Muhammad Faaiq Jamali - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Muhammad Faaiq Jamali

Australian Journal of Business and Management Research, 2012

This research investigates the WTO reforms and Rice market in Pakistan. Data were collected from ... more This research investigates the WTO reforms and Rice market in Pakistan. Data were collected from the Primary as well secondary sources of the Rice producing countries, and data were analysis by using SPSS-18 version, A structural questionnaire was developed for reliability and validity of the data. It was revealed that from the last five years there is no visible impact on export laid growth but from last three years price shocks was observed in Pakistan, due to increases in the world rice market by 200 percent in various Asian countries. Consumers are facing the price shock problem in Pakistan and world Rice market the statistical results were similar for the alternative specification of gross margins and prices as the economic decision available. However, the price elasticities derived using the gross margins specification were about a third of those using the prices specification. The gross margin specification yielded additional information in the form of yield and input cost el...

Journal of AOAC INTERNATIONAL, 2007

A simple and rapid method based on ultrasound energy is described for the determination of alumin... more A simple and rapid method based on ultrasound energy is described for the determination of aluminum (Al) in complex matrixes of chocolate and candy samples by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry. The optimization strategy was carried out using multivariate methodologies. Five variables (temperature of the ultrasonic bath; exposure time to ultrasound energy; volumes of 2 acid mixtures, HNO3H2SO4H2O2 (1 + 1 + 1) and HNO3H2O2 (1 + 1); and sample mass) were considered as factors in the optimization process. Interactions between analytical factors and their optimal levels were investigated using fractional factorial and Doehlert matrix designs. Validation of the ultrasonic-assisted acid digestion procedure was performed against standard reference materials, milk powder (SRM 8435) and wheat flour (SRM 1567a). The proposed procedure allowed Al determination with a detection limit of 2.3 g/L (signal-to-noise = 3) and a precision, calculated as relative standard deviation, of 2.2 f...

International Journal of Tropical Medicine and Public Health, 2013

Background: Pakistan occupies almost the middle of malaria belt. Malaria and Crimean Congo hemorr... more Background: Pakistan occupies almost the middle of malaria belt. Malaria and Crimean Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) are endemic in Pakistan. Both of these infectious diseases have epidemic potentials but are preventable and treatable. Methods: A pre-tested questionnaire was self-administered to 450 participants from three universities of interior Sindh. Knowledge and perception regarding malaria and CCHF were recorded. Data was entered and analyzed using SPSS version 17. Results: From 450 participants, 410 (91.1%) had heard of malaria and 221 (49.1%) were aware of CCHF. Mosquito bite as a cause of malaria was reported by 381 students (84.7%) and Congo is a viral fever was known to 177 students (39.3%). Conclusion: Our study found a need of improving the availability of information among students who should be aware of the infectious diseases like malaria and CCHF especially in areas where these two infections are endemic.

El Mednifico Journal, 2013

Interleukin-6 is a multifunctional cytokine produced by variety of cells including tumor cells. I... more Interleukin-6 is a multifunctional cytokine produced by variety of cells including tumor cells. It is produced by monocytes, macrophages, B-cells and T-cells. Interleukin-6 stimulates platelet production through thrombopoietin. Interleukin-6 in surplus amount is also produced by epithelial ovarian cancer cells. Hence, it is a useful prognostic factor for ovarian cancer, and is associated with disease stage and survival period.

Biological Trace Element Research, 2010

This study was focused on the analysis of arsenic (As) levels in scalp hair of children (age, <10... more This study was focused on the analysis of arsenic (As) levels in scalp hair of children (age, <10 years) collected from two towns of Khairpur, Pakistan, to evaluate the effects of As-contaminated groundwater. For comparative purposes, scalp hair samples of children were also collected from that area having low levels of As (<10 μg/L) in drinking water. Groundwater and scalp hair samples of children were collected and analyzed by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry prior to microwave-assisted acid digestion. The average As concentrations in groundwater samples of two towns, Thari Mirwah and Gambat, were found to be 28.5 and 98.3 μg/L, respectively. The range of As concentrations in scalp hair samples of children who belong to Thari Mirwah and Gambat was 1.25-1.61 μg/g and 1.73-3.63 μg/g, respectively. Twenty percent of the total children who belong to Gambat have skin lesions on their hands and feet. A positive correlation coefficient (R=0.91-0.99) was obtained between As contents in drinking water and scalp hairs of children of both towns.

Biological Trace Element Research, 2008

Indian Journal of Surgery, 2014

Hemorrhoids are amongst the most frequent anorectal conditions affecting approximately 4-36 % of ... more Hemorrhoids are amongst the most frequent anorectal conditions affecting approximately 4-36 % of the general population. The study was carried out to assess the clinical consequences of stapled hemorrhoidectomy comparing results with other published literature regarding postoperative pain, bleeding, incontinence, and other complications. A total of 120 patients were included in this study with symptomatic grade 3 or 4 prolapsed hemorrhoids, who underwent stapled hemorrhoidectomy from January 2006 to January 2012 at the Civil Hospital Karachi, Pakistan. In 92 patients (76.6 %), proctological examination showed grade 3 hemorrhoids. Fourth degree hemorrhoids were found in 28 cases (23.4 %). Hospitalization time ranged between 1 and 3 days (median time was 34 h). Seventy-eight patients were discharged on the first postoperative day, without severe pain, and the remaining 42 patients were discharge on the third day. Two cases of postoperative pain and thrombosis were found as postoperative complications. Stapled hemorrhoidectomy is a safe and quick procedure associated with less pain, better outcome, and early recovery with shorter hospital stay.

