Search

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]

Bell pepper is an important Solanaceous crop that is cultivated all around the globe for its economical and nutritional value. In Pakistan, it is cultivated mainly in Sindh and Punjab province of Pakistan. However, average yield ha-1 is quite low as compared to the rest of the world. One of the main reasons for this low yield is poor phosphorous status. The current study was conducted to estimate the effects of organic application combined with PSB biofertilizers (Phosphorus Solubilizing Bacteria) on growth and yield of bell pepper. Organic amendments included leaf compost (LC), farmyard manure (FYM) and poultry manure (PM). Bell pepper cultivar "Green Wonder" was used as test crop. FYM and PM showed better results as compared to LC in most of the measured parameters. Plant height in FYM and PM was 59.79 and 59.07 cm while PSB application produced 67.84 cm high plants. Maximum leaf area was 176.98 cm2 that for FYM and was further increased up to 204.43 cm2 when supplemented with PSB. Bell pepper yield was also maximum in FYM i.e. 1211.7 g while PM showed a value of 1077.6. g. However, when PSB was applied in combination with these treatments, yield plant-1 was further increased up to 1393.4 and 1227.6 g, respectively. Total soluble solids were statistically at par among all the organic amendments but higher than control. Ascorbic acid was maximum in PM (58 mg 100 g-1) and followed by FYM (55.53 mg 100 g-1). PSB application showed a value of 72.46 mg 100 g-1. It is recommended from these results that application of organic amendments and PSB should be practiced enhancing that yield and quality of bell pepper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mango is a very nutritious fruit that plays a vital role in human nutrition, its high moisture contents makes it difficult to store for the long time. Dehydration is one of the oldest and most cost-effective methods used for fruit preservation, and it prolongs the shelf life of mango slices, ensuring their availability in dried form during the off-season. In this study, the effects of various chemical and herbal pre-treatments on the quality characteristics of dried Yakta mango slices, a commercially grown variety in Pakistan, were investigated. The mango slices were treated with various chemical and herbal solutions before drying, and the results showed that pre-treatments significantly affected the quality of the dried mango slices. Vitamin C retention was higher in the pretreated slices, especially in T4 (50% lemon juice treated) as compared to other treatments after drying. Drying also increased the antioxidant activity, and among the pretreated samples, T7 (25% lemon juice and 75% ginger juice treated) had the highest value. During sensory evaluation, T5 scored higher in terms of flavor characteristics. Based on current study's observations, it can be concluded that pre-treatment is an effective way to produce good quality dehydrated mango slices. [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]

Jujube belongs to the family "Rhamnaceae" is an evergreen plant having 170 species. It is a highly nutritious fruit crop riched in phenolic, antioxidant, and flavonoids. However, in Pakistan, it is considered a neglected crop with very little work performed and is growing in the Cholistan desert of Pakistan without any evaluation. This paper describes the physical and biochemical attributes of eight jujube genotypes (Anokee, Ajoba, Bahawalpur selection, Dilbahar, Dehli white, Karela, Mahmood wali and Gola) with its three stages (Unripe, Semi ripe and Fully ripe) growing in Cholistan dry and hot climatic conditions. The results revealed that these genotypes have significant variations in fruit traits such as fruit length, fruit width, and fruit weight during the ripening stages and the maximum increase in these parameters were observed at the fully ripe stage of jujube. Similarly, in biochemical analysis, TSS, total sugars, reducing and nonreducing sugars were increased with maturity and were highest at the fully ripe stage. Whereas, titratable acidity and ascorbic acid contents were decreased with maturity and were least at the final stage. However, total phenolic and flavonoids were highest at the semi-ripe stage. In physical evaluation, the genotypes "Gola", "Mehmood wali" and "Dehli white performed better in the climatic conditions of Cholistan, Bahawalpur. While the genotypes "Dilbahar", "Anokee", "Karela" and "Bahawalpur selection" were enriched with phenolic