Photoactivated riboflavin-doped hydroxy apatite nanospheres infiltered in orthodontic adhesives.

To assess micro-tensile bond strength (µTBS), degree of conversion (DC), microleakage (ML) antibacterial efficacy, and adhesive remnant index (ARI) of orthodontic brackets to enamel with different concentrations of photoactivated riboflavin-doped hydroxyapatite (HA) nanospheres (NS) (0%,1%,5% and 10%) and 0.5 wt% RF alone in orthodontic adhesive. Samples were included on the predefined inclusion criteria and positioned up to the cementoenamel junction (CEJ). Hydroxy apatite nanospheres (HANS) commercially bought were doped with RF. Surface characterization of HANS and RF-doped HANS were assessed along with EDX analysis. Samples were grouped based on experimental orthodontic adhesive modification. Group 1: Transbond XT no modification, Group 2: experimental Transbond XT 0.5 wt% RF, Group 3: experimental Transbond XT 0.5 wt% RF-doped 1% HANS, Group 4: experimental Transbond XT 0.5 wt % RF-doped 5% HANS and Group 5: Experimental Transbond XT 0.5 wt% RF-doped 10% HANS. Brackets were placed based on different adhesive modifications and samples underwent thermocycling. Samples were evaluated for µTBS, DC, and ML. The type of failure was assessed using ARI. Adhesive modified and un-modified in four different concentrations (0%, 1%, 5%, and 10%) and 0.5 wt% RF only were used to test efficacy against Streptococcus mutans (S.mutans). The survival rate of S.mutans and ML was determined using the Kruskal-Wallis Test. For the analysis of µTBS, ANOVA was employed, followed by a post-hoc Tukey HSD multiple comparisons test. The highest µTBS and lowest ML were observed in Group 2 experimental Transbond XT 0.5 wt% RF only. The lowest µTBS, highest ML, and lowest DC was seen in Group 5 experimental Transbond XT 0.5 wt% RF-doped 10% HANS. Samples in Group 1 in which Transbond XT was used as adhesive demonstrated significantly the highest microbial count of S.mutans and DC. Photoactivated RF-doped HANS in 1% and 0.5 wt% Riboflavin alone in orthodontic adhesive for metallic bracket bonding improved micro tensile bond strength, ML, DC, and antibacterial scores. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: The highest µTBS and lowest ML were observed in Group 2 experimental Transbond XT 0.5 wt% RF only. The lowest µTBS, highest ML, and lowest DC was seen in Group 5 experimental Transbond XT 0.5 wt% RF-doped 10% HA-NS. Samples in Group 1 in which Transbond XT was used as adhesive demonstrated significantly the highest microbial count of S.mutans and DC.

Activity of Fluoroquinolones and Proton Pump Inhibitors against Resistant Oral Bacterial Biofilms, in silico and in vitro Analysis.

Oral bacterial infections are a great health concern worldwide especially in diabetic patients. Emergence of antimicrobial resistance with reference to biofilms in oral cavity is of great concern. We investigated antibiotics combination with proton pump inhibitors against oral clinical isolates. The strains were identified as Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus by the 16S rRNA gene sequencing. In molecular docking, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, and omeprazole best fit to active pockets of transcriptional regulators 4BXI and 3QP1. None of the proton pump inhibitors were active against S. epidermidis, whereas omeprazole showed significant inhibition (MIC 3.9 µg/ml). Fluoroquinolones were active against both S. epidermidis and S. aureus. In combination analysis, a marked decrease in minimum inhibitory concentration was noticed with omeprazole (MIC 0.12 µg/ml). In antiquorum sensing experiments, a significant inhibitory zone was shown for all fluoroquinolones (14-20 mm), whereas among proton pump inhibitors, only omeprazole (12 ± 0.12 mm) was active against Chromobacterium violaceum. In combination analysis, a moderate increase in antiquorum sensing activity was recorded for ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, and proton pump inhibitors. Further, significant S. aureus biofilm eradication was recorded using of ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, and omeprazole combination (78 ± 2.1%). The time-kill kinetic studies indicated a bactericidal effect by ciprofloxacin: levofloxacin: omeprazole combination over 24 hrs. It was concluded that fluoroquinolone combined with omeprazole could be an effective treatment option for eradicating oral bacterial biofilms.

