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To implement sustainable water resource management, the industries that produce a huge amount of wastewater are aiming to recycle wastewater. Reverse osmosis (RO) is an advanced membrane process that can produce potable water from wastewater. However, the presence of diverse pollutants in the wastewater necessitates effective pretreatment to ensure successful RO implementation. This study evaluated the efficiency of microfiltration (MF) and ultrafiltration (UF) as two pretreatment methods prior to RO, i.e., MF-RO and UF-RO, for recycling poultry slaughterhouse wastewater (PSWW). The direct treatment of PSWW with RO (direct RO) was also considered for comparison. In this study, membrane technology serves as a post treatment for PSWW, which was conventionally treated at Sanderson Farm. The results demonstrated that all of the processes, including MF-RO, UF-RO, and direct RO treatment of PSWW, rejected 100% of total phosphorus (TP), over 91.2% of chemical oxygen demand (COD), and 87% of total solids (TSs). Total nitrogen (TN) levels were reduced to 5 mg/L for MF-RO, 4 mg/L for UF-RO, and 9 mg/L for direct RO. In addition, the pretreatment of PSWW with MF and UF increased RO flux from 46.8 L/m2 h to 51 L/m2 h, an increase of approximately 9%. The product water obtained after MF-RO, UF-RO, and direct RO meets the required potable water quality standards for recycling PSWW in the poultry industry. A cost analysis demonstrated that MF-RO was the most economical option among membrane processes, primarily due to MF operating at a lower pressure and having a high water recovery ratio. In contrast, the cost of using RO without MF and UF pretreatments was approximately 2.6 times higher because of cleaning and maintenance expenses related to fouling. This study concluded that MF-RO is a preferable option for recycling PSWW. This pretreatment method would significantly contribute to environmental sustainability by reusing well-treated PSWW for industrial poultry purposes while maintaining cost efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alkylation of N‐substituted imidazoles ImR' (R'=2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl, 2,6‐diisopropylphenyl, 1‐adamantyl) with Mn(I) methylenephosphonium complexes [Cp(CO)2Mn(η2‐P,C‐R2P=C(H)Ph)](BF4) (PR2=PPh2, PCy2, trans‐PC(H)PhCH2CH2C (H)Ph) followed by photochemical demetallation afforded a series of bidentate NHC‐phosphine ligand precursors [R2PC(H)PhImR'](BF4) in moderate to good yield. The same strategy was successfully applied to N‐functionalized imidazoles ImL (L=2‐pyridyl, CH2SMe, CH2ImMe) to afford selectively NHC core pincer pre‐ligands featuring phosphine/thioether, phosphine/NHC and phosphine/pyridine side arms. For PCy2 derivatives, free NHCs in both bidentate and pincer series generated by deprotonation of the corresponding cationic precursors were shown to be persistent at room temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Normal vaginal delivery is frequently associated with perineal trauma that can be iatrogenic (episiotomy) or spontaneous. Episiotomy is the most common surgical procedure in obstetrics being performed in approximately 20% of deliveries Objective: To compare the efficacy of lignocaine Jelly versus lignocaine injection during perineum repair after episiotomy in normal vaginal delivery. Methods: This study was carried out at Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shalamar Hospital, Lahore during September 2020 - Feb 2021. For this randomized control trial, a total of 160 women fulfilling selection criteria were recruited for study from labour room. Informed consent was obtained from each case. Women were then segregated in group A& B and treatment was randomly allotted using lottery method, while in group A 2% lignocaine Jelly was applied on their perineum during active phase of labour at 8-9 cm cervical dilatation, before estimated time of one hour pre delivery. Women in group B were administered 10 ml of 1% lignocaine injection locally at the proposed site of episiotomy just before crowning. Results: The average ages of the cases among Group-A i.e. Lignocaine Jelly group and Lignocaine injection group (group-B) was 26.20 ± 3.32 years and 26.46 ±3.47 years respectively. The mean gestational age in Lignocaine Jelly group was 38.65 ± 0.90 weeks and in Lignocaine injection group was 38.67 ± 0.87 weeks. The mean BMI in Lignocaine Jelly and injection group was 26.70 ± 1.39 and 26.46 ± 2.20 respectively. Average pain score observed in Lignocaine Jelly was 3.58±1.06, whereas in Lignocaine injection group was 4.39 ± 1.26. There was statistically significant difference in average pain scores as the mean pain score in the Lignocaine Jelly group was lower compared with Lignocaine injection group (p-value=0.001). In Lignocaine Jelly group 77(96.2%) females were satisfied while in Lignocaine injection group 68(85%) cases were satisfied, higher satisfaction rate was seen in lignocaine Jelly group, p-value (0.015) Conclusion: Women to whom lignocaine Jelly was applied before episiotomy had less mean VAS Pain Score and higher satisfaction rate during perineal repair than women who were given lignocaine injection for perineal repair. So lignocaine Jelly can be used as a good alternative of local infiltration of lignocaine injection, in term of less pain, less adverse effects and more patient satisfaction during perineal repair of birth process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India is the second most populous country in the world and stood at seventh rank in a major climate risk index in 2019, which is a grave concern for the Indian government, policymakers and environmentalists. Therefore, the present study examines the role of fiscal policy and monetary policy instruments along with select macroeconomic variables on carbon emission in India over the period 1971–2019 in the non‐linear framework. The outcome of the study reveals that the impact of fiscal and monetary policy instruments on carbon emission is asymmetric in nature. In addition, the positive and negative shocks in fiscal and monetary policy instruments have a positive and negative impact on carbon emissions, respectively. Based on the coefficients' magnitude, the role of fiscal policy instruments has a more prominent effect on carbon emissions than monetary policy instruments. The findings of the study imply that the Indian government is required to implement green fiscal and monetary policies. Use fiscal policy to implement a 'green tax ratio' and a 'green subsidy programme' for manufacturers and investors to reduce CO2 emissions. A 'green lending programme' should be introduced for commercial banks by implementing monetary policy via the central bank. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work focuses on the sequestration of Cu(II) from aqueous environment owing to the risks posed to human health. A magnetic hybrid aerogel (mGO‐TETA‐MWCNT) was synthesized by one‐pot self‐assembly of magnetic graphene oxide (mGO) and multiwalled carbon‐nanotubes (MWCNT) post functionalization with triethylenetetramine (TETA) through hydrothermal reduction. The prepared adsorbent was characterized and employed for efficient removal of Cu(II). The aerogel, mGO‐TETA‐MWCNT presented maximum adsorption capacity (Qmax) of 232.22 mg g−1 at Box‐Behnken design optimized conditions: pH 5.6, time 36.7 min, and concentration 999.7 mg L−1. The Brouers‐Sotolongo (BS) isotherm and Fractal‐like pseudo‐second‐order (FLPSO) kinetic model fitted best representing heterogeneity of the hybrid adsorbent. The presence of interferent metal ions(Ni(II), Pb(II), Cd(II), Zn(II)) showed negligible effect on the selective sorption of Cu(II). The prepared adsorbent could be regenerated upto five cycles (>95 % removal) when eluted using 0.5 m HCl. The aerogel was successfully utilized to remove Cu(II) from wastewater, river‐water, and groundwater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Allelopathy is recognised as a potential technology to control weeds, and could also be a suitable approach for enhancement of crop yield. Aims: The study was conducted to investigate the allelopathic role of Averrhoa carambola leaf extract on growth, anatomical and physiological features of three wheat lines, namely 3094, 7076 and A2011. Methods: Three dilutions i.e. 0% (control), 15% and 30% of the leaf aqueous extract were applied at 15 day intervals (total five applications) on wheat lines until maturity. Key results: All wheat lines showed differential behaviour to allelochemicals of A. carambola leaf extract. Increased root area was accompanied by a high proportion of storage parenchyma tissues and enlarged vascular bundles in line 3094. Disintegration of root cortical parenchyma and complete transformation of chlorenchyma into sclerenchyma in stem was recorded in all wheat lines, particularly at the highest concentration of leaf extract. Line 7076 showed very different behaviour, as it possessed a proportionally enlarged root cortex, enlarged stem vascular bundles and increased leaf thickness, primarily at the highest concentration of leaf extract. Line A2011 was relatively more sensitive, indicating a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in root and stem area and deformed leaves. Conclusions: A low concentration (15%) of leaf extract promoted growth and development, whereas a higher concentration caused significant reduction in growth and anatomical attributes. Implications: A lower dose of Averrhoa leaf extract promoted growth and development in all wheat lines, and hence can be used as a growth promoter. A higher concentration is important for eradicating unwanted plants. Wheat lines were treated with allelochemicals extracted from A. carambola. A low treatment concentration led to increased root area, accompanied by a high proportion of storage parenchyma tissues, and enlarged vascular bundles. Using a high extract concentration, root cortical parenchyma collapsed while stem chlorenchyma was transformed to sclerenchyma. Line 7076 responded