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Biochar, an organic carbonaceous matter, is a unique feed additive that is now being used in aquaculture industry to formulate a cost‐effective and eco‐friendly diet. This experiment (in door) was conducted over course of 90 days to determine the most effective form of biochar, produced from various sources, for supplementation in Moringa oleifera seed meal‐based diet. These sources were: farmyard manure biochar, parthenium biochar (PB), vegetable waste biochar, poultry waste biochar (PWB) and corncob waste biochar, added at 2 g/kg concentration to determine the effect of supplementation on the growth indices, nutrient absorption, carcass composition, haematology and mineral status of Labeo rohita (rohu) fingerlings. The research design consisted of six test diets with three replications (6 × 3) of each. Total of 270 fingerlings (6.30 ± 0.020 g) were fed at 5% body weight and 15 of them were kept in separate steel tanks. The results indicated that PWB was most effective in improving weight gain (285.58 ± 4.54%) and feed conversion ratio (1.060 ± 0.040) compared to control diet and other test diets. The same type of biochar (PWB) produced the best results for nutrient digestibility, that is, crude protein, crude fat and gross energy and carcass composition. In terms of haematology and mineral status, PWB showed the best results. In conclusion, it was found that PWB significantly enhanced (p < 0.05) L. rohita fingerling's growth, carcass composition, nutrient digestibility, haematological parameters (red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets and haemoglobin) and mineral composition (Ca, Na, P, Mg, Fe, Mn, Zn, K and Cu) whereas PB negatively affected all parameters. It is anticipated that the potential use of biochar will increase in aquaculture industry, as research on its incorporation in fish feeds is still limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bioavailability, small size and direct absorption in the blood, make nanoparticles (NPs) a remarkable feed additive in the aquaculture industry. Therefore, dietary iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe2O3‐NPs) were used to examine their effects on growth, nutrient absorption, body composition and blood indices in Cyprinus carpio (Common carp) fingerlings. Healthy C. carpio fingerlings (n = 270) were fed with six canola meal based experimental diets (D1‐control, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6) supplemented with 0, 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 mg/kg Fe2O3‐NPs respectively. A total of 15 fingerlings (average initial weight 5.51 ± 0.04 g/fish) were kept in triplicates for 70 days. The results indicated that maximum growth performance, apparent digestibility coefficient, body composition and haematological parameters were observed in 40 mg/kg Fe2O3‐NPs supplementation. All the experimental diets were significantly improved (p < 0.05) in all the above parameters than control diet. In the present research, the recommended dosage of Fe2O3‐NPs as dietary supplement is 40 mg/kg for improving the growth, nutrient absorption, body composition and haematological indices in C. carpio fingerlings. Hence, this study demonstrates the potential of NPs to improve the health of fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquaculture has adopted numerous alternatives, including plant-based sources, microbial biomass, and animal by-products, to recognize the importance of reducing fishmeal (FM) use for economic and environmental sustainability. Several studies have been conducted to look into the impact of different animal protein sources, such as meat and bone meal (MBM), feather meal (FeM), blood meal (BM), poultry by-product meal (PBM), and insect meal (IM), as substitutes for FM in the diets of various fish species. Numerous studies have revealed different degrees of favorable results and outcomes. Studies of different fish species with various levels of substitution were reviewed. Moreover, many studies have demonstrated that the development of fish is not significantly impacted by the inclusion of animal meals in their diets at low to moderate levels. Although the use of alternatives such as fishery by-products, insects and terrestrial byproducts has some constraints. However, the utilization of animal-based protein sources generally exhibits positive results with regard to numerous factors, including the variable growth rate, feed conversion ratio, survival rate, and final weight of different fish species. Indeed, certain animal diets also enhanced the blood composition and immune response of certain species. Overall, the perception is that IM is the most advantageous and proactive protein source used in aquaculture. Several studies have shown that PBM and MBM reveal improved results. More research is required to further interpret other factors that influence the dietary incorporation of animal protein sources in aquaculture feeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the impact of various biochar sources on nutrient digestibility, hematology and growth performance of Cirrhinus mrigala fingerlings fed on Moringa oleifera seed meal (MOSM) based diet. A 90-days feeding trial was conducted in Fish Nutrition Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Government College University Faisalabad, Pakistan from June to September (2021) in order to investigate the efficacy of biochar obtained from sources such as parthenium, farmyard manure, poultry waste, vegetable waste and corncob waste at the level of 2 mg/kg. Triplicate tanks were used for all test diets including control diet with 15 fingerlings in each tank. Fish were fed at the rate of 5% of their live wet weight. Results showed that poultry waste biochar (test diet-IV) at 2 mg/kg was the best source to significantly (p<0.05) improve weight gain percent (248.89%) and Feed Conversion Ratio (1.27) than the other biochar sources and control diet. In terms of nutrient digestibility, optimum crude protein (72.12%), crude fat (78.35%) and gross energy (71.12 kcalg-1) values were obtained by using same type of biochar (poultry waste). At the same level, the best values of hematological parameters (Red blood cells, White Blood Cells, Hemoglobin; 3.12×106mm-3, 7.18×10³mm-3, 7.64g/100ml, respectively) of C. mrigala were found. Conclusively, among all the five biochar sources, poultry waste proved to be the best one which improved fish body performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study is conducted to investigate the effects of lycopene supplementation on nutrient digestibility, hematology, growth performance and antioxidant activity of Labeo rohita fingerlings fed on canola meal (CM) based test diets. The increase in the oxidation of muscles in fish led to rancidity and bad flavor that resulted in the reduced market value of fish. Seven test diets were formulated to having all the required nutrients at an adequate level for improving fish growth. One percent chromic oxide was further added to the feed as an indigestible biomarker. 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 mg/kg of lycopene were added to test the efficiency of the diet for growth performance, antioxidant activity, hematology, and nutrient digestibility of L. rohita fingerlings. V-shaped Tanks were used to keep fifteen fingerlings. For each treatment, three tanks were allocated and fingerlings were fed at the rate of 5% of the live wet weight. After the collection of fecal material two times a day, it was dried at 60°C and pooled for each treatment. By using standard formulae, it was calculated how each treatment affected the feed conversion ratio (FCR), nutrient digestibility, and growth. Results showed that test diet-V (40 mg/kg) lycopene supplementation was the best to significantly (p<0.05) improve growth, nutrient digestibility, antioxidant activity and hematology. The results of FCR, fish growth, and nutrient digestibility were all subjected to one way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The variance between mean values was compared using the Tukey's Honesty test. Statistical analysis was conducted by using the CoStat Computer Package. