Hormetic effects of thiamethoxam on Schizaphis graminum: demographics and feeding behavior.

In agroecosystems, insects contend with chemical insecticides often encountered at sublethal concentrations. Insects' exposure to these mild stresses may induce hormetic effects, which has consequences for managing insect pests. In this study, we used an electrical penetration graph (EPG) technique to investigate the feeding behavior and an age-stage, two-sex life table approach to estimate the sublethal effects of thiamethoxam on greenbug, Schizaphis graminum. The LC5 and LC10 of thiamethoxam significantly decreased longevity and fecundity of directly exposed adult aphids (F0). However, the adult longevity, fecundity, and reproductive days (RPd)-indicating the number of days in which the females produce offspring - in the progeny generation (F1) exhibited significant increase when parental aphids (F0) were treated with LC5 of the active ingredient. Subsequently, key demographic parameters such as intrinsic rate of increase (r) and net reproductive rate (R0) significantly increased at LC5 treatment. EPG recordings showed that total durations of non-probing (Np), intercellular stylet pathway (C), and salivary secretion into the sieve element (E1) were significantly increased, while mean duration of probing (Pr) and total duration of phloem sap ingestion and concurrent salivation (E2) were decreased in F0 adults exposed to LC5 and LC10. Interestingly, in the F1 generation, total duration of Np was significantly decreased while total duration of E2 was increased in LC5 treatment. Taken together, our results showed that an LC5 of thiamethoxam induces intergenerational hormetic effects on the demographic parameters and feeding behavior of F1 individuals of S. graminum. These findings have important implications on chemical control against S. graminum and highlight the need for a deeper understanding of the ecological consequences of such exposures within pest management strategies across the agricultural landscapes.

An interplay of Progesterone, Leukemia Inhibitor Factor and Interleukin-6 in the window of implantation; Impact on fertility.

BACKGROUND: The process of implantation is crucial for the initiation of conception and hence fertility. In addition to a number of factors, it is regulated by a cross talk of gonadotrophins [Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Follicle Stimulatory Hormone (FSH)], ovarian steroids [Estrogen (Et), Progesterone (Pt)] and cytokines [Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and Interleukin 6 (IL6)]. These biomarkers are chief players of implantation. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to explore the role of gonadotrophins (LH, FSH, LH/FSH ratio), ovarian steroids (Et, Pt) and cytokines (LIF, IL6) in the implantation process. This aim was achieved by comparing these hormones and cytokines in the fertile and infertile groups [Polycystic ovaries (PCOs), endometriosis, unexplained infertility (Uex-IF)] and finding their association in all study groups. METHODS: A case control study conducted from October 2020-March 2023. A total of 135 infertile women (with PCOs, Uex-IF, and endometriosis) and 177 fertile women (matched for age and BMI) were selected. Levels of 'Et', 'Pt', 'LIF' and, 'IL6' were estimated using Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). LH and FSH values were obtained from hospital desk records. The Independent Student'st-test was used to compare fertile and infertile groups. One-way ANOVA test was used to compare more than two groups, and Pearson's chi-square (χ2) test was employed to compare percentages of variables. Pearson correlation analysis was performed to assess the associations and correlations. A p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Significantly higher levels of LIF and IL6 were observed in fertile women compared to infertile women. Pt levels were significantly greater in the fertile group than in the infertile group. The FSH/LH ratio was significantly higher in the fertile group. Among infertile women, PCOs (71%) and Uex-IF (91%) exhibited lower Pt levels than the fertile controls (p < 0.01), but these levels remained within the reference range (RR). Among the fertile group (81%), levels of LIF within the RR were significantly higher compared to those with Uex-IF (49%) and females with endometriosis (37%). Moreover, the highest number of participants (57%) with Uex-IF exhibited IL6 levels significantly below the RR in comparison to the fertile group and infertile groups (PCOS and endometriosis). However, lower levels of IL6 were observed in women with Uex-IF. In the control group, LIF exhibited a significant positive correlation with IL6 (r = 0.370), Pt (r = 0.496), Et (r = 0.403), and LH (r = 0.428). Among women with PCOs, LIF showed a significant positive correlation with IL6 (r = 0.443), Pt (r = 0.607), and LH (r = 0.472). In cases of Uex-IF, LIF demonstrated a significant positive correlation with IL6 (r = 0.727). Females with endometriosis displayed a significant positive correlation between LIF and IL6 (r = 0.535) as well as Pt (r = 0.605). In fertile women, a positive correlation was observed between LH and IL6 (r = 0.197, p = 0.009), LIF (r = 0.428, p = 0.000), Pt (r = 0.238, p = 0.001), and Et (r = 0.356, p = 0.000). Furthermore, a positive correlation was found between LH and LIF (r = 0.472, p = 0.000) in women with PCOs. CONCLUSION: Elevated levels of Pt were found to increase the production of LIF in fertile females. However, infertile females with PCOs and Uex-IF exhibited deficient levels of Pt, supporting its role as a biomarker for successful implantation in infertile women. These females showed decreased levels of gonadotropins as well as reduced LH/FSH ratio and diminished secretion of receptivity marker LIF, in addition to reduced Pt secretion. This suggests that reduced gonadotropin levels contribute to a lower LH/FSH ratio, resulting in decreased Pt secretion and ultimately leading to low levels of LIF, thereby causing impaired implantation in women with PCOs and Uex-IF. The exploration of low levels of LIF in patients with endometriosis requires further investigation. The significantly low levels of IL6 in the Uex-IF group elucidate the role of this cytokine in association with decreased Pt and LIF synthesis within this group.