and flavonoid contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the entire scenario of Pakistan citrus sector, kinnow (Citrus reticulata Blanco) right from its introduction and successful acclimatization continues to dominate both in area and production besides an exportable commodity. Presence of large seed number in Kinnow is big issue for fresh consumption and as well as for processing industry in the international markets. Visualizing such compulsions of international markets, a systematic study was undertaken by Horticultural Research Station, Sahiwal with identification of five less seeded kinnow strains (1-6 seeds). Results depicted that less seeded kinnow strain, encoded LSKS-2, produced superior external and internal quality attributes. Average fruit weight and size outstripped other contestant strains. It produces average weight per fruit as 170.58gms with length/breadth, as 70.68mm and 68.08 mm respectively. Maximum juice recovery as 46.22% with glucose 48.08gms per liter, fructose 27.72gms per liter was obtained significantly high in less seeded strain LSKS-2. Total soluble solids as 11.70% remained in the same strain (LSKS-2). Vitamin C was18.43 mg/100gms besides total phenolic compounds 94.78 µgms in LSKS-2. However, somewhat tenacious fruit with more peel thickness was observed in LSKS-4 which was 3.31 mm. Highest firmness remained 2.48kg in LSKS-1 of less seeded kinnow. Conclusively less seeded strain LSKS-2 proved best of all the five strains of less seeded kinnow. The study is worthwhile for exploiting natural mutant kinnow strains bearing less seeded fruit of high quality characters through vegetative method of propagation thereby avoiding inevitable heterozygosity and polyembyonic nature of citrus fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Daucus carota L. is locally known as "Kali Gajar" (black carrot) and is found abundantly in Pakistan. The aim of the current study is to investigate in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory and in vivo anti-inflammatory effects of Daucus carota L. seed extracts. The hot extraction method was used to obtain different extracts. The physiochemical testing, FTIR and mineral content estimation of the seed powder were conducted. UV Visible profiling of the extracts was also done. The in vitro antioxidant activity was performed by using the variety of assays included DPPH, ferric reducing power, hydrogen peroxide scavenging capacity, and phosphomolybdenum test and ascorbic acid was used as a reference. The in vitro anti-inflammatory activity was assessed by inhibition of protein denaturation method and the diclofenac sodium was taken as a standard. The in vivo anti-inflammatory activity was examined by using carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model by taking aspirin as a standard. The results of the UV Visible spectroscopy and FTIR scans showed the presence of various functional groups. The existence of many important primary and secondary metabolites was also confirmed by phytochemical analysis. The physicochemical parameters of seed powder were found to be within the recommended range as stated in USP, 2015. The present study has verified the antioxidant effect of the plant seeds and methanolic extract was found to be more active as compared to the other extracts. The study outcomes have confirmed a significant in vitro inhibition of the protein denaturation and in vivo reduction of carrageenan-induced inflammation in the rat paw. It is concluded that the plant seeds have the potential to reduce inflammation, however toxicological and clinical studies are desired in the future. [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]

Background: Sugarcane is very important industrial and cash crop in Pakistan and in many countries of the world. It is worldwide an essential source of commercial sugar accounting for nearly 75 per cent of the world sugar production. Biochemical screening is first step in breeding to select superior genotypes in further breeding program. Methods: The experimental investigations were carried out on 10 different genotypes of sugarcane during consecutive years i.e., 2010-2012 to determine their genetic diversity by biochemical approach and SDS-PAGE analysis. The data on biochemical parameters i.e. reducing and non-reducing sugar, protein content, vitamin C, iron content, phosphorus content, calcium content and magnesium content in juice samples of various genotypes was recorded to assess biochemical composition. Result: The genotypes SPF-213, LHO83-153, CP-72-2086 performed better than other ones for reducing and non-reducing sugar, protein content, vitamin C and minerals content. However, on the basis of overall biochemical constituents CP-72-2086 was most efficient genotype. Electrophoretic mobility through SDS-PAGE was revealed clear genetic diversity among genotypes. As genotype S-06-US-469 and S-06-US-312 which showed unique pattern from common ancestors. These diverse genotypes could be successfully utilized in hybridization for improvement of 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]

