Small rodent communities and their associated damage to wheat-groundnut agriculture systems

Abstract Rodents can cause significant damage to wheat-groundnut crops in developing countries, as well as to stored produce and infrastructure, affecting food security and income of small-holder farmers. Wheat (Triticum aestivum) and groundnuts (Arachis hypogea) are important cash crops for local farmers in Pakistan. Field experiments were performed to assess the extent of rodent damage to wheat-groundnut crops throughout their growth stages (i.e, germination, flowering/peg formation and maturity) in the agro-ecological zones of Pothwar Plateau, Pakistan. We used a quadrat method to record the number of damaged crop plants. On the basis of the trapping data four rodent species were captured from wheat-groundnut cropping systems which were responsible for causing damage, i.e., lesser bandicoot rat (Bandicota bengalensis) was the main species, followed by the short-tailed mole rat (Nesokia indica), the Indian gerbil (Tatera indica) and the bush rat (Golunda ellioti). In both crops, the maximum damage was recorded at crop maturity (10.7 and 14.4%, respectively). The lowest reported damage to wheat and groundnuts was at the germination stage (3.5% and 6.0%, respectively). The lower damage reported at germination could be due to availability of non-crop vegetation at field borders that may be a potential factor influencing damage. Our findings clearly show the considerable amount of damage caused by rodents to wheat-groundnut at maturity across all the agro-ecological zones of Pothwar and indicated that the small mammal composition was more related to maturity stage/season of crops, when the availability of food and climatic condition were favorable and having security under crop shelter. More detailed studies are needed to fully understand the population and breeding ecology of the relevant rodent pest species in relation to damage patterns to optimize management beyond individual structural measures.

Coupling hydrogeochemistry and stable isotopes (δ2H, δ18O and δ13C) to identify factors affecting arsenic enrichment of surface water and groundwater in Precambrian sedimentary rocks, eastern salt range, Punjab, Pakistan

The study area is a part of the Salt Range, where water quality is being deteriorated by natural and anthropogenic sources. This research integrates water quality assessment, arsenic enrichment, hydrogeochemical processes, groundwater recharge and carbon sources in aquifer. Total dissolved solid (TDS) contents in springs water, lake water and groundwater are in range of 681-847 mg/L, 2460-5051 mg/L and 513-7491 mg/L, respectively. The higher concentrations of magnesium and calcium in water bodies next to sodium are because of carbonates, sulfates, halite and silicates dissolution. The average concentrations of ions in groundwater are in order of HCO3- > SO42- > Cl- > Na+  > Mg2+ > Ca2+ > K+ > NO3-, virtually analogous to springs water, but different from lake water, categorized as poor quality and unfit for drinking purposes. Based on major ions hydrochemistry, NaCl and mixed Ca-Mg-Cl type hydrochemical facies are associated with concentration of arsenic (4.2-39.5 µg/L) in groundwater. Groundwater samples (70%) having arsenic concentration (11 ≤ As ≤ 39.5 µg/L) exceeded from World Health Organization (WHO) guideline (As ≤ 10 µg/L) in near neutral to slightly alkaline (6.7 ≤ pH ≤ 8.3), positive Eh(6 ≤ Eh ≤ 204 mV), signifying its oxic condition. Eh-pH diagrams for arsenic and iron indicate that 80% of groundwater for arsenic and iron were in compartments of HAsO42- and Fe(OH)3, unveil oxic environment. Arsenic is moderately positive correlated with TDS, sodium, chloride, bicarbonate, nitrate, sulfate and weak negative with δ13CDIC in surface and groundwater, forecasting multiple sources of arsenic to aquifer. Stable isotopes of waters show recharge of groundwater from local rain and lake water. The lower δ13CDIC values of groundwater are modified by influx of CO2 produced during biological oxidation of soil natural organic matter.

The Biogenic Synthesis of Bimetallic Ag/ZnO Nanoparticles: A Multifunctional Approach for Methyl Violet Photocatalytic Degradation and the Assessment of Antibacterial, Antioxidant, and Cytotoxicity Properties

In this study, bimetallic nanoparticles (NPs) of silver (Ag) and zinc oxide (ZnO) were synthesized using Leptadenia pyrotechnica leaf extract for the first time. Monometallic NPs were also obtained for comparison. The characterization of the prepared NPs was carried out using various techniques, including UV-Visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The latter confirmed the crystalline nature and diameter of the monometallic and bimetallic NPs of Ag and ZnO. The SEM images of the prepared NPs revealed their different shapes. The biological activities of the NPs were evaluated concerning their antibacterial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic properties. The antibacterial activities were measured using the time-killing method. The results demonstrated that both the monometallic and bimetallic NPs inhibited the growth of Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) and Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) bacteria. The antioxidant activities of the NPs were evaluated using the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) assay and their cytotoxicity was checked using the MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay. The results indicated that the controlled quantity of the monometallic and bimetallic NPs did not affect the viability of the cells. However, the decreased cell (L-929) viability suggested that the NPs could have anticancer properties. Furthermore, the photocatalytic degradation of methyl violet and 4-nitrophenol was investigated using the prepared Ag/ZnO NPs, examining the factors affecting the degradation process and conducting a kinetic and thermodynamic study. The prepared Ag/ZnO NPs demonstrated good photocatalytic degradation (88.9%) of the methyl violet (rate constant of 0.0183 min^-1) in comparison to 4-nitrophenol (NPh), with a degradation rate of 81.37% and 0.0172 min^-1, respectively. Overall, the bimetallic NPs showed superior antibacterial, antioxidant, cytotoxic, and photocatalytic properties compared to the monometallic NPs of Ag and ZnO.

