Ahmad Raza - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Ahmad Raza

International journal of Engineering Works, 2021

Pakistan Journal of Medical and Health Sciences, 2022

Background: Coronary collateral circulation (CCC) is a secondary source of blood supply to an isc... more Background: Coronary collateral circulation (CCC) is a secondary source of blood supply to an ischemic myocardial area in coronary artery disease. One of the most important protective responses of the cardiac against ischemia is the development of CCC. Recently, platelet to lymphocyte ratio has emerged as a major inflammatory marker & a new predictor of serious unfavorable cardiovascular outcomes. Aim: To find the frequency of poor & good coronary collateral circulation in patients of Non-ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction & to compare mean platelet–lymphocyte ratio in patients with poor & good coronary collateral circulation of Non-ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction. Methodology: This cross Sectional study was conducted in Cardiology Department, Mayo Hospital Lahore After taking informed consent 150 patients meeting inclusion criteria was taken in this study. The patients were enrolled from Department Cardiology, Mayo Hospital Lahore. Their basic demographical infor...

Big Data In Agriculture, 2020

Cellulases and xylanases have high industrial demand due to their paramount importance in biologi... more Cellulases and xylanases have high industrial demand due to their paramount importance in biological processes. The present study was aimed to evaluate the fiber degrading potential of Bacillus spp. isolated from buffalo digestive system. A total of fourteen isolates from rumen and eight isolates from dung were screened on carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC; 1%) agar plates, showing clear zone of CMC hydrolysis. All screened isolates were confirmed by targeting the 16S rRNA gene, sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. The enzyme activity index (EAI) of all screened isolates was calculated and it was observed that BR28 (Bacillus subtilis), BR96 (Bacillus amyloliquefaciens), BD69 (Bacillus tequilensis) and BD92 (Bacillus sonorensis) exhibit 2.11, 2.05, 2.56 and 2.45 EAI, respectively. The isolates with high EAI (>2) were selected for further enzyme production studies. The results of enzyme activities showed that BD92 had higher endoglucanse (carboxymethyl-cellulase, CMCase, 240.76±4.12 U/...

Second iiScience International Conference 2021: Recent Advances in Photonics and Physical Sciences, 2021

Vertical field effect light emitting transistors (VFELETs) have an advantage over lateral ones be... more Vertical field effect light emitting transistors (VFELETs) have an advantage over lateral ones because they have the ability to conveniently decrease the channel volume. In the VFELET both current density and cut-off frequency are enhanced by this. Current work presents a highly efficient VFELET simulation process based on CdSe quantum dots in which the ITO gate is accompanied by dielectric Al2O3. While using AgNW as drain material and Au as source. By changing gate voltage as well as Vds, the output of the VFELET is greatly improved. The 10-5A Id has been achieved by using Vgs 0.4, 0.8, 1.2 and 1.6V. In addition, a higher EQE (2.6 %) and maximum luminance (1.1 × 104 cd m-2) have also been achieved in current work.

Chinese Optics Letters, 2021

Optoelectronic applications based on the perovskites always face challenges due to the inherent c... more Optoelectronic applications based on the perovskites always face challenges due to the inherent chemical composition volatility of perovskite precursors. The efficiency of perovskite-based light-emitting diodes (Pe-LEDs) can be enhanced by improving the perovskite film via solvent engineering. A dual solvent post-treatment strategy was applied to the perovskite film, which provides a synchronous effect of passivating surface imperfections and reduces exciton quenching, as evidenced by improved surface morphology and photoluminance. Thus, the optimized Pe-LEDs reach 17,866 cd·m−2 maximum brightness, 45.8 cd·A−1 current efficiency, 8.3% external quantum efficiency, and relatively low turn-on voltage of 2.0 V. Herein, we present a simple technique for the fabrication of stable and efficient Pe-LEDs.

