Search

By the end of year 2019, the new virus SARS-CoV-2 appeared, causing the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), and spread very fast globally. A continuing need for diagnostic tools is a must to contain its spread. Till now, the gold standard method, the reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), is the precise procedure to detect the virus. However, SARS-CoV-2 may escape RT-PCR detection for several reasons. The development of well-designed, specific and sensitive serological test like enzyme immunoassay (EIA) is needed. This EIA can stand alone or work side by side with RT-PCR. In this study, we developed several EIAs including plates that are coated with either specially designed SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid or surface recombinant proteins. Each protein type can separately detect anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM or IgG antibodies. For each EIAs, the cut-off value, specificity and sensitivity were determined utilizing RT-PCR confirmed Covid-19 and pre-pandemic healthy and other viruses-infected sera. Also, the receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to define the specificities and sensitivities of the optimized assay. The in-house EIAs were validated by comparing against commercial EIA kits. All in-house EIAs showed high specificity (98–99%) and sensitivity (97.8–98.9%) for the detection of IgG/IgM against RBD and N proteins of SARS-CoV-2. From these results, the developed Anti-RBD and anti-N IgG and IgM antibodies EIAs can be used as a specific and sensitive tool to detect SARS-CoV-2 infection, calculate the burden of disease and case fatality rates.

Ficus benjamina is an important ornamental plant in many countries of the world. Recently, this plant is attacked by a lepidopteran insect pest known as Trilocha varians (Bombucidae: Lepidoptera) in Pakistan. This pest eats the leaves making the plant unaesthetic. In the current study, toxicity of four insecticides (deltamethrin, chlorantraniliprole, fipronil and emamectin benzoate) was evaluated against T. varians. Different concentrations of these insecticides were prepared in distilled water and 3rd instar larvae were exposed using leaf dip bioassay method. The results showed that deltamethrin was more toxic to T. varians followed by emamectin benzoate, fipronil, and chlorantraniliprole. The LC50 of deltamethrin after 12, 24, 36, 48, and 60 h were 18.04, 16.67, 5.74, 2.46, and 1.79 ppm respectively. The results will be useful for management of T. varians. Keywords: Chlorantraniliprole, Deltamethrin, Fipronil, Ficus, Ornamental plant

Graphical abstract, Juniperus spp. are used as medicinal plants in many countries like Bosnia, Lebanon, and Turkey. In folk medicines, these plants have been used for treating skin and respiratory tract diseases, urinary problems, rheumatism and gall bladder stones. The objectives of this work were to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using a coniferous tree, Juniperus procera leaf extract and testing the synthesized AgNPs for its antimicrobial potentials, hemolytic activity, toxicity and the proliferative effects against normal and activated rat splenic cells. Leaf extract was prepared using acetone and ethanol as solvents. AgNPs were prepared using the acetone extract. AgNPs were validated using UV–Vis spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Functional groups in the extract were identified using Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. SEM images of AgNPs showed spherical and cubic shapes with a uniform size distribution with an average size of 30–90 nm. FT-IR spectroscopy showed the presence of many functional groups in the plant extract. AgNPs showed promising antimicrobial activity against tested bacteria and fungus. AgNPs also expressed a stimulating activity towards the rat splenic cells in a dose dependent manner. Acetone as solvent was safer on cells than ethanol. Green synthesized AgNPs using J. procera might be used as a broad-spectrum therapeutic agent against microorganisms and as an immunostimulant agent.

The yearlong association of a native bee, Pseudapis oxybeloides (Halictidae: Hymenoptera) was studied with 72 plant species in a sub-tropical planted forest and some adjacent agricultural landscapes at Multan, Pakistan. The study resulted in 66 interactions of P. oxybeloides with only 24 plant species in 15 families while other 48 plant species were not visited by this bee. The maximum abundance of P. oxybeloides (7–9 individuals) was recorded on Achyranthes aspera and Launaea procumbens followed by Ageratum conyzoides, Trianthema portulacastrum and Cleome viscosa (5–6 individuals). Majority (19) of plant species were visited by only 1–4 individuals. The bee activity was started in the month of March which attained its peak in May followed by a gradual decline until September. No bees were observed during the months of January and February. There was a significant positive relationship between bee abundance and number of flowering plant species. Bee abundance had a strong positive relationship with temperature while it had a strong negative relationship with relative humidity (%). Floral abundance increased with the number of flowering plant species while it was not influenced by floral span of plant species. Besides giving the floral host plants of P. oxybeloides, the current study also gives a better understanding of its seasonality along with its relationships with different biotic and abiotic factors under local conditions. These findings can help in maintaining and managing P. oxybeloides population particularly and other native bees in general at local scale. Keywords: Pseudapis oxybeloides, Insect pollinator, Host plants, Seasonal abundance, Biotic and abiotic factors

One of the mosquito-borne zoonotic diseases is the Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV). Currently, there is no completely licensed vaccine that can be used to vaccinate animals or humans outside endemic areas. The aim of this work was to use the RVFV glycoprotein (Gn) and the subunit B of cholera toxin (CTB) at gene level and build up fused recombinant vaccine. The gene of CTB was joined to the gene Gn to work as an adjuvant in the resulting fusion protein. The designed merged genes (CTB-Gn) was tested for restriction sites, open reading frames, expected fusion protein tertiary structure and antigenicity using computer software. The insert sequence was submitted to the BioProject (GenBank). The insert was subcloned into the pQE-31 expression plasmid. The target recombinant protein (rCTB-Gn) was expressed in M15 bacteria, purified and identified by protein gel electrophoresis. The insert got the accession No: PRJNA386723. Analysis of the designed rCTB-Gn protein revealed that it had the right 3D structure, immunogenic and at the correct molecular weight. The presence of the CTB in the proposed vaccine will augment its immunogenicity. Doses and protection levels of the vaccine need to be manipulated. Keywords: RVFV, Adjuvant, CTB, Subunit vaccine, Recombinant vaccine

