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  1. Examining clinical pharmacist interventions and identifying opioid medication-related issues in patients with cancer
    Anwar A, Malik N, Siddiqui A, Shrestha S, Bhutta OA, Mazhar S, et al.
    J Oncol Pharm Pract, 2024 Aug 28.
    PMID: 39196917 DOI: 10.1177/10781552241279027
    INTRODUCTION: Opioid medications are crucial for managing pain among patients with cancer. Yet, inappropriate prescribing and medication issues can compromise patient safety and quality of care. Clinical pharmacists play a significant role in optimizing opioid therapy and addressing issues related to opioid medication use.

    OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to examine clinical pharmacist interventions and identify opioid medication-related issues in patients with cancer.

    METHOD: We conducted a retrospective observational study at Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Center in Lahore, Pakistan, conducting a chart review from 1st July 2021 to 31st December 2021.

    RESULTS: Out of 10,534 opioid medication orders, we documented a total of 974 interventions based on our inclusion criteria. Tramadol and morphine accounted for most of these interventions, comprising 49.27% (n = 475) and 40.04% (n = 386), respectively. Regarding clinical significance, 41.70% (n = 406) were deemed significant, while 37.36% (n = 365) were somewhat significant. The majority of interventions, i.e., 54.05% (n = 521), primarily aimed at optimizing patient outcomes, followed by a secondary aim of improvements in communication, i.e., 25.52% (n = 246).

    CONCLUSION: This study establishes the evaluation of clinical pharmacist interventions on opioid medication use in patients with cancer, an issue particularly in oncology settings in Pakistan. The findings emphasize the crucial role of clinical pharmacists in addressing issues related to opioid issue medications, thus improving patient safety and optimizing opioid use for patient well-being.

  2. A Segmentation-based Automated Calculation of Patient Size and Size-specific Dose Estimates in Pediatric Computed Tomography Scans
    Abdulkadir MK, Osman ND, Achuthan A, Nasirudin RA, Ahmad MZ, Zain NHM, et al.
    J Med Phys, 2024;49(3):456-463.
    PMID: 39526162 DOI: 10.4103/jmp.jmp_26_24
    BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Size-specific dose estimates (SSDE) have been introduced into computed tomography (CT) dosimetry to tailor patients' unique sizes to facilitate accurate CT radiation dose quantification and optimization. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate an automated algorithm for the determination of patient size (effective diameter) and SSDE.

    MATERIALS AND METHODS: A MATLAB platform was used to develop software of algorithms based on image segmentation techniques to automate the calculation of patient size and SSDE. The algorithm was used to automatically estimate the individual size and SSDE of four CT dose index phantoms and 80 CT images of pediatric patients comprising head, thorax, and abdomen scans. For validation, the American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) manual methods were used to determine the patient's size and SSDE for the same subjects. The accuracy of the proposed algorithm in size and SSDE calculation was evaluated for agreement with the AAPM's estimations (manual) using Bland-Altman's agreement and Pearson's correlation coefficient. The normalized error, system bias, and limits of agreement (LOA) between methods were derived.

    RESULTS: The results demonstrated good agreement and accuracy between the automated and AAPM's patient size estimations with an error rate of 1.9% and 0.27% on the patient and phantoms study, respectively. A 1% percentage difference was found between the automated and manual (AAPM) SSDE estimates. A strong degree of correlation was seen with a narrow LOA between methods for clinical study (r > 0.9771) and phantom study (r > 0.9999).

    CONCLUSION: The proposed automated algorithm provides an accurate estimation of patient size and SSDE with negligible error after validation.

