Waqas Ahmad

Dr. Waqas Ahmad


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

3Years (2024-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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21 November 2024 in Frontiers in Health Informatics
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
WMWaqar Rasool Minhas
Waqar Rasool Minhas
HSHassan Saleemi
Hassan Saleemi
MRMohanad Faris Raheem
Mohanad Faris Raheem
SSShahad Sabah
Shahad Sabah
HAHira Aslam
Hira Aslam
WAWaqas Ahmad
Waqas Ahmad
Purpose: The goals of this research are as follows: Compare the efficiency of using CRISPR-engineered microbes to degrade unabated pollutants. These include plastics, heavy metals, pesticides, and PCBs, with those of naturally occurring microbes. This research sought to establish if genetic manipulations done by CRISPR-Cas9 could improve the degradation potential of these microbes, especially under environmental conditions that often exist in polluted sites where the pollutants are difficult to remove. Objective: The main question answering the study was concerned with identifying the extent to which the modifications in microbial strains through CRISPR enhanced biodegradation efficiency compared to the natural strains. The second goal was to determine the effect of pollutant types on microbial degradation as well as to study the correlation between the number of CRISPR modifications and biodegradation efficiency. Methodology: Altogether, 220 responses were obtained by experimental testing of microbial strains, either native or genetically modified by the CRISPR technology. The efficiency of biodegradation was determined through the process of quantifying the decrease of mass of the pollutant for a certain duration in laboratory trials. Chemicals that were analyzed embraced plastics, heavy metals, pesticides and poly-chlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). The tests used in the study included the ANOVA test, Kruskal and Wallis test, regression test, and chi-square test. The statistical analysis was performed with SPSS version 23, and the data visualization of those results in the form of a box plot for ANOVA & KW, a scatter plot with a regression line for regression analysis and a bar plot for the Chi-Square test. These figures then provided a better comparison between biodegradation performances according to different microbial strains and the types of pollutants. The regression analysis also brought into light the use of graphical representations of the biodegradation efficiency against the number of CRISPR modifications. Results: The analysis based on ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests showed that the efficiency of degrading contaminants by natural microbial strains and those with the CRISPR /Cas9 biobank was comparable (F-statistic = 0. 60, p-value = 0. 617) and Kruskal-Wallis statistic = 1. 88, p-value = 0. 598). Biodegradation efficiency appears to have a very weak and statistically insignificant upward trend with the number of CRISPR modifications installed, according to the regression equation. 55 (p = 0. 426) and a value of r-squared equaling to 0. 0029. Consequently, using the Chi-Square test (χ² = 16. 31, p-value = 0. 431), there was no significant relationship between pollutant priority and the current categorization of biodegradation efficiency levels present in the study. These statistical results were further supported by graphical representations: In boxplots, no significant variation for microbial strains was again observed, while scatter plot revealed poor association of CRISPR modifications with efficiency level, and bar plot again demonstrated comparable biodegradation performance of different pollutants. Practical Implications: The study implied that enormous-scale microbes for Bioremediation of environmental pollution might not be possible using the CRISPR technique as it is currently; hence, further enhancement is needed. The repeated failure to enhance the efficiency of biodegradation across the different CRISPR-modified strains shows that the application of genetic engineering alone cannot provide a solution to the broad issues of environmental degradation. This research also stresses the need to determine the factors affecting microbial efficiency and suggests the need for increased research on the applicability of CRISPR-based technology to the environment. Novelty: Thus, this study fills the gap in the existing literature regarding the practical applicability of microbes engineered with CRISPR technology for biodegradation purposes, thus having a significant value in the development of novel CRISPR-based environmental biotechnologies. Even though a good proportion of the current literature is oriented towards laboratory success, this research complements this real-world assessment by evaluating the ability of these microbes to treat hard-core pollutants. Besides, it offers significant information about the drawbacks of the biodegradation processes by relying on CRISPR modifications and the importance of specific gene editing. Conclusion: The study concludes that even though the efficiently of genetically modified microbes using CRISPR could be enhanced in a laboratory environment, the system is still unable to outperform the natural strains in the degradation of recalcitrant pollutants. The findings suggest that there is a need to optimize genetic manipulations and environmental conditions in order to employ CRISPR-Cas9-based bioremediation strategies successfully. There is a need for better management of microbial traits for better performance in the environment and more so for methods of enhancing the stability of CRISPR-modified organisms in various environments in the future.