Propolis is a natural substance collected by honey bees from various plants such as, poplar, palm, pine, conifer secretions, gums, resins, mucilage and leaf buds. It is collected and brought very painstakingly by honey bees to be used for sealing cracks and crevices occurring in their hives. Originally, it as an antiseptic meant for preventing bee-hive from microbial infections along with preventing decomposition of intruders. Additionally, propolis has been used in folk medicine for centuries. The biological characteristics of propolis depend upon its chemical composition, plant sources, geographical zone and seasons. More than 300 compounds have been identified in propolis such as, phenolic compounds, aromatic acids, essential oils, waxes and amino acids. Many scientific articles are published every year in different international journals, and several groups of researchers have focused their attention on the chemical compounds and biological activity of propolis. Keywords: Propolis, Chemical composition, Physical properties, Antimicrobial activities, Biomedical applications

Cereals are staple food for many countries and are grown on millions of hectares of land, but much of the harvest is wasted due to losses by pests. To minimize these losses, many pesticides are used which are damaging to the environment and human health. There are debates to get rid of these chemicals but they are still in use at large scale. An alternative control strategy for insect pests in storage houses is the use of botanicals. In this study, four plant essential oils, two plant extracts, two herbicides, and two insecticides were used against Tribolium confusum and the comparison of toxicity was made by calculating LC50 and LT50 values. LC50 values were higher for abamectin (2.09–10.23 mg/L) and cypermethrin (3.41–11.78 mg/L) insecticides followed by neem essential oil (7.39–19.24 mg/L) and citrus extract (10.14–24.50 mg/L). However, LC50 values were maximum in case of jaman plant extract (22.38–176.42 mg/L) followed by two herbicides, Logran (19.66–39.72 mg/L) and Topik (29.09–47.67 mg/L) However, LC50 values were higher for topic herbicide (24.098 ppm) and jaman essential oil (16.383 ppm) after four days of treatment. Abamectin and cypermethrin insecticides, neem essential oil and citrus plant extract also killed adults of T. confusum quicker as compared other essential oils, extracts and herbicides. Results revealed that botanical formulations being environmentally safe could be used instead of highly hazardous pesticides for stored products’ pests. This study also elaborates the non-host toxicity of herbicides commonly applied in our agroecosystem. Keywords: Tribolium confusum, Stored product pests, Botanicals, Pesticides, Pest mortalities

Dolichogenidea cordiae sp. n., and Dolichogenidea syngremma sp. n., (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Microgastrinae) are described as new to science. These two species were recovered from Acrocercops lysibathra and Eteoryctis syngramma (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae) reared on the host plants Cordia latifolia and Mangifera indica. Characters of these new species and their affinities with related taxa are discussed. Data on habitat, host records, and host plant for all the parasitoid species are also provided.

Honey is a nutrient rich natural product and has been utilized as traditional and complementary medicine since ancient times. In this study, antibacterial activity of Sider (Ziziphus spina-christi), Dharm (Lavandula dentata), and Majra (Hypoestes forskaolii) honey samples collected from Asir region of Saudi Arabia was in vitro evaluated at 80% and 50% w/v concentrations against five pathogenic bacteria i.e. Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Shigella flexneri, and Staphylococcus epidermidis. Well diffusion assays to measure the average zone of inhibition (ZOI) and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were employed in the experiments. All the tested honey samples showed antibacterial activity in a dose-dependent manner. Sider and Dharm exhibited a good antibacterial activity at high concentrations while, Majra honey of Apis mellifera jemenitica and of Apis florea showed comparatively low antibacterial activity. The average MIC values of Sider, Dhram from Rijal Alma, Dharm from Al-Souda, Majra (A.m. jemenitica), and Majra (A. florea) honey against all tested bacteria were 22%, 16%, 18%, 32%, and 28% (v/v) respectively. Dharm and Sider honeys showed better antibacterial activity than Majra honey. Saudi honey can be considered as a promising future antimicrobial agent and should be further investigated as an alternative candidate in the management of resistant bacterial pathogens. Keywords: Honey, Saudi Arabia, Antibacterial activity, Bacterial pathogens, Multivariate analysis

Fungus-growing termites are important pests for buildings and agriculture in Asia and Africa. This study assessed four insecticides (fipronil 5% SC, imidacloprid 20 SL, thiamethoxam 25 WG and chlorfenapyr 360 SC) for their toxicity and repellency to the fungus-growing termite, Odontotermes obesus (Rambur, 1842) (Blattodea: Termitidae: Macrotermitinae). The study was conducted at Ghazi University, Dera Ghazi Khan, Pakistan from September-October, 2016 and was undertaken to identify effective termiticides along with their optimal concentrations for future use in baits and localized treatments. The chemicals assessed were differed significantly in their toxicity. Chlorfenapyr and thiamethoxam were more toxic and faster acting with lower LC 50 and LT 50 values than imidacloprid and fipronil. The four chemicals were statistically similar at each concentration. Odontotermes obesus was not repelled by 0-20 mg/l chlorfenapyr, 0-40 mg/l fipronil, 0-80 mg/l imidacloprid or 0-20 mg/l thiamethoxam. These results suggest that chlorfenapyr, imidacloprid and thiamethoxam may be used as soil termiticides, whereas fipronil can be used both as soil termiticide and in termite baiting programs.

