, the applications of nanoparticles for treatment and diagnostics of cancer reached such a precision that it can detect a single cancer cell and target it to deliver a payload for the treatment of that cancerous cell. Conventional cancer therapy methods have side effects, and diagnostics techniques are time-consuming and expensive. Nanoparticles (NPs) such as polymeric nanoparticles (nanogels, nanofibers, liposomes), metallic nanoparticles such as gold NP (GNPs), sliver NP (AgNP), calcium nanoparticles (CaNPs), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene, and quantum dots (QDs) have revolutionized cancer diagnostics and treatments due to their high surface charge, size, and morphology. Functionalization of these nanoparticles with different biological molecules, such as antibodies, helps them to target delivery and early detection of cancer cells through their plasmon resonance properties. While some of the magnetic properties of nanoparticles such as iron (Fe), copper (Cu), and carbon NT were also evaluated for detection and treatments of cancer cells. An advanced type of nanoparticles, such as nanobubbles and oxygen-releasing polymers, are helping to address the hypoxia conditions in the cancer microenvironment, while others are employed in photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT) due to their intrinsic theranostic properties. The green synthesis of nanoparticles has further increased biocompatibility and broadened their applications. In this review paper, we discussed the advancement in nanotechnology and its applications for cancer treatment and diagnostics and highlighted challenges for translation of these advanced nano-based techniques for clinical applications and their green synthesis.

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

Bone healing and formation are under the control of growth factors. Among these factors, bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) have a vital role in bone and cartilage maintenance and formation. BMP itself belongs to the superfamily of transforming growth factor β (TGFβ). Although, the use of recombinant BMPs has no significant association with the treatment of bone fractures, arthroplasty, pseudoarthrosis or other bone-related diseases. Recent advancements in genetic engineering have led to the foundation of gene therapy. Gene therapy uses genes to be incorporated in the living cells to replace defective genes or manipulate gene expression for therapeutic purposes. Gene therapy is emerging for the treatment of diseases with approval in Europe where it is in the marketing surveillance phase (Phase IV Clinical trial). This technique has also been tested for the incorporation of osteogenic genes in stem cells for repairing spinal fusion and recovering defects in bones in preclinical models. Therefore, gene therapy has the potential for the treatment of different diseases and has the advantage over the use of recombinant proteins. In this chapter, we have discussed gene therapy, its mechanism, delivery system and its use in tissue engineering (soft and bone tissue) for clinical application

Over the past decades, nanomedicine, the medical application of nanotechnology, has been extensively investigated as a promising approach in treating different inflammatory disorders and conditions. Nanomedicine provides a wide range of engineered nanomaterials, such as polymeric nanoparticles (NPs), lipid-based NPs, liposomes, silica NPs, metallic NPs, etc. Nanomaterial-based drug delivery systems exhibit multiple advantages such as the ability to pass through different physiological barriers within the body and specifically deliver drugs to the required sites without affecting healthy cells and tissues. Enormous amounts of in-vitro and in-vivo researches were previously conducted by many research groups to validate the positive contribution that nanomedicine has regarding the treatment of inflammation and its associated illnesses. The scope of this review paper is to overview the current status of using nanomaterials in the treatment of inflammatory diseases, with an emphasis on asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, gout and atherosclerosis. The future prospects of using nanomaterials for inflammatory diseases were also briefly discussed.

Clostridium botulinum is Gram-positive anaerobic spore-forming bacterium that produces very potent neurotoxins that have a potential to be used as bioweapon. In this study, we utilized applications of pan genome to develop drug targets for 51 strains of Clostridium botulinum. From the total 8756 core proteins, there were 422 non-host homologous proteins from which we selected 7 essential proteins by applying 2 thresholds that are identity > 35 and e-value = 0.001. These 7 proteins were selected as drug targets and docked against 105 anti-bacterial compounds. After docking, against each protein, top 10 compounds were selected based on the binding affinity and number of interactions and from these 10 compounds, the most promising compound was ranked on top for all target proteins. Furthermore, we also identified some compounds that have shown highest binding energies with more than one protein. From the 105 anti-bacterial compounds, we got 39 compounds on the basis of their binding energies with all target proteins. These compounds can be further validated by in vitro analysis and can proceed for clinical trials.

