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Treatment of diabetic wounds has always been a challenge for primary and acute health care. Eucalyptus alba has been reported to be used for the treatment of wounds and oxidative stress. Effects of using different temperatures and solvents for the extraction of Eucalyptus alba leaves were investigated in terms of diabetic wound healing activity. Leaves of E. alba were dried at 10°C, 30°C, 50°C, and 100°C, and dissolved in ethanol, methanol, and acetone to obtain a total of 12 extracts. All the extracts have remarkable antidiabetic, antioxidant, and cell proliferation activities. Among the tested extracts, highest activities were observed with leaves dried at 10°C and 30°C, whereas drying at 100°C resulted in the lowest activities. Ethanol-based extracts exhibited significantly increased cell proliferation compared with methanol- and acetone-based extract. The present study suggests that leaves of E. alba should be dried at temperature not more than 30°C and extracted in ethanol for optimum results. However, further studies should focus on the identification of specific bioactive compounds in E. alba leaves.

Maize (Zea mays L.) has a distinct genetic system and is recalcitrant to generate haploid and subsequently double haploid plants from pollen grains in aseptic conditions. It is a technique with lot of potential for producing pure lines for crop improvement and introducing the desired variability through modification in biochemical and applied genetics. The experiment was conducted using different doses of 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2, 4-D), Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), 6-Benzylaminopurine(BAP), Zeatin(ZEA), Kinetin and Naphthalene Acetic Acid(NAA) ranging from 0.5 mg/L to 5 mg/L for the callus induction and plantlet regeneration. The callus was sub-cultured for double haploid induction with doses of 100–500 mg/l colchicine for 7h, 12h and 7 days. Microscopic examination and morphological identification were proposed to check ploidy level. The results exhibited the callus formation at 1, 2 and 3 mg/l concentrations of 2, 4-D and IAA respectively. Based on the time required for the 2, 4-D, callus induction at the concentration of 2mg/l exhibited (47 days) and at the same concentration of IAA exhibited the minimum days of callus induction (34 days). The colchicine treated pollen derived callus regenerated into roots and shoots on IAA and BAP with 3mg/l and 2mg/l respectively. In contrast to pollen derived callus, colchicine treated seed callus gave better results. Double haploid plant produced successfully through in vitro culture of pollen. Current study will be helpful for the achievement of homozygosity in relatively less time and varietal improvement for desired traits.

The anatomical variations of two plants from the Nyctaginaceae family, Bougainvillea spectabilis and Bougainvillea glabra, were studied using light and scanning electron microscopy methods in this work. Bougainvillea is a dicotyledonous with defensive traits that can withstand extreme (hot and dry) settings; according to the findings, crystal inclusions in cells, woody spines, and an abnormal development pattern are all features that help them survive against predators and are unique to this species. The Bougainvillea plant's leaves are arranged in simple pattern, alternate to each other along stem having an undulate leaves edge and an oval form. The xylem and phloem, palisade, parenchyma midrib, spongy mesophyll, raphide crystal bundles, and trichomes were all visible when bracts and leaves were transversally sectioned and dyed with toluidine blue O (TBO). The presence of crystals was confirmed by a detailed examination of the transverse leaves by using bright-field and cross-polarizing microscopy. Dissecting microscopic examination showed that all the leaves revealed leaves venation pattern that had midvein, lateral veins areoles, and trichomes. Although trichomes have been identified on both sides, a closer look at a cleaned leaf dyed with TBO showed multicellular abundant trichomes on adaxial surface. Stomata complexes were typically found on the abaxial surface of the leaf according to epidermal peels. Present studies also showed that on adaxial side, stomata were lesser in number or were absent and also showed that the morphologies of the pavement cells on the adaxial and abaxial sides of the leaf differed.

Present research work was carried out to clarify the variations among species of genus Paspalum morphologically and palynologically as this genus is taxonomically difficult due to having multiple similar morphologically overlapping characters which make it difficult to identify. Henceforth present research work was carried out to delimit taxa within the same genus by morphological and palynological tools through light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Both these tools are considered as the most useful taxonomic characters for taxonomically problematic genera. The results showed a lot of variations among morphological characters. In Paspalum dilatatum, the upper glume was ovate whereas in the other two species, the upper glume was elliptic. The upper glume apex found in P. dilatatum and Paspalum scrobiculatum was obtuse whereas in Paspalum distichum, upper glume apex was acute. Glume nerves showed variation in all three species. Paspalum distichum was 3 nerved, P. scrobiculatum was 5-7 nerved, and P. dilatatum was 5-9 nerved. All three species showed variation in lemma nerves. Paspalum scrobiculatum had 3 nerved lemma whereas in P. distichum 3-5 nerved and P. dilatatum 5-9 nerved lemma were present. In polar and equatorial view, pollen grains ranged from 25 (20-30) to 37.5 (30-45) μm. Paspalum distichum appeared to be the smallest in size whereas P. dilatatum was the largest. Exine thickness ranged from 0.75 (0.5-1) to 1.35 (1.2-1.5) μm. The higher value of pollen fertility was found in P. scrobiculatum as 87.69% and the lowest value was in P. distichum as 78.08%. Morphological keys were also given for correct identification.

