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Background The potato tuber moth, Phthorimaea operculella is a key pest of potato and tobacco in China. We compared the sex pheromone titers released by P. operculella female, and the electroantennogram (EAG) responses of male antennae to pheromone compounds under laboratory conditions. Then, the optimal sex pheromone ratio was screened in the field. Results The P. operculella sex pheromone feeding on potato or tobacco was extracted by solvent-extraction method. Main sex pheromone compounds including E4, Z7-13: AC (PTM1) and E4, Z7, Z10-13: AC (PTM2) were found in gland. The titer and relative ratio of P. operculella sex pheromone compounds secreted by female adult moths differ between host populations, while the relative EAG responses trend of P. operculella males to the pheromone components were the same when directly stimulated. In field trials, PTM1:PTM2=8:1-4:1 and PTM1:PTM2=1:4-1:7 was the most attractive ratio to P. operculella males in tobacco and potato fields, respectively. During 2019-2020, after 8 weeks of mass trapping for each year, the sex pheromone could reduce the population of P. operculella in the potato and tobacco fields. Conclusions In this study, fixed property and quantity analyzing methods were adopted to compare sex pheromones from feeding on potato versus tobacco. EAG tests then were carried out on P. operculella males. Finally, we optimized the ratio of two sex pheromone compounds in potato and examined how this influenced field trapping. By further improving the parameters of sex pheromone application in the field, we demonstrate that deployment of sex pheromones can provide effective control of P. operculella. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

An alfalfa grassland landscape was divided into 36 plots during 2014 season in Yuanzhou District of Guyuan city in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region of P.R. China. In these three times repeated experiments, treatment of habitat fragmentation was divided into two grades: continuity (H = 0.0) and fragmentation (H = 1.0), and their habitat loss rate was divided into 6 grades: 90, 80, 70, 50, 20 and 0%. Considering habitat loss 0% of the plot as the reference, as a result of sweeping net and visual methods, results showed that the flight distance of the Harmonia axyridis was much higher than that of the Hippodamia variegata both in fragmentation and continuous habitats. In the alfalfa landscape, H. axyridis moved more by flying, while H. variegata moved more by crawling. There was a threshold effect that affected the movement behavior of lady beetles between 70 and 100% of the habitat loss. The population of the two species of lady beetles in the continuous habitat was higher than that in the habitat fragmentation and was more obvious in 70 and 50% plots of the habitat loss. The dispersal rate of the two species of lady beetles inside plots was higher than outside of the experimental plots, which reflected the low diffusivity of the ladybeetle. Habitat fragmentation affected the dispersal, migration and construction of two species of lady beetles on different spatial scales by disturbing the spread of natural enemies and searching for prey.

Background: Brucellosis is an economically important zoonotic disease caused by the gram negative bacteria belonging to the genus Brucella. Medicinal plants are well known for a wide variety of potential antimicrobial agents that can be used as anti-microbial drugs. Method: In the present study, crude ethanol and methanol extracts of local plants (Berberies lyceum and Fagonia cretica) were tested in vitro against Brucella melitensis via well diffusion method for their antibacterial activity. In in-silico study, phytochemicals previously identified in the selected plants were docked with homology model of the cytotoxic factor malate synthase G (MSG) highly conserved among Brucella spp., in Molecular Operating Environment (MOE) to predict a potential drug against B. melitensis. Molecular dynamic simulation was performed to predict the stability of MSG through MOE. Result: Ethanolic crude extracts of B. lyceum showed maximum zone of inhibition (32.5 mm) followed by methanolic extracts (30 mm), while ethanolic extracts of F. cretica showed zone of inhibition (29 mm) followed by methanolic extracts (27.5 mm). In silico screening predicted phytic acid as the most potent inhibitor followed by jehlumine, barbamine, oxyberberine and sindamine. Conclusion: The synergistic utilization of phytochemicals derived from B. lyceum may potentially provide protection against B. melitensis.

The South American tomato pinworm, Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), has invaded most Afro-Eurasian countries and is threatening worldwide tomato production. Various strategies have been developed and implemented to manage this pest. Here, we present a timely review on the up-to-date development and practical implementation of integrated pest management (IPM) programs for tomato crops across different world regions infested by T. absoluta. While insecticide resistance is a growing concern, biological control via releasing or conserving arthropod natural enemies and sex pheromone-based biotechnical control are the most successful management practices. Agronomic control-related research is an emerging area where the soil fertilization and/or irrigation, as well as breeding of resistant cultivars, has the potential to enhance IPM effectiveness. Grower survey responses in the native areas (i.e., South America), early-invaded areas (i.e., first report between 2006 and 2012) and newly invaded areas (i.e., first report after 2012) showed that the control programs evolved along with the areas and time since invasion. Growers in the early-invaded areas shifted more rapidly from chemical control to biological control compared to those from the native area. In all concerned regions, the pest control failure risk following chemical insecticide applications and the high cost associated with either biological or biotechnical control methods have been the greatest concerns for growers. The information gathered from the native and/or early-invaded areas may help achieve a more effective management in newly invaded areas. Lastly, researchers are expected to break the bottlenecks of some key issues that would enable lowering application cost of novel biorational alternative management options.

Migration is a widespread phenomenon among many insect species, including herbivorous crop pests. At present, scant information exists on the long-range migration of the polyphagous armyworm, Spodoptera exigua and its underlying climatic determinants (i.e. East Asian or South Asian monsoon circulation). In this study, we employed a population genetics approach to delineate S. exigua migration patterns across multiple Asian countries.Using mitochondrial cytochrome I (COI) and microsatellite markers, low-to-moderate levels of genetic diversity were detected among 101 S. exigua populations collected across China, Pakistan and Vietnam. Haplotype diversity and nucleotide diversity did not differ between years. Two spatially explicit genetic clusters were detected, an eastern and a western clade, with the former comprising populations in the East Asia monsoon area. No genetic differentiation was recorded among armyworm populations in the year-round breeding area, nor among those of the overwintering and nonoverwintering areas. Five of the most widespread mitochondrial haplotypes reflected the extensive gene flow across at a large spatial scale.Low-to-moderate levels of genetic diversity were observed, and evidence was found for genetic clustering in certain geographical areas. Accordingly, our unique insights into S. exigua population genetics and spatiotemporal migration dynamics help to guide applied ecological studies, ecological intensification schemes or (area-wide) pest management campaigns in China and abroad. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Although Al3+-toxicity is one of the limiting factors for crop production in acidic soils, little is known about the Al3+-tolerance mechanism in watermelon, a fairly acid-tolerant crop. This work aimed to identify the interaction between the H2O2 scavenging pathway and auxin glycosylation relevant to watermelon Al3+-tolerance. By analyzing expressions of hormone-related ClUGTs and antioxidant enzyme genes in Al3+-tolerant (ZJ) and Al3+-sensitive (NBT) cultivars, we identified ClUGT75s (B1, B2, and D1) and ClSOD1-2-ClCAT as crucial components associated with Al3+-tolerance. Al3+-stress significantly increased H2O2 content by 92.7% in NBT and 42.3% in ZJ, accompanied by less Al3+-, auxin (IAA and IBA), and MDA contents in ZJ than NBT. These findings coincided with significant ClSOD1-2 expression and stable dismutation activity in NBT than ZJ. Hence, higher H2O2 content in the root apex of NBT than ZJ correlated with a significant increase in auxin content and ClSOD1-2 up-regulation. Moreover, Al3+-activated ClUGT75D1 and ClUGT75B2 in ZJ coincided with no considerable change in IBA content, suggesting that glycosylation-mediated changes in IBA content might be relevant to Al3+-tolerance in watermelon. Furthermore, exogenous H2O2 and IBA indicated ClUGT75D1 modulating IBA is likely dependent on H2O2 background. We hypothesize that a higher H2O2 level in NBT represses ClUGT75, resulting in increased auxin than those in ZJ roots. Thus, excess in both H2O2 and auxin aggravated the inhibition of root elongation under Al3+-stress. Our findings provide insights on the permissive action of H2O2 in the mediation of auxin glycosylation by ClUGT75 in root apex for Al3+-tolerance in watermelon.