Unsteady nanofluid flow over a cone featuring mixed convection and variable viscosity

This article addresses unsteady nanofluid flow over a cone with MHD and mixed convection effects. Effects of variable viscosity and viscous dissipation are also considered. The resulting system of equations is tackled through the Homotopy Analysis Method (HAM). The impact of different influential variables on skin friction coefficient, heat and mass flux are discovered through numerical tables and graphs. It is noted that the surface drag force in x and y directions increases against the buoyancy force parameter. Also, it is observed that the tangential and azimuthal velocity decrease against the variable viscosity parameter. Furthermore, the temperature of fluid is observed to decay against the unsteady parameter but it increases against the Eckert number.

Mechanochemical Synthesis of Thiazolidinone-Triazoles Derivatives as Antidiabetic Agents: Pharmacokinetics, Molecular Docking, and In Vitro Antidiabetic Properties

Mechanochemistry is an eco-friendly and solventless method. In the present study, the surface of a custom-made closed mortar and pestle is used as a catalyst to synthesize thiazolidinone-triazole derivatives successfully. The compounds were subjected to potential antidiabetic activity. The results showed that para-chloro-substituted derivative (9c) is most active with IC50 values of 10±1.56. All three compounds 9a-9c with a maximum of 20% inhibition for ALR1 represent superior selectivity toward the targeted ALR2 to act as a lead in the search for new antidiabetic agents.

Augmenting the Energy Transport Through Magnetic Ferrofluid Filled Inside the I-Shaped Cavity Under the Influence of Thermal Radiation

The effects of heat generation/absorption and thermal radiation on MHD natural convective flow inside the I-shaped cavity saturated with ferrofluid have been investigated in this study. The Cobalt-kerosene type of ferrofluid has been used with solid volume fractions (Φ = 0∼0.06). The penalty finite element technique with Galerkin weighted method has been used to attain the solution of highly non-linear governing PDE’s. Simulations are carried out in terms of stream lines, heat-lines, isotherms contours and local Nusselt number for wide range of physical flow parameters including thermal radiation (NR = 0∼10), heat generation/absorption (ξ = −5∼5), Hartmann (Ha = 0∼10), Rayleigh (Ra = 103∼106), Prandtl (Pr = 6.83), Eckert (Ec = 10−5) and Magnetic number (Mn = 5 * 102). The obtained results show that increasing the concentration of solid volume friction (Φ) from 0 (pure base fluid) to 0.06 has improved heat transfer by 28% and velocity profiles by 23%. Increasing the Rayleigh number from 103 to 106 has significantly improved the total heat transfer rate along the bottom wall from 1.12 to 8.842. It is also noted that the intensity of circulation cells of streamlines and headlines has decreased with increasing Hartmann number (Ha).

A novel synthetic derivative of biaryl guanidine as a potential BACE1 inhibitor, to treat Alzheimer's disease: In-silico, in-vitro and in-vivo evaluation

BACE1 enzyme has been known a potential target involved in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Present research was focused on the principles of virtually screening, chemical synthesis and protease inhibitory effect of BACE1 enzyme via biaryl guanidine derivatives. In-silico based paradigm (ligand binding interaction within active domain of BACE 1 enzyme i.e., aspartate Asp32 and Asp228) a novel compound was synthesized and subsequently subjected to in-vitro and in-vivo evaluation. 1,3-di(isoquinolin-6-yl) guanidine was synthesized and found potent (IC₅₀ 6±0.56 µM) and active to arrest (99 %) β-secretase enzyme (FRET assay). Furthermore, it was found to improve novel object recognition test (RTI =56.55%) and Morris water maze test (32.26±3.45s) significantly (p<0.05). Enhanced pharmacokinetics and related properties (high iLOGP and Log S =-3.98) along with improved permeation to the blood brain barrier (BBB) (zero Lipinski violation) made it feasible to inhibit BACE1 as a novel therapeutic source to treat AD in future.

Comprehensive Phytochemical Profiling, Biological Activities, and Molecular Docking Studies of Pleurospermum candollei: An Insight into Potential for Natural Products Development

The purpose of this study was to find the biological propensities of the vegetable plant Pleurospermum candollei by investigating its phytochemical profile and biological activities. Phytochemical analysis was done by spectroscopic methods to investigate the amount of total polyphenols, and biological evaluation was done by the different antioxidant, enzyme inhibitory (tyrosinase, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase), thrombolytic, and antibacterial activities. The highest amount of total phenolic and flavonoid contents was observed in methanolic extract (240.69 ± 2.94 mg GAE/g and 167.59 ± 3.47 mg QE/g); the fractions showed comparatively less quantity (57.02 ± 1.31 to 144.02 ± 2.11 mg GAE/g, and 48.21 ± 0.75 to 96.58 ± 2.30 mg QE/g). The effect of these bioactive contents was also related to biological activities. GCMS analysis led to the identification of bioactive compounds with different biological effects from methanolic extract (antioxidant; 55.07%, antimicrobial; 56.41%), while the identified compounds from the n-hexane fraction with antioxidant properties constituted 67.86%, and those with antimicrobial effects constituted 82.95%; however, the synergetic effect of polyphenols may also have contributed to the highest value of biological activities of methanolic extract. Molecular docking was also performed to understand the relationship of identified secondary metabolites with enzyme-inhibitory activities. The thrombolytic activity was also significant (40.18 ± 1.80 to 57.15 ± 1.10 % clot lysis) in comparison with streptokinase (78.5 ± 1.53 to 82.34 ± 1.25% clot lysis). Methanolic extract also showed good activity against Gram-positive strains of bacteria, and the highest activity was observed against Bacillus subtilis. The findings of this study will improve our knowledge of phytochemistry, and biological activities of P. candollei, which seems to be a ray of hope to design formulations of natural products for the improvement of health and prevention of chronic diseases; however, further research may address the development of novel drugs for use in pharmaceuticals.

