International Journal of Pharmaceutics Research
International Journal of Pharmaceutics Research (ISSN Online: 3106-7727 | ISSN Print: 3106-7719) is an international, open-access, quarterly scholarly journal that operates under a rigorous double-blind peer-review system. The journal is dedicated to advancing high-quality research across the pharmaceutical, biological, and life sciences, providing a reliable and globally accessible platform for the dissemination of original and impactful scholarly work. The journal publishes original research articles, review papers, and short communications covering a broad range of disciplines, including pharmaceutics, molecular biology, biotechnology, microbiology, genetics, biochemistry, environmental sciences, and other interdisciplinary areas within the life sciences. Emphasis is placed on scientific originality, methodological rigor, and research that contributes meaningfully to pharmaceutical development and biomedical innovation. The International Journal of Pharmaceutics Research is published by the Factum Research Institute (SMC–Private) Limited, a legally registered organization with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) under registration number 0310960. Committed to the highest standards of academic integrity, ethical publishing practices, and transparent editorial policies, the journal ensures a fair, unbiased, and thorough peer-review process. Through its open-access publishing model and adherence to international scholarly standards, the journal serves as a credible and inclusive platform for researchers, academics, and industry professionals to disseminate scientific knowledge, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and promote innovation in the pharmaceutical and biosciences.
Factum Research Institute (SMC-Private) Limited
EVALUATING THE PROFICIENCY OF NURSES IN MANAGING THALASSEMIA: A CASE OF TERTIARY CARE CENTRE
Thalassemia is a common autosomal recessive blood disorder caused by defective synthesis of hemoglobin chains, leading to chronic anemia. It remains one of the most prevalent genetic conditions worldwide, necessitating skilled nursing care to improve patient outcomes.This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and practices of nurses regarding the care of thalassemia major patients at a tertiary care hospital.A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using purposive sampling. Data were collected from nurses directly involved in the management of thalassemia patients.Among participants, 39.3% demonstrated good knowledge, 35.7% had moderate knowledge, and 25.0% exhibited poor knowledge. Regarding practices, 60.2% of nurses reported good practices, while 39.8% demonstrated poor practices.The study revealed that most nurses possessed adequate knowledge and appropriate practices concerning the care of thalassemia major patients. Nonetheless, identified gaps underscore the importance of ongoing training and professional development programs to enhance nursing competence and ensure optimal patient care.
EVALUATING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF COGNITIVE REHABILITATION ON COGNITIVE PERFORMANCE
This study examined the effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation exercises in improving general cognitive functioning among stroke patients. A quasi-experimental design was employed with a sample of 40 stroke patients recruited from government and private hospitals in Lahore. Participants were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n=20) and a control group (n=20). Cognitive functioning was assessed using the Mini-Mental Status Examination (MMSE) at both pre- and post-intervention stages. The experimental group received targeted cognitive rehabilitation exercises aimed at enhancing cognitive abilities, while the control group received no such intervention. Paired sample t-test analysis revealed significant improvements in cognitive functioning within the experimental group, whereas no notable change was observed in the control group. These findings highlight the potential of culturally relevant, evidence-based cognitive rehabilitation approaches in supporting stroke recovery, with implications for clinical practice, caregivers, and rehabilitation programs.
TANTALUM CHEMISTRY IN MEDICINE: ATOMIC-SCALE APPROACHES TO CORROSION RESISTANCE AND BIOCOMPATIBILITY
Tantalum is recently been considered as a highly promising candidate for biomaterials in medical implants, useful for its high corrosion resistance, favorable biocompatibility, and antimicrobial properties. The atomic scale mechanisms for corrosion resistance in tantalum and for biocompatibility have been studied through a combination of electrochemical, in vitro, and clinical evaluations in the field. Tantalum is a metal that has been electrochemically investigated as far superior to titanium or stainless steel in resistance to corrosion by forming a passive surface film of stable tantalum oxide (Ta₂O₅). In vitro assays with MG63 osteoblast-like cells and endothelial cells showed that the tantalum surface significantly increased cell adhesion, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation. Tantalum reduced biofilm formation by the pathogenic agent Staphylococcus aureus, indicating its potential to lessen an infected implant. Clinical evaluations in hospitals further validated the administrative performance of tantalum, which confirmed successful osseointegration and had very minimal inflammatory response in patients with tantalum orthopedic and dental implants. This research has also highlighted problems such as the escalating cost of tantalum and the requirement of further optimization of porous configuration for improvement in mechanical properties. Nevertheless, because of the very excellent biological and chemical properties of tantalum, it will be a promising biomaterial for the next generation of medical implants. The future research should focus on improving its clinical applications and application potential into drug delivery and regenerative medicine.
