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The present research is conducted in the southern region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, to identify groundwater potential zones (GWPZ). We used three models including Weight of Evidence (WOE), Frequency Ratio (FR), and Information Value (IV) with twelve parameters (elevation, slope, aspect, curvature, drainage network, LULC, precipitation, geology, Lineament, NDVI, road, and soil texture, that have been prepared and integrated into ArcGIS 10.8. The reliability of the applied models' results was validated using Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristics (AUROC). The GWPZ were reclassified into five classes, i.e. very low, low, medium, high, and very high zone. The area occupied by mentioned classes using WOE are very low (10.14%), low (19.58%), medium (26.75%), high (27.10%), very high (16.40%), while using FR are very low (20.93%), low (32.38%), medium (18.92%), high (13.13%), very high (14.61%) and using IV are very low (14.41%), low (17.17%), medium (29.01%), high (25.85%), and very High (13.53%). The Success Rate Curve of WOE, FR, and IV were 0.86, 0.91, and 0.87, while the Predicted Rate Curve values were 0.89, 0.93, and 0.90, respectively. The results revealed that all applied statistical models performed very well to delineate GWPZ. However, use of the FR technique is strongly encouraged to evaluate the GWPZ, and its findings are especially useful for managing groundwater resources in urban planning. Our approaches for assessing the GWPZ mapping can be applied in any region with similar scenarios and are recommended as a helpful tool for policymakers to manage groundwater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of the shadow economy on environmental pollution and how this effect depends on the levels of corruption. The study utilizes an annual panel dataset of 127 selected developing countries worldwide, spanning from 2002 to 2018, and employs the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) technique, which effectively addresses potential endogeneity issues in the model. The estimation results reveal that the shadow economy increases the level of environmental pollution. Furthermore, the results indicate that corruption intensifies the impacts of the shadow economy on environmental pollution. This highlights a significant complimentary between the shadow economy and corruption, indicating that an increase in the levels of corruption will lead to an increase the shadow economy and will also strengthen its harmful impact on environmental pollution through the channel of corruption. Additionally, the estimates remain robust when using alternative measure of the shadow economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aimed to assess the Pakistani hepatitis B patients' knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards hepatitis management and the impact of self-management on the quality of life of hepatitis B patients as well as the moderating role of stigmatization. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used, and the data was collected from a total of 432 hepatitis B positive patients through a self-designed questionnaire. The studied subjects consisted of men (n = 205, 47%), women (n = 165, 38%), and transgender (n = 62, 14%). The obtained data were statistically analyzed using SPSS software version 26.0 for Windows. Results: The mean age of the study participants was 48. Knowledge has a significant positive relationship with hepatitis self-management and quality of life, whereas knowledge has a negative relationship with stigmatization. Furthermore, multivariate analysis revealed that men were more knowledgeable about the disease than women and transgender people (6.14 ± 2.08 vs. 3.23 ± 1.61 vs. 1.03 ± 0.73, F = 8.2**, p =.000). On the scale of attitude and practice, significant gender differences were found. Women had more experience with hepatitis self-management than men or transgender (4.21 ± 13.0 vs. 2.17 ± 6.02 vs. 0.37 ± 0.31, F = 6.21**, p =.000). The regression analysis showed that self-management has a positive association with quality of life (B = 0.36, p =.001). The moderation analysis revealed that stigmatization negatively moderates the relationship between self-management and quality of life (B = −0.53, p =.001). Conclusion: Generally, patients had good knowledge about the disease and its self-management. However, a societal and community-level awareness campaign should be organized on the quality of life and stigmatization of people with chronic illness regarding their human rights, dignity, and physical, mental, and social well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small interfering RNA (siRNA) has emerged as a powerful tool for post-transcriptional downregulation of multiple genes for various therapies. Naked siRNA molecules are surrounded by several barriers that tackle their optimum delivery to target tissues such as limited cellular uptake, short circulation time, degradation by endonucleases, glomerular filtration, and capturing by the reticuloendothelial system (RES). This review provides insights into studies that investigate various siRNA-based therapies, focusing on the mechanism, delivery strategies, bioavailability, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamics of naked and modified siRNA molecules. The clinical pharmacology of currently approved siRNA products is also discussed. Few siRNA-based products have been approved recently by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other regulatory agencies after approximately 20 years following