Journal of Chemical Research and Innovation
The Journal of Chemical Research and Innovation (JCRI),(ISSN Online: 3106-7905; ISSN Print: 3106-7891) is an open-access, peer-reviewed international journal that publishes high-quality research and reviews in all fields of chemistry and chemical sciences. Published by the International Institute of Modern Research (SMC-Private) Limited, registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) under Registration No. 0307037, JCRI serves as a global platform for advancing innovation and collaboration among researchers, scientists, and academicians. The journal covers a wide spectrum of topics including organic, inorganic, physical, analytical, industrial, environmental, polymer, and green chemistry, as well as chemical engineering, nanotechnology, pharmaceutical chemistry, and chemical education. Committed to promoting sustainable and impactful scientific contributions, JCRI aligns its mission with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ensures open access to all published content under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) License.
Institute for Excellence in Education and Research (SMC-Private) Limited
RISK ASSESSMENT OF HEAVY METALS IN RADISH AND ZUCCHINI IRRIGATED WITH WASTEWATER IN KHAN BELA
The use of untreated sewage water for irrigation can facilitate the transfer of heavy metals into edible crops, posing serious risks to human health. This study assessed the accumulation of heavy metals in radish (Raphanus sativus) and zucchini (Cucurbita pepo) cultivated in Khan Bela using sewage water for irrigation. Vegetable samples were collected from irrigated fields, and the concentrations of major heavy metals—lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), and nickel (Ni)—were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). The findings revealed that both vegetables accumulated detectable levels of heavy metals. Radish exhibited comparatively higher metal uptake, likely due to its root-based growth habit, whereas zucchini showed moderate accumulation in its edible portions. When compared with international food safety standards, certain metal concentrations exceeded permissible limits, indicating potential health hazards for local consumers. The results emphasize the urgent need for effective monitoring and management of wastewater irrigation practices. Furthermore, this study provides essential baseline data to support risk assessment and the development of sustainable agricultural strategies in the region.
Heavy metals, Khan Bela, Radish, Zucchini, Wet digestion, Wastewater irrigation
DEVELOPMENT OF CEO₂–ZN₂V₂O₇ NANOCATALYSTS FOR ADVANCED ENVIRONMENTAL APPLICATIONS
The development of high-performance nanocatalysts for environmental remediation has attracted considerable interest due to their effectiveness in eliminating persistent organic pollutants. In this study, CeO2/Zn2V2O7 hybrid nanocatalysts were synthesized and investigated for their enhanced catalytic efficiency in environmental applications. The nanohybrids were fabricated using a controlled synthesis method and comprehensively characterized by X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and UV–Visible spectroscopy to evaluate their structural, morphological, and optical properties. Characterization results confirmed the successful formation of a well-integrated hybrid structure with improved surface features and suppressed charge recombination. The catalytic performance of the synthesized materials was examined through the degradation of model organic pollutants under suitable reaction conditions. Compared to the individual components, the CeO₂/Zn₂V₂O₇ hybrid demonstrated markedly superior degradation efficiency. This enhanced activity is attributed to synergistic effects between the two phases, improved charge separation, and increased generation of reactive oxidative species. Additionally, the catalyst exhibited excellent stability and reusability over repeated cycles without significant loss of activity. Overall, these findings emphasize the potential of CeO₂/Zn₂V₂O₇ hybrid nanocatalysts as efficient, stable, and sustainable materials for advanced environmental remediation, particularly in wastewater treatment and pollutant degradation processes.