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is an important source of food for people worldwide. In the current study, we studied its pollination biology with special reference to floral visitors along with their visitation rate, frequency and pollen load during 2012 and 2013. We also explored the effect of floral visitors on the capsule weight, seed weight, seed numbers and seed germination. Results revealed three bees, two wasps, five flies, one moth and three butterfly species on the flowers of chickpea. Apis dorsata, A. florea, Amegilla sp. and Eristalinus aeneus were the major species with 434–474, 223–311, 69–74 and 81–136 individuals, respectively in both years. Floral visitors differed significantly in term of visitation frequency with A. florea as the most frequent visitor (9.13–9.86 visits/flower/5 min) followed by E. aeneus (5.43–5.58 visits/flower/5 min) and A. dorsata (1.72–2.31 visits/flower/5 min) in both years. Similarly, A. florea had statistically highest visitation rate (16.85–19.99 flowers visited/min) followed by E. aeneus (9.73–10.68 flowers visited/min). A. dorsata had significantly higher pollen load on its body (84629–85,104 pollen grains) followed by A. florea (64940–65,135 pollen grains) and Amegilla sp. (64020–65,120 pollen grains). The open-pollinated flowers had significantly higher capsule weight (0.27 ± 0.01 g), seed weight (0.18 ± 0.01 g), seed numbers (1.67 ± 0.07 seeds) and seed germination (95 ± 1.38%) as compared to flowers deprived of pollinators in cages. The results suggested A. florea, A. dorsata and E. aeneus could be effective pollinators of chickpea. Hence these three species can be properly utilized on commercial scale to increase crop yield.

Incorporated titanium oxide to bioglasses with novel composition as: 40P2O5- 20Na2O- 10Ca(OH)2- 20CaCl2–8.0ZnO- 1.0TiO2 (labeled BGTi) was tested for its antimicrobial activity, anti-proliferative/cytotoxicity against normal and activated splenic cells in vitro, anticancer activity, in vivo immunologic and hypersensitivity responses, in vivo and in vitro cytotoxicity effects and in vitro effects of activated splenic cells on BGTi. These results showed that BGTi had antimicrobial activities against Gram negative and positive bacteria as well as fungi. The prepared bioglasses BGTi had no cytotoxic or proliferative effects on activated splenic cells while showed anti-proliferative/cytotoxicity against normal splenic cells. It was cytotoxic to HepG2 cells. In vivo test demonstrated that BGTi is an inert material which did not stimulate the immune system or caused local reactions. The products of activated splenic cells did not cause any changes in the structure of BGTi also it did not cause any acute cytotoxicity or lysis to RBCs. TiO2 is an inert material which did not cause immune stimulation or hepatic cytotoxicity. BGTi did not affect by lytic products of immune cells hence, it can be considered as a safe and ideal material for implantation inside the body of living organisms. Finally we investigated the structure of the bioglasses BGTi by using Raman spectra.

Gibberellic acid (GA3) is one of the plant growth regulators which improve salt tolerance and mitigate the salt stress impact on plants. The extant analysis was carried out to study the effect of GA3 and different salt concentrations on seed germination and physiological parameters of oat cultivars. Oats is substantially less tolerant to salt than wheat and barley. Experimentation was conducted as factorial with Completely Randomized Block Design with three replicates. Different concentration of NaCl salt ((25, 50, 75 and 100 mM) were used in test control group and 100 and 150 ppm of GA3 were used in two group by pre-treated (after 24 h of the seed soaking) and plants were analyzed on 15th day. Results indicate that increasing salinity would decrease the germination percentage and growth parameter in three oat cultivars. Quotes data indicating a 13%, 19.9% and 32.48% in cultivars NDO-2, UPO-212 and UPO-94 germination reduction when soil salinity reaches 50 mM. A 36.02%, 47.33% and 56.365 reduction in germination is likely when soil salinity reaches 100 mM respectively same cultivars. Seeds treated with GA3 significantly promoted the percentage of germination, shoot and root length, total fresh and dry weight of seedling, tissue water content and seedling vigor index by NDO-2 and UPO-212 under different saline concentration. The maximum average of germination and growth parameters were observed from 150 ppm GA3 treated seeds. But this concentration was significantly inhibited root length in sensitive cultivar UPO-94 at 75 and 100 mM salt as compared to 100 ppm. We observed that, the high concentration of GA3 was not suitable for sensitive oat cultivars. Because the plant root are the real workforce behind any plants success. Thus, it may be concluding that, GA3 treatment could curtail the toxic effect of salinity by increasing germination percentage and shoot and root length, total fresh and dry weight, tissue water content and seedling vigor index in tolerant cultivar. Keywords: Gibberellic acid, Salt concentrations, Germination, Seedlings growth, Seedling vigor index, Oat cultivars

Fungal diseases cause considerable damage to the economically important crops worldwide thus posing continuous threat to global food security. Management of these diseases is normally done via utilization of chemicals that have severe negative impact upon human health and surrounding ecosystems. Finding eco-friendly alternatives has led the researchers to focus towards biological control of fungal diseases through biocontrol agents such as antagonistic fungi (AF) and other microorganisms. AF include various genera of fungi that cure the fungal diseases on plants effectively. Furthermore, they play a regulatory role in various plant physiological pathways and interactions. AF are highly host specific having negligible effects on non-target organisms and have fast mass production capability. However, understanding the mechanisms of the effects of AF on plant diseases is a prerequisite for their effective utilization as biocontrol agent. Trichoderma is one of the most important fungal genera known for its antagonistic activity against disease causing fungal pathogens. Therefore, in this review, we have focused upon Trichoderma-mediated fungal diseases management via illustrating its taxonomy, important strains, biodiversity and mode of action. Furthermore, we have assessed the criteria to be followed for selection of AF and the factors influencing their efficiency. Finally, we evaluated the advantages and limitations of Trichoderma as AF. We conclude that effective AF utilization against fungal pathogens can serve as a safe strategy for our Planet.

In current trending photonic and optoelectronic devices the KH2PO4 (KDP) crystal seek prime importance hence in present communication we explore the decisive impact of Ni2+ on linear-nonlinear optical, dielectric and microhardness properties of KDP crystal. The Ni2+ doped KDP bulk single crystal has been successfully grown by slow solvent evaporation technique. The doping of Ni in crystal matrix of KDP has been determined by means of energy dispersive spectroscopic analysis. The powder X-ray diffraction technique has been employed to evaluate the crystalline phase and structural parameters of grown crystal. The influence of Ni2+ on linear optical transmittance of KDP crystal has been comparatively examined within 200–1100 nm by means of UV–vis analysis. The pure and Ni2+ doped KDP crystal has been subjected to Kurtz-Perry test and the remarkably enhanced SHG efficiency of Ni2+ doped KDP crystal is found to be 3.89 times higher than KDP crystal. The frequency response of dielectric constant and dielectric loss of undoped and Ni2+ doped KDP crystal has been evaluated within 50 Hz to 1 MHz. The constructive impact of Ni2+ on microhardness properties of KDP crystal has been confirmed by means of Vickers microhardness analysis.

