Search

Abstract In this work, a novel series of N-phenylacetamide-1,2,3-triazole-indole-2-carboxamide derivatives 5a–n were designed by consideration of the potent α-glucosidase inhibitors containing indole and carboxamide-1,2,3-triazole-N-phenylacetamide moieties. These compounds were synthesized by click reaction and evaluated against yeast α-glucosidase. All the newly title compounds demonstrated superior potency when compared with acarbose as a standard inhibitor. Particularly, compound 5k possessed the best inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase with around a 28-fold improvement in the inhibition effect in comparison standard inhibitor. This compound showed a competitive type of inhibition in the kinetics. The molecular docking and dynamics demonstrated that compound 5k with a favorable binding energy well occupied the active site of α-glucosidase.

Abstract Genome editing technology has become part and parcel of biotechnological approach to understand the genetic basis of different biological processes in an organism and for its application in different fields. The basic need of world food production demands a highly variable population of plants with maximum diversity of agronomic traits of interest. Genome editing is unique in the sense that it provides a direct approach to generate targeted variability. The worldwide availability of genome‐edited crop varieties in the global market is approaching, whereas the decision to deal with genome‐edited (GE) crops differently from genetically transformed crop varieties is under discussion all around the world. GE may add allochthonous or autochthonous sequences into the genome much like traditional transgenesis or cisgenesis. Considering this fact, the United States declared genome‐edited crops as conventional. Many countries such as Japan, UK, China, and Brazil have already legislated their GE products and their products are near to get entry to the market. In Pakistan, academic and research‐based scientific institutions have been working on genome‐edited crops by using CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) Cas technology. As being a signatory of the Cartagena protocol, every case of GM (Genetically modified) or GE (Genetically Engineered) should be passed through the Technical Advisory Committee which will be decided on case‐to‐case bases depending upon its nature of random or targeted mutation. Pakistan Environmental Protection Act, Intellectual Property Organization of Pakistan Act, Seed amendment act, and PBR (The Plant Breeders' Rights Act) are the major constitutional acts employed and working for the regulations of GM alongside GE crops. Now, discussions of scientists, academicians and officials from regulatory body are in process for the design of GE crop commercialization policy in Pakistan. The CRISPR‐Cas9 system is now the most in‐demand piece of technology and has become an indispensable component of research and development in the field of life sciences.

View on Scopus Three genera are recorded for the first time in Saudi Arabia: Alaptus Westwood, Anagrus Haliday, and Polynema Haliday. A new species, Erythmelus (Erythmelus) irba sp. nov. Zeya & Anwar & Ahmad is described. Four known species are recorded for the first time: Erythmelus (E.) flavovarius (Walker), Erythmelus (Parallelaptera) rex (Girault), Polynema (Polynema) brevicarinae Annecke & Doutt and Stephanodes reduvioli (Perkins).

Abstract The hormetic effect may cause disease control measures to fail due to inadequate treatment of human disease vectors such as houseflies. Age-stage, two-sex life table is used for accurate estimation of the hermetic impacts on insects as it allows to study sub-lethal or transgenerational effects. Pyrethroids insecticides are primarily used for the management of houseflies. This study used lambda-cyhalothrin (a pyrethroid insecticide) to quantify its transgenerational impacts on houseflies. Life table parameters of a progeny of adult houseflies exposed to LC10, LC30, and LC50 of lambda-cyhalothrin were computed. Statistically higher fecundity (71.31 per female) was observed in control treatment, while it was the adults exposed to LC50 recorded the lowest progeny. Significantly higher values for intrinsic rate of growth (r), limiting rate of growth (λ), and net reproductive rate (R o ) (0.16, 1.16, and 31.38 per day, respectively) were recorded for the control treatment of the study. Contrarily, lower values for λ, R o, and r were (0.10, 1.10, and 9.24 per day, respectively) were noted in the LC50 treatment. Decreased population parameters suggest that lambda-cyhalothrin can be successfully used in indoor environments to control houseflies.

IntroductionHoney bee gut microbiota have an important role in host health, nutrition, host-symbiont interaction, and interaction behavior with the surrounding environment. Recent discoveries of strain-level variation, characteristics of protective and nutritional capabilities, and reports of eco-physiological significance to the microbial community have emphasized the importance of honey bee gut microbiota. Many regions of Asia and Africa are inhabited by the dwarf honey bee, Apis florea. Studying its microflora and potential for pollination is therefore of foremost importance.MethodsIn the present investigation, we aimed to explore the gut bacteriobiome composition of two distinct honey bee species, Apis florea and Apis cerana indica using high throughput sequencing. Functional predictions of bee gut bacterial communities using PICRUSt2 was carried out.Results and discussionThe phylum Proteobacteria dominated the bacterial community in both A. cerana indica (50.1%) and A. florea (86.7%), followed by Firmicutes (26.29 and 12.81%), Bacteroidetes (23.19 and 0.04%) and Actinobacteria (0.4 and 0.02%) respectively. The gut bacteria of A. cerana indica was more diverse than that of A. florea. The observed variations in bacterial genomic diversity among these critical pollinator species may have been influenced by the apiary management techniques, ecological adaptation factors or habitat size. These variations can have a significant effect in understanding host-symbiont interactions and functioning of gut microbiota highlighting the importance of metagenomic survey in understanding microbial community ecology and evolution. This is the first comparative study on variation in bacterial diversity between two Asian honey bees.

Honey bee colony nutritional dynamics depend on the availability of floral resources throughout a countryside with varying forage circumstances. Few studies quantify the queen fecundity and colony performance about certain management approaches on a broad scale. The present study was conducted to investigate the queen bee fecundity and various colony performance parameters in response to different nutritional practices, i.e., Group-I, supplied with sucrose solution (1:1; w/v), Group-II, provided with locally available commercial pollen substitute, Group-III, supplied with both sucrose solution + locally available commercial pollen substitute, and Group-IV without any sugar solution and pollen substitute. Our results demonstrated that eggs laid by queen bees were significantly higher (1241.83 ± 46.24) in Group-III than in other groups over the time of observations. Similarly, a significant difference was noticed in the mean sealed worker brood area and honey store area between the different groups of management practices. Both, the max mean sealed worker brood area (2153.53 ± 29.18 cm2) and max mean honey store area (1713.33 ± 12.06 cm2) were observed in Group-III while, the mini mean sealed worker brood area (1066.53 ± 20.18 cm2) and mini mean honey store area (1058.86 ± 4.07 cm2) were observed in Group-IV. In contrast, a non-significant difference was observed in pollen stores between Group-II and Group-III (p > 0.005). Current findings add to our understanding of the mechanisms that underpin large-scale controlled colony performance when the natural pollens resources are insufficient.

