Search

The COVID-19 pandemic forced institutions and organizations to adopt remote work policies, leading to numerous challenges for individuals, especially students. Thus, it is vital to examine the e-learning environment and the factors influencing the e-learning process to better comprehend and address the challenges students face in this context. Objectives: To explore the moderating role of ICT-SE in the relationship between SDL, ELR, and SE among adolescents. Methods: A convenience sampling technique was employed to select a sample of 300 school, college, and university students aged 15 to 21 years, including both boys and girls, from Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Reliable measures were used to collect data on the variables studied, including ICT self-efficacy, self-directed learning, e-learning readiness, and student engagement. Results: The study's findings revealed a positive correlation between self-directed learning, e-learning readiness, and student engagement. Additionally, e-learning readiness and student engagement exhibited a significant positive correlation. The study also discovered that ICT self-efficacy significantly moderated connection among self-directed learning and e-learning readiness, as well as between self-directed learning and student engagement. Conclusions: The study's findings suggest that promoting students' self-directed learning and e-learning readiness may result in improved engagement in e-learning environments. The study also emphasizes the significance of ICT self-efficacy in strengthening the relationship between SDL and SE. These results have implications for enhancing e-learning quality in Pakistani educational institutions by focusing on these factors.

The present study was intended to find out the curative potentials of Garlic (Allium sativum) against di-(2-Ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) induced toxicity in the reproductive system of female mice. Forty female mice were divided into four groups (n=10) as the (a) control group was given normal feed and drinking water, (b) aqueous garlic extract treated group (500 mg/kg), (c) DEHP group received 500 mg/kg in corn oil, and (d) DEHP + aqueous garlic extract each at a dosage of 500 mg/kg body weight. All treatments were given daily through oral gavage for 28 days. After completion of the experiment, all the animals were dissected through cervical dislocation to get reproductive organs. Collected organs were weighed and processed through the conventional histology technique of staining with eosin and hematoxylin. This study indicated that DEHP exposure caused a significant decrease (P

The goal of this study was to look into the effects of gender and age on students’ ICT self-efficacy ( ICT-SE), self-directed learning (SDL) e-learning readiness (ELR) ,engagement (SE) among middle and late teens. Using an easy sample technique, data was obtained from students at various schools, colleges, and universities in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. The total sample size was 300 students, with 144 boys (n=144) and 156 girls (n=156) ranging in age from 15 to 21. ICT self-efficacy scale (ICTSES; Alahakoon & Somaratne, 2020), Self-directed learning with technology scale (SDLTS; Teo et al., 2010), E-learning readiness scale (ELRS; Alem et al., 2016), and Student engagement scale (SES; Lee, Song, & Hong, 2019) were used in the current study consent form along with demographic information sheet. Male students had a high degree of ICT self-efficacy, whereas no significant gender differences were seen on the SDL, ELR, or SE. Furthermore, when compared to middle adolescents, late adolescents scored much higher on SDL, ELR, and SE.

Crop wild relatives contain a greater variety of phenotypic and genotypic diversity compared to their domesticated counterparts. Trifolium crop species have limited genetic diversity to cope with biotic and abiotic stresses due to artificial selection for consumer preferences. Here, we investigated the distribution and evolution of nucleotide-binding site leucine-rich repeat receptor (NLR) genes in the genus of Trifolium with the objective to identify reference NLR genes. We identified 412, 350, 306, 389 and 241 NLR genes were identified from Trifolium. subterraneum, T. pratense, T. occidentale, subgenome-A of T. repens and subgenome-B of T. repens, respectively. Phylogenetic and clustering analysis reveals seven sub-groups in genus Trifolium. Specific subgroups such as G4-CNL, CCG10-CNL and TIR-CNL show distinct duplication patterns in specific species, which suggests subgroup duplications that are the hallmarks of their divergent evolution. Furthermore, our results strongly suggest the overall expansion of NLR repertoire in T. subterraneum is due to gene duplication events and birth of gene families after speciation. Moreover, the NLRome of the allopolyploid species T. repens has evolved asymmetrically, with the subgenome -A showing expansion, while the subgenome-B underwent contraction. These findings provide crucial background data for comprehending NLR evolution in the Fabaceae family and offer a more comprehensive analysis of NLR genes as disease resistance genes.

Objective: This study investigated the causes and risk factors of coccydynia among postpartum women in Maula Bakhsh DHQ Sargodha. The main focus of the study was to identify what are the basic causes and risk factors of coccydynia. Methods: This was an observational cross-sectional study on 90 postpartum women from Maula Bakhsh DHQ Sargodha. Self-developed questionnaire was filled for data collection. Results: Highest percentages of coccydynia was found among age 30 and 35 i.e. 12.2%. Our study showed that out of the total population 68.9% women experienced coccydynia with C sections. 73.3% experienced coccydynia with increasing number of pregnancies (more than one pregnancy. 90% women experiencing pain preferred to sit on soft surface. Conclusion: This study concluded that multiple factors led to the development of coccydynia in postpartum women including number of C sections and increasing number of pregnancies.

Aim: To determine the outcome of trans-fistula anorectoplasty (TFARP) in female children having anorectal malformation with recto-vestibular fistula. Study Design: A retrospective study. Place and Duration: Department of pediatric surgery during the period of February 2018 to February 2020. Methodology: A total of 87 female children who have imperforate anus with recto-vestibular fistula from the age of 3 months to 6 years were included in this study. Initially, we have started this technique with the covering sigmoid colostomy, then TFARP after 12 weeks interval & once new anus healed and hegar dilatation achieved then sigmoid colostomy closed after 24 weeks of the first procedure. When we were experienced then we start TFARP as a single-stage procedure. Post-operative data regarding early complications of local wound infections, prolapse of the rectal mucosa, and late complications for anal stenosis, rectal prolapse, and scarring in the perineal body were collected up to 2-3 months respectively. Results: A total of 87 patients were included in this study. The average operative time was 40 minutes. The total days of hospital stay were 3 to 5 days. Regarding early complications, skin excoriation was present in 21 (24%) followed by vaginal tear in 17 (19%) cases. Mucosal prolapse was a late complication observed in 17 (20%) cases. Continence was good (Score 0) in 33 (38%) cases, while it was fair (score 1) in 36 (41%) cases. Conclusion: Primary repair of recto-vestibular fistula by Trans-fistula anorectoplasty in children is a feasible procedure that has a good cosmetic appearance and anal continence. Single-stage reconstruction is possible in children with satisfactory results. It produces less morbidity and is a more efficient procedure.