High soil salinity decreases growth, photosynthetic activity, productivity and causes nutrient imbalance in plants. The important biogenic ethanolamine (EA), a natural compound found in pla...

The organic crystals with abundance of donor-acceptor moieties readily facilitate the mechanism of charge transfer which aids for grooming the nonlinear optical (NLO) effects and hence core investigation on glycine crystal is deliberately needed for visualizing its compatibility for frequency conversion device applications. In this communication the gamma glycine (GG) crystal has been firstly grown in presence of salicylic acid and priority is given to explore its optical properties. The structural parameters and space group of GG crystal has been confirmed by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. The qualitative analysis of GG crystal has been performed by means of fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The color centered luminescence emission profile of GG crystal has been assessed by means of photoluminescence study. The UV–visible spectral analysis has been employed within 200–1100 nm to examine the optical transparency of GG crystal. The linear optical parameters of GG crystal has been evaluated using the transmittance data. The large enhancement in second harmonic generation (SHG) efficiency of GG crystal with reference to KDP and ADP crystal has been confirmed by Kurtz-Perry test. The competency of GG crystal for NLO device application has been proposed in vision of obtained results.

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-infected persons could be symptomatic or asymptomatic. Asymptomatic and symptomatic patients can transmit SARS-CoV-2. This study aimed to study the humoral immune response in Saudis who are Covid-19 symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. We created three types of enzyme-linked immunosorbant assays (ELISAs) to reveal IgG and IgM antibodies (Abs) against SARS-CoV-2. The developed ELISAs were designed to detect Abs against SARS-CoV-2 N, S and N + S proteins. A number of Covid-19 symptomatic (1 5 3) and asymptomatic (84) RT-PCR-confirmed patient sera were used to evaluate the ELISAs and to determine the IgG and IgM antibody profile in those patients. The sensitivity and specificity of these ELISAs were evaluated using pre-Covid-19 pandemic serum samples. The results revealed the existence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgM Abs in Covid-19 symptomatic and asymptomatic Saudi persons. The use of SARS-CoV-2 N and S proteins in the same ELISA greatly increased the detectability of infection. In conclusion, the Covid-19 symptomatic and asymptomatic Saudi persons demonstrated both IgG and IgM antibody profile with higher titer in symptomatic patients. The use of N + S proteins as antibody capture antigens greatly increased the ELISA sensitivity.

A healthy honey bee stock is critical to the beekeeping industry and the sustainability of the ecosystem. The quality of the supplemental diet influences the development and strength of the colony, especially during the pollen dearth period in the surrounding environment. However, the extent to which pollen substitute protein feeding affects honey bee colony parameters is not fully known. We conducted this study to test the influence of various supplemental diets on foraging effort, pollen load, capped brood area, population density, and honey yield. The treatment groups were supplied with patties of pollen substitute diets, whereas sugar syrup was given to the control group. Our results indicated that honey bees consumed a significantly higher amount of Diet 1 (45 g soybean flour + 15 g Brewer’s yeast + 75 g powdered sugar + 7.5 g skimmed milk + 7.5 g date palm pollen + 200 mL sugar syrup supplement with Vitamin C) followed by others supplemented diets. Further, pollen load, worker-sealed brood area, population strength, and honey yield differed significantly when Diet 1 was consumed instead of other supplemental diets. The proportion of biological parameters was less in the control group as compared to other treatments. This study highlights the potential of supplemental diets to improve the bee’s health and colony development when the pollens availability and diversity are insufficient.

Royal jelly (RJ) is an acidic yellowish-white secretion of worker honey bee glands, used as food material of worker bee larvae for the first three days and queen bee larvae for the entire life. It is commercially used in cosmetics and medicinal industry in various parts of the world. This study determined the queen cell acceptance rate and RJ production difference among Italian and Carniolan bee races. Furthermore, the effect of plastic cup cell priming media, diets and seasons were tested on the larval cell acceptance rate and RJ yield of both races. The results indicated that average queen cell acceptance rate was significantly (p

Continuous urban developments have resulted in increased demand for street furniture, one of which is street light columns. Artificial light at night (ALAN) pose significant impacts on insect diversity in urban and rural areas. The ALAN is a significant driver of decline in insect diversity. This study evaluated the impact of light intensity and sky quality at night on insect diversity in rural and urban areas of the Asir province, Saudi Arabia. Insect traps were installed in both areas during night. Light intensity of nearby road lamps was measured using light meter, while sky quality was measured using sky quality meter. Rural areas exhibited low light intensity (10.33 flux/f.candle) and good sky quality (18.80 magnitude/arcsec2). Urban areas exhibited intense light (89.33 flux/f.candle) and poor sky quality (15.49 magnitude/arcsec2). Higher insect diversity was recorded for rural areas where insects belonging to seven orders (i.e., Diptera, Lepidoptera, Hemiptera, Hymenoptera, Coleoptera, Neuroptera, and Dermaptera) were collected. However, insects of four orders (i.e., Diptera, Lepidoptera, Hemiptera, and Neuroptera) were found in urban areas indicating low diversity. Lepidopteran insects were frequently recorded from rural areas indicating they are attracted to artificial light. It is concluded that excessive ALAN and poor sky quality at night disrupt insect biodiversity. Therefore, ALAN and sky quality must be considered responsible for decline in insect biodiversity along with other known factors.