Inquiry-Based Lessons in World History Grades 7-10, 2021

Critical Care Medicine, 2020

Cureus, 2020

Submassive or intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when an acute PE episode is associ... more Submassive or intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when an acute PE episode is associated with radiographic evidence of right heart strain without hemodynamic instability. Further risk stratification is important in determining whether systemic thrombolytic therapy should be administered when weighing the risks and benefits. It includes the risk of death from acute PE versus the risk of bleeding. This decision could be further complicated in institutions where there is a lack of complete therapeutic options, which increases the importance of the expertise of a pulmonologist or an intensivist to decide whether rescue reperfusion is needed. We describe the case of a 34-year-old female patient with a history of right thigh abscess and diabetes mellitus who was admitted for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) along right thigh abscess status post-incision and drainage. She had a syncopal episode and was found to have submassive PE with right heart strain with stable hemodynamics and oxygen requirement. She tolerated systemic thrombolytic therapy without complications with a drastic improvement in her cardiac function post-treatment.

Folia microbiologica, Jan 25, 2018

Endo-glucanase (cellulase) and xylanase have high industrial demand due to their vast application... more Endo-glucanase (cellulase) and xylanase have high industrial demand due to their vast application in industrial processes. This study reports statistical based experimental optimization for co-production of endo-glucanase and xylanase from Bacillus sonorensis BD92. Response surface methodology (RSM) involving central composite design (CCD) with full factorial experiments (2) was applied to elucidate the components that significantly affect co-production of endo-glucanase and xylanase. The optimum co-production conditions for endo-glucanase and xylanase were as follows: carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) 20 g/L, yeast extract 15 g/L, and time 72 h. The maximum endo-glucanase and xylanase production obtained was 1.46 and 5.69 U/mL, respectively, while the minimum endo-glucanase and xylanase production obtained was 0.66 and 0.25 U/mL, respectively. This statistical model was efficient because only 20 experimental runs were necessary to assess the highest production conditions, and the model...

The American journal of psychiatry, Jan 15, 2016

The Prolonging Remission in Depressed Elderly (PRIDE) study evaluated the efficacy of right unila... more The Prolonging Remission in Depressed Elderly (PRIDE) study evaluated the efficacy of right unilateral ultrabrief pulse electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) combined with venlafaxine for the treatment of geriatric depression. PRIDE was a two-phase multisite study. Phase 1 was an acute course of right unilateral ultrabrief pulse ECT, combined with open-label venlafaxine at seven academic medical centers. In phase 2 (reported separately), patients who had remitted were randomly assigned to receive pharmacotherapy (venlafaxine plus lithium) or pharmacotherapy plus continuation ECT. In phase 1, depressed patients received high-dose ECT (at six times the seizure threshold) three times per week. Venlafaxine was started during the first week of treatment and continued throughout the study. The primary outcome measure was remission, assessed with the 24-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D), which was administered three times per week. Secondary outcome measures were post-ECT reorientati...

The American journal of psychiatry, Jan 15, 2016

The randomized phase (phase 2) of the Prolonging Remission in Depressed Elderly (PRIDE) study eva... more The randomized phase (phase 2) of the Prolonging Remission in Depressed Elderly (PRIDE) study evaluated the efficacy and tolerability of continuation ECT plus medication compared with medication alone in depressed geriatric patients after a successful course of ECT (phase 1). PRIDE was a two-phase multisite study. Phase 1 was an acute course of right unilateral ultrabrief pulse ECT, augmented with venlafaxine. Phase 2 compared two randomized treatment arms: a medication only arm (venlafaxine plus lithium, over 24 weeks) and an ECT plus medication arm (four continuation ECT treatments over 1 month, plus additional ECT as needed, using the Symptom-Titrated, Algorithm-Based Longitudinal ECT [STABLE] algorithm, while continuing venlafaxine plus lithium). The intent-to-treat sample comprised 120 remitters from phase 1. The primary efficacy outcome measure was score on the 24-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D), and the secondary efficacy outcome was score on the Clinical Global...

