Muhammad Wajid

Nail disorders in Pakistan are an underestimated burden, and no population-based molecular data on nail disorders in Punjab have been provided previously. The study aims to establish prevalence, clinical presentation, risk factors and genetic structure of nail disorders in ten districts. Methods and. A cross-sectional survey (20,222,024) involved the recruitment of 1,240 affected participants and 480 controls. Diagnostics consisted of mycological culture, dermoscopy, histopathology, targeted NGS (NailGenome-94v2), and pharmacogenomic (CYP2C19, CYP3A4, ABCB1). The overall prevalence was 98.4/1,000 with a southern hotspot: Sadiqabad (127.6/1,000), Rahim Yar Khan (119.2/1,000) and Bahawalpur (112.8/1,000). Severe onychomycosis was predicted by agricultural occupation (aOR 2.14), pesticide exposure (aOR 1.98), and living in the south (aOR 2.87). In 17 Seraiki-speaking families, a novel FZD6 c.1757G > A (p.Arg586Gln) variant was identified, with shared haplotype evidence suggesting a possible founder effect; however, this interpretation requires confirmation in larger population-based and functional studies. The prevalence of a CYP2C19 poor metabolizer was 12.4% and was independently related to itraconazole hepatotoxicity (aOR 4.12). The high burden of nail disease in Punjab appears to reflect occupational exposures, delayed diagnosis, and possible enrichment of hereditary nail-disorder variants in southern districts. In this group, pretreatment CYP2C19 screening would be justified to use systemic itraconazole. Clinical trial number: not applicable.

The current study explores the synthesis, characterization and toxicity of copper oxides (CuO-NPs) in albino mice. The nanoparticles exhibited a porous, rough-surfaced, spherical morphology; XRD confirmed their crystalline nature, while FTIR revealed key functional groups of CuO-NPs. The 30 days H1 (5 mg/kg) and H2 (15 mg/kg) CuO-NPs exposure induced significant alterations in haematological parameters, including elevated white blood cell counts, particularly neutrophils, platelets and a significant decrease in haemoglobin and platelets distribution width. Biochemical analyses revealed changes in lipid profile, kidney, and liver biomarkers, indicating potential toxicity. Histological studies of the liver indicated sinusoidal lumen, necrosis, opening of the central vein, lymphocytic infiltration, irregular nucleus, degeneration of hepatocytes, and antinucleosis. In the kidney, glomerular destruction, necrosis, tubular degeneration, vascular degeneration, anisokaryosis, and expansion of the central vein were recorded. The heart tissues showed congestion, fatty degeneration, infiltration of inflammatory cells, and necrosis in the treated group. Molecular interactions revealed CuO NPs interacted with albumin, AST, bilirubin, and fibrinogen via hydrogen and covalent bonds, showing potential toxicity. This study highlights the link between nanomaterial properties, physiological changes, and molecular interactions underlying CuO NP toxicity, emphasizing the need for further research on their safe use and biomedical applications.

The widespread disposal of alkaline battery waste (ABW) poses significant environmental risks, particularly in aquatic ecosystems where heavy metals can accumulate and disrupt biological functions. This study evaluates the acute toxicity and sub-lethal effects of ABW exposure on Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), a key species in aquaculture and freshwater food chains. The 96-h LC₅₀ of ABW for Nile tilapia was determined to be 25.64 mg/L. Experimental fish were exposed to sub-lethal concentrations (10 and 40% LC₅₀) of ABW for 30 days, and multiple physiological and biochemical biomarkers were assessed. Growth performance parameters, including weight gain (WG) and specific growth rate (SGR), were significantly reduced in exposed groups. Elevated cortisol and blood glucose levels indicated heightened physiological stress, while liver function enzymes (alanine amino transferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST)) activity exhibited significant increases, reflecting hepatic impairment. Histopathological analyses of liver, gill, and muscle tissues revealed necrosis, hemorrhage, and myolysis, indicative of tissue damage due to ABW exposure. Molecular docking studies further demonstrated potential interactions of ZnO and MnO₂ with antioxidant enzymes (Superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and catalase (CAT)), suggesting oxidative stress as a contributing factor to observed toxic effects. These findings highlight the potential environmental hazards of ABW and emphasize the urgent need for proper waste management strategies to mitigate aquatic ecosystem contamination. Graphical Abstract

Objective: The common coot (Fulica atra) is a medium-sized migratory bird wintering at different wetlands in Pakistan. It belongs to the order Gruiformes and family Rallidae. This study aimed to investigate the morphometry, hematology, and blood chemistry of common coots during the winter visit of 2022–2023. Materials and Methods: Thirty two adult common coots were captured with the help of hunters holding valid licenses from six wetlands in Punjab, Pakistan. Each individual was sexed and sub¬jected to different morphological measurements. Eighteen blood samples (3–5 ml) were collected from the basilic veins of adults for hematology and blood chemistry. Results: Results revealed that body weight ranged from 378 to 680 gm, with males significantly heavier than females. Length was not significantly different. Males showed dominance in most of the morphometric characteristics compared to females. Regarding hematological parameters and plasma chemistry, there was a sufficient difference between the genders in most of the studied parameters. Conclusion: The male coot was significantly larger compared to the female, except for total length. Hematology and plasma chemistry showed significant differences between genders.