its discovery due to the associated limitations. The absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of siRNA therapeutics are highly restricted by several obstacles, resulting in rapid clearance of siRNA-based therapeutic products from systemic circulation before reaching the cytosol of targeted cells. The siRNA therapeutics however are very promising in many diseases, including gene therapy and SARS-COV-2 viral infection. The design of suitable delivery vehicles and developing strategies toward better pharmacokinetic parameters may solve the challenges of siRNA therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ziziphus oxyphylla Edgew is in folk use in Pakistan as an analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and liver ailments. Therefore, we have investigated antioxidant, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective activities of the isolated compounds (ceanothic acid and zizybrenalic acid) from the chloroform fraction of Z. oxyphylla. Ceanothic acid and zizybrenalic acid showed significant DPPH and H2O2 scavenging activity as compared to control. In the acute toxicity study, ceanothic acid and zizybrenalic acid showed no toxic effects upto 200 mg/kg. The antinociceptive activity shown by ceanothic acid and zizybrenalic acid at 50 mg/kg was 64.28% and 65.35% compared to diclofenac sodium (72.3%) at 50 mg/kg. The percent inhibition of xylene-induced ear edema exhibited by ceanothic acid and zizybrenalic acid at 50 mg/kg was 51.33% and 58.66%, respectively, as compared to diclofenac sodium (72.66%). Both the isolated compounds exhibited inhibition of carrageenan-induced paw edema as compared to control. Hepatoprotection exhibited by zizybrenalic acid was more pronounced than ceanothic acid as observed from the decrease in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced elevation of serum biomarkers, antioxidant enzymes and lipid peroxidation. Furthermore, zizybrenalic acid produced a marked decline in CCl4-induced prolongation of phenobarbital-induced sleeping duration. Zizybrenalic acid exhibited 55.4 ± 1.37% inhibition of hypotonic solution-induced hemolysis compared to sodium salicylate (75.6 ± 2.15%). The histopathological damage caused by CCl4 was also countered by the administration of ceanothic acid and zizybrenalic acid. Ceanothic acid and zizybrenalic acid exhibited antioxidant, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective activities. Zizybrenalic acid exhibited better antioxidant, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective activity than ceanothic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the role of ascorbic acid (AsA) to alleviate nickel (Ni) induced adverse effects on growth and concentration of Ni, copper (Cu), and manganese (Mn) in hydroponically grown wheat varieties viz. Galaxy, Punjab-2011, and FSD-08. Plants were exposed to five levels of Ni viz. 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 mg L−1. After 1 week, AsA (1 mM) was sprayed onto the Ni-stressed plants. FSD-08 produced the maximum SDW with and without AsA compared to other varieties. FSD-08, Galaxy, and Punjab-2011 witnessed 2.61-, 2.83-, and 7.5-fold increases in SDW with AsA, respectively. Wheat plants contained the maximum Ni in shoots and roots with a Ni level of 20 mg L−1 irrespective of varieties. Nickel in shoots decreased with AsA witnessing 13, 12, and 10% decrease in FSD-08, Punjab-2011, and Galaxy, respectively. Nickel in roots of FSD-08 decreased by 18% while increased by 3.34-fold and 3.50-fold in Galaxy and Punjab-2011, respectively with AsA. Nickel decreased Cu in shoot and Mn in shoot and root while Cu in roots of all wheat varieties increased. It was concluded that AsA improved the growth of Ni-stressed and FSD-08 performed better by maintaining good growth and less Ni in shoots compared to other varieties. Exploiting plant internal mechanisms with foliar application of different organic substances have widely been investigated to decrease metal accumulation and their adverse effects on plants. However, the differential response of different varieties to metal accumulation in response to foliar application of ascorbic acid is not well documented. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of exogenous application of ascorbic acid on growth response, the concentration of Ni, Cu, and Mn in three wheat varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Portulacca oleracea L. has been used for treatment of different ailments. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness and possible mechanism of action involved in the anti gastric ulcerogenic effect of Portulacca oleracea. Methanolic extract & subsequent fractions (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) of Portulacca oleracea (P. oleracea) were administered orally to experimental rabbits one hour before oral administration of HCl/ethanol (40:60). Anti gastric ulcerogenic potential of P. oleracea was evaluated by assessment of gastric pH, pepsin, free acidity, ulcer index, mucus content and total acidity. For the investigation of possible mechanism of action malondialdehyde (MDA), histamine, and H + K + ATPase content were determined in the stomach homogenate. Histopathological study of stomach tissue was carried out by H&E dye. Ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) of P. oleracea was the most potent fraction among all fractions that exhibited efficient protection against acidified ethanol mediated gastric-ulcer. The ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) significantly increased the pH of gastric juice, while pepsin and histamine was observed to decrease significantly in comparison to acidified ethanol group (***p ≤ 0.001). The EAF showed moderately H + K + ATPase inhibitory activity. Moreover, it was also observed that EAF decreased the malondialdehyde (MDA) level in the stomach tissue homogenate showing antioxidant effect. Histopathological studies showed that among the tested fractions, EAF significantly prevented acidified ethanol induced gastric mucosal damage. These results showed that mechanism of anti gastric ulcerogenic potential of P. oleracea could be associated with the reduction in histamine level, H + K + ATPase inhibition and reduced MDA level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of Cu-K/Al2O3 catalysts were synthesized by wet impregnation technique. The reduced catalysts were further used for conversion of carbon dioxide to methane and carbon monoxide. Moreover, the fresh and used catalysts were characterized to investigate the changes in the surface morphology, metal dispersion, surface area, crystalline phases, and functional groups of studied catalysts. The SEM analysis of fresh and spent catalysts showed no remarkable difference in surface morphology with irregular shaped agglomerated particles. Furthermore, TEM micrographs presented the well distribution of metal catalyst over alumina support. The decrease in surface area from 115 to 77 m2/g for Cu1.62-K0.5/Al2O3 after reaction was related to sintering and oxidation of catalyst during reaction. XRD revealed the disappearance of some minor peaks which can be associated with the sintering of spent catalyst. FTIR also presented some new peak for spent catalyst which can be linked with metal oxides. Moreover, various reaction conditions of temperature (230, 400, and 600 °C), pressure (1 and 7 bar), and feed molar ratio of H2/CO2 (2:1 and 4:1) were investigated using different Cu loading (0, 1, 1.25, 1.62, and 4 weight percent). A maximum CO2 conversion of 63% with 39% CH4 selectivity was achieved by using Cu1.62-K0.5/Al2O3 at 600 °C, molar ratio of H2/CO2 4 under 7 bar. The presence of K on the surface of synthesized catalyst increased the CO2 conversion from 48% (Cu1/Al2O3) to 55% (Cu1-K0.5/Al2O3) at above mentioned reaction conditions which suggested the promoter effect of K during conversion of carbon dioxide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (NPs) have emerged as a novel elicitor for enhanced biosynthesis of secondary metabolites in in vitro plant cell cultures. The current study was aimed to explore elicitation abilities of ZnO-NPs for enhanced accumulation of lignans and neolignans in cell cultures of Linum usitatissimum. We optimized concentration of zinc oxide NPs before carrying out a full-fledged experiment. Subsequently, an optimum dose of 100 mg/l was introduced into the culture medium on day 0, days 0 and 15, and finally days 0 and 25. We observed that repeated elicitation stimulated various parameters and physiological responses in Linum usitatissimum cell cultures than one-time elicitation. Repeated elicitation of cell cultures on day 0 and 15 resulted in highest fresh weight (412.16 g/l) and lignans production (secoisolariciresinol diglucoside 284.12 mg/l: lariciresinol diglucoside 86.97 mg/l). Contrarily, repeated elicitation on day 0 and 25 resulted in highest DW (13.53 g/l), total phenolic production (537.44 mg/l), total flavonoid production (123.83 mg/l) and neolignans production (dehydrodiconiferyl alcohol glucoside 493.28 mg/l: guaiacylglycerol-β-coniferyl alcohol ether glucoside 307.69 mg/l). Enhancement in plant growth and secondary metabolites accumulation was several fold higher than controls. Furthermore, a linear relationship existed between total phenolic and flavonoid contents which in turn was correlated with higher antioxidant activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waste oil fly ash (OFA) collected from disposal of power generation plants was treated by physicochemical activation technique to improve the surface properties of OFA. This synthesized material was further used for potential hydrogen sulfide (H2S) adsorption from synthetic natural gas. The raw OFA was basically modified with a mixture of acids (20% nitric acid [HNO3] and 80% phosphoric acid [H3PO4]), and it was further treated with 2 M potassium hydroxide (KOH) to enhance the surface affinity as well as surface area of synthesized activated carbon. Correspondingly, it enhanced the adsorption of H2S. Crystallinity, surface morphology, and pore volume distribution of prepared activated carbon were investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analyses. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) study was also performed to identify the functional groups during different synthesis stages of modified activated carbon. The Langmuir, Freundlich, Sips, and dual-site Langmuir (DSL) models were used to study the kinetic and breakthrough behavior of H2S adsorption over alkali-modified activated carbon. Modeling results of isotherms indicated that OFA has dual sites with high and low affinity for H2S adsorption. The Clark model, Thomas model, and Yoon-Nelson model were used to examine the effects of flow rate and inlet concentration on the adsorption of H2S. Maximum uptake capacity of 8.5 mg/g was achieved at 100 ppm inlet concentration and flow rate of 0.2 L/min. Implications: Utilization of worthless oil fly ash from power plant is important not only for cleaning the environment but also for solid waste minimization. This research scope is to eradicate one pollutant by using another pollutant (waste ash) as a raw material. Chemical functionalization of synthesized