Hydrogen sulphide alleviates cadmium stress in Trigonella foenum-graecum by modulating antioxidant enzymes and polyamine content

Cadmium (Cd) toxicity reduces growth and yield of crops grown in metal-polluted sites. Research was conducted to estimate the potential of hydrogen sulphide (H₂ S) to mitigate toxicity caused by Cd in fenugreek seedlings (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.). Different concentrations of CdCl₂ (Cd1-1 mM, Cd2-1.5 mM, Cd3-2mM) and H₂ S (HS1-100 µM, HS2-150 µM, HS3-200 µM) were assessed. Seeds of fenugreek were primed with sodium hydrosulphide (NaHS), as H₂ S donor. Seedlings growing in Cd-spiked media treated with H₂ S were harvested after 2 weeks. Cd stress affected growth of fenugreek seedlings. Cd toxicity decreased leaf relative water content (LRWC), intercellular CO₂ concentration, net photosynthesis, stomatal conductance and transpiration. However, application of H₂ S significantly improved seedling morphological attributes by increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes, i.e. APX, CAT and SOD, in Cd-contaminated soil. H₂ S treatment also regulated phenolic and flavonoid content. H₂ S-induced biosynthesis of spermidine (Spd) and putrescine (Put) could account for the enhancement of growth and physiological performance of fenugreek seedlings under Cd stress. H₂ S treatment also reduced H₂ O₂ production (38%) and electrolyte leakage (EL, 51%) in seedlings grown in different concentrations of Cd. It is recommended to evaluate the efficacy of H₂ S in alleviating Cd toxicity in other crop plants.

Epidemiological studies of sleep disorder in educational community of Pakistani population, its major risk factors and associated diseases

Sleep is one of the most important functions of the life. The disturbance in sleep or quality of sleep leads to several dysfunctions of the human body. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of sleep disorders, their possible risk factors and their association with other health problems. The data was collected from the educational community of the Pakistani population. The Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) was used to evaluate the insomnia and the sleep apnea was evaluated through a simple questionnaire method. The blood samples were collected to perform significant blood tests for clinical investigations. Current research revealed that the individuals in the educational community had poor sleep quality. A total of 1998 individuals from the educational community were surveyed, 1584 (79.28%) of whom had a sleep disorders, including insomnia (45.20%) and sleep apnea (34.08%). The measured onset of age for males and females was 30.35 years and 31.07 years respectively. The Clinical investigations showed that the sleep had significant impact on the hematology of the patients. Higher levels of serum uric acid and blood sugar were recorded with a sleep disorder. The individuals of the educational community were using the sleeping pills. The other associated diseases were mild tension, headaches, migraines, depression, diabetes, obesity, and myopia. The use of beverage, bad mood, medical condition, mental stress, disturbed circadian rhythms, workload and extra use of smartphone were major risk factors of sleep disorders. It was concluded that the insomnia was more prevalent than the sleep apnea. Furthermore, life changes events were directly linked with disturbance of sleep. Tension, depression, headaches, and migraine were more associated with sleep disorders than all other health issues.

Biochemical characterization, cytotoxic, antimutagenic, anticancer and molecular docking studies on Tecomella undulata

In this study bioassay-guided screening of Tecomella undulate was performed for its cytotoxic, antimutagenic and anticancer potential. The ariel parts were extracted on a polarity basis (methanol, dichloromethane and hexane). The in vivo toxicity was assessed on Caenorhabditis elegans, and its locomotion was affected by Tecomella undulata hexane (TUAH) the most. Ames test for antimutagenicity showed Tecomella undulata methanol (TUAM) exhibited against mutagen 2AA showed inhibition of 71.03% and 26.32% 2AA in TA98 while in in vitro MTT assay on carcinoma cell lines TUAM showed 68.1% cytotoxicity. Moreover, In resazurin assay on fibroblast cells African green monkey kidney VERO and on the panel of carcinoma cell lines, the most effective extract was TUAM on liver HepG-2 with CC50 value 117.37 ± 4.73 µg/ml followed by on lungs A549 with 142.01 ± 5.3. Furthermore, for the bioassay-guided screening, the selectivity index was calculated for TUAM CC50 ratio on HepG-2 and VERO which showed a decent 2.77 score. After column chromatography, the fraction TU-63 should remarkable cytotoxic effect in dose-response manner assay as (Hep-G2) CC50 value 11. 67 ± 1.37 µg/ml followed by (A549) CC50 value 17.23 ± 0.58 µg/ml. For qualitative analysis of anticancer potential LC-ESI-MS/MS the potential phytochemicals were identified. In silico molecular modelling against selected carcinogenic proteins. The results suggest Tecomella undulate the substantial anticancer potential which supports potential natural anticancer therapeutic drug candidate development for combating cancer.

Post-traumatic Renal Arteriovenous Malformation Discovered after 2 Years of Blunt Trauma: Diagnosis and Management

Blunt trauma to the kidney is usually minor and self-limiting. In some cases, the patient may present with intractable hematuria or persistent flank pain and discomfort, which necessitates aggressive management. It is very rare and unusual to find a renal arterio-venous malformation following blunt trauma. This unusual presentation should be kept in mind when a patient presents with hematuria and history of blunt abdominal trauma. We report the case of a young male who suffered blunt abdominal trauma two years back, and continued to have on-and-off hematuria. After extensive work up, a diagnosis of renal arterio-venous malformation was made. His case was managed promptly with renal angio-embolization. Key Words: Blunt trauma, Arterio-venous malformation (AVM), Angio-embolisation, kidney.