  3. Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy With Significant Visual Recovery: An MT-ND6 Mutation in a Malay Patient
    Ozir MA, Nordin MH, Hashim SE, Adzahar S, Ahmad MA, Ng KS, et al.
    Cureus, 2024 Oct;16(10):e71210.
    PMID: 39525159 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.71210
    Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is a rare maternally inherited mitochondrial disorder that predominantly affects young men, leading to optic nerve degeneration and subsequent vision loss. The rarity of LHON and its clinical similarity to optic neuritis complicates diagnosis, necessitating genetic testing to confirm specific point mutations and predict visual outcomes. We report a rare case of an 18-year-old Malay male with m.14484T>C/MT-ND6 mutation of LHON, who demonstrated remarkable spontaneous visual recovery over a three-year follow-up period. This report highlights the pivotal role of genetic testing in diagnosing LHON, explores the variability in visual outcomes associated with different mutations, and underscores the potential for spontaneous recovery in specific mutation variants. Early diagnosis, genetic counseling, and supportive management are critical for optimizing outcomes and improving quality of life.
  4. Fulltext Visible light induced photocatalytic degradation of norfloxacin using xC-TiO2
    Adnan, Kalsoom, Zada FM, Sarwat, Soonmin H, Khan B, et al.
    Heliyon, 2025 Jan 15;11(1):e41320.
    PMID: 39831162 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e41320
    In recent years, antibiotic pollution has become a major environmental concern. The extensive production and widespread use of prescribed antibiotics have significantly impacted ecosystems. The main objective of the present study is to investigate the photocatalytic degradation of the antibiotic norfloxacin (NFX) under visible light. In this work photocatalysis of NFX was demonstrated under the source of visible radiation by using carbon dopped-titania (C-TiO 2 ) nanoparticles as catalyst prepared by a modified sol-gel method using n-hexane and benzene as carbon precursors. The synthesized samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) techniques. The effect of various parameters like initial concentration, catalyst dosage, irradiation time, pH, and inorganic ions were investigated on the photocatalysis of NFX. The XRD and SEM analysis exhibits that the synthesized C-TiO 2 nanoparticles were of anatase phase having spherical shape with a mean particle size of about 11-17 nm. The results shows that the best photocatalytic efficiency (74 % & 81 %) was achieved at pH = 8 in 150 min. The degradation of NFX follows pseudo-2nd -order kinetics, while favors Langmuir isotherm model. The inhibition effect of various inorganic ions on the photocatalysis of NFX was in the order of F⁻>SO4 2⁻>HCO3 ⁻>NO3 ⁻. The present study shows that C-TiO 2 is an optimistic and efficient catalyst for the photocatalysis of NFX antibiotics.
  5. Fulltext Optimizing concrete sustainability with bagasse ash and stone dust and its impact on mechanical properties and durability
    Khan MA, Zhang B, Ahmad M, Niekurzak M, Khan MS, Sabri Sabri MM, et al.
    Sci Rep, 2025 Jan 09;15(1):1385.
    PMID: 39779787 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-85363-x
    Addressing environmental challenges such as pollution and resource depletion requires innovative industrial and municipal waste management approaches. Cement production, a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, highlights the need for eco-friendly building materials to combat global warming and promote sustainability. This study evaluates the simultaneous use of Sugarcane Bagasse Ash (SCBA) and Stone Dust (SD) as partial replacements by volume for cement and sand, respectively, at varying ratios in eco-strength concrete mixes designed for 28 MPa (ES-28) and 34 MPa (ES-34), emphasizing their economic and environmental benefits. The influence of SCBA and SD on workability, mechanical properties, and durability were experimentally investigated. Results reveal that for ES-28, with 9% SCBA and 50% SD, compressive and tensile strengths were nearly equal to the control mix, while flexural strength improved by 6.86%. For ES-34, with 9% SCBA and 50% SD, compressive strength was enhanced by 10.16%, tensile strength by 11.68%, and flexural strength by 5.22%, compared to the control mix. This improvement is attributed to pozzolanic reactions, enhanced particle packing, and optimal curing conditions. However, water absorption increased significantly, with ES-28 showing a 31.61% rise and ES-34 a 22.32% rise when SCBA was 9% and SD was 50%. These results highlight the trade-offs between mechanical performance and durability. The optimized mix, derived from response surface analysis, demonstrates significant potential as a sustainable alternative to conventional concrete, aligning with environmental and structural performance objectives.
  6. Fulltext Investigation of alpha-glucosidase inhibition activity of Artabotrys sumatranus leaf extract using metabolomics, machine learning and molecular docking analysis
