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Saeed T, Abbasi NA, Zahid MT, Fatima N, Ullah K, Khokhar MF. Toxicological profile and potential health concerns through metals and trace elements exposure in brick kiln workers from Lahore, Pakistan. Environ Geochem Health 2024; 46:150. [PMID: 38578528 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-024-01937-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
This study examined levels of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), mercury (Hg), and arsenic (As) in blood, hair, and nails of 18 brick kiln workers from three brick kiln units located around a metropolitan city, Lahore, Pakistan. All the trace elements except Hg and As were detected in the studied matrices of Brick kiln workers. In general, brick kiln workers reflect the highest concentration of Pb, followed by Cd, Cr, and Cu. Of the pollutants analyzed, Pb has the highest mean (min-max) concentrations at 0.35 (0.09-0.65) in blood (μg/mL), 0.34 (0.14-0.71) in hairs (μg/g), and 0.44 (0.32-0.59) in nails (μg/g) of brick kiln workers. Following Pb, the trend was Cd 0.17 (0.10-0.24), Cu 0.11(0.03-0.27), and Cr 0.07 (0.04-0.08) in blood (μg/mL), followed by Cr 0.11(0.05-0.20), Cd 0.09 (0.03-0.13), and Cu 0.08 (0.04-0.16) in hairs (μg/g) and Cu 0.16 (0.05-0.36), Cd 0.13 (0.11-0.17), and Cr 0.10 (0.05-0.14) in nails (μg/g) respectively. Relatively higher concentrations of metals and other trace elements in blood depicts recent dietary exposure. The difference of trace elements except Pb was non-significant (P > 0.05) among studied matrices of workers as well as between Zigzag and traditional exhaust-based brick kilns. The concentrations of Pb, Cd and Cr in blood of brick kilns workers are higher than the values reported to cause health problems in human populations. It is concluded that chronic exposure to metals and other trace elements may pose some serious health risks to brick kiln workers which needs to be addressed immediately to avoid future worst-case scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talha Saeed
- College of Earth and Environmental Sciences (CEES), University of the Punjab, Quaid-E-Azam Campus, Lahore, Pakistan
- Institute of Environmental Sciences & Engineering (IESE), National University of Science & Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Naeem Akhtar Abbasi
- College of Earth and Environmental Sciences (CEES), University of the Punjab, Quaid-E-Azam Campus, Lahore, Pakistan.
| | - Muhammad Talha Zahid
- Institute of Environmental Sciences & Engineering (IESE), National University of Science & Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Noor Fatima
- College of Earth and Environmental Sciences (CEES), University of the Punjab, Quaid-E-Azam Campus, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Kaleem Ullah
- College of Earth and Environmental Sciences (CEES), University of the Punjab, Quaid-E-Azam Campus, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Fahim Khokhar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences & Engineering (IESE), National University of Science & Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
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Sharaf Din K, Khokhar MF, Butt SI, Qadir A, Younas F. Exploration of microplastic concentration in indoor and outdoor air samples: Morphological, polymeric, and elemental analysis. Sci Total Environ 2024; 908:168398. [PMID: 37952657 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are ubiquitously pervasive throughout the environment, but unlike aquatic and terrestrial microplastics, airborne microplastics have received less scientific attention. This study is the first of its kind to explicitly examine microplastics in the indoor and outdoor air (PM2.5) samples collected using active air samplers in Islamabad, Pakistan. The suspected synthetic particles were analyzed using ATR-FTIR, μ-Raman and SEM-EDX to categorize them based on their morphological characteristics, polymeric composition, and elemental makeup. Microplastics were found in all indoor and outdoor air samples, with indoor air samples (4.34 ± 1.93 items/m3) being significantly more contaminated than outdoor air samples (0.93 ± 0.32 items/m3) (P < 0.001). Among all the indoor air samples, samples taken from classroom (6.12 ± 0.51 items/m3) were more contaminated than samples taken from hallway (4.94 ± 0.78 items/m3) and laboratory (1.96 ± 0.44 items/m3). Fibers were found to be the prevalent shape type in indoor and outdoor airborne microplastics followed by fragments. Transparent- and black colored microplastic particles were predominant in both indoor and outdoor air samples. According to ATR-FTIR analysis, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS) were the most prevalent polymer types in both indoor and outdoor environments. Results from μ-Raman analysis corroborated the presence of the polymers identified by ATR-FTIR. Morphological analysis of particles by SEM indicated signs of weathering on particles' surface i.e., grooves, breaks, shredded edges, pits etc. SEM-EDX of randomly chosen particles unraveled the presence of C and O as core elements, along with the presence of heavy metals at some spots due to foreign material adhering to their surface. Correlation analysis of environmental factors i.e., PM2.5, relative humidity, temperature, and wind speed with MPs abundance revealed non-significant relationships. The findings of this study call for further research on airborne MPs to better comprehend their dispersion, toxicity, interactions with other air pollutants, and attributable health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadija Sharaf Din
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), SCEE, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Fahim Khokhar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), SCEE, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan.