Stress, Work-Life Balance, Emotional Intelligence, Ambulance personnel, Paramedics
GENERAL ANESTHESIA VERSUS COMBINED SPINAL-EPIDURAL ANESTHESIA IN GYNECOLOGIC LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERIES: A COMPARATIVE STUDY
The choice of anesthesia in laparoscopic gynecological surgeries plays a critical role in patient outcomes, including intraoperative stability, postoperative recovery, pain control, and overall satisfaction. General anesthesia (GA) and combined spinal-epidural anesthesia (CSEA) are two commonly employed techniques, each with distinct advantages and limitations. However, limited evidence exists regarding their comparative efficacy and safety in gynecological laparoscopic procedures. To compare the effectiveness of GA and CSEA in laparoscopic gynecological surgeries with respect to hemodynamic stability, postoperative pain, recovery time, and perioperative complications. This randomized controlled trial included 120 patients undergoing gynecological laparoscopic surgery. Participants were randomly assigned to two equal groups: GA (n=60) and CSEA (n=60). Parameters assessed included intraoperative hemodynamic stability (heart rate, blood pressure), postoperative pain (measured by visual analog scale), recovery time (time to ambulation and discharge), and complications (nausea, vomiting, respiratory depression).Patients in the CSEA group demonstrated superior hemodynamic stability, lower postoperative pain scores, and faster recovery times compared to those in the GA group. Complications such as nausea, vomiting, and respiratory depression were less frequent in the CSEA group. CSEA appears to be a safe and effective alternative to GA in laparoscopic gynecological surgeries, particularly for patients with comorbidities or at higher risk of hemodynamic instability. Further studies with larger sample sizes are warranted to confirm these findings and explore long-term outcomes.
general anesthesia, combined spinal-epidural anesthesia
COMPARATIVE OUTCOMES OF VENTRICULOPERITONEAL SHUNT AND ENDOSCOPIC THIRD VENTRICULOSTOMY IN OBSTRUCTIVE HYDROCEPHALUS ASSOCIATED WITH POSTERIOR FOSSA TUMORS
Obstructive hydrocephalus is common in children with posterior fossa tumors (70–90%) but less frequent in adults (10–21%). Ventriculoperitoneal shunting (VPS) is effective but carries lifelong risks, while endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) offers a hardware-free alternative. This study compared outcomes of ETV and VPS in such patients.In a randomized controlled trial at Mayo Hospital, Lahore, 168 patients with tumor-related hydrocephalus were assigned to ETV (n=84) or VPS (n=84) prior to tumor surgery. Primary outcome was treatment success, defined as no additional CSF diversion within 12 months. Secondary outcomes included complications, reoperations, hospital stay, and Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS) scores.Baseline demographics and tumor characteristics were similar between groups. At 12 months, treatment success was achieved in 80% of ETV patients versus 75% with VPS (p=0.42). Hospital stay was shorter in the ETV group (4.2±1.5 days) compared to VPS (6.8±2.0 days; p<0.001). Complication rates were lower with ETV (8% vs. 18%, p=0.11). No shunt-related infections occurred in the ETV group, while VPS patients experienced 4 CSF infections and 6 shunt failures requiring revision. No mortality was observed. KPS scores improved equally in both groups (+18 points; p=0.33).Both ETV and VPS are effective for managing obstructive hydrocephalus in posterior fossa tumors. However, ETV offers advantages of shorter hospitalization and fewer complications, making it a favorable alternative to shunting in suitable candidates.