Sequestration of crystal violet dye from wastewater using low-cost coconut husk as a potential adsorbent

The current study explores the effectiveness of coconut husk for crystal violet dye sequestration employing a batch experimental setup. Characterization of adsorbent was carried out via FTIR, and SEM techniques and results confirmed the involvement of -OMe, -COC- and hydroxyl functional groups in dye uptake, and the rough, porous nature of adsorbent and after adsorption dye molecules colonized these holes resulting in dye exclusion. Effects of various adsorption parameters such as pH, adsorbent dose, contact time, initial dye concentration, and temperature of solution were studied. Crystal violet adsorption on coconut husk was highly pH-dependent, with maximum removal occurring at basic pH. Maximum removal of dye, i.e., 81%, takes place at optimized conditions. Kinetic data was analyzed by pseudo-first, pseudo-second order and an intra-particle diffusion model. Results showed that the pseudo-second order kinetic model best described adsorption of crystal violet onto coconut husk. Langmuir, Freundlich, and D-R adsorption isotherms were also used to test their appropriateness to experimental data and the Freundlich isotherm fits best to data. Thermodynamic parameters showed that the current process was spontaneous, endothermic in nature with continuous decrease in entropy. Established practice is 79% applicable to tap water and in acidic medium nearly 80% of adsorbent was recovered, confirming the effectiveness and appropriateness of coconut husk for crystal violet dye exclusion from wastewater.

Morphometric parameters and food preference in relation to sex and reference hematological values for Upupa epops from Pakistan

Objective:

The study was conducted to investigate the gut content and record morphometric and hematological parameters in the common hoopoe (Upupa epops).

Materials and Methods:

Twenty samples of healthy birds (10 from each sex) were collected from different locations in Okara District, Punjab, Pakistan, from September 2020 to March 2021. Birds were captured live for blood samples and morphometric and gut analyses.

Results:

It was revealed that the concentrations of different hematological parameters were as follows: hemoglobin, 20.03g/dl; red blood cells, 3.28 × 106/µl; white blood cells, 326.67 × 103/µl; hematocrit, 56.47%; MCV, 173.33 FL; MCH, 57.4 pg; MCHC, 57.4 pg; PLT, 8.33/µl; and RDW, 8.33/µl. The percentages of neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, and eosinophils were 84.67%, 11.67%, 2.00%, and 1.67%, respectively. The gut content of the common hoopoe mostly consisted of Coleoptera and Acrididae larvae. However, Lepidoptera, Gryllotalpidae, and sand were also recorded, along with seeds of Salvadora persica.

Conclusions:

There were no significant differences between male and female U. epops in feeding content, total weight of the gut, or weight of the empty gut. Regarding the morphometric parameters, there was a significant difference in both sexes’ wingspan, body length, and body weight. Males were significantly heavier than females.

In vitro antimutagenic, cytotoxic and anticancer potential of Fagonia indica phytochemicals

Cancer is one of the most diagnosed and life threatening disease throughout the world. Nevertheless present day clinical management for cancers are surgery, radiations which are insufficient to contain the disease burden. In the past two decades, more than half of chemotherapeutic drugs developed are either directly or indirectly dependent on medicinal base phytocompounds or their derivative. The present study aims to provide the base for chemotherapeutic phytochemicals. Fagonia indica showed significant antimutagenic potential with reference to control IC₅₀ values were calculated as 146.33±5.2μg/ml, TA100 (AZS) 105.33±4.0μg/ml, TA98 (2AA) 113.6±5.2μg/ml followed and TA98 (AZS) 112.6±4.4 in Ames test. For this reason, the antiproliferation effect of extracts on cancer cell lines was studied through resazurin fluorescence. On HepG-2 cell lines 50% cytotoxic concentration (CC₅₀) of (FIWM) was recorded as 128.3±,2.43μg/ml. On the homo sapiens epithelial cell of lung tissue (A549), the high throughput instrumental analysis of Fagonia indica depicts maximum cytotoxic effect in 30hr. The electrical impedance displays the real-time evidence about qualitative apoptosis expressed. The impedance results were supported as palmitic acid from Fagonia indica virtually that inhibits Cyclin Dependent Kinase 2 (CDKs 2) in silico molecular docking studies. Fagonia indica extract possesses substantial antimutagenic, cytotoxic and anticancer activity which supports the potential of its phytochemicals for drug development.

In silico bimolecular characterization of anticancer phytochemicals from Fagonia indica

The in silico molecular dynamics and structure-based site-specific drug design of indigenous plant biomolecules and selected proteins have remarkable potential for cancer therapy. A set of five proteins included for this research were epidermal growth factor protein (PDB ID; 1M17), crystal structure of mutated EGFR kinase (PDB ID; 2EB3), crystal structure of Bcl-xl (PDB ID; 2YXJ), apoptosis regulator protein MCL-1 BH3 (PDB ID; 3MK8) and apoptosis proteins (PDB ID; 5C3H). The present study on in silico investigation of fifteen indigenous medicinal plants were selected there one hundred thirty four ligands available literature were docked against five proteins involved in carcinogenesis. The highest scoring in silico plant, Fagonia indica was subjected to in vitro cytotoxic effects on HCT116, HepG-2 and HeLa human carcinoma cell lines. Molecular dynamics showed best ligand-protein inhibition interaction between Coumarin-2xyj and Kaempferol-2eb3 with promising binding affinities. Whereas, on HeLa human cervical cancer cell line IC₅₀ was 28.3±0.102/ml. Fagonia indica could be potential source from natural products that have cytotoxic properties against cervical cancer cells by blocking mutant epidermal growth factor tyrosine or peroxisome proliferators activated receptor proteins.

