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Deficiencies of essential vitamins, iron (Fe), and zinc (Zn) affect over one-half of the world’s population. A significant progress has been made to control micronutrient deficiencies through supplementation, but new approaches are needed, especially to reach the rural poor. Agronomic biofortification of pulses with Zn, Fe, and boron (B) offers a pragmatic solution to combat hidden hunger instead of food fortification and supplementation. Moreover, it also has positive effects on crop production as well. Therefore, we conducted three separate field experiments for two consecutive years to evaluate the impact of soil and foliar application of the aforementioned nutrients on the yield and seed biofortification of mungbean. Soil application of Zn at 0, 4.125, 8.25, Fe at 0, 2.5, 5.0 and B at 0, 0.55, 1.1 kg ha−1 was done in the first, second and third experiment, respectively. Foliar application in these experiments was done at 0.3% Zn, 0.2% Fe and 0.1% B respectively one week after flowering initiation. Data revealed that soil-applied Zn, Fe and B at 8.25, 5.0 and 1.1 kg ha−1, respectively, enhanced the grain yield of mungbean; however, this increase in yield was statistically similar to that recorded with Zn, Fe and B at 4.125, 2.5 and 0.55 kg ha−1, respectively. Foliar application of these nutrients at flower initiation significantly enhanced the Zn contents by 28% and 31%, Fe contents by 80% and 78%, while B contents by 98% and 116% over control during 2019 and 2020, respectively. It was concluded from the results that soil application of Zn, Fe, and B enhanced the yield performance of mungbean; while significant improvements in seed Zn, Fe, and B contents were recorded with foliar application of these nutrients.

Fodder crops are the main source of animal feed in Pakistan. However, the yield per acre is still far below than optimum production level of the livestock. From this perspective, a field trial was conducted using seeds of three cereal crops wheat, oat and barley sown alone and blended together at different seed proportions (100%: 0%, 75% + 25%, 50% + 50% and 25% + 75%) at the Agronomic Research Area, Department of Agronomy, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, during 2013-14. The results showed that the crop mixtures and their variable seed ratios showed significant effects on fodder yield and quality traits. The maximum number of tillers, number of leaves plant-1, leaf area, crop growth rate, fresh weight plant-1, dry weight plant-1, green forage yield and dry matter yield were obtained in plots where barley was sown alone at 100% seed ratio. The highest crude fiber and total ash percentage was observed in plots where oat was sown alone at 100% seed ratio and crude protein percentage was highest when oat was blended together with barley at 75% + 25% seed ratios.

E6ap is a known transcriptional coregulator for estrogen receptor alpha (Er, Erα) in the presence of estrogen. Protein kinase A (PKA) contains two regulatory subunits derived from four genes. Recent evidence demonstrates that PKA regulates E6ap activity. Data generated in our lab indicated estrogen dependent regulation of Pkar2a levels. Our project sets to investigate a possible feedback mechanism constituting of Erα and E6ap transcriptional regulation of Pkar2a expression. Western blot evaluated protein regulation correlations with E2 in mouse neuroblastoma lines. Bioinformatics detected estrogen response element (ERE) sequences. quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) validated the western blot results. ERE oligonucleotides were synthesized. Reporter gene transcriptional activity was evaluated via Luciferase assay output. Electromobility shift assay (EMSA) assessed direct binding between Erα relevant sequences. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and Re-ChIP were conducted in quantifying protein complex recruitment levels. Pkar2a protein expression directly correlated with E2, and four putative ERE sequences were identified. Pkar2a mRNA expression reverted to baseline with either E2 or E6ap absent. In the presence of E2, ERE-1 and ERE-4 possessed Luciferase reporter gene transcriptional capabilities. ERE-1 portrayed band shifts, representing direct binding to Erα with E2 supplementation. With E2, ERE-1 significantly enhanced Erα and E6ap recruitment levels to the Pkar2a promoter. Pkar2a is directly regulated by Erα and E6ap in the presence of estrogen stimulus. This work indicates a feedback mechanism in the interplay between PKA and E6ap, which may prove crucial for the role of both proteins in cancers and neurogenetic diseases like Angelman syndrome.

