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BACKGROUND: Sea buckthorn (SBT) (Hippophae rhamnoides L.), a shrub rich with a huge variety of vitamins, antioxidants and other biologically active constituents with pharmacological and cosmaceutical applications. OBJECTIVE: The current review aims to compile the recent reported data on the ethnobotany, phytochemistry, biological activities and cosmaceutical uses of SBT plant from different regions of the world. METHODS: A wide-ranging inquiry on SBT was done electronically on the basis of articles and abstracts published in peer-reviewed journals, issued in conference proceedings, government reports, books, Master’s and Ph.D. theses, etc. The research was carried out in different international scientific databases like Academic Search, Biological Abstracts, BIOSIS, BioOne Previews, CabDirect, Cochrane Library, Pubmed/Medline, GeoRef, Google Scholar, JSTOR, Journal Citation Reports, Mendeley, Publons, Researchgate, Scopus, SciELO, Springer Link, Science Direct, Web of Science, Taylor and Francis with particular keywords. RESULTS: A total of 185 published papers were assessed through the search approach and 162 papers were included published on SBT. It was evident from the literature search that the uses of SBT as traditional medicine so far against nearly 50 health related complications in more than 18 regions of the world are still a common practice where the decoction of leaves and juice/paste from berries/fruits of SBT were the common administration modes. Data on the phytochemical profile of SBT revealed more than 50 diverse reported groups of compounds with remarkable antioxidant activity against reactive oxygen species (ROS) using DPPH, FRAP and ABTS as common methods. Moreover to-date, the reported antimicrobial activity of SBT uncovered that the extracts from SBT were examined in contradiction of 32 strains of bacteria and 15 strains of fungus with significant inhibitory actions against the bacterial and fungal strains. The SBT extracts actions reported so far on different viral disease categories displayed active inhibition of the growth of nearly 15 different viral strains. The reported anticancer activity of compounds in SBT extracts to date evidenced remarkable results against more than 20 different cancer cell lines/types. Moreover, SBT oil containing fatty acids, tocopherols and carotenoids is effectively used with cosmetic applications for skin care. CONCLUSIONS: Conclusively, SBT is rich with several remarkable phytochemicals that may have diverse biological actions and for that reason reassure the use of decoctions and/or infusions of SBT as folk traditional medicine around the world. Conversely, it is essential to explore the molecular mechanisms of compounds responsible for biological activities of SBT and to advance in the research of clinical uses and development of SBT based therapeutic and cosmetic products.

Apple peel is considered as a waste product in many fruit industries but it is a noteworthy source of nutrients and phytochemicals, particularly polyphenols which have the ability to scavenge free radicals. Objectives: To study the physicochemical properties of apple (Malus domestica) peel powder, as well as its TPC and free radical scavenging activities. Methods: Proximate analysis of the apple peels powder was carried out. Total polyphenol content of apple peel powder was determined. The total content of phenolic compounds was expressed as gallic acid equivalent, i.e. mg GAE/100g of extract dry weight of sample. Results: The results of physicochemical characteristics moisture (7.65±0.88%), ash (2.50±0.35%), fat (1.18±0.02%), fiber (15.25±1.03%), protein (2.79±0.05%), carbohydrates (71.0±2.30%) and energy were 312±4.70 Kcal/100g. The total phenolic contents in the methanolic extract of apple peel powder were 320±5.4 mg GAE/100g while in H2O extract 201±4.20 mg/100g. The findings of the apple peel powder's methanolic extract's capacity to scavenge free radicals varied from 25.40±1.30—69.2±3.80%, while those of the water extract were 14.30±1.05—45.62±1.90% and BHT were 17.8±1.15—51.62±2.15% at concentration 20-100 µg/ml. Conclusions: The outcomes showed that both apple peel powder extracts had promising total polyphenols and have strong free radical scavenging activity. These findings suggest that the apple peel powder act as robust naturally occurring antioxidants and may be employed as a preventative therapy for several oxidative stress-related degenerative disorders.