Islamic banking has grown reasonably fast in the last decade in Pakistan. People invest religious... more Islamic banking has grown reasonably fast in the last decade in Pakistan. People invest religiously trusting the fatwa of the so-called Sharia boards of these banks. Are these financial instruments really riba-free (interest-free)? Do these instruments conform to the juristic and ethical frameworks laid down by the Quran, the Holy Prophet (PBUH) and the imams of the leading schools of thought? If the analysis shows otherwise, then why not do ‘modern’ banking instead of labelling riba-infested products as ‘Islamic’ and selling them as halal and riba-free? The theoretical problem arises out of our inability to comprehend the meanings of two words ‘riba’ and ‘ba’ah’ used in the Quran to strictly prohibit the former and clearly permit the latter. There are two verses in the Quran which deal with the concepts of riba and ba’ah and adjudicate reas

International Research Journal of Pharmacy, 2015

As the prevalence of breast cancer has been increasing day by day in almost every part of the wor... more As the prevalence of breast cancer has been increasing day by day in almost every part of the world, there is need to develop alternative therapeutic measures for breast cancer control. To fulfill this need, chemoprevention is a novel approach. Efforts have been made to identify synthetic or natural products that can prevent the pre-neoplastic events preceding the occurrence of detectable cancer. Berberine (quaternary ammonium salt from the protoberberine group of isoquinoline alkaloids) is one such compound. In this review in vitro and in vivo anticancer activities of berberine have been summarized. The mechanisms of action of berberine include; inhibition of tumorigenic microorganisms, regulation of oncogene, interaction with DNA and RNA, inhibition of carcinogenesis related enzymes and induction of apoptosis. Berbrine has synergistic activity of when given in combined medication while it is also responsible for reduction of multidrug resistance in breast cancer treatment.

Journal for Multicultural Education, 2014

ABSTRACT Abstract Purpose - This paper reconstructs the metaphor of classroom learning in plural ... more ABSTRACT Abstract Purpose - This paper reconstructs the metaphor of classroom learning in plural cultural context. It underscores the essential complexity of the human learning and argues for multiple pedagogical practices as a tool for instructional engagement. Design/methodology/approach - Technological innovations have given new meanings and interpretations to the social vocabulary of learning across the world. These innovations have created cultural contexts in which metaphor of classroom learning needs to be revisited and reassessed. It discusses the concept of classroom learning in a humanistic cultural context, and explores a methodological framework for multiple pedagogic practices a tool for learning engagement based on critique of divergent themes in pedagogical literature. Findings - It is argued that classroom learning is a complex microcosm of human bodies, minds and cultures, necessitating major adaptations, both from teachers and learners. It is a continuous engagement, borne out of mutual willingness of teachers and learners to become indivisible part of whole living experience of learning. Classroom as a metaphor of learning would continue to inspire the serious learners, have responded to technological innovations, currently experienced by the human societies across the world, and has gone on to become a ‘cyber-classroom’ in the era of globalization. Originality/value - The paper highlights underlying cultural complexities of human learning, and hence underscores the need for a revised and pluralistic curriculum for the global management education and those who are engaged in it.

ECMS 2009 Proceedings edited by J. Otamendi, A. Bargiela, J. L. Montes, L. M. Doncel Pedrera, 2009

Current psychiatry, 2012

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has remained one of the most effective treatments for major depre... more Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has remained one of the most effective treatments for major depressive disorder (MDD) since it was introduced >70 years ago.1 ECT’s primary indication is severe, treatment-resistant MDD but sometimes is used to treat other disorders, including bipolar mania and schizophrenia. In ECT, electrical current is delivered to a patient’s brain via electrodes placed on the scalp to induce a seizure while the patient is under anesthesia and a muscle relaxant. ECT’s exact mechanism of action for MDD is unknown, but researchers believe it may relieve depressive symptoms by regulating functional disturbances in relevant neural circuits.2 Research has shown that 64% to 87% of patients with severe MDD respond to ECT, with response rates as high as 95% for patients with MDD with psychotic features.3–5 Although patients may respond more quickly, 6 to 12 sessions typically are required to resolve a severe depressive episode.2 Despite ECT’s proven effectiveness, several factors have limited its widespread use, including limited access and expertise, adverse cognitive effects such as memory impairment, and negative public perception based on how ECT was administered decades ago.2 This article describes current methods of administering ECT, and how these changes have helped minimize these concerns while retaining efficacy.