Pink bollworm Pectinophora gossypiella infestation on cotton now a days found to be a major alarm to cotton crop in Pakistan. The effect of past and future temperatures climatic factors on the infestation rate of pink bollworm needs to be extensively studied. Field visits were organized in different areas across 17 main districts of Punjab, Pakistan, for eight consecutive years from 2012 to 2019. Based on past data, the pink bollworm infestation rate for the year 2040 was estimated. Our results showed an extensive infestation of pink bollworm on cotton throughout the visited locations between 0.1 and 35.7 % range above the economic threshold level, that cause reasonable cotton productivity losses. Based on the results of historical data of infestation rate, the nine of the 17 districts (53 %), Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur, Faisalabad, Jahang, Mianwali, Multan, Muzaffargarh, Rahimyar Khan, and Lodhran, showed significantly (p

Root knot nematodes are commercially important plant parasites of many vegetable crops in Pakistan. This study investigate antagonistic effect of Pseudomonas spp. against M. incognita on tomato crop. Ten tomato cultivars were screened against RKN infection. Roma was found the most resistant against infection of M. incognita while money maker was found the most susceptible. Gall or egg mass number/indices are more resistant to RKN. Pseudomonas strains inoculated in the infected tomato plants reduced galling index and also improved the growth of the plant. So, it was obvious that bio-control agents also act as PGPR by stimulating plant growth and inducing resistance through the increase of total phenolic contents and salicylic acid. Tomato cv. Roma showed the greatest increase of total phenol contents and salicylic acid exhibiting tolerance against M. incognita infestation. Tomato cv. Roma showed significantly resistant response against root-knot nematode diseases. Pseudomonas showed significant antagonistic potential against M. incognita in tomato plant.

Environmental factors (biotic and abiotic) are major depletion reasons in granaries. Fungi and insect pests act synergistically in deterioration of grains in storages which results in nutritional damage to the stored food which becomes unpalatable for the consumer. There is a need to establish a timeline for synergistic damage caused by insect pests and mycotoxigenic fungi for better management. For this purpose, interaction of mycotoxigenic fungi (Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Penicillium digitatum and Alternaria alternata) with Callosobruchus maculatus (F.) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) was studied at different temperatures. Development of C. maculatus was observed on fungus inoculated and uninoculated C. arietinum seeds. In fungus inoculated grains the development (Fecundity, larval emergence, pupation rate and adult emergence) of C. maculatus was found more better as compared on uninoculated grain. The population of C. maculatus was decreased by increase in temperature but high temperatures favours more fungi developments. More egg laying was observed at 27 °C and 33 °C. At tested temperatures, larval emergence was high as compared to other observed life attributes. Infestation of A. flavus and A. niger was also increased with increase of temperatures. Penicillium digitatum and A. alternata infestation were increased in the C. arietinum at 27 °C and 30 °C respectively. This study will help in measuring the control practices of fungi and insect pest infestations in stored C. arietinum (chickpea) in Pakistan.

The proteins containing the domain of unknown functions (DUFs) have significant roles in stress response and the growth of plants. A comprehensive genome-wide analysis and expression profiling of DUF599 was conducted to identify their roles in potato growth and response to stressed conditions. A total of nine DUF599 genes were identified, located on five chromosomes in the potato genome. The phylogenetic analysis divided StDUF599 genes into three groups in accordance with gene conserved motifs and gene structure distribution patterns. The StDUF599 promoters comprised several cis-acting factors responsive to plant hormones and abiotic stresses. The present study revealed that StDUF599 genes also possessed MBS, LTR, ABRE, and anaerobic induction responsive elements, indicating their importance in coping with abiotic stresses. StDUF599 genes were the target of several families of micro-RNAs also identified in this study. Purifying selection pressures lead to the duplication of the StDUF599 genes. Expression analysis of StDUF599-6 and StDUF599-9 in various tissues illustrated their vital role in developmental processes. It was found that StDUF599-7 and StDUF599-9 were highly expressed against heat and salt stresses. Expression profiling revealed that the StDUF599-8 gene has a significant role against GA3 and IAA. Lastly, this article forecasted that the DUF599 genes could enhance plant tolerance against several abiotic stresses.

Background: Insect populations and their dispersal can be altered by temperature changes. As a result, evaluating the effects of these changes on insect species' developmental stages is critical for establishing effective management measures. Methods: This study examined the developmental duration, growth, longevity, fecundity, and other population parameters in two generations of green peach aphid (Myzus persicae) exposed to four different temperatures (i.e., 27 °C, 30 °C, 33 °C, and 36 °C) for four different time intervals (i.e., 1 h, 3 h, 6 h, and 10 h). Results: The results indicated that nymph survival rate significantly decreased with exposure to 36 °C for 10 h in both generations (F1 and F2). The survival rate of 1st to 4th instars of F1 generation decreased by 85.0 %, 88.5 %, 85.7 %, and 83.7 % respectively at 36° C for 10 h exposure compared to the control (25 °C). Similarly, survival rate of 1st to 4th instars of F2 generation decreased by 83.7 %, 86.0 %, 82.2 %, and 78.7 %, respectively when exposed to 36 °C for 10 h compared to the control. The shortest longevity of both generations was observed under 33 °C and 36 °C exposure for 10 h. The highest and the lowest net reproductive rate (R0) for both generations was observed under exposure to 27 °C for 1 h and 36 °C for 10 h, respectively. The intrinsic rate of increase (rm) of the two generations reached the highest level under 27 °C exposure for 1 h and the lowest was recorded for the individuals exposed to 36 °C for 10 h. The highest finite rate of increase (λ = F1, 1.41 and F2, 1.42 d−1) for two generations was examined for the individuals exposed to 27 °C for 1 h. The values of life table parameters of both generations were significantly affected under exposure to 36 °C for 10 h. Conclusion: The combined effect of different temperatures and time intervals on biological and life table parameters of M. persicae studied first time in this study. Therefore, our research will help in estimating the modifications that a population of M. persicae may experience in response to heat stress.