Today hypertension has become a threat to the human lives. Different factors like sensitivity to sodium, obesity, alcohol consumption, sedentary lifestyle and smoking are responsible for the development of hypertension. Hypertension can be of major risk factor to cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Because of their small molecular mass, bioactive peptides have an important role in the digestion and absorption of proteins. Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitory (ACE-I) peptides are one of the most widely used bioactive peptide in the field of medicine and food processing. Thus, these inhibitors are applied to regulate the blood pressure and prevent hypertension. Synthetic ACE inhibitors have various side effects and that is why scientists nowadays, are focusing on the natural alternate of ACE inhibitors with promising health properties. Two types of proteins found in milk are casein and whey proteins which are a good source of the bioactive peptides having a positive impact on body functions. ACE inhibitory peptides derived from the goat milk proteins are considered to be used in nutraceuticals and pharmaceutical products to reduce the hypertension ultimately reducing the risk of CVD and other related diseases.

Aim: To evaluate the advantages/benefits of a single cosmetic incision approach for the repair of bilateral inguinal hernia in children. Study design: A cross-sectional study Place and Duration of study: Pediatric surgery department, Liaquat University of Medical & Health Sciences Jamshoro from February 2017 and June 2022 Methodology: Bilateral inguinal herniorrhaphies were performed on a total of 178 children and infants who received treatment in succession. A single, transverse, 2.5-cm long suprapubic incision was performed in 89 (50%) of the patients, and the Scarpa fascia was punctured using cautery. The external ring was located and opened after retracting the wound, and the ilioinguinal nerve was safeguarded. After testicular vascular and sac separation from vas deference, the hernial sac is delicately Trans ligated with 3-0 Vicryl (Ethicon), closed was the external oblique aponeurosis. The wound was then retracted to the opposite side and treated there using the same technique. Results: Ages ranged from 3 months to 11 years at the time of operation (average, 29.8 months). 56.93% of the patients—96—were under the age of one, with 51 of them—28.65%—being under the age of six months. 48 patients were 1 to 5 years old, and 24 were over the age of 5. The average operating time was 8–10 minutes shorter than it had been in the past for children who had undergone bilateral inguinal incisions, which typically took 30–40 minutes. The visual look and overall outcomes have pleased the patients and parents. There haven't been any recurrences so yet. Conclusion: In order to improve therapeutic impact and lower the risk of complications and recurrence, we develop a single incision method for bilateral inguinal herniorrhaphies. Depending on the availability of a paediatric surgeon with the necessary experience and skills, a single incision technique for treating a child's bilateral inguinal hernia is practical, safe, and can be provided to patients. Keywords: single incision approach, inguinal herniorrhaphies, children, cosmetics

Introduction:Cadmium is known to be one of the most noxious environmental and industrial pollutant. Cigarette smoke and food products are the major sources of cadmium exposure in non-occupationally exposed people.Tephrosia lupinifoliaDC. (Fabaceae) is commonly known as Fish poison. It has usage in treatment of diarrhea, stomachache, urinary disorders, asthma and rheumatism. Objectives:This investigation was aimed to examine the protective potentials ofTephrosia lupinifoliaDC. against cadmium-induced changes in haematological parameters of Sprague-Dawley rats. Methodology:In present study, male rats (n=30) were taken and equally divided into five groups. Rats were orally administrated with relevant doses of methanolic extract ofTephrosia lupinifolia(25, 50 mg/kg bw) for 7 days and then CdCl2(4 mg/kg) was intravenously injected to produce acute toxicity. At the end of experiment, rats were dissected to collect blood for haematological analysis. Results:Cadmium treatment caused significant decline of RBCs (P=0.002), PCV and Hb concentration (P=0.0001) as compared to control. It also elevates the WBC count (PTephrosia lupinifolia. Conclusion:The outcomes of this study recommended that methanolic extract ofTephrosia lupinifolia(TLME) ameliorates the harmful effects of CdCl2on blood parameters which can be credited to the presence of different phytochemical constituents in it.

Background: Gall bladder perforation is a rare complication in the pediatric age group secondary to enteric fever and a definitive diagnosis is necessary to deal with the management. Preoperative diagnosis of gallbladder perforation is challenging and demanding in most cases diagnosed intraoperatively. Our study aims to evaluate the pattern of presentation, investigation, and complication. Methods: A descriptive case series was carried out in our pediatric department of surgery at Liaquat University Hospital Hyderabad Sindh Pakistan from January 2016 to December 2021. Data were analyzed regarding age, clinical presentation, investigation, surgical procedure, site of perforation, complication, and outcome. Results: Eleven patients were managed in five years. The patient's ages ranged from 6 years to 12 years old child of 9.19 years was the mean age of presentation. The fundus and body was the commonest site of perforation and was diagnosed intraoperatively. The presenting feature was fever, abdominal pain with distension, vomiting, constipation, and a sign of peritonism. The gallbladder perforation was managed by cholecystectomy in 10 patients and partial in one due to difficult dissection. In our series, zero mortality, and all eleven patients were symptom-free in the postoperative outpatient department clinic. Conclusion: In Perforated gallbladder patients early and aggressive management improves mortality and morbidity but represents a special diagnostic and surgical challenge. Keywords: Typhoid Fever, Perforated Gallbladder, Acalculous Cholecystitis.

The current research aimed at designing mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) for a controlled coadministration of salicylic acid (SA) and ketoconazole (KCZ) to effectively treat highly resistant fungal infections. The sol-gel method was used to formulate MSNs, which were further optimized using central composite rotatable design (CCRD) by investigating mathematical impact of independent formulation variables such as pH, stirring time, and stirring speed on dependent variables entrapment efficiency (EE) and drug release. The selected optimized MSNs and pure drugs were subjected to comparative in vitro/in vivo antifungal studies, skin irritation, cytotoxicity, and histopathological evaluations. The obtained negatively charged (-23.1), free flowing spherical, highly porous structured MSNs having a size distribution of 300-500 nm were suggestive of high storage stability and improved cell proliferation due to enhanced oxygen supply to cells. The physico-chemical evaluation of SA/KCZ-loaded MSNs performed through powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) indicates absolute lack of any interaction between formulation components and successful encapsulation of both drugs in MSNs. The EESA, EEKCZ, SA release, and KCZ release varied significantly from 34 to 89%, 36 to 85%, 39 to 88%, and 43 to 90%, respectively, indicating the quadratic impact of formulation variables on obtained MSNs. For MSNs, the skin tolerability and cell viability percentage rate were also having an extraordinary advantage over suspension of pure drugs. The optimized SA/KCZ-loaded MSNs demonstrated comparatively enhanced in vitro/in vivo antifungal activities and rapid wound healing efficacy in histopathological evaluation without any skin irritation impact, suggesting the MSNs potential for the simultaneous codelivery of antifungal and keratolyic agents in sustained release fashion.