Red cotton bugs [Dysdercus spp. (Hemiptera: Pyrrhocoridae] are among the most destructive pests of cotton and many other crops. Red cotton bugs (RCBs hereafter) damage cotton plants by sucking sap and deteriorate lint by staining. The incidence of RCBs causes boll injury along the field margins neighboring with various peripheral areas. The adjacent habitat/crops strongly mediate the population dynamics of RCBs. However, limited is known about the impact of adjacent habitat on population dynamics of RCBs and lint quality. This two-year field study evaluated the impact of adjacent habitat (okra, unpaved road, water channel and Eucalyptus trees) on population dynamics of RCBs and lint quality of cotton. The RCBs were sampled weekly from margins to 4 meter inside the cotton field. The RCBs’ populations were monitored and plucked cotton bolls were examined for internal damage. The highest incidence of RCBs was recorded for cotton field adjacent to okra and water channel. Similarly, the highest number of damaged bolls were observed for the field side neighboring with okra and water channel. Furthermore, the highest number of unopened bolls were recorded for okra and water channel sides with higher percentage of yellowish lint. Field sides bordering with Eucalyptus trees and unpaved road had lower RCBs incidence and lint staining. Nonetheless, RCBs incidence was higher at field margins compared to field center indicating that population was strongly affected by adjacent habitat. It is concluded that sowing okra and weedy water channels adjacent to cotton would support RCBs population and subsequent lint staining. Therefore, water channels must be kept weed-free and okra should not be sown adjacent to cotton. Nonetheless, detailed studies are needed to compute monetary damages caused by cotton pests to the crop. Furthermore, effective management strategies must be developed to manage RCBs in cotton to avoid lint-staining problem.

ObjectiveTo investigate Acacia honey from different altitudes regarding total phenols and flavonoids, laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) spectra and anticancer activity against human cancer cell lines.MethodsAnticancer activity was investigated using sulforhodamine B cytotoxicity assays in the following human cancer cell lines: HCT116 (colon); MCF7 (breast), and HepG2 (liver). Total phenols and flavonoids were measured using spectrophotometric methods and LIF was used to differentiate between low and high-altitude honey.ResultsThe LIF spectra differed between low and high-altitude Acacia honey. High altitude Acacia honey was characterized by significantly lower total phenol content (81.47 ± 1.25 mg gallic acid equivalent [GAE]/100 g) and increased total flavonoids (10.63 ± 0.53 mg quercetin equivalent [QE]/100 g) versus low altitude Acacia honey (91.33 ± 0.96 mg GAE/100 g and 8.78 ± 0.23 mg QE/100 g, respectively). Low altitude Acacia honey displayed increased IC50values against HCT116 and MCF7 cells (264.17 ± 10.5 and 482.65 ± 20.3 µg/ml, respectively) versus high altitude Acacia honey (117.99 ± 12.7 and 189.82 ± 15.8 µg/ml, respectively).ConclusionsHigh altitude Acacia honey had significantly more effective anticancer activity against HCT116 and MCF7 cells compared with low altitude honey.

Industrial air pollution has emerged as a speeding problem in recent years because of its detrimental effects on human health. The present study was conducted in Gajraula industrial area of India, highly affected by ambient air pollution. Samples of PM10 were collected from three different sites (Raunaq Automotives, Indra Chowk and Town Basti) during 2017–2018. Maximum concentration of PM10 was observed during winter and the minimum during monsoon season. Heavy metals such as Pb, Cd, Cu, Zn, Cr, Fe, Al and Ni were analysed by ICP-MS. This study concluded that Indra Chowk is affected by high particulate pollution, while its level at Raunaq Automotives was moderate. Town Basti was being considered as less polluted area. Toxic metals are emitted into the atmosphere mainly due to industrial, commercial and agricultural activities. Most of the industrial emissions from Indra Chowk was because of lots of industries in the vicinity and it has been observed that public from this area is suffering from respiratory disorders and other health problems due to exposure of air pollution. © 2019 The Author(s) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, MoEFCC King Khalid University, KKU: RCAMS/KKU/011/19 The author’s gratefully acknowledge the financial help provided by UPPCB/CPCB, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change New Delhi . The authors would like to thank to UPPCB (Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board) and also acknowledge the support of the King Khalid University through a grant RCAMS/KKU/011/19 under Research Center for Advanced Materials Science (RCAMS) at King Khalid University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The authors also thankful to Dr. Shivlalsingh (AGSS Laboratory New Delhi), Dr. R.B. Singh (Cardiologist), Charu Gangwar (Project Assistant), Ajay Kumar (Project Assistant), Priyanka Singh (Project Assistant), Mahesh Kumar (Field Assistant), Digvijay Saxena and Sumit Verma (Computer Assistant) for their valuable support and providing sampling facilities at different locations.

Ruta graveolens, a plant belonging to the family Rutaceae, is traditionally used as a medicinal plant and a flavoring agent in food. This work aimed to prepare silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using the ethanol extract from R. graveolens leaves and test different biological activities as well as insecticidal potentials in the extract and extract prepared AgNPs. Dried and powdered R. graveolens leaves were subjected to extraction using ethanol, and this extract was used to synthesize AgNPs. AgNP synthesis was monitored by the change in color, UV spectrophotometry, and electron microscopy (scanning). Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy was used to monitor the functional groups in the extracts. Immunological, physiological, anticancer, antibacterial, and insecticidal potentials of the extract and its prepared AgNPs were tested. Results showed the ability of the leaf extract to synthesize. SEM examination revealed a spherical shape of AgNPs with a size of 40–45 nm. The extract contained many functional groups as indicated by FT-IR. The extract alone inhibited the growth of normal rat splenic cells, while the extract containing AgNPs stimulated its growth. Extract alone stimulated HeLa cell proliferation and inhibited HepG2 growth, while both cell line growth was inhibited by the extract containing AgNPs. Both the extract and extract with AgNPs were safe on RBCs and did not cause any severe elevation in liver enzymes. The extract alone and with AgNPs showed insecticidal activity against Culex pipiens. Our findings suggest that the R. graveolens leaf extract, alone or with AgNPs, is biologically safe on animal cells and has antibacterial, insecticidal, and immunomodulation potentials.