Effect of adding sodium fluoride and nano-hydroxyapatite nanoparticles to the universal adhesive on bond strength and microleakage on caries-affected primary molars.

Evaluation of micro tensile bond strength (µTBS) and marginal leakage of sodium fluoride (NaF) and nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HA) modified universal adhesives (UAs) bonded using etch-and-rinse (ER) and self-etch (SE) bonding technique to the carious affected dentin (CAD). One hundred and twenty primary molars were prepared for CAD on the occlusal surface. The occlusal CAD surface was flattened and underwent a polishing procedure. The specimens were divided into six groups using a random allocation method based on the UAs applied and the mode of etching used (n = 20) Group A1: UAs (ER), Group B1: UAs (SE), Group A2: UAs (NaF) + ER, Group B2: UAs (NaF) + SE, Group A3: UA (n-HA) + ER and Group B3: UAs (n-HA) + SE. Composite restoration was placed and samples were thermocycled. Microleakage, µTBS, and failure mode assessment were performed using a dye penetration test, universal testing equipment, and stereomicroscope respectively. The µTBS and microleakage results (mean ± SD) were examined using analysis of the variance (ANOVA) and Tukey post hoc tests. Group B1 (UAs + SE) demonstrated the maximum scores of microleakage (25.14 ± 9.12 nm) and minimum recorded value of µTBS (14.16 ± 0.55 MPa). In contrast, Group A3 (UAs (n-HA) + ER) displayed a minimum value of marginal leakage (12.32 ± 6.33 nm) and maximum µTBS scores (19.22 ± 0.92 MPa). The outcomes of the intergroup comparison analysis showed that Group A2 (UAs (NaF) + ER), Group B2 (UAs (NaF) + SE), Group A3 (UA (n-HA) + ER) and Group B3 (UAs (n-HA) + SE) presented comparable outcomes of marginal seal outcomes and µTBS scores (p > 0.05). NaF and n-HA-modified UAs displayed favorable bond strength and minimum marginal leakage to the deciduous affected dentin surface.

Assessing the quality and standards of operative notes in general surgery; A teaching institute's experience in Pakistan.

Objective: To evaluate the quality and standard of hand-written operative notes in a teaching institute. Methods: This prospective study was carried out in the department of surgery, Fatima Hospital, Baqai Medical University, from January 2023 till May 2023. One hundred fifty operative notes from general surgery domain were considered. These notes were evaluated according to the guidelines of Royal College of Surgeons, with added-on a few variables by the author. Results: All 150 notes were handwritten. Resident surgeon wrote the operative notes under the supervision of primary surgeon. There was a deficiency in mentioning medical record number, procedure starting time and duration of surgery. An important statement about the hemostasis is that it is secured-per-operatively was not documented. The residents were reluctant to explain the surgical procedures diagrammatically. The operative room number was missing in all notes. Post operative instructions lacked the information for nothing per oral, blood pressure, temperature, pulse rate, and input and output charting. Conclusion: It is observed that the operative surgical notes were however explainable about the procedure, but quality and standard was not matchable with that of Royal College of Surgeons notes. Hence, a lack of formal training for the resident surgeons in operative notes writing was observed. This study is a thought provoker to the surgeons and a guide to resident trainees, and hospital management to provide a handful operative notes writing theme in the form of performa provided in the department.

Species groups, subgroups, and key to world species of the genus Schizotetranychus Trägårdh, 1915 (Acari, Prostigmata, Tetranychidae).