An imbalance between oxidative stress and antioxidative defence mediates a variety of diseases pathogenesis. The present study aims to assess the possible outcome of supplementation of oral vitamin-C (VC), an antioxidant, in Viral Hepatitis C (HCV) treatment as an adjuvant therapy. 200 HCV-patients were selected, 100 were given Vitamin-C (1000 mg/day) along with anti HCV treatment (sofosbuvir plus daclatasvir) while the other 100 took only anti-HCV treatment for 4weeks. The serum ascorbic acid (Vitamin-C) levels and functions of the liver were tested before and after the VC supplementation. HCV patients with relatively low serum ascorbic acid showed significant improvement after the intake of vitamin C. After 4 weeks of treatment, AST, ALP, albumin, and total, direct and indirect bilirubin were improved significantly in the VC group; whereas only ALT and indirect bilirubin were improved in both groups when associated with the control subjects. Comparing the two treatment groups at 4weeks; more effective and significant improvement was observed in ALT (p0.01), AST (p0.001), direct (p0.01) and indirect bilirubin (p0.001), total proteins (p0.001) and albumin (p0.05) in patients with VC supplementation on anti-viral treatment compared to only anti-viral treatment group. Thus, VC supplementation improves the antiviral therapy outcome by bestowing a beneficial effect in minimizing liver damage in HCV cases.

Treatment of diabetic wounds has always been a challenge for primary and acute health care.

The present study was undertaken to gather information on selected species of Echinochloa based on their morphological and palyonological examination through light and scanning electron microscopy. As the Echinochloa species are most problematic grass weeds and exhibit high interspecific and intraspecific variability so due to their great morphological diversity it is difficult to recognize them. A lot of variation was observed in morphological features of studied taxa. In the present study, E. colona had more or less spreading dense racemes whereas in E. crus-galli racemes were linear to ovate. Upper glume surface was pubescent in E. colona, hispid in E. crus-galli and spinose in E. walteri. E. colona was comprised of five-nerved glumes whereas in E. crus-galli glumes were three-nerved. Although pollen basic characters in family Poaceae remains consistent but great variation was observed in pollen of studied taxa. The pollen size was quite variable among the species of genus Echinochloa. In polar view, the size of pollen grains ranged from 27.5 (20-35) μm to 40 (30-50) μm. E. crus-galli was appeared to be the smallest in size whereas E. colona was the largest.). P/E ratio ranged from 0.84 to 1.15 μm among the species. The highest value of pollen fertility was found in E. colona as 93.33% and lowest was in E. crus-galli as 87.50%. The morphological key of studied taxa is also given to study variations. In conclusion, it was observed that microscopy of morphological and palynological assessment can play a vital role in identification of taxonomically problematic taxa.

Directional transport of auxin is essential for plant development, with PIN auxin transport proteins representing an integral part of the machinery that controls hormone distribution. However, unlike the rapidly emerging framework of molecular determinants regulating PIN protein abundance and subcellular localization, insights into mechanisms controlling PIN transcription are still limited. Here we describe PIN2 PROMOTER BINDING PROTEIN 1 (PPP1), an evolutionary conserved plant-specific DNA binding protein that acts on transcription of PIN genes. Consistent with PPP1 DNA-binding activity, PPP1 reporter proteins are nuclear localized and analysis of PPP1 null alleles and knockdown lines indicated a function as a positive regulator of PIN expression. Furthermore, we show that ppp1 pleiotropic mutant phenotypes are partially reverted by PIN overexpression, and results are presented that underline a role of PPP1-PIN promoter interaction in PIN expression control. Collectively, our findings identify an elementary, thus far unknown, plant-specific DNA-binding protein required for post-embryonic plant development, in general, and correct expression of PIN genes, in particular.

Chickpea chlorotic dwarf virus (CpCDV), a member of genus Mastrevirus (family Geminiviridae) is an important viral pathogen of chickpea and other legume crops in Middle East, North Africa, India and Pakistan. Among sixteen known strains of CpCDV three are known to infect legume crops in Punjab province of Pakistan. In this study diversity of CpCDV was explored in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province of Pakistan. In year 2016, during a survey in the chickpea growing areas of district Dera Ismail Khan, CpCDV infected plants were identified. Leaf samples were collected, and a diagnostic PCR confirmed mastreivrus infection in 4 out of 100 samples. From these samples full-length genome of CpCDV was amplified using specific back-to-back primers. Virus molecules were sequenced to their entirety and sequence analysis of a molecule KRF4 (GenBank accession # KY952837) showed the highest pair wise sequence identity of 97% with a CpCDV molecule (KM229787) isolated from chickpea plant. An SDT analysis revealed it to be the D strain of CpCDV and a recombination detection program (RDP) showed it to be a recombinant between C (KM229780) and L (KT634301) strains of CpCDV. Thus, further supporting the intra-species recombination for CpCDV and presence of the same strain in chickpea growing areas of Pakistan other than Punjab province. This is the first identification of CpCDV (genus Mastrevirus family Geminiviridae) from chickpea (Cicer arietinum) plants in District Dera Ismail Khan, KP province, Pakistan.

Background The use of quality control tool for adulteration of Senna (Cassia aungustifolia) a pharmaceutically very important. They were used for multiple health disorders such as constipation, indigestion, epilepsy, asthma, piles, migraine, and heart problems. Two different species of same family or same genus used commercially in Indo-Pak using the same medicine name Senna. One named as Senna (C. aungustifolia) and its adulterant named as Sickle Senna (Cassia obtusifolia). Methodology These two plants were analyzed using classical microscopic techniques light microscopy and the modern chemotaxonomic traits scanning electron microscopy, fluorescence studies and phytochemical studies. Results The C. aungustifolia L. had found to be a perennial herb with trilobed pollen, diacytic, paracytic, and anisocytic stomata having smooth walled epidermal cells, whereas the C. obtusifolia stands out as a perennial shrub with spheroidal and circular pollen and paracytic type of stomata having irregular shaped epidermal cells. The powdered drug of C. aungustifolia is dark grayish green, whereas the powdered drug of C. obtusifolia is light green in color. Investigation and other techniques used in this project provided the basis for the authentication of this species.