Copyright of Journal of Agricultural Chemistry & Biotechnology is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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]

Current experiment was conducted during 2017-18 at Biochemistry Section, Post Harvest Research Center, Ayub Agricultural Research Institute, Faisalabad, Pakistan to evaluate the effect of seasonal variations on the recovery and chemical composition of aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) gel. Samples of aloe vera leaves were collected four times in a year, in the months of January, April, July and October of 2017 and 2018, and analyzed for various quality parameters. Results of two years studies were compiled and average values were calculated. Results indicated that seasonal variation had no significant effect on the recovery of gel and its chemical composition. There was no significant variation recorded in quality parameters throughout the year. On an average, gel recovery was 64.6 ± 3.05, 35.4 ± 3.07%. Average value for pH of gel was 4.62 ± 0.33, total soluble solids (TSS) 1.00 ± 0.25%, vitamin C 2.86 ± 0.79 mg/100g and antioxidant potential of aloe vera was 66.50± 1.25% and dry matter ranged from 2.48 to 2.75%. Crude protein, crude fat, crude fiber, ash, Cu, Zn, Fe and Ca were determined in dried leaves and the mean value of these parameters were 14.6 ± 0.75 %., 0.45 ± 0.12 %, 0.14 ± 0.04 %, 0.15 ± 0.2 %,16.0 ± 2.73 mg/kg, 3.03 ± 0.8 mg/kg, 110.7±19.9 mg/kg and 247.1 ± 22.5 mg/kg, respectively. Nitrogen free extract (NFE) or available carbohydrate ranged from 84.48 ± 0.70 to 84.93 ± 0.82 % with an average value of 84.70 ± 0.80 %. It was concluded that seasonal variation had no significant effect on the aloe vera leaf biochemical components like TSS, crude protein, vitamin C. [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]

In Pakistan strawberry yield and cultivation area is significantly lower as compared the major strawberry growing countries. Defective agronomic practices cause reduction in yield and quality. This experiment was conducted by using non-chemical techniques including exogenous application of inorganic salts CaCl2 (3, 5 and 7 mM/L) and ZnSO4 (50, 100 and 150 mg/L) during growth stages (3- 4 leaves stage and after fruit setting) and their effects on marketable yield and quality of strawberry were documented. The highest number of leaves (18.25), leaf area (47 cm²) and crowns (7.50) were found with 7 mM/L CaCl2 as compared to control plants. Minimum numbers of days (27.7) for flower anthesis were recorded with 100 mg/L ZnSO4. Maximum marketable yield (348.5 g plant-1), firmness (0.96 kg. cm-2), total soluble solids (8.2 °Brix), TSS:TA ratio (7.62), vitamin C (55.69 mg 100 g-1), total phenolic contents (186.5 mg GAE 100 g-1) and higher total antioxidants (75.5% DPPH) were observed with 7 mM/L CaCl2 application. However, maximum superoxide dismutase activity (30.2 U mg-1 protein) was examined with 100 mg/L ZnSO4 while peroxidase activity (1.05 U mg-1 protein) decreased with this concentration. Overall, the response of 7 mM/L CaCl2 was highly effective for increasing marketable yield and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic is a major environmental toxicant of concern, affecting both female and male reproductive systems. The present study was conducted to investigate the toxic effects of arsenic on semen quality and reproductive hormones of Teddy bucks, an important domestic species in regions of Pakistan. In addition to arsenic, vitamin C was fed to a subset of animals to determine if there were ameliorative effects on reproductive parameters. Sixteen adult Teddy bucks were randomly divided into four experimental groups: A (control), B (arsenic 5 mg/kg BW/day orally), and C (arsenic 5 mg/kg BW/day plus vitamin C of an oral dose of 200 mg/kg BW/day). The animals in experimental group D were given only vitamin C (oral dose of 200 mg/kg BW/day). Animals were fed treated food once a day for 12 