After a comprehensive taxonomic assessment of descriptions/ illustrations of all known (118) species of the spider mite genus Schizotetranychus Trägårdh (Acari: Prostigmata: Tetranychidae), five species groups are proposed based on the number of tactile setae on tibia II in female, i.e., vermiculatus with four setae (four spp.), schizopus with five setae (52 spp.), spireafolia with six setae (10 spp.), asparagi with seven setae (20 spp.), and bambusae with eight setae on tibia II (22 spp.). The species group schizopus is further divided into three species subgroups based on tactile setae on tibia I: schizopus with eight/ nine setae (21 spp.), andropogoni with seven setae (26 spp.), and taquarae with six tactile setae excluding the solenidion on tibia I (five spp.). Eight Schizotetranychus species were not assigned to any species group because of brief descriptions and/ or illustration and without information on the number of tactile setae on tibiae I and II. Moreover, two Schizotetranychus species, S.gausus Baker & Pritchard and S.luculentus Tseng that have six setae/ structures including a spinneret and a solenidion on the palp tarsus, are provisionally transferred to the genus Stigmaeopsis Banks. Finally, keys to species groups and subgroups of the world species of Schizotetranychus are provided.

Quantitative proteomics reveals significant variation in host responses of cattle with differing buffalo fly susceptibility.

Background: Control of buffalo flies (Haematobia irritans exigua, BFs) relies mainly on chemical methods; however, resistance to insecticides is widespread in BF populations. Breeding for resistance to BFs represents a possible alternative, but direct phenotyping of animals is laborious and often inaccurate. The availability of reliable diagnostic biomarker(s) to identify low BF carrier cattle would facilitate rapid and accurate selection for genetic improvement. However, limited information is available regarding differences amongst cattle in host responses to BF infestation. Methods: This study investigated the variation in Brangus cattle serum proteomic profiles before (naïve) and after peak BF exposure, in low (LF) and high BF burden (HF) cattle. Cattle were phenotyped for susceptibility based on BF counts on multiple dates using visual and photographic techniques. The relative abundance of serum proteins in cattle before and after exposure to BFs was analysed using sequential window acquisition of all theoretical fragment ion mass spectrometry (SWATH-MS). Results: Exposure to BFs elicited similar responses in HF and LF cattle, with 79 and 70 proteins, respectively, showing significantly different abundances post exposure as compared to their relevant naïve groups. The comparison of serum samples from naïve HF and LF cattle identified 44 significantly differentially abundant (DA) proteins, while 37 significantly DA proteins were identified from the comparison between HF and LF cattle post-exposure to BFs. Proteins with higher abundance in naïve LF cattle were enriched in blood coagulation mechanisms that were sustained after exposure to BFs. Strong immune response mechanisms were also identified in naïve LF cattle, whereas these responses developed in HF cattle only after exposure to BF. High BF cattle also showed active anticoagulation mechanisms in response to BF exposure, including downregulation of coagulation factor IX and upregulation of antithrombin-III, which might facilitate BF feeding. Conclusion: Underlying differences in the abundance of proteins related to blood coagulation and immune response pathways could potentially provide indirect indicators of susceptibility to BF infestation and biomarkers for selecting more BF-resistant cattle.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Predicting Intradialytic Hypotension in Hemodialysis Patients: A Systematic Review.

Intradialytic hypotension (IDH) is a common and potentially life-threatening complication in hemodialysis patients. Traditional preventive measures have shown limited effectiveness in reducing IDH incidence. This systematic review evaluates the existing literature on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) models for predicting IDH in hemodialysis patients. A comprehensive literature search identified five eligible studies employing diverse AI/ML algorithms, including artificial neural networks, decision trees, support vector machines, XGBoost, random forests, and LightGBM. These models utilized various features such as patient demographics, clinical data, laboratory findings, and dialysis-related parameters. The studies reported promising results, with several models achieving high prediction accuracies, sensitivities, specificities, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values for predicting IDH. However, limitations include variations in study populations, retrospective designs, and the need for prospective validation. Future research should focus on multicenter prospective studies, assessing clinical utility, and integrating interpretable AI/ML models into clinical decision support systems.

Modified Hybrid Hydroxyapatite-Silver Nanoparticles Activated via a Blue Light Source in Various Concentrations in Two-Step Self-Etch Adhesive to Caries-Affected Primary Dentin.