26 September 2024
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
AOAliu Olalekan Olatunji
Aliu Olalekan Olatunji
NVNaomi Varghese
Naomi Varghese
MLMohit Lakkimsetti
Mohit Lakkimsetti
MRMahbubur Rahman
Mahbubur Rahman
MAMunthar Kadhim Abosaoda
Munthar Kadhim Abosaoda
SNSaba Nosheen
Saba Nosheen
Purpose: The study explores the role of Nanotechnology, regarding antimicrobial treatment and coatings in combating AMR. The problem is compounded by the declining efficacy of conventional antibiotics because pathogens are increasingly developing immunity to antibacterial drugs. In this study, we assess the effectiveness of some nanotechnology-powered solutions and review public sentiment surrounding their incorporation into healthcare. Objective: We aimed to review the performance of nanoparticles for antimicrobial nanotechnology applications, highlight public views on healthcare uses of nanoparticulate-based delivery systems and outline some key scientific, social and ethical challenges together with opportunities presented by these innovations in combating AMR. Methodology: The study was a cross-sectional survey conducted on 210 respondents of different professions and educational levels. Statistical analysis the study used several statistical tests to identify apparent factors that influence public support for nanotechnology, including the Chi-Square Test of Independence, ANOVA Analysis and Correlation Analysis in addition to Logistic Regression as well as Factorial Mapping. During the laboratory phase, antimicrobial coatings of silver nanoparticles, copper oxide and titanium dioxide nanoparticles TiO2-NP were manufactured on diverse types of surfaces. Graphical representations, including bar graphs and error bars, were used extensively to illustrate the statistical results and provide visual clarity. Results: The Chi-Square Test of Independence indicated no significant association between professional background and support for nanotechnology (χ² = 16.071, df = 20, p = 0.712). ANOVA revealed a significant difference in the perceived effectiveness of nanotechnology across education levels (F (2.867) = 2.867, p = 0.024). Correlation Analysis demonstrated a very weak and non-significant relationship between the perceived criticality of AMR and the perceived effectiveness of nanotechnology (r = 0.058, p = 0.400). Logistic Regression showed that awareness of nanotechnology, education level, and familiarity with AMR did not significantly predict support for nanotechnology (p > 0.05). Factor Analysis identified two significant underlying factors (eigenvalues: 2.34 and 1.87) related to public concerns about nanotechnology, though further interpretation is required. Laboratory results showed that coatings containing silver nanoparticles reduced bacterial growth by over 99% after 24 hours. Graphical representations, including bar graphs with reference lines and error bars, effectively highlighted these statistical findings, providing clear visual support for the data. Practical Implications: These results show that whilst public support for nanotechnology does not vary substantially by gender, education or field of profession further targeted educational efforts could potentially improve overall understanding and acceptance, particularly in the context of AMR. Such coatings could help reduce dependence on a library of canonical antibiotics and curb the advancement of AMR. Novelty: This study is the first of its kind in examining public opinion combined with laboratory testing of antimicrobial nanocoating, addressing both societal and technological dimensions of nanotechnology in healthcare. The combination of statistical and graphical analysis received here has been adding value to the findings, alluding to them as stronger evidence for a proposition in current policymaking as well as future research. Conclusion: The coatings based on nanotechnology as antimicrobial agents exhibit significant potential in inhibiting bacterial causes of infections and serve the need to prevent AMR. But more needs to be done about the human factors related to challenges of safety, public perception and clinical translation. Formulation optimization, biocompatibility and clinical trials of large samples should be the research focus in future. Multidisciplinary collaboration, upfront public engagement and cross-cutting nanotechnology strategies are important for effective integration of the field into global healthcare practices.