The alignment of tibial component in total knee replacement operation must be achieved in three planes to ensure optimum results. In coronal plane, the alignment depends on three anatomical landmarks. These landmarks are tibial tuberosity, leg shin, and midtalar point. In eastern community, people get used to sit cross-legged which causes additional tension in the quadriceps muscle which is attached distally to the tibial tuberosity. This tension causes adaptation of the tuberosity laterally. Tuberosity adaptation causes the three anatomical landmarks being not collinear. In this work, eight cases of lateral adapted tubercle were diagnosed of this condition before the surgery and their X-ray images after the surgery were checked regarding tibial alignment. Tibial alignment has been checked by measuring the medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA) which is the angle between the mechanical tibial axis and the tibial component plateau. MPTAs for the eight cases were (86.9°–93.6°). Three cases had MPTA less than 90° indicating varus alignment and five of them had MPTA more than 90° indicating valgus alignment. A geometrical tool was designed using the DesignSpark Mechanical software as a proposed solution to solve the adaptation problem. The tool can give a method for fixing the tibial component precisely without any varus\valgus malalignment.

Background Studies on ticks infesting equids are lacking in various parts of the world, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan. The aim of this study was to investigate the diversity of ticks infesting equids, associated risk factors and rickettsial detection in ticks from equids in KP. Methods Inspection of 404 equid hosts from November 2018 to October 2019 resulted in the collection of 550 ticks. Data on tick-associated risk factors were collected from equid owners by means of a questionnaire. After morphological identification, partial DNA sequences of the tick mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene were used for taxonomic confirmation of species. Partial sequences of the gltA and ompA genes were used for Rickettsia detection in ticks. Results A total of 550 tick specimens were collected on 324 (80.2%) of the equids inspected, of which 161 were horses (50%), 145 (45%) were donkeys and 18 were mules (5%). The ticks were identified as belonging to the following five species: Rhipicephalus microplus (341 specimens, 62% of the total ticks), Rh. haemaphysaloides (126, 23%), Rh. turanicus (39, 7%), Rh. sanguineus (s.l.) (33, 6%) and Hyalomma anatolicum (11, 2%). The most prevalent tick life stage was adult females (279, 51%) followed by adult males (186, 34%) and nymphs (85, 15%). Higher tick infestations were observed on male equids (relative risk [RR] 0.7432, P P P P P P P P gltA and ompA genes obtained from Rh. microplus and Rh. haemaphysaloides were 100% identical to the spotted fever group pathogen Rickettsia massiliae. Conclusions Equids exposed to significant risk factors were infected by one or more of at least five tick species in KP, Pakistan, and some of the ticks harbored the human pathogen R. massiliae. Graphical abstract

Monitoring adult populations of Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), a major agricultural pest, provides data useful for its control. Food attractants, considered as adult insect behavior regulators based on the preference of an herbivorous pest for food sources or their volatiles, also have great potential for monitoring populations. To study the feasibility of monitoring the population dynamics and reproductive development of H. armigera in the field using food attractants, we quantitatively analyzed reproductive organ development of adults in a laboratory population as a way to predict the reproductive development of adults trapped using food attractants in the field in 2019 and 2020. The adults trapped using food attractants had obvious generational changes and the same trends in variation for females and males. The extent of ovarian development in trapped females tended to increase within each generation, and the major axis length of testis in trapped males tended to decrease. Reproductive developmental status of trapped adults also differed significantly among months. This study shows that by trapping H. armigera with food attractants, the population dynamics of adults in the field can be monitored, and reproductive anatomy can also be used to monitor adult reproductive status. These approaches are a new way to forecast the population dynamics of this pest.

Background: To find alternative molecules against Klebsiella pneumonia, Proteus mirabilis and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, new enoxacin derivatives were synthesized and screened. Methods: All derivatives exhibited promising antibacterial activities as compared to standard enoxacin (2 μg/ml) and standard cefixime (82 μg/ml). Compounds 2, 3 and 5 significantly downregulated the gene expression of biofilm-forming genes. Conclusion: Based on our results, these molecules may serve as potential drug candidates to cure several bacterial infections in the future.

Thirty-five new species of the Pimoa Chamberlin & Ivie, 1943 are described from Pan-Himalaya: P. anning Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. bomi Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. cawarong Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. daman Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. danba Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. deqen Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. dongjiu Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. guiqing Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. gyaca Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. gyara Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. gyirong Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. heishui Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. jinchuan Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. khaptad Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. koshi Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. lhatog Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. mechi Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. miandam Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. miero Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. mude Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. muli Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. naran Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. ninglang Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. nyalam Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. phaplu Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. putou Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. rara Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. sangri Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. shigatse Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. tengchong Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. xiahe Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. yejiei Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀), P. yele Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. zayu Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♂♀), P. zhigangi Zhang & Li, sp. nov. (♀). The DNA barcodes of the thirty-five new species are provided.