Obstructive hydrocephalus, posterior fossa tumors, ventriculoperitoneal shunt, endoscopic third ventriculostomy, cerebrospinal fluid diversion, neurosurgical outcomes, complication rates
INFLUENCE OF MATERNAL VACCINE ATTITUDES AND BELIEFS ON NEONATAL IMMUNITY: A PROSPECTIVE COHORT ANALYSIS
This prospective cohort study investigated the influence of maternal attitudes and beliefs regarding vaccination on newborn immunity at Swat Medical College and its affiliated teaching hospitals from 2022 to June 2024. A total of 300 pregnant women were enrolled, and their vaccination-related beliefs were assessed using a structured questionnaire. Newborn immunity was evaluated by measuring antibody levels against key vaccine-preventable diseases at six months of age. The results revealed that positive maternal attitudes toward vaccination were significantly associated with higher antibody titers in newborns (p < 0.01). Moreover, factors such as higher maternal education, prior vaccination experiences, and greater exposure to vaccination-related information were positively correlated with favorable maternal attitudes. These findings underscore the pivotal role of maternal perceptions in influencing neonatal immune outcomes and emphasize the need for targeted educational initiatives to enhance vaccination awareness among expectant mothers. Strengthening maternal vaccine literacy could contribute substantially to improved immunization coverage and better newborn health outcomes
A COHORT STUDY ON MATERNAL AND NEONATAL OUTCOMES AFTER VAGINAL PROGESTERONE TREATMENT IN TWIN PREGNANCIES
This cohort study investigated maternal and neonatal outcomes associated with vaginal progesterone therapy in twin pregnancies at Swat Medical College and its affiliated teaching hospitals in Saidu Sharif, Swat, between January 2022 and June 2024. A total of 300 women with twin gestations were enrolled, receiving either standard antenatal care or additional vaginal progesterone supplementation. Outcomes were evaluated in terms of preterm birth rates, neonatal morbidity, and maternal complications. The results demonstrated that vaginal progesterone use was significantly associated with a reduction in preterm births (p < 0.05) and improved neonatal outcomes, including decreased incidences of respiratory distress and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions. No statistically significant differences were observed in maternal complications such as gestational hypertension or preeclampsia between the treatment and control groups. These findings suggest that vaginal progesterone therapy may be an effective intervention for lowering the risk of preterm birth and enhancing neonatal health in twin pregnancies. Further large-scale studies are warranted to confirm these outcomes and explore the long-term implications for neonatal development.
DETERMINANTS AND PREVALENCE OF VITAMIN B12 DEFICIENCY AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN: FINDINGS FROM A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Vitamin B12 deficiency remains a major public health concern among pregnant women due to its potential adverse effects on both maternal health and fetal development. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence and identify the risk factors associated with Vitamin B12 deficiency among pregnant women attending Swat Medical College and its affiliated teaching hospitals in Saidu Sharif, Swat, between January 2022 and June 2024. A total of 500 participants were selected using probability sampling techniques. Serum Vitamin B12 levels were measured through laboratory assessments, while demographic, dietary, and socioeconomic data were collected using structured questionnaires. Statistical analyses, including logistic regression, were employed to identify factors significantly associated with Vitamin B12 deficiency. The findings revealed a high prevalence of deficiency, with approximately 45% of participants having serum Vitamin B12 levels below the recommended threshold. Major risk factors included low consumption of animal-derived foods, lower socioeconomic status, and limited awareness regarding nutritional health. These results highlight the urgent need for targeted public health interventions—such as nutritional counseling, supplementation programs, and educational initiatives—to enhance awareness of Vitamin B12’s importance during pregnancy. Implementing such measures could substantially improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes, particularly in resource-constrained regions like Swat.
ASSOCIATION BETWEEN MATERNAL ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, AND BIRTH OUTCOMES: EVIDENCE FROM A PROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY
Maternal anxiety and depression are significant determinants of adverse birth outcomes. This prospective cohort study examined their influence on preterm birth, low birth weight, and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions among pregnant women attending Swat Medical College and its affiliated hospitals in Saidu Sharif, Swat. Maternal mental health was assessed during pregnancy using validated instruments, including the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) scale. Birth outcomes were documented post-delivery, and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to control for potential confounders such as maternal age, socioeconomic status, and access to prenatal care. Findings revealed that a notable proportion of participants experienced anxiety and/or depression during pregnancy. Maternal anxiety was significantly associated with an increased risk of preterm birth (OR = 1.45; 95% CI: 1.12–1.87) and NICU admissions (OR = 1.62; 95% CI: 1.21–2.18), whereas maternal depression was linked to higher risks of low birth weight (OR = 1.53; 95% CI: 1.20–1.96) and preterm birth (OR = 1.47; 95% CI: 1.14–1.89). The co-occurrence of anxiety and depression was associated with the greatest likelihood of adverse neonatal outcomes. These results underscore the critical need for integrating maternal mental health screening and support into routine prenatal care. Strengthening mental health services within antenatal programs could substantially improve both maternal and neonatal health outcomes in comparable healthcare contexts.