Introduction: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease causing morbidity and mortality in all population worldwide. It is present in 1 to 2 % in world's population Objective: To determine the frequency of RA in young females presenting with multiple joints pain using ACR Diagnostic Criteria for RA. Methodology: This study was Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study done at the Department of Medicine, Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar for duration of six months from February 2021 to August 2021. In this study a total of 156 patients were observed to assess the frequency of rheumatoid arthritis in young females with multiple joints pain using ACR Diagnostic Criteria. Results: Serology of RF and ACPA among 156 patients was positive in 93(59.6%) patients and Negative in 63(40.4). Acute phase reactants CRP and ESR among 156 patients were abnormal in 91(58.3%) and Normal in 65(41.7%) patients Conclusion: Our study concludes that in young females with multiple joints pain, the frequency of rheumatoid arthritis was high by using ACR diagnostic criteria. Young females are prone to develop rheumatoid arthritis but remain undiagnosed and this may lead to adverse outcome and failure in prognosis and treatment. If it is diagnosed in early stage it may add to good health outcome and quality of life. Key words: Rheumatoid arthritis; multiple joints pain, ACR Diagnostic Criteria

Decline in cardio-metabolic health, immunity, and physical activity is associated with old age. Old people also find it difficult to engage in structured exercise programs. Therefore, there is a need to investigate common daily chores as an alternative for exercise that may also help in maintaining cardio-metabolic and immune health.We aimed to investigate whetherA total of 30 overweight adults (mean (SD) age of 53.5 (8.7) years) participated in this study. For a 4-week duration, we compared the effects ofMost of the baseline metabolic parameters and the count of immune cells were normal. Post-MS resulted in a significant reduction in body weight and percent body fat (%BF). Overall, Post-MS resulted in a clear leukocytosis with a significant increase in granulocytes, monocytes, and lymphocytes. When analyzing the lymphocyte compartment, a clear numerical increase was noted for T, B, and NK cells. The number of CD8+ T cells showed a statistically significant increase. Similarly, Post-MS induced leukocytosis in both young and old individuals, while the increase in granulocytes, monocytes, and lymphocytes was statistically significant in old subjects only.This study demonstrated that the Islamic obligatory and congressional(UMIN000048901).

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

OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to determine the frequency of COVID-19 positive antenatal patients admitted in Obstetrics & Gynecology unit Hayatabad Medical Complex Peshawar with the concerns that pregnant women may be more susceptible to COVID-19 as they may be more vulnerable to respiratory infection. METHODOLOGY: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at Obstetrics & Gynecology units Hayatabad Medical Complex Peshawar from May 12th, 2020, to November 29th, 2020, screening and testing of patients admitted for childbirth was in HMC. Screening consisted of questions related to travel, contacts, and symptoms of COVID-19. All patients without a prior diagnosis of COVID-19 underwent SARS-CoV-2 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing of nasopharyngeal swabs, with rapid testing available. Patients scheduled for cesarean birth were screened and tested at preoperative visits RESULTS: One hundred eighty-two patients presenting for antenatal visits were screened; 6.5% (12 out of 182) were previously diagnosed with COVID-19. The remaining 170 patients were tested at admission, and 17.6% (30 out of 170) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. Twenty-two of the 30 who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (73.3%) were asymptomatic. The overall prevalence of positive test results among asymptomatic patients was 14.1% (22 out of 156). The prevalence of positive test results among asymptomatic patients increased from 1.29% (2 out of 155). CONCLUSION: The evidence on this novel infection is changing almost daily, although it will likely be many months before, we can determine the true impact it will have on both maternal and fetal well‐being. In the interim, our primary responsibility is to ensure all women have access to safe maternity services. KEYWORDS: Asymptomatic, COVID-19 Positive, Antenatal Patients, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Infection

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

Exploring new antimicrobial and cytotoxic drugs has been one of the most active areas of research.