This study is the pioneer assessment of the PCBs in indoor dust particles (from air conditioners) of an urbanized megacity from South Asian. The ∑35 PCB concentration ranged from 0.27 to 152.9 ng/g (mean: 24.84 ± 22.10 ng/g). The tri- and tetra-PCBs were dominant homologues, contributing 57.36% of the total PCB concentrations. The mean levels of Σ8 -dioxin-like (DL), Σ6 -indicator PCBs and WHO2005 -TEQ for DL-PCBs were 2.22 ± 2.55 ng/g, 9.49 ± 8.04 ng/g and 4.77 ± 4.89 pg/g, respectively. The multiple linear regression indicated a significant correlation of dusting frequency (p = 1.06 × 10-04) and age of the house (p = 1.02 × 10-06) with PCB concentrations in indoor environment. The spatial variation of PCB profile revealed relatively higher concentrations from sites near to illegal waste burning spots, electrical locomotive workshops, and grid stations. Human health risk assessment of PCBs for adults and toddlers through all three exposure routes (ie, inhalation, ingestion, and dermal contact) demonstrated that toddlers were vulnerable to high cancer risk (4.32 × 10-04 ), while adults were susceptible from low to moderate levels of risk (3.16 × 10-05 ). Therefore, comprehensive investigations for PCBs in the indoor settings, focusing particularly on the sensitive populations with relationship to the electronic devices, transformers, and illegal waste burning sites, are recommended.

This study was designed to investigate testicular and male reproductive tract histopathologies and lipid profile against di-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) exposure in mice and curative potentials of aqueous garlic (Allium sativum) extract. Four groups (n = 10) were named and treated as follow (a) control (C): (normal feed and drinking water + 0.2 ml corn oil); (b) aqueous garlic extract group (AGE): (500 mg/kg body weight of aqueous garlic extract); (c) DEHP group: (500 mg/kg body weight of DEHP, dissolved in corn oil; (d) AGE + DEHP group (500 mg/kg body weight garlic aqueous extract, and DEHP 500 mg/kg body weight dissolved in corn oil). The doses were given once daily through gavages for 28 days and on the 29th day, all the animals were euthanized through cervical dislocation and reproductive organs and blood samples were collected. The results showed that exposure to DEHP caused a significant effect on body weight, testicular weight, serum cholesterol, triglycerides, lipid profile, average cross-sectional area (ACSA) of the seminiferous tubule, ACSA of the lumen of seminiferous tubule, spermatogenic cells, Leydig's cells number, vas deferens diameter, lumen, muscular thickness, and epithelial cell height of vas deferens. This study revealed that exposure to DEHP can be injurious to male reproductive health and aqueous garlic extract can decrease the toxic effects of DEHP in male mice.

Background: Communication Disorders are common and affect individual’s abilities to comprehend, detect and use language and speech, with speech sound disorders (SSD) being the most common communication issue of the youth. SSD is a disorder of development with difficulty in articulation and phonology affecting understanding and intelligibility of speech of a child. It affects the scholarly accomplishment in school as well. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of speech sound disorders among primary school going children. Material and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study, recruiting a sample of 377 children through probability sampling technique from May 2018 to December 2018. Students of both genders, aged 4 to 8 years, were enrolled from Government Primary Schools of Mandi Bahauddin District, Punjab Pakistan. Students from private and special schools were excluded. Tool for Assessment of Articulation and Phonology in Urdu (TAAPU) was used to collect data, followed by data analysis using SPSS version 20. Results: Of 377 primary school children, 167(44.3%) were males and 210 (55.7%) were females with a male to female ratio of 1:1.26. Speech Sound Disorder was detected in 5 (1.3%) children, 4 males and only 1 female. Of these 5 cases with SSD, 3 (60%) males suffered from substitution and 1(20%) from omission, while 1 (20%) female child suffered from substitution disorder. Conclusion: The prevalence of Speech Sound Disorders in primary school children is very low being 1.3%, with significantly higher prevalence in males aged 61-72 months. “Substitution” of sounds is more common compared to “omission”.

This study describes the surface deformation in lower Jehlum and eastern Potwar using remotely sensed Shutter Radar Topographic Mission (SRTM) Digital Elevation Model (DEM) to identify regional uplift rates. Mapping of active surface deformations help to predict seismic hazards. DEMs are the fundamental input factors that identify the surface geometry and its belongings. These belongings include stream offset, elevation, and slope breaks within a contributing area. This study provides an evidence of tectonic activity and its impact on regional drainage network using SRTM DEM. Various indices including concavity and steepness were computed using power law in steady state conditions. We prepared the drainage network map of the study site showing uplift rates in mm/year. The deflection in stream network proves the existence of active fault in this region which controls the local drainage network. The results prove the relative uplift along Main Boundary Thurst (MBT) and the impact of active tectonic on evolving young organs.

The aim of the present study was to determine the occurrence, spatio-temporal variations, source apportioning, and ecological risk assessment of selected PCBs and OCPs in surface water and sediments collected riverine environment of Punjab province, Pakistan. The concentration of ΣOCPs (water: 64-455 ng/L; sediments: 117-616 ng/g) and ΣPCBs (water: 2-132 ng/L; sediments: 3.27-200 ng/g) was found comparatively higher than the levels reported from other parts of the world. The higher concentrations of DDTs and HCHs were detected in both studied matrices, whereas among PCBs, CB-28, 49 and CB-37, 82 were dominant in water and sediments, respectively. The isomeric ratios including α-HCH/γ-HCH, (DDE + DDD) / DDTs, and α /β-endosulfan reflected the recent use of lindane, technical DDT, and endosulfan in the study area. The WHO-TEQ values of DL-PCBs ranged from 3.6 × 10

This study assessed the polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) levels in human milk and its associated health risk to infants from rural and urban settings of five districts of Punjab Province, Pakistan. The ∑34PCB concentrations ranged from 30.9 to 68.3 ng g−1 on lipid weight (l.w.) basis. The ∑8DL-PCB concentrations were ranged from 0.29 to 1.35 ng g−1 l.w., (mean 6.2 ± 8.7 ng g−1 l.w.), with toxicity equivalent to polychlorinated dibenzodioxins (PCDDs) ranging from 8.58 × 10−6 to 0.05 ng TEQ g−1 l.w. The spatial trend of PCB levels in human milk revealed higher bioaccumulative levels for urban mothers as compared with rural counterparts. The estimated daily intake (EDI) values of DL-PCBs to infants through trans-mammary transfer were considerably higher than tolerable daily intake limits established by WHO (i.e., 1–4 pg TEQ kg−1 bw) and other globally recognized organizations. Similarly, the hazard quotient values for TEQ ∑8DL-PCBs (range 1.21 to 79.87) were far above the benchmark value of 1 at all the sampling sites, indicating the high levels of adverse health risks to infants in the region through breast milk consumption. The ∑34PCB levels were found to be negatively correlated with mother’ age (r = −0.31; p = 0.02), parity (r = − 0.85; p = 0.001), and infant’ birth weight (r = − 0.73; p = 0.01). The present study suggests undertaking comprehensive public health risk assessment studies and firm regulatory measures to safeguard human health risks.