Ciliary motors locked closed by Shulin Motile cilia and flagella are vital cellular organelles with functions that include setting up the left-right body axis, clearing airways of mucus, and driving single-cell movements. Cilia beating is powered by arrays of dynein motors, the key force generators being the outer dynein arm (ODA) complexes. Using the protozoan Tetrahymena , Mali et al. identified a factor, which they name Shulin, that binds newly synthesized ODAs. Cryo–electron microscopy revealed how Shulin locks the dynein motors together by shutting off motor activity and facilitating delivery of ODAs from the cytoplasm to their final position in the cilia. Science , this issue p. 910

Staphylococcus aureus causes a wide range of skin diseases such as bacterial keratitis, follicles, psoriasis, cellulitis and atopic dermatitis. This study aims to investigate the S. aureus mediated molecular modulation, and the effect of HR in reversing the deleterious impact of S. aureus in keratinocytes. Human keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells were cultured in DMEM, supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS) and 1% penicillin/streptomycin. Subcultures were divided into three flasks: control with no S. aureus and extract (C), S. aureus infected (SA) and S. aureus infected cells and extract (SE). RNA was isolated and microarray analysis was performed. The data was annotated using GO functional analysis and DAVID functional annotation. For each comparison group, significant probes were filtered out at significant cut off by fold change (P twofold change). For SA vs control, SE vs control, and SE vs SA, 204, 9369, 9900 probes were filtered respectively. In SA vs control, TNF signaling, NOD-like receptor and chemokine receptor signaling pathways were upregulated with key genes such as CCL2, CCL20 and BIRC3. The SE vs SA, showed significant expression variations of a number of important genes. Molecular pathways associated with ILs, TNFs, TGFs, IFNs, FGFs, MAPKs, MMPs, caspases and Wnts were either up regulated or downregulated. This effect was reversed by the extract, possibly through downregulating various proinflammatory cytokines and apoptotic pathways. Our study reveals that S. aureus inserts a negative impact on the regulation of various key genes which is apparently reversed by the HR extract.

In current study, Maize (Zea mays L.) husk leave extracts were appraised for biological activities such as cytotoxicity, antidiabetic, antioxidant and antimicrobial. Maceration was performed to collect various fractions of husk leave extracts using a pool of solvents i.e., n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, butanol and methanol. Antioxidant potential was measured by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging, reducing power and linoleic acid oxidation assay, using butylated hydroxy toluene (BHT) as a positive control. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were found to be 18.47-425.11 mg/100 g GAE and 5.83-16.72 mg/100 g CE, respectively. The DPPH scavenging assay was exhibited in the range of 76.36 to 88.53%. The percentage inhibition in linoleic acid oxidation was found from 10.16 to 79.51%. Significant antimicrobial activity was demonstrated by husk leaf extracts against bacterial strains and fungal strains using disc diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method. Amylase alpha assay was employed to analyze the antidiabetic activity which ranged between 9.52-24.81%. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by % age lysis (0.35-9.54%), while thrombolytic activity ranged between 7.67 to 31.27%. The results presented in this study revealed that maize (Zea mays L.) husk leaf extracts can be a valuable source of biologically active compounds and may be consumed as a source of potent herbal medicine in pharmaceuticals.

Liver diseases such as hepatic carcinoma are one of the main health problems worldwide. Herbal drugs are largely used to treat liver injury in the indigenous system of medicine and may provide lead compounds for hepatoprotective drug discovery. The present study is investigated to test the Corydalis govaniana Wall. extract, fraction, and isolate therapeutically active constituents to explore their hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. For this purpose, the antioxidant activity of govaniadine, caseadine, caseamine, and protopine was performed by assessing the scavenging events of the stable 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl. Hepatoprotection of govaniadine was assessed in terms of reduction in serum enzymes (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase) caused by CCl4-induced liver injury in rats and by histopathological techniques. All the compounds showed significant antioxidant activity with a percentage inhibition of 92.2, 86.7, 85.3, and 79.7, respectively, compared to propyl gallate 90.3%. Treatment with govaniadine reduced the serum enzyme level down to normal levels in the CCl4-treated group while inhibiting the increase of malondialdehyde, and the induction of superoxide dismutase and the glutathione level was upregulated. Histopathology showed ∼47% damage to the liver cells in the CCl4-treated group; reduction in this damaged area was found to be better upon using govaniadine. Immunohistochemistry results showed that govaniadine as compared to silymarin has exceedingly decreased the inflammation by halting the CCl4-induced activation of hepatic macrophages. In carrageenan-induced paw edema assay, govaniadine significantly alleviated the edema after 1–5 h at a dose of 20 mg/kg (26.00 and 28.5%), 50 mg/kg (22.05 and 27.0%), and 100 mg/kg (20.02 and 25.30%), respectively. The results of our experiments suggest that govaniadine showed antioxidant and hepatoprotective activity in liver injury. The hepatoprotective function of govaniadine may be associated to the scavenging of the free radical and attenuation of oxidative stress as well as inflammatory responses in the liver. Hence, govaniadine may be a lead compound for the hepatoprotective drug discovery process and further research is needed to find out their molecular mechanism of protection.

Objectives To determine the effects of systematic calcitonin administration on post‐orthodontic relapse in rat model. Material and methods This experimental animal model involved 36 male Wister rats. The maxillary right first molars were moved mesially, using a modified orthodontic appliance delivered 50 gm, for 14 days, retained for 4 days and left to relapse for 10 days. The study group was divided into three subgroups in which a single injection of calcitonin (20 IU/Kg), three injections of calcitonin (20 IU/Kg), each every other day, and normal saline were administered subcutaneously after orthodontic tooth movement has finished. The relapse ratio, histomorphometric analysis including osteoblasts, osteoclasts numbers and bone area and immunohistochemical analysis including the expression of receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa Β (RANK), receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa Β ligand (RANKL) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) were measured and assessed. Results The relapse ratio was significantly reduced in the three‐dose calcitonin group (28%) compared to the single dose calcitonin group (34%) and the control group (46%). This was accompanied by a nonsignificant increase in osteoblasts number and bone area in three‐dose calcitonin group and a nonsignificant reduction in osteoclast number. However, the immune histochemical expression of RANK, RANKL and OPG did not show statistically significant difference at the end of relapse period. Conclusions Systemic administration of three doses of calcitonin may minimize the relapse ratio in experimentally moved rat molars.

Snails are the second largest group of invertebrates after insects and make a major part of the world's fauna. There are 35,000 described species of land snails (subclass: Pulmonata) from class gastropods in the world. With the present scenario of climate change, their occurrence has been observed many-fold. Despite their economic importance, population diversity and distribution of these creatures on different host crops in Punjab Pakistan is not much more studies. For this purpose, the present study was conducted to identify the snail species and their diversity on different hosts in the agroecosystems of Multan. The snails were collected from different crops like wheat, vegetable (spinach), fodder, citrus orchard, and plant nurseries. A total of 8264 specimens were collected and preserved in the form of a dry shell and 70% alcohol in Ecology Lab, MNS - the University of Agriculture, Multan for identification purpose. The preserved specimens were identified under microscope using available taxonomic keys. Ariophanta bistrialis ceylanica, Ariophanta bistrialis cylix, Ariophanta solata, Oxychilus draparnaudi, Monacha catiana, Cernuella virgata, Pupoides abilabris and Oxyloma elegans were identified during the study. The highest and lowest population of Ariophanta bistrialis cylix (1592) and Ariophanta solata (446), respectively was recorded. The population diversity was found maximum in plant nurseries followed by fodder crop (Berseem) and citrus orchard while least in vegetable (Spinach) and wheat crop. The maximum population was found in July and August, while least in March and May. In the rainy season, the population of snails was recorded maximum as compared to the dry season.