Green synthesis of Fe nanoparticles by using Mangifera indica extract and its application in photo-catalytic degradation of dyes

An exceedingly facile green approach that produces a reliable adsorbent based on a transition metal such as Iron (Fe) using Mangifera indica leaf extract at room temperature is described. A single pot method was used for synthesis with no capping agents, surfactants or other templates. The main intention of this study is to synthesize iron nanoparticles from leaf extract (Mangifera indica) and examine its degradation potential for photo-catalytic removal of dyes (Congo red and brilliant green) from wastewater. Characterization of synthesized nanoparticles was executed by pH_pzc, scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy studies and results confirm the presence of iron nano-sheets with biomolecules. All photo-catalytic experimental results were assessed by sum of squared estimate of errors and simple linear regression R² with dye concentration, pH, contact time and dose rate as dependent and independent variables. Adsorption experimental data was verified by kinetics and isothermal models. Results showed that Langmuir and pseudo second order models give best fitness towards the photo-catalytic adsorption procedure. Thermodynamics revealed that adsorption mechanism is endothermic, described by the values of changes in Gibbs free energy, enthalpy and entropy, and is chemisorption in nature, with spontaneous processes. Overall photo-catalytic adsorption execution with synthesized iron nanoparticles and simple biomass of Mangifera indica gives satisfactory results for treating dye wastewater.

A characteristic study of Zea mays L. (sweet corn) cobs for synthetic dye degradation from aqueous media

The current study reports a systematic methodology of Zea mays L. (sweet corn) cobs (ZMLC) for the sequestration of synthetic dye (gentian violet) from aqueous solutions. Adsorbent was scrutinized by using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infra-red spectrometry with pH_pzc determination. The impact of various adsorption parameters including pH effect, ZMLC (sorbent) dosage, temperature, concentration and shaking time was examined. The equilibrium sorption isotherms were determined by the batch method from 283 to 303 K at pH_pzc. Adsorption data were adjusted to four isothermal models: Langmuir, Freundlich, Dubinin-Radushkevich and Temkin's models, which presented the best adjustment to Freundlich, Dubinin-Radushkevich and Temkin's at 283 K. The kinetic profile fitted well to the pseudo-second order kinetic equation at three distinct concentrations 600, 700, 800 mg/L. Maximum sorption capacity was gained up to 700 mg.g^-1 for gentian violet at pH 3, respectively. The adsorption process is endothermic, non-spontaneous, favorable thermodynamically due to positive values of entropy and Gibbs free energy and randomness decreases during the adsorption process. Furthermore, after biosorption onto ZMLC the dye can be desorbed effectively by using mineral base KOH solution. Consequently, the ZMLC is said to be a promising biosorbent to remediate gentian violet-contaminated water as well as wastewater.

Salinity enrichment, sources and its contribution to elevated groundwater arsenic and fluoride levels in Rachna Doab, Punjab Pakistan: Stable isotope (δ2H and δ18O) approach as an evidence

The present study aimed at exploring the sources of salinity and the link it shares with the enrichment of As (arsenic) and F- (fluoride) in the groundwater of Rachna Doab. Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) were used as the measure of salinity to classify samples into three groups: TDS <1000 mg/L (freshwater), 1000-3000 mg/L (slightly saline) and 3000-10,000 mg/L (moderately saline). The stable isotope analysis (δ²H and δ¹⁸O relative to VSMOW) were used to explore the sources of salinity and a conceptual model, based on secondary data was used for comparing the current and past scenarios of groundwater salinization sources. Groundwater ion chemistry and geochemical modeling (PHREEQC) were used to develop a link between the occurrence of salinity and enrichment patterns of As and F- in the groundwater of study area. TDS, As and F- concentrations in groundwater ranged from 234 to 4557 mg/L, below detection limit to 240 μg/L and below detection limit to 3.9 mg/L, respectively. Mineral dissolution, ion exchange processes, and partial input of evaporation were identified as the factors affecting groundwater salinity in the region in accordance with the conceptual model developed based on secondary data. Groundwater salinity accounts as one of the factors that positively influence the enrichment of F- in groundwater, whereas As shows no clear relationship with saline groundwaters.

Characterization and role of derived dissolved organic matter on arsenic mobilization in alluvial aquifers of Punjab, Pakistan

Biogeochemical mobilization of arsenic in groundwater depends on the presence of dissolved organic matter (DOM) that likely promotes the As release, i.e., reductive dissolution, complexation, competition, and electron shuttling. We investigated the role of DOM in As release, along with its complete characterization, in the Indus plain of Pakistan, one of the worst arsenic impacted zones in the South Asian region. In total, 60 groundwater and 15 soil samples, collected at six sites from north to south within the flood plain of the Ravi River, Lahore, Pakistan were investigated. Arsenic concentration ranged from 9.61 μg/L to 386 μg/L in the groundwater samples (high As observed in areas close to the river). Dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in 29 groundwater samples ranged between 0 and 10.1 mg-C/L. A moderately positive correlation of As with DOC and Fe in the northern part of the study area suggest the reductive dissolution of FeOOH associated with dissolved organic matter (DOM). The reductive dissolution plays an essential role for As enrichment in the area evidenced by the lower concentrations of SO₄^2-, NO₃^-, and PO₃^4-and a non-correlative pattern with As. In contrast, a positive correlation of As with PO₃^4-, DOC, and HCO₃^- in the southern part indicate competitive desorption behind the As release. Fluorescence excitation-emission matrix intensity data of DOM indicate the maximum presence of humic-like substances in the northern part that gradually shifts to aromatic, fulvic and protein type towards the southern part. Specific ultraviolet absorbance and fluorescence index display aromatic and terrestrial (allochthonous) sources of DOM near the riverbank and mixed (both allochthonous and autochthonous) source away from the river. The positive correlations of As with DOC and fluorescence intensity also attest that DOM played a vital role in the As mobilization in groundwater of the study area.

