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Fruits play an important role in human life on our planet, since they supply a variety of essential services. One of the paramount crops in Pakistan is Citrus reticulata (Kinnow), which plays a vital role in the country's economy. The citrus crops are confronted with various challenges such as fungi, bacteria, nematodes, and viruses, all of which have adverse effects on the quality and yield of the fruits. Citrus canker, in particular, stands as the most fatal disease, affecting numerous citrus species worldwide, inflicting devastating consequences. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of citrus canker on the morphology, physiology of leaves, and the quality of citrus fruits. The research was conducted in four major citrus-producing tehsils of the Sargodha district. The study found significant differences in morphological and physiological traits between healthy fruits and those infected with citrus canker. Healthy fruits exhibited higher values in fruit weight (FW) of 149.02 g, peel thickness (PT) of 3.76 g, rag weight (RW) of 35.95 g, leaf area (LA) of 22.49 cm2, and juice weight compared to the citrus canker-infected fruits. The significant variations in fruit weight, juice weight, chlorophyll content, vitamin C content were present between healthy and diseased fruits and leaves. A biochemical study revealed that healthy fruits had greater levels of total soluble solids (TSS), TSS-acid ratio, vitamin C, and reducing power (RP), but citrus canker-infected fruits had a higher acidity percentage. The significant decreases in important morphological and physicochemical characteristics, emphasizing the necessity for immediate disease control techniques to safeguard the citrus sector and maintain food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present research work was conducted in 2021 on the optimization of dietetic jamun-mangopeach fruit blended drink prepared by using (T1 ) sugar, (T2 ) 0.1% aspartame, (T3 ) 0.1% acesulfame-K and (T4 ) 0.1% (aspartame + acesulfame-K). Fruit blend samples were pasteurized at 85-90 oC for 10 minutes, hot filled in glass bottles of 250 mL capacity and stored at ambient temperature for 120 days for physicochemical analysis (pH, total soluble solids, % acidity) and sensory evaluation (color, flavor, taste and overall acceptability). The pH and ascorbic acid decreased while TSS and % acidity increased in all drink samples during storage. In pH, the maximum decrease in T3 (5.90%) and the minimum decrease in T4 (2.60%) was observed while, the maximum decrease in ascorbic acid content was observed in T3 (48.26%) whereas the minimum decrease in T1 (45.22%) during 120 days storage. Similarly the maximum increase in TSS was noticed in T4 (2.55%) and the minimum increase in T3 (1.28%), while the maximum increase in % acidity was recorded in T3 (29.03%) and the minimum increase in T1 (13.89%) during storage. Color, flavor, taste and overall acceptability were also affected during storage. The maximum mean scores for taste (8.40), flavor (8.36), color 8.29 and overall acceptability 7.51 was observed in (T1 ) while the minimum mean score in overall acceptability 6.31, taste 7.24, flavor 7.51 and color 7.76 were observed in (T3 ). Statistical results showed that treatments and storage duration have significant effect. Results indicated that T1 containing sugar was found most acceptable by the panel of judges followed by T2 containing 0.1% aspartame. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grapes (Vitis vinifera L.) are highly valuable crops enriched with minerals, vitamins, phenolics, and antioxidants required for daily human activities and to prevent cancer and cardiovascular diseases. The objective of this study was to elucidate the physicochemical and mineral evaluation of seven neglected local grape cultivars ('Kishmish', 'Sra Kishmish', 'Askari', 'Sahibi', 'Haita', 'Sundar Khani' and 'Toran') growing in Baluchistan, as it can help in future breeding, processing, and species conservation. Therefore, these cultivars were evaluated for different physical, biochemical, and availability of macro- and micro-mineral contents. In physical evaluation, the local cultivar 'Haita' showed maximum bunch length (19.72 cm) and bunch width (11.88 cm), while the highest bunch weight (527.33 g) was recorded in 'Sahibi'. Similarly, significant differences were noted in biochemical traits, and maximum total soluble solids (24.76%) and titratable acidity (1.58%) were observed in 'Sundar Khani', while the highest vitamin C (26.17 mg 100 g-1), total sugars (30.26%) in Sundar Khani, and nonreducing sugars (8.79%) were recorded in 'Haita'. The cultivars growing in Balochistan also showed variations in phenolics (113.79-346.50 mg GAE L-1) and antioxidants (85.77-90.87%). Likewise, the concentrations of macro- and microelements were also highly variable in these cultivars. Overall, among these cultivars, 'Toran' performed better in the agroclimatic conditions of Balochistan, as it has high yield attributes such as berry length, width, and weight. Moreover, it was also enriched with total soluble solids, antioxidants, and calcium contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Germination of seeds is a complex process linked to various molecular and biochemical changes that increase the nutritional value. This research has studied the impact of germination on the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant activities of five domestic staple legumes from Pakistan: chickpea, mung bean, soybean, lentil, and peanut. The maximum moisture content was recorded for chickpea, i.e., 11.7 ± 0.05 g 100 g−1 followed by lentil, soybean, peanut, and mung bean as 9.65 ± 0.02, 8.07 ± 0.01, 7.6 ± 0.01, and 7.31 ± 0.01 g 100 g−1, respectively. The overall augmentation in catalase activity during germination (days 1 to 4) was