Ivermectin and fipronil have been used regularly to control the hard tick Hyalomma anatolicum (Acari: Ixodidae) in domestic ruminants for more than a half-decade in Balochistan, Pakistan. Inappropriate and indiscriminate use of these acaricides has resulted in the development of resistances in tick species. In this work, acaricides (ivermectin and fipronil) resistance was evaluated in H. anatolicum through in vitro and in vivo bioassays in a horse farm of Quetta, Balochistan province, Pakistan. A participatory epidemiological survey was conducted to assess potential risk factors associated with the development of acaricide resistance in H. anatolicum. The results of the epidemiological survey revealed that the horse keepers did not follow the manufacturer's instructions for the use of acaricides and applied indiscriminate doses of acaricides. The results of in vitro bioassays (adult immersion test and larval immersion test) showed that fipronil and ivermectin have protective efficacy against H. anatolicum. The results of in vivo bioassay (adult-tick mortality assay) revealed that fipronil had a higher efficacy (78.16%) than ivermectin (49.94%). More than 80% of tick mortality was not achieved in any bioassays, even for the highest acaricide concentration (100 ppm), which suggests the development of acaricide resistance against fipronil and ivermectin. This study highlights the urgency to implement a country-wide awareness about resistance monitoring and effective tick control. Graphical abstract.

Purpose Neem tree (Azadirachta indica) offers different bioactives ranging from pesticides to therapeutic molecules, depending on which part of the plant is used and the extraction methodology and the solvent used. This study was aimed at evaluating the safety and efficacy of a standardized aqueous extract of Azadirachta indica leaves and twigs (NEEM) on glycemic control, endothelial dysfunction, and systemic inflammation in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study (RCT), 80 T2DM subjects, who have already been on standard metformin therapy, received either 125 mg, 250 mg, 500 mg of NEEM or placebo twice daily for 12 weeks. Postprandial blood sugar level (PPBS), fasting blood sugar level (FBS), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), insulin resistance (IR), endothelial function, oxidative stress, systemic inflammation, IL-6 and TNF-α, platelet aggregation and lipid profile were assessed. Adverse drug reactions, if any, were noted. GraphPad Prism 8 was used to perform statistical analysis. Results NEEM at the doses of 125, 250, and 500 mg BID significantly reduced PPBS (from 194.4±14 to 173.1±12.8mg/dL, 192.3±17.1 to 161.8±9.7mg/dL, and 205.9±7.2 to 159.3±7.1mg/dL, respectively), FBS (from 119.2±5.0 to 109.2±5.7mg/dL, 115.5±4.4 to 103.7±4.2mg/dL, and 120.7±4.2 to 97.3±3.7mg/dL, respectively), HbA1c (from 6.87 ± 0.4% to 6.64 ± 0.4%, 7.52 ± 0.4% to 6.86 ± 0.3%, and 7.78 ± 0.2% to 6.26 ± 0.4%, respectively), and IR (from 4.5 ± 1.2 to 3.4 ± 0.9, 3.8 ± 1.1 to 2.5 ± 0.6, and 4.6 ± 1.3 to 2.0 ± 0.6, respectively) compared to placebo. Also, NEEM significantly improved endothelial function, decreased oxidative stress and systemic inflammation compared to placebo. The efficacy was significant with all the doses, but no effect on platelet aggregation or lipid profile was observed. Conclusion NEEM may significantly ameliorate hyperglycemia, endothelial dysfunction, and systemic inflammation, on top of what metformin could do, in subjects with T2DM.

We aimed to detect the causative gene in five unrelated families with recessive inheritance pattern neurological disorders involving the central nervous system, and the potential function of the NEMF gene in the central nervous system. Exome sequencing (ES) was applied to all families and linkage analysis was performed on family 1. A minigene assay was used to validate the splicing effect of the relevant discovered variants. Immunofluorescence (IF) experiment was performed to investigate the role of the causative gene in neuron development. The large consanguineous family confirms the phenotype-causative relationship with homozygous frameshift variant (NM_004713.6:c.2618del) as revealed by ES. Linkage analysis of the family showed a significant single-point LOD of 4.5 locus. Through collaboration in GeneMatcher, four additional unrelated families' likely pathogenic NEMF variants for a spectrum of central neurological disorders, two homozygous splice-site variants (NM_004713.6:c.574+1G>T and NM_004713.6:c.807-2A>C) and a homozygous frameshift variant (NM_004713.6: c.1234_1235insC) were subsequently identified and segregated with all affected individuals. We further revealed that knockdown (KD) of Nemf leads to impairment of axonal outgrowth and synapse development in cultured mouse primary cortical neurons. Our study demonstrates that disease-causing biallelic NEMF variants result in central nervous system impairment and other variable features. NEMF is an important player in mammalian neuron development.

Crop plants, such as watermelon, suffer from severe Aluminum (Al3+)-toxicity in acidic soils with their primary root elongation being first arrested. However, the significance of apoplastic or symplastic Al3+-toxicity in watermelon root is scarcely reported. In this work, we identified a medium fruit type (ZJ) and a small fruit type (NBT) as Al+3-tolerant and sensitive based on their differential primary root elongation rate respectively, and used them to show the effects of symplastic besides apoplastic Al distribution in the watermelon's root. Although the Al content was higher in the root of NBT than ZJ, Al+3 allocated in their apoplast, vacuole and plastid fractions were not significantly different between the two cultivars. Thus, only a few proportion of Al+3 differentially distributed in the nucleus and mitochondria corresponded to interesting differential morphological and physiological disorders recorded in the root under Al+3-stress. The symplastic amount of Al+3 substantially induced the energy efficient catalase pathway in ZJ, and the energy consuming ascorbate peroxidase pathway in NBT. These findings coincided with obvious starch granule visibility in the root ultra-structure of ZJ than NBT, suggesting a differential energy was used in supporting the root elongation and nutrient uptake for Al+3-tolerance in the two cultivars. This work provides clues that could be further investigated in the identification of genetic components and molecular mechanisms associated with Al+3-tolerance in watermelon.