    Rosa D, Elya B, Hanafi M, Khatib A, Budiarto E, Nur S, et al.
    PLoS One, 2025;20(1):e0313592.
    PMID: 39752479 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0313592
    One way to treat diabetes mellitus type II is by using α-glucosidase inhibitor, that will slow down the postprandial glucose intake. Metabolomics analysis of Artabotrys sumatranus leaf extract was used in this research to predict the active compounds as α-glucosidase inhibitors from this extract. Both multivariate statistical analysis and machine learning approaches were used to improve the confidence of the predictions. After performance comparisons with other machine learning methods, random forest was chosen to make predictive model for the activity of the extract samples. Feature importance analysis (using random feature permutation and Shapley score calculation) was used to identify the predicted active compound as the important features that influenced the activity prediction of the extract samples. The combined analysis of multivariate statistical analysis and machine learning predicted 9 active compounds, where 6 of them were identified as mangiferin, neomangiferin, norisocorydine, apigenin-7-O-galactopyranoside, lirioferine, and 15,16-dihydrotanshinone I. The activities of norisocorydine, apigenin-7-O-galactopyranoside, and lirioferine as α-glucosidase inhibitors have not yet reported before. Molecular docking simulation, both to 3A4A (α-glucosidase enzyme from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, usually used in bioassay test) and 3TOP (a part of α-glucosidase enzyme in human gut) showed strong to very strong binding of the identified predicted active compounds to both receptors, with exception of neomangiferin which only showed strong binding to 3TOP receptor. Isolation based on bioassay guided fractionation further verified the metabolomics prediction by succeeding to isolate mangiferin from the extract, which showed strong α-glucosidase activity when subjected to bioassay test. The correlation analysis also showed a possibility of 3 groups in the predicted active compounds, which might be related to the biosynthesis pathway (need further research for verification). Another result from correlation analysis was that in general the α-glucosidase inhibition activity in the extract had strong correlation to antioxidant activity, which was also reflected in the predicted active compounds. Only one predicted compound had very low positive correlation to antioxidant activity.
  7. PPG2RespNet: a deep learning model for respirational signal synthesis and monitoring from photoplethysmography (PPG) signal
    Shuzan MNI, Chowdhury MH, Alam SB, Reaz MBI, Khan MS, Murugappan M, et al.
    Phys Eng Sci Med, 2024 Dec;47(4):1705-1722.
    PMID: 39287773 DOI: 10.1007/s13246-024-01482-1
    Breathing conditions affect a wide range of people, including those with respiratory issues like asthma and sleep apnea. Smartwatches with photoplethysmogram (PPG) sensors can monitor breathing. However, current methods have limitations due to manual parameter tuning and pre-defined features. To address this challenge, we propose the PPG2RespNet deep-learning framework. It draws inspiration from the UNet and UNet + + models. It uses three publicly available PPG datasets (VORTAL, BIDMC, Capnobase) to autonomously and efficiently extract respiratory signals. The datasets contain PPG data from different groups, such as intensive care unit patients, pediatric patients, and healthy subjects. Unlike conventional U-Net architectures, PPG2RespNet introduces layered skip connections, establishing hierarchical and dense connections for robust signal extraction. The bottleneck layer of the model is also modified to enhance the extraction of latent features. To evaluate PPG2RespNet's performance, we assessed its ability to reconstruct respiratory signals and estimate respiration rates. The model outperformed other models in signal-to-signal synthesis, achieving exceptional Pearson correlation coefficients (PCCs) with ground truth respiratory signals: 0.94 for BIDMC, 0.95 for VORTAL, and 0.96 for Capnobase. With mean absolute errors (MAE) of 0.69, 0.58, and 0.11 for the respective datasets, the model exhibited remarkable precision in estimating respiration rates. We used regression and Bland-Altman plots to analyze the predictions of the model in comparison to the ground truth. PPG2RespNet can thus obtain high-quality respiratory signals non-invasively, making it a valuable tool for calculating respiration rates.
  8. Fulltext Renewable energy, regional tourism, and exports to tackle stagnant growth in developed economies
    Chenhui H, Hassan MS, Afshan S, Hanif I, Umair M, Albalawi O
    Heliyon, 2024 Sep 30;10(18):e37190.
    PMID: 39678386 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e37190