Aims: To evaluate hydroxyapatite-silver (HA-Ag) hybrid nanoparticles (NPs), as an antibacterial agent when integrated in self-etch (SE) adhesive. Blue light activated HA-Ag hybrid NP incorporation on mechanical properties, degree of conversion (DC), and microtensile bond strength (µTBS). Method: Eighty primary molar teeth have carious lesions reaching the dentin but not involving the pulp. The infected dentin was removed and carious-affected dentin (CAD) was preserved. Forty samples were inoculated with Streptococcus mutans. All primary teeth (n = 80) were allocated into four groups based on the incorporation of HA-Ag hybrid NPs in different concentrations (0%, 1%, 5%, and 10%). Group 1: 0% HA-Ag hybrid NPs + Clearfil SE bond primer, group 2: 1% HA-Ag hybrid NPs + Clearfil SE bond primer, group 3: 5 wt% HA-Ag NPs + Clearfil SE bond primer, and group 4: 10 wt% HA-Ag NPs + Clearfil SE bond primer. The survival rate assessment of S. mutans was conducted on 40 inoculated samples. On the remaining primary teeth (n = 40), Clearfil SE bonding agent was applied uniformly via a blue light source. The composite buildup was performed on the samples and µTBS and failure analysis assessed. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was performed to assess DC. Survival rates of S. mutans and µTBS among the tested groups were compared using ANOVA and Tukey post hoc analysis. Results: 10 wt % HA-Ag NPs + Clearfil SE bond primer exhibited the highest level of antibacterial efficacy (0.14 ± 0.02 CFU/mL) against S. mutans. The highest µTBS (18.38 ± 0.78 MPa) at the composite/CAD interface was in group 2 (1 wt % HA-Ag NPs + Clearfil SE bond primer + Clearfil SE bonding agent + activation with a blue light source). The highest DC was observed in the control group with Clearfil SE bond primer + Clearfil SE bonding agent + activation with a blue light source. Conclusion: 1 wt% HA-Ag hybrid NPs showed enhanced antibacterial effectiveness, DC, and bond strength of the SE adhesive to the primary CAD.

Phytochemical investigation of Chrysanthellum americanum Vatke and its constituents- a targeted approach for the treatment of leishmaniasis.

The present study is focused on the isolation and identification of new therapeutic candidates from Chrysanthellum americanum Vatke., and their efficacy against pteridine reductase-1 (PTR1), a valid chemotherapeutic target in the Leishmania parasite. Henceforth, a new compound, chrysanamerine (1), along with 7 known compounds, polyacetylene 2, and flavonoids 3-8, were isolated from C. americanum. Their structures were determined by chemical and spectroscopic analyses and compared with the reported spectroscopic data. All compounds were evaluated for their anti-leishmanial activity against PTR1 via biochemical mechanism-based assay. The in vitro results showed five potential hits including a new compound, chrysanamerine (1), and four known compounds against the PTR1 enzyme. Among them, compound 1 showed a potent enzyme inhibition with an IC50 of 31.02 ± 2.36 µM, whereas a moderate inhibition was observed in cases of compounds 5 and 6 (IC50 = 59.86 ± 3.32, and 45.32 ± 3.5 µM, respectively). Whereas, compounds 3 and 8 showed mild inhibition (IC50 = 72.12 ± 1.12, and 97.18 ± 1.23 µM, respectively) against PTR1, compared with trimethoprim (positive control) (IC50 = 21.07 ± 1.6 µM). Moreover, the results were further validated via molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Compound 1 showed a strong affinity to the binding site with a docking score of -11.83, along with the formation of a stable protein-ligand complex over the trajectory of 100 ns. Besides, compounds 1-8 were found to be non-cytotoxic on BJ (human fibroblast) cells.