Carbapenem resistance in Gram-negative pathogens has become a global concern for health workers worldwide. In one of our earlier studies, a Klebsiella pneumoniae-carbapenemase-2 producing strain was induced with meropenem to explore differentially expressed proteins under induced and uninduced conditions. There is, LysM domain BON family protein, was found over 12-fold expressed under the induced state. A hypothesis was proposed that LysM domain protein might have an affinity towards carbapenem antibiotics making them unavailable to bind with their target. Hence, we initiated a study to understand the binding mode of carbapenem with LysM domain protein. MICs of imipenem and meropenem against LysM clone were increased by several folds as compared to NP-6 clinical strain as well as DH5 α (PET-28a KPC-2) clone. This study further revealed a strong binding of both antibiotics to LysM domain protein. Molecular simulation studies of LysM domain protein with meropenem and imipenem for 80 ns has also showed stable structure. We concluded that overexpressed LysM domain under induced condition interacted with carbapenems, leading to enhanced resistance as proved by high MIC values. Hence, the study proved the proposed hypothesis that the LysM domain plays a significant role in the putative mechanism of antibiotics resistance.

Soil arthropods, including soil insects and mites, play a significant role in the recycling of fertility material and maintenance of soil structure. This study was performed to determine the non-target effects of two different formulations of fipronil on four groups of soil-dwelling insects (collembola, earwig, staphylinids and ants) and one group of mites. The pitfall traps were installed to estimate the arthropod population. The population per trap was evaluated after 3, 6, 9 12, 15, 18 and 21 days after insecticides’ application. The population of soil-dwelling arthropods was significantly reduced in the case of fipronil 5% SC (soluble concentration) treated plots after 3 and 6 days of application. However, the fipronil 0.3 GR (granule) was more toxic at 9th and 12th day of application. The toxicity of fipronil was decreased with the passage of time but fipronil 0.3 GR remained toxic until 18 days in some cases. Hence, both formulations of fipronil reduced the population of non-target soil arthropods, but fipronil 5% SC was more toxic than fipronil 0.3 GR when compared with the untreated check (control plot). According to these results, the application of fipronil should be reduced and find an alternative way instead of this pesticide.

β-Thalassemia (β-thal) is a common monogenic disease with ethnic-specific mutations on the HBB gene throughout the world. The reported mutations either reduce the expression or completely inactivate the HBB gene. In Pakistan, the prevalence of β-thal is high due to consanguineous marriages. Accurate identification of mutations in carriers is imperative for prevention of β-thal in subsequent generations. To overcome the limitations of traditional testing methods for β-thal, a next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based diagnostic test was designed and validated by sequencing the entire HBB gene. The primer set covering the entire HBB gene was designed and validated in a Pashtun β-thalassemic family. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) product was sequenced using an Illumina MiSeq platform. A homozygous pathogenic insertion of A>AC/AC (rs35699606) was detected in an affected member of the family, while unaffected members were heterozygous for it. In addition, all family members were homozygous for the synonymous variant, A>G/G (rs713040), except the father who was heterozygous for it. We sequenced the entire HBB gene using the NGS-based test, which is highly sensitive, robust and specific for the diagnosis and screening of β-thal in Pakistan, especially for families practicing consanguineous marriages.

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is an important horticultural crop that is sensitive to heavy metals such as lead (Pb) in polluted water or soil. However, there are no available data regarding Pb tolerance phenotyping in watermelon. Watermelon seedlings were exposed to various Pb doses (0, 20, 40, 60, 80 µm·L–1 Pb) for 14 days, after which 20 µm Pb was identified as the optimal treatment for lead tolerance analysis in watermelon because it caused significant symptoms (leaf chlorosis, stubby and yellow roots) but little damage to seedlings. Subsequently, the Pb responses were analyzed in eight watermelon varieties (V1–V8), and membership function analysis was used to determine a single Pb tolerance index. Of the eight watermelon varieties, V4 and V7 were ranked the most Pb tolerant; V1, V2, V5, and V6 were moderately Pb tolerant; and V3 and V8 were the most Pb-sensitive varieties. Compared with most Pb-sensitive varieties (V3 and V8), the most Pb-tolerant varieties (V4 and V7) maintained high antioxidant activity, and had lower malondialdehyde (MDA) and total soluble protein (TSP) contents. In addition, carotenoid and chlorophyll (both a and b) contents were stimulated and inhibited, respectively, in leaves of high-Pb translocation varieties (V4 and V8). Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed relative root length as an indicator of Pb tolerance because it correlated significantly with shoot growth. These results provide useful insight into the mechanism of Pb tolerance in cucurbit crops, as well as information regarding the breeding of watermelon with enhanced tolerance to this heavy metal (Pb).

As synthetic insecticides can have environmentally detrimental side effects, it is desirable to limit their use while still achieving good marketable yield. One approach is to apply pesticides only when needed, as determined by an action threshold (AT), defined as the number of pests per crop plant or damage intensity at which application is recommended. Another approach is to adopt alternative pesticides, such as botanical biopesticides, which can also be applied according to ATs. Here, ATs are developed in cabbage pest management using both approaches against the moths Plutella xylostella (L.), Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) and Spodoptera litura (F.) and the aphid Brevicoryne brassicae (L.). Action thresholds were derived using fixed spraying regimes for the synthetic insecticides (imidacloprid and Voliam Flexi) and for azadirachtin, a neem-derived botanical. For synthetics, derived ATs are 40 individuals per plant for B. brassicae, 0.3 larvae for P. xylostella and 0.2 medium-sized larvae for H. armigera and for S. litura. For H. armigera and S. litura, negative relationships between marketable yield and pest were found when larvae were medium or large sized, but not when larvae were small. Compared to synthetics, benefits of using neem formulations include higher action thresholds against P. xylostella (0.6/plant) and H. armigera (0.4/plant) and an oviposition deterrent effect against S. litura. Overall, botanical insecticides were effective alternatives to synthetic pesticides. Although regional limits may apply to the accuracy of any ATs derived, the approach used towards their establishment is simple and transferable to other agricultural regions and crops.