Pectinophora gossypiella, which destroys cotton crops' brackets, squares, flowers, and bolls, has been identified as a severe pest in practically all the world's cotton-growing nations. Triazophos, a trans-laminar, broad spectrum organophosphate insecticide can manage Lepidopteran pests in cotton, rice, and maize. P. gossypiella has developed resistance against major insecticides including triazophos. To comprehend the function of insecticides in the environment, it is vital to grasp their lethal, low, and/or sublethal impacts as well as transgenerational consequences. In this study, triazohpos had lethal, sublethal, and transgenerational effects in two P. gossypiella generations (F0 and F1). Triazophos caused greater toxicity against P. gossypiella, according to the findings of the bioassay, with LC50 values of 2.728 mg/l for F0 and 1.852 mg/l for F1 after 48 h of exposure. Triazophos LC10 and LC25 concentrations caused considerable variations in biological parameters, which clearly indicated longer larval duration during F0 and F1 generations. Parameters related to reproduction showed significant differences with lower fecundity of 231.08 eggs/ female (LC10); 203.87 eggs/ female (LC25) and 220.95 eggs/ female (LC10) 209.21 eggs/ female (LC25) of F0 and F1 generations respectively and as compared to control which were 264.76 eggs/ female and 274.62 eggs/ female for F0 and F1 respectively. Demographic parameters for F0 and F1 population revealed net reproduction rate (R0); intrinsic rate of increase (r); mean generation time (T) and (λ) were having significant difference in triazophos treated populations as compared to control. From results it can be asserted that life table reproductive and demographic parameters affected by triazophos can be helpful in managing P. gossypiella in cotton crop and will result in more success against triazophos populations of P. gossypiella.

Objectives: Pectinases are enzymes that hydrolyze pectin or pectic compounds. Microorganisms in the gut of bees are involved in the breakdown of these macromolecules. In this study, we aimed to optimize the physicochemical parameters for enhancing enzyme pectinase production by bacteria Klebsiella oxytoca af-G4 isolated from Apis florea gut; in addition, purification and characterization of purified enzyme were carried out. Methods: Optimization of growth conditions for pectinase production using different synthetic and agro-industrial wastes by Klebsiella oxytoca af-G4 were performed. Purification and characterization of the pectinase were carried out. Application of the pectinase in juice extraction was evaluated. Results: Pectinase activity was maximum at 30 °C at pH 5.0, in media supplemented with lactose (1 % w/v) and ammonium sulfate (1 % w/v) as carbon and nitrogen sources, respectively, with a growth period of 72 h. The pectinase production with agro-industrial wastes showed higher production with pomegranate peel (1 % w/v) as substrate at a growth condition of 40 °C, pH 6.0, and a growth period of 92 h. The enzyme was purified to homogeneity (4.8-fold) using DEAE cellulose ion-exchange chromatography. The purified enzyme showed the molecular weight of ∼ 60 kDa on SDS-PAGE with an activity of 23.26 U/ml and specific activity of 14.36 U/mg. The pectinolytic activity was confirmed on the zymogram. The purified enzyme was more active at an optimum pH of 6.0, and stable at a pH range between 5 and 8. The enzyme was stable at temperatures ranging from 30 °C to 80 °C, with 60 °C being the optimum. The enzyme showed Km and Vmax values of 6.04 mg/ml and 4.92 U/ml, respectively. The enzyme showed maximum activity with the addition of metal ion Mn2+ at pH 6 and 60 °C. The enzyme enhanced the extraction of apple juice and clarification significantly. Conclusion: The enzyme characteristics and kinetics as well as the higher production with agro-waste support its pectin-based industrial application. The enzyme properties prove that it is a good candidate for the hydrolysis of pectin and juice clarification for industrial applications.

Cotton stainer, red cotton bug (Dysdercus spp., Heteroptera: Pyrrhocoridae) is one of the economical pest of cotton crop. Pyrrhocorid bugs have multiple hosts and are highly mobile, rendering their insecticidal control less effective. Among pyrrhocorid bugs, Antilochus coquebertii (Heteroptera: Pyrrhocoridae) is considered highly effective predator of cotton stainers. However, predator and prey proportion and their ecological behavior are very important and there is no previous study regarding oviposition behaviour both of predator and prey. In this study, effects of different media on the fecundity both of predator (A. coquebertii) and prey (D. koenigii) were explored for the first time under controlled conditions. Eight different media consisted of Dry Soil + Dry Leaves (DSDL), Dry Soil + Wet Leaves (DSWL), Wet Soil + Dry Leaves (WSDL), Wet Soil + Wet Leaves (WSWL), Dry Soil (DS), Wet Soil (WS), Dry Soil + Cylindrical Perforated Plastic Bottle (DS-CPPB), and Wet Soil + Cylindrical Perforated Plastic Bottle (WS-CPPB). The results revealed significantly higher number of egg batches both of predator and prey on WSWL followed by WSDL. It is, therefore concluded that both the predator and prey preferred WSWL and WSDL media for egg deposition.

Background: Mediterranean flour moth [Ephestia kuehniella Zeller, 1879 (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)] (MFM hereafter) is a significant pest of stored products, particularly flour and causes significant economic damages. However, its eggs are important laboratory host for mass rearing of biological control agents of important agricultural pests. However, diet thickness and eggs’ density to be used in a specific area for economic mass rearing are not fully understood. Methods: This study optimized the diet thickness and eggs’ density to be used in a specified area for harvesting higher number of MFM eggs with low cost. The MFM was reared under dark environment, i.e., 25 ± 1 °C temperature and 60–70% relative humidity in 32×26×6 cm plastic tubs. The diet consisted of wheat flour and wheat bran in 2:1 ratio by weight, respectively. Three diet thicknesses [i.e., 0.5 cm (thin), 1.5 cm (medium) and 2.5 cm (thick)] and three egg densities [i.e., 25 mg (low), 50 mg (medium) and 75 mg (high)] were tested to determine the most economic and productive combination. Results: Life history traits, i.e., moths’ production, moths’ ratio and egg production were significantly altered by individual an interactive effect of diet thickness and egg density. The highest number of moths was obtained for medium diet thickness and high egg density. Medium diet thickness with low egg density resulted in the lowest number of moths. The highest number of eggs were produced by thin and medium diets and high egg density combinations, and these combinations proved the most economic for mass production of 100 g eggs. Conclusion: The results of the current study indicated that combination of medium and thin diet thicknesses with high egg density are the most economic for mass production of MFM. Interestingly, the study revealed that terminating moths’ collection at 2nd week after first moth emergence and egg collection at 4 days after the moths are placed in egg laying containers is the most suitable time for the economic mass rearing of MFM. However, egg densities >75 mg need further testing on thin and medium diet thicknesses to explore whether they are more economic than recommended densities in this study.