ASSESSING THE EFFICIENCY AND PREPAREDNESS OF THE EMERGENCY RESPONSE SYSTEM AT TIMERGARA TEACHING HOSPITAL, KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA
The study aimed to evaluate the emergency response system at Timergara Teaching Hospital and to assess the hospital’s disaster preparedness protocols. This cross-sectional study utilized a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) guide as the primary data collection tool. Participants included medical staff working in the Emergency Department and hospital administrators at Timergara Teaching Hospital. A sample size of 91 respondents was selected. Data were analyzed using SPSS for quantitative analysis and thematic analysis for qualitative insights. The evaluation of medical staff distribution, emergency training, and response measures—supplemented by the thematic findings from FGDs—highlighted both the strengths and the areas requiring improvement within the hospital’s emergency response system
EVALUATING THE EFFICACY OF THE WELLS SCORE FOR DIAGNOSING DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS IN CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE PATIENTS
Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients have an increased risk of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) due to coagulation and vascular dysfunction. While the Wells Scoring System is commonly used to predict DVT risk, its accuracy in CKD patients is not well established. Objective: To evaluate the diagnostic performance of the Wells Scoring System in detecting DVT among CKD patients. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted over six months at Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar. Eighty-five CKD patients (≥18 years) with clinical signs of DVT were consecutively enrolled. Wells scores were calculated prior to compression duplex ultrasonography, which served as the diagnostic gold standard. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 25.0, with a Wells score threshold of ≥2 for DVT risk. Results: DVT was confirmed in 32 patients (37.6%). For a Wells score ≥2, sensitivity was 90.6%, specificity 60.4%, positive predictive value (PPV) 58.0%, and negative predictive value (NPV) 91.4%. Visual data included patient distribution by Wells risk categories and Wells score correlation with ultrasound findings. Conclusion: The Wells Scoring System shows high sensitivity and NPV in CKD patients, making it useful for ruling out DVT. However, moderate specificity necessitates confirmatory imaging. These findings support integrating the Wells score into DVT diagnostic protocols for CKD patients, with awareness of its limitations.
Body Image, Eating Behaviors, College Students, Gender Differences.
A REVIEW ON THE ANTIMICROBIAL AND ANTIOXIDANT EFFECTS OF GINGER
This study, conducted at AIMS Muzaffarabad, AJK (April–September 2024), compared the effects of 12 mg versus 15 mg bupivacaine on maternal hypotension following spinal anesthesia in elective cesarean sections. Hypotension occurred in 16% of patients in the 12 mg group (Group A) and 24% in the 15 mg group (Group B). Other complications, including bradycardia, respiratory depression, nausea/vomiting, and patient discomfort, were also assessed. The study concluded that 12 mg of bupivacaine is associated with a lower incidence of maternal hypotension and may reduce the need for corrective interventions such as vasopressors and fluid overload, making it a safer option for spinal anesthesia in cesarean deliveries.
Ginger, antimicrobial, antioxidant, bioactive compounds, oxidative stress, natural remedies
MONKEYPOX VIRUS: A REVIEW OF EPIDEMIOLOGY AND MOLECULAR MECHANISMS
This review explores the epidemiology and molecular mechanisms of the Monkeypox virus (MPXV), with a focus on its spread beyond Africa to regions like Europe. Data shows a high number of cases among individuals aged 25–34, highlighting the need for targeted public health interventions and education. The virus is linked to both zoonotic reservoirs (mainly rodents) and human-to-human transmission, with around 60% of cases resulting from direct contact. This underscores the interplay between environmental factors and public health systems, emphasizing the need for effective surveillance and coordinated global response strategies. The review also highlights the importance of vaccination campaigns and public awareness to reduce transmission, especially in high-risk populations. Finally, it calls for further research into socio-demographic factors, healthcare system resilience, and global health security to better manage future outbreaks.
Monkeypox; MPXV; public health; epidemiology; zoonotic transmission; vaccination, Central Africa; disease management; socio-economic factors; global health security.