Adulteration in traded medicinal plants is a significant issue nowadays and use of these adulterated medicinal plants can impose harmful impact to end user. However, this problem can be overcome by ensuring the identification of traded medicinal plants which are used in making different herbal medicines. In this regard, palynological markers are considered to be an important taxonomic tool in the identification of original medicinal plant from its adulterant. Hence this study attempted to provide particular reliable palynological markers for distinguishing selected medicinal plants from their adulterants, that is, Cinnamomum verum versus Canella winterana, Cinnamomum tamala versus Cinnamomum obtusifolium, Gymnema sylvestre versus Gymnema lactiferum, Artemisia maritima versus Artemisia absinthium, Achillea millefolium versus Adhatoda vasaka, Sphaeranthus indicus versus Sphaeranthus africanus, Averrhoa carambola versus Butea monosperma, and Morus nigra versus Morus alba. Results demonstrated great variations in multiple palynological characters between original medicinal plant and its adulterant such as in pollen size, shape, colpi length, exine, intine thickness, and fertility. In equatorial view, circular to spheroidal shape of pollen was found in A. millefolium while oblate shape was observed in A. vasaka. Similarly B. monosperma pollen was 34 μm, whereas pollen of its adulterant A. carambola was 21 μm. Moreover, colpi length of A. maritima was 11.8 μm, whereas 4.5 μm in A. absinthium. Hence it can be concluded that palynological characters are commendably helpful in identification of genuine medicinal plant from its adulterant.

Elevation of arsenic (As) toxicity is becoming a threat to the environment due to its elevated levels in the soil, water, vegetables, and crops worldwide. Arsenic strongly interacts with iron (Fe), sulfur (S), and phosphorus (P) in agronomic soils. Iron and S strongly bind As in soils and thus reduce As bioavailability for plant uptake. The presence of phosphate [PO4]− 3 triggers As transportation that results in the accumulation of high concentrations of As in rice and other crops. Arsenate [As(V)] is a phosphate [PO4]− 3 analog that enters plant cell via phosphate transport system and interrupts phosphate metabolism. Plants do not have such a mechanism to cope with As(V) uptake in roots. So the applications of P fertilizers to restrict As loading in plants is not a good practice. Sulfur plays a major part in As detoxification by forming arsenite [As(III)] complex with thiol peptides. This complex formation binds As in the roots of plants and resists As translocation. Likewise, Fe also plays a crucial role in the biogeochemical processes of As with Fe oxyhydroxides on the soil and root surface of wetland plants acting as a strong adsorbent for As. Oxidation of Fe(II) and precipitation of Fe(III) on the root surface produce Fe plaques in the rhizosphere of rice. The application of ferrous sulfate also reduces As toxicity to rice, resulting in high grain nutritional yield and decrease grain As loading.

Rhizosphere acidification in leguminous plants can release P from the dissolution of phosphate compounds which can reduce Pb bioavailability to them via the formation of insoluble Pb compounds in their rhizosphere. A soil polluted from Pb-acid batteries effluent (SPBE), having total Pb = 639 mg kg−1, was amended with six different rates (0, 0.5, 1, 2, 4 and 6%) of oxalic acid-activated phosphate rock (OAPR) and their effects on pH, available P and bioavailable Pb concentrations in the rhizosphere and bulk soils of mung bean plant were evaluated. Furthermore, the effects of these variant OAPR rates on Pb concentrations in plant parts, bioaccumulation factor (BAF) and translocation factor (TF) for Pb in grain and traits like productivity, the activities of antioxidant enzymes, and grain biochemistry were investigated. Results revealed that increasing rates of OAPR significantly increased pH values and available P while decreased bioavailable Pb concentrations in the rhizosphere over control. The highest dissolution of P in the rhizosphere was with 4 and 6% OAPR rates. As a result, the formation of insoluble Pb compounds affected on reduced Pb concentrations in shoots, roots, and grain in addition to lower grain BAF and TF values for Pb over control. Likewise, the highest plant productivity, improved grain biochemistry, high Ca and Mg concentrations, least oxidative stress, and enhanced soil alkaline phosphatase activity were found with 4 and 6% OAPR rates. The OAPR 4% rate is suggested for reducing grain Pb concentration, cell oxidative injury, and improving grain biochemistry in mung bean.

In Pakistan, 55% of textile exports are contributed by textile-units of Faisalabad. The effluents of these textile units, being discharged without any treatment, contain the contamination of a huge amount of synthetic azo dyes. The objective of the current research was to evaluate the contribution of an azoreductase-encoding gene (azrS) from a pre-characterized azo dye decolorizing bacterial strain Bacillus sp. MR-1/2 in a high copy number host system (pUC19-T7-Top-T) of Escherichia coli strain DH5α followed by in-silico prediction of azoreductase enzyme (AzrS) function. The recombinant cells that contained azrS had a significantly higher rate of color removal in congo red and reactive black-5 dyes when compared to wild-type MR-1/2 and E. coli DH5α after 72 h of incubation. Moreover, we were able to show that the recombinant strain significantly reduced the values of all tested parameters (pH, EC, turbidity, TSS, and COD) in actual wastewater. In support of our results, it was also predicted through bioinformatics analysis that the deduced azoreductase protein of strain MR-1/2 is linked with the dye decolorization ability of the strain through NAD(P)H-ubiquinone: oxidoreductase activity. Furthermore, we also found that the deduced protein resembled closely related proteins of protein databank in many features, yet some unique features were predicted in the enzyme activity of strain MR-1/2. It was concluded that the recombinant strain could be examined in pilot-scale experiments for textile wastewater treatment.