The lepidopteran insect pests have significant importance in vegetable production. The present study was performed to investigate the baseline studies about the assessment of feeding and consumption potential, utilization indices and losses promises of leafworm, Spodoptera litura (Fab.) on Okra. The data regarding feeding potential, food utilization and consumption indices as well as losses of different larval instars were recorded and subjected to appropriate statistical analysis. The results showed that, in the beginning, the approximate digestibility of various instars was increase, e.g. third instar (51.36%–64.03%), fourth instar (63.42%–69.45%) and fifth instar (70.25%–76.10%). However, after a certain period, the digestibility was decreased and efficiency to convert the ingested food into biomass varied significantly. The consumption index values increased with an increase in time but the consumption and growth rate was declined of fourth instar larvae. The ingestion and digestion increased of third (10.01–13.06, 8.32–11.91 mg), fourth (11.27–17.28, 10.96–14.03 mg) and fifth (12.60–19.40, 11.93–15.28 mg) larval instars. The corrected weight of consumed leaves increased with a gain in body weight. However, in the third instar, a decline was observed on the last day of feeding. Maximum leaf area was consumed by fifth instar larvae (44.66 cm2) followed by fourth (35.41 cm2) and third (27.98 cm2) instars. In conclusion, all the dependent parameters, including food utilization potential, consumption indices and losses were higher for fifth instar larvae than others. These results emphasized the re-establishment of fundamental (economic threshold level: ETL, economic injury level: EIL) integrated pest management concepts.

In recent decades, climate change has significantly affected the relationship between parasites and host animal species. Parasitism in livestock has especially increased in terms of ticks and tick-...

A substantial and growing body of scientific research has linked Sour cherries to various biotherapeutic properties and suggested as a candidate for immunomodulation. The effects of graded doses of a chemically standardized methanolic fruit extract (PcMFE) of Prunus cerasus on the immune system and anti-oxidative status of SRBC immunized BALB/c mice were investigated. Oral administration of PcMFE (100-250 mg/kg) enhanced the expression pattern of IgM and IgG titres, stimulated cell mediated immunity reaching peak value with 200 mg/kg b. wt. Flowcytometric analysis of surface markers of T cells (CD4+ and CD8+) and B cells (CD 19+) indicated prominent enhancement in proliferation and differentiation of these lymphocytes. The extract enhanced expression of T helper cells Th1 cytokines interferon (IFN)-γ and interleukin-12 (IL-12) in the sera of treated mice compared with the control group. In vivo studies showed PcMFE increased spleen and thymus indices, activated macrophage functions ex-vivo as indicated by nitroblue tetrazolium reduction potential, inducible nitric oxide synthase activity and bactericidal property significantly. Furthermore, the oxidative stress marker studies revealed that the administration of PcMFE significantly decreased levels of LPO, increased the activities of SOD, CAT and GSH-Px as compared to the control group. These findings indicate PcMFE has immunomodulatory activity in vivo and might play an important role in prevention of oxidative damage in immunological system.

A study was conducted to examine the prevalence of brucellosis (in animal farms) in the vicinity of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. A total of 170 milk samples were collected randomly from several farmhouses. The collected milk samples were initially screened by a Brucella selective medium. The bacterial isolates grown on the selective medium were subjected to biochemical identification for further confirmation of Brucella species. Among the tested samples, 28 (16.4%) were found positive for selective medium and 14 (8.2%) were found positive after biochemical confirmation. The antimicrobial susceptibility of several antibiotics performed by the disc-diffusion method did not yield any significant findings. Encapsulating antimicrobial drugs in unilamellar niosomes is an effective approach to treat the endemic infection. In this study, the antimicrobial activity of niosome-encapsulated levofloxacin is compared with free drug. The drug-encapsulating and empty niosomes were synthesized by using two surfactants Tween 80 and Span 40. Niosomal characterization included electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and zeta potential. The encapsulation efficiency was found to be 78% and 74% for Span 40 and Tween 80 niosomes, respectively. The antibacterial activity of niosomal levofloxacin was evaluated against the identified Brucella species and the antimicrobial activity of the free drug was increased many folds after encapsulation. In this study, levofloxacin niosomes were successfully synthesized against Brucellosis.

Inorganic metal ions and the proteins play an essential role in living systems. Different hormones and cellular messengers regulate the hemostasis of organisms. Calcium, magnesium, iron and zinc are abundantly distributed in human bodies and play vital role in many biochemical processes. Albumin and ferritin are also the most abundant proteins present in our bodies and carrying out important physiological processes. A disease state or a medical condition can perturb the normal levels of metal ions and proteins in living systems. In the present study, we have analyzed the serum concentration of Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn, albumin and ferritin of hyperthyroid patients. This study includes 184 collected samples (52 normal subjects and 132 hyperthyroid patients), with age group ranging between 11 to 75 years. During sample collection, only those patients were included for whom hyperthyroidism was initially diagnosed but not taking any medicines yet. The hyperthyroid state was determined by the correlation of FT3, FT4 and TSH. Serum Fe, Ca and albumin levels were determined by spectrophotometric method, while Zu and Mg by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) and ferritin by radioimmunology assay (RIA). Obtained results demonstrated the significant differences in the studied parameters as compared to the normal subjects.

Hepatitis is an inflammatory disease of the liver and is considered one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Due to its scavenging activity, Punica granatum may be used for the treatment and prevention of liver diseases. The current study investigated the protective mechanism underlying the effects of pomegranate against a rat model of carbon tetrachloride–induced liver injury. Intraperitoneal injection of CCl4 resulted in liver inflammation, oxidative stress, and accumulation of lipid in hepatocytes. CCl4 induced a downregulation of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and melonaldehyde (MDA). Pomegranate protection was assessed in terms of biochemical parameters, histopathology, and immunohistochemistry. Promegranate administration decreased inflammation, elevated serum enzymes and ROS production, and countered the debilitating effects caused by CCl4. In addition, CCl4-induced histological changes were absent in the crude pomegranate extract group, which also enhanced the scavenging activity of reactive oxygen species by enhancing the antioxidant defense mechanism as confirmed by detecting MDA, SOD, and GSH expressions. The migration of CD68+ macrophages was halted at the injured area of the central vein and the number of macrophages was reduced to the normal control by the crude extract compared to the positive control silymarin group. Likewise, protective effects of ethylacetate and the aqueous fraction of the crude extract were also observed. However, the butanol and n-hexane fractions displayed increased levels of ALT, AST, and ALP as compared to silymarin. About 25% damage to hepatocytes was observed in the butanol and n-hexane group by histopathological examination, which is a little better compared to the CCl4-treated group. The crude extract and its ethyl acetate and aqueous fractions may be accountable for the hepatoprotective potential of Punica granatum, which was further confirmed by in vivo experiments. Together, these findings confirm that pomegranate exerts hepatoprotective activity against CCl4-induced oxidative stress and liver damage.

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is one of the emerging viruses around the globe. It belongs to the family Togaviridae and genus Alphavirus and is an arthropod borne virus that transmits by the bite of an infected mosquito, mainly through Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopcitus. It is a spherical, enveloped virus with positive single stranded RNA genome. It was first discovered during 1952-53 in Tanganyika, after which outbreaks were documented in many regions of the world. CHIKV has two transmission cycles; an enzootic sylvatic cycle and an urban cycle. CHIKV genome contains 11,900 nucleotides and two open reading frames and shows great sequence variability. Molecular mechanisms of virus host-cell interactions and the pathogenesis of disease are not fully understood. The disease involves three phases; acute, post-acute and chronic with symptoms including high-grade fever, arthralgia, macupapular rashes and headache. There is no licensed vaccine or specific treatment for CHIKV infection. This lack of specific interventions combined with difficulties in making a precise diagnosis together make the disease difficult to manage. In this review we aim to present the current knowledge of global epidemiology, transmission, structure, various aspects of diagnosis as well as highlight potential antiviral drugs and vaccines against CHIKV.