Impact of sublethal concentrations of flonicamid on key demographic parameters and feeding behavior of Schizaphis graminum.

Flonicamid is a novel systemic insecticide that efficiently controls sap-sucking insect pests. However, the impact of sublethal concentrations of flonicamid on key demographic parameters and the feeding behavior of greenbug, Schizaphis graminum has not yet been studied. In this study, we used the age stage, two-sex life table approach, and electrical penetration graphs (EPGs) to investigate the sublethal effects of flonicamid on the biological traits and feeding behavior of S. graminum. Bioassays showed that flonicamid possesses high toxicity to adult S. graminum with LC50 of 5.111 mg L-1 following 48 h exposure. Sublethal concentrations of flonicamid (LC5 and LC10) significantly decreased the longevity and fecundity of directly exposed parental aphids (F0), while the reproductive days were reduced only at LC10. The pre-adult stage and total pre-reproductive period (TPRP) increased in F1 individuals after exposure of F0 aphids to the sublethal concentrations of flonicamid. Furthermore, the adult longevity, fecundity and key demographic parameters (R0, r, and λ) were significantly reduced in progeny generation (F1). EPG recordings showed that the total duration of phloem sap ingestion and concurrent salivation (E2) decreased substantially in F0 and F1 aphids after exposure to LC5 and LC10 of flonicamid. Taken together, our results showed that the sublethal concentrations of flonicamid affect the demographic parameters and feeding behavior that ultimately suppress the population growth of S. graminum. This study provides in-depth information about the overall effects of flonicamid on S. graminum that might help to manage this key pest.

Sublethal concentrations of clothianidin affect fecundity and key demographic parameters of the chive maggot, Bradysia odoriphaga.