Zinc vanadate, Cerium oxide, Methylene blue, Photocatalysis, Wastewater treatment
ASSESSMENT OF ANTI-PSORIATIC EFFICACY OF MANGIFERA INDICA FLOWER EXTRACTS OBTAINED USING DIFFERENT SOLVENTS
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that necessitates the development of safe and effective therapeutic alternatives derived from natural sources. This study examines the impact of different extraction solvents on the anti-psoriatic potential of Mangifera indica flower extracts. The flowers were extracted using solvents of varying polarity—aqueous, methanolic, ethanolic, and non-polar—to obtain diverse phytochemical fractions. The resulting extracts were analyzed for their phytochemical profiles and evaluated for anti-psoriatic activity through relevant in vitro assays related to inflammation and keratinocyte proliferation. The findings revealed that solvent polarity markedly influenced extraction yield, phytochemical composition, and biological activity. Extracts obtained with polar solvents contained higher concentrations of phenolic and flavonoid compounds and demonstrated greater anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative effects than non-polar fractions. Overall, the results indicate that optimizing solvent selection significantly enhances the therapeutic potential of Mangifera indica flowers, supporting their promise as a natural source for developing anti-psoriatic formulations. This study underscores the critical role of extraction strategies in maximizing the pharmacological efficacy of plant-derived bioactive compounds.
Mangifera indica, Anti-psoriatic activity, Solvent extraction, Olive oil
MITOCHONDRIAL COI GENE ANALYSIS FOR TAXONOMIC IDENTIFICATION OF PAKISTANI SPECIES
*]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id="request-WEB:7efcd3a2-a6af-4325-a949-c6dc638f196b-0" data-testid="conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn="assistant"> Accurate species identification is essential for biodiversity assessment, conservation management, and taxonomic verification. This study utilizes DNA barcoding based on the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene to enable molecular identification of selected species from Pakistan. Specimens were collected from diverse habitats, after which genomic DNA was extracted, and the COI region was amplified via PCR and sequenced. The obtained sequences were analyzed using BLAST and compared with reference sequences available in public databases, including GenBank and the Barcode of Life Data System (BOLD). Phylogenetic analyses were subsequently performed to evaluate genetic relationships and confirm species-level identifications. The results demonstrated high sequence similarity with authenticated reference records, allowing clear discrimination among closely related taxa. Observed patterns of genetic divergence supported distinct species boundaries, reaffirming the reliability of the COI gene as a standard DNA barcode marker. Overall, this study provides validated molecular data that enhance regional biodiversity records and underscores the value of COI-based DNA barcoding as a rapid, accurate, and cost-effective tool for species identification and biodiversity monitoring in Pakistan.
DNA barcoding, Cirrhinus reba, Cytochrome c oxidase I, Molecular identification, Pakistan, Sequencing
SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF BARLEY STARCH-G-POLYACRYLAMIDE/ZINC SULFATE COMPOSITE
The present study describes the synthesis and detailed characterization of a barley starch-g-polyacrylamide/ZnSO₄ composite developed to improve material performance. The composite was synthesized through free-radical graft polymerization of acrylamide onto a barley starch backbone, followed by the incorporation of zinc sulfate into the resulting polymeric network. Comprehensive structural and physicochemical characterization was carried out using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and thermal analysis techniques. The findings confirmed the successful grafting of polyacrylamide chains onto the starch backbone, along with the homogeneous distribution of ZnSO₄ throughout the composite matrix. Compared with native starch, the prepared composite exhibited enhanced thermal stability, improved structural integrity, and a modified surface morphology. Swelling studies and functional performance evaluations further demonstrated superior properties, highlighting the material’s potential for applications in agriculture, environmental remediation, and controlled-release systems. Overall, this work demonstrates the effectiveness of starch-based grafted composites as sustainable, high-performance functional materials with promising practical applications
Barley Starch-g-Polyacrylamide, FTIR, XRD, SEM
COORDINATION BEHAVIOR OF TRANSITION METAL CATIONS WITH SUBSTITUTED SALICYLIC ACIDS AND COMPUTATIONAL STUDIES OF BIOLOGICAL POTENTIAL
The complexation behavior of several salicylic acid derivatives with Fe³⁺, Co²⁺, Cu²⁺, and Zn²⁺ ions was examined using spectrophotometric titration. Under optimized conditions, the resulting metal complexes were isolated and their spectral characteristics were analyzed. Spectroscopic evidence indicates that these complexes form through bidentate coordination, involving the ionized hydroxyl group and the carboxylic oxygen atom. These observations align with FTIR data and previously reported X-ray crystallographic findings for related metal complexes of α-hydroxy carboxylic acids. In silico analyses were also conducted to assess the potential biological activities of the synthesized complexes compared to their free ligands. The computational results suggest that the most likely biological effects involve inhibition of the multiprotein complex within the respiratory electron transport chain and potential antitumor properties, both of which show slight modifications upon complexation. Furthermore, predictive modeling indicates that 2,3-dihydroxybenzoic acid, 3-methoxysalicylic acid, and their divalent metal complexes are likely to be absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, whereas 3,5-dinitrosalicylic acid (3,5-DNSA) and Fe³⁺ complexes exhibit poor bioavailability.