differently, as it possessed an enlarged root cortical proportion, enlarged stem vascular bundles and increased leaf thickness. A low concentration (15%) of leaf extract promoted growth, whereas a higher concentration (30%) caused significant reduction in morpho-anatomical traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To find out the mediating role of perceived social support between perfectionism and self-harm in medical and nursing students. Methodology: This Cross-sectional research design using questionnaires was conducted in the government and private medical universities of Pakistan (Lahore). The total 250 number of participants were chosen by using multi-stage sampling techniques, in which two strata were made, MBBS (145) and nursing students (105). The participants belonged to private and government sector with the age range 18-25 years. There are different characteristics of students that, these students had sense of responsibility, compassionate with their work and they are truthfulness to commitments. To determine the association, Perfectionistic Tendencies Scale (PTS), Multidimensional Perceived Social Support (MDSPSS) and Self-harm Tendencies Scales (SHTS) were used respectively. Statistical results of this research were analysed by using SPSS. Results. The findings highlighted that there was a significant positive association between perfectionism and self-harm tendencies (r=.171, p=.05) in students. Respectively, mediation analysis showed that perceived social support is significantly mediated between perfectionism and self-harm tendencies in students (ß = .21, SE = .08, p< .001). Conclusion: Perceived social support act as significant shield for perfectionists to prevent from self-harm and mental health issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Hair is the most frequent type of evidence found on the crime scene and plays a vital role in criminal investigation. The presence of hair on the scene of crime confirms the presence of the victim or the suspect on the crime scene. Hair examination can provide various information such as race, age, gender, color, disease, treatment or any damage to the hair. Microscopic examination provides information about the hair such as species, ethnicity, its color, area of the origin from the body, whether plucked forcibly or shed hairs and any modifications caused due to the result of cosmetic application. The study aimed to observe the physical and microscopic changes between normal hairs and treated hair samples with different hair dyes within a span of 20 days. Materials and Methods: Hair samples were treated with black, brown and burgundy colour dyes of Garnier, Godrej Expert Rich and Streax brands and analyzed under phase-contrast microscope. Results and Conclusions: In this study, it was noted that most of the dyes from the hair were washed away in single washing with shampoo. However, Streax Black and Godrej Brown were not effected in single wash with shampoo. Lastly, it is observed that black hair dye remained even after washing with shampoo. Such study can aid us in criminal investigation in the case of presence of dyed hair as evidence on the crime scene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main aim of current study was to perform in silico functional analysis of all reported RPIA mutations. In silico analysis was done using different tools i.e. trRosetta tool, Autodock Vina, PatchDock and iMODS. Among all the reported mutations, lowest percentage identity of 4.69% with wild-type protein was shown by splice site mutation, while highest percentage identity of 78.78%, was shown by p.Ser61Val mutation. In protein-substrate docking, wild-type protein was docking with substrate with 11 different bonds. However in case of mutant protein highest interaction with substrate molecule was shown by mutant p.Ile257Thr proteins via 13 different bonds, while lowest interaction was noted in mutant p.Asn255Ilefs17Term protein via 5 bonds. From the results, it was concluded that the binding of RPIA with ribose 5-phosphate is altered by the type of amino acid substitution, as well as the nature and number of bonds, which are capable to influence its biological activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

α-1-antichymotrypsin (ACT) is a serine proteinase inhibitor that controls the activity of proteases like chymotrypsin, cathepsin G and mast cell chymase. Familial variants of ACT results in liver and lung diseases, but it is also reported to be associated with several other disease conditions. ACT is mainly synthesized in the liver using four coding exons, namely E1, E2, E3 and E4 encoding a 423 amino acid protein that also includes a 23 amino acid signal peptide. It is found to be associated with amyloid plaques and is elevated during inflammatory response and modulates cytokine based signal transduction pathways, independent of its anti-protease activity. Therefore, the multispecificity of ACT and its non-inhibitory roles in diseased conditions warrants an assessment of possible existence of the other isoforms. Consequently, scanning of introns, 5′ and 3′ region of the ACT gene using computational tools like FGENESH and FEX did indicate the presence of coding regions. Using a combined approach of bioinformatics and molecular biology, we have found one novel exon located in the intronic region between exons E1 and E2, that splices with exon E2 and replaces N-terminal exon E1, generating an ACT isoform with a novel 151 base pair N-terminus. This isoform was found to lack the signal sequence and is smaller in size but its reactive centre loop remains intact. A truncated transcript was also confirmed with an extension of the E3 by a 12 nucleotide intronic region including a stop codon. Modelling studies show that due to removal of E4 this isoform lacks the RCL. Novel isoform ACT-N lacks E1 but has a conserved RCL. However, due to loss of strands of β-sheet A, it may also be inactive, but with ability to bind the target proteases. The novel truncated ACT-T isoform lacks the RCL and may have a non-inhibitory role. These hypothesis will need further work for functional validation. • α-1 antichymotrypsin (ACT) is a inhibitory serpin that inhibits chymotrypsin type serine proteases. • ACT role in several diseases is predicted to be non-inhibitory. • We use computational tool to identify intronic region within the ACT gene that may be alternatively spliced with the exons. • Using intron-exon junction based primers and mRNA from liver we predict expression of two novel isoforms of ACT. • ACT-N isoform has a novel sequence at the N-terminal and lacks the signal sequence. • ACT-T is the truncated form without the protease recognition RCL sequence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

7-Hydroxycoumarin's FT-IR solid phase spectra were observed at 4000–400 cm−1. The spectra were analyzed in aspects of significant approaches. DFT was used to optimize the structure of the compound and its structural properties. The molecular properties were also determined by the HF/3-21G level. The bond lengths and bond angles were obtained by the computational study of the optimized geometry. The vibrational frequencies were determined in all these approaches, which were then matched to experimental frequencies, yielding an excellent agreement between measured and estimated frequency ranges. The UV–visible spectrum of 7HC was obtained and the electronic characteristics HOMO and LUMO energies were monitored by the time-dependent TD-DFT method. The spectral behavior of 7-Hydroxycoumarin was studied using fluorescence spectroscopy in a wide range of polar and non-polar solvents. Solvatochromic effect was observed in both the fluorescence and absorption spectra. The structural properties, energies, IR intensities, absorption wavelengths, and harmonic vibrational frequencies were compared with the obtainable experimental information of the molecule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuroserpin is a serine protease inhibitor expressed mainly in the brain and at low levels in other tissues like the kidney, testis, heart, and spinal cord. It is involved in the inhibition of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), plasmin, and to a lesser extent, urokinase‐type plasminogen (uPA). Neuroserpin has also been shown to plays noninhibitory roles in the regulation of N‐cadherin‐mediated cell adhesion. It is involved in neuroprotection from seizure and stroke through tPA‐mediated inhibition and also through its other protease targets. Mutations in critical domains of neuroserpin lead to its polymerization and neuronal death. In this study, a novel truncated isoform of human neuroserpin was identified in the brain and liver, which was confirmed by reverse transcriptase‐PCR and DNA sequencing using exon‐specific primers. Structural characterization of novel isoform using MD simulations studies indicated that it lacks the reactive center loop (RCL) but largely maintains its secondary structure fold. The novel truncated variant was cloned, expressed, and purified. A comparative intrinsic fluorescence and 4,4′‐bis‐1‐anilino naphthalene 8‐sulfonate studies revealed a decrease in fluorescence emission intensity and a more exposed hydrophobic surface as compared to the reported isoform. However, the novel isoform has lost its ability for tPA inhibition and complex formation. The absence of RCL indicates a noninhibitory role for the truncated isoform, prompting a detailed search and identification of two smaller isoforms in the human brain. With indications of the noninhibitory role of neuroserpin, identifying novel isoforms that appear to be without the tPA recognition domain is significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted to examine the Emotional Maturity and Perceived Loneliness of adolescents with respect to the presence and absence of parents. It was hypothesized that the absence or presence of parents of adolescents would affect the level of emotional maturity and perceived loneliness among adolescents. The adolescent participants N=250 (males n=125 and females n=125; age range= 13-18; M=16.63; SD=0.87) were approached through purposive convenient sampling technique. Measures included the Emotional Maturity Scale and the UCLA loneliness scale V-III. Results indicated that adolescent who lived with their guardians had greater perceived loneliness than those who lived with their parents. However, adolescents who were living with their parents had lower Emotional Maturity. A significant negative but weak/moderate relationship was found between Perceived Loneliness and Emotional Maturity (r=-.28). The findings of this study can be useful in clinical settings to counsel adolescents who are facing conflicts with step- or absent- parents, or feel lonely in the presence of their parents as well as in therapies and have disrupted levels of emotional maturity. Moreover, it can benefit the psychological community by providing the opportunity to find solutions to relevant problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuroserpin is a serine protease inhibitor expressed mainly in the brain and at low levels in other tissues like the kidney, testis, heart, and spinal cord. It is involved in the inhibition of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), plasmin, and to a lesser extent, urokinase-type plasminogen (uPA). Neuroserpin has also been shown to plays noninhibitory roles in the regulation of N-cadherinmediated cell adhesion. It is involved in neuroprotection from seizure and stroke through tPA-mediated inhibition and also through its other protease targets. Mutations in critical domains of neuroserpin lead to its polymerization and neuronal death. In this study, a novel truncated isoform of human neuroserpin was identified in the brain and liver, which was confirmed by reverse transcriptase-PCR and DNA sequencing using exon-specific primers. Structural characterization of novel isoform using MD simulations studies indicated that it lacks the reactive center loop (RCL) but largely maintains its secondary structure fold. The novel truncated variant was cloned, expressed, and purified. A comparative intrinsic fluorescence and 4,40-bis-1-anilino naphthalene 8-sulfonate studies revealed a decrease in fluorescence emission intensity and a more exposed hydrophobic surface as compared to the reported isoform. However, the novel isoform has lost its ability for tPA inhibition and complex formation. The absence of RCL indicates a noninhibitory role for the truncated isoform, prompting a detailed search and identification of two smaller isoforms in the human brain. With indications of the noninhibitory role of neuroserpin, identifying novel isoforms that appear to be without the tPA recognition domain is significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During inflammation and situations of cellular stress protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) is released in the blood plasma from the platelet and endothelial cells to influence thrombosis. The addition of exogenous PDI makes the environment pro-thrombotic by inducing disulfide bond formation in specific plasma protein targets like vitronectin, factor V, and factor XI. However, the mechanistic details of PDI interaction with its target remain largely unknown. A decrease in the coagulation time was detected in activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), prothrombin time (PT), and thrombin time (TT) on addition of the purified recombinant PDI (175 nM). The coagulation time can be controlled using an activator (quercetin penta sulfate, QPS) or an inhibitor (quercetin 3-rutinoside, Q3R) of PDI activity. Likewise, the PDI variants that increase the PDI activity (H399R) decrease, and the variant with low activity (C53A) increases the blood coagulation time. An SDS-PAGE and Western blot analysis showed that the PDI does not form a stable complex with either thrombin or antithrombin (ATIII) but it uses the ATIII-thrombin complex as a template to bind and maintain its activity. A complete inhibition of thrombin activity on the formation of ATIII-thrombin-PDI complex, and the complex-bound PDI-catalyzed disulfide bond formation of the target proteins may control the pro- and anti-thrombotic role of PDI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of rural infrastructure is an important component in improving the standard of living in developing countries. In India, the government has taken up numerous measures to contribute toward the development of rural infrastructure, thereby initiating the Bharat Nirman Yojana (BNY). In this research study, the Malmquist model of input‐oriented DEA has been conducted to determine the efficiency of six schemes of the BNY for the time period of 2013–2015. The input variables selected were; designated investment and total amount released by the central government against the output variable of number of villages covered or achieved. The analysis of the data observed that only the telecommunication scheme has constant efficiency of 1.000 for all the years. On the other hand, the least efficiency from the Constant Return to Scale model was found for Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP) (0.014 for 2013; 0.026 for 2014 and 0.007 for 2015). Again, the Variable Return to Scale model indicated technical efficiency for the electrification scheme and telecommunication for all the years. Further, in terms of technical efficiency, all the schemes had decreasing change where Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) showed the highest change with 99.98% and the telecommunication scheme reflected the least change. Furthermore, the productivity index was found to be highest for Telecommunications (1.443) followed by AIBP (1.312), and the lowest productivity index was found for Rajiv Gandhi Gramin Vidyutikaran Yojana (RGGVY) (0.353). Thus, it was interpreted that among all the schemes, telecommunications scheme was the most efficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Static fluorescence quenching with redshift was observed for Lyz-PT and Lyz-BT systems. • Conformation and microenvironmental changes were confirmed by 3D fluorescence and CD analysis. • Metal ions and β-cd exerted a profound effect on the binding strength of Lyz-PT and Lyz-BT systems. • Binding energy values were −4.23 kcal M - 1 (Lyz-PT system) and −4.71 kcal M - 1 (Lyz-BT system). • Docking and ASAs analysis showed interaction of several amino acid residues of Lyz with PT and BT. Phenyl isothiocyanate and benzoyl isothiocyanate are the phytochemicals present in the Brassicaceae family. They have antibacterial, antiapoptotic and antifungal properties. Protein-small molecule interaction studies are done to assess the changes in structure, dynamics, and functions of protein and to decipher the binding mechanism. This study is based on the comparative binding of PT and BT with human lysozyme using in vitro and computational techniques. UV, fluorescence emission, and FRET spectra gave insight into the complex formation, quenching mechanism, and binding parameters. Both PT and BT quenched the intrinsic fluorescence of Lyz by a static quenching mechanism. Synchronous, 3D fluorescence and CD spectroscopy substantiated conformational and microenvironmental alterations in the Lyz. The metal ions and β-cyclodextrin had a pronounced effect on the binding strength of Lyz-PT and Lyz-BT complexes. Accessible surface area analysis was determined to characterise the amino acid residue packing. Molecular docking further validated the wet lab experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mountain ecosystem is a perfect podium to investigate the impact of climate change on overall community structure and species composition. The Potohar region in Pakistan was chosen to study changes in grass-species diversity and the distributional pattern along an altitudinal range of 1000 m (from 400 m to 1400 m). The major objectives of the study were to prepare grass-species listing and species composition, and patterns of their dominance and distribution at various habitats. Three sites separated by a distance of 50 km were selected at each altitude and three transect lines (each of 100 m) were laid at a distance of 500 m. Then five sub-transect lines were laid at distance of 50 m on which five quadrats (1 × 1 m2) were laid systematically with a distance of 10 m between the successive quadrats. The diversity of the grass species is high and 114 species were recorded therein. Six grasses, Aristida adscensionis, Cynodon dactylon, Chrysopogon serrulatus, Cymbopogon jwarancusa, Dichanthium annulatum and Panicum orientale, are widely distributed at all altitudinal ranges. Species like A. adscensionis, Cenchrus ciliaris, C. jwarancusa, C. dactylon, Ochthochloa compressa, Panicum antidotale, Paspalum distichum and Phragmites karka dominate because of their high degree of tolerance to multiple stresses. These dominant grasses are highly palatable and support livestock and endemic wildlife species. The distributional range of other grasses is altitudinal-specific and is directly linked to the physiographic parameters and climate variables that influence species richness, dominance, community structure and species distributional pattern along altitudinal gradients. Over-harvesting for essential oil and other medicinal purposes are identified as major threats to species like Cymbopogon martini and Chrysopogon zizanioides. The findings of this study are useful in investigating the composition of grass species of the sub-mountainous rangelands and in developing conservation strategies for rare and endangered species in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heparin cofactor II (HCII) is predominantly expressed in the liver and inhibits thrombin in blood plasma to influence the blood coagulation cascade. Its deficiency is associated with arterial thrombosis. Its cleavage by neutrophil elastase produces fragment that helps in neutrophil chemotaxis in the acute inflammatory response in human. In the present study, we have identified a novel alternatively spliced transcript of the