Soil pollution with Cd has promoted serious concerns for medicinal plant quality. Amending Cd-polluted soils with textile waste biochar (TWB) coated with natural polymers can lower Cd bioavailability in them and reduce associated environmental and human health risks. In this study, we explored the impacts of solely applied TWB, chitosan (CH), their mix (TWB + CH) and TWB coated with CH (TBC) in Cd-polluted soil on Cd distribution in moringa (Moringa oleifera L.) shoots and roots as well as plant-available Cd in soil. Moreover, amendments effects on plant growth, dietary quality, and antioxidative defense responses were also assessed. Results revealed that the addition of TWB, CH, and TWB + CH in Cd-polluted soil reduced Cd distribution in shoots (56%, 66%, and 63%), roots (41%, 48%, and 45%), and plant-available Cd in soil (38%, 52%, and 49%), compared to control. Interestingly, the TBC showed significantly the topmost response for reducing Cd concentrations in shoots, roots, and soil by 73%, 54%, and 58%, respectively, relative to control. Moreover, amending Cd-polluted soil with TWB, CH, and TWB + CH depicted significantly better effects on plant growth, dietary quality, and activities of soil enzymes but the topmost response was observed with TBC treatment. Compared with control, TBC improved plant growth parameters: shoot length (81%), root length (90%), shoot fresh weight (60%), root fresh weight (76%), shoot dry weight (75%), root dry weight (68%) contents of chlorophyll-a (42%) and chlorophyll-b (74%), and soil enzyme activities: urease (130%), catalase (138%), protease (71%), cellobiohydrolase (45%), acid phosphatase (34%), peroxidase (60%), β-glucosidase (152%), chitinase (62%), and phosphomonoesterase (139%). Furthermore, TBC treatment arrested Cd-induced oxidative stress via escalating the activities of antioxidant enzymes as well as improved moringa dietary parameters (protein, tannins, lipids, alkaloids, saponins, terpenoids, flavonoids, and tocopherols contents). Such findings suggest that the TBC has an immense perspective to remediate Cd-polluted soils and prevent human health risks associated with Cd exposure through the diet.

Hexavalent chromium (Cr6+) is reported to have negative effects on fauna and flora. The present study establishes plant-bacterial synergism in floating wetlands (FWs) for the maximum removal of Cr6+ from the contaminated water. A common wetland plant, Brachiaria mutica (para grass), was planted in combination with three Cr-resistant rhizo- and endophytic bacteria. Results indicated that FWs vegetated with B. mutica showed the potential to remove Cr (53%) from water and their efficacy was significantly enhanced by bacterial inoculation (88%). The inoculated bacteria were able to colonize the plant interior successfully, that is, roots and shoots. The un-vegetated control tanks, however, showed the least bacterial persistence in the water. The perceptible phytotoxicity symptoms on B. mutica were only observed for the treatments without bacterial inoculation. The study suggests that B. mutica could be an effective choice as a wetland macrophyte to establish a partnership with the Cr-resistant bacteria for improved remediation of Cr6+ contamination. 2020 The Authors. Water and Environment Journal published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management. This research was supported by the Higher Education Commission, Pakistan (grant number 20-3854/R&D/HEC/14). Open access funding enabled and organized by Projekt DEAL. Scopus

الملخص: أهداف البحث: تهدف هذه الدراسة إلى تحديد قوة الثني ثنائي المحور لمواد الراتنج المركبة في معدلات تشوه محددة. طرق البحث: تم اختيار اثنين من الهجائن الدقيقة من مواد الراتنج المركبة [فلتك زي ١٠٠ ريستوراتف تي ام (زي ١٠٠) وفلتك زي تي ام ٢٥٠ (زي ٢٥٠)]، واثنين من مواد الراتنج المركبة المعبأة عن طريق النانو (فلتك سبريم اكس تي بودي وفلتك عالي الشفافية). كما تم تصنيع عينات على شكل أقراص (١٢×١ مم) باستخدام قوالب نايلون مقسمة، من أجل تحديد معامل الثني. وتم تصنيع عينات على شكل قضبان (٢٥×٢×٢مم) من كل مادة. وتم اختبار العينات لاحتساب قوة الثني ثنائي المحور ومُعامله في الظروف الجافة والظروف الرطبة بعد أسبوع و١٣ أسبوعا و٥٢ أسبوعا. النتائج: سُجّلت أعلى قوة ثني ثنائي المحور لـ ''زي ٢٥٠'' (١٦٢+/- ١٩ ام بي أي) ويتبعها فلتك عالي الشفافية (١٥٤+/- ١٦ ام بي أي) و ''زي ١٠٠'' (١٥٠ +/- ١٨ ام بي أي) وفلتك سبريم اكس تي بودي (١٣٦+/- ١٨ ام بي أي). وأظهرت الزيادة في معدل التشوه وجود نمط واضح بزيادة قوة الثني ثنائي المحور في المواد. بعد أسبوع واحد من الغمر، كانت قوة ثني ثنائي المحور ١٢٦ +/- ١٨ لـ ''زي ١٠٠'' و١٢٤ +/-١٧ لـ ''زي ٢٥٠''، التي كانت أعلى من فلتك سبريم اكس تي بودي ٩٩+/- ١٦ ام بي أي وفلتك عالي الشفافية ١١٥+/- ١٩ ام بي أي في ظروف مماثلة. انخفض المُعامل الانثنائي للعينات المغمورة لمدة أسبوع واحد بشكل واضح مقارنة بالعينات الجافة؛ ''زي ١٠٠'' من ١٨.٣± ١.٢جي بي أي إلى ١٥.٧± ٠.٨ جي بي أي، و''زي ٢٥٠'' من ١٦.٧± ٠.٨ جي بي أي إلى ١٣.٣± ١.٤جي بي أي، وفلتك سبريم اكس تي بودي من ١٣.٧± ٠.٦ جي بي أي إلى ١١.٠± ٢.١ جي بي أي وفلتك عالي الشفافية من ١٢.٧± ٢.٣ جي بي أي إلى ١٠.٤± ١.٠جي بي أي. الاستنتاجات: تنخفض قوة ومعدلات انحناء مواد ترميم الأسنان المصنوعة من الراتنج عند غمرها في وسط مائي لحين تشبعها بالماء. وبعد الوصول إلى التوازن فإن الوسط المستخدم للغمر لا يؤثر على المواد التركيبية. إن تأثيرات معدل التشوه على قوة الثني ثنائي المحور في مواد ترميم الأسنان المصنوعة من الراتنج ليست ذات قيمة. Abstract: Objectives: This study aimed to determine the biaxial flexural strength (BFS) of resin composite materials at distinct deformation rates. Methods: Two micro-hybrid [Filtek Z100™ Restorative (Z100), Filtek™ Z250 (Z250)] and two nano-filled [Filtek™ Supreme XT Body (FSB), Filtek™ Supreme Translucent (FST)] composite resins were selected. Disc-shaped (12 × 1 mm) specimens were fabricated using nylon split moulds. Bar-shaped specimens (25 × 2 × 2 mm) were fabricated from each material to determine the flexural modulus. The specimens were tested for BFS and flexural modulus under dry and wet conditions after 1, 13, and 52 weeks. Results: The highest BFS was recorded for Z250 (162 ± 19 MPa), followed by FST (154 ± 16 MPa), Z100 (150 ± 18 MPa), and FSB (136 ± 18 MPa). The materials exhibited a clear trend of increase in BFS with deformation rate. Following immersion for 1 week, the BFS was 126 ± 18 MPa for Z100, and 124 ± 17 MPa for Z250, which were higher than those of FSB (99 ± 16 MPa) and FST (115 ± 19 MPa) under comparable conditions. There was a remarkable reduction in the flexural moduli of the specimens immersed for 1 week compared to those of the dry specimens: Z100 (from 18.3 ± 1.2 GPa for dry specimen to 15.7 ± 0.8 GPa after immersion for 1 week), Z250 (from 16.7 ± 0.8 GPa to 13.3 ± 1.4 GPa), FSB (from 13.7 ± 0.6 GPa to 11.0 ± 2.1 GPa) and FST (from 12.7 ± 2.3 GPa to 10.4 ± 1.0 GPa). Conclusion: This study concludes that the BFS and flexural moduli of resin-based dental restoratives decline when they are immersed in an aqueous medium until saturation with water. However, after equilibrium is established, the immersion medium does not affect the restorative materials further. Variations in deformation rate did not have a significant effect on the BFS of resin-based dental restoratives. الكلمات المفتاحية: مواد طب الأسنان, الخواص الميكانيكية, مُعامل, طب الأسنان الترميمي, Keywords: Dental materials, Mechanical properties, Modulus, Restorative dentistry