Abstract Pollinators can detect the color, shape, scent, and even temperature of the flowers they want to visit. Here, we present the previously unappreciated capacity of hoverflies (Eristalis tenax and Cheilosia albipila) to detect the electric field surrounding flowers. Using hoverflies as key dipteran pollinators, we explored the electrical interactions between flies and flowers—how a hoverfly acquired a charge and how their electrical sensing ability for target flowers contributed to nectar identification and pollination. This study revealed that rapid variations in a floral electric field were related to a nectar reward and increased the likelihood of the fly’s return visits. We found that thoracic hairs played a role in the polarity of hoverfly charge, revealing their electro-mechanosensory capability, as in bumblebees (Bombus terrestris). Electrophysiological analysis of the hoverfly’s antennae did not reveal neural sensitivity to the electric field, which favors the mechanosensory hairs as putative electroreceptive organs in both species of hoverflies.

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 (153) 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.

Housefly is a significant domestic pest, which causes nuisance. The use of insecticides is discouraged to manage housefly; therefore, alternative management strategies are inevitable. The current study investigated the impact of different plant extracts, i.e., Moringa oleifera (moringa), Allium sativum (garlic) and Piper nigrum (black pepper) on biological parameters of house fly. Two different concentrations (i.e., 25 and 50%) of the extracts were blended in larval diet made through mixing of wheat bran, yeast and dried milk powder. The results indicated significant differences for larval duration. Maximum larval duration was recorded for garlic followed by black pepper and moringa, respectively. In case of pupal duration, non-significant differences were observed among plant extracts. Increase rate of oviposition was noticed with moringa at 25% concentration, while decreased oviposition rate was noted for garlic with 50% concentration. Egg hatching percentage remained non-significant for the botanical extracts. The highest survival was observed with moringa, while garlic resulted in the lowest survival. The highest repellency was noticed for garlic followed by black pepper, whereas moringa resulted in the lowest repellency after 30, 60 and 90 min. Prolonged developmental time was observed for bot concentrations of garlic, whereas moringa noted the shortest developmental time. Thus moringa was found to be a promoter of housefly development. Minimum adult emergence was found with both concentrations of garlic followed by 50% concentration of black pepper. The 50% concentration of black pepper promoted the population of adult males, while both concentrations of moringa and 25% concentration of black pepper encouraged the population of female adults. Study outcomes depicted that tested botanical extracts had significant potential for disturbing biological parameters of housefly. The garlic extracts can potentially be used to manage housefly. However, further investigations on the larval and adult mortality are needed.

Abstract Infection with SARS-CoV-2, the Betacoronavirus, caused a pandemic that affected the globe negatively. The gold method, RT-PCR, can detect SARS-CoV-2 but it is time-consuming and needs sophisticated equipment and professional personnel. On the other hand, rapid tests offer fast results and can detect anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies (Abs). The aim of this study is to develop a new rapid and cost-effective method for the detection of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG/IgM Abs. A new top-loading detection device was developed and composed of a small piece of plastic (25 × 25 × 0.5 mm) with an opening in the center, a piece of nitrocellulose (NC) membrane enough to block the opening from one side and adhesive tape to affix the NC to the plastic piece. The NC is blotted with anti-human IgG/IgM and rabbit serum. The device was evaluated against a commercially available IgG/IgM ELISA detection kit using normal, Covid-19-positive, HCV, HBV, and Cytomegalovirus-positive sera. Outcomes demonstrated simplicity, reproducibility, and accuracy of the new device and results can be obtained in less than 5 min. We anticipate our developed assay method to be used widely in point of care before deciding on the use of expensive nucleic acid assays.

The most important honey bee queen food royal jelly is produced by the exocrine hypopharyngeal glands (HGs) of the worker honey bees. The HGs exhibits diverse gene and protein that create age-related physiological adaptations. However, limited knowledge is available on how the phosphorylation process is responsible for physiological alterations across the development of HGs in newly emerged bees. This study measured the acinus of HGs and characterized its phosphoproteomics analysis between the newly emerged bees of royal jelly bees (RJBs) and Italian bees (ITBs). Phosphopeptides of HGs were enriched by Ti4+-IMAC reagents, followed by protein identification via Q-Exactive LC-MS/MS. Our findings indicated that the mean acinus size of HGs of newly emerged bees of RJBs was significantly larger (56.18 ± 1.72 µm) than ITBs (45.98 ± 1.62 µm). A total of 1576 phosphopeptides with 1800 phosphosites containing 525 phosphoproteins were identified in RJBs, while 746 phosphopeptides, of which 846 phosphosites correspond to 317 phosphoproteins were identified in ITBs. Most proteins were phosphorylated on 1 residue followed by 2 and 3 residues in newly emerged bees of both bee stocks. In addition, serine phosphorylation was most observed, followed by threonine and tyrosine in both bee stocks. In newly emerged bees of RJBs, the protein metabolic process, glycolytic process, and formation of translation preinitiation were uniquely enriched, while protein translation, peptide metabolic process and elongation were enriched in ITBs. This research shows detailed phosphorylation of HGs and provides helpful information for understanding the biological activities of HGs development in newly emerged bees from both bee stocks.

Background: Artificial sweeteners are low calorie polyhydric alcohols produced from carbohydrates or amino acids. Presence of artificial sweeteners in honey is not investigated before. Objective: this study measured the concentration of Xylitol and Sorbitol, the activity of glucose oxidase (GOX) and the concentration of glucose and acidity of honey samples from Asir region-Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, the values of pH and electric conductivity were determined.MethodsThe floral origin of the honey samples were confirmed through pollen analysis. The PH, electric conductivity (EC.), acidity, and glucose concentration were measured according to the methods of international honey commission. The glucose oxidase activity and the concentration of xylitol and sorbitol were determined according to the instructions of Megazyme International kits CAT.#: K-GLOX and CAT.#: K-SORB, respectively. The statistical package for social sciences (SPSS)-version 20 was applied to analyze the obtained results.Results.The floral origin analysis showed that the honey samples were Acacia (8) and Zizphus (4). The altitudes of the Acacia honey samples were 900 and 2000 m above sea level while the Zizphus honey samples were collected from 900 m above sea level. The studied quality parameters (Glucose, PH, Acidity, and EC.) were within the range of the CODEX standards and the Saudi Food and Drug Authority guide for honey. Irrespective of the altitude, the glucose oxidase activity in the Acacia honey samples was (4.7 ± 1.13) whereas its activity of the Zizphus honey was (5.0 ± 1.62). There was insignificant difference between the glucose activity of the Acacia and Zizphus honey samples (p-value = 0.7). The concentration of xylitol and sorbitol were not affected by the floral origin (p-value ≥ 0.17).Conclusions.The Acacia and Ziziphus honey are characterized by containing high amounts of sorbitol and trace xylitol content. The floral origin and year of harvest significantly affected pH, EC and Acidity of the honey samples.