weeks. Semen quality parameters (volume, motility, count, sperm morphology, live dead ratio, sperm membrane integrity, and sperm DNA integrity) of bucks from each experimental group were evaluated on a weekly basis. Hematology and the level of arsenic in the blood were assessed every 2 weeks. Serum was collected fortnightly to measure reproductive and stress hormones (testosterone, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormones, and cortisol). At the end of the study, all the animals were slaughtered, and the testes of all the animals were collected and evaluated for histopathology. Semen parameters in arsenic-treated bucks were significantly reduced (p < 0.05) compared with controls. Moreover, the levels of male hormones (testosterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone) were significantly decreased in arsenic-treated animals, while cortisol was significantly increased with arsenic exposure. The histopathological lesions in the testes were present in the form of the loss of germinal epithelium and atrophy of Leydig cells. Supplementation of vitamin C however ameliorated the adverse effects of arsenic on semen quality and hormones. The histopathological lesions were also ameliorated due to vitamin C treatment. This study demonstrates that arsenic can adversely affect reproductive endpoints in Teddy goat bucks and supports the hypothesis that vitamin C is an effective treatment in arsenic-induced toxicosis. This study has high significance for Pakistan, as water contaminated with arsenic is a top health concern and is a recurring issue for both domestic animals and humans. [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]

Citrus is one of the most promising fruit crops of Pakistan owing to its delicious taste and excellent aroma. Kinnow being a promising variety has a significant importance in the global market. Pakistan is facing a drastic reduction in Kinnow mandarin quality due to improper postharvest management and hence severe losses regarding quality and shelf life which might be up to 40%. The aim of this study was to find some alternative botanical product against chemical (fomesa) wax and fungicide to extend the shelf life of Kinnow mandarin. Fruits were treated with fomesa wax, 30% coconut oil, 60% aloe vera extract and Thiabendazole (TBZ) with standardized doses and stored at 5°C for 90 days. It was observed that 30% coconut oil performed almost at par to commercial wax and better than all other treatments. The fruits treated with 30% coconut oil showed minimum weight loss (11.70%), fruit rot (5.83%), maximum juice weight (42 g), biochemical parameters such as total soluble solids (10.90°Brix), titratable acidity (1.09%), ascorbic acid contents (40 mg 100 g-1), total sugars (16%), maximum total antioxidants (70% inhibition) and maximum enzymatic activity [catalase (18.10U mg-1 protein), peroxidase (0.79U mg-1 protein) and superoxide dismutase (133.93 U mg-1 protein)] of Kinnow fruits which were stored up to 90 days. It was concluded from the present study that pre storage treatment of 30% coconut oil was the most effective to reduce decay losses and maintain the fruit quality during 90 days storage. [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]

A study was attempted at Food Technology Section, Post Harvest Research Centre, AARI, Faisalabad to develop new flavor and augment the health benefits and medicinal herbs in the form of jam. Thyme and mint were added in varying concentrations in the apple jam and different physico-chemical and organoleptic parameters were studied during storage. Significant effect of storage and concentrations was recorded for physico-chemical and sensory parameters. Acidity and total soluble solids (TSS) were increased in both thyme and mint apple jam while, pH, ascorbic acid and total phenols followed a decreasing pattern during storage. Ascorbic acid was decreased from 46.54 to 44.31mg/100g in thyme apple jam and 42.72 to 39.63mg/100g in mint apple jam whereas total polyphenols experienced a decline from 41.25 to 37.50mg GAE/100g FW in thyme apple jam and 53.41 to 49.82mg GAE/100g FW in mint apple jam. Both products remained in acceptable range in terms of sensory parameters during storage. Storage stability and acceptability showed that thyme and mint apple jams could be introduced in the market with the health benefits of both apple fruit and medicinal herbs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present research was conducted at the Institute of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Crop