Bradysia odoriphaga is a major insect pest that infests Chinese chive in northern China. Clothianidin is a second-generation neonicotinoid insecticide that is commonly used against B. odoriphaga. In this study, the effect of sublethal clothianidin concentrations (LC5 and LC10) on key biological characteristics of B. odoriphaga was investigated using an age-stage, two-sex life table method. Bioassays results showed that clothianidin exhibited high toxicity against B. odoriphaga with LC50 of 1.898 mg L-1 following 24 h exposure. The developmental duration of larvae was significantly increased when exposed to the LC5 (0.209 mg L-1) and LC10 (0.340 mg L-1) of clothianidin. No significant effects were observed on the pupal stage, adult pre-oviposition period (APOP), total pre-oviposition period (TPOP), and mean longevities of male and female. The oviposition period and fecundity of B. odoriphaga were reduced in clothianidin-treated groups. Moreover, key demographic parameters, including the intrinsic rate of increase (r), finite rate of increase (λ), and net reproductive rate (R0), were significantly decreased by the LC5 and LC10 of clothianidin, while no effects were noted on mean generation time (T). Overall, this study showed that sublethal concentrations of clothianidin have a detrimental effect on B. odoriphaga developmental period, fecundity, and life table parameters. Therefore, clothianidin has the potential to suppress the population of B. odoriphaga even at sublethal concentrations.

Acetamiprid resistance and fitness costs of melon aphid, Aphis gossypii: An age-stage, two-sex life table study.

The melon aphid, Aphis gossypii is a globally distributed crop pest with a wide host range. The intensive use of insecticides against this insect over several years has led to develop resistance against many insecticides including acetamiprid. Understanding the relationship between acetamiprid resistance and fitness of A. gossypii is essential to limit the spread of the resistant population in the field. In this study, age-stage, two-sex life table approach was used to investigate these relationships in the lab. Results showed that resistant strain (Ace-R) had a reduced fitness (relative fitness = 0.909) along with significantly decreased adult longevity, fecundity, net reproductive (R0), mean generation time (T) and gross reproductive rate (GRR). Compared to the susceptible strain (Ace-S), the pre-adult period and total pre-oviposition period (TPOP) were also significantly shorter in Ace-R strain. Moreover, the expression profiles of EcR, JHBP, JHAMT, JHEH, USP and Vg genes supposed to be involved in insect reproduction and development were analyzed using Quantitative Real Time PCR. The EcR, JHBP, JHAMT and USP genes were up-regulated, Vg gene was down-regulated while the mRNA level of JHEH gene was statistically same in the Ace-R strain compared to the Ace-S strain. Collectively, this study provides the occurrence and magnitude of fitness costs of A. gossypii against acetamiprid resistance and could be helpful to manage the resistance evolution in field populations.

Phytochemistry, antioxidant and antibacterial activities of fruit extracts of Myrsine africana L.

Myrsine africana L. a commonly consumed medicinal plant grows in forest of mountains region located at North East of Pakistan. In current study, the fruit extracts were chemically characterized and their bioactivities were determined. Higher quantity of total phenols, total flavonoids and tannins were obtained from methanolic fruit extracts. The HPLC analysis provided higher level of quercetin followed by rutin and p-coumaric acid. Whereas the GC-MS quantification had given significant level of ten saturated and unsaturated fatty acids and some of them were not reported earlier. In vitro study, lower cytotoxic behavior of fruit extracts but higher antioxidant values as well as higher zone of inhibition versus S. aureus, E. coli, K. pneumonia and B. subtilis and Mycobacterium tuberculosis were observed. The organic compounds found in fruit extracts of M. africana correlated well with its used in ethno medicines.

Fitness costs in chlorfenapyr-resistant populations of the chive maggot, Bradysia odoriphaga.