maximum for lentils, i.e., 76.22%, and ascorbate peroxidase activity for peanuts, i.e., 62.09%. The soybean showed a clear difference from the 1st to 4th days of germination for peroxide activity among all selected legumes with a 37.29% increase. A maximum change in superoxide dismutase was noticed in mung bean. The mung bean also had the highest variation in total flavonoid contents, while total phenolic contents were higher in the chickpea. The radical scavenging activity varied higher in peanuts, while the ascorbic acid content was maximum for soybeans. Among all selected legumes, non-germinated chickpeas showed a lower DPPH value, i.e., 1.15 ± 0.03%, whereas the highest DPPH value was observed in lentils (69.84 ± 0.05%). Thus, the incorporation of ready-to-eat (RTE) germinated legumes with high antioxidant activity would be a contemporary addition to the everyday meal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Peelu (Salvadora oleoides Decne.) fruit is well known for its nutritional and medicinal values. The current study analyzed the chemical composition of Salvadora oleoides fruit. Fresh Peelu fruits were harvested, and physicochemical properties, proximate composition, macro- and micronutrients, and phytochemical properties were determined. Moreover, ethanol and methanol fruit extract was analyzed for physicochemical properties. The Peelu fruit seemed to be a potential source of essential macro- ((nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg)) and micronutrients (zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), and copper (Cu)). The fruit had significant biochemical properties (total soluble solids (TSS), total acidity (TA), and TSS : TA ratio) with appreciable moisture, crude fiber, and ash contents. The fruit extracts demonstrated significantly higher antioxidants and phenolics, ascorbic acid contents, and carotenoids. Phytochemical screening of fruit revealed the presence of coumarins, flavonoids, phlobatannins, tannins, and terpenoids. Physicochemical and sensory evaluation of extracts indicated its potential for further in vivo study trials. The Peelu fruit was found to be a good source of mineral nutrients, proximate contents, vitamins (ascorbic acid and carotenoid), phytochemicals (total phenolic sand antioxidant contents), and pharmaceutically important metabolites that can be used as functional drink. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current study was conducted in 2019 at Post Harvest Research Center, Ayub Agricultural Research Institute, Faisalabad, Pakistan and Institute of Horticultural Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan to address this problem of strawberry fruit where aloe vera gel coating was applied with different concentrations (0.1%, 1.5% and 2%) at 3°C to determine its possible effects on postharvest fruit quality and to increase the shelf life. Data were recorded on different fruit related parameters like fruit weight loss, fruit shape index, firmness, disease and decay %age, pH, TSS, titrateable acidity, vitamin-c content, reducing sugars, non-reducing sugars and total sugars. The results showed that application of 1.5% aloe vera gel significantly increased the shelf life as evidenced by minimum fruit weight loss (5.2%), higher fruit firmness (2.75%), less disease and decay (5.8%). However, TSS (8.16 °Brix), reducing sugars (2.98%), non-reducing sugars (2.59%) and total sugars (5.57%) were found maximum for control. Highest acidity (0.88%) and vitamin C contents (53.46 mg/100g) were found in fruits treated with 2% aloe vera gel. Moreover, lowest pH (4.41) was recorded in fruits coated with 2% aloe vera gel. Results of this study revealed that the potential of using aloe vera gel at 1.5% as a coating material proved to be better to prolong postharvest life as well as to maintain quality of strawberry fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kinnow is the trademark of citriculture industry of Pakistan and the most important cultivar which is appreciated due to delicious taste and quality. Kinnow is heavy bearer with variable fruit size which fetch low price in market. Fruit thinning is practiced in tree fruits to obtain grade A fruits and overcome alternate bearing. Therefore, this research was planned during 2017-19 to investigate the effect of fruit thinning on quality and profitability of Kinnow mandarin. Fruit thinning was done manually after June drop using the quadratic frame. Four treatments were applied i.e., control (no thinning), retention of 7, 9, and 11 fruits per frame and each treatment had four replications. The results showed that retention of 9 fruit per frame yielded the best fruit size, quality and profitability. The yield and number of fruits per tree decreased due to the fruit thinning but enhanced the fruit quality like juice percentage (68.6%), TSS (10.9 °Brix), TSS:TA ratio (11.3), ascorbic acid (68.8 mg 100 g-1 FW), antioxidant (94.9% inhibition) and phenolic contents (169.8 mg GAE 100 g-1). The yield calculations showed that grade A (38.6%) and B (36.6%) fruits were the highest in treatment having 9 fruit per frame. Benefit cost ratio depicted that 9 fruit per frame although caused 44.56% fruit thinning yet resulted 25% increase in the total income as compared to the other treatments. Hence, fruit thinning practices in citrus have significant effects on fruit physical and biochemical characters and overall orchard profitability based on fruit grading criterion. Kinnow is the trademark of citriculture industry of Pakistan and the most important cultivar which is appreciated due to delicious taste and quality. Kinnow is heavy bearer with variable fruit size which fetch low price in market. Fruit thinning is practiced in tree fruits to obtain grade A fruits and overcome alternate bearing. Therefore, this research was planned during 2017-19 to investigate the effect of fruit thinning on