Introduction: Contaminated abdominal surgical laparotomy incisions and their care are basic principles in the field of surgery. In emergency or trauma laparotomy, the primary surgeon's pivotal role is to optimize the untoward incision wound response, excise or debride viable/nonviable tissues, and alleviate the process of wound healing near to normal function. In contaminated abdominal surgeries, wound contamination is unavoidable that occurs at the time of surgery, and several methods are used to prevent wound complications. Material and Methods: To assess the impact of subcutaneous negative suction versus simple subcutaneous drains on the outcome of surgical wound infection, we conducted an observational study involving patients with contaminated abdominal surgical laparotomy wounds. The study was conducted in the Department of Pediatric Surgery at Liaquat University Hospital Hyderabad. Over five years from January 2015 to December 2020 about 300 patients underwent emergency or trauma laparotomy. Patients were divided into two groups A and B 150 each group by random sampling. Results: In our study, negative suction drain versus simple subcutaneous drain without suction during the closure of the contaminated abdominal surgical wound in emergency or trauma laparotomy, the negative suction drain is highly suggestive to decrease postoperative wound infection, seroma formation, and wound disruption. Compared to a simple subcutaneous drain, the utilization of a subcutaneous suction drain following the closure of the abdominal sheath result in effective wound drainage, reducing the risk of wound infection and disruption. Conclusion: Subcutaneous suction drain has a better outcome as compared with simple subcutaneous without suction in the management of contaminated surgical laparotomy wounds. Keywords: Negative suction drain, simple drain, seroma, wound disruption.

Microplastics (MPs) pollution is an emerging global environmental concern. Considering the high fraction of time people spend indoors, the human population can be directly exposed to this contamination through indoor dust. This preliminary study evaluates MPs' abundance and human health risk assessment in the deposited indoor dust. A total of forty dust samples (n = 20) were collected from homes in two different cities (Pakistan) in steel mesh pouches using the vacuum cleaner. The identification and quantification of MPs were conducted with a stereo microscope, whereas the qualitative assessment was performed with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The US EPA parameters to calculate the human health risk assessment were used to determine MPs' risk per-day/month/year. Overall, microfibers were the dominant category, followed by microfilms, micro-fragments, and nurdles. The chemical categorization of MPs was revealed as polyester, polyethylene, copolymers of polypropylene, and polyurethane. In Lahore, an average abundance of 241.45 (items/m2) MPs were observed compared to Sahiwal, with 162.1 (items/m

SARS-CoV-2, an RNA virus, has been prone to high mutations since its first emergence in Wuhan, China, and throughout its spread. Its genome has been sequenced continuously by many countries, including Pakistan, but the results vary. Understanding its genomic patterns and connecting them with phenotypic features will help in devising therapeutic strategies. Thus, in this study, we explored the mutation landscape of 250 Pakistani isolates of SARS-CoV-2 genomes to check the genome diversity and examine the impact of these mutations on protein stability and viral pathogenesis in comparison with a reference sequence (Wuhan NC 045512.2). Our results revealed that structural proteins mainly exhibit more mutations than others in the Pakistani isolates; in particular, the nucleocapsid protein is highly mutated. In comparison, the spike protein is the most mutated protein globally. Furthermore, nsp12 was found to be the most mutated NSP in the Pakistani isolates and worldwide. Regarding accessory proteins, ORF3A is the most mutated in the Pakistani isolates, whereas ORF8 is highly mutated in world isolates. These mutations decrease the structural stability of their proteins and alter different biological pathways. Molecular docking, the dissociation constant (KD), and MM/GBSA analysis showed that mutations in the S protein alter its binding with ACE2. The spike protein mutations D614G-S943T-V622F (−75.17 kcal/mol), D614G-Q677H (−75.78 kcal/mol), and N74K-D614G (−73.84 kcal/mol) exhibit stronger binding energy than the wild type (−66.34 kcal/mol), thus increasing infectivity. Furthermore, the simulation results strongly corroborated the predicted protein servers. Our analysis findings also showed that E, M, ORF6, ORF7A, ORF7B, and ORF10 are the most stable coding genes; they may be suitable targets for vaccine and drug development.

In the present study, the effect of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) either single walled (SWCNT) or multi walled (MWCNT) on sugar oxidation by Corynascus thermophilus cellobiose dehydrogenase (CtCDH) is investigated. The current observed for the direct electron transfer (DET) communication between the enzyme and the electrode is compared to that of the mediated electron transfer (MET) obtained from CtCDH/CNT/Os-polymer modified electrodes. The CNTs provide a high surface area for the immobilization of CtCDH and the Os-polymer and increases the amount of both on the electrode surface. The amperometric current density measured for 50 mM glucose at pH 7.4 and an applied potential of 290 mV vs. SHE in DET mode is 6.90 μA cm−2, which is further improved to about 8.73 μA cm−2 when a cross-linker is applied, whereas a 14-folds increase to 97.6 μA cm−2 is observed for MET when CtCDH is immobilized in the Os-polymer and cross-linked. The current densities extracted from CVs at 150 mV vs. SHE using 20 mM glucose for CtCDH immobilized with the Os-polymer, MWCNT/Os-polymer and SWCNT/Os-polymer are 139.7, 180.3 and 328.2 μA cm−2, respectively so a remarkable increase is observed when using SWCNT for electrode modification. The bioanode also exhibits a good stability and it retains more than 50% of its activity in multicycle CV scan after five days. Thus the bioanode based on SWCNT/CtCDH/Os-polymer/cross-linker could be a promising electrode for application as anode in enzymatic biofuel cells.