International Journal of Business and Management, 2011

Rural livelihoods in Sindh recorded an improvement despite financial constraints, expenditure dou... more Rural livelihoods in Sindh recorded an improvement despite financial constraints, expenditure doubled between 2001 and 2006 growing at an average rate of 23% per annum. Public sector contributed significantly through various interventions on poverty alleviation but the most worrying situation was the expenditure on food subsides, food support programs and low cost housing has been stagnant even in nominal terms with negative repercussions for the poor and the needy. Sindh Agricultural and forestry workers coordinating organization has made social mobilization as core activity and entry point followed by different development interventions. The Agha Khan rural support program provides a one time grant to complement village organizations to the infrastructure projects. The national rural support program has lowered the levels of poverty in member households. The Pakistan poverty alleviation fund educational program provides quality learning at primary level in district Sanghar. Similarly PPAF has also improved health care through the provision of quality basic health services. The young Sheedi welfare organization has establish emergency centre for disaster preparedness and provided 600 goats to 200 beneficiaries. Badin rural development society through their effort 1500 women and 2800 men in 60 villages are engaged in development process. The major strength of NGOs was that they have special ability to reach the poor and other segments of society while their major weakness is small size and budget and lack technical capacity to confront difficult situation. It is recommended that NGOs should ensure that new technologies are introduced to help farmers improve and increase crop production.NGOs should create a condition in which the poor are either given or enabled to acquire their assets and a peaceful environment to benefit from those assets. Government should provide facilities for institutional building to the local NGOs this will encourage them to work sincerely towards poverty alleviation.NGOs should not rely on government for future projects instead they can raise funds through savings and donation from rich individuals.

Journal of Agricultural Science, 2011

This research investigates the Sustainable Development and Agriculture Sector A Case Study of Sin... more This research investigates the Sustainable Development and Agriculture Sector A Case Study of Sindh. Data were collected from 900 respondents from nine districts by using simple random technique, A Structural questionnaire was the basic tool for the measurement the sustainability in agriculture sector. It was revealed that diverting a sizeable area from the existing cropping sequence to other crops and enterprises to meet the ever-increasing demand for food, fibre, fodder, fuel while taking care of soil health and agro-ecosystem. The cost benefit analysis shows that they promise good returns to the farmers, though the returns on maize are not so promising. Natural conditions are particularly suitable to the districts of Nawabshah and Halla to the cultivation of maize. Similarly cotton may be a natural choice in Ghotki and Sukkur to reduce the cropped area under rice in the districts.

Science of The Total Environment, 2008

Arsenic (As) poisoning has become a worldwide public health concern. The skin is quite sensitive ... more Arsenic (As) poisoning has become a worldwide public health concern. The skin is quite sensitive to As and skin lesions are the most common and earliest nonmalignant effects associated to chronic As exposure. In 2005-2007, a survey was carried out on surface and groundwater arsenic contamination and relationships between As exposure via the drinking water and related adverse health effects (melanosis and keratosis) on villagers resides on the banks of Manchar lake, southern part of Sindh, Pakistan. We screened the population from arsenic-affected villages, 61 to 73% population were identified patients suffering from chronic arsenic toxicity. The effects of As toxicity via drinking water were estimated by biological samples (scalp hair and blood) of adults (males and females), have or have not skin problem (n=187). The referent samples of both genders were also collected from the areas having low level of As (&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;10 microg/L) in drinking water (n=121). Arsenic concentration in drinking water and biological samples were analyzed using electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry. The range of arsenic concentrations in lake surface water was 35.2-158 microg/L, which is 3-15 folds higher than World Health Organization [WHO, 2004. Guidelines for drinking-water quality third ed., WHO Geneva Switzerland.]. It was observed that As concentration in the scalp hair and blood samples were above the range of permissible values 0.034-0.319 microg As/g for hair and &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.5-4.2 microg/L for blood. The linear regressions showed good correlations between arsenic concentrations in water versus hair and blood samples of exposed skin diseased subjects (R2=0.852 and 0.718) as compared to non-diseased subjects (R2=0.573 and 0.351), respectively.

Science of The Total Environment, 2009

In this study, a survey has been conducted during 2005-2007 on surface and groundwater arsenic (A... more In this study, a survey has been conducted during 2005-2007 on surface and groundwater arsenic (As) contamination and its impact on the health of local population, of villages located on the banks of Manchar lake, southern part of Sindh, Pakistan. We have also assessed the relationship between arsenic exposure through respiratory disorders in male subjects with drinking water and smoking cigarettes made from tobacco grown in agricultural land irrigated with As contaminated lake water. The biological samples (blood and scalp hair) were collected from As exposed subjects (100% smokers) and age matched healthy male subjects (40.2% smoker and 59.8% non smokers) belong to unexposed areas for comparison purposes. The As concentration in drinking water (surface and underground water), agricultural soil, cigarette tobacco and biological samples were determined by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry. The range of As concentrations in lake water was 35.2-158 microg/L (average 97.5 microg/L), which is 3-15 folds higher than permissible limit of World Health Organization (WHO, 2004). While the As level in local cigarette tobacco was found to be 3-6 folds higher than branded cigarettes (0.37-0.79 microg/g). Arsenic exposed subjects (with and without RD) had significantly elevated levels of As in their biological samples as compared to referent male subject of unexposed area. These respiratory effects were more pronounced in individuals who had also As induced skin lesions. The linear regressions showed good correlations between As concentrations in water versus hair and blood samples of exposed subjects with and without respiratory problems.