HCII gene in human liver. This novel transcript includes an additional novel region in continuation with exon 3 called exon 3b. Exon 3b acts like an alternate last exon, and hence its inclusion in the transcript due to alternative splicing removes exon 4 and encodes for a different C‐terminal region to give a novel protein, HCII‐N. MD simulations of HCII‐N and three‐dimensional structure showed a unique 51 amino acid sequence at the C‐terminal having unique RCL‐like structure. The HCII‐N protein purified from bacterial culture showed a protein migrating at lower molecular weight (MW 55 kDa) as compared to native HCII (MW 66 kDa). A fluorescence‐based analysis revealed a more compact structure of HCII‐N that was in a more hydrophilic environment. The HCII‐N protein, however, showed no inhibitory activity against thrombin. Due to large conformational variation observed in comparison with native HCII, HCII‐N may have alternate protease specificity or a non‐inhibitory role. Western blot of HCII purified from large plasma volume showed the presence of a low MW 59 kDa band with no thrombin activity. This study provides the first evidence of alternatively spliced novel isoform of the HCII gene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An investigation was carried out to evaluate the impact of the allelopathic effect of Alstonia scholaris leaf extract on morphoanatomical and physiological characteristics of 5 wheat lines. Three extract dilutions were prepared, viz. 0 (control), 15 and 30% of the aqueous extract and sprayed on wheat lines (3094, 5066, M5082, 7076 and A2011) at 15-day intervals until maturity from November 2017 to May 2018. All wheat lines responded differently to an allelochemical extract of A. scholaris. Disintegration of root parenchyma and transformation of stem chlorenchyma to sclerenchyma in stems were noted in Line 3094. Increased sclerification in the root cortex (141.7-212.5 µm) and stem hypodermal region (212.5-354.2 µm) was recorded in Line 5066. Line M5082 showed intensive sclerification in the root cortex and vascular region, and around stem vascular bundles along with a significant decrease in leaf thickness. Line 7076 was the most sensitive genotype showing significant reduction in the stem (1402.8-821.8 µm) and root area (963.5- 791.9 µm) and leaf thickness (1346.2-396.8 µm). Line A2011 responded very differently by increasing proportion of parenchyma and sclerenchyma. A low concentration (15%) of allelochemical extract promoted growth and development and a high concentration (30%) was toxic, causing growth retardation and tissue damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the effectiveness and complications of bolus versus continuous tube feeding in pre-term newborns <1500 grams. Study Design: Quasi-experimental study Place and Duration of Study: Neonatology Department of Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences Islamabad, from Nov 2014 to Mar 2016. Methodology: A total of 60 pre-terms; <34 weeks meeting the inclusion criteria, were included in the study and grouped according to birth weight; group A between 1000 to 1250 grams, and group B between 1250 to 1500 grams. Newborns from each group were randomly selected for bolus feeds given intermittently after every 2 hours, and continuous feed given with infusion pump. All infants were maintained in closed incubators until they weighed approximately 1800 g and the neonatal staff followed standard nursery protocols other than for feeding. Results: There were 10 patients (9 in the bolus group and 1 in the continuous group) who did not reach the end point of 150 mL/Kg/day. One was transferred to another hospital before completing the protocol; 2 were diagnosed with congenital syphilis and Rubella syndrome; 1 switched to breast feeding due to parental concerns; 1 required the surgery for intestinal malrotation, and 5 died. The number of days to achieve full feeding calculated from the initiation of feeding was not significantly different between the groups. The main daily gastric residual volumes were significantly lower in the continuous group than in the bolus group, as was the total number of patients with feeding interruptions. Conclusion: Birth weight was inversely related to days to achieve full enteral feeding. The method of feeding was not associated with differences in outcome when similar energy intakes were provided and when guidelines for discontinuation of feedings are followed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the nexus between oil prices (Oil) and economic output (IIP) asymmetrically in the Indian context using quarterly data from 1996–1997:Q1 to 2019–2020:Q4. To this end, we have used a nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag (NARDL) model. The main findings of the study are as follows—firstly, the Wald test confirms the nonlinearities among the negative and positive shocks in Oil, EX and IR in the long run. Secondly, the NARDL model reveals that negative shock in oil price stimulate the IIP, whereas positive shock in Oil fails to influence IIP. The positive shock in EX strengthens the Indian economy by having a positive and significant impact on IIP, while the negative shock in EX is insignificant. The positive and negative shocks in IR negatively impact IIP in the long run. The study demonstrates that Oil, EX and IR exert asymmetric pressure on IIP in the long run. Concisely, India's economic output is more responsive to oil prices decrease than oil prices increase. Therefore, the asymmetric oil prices‐economic output nexus has substantial policy implications, particularly for prudent energy policy in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agriculture is an important sector that plays a key role in the economic growth of countries. Innovative agricultural advancements has undoubtedly supported the expansion of the capacity and efficiency of different agricultural activities. According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization assessment, the world's population is expected to reach 8.5 billion by 2030, and 9.6 billion by 2050 which will result in an unprecedented demand for food and agriculture products. It is estimated that the food production should increase by 70 percent to meet such a demand. Given the limited farming space, lack of water, climate change, and constantly changing environmental conditions, new and innovative smart agriculture solutions must be developed. In general, there has been an increase in the agricultural production volume over the time to ensure the food security. Efforts are being made to increase the quality and quantity of agribusiness products by transforming them into smart and connected products through a smart agriculture industry. Smart and precision agriculture refers to the integration of technology, such as the Internet of things, sensors, robotics, artificial intelligence, smart supply chains, big data analytics, and blockchain, into the agriculture industry. The Internet of things era is the umbrella that covers and enables the other technological tools. Smart technology integration can lead to a more productive and efficient agriculture via reducing the need for manual human interactions and making proactive intelligent decisions. This article aims at providing a survey on smart and sustainable agriculture focusing on its enabling technologies while providing future directions for improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Phenotypic plasticity is exceptionally high in A. adscensionis. • Survival in environmental heterogeneity is due to specific anatomical modifications. • Sclerification protects plants organs from collapse and desiccation. • Water conservation is a prime strategy in A. adscensionis for survival. Abstract Aristida adscensionis L. is a widely distributed grass species that particularly invades Potohar region (arid/semi-arid conditions) of the country. Exploration of adaptive components in this grass in relation to altitudinal gradient is the first attempt. Plant samples were collected from 6 different altitudinal ranges, viz. 400, 600, 800, 1000, 1200 and 1400 m a.s.l. Morpho-anatomical and physiological features along altitudinal gradient varied significantly that showed phenotypic plasticity in this species to inhabit a variety of environmental conditions. Stomata at 400 m altitude were larger and rhomboid-shaped, which changed to narrowly elliptic at moderate elevations and circular at high elevations. Growth and biomass production were maximum at 800–1000 m a.s.l. along with most of the morpho-anatomical and physiological features like proportion of vascular tissue, nutrient uptake, and chlorophyll pigments. Xeromorphy was high in plants colonisng at 1200 m elevations, which was indicated by an intensive sclerification, increased amount of storage parenchyma, increased vascular bundle number, deeply grooved bulliform cells, and dense pubescence on adaxial leaf surface. Leaf succulence was the unique feature in plants inhabiting 1400 m elevation. Another prominent feature was the development of chlorenchyma inner to stem epidermis. All these features reflect the tolerance capacity of A. adsecnsionis against environmental adversaries like salinity, aridity and low temperatures of the Potohar region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bovine serum albumin (BSA) is a model carrier protein that transports and deposits the various endogenous and exogenous ligands in the body. β-resorcylic acid (BR) is a phyto-phenolic molecule mainly used in the food industry because of its antibacterial, flavouring and preservative nature. The interactions of small ligand molecules with proteins are of great importance for researchers from the pharmacology perspective. This article explains the mechanism of binding of BR with BSA with the help of multi-spectroscopic approaches and molecular modelling. The UV absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy affirmed the formation of BSA-BR complex. The thermodynamic studies confirmed the nature of the reaction to be spontaneous and