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

Present study investigate the in-vitro antibacterial and antifungal potential of Typha elephantina leaves aqueous extract (T. Eaq), ethanolic extract (T. Eeth) and methanolic extract (T. Emth) at different dosages against selected bacteria and fungi using dis diffusion method and Potato Dextrose Agar method. The study was also proceeded in- vivo against one strain of fungi (Aspergillus niger) using aqueous (T. Eaq) extract only. In-vitro study showed that Citrobacter freundii was highly sensitive while Salmonella typhimurium was the least among all. The antifungal activity was dose dependent and differs according to the fungal strain. Aspergillus niger was highly sensitive in order of aqueous extract (T. Eaq), ethanolic extract (T. Eeth) and methanolic extract (T.Emth), followed by Alterneria solani, Candida albicans and Aspergillus ustus. The in-vivo antifungal study was carried using Cyprinus carpio which were first infected with Aspergillus niger and then treated with (T. Eaq) at different doses. During in-vivo study various hematobiochemicl parameters and bio-accumulative stress of some heavy metals were assessed. Highly significant (P0.05) remedial effects were observed at day 21st of treatment with extract at 100mg/ kg body weight. Differential accumulation was found i.e in skin the accumulation was highest followed by intestine gills and muscles tissues. Liver showed least accumulation.

Plants of Sterculia genus contain various types of bioactive compounds which bears therapeutic potential. The current research was planned to perform gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis and metal analysis, and to test the antimicrobial activity of various extracted samples of Sterculia diversifolia G. Don specie. Screening of S. diversifolia for chemical constituents was carried out using various qualitative procedures, which confirmed the existence of a number of bioactive compounds. Gas chromatography followed by GC-MS is a significant analytical tool for the assessment of composition of fixed oils or oily fractions. Atomic absorption spectrophotometer was used for the determination of micronutrients, while atomic emission flame photometer for the analysis of macronutrients. The antibacterial and antifungal activities were investigated by well diffusion and tube dilution techniques respectively. The n-hexane fractions of both the stem bark and leaves of S. diversifolia were analyzed with the help of GC-MS, resulting in the identification of 32 and 62 compounds, respectively. Various micronutrients and macronutrients shown reasonable quantities in stem bark and leaves extracts. The n-hexane and dichloromethane fractions of S. diversifolia stem bark, leaves and seeds showed mild to moderate range of antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and no antifungal activity against any fungal strain. Our findings support the use of S. diversifolia in traditional medicine.

Liver dysfunction is a major health problem worldwide. Stem cells therapy has opened up new avenues for researches to treat liver diseases due to their multi lineage differentiation. As mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can be differentiated into hepatic lineages in the presence of different exogenous factors, the current study aimed to investigate the impact of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced liver injured mice serum on MSCs differentiation toward hepatocytes in vitro. Male Balb/c mice were treated for liver injury with CCl4 as determined through biochemical tests spectrophotometrically and different growth factors (EGF, HGF) quantification through Sandwich ELISA in both normal and CCl4-induced liver injured mice serum. Mice bone marrow derived-MSCs at second passage were treated with normal and CCl4-induced liver injured mice serum. After 7 days, serum treated MSCs were investigated for hepatocytes like characteristics through RT-PCR. Serum biochemical tests (Bilirubin, ALT and ALP) and sandwich ELISA results of EGF and HGF showed marked increase in CCl4 treated mice serum as compared to normal mice serum. Periodic acid Schiff’s staining and urea assay kit confirmed high level of glycogen storage and urea production in cells treated with CCl4-induced liver injured mice serum. RT-PCR results of CCl4-induced liver injured mice serum treated cells also showed expression of hepatic markers (Albumin, Cyto-8, Cyto-18, and Cyto-19). This study confirmed that CCl4-induced liver injured serum treatment can differentiate MSCs into hepatocyte-like cells in vitro.

In the current research, we have investigated the antioxidant and cholinesterase inhibitory potentials of Rosa moschata Herrm. leaves and fruits methanolic extract (RmL.Ext and RmF.Ext) for the first time. To determine the rough estimate of phytochemical composition of extracts, the total phenolic and flavonoid contents were determined using standard methods. Moreover, the phenolic compounds present in the extracts were identified by HPLC-UV analysis. The cholinesterase activities were determined following the Ellman’s assay. The antioxidant activities of extracts were investigated using DPPH and ABTS assays. Significant anticholinesterase potentials were exhibited by RmL.Ext with IC50 of 40 and 110 µg/ml against AChE and BChE respectively. In addition, RmL.Ext also scavenged the DPPH (IC50 = 360 µg/ml) and ABTS (IC50 = 105 µg/ml) free radicals. Comparatively, the leaves extract was more potent than fruits extract. Malic acid, chlorogenic acid, quercetin, rutin, pyrogallol, mandelic acid, hydroxybenzoic acid, and morin were identified as the possible potent antioxidants present in extract. Based on the current results of the study, it may be inferred that RmL.Ext and RmF.Ext of R. moschata are rich in bioactive compounds responsible for the free radicals scavenging and cholinesterases inhibition and this plant may be a valuable candidate for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, like Alzheimer’s disease. However, further investigation in terms of isolation of bioactive compounds and their screening of toxicological effects in animal models are needed to validate the observed results.