Time series study about the changes in Fractional Vegetation Cover (FVC) with its drivers is studied. From 2003 to 2013, FVC was calculated using remotely sensed data from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer-Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (MODIS-NDVI), Landsat-7, Defense Meteorological Satellite Program/Operational Linescan System (DMSP/OLS), and Compound Night Light Index (CNLI). The mean value of FVC is 0.34 (34 %). The findings indicate that the highest annual mean values are between 34% and 37%, and 31% and 33%, that correspond to level of 70% and 40%, respectively. The trend analysis by MODIS and Landsat-7 has the low (10%) FVC in the northern parts due to increase in industrial development, urbanization, changes in landuse, landcover and other linked environmental factors. The southwestern-southeastern and eastern areas showed medium (40 %) and high (70 %) FVC respectively. This is because of water availability and less human disturbance.

Honey bee queen serves as a colony's centre hub, producing eggs and releasing pheromones to keep a colony together. Artificial insemination in Apis mellifera, trending research these days, is a consistent method for controlling mating in honey bees. Quality queen production is essential to maintaining a healthy bee colony. A review of comparative studies on superior quality honey bee (A. mellifera) queens production through nontraditional techniques and various factors affecting the instrumental insemination process has been compiled in this article. Several factors like; rearing conditions, stress, inseminator’s skills, food availability, mating age of queen, queen banking, temperature, sperms stored in the spermatheca, sperms quality and quantity, semen handling and storage, CO2 and nitrogen treatments, pheromones affect the performance of instrumentally inseminated queens. Moreover, different data collection showed that different methods used for queen treatment which have a significant effect on the performance of the queen. This review suggested that artificially inseminated queens could be more productive if experiments were done with proper attention and precision.

Cotton crop (Gossypium hirsutum L.) is considered economy crop worldwide especially in Pakistan. Cotton plays strong role in proportion of GDP and foreign exchange earnings. In Pakistan, around 55% cotton is exporting fiber commodity and 15 % area of cultivation is devoted to cotton crop especially Bt cotton. However, Bt cotton suppress the chewing pests but give a favorable niche to sucking pests. Among sucking pests, the Oxycarenus hyalinipennis Costa is emerging sucking pest in Bt cotton, and damaging the more than 40 different plants. Study regarding preference of seed and two-sex life table traits of O. hyalinipennis is necessary for its eco-friendly management. Therefore, this explain the preference of cotton seeds e.g., CIM-620 (non-Bt variety), CIM-717 (non-Bt variety), Bt-CIM-632 and Bt-Cyto-179 by O. hyalinipennis, as well as its fitness on these seeds under laboratory condition. Results indicated that both males and females preferred Bt-Cyto-179 for ovipositing as compared to other three varieties. The developmental time from eggs to males (176.85 ± 7.43) and females (184.94 ± 7.85) were significantly longer on other verities as compared to Bt-Cyto-179. The O. hyalinipennis females produce significantly more eggs on Bt-Cyto-179 (215 ± 2.34 eggs female-1) than those on other three seeds e.g., CIM-620, CIM 717, and Bt-CIM-632. In conclusion, Bt-Cyto-179 was the more suitable varieties to attract and rear O. hyalinipennis than CIM 632, and CIM 717 seeds. And our study suggests that Bt-Cyto-179 can be used as a bait crop to control O. hyalinipennis and rearing purpose for molecular studies.

Wild and managed pollinators are the key component of biodiversity, contributing to important ecosystem services such as pollination and supporting human food security. Pollination by insects is a crucial component of the food chain that ensures the production of fruits and strongly affects the fruit quality, but the effect of insect pollination on fruit physiological and chemical parameters is largely unknown. The current study was conducted to determine the insect pollinators diversity and their relative abundance in the loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) orchard during 2017–2019. Further, the effect of insect pollinators pollination on the physiological and chemical parameters of fruit quality as compared to control pollinated flowers was investigated. The results revealed that a total of 22 species from 3 families (Apidae, Halictidae, and Syrphidae) were identified during the flowering season. The Apidae and Syrphidae were the most frequently observed families with major groups honey bees (67.89%) and hoverflies (21.57%), respectively. Moreover, results indicated that the fruit yield by the open-pollinated flowers (22.31 ± 0.34 kg/tree) was significantly higher than the control pollinated flowers (14.80 ± 0.25 kg/tree). Physiological and chemical parameters of loquat fruit differed significantly when fruits obtained from open-pollinated flowers as compared to control pollinated flowers. These results suggested that native insect pollinators play important role in the fruit quality of loquat. Hence, maintenance of appropriate habitat of native pollinators near loquat orchards is necessary to ensure good productivity and fruit quality.

Calotropis procera and Somra (Acacia) honey are used in traditional medicine. The benefits of mixing 20% Somra honey and C. procera leaf water extract (CPLWExt) were aimed to be studied. Honey/CPLWExt were utilized to produce silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) separately. AgNPs were characterized via UV/Vis and electron microscope scanning. Bio-molecules in CPLWExt/honey were investigated utilizing FT-IR spectroscopy. Biological activities of CPLWExt and honey were tested. The outcomes showed that CPLWExt and honey have numerous functional groups and could produce AgNPs. CPLWExt, CPLWExt + AgNPs, honey and honey + AgNPs hindered the growth of rat splenocytes, while CPLWExt + honey invigorated it. Antimicrobial power was found in CPLWExt and honey, which increased in the presence of AgNPs. Honey/honey + AgNPs suppressed the proliferation of HeLa and HepG2 cells. In conclusion, honey/CPLWExt could produce AgNPs and showed immunomodulatory and antibacterial power. Somra honey/honey + AgNPs have anticancer power. Somra honey + CPLWExt reflected a good immunostimulatory powers that can be nominated as an immunostimulant.