The emergence of immune-evading variants of SARS-CoV-2 further aggravated the ongoing pandemic. Despite the deployments of various vaccines, the acquired mutations are capable of escaping both natural and vaccine-induced immune responses. Therefore, further investigation is needed to design a decisive pharmacological treatment that could efficiently block the entry of this virus into cells. Hence, the current study used structure-based methods to target the RBD of the recombinant variant (Deltacron) of SARS-CoV-2, which was used as a model variant. From the virtual drug screenings of various databases, a total of four hits were identified as potential lead molecules. Key residues were blocked by these molecules with favorable structural dynamic features. The binding free energies further validated the potentials of these molecules. The TBE for MNP was calculated to be −32.86 ± 0.10 kcal/mol, for SANC00222 the TBE was −23.41 ± 0.15 kcal/mol, for Liriodenine the TBE was −34.29 ± 0.07 kcal/mol, while for Carviolin the TBE was calculated to be −27.67 ± 0.12 kcal/mol. Moreover, each complex demonstrated distinct internal motion and a free energy profile, indicating a different strategy for the interaction with and inhibition of the RBD. In conclusion, the current study demands further in vivo and in vitro validation for the possible usage of these compounds as potential drugs against SARS-CoV-2 and its variants.

Arsenic (As) contamination of freshwater poses a major global public-health challenge. This study evaluated locally isolated freshwater green macroalgae as a feedstock for producing low-cost biochar for As(III) removal from aqueous solutions. Four filamentous chlorophytes, Basicladia kosterae, Stigeoclonium tenue, Cladophora dalmatica, and Spirogyra fluviatalis, were isolated from the Korang River (Islamabad, Pakistan), cultivated in BG11 medium, and combined in equal proportions to form a composite feedstock. The biomass was pyrolyzed at 500 °C under an N₂ atmosphere to produce composite algal biochar. FTIR analysis revealed O–H, C=O, and aromatic C–H functional groups that may contribute to arsenic adsorption, while XRF analysis indicated a high Fe content (~33 wt%), suggesting a role of Fe-(hydr)oxide phases in arsenic immobilization. Batch adsorption experiments were conducted at a biochar dosage of 10 g L⁻¹ using initial As(III) concentrations of 0.05 to 0.5 ppm and contact times of 12 to 72 h. The highest removal efficiency (88 ± 3.5%) was achieved at 0.5 ppm after 12 h. These findings demonstrate the potential of indigenous freshwater algal biochar as an economical adsorbent for arsenic remediation. Further studies involving BET characterization, arsenic speciation, pH effects, post-adsorption analyses, and column-scale testing are needed to clarify adsorption mechanisms and practical applicability.

Iron deficiency without anemia (IDWA) is a widespread but underdiagnosed condition in women of reproductive age. Traditional screening approaches that rely solely on hemoglobin levels may overlook significant iron depletion in seemingly healthy female patients, leading to missed opportunities for intervention against impaired cognition, reduced exercise capacity, and an increased risk of infection in this population. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of iron deficiency in non-pregnant women with normal hemoglobin levels and to identify the factors associated with iron deficiency. This cross-sectional study was conducted at an urban teaching hospital between March and August 2024. A total of 127 non-pregnant women aged 16-45 years were eligible; 100 women with hemoglobin levels ≥11 g/dL were enrolled using consecutive sampling (refusal rate: 21.3%,  = 27). Data on demographic characteristics, clinical history, reproductive factors, dietary habits, and laboratory evaluations (hemoglobin, serum ferritin, and serum iron levels) were collected for each patient. Iron deficiency was defined as a serum ferritin level of <15 μg/L or a serum iron level of <10 μmol/L. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was adjusted for age, BMI, parity, dietary patterns, physical activity, and iron supplementation. Iron deficiency was identified in 41% (41/100) of the participants despite normal hemoglobin levels. A univariate analysis revealed significant associations between iron deficiency and a history of breastfeeding (crude OR = 9.13, 95% CI: 3.32-25.11,  < 0.001) and of anemia (crude OR = 5.51, 95% CI: 2.10-14.46, p < 0.001). After multivariable adjustment, breastfeeding history remained strongly associated with iron deficiency (adjusted OR = 6.72, 95% CI: 2.01-22.44,  = 0.002), as well as with history of anemia (adjusted OR = 4.92, 95% CI: 1.56-15.53,  = 0.007). Underweight BMI showed an elevated point estimate but did not reach statistical significance (adjusted OR = 2.84, 95% CI: 0.68-11.83,  = 0.154), likely due to the limited sample size in this subgroup. Model diagnostics were satisfactory (Hosmer-Lemeshow  = 3.21,  = 0.921; all variance inflation factors (VIFs) < 2.0). A substantial proportion of non-pregnant women with normal hemoglobin levels demonstrated biochemical evidence of iron deficiency. Breastfeeding history and a history of anemia were the strongest independent factors associated with iron deficiency. A comprehensive iron assessment, including ferritin and serum iron levels, is recommended for at-risk populations, particularly those with a history of breastfeeding or anemia.