quality and profitability of Kinnow mandarin. Fruit thinning was done manually after June drop using the quadratic frame. Four treatments were applied i.e., control (no thinning), retention of 7, 9, and 11 fruits per frame and each treatment had four replications. The results showed that retention of 9 fruit per frame yielded the best fruit size, quality and profitability. The yield and number of fruits per tree decreased due to the fruit thinning but enhanced the fruit quality like juice percentage (68.6%), TSS (10.9 °Brix), TSS:TA ratio (11.3), ascorbic acid (68.8 mg 100 g-1 FW), antioxidant (94.9% inhibition) and phenolic contents (169.8 mg GAE 100 g-1). The yield calculations showed that grade A (38.6%) and B (36.6%) fruits were the highest in treatment having 9 fruit per frame. Benefit cost ratio depicted that 9 fruit per frame although caused 44.56% fruit thinning yet resulted 25% increase in the total income as compared to the other treatments. Hence, fruit thinning practices in citrus have significant effects on fruit physical and biochemical characters and overall orchard profitability based on fruit grading criterion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Huanglongbing (HLB) is one of the world's worst diseases of citrus trees. The research was conducted to characterize positive citrus samples of two local varieties, 'Kinnow' mandarin (Citrus reticulata Blanco) and 'Mosambi' orange (C. sinensis (L.) Osbeck), based on morphological, physical and biochemical characters. Physical and biochemical parameters of greening infected and healthy samples of both the cultivars were significantly different. Citrus fruits were lopsided and half to full green in the HLB infected trees compared to healthy. The HLB infected leaves samples were small and narrow. Fruit diameter, leaf area, and juice weight of HLB infected samples were significantly less than healthy samples. The rind thickness of infected fruits (70% and 80%) was significantly higher than healthy ones (20% and 30%). Starch content of leaves from mandarin (5.54 µg mL-1) and orange (6.12 pg mL-1) were significantly higher in HLB infected plants, while juice percentage of HLB infected fruit samples was lesser in mandarin and orange (22.73%, and 14.70%, respectively) than healthy fruits (38.22% and 31.30%, respectively). Acidity was significantly increased in juice of HLB infected mandarin and orange fruits (0.57%, and 0.53%, respectively). Similarly, there was significant reduction in biochemical parameters; total sugars in mandarin and orange (5.16% and 4.79%), total soluble solids (8.54% and 8.28%), total chlorophyll (13.50 and 14.92 mg mL-1) and ascorbic acid (34.28% and 34.12%) in HLB infected samples of both cultivars. This study determined differences of physical and biochemical parameters of two local citrus varieties, commonly cultivated in the Asian region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soft drinks are widely consumed worldwide; therefore, it is necessary to study their qualitative and quantitative analysis. For this purpose, we studied 18 brands of soft drinks purchased from the local market of Bahawalpur, Pakistan. Carbon dioxide, glucose, sucrose, ascorbic acid, phosphates, caffeine, and alcohol were analyzed qualitatively, while pH, conductivity, density, potassium, sodium, and total soluble solids were estimated quantitatively. This physico-chemical analysis was determined by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) methods. The obtained results demonstrated that these soft drinks were highly acidic, ranging from 2.3±0.01 to 3.68±0.01 due to carbon dioxide and phosphates. Most soft drinks contain traces of caffeine and alcohol, while very few contain ascorbic acid. The conductivity of all the soft drinks was high due to soluble ions. Similarly, density was higher than water due to a large amount of sugar. The concentration of total soluble solids, mainly known as sucrose, was also high, ranges 64±0.01 g/L (2.56±0.01 Brix°) to 126.5±0.02 g/L (21.57±0.02 Brix°). Most cold drinks contain some amount of sodium (0.3±0.01 to 3.0±0.01 mg/L), potassium (0±0.00 to 12.8±0.01 mg/L), and a small amount of calcium (0.1±0.01 to 0.53±0.01 mg/L), the potassium concentration was higher than the sodium. In contrast, calcium concentration is very small. The strength of acid was estimated quantitatively using a titrimetric method, the maximum concertation of acid is 20.92±0.01. Similarly, using redox titration, alcohol concentration was measured, ranges 0.46±0.01 to 0±0.00, but this concentration was less than WHO's concentration, therefore considered safe to use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study was conducted at Post Harvest Research Centre, Ayub Agricultural Research Institute, Faisalabad, Pakistan in 2018-2019 to investigate the postharvest application of two antioxidants i.e. ascorbic acid (AA) and benzyl adenine (BA) on physicochemical properties and shelf life extension of guava fruit (Psidium guajava L.). The application of AA was done @ of 500, 750 and 1000 ppm, and BA was applied @ of 25, 50 and 75 ppm along with control for ten minutes and stored at 25 ± 2°C with a relative humidity of (70-75%). During storage, various physicochemical parameters were assessed at a three-day interval to the maximum acceptable period. Among various treatments, the BA @ 75 ppm was found effective to retain the lowest physiological weight loss (5.19%), greater firmness (1.95 kg/cm2 ) and TSS (6.95 Brix), ascorbic acid (82.66 mg/100g) and reducing sugar (3.83%). In addition, the total phenolic contents (0.15%), chlorophyll contents (0.21%) and pectin (0.32%) were found to be higher in BA treated fruit (75 ppm) as compared to control. The outcomes noticeably validate that 75 ppm application of BA showed a greater potential to enhance the shelf life and retain the quality characteristics of guava fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present experiment was performed at fruit orchard of Horticultural Research Station, Bahawalpur during 2016-18 to explore optimum concentration of urea causing deblossoming and defoliation in summer crop, subsequently improving fruit quality and production in winter crop of guava cv. ‘Surahi’. Five treatment combinations containing different concentrations of urea applications viz 0% (T0 =control), 09% (T1 ), 12% (T2 ), 15% (T3 ) and 18% (T4 ) which were applied twice fortnightly when summer crop attained 50% blooming. Percentages of flower drop, fruit drop, fruit set and defoliation as well as fruit weight, fruit length & diameter, total soluble solids, acidity, total sugars, ascorbic acid and yield per plant were recorded. Significant differences among treatment combinations were recorded in effect on each parameter during both years of study. Results from combined analysis of two-years data indicated that 15% urea spray on summer crop produced the highest yield (64.83 kg/plant), heavier fruit (203 g), bigger fruit size (length 9.3 cm & diameter 7.5cm), higher TSS (15o Brix), total sugars (7.1%) with minimum acidity (0.65%) in winter crop because of higher flower (75.5%) and fruit drop (41.5%), defoliation (25.8%) and less fruit set (17.7%) compared to non-target summer crop. High concentration of urea (18%) ranked 2nd with respect to fruit and yield parameters of winter crop but it led in flower dropping (80%), fruit dropping (46.8%), defoliation of summer crop (33%) and ascorbic acid (164.4 mg/100g pulp). Urea spray @ 15% proved the best for deblossomig and defoliation of summer crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment was conducted at Biochemistry Section, Ayub Agricultural Research Institute, Faisalabad Pakistan, during the year 2017-18 to assess the total phenols and antioxidants potential of mango, grapes, banana, guava, mulberry, strawberry, loquat, melon, apricot and phalsa. Fruits samples were obtained from the market of Faisalabad Pakistan, washed, dry at room temperature, extracted their juice/pulp. Thejuice was stored at 4 °C for further analysis. Juice samples were processed for Vitamin-C, pH, TSS, total phenolics and total antioxidant capacity. The results showed that among all the ten fruits vitamin C was higher in mango (24.33 mg/100 mL) followed by phalsa (19.74 mg/100 mL) and Grapes (11.25 mg/100 mL), whereas lower value was observed in melon (3.3 mg/100 mL) and loquat (3.4 mg/100 mL). Vitamin C for other fruits lies between these. Highly acidic pH of fresh juices of all the fruits was observed except in melon (5.82) and guava (5.38) which is less acidic. Percentage of TSS was higher in phalsa, mulberry and mangoes (13.8, 13.5 and 13.9% respectively) and lesser in melon (5.6%). Antioxidant capacity (% DPPH reduction) was found higher in grapes (91.9%) and mango (91.2%) which was statistically at par with melon (90.9%), while lesser value was observed in mulberry (51.6%). Total phenolics were significantly higher in grapes (1266.4 pg GAE/mL), whereas minimum phenolic contents were found in melon (4.1 pg GAE/mL). Therefore, it was concluded that grapes are more nutritious and healthy fruit than other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present study was conducted at Horticultural Research Station, Bahawalpur, Pakistan to evaluate eight Ber varieties viz Pak-White, Umran, Anokhi, Sufan, Bahawal-Seedless, Yazman, Aakash and Moon under Cholistan climatic conditions during 2017-19. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with 3 replications (2 plants of each variety planted at plant to plant and row to distance of 25 feet in square system during 2010 and nourished with same cultural practices). Data were recorded on tree height, stem girth, leaf length, leaf width, fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit weight, stone weight, pulp ratio, total soluble solids, vitamin-C and yield per plant. From averages of 3 years, maximum tree height (7.8m), stem girth (1.9m), stone weight (2.3g), Vitamin-C (121mg/100g pulp) and yield were obtained by Pak White variety. Maximum leaf length (9 cm) and fruit diameter (3.7cm) was attained by Yazman variety. Maximum leaf width (6.1cm), pulp ratio (99%) alongwith minimum stone weight (0.1g), total soluble solids (12oBrix), Vitamin-C (98mg/100g pulp) and maximum yield (108kg/plant) were recorded by Bahawal Seedless. Umran had maximum fruit length (5.2cm) and Anokhi led in TSS (19oBrix). All varieties performed well under Cholistan condition and showed potential to be grown on marginal land for better economic return. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Focused on the iron-fortification of underutilized food sources of Pakistan, jamun was selected as a vehicle fruit for iron supplementation in the form of jamun leather. Iron-fortified jamun leather was prepared from two varieties available in Pakistan i.e., Desi jamun (V1) and Ra jamun (V2) using ferrous sulfate as a fortificant. The treatments prepared were V1T1, V1T2, V2T1 and V2T2 having iron value of 40% (T1) and 60% (T2) recommended daily allowance (RDA). The analyses as physiochemical, phytochemicals, mineral and sensory evaluations were conducted at 0, 30th, 60th, 90th and 120th day. During the study, pH, ascorbic acid, total phenolic contents (TPC) and (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) DPPH showed a declining trend, whereas reducing sugar, acidity and brix value increased during storage period. During the study, the highest reduction of pH was observed in V1T1 (3.38±0.021), maximum ascorbic acid was determined in Desi jamun (V1) in a range of 6.81-6.94 mg/100g. Similarly, Desi jamun (V1) had more total phenolic contents i.e., 1372 mg GAE/100g and remarkable DPPH antioxidant activity as 85% as compared to Ra jamun (V2). The sensory parameters such as color, flavor, taste and