Production, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, Sindh, Pakistan during the year 2015 to study physico-chemical and sensorial qualities of value added banana products. In this regard unripe fruits of Cavendish variety of banana were collected from local banana orchard of Tandojam and processed for making banana flour. Banana flour was used to make different products viz. dough, chapati and banana kheer. Chappati was also explored by adding rice and basin flour. Unripe banana fruit, banana flour and their products were analysed for pH, titratable acidity, moisture (%), TSS (Brix) and vitamin C. The results showed that physico-chemical and sensorial qualities of banana flour and their products were significantly affected by value added banana products. Maximum pH (7.68) and TSS (26.30 brix) were recorded from banana kheer. However, ash (0.8260) and vitamin C (18.35) remained highest in chapatti that was made by adding banana and rice flours. However, results of vitamin C (18.3) in chapatti were nonsignificant with those obtained from unripe banana fruit (17.54) and banana kheer (15.79). Unripe banana fruits had maximum moisture (72.08%) in comparison to banana products. Minimum pH (6.79) and titratable acidity (0.02) were observed in unripe banana fruit, while banana flour had minimum moisture (7.47%) and ash (0.2363%). Minimum vitamin C (12.83) and TSS (5.30) were observed in chapati and banana and basin flour, respectively. It is clear from the results that processing of banana for value added products altered the physico-chemical qualities of banana flour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urate oxidase (Uox) has significant properties for assessment of serum uric acid and its kits are generally used, unfortunately, most of the third world countries are totally relay on the import of the said kit. The industrialisation of said kit in Pakistan is our need. Hence, this work is a part of a project in which stabilised hyper produced Uox (68.05 ± 3.50 U/mg, pH 8.5, temperature 35°C) was utilised for preparation of diagnostic kit. Peroxidase was also used in kit for improving the specificity of the kit. Finally the self-prepared kit was compared with two standard kits and it was found that there was no significant difference between the self-prepared kit and standard kits. It was also found that glucose (4-5 g/l), aspirin (0.5-1 g/l), glutathione (0.5-1 g/l), protein (40-60 g/l) did not interfere in determination of uric acid while heparin (100-200 mg/dl), urea (50-100 mg/dl), creatinine (10-20 mg/dl), bilirubin (10-20 mg/dl) and ascorbic acid (10-20 mg/l) interfere. [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]

A study was conducted in the Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore, Pakistan during the year 2011. Effect of various levels of ascorbic acid pretreatment (0, 0.25, 0.5 and 1 mM) was studied on NaCl tolerance of in vitro-grown plants of a salt sensitive sugarcane cultivar SPF-213. Callus cultures (60-days old) as well as in vitrogrown plants were transferred to MS medium supplemented with various NaCl levels (0-120 mM; 9 treatments) after ascorbic acid pretreatment. All ascorbic acid pretreatments to callus culture generally had a positive effect on sugarcane callus cultures as well as plants in terms of fresh weights, number of shoots/roots per culture vessels, shoot/root length, soluble protein contents and antioxidant enzyme activities. However, the best response was observed at 0.25mM and 0.5mM ascorbic acid pretreatment to callus cultures and in vitro grown plants, respectively. These morphological as well as biochemical parameters showed a positive effect of ascorbic acid pretreatment in enhancing salt tolerance in sugarcane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This experiment was conducted in the Department of Biological Sciences, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan during the year 2008–2009 to evaluate the effect of ascorbic acid to minimize the toxicity of salinity on sunflower. For this purpose different concentrations of ascorbic acid (0, 50, 100 mg L−1) were applied through foliar spray at vegetative stage of sunflower plants. The experiment was laid out in completely randomized block design. In this study, growth, yield and physiological parameters of the sunflower plants were collected to investigate the effect of ascorbic acid under salt stress. Concentration of 100 mg L−1of ascorbic acid applied as foliar spray significantly enhanced the fresh and dry weight of shoot of sunflower, photosynthetic pigments, ions uptake such as potassium (K+) and calcium (Ca2+) and 100 achene weight of sunflower. These findings led us to conclude that foliar applied ascorbic acid could mitigate the adverse effects of salinity on sunflower. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Fifteen promising ber varieties were evaluated for quality at Horticultural Research Institute, AARI, Faisalabad, Pakistan during the year 2008-09 and 2009-10. All ber varieties differed significantly on the basis of their physical analysis. Foladi was observed as one of the superior variety in terms of fruit size (13.29 cm2), fruit weight (36.99g), stone size (2.09 cm2) and stone weight (2.31 g). However, maximum flesh ratio (10.59 %) was in Gorh variety. Pak White had the highest moisture percentage (84.75) as compared to the rest of varieties. Gorh was superior in terms of vitamin-C (176.45 mg/ 100 g), protein (3.13%) and TSS (24.01%). The highest reducing sugars (5.64%) were observed in Khobani. Dehli White excelled in non-reducing sugars (6.12%) and yield (240.25 kg/plant). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation was carried out to appraise the levels of total phenols and vitamin C as well as antioxidant potential at three different ripening stages (un-ripe, semi-ripe and fully-ripe) of guava (Psidium guajava L.) fruit collected from three different geographical regions of Pakistan (Islamabad, Faisalabad and Bhakkar). The antioxidant potential of guava fruit extracts was assessed by means of different in-vitro antioxidant assays, namely inhibition of peroxidation in linoleic acid system, reducing power and radical scavenging capability. Overall, fruit at the un-ripe stage (G1) exhibited the highest levels of TPC, TFC, reducing power and DPPH radical scavenging activity, followed by the semi-ripe (G2) and fully-ripe (G3) stages. On the other hand, vitamin C content increased as the fruit maturity progressed, with highest value seen at the fully-ripe stage (G3) followed by the semi-ripe (G2) and un-ripe stage (G1). The concentration of vitamin C in fruits varied as: Faisalabad (136.4-247.9 mg 100 g-1), Islamabad (89.7-149.7 mg 100 g-1) and Bhakkar (73.1-129.5 mg 100 g-1). The results showed that different stages of maturation and geographical locations had profound effects on the antioxidant activity and vitamin C contents of guava fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the knowledge, attitude and practices regarding the use of vitamin supplements among patients visiting Out-Patient clinics of a teaching hospital. Methods: Four hundred patients were interviewed during the period of July to September 2008, at the Out-patient clinics, Aga Khan University hospital, Karachi. A pre-tested and structured questionnaire was used to collect information. It consisted of questions regarding demographics, awareness of vitamin supplements and its consumption, reasons for usage and its effects. The purpose of the study was explained and assurance of confidentiality was given. After obtaining written consent, eligible individuals were interviewed. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 19.0 was used to analyze the data. Results: The results revealed that 98% of the respondents were aware of vitamin supplements. The most known vitamin was found to be Vitamin C (16.9%) with Vitamin K being the least well-known (0.4%); while 51.8% of the respondents were unaware of the harmful effects of vitamin supplements. The results also showed that 84.8% of the study population had taken vitamin supplements, and 79% of the participants considered that vitamin supplements to be helpful. Taking vitamin supplements as a compensation for the deficiencies in the body was the most frequently chosen answer (17.7%) as the reason for use of vitamin supplements. On the other hand, a majority of the population was unaware of the indications for use of vitamin supplements. Conclusion: This study highlights a very significant yet ignored issue of vitamin supplementation in Pakistan. A need exists to inform the general population about the use of vitamin supplementation. The media and the medical community are required to play their role in this regard. Short/ refresher training courses are needed for doctors to update and disseminate adequate knowledge of vitamin supplementation to their patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the determination of Air Pollution Tolerance Indices (APTI) from twelve plant species growing along polluted site (the road side of Quetta city) and non-polluted site (Botanical garden University of Balochistan, Quetta). The APTI was determined by synthesizing the four different physiological and biochemical parameters i.e. leaf relative water content (RWC), ascorbic acid content (AA), total leaf chlorophyll (TCh) and pH of leaf extract. The plant species selected for the study were Fraxinus xanthoxyloids, Robinia pseudoaccacia, Vitis vinifera, Pistacia allantica, Rosa indica, Melia azadirachta, Punica granatum, Morus alba, M. nigra, Prunus armeniaca, Euclaptus terticornis and Ficus carica. Air Pollution Tolerance Index (APTI) was found higher in the plant samples of polluted sites compared to the non polluted sites. The results showed that decrease in total chlorophyll content was recorded in the leaf samples of all selected trees collected from polluted sites whereas the increased values were recorded in the leaf samples of non polluted sites. The maximum reduction (40.39%) of total chlorophyll content was recoded in the leaves of Prunus armeniaca and minimum reduction (4.48 %) was in the leaves of Morus alba of polluted site. There was maximum increament of relative water content (38.87%) in the leaves of Fraxinus xanthoxyloids and minimum increase (4.19%) was found in the leaves of Vitus vinifera of the polluted site. Ascorbic acid contents showed maximum value (39.13 %) in the leaves of Ficus carica and minimum amount (18.75 %) was recorded in the leaves of Vitis vinifera of the samples collected from polluted site. The maximum pH (6.85 ± 1.00) was observed in the leaves of Vitis vinifera and minimum value (5.44± 0.86) was observed in the leaves of Morus nigra of polluted site. The results were further statistically analyzed by using t-test showed significantly high level of pollution at the pollution sites, in all the parameters studied mainly due to automobile exhaust. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ten mango cultivars viz. Alphanso, Anwar Retual, Dusehri, Fajri, Gulab-e-Khas, Langra, Malda, Sanglakhi, Sindhri and Suwarnareeka were evaluated in the Department of Horticulture, Gomal University, D. I. Khan, Pakistan during 2006. Langra and Malda fruits matured earlier while fruits of Fajri and Sanglakhi matured late. Malda produced higher number of fruits per panicle (55) while Alphanso and Sanglakhi gave minimum fruits (22.67). Alphanso and Fajri produced longer fruits (15.20 and 14.43 cm) while minimum fruit length was recorded in Anwar Retual (6.30 cm). Fajri excelled in fruit weight (455.9 g), seed weight (48.67 g), peel weight (84.99 g) and pulp weight (329.63g) as compared to all other cultivars. Suwarnareeka had higher percentage of pulp (92.40) while cultivar Gulab-e-Khas showed the lowest pulp percentage (61.41). However, Gulab-e-Khas excelled in vitamin C and sugars. These chemical characteristics ranged from 131-179.7 mg/100g and 15-20 percent, respectively in the cultivars studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a study conducted in the Department of Horticulture, Gomal University, Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan during 2007, four mulberry cultivars Mulberry Black (Morus nigra), White Mulberry (Morus alba), Red Mulbery (Morus rubra) and Kabli Mulberry were collected from Miran Shah, North Waziristan (NWFP) to study their physico-chemical characteristics. The results revealed that cultivars differed significantly in average fruit weight and length that ranged from 2.54 to 3.02 and 1.61 to 2.23 cm, respectively. The fruit of Red Mulberry was more heavier and longer followed by Kabli Mulberry that was statistically similar. Kabli Mulberry was superior in sensory assessment in terms of taste, colour and flavour followed by Black Mulberry, which was comparable to Kabli Mulberry. Red Mulberry fruits were more juicy (74.62% moisture) as compared to fruits of other cultivars. The pH of cultivars ranged from 4.32 to 4.90, being minimum for Red Mulberry and maximum for Kabli Mulberry while acidity varied from 0.137 to 0.307 percent. White Mulberry fruits were more acidic as compared to other cultivars. Kabli Mulberry and Red Mulberry differed statistically in acidity. Significant variation existed among mulberry cultivars for TSS, reducing sugars, non-reducing sugars, total sugars and vitamin-C contents, which ranged from 7.23-9.62, 12.111-19.563, 7.829-14.658 and 21.163- 34.777 percent and 25.20-32.25 mg/100 g, respectively. Cultivar Kabli Mulberry contained significantly more TSS, reducing, non-reducing sugars and total