Renal Failure, 2008

The determination of toxic elements in the biological samples of human beings is an important cli... more The determination of toxic elements in the biological samples of human beings is an important clinical screening procedure. The aim of this work was to determine total content of toxic elements-aluminum (Al), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb)-in whole blood and urine samples of male chronic renal failure patients (CRFPs) on maintenance hemodialysis from 2006 to 2007. The study included 100 CRFPs, plus 150 healthy volunteers in the control group. The concentration of toxic elements (TEs) were determined in blood sample before and after hemodialysis, while urine sample was determined once, before dialysis. Toxic elements were analyzed by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometer, prior to microwave-induced acid digestion. The accuracy of the total Al, Cd, and Pb measurements was tested by simultaneously analyzing certified reference materials. No significant differences were established between the analytical results and the certified values (paired t-test at p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt; 0.05). The levels of TEs in blood samples of patients before dialysis were found to be higher than blood samples after dialysis session. In the control group, the blood levels of Al, Cd, and Pb were significantly lower than the chronic renal failure patients. Moreover, the study shows that analyzing levels of Al, Cd, and Pb may be useful in hemodialysis patients in evaluating TEs status.

Modern Applied Science, 2011

The current research investigates the relationship between changes in crude oil prices and Pakist... more The current research investigates the relationship between changes in crude oil prices and Pakistan and the macro-economy. A multivariate VAR analysis is carried out among five key macroeconomic variables: real gross domestic product, short term interest rate, real effective exchange rates, long term interest rate and money supply. From the VAR model, the impulse response functions reveal that oil price movements cause significant reduction in aggregate output and increase real exchange rate. The variance decomposition shows that crude oil prices significantly contribute to the variability of real exchange rate long term interest rate in the Pakistan economy while oil price shocks are found to have significant effects on money supply and short term interest rate in the economy. Despite these macro econometric results, caution must be exercised in formulating energy policies since future effects of upcomming oil shocks will not be the same as what happened in the past. Explorations and development of practicable alternatives to imported fuel energy will cushion the economy from the repercussions of oil shocks. Oil price shock has negative impact on the GDP and as well as economy of Pakistan.

Journal of Infection and Public Health, 2014

Background: Dengue is among the most common mosquito-borne viral diseases that affect humans. It ... more Background: Dengue is among the most common mosquito-borne viral diseases that affect humans. It has now become a major public health dilemma, annually affecting approximately 50-100 million people worldwide. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude and perception of dengue fever among university students of interior Sindh. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted during the period of April-June 2012. Four hundred and fifty students were surveyed. A structured pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect data. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 17. Results: Overall, 94.6% of participants (43.3% male and 56.7% female, p-value 0.03) reported that they had heard about dengue, and 58.6% of participants reported ''Aedes mosquito'' as a vector of dengue virus, with gender difference (37.5% male vs 62.5% females with p-value <0.001). The Aedes mosquito is ''A small dark mosquito having white stripes on its leg'' was reported by 54.8% students. The Aedes mosquito breeds in ''Stagnant clean water'' was reported by 47.6% (male 40.2% vs female 59.8%, p-value 0.003) and usually bites at ''Dusk'' by 44.7% and at ''Dawn'' by 51%. Regarding symptoms of dengue fever, ''Prolonged high fever'' was reported by 52.6%, ''Muscular pain'' by 39.6% (p-value 0.009), ''Bleeding'' by 41.3% (p-value 0.001) and ''Headache, nausea and vomiting'' by 44.7% (p-value 0.001). Conclusion: Approximately half of the participants in our study were unable to correctly identify the Aedes mosquito as a transmission source (41.4%

Journal of Hazardous Materials, 2008

Sequential extraction procedure proposed by the European Standards, Measurements and Testing (SM&... more Sequential extraction procedure proposed by the European Standards, Measurements and Testing (SM&T) Program, formerly the Community Bureau of Reference (BCR), has been applied for the heavy metals (HMs) partitioning in fresh water lake sediment samples. The results obtained by conventional sequential extraction BCR method (SEB) for Cd, Cu, Cr, Ni, Pb and Zn were compared with those estimated from three alternative single extractions, conventional (CSE), ultrasonic (USE) and microwave assisted (MSE), using identical operating conditions applied in each individual BCR fraction and validated by the CRM BCR 701. Extractable HMs contents obtained by all compared methodologies were measured by atomic absorption spectrometery. With the use of compromised sonication and microwave conditions, steps 1-3 of the sequential extraction (excluding the hydrogen peroxide digestion in step 3) could be completed between 15-30 min using ultrasonic bath, while 60-120 s were required for MSE. The total extractable metal contents obtained by three single extractions ranged from 75.1% to 114.0% except Cr in first step, which was extracted (125.3%) by MSE method as compared to those obtained by SEB procedure. The precision of the proposed BCR single extraction methods (expressed as RSD%) was found in the range of (3.99-9.6%) for all metals.