Can vacuum-formed retainers maintain arch dimensions and alignment compared to Hawley and fixed bonded retainers after treatment with fixed appliances? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Different types of retention appliances have been proposed over the years, but their effectiveness in maintaining arch dimensions and alignment after orthodontic treatment is still unclear. AIM: To assess the efficacy of vacuum-formed retainers (VFRs) in preserving arch widths, arch length, and anterior alignment in maxillary and mandibular arches, compared to removable Hawley retainers (HRs) or fixed bonded retainers (FBRs). Search methods: unrestricted literature search of five major databases up to March 2024. SELECTION CRITERIA: randomized/non-randomized clinical studies comparing VFRs to removable HRs or FBRs. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: after duplicate study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment, random effects meta-analyses of standardized mean differences and their 95% confidence intervals were performed, followed by meta-regressions, sensitivity analyses, and assessment of the quality of evidence with GRADE. RESULTS: Twenty-two prospective studies (4 non-randomized and 18 randomized controlled trials) involving 1797 patients (mean age 17.01 years, 38.3% males) were included. No significant differences were found in the intercanine width, intermolar width, and arch length between VFRs and HRs, in both arches (P > 0.05). However, VFRs were statistically more effective than HRs in terms of Little's irregularity scores (LII) in the maxilla (eight studies; SMD = -0.42; 95% CI: -1.03 to -0.09; P = 0.02; I2 = 73.4%) but not in the mandible (P = 0.12). No significant differences were reported for all considered outcomes between VFRs and FBRs in in both arches (P > 0.05), except for lower LII, where VFRs were significantly less efficient (eight studies; SMD = 1.49; 95% CI = 0.26-2.7; P = 0.02; I2 = 93%). Follow-up times, risk of bias, and wire type (of FBRs) did not show statistically significant effects on outcome variables. Sensitivity analyses showed robustness of the findings for including non-randomized and postretention studies. The certainty in these estimates was from moderate to low due to the risk of bias and inconsistency. CONCLUSIONS: Low to moderate quality evidence indicates that VFRs are as effective as HRs in maintaining arch widths, length, and alignment. Low-quality evidence found similar efficacy between VFRs and FBRs, with FBRs being statistically more effective at maintaining lower arch alignment, but the difference was not clinically significant. REGISTRATION: PROSPERO registration (CRD42024518433).

Complications and Revision Surgery in Orthopedics Focusing on Traumatology.

BACKGROUND: Orthopedic traumatology, a vital component of orthopedic surgery, poses significant challenges in managing complications and necessitating revision surgeries. These challenges impact clinical outcomes, healthcare economics, and patient well-being. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to provide insights that informed clinical decision-making and improved patient outcomes by thoroughly examining the range of complications encountered in orthopedic traumatology. Specifically, the research focused on the indications, techniques, and outcomes of revision surgeries. METHODOLOGY: This retrospective cohort research looked at orthopedic traumatology complications and revision procedures over a thorough two-year period from March 2021 to March 2023 at Hayatabad Medical Complex in Peshawar, Pakistan. The following information was gathered from 316 patients receiving orthopedic surgery for traumatic injuries: demographics, kinds of trauma, surgical methods, complications, indications, methods, and results of revision surgery. For data analysis, chi-square tests and descriptive statistics were used, with the goal of finding patterns and correlations within the research population. RESULTS: The average age of the 316 patients was 42.5 years, and 64.76% of them were male (n = 192). The most frequent kind of trauma (n = 218; 69.01%) was fractures, which were mostly brought on by falls (n = 147; 46.52%). The most common surgical method (n = 138; 43.67%) was found to be internal fixation, which was followed by external fixation (n = 67; 21.20%). The most common complication (n = 78; 24.68%) was surgical site infection, which resulted in revision procedures mostly for infection (n = 68; 21.52%) and implant failure (n = 56; 17.72%). Debridement was the most often used revision approach (n = 95; 30.10%), and it was substantially correlated with surgical outcomes, such as increased function (31%) and full resolution (36%). CONCLUSION: This research emphasizes the need to maximize patient outcomes for improved well-being and highlights the crucial role that careful care plays in managing complications and revision operations in orthopedic traumatology.

Identification of QTLs associated with yield-related traits and superior genotype prediction using recombinant inbred line population in tobacco.