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytase, a key biocatalyst with multipurpose applied potentialities, and its significant relationship to contemporary industrial apprehensions provide unique physicochemical and catalytic attributes. Owing to the rising research advancement, the convergence of technologies fosters additional merits to this industrially relevant biocatalyst, i.e., phytase. Enriched with multipurpose characteristics, phytase holds a significant global market share expected to reach up to $590 million USD by 2024 compared to its share from $380 million USD in 2019. Major applications of phytase are in the pharmaceutical, food, and feed sectors. Growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and mineral availability are vital factors in aquaculture. The manufacturing cost of feed in aquaculture is about 50–80%. Fish meal is a rich protein source; however, plant-based proteins are preferred due to high price issues. Plant-based diets contain antinutritional factors, primarily phytate, and fishes are incapable of metabolizing phytate. About 1% phosphorus (P) is present in the fish meal, which if not digested by fish and remain undigested, causing water pollution. Phytate has unfavorable impacts on fish growth and body composition. Phytate binds with phosphorus in fishes to make phytate-phosphorus complex and make it unavailable for fishes. Phytate also forms complexes commonly with cations such as calcium, iron, copper, magnesium, and so on, limiting the bioavailability of minerals. Phytate forms a bond with trypsin and intervenes with available protein. Phytase enzyme emancipates inorganic phosphorus from phytate when supplemented with plant-based diets. Numerous varieties of stable phytases, handling ease, and resistant to high temperature are discussed herein. The maximum use of phytase in aquaculture nutrition extends to the necessities of economical feed and safety environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present feeding trial was conducted to assess the optimal level of phytase supplementation required for maximum nutrient absorption and growth performance ofLabeo rohitafingerlings fed canola meal-based diet. A standard diet having 30.21% protein and an energy value of 4.26 kcalg−1was used as reference diet. The experimental diet having similar protein and caloric density was formulated by using 70% reference diet and 30% of canola meal as test ingredient. This experimental diet was then divided into seven test diets and were supplemented by graded levels (0, 250, 500, 750, 1000, 1250 and 1500 FTU kg−1) of phytase enzyme. Chromic oxide was used in reference and test diets as an inert marker. Results showed that phytase supplementation at 750 FTU kg−1level effectively increased apparent digestibility coefficients of crude protein (64%), crude fat (76%) and gross energy (68%) as compared to reference and other phytase-supplemented diets. The results of present study showed increased growth and feed performance of fingerlings in response to phytase supplementation. Maximum performance was obtained by the fish fed on test diet having 750 FTU kg−1level. It was concluded that 750 FTU kg−1level of phytase supplementation in canola meal-based diet is sufficient for increasing nutrient digestibility and growth performance ofL. rohitafingerlings. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Heavy metals in our natural riverine system are present in the forms of mixture not as single metal. Therefore, this study was planned to investigate the growth responses of metals mixture stressed Catla catla in glass aquaria and semi-intensive pond culture system. The whole experiment was conducted in two phases. During phase-I fingerlings of C. catla were divided into two groups, one group was exposed to sub-lethal concentrations of metals mixture (Fe, Zn, Pb, Ni & Mn), while other was kept un-stressed as control in glass aquaria for 30 days. During stress period, treated fish showed significantly lower growth, fork and total lengths gain as compared to control medium that showed better growth, fork and total length gain. At the end of phase-I both stressed and control fish were shifted to earthen ponds for study of growth parameters in semi-intensive culture for six months. Statistical analysis revealed that the months and interaction i.e., months x treatments had statistically significant effect on growth performance of C. catla in terms of weight, fork and total length increments. Sub-lethal stress of metals mixture to C. catla in the glass aquaria and semi-intensive pond culture showed significantly lower growth in terms of wet weight increment as compared to control fish. Significantly better growth in terms of wet weight, fork and total lengths gain by C. catla was observed in semi-intensive culture as compare to glass aquaria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alarmingly increasing cost and reduced supply of fish meal has necessitated searching out the low cost and easily accessible alternatives for aqua-feed industry. Potential of corn gluten meal (30%) and oilseed by-product, was evaluated by comparing the corn gluten meal-based diet with a fish meal-based reference diet. The experimental diet was consisted of 70% reference diet and 30% corn gluten meal contents. The potential of corn gluten meal-based diet was enhanced with graded levels of microbial phytase enzyme to assess the dose required for optimal fish production through various growth and digestibility coefficients. The chromic oxide was included at a concentration of 1% as non-digestible marker in the feed. The fish in experimental diets performed equal or better than the reference diet. The results of the study showed that the maximum weight gain (4.68±0.017 g) in fish was observed on corn gluten meal (30%)-based test diet containing 750 FTU kg-1 level. Crude fat and apparent gross energy digestibility performed their best at 750 FTU kg-1 followed by 1000 FTU kg-1 level, while maximum crude protein digestibility was observed at 1000 FTU kg-1 level. The conclusion of the present study suggested that phytase supplementation to corn gluten meal (30%) based diets at 750 FTU kg-1 level, is enough to release sufficient bounded nutrients for optimal growth performance of Labeo rohita fingerlings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PHY is very important enzyme in fish feed for the digestion of plant based diets as they have chelated compounds i.e. phytic acid. A seventy days experiment was conducted to study the effects of phytase (PHY) supplemented Moringa oleifera based diets on the growth efficiency of Tilapia fingerlings. Tilapia fingerlings were fed with a diet made up of mixture of Moringa seed and leaf meal (MSM and MLM). Anti-nutritional agents present in plant based products, decrease the nutrient edibility, utilization of minerals and shows negative impact on development. Seven isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets were prepared by the addition of PHY (0, 500, 650, 800, 950, 1100 and 1250 FTU per kg) in Moringa based diet and 1% of chromic oxide as indigestible marker. Fingerlings were fed @4% of live wet weight two times daily and faeces were collected and analyzed at the end of the trial. Growth parameters were also checked on fortnightly basis. Based on outcomes, improvement in growth i.e., weight gain WG (24g), weight gain percentage (356%), FCR (1.21), SGR (1.69), nutrient digestibility (CP; 74%, EE; 70%, and GE; 69%) and absorption of mineral (Ca; 72%, Na; 71%, K; 71% and P; 75%) was noticed when fingerlings were fed at 950 FTU per kg level based diet as compared to control and other test diets. It was additionally noticed, that PHY addition diminished the release of nutrients and minerals through faeces that was resulted