Syzygium cumini L. seeds have been documented in traditional medicine in Pakistan. The current research was aimed to assess the physicochemical characteristics, polyphenols and antioxidants of S. cumini seed. The physical characteristics such as the color of S. cumini seed were white to pink, the shapes resembled to oblong and coarse texture. The length, width and weight of fresh S. cumini seed were found to be (18.20±0.81mm, 11.05±0.41mm and 1.80±0.16g), respectively while the color of dried S. cumini seeds were light brown to brown,rhombus in shape with loutish texture. The average length, width and weight of dried S. cumini seeds were 16.47±0.45; 10.14±0.25 mm and 0.75±0.12 g respectively. S. cumini seeds powder were evaluated for their chemical composition e.g. carbohydrate, protein, fat, crude fiber, moisture content and ash (77.27±2.50, 3.62±0.30, 6.25±0.55, 10.30±1.20 and 1.55±0.11 g/100g), respectively. Quantitative analysis of total phenolic content was performed it was found that the methanolic and water extract had 52±1.65 and 40±1.25 mg GAE/g content. Free radical scavenging activity was also evaluated to estimate the antioxidant property of extract. Among tested extracts maximum % inhibition 96.61±1.90% was found in methanol extract and 69.30±1.56% in water extract, while BHT has % inhibition 50.70±1.32% at concentration 100 μg/ml. Similarly in reducing power activity assay the maximum absorbance 1.4704±0.05 was shown by methanol extract and 1.2075±0.03 in water extract of S. cumini seed powder respectively which was compared with BHT (0.9207±0.02). Therefore, it was concluded that these Syzygium Cumini L. seeds traditional medicinal plants provide a good source of nutrients, namely protein, fiber and natural antioxidants.

Wheat is recognized as one of the most important dietary elements due to its high nutritious content and thus, has become greatest food option all over the world. Phosphorus (P) being major plant food nutrient plays a vital role multiple functions of plant growth and development. The current study was carried out to compare the performance of phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) as bio-fertilizer with commercially available phosphate fertilizers on wheat crop. The trial was designed in randomized complete block (RCB) replicated thrice. 6 different sources of phosphate fertilizers (Di-ammonium phosphate as DAP, Nitrophos as NP, Single super phosphate as SSP, Restore as PSB, Marathon as PSB, Nitrogen (N2) fixing bacteria as PSB) followed by control were evaluated for agronomic, physiological and quality attributes of wheat. The results showed that most of the qualitative traits were significantly influenced by different treatments. However, application of N2 fixing bacteria was more significant in all treatments. Highest total viable count of colony-forming units (14.63×106 at 3-WAS & 17.70×106 after harvest CFU g-1), maximum tillers’ count (337 m-2), grains’ count (45.57 spike-1), grain yield (2714.3 kg ha-1), LAI (0.67 & 1.16 at 56 & 112 DAS), CGR (13.59 g day-1 m-2), photosynthesis rate (26.13 µ mol m-2 sec-1) and flag leaf sugar content (0.24%) were recorded on account of using N2-fixing bacteria applied as PSB. Moreover, NPK content in shoot, grain as well as uptake of NPK by grain were also received as highest in the same treatment. Based on research findings, it is concluded that application of N2-fixing bacteria as PSB (7.5 kg ha-1) might be increasing wheat production in Dera Ismail Khan and other areas of similar environment in Pakistan.

The licorice root extracts have a variety of therapeutic benefits, including treatment of throat infections, tuberculosis, respiratory disorders, liver diseases, cardiovascular, anticancer, hepatoprotective, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immunodeficiency. The current study entails the antibacterial and antioxidant activities of licorice in water and methanolic extracts. The antimicrobial activity was assessed against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus sciuri, Pseudomonas, Bacillus subtilis and Salmonella typhi Aerugenosa. This was done by disc diffusion methods and the results revealed that methanolic extract was potentially more effective that exhibited good inhibitory action on E. coli (inhibitory zone 19±0.05 mm) and S. sciuri (inhibitory zone 17±0.04 mm) than water extract against the tested bacterial strains at 0.5 mg/ml concentration. The results of antioxidant activity showed that methanolic extract exhibited potent antioxidant activity (% Inhibition 65.2±2.3) with an IC50 of 192.51±3.30μg/mL in the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay, while water extract exhibiting (% Inhibition 53.6±2.1) with a value of IC50 235.51±4.10 μg/mL at concentration 0.5 mg/ml. This study concludes that the tested licorice extracts have remedial prospective and may be suggested for use as an antibacterial agent and natural antioxidant in the food industry.