overall acceptability showed varying preferences of iron fortification among treatments. Based on analyses outcome, V1T1 and V1T2 were most appropriate treatments having the maximum chemical and organoleptic analysis score amongst all the treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was conducted to assess the quality of carrot variety T-29 as affected by the application of potassium fertilizer. Potassium was applied @ 0, 40, 60, 80, 100 and 120 kg/ha and carrot was sown during the month of November of every year. The experiment was continued for consecutive three years i.e. 2016-17, 2017-18 and 2018-19 at research area of Biochemistry Section, Ayub Agricultural Research Institute, Pakistan. Yield data were collected and quality parameters pulp, juice, TSS, vitamin C, dry matter, total sugars and reducing sugars were determined. Results revealed that the application of K enhanced the yield and quality parameters. Root yield in various treatments ranged from 20.6 to 30.8 in 2017, 18.0 to 25.8 in 2018 and 17.5 to 27.8 t/ha in 2019, minimum in control and maximum at treatment where K was applied @ 120 kg/ha. Quality parameters like pulp, juice, mineral matter and vitamin-C did not affect significantly by the application of K while the total sugars were increased from 4.0 to 5.6, 4.7 to 5.5 and 5.5 to 6.8% (Minimum in control and maximum with 120 kg/ha K application) during the years 2016-17, 2017-18 and 2018-19, respectively. Maximum antioxidant potential i.e. 75.2, 80.13 and 78.6 was found with potassium application of 120 kg/ha during all years. Pro vitamin A contents (3782 and 3706 μg/100g) were analyzed during 2018 and 2019, respectively where 100 kg/ha potassium was applied. In short, potassium application could be effective for carrot optimum yield and quality enhancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citrus holds the position of top ranked fruit crop of Pakistan in terms of area and production. 'Kinnow' (Citrus reticulata Blanco) is considered as the trademark of Pakistan's citriculture industry and occupies the share of 95% out of total citrus production in Pakistan. But there is an alarming problem of single rootstock culture. Rough lemon (Citrus jambhiri Lush.) has monopolized the citrus industry in Punjab province. Rough lemon is susceptible to phytophthora and waterlogging. There is an absolute need for substitute rootstock for higher yield and improved fruit quality of Kinnow. A rootstock scion interaction research trial was conducted during 2017 to 2019. Kinnow was grafted on eight rootstocks, i.e. Cox mandarin, Fraser hybrid, Troyer citrange, Cleopatra mandarin, Poncirus trifoliata, Benton, C-35 and Carrizo citrange. Experiment was laid out according to Randomized complete block design (RCBD). Each rootstock was considered as single treatment and replicated thrice. Performance of six year old Kinnow trees grafted on different rootstocks was evaluated on the basis of physicochemical quality attributes of fruits. Data was taken for two consecutive years and average was calculated. Results revealed that rootstocks had a significant role in manipulating the morphological and biochemical quality attributes of Kinnow fruits. Kinnow fruits from the trees grafted on Poncirus trifoliata rootstock showed the maximum fruit diameter (84.03 mm), peel weight (28.99 g), rag weight (87.68 g) and individual fruit weight (221.85 g). Poor performance of Troyer citrange regarding morphological quality parameters was observed. Total soluble solid (TSS) (13.76 °Brix), Vitamin C (69.38 mg/100 ml) and Total antioxidants (72.32 % inhibition) in Kinnow juice were maximum on Fraser hybrid. Carbohydrate analysis of Kinnow juice by HPLC method revealed that concentration of sucrose, fructose and glucose was highest in Fraser hybrid rootstock. Poor performance of Troyer citrange and C-35 rootstocks was recorded regarding all biochemical parameters of Kinnow. It is concluded that physicochemical quality of Kinnow is manipulated by different rootstocks. Poncirus trifoliata and Fraser hybrid rootstocks can be used as alternate rootstocks for citrus industry of Pakistan to substitute the traditional rootstocks like rough lemon and sour orange. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unique fruit characters of new strawberry genotypes reveal their importance for the current and next breeding initiatives. The aim of present research was to assess the plant, flower and fruit characteristics of three exotic strawberry genotypes. In this respect, an experiment was conducted in the research area of the Horticultural Research Institute of Ayub Agricultural Research Institute, Faisalabad, Pakistan during the year of 2019-2021. Results revealed that Sogoya germplasm have maximum survival (85.71%), number of leaves (16.55), leaf area (62.41 cm2), No. of flowers (38), No. of fruits (46), fruit length (41.69 mm), fruit weight (12.12) and yield (634.2g/plant) was included. While in qualitative characteristics germplasm Sogoya revealed highest total soluble solids (10.85%), total sugars (8.61%) and vitamin C (66.24 mg/100g). The outcomes of this study depicted that exotic genotype Sogoya has the potential to develop into a unique and valuable variety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of Ascorbic acid in relieving pain and inflammation following surgical removal of the third molar. Study Design: Quasi-experimental study. Place and Duration of Study: Armed Forces Institute of Dentistry, Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Jan to Mar 2023. Methodology: Sixty participants who required surgical extraction of the impacted third molar were included and segregated equally into two groups. Group-A received Amoxicillin with Clavulanic acid (625 mg) thrice a day and Metronidazole (400 mg) twice daily, while Group-B received Amoxicillin with Clavulanic acid (625 mg) thrice daily, Ascorbic