in decreased water contamination. On the basis of these results, it was concluded that addition of PHY @ 950 FTU per kg level is very useful to formulate cost-effective and eco-friendly fish feed by utilizing Moringa-derived products as compared to control and other test diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted to probe out the nutritive losses caused by Rhyzopertha dominica (F.) and Trogoderma granarium (Everts) were quantified in six rice genotypes (KSK-434, KSK-282, Irri-6, Shaheen basmati, Basmati 385 and Chenab basmati). Percent crude protein, ash and moisture content were measured for qualitative losses, while for quantitative losses, frass weight and weight loss were examined after infestation period of 90 days of. Highest weight losses (25.76%) and (15.37%) were observed in KSK-434 by infestation of R. dominica and T. granarium, respectively, compared with un-infested grains after a storage period of 90 days. Highest frass weight (8.57 g) was recorded for KSK-434 while relatively low frass weight (4.16 g) was recorded for Basmati 385 by infestation of R. dominica. Relatively low frass weights of 5.67, 4.46 and 4.01 g were recorded in KSK-434, Chenab basmati and Shaheen basmati, respectively by attack of T. granarium. Highest percentage moisture values (14.03 and 11.24%) were recorded for KSK-434 by infestations of both test insects compared to non-infested (controls). Percent crude protein was decreased (from 6.97% to the 4.92%) due to infestation of R. dominica values by strain were KSK-434 (4.54%), Shaheen basmati (4.89%) and chenab basmati (4.92%). In the case of T. granarium infestation, almost all the varieties sustained the low protein contents except KSK-434 (5.02%) and Basmiti 385 (5.17%) and Shaheen basmati, protein contents loss comparable to non-infested control (7.09%). Ash content was high in genotype KSK-282 (0.68 %) compared to control. KSK-434 and Chenab basmati had relatively low ash percentage due to high infestation of T. granarium. R. dominica attack produced the highest percent ash content (0.66%) in KSK-282 and the least (0.44%) in KSK-434. The tested rice genotypes were more susceptible to R. dominica than T. granarium among the different genotypes of selected cereals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pakistan being a tropical country, characterized by poor socioeconomic conditions, is more vulnerable to Mosquito-borne diseases. So, this study was proposed to know the prevalence of mosquito-borne diseases in Faisalabad district, Pakistan. For this, mosquito adults and larvae were collected from different habitats with aspirator and dippers respectively from eight towns of Faisalabad district. These samples were carried alive to laboratory and identified with the help of identification keys. Aedes female mosquitoes were killed and stored at -20°C for RNA extraction. Slides were prepared from blood of female Anopheles mosquitoes for the identification of plasmodium under microscope. The genome RNA from female Aedes mosquitoes were extracted as per commercially available kits according to manufacturer guidelines and stored at -40 0C for further use. Using online software, primers and probes for the known human pathogens were designed in consensus with the help of available genome database for different pathogens such as dengue virus. Plasmodium was detected from the mosquitoes that were mostly collected from rural areas and this was generally detected from the samples collected from Jaranwala and Samundri town. Dengue virus was detected generally from city areas and serotype 2 and 3 was detected from the Aedes mosquitoes. Dengue virus was mostly detected from Lyallpur, Madina and Jinnah towns. Mosquitoes were mostly collected after monsoon season in the months of August-September and in spring (March). The disease pathogens were also detected during these months. Through the surveillance of pathogens, we can focus our attention on the hot spots and apply control measures to control mosquitoes for better management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sharpless asymmetric dihydroxylation is an important reaction in the enantioselective synthesis of chiral vicinal diols that involves the treatment of alkene with osmium tetroxide along with optically active quinine ligand. Sharpless introduced this methodology after considering the importance of enantioselectivity in the total synthesis of medicinally important compounds. Vicinal diols, produced as a result of this reaction, act as intermediates in the synthesis of different naturally occurring compounds. Hence, Sharpless asymmetric dihydroxylation plays an important role in synthetic organic chemistry due to its undeniable contribution to the synthesis of biologically active organic compounds. This review emphasizes the significance of Sharpless asymmetric dihydroxylation in the total synthesis of various natural products, published since 2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chitosan (CS)/metal oxide (MO) nano-carriers have recently attracted attention due to their great integration into several biomedical applications. Herein, CS and dysprosium oxide based bio-nanocomposites (Dy 2 O 3 /CuFe 3 O 4 /CS) were prepared using a citrate sol-gel route for biomedical settings at large and drug delivery, in particular. The chemical structure, average crystallite size, and surface morphology of Dy 2 O 3 /CuFe 3 O 4 /CS bio-nanocomposites were characterized using spectroscopic techniques, including FT-IR, PXRD, and SEM. The prepared nano composite's drug loading or release kinetics were investigated by FT-IR, zeta potential (ZP), and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis). In the FT-IR spectrum, the peaks in the range of 800–400 cm−1 confirmed the formation of meta-oxides, while amide bands at 1661 and 1638 cm−1 revealed the existence of CS in the bio-nanocomposite. The peaks at 2θ = 35.46 and 28.5, 39.4 indicated the presence and chemical interaction of Dy 2 O 3 and CuFe 3 O 4, respectively. The crystallite size was <20 nm. The model drug used in the loading and in vitro release assays was ciprofloxacin hydrochloride. Ciprofloxacin's C F stretch caused a modest peak to be seen at 1082 cm−1 and changed in zeta potential value from 7.90 mV to 8.88 mV endorsing that the drug had been loaded onto the nanomaterial. The loading efficiency (%) of CIP onto the composite was from 25 to 30 %, calculated from optical density measurements. Different kinetic models, such as zero-order, first-order, Higuchi, Hixon-Crowell, and Korsmeyer-Peppas, were determined to confirm the drug release mechanism. The percent (%) of drug release from the surface of Dy 2 O 3 /CuFe 3 O 4 /CS in PBS (pH 7.4), acidic (pH 2.2) and basic (pH 9.4) dissolution media were found to be 70, 28 and 20 %, respectively. Drug kinetics showed that mainly the release is fickian type followed "Fick's law of diffusion", slightly deviated from fickian release (dissolution-dependent system). Korsmeyer-Peppas (R2 0.9773, n < 0.4) and Higuchi's (R2 0.9846) models were the best for fitting controlled drug release data. The results revealed that the Dy 2 O 3 /CuFe 3 O 4 /CS bio-nanocomposite has good potential for a controlled drug delivery system. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hiyama cross-coupling is a versatile reaction in synthetic organic chemistry for the construction of carbon–carbon bonds. It involves the coupling of organosilicons with organic halides using transition metal catalysts in good yields and high enantioselectivities. In recent years, hectic progress has been made by researchers toward the synthesis of diversified natural products and pharmaceutical drugs using the Hiyama coupling reaction. This review emphasizes the recent synthetic developments and applications of Hiyama cross-coupling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition metal-catalyzed C-H alkylation has appeared as a well-built tool for the step-economical transformations of inert C-H bonds. Keeping in view the growing importance of these reactions, an outline of the application of transition metal catalysis in C-H functionalization/late-stage diversification processes has been demonstrated. In this review, we have focused on metals such as palladium, gold, scandium, silver, rhenium and manganese playing role as catalysts in C-H alkylation. Various alkylating agents, e.g., alcohols, alkyl halides, alkenes, diazo compounds and boronic acids, etc., have been used to get the products in good yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The physico-chemical characterization was carried out of the surface water samples, collected from nine sampling points of drain passing by the territory of Hafizabad city, Punjab, Pakistan. The water of drain is used by farmers for irrigation purposes in nearby agricultural fields. Twenty water quality parameters were evaluated in three turns and the results obtained were compared with the National Environmental Quality Standards (NEQS) municipal and industrial effluents prescribed limits. The highly significant difference (p<0.01) was recorded for the content of phenols, carbonyl compounds, cyanides, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand, total soluble salts, total dissolved salts, nitrates and sulphates, whereas, the concentration of magnesium, potassium and oil & grease differed significantly (p<0.05) with respect to the sampling points on average basis. Non-significant difference (p>0.05) was noted for temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, hardness, calcium, sodium, chemical oxygen demand and chloride among water samples from different sampling points. Furthermore, the experimental results of different water quality parameters studied at nine sampling points of the drain were used and interpolated in ArcGIS 9.3 environment system using kriging techniques to obtain calculated values for the remaining locations of the Drain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the efficacy of the essential oils extracted from the branches and leaves of eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globules Labill.), neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss), peppermint (Mentha piperita L.), basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) and from rhizome of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) against the larvae and pupae of Aedes aegypti L. The essential oils were extracted with Soxhlet apparatus using petroleum ether as a solvent. The oils were evaluated against 1[sup st], 2[sup nd], 3[sup rd], 4[sup th] instar larvae and the pupae of Ae. aegypti following WHO protocol. The dead individuals in all stages were counted after 8, 16, 24 and 48 hours in treatments of different concentrations (100, 200, 300 and 400 ppm). The percent mortality in each stage was determined and consequently LC[sub 50]s were also calculated by Probit analysis. A control treatment was also run by using petroleum ether in which mortality (<6%) of different life stages of Aedes mosquitoes was observed. Results showed that higher mortality was observed in early life stages than later ones. Ginger was more effective having lowest LC[sub 50] after 8 h (142 ppm) and 16 h (8.5 ppm) against 1[sup st] instar larvae followed by peppermint, basil, eucalyptus and neem. However, eucalyptus and peppermint were efficacious after 24 h (66 and 84 ppm) and 48 h (19.5 and 17 ppm), respectively. Ginger oil showed high efficacy in short period of the time (8 and 16 h) followed by peppermint, basil, eucalyptus and neem, whereas eucalyptus oil exhibited its lethality after 24 h, whilst peppermint has longer potency and persistence (48 h) than other plant oils. For pupal stage, peppermint had knockdown effect (8 h) followed by eucalyptus (16 h), basil (24 h) and neem (48 h). From these results, it can be concluded that the oils of E. globules and M. piperita were effective larvicide against the immature stages of Ae. aegypti. © 2015 Friends Science Publishers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proteases are the enzymes responsible for the hydrolysis of complex proteins into simpler units for better digestion and absorption of nutrients. This study was conducted to determine the optimum supplementation level and effects of dietary protease addition in poultry by‐product meal‐based diet (PBM) on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, digestive enzyme activities and physiochemical parameters of juvenile rohu, Labeo rohita (initial weight: 11.33 ± 0.02 g). For this purpose, seven iso‐nitrogenous and iso‐lipidic experimental diets were formulated to contain a positive control (PC) diet (containing fishmeal and no protease), a negative control (NC) diet (containing PBM and no protease) and five other PBM‐based diets supplemented with exogenous protease at the levels of 150, 300, 450, 600 and 750 mg/kg diet. Results indicated that growth performance and body indices of fish fed protease supplemented diets were higher (p < 0.05) compared with those fed the NC diet, while maximum increase was recorded at 450 mg/kg protease supplementation level, which was similar to the PC diet (p > 0.05). Protease supplementation up to 450 mg/kg level linearly improved (p < 0.05) the whole‐body proximate composition and digestibility of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), crude lipid (CL) and crude ash (CA) in rohu juveniles. A similar trend (p < 0.05) was observed in the activities of amylases, lipases and proteases in intestinal and hepatopancreatic tissues, peaking at 450 mg/kg which was also similar (p > 0.05) to the PC diet. Protease supplementation significantly improved (p < 0.05) haemoglobin (Hb), haematocrit (Htc) and red blood cells (RBCs) of juveniles while, white blood cells (WBCs) and serum indices remained unaffected (p > 0.05). Based on quadratic regression analysis, the optimal dietary protease supplementation in PBM‐based diet for rohu was 433 mg/kg. Conclusively, increase in protease supplementation from 0 to 450 mg/kg levels improved the fish performance and decreased thereafter with further increase in protease levels (600–750 mg/kg). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the efficacy of the essential oils extracted from the branches and leaves of eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globules Labill.), neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss), peppermint (Mentha piperita L.), basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) and from rhizome of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) against the larvae and pupae of Aedes aegypti L. The essential oils were extracted with Soxhlet apparatus using petroleum ether as a solvent. The oils were evaluated against 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th instar larvae and the pupae of Ae. aegypti following WHO protocol. The dead individuals in all stages were counted after 8, 16, 24 and 48 hours in treatments of different concentrations (100, 200, 300 and 400 ppm). The percent mortality in each stage was determined and consequently LC[sub 50]s were also calculated by Probit analysis. A control treatment was also run by using petroleum ether in which mortality (<6%) of different life stages of Aedes mosquitoes was observed. Results showed that higher mortality was observed in early life stages than later ones. Ginger was more effective having lowest LC[sub 50] after 8 h (142 ppm) and 16 h (8.5 ppm) against 1[sup st] instar larvae followed by peppermint, basil, eucalyptus and neem. However, eucalyptus and peppermint were efficacious after 24 h (66 and 84 ppm) and 48 h (19.5 and 17 ppm), respectively. Ginger oil showed high efficacy in short period of the time (8 and 16 h) followed by peppermint, basil, eucalyptus and neem, whereas eucalyptus oil exhibited its lethality after 24 h, whilst peppermint has longer potency and persistence (48 h) than other plant oils. For pupal stage, peppermint had knockdown effect (8 h) followed by eucalyptus (16 h), basil (24 h) and neem (48 h). From these results, it can be concluded that the oils of E. globules and M. piperita were effective larvicide against the immature stages of Ae. aegypti. © 2015 Friends Science Publishers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scotophilus kuhlii Leach, 1821 has only been reported from Chaklala and Chakri in Punjab, Pakistan. We captured five specimens from Lahore in a 2-year survey from June 2009 to May 2011. This is the first report of this species from Punjab province and the first from Lahore (31°29.223 N, 074°24.632 E) since the 1920s. The external body, cranial and bacular measurements of the captured specimens were compared with the available literature. The forearm length (n=5) was 49.40±3.03 mm, the greatest length of the skull (n=4) was 18.98±0.61 mm and C-M³ (n=4) was 6.27±0.49 mm. The echolocation call parameters of 25 pulses from five calls of the species were also analyzed. The mean frequency of maximum energy was 56.9±3.6 kHz, the mean start and end call frequencies were 103.5±12.3 kHz and 50.6±1.0 kHz, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effect of carbohydrate-based corn diets with chromium chloride hexahydrate supplementation on nutrient digestibility and enzyme activity in major carps (Cirrhinus mrigala, Catla catla, and Labeo rohita) for a period of 90 days. One control (T1) and five experimental diets (T2, T3, T4, T5, T6) were prepared by using gelatinized and non-gelatinized corn with the combination of various levels (0.0, 0.6, and 0.8 mg/kg) of CrCl3H12O6. After acclimatization with a control diet (T1) (32% CP), twenty fingerlings of these species were randomly stocked in eighteen digestibility tanks, each with one replicate. At the end of the trial, results showed that gelatinized corn with chromium supplementation significantly enhanced (P<0.05) digestibility of nutrients and enzyme activities (amylase and protease) in liver and gut in all treated groups. Crude protein (76.05±0.54), crude lipid (84.53±0.46), carbohydrate (69.15±2.19), and gross energy (76.92±0.74) showed the highest apparent digestibility in Labeo rohita as compared to Catla catla and Cirrhinus mrigala. While highest amylase (liver:3.27±0.126 U/ml and gut: 1.29±0.045 U/ml) and protease activity (liver:1.22±0.116 U/ml and gut 3.42±0.087 U/ml) was recorded in Catla catla subsequently followed by Labeo rohita and Cirrhinus mrigala. Among the treatments, highest amylase activity was observed in the corn gelatinized group at 0.6 mg/kg chromium level, while maximum protease activity was observed at 0.8 mg/kg of chromium level (gelatinized group). Comparison among gelatinized and non-gelatinized corn diets suggested that gelatinization in fish feed performed best as a carbohydrate energy source with chromium supplementation at an appropriate level (0.6 mg/kg) for three major carps as compared to non-gelatinized corn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Easy-care finishes, Low formaldehyde, DMDHEU, Cotton fabric, Crosslinking. [Extracted from the article]

The present study was designed to estimate the zinc (Zn) requirement of Labeo rohita juveniles fed practical diet. Treatments used for the study were consisted of six experimental diets supplemented with graded levels of Zn (0, 21, 42, 63, 84 and 104 mg/kg diet) from Zn gluconate. For each experimental diet, two replicates were allocated, and 18 fish were stocked in each replicate. The feeding trial was lasted for 90 days. Results showed that final weight, absolute weight gain, weight gain% and specific growth rate increased with increasing dietary Zn levels up to 42 mg/kg and started to decrease with further increase in dietary Zn level. Quadratic regression analysis of weight gain% data indicated that L. rohita juveniles required 62.58 mg/kg Zn for normal growth. Maximum Zn absorption was observed in fish fed diet supplemented with 42 mg/kg Zn compared with other dietary treatments. Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) activity in kidney and spleen of L. rohita juveniles increased with the increase in dietary Zn levels up to 42 and 63 mg/kg, respectively. Conclusively, supplementation of graded levels of dietary Zn-gluconate improved the growth performance and increased the Zn bioavailability and ALP activity up to a certain limit in L. rohita juveniles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bugs, such as microorganisms and insects, are present in the environment and sometimes can be health-hazardous if the living environment is not maintained following proper hygienic regulations. In the present scenario of increasing public awareness, environmental consciousness, and growing demand for easy-care, and disinfected textiles, the manufacturing of protective and easy-to-care textiles has become a key necessity of the modern world. Comfortable, clean, hygienic, antimicrobial, and insect repelling properties of textile goods are gaining the accelerating research momentum as a basic requirement to produce multifunctional textiles. These functional finishes have numerous applications such as in-home textiles, bed nets, and tenting, camping gear as well as in military uniforms. Synthetic antimicrobial and insect repellents are quite effective against insects and microscopic organisms but are slightly toxic to the human being and the environment. To overcome these problems, researchers are considering natural agents for functional finishes, but their effectiveness is less durable to textile material. Besides needful advantages, the excessive use of dyes in finishing processes heavily required washing cycles and ultimately release various types of hazardous dyes or wasteful effluents in the environment. This review reports the chemical composition and recent developments in textile finishes, particularly antimicrobial and insect repellent textile finishes. A large number of commonly used antimicrobial agents (i.e. chitosan, zwitterionic compounds, silver and silver-based compounds, titanium dioxide nanoparticles, imidazolium salts, triclosan and quaternary ammonium salts) and insect repellent textile finishes (i.e. N ‑ N ‑diethyl‑m‑toluamide, permethrin, cypermethrin, pyrethrum, picaridin, bioallethrin, citriodiol and essential oils) have been presented. Finally, the review is wrapped up with major research gaps/challenges, concluding remarks, and future opportunities in this area of research. Unlabelled Image • Environmentally responsive and anti-bugs textile finishes are reviewed. • This review insight the role of bio-functional agents in textile finishes. • Textile processes pose harsh burden on the environment directly or indirectly. • Washing cycles release various types of hazardous dyes or waste effluent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experiment was conducted to compare carcass yield and meat sensory quality parameters of turkeys Meleagris gallopavo reared under free-range and confinement rearing systems. There were two treatments, each containing 25 birds. In indoor treatment, the turkeys were raised in a 20 × 20 feet (length × width) room. In the free-range treatment, the birds were housed in an open cage having same dimensions i.e. 20 × 20 feet (length × width), in addition, they had a free-range grass paddock. To compare sensory attributes 4 ready to-cook turkeys having equal size were selected from free-range and indoor rearing systems. The birds were skinned and boneless breast fillets and thighs were weighed and steam roasted. The roast breast meat of free-range turkeys was darker and yellower whereas cooked thigh was light yellow than meat from indoor birds. Among the rearing systems non-significant variations in all the meat sensory quality attributes were recorded for chest pieces of male and female and thigh piece of female birds. However, significant (p<0.05) differences in color, tenderness, oiliness and overall acceptability were observed for thigh meat of male M. gallopavo. Similarly, significantly (p<0.05) heavier wing