Objectives To investigate the outcomes of absorbable versus non-absorbable tacks in patients undergoing laparoscopic ventral hernia repair. Methods We performed a systematic review in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement standards. We conducted a search of electronic information sources, including MEDLINE; EMBASE; CINAHL; the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL); the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry; ClinicalTrials.gov ; and ISRCTN Register, and bibliographic reference lists to identify all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies investigating outcomes of absorbable versus non-absorbable tacks for mesh fixation in patients undergoing laparoscopic ventral hernia repair. We used the Cochrane risk of bias tool and the Newcastle-Ottawa scale to assess the risk of bias of RCTs and observational studies, respectively. Fixed-effect or random-effects models were applied to calculate pooled outcome data. Results We identified three RCTs and two observational studies enrolling a total of 1149 patients. The included patients were comparable in terms of age [Mean difference (MD) 0.28, 95% confidence intervals (CI) −1.45-2, P = 0.75], male gender (MD 0.81, 95% CI 0.63–1.04, P = 0.10), body mass index (MD -041, 95% CI -1.28-0.46, P = 0.36) and hernia defect size (MD 0.12, 95% CI -0.26-0.49, P = 0.54). The mean and median follow-up period was 30 months and 13 months, respectively There was no difference between the two mesh fixation techniques in terms of recurrence [Risk difference (RD) 0.03, 95% CI -0.04, 0.09, P = 0.47], chronic pain [Odds ratio (OR) 0.91, 95% CI 0.62–1.33, P = 0.64], seroma (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.37–2.60, P = 0.96), haematoma (RD -0.00, 95% CI -0.04- 0.04, P = 0.99), prolonged ileus (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.24–4.03, P = 0.99), length of hospital stay (MD 0.10, 95% CI -0.36-0.56, P = 0.68) and port-site hernia (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.13–7.16, P = 0.98). The operative time was longer in absorbable tack group (MD 7.53, 95% CI 1.49–13.58, P = 0.01). The results remain consistent when randomised trials were analysed separately. Conclusions We found no difference in clinical outcomes between absorbable and non-absorbable tacks for mesh fixation in patients undergoing laparoscopic ventral hernia repair. The quality of the available evidence is moderate with a possibility of type 2 error. High quality RCTs with adequate statistical power are required to provide more robust basis for definite conclusions. Considering the similarity of both techniques in terms of clinical outcomes, the cost-effectiveness of each technique would be an important outcome determining which technique should be used; this needs to be considered as an outcome of interest in future studies.

To investigate outcomes of peritoneal irrigation versus suction without irrigation in patients undergoing emergency laparoscopic appendectomy.We performed a systematic review and conducted a search of electronic information sources to identify all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies investigating outcomes of irrigation versus suction alone in patients undergoing emergency laparoscopic appendectomy. We used the Cochrane risk of bias tool and the Newcastle-Ottawa scale to assess the risk of bias of RCTs and observational studies, respectively. Random-effects models were applied to calculate pooled outcome data.We identified 3 RCTs and 2 retrospective observational studies, enrolling 2511 patients. Our results suggested that there was no difference between peritoneal irrigation and suction alone in terms of intraabdominal abscess rate (odds ratio = 2.39, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.49-11.74, P = .28), wound infection (risk difference = 0.00, 95% CI = -0.04 to 0.05, P = .85), and length of stay (mean difference = -1.02, 95% CI = -3.10 to 1.07, P = .34); however, peritoneal irrigation was associated with longer operative time (mean difference = 7.12, 95% CI = 4.33 to 9.92, P.00001). Our results remained consistent when randomized trials, adult patients, and pediatric patients were analyzed separately.The best available evidence suggests that the peritoneal irrigation with normal saline during laparoscopic appendectomy does not provide additional benefits compared with suction alone in terms of intraabdominal abscess, wound infection, and length of stay but it may prolong the operative time. The quality of the best available evidence is moderate; therefore, high-quality RCTs, which are adequately powered, are required to provide more robust basis for definite conclusions.