29 September 2024
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
RCRebecca Caruana
Rebecca Caruana
HAHira Aslam
Hira Aslam
NANosheen Akhtar
Nosheen Akhtar
WAWaqas Ahmad
Waqas Ahmad
TRTariq Rafique Rana
Tariq Rafique Rana
MAMuhammad Saad Arshad
Muhammad Saad Arshad
Introduction: Treating illnesses caused by enterobacteria is increasingly challenging due to the ineffectiveness of antibiotics in combating pathogens or promoting reticuloendothelial system cell phagocytosis, especially for bacteria that colonize and grow inside phagocytic cells. Certain antibiotics are unable to penetrate cells or are limited by the plasma membrane. Consequently, there is a scientific effort to develop new therapeutic strategies to overcome these challenges. Lipid nanocarriers, such as liposomes, can encapsulate antibiotics to enhance their delivery, targeting, and efficacy. Liposomes aim to improve the specificity of release, concentration of compounds at the target site, maintenance of drug plasma concentration, and preservation of active components. This review aims to outline the key characteristics of liposomes and emphasize the benefits of using these lipid vesicles to deliver antibiotics against illnesses caused by enterobacteria. Methodology: A literature review was conducted by searching national and international electronic databases for articles published between 2012 and 2023. Articles were selected based on the following descriptors: bacterial resistance, nanotechnology, gram-negative bacteria, and antibiotics. Findings: Antibacterial activity has been demonstrated for cationic and stealth liposomes, primarily composed of cholesterol, PEG, phosphatidylcholine, and carboxymethyl chitosan encapsulating drugs such as amoxicillin, ciprofloxacin, cloxacillin, vancomycin, azithromycin, amoxicillin, cefepime, gentamicin, and cefotaxime. Liposomes containing polymyxin B, azithromycin, chloramphenicol, and gentamicin have shown improved antibiofilm efficacy against enterobacteria compared to non-encapsulated pharmaceuticals. Conclusion: The findings highlight the significant therapeutic potential of liposomes in the management of enterobacteria-related illnesses.

22 February 2024
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
ARAli Raza
Ali Raza
AMAli Imran Mallhi
Ali Imran Mallhi
WAWaqas Ahmad
Waqas Ahmad
ZNZareen Naz
Zareen Naz
DCDiro Ajema Cheka
Diro Ajema Cheka
VSV. Sampath
V. Sampath
Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a debilitating neurodegenerative disorder marked by progressive memory loss, cognitive decline, and neuronal degeneration. Addressing the cholinergic deficit is a key strategy for managing AD, involving inhibition of acetylcholine (ACh) degradation and administration of nicotinic receptor agonists. Medicinal plants, with their diverse bioactive compounds, are being investigated globally for potential AD treatments. Passiflora Nitida Kunth, a herbaceous plant native to the Amazon region, has previously demonstrated neuroprotective and antioxidant properties, making it a promising candidate for AD therapy. Objective: This study aimed to assess the therapeutic potential of the hydroethanolic extract of Passiflora Nitida Kunth in a non-transgenic preclinical model of Alzheimer's-like cognitive impairment induced by streptozotocin (STZ). Methods: The Alzheimer's-like cognitive impairment model was established by intracerebroventricular administration of STZ, followed by treatments with passionflower extract, galantamine (a standard AD medication), and saline. General behavior was evaluated, and histological analysis of neuronal tissue was conducted, specifically quantifying intact cell numbers in the CA1 and CA3 hippocampal regions. Results: Preliminary findings indicate that Passiflora Nitida Kunth extract exhibited neuroprotective effects in the STZ-induced AD model. The behavioral assessments demonstrated potential improvements, suggesting a positive impact on cognitive function. Histological analysis revealed a notable preservation of intact cells in the hippocampal regions CA1 and CA3, highlighting the extract's potential in mitigating neuronal damage associated with AD. Conclusion: The hydroethanolic extract of Passiflora Nitida Kunth emerges as a promising candidate for Alzheimer's disease therapy, demonstrating neuroprotective effects and potential cognitive benefits in a preclinical model. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of this herbal remedy, bringing us closer to effective and holistic approaches for managing Alzheimer's disease.