DEMOGRAPHIC VARIATIONS IN BODY IMAGE AND DISORDERED EATING AMONG COLLEGE STUDENTS
NECK ELONGATION IN GIRAFFES: FOSSIL EVIDENCE AND EVOLUTIONARY PERSPECTIVES
The evolution of the giraffe’s elongated neck has sparked ongoing debate, with key hypotheses including high browsing and sexual selection. The browsing hypothesis argues that longer necks evolved to access tall foliage and reduce food competition, while the “necks-for-sex” theory suggests male combat and dominance drove elongation. Fossil evidence offers partial support for both but remains incomplete. Lamarckian and Darwinian perspectives emphasize environmental pressures and inherited traits in shaping morphology. A synthesis of these views indicates that both feeding advantages and sexual competition likely contributed to neck elongation. Further research is needed to clarify unresolved anatomical and functional adaptations.
Giraffe evolution, Neck elongation, Fossil evidence, Natural selection, Giraffidae fossils
FERROUS SULFATE VS. FERROUS GLUCONATE: EFFECTS ON HEMOGLOBIN AND FERRITIN IN YOUNG CHILDREN WITH IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA
Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is the most common nutritional deficiency in children, especially those aged 6–36 months. This randomized controlled trial at The Children’s Hospital Lahore compared the efficacy and tolerability of ferrous sulfate (FS) and ferrous gluconate (FG) in treating IDA in 70 children. Both groups showed significant improvements in hemoglobin and ferritin levels after six weeks; however, the FG group had a greater mean increase in hemoglobin (2.8 ± 0.6 g/dL vs. 2.2 ± 0.5 g/dL, p=0.002) and ferritin (24.5 ± 6.3 ng/mL vs. 18.1 ± 5.7 ng/mL, p=0.001). FG was also better tolerated, with fewer gastrointestinal side effects (11% vs. 26%). These findings suggest that ferrous gluconate may be a more effective and tolerable option for treating IDA in young children, warranting further investigation through larger multicenter studies.
EFFECTS ON HEMOGLOBIN AND FERRITIN IN YOUNG CHILDREN
Climate change, driven by natural and human activities, poses a significant global threat affecting agriculture, ecosystems, and human health. It increases the spread of infectious and vector-borne diseases like malaria, which affected 247 million people worldwide in 2021, causing over 619,000 deaths. Rising temperatures and extreme weather events contribute to respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological, and gastrointestinal illnesses. Ozone depletion linked to climate change also raises skin cancer risks. As climate impacts worsen—through extreme weather, rising sea levels, and shifting disease patterns—human health and mortality rates increase. Effective disaster management requires continuous monitoring and adaptive policies to mitigate these health challenges.
Climate change, Temperature fluctuation, GI, Cardiopulmonary, Disease transmission, Skin sensitivity.
BIOLOGY OF AGING: CAUSES OF PREMATURE AGING AND STRATEGIES FOR HEALTHY LONGEVITY
This article explores the biology of aging and strategies to promote healthy longevity. It highlights the roles of hormone balance, stress management, sleep, and physical activity in slowing aging and preventing related diseases. Regular exercise, quality sleep, and stress reduction improve cognitive and physical function, while supplements like DHEA, melatonin, and NAD+ precursors support cellular repair. Emerging therapies such as senolytics, gene therapy, and personalized medicine offer promising avenues for extending lifespan. Together, these approaches combine lifestyle, technology, and medical advances to enhance health and independence with age.
Melatonin, Senolytics, inflammation,Gene Therapy,Customised medicines
URDU TRANSLATION AND VALIDATION OF THE SHAME AND STIGMA SCALE FOR HEAD AND NECK CANCER PATIENTS
This study aimed to translate and validate the Shame and Stigma Scale (originally developed by Kissane, 2013) into Urdu for head and neck cancer patients. The Department of Urdu Studies at Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad conducted forward and backward translations to ensure linguistic accuracy and conceptual integrity. The Urdu version was tested on 225 patients (mean age 43.33 ± 11.47), and confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the scale’s original factor structure. Reliability was excellent, with Cronbach’s alpha above 0.94, and validity was supported by strong convergent and discriminant correlations. The validated Urdu scale offers a reliable tool for assessing shame and stigma in Urdu-speaking populations, aiding psycho-oncology research and practice. Future studies are encouraged to use dyadic samples from multiple hospitals for broader insights.