Bactrocera zonata is fruit pest mostly attacked on peach and cause heavy destruction in production of peach fruits by sucking their juice. For their management, we start to detect them on basis of their molecular characterization. As mitochondrial genome encodes a gene COI used as biomarker for identification of eukaryotes including insects. In present study, we amplified COI gene and cloned into pTZ57R/T vector (Fermentas). Cloned gene was confirmed through restriction analysis and sequenced through its entirety on both strands from Macrogen (South Korea) by Sanger sequencing method. Different computational tools were utilized for comparative analysis of sequence with other related sequences retrieved from databases. Related species were identified through phylogenetic analysis using Mega 7 tool. Pairwise sequence alignment showed the sequence identity about 96% with Bactrocera zonata. By identifying the pests with more authentic molecular biomarker may help the research to control them more effectively in future.

Objectives To investigate outcomes of early versus delayed surgery in patients with acute recurrent diverticulitis. Methods We performed a systematic review in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement standards. We conducted a search of electronic information sources, including MEDLINE; EMBASE; CINAHL; the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL); the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry; ClinicalTrials.gov; and ISRCTN Register, and bibliographic reference lists to identify all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies investigating outcomes of early versus delayed surgery in patients with acute recurrent diverticulitis. We used the Newcastle-Ottawa scale to assess the risk of bias of included studies. Random-effects models were applied to calculate pooled outcome data. Results We identified three retrospective and one prospective cohort studies enrolling a total of 1046 patients. The included patients were comparable in terms of age, ASA score and Hinchey classifications (Hinchey I and II). The results of our analyses suggested that there was no difference between two groups in surgical site infection [Odds ratio (OR) 1.61, 95% CI 0.79–3.27, P = 0.19], intra-abdominal abscess (OR 0.92, 95% CI 0.21–4.00, P = 0.91), anastomotic leak (OR1.27, 95% CI 0.50–3.25, P = 0.61), 30-day mortality [Risk difference (RD) 0.00 95% CI -0.01–0.01, P = 0.80], postoperative ileus (OR 1.35, 95% CI 0.50–3.66, P = 0.55), postoperative bleeding (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.32–2.69, P = 0.89), ureteric injury (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.08–5.07, P = 0.65), and overall morbidity (OR 1.42 95% CI 0.76–2.66, P = 0.27). The early surgery was associated with longer operative time [Mean Difference (MD) 12.8, 95% CI 5.08–20.53, P = 0.001] and length of stay (MD 4.41, 95% CI -0.34–8.53, P = 0.03). Among those undergoing laparoscopic surgery, conversion to open surgery was higher in the early surgery group (OR 2.71, 95% CI 1.36–5.40, P = 0.005). Conclusions The best available evidence suggests that there is no difference between early elective and delayed elective surgery for acute recurrent diverticulitis in terms of clinical outcomes. However, longer operative time and length of stay and higher conversion rate to open surgery associated with early elective surgery may make the delayed elective surgery more cost-effective. The best available evidence is derived from non-randomised studies; therefore, high quality randomised controlled trials are required to provide more robust basis for definite conclusions.

To investigate outcomes of operative and non-operative management of adhesive small bowel obstruction (SBO).We performed a systematic review in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement standards. We conducted a search of electronic information sources to identify all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies investigating outcomes of operative versus non-operative management of patients with adhesive SBO. We used the Cochrane risk of bias tool and the Newcastle-Ottawa scale to assess the risk of bias of RCTs and observational studies, respectively. Fixed-effect or random-effects models were applied to calculate pooled outcome data.We found one RCT, two prospective and three retrospective observational studies, enrolling a total of 876 patients. The analyses showed that operative management of adhesive SBO was associated with a lower risk of future recurrence [odds ratio (OR) 0.54, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.38-0.76, P = 0.0005] but a higher risk of mortality [risk difference (RD) 0.03, 95% CI 0.01-0.06, P = 0.01] and complications (OR 5.39, 95% CI 2.97-9.78, P 0.00001). There was no difference in need for surgical re-intervention rate (OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.35-1.47, P = 0.36) and length of stay [mean difference (MD) 5.07, 95% CI -2.36-12.49, P = 1.0] between operative and non-operative managements. The baseline suspicion of strangulation was a major confounding factor. When the baseline suspicion of strangulation was higher in the operative group, the risk of mortality (RD 0.04, 95% CI 0.02-0.07, P = 0.0006) and complications (OR 8.14, 95% CI 4.16-15.94, P = 0.00001) were higher in the operative group but the risk of recurrence was lower (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.43-0.90, P = 0.01). When the baseline suspicion of strangulation was low in both groups, there was no difference in any of the outcomes except recurrence (OR 0.09, 95% CI 0.02-0.37, P = 0.0009) which was lower in the operative group.The difference in baseline suspicion of strangulation between operative and non-operative groups is a major confounding factor in current literature. The benefit of surgical treatment should be balanced with the risks associated with surgery, patient's co-morbidities, and presence or absence of strangulation. Based on the best available evidence it could be argued that surgical intervention could be preserved for cases with high suspicion or evidence of bowel strangulation. The controversy still remains for optimum length of conservative management and timing of surgery (early or late) for cases with low baseline suspicion of strangulation. Randomised controlled trials are required to compare outcomes of early operation (24 h) versus late operation (24 h) and early operation versus conservative management in patients with low suspicion of strangulation.