Selection of promising genotypes from a diverse genetic pool and their utilization for hybridization is an important strategy for wheat crop improvement. The data from ten parents and their F1 progenies using line × tester mating scheme were analyzed to assess the effects of combining ability for yield and its cognate characters using randomized complete block design with three replications. Data were taken for grain yield and its associated characters like plant height, peduncle and spike length, flag leaf area, per plant tillers, spikelets spike−1, grains spike−1, spike density, thousand-grain weight and grain yield plant−1. Analysis of variance was used to statistically analyze the data. Line × tester analysis was used to find out association among traits and to estimate the effects of GCA and SCA. Highly significant differences were found among parents (lines, testers) and their F1 hybrids for all the parameters under study. Among parents, Line 9796 and tester 107 manifested as best general combiners and exhibited significant GCA effects for almost all the mentioned traits. In the case of F1 hybrids, 9793 × 118 and Punjab-2011 × 108 were recognized as best specific combiners exhibiting significant SCA effects. A higher value of SCA variance than the variance of GCA revealed the preponderance of non-additive genetic action. The degree of dominance revealed the involvement of both type of gene action for the traits under investigation. The deviations among total variation were mainly due to genotypes. Most of the yield associated traits were highly heritable with more than 80% heritability. These findings were confirmed by genetic gain. Thus, potential homozygous lines can be selected from transgressive segregants to improve yield and these crosses will be beneficial for commercial exploitation to heterosis.

The question has been mongering around that is the use of medicine dangerous? What are the set limits of medicine usage? The purpose of this review paper is to highlight the pragmatic criteria and set boundaries that aid in differentiating between medicalization and over-medicalization. When a problem in a human body is considered a medical problem, then this consideration comes with various consequences. It also raises questions about the accuracy of this statement which called the issue a medical problem. However, certain boundaries can neither b crossed nor questioned which encapsulates various areas of human existence. This review paper will discuss the following points; (i) consequences of both medicalization and over-medicalization; (ii) exhibit that optimum model of health cannot be established which can help in setting the boundaries for medicine use; (iii) guiding questions have been discussed to help in differentiating between medicalization and over-medicalization. This article reflects the bioethical boundaries of medicine and promotes evaluative analysis of the medicalization phenomenon.

Obesity is a chronic metabolic and noncommunicable disease that affects 50% of world population. Reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress are interconnected with the obesity and several metabolic disorders, gaining the attention of scientific community to combat this problem naturally. Among various fruits, mango as a yellow fruit is rich in polyphenols, carotenoids, terpenes, and flavonoids that act as antioxidants to protect against free radicals produced in the body. The present study was performed to explore in vivo antioxidant potential of mango peels against dyslipidemia and oxidative stress in overweight subjects. The female volunteers ( n = 31 ) between 25 and 45 years of age having a body mass index (BMI) of 25.0-29.9 (overweight) were included in this study, while participants with complications as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular, and liver diseases were excluded. The treatment group consumed 1 g mango peel powder for 84 days. The subjects were analyzed for biochemical analysis, antioxidant status, and anthropometric measurements at baseline and end of the study period. Further, at the end of study, the safety evaluation tests were also performed. The results showed that upon consumption of mango peel powder, low-density lipoproteins (LDL), cholesterol, triglyceride, urea, and creatinine levels were decreased and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) level was increased ( P ≤ 0.05 ), while thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) showed increased antioxidant status ( P ≤ 0.05 ) which suggests that mango peels have a strong management potential against oxidative stress and dyslipidemia in obese subjects.

The plant Moringa oleifera occurs in sub-Himalayan areas of Asia and in Africa. Named the Miracle Tree, moringa contains many micro and macro-nutrients of great value for human nutrition, in particular for the malnourished population. Moringa provides vitamins, minerals and essential amino acids that are helpful in preventing protein malnutrition. M. oleifera is also a powerful antioxidant, anticancer, antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory agent. Leaves, pods, roots, seeds and flowers of M. oleifera contain bioactive compounds. After oil extraction from seeds, the left-over seed cake can be used as a protein-rich soil fertilizer. Moringa roots also reduce soil degradation.

This preliminary investigation highlights the occurrence of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in the indoor environment of a megacity, Lahore, Pakistan using the dust ensnared by air-conditioner filters. The Σ16 OCPs concentration ranged from 7.53 to 1272.87 ng/g with the highest percent contribution by ΣDDT (dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane; 87.21%) and aldrin (6.58%). The spatial variation of OCPs profile revealed relatively higher concentration from homes near to agricultural and abandoned DDT manufacturing sites. Calculated isomer ratios revealed historic sources of hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCHs) and the fresh input of technical DDT and chlordane by the dwellers. The air conditioner dust was helpful to better understand the health risk in the indoor environment. So far a high lifetime cancer risk (10-3 ) was predicted for toddlers via accidental ingestion, inhalation, and dermal exposure. Similarly, the non-carcinogenic risk-based hazard quotient was found to be high for toddlers (6.94) and within the permissible limit (

Introduction Sepsis and septic shock (sepsis-induced hypotension not improved by adequate fluid resuscitation) are among the most common reasons for admission to an intensive care unit (ICU) and display high mortality rates. Different scoring systems are used to diagnose and predict the mortality of patients having sepsis. This study aims to validate the prognostic accuracy of Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) and Quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (qSOFA) in determining the mortality of both septic and non-septic patients. Materials and methods This retrospective cohort study was conducted in May 2018 in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU) of a tertiary care hospital in Karachi, Pakistan. Past 200 patient records, from January 2018 to April 2018, were examined, and 20 records were discarded due to insufficient data. Sufficient observational data were collected, which was used to assess the validity of the SOFA and qSOFA in determining the mortality rate of sepsis. A comparison of the two modalities was made. Results Out of the 200 patients, 180 were enrolled. Data from their entire ICU stay were used to calculate their initial, highest, and mean SOFA and qSOFA. Mean SOFA score up to nine correlated with a mortality rate of up to