| | - Shahid Ikramullah Butt
- Department of design and manufacturing Engineering (DME), SMME, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Qadir
- College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Farhan Younas
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Science (CIRBS), Faculty of Sciences, International Islamic University, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
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Fiaz M, Ahmed I, Hassan SMU, Niazi AK, Khokhar MF, Farooq MA, Arshad M. Antibiotics induced changes in nitrogen metabolism and antioxidative enzymes in mung bean (Vigna radiata). Sci Total Environ 2023; 873:162449. [PMID: 36841411 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Excessive use and release of antibiotics into the soil environment in the developing world have resulted in altered soil processes affecting terrestrial organisms and posing a serious threat to crop growth and productivity. The present study investigated the influence of exogenously applied oxytetracycline (OXY) and levofloxacin (LEV) on plant physiological responses, key enzymes involved in nitrogen metabolism (e.g., nitrate reductase, glutamine synthetase), nitrogen contents and oxidative stress response of mung bean (Vigna radiata). Plants were irrigated weekly with antibiotics containing water for exposing the plants to different concentrations i.e., 1, 10, 20, 50, and 100 mg L-1. Results showed a significant decrease in nitrate reductase activity in both antibiotic treatments and their mixtures and increased antioxidant enzymatic activities in plants. At lower concentrations of antibiotics (≤20 mg L-1), 53.9 % to 78.4 % increase in nitrogen content was observed in levofloxacin and mixtures compared to the control, resulting in an increase in the overall plant biomass. Higher antibiotic (≥50 mg L-1) concentration showed 58 % decrease in plant biomass content and an overall decrease in plant nitrogen content upon exposure to the mixtures. This was further complemented by 22 % to 42 % increase in glutamine synthetase activity observed in the plants treated with levofloxacin and mixtures. The application of low doses of antibiotics throughout the experiments resulted in lower toxicity symptoms in the plants. However, significantly higher malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations at higher doses (20 mg L-1 and above) than the control showed that plants' tolerance against oxidative stress was conceded with increasing antibiotic concentrations. The toxicity trend was: levofloxacin > mixture > oxytetracycline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marium Fiaz
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Iftikhar Ahmed
- National Culture Collection of Pakistan (NCCP), Land Resources Research Institute (LRRI), National Agriculture Research Center (NARC), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Sumara Masood Ul Hassan
- School of Social Sciences and Humanities, National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Adnan Khan Niazi
- Centre for Agricultural Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Fahim Khokhar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Ansar Farooq
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Arshad
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan.
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Kamran, Khan JA, Khayyam U, Waheed A, Khokhar MF. Exploring the nexus between land use land cover (LULC) changes and population growth in a planned city of islamabad and unplanned city of Rawalpindi, Pakistan. Heliyon 2023; 9:e13297. [PMID: 36761822 PMCID: PMC9905946 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e13297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
For the last three decades, Islamabad - a planned city, and Rawalpindi - an unplanned city, have experienced massive land use and land cover changes. The main objective of this study was a comparative assessment and quantification of LULC changes in relation to population growth and urbanization from 1990 to 2021 with the help of satellite imagery and population data in planned and unplanned cities. For classification four land-use land cover classes: built-up, vegetation, bare land, and water were selected. Maximum likelihood algorithm and confusion matrix were employed for classification and accuracy assessment. Results revealed that built-up increased from 5.7% (52 km2) to 25.7% (233 km2) and 3.7% (60 km2) to 14.1% (228 km2) from 1990 to 2021 for Islamabad and Rawalpindi, respectively. Wherein the bare land decreased from 42.2% (382 km2) to 18.1% (164 km2) in Islamabad and 65.5% (1058 km2) to 32.1% (518 km2) in Rawalpindi. Vegetation showed an increment of 4.7% for Islamabad and 24.5% for Rawalpindi. Surface water bodies decreased in both study areas. Population growth showed a strong positive correlation with the built-up class and a strong negative correlation with the bare land class for both cities. The outcomes of this study may be helpful in policymaking for better planning and management of land use land cover and urban sprawl in the context of sustainable development goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamran
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (SCEE), National University of Science and Technology (NUST), H-12, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Junaid Aziz Khan
- Institute of Geographical Information Systems (IGIS), School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (SCEE), National University of Science and Technology (NUST), H-12, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Umer Khayyam
- Department of Development Studies, School of Social Sciences and Humanities (S3H), National University of Science and Technology (NUST), H-12, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Waheed
- Department of Urban and Regional Planning (URP), School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (SCEE), National University of Science and Technology (NUST), H-12, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Fahim Khokhar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (SCEE), National University of Science and Technology (NUST), H-12, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan,Corresponding author.