    This study examines the effects of energy resources in the form of clean and unclean energy on the economic progress of 30 selected developed economies. This study used data from 1990 to 2020 and it employs the CS-ARDL method to obtain results. The results present that both clean and unclean energy significantly stimulate economic progress. The findings further expose that foreign investment resources in the form of inflow are significant factors that accelerate economic progress in developed economies. The results reveal that tourism development, capital accumulation, and exports are significant factors in boosting economic progress in the selected economies. Estimates from Dumitrescu and Hurlin's method for heterogeneous panels confirm the presence of the feedback-effect hypothesis for unclean energy, while the energy-conservation hypothesis holds for clean energy. This study suggests that targeting low-cost clean energy production is crucial for promoting economic growth and protecting the environment through carbon mitigation strategies. There is also a need to develop a policy framework that emphasizes the transformation of industry towards clean energy at a macro level. Furthermore, transitioning from unclean to clean energy may enhance economic progress by improving environmental quality norms in the selected developed economies. Finally, policies for tourism development, export improvement, and increased inflow of FDI should be directed towards fostering clean energy agreements and achieving environment-friendly economic progress in developed economies.
  9. Fulltext Label-Free and Rapid Microfluidic Design Rules for Circulating Tumor Cell Enrichment and Isolation: A Review and Simulation Analysis
    Mansor MA, Yang C, Chong KL, Jamrus MA, Liu K, Yu M, et al.
    ACS Omega, 2025 Feb 25;10(7):6306-6322.
    PMID: 40028152 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c08606
    Enriching and isolating circulating tumor cells (CTCs) have attracted significant interest due to their important role in early cancer diagnosis and prognosis, allowing for minimally invasive approaches and providing vital information about metastasis at the cellular level. This review comprehensively summarizes the recent developments in microfluidic devices for CTC enrichment and isolation. The advantages and limitations of several microfluidic devices are discussed, and the design specifications of microfluidic devices for CTC enrichment are highlighted. We also developed a set of methodologies and design rules of label-free microfluidics such as spiral, deterministic lateral displacement (DLD) and dielectrophoresis (DEP) to allow researchers to design and develop microfluidic devices systematically and effectively, promoting rapid research on design, fabrication, and experimentation.
  10. Fulltext Monitoring air quality index with EWMA and individual charts using XGBoost and SVR residuals
    Alfasanah Z, Niam MZH, Wardiani S, Ahsan M, Lee MH
    MethodsX, 2025 Jun;14:103107.
    PMID: 39802429 DOI: 10.1016/j.mex.2024.103107
    PM2.5 air pollution poses significant health risks, particularly in urban areas such as Jakarta, where concentrations frequently surpass acceptable levels due to rapid urbanization. This study addresses autocorrelation in air quality data and evaluates the monitoring performance of XGBoost and Support Vector Regression (SVR) models using Individual and Exponentially Weighted Moving Average (EWMA) Charts. PM2.5 levels were obtained from Jakarta's Air Quality Index. The findings reveal that the SVR model effectively manages autocorrelation, while the combination of XGBoost and the EWMA chart yielded superior monitoring performance. Specifically, this approach detected only one out-of-control (OOC) point in Phase II and none in Phase I, with identified shifts ranging from moderate to large. Overall, the XGBoost and EWMA chart integration offers a robust solution for precise air quality monitoring and minimizes false alarms. The identification of OOC points provides actionable insights by highlighting significant deviations in air quality data that may require immediate intervention. Key points:•SVR and XGBoost model regression was introduced to enhance forecasting accuracy.•EWMA chart based on XGBoost residuals has better monitoring results.
  11. Fulltext An efficient detection of Sinkhole attacks using machine learning: Impact on energy and security
    Hasan MZ, Hanapi ZM, Zukarnain ZA, Huyop FH, Abdullah MDH
    PLoS One, 2025;20(3):e0309532.
    PMID: 40096085 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0309532
    In the realm of Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs), the detection and mitigation of sinkhole attacks remain pivotal for ensuring network integrity and efficiency. This paper introduces SFlexCrypt, an innovative approach tailored to address these security challenges while optimizing energy consumption in WSNs. SFlexCrypt stands out by seamlessly integrating advanced machine learning algorithms to achieve high-precision detection and effective mitigation of sinkhole attacks. Employing a dataset from Contiki-Cooja, SFlexCrypt has been rigorously tested, demonstrating a detection accuracy of 100% and a mitigation rate of 97.31%. This remarkable performance not only bolsters network security but also significantly extends network longevity and reduces energy expenditure, crucial factors in the sustainability of WSNs. The study contributes substantially to the field of IoT security, offering a comprehensive and efficient framework for implementing Internet-based security strategies. The results affirm that SFlexCrypt is a robust solution, capable of enhancing the resilience of WSNs against sinkhole attacks while maintaining optimal energy efficiency.