exothermic, and the stabilisation of the complex by van der Waals interactions and hydrogen bonding. The energy transfer was found to occur with a high probability. BR induced the microenvironmental and conformational alterations BSA as revealed by synchronous spectra, 3D fluorescence maps, circular dichroism (CD), resonance-enhanced Rayleigh scattering (RRS), red edge excitation shift (REES) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR). The β-cyclodextrin (β-cd), metals and vitamins largely influenced the BR-BSA binding strength. Competitive displacement assays further elucidated the BR binds to BSA at subdomain IIIA (site II). Molecular docking and simulations computationally validated the results of the wet lab experiments. [Display omitted] • The BSA-BR complex was affirmed with 1:1 binding stoichiometry and quenching in static mode. • The binding reaction was spontaneous and exothermic, involving van der Waals forces and hydrogen bonding. • The binding strength was found to change in the presence of metal ions, vitamins and β-cd. • BR binds with BSA near subdomain IIIA (site II). • BR induced minor changes in the conformation and microenvironment in BSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To compare and evaluate the clinical and radiographic performance, post-operative pain, and anti-inflammatory intake after partial pulpotomy (PP) with calcium hydroxide (CH), mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), Biodentine (BD), and Emdogain (EMD) as pulp capping agents in mature permanent molars with definitive diagnosis of reversible pulpitis. Materials and methods: As part of this prospective, randomized clinical trial with four parallel arms (CTRI Registration No.: CTRI/2020/11/029329 dated 24/11/2020), hundred and ten permanent molars with a clinical diagnosis of reversible pulpitis and normal apical tissues, from patients between the ages of 15 and 45 years, were recruited and randomly assigned to four groups—CH, MTA, BD, and EMD. Operative procedure was performed under local anesthesia and dental dam isolation. After carious pulpal exposure, 2 mm of superficially inflamed coronal pulp tissue was amputated and either of the four pulp capping materials was placed. The outcome assessment was carried out at 1, 3, 6, and 12 month(s) and was categorized as success (asymptomatic patients with PAI score = 1) or failure (symptomatic patients or PAI score > 1). Results: There was a significant difference in post-operative pain and anti-inflammatory medication intake after partial pulpotomy with Emdogain vis-à-vis other three capping agents. No difference in both clinical and radiographic performances was observed among the four capping agents. Conclusion: Partial pulpotomy when performed following evidence-based guidelines results in high success rates regardless of capping agent employed. EMD can be considered a valid and suitable pulp capping agent in PP. Clinical relevance: Meticulous examination and removal of superficially inflamed pulp under magnification and complete asepsis lead to successful pulpal healing regardless of capping agent employed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute methanol poisoning produces severe metabolic acidosis, increased anion and osmolal gaps. These metabolic disturbances are due to accumulation of formic acid with has serious neurological sequelae. If renal functions starts deteriorating that is associated with increased mortality. Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce morbidity and mortality. Treatment include infusion of sodium bicarbonate and administration of ethanol orally or parentally to inhibit the production of formic acid from methanol. Hemodialysis is helpful in removal of methanol and its breakdown products from circulation and also in correcting acidosis. We report the case of a boy admitted to the emergency room with a history of acute illness, characterized by nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, and shortness of breath. Arterial blood gases showed severe metabolic acidosis with high anion gap. He had ingested large quantity of alcohol containing methanol. The patient was managed with hemodialysis and strong intravenous hydration. He improved well and made a full recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural populations of a desert halophyte Sporobolus ioclados were investigated to explore morpho-anatomical and physiological modifications at differently salt-affected habitats. Derawar Fort (DF) was the least affected site, Trawaywala Toba and Bailahwala Dahar (BD) were moderately saline sites and Ladam Sir (LS) and Pati Sir (PS) were highly saline sites. At root level, S. ioclados showed increased root cross-sectional area, epidermal and endodermal thicknesses, and greater proportion of cortical parenchyma as salinity level of the habitat increased. Sclerification of outer cortex was visible only at the highest saline site. Decreased stem area, epidermal cell area, cortical and vascular bundle cell area, and increased hypodermal thickness at stem level were recorded with increase in the salinity level of the habitats. At leaf level, S. ioclados showed smaller and thicker leaves, increased epidermis thickness, and well-developed bulliform cells, increased mesophyll area and increased trichome density under high salinities. The plants at high salinities were better adapted in terms of growth, exclusion, internal structure, and restricted uptake of Na + by roots, accompanied by increased concentration of K + and Ca 2+ in shoots. All these changes may be an evolutionary strategy that has been developed by the S. ioclados plants during the long process of evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Grasses dominated diverse habitats, due to their specific adaptive strategies. • Root morpho-anatomical characteristics are more developed at lower elevations. • Anatomical modifications were specific and related to water conservation. • Structural and functional attributes contribute to widespread distribution of grasses. The adaptability potential of plants enables them to colonize diverse habitats along elevation gradients. Studying these adaptive traits and linking them to environmental attributes provide useful information to understand limitations imposed by elevation gradients on distribution of plant species. To meet these objectives, six most dominant perennial grass species with broad distributional ranges along an elevation gradient from 300–1400 m a.s.l in northern Punjab (Pakistan) were selected for the present study. Dominance of different grass species were linked to proportion of parenchyma, sclerification of aerial plant parts, size of vascular tissue, leaf thickness, and size and density of trichomes. Chrysopogon serrulatus dominated all elevations except the highest one, which was directly linked to increased root area and high proportion of storage parenchyma, vascular region, large metaxylem vessels, increased sclerification in aerial parts, and size and density of trichomes. Cymbopogon jwarancusa dominated lower and middle elevations (300–1000 m) and exhibited increased sclerification in stem and leaves, higher vascular bundle area, and, increased leaf sheath thickness. Lognormal distribution exhibited a non-linear response for eco-morphological and physiological characteristics with decreasing pattern along increase in elevation. Physiological traits responded negatively in response to climatic variables. Root anatomical traits exhibited nonlinear response at lower elevation, while stem traits responded positively at medium elevational gradients (700–1000 m). Leaf sheath showed positive response with elevation and temperature. In conclusion, morpho-physiological and anatomical modifications were specific to grasses studied, which contributed differently towards growth and survival along elevation gradient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micro and macro-morphological features contribute to plants' tolerance to a variety of environmental pollutants. The contribution of such structural modifications in the phytoremediation potential of Diplachne fusca populations collected from five saline habitats were explored when treated with 100 to 400 mM NaCl for 75 days along with control. Structural modifications in the populations from the highest salinity included development of aerenchyma in stem instead of chlorenchyma, absence of excretory hairs in stem, and exceptionally large trichomes on the leaf surface to help excretion of excess salt. Large parenchyma cells provided more space for water and solute storage, while broad metaxylem vessels were linked to better conduction water and nutrients, which ultimately excreted via glandular hairs, microhairs, and vesicular hairs. Broad metaxylem vessels and exceptionally long hairs observed in the populations collected from 52 dS m−1. In conclusion, large stem aerenchyma, exceptionally large trichomes on the leaf surface, and tightly packed outer cortical region in roots with intensive sclerification just inside the epidermis accompanied with salt excretion via glandular hairs, microhairs, and vesicular hairs were the main anatomical modifications involved in the phytoremediation potential of D. fusca in hyper-saline environments. Morpho-anatomical characteristics of the differently adapted populations of Diplachne fusca has never been reported. In particular, structural variation in their mechanism of adaptation for salinity tolerance was investigated for the first time in current study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The basic aim to write this article is to explore the political journey of Fatima Jinnah, especially after the partition. This paper answers many questions such as what was the political scenario after partition; why did Fatima Jinnah react against Ayub's Martial Law, why did she decide to participate in active politics again, what kept her away from practical politics? What led to her mysterious death? This article explains all above-mentioned questions and provides a comprehensive description