Tobacco is an economically significant industrial crop and model plant for genetic research, yet little is known about its genetic architecture. Quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis was performed for six agronomic traits on an F_7 population of 341 genotypes, parents, and F1 plants using 1974 SSR markers across two environments. 31 QTLs contributing single-locus additive effects on 13 linkage groups (LGs) and 6 QTL pairs contributing epistatic effects on 6 LGs, were detected by the QTLNetwork 2.0 which was developed for the mixed-linear-model-based composite interval mapping (MCIM). Notably, 5 QTLs and 1 epistatic QTL pair were found to have pleiotropic effects on some genetically related traits. Moreover, the Broad sense heritability of the detected QTLs ranged from 1.05% to 43.33%, while genotype-by-environment interaction heritability spanned from 27.09% to 56.25%. Based on the results of QTL mapping, the potential superior lines for all or specific environments were designed and evaluated. Five major QTLs were finely dissected based on the tobacco reference genome of K326, and 31 candidate genes were predicted. This study offered new insights into the complicated genetic architecture and QTL resources for efficient breeding design for genetic improvement of agronomic traits in tobacco.

Deciphering the mechanistic role of Bacillus paramycoides (PM51) and Bacillus tequilensis (PM52) in bio-sorption and phyto-assimilation of Cadmium via Linum usitatissimum L. Seedlings.

Three Cd2+ resistant bacterium's minimal inhibition concentrations were assessed and their percentages of Cd2+ accumulation were determined by measurements using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). The results revealed that two isolates Bacillus paramycoides (PM51) and Bacillus tequilensis (PM52), identified by 16S rDNA gene sequencing, showed a higher percentage of Cd2+ accumulation i.e., 83.78% and 81.79%, respectively. Moreover, both novel strains can tolerate Cd2+ levels up to 2000 mg/L isolated from district Chakwal. Amplification of the czcD, nifH, and acdS genes was also performed. Batch bio-sorption studies revealed that at pH 7.0, 1 g/L of biomass, and an initial 150 mg/L Cd2+ concentration were the ideal bio-sorption conditions for Bacillus paramycoides (PM51) and Bacillus tequilensis (PM52). The experimental data were fit to Langmuir isotherm measurements and Freundlich isotherm model R2 values of 0.999 for each of these strains. Bio sorption processes showed pseudo-second-order kinetics. The intra-diffusion model showed Xi values for Bacillus paramycoides (PM51) and Bacillus tequilensis (PM52) of 2.26 and 2.23, respectively. Different surface ligands, was investigated through Fourier-transformation infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The scanning electron microscope SEM images revealed that after Cd2+ adsorption, the cells of both strains became thick, adherent, and deformed. Additionally, both enhanced Linum usitatissimum plant seed germination under varied concentrations of Cd2+ (0 mg/L, 250 mg/L,350 mg/L, and 500 mg/L). Current findings suggest that the selected strains can be used as a sustainable part of bioremediation techniques.

Structural insights into novel therapeutic deep eutectic systems with capric acid using 1D, 2D NMR and DSC techniques with superior gut permeability.

Therapeutic deep eutectic solvents (THEDSs) are the best exemplification of green alternative formulations of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) that offer superlative properties of APIs. Previously, THEDESs of risperidone, fentanyl and levofloxacin with capric acid (CA) were developed by our group. These APIs share cyclic tertiary amine nuclei. Herein, DESs of two drugs bearing cyclic tertiary amine nucleus, namely, droperidol and aripiprazole, in the presence of CA, were investigated as model drugs. Comprehensive analyses were conducted using liquid-state 1D and 2D NMR and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to elucidate the regiochemistry and thermodynamic mechanisms bringing about those THEDESs. Everted gut sac technique was used to study the flux of the developed THEDESs. 1D and 2D NMR techniques analyses revealed the importance of cyclic tertiary amine nuclei in forming interactions with CA. This was confirmed by the downfield shift of the protons proximal to the tertiary amine groups compared to the individual drugs. Diffusion NMR analysis (DOSY) showed a significant reduction in the diffusion coefficient of CA in the mixed system compared with CA in isolation. Thermal analysis of the two drugs revealed that the drugs have a low tendency to recrystallise upon melting but rather vitrify from a melt to form an amorphous solid. Interestingly, the superior absorption and flux of the THEDES formulation of droperidol was demonstrated using the ERIS. Collectively, this work provides a green method to attain liquid formulations of APIs with enhanced pharmacokinetic features.

Scanning electron microscopic investigation on Chicory tribe (Compositae) botanical sources and their antimicrobial potential.