The chive maggot, Bradysia odoriphaga (Yang and Zhang) is an economically important insect pest, affecting many key vegetables, including Chinese chive, especially in northern China. Chlorfenapyr, a halogenated pyrrole insecticide that interferes with mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation is widely used against B. odoriphaga. In this study, we evaluated selection-induced resistance to chlorfenapyr and fitness costs in B. odoriphaga. The results showed that B. odoriphaga developed 43.32-fold resistance after continuous exposure to chlorfenapyr for over 10 consecutive generations. The life-history traits of chlorfenapyr-resistant and susceptible strains were compared using age-stage, two-sex life table approach. No significant effects were observed on the longevity and pre-adult period. However, reduction in the total pre-oviposition period (TPOP) and fecundity (eggs/female) were observed in the resistant strain. Moreover, the demographic parameters such as intrinsic rate of increase (r), net reproductive rate (R0) and finite rate of increase (λ) were also decreased significantly in the resistant strain compared to the susceptible strain. These results showed the potential of B. odoriphaga to develop resistance against chlorfenapyr under continuous selection pressure. Furthermore, there was a fitness cost linked with chlorfenapyr resistance in B. odoriphaga. We conclude that a better knowlegde on the trade-off at play between resistance degree and fitness cost could be crucial for developing further management of B. odoriphaga in China.

Functional analysis of cytochrome P450 genes linked with acetamiprid resistance in melon aphid, Aphis gossypii.

Cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (P450s) are highly conserved multifunctional enzymes that play crucial roles in insecticide resistance development. In this study, the molecular mechanisms of P450s in acetamiprid resistance development to melon aphid, Aphis gossypii was investigated. Acetamiprid resistant (32.64-fold resistance) population (Ace-R) of A. gossypii was established by continuous selection with acetamiprid for 24 generations. Quantitative Real Time PCR was carried out to analyze the expression of P450 genes in both acetamiprid resistant (Ace-R) and susceptible (Ace-S) strains. Result showed that nine genes (CYP6CY14, CYP6DC1, CYP6CZ1, CYP6DD1, CYP6CY5, CYP6CY9, CYP6DA1, CYP6CY18, and CYP6CY16) of CYP3 clade, four genes (CYP302A1, CYP315A1, CYP301A1, and CYP314A1) of CYP2 clade, two genes (CYP4CK1, CYP4G51) of CYP4 clade and three genes (CYP306A1, CYP305E1, CYP307A1) of mitochondrial clade (Mito clad) were significantly up-regulated, in Ace-R compared to Ace-S strain. Whilst CYP4CJ2 gene from (CYP4 clade) was significantly down-regulated in Ace-R strain. Furthermore, RNA interference-mediated knockdown of CYP6CY14, CYP6DC1, and CYP6CZ1 genes significantly increased the sensitivity of Ace-R strain to acetamiprid. Taken together, this study showed that P450 genes especially CYP6CY14, CYP6DC1 and CYP6CZ1 are potentially involved in acetamiprid resistance development in A. gossypii. This study could be useful to understand the molecular basis of acetamiprid resistance mechanism in A. gossypii.

Thiamethoxam induces transgenerational hormesis effects and alteration of genes expression in Aphis gossypii.

Insecticide induced-hormesis, a bi-phasic phenomenon characterized by low dose stimulation and high dose inhibition following exposure to insecticide, is crucial to insect pest resurgence. In this study, the effects of low or sublethal concentrations of thiamethoxam on biological traits and genes expression were investigated for Aphis gossypii Glover following 72 h exposures. Leaf-Dip bioassay results showed that thiamethoxam was very toxic against adult A. gossypii with an LC50 of 1.175 mg L-1. The low lethal (LC15) and sublethal (LC5) concentrations of thiamethoxam significantly reduced longevity and fecundity of the directly exposed aphids. However, stimulatory effects on pre-adult stage, longevity, and fertility were observed in the progeny generation (F1) of A. gossypii, when parental aphids (F0) were exposed to LC15 of thiamethoxam. Subsequently, biological traits such as intrinsic rate of increase (r), finite rate of increase (λ), and net reproductive rate (R0) increased significantly to F1 individuals due to LC15 treatment. No significant responses were observed for LC5 of thiamethoxam. The LC15 of thiamethoxam significantly increased the expression level of vitellogenin and ecdysone receptors genes in progeny generation, while no effects were observed for treatment with LC5. Additionally, the expression levels of P450 genes including CYP6CY14, CYP6CZ1, CYP6DC1, CYP6CY9, and CYP6DD1 were up-regulated in the exposed aphids. Taken together, our results show the hormetic effects of thiamethoxam on F1 individuals, which might be due to the intermittent changes in expression of genes involved in fertility, growth and insecticide detoxification in A. gossypii.