International journal of Engineering Works, 2021

Pakistan Journal of Medical and Health Sciences, 2022

Background: Coronary collateral circulation (CCC) is a secondary source of blood supply to an isc... more Background: Coronary collateral circulation (CCC) is a secondary source of blood supply to an ischemic myocardial area in coronary artery disease. One of the most important protective responses of the cardiac against ischemia is the development of CCC. Recently, platelet to lymphocyte ratio has emerged as a major inflammatory marker & a new predictor of serious unfavorable cardiovascular outcomes. Aim: To find the frequency of poor & good coronary collateral circulation in patients of Non-ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction & to compare mean platelet–lymphocyte ratio in patients with poor & good coronary collateral circulation of Non-ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction. Methodology: This cross Sectional study was conducted in Cardiology Department, Mayo Hospital Lahore After taking informed consent 150 patients meeting inclusion criteria was taken in this study. The patients were enrolled from Department Cardiology, Mayo Hospital Lahore. Their basic demographical infor...

Big Data In Agriculture, 2020

Cellulases and xylanases have high industrial demand due to their paramount importance in biologi... more Cellulases and xylanases have high industrial demand due to their paramount importance in biological processes. The present study was aimed to evaluate the fiber degrading potential of Bacillus spp. isolated from buffalo digestive system. A total of fourteen isolates from rumen and eight isolates from dung were screened on carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC; 1%) agar plates, showing clear zone of CMC hydrolysis. All screened isolates were confirmed by targeting the 16S rRNA gene, sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. The enzyme activity index (EAI) of all screened isolates was calculated and it was observed that BR28 (Bacillus subtilis), BR96 (Bacillus amyloliquefaciens), BD69 (Bacillus tequilensis) and BD92 (Bacillus sonorensis) exhibit 2.11, 2.05, 2.56 and 2.45 EAI, respectively. The isolates with high EAI (>2) were selected for further enzyme production studies. The results of enzyme activities showed that BD92 had higher endoglucanse (carboxymethyl-cellulase, CMCase, 240.76±4.12 U/...

Second iiScience International Conference 2021: Recent Advances in Photonics and Physical Sciences, 2021

Vertical field effect light emitting transistors (VFELETs) have an advantage over lateral ones be... more Vertical field effect light emitting transistors (VFELETs) have an advantage over lateral ones because they have the ability to conveniently decrease the channel volume. In the VFELET both current density and cut-off frequency are enhanced by this. Current work presents a highly efficient VFELET simulation process based on CdSe quantum dots in which the ITO gate is accompanied by dielectric Al2O3. While using AgNW as drain material and Au as source. By changing gate voltage as well as Vds, the output of the VFELET is greatly improved. The 10-5A Id has been achieved by using Vgs 0.4, 0.8, 1.2 and 1.6V. In addition, a higher EQE (2.6 %) and maximum luminance (1.1 × 104 cd m-2) have also been achieved in current work.

Chinese Optics Letters, 2021

Optoelectronic applications based on the perovskites always face challenges due to the inherent c... more Optoelectronic applications based on the perovskites always face challenges due to the inherent chemical composition volatility of perovskite precursors. The efficiency of perovskite-based light-emitting diodes (Pe-LEDs) can be enhanced by improving the perovskite film via solvent engineering. A dual solvent post-treatment strategy was applied to the perovskite film, which provides a synchronous effect of passivating surface imperfections and reduces exciton quenching, as evidenced by improved surface morphology and photoluminance. Thus, the optimized Pe-LEDs reach 17,866 cd·m−2 maximum brightness, 45.8 cd·A−1 current efficiency, 8.3% external quantum efficiency, and relatively low turn-on voltage of 2.0 V. Herein, we present a simple technique for the fabrication of stable and efficient Pe-LEDs.