A number of herbal plants sold in herbal markets of Lahore are under adulteration threat which can pose harmful health effects to end-user. This adulteration problem of medicinal plants can be resolved by the implication of some valuable taxonomic parameter such as leaf epidermal anatomical characteristics. Hence, this research was aimed to provide viable anatomical markers in order to resolve this adulteration issue persisted in some common marketed medicinal plants of district Lahore, that is, Cinnamomum verum Presl., Cinnamomum tamala (Buuch.-Ham.) T.Nees&Eberm., Gymnema sylvestre (Retz.) R.Br.ex Sm., Sphaeranthus indicus Linn., Artemisia maritima Linn., Achillea millifolim L., Adhatoda vasica Nees, Butea monosperma (Lam.) Taub, and Morus nigra L. Overall multiple anatomical variations (epidermal cell shape, their length and width, type of stomata, length and width of guard cells along with presence or absence of trichomes) had been reported in the study that could be worthwhile for the correct identification of medicinal plants. Irregular shapes of epidermal cells were observed in Cinnamomum verum and Achillea millifolium while pentagonal and polygonal cells were found in their adultaerants, that is, Canella winterana and Adhatoda vasica, respectively. Types of stomata were also strikingly varied among genuine plant and its adulterant, for example, anisocytic stomata were observed in Artemisia maritima while in its adulterant (Artemisia absinthium) anomocytic stomata were found. Similarly, paracytic stomata were observed in Butea monosperma, whereas its adulterant plant (Averrhoa carambola) characteristically possessed anisocytic stomata. Hence, anatomical characteristics were proved to be a valuable taxonomic tool in resolving the adulteration issue of medicinal plants.

Rhizosphere is the unique vicinity which acts as a battlefield for soil microflora and a source of useful metabolites and nutrients for plants. Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) associate with the roots of various plants to nourish them through direct and indirect mechanisms. Direct mechanisms of PGPR-based plant growth include nutrient acquisition from soil, production of various metabolites like phytohormones and siderophores, etc. Indirect mechanisms improve the plant health by controlling various plant pathogens by producing antibiotics, hydrolytic enzymes, and 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) deaminase activity, induction of systemic resistance, etc. In this chapter, the brief introduction about PGPR and their interactions with plant roots are presented followed by a detailed insight into the mechanisms utilized by PGPR in rhizosphere to boost plant growth. In addition, some factors that affect PGPR-plant associations are elaborated. Finally, it has been reviewed that, if wisely utilized, PGPR may serve as future prospects to supplement chemical fertilizers.

While disobeying environmental regulations of Pakistan, several Pb-acid batteries recycling and repairing units discharge their effluents into water canals that irrigate arable fields. Resultantly, serious ecological risks, as well as human health hazards through consumption of edible crops grown on such Pb-polluted soils have been reported. In this experiment, we observed associative effects of amending a soil polluted from Pb-acid batteries effluents (SPB) with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and lignin-derived biochar (LBC) on barley grain safety to human health. The SPB was treated with AMF inoculum (a consortium of four AMF species), lignin (LN), and LBC, as sole treatments and AMF inoculum with LN and LBC. Barley parameters involving Pb distribution in grain and other parts, grain biochemistry, and nutrition were assessed. Likewise, Pb bioavailability in SPB, AMF root colonization, soil enzymes, microbial biomass carbon (MBC), and AMF produced total glomalin related soil protein (TGSP) were also scoped. Additionally, human renal cells (HEK 293) cytotoxicity test was performed by opting barley grain-related Pb concentrations. Results show that LBC + AMF significantly reduced grain Pb concentrations below the critical limit [4.67 mg kg−1 (WHO/FAO standard)], AMF colonization, MBC, soil enzymology, and TGSP, compared to control. Likewise, rest barley parameters were also improved in this treatment. Contrary to other treatments, grain produced on LBC + AMF did not result in (a) cell apoptosis, (b) cell distortion and (c) cohesion loss. Immobilization of Pb in SPB was due to the dilution effect of Pb adsorption on LBC, AMF mycelium and TGSP which resulted in a significant drop of grain Pb concentrations below the critical limit and ultimately no harm to HEK 293 cells. Our findings endorse that grain produced at LBC + AMF treatment are safer for human consumption and will not pose health risks. The LBC + AMF application can remediate SPB for safer cereal production.

The present investigation was designed to throw light on the microbial status of bakery products available in bakeries and supermarkets of Lahore. Different bakery samples such as biscuits, pizza, patties were collected from different localities such as Anar Kali, Chauburji, Faisal Town, Iqbal Town, Model Town, Muslim Town were investigated for mold and yeast using serial dilution technique inoculated over malt extract agar and potato dextrose agar under sterilized conditions. Isolated fungi were namely Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus terreus, Curvularia americana, Fusarium solani, Penicillium digitatum, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Geotrichum candidum. Results depicted maximum fungal viable count in biscuits, collected from Model Town while minimum count was in the samples of Chauburji. In the case of pizza, the maximum fungal viable count was found in the sample of Muslim Town. In the case of patties, the maximum fungal viable count was found in the sample of Muslim Town while minimum count was found in the sample of Iqbal Town. Prevalence of microorganisms may be due to the use of contaminated raw material, use of polluted waters, human handling, and the use of contaminated containers. Contaminated food intake can lead to measurable signs of liver injury, inflammation, etc. Preventive measures like washing and drying of hands before preparing food, cleaning of food preparation areas, and the use of clean equipment can avoid microbes which cause hazards to human health. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Bakery products of Lahore, Pakistan is investigated for the first time on the basis of light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and found very significant to check the quality of bakery products or not.