piece, liver, kidneys and claws were observed in M. gallopavo reared in confinement as compared to free-range rearing system. It can be concluded from the present study that carcass yield and meat sensory quality attributes are influenced by the rearing systems and meat of the birds reared under free-range system is preferred by the consumers due to better sensory quality attributes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aedes mosquitoes, a vector of many fatal diseases including dengue fever and cause millions of deaths annually. Dengue fever has been reported from Pakistan during 1994 at a low pace. However, its first epidemic was recorded from Punjab during 2011 which was associated with 2010 heavy rainfall, floods and high Aedes albopictus/aegypti population. Thus, this study was carried out to examine the impact of changing climatic conditions on the population dynamics of Aedes mosquitoes. Collection of mosquitoes (larvae, pupae, and adults) was done from natural and artificial storage containers twice during different seasons, i.e., winter (October-February), summer (March-June) and monsoon season (July-September) from marked rural areas (fields, villages, towns) and urban areas using simple random technique. Years, months, seasons, relative humidity, and temperature were found to be significant in case of population dynamics of Ae. albopictus. The overall values of container index (CI), premises index (PI) and breteau index (BI) (19.9%, 8.1% and 8.9% respectively) were higher for 2011 than all other years. High population (61.7%) was recorded during rainy season due to high temperature (28-36°C) and high relative humidity (up to 75%) and very low populations (7.2%) were recorded from outside during winter due to low temperature (<10°C) and low relative humidity (<23%). Aedes albopictus was mostly collected from rural areas and in some city parks during rainy season. So, we can manage its population by decreasing the number of water bodies in our area especially during rainy season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reprogrammed metabolic profile is a biochemical fingerprint of cancerous cells, which represents one of the "hallmarks of cancer." The aberrant expression pattern of enzymatic machineries orchestrates metabolic activities into a platform that ultimately promotes cellular growth, survival, and proliferation. The NADP(+)‐dependent mitochondrial malic enzyme 2 (ME2) has been widely appreciated due to its function as a provider of pyruvate and reducing power to the cell for biosynthesis of fatty acids and nucleotides along with maintenance of redox balance. Multiple lines of evidences have indicated that ME2 is a bonafide therapeutic target and novel biomarker which plays critical role during tumorigenesis. The objective of this review is to provide an update on the cancer‐specific role of ME2 in order to explore its potential for therapeutic opportunities. Furthermore, we have discussed the potential of genetic and pharmacological inhibitors of ME2 in the light of previous research work for therapeutic advancements in cancer treatment. It is contemplated that additional investigations should focus on the use of ME2 inhibitors in combinational therapies as rational combinations of metabolic inhibitors and chemotherapy may have the ability to cure cancer. © 2018 IUBMB Life, 70(11):1076–1083, 2018 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food habits, nutrient preferences, and roost variations of Indian flying fox Pteropus giganteus were investigated for a period of 1 year in two public parks in Lahore, Pakistan. Bolus and guano samples of P. giganteus were collected on a monthly basis, and seeds of 32 plant species belonging to 23 genera and 15 families were identified from the ejecta samples. Of these 32 food species, 8 were native and 24 were exotic; 13 were commercially important, while 19 species had no mercantile value. Proximate analysis of the food items revealed that fruits with comparatively higher moisture content were utilized during summer; fruits having relatively higher carbohydrates, fibers, protein, fats, phosphorous, iron, and sodium were used during winter; diets having relatively greater calcium and vitamin C contents were used during autumn; and phosphorous-rich diets were used during spring. Permanent roosting trees (n = 50) representing 17 families, 19 genera, and 21 species were monitored to record the abundance and roost fidelity of P. giganteus. The maximum number of bats (n = 425) was recorded for Dalbergia sissoo during summer, Kigelia pinnata (n = 270) during spring, Celtis australis (n = 374) during autumn, and Cedrela toona (n = 330) during winter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global biomass production from agricultural farmlands is facing severe constraints from abiotic stresses like soil salinization. Salinity-mediated stress triggered the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that may result in oxidative burst in cell organelles and cause cell death in plants. ROS production is regulated by the redox homeostasis that helps in the readjustment of the cellular redox and energy state in plants. All these cellular redox related functions may play a decisive role in adaptation and acclimation to salinity stress in plants. The use of nanotechnology like nanoparticles (NPs) in plant physiology has become the new area of interest as they have potential to trigger the various enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant capabilities of plants under varying salinity levels. Moreover, NPs application under salinity is also being favored due to their unique characteristics compared to traditional phytohormones, amino acids, nutrients, and organic osmolytes. Therefore, this article emphasized the core response of plants to acclimate the challenges of salt stress through auxiliary functions of ROS, antioxidant defense system and redox homeostasis. Furthermore, the role of different types of NPs mediated changes in biochemical, proteomic, and genetic expressions of plants under salt stress have been discussed. This article also discussed the potential limitations of NPs adoption in crop production especially under environmental stresses. [Display omitted] • NPs enhanced salt tolerance in plants by modulation of ROS, antioxidant defence system and redox homeostasis. • NPs mediated changes in biochemical, proteomic, genetic expressions of salt-stressed have been discussed. • Potential limitations of NPs adoption in crop production under salt stress have been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present study was conducted to determine the effect of citric acid (CA), phytase (PHY) and their interaction effects on mineral content in scales of Labeo (L.) rohita juveniles fed sunflower meal (SFM) based diet. Four experimental diets were made containing CA (%) and PHY (FTUkg-1) at 0,0; 2,0; 0,1000 and 2,1000 levels, respectively. Fifteen fish (initial weight 3.15+0.03 g) were allocated to each experimental tank with two replicates for each experimental diet. The duration of the experiment was two months. Water quality parameters i.e. dissolved oxygen, temperature and pH were monitored and kept constant throughout the trial. Results showed that CA supplementation enhanced (P<0.05) the mineral content in scales of L. rohita juveniles. Similarly, PHY pre-treatment also increased (P<0.05) the mineral content in scales of L. rohita juveniles. Moreover, both the supplements (CA and PHY) interacted significantly (P<0.05) to increase P, K, Cu and Fe contents in scales of L. rohita juveniles. In conclusion, CA and PHY pre-treatment of sunflower meal based diet improved mineral deposition in scales of L. rohita juveniles. Improved scale mineralization provides more strength to fish to safeguard from infectious diseases and to fight against predation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The contamination of the environment by domestic and industrial discharges is a