Chemical profiling and bioactivities on the leaf extracts of Vitex neugundo.

The Vitex negeundo is a widely used medicinal plant which has not been fully investigated in the past. We assessed the in vivo hepatoprotective and in vitro antioxidant, antibacterial, cytotoxicity and anti proliferative study of leaf extracts of V. neugundo. The chemically profiled using HPLC, three flavonoids were quantified and GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of two new compounds those were not reported earlier from the leaf extract of V. neugundo. The animal study was conducted on mice treated with CCl4 using methanolic and chloroform extracts (100, 200 and 300mg/kg b.w), with silymarin as a positive control. Hepatoprotective effects were determined by analyzing blood for liver marker enzymes, direct bilirubins and hematological parameters (RBC, WBC and platelets). The methanolic extract (300mg/kg b.w) has shown the stronger hepatoprotective effects against abnormalities produced by CCl4. The in vivo hepatoprotective effects correlated well with the in vitro antioxidant, cytotoxicity and antiproliferative activities and with high levels of flavonoids and other organic compounds analyzed from plant extracts. The leaf extracts of this plant could be good candidates for lead compound required for the development of antioxidant/anticancer drugs.

Chemical profiling, in vitro and in vivo bioactivities of leaf extracts of Vitex neugundo.

The Vitex negeundo is a widely used medicinal plant which has not been fully investigated in the past. We assessed the in vivo hepatoprotective and in vitro antioxidant, antibacterial, cytotoxicity and antiproliferative study of leaf extracts of V. Neugundo. The chemically profiled using HPLC, three flavonoids were quantified and GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of two new compounds those were not reported earlier. The animal study was conducted on mice treated with CCl4 using methanolic and chloroform extracts (100, 200 and 300 mg/kg b.w), with silymarin as a positive control. Hepatoprotective effects were determined by analyzing blood for liver marker enzymes, direct bilirubins and hematological parameters (RBC, WBC and platelets). The methanolic extract (300 mg/kg b.w) has shown the stronger hepatoprotective effects against abnormalities produced by CCl4. The in vivo hepatoprotective effects correlated well with the in vitro antioxidant, cytotoxicity and antiproliferative activities and with high levels of flavonoids and other organic compounds analyzed from plant extracts. The leaf extracts of this plant could be good candidates for lead compound required for the development of antioxidant/anticancer drugs.

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection and advanced maternal age: Success or treatment failure?

Infertility rate documented in Pakistan is 21.9% with only 25% success rate even after procedures like intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). This rate is further on the decline with enhancement of female age. We aimed to observe the effect of female age on oocyte parameters and reproductive outcome after ICSI. It was done by retrospective analysis of a quasi- experimental design carried out after approval from "Ethical review board of Islamabad clinic serving infertile couples" from July 2010 to August 2011. The response to ovarian stimulation in (282) females was assessed on the basis of groups, A, B, C and D with age ranges up to 25years; 25.1 to 30years; 30.1 to 35years and >35years, respectively. The outcome was assessed as non-pregnant, preclinical abortion and clinical pregnancy groups on the basis of beta hCG and cardiac activity by trans-vaginal scan. We observed that maximum number of pregnancies 32 (38%) occurred in C group, and least 10 (10%) in group A. There was a statistical reduction in the number of mature and fertilized oocytes as the age advanced from group C to D (p<0.05).This shows that reduction in maturity and fertilization of oocytes with advancement of age recommends early referral of couples to assisted reproductive clinics.

Phytochemical screening and bioactivity assessment of leaves and fruits extract of Carica papaya.