of her struggle to protect Quaid-i-Azam's Pakistan. Although, she was a social activist yet very few know about other aspects of her personality as being a resolute icon of post-partition era. Throughout her political journey, she gave a sense of personal identification and realization to the women of Pakistan. She was one of the pioneers of democracy and had good understanding of her own culture and values. She had a vision and wisdom of her own which blossomed after the demise of Quaid-i-Azam. It has always been a dilemma for Pakistan that her heroes' death becomes a controversy. Many rumours persist that Fatima Jinnah was also murdered, but it has not been confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The static mode of quenching was revealed during the binding of BR with Lyz. • The Lyz-BR complex formation was spontaneous, exothermic and enthalpically driven. • The microenvironmental and conformational changes in Lyz were induced by BR. • The metal ions and vitamins also affect the binding strength of BR with Lyz. • Many amino acids of Lyz were involved in the binding with BR as predicted by molecular docking. The binding mechanism between human lysozyme (Lyz) and β-resorcylic acid (BR) was systematically examined by various biophysical and computational techniques. The studies like ultraviolet absorbance and steady-state fluorescence confirmed the complex formation with binding constant in the order of 103 M−1. The mechanism of fluorescence quenching of Lyz was found to be static. The average binding distance between Lyz and BR was calculated by FRET as per Forster's theory. The changes in conformation and microenvironment in the secondary structure of Lyz in the presence of BR were confirmed by techniques like synchronous, three-dimensional fluorescence spectroscopy, Red edge excitation shift (REES) and circular dichroism (CD). The different temperature-based fluorescence experiments highlighted that the reaction is spontaneous and exothermic in nature. The van der Waals and hydrogen bonding are the main contributing forces in the complex formation as is evident from the negative values of enthalpy (ΔH) and entropy (ΔS). Further, the results obtained from in vitro experiments were also reaffirmed by in silico molecular docking, predicting the active binding site of BR in Lyz. HOMO-LUMO energy gap in BR was estimated by density functional theory (DFT) studies. Moreover, the effects of β-cyclodextrin, metal ions, and vitamins on the binding of BR with Lyz were also studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Dye-displacement assay, potassium iodide quenching, circular dichroism studies and DNA thermal denaturing validated the binding of BR with ctDNA through minor grooves. • The different temperature-based fluorescence studies revealed the spontaneous, exothermic and enthalpically driven nature of this binding process. • Hydrogen bonding, van der Waals and hydrophobic interactions are the main contributing forces in the binding of BR with ctDNA. • Molecular docking computationally certified the groove binding mode of BR, hence corroborating with the results of in vitro experiments. β-resorcylic acid (BR) is a phytochemical which is widely used in the food industry as a flavouring agent and preservative. It has also been found to exhibit antibacterial action against several types of food-borne bacteria. DNA is the main molecular target for many small molecules of therapeutic importance. Hence, the interest is rapidly growing among the researchers to elucidate the interaction between small molecules and DNA. Thus, paving the way to design novel DNA-specific drugs. In this study, an attempt was made to examine the mechanism of binding of BR with calf thymus DNA (ctDNA) with the help of various experiments based on spectroscopy and in silico studies. The spectroscopic studies like UV absorption and fluorescence affirmed the complex formation between BR and ctDNA. The observed binding constant was in the order of 103 M−1 which is indicative of the groove binding mechanism. These findings were further verified by dye-displacement assay, potassium iodide quenching, urea denaturation assay, the study of the effect of ssDNA, circular dichroism and DNA thermal denaturing studies. Different temperature-based fluorescence and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) experiments were employed to evaluate thermodynamic parameters. The analysis of thermodynamic parameters supports the enthalpically driven, exothermic and spontaneous nature of the reaction between BR and ctDNA. The forces involved in the binding process were mainly found to be hydrogen bonding, van der Waals and hydrophobic interactions. The results obtained from the molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation were consistent with the in vitro experiments, which support the groove binding mode of BR with ctDNA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To gain insight into the hepatohistological alterations in noninjured rat liver, Nerium oleander (N.O.) leaves extract was injected intramuscularly to induce an acute phase reaction (APR). Histopathological changes were studied after 3,12, and 24h time course of sterile muscle abscess. Tissue integrity and any infiltration of inflammatory cells in the liver were investigated by Hematoxylin and Eosin and ED1 peroxidase stainings. The administration of N.O. leaves extract (10 mL/kg) in H & E stained sections showed a general vacuolization of cytoplasm resulting loss of polarity with prominent nucleoli after 3 h of induction. At 12 h, eccentric nuclei were also observed in the sections. Marked infiltration of leucocytes with predominate macrophages was also found after 24 h as seen by ED1 positive staining. In the present study, a possible relationship between serum hepcidin and total iron level was also investigated in vivo. An early increase of hepcidin and total iron level (3h) with a maximum at 12 h (P < 0.01; P < 0.001) was observed. These changes indicate that sterile muscle abscess may induce APR resulting in hepatic damage which is evident with the recruitment of inflammatory cells into the organ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three Cenchrus species (C. biflorus, C. ciliaris, and C. orientalis) were collected from different ecological regions in the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtoonkhwa during July to September 2020 to evaluate tolerance to multiple abiotic stresses (aridity, salinity, and cold). Growth and biomass production was the maximum in C. biflorus, C. ciliaris, and C. orientalis under aridity stress. Aerenchyma formation and vascular tissue increased significantly in roots under aridity. In C. ciliaris, aerenchyma formation was recorded under cold stress. Root vascular tissue was higher under normal conditions (26.7%) and aridity (30.4%) stress in C. ciliaris. Stem parenchyma (29.1%) and vascular tissues (35.5%) showed an increase in C. biflorus under aridity, while mechanical tissue (33.6%) increased significantly under salinity stress. In C. biflorus and C. ciliaris, extensive sclerification was recorded in the stelar region under aridity stress. The stem radius of C. orientalis was greatest under salinity (27.0%) and cold (29.1%) stress, while parenchyma tissue was smaller (12.1%) under cold stress. Leaf thickness generally increased under abiotic stresses, and the maximum (43.0%) thickness was recorded in C. biflorus under aridity stress. Cenchrus biflorus, C. ciliaris, and C. orientalis showed strong association among morphological and leaf anatomical traits under aridity stress. Cenchrus orientalis showed high sclerification outside the vascular bundles of the leaf sheath. In saline conditions, vascular bundles were sclerified and enlarged. In and outside the vascular bundles of leaf blades, extensive sclerification was observed under cold stress conditions. Modifications in structural and functional traits were critical for the ecological success of Cenchrus species for survival in multiple environmental stresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salt excretory halophytes are the major sources of phytoremediation of salt-affected soils. Cressa cretica is a widely distributed halophyte in hypersaline lands in the Cholistan Desert. Therefore, identification of key physio-anatomical traits related to phytoremediation in differently adapted C. cretica populations was focused on. Four naturally adapted ecotypes of non-succulent halophyte Cressa cretica L. form hyper-arid and saline desert Cholistan. The selected ecotypes were: Derawar Fort (DWF, ECe 20.8 dS m−1) from least saline site, Traway Wala Toba (TWT, ECe 33.2 dS m−1) and Bailah Wala Dahar (BWD, ECe 45.4 dS m−1) ecotypes were from moderately saline sites, and Pati Sir (PAS, ECe 52.4 dS m−1) was collected from the highly saline site. The natural population of this species was collected and carefully brought to the laboratory for different structural and functional traits. As a result of high salinity, Na+, Cl–, K+, and Ca2+ content significantly increased at root and shoot level. At root level, some distinctive modifications such as increased sclerification in vascular bundles, enlarged vascular bundles, metaxylem vessels, phloem region, and storage parenchyma (cortex) are pivotal for water storage under extreme arid and osmotic condition. At the stem level, enhanced sclerification in outer cortex and vascular bundles, stem cellular area, cortical proportion, metaxylem and phloem area, and at the leaf level, very prominent structural adaptations were thicker and smaller leaves with increased density of salt glands and trichomes at surface, few and large stomata, reduced cortical and mesophyll parenchyma, and narrow xylem vessels and phloem area represent their non-succulent nature. The ecotype collected from hypersaline environments was better adapted regarding growth traits, ion uptake and excretion, succulence, and phytoremediation traits. More importantly, structural and functional traits such as root length and biomass, accumulation of toxic ions along with K+ in root and shoot, accumulation of Ca2+ in shoot and Mg2+ in root, excretion of toxic ions were the highest in this ecotype. In conclusion, all these alterations strongly favor water conservation, which certainly contributes to ecotypes survival under salt-induced physiological drought. Naturally adapted salt tolerant plants provide exceptional material for exploring adaptive mechanisms they use to confront high salt concentrations. Cressa cretica is a hypersaline hyperarid desert colonizer, which was previously underexplored. In the present study, we focused on the new insight on relationship among anatomical modifications, salt accumulation and excretion and phytoremediation potential of this rare species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Angiomyofibroblastoma (AMFB) is a benign tumour which consists of two components: blood vessels and stromal cells with prominent vascular component. Literature reports a case of recurrence and one case with sarcomatous transformation, which showed that these tumours may rarely be associated with malignant component. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• High drought tolerance related to sclerenchyma in stem and bulliform cell development in leaves. • Drought tolerant ecotypes survival depends on dense pubescence. • No single character can be taken as a yard-stick for adjudging drought tolerance. • More drought tolerant ecotypes provide a base for re-vegetation of extreme desert conditions. Cenchrus ciliaris L. is a perennial palatable grass and is capable of growing in a variety of habitats including extreme desert environment. The present study was conducted to explore the effect of drought stress on morpho-anatomical modifications in the aerial parts of C. ciliaris ecotypes, which were collected from the Cholistan Desert. Seeds of C. ciliaris wre collected from different regions in the Cholistan desert and grown in the Faisalabad conditions. Stress treatment were applied to the ramets that were isolated from mother plants. Three moisture regimes were maintained during the experiment, i.e., 100%, 75% and 50% field capacity. Ecotypes were grouped into four categories i.e., highly tolerant, tolerant, moderately tolerant and sensitive. Highly tolerant ecotypes (E92001 and E92002) showed epidermal thickness in leaves and stem, intensive sclerification in stem, increased vascular bundle number, well developed bulliform, increased metaxylem area and decreased stomatal density on both leaf surfaces. Tolerant ecotypes (E92003 an E92008) showed dense pubescence on their leaves. It is concluded that no definite or precise single character can be taken as a yardstick for adjudging the biomass production in theses desert grass ecotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sustainability of the blue economy (BE) may be impeded by the adverse consequences of human activities, such as greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, unsustainable economic expansion, and engagement in environmentally harmful trading practices. Therefore, this study aims to determine the impact of GHG emissions, trade, and economic growth on the BE. To achieve this, we used a panel dataset of 25 selected countries surrounding the Indian Ocean, covering the period 2002–2019. As a process of estimation, we employed the Westerlund error correction model to detect cointegration. To determine the long-term relationship among the variables, we adopted the cross-sectional autoregressive distributed lag (CS-ARDL) approach, which revealed a significant outcome in the long run but an insignificant outcome in the short run. In response to this divergence, the panel corrected standard error (PCSE) model was applied to correct the autocorrelation problem. Subsequently, a two-step generalized methods of moment (GMM) test was conducted to check robustness. Based on the results of PCSE and GMM, this study reveals that trade has a negative effect on the BE, while GHG emissions and economic growth have a positive ascendance. From a policy standpoint, all governments must integrate ocean-based solutions into their national climate pledges to fulfill the objectives outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 14 (Life Below Water). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently used antithrombotic drugs are beset with several drawbacks which necessitates the need for new and cheaper alternatives. Protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) is secreted in the blood plasma in cellular stress conditions and initiates the thrombus formation. A screening of library of natural compounds revealed that naringin had a high binding affinity for the PDI (−8.2 kcal/mol). Recombinant PDI was purified using the affinity chromatography. Incubation of purified PDI (3 μM) with naringin (0–100 μM, pH 7.4, 25 °C) partially modulated its conformation. Consequently, the fluorescence emission spectra of the PDI binding to naringin were assessed using the Stern-Volmer equation, which indicated an association constant of 2.78 × 104 M−1 suggesting an appreciable affinity for the naringin, with a unique binding site. An insulin turbidity assay showed that PDI activity is decreased in the presence of naringin indicating inhibition. Molecular dynamic simulation studies showed the changes in the PDI structure on binding to the naringin. Incubation of naringin (80 μM) in fresh human plasma along with exogenous PDI (175 nM) showed a significant delay in the intrinsic and extrinsic coagulation pathways. We show that naringin is able to modulate the PDI conformation and activity resulting in altered blood coagulation rates. • Protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) initiates thrombus formation in the blood plasma. • Naringin is a flavonoid that is found in abundance in the citrus fruits. • Naringin binds to the PDI and reduces it's activity. • Naringin is a potent inhibitor of PDI and has anticoagulant potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extracted cane juice from Saccharum officinarum L. was employed as a major source of sugar acting as major input in various food industries. Current genotypes are yielding lower quantities of sugar posing a major challenge for sugarcane producers and plant biotechnologists. Discovery of novel sucrose isomerases (SI) derived from multiple microbial sources enlightened a great hope for molecular food scientists to introduce slowly digestible sucrose isomers not only to make up deficiencies of reduced sugar recovery but also produce healthful sugars. Modified Synthetic Sucrose Isomerase Gene 1 (SySIG1) cloned in plant expression vector pCAMBIA1301 under the combined influence of two promoters (CmYMV and Zm-Ubi) to produce high sugar yielding sugarcane genotypes. The expression of the transgene was terminated finally by nopaline synthase gene (Nos). The genetic construct pCEMBIA1301-1 was archestrated with transgene SySIGI having size 2180 bp integrated to plant expression vector. The vacoule targeted sequence (VTS) as signal peptide was also added in the vector so that the product could be directed and stored in the vacoular region. Transgene expression regulation was increased with enhancers to clone highly expressed gene construct. Transgene incorporation into genome was confirmed by PCR amplifications and dot blot analysis. Stem expression profile via qPCR indicated multiple fold magnification in transgene expression which was translated gorgeously into increased sugar recovery percentages in various tested transgenic lines comparative to control counterparts. Further quantifications by HPLC showed much high isomaltulose production in transgenic sugarcane lines as compared to control non-transgenic sugarcane lines. Different categories of sugarcane lines on the basis of sugar yields were developed and classified as super sugar lines (SSLs), elite sugar lines (ESLs), and good sugar lines (GSLs). Stem-based transgene expression and leaf-based expression quantifications were originated from real-time PCR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer, as a multifactorial disease, damages healthy cells and organs. The major drawback of anticancer drugs is that they have a severe impact on healthy cells due to their toxic effects. Encapsulation of anticancer drugs into a nanosized formulation enhances the drug delivery system. Thus, nanoformulation (NF) increases the absorption rate and speeds up the circulation time of conventional water-insoluble drugs. Chlorambucil is a well-studied anticancer drug that controls chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and malignant lymphomas. Chlorambucil, a nitrogen mustard alkylating agent, shows hepatotoxicity, secondary malignancies, etc., in normal cells and tissues. In this study, NFs of chlorambucil were prepared through an ultrasonication technique by varying the surfactant concentration. The characterization studies optimized the size, surface charge, heterogeneity, entrapment efficiency, drug loading capacity, in vitro drug release profile, stability, and interaction of the drug and excipient by using dynamic light scattering (DLS), UV-visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) methods. Moreover, MTT assay, cell cycling, and dye staining methods were performed to study the cytotoxicity and apoptotic potential of the NF of chlorambucil in HCT-116 cell lines. The cellular uptake study elucidated the internalization of NF by cancer cells. Microtubule affinity regulating kinase-4 (MARK-4) as a cancer-targeted protein was purified to study the complex formation, conformational changes, dynamics, and stability of proteins upon binding of CH by using multi-spectroscopic and in silico methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship among dispositional optimism, psychological resilience, coping strategies and quality of life (QoL) among burn survivors. To find out the impact of dispositional optimism and coping on QoL among burn survivors. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Burn Unit of Pakistan Institute of Medical sciences (PIMS) Islamabad, Pakistan. Two hundred and thirty post-burn survivors, ranging in age from 18 to 64 years were selected using purposive sampling technique. Dispositional optimism scale, psychological resilience scale, QoL scale and coping strategies scales were used to measure variables. RESULTS: Out of 230 patients 123 (53.5%) were males and 107 (46.5%) were females. About 54.3% (n=125) were married. Majority (n=126; 54.8%) had flame burn. Duration of burns was up to two months in 70.9% (n=163) cases. Results revealed highly significant positive correlations between psychological resilience and dispositional optimism (r=0.807), problem-focused coping (r=0.724) and supportive coping (r=0.598) but significantly negative correlation with emotion focused coping (r= -0.559) while emotion focused coping is negatively correlated with mental QoL (r=-0.378) and supportive coping (r=-0.138). Multiple regression analysis revealed that dispositional optimism, problemfocused and supportive coping have significant impact upon the QoL (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: A significant positive relationship come out among dispositional optimism, psychological resilience and QoL in burns survivors. Dispositional optimism and coping strategies like "problem-focused" and "supportive coping" have an impact on QoL, and it could enhance the QoL in burn survivors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Economists have argued that role of agriculture is pivotal for economic development of the nation. Worldwide studies have shown that agriculture sector is more effective in reducing hunger and poverty than other sectors. This study is an attempt to ascertain the importance of agriculture in the economic growth of West Bengal. Agriculture, being the source of livelihood and supplier of raw material to various industries, triggers economic growth of the nation. This paper exhibits how agriculture has contributed to West Bengal's economic excellence using empirical data and a cointegration analysis. The role of agriculture is examined on four contributions: (a) product contribution (forward linkage), (b) market contribution (backward linkage), (c) factor contribution, and (d) foreign exchange contribution. The composition and growth of the sectors and its association with other sectors is analyzed using time series analysis. Findings of the study revealed that agriculture sector has appeared as an important contributor to drive West Bengal economic growth even after declining share in gross state domestic product over the years. Empirical analysis reveals that agriculture is having long run causal linkages with industry, services, and overall economic growth in West Bengal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Date palm (2n = 36) is a monocotyledonous, dioecious plant, which belongs to the family Arecaceae. Pollens are the primary source of diversity and improvement in quality, yield, ripening time, and size. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the differential behavior of nine pollen sources, collected from different locations, upon pollination with date palm female cultivar Hillawi. Metaxenia effect of pollen grains on the maternal tissues of fruits was carried out at khalal stage, whereas the seeds obtained from these fruits were planted in a nursery for hybrid confirmation. Biochemical characteristics; proximate analysis; individual sugar (sucrose, glucose, and fructose), total sugar, ascorbic acid, total soluble solid, and total phenolic contents; and 2,2-diphenyl-l-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and enzymatic activities (catalase, peroxidase, protease, and superoxide dismutase) were significantly variable. Dendrogram for biochemical parameters of cultivar Hillawi, created using Ward's method, revealed three clusters. Among the nine pollen sources, M8 was superior because it was positively associated with most of the variables. M7 shortened the ripening time, and its progeny exhibited the highest ascorbic acid content. Fruits developed from M8 pollination exhibited higher total sugar contents, protein, antioxidant and enzymatic activity, and had shortened ripening time. For more positive correlation of pollen parents, M8 was followed by M7, M3, M5, and M4. Strong positive correlation was found among most of the traits. Biochemical analyses revealed that these traits were suitable for metaxenia studies and breeding programs, as they exhibited quality and yield enhancement. The seedlings developed from these seeds, which were a result of controlled pollination, were identified as true date palm hybrids using 12 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) markers. Out of 12, only six primers clearly differentiated between true and ambiguous hybrids. Primer mpdCIR-10 identified the highest number of true hybrids 13 (81.25%). These findings will be useful for future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant performance is mainly estimated based on plant architecture, leaf features and internal microstructural changes. Olive (Olea europaea L.) is a drought tolerant, oil yielding, and medium sized woody tree that shows specific structural and functional modifications under changing environment. This study was aimed to know the microstructural alteration involving in growth and yield responses of different Olive cultivars. Eleven cultivars were collected all over the world and were planted at Olive germplasm unit, Barani Agricultural Research Institute, Chakwal (Punjab) Pakistan, during September to November 2017. Plant material was collected to correlate morpho-anatomical traits with yield contributing characteristics. Overall, the studied morphological characters, yield and yield parameters, and root, stem and leaf anatomical features varied highly significantly in all olive cultivars. The most promising cultivar regarding yield was Erlik, in which plant height seed weight and root anatomical characteristics, i.e., epidermal thickness and phloem thickness, stem features like collenchymatous thickness, phloem thickness and metaxylem vessel diameter, and leaf traits like midrib thickness, palisade cell thickness a phloem thickness were the maximum. The second best Hamdi showed the maximum plant height, fruit length, weight and diameter and seed length and weight. It also showed maximum stem phloem thickness, midrib and lamina thicknesses, palisade cell thickness. Fruit yield in the studied olive cultivars can be more closely linked to high proportion of storage parenchyma, broader xylem vessels and phloem proportion, dermal tissue, and high proportion of collenchyma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuroserpin (NS) is predominantly expressed in the brain and is the primary inhibitor of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). NS variants are associated with the neurogenerative disease termed familial encephalopathy with neuroserpin inclusion bodies (FENIB). The disease is characterized by variable age of onset and severity. The reactive center loop (RCL) insertion-based inhibitory mechanism of NS requires a coordinated conformational change leading to a shift in the strands of the β-sheet A and movement of helix F. Strand 1A is connected to the helix F at its C terminal end and with the strand 2A at its N terminal, both these domain move for accommodating the inserting loop; therefore, a variant that influences their movement may alter the inhibition rates. A molecular dynamic simulation analysis of a H138C NS variant from strand 1A showed a large decrease in conformational fluctuations as compared with wild-type NS. H138 was mutated, expressed, purified and a native-PAGE and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis showed that this variant forms large molecular weight aggregates on a slight increase in temperature. However, a circular dichroism analysis showed its secondary structure to be largely conserved. Surprisingly, its tPA inhibition activity and complex formation remain unhindered even after the site-specific labeling of H138C with Alexa fluor C5 maleimide. Further, a helix F-strand 1A (W154C-H138C) double variant still shows appreciable inhibitory activity. Increasingly, it appears that aggregation and not loss of inhibition is the more likely cause of shutter region-based variants phenotypes, indicating that hindering polymer formation using small molecules may retain inhibitory activity in pathological variants of NS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanogel is a promising drug delivery approach to improve the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic prospect of phytopharmaceuticals. In the present review, phytopharmaceuticals with astonishing therapeutic utilities are being explored. However, their in vivo delivery is challenging, owing to poor biopharmaceutical attributes that impact their drug release profile, skin penetration, and the reach of optimal therapeutic concentrations to the target site. Nanogel and its advanced version in the form of nanoemulgel (oil-in-water nanoemulsion integrated gel matrix) offer better therapeutic prospects than other conventional counterparts for improving the biopharmaceutical attributes and thus therapeutic efficacy of phytopharmaceuticals. Nanoemulgel-loaded phytopharmaceuticals could substantially improve permeation behavior across skin barriers, subsequently enhancing the delivery and therapeutic effectiveness of the bioactive compound. Furthermore, the thixotropic characteristics of polymeric hydrogel utilized in the fabrication of nanogel/nanoemulgel-based drug delivery systems have also imparted improvements in the biopharmaceutical attributes of loaded phytopharmaceuticals. This formulation approach is about to be rife in the coming decades. Thus, the current review throws light on the recent studies demonstrating the role of nanogels in enhancing the delivery of bioactive compounds for treating various disease conditions and the challenges faced in their clinical translation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]