Journal of Hazardous Materials, 2009

The concentrations of heavy metals (HMs) in plants served to indicate the metal contamination sta... more The concentrations of heavy metals (HMs) in plants served to indicate the metal contamination status of the site, and also revealed the abilities of various plant species to take up and accumulate them from the soil dressed with sewage sludge. A study to comprehend the mobility and transport of HMs from soil and soil amended with untreated sewage sludge to different newly breaded varieties of wheat (Anmol, TJ-83, Abadgar and Mehran-89) in Pakistan. A pot-culture experiment was conducted to study the transfer of HMs to wheat grains, grown in soil (control) and soil amended with sewage sludge (test samples). The total and ethylenediaminetetraaceticacid (EDTA)-extractable HMs in agricultural soil and soil amended with domestic sewage sludge (SDWS) and wheat grains were analysed by flame atomic absorption spectrometer/electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometer, prior to microwave-assisted wet acid digestion method. The edible part of wheat plants (grains) from test samples presented high concentration of all HMs understudy (mg kg −1). Significant correlations were found between metals in exchangeable fractions of soil and SDWS, with total metals in control and test samples of wheat grains. The bio-concentration factors of all HMs were high in grains of two wheat varieties, TJ-83 and Mehran-89, as compared to other varieties, Anmol and Abadgar grown in the same agricultural plots.

Journal of Hazardous Materials, 2009

A fast microwave assisted extraction procedure was developed and optimized for their eventual exp... more A fast microwave assisted extraction procedure was developed and optimized for their eventual exploitation in the three-stage sequential extraction procedure proposed by modified BCR protocol (the community Bureau of Reference now the European Union "Measurement and Testing Programme"). The effects of the microwave treatment on the extraction of Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn from untreated sewage sludge collected from Hyderabad city (Pakistan) were compared with those obtained from sequential BCR extraction procedure. In sequential BCR method, each extraction step takes 16 h, where as with the use of compromised microwave conditions, extraction steps could be completed in about 120 s, for each step, respectively. Extractable Cd, Cr, Pb and Ni obtained by both comparable methodologies were measured by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry (ETAAS), while for Cu and Zn flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) was used. The validations of both extraction techniques were compared by the analysis of certified reference material of soil amended with sewage sludge (BCR 483). The results of the partitioning study of untreated waste water sewage sludge, indicate that more easily mobilized forms (step 1) were predominant for Cd, Ni and Zn (28.3, 28.4 and 43.7%), in contrast, the largest amount of Cd and Pb (66.4 and 72.8%) was associated with the iron/manganese oxide while Cr and Ni (71.2 and 38.7%) in organic matter/sulphide fractions. The overall metal recoveries in steps 1-3 (excluding residual step) were 95.3-104% of those obtained with the sequential BCR protocol. The accuracy of the proposed microwave extraction method (expressed as %R.S.D.) was lower than 10% for all metals.

Journal of Hazardous Materials, 2009

The arsenic (As) contaminated sediment serves as a long-term source of arsenic because its mobili... more The arsenic (As) contaminated sediment serves as a long-term source of arsenic because its mobility and transport in the environment are strongly influenced to associated solid phase. A single extraction method based on the reagents employed in the BCR three steps sequential extraction scheme (BCR-SES) for partitioning of arsenic (As) in sediment samples has been developed. The single-step extraction enabled a reduction of extraction times, yielding extractable contents in accordance with those obtained by application of the BCR-SES, which can be regarded as a standard method and validated by using certified reference material BCR 701. The extractable As content associated with different phases in sediment samples were analysed by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The extraction efficiency of As by single-step extraction was slightly higher than BCR-SES, ranged (100-104%), while difference was not significant at 95% confidence limit with <10% precision. The sediment samples from different origins varied in their physico-chemical properties and total As content. The relative mobility of As obtained from different origins was found in increasing order as: acid soluble fraction < oxidizable fraction < reducible fraction. The acid soluble fraction of As was higher in lake sediment samples as compared to those of canal and river sediments, indicating the contamination of lake ecosystem.

Food Chemistry, 2009

The aim of the study was to evaluate total arsenic (As) in five tissues (gills, mouthpiece, intes... more The aim of the study was to evaluate total arsenic (As) in five tissues (gills, mouthpiece, intestine, liver and muscles) of 10 fish species caught from As contaminated Manchar Lake (26°3 0 N: 67°6 0 E) Sindh Pakistan during 2006-2007. The total As concentration was determined by hydride generation atomic absorption spectrometry (HG-AAS), prior to microwave assisted acid digestion. The certified reference material DORM-2 (dogfish muscle) was used to check the quality control of the technique. The good agreement with the certified value at 95% confidence limit confirmed the validity of As determination method. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) of As were 0.034 and 0.11 lg/g, respectively. The As concentration ranges in different tissues were obtained as: gills (1.01-10.4), mouth pieces (1.01-18.6), intestine (1.01-11.2), liver (3.51-10.9) and in muscles (2.12-15.2) lg/g on dried basis. The bioaccumulation factor (BAF) for As in fish muscles were found in two ranges (4.88-7.2) and (17.6-35.3). The contribution of the daily intake of As, based on the consumption of 250 g fresh fish muscles per day was found in the range of 0.1-0.76 lg, higher than WHO tolerable limit.