Plants have been used since ancient times as an important source of biologically active substances. Specific activities of these plant extracts are generally linked to the presence of secondary metabolites together with their phenolic contents. Present study aimed at investigating the total phenolic and flavonoid contents, and antioxidant activity of selected plants from five different families. The total phenolic content was measured using Folin-Ciocalteu assay and total flavonoid content by aluminum chloride colorimetric method. The antioxidant capacity was estimated by phosphomolybdinium assay. Our findings indicates that total phenolic content for methanolic extracts ranged from 27.07 to 59.11 mg GAE/g DW, and total flavonoid content ranged from 38.37 to 124.23 mg QE/g DW, with an antioxidant activity ranging from 55.82 to 129.06 mg AAE/g DE. Following trend was shown in the assessment of total phenolic and flavonoid contents: Rhazya stricta>Cicer arietinum>Solanum melongena>Solanum surattense>Solanum nigrum>Withania sominifera>Sisymbrium irio>Withania coagulans>Raphanus sativus>Fagonia indica>Brassica napus. While the antioxidant capacity followed the trend: Cicer arietinum>Solanum nigrum>Withania coagulans>Rhazya stricta>Raphanus sativus>Solanum melongena>Withania sominifera>Solanum surratense>Fagonia indica>Brassica napus>Sisymbrium irio. It is also seen that both wild and cultivated plants have higher medicinal value, which can be linked to the phenolic and flavonoid content, and antioxidant potential. Findings of the study revealed that wild plants possess higher phenolic content compared to cultivated plants, whereas cultivated plants had higher antioxidant activity.

This study estimates the effect of productivity on export performance of selected sectors and countries. Specifically, this study analyzes both theoretically and empirically, the nexus between productivity and export performance of selected emerging Asian economies including China, India, Indonesia, South Korea, and Japan. Total Factor Productivity (TFP) is used as a proxy for productivity and measured using two different techniques, growth accounting framework and data envelopment analysis. The study uses Auto Regressive Distributed Lag technique to estimate the effect of productivity on export performance of agricultural and manufacturing sectors of emerging Asian economies over the period of 1990 to 2016. Results show that TFP significantly and positively affect the agricultural and manufacturing sectors’ export performance of selected emerging Asian economies both in long and short run. Hence, policies and economic strategies promoting adoption of advanced production technologies will increase exports of the emerging Asian economies in the long run.

* Ph.D Scholar, NUML Islamabad. ** Ph.D Scholar, NUML Islamabad.

Given the current coronavirus global crisis, e-services have never been more relevant as they are today. Like many countries and for many years, the UAE government has focused on the rapid adoption of smart government services in the public sector in orderto achieve the highest international standardsin the electronic-based services. The UAE has established its government strategic plan 2021 vision. In light of this vision, the government of Emirate of Sharjah formed a SupremeCommittee for Digital Transformation. This article aims to investigate Sharjah'sgovernment employees' readiness and preparation for the digital transformation.This article provides an assessment of employees’ readiness by examining how employees perceive e-government andthe extent to which they are ready to embark on the digital transition.The theoretical framework is based on Everett Rogers’ diffusion theory (1962). Diffusion of innovation is the process through whichnew technologies, products, or ideasare diffused and adopted in a social system. The paper used a survey of 110 government employees using both quantitative questions and open-ended qualitative questions. The paper found that while a lot of progress has been made, government employees are still ambivalent about the implementation of Sharjah digital transformation.

Background: Musculoskeletal neoplasms lead to significantly high morbidity and mortality rates among cases. Musculoskeletal tumors (MSTs) are relatively uncommon. The current study aimed to assess the magnitude, pattern, and predictors of MSTs among cases. Methodology: A record-based retrospective approach was applied for the current study. The study was conducted at Aseer Central Hospital. Medical records for patients with complete files and no errors and confirmed cases of any type of musculoskeletal tumor were included during the period from 2018 to 2020. Data on both patient and tumor, including patient’s demographic data, such as name, gender, and age, were collected. Results: The study included 69 cases with MSTs. The cases’ age ranged from 8 to 72 years, with a mean age of 31.5 ± 16.3 years. There were 35 female (50.7%) and 34 male (49.3%) participants. The femur was the most reported site for MSTs in the study (30.4%; 21), followed by foot and tibia (11.6%; 8 for each), hand (7.2%; 5), and elbow (5.8%; 4). The most recorded diagnosis was osteochondroma (12.7%), followed by ganglion cyst (9.1%), Ewing’s sarcoma (7.3%), soft tissue sarcoma (5.5%), osteosarcoma (5.5%), lipoma (5.5%), chondroblastoma (5.5%), non-ossifying fibroma (3.6%), benign lesion (3.6%), and Giant cell tumours (3.6%). Conclusions: This study revealed that most of the diagnosed MSTs among the studied cases were benign (osteochondroma and ganglion cyst) with uniform distribution of incidence by age and gender. Also, lower extremities were the most reported sites for MSTs, followed by upper extremities.