sugars, followed by Black Mulberry, while vitamin-C content was more in Black Mulberry followed by Red Mulberry. The study suggests that Kabli Mulberry and Black Mulberry can be exploited for commercial cultivation under agroclimatic conditions of Miran Shah, North Waziristan Agency of NWFP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted in the Department of Horticulture, Agriculture Faculty, Gomal University, D.I. Khan, Pakistan during 2005. NAA (naphthalene acetic acid) @ 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 75 and 90 ppm concentration was sprayed on summer crop of 28 trees of guava (cv. Red Flesh) at two fruit development stages (marble and walnut stage). Results revealed that NAA significantly reduced pre-harvest fruit drop. Maximum reduction (8.83%) in fruit drop was observed with 45 ppm/spray followed by 30, 60, 75 and 90 ppm. Fruit yield was significantly increased by NAA application. Maximum yield (44.80 kg per treatment) was recorded in case of 45 ppm closely followed by 60 ppm (44.60 kg). Significant variation was observed among various quality parameters i.e. pulp/seed ratio, TSS, total sugars, acidity and ascorbic acid contents in fruits of different treatments. NAA application increased all these ingredients except acidity which was reduced. Maximum pulp/seed ratio (11.31), total soluble solids (11%) and total sugars (7.45%) were recorded in 45 ppm treatment. The same treatment proved as most effective in reducing fruit drop and produced better quality fruit than all other treatments. At higher concentrations fruit quality was inferior. Fruit drop exhibited negative correlation with all other characteristics except acidity whereas pulp seed ratio had positive correlation with TSS, total sugars and ascorbic acid contents and negative association with acidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To identify determinants of low birth weight (LBW) in Karachi, Pakistan, including environmental exposures and nutritional status of the mother during pregnancy. Design: Cross-sectional study. Participants: Five hundred and forty mother-infant pairs. We interviewed mothers about obstetric history, diet and exposure to Pb. We measured birth weight and blood lead level (BLL). We performed multiple log binomial regression analysis to identify factors related to LBW. Results: Of 540 infants, 100 (18.5%) weighed ≤2.5 kg. Umbilical cord BLL was not significantly associated with LBW. Maternal poor self-rated health (adjusted prevalence ratio (adjPR) = 1.83; 95% CI 1.09, 3.07) and none or one prenatal visit (adjPR = 2.18; 95% CI 1.39, 3.43) were associated with LBW. A statistically significant interaction between mothers' mid upper-arm circumference (MUAC) and dietary vitamin C intake was noted. Compared with mothers with MUAC above the median and dietary vitamin C intake above the 3rd quartile >208.7 mg/d), infants of mothers with MUAC less than or equal to the median and dietary vitamin C intake >208.7mg/d (adjPR = 10.80; 95% CI 1.46, 79.76), mothers with MUAC above the median and vitamin C intake ≤208.7 mg/d (adjPR = 10.67; 95% CI 1.50, 76.02) and mothers with MUAC less than or equal to the median and vitamin C intake ≤208.7 mg/d (adjPR = 13.19; 95% CI 1.85, 93.79) more likely to give birth to an LBW infant. Conclusions: In Pakistan, poor nutritional status and inadequate prenatal care were major determinants of LBW in this setting. Environmental factors including umbilical cord BLL were not significantly associated with LBW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L. ssp. turkestanica) is a very important multipurpose plant in areas of northern Pakistan. The berry of sea buckthorn is rich in nutrients and medicinal compounds such as vitamins, carotenoids, flavonoids, oil, carbohydrates, organic acids, amino acids and minerals. The chemical composition and nutritive value of sea buckthorn berries from eight populations from different areas of northern Pakistan were compared. The concentration of vitamin C in the berries was 250-333 mg/100 g; the seed oil was 7.69-13.7%, oil in dried pulp was 19.2-29.1% and the pytosterol content of the seed oil was 3.3-5.5%; there were 0.5-25 mg/L anthocyanins in the fruit juice. The potassium (2.8-7.2 g/kg), sodium (0.065-0.8 g/kg), calcium (0.7-1.25 g/ kg), magnesium (139-240 mg/kg), iron (40-225 mg/kg) and phosphorus (110-133 mg/kg) contents were high in dried berries. Sea buckthorn berries from Pakistan are a good source of phytonutrients and minerals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]