Synthesis, characterization and docking studies of amide ligands as anti-leishmanial agents

Aim of this study was to synthesize new inhibitors on the basis of active site of aspartic protease enzyme and to evaluate their intended biological activity. A3D model of an enzyme was generated via homology modeling and series of novel amide ligands were synthesized by using a short high yield process, subsequently, analyzed in-silico and in-vitro anti-leishmanial activities. Characterization and identification was accomplished via NMR (H¹& C¹³), infrared and mass spectroscopic techniques. Among all compound (4) was found to show significant activity (IC₅₀ 58±0.01) against Leishmania major (L. major) species. Furthermore, docking studies confirmed the inhibition of a targeted enzyme that supported the interaction of potent compound (4) with key residues (aspartic protease) via hydrogen bonds. Present study conferred about novel compound (4) as a promising compound to antagonize L. major activities in future.

High levels of fluoride contamination in groundwater of the semi-arid alluvial aquifers, Pakistan: evaluating the recharge sources and geochemical identification via stable isotopes and other major elemental data

Hydrogeochemical methods were integrated to delineate the geochemical factors controlling fluoride (F^-) contamination in groundwater at four sites in the districts of Lahore (Samada) and Kasur (Sari Chimba, Kot Maiga, and Chah Fatehwala) in Panjab province of Pakistan. Hydrochemical data and stoichiometric ratios indicate Na-Cl and Na-HCO₃ as the dominant water types with silicate weathering influencing overall hydrogeochemistry of the study area. The groundwater F^- concentrations ranged between 0.54 mg/L and 17.5 mg/L, with more than 70% samples having F^- concentrations above the World Health Organization (WHO) provisional drinking water guideline (1.5 mg/L). Saturation indices determined that 100% samples were saturated with respect to calcite and 96% samples were undersaturated with respect to fluorite, indicating the influence of calcite precipitation on fluoride enrichment. A positive correlation was observed between fluoride with pH, Na⁺, and HCO₃^-, confirming that high fluoride concentrations were the result of weathering of silicate minerals and the exchange of OH^- on clay surface under the alkaline pH conditions. The isotopic values of δ¹⁸O and δ²H in groundwater ranged from 9.14 to - 5.51‰ and 56.57 to - 39.5‰, respectively. The stable isotope data indicated the meteoric origin of groundwater with some evaporative effect, which is partly influencing groundwater quality such as high pH and salinity, as a result facilitating anion exchange (OH^- for F^-) on clays surface. The research indicates that the groundwater quality of the study area is not recommendable for drinking due to its high total dissolved solids (TDS) and elevated fluoride concentrations.

Evaluation of different Pakistani medicinal plants for inhibitory potential against Echis carinatus induced Phospholipase A2 toxicity

Medicinal plants of Pakistan are known for their curative properties against snake bite as rural people have been using natural herbs for such injuries for hundreds to thousands of years. People of rural areas of Pakistan are prone to snakebite, and on the whole death due to snakebite has been increasing worldwide. The objective of this study was to test the neutralizing potential of 17 Pakistani medicinal plant extracts against phospholipase A2 activity in Echis carinatus venom. Plant material was extracted by simple maceration and fractionation of active plant extracts. Venom was collected by manual massage of the venom glands. The PLA2 enzymatic assay was performed to map out the venomous activity of Echis carinatus envenomation. Snake venom released fatty acids at different concentrations (0.1-5 mg/ml) of venom in a dose-dependent manner. Reduction of pH by 01 correlated with 133 μmol of fatty acids released at 5mg/ml of venom. All plants extract inhibited PLA2 activity, however, Curcuma longa, Citrullus colocynthis and Rubia cordifolia inhibited maximum of PLA2 activity (⁓78%) comparable to the standard antidote (p>0.5). Medicinal plants possess secondary metabolites and many active compounds that may have neutralizing or inhibiting properties against the PLA2 activity of Echis venom. Further studies such as compound analysis could provide an alternative against snakebites injuries resulting from Echis carinatus venom.

Numerical study of hydromagnetic axisymmetric peristaltic flow at high Reynolds number and wave number

The computational study of MHD peristaltic motion is investigated for axisymmetric flow problem. The developed model is present in the form of partial differential equations. Then obtained partial differential equations are transferred into stream-vorticity (ψ - ω) form. Then Galerkin Finite element method is used to find the computational results of governing problem. The current study is compared with the existing well-known results at low Reynolds number and wave number. It is revealed that the present results are in well agreement with existing results in the literature. So, it is effective for higher values of Reynolds number and wave number. The variations of streamline are present graphically against high Reynolds number. It concludes that high Reynolds number and Hartmann number increase pressure rise per unit wavelength in positive pumping region sharply.

Peritonitis from Leclercia adecarboxylata: An emerging pathogen

Leclercia adecarboxylata can be misidentified as Escherichia coli, due to similar biochemical properties. Automated identification systems and mass spectrometry play a very critical role in isolating atypical organisms like L adecarboxylata. General guidelines recommend treating L adecarboxylata peritonitis for 3 weeks without removal of peritoneal dialysis catheter.