SUSTAINABLE APPROACHES TO E-WASTE MANAGEMENT IN JAPAN AND GERMANY
This article explores e-waste management practices in two developed countries—Japan and Germany—within the context of the rapidly expanding global e-waste stream fueled by technological progress and rising consumerism. These global trends have led to mounting environmental and public health challenges. The study examines the legislative frameworks, advanced recycling technologies for Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE), treatment and processing methods, and stakeholder engagement strategies implemented in both nations. Japan, known for its technological innovation, places strong emphasis on resource recovery, while Germany operates under a centralized coordination system that offers free disposal for individual waste categories through co-collection. Both countries exhibit high recycling efficiency; however, they continue to grapple with issues such as increasing product complexity and the persistence of illegal e-waste trade. The article highlights the importance of adopting advanced recycling technologies, enhancing international cooperation, and enacting policy reforms—particularly by strengthening Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) systems that encourage recycling and sustainable design. It further proposes that global e-waste management initiatives could gain valuable insights by adopting Japan’s and Germany’s experiences and best practices as models for developing effective, sustainable e-waste management systems worldwide.
EVALUATION OF HEAVY METALS IN VEGETABLES IRRIGATED WITH SEWAGE WATER: A CASE STUDY OF RADISH AND ZUCCHINI IN KHAN BELA
Toxic contaminants in wastewater pose severe hazards to both the environment and human health, emphasizing the urgent need for efficient and eco-friendly remediation technologies. Among the various treatment methods, photocatalytic degradation stands out as a sustainable and green approach for the removal of organic pollutants, particularly synthetic dyes. In this work, a CeO₂/Zn₂V₂O₇ heterostructured nanocatalyst was synthesized using the coprecipitation technique and assessed for its photocatalytic efficiency in degrading methylene blue. The synthesized materials were characterized for their structural, optical, and morphological properties using X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–Visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The CeO₂/Zn₂V₂O₇ hybrid catalyst demonstrated significantly improved photocatalytic performance compared to pristine Zn₂V₂O₇, with the 50% CeO₂ composition achieving the highest degradation efficiency. This enhancement is attributed to more effective charge carrier separation and superior redox activity, confirming the potential of CeO₂-based heterojunctions as promising materials for advanced wastewater treatment applications.
ENHANCED ENVIRONMENTAL REMEDIATION USING CEO₂/ZN₂V₂O₇ HYBRID NANOCATALYSTS
Toxic pollutants in wastewater present serious risks to both the environment and human health, highlighting the pressing need for efficient and sustainable remediation methods. Among the available techniques, photocatalytic degradation has emerged as an environmentally friendly and effective strategy for eliminating organic contaminants, especially synthetic dyes. In this study, a CeO₂/Zn₂V₂O₇ heterostructured nanocatalyst was synthesized through a coprecipitation method and evaluated for its photocatalytic performance in degrading methylene blue. The structural, optical, and morphological characteristics of the synthesized nanomaterials were examined using X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–Visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The CeO₂/Zn₂V₂O₇ composite exhibited markedly superior photocatalytic efficiency compared to pure Zn₂V₂O₇, with the 50% CeO₂ composition achieving the highest degradation rate. This enhanced activity is attributed to improved charge carrier separation and increased redox capability, demonstrating the strong potential of CeO₂-based heterojunctions for advanced wastewater treatment applications.