activated carbon from oil fly ash would lead to attachment of functional groups of basic nature to attract the acidic H2S. Such type of treatment can enhance the uptake capacity of sorbent several times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotechnology is a new star in the science horizon with many valuable applications and promises to offer. It includes the synthesis and utilization of nanostructure materials ranging from 1 to 100 nm. Mostly these materials are generally (or "could be") produced via the laborious and hazard-prone physical and chemical methods but the green synthesis approaches easier, safe and scalable have been recently developed. Among other metal oxides nanoparticles, Titanium oxide (TiO2) nanoparticles have been mostly exploited for their photocatalytic, antimicrobial and antiparasitic applications. A diverse set of biological entities are used to reduce the precursor metal salt into respective nanoparticles. The secondary metabolites present in organisms such as plants or microbes are involved in the bio-reduction and capping processes. This article will provide an overview of the green synthesis of TiO2 NPs from different biological extracts such as plants, microbes and biological products as well as their potential applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stable emulsions are frequently encountered in oil production and cause a series of environmental and operational issues. Chemical demulsification is widely used for the separation of oil from water or removal of water from oil. The chemicals used in the demulsification process have a strong affinity to the oil-water interface. This review presents the various types of chemical demulsifiers used for the demulsification of water-in-oil and oil-in-water emulsions. The review covers the relevant properties of polymeric surfactants such as polyether, dendrimers, and natural biodegradable polymeric surfactants. In addition, emerging alternatives like nanoparticles-based demulsifiers and ionic liquids are also reviewed. The factors affecting the demulsification efficiency of these demulsifiers and structure-property relationships are discussed. Copolymers with high hydrophilic content and molecular weight are more efficient demulsifiers. Similarly, the position isomerism (same carbon skeleton and functional groups but a different location of functional groups) strongly affects the HLB and demulsification performance. Generally, dendrimers show better performance compared to linear polymeric surfactants due to their relatively higher interfacial activity, better penetrability, and a larger number of reactive terminal groups. Techniques used to evaluate the performance of demulsifiers are also covered. The review also highlights the current developments and future prospects of chemical demulsifiers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising multidisciplinary field. It has shown several applications including diagnostics, imaging and structural design. Nanoparticles can be synthesized via chemical and physical approaches, carrying many threats to the ecosystem. To overcome these threats, sustainable routes for the synthesis of nanoparticles were implemented. Green synthesis is the most fascinating and attractive alternative to chemical synthesis as it offers more advantages. Nontoxic and eco-friendly secondary metabolites from plants are used as reducing and capping agents. This process is comparatively simple and cost-effective. A gold salt is simply reduced by biomolecules (phenols, alkaloids, proteins, etc.) present in the extracts of these plants. In this review, we have emphasized the synthesis and antimicrobial potential of gold nanoparticles using various plant extracts and their proposed mechanisms. Abbreviation: Au: aurum; gold; DLS: dynamic light scattering; EDAX: energydispersive X-ray analysis; EDS: energy-dispersive spectroscopy; FTIR: Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy; HRTEM: highresolution transmission electron microscopy; NPs: nanoparticles; UV–VIS: ultra violet-visible spectroscopy; SEM: scanning electron microscopy; XRD: X-ray Diffraction [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Different Cu–Zn/TiO2catalysts were synthesized by using the wet impregnation method. The prepared catalysts were used for the conversion of CO2into methane by photocatalysis. Various characterization techniques were used to observe the surface morphology, crystalline phase, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area, presence of impregnated Cu and Zn, and functional group. Scanning electron microscope analysis showed spherical morphology, and slight agglomeration of catalyst particles was observed. BET analysis revealed that the surface area of the catalyst was decreased from 10 to 8.5 m2/g after impregnation of Cu and Zn over TiO2support. Synergetic effect of Cu and Zn over TiO2support (Cu2.6/TiO2, Zn0.5/TiO2and Cu2.6–Zn0.5/TiO2) and the effects of Cu loading (0, 1.8, 2.1, 2.6 and 2.9 wt%) were also investigated at different feed molar ratios of H2/CO2(2:1 and 4:1). The Cu2.6–Zn0.5/TiO2catalyst showed a maximum conversion of 14.3% at a feed molar ratio of 4. The addition of Zn over the catalyst surface increased the conversion of CO2from 10% to 14.3% which might be due to synergy of Cu and Zn over TiO2support. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper aims at discussing the renewable energy resource facilities in delivering parts of the energy needs in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Renewable energy resources include biomass, hydraulic, solar, wind, geothermal, wave, tidal, biogas, and ocean thermal energy. Biomass is used to meet a variety energy needs, including generating electricity, heating homes, fueling vehicles, and providing process heat for industrial facilities. KSA is the world’s largest crude oil exporter. The KSA government has developed an energy policy aimed at diversifying energy sources and suppliers and attracting private sector. Special attention in the government’s energy policy is renewable and nuclear power generation. The kingdom has developed and implemented several energy efficiency projects, aiming to increase energy efficiency in industry, transport, and residential sectors. The review provides information on the government’s developing energy policy by using renewable energy potential. Saudi Arabia plans to increase renewable energy production in the near future. The sharp growth of the energy sector has been accompanied by institutional reforms. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has rich geothermal energy resources. In Saudi Arabia, the studies on geothermal resources exploration were started in 1980. Saudi Arabia is among the most geothermally active countries in the Middle East. The geothermal power plants are not yet installed in Saudi Arabia. Some direct-use low-grade geothermal applications are already installed in the five last years. Some refreshment and swimming pools are already constructed in the Bani Malik-Jizan area. Geothermal energy can be utilized in various forms such as direct use, electricity generation, space heating, heat pumps, greenhouse heating, and industrial usage. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia government has plans to become completely powered by difference forms of renewable energy such as solid waste, solar, geothermal, and wind. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Charcoal products can be produced from biomass sources such as charcoal from wood, woody agricultural products, the biogenic fraction of municipal wastes, nut shells, etc. The liquid and gaseous fractions obtained from biomass are a valuable fuel source; however, the solid fraction (charcoal) has the recovery potential of carbon black or as carbon adsorbent after applying an activation step. Charcoal is produced by slow heating wood (carbonization) in airtight ovens or retorts, in chambers with various gases, or in kilns supplied with limited and controlled amounts of air. Charcoal has the potential to improve soil properties, crop productivity, and carbon sequestration in soil. The most interesting temperature range for the production of the pyrolysis products is between 625 and 775 K. The charcoal yield decreased gradually from 43.5 to 31.0% for the walnut shell and from 38.3 to 25.4% for the spruce wood with an increase of temperature from 550 to 1150 K. The charcoal yield decreases as the temperature increases. The ignition temperature of charcoal increases as the carbonization temperature increases. The charcoal briquettes that are sold on the commercial market are typically made from a binder and a filler. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Municipal solid waste (MSW) mainly comprises organics, paper, glass, plastics, metals, wood, etc. Rapid industrialization, high population growth rate, and fast urbanization have resulted in increased levels of pollution and MSW in Saudi Arabia. The amount of waste has been steadily increasing due to increasing human population and urbanization. Recovery refers to materials removed from the waste stream for the purpose of recycling and/or composting. There are various options available to convert solid waste to energy. Mainly, the following types of technologies are available: (1) sanitary landfill, (2) incineration, (3) pyrolysis, (4) gasification, and (5) anaerobic digestion. An integrated MSW disposal policy comprises (1) reduction of MSW source, (2) reuse of MSW, (3) recycling of MSW, (4) landfill and gas-to-energy conversion, and (5) MSW-to-energy conversion. Traditionally, MSWs have been disposed in landfills. Landfill is the most inexpensive waste disposal option. The main MSW disposal policies and barriers have been concluded in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

A pyridine derivative 6,7-dihydropyrido(2,3-d)pyridazine-5,8-dione (H2PDH) and oxalic acid (H2ox) are reacted with dysprosium oxide to develop a new 2-D dysprosium–organic complex [Dy(PDH)(ox)0.5(H2O)2]. The single-crystal structure reveals that acylamino oxygens and coordinated waters develop a 3-D supramolecular network, which is composed of 2-D layers, and each 2-D layer is formed by 1-D Dy–H2O–ox chains linked by tridentate PDH2−ligands. The complex exhibits metal-centered luminescence with yellowish blue emission. The energy transfer mechanism and photoluminescence are also investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Context: Gentamicin is an antibiotic that is effective against Gram-negative microorganisms. However, its clinical applications are often limited due to nephrotoxic effects. Objective: This study investigated the protective effects of aqueous-ethanol extract of Tamarindus indica L. (Leguminosae) fruits against gentamicin-induced renal toxicity. Materials and methods: A daily dose of 200 mg/kg of 70% aqueous-ethanol extract derived from T. indica was employed in male rabbits as a co-therapy with gentamicin (80 mg/kg) for a period of three weeks. Serum and urinary renal function parameters and histological assessments were carried out and compared with one way analysis of variance (Graphpad prism version 5.00, Graphpad Software, San Diego, CA). Results: The results