Publications by authors named "Saira Zafar"

Iron fortification compounds are of special interest to treat iron deficiency anemia, however, the dose-response effects of these fortificants on liver and renal functions have not been extensively reported in human subjects. The present study determines the effects of prebiotics and iron fortificants on liver function tests (LFTs) and renal function tests (RFTs) among women of reproductive age (WRA). A double-blind randomized controlled trial was performed for the duration of 90 days.

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Micronutrient deficiencies continue to affect approximately 25% of the World's population. Fortification of staple foods is recognized as one of the most effective interventions to combat micronutrient deficiencies such as iron deficiency. The objective of the current research was to elucidate the effect of iron-fortified wheat flour on the mean hemoglobin levels of women of the reproductive age group (15-49 years) in the Mansehra district, KPK, Pakistan.

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Spirulina, a blue-green microalga is an eminent functional food due to its unique nutritional and disease-mitigating properties. The main objective of this article is to present an overview of the nutritional composition of Spirulina. Along with its therapeutic potential and applications in the food industry.

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Rapidly increasing global warming and world population calls for exploring untapped elements of biodiversity in a much broader sense. Though there exists much evidence on the importance of livestock and animal-derived protein, escalating challenges related to sustainability have led to finding alternatives to animal-derived proteins. Mycoprotein is an eco-friendly sustainable product.

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Iron supplementation and fortification are the well-known approaches to treat iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in women of reproductive age. The objective of the current randomized controlled trial (RCT) was to evaluate the cumulative effects of prebiotics and iron fortification among women of reproductive age. For this purpose, a total of 75 iron deficient women of childbearing age were recruited and randomly divided into 5 groups (4 treatment groups and 1 control group).

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Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness and practicality of single maintenance and reliever therapy (SMART) in the treatment of asthma exacerbation.

Data Sources: PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane, and Clinical Trial databases using the keywords SMART therapy, maintenance and reliever therapy, and budesonide and formoterol.

Study Selections: Articles were selected based on their relevance and applicability to this topic.

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Immune hyperactivation has been linked to various vaccines. We present a potential association of new-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) post-COVID-19 immunization. The patient is a 54-year-old male admitted for evaluation of flu-like symptoms two weeks after receiving the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

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Background: Staphylococcus aureus harbouring Panton Valentine Leucocidin gene are emerging and spreading worldwide. PVL gene was first identified by Noel Panton and Francis Valentine in 1932 who explained its ability to lyse leucocytes and its main relationship with skin and soft tissue infections. In Pakistan only limited data is available on the frequency and molecular analysis of PVL gene positive Staph aureus.

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Background: Family Planning (FP) program in Pakistan has been struggling to achieve the desired indicators. Despite a well-timed initiation of the program in late 50s, fertility decline has been sparingly slow. As a result, rapid population growth is impeding economic development in the country.

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