With the emerging application of near-critical fluid, the subject of equation of state (EoS) covering the critical point is of great significance as the thermodynamic behavior of fluids near the critical point is different. Although many different EoSs are available for fluids at the moment, the ones which can give good quantitative results are still rare. Therefore, it is essential to have a suitable model for proper prediction of fluids behavior and their thermodynamic properties near the critical region. In this study, the crossover translation, which applies the asymptotic behavior of fluids and scaling laws near and far from the critical point, was used. Thermodynamic properties including density, vapor pressure and isochoric heat capacity of fifteen pure components in the saturated state and single-phase region on different isotherms were investigated near the critical point by Soave-Redlich-Kwong (SRK) equation of state and crossover SRK EoS and the results were compared with experimental data. According to the results, crossover SRK EoS predicted all of the mentioned properties with quantitative accuracy. The average absolute percent deviation (AAPD) of the saturated liquid density, saturated vapor density, density on isotherms, vapor pressure and isochoric heat capacity based on crossover SRK EoS were 0.0060,0.1287, 0.0171, 0.057 and 2.53, respectively.

Acinetobacter baumannii causes a variety of infections including pneumonia, urinary tract infection, bacteremia, peritonitis etc. This organism is developing resistance to a number of antibiotics due to various intrinsic and acquired antibiotic resistance genes. The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant Acinetobacter species from Karachi, Pakistan. A total of 111 strains of Acinetobacter baumannii and 8 strains of non-baumannii Acinetobacter were isolated from various hospitals of Karachi from September 2013 to December 2014. Identification of the isolates was based on the standard biochemical tests and detection of OXA-51 and OXA-23. Antibiotic resistance profile of the isolates was determined by Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method and Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) was also determined by broth macro-dilution method. Among 111 Acinetobacter baumannii isolates, 8 were pan-drug resistant (PDR) and 103 isolates were multidrug resistant (MDR) while all non-baumannii Acinetobacter were MDR. The effective antibiotics against A. baumannii were colistin, gentamicin, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and ciprofloxacin with MIC50 value 1, 256, 256, 256µg/ml, respectively. These findings strongly suggest the proper detection and reporting of PDR/MDR Acinetobacter from clinical samples and also the judicious use of broad-spectrum antibiotics is necessary to prevent the further spread of resistant strains of Acinetobacter.

Background: To assess teachers' knowledge and practice regarding management of epilepsy among schoolchildren.Aim of Study: This study aimed to assess teachers' knowl-edge and their practices toward epileptic students in Arar City, northern Region of Saudi Arabia.Subjects and Methods: A cross-sectional study was con-ducted in Arar City, at the Northern Region of Saudi Arabia. It included 404 school teachers (320 males and 84 females). A questionnaire testing teacher's knowledge and practice regarding management of students with epilepsy was con-structed and used for data collection.Results: Almost all participants (99%) knew what epilepsy is, while only 39.4% knew that epilepsy is not contagious. Only 46.5% knew causes of epilepsy, while only 30.4% denied the relation between epilepsy and evil eyes, and 50.5% cor-rectly responded to questions related to role of certain types of food as triggering factors related to epileptic seizures. Most participants (83.4%) correctly stated the relation between epilepsy and increased brain electric charges, while only 44.3% stated the early symptoms/signs of an imminent epileptic fit. Only 15.6% of participants denied that epilepsy does not affect child's intelligence, 67.3% knew complications of epilepsy, while 38.9% knew treatment of epilepsy. Participants' mean total knowledge score (out of 10) was 5.15±1.32. Relatives and friends constitute the main source of teachers' knowledge about epilepsy (49.1%), followed by internet (44.1%) and lastly mass media (4.9%), and books (1.9%). 75.5% of participant teachers witnessed epileptic schoolchil-dren while in seizure. Their practices were mainly to call an ambulance (72%), remove any dangerous objects around the victim (69.1%), put a soft object between his teeth (68.6%), ensure good ventilation (63.4%) and pull his tongue out (50.5%). Participants' mean total practice score (out of 10) was 4.85±1.28. Mean teachers' knowledge and practice scores were highest among those aged >50 years (5.34±1.75 and 5.20±1.63, respectively). However, differences were statisti-cally significantly only regarding practice scores (p