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Inam Ullah E, Ahmad S, Khokhar MF, Azmat M, Khayyam U, Qaiser FUR. Hydrological and ecological impacts of run off river scheme; a case study of Ghazi Barotha hydropower project on Indus River, Pakistan. Heliyon 2023; 9:e12659. [PMID: 36647356 PMCID: PMC9840235 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e12659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Run off river schemes are getting widespread importance as they are considered environmentally safe. However, number of studies and the consequent information regarding impacts of run off river schemes is very limited worldwide. Present study attempted to analyze impacts of Ghazi Barotha Hydropower Plant, which is a run off river scheme situated in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. This study attempted to analyze impacts of this run off river scheme on hydrological and ecological conditions of downstream areas. Data on river discharge, groundwater levels, agriculture area, vegetation and bare soil was utilized for this study. All data sets between the year 1990 till 2020 were analyzed. Hydrological impacts were analyzed through secondary data analysis, whereas ecological impacts were studied through remote sensing technique. Statistical methods were applied to further draw conclusions between hydrological and ecological interrelationships. Results showed that after functioning of Ghazi Barotha, there was 47% and 91% reduction of river discharge, in summer and winter seasons respectively. Groundwater level dropped by 50%. Agriculture area reduced by 1.69% and 9.11% during summer and winter respectively, whereas land under bare soil increased. River water diversion was considered to be responsible for groundwater reduction, as strong correlation was found between both. Agriculture land recovery, in post Ghazi Barotha period, was premised at intense groundwater mining, as groundwater level and agriculture area were significantly related (p < 0.05). Governments' groundwater development schemes, and a shift into motorized groundwater mining were major factors behind further groundwater exploitation in study area. This study came to the conclusion that Ghazi Barotha Hydropower Plant had impacted flow regime of Indus River, as well as groundwater levels and land use of downstream area along the river. These effects were triggered by inappropriate compensatory measures and uncontrolled water resource exploitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Inam Ullah
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (SCEE), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Shakil Ahmad
- NUST Institute of Civil Engineering (NICE), School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (SCEE), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan,Corresponding author.
| | - Muhammad Fahim Khokhar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (SCEE), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Azmat
- Institute of Geographical Information Systems (IGIS), School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (SCEE), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Umer Khayyam
- Department of Development Studies, School of Social Sciences and Humanities (S3H), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan
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Safdar F, Khokhar MF, Mahmood F, Khan MZA, Arshad M. Observed and predicted precipitation variability across Pakistan with special focus on winter and pre-monsoon precipitation. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2023; 30:4510-4530. [PMID: 35974270 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-22502-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This study utilises ground, satellite and model data to investigate the observed and future precipitation changes in Pakistan. Pakistan Meteorological Department's (PMD) monthly precipitation data set along with the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) monthly dataset TRMM_3B43 (0.25° × 0.25° resolution) and European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts's (ECMWF) monthly reanalysis product ERA5 have been used to evaluate rainfall trends over the climatic zones of Pakistan through Mann-Kendall test, Sen's slope estimator and innovative trend analysis for the time period 1978-2018. Community Climate System Model (CCSM4) projections have been employed to explore the projected changes in precipitation until 2099. Furthermore, TRMM and CCSM4 projections have been correlated and validated using root mean square error (RMSE) and mean bias error (MBE). There is a good correlation between TRMM and PMD ground observation at all stations of the country for all seasons, with correlation coefficient values ranging from 0.89 (November) to 0.97 (July and August). However, ERA5 monthly precipitation tends to overestimate rainfall in the winter months. The study shows a decreasing trend in winter precipitation in all zones of the country with a significant decrease over western mountains, i.e. zone C of the country. During 2008-2018, a sharp decrease in winter precipitation is observed as compared to the baseline value of 1978-2007 in all climatic zones. Rainy days have also shown a decrease in winter and pre-monsoon seasons. There seems to be a shift in precipitation from winter towards pre-monsoon season as pre-monsoon precipitation in the last 11 years increased in all zones except for zone C. Coherently, there is a decrease in an area affected by winter precipitation and an increase in area for pre-monsoon precipitation. Future precipitation estimates from the CCSM4 model for RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 overestimate precipitation in most parts of the country for the first 9 observed years (2010-2018) and predict a rise in precipitation by 2099 which is more pronounced in the northern and western Pakistan while a decrease is predicted for the plains of the country, which might have negative consequences for agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fasiha Safdar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, H-12, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Fahim Khokhar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, H-12, Pakistan.
| | - Fatimah Mahmood
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, H-12, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Zeeshan Ali Khan
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, H-12, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Arshad
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, H-12, Pakistan
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Khokhar MF, Anjum MS, Salam A, Sinha V, Naja M, Tanimoto H, Crawford JH, Mead MI. Countries of the Indo-Gangetic Plain must unite against air pollution. Nature 2021; 598:415. [PMID: 34667288 DOI: 10.1038/d41586-021-02829-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Anwar MN, Shabbir M, Tahir E, Iftikhar M, Saif H, Tahir A, Murtaza MA, Khokhar MF, Rehan M, Aghbashlo M, Tabatabaei M, Nizami AS. Emerging challenges of air pollution and particulate matter in China, India, and Pakistan and mitigating solutions. J Hazard Mater 2021; 416:125851. [PMID: 34492802 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.125851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
This study examines point and non-point sources of air pollution and particulate matter and their associated socioeconomic and health impacts in South Asian countries, primarily India, China, and Pakistan. The legislative frameworks, policy gaps, and targeted solutions are also scrutinized. The major cities in these countries have surpassed the permissible limits defined by WHO for sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and nitrogen dioxide. As a result, they are facing widespread health problems, disabilities, and causalities at extreme events. Populations in these countries are comparatively more prone to air pollution effects because they spend more time in the open air, increasing their likelihood of exposure to air pollutants. The elevated level of air pollutants and their long-term exposure increases the susceptibility to several chronic/acute diseases, i.e., obstructive pulmonary diseases, acute respiratory distress, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. More in-depth spatial-temporal air pollution monitoring studies in China, India, and Pakistan are recommended. The study findings suggest that policymakers at the local, national, and regional levels should devise targeted policies by considering all the relevant parameters, including the country's economic status, local meteorological conditions, industrial interests, public lifestyle, and national literacy rate. This approach will also help design and implement more efficient policies which are less likely to fail when brought into practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Naveed Anwar
- Sustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore 54000, Pakistan.