Honey bees are important pollinators and take micronutrients from different natural floral resources and turbid water to adequately meet their nutritional requirements. But the role of micronutrients for honey bee health is not well understood. Here, the present study was conducted to determine honey bees' micronutrients preference in summer and winter seasons. Also, the impact of micronutrients on foraging behaviour and brood increase was studied in different honey bee colonies. The results elucidated that honey bees exhibited a strong preference for a salt solution compared to deionized water during the summer and winter seasons. However, there was a notable switch in salt preference between seasons. Overall, honey bees showed significantly more foraging activity, more pollen collection, and increased brood area after sodium consumption compared to other minerals in the summer season. Further, pollen collection and brood area were significantly higher after the use of potassium in the winter season. Thus, the food preference of honey bees is strongly linked with the seasons and the availability of the floral resources. Our data suggested that honey bees may seek specific nutrients during variation of the seasonal conditions.

Apis mellifera jemenitica incorporates a few perceived subspecies that vary in their natural properties and farming qualities. Mitochondrial COI gene sequence (mtCOI) has not been used before for bee identification in the southwestern region of Saudi Arabia. The aim of this work was to study the morphometry and analyzing the mtCOI of all collected bees. The nucleotide sequence of the mtCOI gene was analyzed. Similarity searches and distances between each obtained DNA and sequences available in GenBank were made. Morphometric analysis revealed close similarities among the studied bees, but these similarities are different from those previously indicated in earlier studies of the same region. Molecular studies revealed that the collected bees are similar to each other and some other sequences found in GenBank, but these bees are a new hybrid or subspecies that are different from those previously reported in the same region, indicating the emergence of a new hybrid.

Artificial queen rearing has changed the beekeeping business in contrast to natural queen replacement, as it provides a newly mated queen into a bee colony, reduces the time between eggs not being laid, and increases the production of young bees in a colony. This study was conducted to investigate the larval acceptance rate grafted in queen cups made from different materials and to find out whether the various materials used for queen cups were suitable for the acceptance of grafted larvae in cell builder colonies. The evaluated materials included fresh bee wax (T1), old bee wax (T2), uncapping bee wax (T3), pure paraffin (T4), 50% paraffin + 50% old bee wax (T5), and brown plastic queen cups (T6) as a control. Results indicated that T3 was the material that most increased the larval acceptance (5.2 ± 0.37), followed by T4 (2.4 ± 0.5), T2 (2.2 ± 0.58), T5 (1.8 ± 0.37), T1 (1.6 ± 0.4), and minimum larval acceptance was in the T6 (1.0 ± 0.4) respectively during the spring season of the year 2020–2021. Similar findings were reported of larval acceptance rate during the spring season of 2021–2022. In addition, the wax material that least affected larval acceptance was the fresh comb bee wax. However, all materials used were coupled with a more larval acceptance rate than the control treatment during both spring seasons of 2020–2021 and 2021–2022. The larval acceptance rate was statistically significant in T3 as a compared to other queen cell cup materials during the both spring seasons (p = 0.001). These findings imply that using different types of bee wax for preparing queen cell cups during larvae grafting, particularly uncapping bee wax, may stimulate and promote grafted larvae acceptance during the queen rearing process.

The present investigation exposes the significant variations of Fractional Vegetation Cover (FVC) and drivers from year 2003 to 2013 in Pakistan. It is directly calculated by remote-sensing data using Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer-Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (MODIS-NDVI) and Compound Night Light Index/Defense Meteorological Program/Operational Line-Scan System (CNLI/DMSP/OLS). The spatial patterns of FVC variation are mainly categorized into three levels, low (

Colorectal cancer is reported as the third major incentive of cancer doom. The present work is meant to examine the anticancer potential of Origanum majorana leaf acetone extract (OMAE) to fight HT-29 human colon cancer cells. Biomolecules in OMAE were examined using Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) in OMAE was determined using an immunosobant assay. The cytotoxic effect of OMAE was tested by MTT assay. p53 gene expression level of OMAE-tread cells was measured using quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). Apoptotic and cell cycle arrest effects of OMAE on HT-29 were analyzed by flow cytometry. Results revealed the presence of many functional groups and considerable amount of ROS in the extract. The extract could raise p53 expression level five folds over control. OMAE arrested the HT-29 at G2/M phase. OMAE has an apoptotic effect rather than necrotic effects Our discoveries give solid proof that O. majorana acetone extract has a capacity to stop colon cancer activity, at least, through the enlistment of cell division arrest as well as apoptosis. These findings can suggest the use of OMAE as a natural therapeutic candidate against the colon cancer.

Understanding circadian foraging rhythms activity of the red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta Buren (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) foragers at different temperatures is an important step towards developing control measures in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs. In this study, the circadian foraging rhythm activities of S. invicta foragersat different temperature were investigated under laboratory and field conditions. Results indicated that the foraging activity increased after sunrise, and maximum foraging occurred at 14:00 (foraging rate was 69.22 ± 0.57 and 72.58 ± 1.15 foragers/min in the first and second year, respectively) in the tea fields of Guangzhou during autumn. Furthermore, foragers demonstrated circadian rhythms and exhibited a unimodal after 24 h. A significant correlation was found between foraging activity and temperature. S. invicta colonies were active at moderate soil temperatures (approximately 26.65 °C to 29.24 °C). The preferred temperature of the colonies was 26 °C, followed by 22 °C and 18 °C in the laboratory. The individual S. invicta activity was maximum at 17:00 (18.67 ± 1.66 times /10 min) and minimum at 5:00 (8.33 ± 2.51 times/10 min) at 26 °C. The fluctuating temperature had a significant impact on individual locomotor activity (r = 0.8979, P

Root-knot nematodes Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid and White) Chitwood and Rhizoctonia bataticola (Taub.) Butler, fungus, are very dangerous root damaging pathogens. Present study was planned to establish a chemical control of these root deteriorating pathogens under lab conditions as well as in field. Maximum death rate of nematode juveniles and minimum numbers of nematode eggs hatched were recorded in plates treated with Cadusafos (Rugby® 100G) @12 g/100 ml and Cartap® (4% G) @9g/100 ml. Chemical treatment of Rhizoctonia bataticola with Trifloxystrobin + Tebuconazole (Nativo®) @0.2 g/100 ml and Mancozeb + Matalaxyl (Axiom) @0.25 g/100 ml significantly controlled the mycelial growth in plates. The best treatments tested in laboratory were applied in field as protective and curative treatments. Results proved that chemical control of root-knot nematode and root rot fungi by tested chemicals at recommended time and dose is a significant management technique under field conditions.