The consumption of fruits and vegetables has increased in recent years due to their health benefits as fruits and vegetables contain secondary metabolites, those has been reported to possess different pharmacological effects against many human ailments. In the current study antioxidants, antimicrobial and cytotoxic effects of leaves and fruit extracts of Carica papaya were evaluated. The antioxidant activities of plant extracts were carried out by using 2,2 -diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl. (DPPH), H2O2, 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) and reducing power assays and were compared with standards compounds (Ascorbic acid and Rutin). Antibacterial and antifungal activities of leaves and fruit extracts were assessed against four bacterial and fungal strains and also their minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were calculated. Whereas for evaluation of cytotoxicity of plant extracts, brine shrimps cytotoxic assay was performed. Plant extracts were finally analyzed for phytochemicals by using UV/Visible spectrophotometer and High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Results indicates that plants extracts contained important compounds (phenols, flavonoids and other secondary metabolites) those have higher antioxidants and antimicrobial as well as lower proportion of MIC values. Whereas cytotoxic index of plant extracts were minor that specifies its appropriateness to use as a pharmaceutical materials probably be essential for drugs preparation. It is expected that such drugs could be lesser toxic and have lower cost as compared to drugs already available in market.

Pharmacological and phytochemical analysis of Bergenia ciliata leaf and rhizome extracts.

Antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, cytotoxic, and anti-haemolytic activity of various rhizome extracts of Bergenia ciliata were evaluated in this study. The results showed inhibition of the growth of all selected bacterial and fungal strains in comparison with standard antibiotics. The antioxidant activities of Bergenia ciliata extracts were evaluated against DPPH, H2O2, ABTS, total antioxidant capacity and reducing power assays. The order of antioxidant activity of various extracts were methanol> ethanol>n-hexane> aqueous>chloroform. The cytotoxicity ( brine shrimp assay) and anti-haemolytic activities of plant extracts were also promising and varies in dose depended manner. The phytochemical analysis of rhizome extracts of Bergenia ciliata revealed presence of various secondary metabolites which might be responsible for the antimicrobial, antioxidant, cytotoxic and anti-haemolytic activities.

The In Vitro and In Vivo Biological Activities of the Leaf of Cape Myrtle, Myrsine africana L.

The cape myrtle, Myrsine africana L., is a widely used medicinal plant, which has not been well investigated. We assessed the in vivo hepatoprotective and in vitro antiproliferative and antioxidant effects of leaf extracts of M. africana chemically profiled using high-performance liquid chromatography. Three flavonoids were quantified, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis revealed the presence of common fatty acids. The animal study was conducted on mice treated with CCl4, using three doses each of the methanol and chloroform extract (100, 200 and 300 mg/kg b.w.),with silymarin as a positive control. Hepatoprotective effects were determined by analyzing blood for liver marker and antioxidant enzymes, direct bilirubins and total proteins. The methanol extract (300 mg/kg b.w.) showed the strongest hepatoprotective effects against abnormalities produced by CCl4. The in vivo hepatoprotective effects correlated well with the in vitro antioxidant and antiproliferative activities and with high levels of flavonoids in the extracts. Finally, molecular docking studies of the constituent quercetin were undertaken in silico and several sites of binding to human estrogen receptor (ER) protein, linked with alkaline phosphatase, identified. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Fertilization rate and its determinants in intracytoplasmic sperm injection.