Spreading of multidrug-resistant bacteria has become a growing and significant threat to environmental and public health. Our understanding of environmental variables such as nutrients which contribute to the dissemination of antibiotic resistance and pathogenesis is still limited. In this study, we operated outdoor mesocosm experiments to evaluate how nitrate and phosphate ions with different concentrations influence on an adaptation of Enterococcus faecalis to aquatic environments. E. faecalis were isolated from the mesocosms at 8 sampling events for 96 days to evaluate biofilm production, quorum-sensing-related genes expression, and sensitivity to oxytetracycline, erythromycin, ciprofloxacin, ampicillin, vancomycin, and chloramphenicol. Quantitative real-time PCR was used to compare mRNA levels of E. faecalis quorum-sensing-related genes. E. faecalis isolates exhibited resistance to oxytetracycline, ampicillin, and ciprofloxacin, respectively. We observed that the biofilm production of E. faecalis isolates on day 60 and 96 was significantly increased (p

Honey bees are considered as critical beneficial insects in the term of honey production and pollination of crops. One of the essential honey bee species in Pakistan is Apis florea Fabricius (Hymenoptera: Apidae). These make nests on trees near human dwellings and agriculture crops. During foraging in the field for nectar and pollen collection from agriculture flowering plants, honey bees may be exposed to pesticide sprays which may cause a change in their foraging behavior and the death of their workers. The current study evaluates the toxicity of six insecticides (emamectin benzoate, spinetoram, chlorantraniliprole, fipronil, flonicamid, and imidacloprid) against workers of A. florea. There were six concentrations of each insecticide (causing > 0% to

Schistosomiasis is a fatal disease that has a negative impact on health and economics. Praziquantel (PZQ) is the drug of choice for schistosomiasis treatment, but it has no prophylactic effect; therefore, vaccination is an essential requirement in schistosomiasis control. This work was carried out to investigate the possible effect of DNA vaccination against Schistosoma mansoni infection using recombinant S. mansoni fatty acid binding protein (rsmFABP). The smFABP gene was cloned into the eukaryotic expression vector pcDNAI/Amp in order to obtain an smFABP-pcDNAI recombinant plasmid (DNA vaccine) and was used for the intramuscular DNA vaccination of out-bread Swiss albino mice prior to infection with S. mansoni cercariae. Infected groups, either DNA vaccinated or unvaccinated, were treated with PZQ at week 6 post-infection. After 8 weeks post-infection, all mouse groups were sacrificed and parasitological, immunological and histopathological parameters were studied. DNA vaccinated mice showed a high titer of anti-smFABP-IgG antibodies and acquired significant protection (74.2%, p 0.01) against S. mansoni infection, with a reduction in ova and granuloma counts. DNA vaccinated and PZQ treated animals had higher titers of anti-smFABP-IgG antibodies and decreased (87%, P 0.001) parenchymal granulomas compared to the DNA vaccinated PZQ untreated group. Infected mice, either non DNA vaccinated or vaccinated, had very high collagen content and fibrous granulomas (74%) compared to the PZQ treated group (10.3% fibrous granuloma) and PZQ treated + DNA vaccinated group (0% fibrous granuloma). In conclusion, DNA vaccination had protective and anti-pathological effects in naive mice and greatly improved the pathological status in PZQ-treated animals, suggesting an immunological and pathological modulating effect of PZQ treatment.

Very little is known about pollination and its effects on the yield and physicochemical properties of flowering plants in tropical countries. Wind and insect pollinators are among our natural resources because pollination is the most important ecosystem service performed by wind and insects, and is vital to the socio-economic status of human beings. In this experiment, different pollination methods for tomato plants were examined. Self-pollination was encouraged by covering the plants with a plastic sheet. Wind and insects were excluded from these plants, and thus only self-pollination was possible. The experiment occurred during the flowering stage. Wind-pollinated plants were covered with a muslin cloth, which excluded insects, and only wind could pass through the cloth. For insect pollination, plants remained uncovered, allowing free access to insects to pollinate the flowers. At fruit maturity, when fruits were completely red, fruits from each treatment were harvested on the same date and under the same conditions. Results illustrated the substantial importance of insects as pollinators of tomato crops. Open field had greater tomato yield and positive effects on physicochemical properties on fruit than under self and wind pollination. Keywords: Pollination methods, Tomato, Lycopersicon esculentum, Physicochemical properties, Yield

The good quality l -tartaric acid (LTA) single crystal of size 12 × 09 × 02 mm3 has been grown by slow solvent evaporation technique by optimizing the pH of aqueous solution. The crystallographic data and crystalline phase of grown LTA crystal has been determined using the powder X-ray diffraction study. The ground state molecular geometry of LTA molecule was optimized by means of CAM-B3LYP/6-31G* level of theory using density functional theory (DFT) approach. The qualitative and quantitative analysis of LTA crystal has been undertaken by means of energy dispersive spectroscopic technique. The UV–visible spectral analysis has been performed to determine the optical transparency of LTA crystal in the range of 190–1100 nm and the optical band gap has been evaluated using the transmittance data. The time dependent-DFT (TDDFT) was employed for calculating the absorption spectrum of the title molecule at B3LYP/6-31G*, CAM-B3LYP/6-31G*, LC-BLYP/6-31G*, M06/6-31G*, PBE1/6-31G* levels of theory. The highest occupied molecular orbital and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (HOMO-LUMO) energy gap was found to be around 6.02 eV at B3LYP/6-31G* level of theory. The Kurtz-Perry powder test has been undertaken to determine the frequency doubling conversion efficiency of LTA crystal. The laser induced third order nonlinear optical (TONLO) effects occurring in LTA crystal have been evaluated by employing the Z-scan analysis at 640 nm. The phase change in refraction nonlinearity, nature of nonlinear absorption and cubic susceptibility of LTA crystal has been evaluated and their respective magnitudes have been determined. The laser damage threshold of LTA crystal has been investigated using the Nd:YAG laser operative at 1064 nm. The frequency response of dielectric constant and dielectric loss of LTA crystal has been investigated at different temperatures ranging from room temperature to 90 °C. The static dipole moment, polarizability and first hyperpolarizability has been evaluated and compared with standard urea molecule.