| | - Muneeba Shabbir
- Sustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Eza Tahir
- Sustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Mahnoor Iftikhar
- Sustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Hira Saif
- Sustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Ajwa Tahir
- Sustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Malik Ashir Murtaza
- Sustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Fahim Khokhar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
| | - Mohammad Rehan
- Center of Excellence in Environmental Studies (CEES), King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mortaza Aghbashlo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering of Agricultural Machinery, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran
| | - Meisam Tabatabaei
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries (AKUATROP), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia; Henan Province Forest Resources Sustainable Development and High-value Utilization Engineering Research Center, School of Forestry, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China; Biofuel Research Team (BRTeam), Terengganu, Malaysia; Microbial Biotechnology Department, Agricultural Biotechnology Research Institute of Iran (ABRII), Agricultural Research, Education, and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran
| | - Abdul-Sattar Nizami
- Sustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore 54000, Pakistan.
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Ali SM, Malik F, Anjum MS, Siddiqui GF, Anwar MN, Lam SS, Nizami AS, Khokhar MF. Exploring the linkage between PM 2.5 levels and COVID-19 spread and its implications for socio-economic circles. Environ Res 2021; 193:110421. [PMID: 33160973 PMCID: PMC7645282 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.110421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
A pneumonia-like disease of unknown origin caused a catastrophe in Wuhan city, China. This disease spread to 215 countries affecting a wide range of people. World health organization (WHO) called it a pandemic and it was officially named as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona virus 2 (SARS CoV-2), also known as Corona virus disease (COVID-19). This pandemic compelled countries to enforce a socio-economic lockdown to prevent its widespread. This paper focuses on how the particulate matter pollution was reduced during the lockdown period (23 March to April 15, 2020) as compared to before lockdown. Both ground-based and satellite observations were used to identify the improvement in air quality of Pakistan with primary focus on four major cities of Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi and Peshawar. Both datasets have shown a substantial reduction in PM2.5 pollution levels (ranging from 13% to 33% in case of satellite observations, while 23%-58% in ground-based observations) across Pakistan. Result shows a higher rate of COVID-19 spread in major cities of Pakistan with poor air quality conditions. Yet more research is needed in order to establish linkage between COVID-19 spread and air pollution. However, it can be partially attributed to both higher rate of population density and frequent exposure of population to enhanced levels of PM2.5 concentrations before lockdown period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syeda Mahnoor Ali
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Fatima Malik
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Shehzaib Anjum
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology Islamabad, Pakistan
| | | | - Muhammad Naveed Anwar
- Sustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
| | - Su Shiung Lam
- Pyrolysis Technology Research Group, Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries (AKUATROP), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Abdul-Sattar Nizami
- Sustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Fahim Khokhar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology Islamabad, Pakistan.
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Anjum MS, Ali SM, Imad-Ud-Din M, Subhani MA, Anwar MN, Nizami AS, Ashraf U, Khokhar MF. An Emerged Challenge of Air Pollution and Ever-Increasing Particulate Matter in Pakistan; A Critical Review. J Hazard Mater 2021; 402:123943. [PMID: 33254830 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.123943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
This study, for the first time, aims to evaluate the situation of air quality in Pakistan critically; through a detailed assessment of sources, policies, and key challenges to identify the plausible way forward. Air pollution and particulate matter have merged as a global challenge in recent years because of its growing health and socio-economic risks. The intensity and impacts of these risks have become more pronounced, especially in developing countries like Pakistan that lack adequate warning, protection, and management systems. Various epidemiological studies have linked poor air quality with different health disorders and increasing death rates. In Pakistan, mortality rates as a result of exposure to increased levels of air pollutants, especially particulate matter, are alarming. According to the World Bank's estimates, Pakistan's annual burden of disease from outdoor air pollution is responsible for around 22,000 premature adult deaths and 163,432 DALYs (disability-adjusted life years) lost. The concentration of major air pollutants in Pakistan, such as NOx, O3, and SO2 have also been increasing significantly over the last two decades. Several studies are also reporting multiple instances of air quality around the major cities of Pakistan being consistently exceeding the national guidelines. During teh year 2019 PM2.5 cocnentrations in the city of Lahore revealed that almost every single day was in exceedance of the WHO and national air quality standards. Although the substantial effects of these rising pollutant concentrations in Pakistan have been stated in a few studies, however, the total extent, nature of contributing factors, and consequences remain inadequately understood. This study aims to use data available from monitoring stations, satellites, and literature to highlight the gaps in our understanding and emphasize the critical challenges associated with poor air quality faced in Pakistan. Topmost is the lack of air quality monitoring systems followed by poor initiatives by policymakers and enforcement agencies. A way forward while addressing these key challenges is also discussed, which focuses on the development of flexible monitoring, new technologies, and monitoring approaches in addition to communications among the various public, private agencies, and all relevant stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Shehzaib Anjum
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Syeda Mahnoor Ali
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Imad-Ud-Din
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Ahmed Subhani
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Naveed Anwar
- Sustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Abdul-Sattar Nizami
- Sustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Umar Ashraf
- Punjab Environmental Protection Department, Lahore Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Fahim Khokhar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology Islamabad, Pakistan.