  12. Morpho-molecular identification of Colletotrichum scovillei causing anthracnose disease of banana in Pakistan
    Abbas MF, Batool S, Junaid MB, Bukhari NA, Hatamleh AA
    Plant Dis, 2025 Mar 12.
    PMID: 40074554 DOI: 10.1094/PDIS-09-24-1808-PDN
    Banana (Musa spp.) is widely cultivated as the major fruit in Pakistan. Anthracnose fruit rot caused by various Colletotrichum spp. is a serious disease. Sample of 23 banana fruits were obtained from 4 commercial orchards (43% incidence) in Uthal, Balochistan, Pakistan. One or more small light-brown to reddish-brown spots were observed on all fruits during early stage of infection and later became sunken lesion. The pieces of diseased tissues were cut from margins, surface sterilized with sodium hypochlorite (0.3%), rinsed in sterile distilled water, dried on sterile filter papers and shifted on potato dextrose agar (PDA). Colony morphology of all isolates (n=21) on PDA were white fungal colonies which became dark gray after 7 days. Smooth, aseptate, cylindrical and hyaline conidia (n=20 per isolate) were recorded and measured 10.2 to 16.1 (avg. 12.3) × 3.7 to 4.5 (avg. 3.8) µm. Genomic DNA was extracted from a representative isolate LUAWMS and sequences from the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS), β-tubulin (TUB2), calmodulin (CAL), glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), actin (ACT) and chitin synthase 1 (CHS-1) genes were amplified through polymerase chain reaction with the primer pairs ITS1/ITS4, BT1/BT2, CAL1/CAL2, GAPDH1/DAPDH2, ACTN1/ACTN2 and CHS1/CHS2, respectively. The sequences were exhibiting 100% genetic similarity with previously reported isolates SPTD26 (ITS, accession no PQ780054), PHL6, (TUB2, accession no KY475555), HNCS015 (CAL, accession no KX673577), Cer015 (GAPDH, accession no MK473911), QJ2_1 (ACT, accession no OQ613619) and CAUA43 (CHS-1, accession no KP145299) of Colletotrichum scovillei. ITS, TUB2, CAL, GAPDH, ACT and CHS-1 multi-locus sequences were deposited in GenBank under the accession numbers OK493385, OK493386, OK493387, OR449357, OR449358 and OR449359, respectively. For the confirmation of Koch's postulates, banana fruits (n=3) were surface sterilized with 70% ethanol, washed with sterile distilled water and wounded with the help of sterile needle. The spore suspension (1 × 106 conidia/mL) from LUAWMS were pipetted (10 µL) on wound fruit and incubated at 28°C with 12 h dark and light cycle. Moist paper towels was placed on bottom of a sealed crisper box and artificially inoculated fruits were shifted to a humid chamber. Three replicate boxes each contained one banana per treatment. Sterile distilled water was used as a negative control and the experiment was repeated once. After 7 days, small light-brown to reddish-brown spots (length averaged 14.9 mm, std. dev. = 4.0 mm) by 11.3 mm (std. dev. = 1.9 mm) were recorded on artificially inoculated fruits but not on control. Same pathogen was re-isolated from artificially inoculated fruit on PDA and morphological examination and molecular identified was used for the confirmation as previously described. Morphological characterization, molecular identification, multi-locus sequence analysis and Koch postulates confirmed LUAWMS as C. scovillei belongs to C. acutatum species complex (Damm et al., 2012). Previously, C. scovillei was recorded as causal organism of anthracnose disease of banana in China (Zhou et al., 2017), Watermelon in Malaysia (Goh et al., 2022) and pepper in Ontario, Canada (Ellouze, 2024) but to our knowledge, this is the first report of C. scovillei causing anthracnose of banana in Balochistan, Pakistan. The new host-pathogen association could lead to reduced banana yields, higher management costs, and potential trade disruptions due to disease spread and export restrictions.
  13. Combinatorial effects of hydroxyapatite and Tualang honey on medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ): An in vitro study
    Fauzi MSA, Sabri MSA, Halim AAA, Abidin SAIZ
    J Stomatol Oral Maxillofac Surg, 2025 Feb;126(1):101999.
    PMID: 39089510 DOI: 10.1016/j.jormas.2024.101999
    BACKGROUND: Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is a severe complication associated with prolonged bisphosphonate therapy. Increasing evidence shows that mucosal damage plays an important role in the pathogenesis of MRONJ. This study investigates the combinatorial effects of hydroxyapatite with Tualang honey on cell viability and wound healing in MRONJ.