Review: Therapeutic potential of carbonic anhydrase inhibitors

Enzymes are biological catalyst involve in different biochemical reactions. But over activation of these biomolecules can cause disease thus different inhibitors and knockout therapies are use in current clinical practice. Carbonic anhydrases (CAs), a group of ubiquitously expressed metalloenzymes, are involved in numerous physiological and pathological processes, including gluconeogenesis, lipogenesis, ureagenesis, tumorigenicity and the growth and virulence of various pathogens. In addition to the established role of CA inhibitors (CAIs) as diuretics and antiglaucoma drugs, it has recently emerged that CAIs could have potential as novel anti-obesity, anticancer and anti-infective drugs. Furthermore, recent studies suggest that CA activation may provide a novel therapy for Alzheimer's disease. This article discusses the biological rationale for the novel uses of inhibitors or activators of CA activity in multiple diseases, and highlights progress in the development of specific modulators of the relevant CA isoforms, some of which are now being evaluated in clinical trials.

Vertical mixing with return irrigation water the cause of arsenic enrichment in groundwater of district Larkana Sindh, Pakistan

Stable isotopes ratios (‰) of Hydrogen (δ²H) and Oxygen (δ¹⁸O) were used to trace the groundwater recharge mechanism and geochemistry of arsenic (As) contamination in groundwater from four selected sites (Larkana, Naudero, Ghari Khuda Buksh and Dokri) of Larkana district. The stable isotope values of δ²H and δ¹⁸O range from 70.78‰ to -56.01‰ and from -10.92‰ to -7.35‰, relative to Vienna Standard for Mean Ocean Water (VSMOW) respectively, in all groundwater samples, thus indicating the recharge source of groundwater from high-salinity older water. The concentrations of As in all groundwater samples were ranged from 2 μg/L to 318 μg/L, with 67% of samples exhibited As levels exceeding than that of World Health Organization (WHO) permissible limit 10 μg/L and 42% of samples expressed the As level exceeding than that of the National Environmental Quality Standard (NEQS) 50 μg/L. The leaching and vertical mixing with return irrigation water are probably the main processes controlling the enrichment of As in groundwater of Larkana, Naudero, Ghari Khuda Buksh and Dokri. The weathering of minerals mostly controlled the overall groundwater chemistry; rock-water interactions and silicate weathering generated yielded solutions that were saturated in calcite and dolomite in two areas while halite dissolution is prominent with high As area.

Aging phenotype(s) in kidneys of diabetic mice are p66ShcA dependent

The p66ShcA protein controls cellular responses to oxidative stress, senescence, and apoptosis. Here, we test the hypothesis that aging phenotype(s) commonly associated with the broad category of chronic kidney disease are accelerated in diabetic kidneys and linked to the p66ShcA locus. At the organ level, tissue stem cells antagonize senescent phenotypes by replacing old dysfunctional cells. Using established methods, we isolated a highly purified population of stem cell antigen-1-positive mesenchymal stem cells (Sca-1⁺ MSCs) from kidneys of wild-type (WT) and p66 knockout (p66 KO) mice. Cells were plated in culture medium containing normal glucose (NG) or high glucose (HG). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism was substantially increased in WT MSCs in HG medium in association with increased cell death by apoptosis and acquisition of the senescent phenotype. DNA microarray analysis detected striking differences in the expression profiles of WT and p66 KO-MSCs in HG medium. Unexpectedly, the analysis for p66 KO-MSCs revealed upregulation of Wnt genes implicated in self-renewal and differentiation. To test the in vivo consequences of constitutive p66 expression in diabetic kidneys, we crossed the Akita diabetic mouse with the p66KO mouse. Homozygous mutation at the p66 locus delays or prevents aging phenotype(s) in the kidney that may be precursors to diabetic nephropathy.

Hydrogeochemical and isotopic evaluation of groundwater with elevated arsenic in alkaline aquifers in Eastern Punjab, Pakistan

Geochemical investigation was carried out for delineating factors responsible for the mobilization of arsenic (As) from aquifer material into the groundwater. Four sites along Ravi River, (Samada, Sarai Chimba, Kot Maiga and Chah Fatehwala), were selected based on the blanket survey. Groundwater-rock interaction and evaporation were the key phenomena controlling groundwater chemistry, as shown by the hydrogeochemical data. Groundwater was predominantly Na-Cl type, with other principle facies being Na-HCO₃, Na-Ca-HCO₃ and Ca-Mg-Cl. The groundwater As concentration ranged between below detection level (2 μg/L) to 548 μg/L with 59% samples exceeding the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for As in drinking water (10 μg/L) and 31% having higher concentrations than the National Environmental Quality Standard (NEQS, 50 μg/L). Moderate to high concentrations of SO₄^-2 averaged at 244 mg/L and moderate NO₃^- concentrations averaged at 8 mg/L, together with alkaline pH (7.3-8.8) and high Eh values (113-402 mV) suggest partial oxidizing nature of the aquifers. The values for δ ¹⁸O and δ ²H in groundwater varied between -9.14 and -5.51‰, and -56.57 to -39.5‰ respectively, and suggests meteoric origin of the groundwater with some evaporative loss. This effect could be partly responsible for elevated levels of pH and salinity in groundwater. Based on geochemical and isotopic composition of groundwater, desorption of As from metal surfaces under alkaline environment might be the factor causing As enrichment in study area.