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11
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Mahmood F, Khokhar MF, Mahmood Z. Investigating the tipping point of crop productivity induced by changing climatic variables. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2021; 28:2923-2933. [PMID: 32895796 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-10655-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
South Asia is comprised of several countries, including Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, and Sri Lanka, all ranked highly at risk of climatic variability. The region's susceptibility to climate change can be attributed to both its spatial and inherent characteristics. Considering the countries' high dependence on agricultural products, to support their economies and growing populations, it is vital to measure the factors impacting crop productivity. This study quantifies the change in temperature and precipitation, coupled with their respective effects on the productivity of three major crops, wheat, rice and cotton, within two of Pakistan's largest provinces: Punjab and Sindh. Based on the collated data, multivariate regression analysis is conducted. Moreover, highly vulnerable areas to climate change have been identified under RCP scenarios 4.5 and 8.5, until the end of this century. Results reveal that there is a substantial increasing trend in temperature, whereas precipitation has high inter-annual variability. Regression outcomes, based on fixed/random effects models, indicate that temperature above threshold values of 24.3 °C, 33.0 °C and 32.0 °C for wheat, rice and cotton, respectively, negatively impacts productivity (statistically significant). Precipitation is statistically insignificant in explaining its role in crop productivity. Overall, the region is heading towards temperature and threshold exceedances at an alarming rate, which will impact the overall availability of suitable crop-growing areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatimah Mahmood
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Fahim Khokhar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan.
| | - Zafar Mahmood
- School of Social Sciences & Humanities, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
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12
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Mahmood F, Khokhar MF, Mahmood Z. Examining the relationship of tropospheric ozone and climate change on crop productivity using the multivariate panel data techniques. J Environ Manage 2020; 272:111024. [PMID: 32854874 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2020.111024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Home to one-fourth of the world's population and ranked amongst the fastest growing economies, the South Asian countries are marred with the predicament of inexorable pollution. Amidst the growing pollutants, ground-level ozone has become an important component in understanding health, and productivity of agricultural crops. In this regard spatio-temporal analysis of tropospheric ozone for wheat, rice and cotton crops was carried out. Followed-up with a multivariate regression model; establishing a statistical relationship between tropospheric ozone (TO) and crop productivity. The results indicate that predominantly ozone is increasing, with a significant trend visible in all crop growing seasons. Observations indicate higher concentrations of TO in the rice & cotton growing seasons, with a seasonal average of 68 ppb, compared to wheat growing season (55 ppb). Regression results specify that with an increase of 1% in tropospheric ozone concentration within the study area; crop productivity decreases for cotton (-4.0%), rice (-2.3%), and wheat (-0.7%). Furthermore, with the presence of the dominant tropospheric ozone in the regression model, the temperature's impact on productivity becomes statistically inconsequential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatimah Mahmood
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Fahim Khokhar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan.
| | - Zafar Mahmood
- School of Social Sciences & Humanities, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
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13
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Anwar MN, Fayyaz A, Sohail NF, Khokhar MF, Baqar M, Yasar A, Rasool K, Nazir A, Raja MUF, Rehan M, Aghbashlo M, Tabatabaei M, Nizami AS. CO 2 utilization: Turning greenhouse gas into fuels and valuable products. J Environ Manage 2020; 260:110059. [PMID: 32090808 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2019.110059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
This study critically reviews the recent developments and future opportunities pertinent to the conversion of CO2 as a potent greenhouse gas (GHG) to fuels and valuable products. CO2 emissions have reached an alarming level of around 410 ppm and have become the primary driver of global warming and climate change leading to devastating events such as droughts, hurricanes, torrential rains, floods, tornados and wildfires across the world. These events are responsible for thousands of deaths and have adversely affected the economic development of many countries, loss of billions of dollars, across the globe. One of the promising choices to tackle this issue is carbon sequestration by pre- and post-combustion processes and oxyfuel combustion. The captured CO2 can be converted into fuels and valuable products, including methanol, dimethyl ether (DME), and methane (CH4). The efficient use of the sequestered CO2 for the desalinization might be critical in overcoming water scarcity and energy issues in developing countries. Using the sequestered CO2 to produce algae in combination with wastewater, and producing biofuels is among the promising strategies. Many methods, like direct combustion, fermentation, transesterification, pyrolysis, anaerobic digestion (AD), and gasification, can be used for the conversion of algae into biofuel. Direct air capturing (DAC) is another productive technique for absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere and converting it into various useful energy resources like CH4. These methods can effectively tackle the issues of climate change, water security, and energy crises. However, future research is required to make these conversion methods cost-effective and commercially applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- M N Anwar
- Sustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore, Pakistan.