DEVELOPMENT AND CHARACTERIZATION OF A BARLEY STARCH-G-POLYACRYLAMIDE/ZINC SULFATE (ZNSO₄) COMPOSITE FOR ENHANCED MATERIAL PERFORMANCE
In recent years, natural biopolymers have gained significant attention as reinforcing agents in thermoplastic composites due to their renewable origin, biodegradability, and cost-effective processing. Starch, a naturally occurring carbohydrate-based biopolymer, has been extensively explored in both industrial and academic settings for its versatility and eco-friendly characteristics. Chemical modification of starch through grafting with different monomers can substantially improve its physicochemical properties, such as hydrophilicity, hydrophobicity, viscosity, thermal stability, biodegradability, film-forming capacity, and water absorption behavior. This study reports the synthesis of a barley starch-g-polyacrylamide composite material and examines the influence of varying metal (ZnSO₄) loadings (up to 10%) on the properties of starch-g-polyacrylamide composites prepared at different polymer ratios (20% and 80%). The resulting composites were characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). FTIR spectra confirmed successful grafting and the formation of strong coordinate covalent interactions between the polymer matrix and the metal salt. XRD analysis demonstrated the crystalline nature of the composites, while SEM micrographs revealed notable morphological changes associated with metal incorporation.
ASSESSMENT OF THE DYEING PROPERTIES OF LAWSONIA INERMIS ON MULTIPLE FIBERS USING THE EXHAUST METHOD
Natural dyes are environmentally friendly, biodegradable, hypoallergenic, and non-toxic, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic dyes that often cause water, soil, and air pollution as well as skin irritation and toxicity. In this study, Lawsonia inermis (henna) leaves were used to extract a natural colorant traditionally applied for body art during cultural and festive events. Metallic mordants—copper sulfate (CuSO₄), ferrous sulfate (FeSO₄), and ferric chloride (FeCl₃)—were used to alter the dye’s hue, and the dyeing process was conducted on multi-fiber fabrics using the exhaust method. The multi-fiber fabric, comprising cotton, cellulose acetate, polyacrylonitrile, polyamide, polyester, and wool, enabled assessment across various textile types. The dye extraction was carried out in an aqueous medium at room temperature (30 ± 1 °C). Evaluations included color fastness, color strength (K/S), washing fastness, percent reflectance, and color coordinates (CIELab*) under both acidic and alkaline conditions. In this color space, L* represents lightness, while a* and b* correspond to the red–green and yellow–blue axes, respectively. Color strength (K/S) was measured using a colorimeter under D65/10° and TL84/10° light sources. After washing, an increase in L* and b* values and a decrease in a* were observed, indicating a shift toward lighter, more yellowish tones. Overall, the results demonstrated that dyeing in an alkaline medium produced superior color strength and fastness compared to acidic conditions. Notably, cellulose acetate, cotton, and polyamide fibers exhibited excellent light fastness.
EXPLORING THE PHOTOREDOX KINETICS AND MECHANISM OF METHYLENE BLUE AND P-PHENYLENEDIAMINE SYSTEMS
Structural transformations within the hexagonal clathrate lattices of Ni(NCS)₂(4-methylpyridine)₄ incorporating benzene derivatives were examined and analyzed under varying temperature conditions. The findings demonstrated that the type of guest molecule significantly affects these transformations. Three guest compounds—ortho-bromonitrobenzene, meta-bromonitrobenzene, and meta-dinitrobenzene—were studied. While the clathrates maintained a hexagonal structure at room temperature, distinct structural alterations emerged at lower temperatures, resulting from the stepwise ordering of guest molecules. Furthermore, the structural distortions associated with the 1-bromonaphthalene guest molecule were investigated and correlated with its orientational disorder across different temperature ranges.