One new coumarin (stercularin), along with eleven known compounds, was isolated for the first time from ethyl acetate fraction of Sterculia diversifolia. The structures of isolated compounds were c...

The current study was conducted to isolate and identify bioactive compounds from Sterculia diversifolia G. Don and to investigate their anti-glycation and antioxidant activities. Stem bark and leaves of S. diversifolia were dried, powdered, and then extracted and fractionated using various organic solvents. The ethyl acetate fraction was selected to isolate the active compounds by column chromatography. The structures of these compounds were elucidated by mass spectrometry, 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy. Thus, gossypetin (1), taxifolin (2), methyl 4-hydroxycinnamate (3), and β-sitosterol-D-glucoside (4) were isolated and identified. The ethyl acetate fractions of S. diversifolia stem bark and leaves exhibited significant anti-glycation activity with percentage inhibition of 48.72 and 49.48%, respectively. Total flavonoid content in both stem bark and leaves was higher in the ethyl acetate and DCM fractions, respectively. Taxifolin and gossypetin showed percentage inhibition of 48.74 and 46.98%, respectively. Almost all fractions and MESD of both stem bark and leaves possess significant antioxidant activity except n-hexane fraction of leaves, while isolated compounds taxifolin and gossypetin showed 94.31 and 93.96% inhibition, respectively. Taxifolin (2) and gossypetin (1) produced maximum anti-glycation and antioxidant effects in both assays. It has been concluded that taxifolin and gossypetin could be promising antidiabetic agents.

Different species of

Enterococcus species are an emerging group of bacterial pathogens that have a significant role in hospital-associated infections and are associated with higher mortality and morbidity rates. Among these pathogens

Suicide, a deliberate act of self-harm with the intention to die, is an emerging health concern but, unfortunately, the most under-researched subject in Pakistan, especially in Khyber Pukhtunkhwa (KPK). In this study, we aimed to identify risk factors that can be associated with suicidal behavior (SB) and to evaluate the prevailing treatment practices for therapeutic efficacy and drug-related problems (DRPs) in psychotic patients among the local population of KPK. A prospective, multicenter study was conducted for suicidal cases admitted to the study centers by randomized sampling. Socio-demographics and data on suicidal behavior were assessed using the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS), socioeconomic condition by Kuppuswamy socioeconomic scale (KSES) and treatment adherence by Morisky Medication-Taking Adherence Scale (MMAS-4). Drug-related problems and the therapeutic efficacy of prevailing treatment practices were assessed at baseline and follow-up after 3 months of treatment provided. Regarding suicidality (N = 128), females reported more ideations (63.1%), while males witnessed more suicidal behavior (66.6%, p < 0.001). Suicide attempters were mostly married (55.6%, p < 0.002); highly educated (53.9%, p = 0.004); dissatisfied with their life and had a previous history (p < 0.5) of suicide attempt (SA) (20.6%), self-injurious behavior (SIB) (39.7%) and interrupted (IA) or aborted attempts (AA) (22.2%). A greater improvement was observed in patients receiving combination therapy (p = 0.001) than pharmacotherapy (p = 0.006) or psychotherapy (p = 0.183), alone. DRPs were also detected, including drug-selection problems (17.88%), dose-related problems (20.64%), potential drug–drug interactions (24.31%), adverse drug reactions (11.46%) and other problems like inadequate education and counseling (21.55%). Furthermore, it was also found that psychotic patients with suicidal ideations (SI) were significantly (p = 0.01) more adherent to the treatment as compared to those with suicidal attempts. We concluded that suicide attempters differed significantly from patients with suicidal ideations in psychotic patients and presented with peculiar characteristics regarding socio-demographic factors. A combination of therapies and adherence to the treatment provided better outcomes, and targeted interventions are warranted to address drug-related problems.