    MATERIALS AND METHODS: The incorporation of Tualang honey into hydroxyapatite was assessed using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and field emission scanning electron-energy dispersive X-ray analysis microscopy (FESEM-EDX). The effect of hydroxyapatite combined with Tualang honey on cell viability was determined by WST-1 assay and wound healing was assessed by scratch assay.

    RESULTS: The incorporation of Tualang honey into hydroxyapatite altered the functional groups, structure, size, morphology, and components of the crystal as evidenced by FTIR, XRD and FESEM-EDX analysis. High concentrations of pamidronic acid inhibit oral fibroblast viability and wound healing. Low and high concentrations of hydroxyapatite demonstrate non-toxicity towards fibroblast cells. Furthermore, hydroxyapatite reversed the action of pamidronic acid on the cells; it increased fibroblast viability but did not close the wound. Tualang honey promotes fibroblast viability and wound closure. However, the addition of Tualang honey is unable to overcome the inhibitory effects of pamidronic acid on fibroblasts. The addition of Tualang honey and hydroxyapatite improved the cell viability and accelerated wound closure of fibroblast exposed to pamidronic acid.

    CONCLUSION: These findings demonstrated that the combination treatment protects oral fibroblasts by preventing bisphosphonate toxicity.

  14. Managing workplace hazards and environmental contaminants for promoting green human resource management and health and safety in developing economies
    Javaid MU, Farooq S, Arshad MZ, Ibikunle AK, Ibrahim AM
    Work, 2024 Dec 10.
    PMID: 39973692 DOI: 10.1177/10519815241290108
    BACKGROUND: At a global scale, the impact of the manufacturing sector on the environment has led to the increased demand for the sustainable practices and strategies that help the businesses achieve environmental, social, and economic objectives particularly within the context of developing economies.

    OBJECTIVE: This paper addresses this gap by investigating the relationship between employees and firms' environmental performance in the manufacturing sector operating in a developing country, Pakistan-where the environmental focus is sparse and organizational structures rarely follow cross-functional systems.

    METHODS: Quantitative research was employed and SmartPLS technique was used to test the theoretical model with a valid response rate of 77 percent of senior and middle-level managers of manufacturing firms.

    RESULTS: Results revealed the significance of green HRM as direct effect with all constructs. And internal environment management mediates the relationship (β = 0.158; t--value = 3.458; p 