Controversy exists regarding the best anastomotic method for pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). We aimed to evaluate the perioperative outcomes of PD with stapled anastomosis (SA) versus hand-sewn anastomosis (HA) of gastrojejunostomy or duodenojejunostomy.We conducted a systematic search of electronic information sources, including MEDLINE; EMBASE; CINAHL; the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL); the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry; ClinicalTrials.gov; ISRCTN Register, and bibliographic reference lists. We applied a combination of free text and controlled vocabulary search adapted to thesaurus headings, search operators and limits in each of the above databases. Delayed gastric emptying (DGE), postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF), anastomotic bleeding, anastomotic leak, intra-abdominal abscess and mortality were defined as the outcome parameters. Combined overall effect sizes were calculated using fixed-effect or random-effects models.We identified 1 randomised controlled trial (RCT) and 5 observational studies reporting a total of 890 patients who underwent PD with SA (n = 300) or conventional HA (n = 590). Our analysis demonstrated that SA significantly reduced postoperative DGE (OR: 0.37, 95% CI 0.25-0.54, P 0.00001) but significantly increased anastomotic bleeding (OR: 13.4, 95% CI 2.96-57.41, P = 0.0007) compared to HA. No significant difference was found in POPF (OR: 0.83, 95% CI 0.56-1.21, P = 0.33); anastomotic leak (OR: 0.50, 95% CI 0.09-3.79, P = 0.58); intra-abdominal abscess (OR: 1.39, 95% CI 0.71-2.70, P = 0.34); or mortality (RD: -0.01, 95% CI 0.03-0.02, P = 0.65) between two groups.Our analysis demonstrated that compared to conventional HA, SA may be associated with lower incidence of DGE after PD without increasing the risk of clinically significant POPF, anastomotic leak or mortality. However, it is associated with higher rate of anastomotic bleeding which mandates careful and precise haemostasis of the stapled line. Considering the current limited evidence, no definitive conclusion can be drawn. Future research is required.

Chlorpyrifos is a commonly used organophosphate insecticide that causes toxicological effects in aquatic organisms especially in fish. This study determined the effects of chlorpyrifos on the genotoxic and hematological parameters of freshwater fish, Labeo rohita. The genotoxic effects of different sublethal concentrations of chlorpyrifos were investigated in the erythrocytes of Labeo rohita (commonly known as Rohu) using the Micronucleus test. Effects of chlorpyrifos on the hematological parameters of the fish were also observed. Fish specimens were exposed to three sublethal concentrations of chlorpyrifos viz., sublethal I (SL-I, 1/6th of LC

Summary Controlling variations in plasma membrane (PM) protein abundance is of utmost importance for development in higher plants. For modulating PM protein activity, endocytosed proteins can be either cycled between PM and endosomes or sorted for their irreversible inactivation to lysosomes/vacuoles. Cargo ubiquitination triggers vacuolar delivery for degradation, which is controlled by Endosomal Sorting Complex Required for Transport (ESCRT) [1, 2]. Essential parts of this machinery are conserved across kingdoms, but determinants liable for initial recognition and concentration of ubiquitinated cargo have not been identified in plants [3, 4]. Here, we describe members of an Arabidopsis TOL ( TO M1- L IKE) family as ubiquitin binding proteins that act redundantly in control of plant morphogenesis. Specifically, tol mutant combinations exhibit defects that reflect alterations in responses mediated by the phytohormone auxin. Consistently, we provide evidence for a role of TOLs in recognition and further endocytic sorting of a PIN-FORMED (PIN)-type auxin carrier protein at the PM, modulating dynamic auxin distribution and associated growth responses. Such TOL-dependent vacuolar sorting depends on cargo ubiquitination and coincides with dynamic rearrangements in TOL distribution. Collectively, these findings lead us to suggest a function for TOLs early in the passage of endocytosed ubiquitinated PM cargo, acting as gatekeepers for degradative protein sorting to the vacuole.

Directional transport of auxin is essential for plant development, with PIN auxin transport proteins representing an integral part of the machinery that controls hormone distribution. However, unlike the rapidly emerging framework of molecular determinants regulating PIN protein abundance and subcellular localization, insights into mechanisms controlling PIN transcription are still limited. Here we describe PIN2 PROMOTER BINDING PROTEIN 1 (PPP1), an evolutionary conserved plant-specific DNA binding protein that acts on transcription of PIN genes. Consistent with PPP1 DNA-binding activity, PPP1 reporter proteins are nuclear localized and analysis of PPP1 null alleles and knockdown lines indicated a function as a positive regulator of PIN expression. Furthermore, we show that ppp1 pleiotropic mutant phenotypes are partially reverted by PIN overexpression, and results are presented that underline a role of PPP1-PIN promoter interaction in PIN expression control. Collectively, our findings identify an elementary, thus far unknown, plant-specific DNA-binding protein required for post-embryonic plant development, in general, and correct expression of PIN genes, in particular.

Directional transport of auxin is essential for plant development, with PIN auxin transport proteins representing an integral part of the machinery that controls hormone distribution. However, unlike the rapidly emerging framework of molecular determinants regulating PIN protein abundance and subcellular localization, insights into mechanisms controlling PIN transcription are still limited. Here we describe PIN2 PROMOTER BINDING PROTEIN 1 (PPP1), an evolutionary conserved plant-specific DNA binding protein that acts on transcription of PIN genes. Consistent with PPP1 DNA-binding activity, PPP1 reporter proteins are nuclear localized and analysis of PPP1 null alleles and knockdown lines indicated a function as a positive regulator of PIN expression. Furthermore, we show that ppp1 pleiotropic mutant phenotypes are partially reverted by PIN overexpression, and results are presented that underline a role of PPP1-PIN promoter interaction in PIN expression control. Collectively, our findings identify an elementary, thus far unknown, plant-specific DNA-binding protein required for post-embryonic plant development, in general, and correct expression of PIN genes, in particular.