Objective: Evaluating the bio-reducing activity and various potential, annotates the biological entitties of Fagonia cretica. Method: By fractionating the crude extract with different ethanol-water fraction mixture. This substantiates the reduction potential for the biological synthesis of AgNPs, its antioxidant, anti-urease and anti-Tyrosinase activity. Results: UV-visible spectra confirm the bio-reducing potential for Ag NPs with the optimized 50% ethanol-water fraction mixture. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed the round shaped AgNPs with an average size of 16 nm in optimized 50% fraction mixture. Further evaluating Ethanol-water fraction with 90% and 70% of plant extract showed more potentials for Anti-Tyrosinase and Anti-urease activity. Moreover, diluted 30% fraction exhibits two folds higher Anti-oxidant and Anti urease activity. Conclusion: Overall, this work showed that 50% Ethanol-water fraction has potentially active molecules (among all fractions) primarily involved in bio-reducing potential of Ag NPs and enzymatic assay while 90% mixture proved to be least active. This study suggested electing the optimum mixture fraction of 50% ethanol-water in order to screen the bioactive compounds and to inculcate their activity status for clinical trials.

An increase in productivity has been associated with better export performance by increasing the efficiency of the factors of production. Further, productivity leads to a reduction in production costs and an increase in comparative advantage in the international market. In this study, the Autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) bound test is used to investigate the nexus between productivity and export performance of agricultural and manufacturing sectors of Pakistan. The study uses secondary data from 1990 to 2016 to estimate the total factor productivity (TFP) and then uses it as a proxy of productivity. Our results show that TFP and gross domestic product (GDP) have a significant and positive impact on the export performance of Pakistan. Foreign direct investment (FDI), real exchange rate and cost to export are found to be negatively related to Pakistans export performance. In the long run, both the sectors (agricultural and manufacturing) need improvement in productivity in order to be competitive in intentional markets.

Earlier in its course, SARS-CoV-2 was primarily identified to cause an acute respiratory illness in adults, the elderly and immunocompromised, while children were known to be afflicted with milder symptoms. However, since mid-April of 2020, latent effects of the virus have begun emerging in children and adolescents, which is characterised by a multisystem hyperinflammatory state; thus, the term Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) was introduced by the WHO and CDC. The syndrome manifests itself approximately 4 weeks after COVID-19 infection, with symptoms mimicking Kawasaki Disease and Kawasaki Disease Shock Syndrome. Demographically, MIS-C peaks in children aged 5 to 14 years, with clusters in Europe, North and Latin America seen, later followed by Asia. Although the exact pathophysiology behind the syndrome is unknown, recent studies have proposed a post-infectious immune aetiology, which explains the increased levels of immunoglobulins seen in affected patients. Patient presentation includes, but is not limited to, persistent fever, rash, gastrointestinal symptoms and cardiac complications including myocarditis. These patients also have raised inflammatory markers including C reactive protein, ferritin and interleukin-6. In poorly controlled patients, the syndrome can lead to multiorgan failure and death. The mainstay of treatment includes the use of intravenous immunoglobulins, steroids, immune modulators and aspirin. Adjunct therapy includes the use of low molecular weight heparin or warfarin for long term anticoagulation. Currently very little is known about the syndrome, highlighting the need for awareness amongst healthcare workers and parents. Moreover, with increased cases of COVID-19 as a result of the second wave, it is essential to keep MIS-C in mind when attending patients with a past history of COVID-19 exposure or infection. Additionally, once these patients have been identified and treated, strict follow-up must be done in order carry out long term studies, and to identify possible sequelae and complications.

Methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) mutation has been coupled to Rett syndrome; X-linked neurological disorder, leading to steady slowing down of neurodevelopment that exclusively affects girls worldwide. As this gene is known for its specific localization and careful binding to methylated Cytosine residues in genomic DNA and is expected to intercede biological function of transcriptional oppression and chromatin concentration too. But a finest delivery of properly folded and tailored MECP2 protein is required for its part in directive gene transcription. The detailed research work done worldwide shows that MECP2 function is not only vital for normal brain development and neuronal pledge but is eventually requisite for establishment and upholding of normal neuronal occupation. The percentage of MECP2 mutation in classic Rett patients is up to 80% however this transformation spectrum ranges from severe to mild with congenital encephalopathy, mental retardation and various neurological side effects. Altered MECP2 shows relevance to phenotypic manifestation but the skewed X inactivation appears to influence its seriousness in a far more extensive sense. The patients with identical MECP2 mutation may show very different phenotypic features and strictness because of variation in x-inactivation prototype among individuals. This study is done to review the availability of diagnosis and treatment at molecular level. In this review the clinical spectrum and molecular findings in females with MECP2 dysfunctions are also reviewed with special reference to evaluate the sufficient available criteria for molecular diagnosis and treatment across the globe. Keywords: Genotype; MECP2 mutation; Phenotype; Rett syndrome http://dx.doi.org/10.19045/bspab.2020.90246

Herein for the first time a novel acid phosphatase from the seedlings of Cichorium intybus was purified to homogeneity by using various chromatographic techniques (salt precipitation, ion exchange, size exclusion and affinity chromatography) and thermodynamically characterized. The molecular mass of purified enzyme (66 kDa) was determined by SDS-PAGE under denaturing and non-denaturing conditions and by gel-filtration confirmed as dimer of molecular mass 130 kDa. The Michaelis-Menten (Km) constant for -p-NPP (0.3 mM) and (7.6 μmol/min/mg) Vmax. The enzyme was competitively inhibited by phosphate, molybdate and vanadate. Phenyl phosphate, ɑ and β-glycero-phosphate and-p-NPP were found to be good substrate. When temperature increased from (55 °C to 75 °C), the deactivation rate constant (kd) was increased (0.1 to 4.6 min−1) and half- life was decreased from 630 min to 15 min. Various thermal denaturation parameters; change in enthalpy (ΔH°), change in entropy (ΔS°) and change in free energy (ΔG°) were found 121.93 KJ·mol−1, 72.45 KJ·mol−1 and 98.08 KJ·mol−1 respectively, confirming that acid phosphatase undergoes a significant process of unfolding during deactivation. The biochemical properties of acid phosphatase from C. intybus on the behalf of biological activity and its relationship to pH variations, thermal deactivation and kinetics parameters provide an insight into its novel features.

To standardize the existing approach of single weeding in cole crops practiced by most of the vegetable growers, a two-year field trial was designed to figure out the critical period for weed competition in broccoli (Brassica oleraceae L. var. italica). Two broccoli varieties “Rocco” and “Galabrease” were used with weeding intervals of 15, 30, 45, and 60 days after transplantation (DAT) along with a weedy check (control). Ten-gram (10 g) seed of various weed species was sown in each plot to get sufficient weed influx. Growth and yield parameters of broccoli including head diameter, number of axillary shoots, the weight of axillary shoots, total yield, and marketable yield, while weed parameters viz. weed density and fresh weed biomass were recorded during experimentation. Results revealed that Rocco a hybrid variety of broccoli performed significantly better than Galabrease for various growth and yield parameters at all weeding intervals. As regards the effect of various weeding treatments, the best treatment was hoeing 15 DAT followed by 30 DAT. Delayed hoeing beyond this critical period of 15 to 30 DAT correspondingly decreased all the growth and yield parameters, the untreated control showing the lowest value. Weed infestation had a strong negative correlation with the yield parameters of broccoli. It is concluded from the present study that weed density of 1 plant m−2 would result in a loss of 0.062 t ha−1 of marketable yield in broccoli, which warrants timely management of weeds to obtain the optimum yield of broccoli.