Begomoviruses are considered as one of the most notorious plant viruses worldwide, which cause substantial economic losses to various field crops. Management of begomoviruses has become a challenge due to the continuous evolution and the emergence of new strains. Bemisia tabaci is globally known to be the key vector of begomoviruses, having relatively high reproductivity, fast dispersal ability, high survival rate due to its polyphagous nature and high resistance to various groups of insecticides. Continuous transmission of begomoviruses by the vector has led to the development and spread of epidemics of various diseases worldwide. In this review, we have critically analyzed the various dynamics which facilitate the diversity of begomoviruses through their vector. The interaction of begomovirus-whitefly leads to continuous research activities regarding management of both virus and its vector, thus opening exciting new horizons to formulate potential control strategies to ensure a disease-free cropping environment.

Grazing of zooplankton on phytoplankton may contribute to a reduction of harmful cyanobacteria in eutrophic waters. However, the feeding capacity and interaction between zooplankton and toxic cyanobacteria vary among grazer species. In this study, laboratory feeding experiments were designed to measure the grazing rate of the copepod Cyclops vicinus on Microcystis aeruginosa and the potential microcystin (MC) accumulation in the grazer. Copepods were fed a mixed diet of the edible green alga Ankistrodesmus falcatus and toxic M. aeruginosa for 10 days. The results showed that C. vicinus efficiently ingested toxic Microcystis cells with high grazing rates, varying during the feeding period (68.9–606.3 Microcystis cells animal-1 d-1) along with Microcystis cell density. Microcystis cells exhibited a remarkable induction in MC production under grazing conditions with concentrations 1.67–12.5 times higher than those in control cultures. Furthermore, C. vicinus was found to accumulate MCs in its body with concentrations increasing during the experiment (0.05–3.21 μg MC animal-1). Further in situ studies are needed to investigate the ability of Cyclops and other copepods to assimilate and detoxify MCs at environmentally relevant concentrations before deciding on the biocontrol of Microcystis blooms by copepods.

Present investigation is aimed to explore the single crystal growth, microhardness and third order nonlinear optical (TONLO) properties of Nd3+ doped zinc tris-thiourea sulphate (ZTS) crystal. The commercial slow solvent evaporation technique has been chosen to grow a good quality ZTS (12 mm × 0.5 mm × 0.3 mm) and Nd3+ doped ZTS (11 mm × 0.6 mm × 0.4 mm) single crystals. Vickers microhardness test has been employed to analyze the influence of Nd3+ dopant on the hardness behavior of ZTS single crystal. The TONLO effects occurring in Nd3+ doped ZTS single crystal have been evaluated by means of Z-scan technique using a He–Ne laser operating at 632.8 nm. The close and open aperture Z-scan configuration have been used to determine the nature of TONLO refraction n2 and absorption β, respectively. The magnitudes of vital TONLO parameters, such as refraction n2, absorption coefficient β, figure of merit and susceptibility χ3 of the Nd3+ doped ZTS single crystal, have been determined using Z-scan transmittance data. The n2, β, and χ3 of Nd3+ doped ZTS single crystal were found to be of the order of 10−10 cm2/W, 10−6cm/W and 10−5 esu, respectively.

Schistosomiasis is a disease that afflicts over 220 million people worldwide. To date, there is no vaccine against schistosomiasis and chemotherapy relies basically on a single drug, praziquantel. The current study was undertaken to investigate the therapeutic effects of monophosphoryl lipid A (MPLA) as an adjuvant in soluble egg antigen (SEA)-vaccinated and Schistosoma mansoni-infected mice. Mice were divided into two groups of uninfected and Schistosoma mansoni infected. The two groups were treated differently with MPLA, SEA and praziquantel. Study parameters included parasitological, immunological and biochemical parameters. Parasitological parameters revealed that intraperitoneal injection of MPLA into SEA-vaccinated and S. mansoni-infected mice was effective in reducing the worm and egg burden, granuloma count and diameter as well as the total area of infection in their livers versus SEA-untreated but infected ones. In addition, MPLA showed ameliorative action on the elevated liver oxidative stress marker, including malondialdehyde (MDA) and a decrease in the level of the antioxidant enzymes, reduced glutathione (GSH) and catalase (CAT) which may have a role in the liver damage and fibrosis due to S. mansoni infection. Treatment with MPLA has multi-functions in attenuating the deleterious impacts of S. mansoni infection in mice livers. Its effects are mediated through a reduction of ova count, worm burden, granuloma diameter and amelioration of antioxidant defense systems, and liver function biomarkers.

American bollworm (ABW), Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner), is considered as a major pest of cotton, Gossypium hirsutum, all over the globe. Due to its destructive feeding nature and continuous consumption of the same chemicals, it devolved resistant against many insecticides. Therefore, a combined application of bio- and synthetic-pesticide need to evaluate against this pest. The entomopathogenic viruses like nuclear polyhedrosis virus (NPV), a member of baculoviruses, can be the potential candidates for better control against ABW. The present study was conducted to assess the comparative efficacy of NPV and Spinosad 240SC (with the concentration of 250 mL · ha‾ˡ) against ABW in the controlled environment. The ABW was treated with different concentrations of NPV and Spinosad separately and in a combination of NPV with 0.1% Spinosad. The results revealed that highest concentrations showed highest mortality (95%) followed by 95%, 92%, 84%, 82% and 78% mortality at 1 × 109, 1 × 108, 1 × 107, 1 × 106 and 1 × 105 POBs, respectively. Spinosad when mixed in diet give 100% mortality at 0.8% followed by 50.87%, 42.10%, 29.82%, 26.31% and 22.80% mortality at 0.4%, 0.2%, 0.1%, 0.5% and 0.025% respectively. The results of this study revealed that microbial control of ABW through NPV is an effective tool. The repeated use of synthetic pesticides caused the resurgence of many insect pests, and this study results would provide useful insight to build a framework for future investigations for the management of many major insect pests.