The availability of floral resources is crucial for honey bee colonies because it allows them to obtain protein from pollen and carbohydrates from nectar; typically, they consume these nutrients in the form of bee bread, which has undergone fermentation. However, the intensification of agriculture, urbanization, changes to the topography, and harsh environmental conditions are currently impacting foraging sites due to habitat loss and scarcity of food resources. Thus, this study aimed to assess honey bee preference for various pollen substitute diet compositions. Bee colonies perform poorly because of specific environmental problems, which ultimately result in pollen scarcity. Pollen substitutes located at various distance from the bee hive were also investigated in addition to determining the preferences of honey bees for various pollen substitute diets. The local honey bee (Apis mellifera jemenitica) colonies and different diets (four main treatments, namely, chickpea flour, maize flour, sorghum flour, wheat flour; each flour was further mixed with cinnamon powder, turmeric powder, flour only, flour mixed with both cinnamon and turmeric powder) were used. Bee pollen was used as a control. The best performing pollen substitutes were further placed at 10, 25, and 50 m distances from the apiary. Maximum bee visits were observed on bee pollen (210 ± 25.96) followed by chickpea flour only (205 ± 19.32). However, there was variability in the bee visits to the different diets (F (16,34) = 17.91; p < 0.01). In addition, a significant difference in diet consumption was observed in control (576 ± 58.85 g) followed by chickpea flour only (463.33 ± 42.84 g), compared to rest of the diets (F (16,34) = 29.75; p < 0.01). Similarly, foraging efforts differed significantly (p < 0.01) at the observed time of 7–8 A.M., 11–12 A.M., and 4–5 P.M. at the distance of 10, 25, and 50 m away from the apiary. Honey bees preferred to visit the food source that was closest to the hive. This study should be very helpful for beekeepers in supplementing their bee colonies when there is a shortage or unavailability of pollens, and it is much better to keep the food source near the apiary. Future research needs to highlight the effect of these diets on bee health and colony development.

The antibacterial, anticancer, and wound-healing effects of honey can vary according to the type, geographical region, honey bee species, and source of the flowers. Nanotechnology is an innovative and emerging field of science with an enormous potential role in medical, cosmetics, and industrial usages globally. Metal nanoparticles that derived from silver and range between 1 nm and 100 nm in size are called silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Much advanced research AgNPs has been conducted due to their potential antibacterial and anticancer activity, chemical stability, and ease of synthesis. The purpose of the present study was to explore the physicochemical properties of honey and the potential to use forest honey to synthesize AgNPs as well as to appraise the nanoparticles’ antimicrobial and anticancer effects. Here, we used three different percentages of forest honey (20%, 40%, and 80%) as biogenic mediators to synthesize AgNPs at room temperature. The development of AgNPs was confirmed by color change (to the naked eye) and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy studies, respectively. The absorbance peak obtained between 464 to 4720 nm validated both the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) band and the formation of AgNPs. Regarding the sugar profile, the contents of maltose and glucose were lower than the content of fructose. In addition, the results showed that the SPR band of AgNPs increased as the percentage of forest honey increased due to the elevation of the concentration of the bio-reducing agent. A bacterial growth kinetic assay indicated the strong antibacterial efficacy of honey with silver nanoparticles against each tested bacterial strain. Honey with nanotherapy was the most effective against hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) and colon cancer (HCT 116) cells, with IC50s of 23.9 and 27.4 µg/mL, respectively, while being less effective against breast adenocarcinoma cells (MCF-7), with an IC50 of 32.5 µg/mL.

In honey bees, food, gut microorganisms, and their nestmates may contribute to the health status of newly emerged worker bees. However, relatively little data are available regarding the extent to which supplemental protein feeding impacts bee colony health and mortality. The present research compared the efficacy of different diets supplements, i.e., bee pollen, ajeena (commercially available pollen substitute), and date paste either alone or admixed with varying percentages of microalga Arthrospira platensis (spirulina) for caged honey bees (Apis mellifera jemenitica). In addition, to investigate diet preference and mortality percentage in honey bees, the physicochemical analysis of these diets were also performed. Our results indicated that the honey bees consumed bee pollen (11.51 ± 2.22 mg/bee) and ajeena diet (10.68 ± 1.29 mg/bee) significantly higher than other diets.In contrast, the maximum consumption was 4.68 ± 2.82 mg/bee for date paste admixed with 2.5% spirulina than date paste diet only (2.41 ± 0.91 mg/bee). In addition, the mortality percentage was significantly lower when bees fed pollen (56.67% ± 3.88%) and ajeena diet (39.33% ± 2.08%) in comparison to combination with spirulina supplement. Overall, the mean maximum diet consumption for ajeena was 15.72 ± 3.65 mg/bee followed by bee pollen diet (11.97 ± 2.41 mg/bee) and date paste (2.08 ± 0.94 mg/bee), respectively, resulting mean percentage of mortality of 13.37% ± 3.77%. Physicochemical analysis revealed that glucose and fructose were higher in the date paste diet. In contrast, total sugar content, sucrose, and protein content were higher in the ajeena diet. Future research is needed to determine the impact of diet supplementation with spirulina on colony health and bee physiology.

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

In current study, extensive field surveys are carried out to explore the fauna of assassin bugs of family Reduviidae, along with their habitats and prey records from different localities in the Pothohar region of Pakistan. The quantitative web structure is constructed for better understanding species habitat linkage and is represents a total of twelve different assassin bug species, of which five were identified as new country records i.e., Tribelocephala indica (Stal, 1853), Coranus spiniscutis (Reuter, 1881), Oncocephalus schioedtei (Reuter, 1882), Scadra annulipes (Reuter, 1881) and Ectrychotes dispar (Reuter, 1881). The result of diversity indices, Shannon-Weiner’s and Simpson’s index showed that Trail-5 (Islamabad), Taxilla (Rawalpindi), Sohawa (Jehlum) have maximum values (1.092, 0.662; 1.75, 0.82 and 1.69, 0.78) respectively. The assassin bug species i.e., Rhynocoris marginatus and R. fuscipes are found to predate maximum number of economically important pests of various crops. The diversity indexes of assassin bugs from the Pothohar region indicated that the species have uneven distribution in the five districts. The variation in richness of assassin bug population was recorded in the selected three districts of the Pothohar region. The species richness showed almost same pattern in Islamabad and Jehlum demonstrated by minute difference in Shannon’s equitability index (0.65–0.929 and 0.77–0.87) respectively.