OBJECTIVE: To identify predictors of fertilization rate in patients of unexplained infertility after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). METHODS: Retrospective analysis of females (282) enrolled in quasi experimental design for ICSI at "Islamabad Clinic Serving Infertile Couples" was carried out from July 2013 till June 2014. Females with unexplained infertility were included, whereas well defined male and female causes of infertility were excluded. Fertilization rate (FR) was calculated as percentage transformation of micro injected oocytes into two pronuclei. Categorical variable of FR defined on the basis of 50% FR grouped females; Group I with FR ≤50% and Group II with FR >50%. The groups were compared in terms of demographic variables, base line hormones and oocyte parameters. Univariate logistic regression was executed to obtain odds ratio with 95% confidence interval to quantify the association of predictors like age, duration of infertility, oocytes parameters, hormones; Estradiol, progesterone, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone, prolactin and cytokines interleukin-Iß (IL-Iß) with the FR. RESULTS: In our study out of 282 females, 19 (6.73%) were in group I and 263 (93.26%) comprised of Group II. Females with high FR(group II) had low Progesterone and FSH (p=0.04, p=0.02) respectively. Mature oocytes (OR: 0.35; 95% CI 1 - 2.56) and IL-Iß in follicular phase (OR: 1.04; 95% CI: 0.000- 1.20) were significant positive predictors of FR while peak progesterone and FSH had significant negative effect on it. CONCLUSION: Fertilization of oocytes in females of unexplained infertility depended on maturity of oocytes and optimal amounts of ILI- ß released by developing follicles in the follicular phase of stimulation cycles of ICSI.

"Mentorship" a stride towards maintenance of medical student's well being.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of mentorship programme with respect to emotional wellness of medical students. METHODS: The cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was carried out from March 2009 to February 2013 comprising first year medical students of five consecutive batches from two medical colleges. They were divided into two groups; Group A had non-mentored students from a medical college in Karachi, while Group B had mentored students of Bahria University Medical and Dental College, Karachi. Responses on aspects of emotional wellness was taken on a 4-point Likert scale; never, sometimes, mostly and always. Predictive Analysis Software version 18 was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: Out of the 500 questionnaires distributed to each batch, 423(84.6%) were returned filled in Group A and 450(90%) in Groups B. Overall, 873(87.3%) responses were obtained. Group A had 275(65%) females whereas in Group B there were 275(61%) females. The mean age of the overall study population was 20±2 years. The scores of emotional wellness were better in Group A compared to Group B 21.36±4.54 vs. 20.54±4.340 (p<0.028). The feeling of being cheerful and helpful was valued by 212(50%) students of Group A and 180(40%) of Group B (p<0.008). The satisfaction of being needed by family members and recognising stresses of life was significant in Group A (p<0.0001 vs. p<0.014). Group B had low emotional wellness scores yet 369(82%) had never consulted psychologists and psychiatrists compared to 13(0.03%) of Group A (p<0.02). Help from family members was also acquired by non-mentored students (p<0.003). CONCLUSION: Emotional support provided by mentoring programme of Bahria University Medical and Dental College minimised the stress, limited consultation by psychologists or psychiatrists, and reduced reservations of parents and students of first year medical education.

Impact of peak estradiol levels on reproductive outcome of intracytoplasmic sperm injection.

OBJECTIVE: To observe effect of peak estradiol (E2) levels on outcome after intra cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). METHODS: Quasi experimental design conducted in "Islamabad Clinic Serving Infertile Couples" from June 2010 till August 2011. Down regulation with mid luteal suppression of 564 females aged 18-41 years was done with gonadotrophin releasing hormone agonist followed by controlled ovarian stimulation, ovulation induction (OI), oocytes pickup and embryo transfer. Samples for peak serum E2 at the time of OI was estimated by Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay. The association of peak E2 with outcome groups of Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) (Group I) beta hCG <5 m IU/ml, (Group II) with beta hCG>5 mI U/ml and no cardiac activity and (Group III) with beta hCG>5mIU/ml and cardiac activity on trans vaginal scan was identified. Statistical comparison by one way analysis of variance (ANOVA) via SPSS version 15 was done. RESULTS: A clinical pregnancy rate of 36% was achieved, pregnant females(Group III) had higher peak E2 2269 ± 80.97 as compared to 1419 ± 37.07 and 1807±90.28 pg/ml (mean ± SD) in Groups I and II respectively (p<0.0001) Elevated serum E2 was significantly associated with better oocyte recovery, fertilization, cleavage and implantation rates (p<0.0001) . CONCLUSION: A high serum E2 measured on OI day can predict success of treatment after ICSI. Females who had high peak E2 had greater number of retrieved, mature and fertilized oocytes with thick endometrial lining that helped in implantation and clinical pregnancy.