Natural products, including their purified materials, play a remarkable role in drug development. The Euphorbiaceae family, mainly Euphorbia tirucalli, is used in some traditional medicine, and has evidence that its latex comprises immunomodulatory properties and cytokine production. This study aimed to measure the in vivo production of chemokines (IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-12, and RANTES), TH1 cytokines (IFN-γ, TNF-α, GM-CSF, and IL-2) and TH2 cytokines (IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, and IL-13) in rats after treatments with ethanol latex extract of E. tirucalli. Vaccine treated and untreated rats were divided into seven groups to assess antimicrobial activities of the extracted components. After completion of the treatment schedule, blood was withdrawn and sera were collected. The results showed that the main component of the extract was a euphol compound. The extract showed antimicrobial activity and had the ability to modulate innate and adaptive immunity. Animals treated with extract for only 7 days before vaccination showed higher levels of antibody production. The extract showed antibacterial and antifungal activities. The extract could stimulate both adaptive and innate immunity. Pre-treatment with the extract increased immune responses in vaccinated animals, indicating the usefulness of the extract before immunization. Keywords: Cytokines, Plant extract, Tetanus vaccine, Immunity, Euphorbia tirucalli

Different temperature zones have significant impact on the population dynamics of Plutella xylostella. Effective management of P. xylostella requires the knowledge of temperature tolerance by different life stages. In the current study, fitness parameters of diamondback moth were reported by using age-stage, two-sex life table traits at four constant temperatures (15, 20, 25 and 30 °C). The life cycle of P. xylostella was significantly longer at 15 °C. The 20 °C level of temperature was found optimal for fecundity, gross reproductive rate (51.74 offspring) and net reproductive rate (44.35 offspring per individual). The adult pre-oviposition period was statistically at par at all four level of temperatures. However, the survival was maximum at 20 °C as compared to other three temperature ranges. Based on the current study, it was concluded that temperature has a great role in population build-up of P. xylostella and effective management tactics should be applied to prevent significant damage to cabbage and other cruciferous crops when the temperature in the field is near 20 °C. Keywords: Age-stage, Plutella xylostella, Lepidoptera, Temperature, Life table

Studies on the insect pollinators diversity and their relative abundance in Eruca sativa Mill. (Arugula) and Brassica rapa L. (field mustard) was carried out during spring season from February to April consecutively during all the three years of 2016–18. Insect pollinators observed belonged to four orders i.e. Hymenoptera, Diptera, Lepidoptera, and Coleoptera. A total of 20 major species of insect pollinators were recorded. The highest abundance of pollinator species belonged to Hymenoptera. The most prominent insect pollinator species were Apis mellifera followed by other three honey bee species of A. cerana, A. florea, and A. dorsata respectively. Some species of solitary bees were also recorded. From Diptera, four species of syrphid fly and one species from Muscidae family were also recorded. Insect pollinators recorded from order Lepidoptera were Pieris brassicae, Vanessa cardui, and Papilio demoleus. Lady bird beetle Coccinella septempunctata was recorded from Coleoptera order as occasional visitor. It was noticed that E. sativa attracted more insect pollinators than B. rapa which may be attributed to different amount and chemical properties of nectar, with number of pollen grains, and flower canopy of both crops. Further studies are needed to confirm the reasons for higher pollinator visitation to E. sativa than B. rapa through chemical analysis of nectar, amount of pollens, flower physiology and phenology of both crops. Keywords: Insect pollinators, Diversity, Hymenoptera, Diptera, Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, Brassicaceae, Cruciferous crops

The present communication is aimed to explore the optical properties of organometallic nonlinear optical potassium thiourea chloride (PTC) crystal by means of UV–vis, luminescence, Z-scan, laser damage threshold and etching studies. The PTC single crystal of optimum size (11 × 12 × 04) mm3 has been grown from solution by slow evaporation technique. The qualitative analysis of PTC crystal has been confirmed by means of energy dispersive spectroscopic technique. The UV–vis study has been carried out to assess the optical transparency of PTC crystal in visible region of interest. The photoluminescence study has been accomplished to ascertain the color centered photoluminescence emission nature of PTC crystal in optical spectrum. The laser damage threshold (LDT) value of PTC crystal has been determined by pulse multi shot method using the Nd:YAG laser operating at 1064 nm and the LDT of PTC crystal is found to be in the range of MW/cm2. The microscopic studies were performed by means of etching analysis to discuss the growth habit and structural defects associated with PTC crystal surface. The third order nonlinear optical nature of PTC crystal has been investigated at 632.8 nm employing the He-Ne laser assisted Z-scan studies. The third order nonlinear optical parameters such as susceptibility (χ3), absorption coefficient (β), refractive index (n2) and figure of merit have been evaluated using the Z-scan transmittance data. The NLO device applications of PTC crystal have been discussed in light of observed results.

Mosquitoes play a key role in the transmission of some important diseases. The need for controlling these insects is critical to reduce their risks to human and domesticated animals. Recently the trend to explore effective chemical compounds from local plants has begun as a safe means of control. The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-larval activity of Chrysanthemum extract and the prepared silver nanoparticle (AgNPs) against the Aedes aegypti mosquito, the dengue vector in Saudi Arabia. A series of different concentrations of ethanol extract and extract prepared AgNPs against the fourth-life larvae was tested. The effective concentrations of crude extract and AgNPs ranged from 50 to 250 and 10 to 30 ppm respectively, and the death percentages corresponding to these concentrations ranged from 18 to 92 and 36 to 96% respectively. According to the LC50 values of treated larvae, AgNPs (12.754 ppm) is more effective against A. aegypti mosquito larvae than the crude extract (228.345 ppm) at about 17.9 times. The mixing of the plant extract with the silver nitrate has led to potentiation. This is due to the synergy that occurs between the extract and the silver particles during the reduction process. The compounds in the extract are related to the surface of the particles, increasing the strength of their effects. It is recommend to separate the active elements in the Chrysanthemum plant and its preparation in the form of nanoparticles as a promising compound in mosquito control programs with least damage to human kind and the environment.