acid (500 mg) twice daily and Metronidazole (400 mg) twice daily. Both the groups received Naproxen Sodium as per requirement (550 mg). Pain, trismus, facial swelling, and requirement of analgesic consumption were evaluated on the seventh post-operative day. Results: There was a statistically significant difference in reducing the intensity of pain (p<0.01), severity of facial swelling and trismus (p<0.01) and requirement of analgesic consumption between Group A and B (p<0.001). Conclusion: Our study concluded that Ascorbic acid after surgery effectively reduces pain intensity, the severity of facial swelling and trismus, and the requirement for analgesic consumption so that ascorbic acid may be used as an adjuvant therapy with other conventional drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomato is considered as a valuable vegetable crop all over the world. It prefers loose, well drained loamy soils rich in organic matter. In Pakistan, mostly soils are calcareous in nature. In calcareous soils, the production of tomato crop is low because of zinc deficiency. Therefore, current study was aimed to examine the potential of foliar application of zinc oxide in tomato cultivar 'Tiny Tim Cherry' in calcareous soil conditions. In the current study, all the studied traits i.e. plant height, stem diameter, number of branches per plant, number of leaves, number of flowers per plant, fruit weight and yield per plant were significantly higher after foliar application of zinc oxide (30 ppm) and significantly lower in controlled treatment as compared to other treatments of zinc oxide. The maximum total soluble solids (TSS), chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, vitamin C, flavonoids, carotenoids and phenolics were recorded in plants treated with 30 ppm of zinc oxide as compared to other treatments. However, the highest acidity was calculated in 10 ppm, while the lowest acidity was measured in 0 ppm (control). Conclusively, foliar application of Zn has potential to increase the nutritional components of tomato fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citrus industry of Pakistan is dominated by Kinnow mandarin while grapefruit cultivation, despite having enormous nutraceutical properties, is negligible and concentrated by pigmented cv. Shamber only. Hence, fruit of six elite pigmented grapefruit cultivars viz. Flame 'F', Pink Ruby 'PR', Red Blush 'RB', Rio Red 'RR', Star Ruby 'SR' and Shamber 'S' were evaluated for physico-chemical quantitative and morphological qualitative traits. Fruit of all genotypes had similar spheroid shape, with convex base and truncate apex. Fruit size and weight were higher in 'F' (455 g) and 'RR' (366 g) while ratio FL:FD was more in 'S', 'SR' and 'PR'. Peel was markedly thin in both 'SR' and 'PR' varieties. Developed seeds were minimum (2.2) in 'PR'. Among quantitative traits, total soluble solids (TSS) were higher in 'SR' (8.51 °Brix) followed by 'PR' (8.87 °Brix). Ratio TSS:TA (6-7.8) and ascorbic acid contents (61-73 mg/100g) were higher in 'RB' and 'PR'. Anthocyanins were remarkably higher 0.82 mg/100g in 'RB' followed by 'PR. Total sugars were much higher (5.3%-5.6%) in 'FS', 'PR' and 'SR' as compared with 'S'. Pearson's correlation analysis revealed strong positive correlations among fruit diameter and fruit weight, fruit weight and acidity, peel thickness and sugars while acidity and anthocyanins were negatively correlated. These findings indicate good potential of 'PR', 'RB' and 'SR' varieties compared with 'S' which is no more a commercial variety in the leading grapefruit producing countries. Further studies are suggested for comparative analysis of pigmented and nonpigmented varieties for genotypic diversification and breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 185 diverse genotypes of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.), including 33 genotypes of Lycopersicum var. Cersiforme (cherry tomatoes), were grown under shade house at National Agriculture Research Council (NARC), Islamabad Pakistan. The genotyes were harvested at fully ripened stage to evaluate the minerals and antioxidant properties. Genotypes were evaluated for antioxidants (ascorbic acids, lycopene, ß-carotene and total soluble solids), mineral contents (Na, K, Ca, Mg and P) and trace elements (Fe, Cu, Mn, and Zn). Significant variations were recorded for antioxidant compounds, minerals and trace elements. Lycopene contents ranged from 1.57 to 23.24 mg 100g-1, ascorbic acid from 11.64 to 29.11 mg 100g-1, total soluble solids from 3.33 to 6.46 mg 100g-1 while beta-carotene ranged from 1.32 to 7.6 mg 100g-1.The contents of potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, and zinc were ranged from 780 to 3260 mg kg-1, 97.37 to 315 mg kg-1, 30.89 to 164.2 mg kg-1, 4.15 to 15.67 mg kg-1and 1.1 to 12.8 mg kg-1 respectively. Cherry genotypes (W-C 1653,W-C 1654,W-C 1656, W-C 1655,W-C 1658, W-C 1657,W-C 1660,W-C 1659,W-C 1666, W-C 16661, W-C 16667,W-C 16668,W-C 1670,W-C 1671,WC 1673) were found rich in antioxidants, minerals and trace elements. The results reported that quality and anti-oxidants of tomato fruit indicate high potential for genetic improvement of tomato through utilization of identified genotypes for important traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is the most common micronutrient deficiency that has affected more than 1.5 billion individuals worldwide. IDA in Pakistan is quite prevalent. Usually IDA treatment is undertaken per oral but in certain cases a refractory state of anemia develops. This state is usually not taken seriously by clinicians and is overruled. Current study was done to see a prospect of refractory anemia (IDA) in light of malabsorption; one of the major causes of IDA. Material and Methods: IDA diagnosis was carried out by performing CBC along with serum ferritin and serum iron. A total of 100 patients