Mercury compounds are the world's third most hazardous substance. Mercury (II) chloride, also known as mercuric chloride (HgCl2), has been shown to have neurotoxic properties in a variety of forms. In numerous investigations, oxidative stress has been established as a key contributor to HgCl2-induced neurotoxicity. Carveol has been researched as an antioxidant and Nrf2-activator in several studies. This study was conducted to investigate if the carveol could protect mice against HgCl2-induced neuronal damage.Mice were exposed to a dose of 0.4 mg/kg of HgClResults indicated hippocampal-related behavior anomalies which were improved significantly after carveol treatment. Oxidative stress was accompanied by excessive neuroinflammation, which was demonstrated by elevated levels of inflammatory markers such as TNF-α, p-NFkB, and COX-2, and were measured by Western blot, ELISA, and immunohistochemistry. These elevated levels of inflammatory markers were significantly mitigated upon treatment with carveol. To further investigate the participation of the JNK pathway, we used SP-600125 to inhibit JNK, which enhanced the neuroprotective effects of carveol. Moreover, molecular docking and modeling studies were used to validate these effects.Our findings indicate that carveol can inhibit the p-JNK pathway, thereby inhibiting HgCl2-induced apoptosis and downregulating the expression of inflammatory mediators.

The Purpose of the current study to Evaluate the efficacy of intravenous ciprofloxacin with ceftriaxone for the treatment of bacterial peritonitis in patients of liver cirrhosis at PIMS Hospital Islamabad from January 2021 to June 2021 at Department of Medicine .A total of 260 patients of liver cirrhosis were selected for this study. Patients were randomly allocated in two groups (Group A and B). Patients aged 13 to 60 years of both genders with established liver cirrhosis, diagnosed on ultrasound abdomen were included in this study. Patients with hemorrhagic or malignant ascites, peritonitis, tuberculosis peritonitis, hepatocellular carcinoma and diabetes mellitus were excluded from study. In group A, 130 patients were given intravenous ciprofloxacin 200mg 12 hourly and in group B 130 patients on ceftriaxone 1g 12 hourly. Treatment was given for 5 days and efficacy of treatment was determined by means of evaluating clinical symptoms. The mean age of the patients in group A was 43.4±10.4 years and in group B was 44.2±10.2 years. In group A there were 90(70%) patients and 95(73.3%) patients in group B in whom spontaneous bacterial peritonitis was settled down. The Result of the current study suggest that Intravenous is as effective as ceftriaxone in the treatment of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in cirrhotic patients. Keywords: liver cirrhosis, ciprofloxacin, bacterial peritonitis, ceftriaxone

We theoretically demonstrated a class of plasmonic coupled elliptical nanostructure for achieving a spaser or a nanolaser with high intensity. The plasmonic ellipse is made up of gold film substrate. The proposed structure is then trialed for various light polarizations, moreover, a simple elliptical nanostructure has been chosen primarily from which different cases have been formed by geometry alteration. The structure supports strong coupled resonance mode i.e. localized surface plasmon (LSP). The localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of the investigated system is numerically examined using the finite-element method (FEM). The calculations showed that the LSPR peaks and the local field intensity or near field enhancement (NFE) of the active nanosystem can be amplified to higher values by introducing symmetry-breaking techniques in the proposed ellipse and its variants. The coupled nanostructure having different stages of wavelengths can be excited with different plasmonic resonance modes by the selection of suitable gain media. In addition, a small-sized nanolaser with high tunability range can be developed using this nanostructure. The spaser phenomena are achieved at several wavelengths by changing light polarization and structure alteration methods. Giant localized field enhancement and high LSPR values enable the proposed model to be highly appealing for sensing applications, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, and much more.