Citrus fruits—oranges, lemons, and grapefruits—are produced and consumed in huge proportions around the globe which contain 91% water and the reason why they are regarded as the most hydrating fruits. Citrus fruits are a vital part of the human diet by providing the essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to the body, but the process of citrus fruits production frequently utilizes the application of pesticides to deal with pests and diseases. Pesticide residues, including chlorpyrifos, carbofuran, cyhalothrin, and bifenthrin, in the fruit can still have an effect on consumers’ health. In this study, the process of ozonation was used to remove pesticide residues from citrus fruits such as in oranges, lemons, and grapefruits. Ozonated water helped in the detection and removal of pesticides residues chlorpyrifos, carbofuran, cyhalothrin, and bifenthrin from citrus fruits. The mean resid-ual level of chlorpyrifos was 0.015 ± 0.004 in oranges, 0.014 ± 0.004 in lemons, and 0.022 ± 0.001 in grapefruits; the bifenthrin level was 0.055 ± 0.004 in oranges, 0.055 ± 0.004 in lemons, and 0.054 ± 0.005 in grapefruits; the lambda-cyhalothrin level was 1.104 ± 0.174 in oranges, 1.056 ± 0.210 in lemons, and 1.208 ± 0.172 in grapefruits; and the carbofuran level was 0.625 ± 0.050 in oranges, 0.616 ± 0.046 in lemons, and 0.616 ± 0.050 in grapefruits. Furthermore, residual percentages of chlorpyrifos, carbofuran, cyhalothrin, and bifenthrin were detected in all citrus fruits, with the results showing that maximum levels of pesticide residues were efficiently removed from citrus fruits at 10 ppm (parts per million) ozonation without any poisoning and deterioration of fruits.

Glioblastoma (GBM) remains the most aggressive and lethal form of primary brain tumor, characterized by a poor prognosis and limited therapeutic options. Among the molecular targets under investigation, the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) plays a central role in GBM pathogenesis. However, current EGFR inhibitors are often limited by challenges such as drug resistance and inadequate penetration across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). This study aims to investigate Withanolide A and its AI-optimized derivatives as potential EGFR inhibitors for GBM using computational drug discovery approaches. The 3D structure of EGFR was retrieved and analyzed to predict active binding sites, followed by de novo drug design generating novel drug candidates from Withanolide A. These compounds were evaluated through molecular docking to predict binding affinity and key interactions, followed by protein-ligand interaction profiler (PLIP) and pharmacophore modeling to assess complex stability. ADMET profiling was performed to evaluate pharmacokinetic properties, BBB permeability, and toxicity, while molecular dynamics simulations assessed stability of ligand-protein complex over time, integrating all analyses to identify the most promising lead candidate. Molecular docking analysis revealed that the newly designed drug candidates, particularly an AI-optimized derivative of drug candidate B, exhibited the highest binding energy (up to −9.8 kcal/mol) compared to the natural ligand. PLIP highlighted key hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions that contributed to complex stability. Pharmacophore modeling and ADMET profiling demonstrated favorable drug-likeness, BBB permeability, and low toxicity profiles, showing the anti-cancer inhibitory effect of optimized drug candidate to overcome limitations of existing EGFR inhibitors. ADMET analysis of the lead compound indicated favorable pharmacokinetic and drug-likeness properties, including high BBB penetration, optimal oral bioavailability, and Caco-2 permeability. Importantly, the compound showed low cardiotoxicity risk (hERG blockers: 0.104), no AMES mutagenicity (0.749), minimal skin sensitization, and acceptable hepatotoxicity (0.788), suggesting a low systemic toxicity profile. Metabolic profiling predicted good liver microsomal stability and moderate interaction with CYP3A4 and CYP2C19 enzymes, indicating a balanced metabolic clearance profile. AI-assisted bioisosteric optimization of Withanolide A produced a promising EGFR inhibitor with favorable pharmacokinetic and safety profiles. These findings highlight its potential as a promising lead compound for the development of targeted therapies against GBM and pave the way for further experimental validation.