Introduction: The biochemical signaling involved in the periodontal disease inflammatory disease process consists of three biological phases i.e. inflammation, connective tissue degradation, and alveolar bone turnover. Aims and objectives: The main objective of the study is to analyze the salivary biomarkers correlated with different parameters of tobacco use among local population of Pakistan. Material and methods: This cross sectional study was conducted in Lahore general hospital, Lahore during November 2018 to March 2019. The data was collected from 100 patients who were used tobacco from last one year. The age range for this study was 200 to 60 years. Age, duration of use of tobacco, frequency of use, type of tobacco used and site of placement of tobacco in oral cavity were noted. Results: The data was collected from 100 participants. The mean age of the participants was 35.65 years. Levels of salivary IL-8 were found from 173. 48 pg/ml to 296.78 pg/ml with mean and standard deviation of 173.48±46.52pg/ml. Regarding educational status in tobacco users and non-users, 59.5% and 36.4% were uneducated, respectively. Most common reason for using tobacco was that they were just addicted to it. Conclusion: It is concluded that there was a high level of IL-8 were present in tobacco users. There is a positive correlation between salivary biomarkers and IL-8 levels and frequency of tobacco usage.

Introduction: Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a heart defect with an abnormality in structure or functioning of heart that is present at birth. This condition is very common in the population of Pakistan. Objectives of the study: The basic aim of the study is to analyze the prevalence of congenital heart defect among local population of Pakistan. Materials and methods: This cross sectional study was conducted in Lahore general hospital, Lahore during November 2018 to March 2019. The data was collected from 100 patients who visited the OPD of the hospital. The data was collected through non probability sampling technique. All infants visiting to the OPD due to any complaint would be examined for any abnormal murmur. Any abnormal heart sound case was referred for echocardiography for confirmation. Results: The data was collected 100 patients. Among the confirmed cases, 62.5 percent were males. 78 percent of the cases were between ages 1 to 3 months. The patients came with different presenting complaints as listed below. The presenting complaint was mostly respiratory infection 48 %, underweight 31 %, cyanosis (4%). It was found that the majority (98%) of cases were that of acyanotic congenital heart disease. Conclusion: It is concluded that early diagnosis and effective management has drastic improvement on prognosis of congenital heart disease. There is a considerably higher incidence of congenital heart disease in population of Lahore.

Amylases are enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of starch into highly valuable products of economic significance. Amylases are used extensively in various industrial sectors. Microbial sources particularly Bacillus species are well known for the cost effective commercial production of amylase enzyme. Present study focuses on the enhancement of amylase enzyme production from an indigenously isolated Bacillus cereus AS2 strain via one variable at a time (OVAT) optimization of different physical and chemical factors. Purposely, eight parameters possibly affecting the amylase production including temperature, pH, incubation time, inoculum size, substrate concentration, metal ions, carbon and nitrogen sources were investigated. According to the results, amylase production was significantly boosted at maximum when the Bacillus cereus AS2 was grown at 45°C on pH 7.0 for 72 hours in the medium supplemented with 4% starch and 0.5% glycine. Among the different metal ions tested, CaCl

Five Lactobacillus strains isolated from vegetable and dairy products showed 99% similarity with Lactobacillus plantarum 1(Lp-1) using API -CHL 50 kit. Most of them proved to be sensitive to bacterial cell-wall inhibitors i.e. penicillin, ampicillin, amoxicillin and methicillin as studied by disc-diffusion method. These strains manifested profound tolerance to acidic-stress where Lp86 and Lp36 exhibited a good survival pattern at pH-2 for 4 hr retaining a survival count of 85% and 50%, respectively. A high survival of 85.7% was witnessed in Lp86 in presence of protease while Lp36 maintained 94.55% and 92.65% of population under the influence of enzyme pancreatin and pepsin. All the strains displayed marked tolerance against trypsin as the count did not drop below 77%. Absorbance and growth in terms of cfu/ml for bile-tolerance was examined for concentrations reflecting those in the GIT of humans, all the Lp-1 strains when grown with 1% bile showed a drop in the viable count by 1 log cycle i.e. from 1010 to 109cfu/ml. Fulfilling the above mentioned criteria these probiotic candidates displayed their capacity to reach the colon as viable metabolically active cells after successfully surviving under conditions similar to the gastrointestinal tract of humans. Upon examining the viability and stability of these probiotic candidates in most common foods serving as vehicle for probiotic delivery to the intestine, it was noticed that all the isolates tested sustained a probiotic approved number of 107 cfu/ml for effective function as recommended by WHO, after a maximum storage for one month. Hence, it could be justified that the selected probiotic candidates possess prominent probiotic potential. Therefore, L. plantarum 1 strains could prove to be an efficient probiotic after further in vivo studies to explore its safety in human subjects.