relevant and persistent problem that needs novel solutions. Innovations in the detection, adsorption, and removal or in-situ degradation of toxic components are urgently required. Various effective techniques and materials have been proposed to address this problem, in which carbon dots (CDs) stand out because of their unique properties and low-cost and abundant nature. Their combination with different metals results in the enhancement of their innate properties. Metal-doped CDs have shown excellent results and competitive advantages in recent times. Considering the above useful critiques and CDs notable potentialities, this review discusses different approaches in detail to sense, adsorb, and photodegrade different pollutants in water samples. It was found that altering the electronic structure of CDs via metal doping has a great potential to enhance the optical, electrical, chemical, and magnetic capabilities of CDs, which in turn is beneficial for wastewater treatment. [Display omitted] • The synergies of metal-doped carbon dots as robust nanomaterials for pollution abatement. • Effective monitoring and mitigation of pollutants from environmental matrices. • The trends in carbon-based nanomaterials for bioremediation are given with examples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted to assess the effects ofEucalyptus citriodora(E. citriodora) leaf extract on the oxidative stability of blend of canola, rapeseed, and sunflower oils (45:20:35 v/v, respectively) under accelerated storage. The blended oil was stabilized with 300 mg/L ethanolic extract (source of total phenolic content and total flavonoid content [5.23 ± 0.19 and 1.18 ± 0.04 g/100 g d.wt. of extract]) ofE. citriodoraleaves. The oxidative stability was measured on the basis of parameters such as free fatty acid contents, peroxide value, sponification value, iodine value, color, cloud point, and refractive index. After a 100 day incubation period, the increase in refractive index, free fatty acid, and peroxide, and sponification values in stabilized and non-stabilized oil blends were 0.0028 and 0.0047, 0.20 and 2.37% as oleic acid, 12.54 and 21.12 meq/kg of oil and 10.04 and 17.01 meq of KOH/g of oil, respectively, as compared with initial values. However, a decrease of 10.0 and 16.9 g of iodine/100 g of oil was recorded in oil iodine values of both stabilized and non-stabilized blended vegetable oils. Results showed thatE. citriodoraleaf extract was found effective to maintain the oxidative stability of blended vegetable oils for long duration (6 months) as compared with control oil samples. Therefore, it can be concluded thatE. citriodoraleaf extract is a cheap rich source of natural antioxidants that can be easily used for the stabilization of vegetable oils in the food processing industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This 1-year study, extending from January to December 2011, was conducted to investigate the role of the Indian flying fox (Pteropus giganteus) as a seed disperser in Lahore, Pakistan. Ejecta of the species from two roosting sites, i.e. Jinnah garden and Lalazar garden, was collected and the plant seeds were extracted from bat boluses and guano. Various seeds of edible trees and forest plantation species extracted from ejecta of P. giganteus included areca palm (Areca catechu), coromandel ebony (Diospyros melanoxylon), Indian gaabh (D. peregrina), lemon-scented gum (Eucalyptus citriodora), Chinese fan palm (Livistona chinensis), sapodilla (Manilkara zapota), mahwa (Madhuca longifolia), Indian lilac (Melia azedarach), cajeput tree (Melaleuca leucadendra), rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum), guava (Psidium guajava), and janbolanum plum (Syzygium jambolanum). Measurements of the extracted seeds' length (mm), diameter (mm), and weight (g) were taken and the seeds of jack fruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) were found the longest (40 mm) with the maximum average diameter (50 mm) while the rambutan (N. lappaceum) seeds were the heaviest (3.4 g). It can be concluded from the present study that P. giganteus is a seed disperser and transporter of heavier seeds as heavier seeds are mammal-dependent for their dispersal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of phytase, citric acid and their interaction on growth, muscle proximate composition and mineralization of whole body and bones in Labeo rohita juveniles. For this trial, 405 juveniles were used in a 3² factorial arrangement (0, 1.5 and 3% citric acid and 0, 750 and 1000 FTU/kg phytase) under completely randomized design. Triplicate groups of 15 fish per experimental units were fed experimental diets for 8 weeks. Fish fed citric acid and phytase supplemented diet showed improved (p<0.05) growth and body proximate of L. rohita either supplemented individually or mutually. Citric acid addition caused a significant (p<0.05) increment in the minerals deposition in the whole body and bones of juveniles. Similarly, phytase supplementation also improved (p<0.05) the mineralization in juveniles. Furthermore, a significant (p<0.05) interaction between both the supplements was observed to improve the minerals contents in the body and bones of fish. On the basis of these results, it is concluded that citric acid and phytase are very effective supplements to increase the bioavailability of minerals from soybean meal based diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fishes usually have low levels of acid secretion in the gut as compared to mammals. Inclusion of organic acids in their diet reduces the pH in the gut. This lowering of pH increases the phytate hydrolysis, kills the pathogens, decreases the rate of gastric emptying and improves mineralization and nutrient absorption. Among the organic acids, citric acid (CA) has been used extensively for diet acidification due to its unique flavor and high buffering capacity. It has great potential to replace fish meal (up to 70%) with plant based protein sources. Being a strong chelator of calcium and phosphorus, CA enhances the phytate hydrolysis. It improves the bioavailability of minerals by solubilizing the bones and competing with other chelators. It also increases the endogenous as well as exogenous phytases efficiency by providing an optimum pH in gut. Besides, it acts as antimicrobial agent and stimulates feeding in fish. Purpose of this review is to appraise the applications of citric acid supplementations in fish feed and to highlight its role in improving the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, minerals availability and phytase efficacy. © 2015 Friends Science Publishers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The density of staphylinid species is affected by crop type and production system. A study was made to compare the effect of conventional system with organic agricultural system on rove beetle fauna regarding the crop type. The study was conducted for a period of two years at eight different localities of Punjab province of Pakistan and five different collection methods i.e., pitfall trap, light trap, flight intercept trap, Berlese funnel trap and sweep net were used for collecting the rove beetles. The population (abundance) and diversity of rove beetles were taken as dependent variables in separate generalized linear mixed models (GLMM). In the GLMM, time (yr) was found non-significant random effect but locality as random effect was significant. In GLMM, with locality as random effect, the fixed effects crop type and soil moisture showed significant effect with population (abundance) as response and fixed effect system was also significant in the model with diversity as response variable. Generally, the farm yard manure had more positive effect on the density of different species than inorganic fertilizers. Hence, the density of all species was more prominent in the organic management system than in the conventional one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A feeding trial was