showed that gentamicin-treated animals had significantly elevated blood urea nitrogen (54.1 ± 2.6 mg/dl), serum creatinine (4.0 ± 0.1 mg/dl), serum uric acid (2.3 ± 0.1 mg/dl) and urinary protein excretion (3.8 ± 0.3 mg/dl) with a fall in body weight (10 ± 1%), creatinine clearance (0.7 ± 0.09 ml/min), serum potassium (3.4 ± 0.1 mEq/l), serum calcium (7.6 ± 0.2 mg/dl), urinary volume (126 ± 9 ml/24 h) and urinary lactate dehydrogenase secretion (103.1 ± 4.2 U/l). However, animals treated by co-therapy with gentamicin and T. indica had significantly improved renal structure and function. Discussion and conclusion: Co-therapy of 200 mg/kg/d of T. indica for a period of three weeks successfully prevented functional and morphological derangements caused by gentamicin as assessed by different renal function parameters and histological examinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new coordination polymers, [Zn(p-CH3C6H5SO3)2(bpp)2] n (1) and [Cu2(SCN)2(NO3)2(bpp)4] n (2) (bpp = 1,3-bis(4-pyridyl)propane), have been synthesized and characterized. Single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis reveals that 1 and 2 exhibit 2-D layer networks composed of alternate left-handed and right-handed bpp-containing helical chains by sharing Zn(II) in 1 and Cu(II) in 2. Compound 1 exhibits a 2-D undulated double-helical network, while 2 shows a two-fold interpenetrated 2-D double-helical network. p-Toluene sulfonates select Zn2+ rather than Cu2+ to coordinate, while both SCN− and select Cu2+ rather than Zn2+, indicating that the specific organic ligand shows preference/selectivity when different types of metal ions are concurrently present. As a consequence, anionic ligands of different structures impose remarkable influence on the structures of the resultant compounds. Compound 1 shows a broad peak at 415 nm in its emission spectrum, indicating an efficient energy transfer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seven extractants widely used to determine plant-available boron (B) from either acidic or alkaline soils were tested for 20 alkaline and calcareous soil series from cotton belt of Punjab, Pakistan. The hot-water-soluble boron (HWS-B) extraction procedure was used as a benchmark to see any relative variation in available B in comparison with alternate extractants [0.05 M hydrochloric acid (HCl), 0.018 M calcium chloride (CaCl2), 1 M ammonium acetate (NH4OAc), 0.25 M sorbitol-diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA), 0.05 M mannitol prepared in 0.01 M CaCl2, 0.005 M ammonium bicarbonate (AB)-DTPA]. The soil series used in this study belonged to four soil orders (Aridisols, Entisols, Alfisols, and Inceptisols). The greatest mean B concentration (0.32 ± 0.11 mg kg-1) was obtained by hot water extraction followed by 0.05 M HCl extraction (0.31 ± 0.12 mg kg-1), whereas the lowest was obtained by 0.25 M sorbitol-DTPA (0.24 ± 0.06 mg kg-1) extraction. The comparison between soil series showed that the greatest HWS B and 0.05 M HCl B were 0.53 and 0.56 mg kg-1, respectively, in the Rustam series while the lowest were 0.11 and 0.12 mg kg-1, respectively, in the Thal series. Rasulpur, Rangpur, Sultanpur, Thal, and Kasur series had the lowest (<0.20 mg B kg-1) HWS-B concentrations. Although there was significant correlation for available B among all the extractants tested, the strongest correlation (r = 0.99** at P < 0.01) was observed between HWS B and 0.05 M HCl-extractable B. This study revealed that the 0.05 M HCl extraction method may substitute the hot water extraction method for plant-available B in alkaline and calcareous but modest fertile soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three new phloroglucinol type compounds Indigoferin-A ( 1), Indigoferin-B ( 2) and Indigoferin-C ( 3), along with a known compound ββ-sitosterol were isolated from the Indegofera gerardiana Wall. The structures of Indigoferin-A ( 1), Indigoferin-B ( 2), and Indigoferin-C ( 3) were deduced on the basis of spectroscopic techniques (EI-MS, HREI-MS, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, HMQC, and HMBC). The urease inhibition studies on all the four compounds have also been carried out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to evaluate the possible antispasmodic and lipoxygenase inhibitory activity of some Pakistani medicinal plants. Extracts from Aconitum laeve Royle ( Ranunculaceae), Trichodesma indicum Linn. ( Boraginaceae), and Sauromatum guttatum Schott ( Araceae) (corms) were tested on the isolated rabbit jejunum. All the extracts caused reduction in spontaneous and acetylcholine-induced contractions. A. laeve displayed excellent spasmolytic activity and almost (95%) diminished the normal contraction of rabbit jejunum at a concentration of 0.25 mg/mL of final bath. T. indicum inhibited the intestinal contractions by 78% at 5 mg/mL while S. guttatum (corms) caused 69% inhibition of spontaneous contractions at a concentration of 2 mg/mL. Extracts from A. laeve, T. indicum, S. guttatum (leaves and berries) and Paeonia emodi Wall. (Paeoniaceae) were screened in vitro for lipoxygenase inhibitory activity. All the extracts except A. laeve, showed good to excellent inhibition of the tested enzyme. P. emodi and S. guttatum (leaves) each inhibited the enzyme by 90% while T. indicum and S. guttatum (berries), respectively, showed 64.5% and 65% inhibitory activity against this enzyme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new pentacyclic triterpenes eleganene-A (1) and eleganene-B (2), along with four known pentacyclic triterpenes betulin (3), ursolic acid (4), erythrodiol (5) and corosolic