  15. Biodegradation of monocrotophos by Brucella intermedia Msd2 isolated from cotton plant
    Shazmin, Ahmad SA, Naqvi TA, Munis MFH, Javed MT, Chaudhary HJ
    World J Microbiol Biotechnol, 2023 Mar 31;39(6):141.
    PMID: 37000294 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-023-03575-7
    Widespread and inadequate use of Monocrotophos has led to several environmental issues. Biodegradation is an ecofriendly method used for detoxification of toxic monocrotophos. In the present study, Msd2 bacterial strain was isolated from the cotton plant growing in contaminated sites of Sahiwal, Pakistan. Msd2 is capable of utilizing the monocrotophos (MCP) organophosphate pesticide as its sole carbon source for growth. Msd2 was identified as Brucella intermedia on the basis of morphology, biochemical characterization and 16S rRNA sequencing. B. intermedia showed tolerance of MCP up to 100 ppm. The presence of opd candidate gene for pesticide degradation, gives credence to B. intermedia as an effective bacterium to degrade MCP. Screening of the B. intermedia strain Msd2 for plant growth promoting activities revealed its ability to produce ammonia, exopolysaccharides, catalase, amylase and ACC-deaminase, and phosphorus, zinc and potassium solubilization. The optimization of the growth parameters (temperatures, shaking rpm, and pH level) of the MCP-degrading isolate was carried out in minimal salt broth supplemented with MCP. The optimal pH, temperature, and rpm for Msd2 growth were observed as pH 6, 35 °C, and 120 rpm, respectively. Based on optimization results, batch degradation experiment was performed. Biodegradation of MCP by B. intermedia was monitored using HPLC and recorded 78% degradation of MCP at 100 ppm concentration within 7 days of incubation. Degradation of MCP by Msd2 followed the first order reaction kinetics. Plant growth promoting and multi-stress tolerance ability of Msd2 was confirmed by molecular analysis. It is concluded that Brucella intermedia strain Msd2 could be beneficial as potential biological agent for an effective bioremediation for polluted environments.
  16. Eco-innovation and environmental entrepreneurship: steps towards business growth
    Akram MW, Yang S, Hafeez M, Kaium MA, Zahan I, Salahodjaev R
    Environ Sci Pollut Res Int, 2023 May;30(23):63427-63434.
    PMID: 37022542 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-26680-4
    Eco-innovations are widely considered the best possible solution to fight the menace of environmental degradation. Therefore, in this analysis, we try to examine the impact of eco-innovations and environmental entrepreneurship on SME performance in China from 1998 to 2020. In order to get the short- and long-run estimates, we have employed the QARDL model that can estimate across various quantiles. The findings of the QARDL model confirm the positive impact of eco-innovations in increasing the number of SMEs in the long run, as the estimates attached to eco-innovations are positive and significant across most quantiles. Similarly, the estimates attached to financial development and institutional quality are positively significant across most quantiles. However, in the short run, the results are inconclusive for almost all variables. As far as the asymmetric impact of eco-innovations on SMEs is concerned, it is confirmed both in the short and long run. However, the asymmetric impacts of financial development and institutional quality on SMEs are only confirmed in the long run. Based on the results, important policy suggestions are discussed.
  17. Asian logistics industry efficiency under low carbon environment: policy implications for sustainable development
    Akram MW, Hafeez M, Yang S, Sethi N, Mahar S, Salahodjaev R
    Environ Sci Pollut Res Int, 2023 May;30(21):59793-59801.
    PMID: 37016251 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-26681-3
    Logistics is a crucial part of every business. The logistics sector not only contributes significantly to Asian economies but also has far-reaching effects on ecological and social concerns. Therefore, it is important to examine the factors that can affect the logistics performance of the country. Hence, the primary objective of the study is to estimate the impact of CO2 emissions, ICT, and human capital on the logistics performance of the 20 Asian economies. In order to investigate the relationship between the variables, we have employed the OLS, 2SLS, GMM, and panel quantile regression. The estimates of CO2 emissions and GHG emissions are significantly negative in 2SLS and GMM methods, implying that environmental pollution hurt logistic performance. The estimates of ICT and education are positively significant, suggesting that increased use of internet and higher education rate are crucial in improving logistics performance. In the panel quantile regression model, the estimates of CO2, internet, and education are insignificant at most quantiles except at a few higher quantiles. Thus, governments should invest in the development of efficient logistics infrastructure to achieve sustainable development.
  18. Revisiting the environmental Kuznets curve: assessing the impact of climate policy uncertainty in the Belt and Road Initiative
    Huang Y, Rahman SU, Meo MS, Ali MSE, Khan S
    Environ Sci Pollut Res Int, 2024 Feb;31(7):10579-10593.
    PMID: 38198084 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31471-y