conducted to study the effect of phytase supplementation on apparent digestibility of mineral in Labeo rohita fingerlings fed on dry bread meal (DBM) based diet. Eight experimental diets consisting of one reference diet and seven test diets, designated as DBM1 (0 FTU/kg), DBM2 (250 FTU/kg), DBM3 (500 FTU/kg), DBM4 (750 FTU/kg), DBM5 (1000 FTU/kg), DBM6 (1250 FTU/kg) and DBM7 were prepared. Each test diet was consisted of 70% reference diet and 30% test ingredient i.e. dry bread. Apparent digestibility coefficient (ADC) of each mineral was estimated by using chromic oxide as an inert marker. Highest ADC for Ca, P, Fe, Cu, Zn, Na, K and Mn was observed in the DBM4 diet which was supplemented with phytase level of 750 FTU/kg. Results from the present study indicated that phytase supplementation may be useful to develop cost effective and environment friendly aqua feed for L. rohita fingerlings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A feeding trial was conducted to study the effect of phytase supplementation on apparent digestibility of mineral in Labeo rohita fingerlings fed on dry bread meal (DBM) based diet. Eight experimental diets consisting of one reference diet and seven test diets, designated as DBM1 (0 FTU/kg), DBM2 (250 FTU/kg), DBM3 (500 FTU/kg), DBM4 (750 FTU/kg), DBM5 (1000 FTU/kg), DBM6 (1250 FTU/kg) and DBM7 were prepared. Each test diet was consisted of 70% reference diet and 30% test ingredient i.e. dry bread. Apparent digestibility coefficient (ADC) of each mineral was estimated by using chromic oxide as an inert marker. Highest ADC for Ca, P, Fe, Cu, Zn, Na, K and Mn was observed in the DBM4 diet which was supplemented with phytase level of 750 FTU/kg. Results from the present study indicated that phytase supplementation may be useful to develop cost effective and environment friendly aqua feed for L. rohita fingerlings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Specimens of Rhinolophus blasii were captured in Manawa, district Lahore, 43 years after the first and single ascertained record in Pakistan. External, cranial, and bacular measurements of R. blasii are given for the first time in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of Cuscuta reflexa extract (CRE) on the activities of germination enzymes, seed germination vigor, biomass production, physio-biochemical attributes, and seed yield of water-stressed wheat plants. Different levels of CRE (0, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50%), including water soaking, were used as seed priming. Water stress negatively affected the seed germination, germination enzyme activities, growth, yield, and different physio-biochemical attributes of wheat plants. Low doses of CRE (10, 20, and 30%) ameliorated the adverse effects of water stress on seed germination attributes, and activities of germination enzymes, but negative impacts were recorded at higher doses (40 and 50%) of CRE. Water-stressed wheat plants grown from seeds pre-treated with low doses of CRE also showed better growth and yield as compared with non-treated ones, and that was associated with an improvement in water relations, photosynthetic pigments, nutrient acquisition, reduced lipid peroxidation, and better antioxidative defense mechanisms. The maximum increase in seed yield was 14.77 and 12.32%, found in plants grown from seeds treated with 20% and 10% CRE, respectively. In conclusion, it is suggested that using low doses of CRE as seed priming can contribute to better wheat yield under water stress, especially in semi-arid and arid areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stevia ( Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni) natural, safe, non-toxic, non-caloric sugar substitute is rich source of pharmacologically important glycoside stevioside that is linked to the pathology and complications of hyperlipidemia. Methods: The present research was carried out to explore the anti-hyperlipidemic effect of aqueous extract of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni leaves in albino rats. For this purpose, hyperlipidemia was induced by administration of Cholesterol (90% E, Appli Chem, Darmstadt, Germany) mixed at dose of 400 mg/kg body weight of rats in their daily routine feed. The hyperlipidemic rats were administered with aqueous stevia extract at different dose levels (200, 300, 400 and 500 ppm/kg b.w.) for 8 weeks; the control rats were fed basal diet during this period. Ethical approval for the current research was obtained from Institutional Review Board Faculty of Science & Technology Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan. Results: Stevia aqueous extract decreased the body weight gain by lowering the feed intake of hyperlipidemic rats. Furthermore, administration of stevia extract at different levels significantly ( P < 0.05) lowered the TC (125.22 ± 5.91 to 110.56 ± 5.81 mg/dL), TG (102.13 ± 6.89 to 98.62 ± 7.22 mg/dL), LDL (33.02 ± 4.79 to 22.77 ± 4.36 mg/dL), VLDL (21.22 ± 5.79 to 19.33 ± 5.95 mg/dL) levels and LDL/HDL ratios (0.83 ± 1.22 to 0.54 ± 1.66 mg/dL) from H1 to H4. Conversely, it improved the HDL (39.76 ± 4.34 to l42.02 ± 4.39 mg/dL) level in hyperlipidemic rats compared with untreated rats after eight weeks study period. Conclusion: It is concluded that aqueous extract of stevia has anti-hyperlipidemic effects in albino rats, and therefore could be a promising nutraceutical therapy for the management of hyperlipidemia and its associated complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In recent times, focus on plant research has improved all over the world and essential parts of plants provide bioactive compounds in human diet. The bael (Aegle marmelos) has enormous traditional uses in the treatment of chronic diarrhea, dysentery, peptic ulcers and as a laxative. The main focus of this study was characterization of bael leaf extract for its bioactive constituents, antihypercholestrolemic and antilipidemic perspectives. Methods: After proximate composition of bael powder, the aqueous extract of bael leaf was used for phytochemical profiling (alkaloids, total phenolic content and total flavonoid content). Afterwards, normal rats group G0 was administrated basal diet while G1 and G2 normal rat groups were fed diets containing bael leaf extract 125 mg and 250 mg, respectively for consecutive 60 days. In a similar way, hyperlipidemic rats group Gh0 was administrated basal diet while Gh1 and Gh2 hyperlipidemic rat groups were fed diets containing bael leaf extract 125 mg and 250 mg, respectively for consecutive 60 days. The blood drawn on day 0, day 30 and day 60 was analyzed for serum parameters, such as total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low–density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides concentration and free and ester cholesterol. Results: Bael leaf powder is a rich source of crude fiber (14.50 ± 0.10 g/100 g). Aqueous extract of bael leaf contains alkaloids (15.58 ± 0.05 mg/g), flavonoids (64.00 ± 0.05 mg/g), phenolics (30.34 ± 0.01 GAEmg/g). From the In vivo studies, the lowest weight gain was observed in group G2 and in Gh2 as compared to control of both groups. The decrease in serum TC for G1–15.06%, G2–17.27% while in Gh1–22.46% and Gh2–34.82% after day 60, respectively. The maximum decrease was observed in group G2 (− 14.33%) and in Gh2 (− 24.79%) for triglycerides after 60 days. For HDL-cholesterol, significant increase (11.20%) in G2 and (49.83%) in Gh2 was observed of after 60 days. A trend in decrease of serum LDL–cholesterol in G2 (− 9.63%) and in Gh2 (− 44.65%) was also observed at day 60, and − 19.05% and − 30.06% decrease was noted in G2 and Gh2, respectively and decreasing trend was observed in free and total cholesterol − 22.30% and − 81.49% for groups G2 and Gh2 after day 60. Conclusions: The results of the present study demonstrated that the extract contents of bael leaf provide protective role against hypercholesterolemic and hyperlipidemic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]