Abstract: Obesity-associated diabetes mellitus, a chronic metabolic affliction accounting for 90% of all diabetic patients, has been affecting humanity extremely badly and escalating the risk of developing other serious disorders. It is observed that 0.4 billion people globally have diabetes, whose major cause is obesity. Currently, innumerable synthetic drugs like alogliptin and rosiglitazone are being used to get through diabetes, but they have certain complications, restrictions with severe side effects, and toxicity issues. Recently, the frequency of plant-derived phytochemicals as advantageous substitutes against diabesity is increasing progressively due to their unparalleled benefit of producing less side effects and toxicity. Of these phytochemicals, dietary polyphenols have been accepted as potent agents against the dual sword “diabesity”. These polyphenols target certain genes and molecular pathways through dual mechanisms such as adiponectin upregulation, cannabinoid receptor antagonism, free fatty acid oxidation, ghrelin antagonism, glucocorticoid inhibition, sodium-glucose cotransporter inhibition, oxidative stress and inflammation inhibition etc. which sequentially help to combat both diabetes and obesity. In this review, we have summarized the most beneficial natural polyphenols along with their complex molecular pathways during diabesity.

Aim: To reassess the high specificity of alkaline phosphatase as a serum tumor marker in patients with osteosarcoma Study type: Retrospective cohort study Study place and duration: Department of Orthopedics, DHQ Hospital Gujranwala from January 2013 to June 2021 Methods: The medical record of 140 osteosarcoma patients were reviewed retrospectively, who received treatment for osteosarcoma during January 2015 and June 2021. According to clinical factors at diagnosis, the difference in prevalence of increased ALP was assessed using Fisher`s extract test and χ2 test. In the groups with normal and high level of serum ALP at presentation, the disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were compared using The Kaplan–Meier estimate. At presentation the prognostic ability of increased ALP was examined using Cox regression analyses. For determination of therapeutic steps and survival related changes in levels of ALP during therapy and survival related response of ALP to therapy, Linear Mixed model (fixed model) was used. Results: Sensitivity, specificity , Positive predictive value, negative predictive value, PLR, NLR and DOR of ALP in Metastatic osteosarcoma at 15 months follow up was 55.4%, 80.3%, 62.1%, 74.2%, 3.14, 0.864 and 5.241 respectively. Similarly, Sensitivity, specificity , Positive predictive value, negative predictive value, PLR, NLR and DOR of ALP in Metastatic osteosarcoma at 3 years follow up was 56.4%, 92.5%, 83.1%, 70.1%, 6.321, 0.632 and 8.543 respectively. Conclusion: ALP has been found to be a very important tumor marker having high specificity in patients with osteosarcoma. MeSH words: Osteosarcoma, Tumor, Biomarker, Alkaline Phosphatase, Metastasis, Sensitivity, Specificity

Aim: To determine the association of interleukin-28b- RS12980275 with response to treatment with interferon α-2b & ribavirin in chronic hepatitis c patients Methodology: A case control study was designed that includes219 HCV patients treated with INF and Ribavirin. Out of 219, 95 were males while 124 were females. They are classified into two groups. Those achieved sustained virological response (SVR) and those who did not sustained virological response (Non-SVR). All the demographics and biochemical data were recorded on a Performa that includes age, ALT and viral load. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 16.0. Results: Patients having IL28B-rs12980275 AG genotypes respond better to interferon and ribavirin treatment (p-value=0.01, OR=2.91). Furthermore, HWE was also calculated for both groups in which the responders do not corresponds to HWE (p-value=

Designing a plasmonic structure having high near field enhancement of incident field, large hot spot area, wideband resonance, and multiple resonance peaks are the key elements to obtain large electromagnetic field enhancement factor for various biosensors like surface-enhanced Raman scattering and Spasers. In this paper, we have proposed three different configurations of the bowtie nanoantenna represented as Single Bowtie Structure, Double Bowtie Structure (DBS), and Triple Bowtie Structure (TBS). Numerical simulations are performed with the characteristics of Nanoantenna and the analysis of the influence of the size parameter of the antennas along with the optimization of this parameter is performed to achieve the maximum near field enhancement. The result shows that TBS delivers the highest enhancement factor with a triple resonance peak. Whereas, in the second portion, the demonstrated results show the influence of the size on the enhancement of the incident field which further indicates, that as the size reduces the enhancement decreases. Furthermore, variations in the gap are simulated with four types having simple bowtie structure, reduced symmetry of DBS, reduced symmetry of TBS, and double reduced symmetry of TBS. The results significantly showed that type 4 configuration covers a wider wavelength with enhanced near electromagnetic field.