Venoms are a rich source of potential lead compounds for drug discovery, and descriptive studies of venom form the first phase of the biodiscovery process. In this study, we investigated the pharmacological potential of crude Pseudocerastes and Eristicophis snake venoms in haematological disorders and cancer treatment. We assessed their antithrombotic potential using fibrinogen thromboelastography, fibrinogen gels with and without protease inhibitors, and colourimetric fibrinolysis assays. These assays indicated that the anticoagulant properties of the venoms are likely induced by the hydrolysis of phospholipids and by selective fibrinogenolysis. Furthermore, while most fibrinogenolysis occurred by the direct activity of snake venom metalloproteases and serine proteases, modest evidence indicated that fibrinogenolytic activity may also be mediated by selective venom phospholipases and an inhibitory venom-derived serine protease. We also found that the Pseudocerastes venoms significantly reduced the viability of human melanoma (MM96L) cells by more than 80%, while it had almost no effect on the healthy neonatal foreskin fibroblasts (NFF) as determined by viability assays. The bioactive properties of these venoms suggest that they contain a number of toxins suitable for downstream pharmacological development as candidates for antithrombotic or anticancer agents.

Spodoptera litura is serious pest of many horticultural and agricultural crops. S. litura can cause severe economic loss of crops like cotton, cabbage and okra. Different methods are adopted to control this notorious insect pest throughout the globe but biological control is one of them that proved best against it. In 2019, current study was conducted to check the toxicity of Bacillus thuringiensis on 2nd larval instars under laboratory conditions by using different hosts. Mortality data was recorded at 24, 48 and 72 hours of post treatment. The results showed that maximum mortality was recorded on okra (41.46%) followed by cotton (34.67%) and cabbage (23.87%) after 24 hours. After 72 hours of post treatment, maximum mortality of larvae was observed on Bt treated leaves of cabbage than okra. The results indicated that 100% mortality was recorded on cabbage after 72 hours of treatment. Bt treated cabbage leaves were found most effective with 11.21% mortality while cotton gave least effective results with 9.99%. The current study concluded that microbial control is best approach to control insect pest under laboratory as well as field conditions.

Fractal investigation is a valuable technique to model and quantify the composite patterns of natural similarobjects. This study investigates Neotectonics using ASTER-GDEM. Fractal technique for extraction of topographicfractal dimension (Dtopo) and vertical dissection (Rtopo-surf) were used to assess the Neotectonics deformation.Geomorphological regions can be demarcated by using above mentioned procedures as they reveal the topographicevolutionary stages as an evaluation of topographic textures. The idea is to recognize the zones that are stronglyinfluenced by Neotectonics. Astore-Deosai-Skardu (ADS) region in Gilgit-Baltistan was selected for this purpose as itlies between MKT and MMT which is experiencing surface topographic deformation (STD) caused by anti-clock-wiseprogression and subduction of Indian plate beneath Eurasia. The results obtained illustrates that Dtopo and Rtopo-surf showanomalies in the ADS region that clearly represent a robust control of nearby MMT, MKT and KkF and highlights theirsignificance to describe regions vulnerable to Neotectonics and related deadly events threatening precious human livesand infrastructure damages.

Iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe2O3 NPs) were fabricated through green route using pomegranate (Punica granatum) seeds extract. The Fe2O3 NPs were characterized by UV–vis, XRD, EDX, SEM and AFM techniques. The adopted green rout furnished semi spherical Fe2O3 NPs, uniformly distributed and particle size in the range of 25–55 nm. The LCMS/MS was performed for the identification of biomolecule present in the extract of pomegranate seeds and p-hydroxy benzoic acid, gallic acid, methyl gallate, catechin, kaempferol-3-O-sophoroside, 3-deoxyflavonoids, magnolol, ferulic acid, vanillic acid and pinocembrin along with other minor constituents were detected in the extracts using for Fe2O3 NPs. The synthesized Fe2O3 NPs showed excellent photocatalytic activity against reactive blue under UV light irradiation and maximum degradation of 95.08% was achieved with 56 min of reaction time. In view of promising activity, the Fe2O3 NPs could be used photocatalyst for the degradation of dyes in wastewater and pomegranate seeds extract can be applied as eco-benign and cost effective approach for Fe2O3 NPs synthesis. Keywords: Punica granatum, Green synthesis, Iron oxide nanoparticles, Photocatalysis, Dye degradation

The shortage of fuel in the near future and the change in climate due to greenhouse gases are serious challenges of a global concern, thus it is imperious to explore new sustainable ways to overwhelm these challenges. The need of a new sustainable energy sources has increased the importance of the third generation biofuel produced from non-food stocks such as algae, which possibly represent a great opportunity in the long term. The major challenge of the algae based bio-fuel production is their extraordinary cultivation costs, which make their commercialization economically infeasible. Algal spp. especially Chlorella spp. are capable of thriving in waste water and can accumulate high lipid contents. The aim of the current review was to highlight the possible integration of waste water treatment and algae based bio-fuel production, as a sustainable option for cost effective bio-fuel production along with lower environmental impact.

Wheat is the main source of carbohydrates and amino acids consumed in the world. Amino acids and other physiological characters were determined in six wheat genotypes viz. IBWSN-1010, IBWSN...

Antibiotics are growing environmental contaminants leading to public health concern. Antibiotics are commonly used as growth promoters and therapeutic agents in poultry feed that are not completely metabolized in the body tissues of chicken, get deposited in meat as parent compounds, and ultimately excreted via poultry droppings into the environment. These antibiotics in the soil result into the creation of antibiotic resistance in bacteria via activation of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). The development of ARGs and antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) lead to huge physical and economic losses, as these bacteria cannot be treated with commonly used antibiotics. Moreover, these antibiotics after entering into food chains seriously affect the human immune system, growth, and metabolism of the body. Therefore, to reduce the future health risks of antibiotics, there is a dire need to understand the fate of poultry antibiotics and spread of ARGs in the soil environment. In this manuscript, we reviewed the existing literature about the antibiotics used in the poultry sector, soil contamination through application of poultry manures, and development of ARB in environment. An attempt has been done to present a better understanding of emerging contaminants (ARGs, ARB) in the soil environment and their associated human health effects. In this paper, we summarized the use of antibiotics in the poultry sector, persistence of antibiotics in animal body, and their release into environment. Transfer mechanism of antibiotics and their metabolites to the human body and their fatal effects have been investigated. Developments of ARB and ARGs in the soil due to excessive use of veterinary antibiotics have been highlighted. Poultry antibiotics are causing human health risks by development of ARGs and ARB. Such antibiotic resistance cannot be treated with common antibiotics. Therefore, effective measures are needed to control this emerging problem by improving the efficiency of antibiotics, reducing the spread of resistance genes, and proper monitoring of antibiotics in poultry feed and manure. Manure composting and biochar application are the possible ways to reduce the risk and spread of ARGs in environment due to manure application in agriculture field. The pathways that allow antibiotic, ARGs, and ARB to move through the environment are not fully understood and there is a need for further research to make clear the reservoirs and routes of antibiotic-related contaminants in the ecosystem.