FLUORESCENT SENSING POTENTIAL OF SYNTHESIZED 2′,7′-DICHLOROFLUORESCEIN HYDRAZIDE DERIVATIVES: DESIGN, SYNTHESIS, AND CHARACTERIZATION
Optical sensors have become valuable alternatives to traditional sensing systems, offering flexibility for a broad range of analytical applications. Among these, small-molecule fluorescent probes have gained considerable interest due to their ability to detect various environmental and biological analytes, combined with advantages such as simplicity, affordability, and rapid response. Nevertheless, most currently available fluorescent probes are selective for only a single analyte, highlighting the need to design new multifunctional fluorescent compounds. In this study, novel 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescein-based hydrazide derivatives were synthesized using different substituted aryl hydrazines. The reaction progress was monitored through thin-layer chromatography (TLC), while the successful synthesis and structural characterization of the hydrazides were confirmed by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and proton/carbon nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H/¹³C NMR) spectroscopy. These newly synthesized hydrazide derivatives exhibit strong potential as multifunctional fluorescent sensing materials for a variety of analytical and environmental applications.
INFLUENCE OF SOLVENT EXTRACTION ON THE ANTI-PSORIATIC ACTIVITY OF MANGIFERA INDICA FLOWER EXTRACTS
Mangifera indica (M. indica), commonly known as mango, is a well-recognized medicinal plant in Ayurvedic medicine, traditionally used to treat various ailments and disorders. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-psoriatic potential of M. indica flower extracts prepared with different solvents, with the objective of developing a topical anti-psoriatic spray. Fresh M. indica flowers were collected from Multan Mango Farm and subjected to maceration and grinding using n-hexane, ethanol, and olive oil as extraction solvents. The resulting extracts were stored in airtight glass containers for seven days and subsequently filtered through double-layered muslin cloth. The filtrates were then concentrated using a rotary evaporator at 37 °C under reduced pressure to obtain 5%, 10%, and 20% (w/v) formulations in their respective solvents. These preparations were administered topically via spray bottles to rabbits with Aldara (5% imiquimod)-induced psoriatic skin lesions. A total of 33 rabbits (mean age 34.62 ± 5.11 years) were included in the study, with 27 animals assigned to experimental groups and 3 each to the positive and negative control groups. Corticosteroid ointment and distilled water were used as the standard and placebo controls, respectively. Remarkably, complete recovery from psoriatic symptoms was achieved in rabbits treated with the olive oil–based M. indica flower extract, accounting for 33.33% of the experimental group. Statistical analyses of the collected data were performed using SPSS version 22. The results demonstrate the therapeutic efficacy of M. indica flower extracts in mitigating psoriatic symptoms. Differences in activity among solvent extracts emphasize the importance of solvent choice for optimizing the extraction of bioactive constituents. Overall, the study highlights the potential of M. indica as a natural, safer alternative to conventional allopathic therapies that often pose adverse side effects.
DESIGN, SYNTHESIS, AND METAL COORDINATION BEHAVIOR OF 2-(4-METHYLPHENOXYMETHYL) BENZOIC ACID
A series of phenoxymethylbenzoic acid derivatives was synthesized via the reaction of p-cresol with phthalide. The resulting phenoxymethylbenzoic acid was then transformed into its corresponding acid chloride using cyanuric chloride. These phenoxymethylbenzoyl chlorides were subsequently reacted with various aminobenzenesulfonamides to produce a new series of sulfonamide derivatives. The synthesized sulfonamides were structurally characterized using advanced spectroscopic techniques, including UV–Visible and FT-IR spectroscopy. The appearance of a characteristic absorption band around 3400 cm⁻¹ confirmed the presence of the amide functionality, while a broad peak near 1250 cm⁻¹ indicated the incorporation of the sulfone group within the molecular structure.