Lethal toxic Dose (i.p LD50), total protein contents and comparative hemolytic potential of (99mTc labeled & non-labeled) Naja naja karachiensis venom

Recent recognition about snake bite envenomation on June, 2017 as neglected tropical disease under category-A by World Health Organization advocated again its undeniable importance. Present circumstances reasoned to work on a neglected subspecies of Naja naja, i.e., Naja naja karachiensis (N. n. karachensis) has been documented for frequent deaths in Pakistan. In this study median lethal toxic dose (LD₅₀) was determined intraperitoneally in Swiss albino mice and was found to be 2.0µg/g (2.0mg/kg) equal in potency to Naja pallida (red spitting African cobra). Total protein contents (188±0.011µg / 200µg of dry weight) were high enough (94%) to represent an arsenal of proteins. Furthermore, ^99mTc was labeled 99.9% with venom and didn't find to alter hemolytic activity of venom in dose dependent manner at 125μg/ml (p>0.5), 250 μg/ml (p>0.1) and 500 μg/ml (p>0.1) when compared with its crude form. Present work will pave the way for proteomics study in effective production of antidote against specific species of snakes as dare demand of it has been felt since long period of time in Pakistan.

Biological activity of Terminalia arjuna on Human Pathogenic Microorganisms

World’s population relies chiefly on traditional medicinal plants, using their extracts or active constituents. Terminalia arjuna of family Combretaceae reported to be effective as aphrodisiac, expectorant, tonic, styptic, antidysenteric, sweet, acrid, purgative, laxative, astringent, diuretic, astringent, cirrhosis, cardioprotective and cancer treatment.   In present study, antibacterial, antifungal, brine shrimp lethality and phytotoxic effect of Terminalia arjuna was performed. Our results showed that methanolic extract of Terminalia arjuna leaves has moderate antifungal effect against Microsporm canis and fruit extract possess good antibacterial activity against Staphylococus aureus  and  Preudomonas aeroginosa. Moreover, Dichloromethane extract of Terminalia arjuna bark and fruit posses moderate phytotoxic activity. 

Geochemical assessment of metal pollution and ecotoxicology in sediment cores along Karachi Coast, Pakistan

This paper is an attempt to compare the pollution status in two sediment cores, one from a polluted site (Ghizri Creek) and another from a relatively unpolluted site (Sandspit). Sediment cores (45 cm in length) from coastal locations were characterized in terms of grain size, sediment composition, pH, organic matter, calcium carbonate, and metal element contents. Metal elements, including Al, Ca, Cr, Co Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Ni, Pb, V, Ti, and Zn, were determined using PIXE. Grain size analysis and sediment composition demonstrated a sandy nature of both cores. Acidic trend in sediment core I was predominant from bottom to top, whereas neutral pH was observed throughout core II. TOC values varied in the range of 1.23-2.68 and 1.14-2.60% in core I and core II, respectively; however, there was an increasing trend in TOC level from bottom to top. The values of enrichment factor for Zn, Cu, Co, Ni, Pb, and Cr were slightly higher in core I than core II. The average geo-accumulation index values for core I and core II showed that sediments were moderately Co- and Pb-polluted but not polluted with Mg, Al, Ca, K, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Ti, V, and Zn. The degree of contamination was however considerably higher in core I relative to core II. The pollution load index values, although showing an increasing trend from bottom to top in both cores, overall rendered the marine sediment pollution free. The metal toxicology results demonstrated that heavy metal pollution, except Cr, may pose low to moderate risk to marine biota. The sum of toxic unit values however indicated that sediment core I was relatively more polluted than that of core II.

Posttransplant nephrocalcinosis is associated with poor renal allograft function: a single-center experience

BACKGROUND

Nephrocalcinosis, characterized by intratubular and/or parenchymal deposition of calcium phosphate and calcium oxalate crystals, is frequently seen in renal allograft biopsies; however, the clinical consequence of this histologic finding remains unknown. Kidney transplant recipients with good allograft function usually demonstrate improvement in biochemical parameters; however, persistent hyperparathyroidism remains prevalent in this population of patients. We identified renal allografts with nephrocalcinosis and evaluated the effects on renal allograft function and survival.

METHODS

We conducted a single-center, retrospective review of kidney allograft biopsies performed at our center from December 1, 2006 to November 30, 2012. Biopsies with nephrocalcinosis as the primary diagnosis were included in the final analysis. Biochemical parameters at the time of biopsy included serum creatinine, phosphate, calcium, intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), 25-hydroxy vitamin D, and albumin. Serum creatinine was measured at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after nephrocalcinosis was diagnosed. The use of calcimimetics, vitamin D analogs, active vitamin D, and bisphosphonates was also reviewed.

RESULTS

We identified 12 patients with nephrocalcinosis as the primary diagnosis on renal biopsy. The average age of these patients was 52.2 ± 11.9 years, and the average time since transplantation was 2.3 ± 2.7 years. The baseline serum creatinine was 1.37 ± 0.4 mg/dL before the onset of acute kidney injury (AKI). Mean iPTH and 25-hydroxy vitamin D at the time of AKI were 495.66 ± 358.9 pg/mL and 19.9 ± 13.3 ng/mL, respectively. Renal function deteriorated in all patients, and mean serum creatinine at 12-month follow up was 2.37 ± 1.3 mg/dL (P=0.028). One patient progressed to end-stage renal disease at the end of the study period.

CONCLUSION

The histologic finding of nephrocalcinosis is associated with poor renal allograft function. Metabolic abnormalities including hyperparathyroidism persist in renal allograft recipients despite normal allograft function and may be associated with the development of nephrocalcinosis in renal transplant recipients.