26 September 2024
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
THTalaat Hikmat
Talaat Hikmat
HAHashim Al-Aqbi
Hashim Al-Aqbi
TRTariq Rafique Rana
Tariq Rafique Rana
IMIslam Mazahirul
Islam Mazahirul
SMSyed Mubashar
Syed Mubashar
Mir Mohammad AliMir Mohammad Ali
Mir Mohammad Ali
Purpose: This study, by investigating high-end uses of nanomaterials for environmental reclamation and assessment, is trying to clarify the real application potential related to mitigation policy targeting pollution. Further, it discusses the advantages of using different nanomaterials such as nZVI and TiO₂ due to their unique physicochemical properties in contaminant removal while also considering some important obstacles like toxicity, scalability and environmental repercussions. Research Methodology: The study is administered based on the quantitative research design and utilizes a structured questionnaire that was distributed to 180 respondents with different demographic characteristics as well as work experience. A variety of statistical methods that included descriptive statistics, Spearman's rank-order correlation, chi-square tests ANOVA and regression were employed for the analysis of data on perceptions understanding and effectiveness in using nanomaterials to remediate environmental pollution. Results: The study indicates moderate familiarity (Mean = 2.89) and understanding of nanomaterials (Mean = 3.17). Familiarity was moderately positively associated with understanding (Spearman's ρ = 0.59, p < 0.01), providing further evidence that exposure and education could be important for growing comprehension of doubly unlabeled LD-AA products or subtypes in Canada the perceived effectiveness of nanomaterials as an environmental mitigation tool had weak correlation with being familiar (ranging from 0.11 to 0.15) for pollutants in water, air or soil separately. Results of chi-square analysis (χ² = 7.85, p = 0.24) showed that scores given by the students as to effectiveness did not differ significantly between genders. ANOVA test result (F = 0.71, p = 0.586) shows that there is no significant educational background difference in familiarity. There was also no significant difference in familiarity between sexes (t = 1.66, p = 0.098). The logistic regression analysis showed that experience in environmental remediation (coefficient 0.33; p ≤ 0.05) and nanomaterial familiarity (Experience with the use of these materials: coefficient = 0.55, P value <0.05) were significantly associated with understanding the applications of nanotechnology-relevant for CERDNA sites. Practical Implications: Our results highlight the importance of targeted educational programs and regulatory frameworks to better connect scientific research with public perceptions, thereby enabling safe and sustainable use of nanomaterials. To unlock the full potential of nanomaterials in environmental remediation, policymakers and industry leaders must confront issues related to scalability and environmentally friendly processes. Originality/value: This paper offers a comprehensive statistical analysis of public perception and performance of nanomaterials in cleaning the environment. It illustrates the nature of nanotechnology as a double-edged sword with no exceptions and demonstrates that an interdisciplinary approach is not only necessary in the nano-field but essential to encourage innovation for optimum utilization of such nanomaterials into constructive environmental solutions, having global concern. Conclusion: nanomaterials are beneficial for environmental pollution but key challenges which need to be considered are the safety and toxicity of the materials used besides their scale-up during mass production prohibiting use in vast areas. The study emphases that further research, teaching and collaboration between disciplines are needed to extract the full value of nanomaterials. Nanomaterials could be the difference makers, however, addressing just a few issues is only experimental and needs extensive research to materialize.