INFLUENCE OF DIFFERENT ORGANIC AMENDMENTS ON THE MORPHOLOGICAL AND GROWTH CHARACTERISTICS OF ANTIRRHINUM MAJUS L
This study was conducted to assess the effects of various potting media amendments with differing compositions on the growth and flowering of Antirrhinum majus L. Statistical analysis of physiological data indicated that the different media combinations significantly influenced plant performance compared to the control. Each treatment included 10 plants with three replications, and multiple growth parameters were evaluated under the various potting formulations. The results showed marked improvements in both vegetative and reproductive growth when a leaf mold–based potting medium was combined with farmyard manure. Among the tested combinations, the medium containing farmyard manure, leaf mold, topsoil, and silt (T₄; 1:0.5:0.5:1) and the higher pH medium with farmyard manure and silt (T₃) were less effective. In contrast, combinations that included silt with topsoil or leaf mold positively influenced plant growth and flowering. These findings suggest that leaf mold is an effective and reliable potting medium for promoting optimal growth and flowering in Antirrhinum majus L.
Mangifera indica (M. indica), commonly known as mango, is a well-known medicinal plant in Ayurvedic medicine, traditionally used to treat a variety of diseases and disorders. The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-psoriatic potential of M. indica flower extracts prepared using different solvents, with the goal of developing a topical anti-psoriatic spray. Fresh M. indica flowers were collected from Multan Mango Farm and processed through maceration and grinding using n-hexane, ethanol, and olive oil as solvents. Extracts were stored in airtight glass bottles for seven days, followed by filtration through double-layered muslin cloth. The filtrates were concentrated using a rotary evaporator at 37 °C under reduced pressure to prepare 5%, 10%, and 20% (w/v) solutions in their respective solvents. These formulations were topically applied using spray bottles to Aldara (5% imiquimod)-induced psoriatic skin lesions in rabbits. A total of 33 rabbits (mean age 34.62 ± 5.11 years) were included, with 27 assigned to the experimental groups and 3 each to positive and negative controls. Corticosteroid ointment and distilled water served as standard and placebo controls, respectively. Notably, 100% recovery from psoriatic symptoms was observed in rabbits treated with the olive oil–based M. indica flower extract, representing 33.33% of the experimental group. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS version 22 on the collected data. The findings demonstrate the therapeutic potential of M. indica flower extracts in alleviating psoriasis symptoms. Variations in efficacy among solvent extracts highlight the importance of solvent selection for optimizing the extraction of bioactive compounds. These results also underscore the promise of natural remedies as safer alternatives to conventional allopathic treatments, which often carry adverse effects.
In recent years, there has been increasing interest in using natural biopolymers as reinforcement materials in thermoplastic composites, owing to their renewable nature, biodegradability, and low processing costs. Starch, a naturally occurring carbohydrate-based biopolymer, has been widely studied in both industrial and academic contexts for its versatility and environmentally friendly properties. Modifying starch through grafting with various monomers can enhance its physicochemical characteristics, including hydrophilicity, hydrophobicity, viscosity, thermal stability, biodegradability, film-forming ability, and water absorption capacity. This study focuses on the synthesis of a barley starch-g-polyacrylamide composite material. The effects of different metal (ZnSO₄) loadings (up to 10%) on the properties of starch-g-polyacrylamide composites with varying polymer ratios (20% and 80%) were investigated. The synthesized composites were characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). FTIR analysis confirmed successful functionalization and the formation of strong interactions between the polymer matrix and the metal salt via coordinate covalent bonding. XRD analysis revealed the crystalline structure of the composites, while SEM provided detailed insights into the morphological changes resulting from metal incorporation.