were selected (IDA patients) and were administered with oral FeSO4 stat along with ascorbic acid. Another sample from each IDA patient was taken 2 hours after the dose administration. Individuals showing no elevation in serum iron levels after FeSO4 administration were labelled as patients suffering from malabsorption. Results: A total sum of 100 IDA patients were selected in the study. Among them 95% (n=95) showed response to oral iron administration, while 5% (n=5) showed no response to oral iron and therefore, were suffering from IDA due to malabsorption. Conclusion: This study revealed that a substantial number of IDA patients suffer from malabsorption. Keeping this figure in mind, clinicians should be cautious and should shift to parenteral iron as soon as a refractory anemia is suspected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenolic compounds have a great impact over human health because of their antioxidant and antiproliferative properties. Vitamin C is also a valuable food component having antioxidant and therapeutic properties and iron is the essential element required to maintain the hemoglobin level in human beings. Fruits and vegetables are rich sources of these compounds. The purpose of this work was to study physiochemical properties like pH, conductivity and total dissolve solids and to find out the amounts of total iron (ferrous and ferric), vitamin C and total phenolic contents in fresh juices of apples cultivated in different areas of Pakistan. The values of pH, conductivity and total dissolved solids were recorded in the range of 3.858-4.100, 2.04-2.53 mS cm-1and 1201-1531 mg/100 mL respectively. Classical method of analysis was applied to investigate the iron and vitamin C content, it was found as 1.076± 0.02-1.688± 0.02 mg/1000 mL and 8.79± 0.55-45.56±1.05 mg/1000 mL respectively . The range of total phenolic content was observed from 40.8 ± 1.30-59.8± 1.05 mg/1000 mL of juice using Folin Ciocalteu reagent by spectrophotometer. It was found that obtained results exhibited higher concentration of iron, vitamin C and total phenolic contents in fresh samplejuices than reported data therefore, it is concluded that apples grown in Pakistan have remarkable aggregate of iron, vitamin C and total phenolic contents and play crucial role to serve the human daily requirement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The major disease that affects dairy industry in Pakistan is mastitis. Mastitis therapy mostly fails due to pathological changes in udder, pharmacokinetics of drugs used and poor husbandry practices. The present study is conducted to evaluate non-antibiotic therapy including Trisodium citrate and Vitamin C for the treatment of subclinical mastitis of cows and buffaloes. The product to be tested is composed of extemporaneous by mixing the Trisodium citrate 30gm and vitamin C 6gm. A field trial on therapeutic efficacy of above product has been conducted on buffaloes and cows affected with subclinical mastitis at Livestock Production Research Institute Bahadurnagar, Okara. Fifteen buffaloes with 10 animals in treatment group (A1), 5 animals in control group (A2) fifteen cows with 10 animals in treatment group (A3), 5 animals in control group (A4) are use in trial. Surf Field Mastitis Test (SFMT) is used for grading of animals and treatment is given in both the groups of cattle and buffalo. Buffalo group A1 and Cattle group A3 shows significantly higher (p<0.05) cure rates. The milk pH in both the groups decreased up to 6.6. The efficacy of therapeutic protocol was calculated by Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ethnomedicinally Rumex hastatus D. Don has been used since long for various ailments especially in neurological disorders. The reported data and the importance of Rumex genus demonstrate the vital medicinal value of R. hastatus. Methods: In the current investigational study, isolation of essential oil and its antioxidant and anticholinesterase assays were performed. The essential oil of R. hastatus was analyzed by GC-MS for the first time. The essential oil was evaluated for anticholinesterase and antioxidant assays. The anticholinesterase assay was conducted at various concentrations (62.5 to 1000 µg/ml) against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). Similarly, the antioxidant potential was determined using DPPH and ABTS free radicals. Results: The GC-MS analysis of essential oil showed 123 components. The result recorded for the anticholinesterase assays demonstrated a marked potential against AChE and BChE with IC50 values of 32.54 and 97.38 µg/ml respectively which were comparable with the positive control i.e., galanthamine (AChE, IC50 = 4.73 µg/ml and BChE, IC50 = 11.09 µg/ ml). The antioxidant assays against DPPH and ABTS free radicals also exhibited significant scavenging potential with IC50 values of 3.71 and 6.29 µg/ml respectively, while for ascorbic acid the IC50 value was <0.1 µg/ml against both free radicals. Conclusions: Based on the current investigational studies, it may be concluded that R. hastatus is an effective source of essential oil's components having anticholinesterase and antioxidant potentials, which after subjecting to drug development may lead to novel drug candidates against neurodegenerative disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: Moringa oleifera has been reported as super food owing to its high nutritional value which has largely been explored in leaves with limited reports from other parts. Therefore, comparative study was designed to determine the nutritional components of different parts of M. oelifera found in Karachi, Pakistan. Samples were collected from multiple parts of M. oleifera plant. Proximate, minerals and Vitamin C analysis was carried out as per Association of Official Analytical Chemists(AOAC) methods. Amino acid contents were estimated using Amino Acid Analyzer. The