Inquiry-Based Lessons in World History Grades 7-10, 2021

Critical Care Medicine, 2020

Cureus, 2020

Submassive or intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when an acute PE episode is associ... more Submassive or intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when an acute PE episode is associated with radiographic evidence of right heart strain without hemodynamic instability. Further risk stratification is important in determining whether systemic thrombolytic therapy should be administered when weighing the risks and benefits. It includes the risk of death from acute PE versus the risk of bleeding. This decision could be further complicated in institutions where there is a lack of complete therapeutic options, which increases the importance of the expertise of a pulmonologist or an intensivist to decide whether rescue reperfusion is needed. We describe the case of a 34-year-old female patient with a history of right thigh abscess and diabetes mellitus who was admitted for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) along right thigh abscess status post-incision and drainage. She had a syncopal episode and was found to have submassive PE with right heart strain with stable hemodynamics and oxygen requirement. She tolerated systemic thrombolytic therapy without complications with a drastic improvement in her cardiac function post-treatment.

Folia microbiologica, Jan 25, 2018

Endo-glucanase (cellulase) and xylanase have high industrial demand due to their vast application... more Endo-glucanase (cellulase) and xylanase have high industrial demand due to their vast application in industrial processes. This study reports statistical based experimental optimization for co-production of endo-glucanase and xylanase from Bacillus sonorensis BD92. Response surface methodology (RSM) involving central composite design (CCD) with full factorial experiments (2) was applied to elucidate the components that significantly affect co-production of endo-glucanase and xylanase. The optimum co-production conditions for endo-glucanase and xylanase were as follows: carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) 20 g/L, yeast extract 15 g/L, and time 72 h. The maximum endo-glucanase and xylanase production obtained was 1.46 and 5.69 U/mL, respectively, while the minimum endo-glucanase and xylanase production obtained was 0.66 and 0.25 U/mL, respectively. This statistical model was efficient because only 20 experimental runs were necessary to assess the highest production conditions, and the model...

The American journal of psychiatry, Jan 15, 2016

The Prolonging Remission in Depressed Elderly (PRIDE) study evaluated the efficacy of right unila... more The Prolonging Remission in Depressed Elderly (PRIDE) study evaluated the efficacy of right unilateral ultrabrief pulse electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) combined with venlafaxine for the treatment of geriatric depression. PRIDE was a two-phase multisite study. Phase 1 was an acute course of right unilateral ultrabrief pulse ECT, combined with open-label venlafaxine at seven academic medical centers. In phase 2 (reported separately), patients who had remitted were randomly assigned to receive pharmacotherapy (venlafaxine plus lithium) or pharmacotherapy plus continuation ECT. In phase 1, depressed patients received high-dose ECT (at six times the seizure threshold) three times per week. Venlafaxine was started during the first week of treatment and continued throughout the study. The primary outcome measure was remission, assessed with the 24-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D), which was administered three times per week. Secondary outcome measures were post-ECT reorientati...

The American journal of psychiatry, Jan 15, 2016

The randomized phase (phase 2) of the Prolonging Remission in Depressed Elderly (PRIDE) study eva... more The randomized phase (phase 2) of the Prolonging Remission in Depressed Elderly (PRIDE) study evaluated the efficacy and tolerability of continuation ECT plus medication compared with medication alone in depressed geriatric patients after a successful course of ECT (phase 1). PRIDE was a two-phase multisite study. Phase 1 was an acute course of right unilateral ultrabrief pulse ECT, augmented with venlafaxine. Phase 2 compared two randomized treatment arms: a medication only arm (venlafaxine plus lithium, over 24 weeks) and an ECT plus medication arm (four continuation ECT treatments over 1 month, plus additional ECT as needed, using the Symptom-Titrated, Algorithm-Based Longitudinal ECT [STABLE] algorithm, while continuing venlafaxine plus lithium). The intent-to-treat sample comprised 120 remitters from phase 1. The primary efficacy outcome measure was score on the 24-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D), and the secondary efficacy outcome was score on the Clinical Global...