H. pylori (Helicobacter pylori) causes a common chronic infectious disease and infects around 4.4 billion people worldwide. H. pylori was classified as a member of the primary class of stomach cancer (stomach adenocarcinoma). Hence, this study was conducted to design a novel lactobionic acid (LBA)-coated Zn-MOFs to enhance bactericidal activity of Amoxicillin (AMX) against H. pylori. The synthesized Zn-MOFs were characterized by various techniques which included Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) Spectroscopy, Powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, and atomic force microscope. They were capable of encapsulating an increased amount of AMX and investigated for their efficacy to enhance the antibacterial potential of their loaded drug candidate. Interestingly, it was found that LBA-coated Zn-MOFs significantly reduced the IC50, MIC, and MBIC values of AMX against H. pylori. Morphological investigation of treated bacterial cells further authenticated the above results as LBA-coated Zn-MOFs-treated cells underwent complete distortion compared with non-coated AMX loaded Zn-MOFs. Based on the results of the study, it can be suggested that LBA-coated Zn-MOFs may be an effective alternate candidate to provide new perspective for the treatment of H. pylori infections.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a worldwide emergency that has affected millions of populations in developed and underdeveloped countries. To our surprise, many people have been tested positive twice. Few cases of true reinfections involved genetic alterations in the virus. Appearance of multiple positive tests may be due to human errors or remnant genetic material, but genetic modification in virus represents very serious issue of controlling this pandemic. It is the need of the day that all the gaps and deficiencies, represented by variable response of adaptive immune system toward this infection, be filled and rectified. We have discussed reinfections with variable outcomes along with the possible reasons for variable response. Phenomena such as T cell memory, absence of cross-reactive immunity, T cell exhaustion, drawbacks pertaining to neutralizing antibodies, and immune enhancement are crucial areas by which adaptive immune response can weaken considerably. Earlier and stronger herd immunity is also at the mercy of strong adaptive immune system to avoid future pandemics by the same microorganism. Likewise, consequences of this phenomenon should also be considered during vaccine development as resources worth billions are being used and staked. Many countries have entered the second/third waves of COVID-19. Therefore, we need to come up with ways toward uniform strengthening of adaptive immune response to fight off this pandemic. Also, to develop and maintain constant resistance to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), the mentioned weakened links in the chain of adaptive immunity may be explored to keep viral invasion and physiological damage to minimum.

Residues, potential sources and ecotoxicological effects of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) were analyzed in typical urban river networks of Shanghai. In total, 47 surface sediments were collected in each of the sampling seasons (summer and winter). Laboratory analysis by GC-ECD showed that OCPs and PCBs concentrations were in medium levels compared to other national and international areas. As for OCP compounds, HCHs and DDTs were two dominant pollutants, with ∑HCHs concentrations ranging from 1.74 to 28.78 ng/g and ∑DDTs concentrations ranging from 0.88 to 25.45 ng/g. For individual HCHs, β-HCH was the most dominant HCH compound, with a mean value of 5.06 ng/g, followed by α-HCH (3.50 ng/g) in winter. A similar case of HCHs was also found in the summer season. Concentrations of ∑18PCBs varied from 6.67 to 37.10 ng/g in winter and from 10.63 to 45.55 ng/g in summer. Individual PCB 28, 101, 118 and 123 were dominant among all congeners, with averages of 3.16, 1.55, 2.47 and 2.37 ng/g in winter, 3.11, 2.34, 4.92 and 4.41 ng/g in summer, respectively. ∑20OCPs (the sum of twenty OCPs) concentrations in cultivated land areas were more abundant than that in artificial surface areas, indicating an abundance of pesticides and fertilizers in cultivated lands. Analysis of possible sources indicated that both industrial and agricultural residues contributed to higher HCHs and DDTs concentrations, which mainly originated from weathered pesticides with aerobic transformation processes. For PCB compounds, a significant seasonal variation, atmospheric precipitation, and surface runoff were the major factors for fluctuated PCBs concentrations. Ecotoxicological assessment based on established sediment quality guidelines (SQGs) showed that DDT compounds have a potential threat to the aquatic environment of our study area.