Australian Journal of Business and Management Research, 2012

This research investigates the WTO reforms and Rice market in Pakistan. Data were collected from ... more This research investigates the WTO reforms and Rice market in Pakistan. Data were collected from the Primary as well secondary sources of the Rice producing countries, and data were analysis by using SPSS-18 version, A structural questionnaire was developed for reliability and validity of the data. It was revealed that from the last five years there is no visible impact on export laid growth but from last three years price shocks was observed in Pakistan, due to increases in the world rice market by 200 percent in various Asian countries. Consumers are facing the price shock problem in Pakistan and world Rice market the statistical results were similar for the alternative specification of gross margins and prices as the economic decision available. However, the price elasticities derived using the gross margins specification were about a third of those using the prices specification. The gross margin specification yielded additional information in the form of yield and input cost el...

Journal of AOAC INTERNATIONAL, 2007

A simple and rapid method based on ultrasound energy is described for the determination of alumin... more A simple and rapid method based on ultrasound energy is described for the determination of aluminum (Al) in complex matrixes of chocolate and candy samples by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry. The optimization strategy was carried out using multivariate methodologies. Five variables (temperature of the ultrasonic bath; exposure time to ultrasound energy; volumes of 2 acid mixtures, HNO3H2SO4H2O2 (1 + 1 + 1) and HNO3H2O2 (1 + 1); and sample mass) were considered as factors in the optimization process. Interactions between analytical factors and their optimal levels were investigated using fractional factorial and Doehlert matrix designs. Validation of the ultrasonic-assisted acid digestion procedure was performed against standard reference materials, milk powder (SRM 8435) and wheat flour (SRM 1567a). The proposed procedure allowed Al determination with a detection limit of 2.3 g/L (signal-to-noise = 3) and a precision, calculated as relative standard deviation, of 2.2 f...

International Journal of Tropical Medicine and Public Health, 2013

Background: Pakistan occupies almost the middle of malaria belt. Malaria and Crimean Congo hemorr... more Background: Pakistan occupies almost the middle of malaria belt. Malaria and Crimean Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) are endemic in Pakistan. Both of these infectious diseases have epidemic potentials but are preventable and treatable. Methods: A pre-tested questionnaire was self-administered to 450 participants from three universities of interior Sindh. Knowledge and perception regarding malaria and CCHF were recorded. Data was entered and analyzed using SPSS version 17. Results: From 450 participants, 410 (91.1%) had heard of malaria and 221 (49.1%) were aware of CCHF. Mosquito bite as a cause of malaria was reported by 381 students (84.7%) and Congo is a viral fever was known to 177 students (39.3%). Conclusion: Our study found a need of improving the availability of information among students who should be aware of the infectious diseases like malaria and CCHF especially in areas where these two infections are endemic.

El Mednifico Journal, 2013

Interleukin-6 is a multifunctional cytokine produced by variety of cells including tumor cells. I... more Interleukin-6 is a multifunctional cytokine produced by variety of cells including tumor cells. It is produced by monocytes, macrophages, B-cells and T-cells. Interleukin-6 stimulates platelet production through thrombopoietin. Interleukin-6 in surplus amount is also produced by epithelial ovarian cancer cells. Hence, it is a useful prognostic factor for ovarian cancer, and is associated with disease stage and survival period.

Biological Trace Element Research, 2010

This study was focused on the analysis of arsenic (As) levels in scalp hair of children (age, <10... more This study was focused on the analysis of arsenic (As) levels in scalp hair of children (age, <10 years) collected from two towns of Khairpur, Pakistan, to evaluate the effects of As-contaminated groundwater. For comparative purposes, scalp hair samples of children were also collected from that area having low levels of As (<10 μg/L) in drinking water. Groundwater and scalp hair samples of children were collected and analyzed by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry prior to microwave-assisted acid digestion. The average As concentrations in groundwater samples of two towns, Thari Mirwah and Gambat, were found to be 28.5 and 98.3 μg/L, respectively. The range of As concentrations in scalp hair samples of children who belong to Thari Mirwah and Gambat was 1.25-1.61 μg/g and 1.73-3.63 μg/g, respectively. Twenty percent of the total children who belong to Gambat have skin lesions on their hands and feet. A positive correlation coefficient (R=0.91-0.99) was obtained between As contents in drinking water and scalp hairs of children of both towns.

Biological Trace Element Research, 2008

Indian Journal of Surgery, 2014

Hemorrhoids are amongst the most frequent anorectal conditions affecting approximately 4-36 % of ... more Hemorrhoids are amongst the most frequent anorectal conditions affecting approximately 4-36 % of the general population. The study was carried out to assess the clinical consequences of stapled hemorrhoidectomy comparing results with other published literature regarding postoperative pain, bleeding, incontinence, and other complications. A total of 120 patients were included in this study with symptomatic grade 3 or 4 prolapsed hemorrhoids, who underwent stapled hemorrhoidectomy from January 2006 to January 2012 at the Civil Hospital Karachi, Pakistan. In 92 patients (76.6 %), proctological examination showed grade 3 hemorrhoids. Fourth degree hemorrhoids were found in 28 cases (23.4 %). Hospitalization time ranged between 1 and 3 days (median time was 34 h). Seventy-eight patients were discharged on the first postoperative day, without severe pain, and the remaining 42 patients were discharge on the third day. Two cases of postoperative pain and thrombosis were found as postoperative complications. Stapled hemorrhoidectomy is a safe and quick procedure associated with less pain, better outcome, and early recovery with shorter hospital stay.