Background: Glioblastoma (GBM) remains the most aggressive and lethal form of primary brain tumor, characterized by a poor prognosis and limited therapeutic options. Among the molecular targets under investigation, the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) plays a central role in GBM pathogenesis. However, current EGFR inhibitors are often limited by challenges such as drug resistance and inadequate penetration across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Objective: This study aims to investigate Withanolide A and its Al-optimized derivatives as potential EGFR inhibitors for GBM using computational drug discovery approaches. Methods: The 3D structure of EGFR was retrieved and analyzed to predict active binding sites, followed by de novo drug design generating novel drug candidates from Withanolide A. These compounds were evaluated through molecular docking to predict binding affinity and key interactions, followed by protein-ligand interaction profiler (PLIP) and pharmacophore modeling to assess complex stability. ADMET profiling was performed to evaluate pharmacokinetic properties, BBB permeability, and toxicity, while molecular dynamics simulations assessed stability of ligand-protein complex over time, integrating all analyses to identify the most promising lead candidate. Results: Molecular docking analysis revealed that the newly designed drug candidates, particularly an Al-optimized derivative of drug candidate В, exhibited the highest binding energy (up to - 9.8 kcal/mol) compared to the natural ligand. PLIP highlighted key hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions that contributed to complex stability. Pharmacophore modeling and ADMET profiling demonstrated favorable drug-likeness, BBB permeability, and low toxicity profiles, showing the anti-cancer inhibitory effect of optimized drug candidate to overcome limitations of existing EGFR inhibitors. ADMET analysis of the lead compound indicated favorable pharmacokinetic and drug-likeness properties, including high BBB penetration, optimal oral bioavailability, and Caco-2 permeability. Importantly, the compound showed low cardiotoxicity risk (hERG blockers: 0.104), no AMES mutagenicity (0.749), minimal skin sensitization, and acceptable hepatotoxicity (0.788), suggesting a low systemic toxicity profile. Metabolic profiling predicted good liver microsomal stability and moderate interaction with CYP3A4 and CYP2C19 enzymes, indicating a balanced metabolic clearance profile. Conclusion: Al-assisted bioisosteric optimization of Withanolide A produced a promising EGFR inhibitor with favorable pharmacokinetic and safety profiles. These findings highlight its potential as a promising lead compound for the development of targeted therapies against GBM and pave the way for further experimental validation.

Background Around 80-85% of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases were reported to have mild disease and home treatment of such patients was proved to be effective without significant morbidity or mortality. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the outcome of home management of non-severe COVID-19 infection in healthcare providers in the developing world. Methods This observational cohort study was conducted at the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases from June 2020 till January 2021. It included health care workers who tested positive for COVID-19 with non-severe infection and received home treatment. The COVID-19 management team monitored their symptoms and oxygen saturation over the phone. Need-based lab tests, X-rays, home proning, steroids, and oxygen were administered along with the standard intuitional management strategies. Study outcomes included duration of recovery, need for hospitalization, and expiry. Results A total of 128 patients were included, out of which 98 (76.6%) were male, and the mean age was 32.9 ± 5.9 years. Fever was the most common symptom, seen in 89.8% of patients. Most of the patients (85.9%) had no pre-existing comorbidities. Five patients received home oxygen therapy, seven received steroid therapy, and one received home pruning. The average time of recovery was 13.8 ± 8.1 days with no mortality; however, 14 (10.9%) patients were hospitalized due to worsening of symptoms. Conclusion Home treatment for COVID-19 patients with mild to moderate disease after appropriate risk assessment can be a safe and effective option to preserve hospital capacities for more needy and severely ill patients.