GREEN SYNTHESIS OF METAL-BASED NANOPARTICLES USING MEDICINAL PLANTS: APPLICATIONS IN BIOMEDICINE AND ENVIRONMENTAL REMEDIATION
Nanotechnology has emerged as a prominent multidisciplinary field with wide-ranging applications across scientific and industrial sectors. While several nanoparticle synthesis methods—such as laser ablation, mechanical milling, spinning, and chemical deposition—are well established, they often face limitations due to high costs, the use of hazardous chemicals, and challenges in continuous production. This has led to a growing interest in sustainable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly synthesis approaches. Green synthesis has gained considerable attention as a reliable and eco-conscious alternative for producing various nanoparticles. In this approach, plant-derived secondary metabolites—such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and terpenoids—serve as natural reducing and stabilizing agents during nanoparticle formation. Although many studies have demonstrated the biological activities of biosynthesized nanoparticles, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, cytotoxic, and catalytic properties, few have systematically compared them with chemically synthesized counterparts. This review focuses on the biosynthesis mechanisms of metal nanoparticles using Morus alba and Ficus benghalensis extracts, along with their characterization using advanced analytical techniques. Additionally, the potential applications of these nanoparticles in therapeutics, industrial catalysis, and environmental remediation are explored.
UNDERSTANDING BURNOUT SYNDROME AMONG HEALTHCARE WORKERS: RISK FACTORS AND STRATEGIES FOR PREVENTION—A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Burnout syndrome (BOS) is a pervasive and pressing issue among healthcare professionals, profoundly impacting individual well-being and the overall efficiency of healthcare systems. This systematic review aims to comprehensively examine the risk factors driving burnout in healthcare workers and to evaluate the effectiveness of various preventive and mitigation strategies. The review also considers the impact of organizational interventions, including workload management, fostering supportive work environments, and implementing effective leadership practices. The achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to health, relies heavily on maintaining a competent and motivated healthcare workforce. Rising concerns about healthcare personnel well-being—manifested in issues such as the “no bed syndrome” in hospitals—underscore the urgent need for intervention. Evidence indicates that burnout is especially prevalent among critical care healthcare workers, where high stress and demanding work conditions intensify psychological strain. Key strategies to mitigate BOS include reducing intragroup conflict, optimizing skill utilization, and enhancing job satisfaction. Overall, this synthesis highlights the necessity of developing targeted, evidence-based approaches to prevent burnout and ensure the sustainability and resilience of healthcare systems.
ASSESSMENT OF ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY AND HEAVY METAL ACCUMULATION IN THE MEDICINAL HERB THYMUS LINEARIS BENTH
Thymus species rank among the most widely used aromatic and medicinal plants worldwide, largely due to their phenolic-rich essential oils, which exhibit diverse biological activities. Numerous studies have documented various pharmacological properties of this genus, including antiseptic, antitussive, expectorant, antispasmodic, anthelmintic, and anti-inflammatory effects. The present study investigates the extraction of bioactive compounds and comparatively analyzes heavy metal content in Thymus linearis Benth. extracts. Different solvents, including methanol, ethanol, n-hexane, and dichloromethane, were used for extraction. The antioxidant potential of the phenolic extracts was assessed via the DPPH radical scavenging assay. Heavy metals such as Ca, Ni, Co, Mg, Mn, Zn, Pb, Cd, and Cr were quantified using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). This study provides valuable insights into the medicinal potential of Thymus linearis Benth. while also highlighting potential toxicological risks linked to heavy metal accumulation.
MOLECULAR IDENTIFICATION OF SPECIES IN PAKISTAN USING CYTOCHROME C OXIDASE I (COI) GENE SEQUENCING
DNA barcoding is a reliable and rapid approach for species identification that relies on standardized genetic markers. Among these, the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene is widely recognized for its effectiveness in molecular taxonomy. This study focused on the molecular identification and phylogeographic analysis of Cirrhinus reba (C. reba) using COI gene sequencing. COI sequences of this freshwater fish were obtained and analyzed, producing fragments under 500 base pairs, which were successfully barcoded using the mitochondrial COI marker. BLAST analysis demonstrated 100% sequence identity with reference data in the GenBank database, confirming the species as C. reba with a sequence length of 496 base pairs. The study highlights the effectiveness of DNA barcoding in assessing genetic diversity and species identification. To our knowledge, this represents the first molecular genetic report identifying this commercially important food fish in Pakistan. Moreover, DNA barcoding proves to be a valuable tool for molecular identification and for understanding evolutionary relationships within diverse freshwater ecosystems.