| | - A Fayyaz
- Sustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - N F Sohail
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - M F Khokhar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - M Baqar
- Sustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - A Yasar
- Sustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - K Rasool
- Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, P.O. Box 5825, Doha, Qatar
| | - A Nazir
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, Lahore School of Economics, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - M U F Raja
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - M Rehan
- Center of Excellence in Environmental Studies (CEES), King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - M Aghbashlo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering of Agricultural Machinery, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran
| | - M Tabatabaei
- Faculty of Plantation and Agrotechnology, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), 40450, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia; Biofuel Research Team (BRTeam), Karaj, Iran; Microbial Biotechnology Department, Agricultural Biotechnology Research Institute of Iran (ABRII), Agricultural Research, Education, and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran; Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Ho Chi Minh City University of Transport, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - A S Nizami
- Sustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore, Pakistan
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14
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Javed Z, Liu C, Khokhar MF, Xing C, Tan W, Subhani MA, Rehman A, Tanvir A. Investigating the impact of Glyoxal retrieval from MAX-DOAS observations during haze and non-haze conditions in Beijing. J Environ Sci (China) 2019; 80:296-305. [PMID: 30952347 DOI: 10.1016/j.jes.2019.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
This study presents the Multi Axis Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (MAX-DOAS) measurements for Glyoxal (CHOCHO) in Beijing, China (39.95°N, 116.32°E). CHOCHO is the smallest compound of di-carbonyl group. As a primary sink of CHOCHO, its photolysis with NOx (oxides of nitrogen) results in the production of tropospheric ozone. Therefore, the focus of CHOCHO DOAS measurements is increasing in trend. We did the measurements from 09 May 2017 to 09 September 2017. The study was conducted to compare different retrieval settings in order to reveal best DOAS fit settings for CHOCHO; furthermore, effect of haze and non-haze days on CHOCHO concentration was examined. The root mean square of residual and Differential Slant Column density (dSCD) error was reduced when measurements were done with lower wavelength limit around 432-438 nm and upper intervals around 455-460 nm. Thus, lower wavelength intervals around 432-438 nm and upper intervals around 457-460 nm were best for the retrieval of dSCDs for CHOCHO. Meteorological conditions like haze or non-haze days did not have significant effect on DOAS fit parameters. The CHOCHO vertical column densities range from 1.33E+14 to 9.77E+14 molecules/cm2 during the study period with average of 6.16E+14 molecules/cm2. The results indicated that during haze days CHOCHO concentration was higher because of lower rate of photolysis and atmospheric oxidation potential. Our results did not show any significant weekend effect on CHOCHO atmospheric concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeeshan Javed
- School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China.
| | - Cheng Liu
- School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China; Center for Excellence in Regional Atmospheric Environment, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China; Key Lab of Environmental Optics & Technology, Anhui Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Polar Environment and Global Change, USTC, Hefei 230026, China.
| | - Muhammad Fahim Khokhar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan.
| | - Chengzhi Xing
- School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Wei Tan
- Key Lab of Environmental Optics & Technology, Anhui Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Muhammad Ahmed Subhani
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
| | - Abdul Rehman
- School of Earth and Space Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Aimon Tanvir
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
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15
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Anwar MN, Fayyaz A, Sohail NF, Khokhar MF, Baqar M, Khan WD, Rasool K, Rehan M, Nizami AS. CO 2 capture and storage: A way forward for sustainable environment. J Environ Manage 2018; 226:131-144. [PMID: 30114572 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2018.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The quest for a sustainable environment and combating global warming, carbon capture, and storage (CCS) has become the primary resort. A complete shift from non-renewable resources to renewable resources is currently impossible due to its major share in energy generation; making CCS an imperative need of the time. This study, therefore, aims to examine the reckoning of carbon dioxide (CO2), measurement methods, and its efficient capture and storage technologies with an ambition to combat global warming and achieve environmental sustainability. Conventionally, physical, geological and biological proxies are used to measure CO2. The recent methods for CO2 analyses are spectrometry, electrochemical gas sensors, and gas chromatography. Various procedures such as pre, post, and oxyfuel combustion, and use of algae, biochar, and charcoal are the promising ways for CO2 sequestration. However, the efficient implementation of CCS lies in the application of nanotechnology that, in the future, could provide a better condition for the environment and economic outlooks. The captured carbon can be stored in the earth crust for trillions of years, but its leakage during storage can raise many issues including its emissions in the atmosphere and soil acidification. Therefore, global and collective efforts are required to explore, optimize and implement new techniques for CCS to achieve high environmental sustainability and combat the issues of global warming.
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Affiliation(s)
- M N Anwar
- Sustainable Development Study Center, Government College University, Lahore, Pakistan.
| | - A Fayyaz
- Sustainable Development Study Center, Government College University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - N F Sohail
- Sustainable Development Study Center, Government College University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - M F Khokhar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - M Baqar
- Sustainable Development Study Center, Government College University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - W D Khan
- Sustainable Development Study Center, Government College University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - K Rasool
- Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, P.O. Box 5825, Doha, Qatar
| | - M Rehan
- Center of Excellence in Environmental Studies (CEES), King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - A S Nizami
- Center of Excellence in Environmental Studies (CEES), King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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16
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Murtaza R, Khokhar MF, Noreen A, Atif S, Hakeem KR. Correction to: Multi-sensor temporal assessment of tropospheric nitrogen dioxide column densities over Pakistan. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2018; 25:9661. [PMID: 29500593 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-1602-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The present address of Rabbia Murtaza is shown in this paper. (please tag the affiliation below, this is only for Rabbia Murtaza).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabbia Murtaza
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, H-12, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
- Center for Climate Research and Development (CCRD), COMSATS, Institute of Information technology (CIIT), Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Fahim Khokhar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, H-12, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan.
| | - Asma Noreen
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, H-12, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Salman Atif
- Institute of Geographical Information System, National University of Sciences and Technology, H-12, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Khalid Rehman Hakeem
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia.