In the present study, wild type and three mutants of pyranose 2-oxidase (PyOx-WT, PyOx-MT1, PyOx-MT2, PyOx-MT3), which showed improved properties for D-galactose oxidation, were investigated for their oxidising ability when immobilised on graphite electrodes. Four different flexible Os polymers with formal potentials ranging between -0.140 and 0.270V vs. Ag|AgCl0.1MKCl were applied together with the various forms of PyOx to wire graphite electrodes using polyethylene glycol diglycidyl ether as crosslinking reagent. The pH profiles for the electrodes modified with wild type and all PyOx mutants in combination with the Os polymers were investigated with both glucose and galactose, respectively, since the PyOx variants showed an improved catalytic activity for galactose. All modified electrodes showed highest response in the pH range between 8.5-10 and K-M, I-max values for both glucose and galactose were determined. To prove the catalytic activity, the biosensors were also characterized with cyclic voltammetry. A protein amount 0.26U was found optimum for PyOx-WT, 0.36U for PyOx-MT1, 0.41U for PyOx-MT2 and 0.28U for PyOx-MT3 and the analytical characterization of the enzyme electrodes was performed for glucose and galactose under optimized conditions. The authors thank the following agencies for financial support: MN Zafar; The Higher Education Commission of Pakistan for financial support (grant number: 6515/Punjab/NRPU/R&D/HEC/2016), LG; The Swedish Research Council (grant number 2014‐5908), DL and LG; The European Commission (grant number: FP7‐PEOPLE‐2013‐ITN‐607793), and FT; The Fondecyt project 11130167 and the Proyecto Bsale 155. peer-reviewed 2019-04-25

Ecological risk assessment, spatio-temporal variation, and source apportionment of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were studied in surface sediments and water from River Ravi and its three northern tributaries (Nullah Deg, Nullah Basantar, and Nullah Bein) in Pakistan. In total, 35 PCB congeners were analyzed along 27 sampling stations in pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. The ∑35PCB concentration ranged from 1.06 to 95.76 ng/g (dw) in sediments and 1.94 to 11.66 ng/L in water samples, with hexa-CBs and tetra-CBs as most dominant homologs in sediments and water matrixes, respectively. The ∑8DL-PCB levels were 0.33-22.13 ng/g (dw) and 0.16-1.95 ng/L in sediments and water samples, respectively. The WHO-toxic equivalent values were ranged from 1.18 × 10-6 to 0.012 ng/L and 1.8 × 10-6 to 0.031 ng/g in water and sediments matrixes, respectively. The ecological risk assessment indicates considerable potential ecological risk during pre-monsoon season ([Formula: see text] = 95.17) and moderate potential ecological risk during post-monsoon season ([Formula: see text] = 49.11). The industrial and urban releases were recognized as key ongoing sources for high PCB levels in environment. Therefore, we recommend more freshwater ecological studies to be conducted in the study area and firm regulatory initiatives are required to be taken in debt to the Stockholm Convention, 2001 to cop up with PCB contamination on emergency basis.

This paper attempted to examine the socioeconomic determinants of preventive measures of child health, i.e. child immunization, particularly focusing on the factors of social institutions and regional diversity in Pakistan economy. For the purpose micro data having 8731 observations from Pakistan Demographic Health Survey (PDHS) 2006-2007 has been utilized. Binary logistic regression is employed to determine the association between complete immunization of children (in the age group of 12 months to 5 years) and explanatory variables. The ethnicity of the households has been taken as proxy of social institution and provinces of Pakistan as regional diversity. Complete immunization of children is captured by basic vaccinations, i.e. BCG, Measles, DPT and Polio. A child is assumed as completely immunized if he/she has received all the twelve vaccinations. The results have shown that social institution represented by ethnicity of household has significant impact on the probability of immunization of children. The children of Urdu, Sindhi, Pashtu and Barohi speaking families are less likely to be immunized as compared to those of Punjabi speaking families. The children from Pashto speaking families are least likely to be immunized as compared to children from Punjabi speaking families. The children living in Sindh and Balochistan are least likely to have complete immunization as compared to those living in Punjab. The results have further shown that male children and children born in hospitals are more likely to be immunized. The probability of complete immunization of children increases with increase in educational level of mother. The children of working mothers are less likely to be completely immunized as compared to their counterparts of mothers who are not working.

Aims: To determine the prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus and prediabetes among the population aged 40-74 years in Pakistan. Methods: This population-based cross-sectional survey, conducted between 2017 and 2018, invited 2186 randomly selected individuals Subjects were screened using finger capillary blood for glycosylated hemoglobin, type A1C, non-fasting random plasma glucose, fasting plasma glucose followed by oral glucose tolerance test. The test was based on an algorithm that accounts for screening, diagnostic and confirmatory steps. Anthropometric measures and a questionnaire including medical history, medication, hereditary conditions, and food intake were included. Conclusions The prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes increased with age and were more frequent among men. Keywords: Type 2 diabetes mellitus; prediabetes; Faroe Islands; prevalence; diagnostic criteria; population-based.

Introduction: This investigation was intended to assess Spontaneous work rates Induction rates, Cesarean segment rates perinatal dreariness and mortality. Postdated pregnancy is one of the most regularly experienced clinical issues by an obstetrician. The inquiry requires to pick hopeful administration with antepartum fetal reconnaissance or to proceed with acceptance of work. Material and Method: The investigation was directed from august 2017 to January 2018. It was held in General Hospital Lahore. All chose result factors were recorded in the emergency clinic and the information broke down. This retrospective investigation included 200 ladies including primigravida and multigravida past 40 weeks’ time of incubation meeting the incorporation and rejection criteria. Chosen result factors incorporated the maternal age, parity, mode of conveyance, maternal confusions, neonatal morbidity, APGARscore and perinatal dismalness and mortality. All chose result factors were recorded in the emergency clinic and the information dissected. Findings were broke down with extraordinary accentuation on maternal and fetal result. Results: All out, individuals incorporated into the examination were 200 women. All were past 40 weeks’ time of incubation. 94 % conveyed after enlistment, 20% had cesarean segment and 57.5%delivered with unconstrained beginning of work. Inference: As indicated by the present examination it appears to be sensible to actuate work at 41 weeks’ time of incubation, as the feto-maternal intricacies will in general be fundamentally increasingly following 42 weeks’ time of growth. Keywords: postdated pregnancy, feto-maternal complications, caesarean section.

Quantification of elements is the point of this investigation is to quantify the estimations of blood orchidic hormone and the quantity of the platelets and white blood cells during supplanting treatment with testosterone satisfy in portion 3 and 7 mg/kg corpse mass in rodent mold of sex hormone shortage. There is rare information concerning the impact of orchidic hormone propionate on disorder of white blood cells in intense and unending management, because in people, subsequently tentatively. There is medical and atomic organic information that the androgen chemicals and particularly sex hormone impact the integer and the elements of the blood clots. Temporary platelet incitement was seen following male sex hormone propionate organization in rodents through sex hormone insufficiency. 7mg/kg b.w. of male sex hormone propionate, connected in rodent representation of sex hormone insufficiency reestablishes the physical T stages. White blood cells incitement was seen in 2 weeks male sexual organ propionate cured rodents with sex hormone inadequacy. Keywords: leucopoiesis, thrombocytopoiesis, testosterone propionate.