Background/Objectives: Metallic NPs have been explored for various therapeutic uses owing to utilitarian physicochemical characteristics such as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties. The objective of this study is to evaluate the therapeutic potential of novel silver carbonate nanostructures in promoting wound healing and their antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas chengduensis and Staphylococcus aureus. Methods: In this work, we prepared Ag₂CO₃ nanoparticles through a two-step methodology that was expected to improve the material’s biomedical performance and biocompatibility. The characterization and assessment of synthesized NPs biocompatibility were conducted using hemolysis assays on the blood of a healthy male human. Further, we performed molecular docking analysis to confirm interactions of silver NPs with biological molecules. Results: In detail, the synthesized NPs showed 2CO₃ NPs exhibited high antimicrobial potential against both Pseudomonas chengduensis and Staphylococcus aureus, hence being a potential material that can be used for infection control in biomedical tissue engineering applications. Conclusions: These findings concluded that novel synthesis methods lead to the formation of NPs with higher therapeutic prospects; however, studies of their metaphysical and endocrinological effects are necessary.

This comprehensive review delves into the botanical intricacies of Cucumis sativus L., commonly known as cucumbers, and their pivotal role in pickle production within the realm of food science. The investigation systematically scrutinizes the health benefits associated with both unprocessed and processed cucumber varieties, shedding light on the intrinsic bioactive elements present in cucumbers and their potential contributions to human well-being. Emphasizing a meticulous exploration of the molecular interplay, the review unveils the complex mechanisms that underlie the purported health advantages of cucumbers. Phytochemical constituents, such as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, are scrutinized for their potential implications in promoting wellness. By synthesizing scientific literature and empirical evidence, the review not only serves as a valuable resource for researchers but also extends practical insights for professionals in nutrition and food science. The bridging of theoretical understanding with practical applications distinguishes this review, offering a nuanced perspective on the molecular facets of cucumber compounds. Its implications extend beyond academic discourse, influencing considerations in food processing strategies and dietary recommendations. In essence, this review seeks to unravel the scientific intricacies of cucumber bioactive elements, providing a substantive foundation for comprehending their potential health benefits, especially in the context of pickled cucumber consumption.

The effects of isolation on the growth performance, behavior, blood hematology, and cortisol level of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus were checked in laboratory conditions. All fishes were closely observed for behavior and growth-related parameters. The weight and diameter of both the control and treatment groups were measured before and after the trial of 28 days using an electronic balance and measuring tape, respectively. At the end of the trial, blood was drawn from the caudal fin to determine some hematological and hormonal parameters. Significant differences were seen in growth performance, cortisol level, and hematology, as weight gain, specific growth rate, relative growth rate, and daily food intake were significantly higher in the control group. In comparison, cortisol levels and feed conversion ratio were significantly higher in the isolated group. White blood cells, lymphocytes, red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and mean platelet volume, were significantly higher in the isolated group when compared to the control group. At the same time, the amount of granulocytes, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, and platelets was significantly higher in the control group. Isolated fish showed aggressive behavior towards introduced fish from the control group. Isolation increased the cortisol level, which indicates that the fish was stressed. It is concluded that isolation significantly affects the growth performance, cortisol level, and hematology of O. niloticus.

This study tested the reverence of background color with growth, movement behavior, and some body physiological factors in Nile tilapia. Fish were first acclimatized for two weeks in 80 L glass aquaria. In the experimental design, three groups were maintained separately. In 1st group, glass aquaria were covered with black, 2nd with green charts, and 3rd remained uncovered and maintained as a control group. All groups were in three replicates and fed on a 30% protein diet. All fishes were closely observed for movement behavior and growth-related parameters. On the 28th day, fish were anesthetized and blood was drawn from the caudal fin to determine some hematological parameters, cortisol, and glucose level. The highest weight gain and the greatest number of movements throughout the aquarium were observed in the control group. Furthermore, aquarium color determined the body pigmentation color. Black aquarium had the lowest weight gain, glucose level, FCR, DFI, FCE, and CF, while green aquarium had the highest cortisol level. Histological changes observed in black aquaria fish included reduced lamellar size, deformed blood vessels, and cardiac muscle fascicle in the gills, liver, and heart, respectively, while green aquaria fish showed fused lamellae, necrosis, fibrosis, endomiocardiac hyperplasia, and cardiac muscle fascicle. It was concluded that background coloration has a significant effect on the growth performance, behavior, hematology, body color, histology, cortisol, and glucose levels of Oreochromis niloticus, with green background inducing significant stress while black background causes black pigmentation with less growth.

The present study describes the haematological profile, feeding preference, and comparison of morphometric characters of blue rock pigeon (Columba livia) breeding pairs. For this purpose, 25 pairs (25 samples per sex) were sampled through Mist nets from district Okara and Bahawalnagar, Punjab, Pakistan. Birds were then anaesthetized with a combination of ketamine HCL (10 mg/kg) and diazepam (0.2 mg/kg) and subjected to morphometric measurements. 5µL blood also was taken from the jugular vein of each anaesthetized bird for haematological analysis. Few pairs were also dissected to remove gastrointestinal tracts (GITs) for food preferences. Results revealed that there are no significant differences in the haematological parameters and feeding preference of breeding pairs of Columba livia. The gut analysis further revealed, the major portion of gut contents consisted of pea and corn in most of the pairs. Regarding the mensural measurements, significant differences were recorded in the body weight, length of the longest primary feather, and chest circumference, whereas the rest of the studied parameters remain nonsignificant between sexes. So, it is concluded that apart from 3 morphometric parameters (body weight, length of longest primary feather and chest circumference), both sexes are alike in term of morphometry, haematology and food preference.