This study discusses the micro-level structural details of Cichorieae pollen sources elucidated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and explains their symmetry and morphometry. The in-depth knowledge from the electron ultrastructure of Asteraceae pollen has provided insights into enhanced pollen morphology, and the antimicrobial significance of species under study presents novel avenues for their natural defense mechanisms in the development of antimicrobial agents. In this research, both quantitative and qualitative features of pollen were examined. The pollen grains are prolate-spheroidal and oblate-spheroidal in shape, characterized by a maximum polar diameter of 55.6-61.0 µm and a maximum equatorial distance of 68.3-74.4 µm. SEM reveals various configurations such as echinate perforate-tectate, psilate, and echino-lophate perforate. The Cichorieae species have significant antimicrobial efficacy and are promising sources for the development of novel antimicrobial drugs with potential implications in pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. SEM analysis of Cichorieae pollens has provided remarkable insights into their unique structures, revealing diverse shapes and surface ornamentations, which can be used for accurate Asteraceae species identification. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: SEM provides unique pollen surface structures and patterns of Chicory pollen grains. Chemical composition of Chicory botanical sources provides valuable information on their potential as antimicrobial agents. SEM imaging reveals specialized fenestrate grain structures of taxonomic importance.

Validation of Bos taurus SNPs for Milk Productivity of Sahiwal Breed (Bos indicus), Pakistan.

The aim of the present study was the validation of the already reported Bos taurus SNPs in the Sahiwal breed. A total of nine SNPs of the casein gene were studied. Out of nine, seven Bos taurus SNPs of casein protein genes were found to be significantly associated with milk productivity traits. The genomic DNA was extracted from the mammary alveolar endothelial cells of a flock of 80 purebred Sahiwal lactating dams available at Khizrabad Farm near Sargodha. New allele-specific primers were designed from the NCBI annotated sequence database of Bos taurus to obtain 100 nt-long PCR products. Each dam was tested separately for all the SNPs investigated. Animals with genotype GG for the SNPs rs43703010, rs10500451, and 110323127, respectively, exhibited high milk yield. Similarly, animals with genotype AA for the SNPs rs11079521, rs43703016, and rs43703017 showed high milk yield consistently. For the SNP rs43703015, animals with genotype CC showed high milk productivity. These above-mentioned SNPs have previously been reported to significantly up-regulate casein protein contents in Bos taurus. Our results indicated SNPs that significantly affect the milk protein contents may also significantly increase per capita milk yield. These finding suggest that the above-mentioned reported SNPs can also be used as genetic markers of milk productivity in Sahiwal cattle.

First Report of Wilt Caused by Fusarium nanum (FIESC 25) on Mungbean (Vigna radiata) in Pakistan.