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17
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Murtaza R, Khokhar MF, Noreen A, Atif S, Hakeem KR. Multi-sensor temporal assessment of tropospheric nitrogen dioxide column densities over Pakistan. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2018; 25:9647-9660. [PMID: 29363034 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-1176-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 12/27/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Spatial and temporal distributions of tropospheric NO2 vertical column densities over Pakistan during the period 2002-2014 are discussed. Data products from three satellite instruments SCIAMACHY, OMI, and GOME-2 are used to prepare a database of tropospheric NO2 column densities over Pakistan and temporal evolution is also determined. Plausible NO2 sources in Pakistan are also discussed. The results show a large NO2 growth over all provinces and the major cities of Pakistan except the megacity of Karachi. Decline in industrial activities due to energy crises, worsening law and order situation, terrorist attacks, and political instability was explored as the main factor for lower NO2 VCDs over Karachi City. The overall increase can be attributed to the anthropogenic emissions over the areas with high population, traffic density, and industrial activities. Source identification revealed that use of fossil fuels by various sectors including power generation, vehicles, and residential sectors along with agriculture fires are among significant sources of NO2 emissions in Pakistan. Existing emission inventories such as EDGARv4.2 and MACCity largely underestimate the true anthropogenic NOx emissions in Pakistan. This study may provide vital information to policy makers and regulatory authorities in developing countries, including Pakistan, in order to devise effective air pollution abatement policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabbia Murtaza
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, H-12, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Fahim Khokhar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, H-12, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan.
| | - Asma Noreen
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, H-12, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Salman Atif
- Institute of Geographical Information System, National University of Sciences and Technology, H-12, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Khalid Rehman Hakeem
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia.
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18
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Noreen A, Khokhar MF, Zeb N, Yasmin N, Hakeem KR. Spatio-temporal assessment and seasonal variation of tropospheric ozone in Pakistan during the last decade. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2018; 25:8441-8454. [PMID: 29307068 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-1010-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
This study uses the tropospheric ozone data derived from combined observations of Ozone Monitoring Instrument/Microwave Limb Sounder instruments by using the tropospheric ozone residual method. The main objective was to study the spatial distribution and temporal evolution in the troposphere ozone columns over Pakistan during the time period of 2004 to 2014. Results showed an overall increase of 3.2 ± 1.1 DU in tropospheric ozone columns over Pakistan. Spatial distribution showed enhanced ozone columns in the Punjab and southern Sindh consistent to high population, urbanization, and extensive anthropogenic activities, and exhibited statistically significant temporal increase. Seasonal variations in tropospheric ozone columns are driven by various factors such as seasonality in UV-B fluxes, seasonality in ozone precursor gases such as NOx and volatile organic compounds (caused by temperature dependent biogenic emission) and agricultural fire activities in Pakistan. A strong correlation of 96% (r = 0.96) was found between fire events and tropospheric ozone columns in Pakistan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asma Noreen
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, Sector H-12, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Fahim Khokhar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, Sector H-12, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan.
| | - Naila Zeb
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, Sector H-12, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Naila Yasmin
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, Sector H-12, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Khalid Rehman Hakeem
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia.
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19
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Haider K, Khokhar MF, Chishtie F, RazzaqKhan W, Hakeem KR. Identification and future description of warming signatures over Pakistan with special emphasis on evolution of CO 2 levels and temperature during the first decade of the twenty-first century. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2017; 24:7617-7629. [PMID: 28120226 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-016-8359-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/29/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Like other developing countries, Pakistan is also facing changes in temperature per decade and other climatic abnormalities like droughts and torrential rains. In order to assess and identify the extent of temperature change over Pakistan, the whole Pakistan was divided into five climatic zones ranging from very cold to hot and dry climates. Similarly, seasons in Pakistan are defined on the basis of monsoon variability as winter, pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon. This study primarily focuses on the comparison of surface temperature observations from Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) network with PRECIS (Providing Regional Climates for Impacts Studies) model simulations. Results indicate that PRECIS underestimates the temperature in Northern Pakistan and during the winter season. However, there exists a fair agreement between PRECIS output and observed datasets in the lower plain and hot areas of the country. An absolute increase of 0.07 °C is observed in the mean temperature over Pakistan during the time period of 1951-2010. Especially, the increase is more significant (0.7 °C) during the last 14 years (1997-2010). Moreover, SCIAMACHY observations were used to explore the evolution of atmospheric CO2 levels in comparison to temperature over Pakistan. CO2 levels have shown an increasing trend during the first decade of the twenty-first century.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadija Haider
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), H-12 Main Campus, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Fahim Khokhar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), H-12 Main Campus, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan.
| | - Farrukh Chishtie
- Institute of Space Technology (IST), Islamabad Highway, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Waseem RazzaqKhan
- Faculty of Forestry, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Khalid Rehman Hakeem
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia.