Study Aim: We conducted this study to make comparison of anti-inflammatory effects of glimepiride and sitagliptin in overweight patients of type-2 diabetes. Study design: An Interventional Clinical Trial. Place and duration: This study was carried out for the duration of six months starting from August, 2018 February, 2019 at Holy Family Hospital, Rawalpindi. Material and methodology: We included a total of 110 overweight patients of type-2 diabetes. There were 70 (63.64%) males and 40 (36.36%) females. Randomly divided them into two groups as group-A and group-B. Sitagliptin 50mg was given to group-A while glimepiride 2mg was given to group-B for a time period of three months. Determined the dose corresponding to sugar level of blood. Measured the changes in C-reactive Protein (CRP) as primary results. Whereas, changes in lipid profile, HbA1C, blood sugar level and BMI were recorded as secondary results. Analysis of data was carried out through SPSS 20. Results: All selected patients (110) were divided into two equal groups A and B. At the end of three months treatment HbA1C and blood sugar were found reduced but comparison results among both groups was non-significant with P value equal to 0.59 in group A and 0.17 in group B. Weight of body was slightly increased in group B using glimepiride. On the other hand, in group A using sitagliptin observed slight reduction in body mass. However, comparison of both groups was found non-significant with P value equal to 0.07. significant improvement observed in lipid profile of group A compared to group B that is ) HDL-cholesterol (-2.6±6.2 A) vs (B 1.2±5.2) with P-value=0.03, LDL- cholesterol (-10±22.4 A) vs (B -0.8±18.7) with P-value=0.001, triglycerides (-19±44.6 A) vs (B -1.8±48.7) with P-value=0.001 and total cholesterol (-25±32.5 A) vs (B +1.5±45.4) with P-value=0.02. Significant reduction observed in CRP level during comparison of sitagliptin vs glimepiride as (-2.3±1.8 A) vs (B 0.8±1.5) with P-value=0.001. Conclusion: In this study we observed that sitagliptin have strong anti-inflammatory effects as noticed via decrease in CRP levels in overweight patients of type 2 diabetes when compared with glimepiride. Sitagliptin also showed positive effects on lipid profiles and glycemic control. Key words: C-reactive protein, Lipid profile, Glycemic index, Glimepiride, Sitagliptin, Type-2 Diabetes.

Aim: To estimate the frequency of vaccinated children among measles cases Methods: One hundred and thirty 130 diagnosed cases measles (presence of typical maculopapular rash or pathognomonic koplik’s spots, fever and any of these coughs, coryza or conjunctivitis) of either gender with age range of 1-12 years were selected from Pediatric Department of Federal Government Polyclinic Hospital, Islamabad. Detailed history and clinical examination for measles considering their medical record regarding vaccination status was done. The frequency of vaccinated children among measles cases was noted. Results: In this study, out of 150 cases in Rifaximin Group, 30.67%(n=23) and 36%(n=27) were between 20-50 years of age while 69.33%(n=52) in Rifaximin and 64%(n=48) in Placebo Group were between 51-80 years of age, mean+sd was calculated as 54.42+9.21 years and 56.14+10.81 years respectively, 49.33%(n=37) in Rifaximin and 45.33%(n=34) in Placebo Group were males whereas 50.67%(n=38) in Rifaximin and 54.67%(n=41) in Placebo group were males. On comparison of both groups, we found recurrence rate as 28% in Rifaxomin and 53.33% in Placebo group, p value was 0.002 showing a significant lower rate in Rifaximin group. Conclusion: The use of rifaximin shows significantly lower rate of recurrence of hepatic encephalopathy when compared to placebo Keywords: Hepatic encephalopathy, treatment, Rifaximin, Placebo, recurrence

Objective: The aim of the study was to highlight the demographic features due to which a serious obstetric patient was shifted to ICU. The treatment of these patients in ICU is also included in the objectives of study. Methods: This was an illustrated and backdated study organized between August, 2017 and June 2018.the place of organization of this study was Services Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan. The patients selected for the study were from the department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and seriously ill females. They were shifted to intensive care unit. A proforma was designed for the assemblage of demographic information of every patient. This information also includes involvement of patient in department, their attestation and initial identification, logics of transferring to ICU, treatment and stay. Ultimate results were also recorded in the proforma. Using SPSS 21, information was assessed. Results: Total patients included in this study were 150. The mean age of the patients was 30.3 ± 5.047 years. The number of patients who needed ventilator support was 38 (25.3 %). However, support of oxygen and inotropic was given to 112 (74.7 %) patients. 41 (27.3 %) was the final death rate of females. From these 41 patients, patients with ventilator and without ventilator were 22 (57.8 %) and 19 (16.9 %) respectively. In ICU, the mean stay was 4.47 ± 2.53 days. The most common factors that leads to the shifting of patients to intensive care unit were eclampsia / pre-eclampsia, bleeding disorders and septic trauma with the ratio of 80 (53.33 %), 25 (16.65 %) and 24 (16 %) respectively. Conclusion: The female patients who died were mostly supported with ventilator. Main factors that leads to the shifting of patients to intensive care unit were bleeding disorders and hypertensive. Keywords: Outcome, ICU, Critically ill, Obstetric patients.

All around the globe, the common health issue faced by people is Diabetes Mellitus. If diabetes is not managed, the working of B-cell and T-cell is influenced. As a result, susceptibility of bacterial attack enhances. Occasion of metabolic complexities in this disorder increases as the vulnerability of bacterial infections increases. The situations that endangers life can be retarded by managing the optimal glycaemia and awareness regarding this disorder. Through awareness, unhealthy state of mind can be managed. Seriousness of indications can be eliminated by proper selection of actual medication. Experts should be consulted if the situation is critical. Keywords: Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Opsonophagocytosis, Humoral, Bacteruria, Rhinocerebral mucormycosis

If employee of the industry is giving superior services to the customer, that customer will be progressively pleased so there is great importance if internal marketing. The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of internal marketing (Marketing mix approach) on affective commitment of employees in Islamic banks of Punjab, Pakistan. A model was made to examine the factors affecting affective commitment and it was tested empirically using a sample of 543. All the respondents were branch managers of different Islamic banks. The questionnaire strategy was used for this research. SPSS was used to run regression. The paper found "internal price", "internal promotion", "internal physical evidence", "internal people", "internal product" and "internal place" to be the most effective components of the internal marketing construct of the research model, making them key influencers of affective commitment. This study is confined to two things one is organizational commitment “Affective commitment” and other is internal marketing. The scope of this study is limited and it is case from the Islamic banks of Punjab, Pakistan. Practical implications – The paper outlines ways to effectively use internal marketing (Marketing Mix Approach) for making employees committed to bank. A marketing manager or policy maker can follow these outlines for making policy for employees.