International Journal of Business and Management, 2011

Rural livelihoods in Sindh recorded an improvement despite financial constraints, expenditure dou... more Rural livelihoods in Sindh recorded an improvement despite financial constraints, expenditure doubled between 2001 and 2006 growing at an average rate of 23% per annum. Public sector contributed significantly through various interventions on poverty alleviation but the most worrying situation was the expenditure on food subsides, food support programs and low cost housing has been stagnant even in nominal terms with negative repercussions for the poor and the needy. Sindh Agricultural and forestry workers coordinating organization has made social mobilization as core activity and entry point followed by different development interventions. The Agha Khan rural support program provides a one time grant to complement village organizations to the infrastructure projects. The national rural support program has lowered the levels of poverty in member households. The Pakistan poverty alleviation fund educational program provides quality learning at primary level in district Sanghar. Similarly PPAF has also improved health care through the provision of quality basic health services. The young Sheedi welfare organization has establish emergency centre for disaster preparedness and provided 600 goats to 200 beneficiaries. Badin rural development society through their effort 1500 women and 2800 men in 60 villages are engaged in development process. The major strength of NGOs was that they have special ability to reach the poor and other segments of society while their major weakness is small size and budget and lack technical capacity to confront difficult situation. It is recommended that NGOs should ensure that new technologies are introduced to help farmers improve and increase crop production.NGOs should create a condition in which the poor are either given or enabled to acquire their assets and a peaceful environment to benefit from those assets. Government should provide facilities for institutional building to the local NGOs this will encourage them to work sincerely towards poverty alleviation.NGOs should not rely on government for future projects instead they can raise funds through savings and donation from rich individuals.

Journal of Agricultural Science, 2011

This research investigates the Sustainable Development and Agriculture Sector A Case Study of Sin... more This research investigates the Sustainable Development and Agriculture Sector A Case Study of Sindh. Data were collected from 900 respondents from nine districts by using simple random technique, A Structural questionnaire was the basic tool for the measurement the sustainability in agriculture sector. It was revealed that diverting a sizeable area from the existing cropping sequence to other crops and enterprises to meet the ever-increasing demand for food, fibre, fodder, fuel while taking care of soil health and agro-ecosystem. The cost benefit analysis shows that they promise good returns to the farmers, though the returns on maize are not so promising. Natural conditions are particularly suitable to the districts of Nawabshah and Halla to the cultivation of maize. Similarly cotton may be a natural choice in Ghotki and Sukkur to reduce the cropped area under rice in the districts.

Science of The Total Environment, 2008

Arsenic (As) poisoning has become a worldwide public health concern. The skin is quite sensitive ... more Arsenic (As) poisoning has become a worldwide public health concern. The skin is quite sensitive to As and skin lesions are the most common and earliest nonmalignant effects associated to chronic As exposure. In 2005-2007, a survey was carried out on surface and groundwater arsenic contamination and relationships between As exposure via the drinking water and related adverse health effects (melanosis and keratosis) on villagers resides on the banks of Manchar lake, southern part of Sindh, Pakistan. We screened the population from arsenic-affected villages, 61 to 73% population were identified patients suffering from chronic arsenic toxicity. The effects of As toxicity via drinking water were estimated by biological samples (scalp hair and blood) of adults (males and females), have or have not skin problem (n=187). The referent samples of both genders were also collected from the areas having low level of As (&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;10 microg/L) in drinking water (n=121). Arsenic concentration in drinking water and biological samples were analyzed using electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry. The range of arsenic concentrations in lake surface water was 35.2-158 microg/L, which is 3-15 folds higher than World Health Organization [WHO, 2004. Guidelines for drinking-water quality third ed., WHO Geneva Switzerland.]. It was observed that As concentration in the scalp hair and blood samples were above the range of permissible values 0.034-0.319 microg As/g for hair and &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;0.5-4.2 microg/L for blood. The linear regressions showed good correlations between arsenic concentrations in water versus hair and blood samples of exposed skin diseased subjects (R2=0.852 and 0.718) as compared to non-diseased subjects (R2=0.573 and 0.351), respectively.

Science of The Total Environment, 2009

In this study, a survey has been conducted during 2005-2007 on surface and groundwater arsenic (A... more In this study, a survey has been conducted during 2005-2007 on surface and groundwater arsenic (As) contamination and its impact on the health of local population, of villages located on the banks of Manchar lake, southern part of Sindh, Pakistan. We have also assessed the relationship between arsenic exposure through respiratory disorders in male subjects with drinking water and smoking cigarettes made from tobacco grown in agricultural land irrigated with As contaminated lake water. The biological samples (blood and scalp hair) were collected from As exposed subjects (100% smokers) and age matched healthy male subjects (40.2% smoker and 59.8% non smokers) belong to unexposed areas for comparison purposes. The As concentration in drinking water (surface and underground water), agricultural soil, cigarette tobacco and biological samples were determined by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry. The range of As concentrations in lake water was 35.2-158 microg/L (average 97.5 microg/L), which is 3-15 folds higher than permissible limit of World Health Organization (WHO, 2004). While the As level in local cigarette tobacco was found to be 3-6 folds higher than branded cigarettes (0.37-0.79 microg/g). Arsenic exposed subjects (with and without RD) had significantly elevated levels of As in their biological samples as compared to referent male subject of unexposed area. These respiratory effects were more pronounced in individuals who had also As induced skin lesions. The linear regressions showed good correlations between As concentrations in water versus hair and blood samples of exposed subjects with and without respiratory problems.