Sugar profile and hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) of Saudi honey were examined through high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) system equipped with refractive index and diode array detectors. The work was designed to assess the quality of various types of blossom honey i.e. Sider (Ziziphus spina-christi), Dhuhyana (Acacia asak), Sumra (Acacia tortilis), Qatada (Acacia hamulosa), Dhurum (Lavandula dentata), multiflora with majra (Hypoestes forskaolii), multiflora with herbs, Keena (Eucalyptus spp.) produced in the southwestern areas of the kingdom. Hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), principal cluster analysis (PCA), and similarity and difference indices (SDI) were also applied to examine the possible grouping based on the studied quality parameters. Four main sugars (two monosaccharides i.e. fructose and glucose, two disaccharides i.e. sucrose and maltose) and HMF were investigated . The average values of fructose and glucose were in the range 33.10%–44.77% and 26.68%–37.91%, respectively. The maltose was present in all types of honey and its mean values were in the range of 0.37%–2.97%, while sucrose was absent in six types of honey, 0.25% in one unifloral honey, and 3.25% in one multi-floral honey. HMF was not detected in seven types of honey but was below the limit of quantification (0.13 mg/kg) in one type of honey. PCA displayed the accumulative variance of 79.96% for the initial two PCs suggesting that honey samples were not well distinguished by their sugar profile. Based on the sucrose and HMF contents, it was concluded that all types of blossom honey from the Asir province were of the best quality in the kingdom and met the international quality parameters.

Residues of acaricide, flumethrin were detected from honey and beeswax using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) technique. Forty samples of honey were collected before flumethrin treatment and 30, 60, and 90 days after application from five Apis mellifera colonies; one sample from the central frame containing brood and honey, while the other from the frame filled with honey from peripheral side of each colony at every sampling interval. Honey samples were taken by uncapping the cells with knife and extracting the honey with a syringe of 12 mL capacity. Twenty samples of beeswax (one sample from peripheral frames of each colony) were collected from five selected beehives. Two solvents n-hexane and dichloromethane (4:6, v/v) were used for making extracts of honey and beeswax samples, respectively which were further concentrated by rotary evaporation. All the samples were purified and detected at a wavelength of 267 nm. From the HPLC residual analysis, all the honey samples were found free of acaricide flumethrin; as it could not be detected from any of the 40 samples. However, all the beeswax samples were positive for flumethrin residues. The highest level of flumethrin (0.0759 mg/kg) was detected from the samples of beeswax samples taken from the bee colonies after 30 days of flumethrin application. Despite of the fact that flumethrin residues were detected from all the test beeswax samples, however no one was noticed to exceed the tolerance levels established by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and European Commission guidelines. Present method of flumethrin detection through HPLC also proved to be a promising alternative of Gas Chromatography with high sensitivity and can be used as an appropriate method to determine flumethrin residues from honey and beeswax. Keywords: Flumethrin residues, Apis mellifera, Wax, Honey, HPLC

ABSTRACT 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-1) 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.

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. Keywords: PM10, Heavy metals, ICP-MS spectrophotometer

The parasitic mite Varroa destructor is amongst the most serious problems of honey bees, Apis mellifera (Hymenoptera: Apidae) around the world including Pakistan. The present study estimates the mite density through powdered sugar roll method and evaluates the effectiveness of five miticides (fluvalinate, flumethrin, amitraz, formic acid, and oxalic acid) on A. mellifera colonies in German modified beehives. The results indicated that by treating the bees with one strip and two strips of fluvalinate per colony; the mite population remained below the economic threshold level (ETL) for 14 days and 25 days, respectively. Treatment of flumthrin @1 strip and @ 2 strips per colony resulted in mite population suppressed for 14 days and 39 days, respectively below ETL. Application of Amitraz @ 2 mL per 1.5 L water after every three days interval on sealed brood effectively controlled mites below ETL for 21 days. Formic acid @10 mL per colony applied through plastic applicator proved effective (below 3 mites per bee sample) for 24 days and oxalic acid applied through shop towel method resulted in mite population control for fifteen days. Use of powdered sugar roll method for easy sampling of Varroa mites and application of acaricides on precise economic threshold level during different seasons of the year for integrated management of Varroa mite is hereby advocated by current studies. Keywords: Apis mellifera, Varroa destructor, Mite infestation, Fluvalinate, Flumethrin, Organic acids

Abstract Sidr honey is used as food and medicine in many countries. Study of immunomodulatory and anticancer activity of Sidr honey did not tested before. The aim of this work was to study the anticancer activity and immunomodulatory as well as antimicrobial potential of Sidr honey and its synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Sidr honey from three sources (two from Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and one from Pakistan) was diluted to 20% and tested for its biological activities and to synthesize AgNPs. The results demonstrated that honeys could produce AgNPs (spherical shape), modulated the growth of normal splenic cells, and have antimicrobial activities. Sidr honey has anticancer activity against HepG2 but not Hela cells. Sidr honey can be used as antimicrobial agent, but can be used as anticancer agent with care as it stimulated cell growth of some lines (e.g., Hala) and inhibited another (e.g., HepG2).

Plutella xylostella L. (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae) is an important pest causing significant losses to vegetables worldwide. Insecticides resistance in P. xylostella is a serious issue for scientists since last 30 years. However, deltamethrin and Bt Cry1Ac are commonly used insecticides against P. xylostella but studies involving development of resistance in P. xylostella against these two insecticides at different temperatures are lacking. The current study was aimed to find out the toxicity of deltamethrin and Bt Cry1Ac, and resistance development in P. xylostella. Results showed that the positive correlation between the temperature and toxicities of deltamethrin and Bt Cry1Ac. The results indicated −0.051, −0.049, −0.047, and −0.046 folds of deltamethrin resistance at 15 °C, 20 °C, 25 °C, and 30 °C temperatures, respectively from 1st to 12th generations. The toxicity of Bt Cry1Ac after 24 h was 2.2 and 4.8 folds on 1st generation at 20 °C and 25 °C temperatures, respectively compared to the toxicity recorded at 15 °C (non-overlapping of 95% confidence limits). Based on the results of this study, it is concluded that the temperature has a positive correlation with the toxicity of deltamethrin and Bt Cry1Ac against the larvae of P. xylostella. This study suggests that deltamethrin and Bt Cry1Ac can be included in the management program of P. xylostella on many vegetable crops. The baseline susceptibility data might be helpful to understand the resistance mechanisms in P. xylostella. Keywords: Bt Cry1Ac, Deltamethrin, Diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella, Temperature coefficient

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

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. Keywords: Juniperus procera, AgNPs, Splenic cells proliferation, Antibacterial, Antifungal, Plant extract

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