acid (6) were isolated from the aerial parts of Myricaria elegans. These compounds exhibited significant antibacterial activity. The structure of compounds 1 and 2 were deduced on the basis of their spectral analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new aconitine-type norditerpenoid alkaloids 6-dehydroacetylsepaconitine (1) and 13-hydroxylappaconitine (2), along with three known norditerpenoid alkaloids lycoctonine, delphatine and lappaconitine were isolated from the roots of the Aconitum heterophyllum Wall. These compounds exhibited significant antibacterial activity. The structure of compound 1 and 2 were deduced on the basis of their spectral data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current study was undertaken to evaluate the in vitro antifungal and antibacterial potential of methanol extract and subsequent fractions obtained after partitioning in organic solvents with variable polarity of the aerial parts of the tree Taxus wallichiana Zucc. Traditionally, this plant is often used in folk medicines in Pakistan for treating microbial infections. In order to rationalize the traditional use, methanol extracts of leaf, bark, and heartwood of Taxus wallichiana Zucc. were tested against six bacteria and six fungal strains using the Hole diffusion and macro-dilution methods. All extracts and fractions displayed significant antimicrobial effect. Only three fungal strains, Trichophyton longifusus, Microspoum canis, and Fusarium solani were susceptible to the extracts and fractions with MICs ranging from 0.08 to 200 mg/mL. In case of bacterial strains, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Salmonella typhi were susceptible to the extracts and fractions with MICs ranging from 0.08 to 200 mg/mL. Comparison results were carried out using imipinem, miconazole and amphotericin B as standard antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants commonly suffer from phosphorus (P) deficiency in calcareous soils. Plant responses to P application on such soils mostly show poor correlation with their soil test P values. Experiments were conducted on 24 different soil samples under laboratory and greenhouse conditions to illustrate the relationship of various inorganic P fractions in different calcareous soils with P uptake by plants, P extraction by iron‐impregnated filter paper, and P soil test values estimated by 0.5M NaHCO 3 and ammonium bicarbonate diethylene triamine penta‐acetic acid. Total P in the 24 soils ranged from 652 to 1245 mgkg -1 with a mean of 922 mgkg -1 . A major proportion (98%) of inorganic P was in HCl‐P (Ca‐bound) form. The HCl‐P (Ca‐bound) ranged from 296 to 729 with a mean of 480 mgkg -1 . The iron (Fe) and aluminum (Al)‐P (NaOH‐P) ranged from 0.92 to 12 mgkg -1 with a mean of 1.57 mgkg -1 . The Fe‐P (citrate‐dithionite bicarbonate) ranged from 0.22 to 4.40 mgkg -1 with a mean of 5.99 mgkg -1 . Data regarding P release from the soil matrix obtained by desorption with iron‐impregnated filter paper was best described by the Elovich equation. Range of slope and intercept values were found to be 5.48 to 17.3 and 17.23 to 56.27 mgkg -1 , respectively. Intercept values calculated for the Elovich equation may be related to labile P initially available for plant uptake in soils. Intercept values calculated for the Elovich equation correlated (r=0.77) significantly (p [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the exponential growth in the number of studies addressing ethnicity and health, there is considerable debate about definitions of ethnicity, the appropriate use of ethnicity in health research and whether research focusing on ethnicity in the health field will ultimately result in reduced disadvantage or will simply contribute to the reification of ethnic origin as a cause of health problems. The authors present and discuss health outcomes among White (n = 227), African-Caribbean (n = 213) and Indian and Pakistani (n = 233) adults aged between 18 and 59 years living in Leeds as measured in a stratified population survey, with particular emphasis on the interaction between reports of health conditions and health status in relation to ethnicity and gender. The survey included both general and specific measures of health and impairment and was undertaken following extensive qualitative fieldwork. Overall the results of the study suggest that adults in both broad minority ethnic groups studied have a somewhat less favourable profile of physical and mental health and risk factors such as obesity and low birthweight. Despite an absence of ethnic differences in reporting of long-term conditions, minority groups had lower health status because those with long-term conditions were generally in worse health than their White counterparts. The study findings agree with previous research in suggesting that variation in health status was better explained by specific measures of actual limitations in daily activities than by general measures of limiting long-term illness. These data suggest that limiting long-term illness or disability questions may underestimate functional limitation relative to more specific measures and consequently their use in resource allocation may be problematic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The British National Health Service has been the focus of sustained political rhetoric in favour of greater public and patient involvement in decision making. The creation of Primary Care Groups—organizations based on local groups of general practitioners—has thus been accompanied by a requirement that they involve users and the public. This article reports on a