    Climate change repercussions such as temperature shifts and more severe weather occurrences are felt globally. It contributes to larger-scale challenges, such as climate change and biodiversity loss in food production. As a result, the purpose of this research is to develop strategies to grow the economy without harming the environment. Therefore, we revisit the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) hypothesis, considering the impact of climate policy uncertainty along with other control variables. We investigated yearly panel data from 47 Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) nations from 1998 to 2021. Pooled regression, fixed effect, and the generalized method of moment (GMM) findings all confirmed the presence of inverted U-shaped EKC in BRI counties. Findings from this paper provide policymakers with actionable ideas, outlining a framework for bringing trade and climate agendas into harmony in BRI countries. The best way to promote economic growth and reduce carbon dioxide emissions is to push for trade and climate policies to be coordinated. Moreover, improving institutional quality is essential for strong environmental governance, as it facilitates the adoption of environmentally friendly industrialization techniques and the efficient administration of climate policy uncertainties.
  19. Suppression of microRNAs targeting key MEP pathway genes affects plastid terpenoid content and photosynthesis under variable light conditions
    Othman SMIS, Mustaffa AF, Sajad M, Che-Othman MH, Goh HH, Ismail I
    Mol Biol Rep, 2026 Feb 18;53(1):396.
    PMID: 41706233 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-026-11510-w
    BACKGROUND: Plastid terpenoids in plants are synthesised via the 2-C-methyl-D-erythritol-4-phosphate (MEP) pathway. To date, no study has investigated the role of microRNA (miRNA) regulation in this pathway under different light conditions, particularly in the context of MEP-derived terpenoid content and photosynthesis. This study investigates how miRNAs regulate two key MEP pathway genes: 1-DEOXY-D-XYLULOSE-5-PHOSPHATE SYNTHASE 1 (DXS1) and GERANYLGERANYL DIPHOSPHATE SYNTHASE 2 (GGPPS2) under high-intensity light and prolonged darkness. METHODS AND RESULTS: In silico analysis revealed that miR826b targets DXS1 and miR2937 targets GGPPS2. To investigate their roles, the short tandem target mimic (STTM) approach was used in Arabidopsis to suppress the expression of miR826b and miR2937, generating single and double STTM transgenic lines. In all light treatments, the expression of miR826b and miR2937 was successfully downregulated in the STTM lines. However, the expression of DXS1 increased under fluctuating light, while the expression of GGPPS2 increased exclusively in double STTM plants. Chlorophyll content decreased under both high light intensity and darkness, while carotenoids increased only under high light intensity. Remarkably, the STTM826b + 2937 lines exhibited increased chlorophyll and carotenoid levels under both conditions and showed enhanced photosynthetic adaptation compared to the wild-type (WT) and single STTM lines. CONCLUSIONS: These results indicate that suppression of miR826b and miR2937 by STTM modulates the MEP pathway in plastid terpenoid regulation and its impact on photosynthesis. This study lays the foundation for further exploration of miRNA-mediated control of plastid terpenoid in response to light.
  20. Fulltext Active Faraday reactions in a polyaniline and titanium carbide MXene composite for enhanced supercapacitive performance
    Munir H, Saeed M, Karamat S, Numan A, Masood H, Masud MI, et al.
    RSC Adv, 2026 Nov 04.
    PMID: 42985220 DOI: 10.1039/d6ra04692d
    Energy storage research has been pushed hard in recent years, largely because the demand for efficient and sustainable solutions keeps growing. Supercapacitors, in particular, came into the spotlight in recent years. They deliver high power and hold up well over long cycle life, but they store less energy per unit mass and this is the genuine obstacle to their widespread commercial application. To address this, we report a facile and scalable physical blending approach to prepare a Ti3C2T x MXene-polyaniline composite with significantly enhanced energy storage performance. The stacked lamellar structured Ti3C2T x MXene, extracted from a Ti3AlC2 MAX phase precursor, provides a highly conductive framework, while PANI offers abundant redox-active sites. This used approach allows effective interfacial contact between Ti3C2T x sheets and PANI while preserving the layer structure of the MXene. Characterization tools such as XRD, SEM, and EDS confirmed the successful extraction of stacked lamellar Ti3C2T x MXene with minimal Al content, and the preparation of the Ti3C2T x /PANI composite without showing impurities. The electrochemical analysis of the synthesized Ti3C2T x /PANI nanocomposite shows improved gravimetric capacitance (C SP) of 839.2 Fg-1 at 1 Ag-1, which is substantially greater than that of the pure MXene (413.5 Fg-1) and PANI (615.8 Fg-1). The prepared electrode achieved an energy density (E d) of 41.9 Wh kg-1 at a power density (P d) of 300 W kg-1. Furthermore, the two-electrode measurements of Ti3C2T x /PANI//AC displayed enhanced C SP of 158.4 Fg-1 with an improved E d of 140.8 Wh kg-1. The Ti3C2T x /PANI//AC displayed stability of 102.6% at the end of 1000 cycles. These findings demonstrate that the Ti3C2T x /PANI can be adopted as an optimal choice for supercapacitors.
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