Dichromate [Cr(VI)] induces phytotoxicity either directly by interfering in a plant’s physiological, biochemical, and/or molecular process or indirectly by stimulating reactive oxygen species accumulation (ROS). The underlying mechanism in Cr(VI)-induced ROS mediated phytotoxicity is elusive. In the current study, we investigate the possibility that Cr(VI)-induced alteration in the total biomass production, cell/tissue viability, and cell cycle-related transcriptome is mediated by the accumulation of high ROS level and that ethylene participates in this process. We showed that high Cr(VI) level reduces total biomass, chlorophyll contents, cell/tissue viability, and expression of cell cycle-related genes. Consistently, the oxidative damage and ROS accumulations were significantly increased in the seedlings exposed to higher Cr(VI) concentrations. Furthermore, Cr(VI)-induced EBS::GUS activity and expression level of ethylene signaling and biosynthesis related genes were also reported in the current study. Moreover, Cr(VI)-induced ROS accumulation by down-regulating enzymatic antioxidant system-related genes was slightly increased by the application of exogenous ethylene precursor (ACC), while significantly reduced by ethylene perception and biosynthesis antagonists silver (Ag) and cobalt (Co) respectively. Taken together, our results showed that ethylene mediates dichromate induced ROS accumulation by suppressing the expression level of enzymatic antioxidant enzymes-related genes.

Aim: To propose newer combinations of antibiotics effective against NDM-1-producing bacterial strains. Materials & methods: Antibiotics combinations were tested by checkerboard assay. NDM-1 protein/enzyme was expressed and purified to perform enzyme kinetics, circular dichroism and fluorescence spectroscopic studies. Results: Doripenem–cefoxitin combination and doripenem–tetracycline combination showed synergistic effect toward NDM-1-producing strains. The catalytic efficiency of NDM-1 enzyme was decreased drastically by 96.6% upon doripenem–cefoxitin treatment and by 35.54% after doripenem–tetracycline treatment. Conformational changes were observed in NDM-1 upon combination treatment. Conclusion: NDM-1-producing bacterial strains show resistance to multiple antibiotics but the combination of doripenem–cefoxitin and doripenem–tetracycline are effective against them. The combination of a carbapenem and cephamycin antibiotic is proposed for future treatment options against bacteria-producing NDM-1.

Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don is a medicinal plant that bears indole alkaloids used in cancer chemotherapy. The anticancer alkaloids, viz. vinblastine and vincristine, are mainly present in leaves of C. roseus . As there is high demand and low yield of these alkaloids in C. roseus , alternative ways to improve alkaloid production are needed. Hence, it was hypothesized that Triacontanol (TRIA), a potent plant growth promoting substance for various medicinal and agricultural crops, would improve alkaloid production in C. roseus . A pot culture experiment was carried out and the effects of TRIA on production of total alkaloids including anticancer alkaloids were evaluated at 120 and 150 days after planting. Four concentrations of TRIA [10 -0 (Control) 10 -7 , 10 -6 and 10 -5 M] were tested through leaf spraying. TRIA at 10 -6 M significantly increased yield attributes. As compared to the control (10 -0 M), leaf-applied TRIA at 10 -6 M improved the production (yield) of anticancerous alkaloids vinblastine (+71.6%) and vincristine (+73.1%) and caused the highest content and yield of vindoline.

Background Globally, the prevalence and mortality rates of lung cancer have been escalated with the increasing trend of tobacco smoking. The toxicity and irresponsive nature of the available drugs for lung cancer treatment demands an alternative approach. Methods In this study, four known compounds namely, cirsimaritin (4',5, -dihydroxy-6,7-di-methoxyflavone) (1), eupatorin (5,3'-dihydroxy-6,7,4'-trimethoxyflavone) (2), betulin (Lup-20 (29)-ene-3, 28-diol) (3), and β-amyrin acetate (12-Oleanen-3yl acetate) (4) have been isolated from the leaves extract of Quercus incana. Preliminary screening of these natural compounds (1-4) was performed against non-small cell lung carcinoma (NCI-H460) and normal mouse fibroblast (NIH-3T3) cell lines. Results The compounds were found to be antiproliferative against cancer cells with wide therapeutic index in comparison to the normal cells. Effects of betulin (3) on cell migration, invasion, apoptosis, and expression of important apoptosis- and metastasis-related markers were observed at different concentrations. The results showed significant dose-dependent induction of apoptosis after the treatment with betulin (3) followed by increased expression of the caspases family (ie, caspase-3, -6, and -9), proapoptotic genes (BAX and BAK), and inhibiting anti-apoptotic genes (BCL-2L1 and p53). Furthermore, wound healing and transwell invasion assays suggested that betulin (3) could also regulate metastasis by inhibiting MMP-2/-9. Osteopontin, a central regulator of apoptosis and metastasis was also inhibited in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion The present findings suggest that betulin (3) can be an attractive chemotherapeutic target for treating resistant lung cancers.

Twenty five isolates of epiphytic yeasts were isolated from healthy surface of tomato, mango, lemon, orange, grape fruit and green chili and evaluated for their potential against postharvest Penicillium digitatum decay of kinnow fruits. Identification of yeast was confirmed by molecular biology tools. Twenty isolates have shown maximum in-vitro activity against P. digitatum. Eight effective lead isolates were examined for their potential against postharvest natural infection of P. digitatum on kinnow fruit stored for fifteen days at the room temperature (25–30 °C). All eight isolates showed least infection of P. digitatum with minimum quality loss as compared to a set of control and positive control (1% K sorbate). Isolates HAB-31 and HAB-53 which showed no postharvest decay of kinnow due to P. digitatum were further evaluated on kinnow by artificially spraying of P. digitatum on kinnow fruits. Yeast treated fruit showed least fruit decay with minimum quality changes as compared to control and positive control set.