Renal Failure, 2008

The determination of toxic elements in the biological samples of human beings is an important cli... more The determination of toxic elements in the biological samples of human beings is an important clinical screening procedure. The aim of this work was to determine total content of toxic elements-aluminum (Al), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb)-in whole blood and urine samples of male chronic renal failure patients (CRFPs) on maintenance hemodialysis from 2006 to 2007. The study included 100 CRFPs, plus 150 healthy volunteers in the control group. The concentration of toxic elements (TEs) were determined in blood sample before and after hemodialysis, while urine sample was determined once, before dialysis. Toxic elements were analyzed by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometer, prior to microwave-induced acid digestion. The accuracy of the total Al, Cd, and Pb measurements was tested by simultaneously analyzing certified reference materials. No significant differences were established between the analytical results and the certified values (paired t-test at p &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt; 0.05). The levels of TEs in blood samples of patients before dialysis were found to be higher than blood samples after dialysis session. In the control group, the blood levels of Al, Cd, and Pb were significantly lower than the chronic renal failure patients. Moreover, the study shows that analyzing levels of Al, Cd, and Pb may be useful in hemodialysis patients in evaluating TEs status.

Modern Applied Science, 2011

The current research investigates the relationship between changes in crude oil prices and Pakist... more The current research investigates the relationship between changes in crude oil prices and Pakistan and the macro-economy. A multivariate VAR analysis is carried out among five key macroeconomic variables: real gross domestic product, short term interest rate, real effective exchange rates, long term interest rate and money supply. From the VAR model, the impulse response functions reveal that oil price movements cause significant reduction in aggregate output and increase real exchange rate. The variance decomposition shows that crude oil prices significantly contribute to the variability of real exchange rate long term interest rate in the Pakistan economy while oil price shocks are found to have significant effects on money supply and short term interest rate in the economy. Despite these macro econometric results, caution must be exercised in formulating energy policies since future effects of upcomming oil shocks will not be the same as what happened in the past. Explorations and development of practicable alternatives to imported fuel energy will cushion the economy from the repercussions of oil shocks. Oil price shock has negative impact on the GDP and as well as economy of Pakistan.

Journal of Infection and Public Health, 2014

Background: Dengue is among the most common mosquito-borne viral diseases that affect humans. It ... more Background: Dengue is among the most common mosquito-borne viral diseases that affect humans. It has now become a major public health dilemma, annually affecting approximately 50-100 million people worldwide. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude and perception of dengue fever among university students of interior Sindh. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted during the period of April-June 2012. Four hundred and fifty students were surveyed. A structured pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect data. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 17. Results: Overall, 94.6% of participants (43.3% male and 56.7% female, p-value 0.03) reported that they had heard about dengue, and 58.6% of participants reported ''Aedes mosquito'' as a vector of dengue virus, with gender difference (37.5% male vs 62.5% females with p-value <0.001). The Aedes mosquito is ''A small dark mosquito having white stripes on its leg'' was reported by 54.8% students. The Aedes mosquito breeds in ''Stagnant clean water'' was reported by 47.6% (male 40.2% vs female 59.8%, p-value 0.003) and usually bites at ''Dusk'' by 44.7% and at ''Dawn'' by 51%. Regarding symptoms of dengue fever, ''Prolonged high fever'' was reported by 52.6%, ''Muscular pain'' by 39.6% (p-value 0.009), ''Bleeding'' by 41.3% (p-value 0.001) and ''Headache, nausea and vomiting'' by 44.7% (p-value 0.001). Conclusion: Approximately half of the participants in our study were unable to correctly identify the Aedes mosquito as a transmission source (41.4%

Journal of Hazardous Materials, 2008

Sequential extraction procedure proposed by the European Standards, Measurements and Testing (SM&... more Sequential extraction procedure proposed by the European Standards, Measurements and Testing (SM&T) Program, formerly the Community Bureau of Reference (BCR), has been applied for the heavy metals (HMs) partitioning in fresh water lake sediment samples. The results obtained by conventional sequential extraction BCR method (SEB) for Cd, Cu, Cr, Ni, Pb and Zn were compared with those estimated from three alternative single extractions, conventional (CSE), ultrasonic (USE) and microwave assisted (MSE), using identical operating conditions applied in each individual BCR fraction and validated by the CRM BCR 701. Extractable HMs contents obtained by all compared methodologies were measured by atomic absorption spectrometery. With the use of compromised sonication and microwave conditions, steps 1-3 of the sequential extraction (excluding the hydrogen peroxide digestion in step 3) could be completed between 15-30 min using ultrasonic bath, while 60-120 s were required for MSE. The total extractable metal contents obtained by three single extractions ranged from 75.1% to 114.0% except Cr in first step, which was extracted (125.3%) by MSE method as compared to those obtained by SEB procedure. The precision of the proposed BCR single extraction methods (expressed as RSD%) was found in the range of (3.99-9.6%) for all metals.