shame, stigma, head and neck cancer, disfigurement, speech, regret
COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS OF BRAIN AGING: DISEASE RISKS AND TREATMENT STRATEGIES
This review explores brain aging as a dynamic, progressive process influenced by social, emotional, environmental, and biological factors. Structural and functional changes—such as cortical thinning, synaptic dysfunction, hormone shifts, circadian disruption, and neuroinflammation—contribute to cognitive decline and increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson’s, and ALS. Shared pathophysiological mechanisms include proteinopathies, mitochondrial failure, and oxidative stress, with mitochondrial dysfunction emerging as a key factor linking neurodegeneration and epilepsy in older adults. Lifelong neurocognitive health is shaped by sex-specific hormonal changes and developmental factors. Advances in biomarkers, AI, and neuroimaging offer promise for early diagnosis and personalized treatments. The review advocates for strategies emphasizing early intervention, circadian rhythm management, sex-specific research, integrated care, and investment in novel neuroprotective therapies to enhance cognitive longevity and quality of life.
Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's, Frontotemporal Dementia, Neuroinflammation Proteinopathies, Neuroprotective Medications
CBCT ANALYSIS OF MANDIBULAR FIRST AND SECOND MOLAR ROOT APEX PROXIMITY TO THE MANDIBULAR CANAL IN A PAKISTANI POPULATION
College (Aug 2024–Feb 2025), evaluated the mean proximity of mandibular first and second molar root apices to the mandibular canal in 120 Pakistani participants using CBCT. Scans were acquired with standardized settings, and measurements were analyzed via specialized software. Results showed mean distances of 5.43 ± 1.41 mm for first molars and 4.13 ± 1.19 mm for second molars, with males exhibiting greater distances for second molars than females (3.86 mm vs. 4.30 mm). The difference between first and second molar distances was statistically significant (p < 0.0001). Findings indicate that second molar roots lie closer to the mandibular canal, especially in females, posing a higher risk of nerve injury. Age had no significant effect. CBCT is crucial for preoperative planning to reduce nerve damage risks during dental procedures.
Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), mandibular canal, mandibular 1st molar, mandibular 2nd molar.
INITIAL CLINICAL STAGE OF ORAL CANCER AS A PREDICTOR OF TREATMENT OUTCOME AND QUALITY OF LIFE
Oral cancer is a significant public health concern in Pakistan, with most patients diagnosed at advanced stages due to delayed detection, limited screening, and high exposure to risk factors like tobacco and HPV. This retrospective cohort study of 115 patients treated at KRL Hospital, Islamabad (Oct 2023–Dec 2024), evaluated clinical staging, risk factors, treatment outcomes, survival, and post-treatment quality of life (QoL). Results showed that 81% were diagnosed at late stages (III & IV), with tobacco use, HPV infection, lack of screening (95%), and rural residency (90%) strongly linked to advanced disease. Early-stage diagnosis correlated with better treatment success and QoL. The study underscores the urgent need to enhance early detection via screening programs, awareness campaigns, and AI-based diagnostics to improve outcomes in resource-limited settings like Pakistan
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), TNM staging, late-stage diagnosis, risk factors, survival rates, early detection, tobacco use, HPV and oral cancer, Quality of Life (QOL), oral cancer screening.
BIOLOGICAL EFFICACY OF MWCNTS-ZNO NANOCOMPOSITES AGAINST RALSTONIA SOLANACEARUM AND FUSARIUM SOLANI: A NANOBIOTECHNOLOGICAL APPROACH FOR PLANT DISEASE MANAGEMENT
In the current study, it is reported that multi-walled carbon nanotube-zinc oxide (MWCNTs-ZnO) nanocomposites were synthesized, their structure characterized, and demonstrated to be useful in antimicrobial applications. We prepared the MWCNTs, which have been cleaned and carboxyl-modified (easy water dispersion), and, later, ZnO nanoparticles were coated on the nanotubes with sol-gel technique. UVVis spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD and SEM were used to prove structural integrity and good functionalization. Antimicrobial activity of the nanocomposites was floated against two agricultural important pathogens viz. Ralstonia solanacearum (Gram-negative bacterium) and Fusarium solani (fungal pathogen), using disc diffusion technique of microbial assay. Findings showed that the antimicrobial activity of MWCNTs was dose-dependent thus having a synergistic effect with ZnO. The composite's bioactivity is likely due to ROS generation, membrane disruption, and enhanced cellular uptake. This study supports the potential application of MWCNTs-ZnO nanocomposites in sustainable agriculture