Thiamethoxam-Induced Intergenerational Sublethal Effects on the Life History and Feeding Behavior of Rhopalosiphum padi.

Thiamethoxam, a second-generation neonicotinoid insecticide is widely used for controlling sap-sucking insect pests including Rhopalosiphum padi. The current study aimed to investigate the life-history parameters and feeding behavior of R. padi following treatments with sublethal concentrations of thiamethoxam. The lethal concentration 50 (LC50) value of thiamethoxam against adult R. padi was 11.458 mg L-1 after 48 h exposure. The sublethal concentrations of thiamethoxam (LC5 and LC10) significantly decreased the adult longevity, fecundity, and reproductive days in the directly exposed aphids (F0 generation). In the progeny R. padi (F1), the developmental durations and total prereproductive period (TPRP) were decreased while the adult longevity, fecundity, and reproductive days (RPd) were increased at both thiamethoxam concentrations. The demographic parameters including the net reproductive rate (R0), intrinsic rate of increase (r), and finite rate of increase (λ) were prolonged only at the LC5 of thiamethoxam. The EPG results indicated that the sublethal concentrations of thiamethoxam increases the total duration of non-probing (Np) while reducing the total duration of E2 in directly exposed aphids (F0). Interestingly, the E2 were significantly increased in the progeny generation (F1) descending from previously exposed parental aphids (F0). Overall, this study showed that thiamethoxam exhibited high toxicity against directly exposed individuals (F0), while inducing intergenerational hormetic effects on the progeny generation (F1) of R. padi. These findings provided crucial details about thiamethoxam-induced hormetic effects that might be useful in managing resurgences of this key pest.

Photosynthetic Acclimation of Shade-Grown Soybean Seedlings to a High-Light Environment.

Soybean in relay intercropping is initially exposed to a shade environment, followed by exposure to full sunlight after the harvesting of primary crops, e.g., maize. Therefore, soybean's ability to acclimate to this changing light environment determines its growth and yield formation. However, the changes in soybean photosynthesis under such light alternations in relay intercropping are poorly understood. This study compared the photosynthetic acclimation of two soybean varieties with contrasting shade tolerance, i.e., Gongxuan1 (shade-tolerant) and C103 (shade-intolerant). The two soybean genotypes were grown in a greenhouse under full sunlight (HL) and 40% full sunlight (LL) conditions. Subsequently, after the fifth compound leaf expanded, half of the LL plants were transferred to a high-sunlight environment (LL-HL). Morphological traits were measured at 0 and 10 days, while chlorophyll content, gas exchange characteristics and chlorophyll fluorescence were assayed at 0, 2, 4, 7 and 10 days after transfer to an HL environment (LL-HL). Shade-intolerant C103 showed photoinhibition 10 days after transfer, and the net photosynthetic rate (Pn) did not completely recover to that under a high light level. On the day of transfer, the shade-intolerant variety, C103, exhibited a decrease in net photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (Gs) and transpiration rate (E) in the low-light (LL) and low-light-to-high-light (LL-HL) treatments. Additionally, intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci) increased in low light, suggesting that non-stomatal factors were the primary limitations to photosynthesis in C103 following the transfer. In contrast, the shade-tolerant variety, Gongxuan1, displayed a greater increase in Pn 7 days after transfer, with no difference observed between the HL and LL-HL treatments. Ten days after transfer, the shade-tolerant Gongxuan1 exhibited 24.1%, 10.9% and 20.9% higher biomass, leaf area and stem diameter than the intolerant C103. These findings suggest that Gongxuan1 possesses a higher capacity to adapt to variations in light conditions, making it a potential candidate for variety selection in intercropping systems.