Background: Trauma is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity globally. In the developing countries, injuries are estimated to cause more than five million deaths per year. Traumatic brain injury TBI in particular is a major health and socioeconomic problem worldwide. It is account for one quarter to one-third of all accidental deaths, and for two thirds of traumatic deaths in hospitals. AIM: This study was conducted to assess public awareness about traumatic brain injury in Saudi Arabia. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey conducted during a period from august to October 2018. A total sample of 622 participants were included in the survey during the study period. Data were collected through electronic master sheet which was constructed by the researchers after intensive literature review and experts consolation. Results: The average of participants' responses towards awareness regarding Traumatic Brain Injury was 2.87 out of 4 cross ponding to degree Maybe correct; with small value of St. D 0.424 which include that there is homogeneity of responses and non-dispersion from the mean. This result indicates a moderate level of awareness about Traumatic Brain Injury among sample study. Conclusion: General population had moderate level of awareness regarding traumatic brain injury specially its direct effect on brain tissue and its physical consequences but awareness regarding psychological consequences is till defective. Key words: Brain injury, Traumatic brain injury, Brain trauma, Population awareness, Knowledge.

Biochar from sugarcane baggase was prepared by heating at high temperature for 20 min. Surface properties of the biochar were determined by Boehm titrations and FTIR. Biochar has 50.47% fixed carbon having methylene blue surface area of 361.77 m2/g. SEM image revealed that biochar has cylindrical, well shaped porous structures that increase surface area for adsorption. Operational parameters for 2,4,6-TCP adsorption were optimized. The experimental qmax was found to be 253.38 mg/g. Biochar removed 2,4,6-TCP in the presence of multiple pollutants. The functional moieties present on biochar showed their affinity for 2,4,6-TCP ≠ methylene blue > phenol > mercury.

Introduction In the past few years, the use of antimicrobial drugs against a wide range of pathogens has increased significantly. This extensive use of drugs has increased the resistance rate in microbial community widely. Molecular techniques for the detection of resistance are more reliable as compared to the conventional phenotypic method. Background The family Enterobacteriaceae is considered to be an important cause of nosocomial infections due to its predominantly active species such as E. coli, Klebsiella and Pseudomonas. These organisms are mainly involved in causing pneumonia, sepsis, post-surgical and urinary tract infections. Resistance against antimicrobial drugs among these isolates is increasing more rapidly all over the world. This study primarily focuses on the resistant isolates of Klebsiella species. The drug resistance in Klebsiella isolates is found to be associated with the production of resistance enzymes such as beta lactamase and extended spectrum beta lactamase (ESBLs) which confer resistance, most specifically against cephalosporins and extended spectrum cephalosporins. Since these enzymes are plasmid mediated, they can also produce resistance against several other antimicrobials. It has been found that among the genus Klebsiella, ESBLs are more prevalent in K. pneumoniae followed by K. oxytoca. Methods In this study, we estimated the distribution of ESBL producers among Klebsiella species and performed their genetic characterization. A total of 236 gram-negative isolates were collected from different microbiological laboratories, during the period January 2010 till January 2012. Among these gram-negative isolates, 125 were identified as Klebsiella species. After species identification, Kirby Bauer disk diffusion method was used for antimicrobial susceptibility profiling. Furthermore, the phenotypic detection of ESBL producers was performed by double disc synergy and combination disc methods. Resistance genes responsible for the production of beta lactamase and extended spectrum beta lactamase enzymes were detected by Polymerase chain reaction. DNA sequencing was performed by selecting an ESBL producing Klebsiella pneumoniae strain with a positive blaTEM gene. Results In this study, we found 48%, 43.2% and 2.4% of SHV, TEM, and CTX-M resistance genes respectively in Klebsiella isolates. The DNA sequence ESBL and blaTEM positive Klebsiella strain showed 94% similarity with Klebsiella pneumoniae KUN5033 blaTEM gene for class A beta-lactamase TEM-198 analyzed by the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST). Conclusion Since there is an intense need of research in the field of drug resistance for implementing strict antibiotic control policies in hospitals, health care centers, laboratories, etc., the present study is dedicatedly conducted to estimate the drug resistant Klebsiella isolates, specifically the Beta lactamase and Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamase producers, at molecular level.