Assessment of macronutrients and heavy metals in Fagonia cretica Linn of Pakistan by atomic spectroscopy

The macronutrients and heavy metals content of different parts of a locally found herb named Fagonia cretica, an important medicinal herb, were investigated. Al, Ca, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Sr and Zn were measured in roots, shoots, leaves, spines and flowers/fruits of the plant. The analysis was carried out by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) and atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). The results revealed that the Fagonia cretica accumulate the elemental contents at different parts. The accuracy of the method was checked by analysing a certified reference material and the results were in agreement with the enumerate value. The presence of a certain set of elements at percentage level like Ca, K and Mg is useful for strengthening of bones and body. Other elements important from health perspective including Al, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Na, Sr and Zn are found at ppm levels in all parts of the plant. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v28i2.

Polarity Based Model for Guiding Medical School Strategy During Crisis-A Cross Sectional Qualitative Study

BACKGROUND: Crises in academia can best be dealt with as a polarity that needs to be leveraged rather than a problem that needs to be solved. This work aimed at utilizing the Polarity Approach for Continuity and Transformation (PACT)™ to establish a guide for medical schools during times of crisis to minimize the effect of crisis-driven decisions on strategic growth. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A qualitative study following the 5-Steps of the PACT process was conducted. A virtual mapping session was held with 108 medical educators from 22 countries to determine the upsides and downsides of strategic orientation and crisis management subsequently. RESULTS: Four polarity maps were generated identifying four tension areas; University reputation, mission, teams, and individuals followed by a 72-item assessment and another mapping session to map the warning signs and action steps. A comparison between private school scores and the whole cohort of respondents showed that private schools had the least problems in team-oriented work. CONCLUSION: This study highlighted the importance of taking measures to communicate the mission and supporting team functions inside universities either by enhancing resources or utilizing time and effort-saving strategies