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20
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Khokhar MF, Nisar M, Noreen A, Khan WR, Hakeem KR. Investigating the nitrogen dioxide concentrations in the boundary layer by using multi-axis spectroscopic measurements and comparison with satellite observations. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2017; 24:2827-2839. [PMID: 27838904 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-016-7907-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2015] [Accepted: 10/12/2016] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
This study emphasizes on near surface observation of chemically active trace gases such as nitrogen dioxide (NO2) over Islamabad on a regular basis. Absorption spectroscopy using backscattered extraterrestrial light source technique was used to retrieve NO2 differential slant column densities (dSCDs). Mini multi-axis-differential optical absorption spectroscopy (MAX-DOAS) instrument was used to perform ground-based measurements at Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) Islamabad, Pakistan. Tropospheric vertical column densities (VCDs) of NO2 were derived from measured dSCDs by using geometric air mass factor approach. A case study was conducted to identify the impact of different materials (glass, tinted glass, and acrylic sheet of various thicknesses used to cover the instrument) on the retrieval of dSCDs. Acrylic sheet of thickness 5 mm was found most viable option for casing material as it exhibited negligible impact in the visible wavelength range. Tropospheric NO2 VCD derived from ground-based mini MAX-DOAS measurements exceeded two times the Pak-NEQS levels and showed a reasonable comparison (r 2 = 0.65, r = 0.81) with satellite observations (root mean square bias of 39 %) over Islamabad, Pakistan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Fahim Khokhar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Sector H-12, 444000, Islamabad, Pakistan.
| | - Munazza Nisar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Sector H-12, 444000, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Asma Noreen
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Sector H-12, 444000, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Waseem Razzaq Khan
- Faculty of Forestry, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Khalid Rehman Hakeem
- Faculty of Forestry, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, 43400, Selangor, Malaysia.
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia.
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Shabbir Y, Khokhar MF, Shaiganfar R, Wagner T. Spatial variance and assessment of nitrogen dioxide pollution in major cities of Pakistan along N5-Highway. J Environ Sci (China) 2016; 43:4-14. [PMID: 27155404 DOI: 10.1016/j.jes.2015.04.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2015] [Revised: 04/08/2015] [Accepted: 04/09/2015] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
This paper discusses the findings of the first car MAX-DOAS (multi-axis differential optical absorption spectroscopy) field campaign (300km long) along the National Highway-05 (N5-Highway) of Pakistan conducted on 13 and 14 November, 2012. The main objective of the field campaign was to assess the spatial distribution of tropospheric nitrogen dioxide (NO2) columns and corresponding concentrations along the N5-Highway from Islamabad to Lahore. Source identification of NO2 revealed that the concentrations were higher within major cities along the highway. The highest NO2 vertical column densities (NO2 VCDs) were found around two major cities of Rawalpindi and Lahore. This study also presents a comparison of NO2 VCDs measured by the ozone monitoring instrument (OMI) and car MAX-DOAS observations. The comparison revealed similar spatial distribution of the NO2 columns with both car MAX-DOAS and satellite observations, but the car MAX-DOAS observations show much more spatial details. Maximum NO2 VCD retrieved from car MAX-DOAS observations was up to an order of magnitude larger than the OMI observations in urban areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasir Shabbir
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan.
| | - Muhammad Fahim Khokhar
- Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan.
| | - Reza Shaiganfar
- Satellite Remote Sensing Group, Max-Planck-Institute for Chemistry, Mainz, Germany
| | - Thomas Wagner
- Satellite Remote Sensing Group, Max-Planck-Institute for Chemistry, Mainz, Germany
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22
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Lau DT, Khokhar MF, Doo E, Ghany MG, Herion D, Park Y, Kleiner DE, Schmid P, Condreay LD, Gauthier J, Kuhns MC, Liang TJ, Hoofnagle JH. Long-term therapy of chronic hepatitis B with lamivudine. Hepatology 2000; 32:828-34. [PMID: 11003630 DOI: 10.1053/jhep.2000.17912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 281] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Lamivudine therapy induces improvements in chronic hepatitis B in a high proportion of patients, but prolonged therapy is limited by the development of viral resistance. We analyzed clinical responses and virologic resistance in 27 patients treated continuously with lamivudine for 2 to 4 years. Serum transaminases, hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA by both branched DNA (bDNA) signal amplification and quantitative polymerase chain reaction were monitored at 4- to 8-week intervals. Virologic resistance to lamivudine was confirmed by the presence of mutations in the YMDD motif of the polymerase gene by restriction fragment-length polymorphism analysis. Serum HBV-DNA levels decreased rapidly in all treated patients, falling by 4 to 5 logs within 1 year. Transaminase levels also decreased and were normal in 70% of patients at 1 year, at which point liver histology had improved in 81% of patients. Viral resistance began to emerge after 8 months of therapy, eventually developing in 14 patients, including 76% of hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-positive patients but only 10% of HBeAg-negative patients. Lamivudine withdrawal led to reappearance of wild-type HBV species, but retreatment led to more rapid reappearance of the mutant virus. Clinical, serum biochemical, and histologic improvements were maintained in the 13 patients who did not develop resistance. Thus, long-term therapy with lamivudine resulted in maintained improvements in virologic, biochemical, and histologic features of disease in most patients with HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B and in the subgroup of HBeAg-positive patients with high serum transaminase levels. A high rate of resistance limited efficacy, particularly in patients who remained HBeAg positive on therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- D T Lau
- Liver Diseases Section, Digestive Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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