Islamic banking has grown reasonably fast in the last decade in Pakistan. People invest religious... more Islamic banking has grown reasonably fast in the last decade in Pakistan. People invest religiously trusting the fatwa of the so-called Sharia boards of these banks. Are these financial instruments really riba-free (interest-free)? Do these instruments conform to the juristic and ethical frameworks laid down by the Quran, the Holy Prophet (PBUH) and the imams of the leading schools of thought? If the analysis shows otherwise, then why not do ‘modern’ banking instead of labelling riba-infested products as ‘Islamic’ and selling them as halal and riba-free? The theoretical problem arises out of our inability to comprehend the meanings of two words ‘riba’ and ‘ba’ah’ used in the Quran to strictly prohibit the former and clearly permit the latter. There are two verses in the Quran which deal with the concepts of riba and ba’ah and adjudicate reas

International Research Journal of Pharmacy, 2015

As the prevalence of breast cancer has been increasing day by day in almost every part of the wor... more As the prevalence of breast cancer has been increasing day by day in almost every part of the world, there is need to develop alternative therapeutic measures for breast cancer control. To fulfill this need, chemoprevention is a novel approach. Efforts have been made to identify synthetic or natural products that can prevent the pre-neoplastic events preceding the occurrence of detectable cancer. Berberine (quaternary ammonium salt from the protoberberine group of isoquinoline alkaloids) is one such compound. In this review in vitro and in vivo anticancer activities of berberine have been summarized. The mechanisms of action of berberine include; inhibition of tumorigenic microorganisms, regulation of oncogene, interaction with DNA and RNA, inhibition of carcinogenesis related enzymes and induction of apoptosis. Berbrine has synergistic activity of when given in combined medication while it is also responsible for reduction of multidrug resistance in breast cancer treatment.

Journal for Multicultural Education, 2014

ABSTRACT Abstract Purpose - This paper reconstructs the metaphor of classroom learning in plural ... more ABSTRACT Abstract Purpose - This paper reconstructs the metaphor of classroom learning in plural cultural context. It underscores the essential complexity of the human learning and argues for multiple pedagogical practices as a tool for instructional engagement. Design/methodology/approach - Technological innovations have given new meanings and interpretations to the social vocabulary of learning across the world. These innovations have created cultural contexts in which metaphor of classroom learning needs to be revisited and reassessed. It discusses the concept of classroom learning in a humanistic cultural context, and explores a methodological framework for multiple pedagogic practices a tool for learning engagement based on critique of divergent themes in pedagogical literature. Findings - It is argued that classroom learning is a complex microcosm of human bodies, minds and cultures, necessitating major adaptations, both from teachers and learners. It is a continuous engagement, borne out of mutual willingness of teachers and learners to become indivisible part of whole living experience of learning. Classroom as a metaphor of learning would continue to inspire the serious learners, have responded to technological innovations, currently experienced by the human societies across the world, and has gone on to become a ‘cyber-classroom’ in the era of globalization. Originality/value - The paper highlights underlying cultural complexities of human learning, and hence underscores the need for a revised and pluralistic curriculum for the global management education and those who are engaged in it.

ECMS 2009 Proceedings edited by J. Otamendi, A. Bargiela, J. L. Montes, L. M. Doncel Pedrera, 2009

Current psychiatry, 2012

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has remained one of the most effective treatments for major depre... more Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has remained one of the most effective treatments for major depressive disorder (MDD) since it was introduced >70 years ago.1 ECT’s primary indication is severe, treatment-resistant MDD but sometimes is used to treat other disorders, including bipolar mania and schizophrenia. In ECT, electrical current is delivered to a patient’s brain via electrodes placed on the scalp to induce a seizure while the patient is under anesthesia and a muscle relaxant. ECT’s exact mechanism of action for MDD is unknown, but researchers believe it may relieve depressive symptoms by regulating functional disturbances in relevant neural circuits.2 Research has shown that 64% to 87% of patients with severe MDD respond to ECT, with response rates as high as 95% for patients with MDD with psychotic features.3–5 Although patients may respond more quickly, 6 to 12 sessions typically are required to resolve a severe depressive episode.2 Despite ECT’s proven effectiveness, several factors have limited its widespread use, including limited access and expertise, adverse cognitive effects such as memory impairment, and negative public perception based on how ECT was administered decades ago.2 This article describes current methods of administering ECT, and how these changes have helped minimize these concerns while retaining efficacy.