Journal of Hazardous Materials, 2009

The concentrations of heavy metals (HMs) in plants served to indicate the metal contamination sta... more The concentrations of heavy metals (HMs) in plants served to indicate the metal contamination status of the site, and also revealed the abilities of various plant species to take up and accumulate them from the soil dressed with sewage sludge. A study to comprehend the mobility and transport of HMs from soil and soil amended with untreated sewage sludge to different newly breaded varieties of wheat (Anmol, TJ-83, Abadgar and Mehran-89) in Pakistan. A pot-culture experiment was conducted to study the transfer of HMs to wheat grains, grown in soil (control) and soil amended with sewage sludge (test samples). The total and ethylenediaminetetraaceticacid (EDTA)-extractable HMs in agricultural soil and soil amended with domestic sewage sludge (SDWS) and wheat grains were analysed by flame atomic absorption spectrometer/electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometer, prior to microwave-assisted wet acid digestion method. The edible part of wheat plants (grains) from test samples presented high concentration of all HMs understudy (mg kg −1). Significant correlations were found between metals in exchangeable fractions of soil and SDWS, with total metals in control and test samples of wheat grains. The bio-concentration factors of all HMs were high in grains of two wheat varieties, TJ-83 and Mehran-89, as compared to other varieties, Anmol and Abadgar grown in the same agricultural plots.

Journal of Hazardous Materials, 2009

A fast microwave assisted extraction procedure was developed and optimized for their eventual exp... more A fast microwave assisted extraction procedure was developed and optimized for their eventual exploitation in the three-stage sequential extraction procedure proposed by modified BCR protocol (the community Bureau of Reference now the European Union "Measurement and Testing Programme"). The effects of the microwave treatment on the extraction of Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn from untreated sewage sludge collected from Hyderabad city (Pakistan) were compared with those obtained from sequential BCR extraction procedure. In sequential BCR method, each extraction step takes 16 h, where as with the use of compromised microwave conditions, extraction steps could be completed in about 120 s, for each step, respectively. Extractable Cd, Cr, Pb and Ni obtained by both comparable methodologies were measured by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry (ETAAS), while for Cu and Zn flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) was used. The validations of both extraction techniques were compared by the analysis of certified reference material of soil amended with sewage sludge (BCR 483). The results of the partitioning study of untreated waste water sewage sludge, indicate that more easily mobilized forms (step 1) were predominant for Cd, Ni and Zn (28.3, 28.4 and 43.7%), in contrast, the largest amount of Cd and Pb (66.4 and 72.8%) was associated with the iron/manganese oxide while Cr and Ni (71.2 and 38.7%) in organic matter/sulphide fractions. The overall metal recoveries in steps 1-3 (excluding residual step) were 95.3-104% of those obtained with the sequential BCR protocol. The accuracy of the proposed microwave extraction method (expressed as %R.S.D.) was lower than 10% for all metals.

Journal of Hazardous Materials, 2009

The arsenic (As) contaminated sediment serves as a long-term source of arsenic because its mobili... more The arsenic (As) contaminated sediment serves as a long-term source of arsenic because its mobility and transport in the environment are strongly influenced to associated solid phase. A single extraction method based on the reagents employed in the BCR three steps sequential extraction scheme (BCR-SES) for partitioning of arsenic (As) in sediment samples has been developed. The single-step extraction enabled a reduction of extraction times, yielding extractable contents in accordance with those obtained by application of the BCR-SES, which can be regarded as a standard method and validated by using certified reference material BCR 701. The extractable As content associated with different phases in sediment samples were analysed by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The extraction efficiency of As by single-step extraction was slightly higher than BCR-SES, ranged (100-104%), while difference was not significant at 95% confidence limit with <10% precision. The sediment samples from different origins varied in their physico-chemical properties and total As content. The relative mobility of As obtained from different origins was found in increasing order as: acid soluble fraction < oxidizable fraction < reducible fraction. The acid soluble fraction of As was higher in lake sediment samples as compared to those of canal and river sediments, indicating the contamination of lake ecosystem.

Food Chemistry, 2009

The aim of the study was to evaluate total arsenic (As) in five tissues (gills, mouthpiece, intes... more The aim of the study was to evaluate total arsenic (As) in five tissues (gills, mouthpiece, intestine, liver and muscles) of 10 fish species caught from As contaminated Manchar Lake (26°3 0 N: 67°6 0 E) Sindh Pakistan during 2006-2007. The total As concentration was determined by hydride generation atomic absorption spectrometry (HG-AAS), prior to microwave assisted acid digestion. The certified reference material DORM-2 (dogfish muscle) was used to check the quality control of the technique. The good agreement with the certified value at 95% confidence limit confirmed the validity of As determination method. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) of As were 0.034 and 0.11 lg/g, respectively. The As concentration ranges in different tissues were obtained as: gills (1.01-10.4), mouth pieces (1.01-18.6), intestine (1.01-11.2), liver (3.51-10.9) and in muscles (2.12-15.2) lg/g on dried basis. The bioaccumulation factor (BAF) for As in fish muscles were found in two ranges (4.88-7.2) and (17.6-35.3). The contribution of the daily intake of As, based on the consumption of 250 g fresh fish muscles per day was found in the range of 0.1-0.76 lg, higher than WHO tolerable limit.