EFFECT OF EDUCATIONAL TRAINING SESSION ON OBSTETRIC DANGER SIGNS IDENTIFICATION KNOWLEDGE AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN IN RURAL PART OF DISTRICT NOWSHERA
Pregnancy and childbirth are critical phases in a woman’s life that can be accompanied by multiple complications such as headache, epigastric pain, blurred vision, severe abdominal pain, convulsions, preterm labor, high-grade fever, and rupture of membranes. If these obstetric danger signs go unrecognized and untreated, they can lead to increased maternal morbidity and mortality. Awareness and understanding of these signs are crucial for timely management and seeking of appropriate care. Aim: This study aimed to assess the effect of an educational training session on the knowledge of pregnant women regarding the identification of obstetric danger signs in the rural part of District Nowshera, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted at the Rural Health Center, Kheshgi Payan, District Nowshera. A total of 71 pregnant women (gestation >8 weeks) were recruited using a convenience sampling technique. Educational interventions were administered over a period of three weeks, and post-intervention data were collected after one week. A structured questionnaire was used to evaluate knowledge before and after the intervention. Results: There was a statistically significant improvement in participants’ knowledge following the educational sessions. The mean knowledge score increased from 9.23 (pre-intervention) to 13.90 (post-intervention), with a p-value of 0.000, indicating a strong positive effect of the intervention. Conclusion: Educational training significantly enhanced the pregnant women’s knowledge of obstetric danger signs. Incorporating such educational sessions into routine antenatal care is recommended to reduce maternal risks and improve health outcomes
COMPARISON OF PATIENT ANXIETY LEVELS BEFORE AND AFTER USING NOISE CANCELLING HEADPHONES DURING DENTAL PROCEDURES
Objective: To evaluate the effect of active noise cancellation (ANC) headphones on anxiety and pain perception in adult patients who are undergoing ultrasonic scaling. Study Design: Randomized crossover clinical trial. Place and Duration of the Study: Department of Periodontology, 21 Military Dental Centre (MDC), Quetta, from January 2024 to March 2024. Methodology: 60 adult patients receiving ultrasonic scaling were enrolled and randomly divided into two groups using the crossover design. Group A had scaling without ANC initially, and then scaling with ANC later, and similarly for Group B. Pain and anxiety were measured after each session by 5-point VAS. The comparison to pre intervention was analyzed with Wilcoxon signed-rank test, correlation with Spearman's. Results: In group A, the interquartile scores of anxiety scores reduced from 4 to 3 (p < 0.001) and pain mean score reduced from 3 to 2.28 (p < 0.001) in the use of ANC. For Group B, anxiety decreased from 4.31 to 3.09 and pain from 3.16 to 2.06 (p < 0.001).There was no significant correlation between reduction in anxiety and pain (p = 0.992). Use of ANC reduced discomfort consistently throughout ultrasonic scaling, regardless of order or personal sensitivity. Conclusion: Active noise cancellation headphones dramatically decrease both anxiety and pain in adult patients undergoing ultrasonic scaling. These results advocate for ANC as a useful, non-invasive aid to improve patient comfort during dental treatment.
PAIN PERCEPTION IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING DIRECT PULP CAPPING WITH CALCIUM HYDROXIDE VS MTA
Objective: Comparing pain experience among patients treated with direct pulp capping by calcium hydroxide (CaOH) and mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA). Place and Duration of the Study: Department of Operative Dentistry, 21 Military Dental Centre, CMH Quetta, from September 2024 to March 2025. Methodology: Patients aged between 18 and 45 years with reversible pulpitis of posterior teeth who required direct pulp capping were included in the study. Using non-probability purposive sampling technique, the patients were then divided into two groups: group A (n=40) received MTA, and group B (n=40) received calcium hydroxide as the capping material. Assessment of pain was performed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) at baseline, 24 h, 7days, 3 months, and 6 months after procedure. Results: MTA-treated patients had significantly reduced mean VAS scores pre-operatively (p = 0.014), post-operatively at 7 days (p = 0.030) and 3 months (p = 0.012) than the calcium hydroxide group. The mean pain score at 24 hours in the MTA group was 2.1 ± 0.6 compared to 3.8 ± 0.9 in the CaOH group. At 6 months, 90% of MTA cases were asymptomatic as compared to 70% in the CaOH group. Conclusion: Mineral trioxide aggregate produces considerably less pain sensation than calcium hydroxide upon application for direct pulp capping, which would mean improved clinical success and patient comfort in the long term.