The current study explains the effect of chemical pretreatments on rice bran (RB) for the removal of Ni(II) from aqueous solution. Among the pretreated RB biomasses, NaRB, HARB, CaRB and SARB showed much improvement in adsorption capacity. The kinetic data was analyzed in term of pseudo first-order and pseudo second-order expressions. The Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models were applied to the equilibrium data and defined very well the Langmuir isotherm model. The maximum biosorption capacity of NaRB, HARB, CaRB and SARB for Ni(II) was found to be 153.6, 149.4, 144.0 and 140.0 mg/g, respectively. The results from the sequential adsorption–desorption cycles showed that it was possible to reuse the biosorbent. Among the desorbents studied, HNO3 with desorption efficiencies equal to 68.2 and 67.4%, for NaRB and HARB, respectively, at the end of three cycles, was found to be the best desorbent.

The present study biomonitored the placental polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) concentrations in women from Punjab Province, Pakistan, that provides the pioneer data for occurrence and body burden of PCBs in placental tissues from South Asian women. The ∑34PCB concentrations in placental tissues were ranged from 20.2 to 115.98 ng/g lipid weight (lip. wt.), with predominance of tetra-PCB (54.67%). The levels of ∑8DL-PCBs and ∑6-indicator PCBs were ranged from 2.03 to 27.64 ng/g (lip. wt.) and 1.71 to 30.8 ng/g (lip. wt.), respectively. The WHO-TEQ2005 values for DL-PCBs were ranged from 1.18 × 10−5 to 0.067 ng/g (lip. wt.), with highest value evaluated for CB-126. The estimated daily intake (EDI) for DL-PCBs was ranged from 9.27 × 10−8 to 5.25 × 10−4 pg WHO-TEQ/kg body weight (bw), which was within the tolerable daily intake (TDI) values established by international organizations. The spatial distribution patterns of Σ34PCB concentrations from study area have shown relative higher concentrations in samples from urban and industrial cities than rural areas, and industrial and urban releases along with e-waste handling were recognized as vital PCB sources in the environment. In order to ascertain the transplacental transfer of PCBs, the fetal growth parameters were correlated with the ∑34PCB concentrations in placental tissues. The relationship between ∑34PCB concentrations in placental tissues and infant’s anthropometric measures through multiple linear regression showed a negative correlation of infant’s body weight (R2 = 0.0728), crown to heel length (R2 = 0.068), head circumference (R2 = 0.0342), chest circumference (R2 = 0.0001), and mid arm circumference (R2 = 0.0096) that noticeably highlights the inhibited fetal anthropometric development associated with maternal PCB bioaccumulation. Hence, an immediate elimination of ongoing PCB addition in the studied area has been emphasized and further investigations are suggested to appropriately manage the public and neonatal health risks in the region.

A new extracellular flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD)-dependent glucose dehydrogenase from Glomerella cingulata (GcGDH) was electrochemically studied as a recognition element in glucose biosensors. The redox enzyme was recombinantly produced in Pichia pastoris, homogeneously purified and its glucose oxidizing properties on spectrographic graphite electrodes were investigated. Six different Os-polymers, the redox potentials of which ranging in a broad potential window between +15 and +489 mV vs. NHE, were used to immobilize and “wire” GcGDH to the spectrographic graphite electrode’s surface. The GcGDH/Os-polymer modified electrodes were evaluated by chronoamperometry using flow injection analysis. The current response was investigated using a step-wisely increased applied potential. It was observed that the ratio of GcGDH:Os-polymer and the overall loading of the enzyme electrode significantly affect the performance of the enzyme electrode for glucose oxidation. The best suited Os-polymer [Os(4,4¢-dimethyl-2,2¢-bipyridine)2(PVI)Cl]+ had a potential of +309 mV vs. NHE and the optimum GcGDH:Os-polymer ratio was 1:2 yielding a maximum current density of 493 µAcm-2 at a 30 mM glucose concentration. Key words: Glucose dehydrogenase, FAD, Os-polymers, glucose biosensor, chronoamperometry, oxygen reactivity.

To improve communications between enzymes and electrodes, many different methods were developed including the use of diffusional electron mediators, the “wiring” of enzymes through immobilization in redox polymers, the functionalization of enzymes with electron relays, and the use of nanomaterials. Recently a new promising strategy was reported, in which the glycoprotein glucose oxidase (GOx) was directly electrically contacted with the electrodes after removal of the glycosylating layer. Although a lot of advances in the electrical communication between enzymes and electrodes has made it possible to fabricate new biosensors and biofuel cells, the technologies still face challenging issues, such as development of long-term stable miniaturized implantable amperometric biosensors and biofuel cells. Our approach to the development of a glucose biofuel cell anode is based on the combination of different redox enzymes with complementary oxidation positions thus forming a reaction cascade to oxidize the substrate at more than one position. Improvements in current density and coulombic efficiency of a glucose oxidizing electrode were realized by a combination of pyranose dehydrogenase from Agaricus meleagris (AmPDH) with either glucose dehydrogenase from Glomerella cingulata (GcGDH) or cellobiose dehydrogenase from Myriococcum thermophilum (MtCDH). The mixed enzyme electrode oxidizes glucose in several combinations at the C-1, C-2 and C-3 positions of the pyranose ring. This concerted action of enzymes increases (i) the coulombic efficiency by extracting more than 2 e- per substrate molecule and (ii) the current density of the electrode when the mass-transfer of substrates becomes rate limiting. The electrodes were investigated with flow injection analysis (FIA) using different substrates under physiological conditions (pH 7.4). These investigations showed that the product of one enzyme can be used as substrate for the other enzyme and maximally 6 e- can be gained from the oxidation of one glucose molecule using mixed enzyme electrodes like AmPDHb/GcGDH/Os-polymer 2 or the AmPDHa/MtCDH/Os-polymer 1. We propose a bioanode for use in biofuel cells with an increased current density and coulombic efficiency obtained by a cascade reaction catalyzed by redox enzymes with a different site-specificity for glucose. Key words: Bio-anode, glucose dehydrogenase, Os-polymers, pyranose dehydrogenase, cellobiose dehydrogenase, coulombic efficiency