protein content(g/100g dry weight basis) was high in the leaves with stalks and leaves samples compared to seedpods and stem. Caloric contents were in the order of leaves>leaves with stalk>seedpods>stem. The contents of different minerals(Ca, Fe and K) and Vitamin C varied from parts to parts with leaves showed comparatively high amount of Vitamin C and calcium. Total amino acid contents of different parts were in the order of leaves>flowers>seedpods. In conclusion, all the studied parts of M. oleifera have nutritional significance. However, leaves and seed pods due to their comparatively higher nutritional value can be more beneficial as dietary supplement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ziziphus nummularia is an important source of valuable phytoconstituents, which are widely used in traditional medicine system of Indo-Pak sub-continent. In this study we investigated the distribution of phenolic compounds in the fruit pericarps of six different genotypes (ZNP01-06) of Z. nummularia growing in the unexplored hilly areas of Pakistan. The methanolic extracts of these genotypes were screened for total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), antioxidant, and cholinesterase inhibitory potentials. The observed biological potentials were explained in terms of the outcome of molecular docking and HPLC analyses. Among them, genotype ZNP02 displayed high TPC (88.50 ± 1.23 μg/mL) and showed potent scavenging activity against DPPH (67.03 ± 1.04 μg/mL) and ABTS (65.3 ± 1.74 μg/mL) in comparison to ascorbic acid (68.7 ± 0.47 μg/mL). Moreover, genotypes ZNP01, ZNP02, and ZNP04 displayed potent inhibition against acetyl and butyryl cholinesterases (AChE and BChE) with IC50 values of 21.2, 20.5, and 23.7 μg/mL (AChE) and 22.7, 24.4, and 33.1 μg/mL (BChE), respectively. Furthermore, the individual compounds in the most potent species ZNP01 responsible for potent enzyme inhibition (identified through HPLC-UV analysis), were computed via docking simulation software to the enzyme structures. Among these compounds rutin exhibited significant binding affinity with value of −9.20 kcal/mol. The differences amongst the phytochemical compositions of the selected genotypes highlighted the genotypic variations in them. Based on our results it was concluded that the selected plant can be used as remedy of oxidative stress and neurodegenerative diseases. However, further studies are needed to isolate responsible compounds and test the observed potential in vivo, along with toxicological evaluations in animal models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of ultrasonic (US) treatment on chemical characteristics and antioxidant potential of pulps obtained from eight mango varieties indigenous to Pakistan. There was a significant (p < 0.05) effect of varieties and US treatment on chemical characteristics i.e. pH, acidity, TSS, vitamin C contents, total sugars (%), reducing sugars (%) and non-reducing sugars (%). Microstructure evaluation of pulp from all mango varieties showed deshaped middle lamella and cell wall of cells after 8 min of US treatment. At 4 min of US treatment as per shaped cell wall and middle lamella, the chemical characteristics and antioxidant potential were higher. The total phenolics (TP), flavonoids (TF) and total antioxidant activity (TAA) of pulp from most varieties increased significantly (p < 0.05) after US treatment for 4 min but decreased successively after each treatment i.e. 8 and 12 min. The maximum value (314.17 μg AAE/mL pulp) of DPPH was shown by pulp from Dosehri and the minimum (158.67 μg AAE/mL pulp) was found in pulp from Langra before US treatment. The DPPH values of pulp from most of the varieties increased significantly (p < 0.05) after US treatment for 4 min but decreased successively after each treatment but pulp from Langra showed increasing trend after 8 min of US treatment which decreased after 12 min of treatment. The total anthocyanin (TA) values of pulp from Chaunsa, Dosehri, Sindhri, Gulab Khas and Langra increased abruptly after US treatment for 4 min but decreased successively after subsequent treatment. The pulp from Desi, Anwar Ratol, Gulab Khas and Langra showed an abrupt decrease in TA after 8 min of US treatment. An increasing trend of values of total carotenoids (TC) was shown by pulp from all mango varieties after 4 min of US treatment but decreasing trend was observed with subsequent increase in time of US treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poor seed germination is a crucial yield-limiting factor when winter wheat is sown under low temperature. The objective of this study was to evaluate the role of ascorbic acid (AsA) in the extenuation of the harmful effects of low temperature at early and reproductive stages of wheat during 2016–2017 (15 November to 15 December). A two-year experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design with split plot arrangement and with three replicates. Sowing dates (15 November and 15 December) were allotted to the main plot while seed priming (control, hydro-priming, and AsA priming) were allotted to the sub-plot. Results demonstrated that AsA priming significantly boosted different yield characteristics including chlorophyll content, tillers per unit area, number of grains per spike, and 1000-grain weight, contributing higher productivity and biomass during 2016–2017. The results further revealed that AsA could induce the up-regulation of diverse antioxidants (super oxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT)), thus offsetting the adverse effects of sub-supra optimum temperatures of late sowing wheat. It is therefore concluded in this work that AsA priming enhances stand establishment, yield and yield-related traits, antioxidant enzyme activities, and chlorophyll contents when wheat is sown under low temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]