study of Primary Care Groups (n = 167) to address two questions. First, how have the groups responded to this requirement? Second, can user and public involvement activities be related to broader changes with regard to the roles and expectations of citizens? The study indicated significant activity around public and patient involvement but also a tendency among informants to rationalize these activities in terms of a professional commitment to quality and responsiveness (rather than in relation to the expressed preferences of local citizens). In terms of the second question the results provide some, contestable, evidence of realignments in the values, priorities and assertiveness of individuals and communities of interest with regard to the state. The impact of such phenomena is, though, highly dependent upon how managers and clinicians in Primary Care Groups choose to prioritize the views of local service users and residents in relation to professional judgement, operational requisites, planning constraints and limited resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses how Asian deaf young people and their families engage with welfare provision. Our findings, based on group and individual interviews with young deaf people and individual interviews with their parents, explore the assumptions underlying current provision and how they influence the options available to young people and their families. The paper suggests that the welfare state exerts a form of social control where professional help, although well intended, may disempowers Asian deaf people by privileging 'oralism' over sign language, and western norms over other cultural values. On the other hand, positive constructions of deafness privilege Deaf identity while failing to accommodate ethnic or religious diversity, resulting in Asian deaf young people and their families having an ambivalent relationship with the Deaf community. We argue that services need to recognise and address the reasons for this ambivalence if they are to adequately engage Asian deaf people and their families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the UK, around 600 people are affected by thalassaemia major and 6-10 000 by sickle-cell disorders. These haemoglobin disorders are recessively inherited and have greater prevalence in certain ethnic groups. This paper explores affected families’ and practitioners’ views about the role of primary health care in haemoglobinopathy services. The paper is based on a qualitative study of 62 parents of affected children and 51 professionals, from seven districts in northern England. Services were lacking in coherence but showed some examples of good practice. Primary care staff were felt, by other professionals, to be poorly informed about haemoglobinopathies. Their greater potential in facilitating screening for carrier status and diagnosis was emphasized by practitioners and policy makers. The potential for primary care involvement in screening and caring for haemoglobinopathies remains to be realized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the increasing number of Asian and black people who are in the older age groups, a factor in multiple disadvantage is marginalisation in community care planning and provision. Asian and black elders are regarded as numerically insignificant, and the stereotype that Asian and black communities have a special capacity to ‘look after their own’ facilitates an expectation that they will make up for deficits in health and social services provision. This article reports on a survey of care providers’ perspectives on the implications of community care policy for Asian and black elders in Bradford. The main lines of argument are that whilst in theory the policy opens up possibilities for ethnic minorities, these can only be realised if it is recognised how problematic the stereotypical expectation is, and that pressures on Asian and black carers and the limitations of the ethnic minority voluntary sector must also be recognised. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Over the past decade Britain has seen an unprecedented increase in ‘alternative’ or ‘complementary’ therapies and yet concern has been expressed in particular about the practices of one type of healer, the hakim. Here I assess these concerns about ‘Eastern medicine’ by examining issues such as the hakim's education and training, treatment regimens and client groups; concepts of health and illness prevalent in the Asian communities, their relevance to the choice of practitioner and implications for health; the status and role of hikmat in the context of health care in the Indo‐Pakistani subcontinent and in the UK. The article suggests that hikmat and other ‘alternative’ treatments are here to stay — they are important areas for further study, particularly in the social and structural context of ethnic minorities’ health status and access to health care in Britain. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This article is based on secondary analysis of the Health and Lifestyle Survey. Matched controls from the white respondents were selected for the 129 Asians and 94 Afro‐Caribbeans. The analysis concentrates on concepts of health and illness; lay concepts of illness causation; aetiological notions in relation to specific disease categories; and a look at smoking behaviour. Because of the quality of the ethnicity variable on the Health and Lifestyle Survey we regard this as an exploratory study, generating hypotheses which can be investigated through more carefully designed studies [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]