Mungbean, Vigna radia (L.) R. Wilczek, is ranked 2nd next to chickpea (Cicer arietinum) in total cultivation and production in Pakistan. In August of 2022 and 2023, mungbean plants (cv. PRI Mung-2018) were found wilting in a field at the Ayub Agricultural Research Institute, Faisalabad, Pakistan. Wilted leaves turned yellow, died, but remained attached to the stem. Vascular tissue at the base of the stem showed light to dark brown discoloration. Roots were stunted with purplish brown to black discoloration. Symptomatic mungbean plants were collected from fields at five different locations (20 samples/location). Disease incidence was similar among the five fields, ranging from 5 to 10% at each location depending upon type of germplasm and date of sowing. For fungal isolation and morphological identification, symptomatic stem and root tissues were cut into ~5 mm2 pieces with a sterilized blade. Tissues were surface-sterilized for one min in a 0.5% sodium hypochlorite solution, rinsed twice in sterilized water, air dried on sterilized filter paper, and aseptically placed on potato dextrose agar (PDA) containing 0.5 g/L-1 streptomycin sulphate. Plates were incubated for 3-4 days at 25 ± 2°C with a 12-h photoperiod. Single-spore cultures were used for morphological and molecular analyses. Isolates on PDA grew rapidly and produced abundant white aerial mycelium that turned off-white to beige with age. Macroconidia were hyaline, falcate, typically 3-to-6 septate with a pointed apical cell and a foot-shaped basal cell, measuring 24.5-49.5 x 2.7-4.7 µm (n = 40). Globose to obovate chlamydospores measuring 5.8 ± 0.5 µm (n = 40) were produced singly or in chains and were intercalary or terminal and possessed roughened walls. The morphological data indicated the isolates were members of the genus Fusarium (Leslie and Summerell 2006). To obtain a species-level identification, a portion of translation elongation factor 1-α (TEF1), the largest subunit of RNA polymerase (RPB1), and the second largest subunit of RNA polymerase (RPB2) region were PCR amplified and sequenced using EF1/EF2 (O'Donnell et al. 1998), Fa/G2R (Hofstetter et al. 2007), and 5f2/7cr (Liu et al. 1999) primers, respectively. DNA sequences of these genes were deposited in GenBank under accession numbers MW059021, MW059017 and MW059019, respectively. The partial TEF1, RPB1 and RPB2 sequences were queried against the Fusarium MLST database (https://fusarium.mycobank.org/page/Fusarium_identification), using the polyphasic identification tool. The BLASTn search revealed 99.9% identity of the isolate to F. nanum (Xia et al. 2019), formerly FIESC 25 of the F. incarnatum-equiseti species complex (MRC 2610, NRRL 54143; O'Donnell et al. 2018). To confirm pathogenicity, roots of 3-5 leaf stage mungbean seedlings were soaked in a 106 spores ml-1 conidial suspension of the fungus for 15 min and then planted in 10 cm pots containing sterilized soil. Mock-inoculated plants with sterile water served as a negative control. Twenty pots that were used for each inoculated and control treatment were maintained at 25 ± 2°C, 14:8 h photoperiod, and 80% relative humidity in a growth chamber. After 15 days, leaf yellowing, internal browning from the base of stems and root discoloration was observed in all the inoculated plants. The uninoculated negative control plants remained asymptomatic. Fusarium nanum was re-isolated from artificially inoculated plants and identified by colony growth, conidial characteristics on PDA and molecular analyses (TEF1). To our knowledge, this is the first report of wilt caused by F.nanum on mungbean in Pakistan. In Pakistan, mungbean cultivation in irrigated areas has increased in recent years. It has been introduced frequently in citrus orchards, crop rotation of maize and sesame, intercropping with sugarcane and as green manure. However, citrus, maize, sesame and sugarcane are also hosts of Fusarium spp. Therefore, this information warrants sustainable crop protection and may have an impact on further interaction of F. nanum with other wilt pathogens.

Assessment of knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding the relationship of obesity with diabetes among the general community of Pakistan.

This study sought to evaluate the influence of knowledge, attitude, and practices assessment on diabetes related to obesity in Pakistani society. Data was collected both through door to door and online survey approaches from 518 participants by using a pre-validated questionnaire. A total of 15.6% were underweight, 61.2% were normal weight, 17.2% were overweight and 5.8% were in obesity class I and 2.9% were classified as obesity class II. The co-occurrence of obesity and diabetes was 29% (n = 22) among diabetic individuals (n = 84). A majority of the residents (59.1%) were from cities. While 94% of the participants responded to what obesity was, 83.8% knew what diabetes was. Fast food, soft drinks, and mayonnaise were deemed to be healthy by 75.1% of the respondents. Obesity was viewed as a disease by 94.8%, a major health issue by 78.2%, and a weight-loss necessity by 44.6% of participants. Only 24.9% exercised every day, and 23.9% engaged in any physical activity daily. The majority of respondents (50.6%) never tried to lose weight and 23.2% ate junk food daily. The sociodemographic variables showed that the age ranges of 25-34 years (P < 0.001; OR 0.531), 45-54 years (P < 0.05; OR 0.527), and urban residency (P < 0.001; OR 0.128) had a significant association with knowledge. The factors of urban residency (P < 0.001; OR 3.996), being unmarried (P < 0.001; OR 1.95), and having an income of 51,000-70,000 (P < 0.001; OR 11.29) showed a very highly significant association with a good attitude regarding the relationship of obesity with diabetes (P < 0.05). Similarly, practices of the participants showed significant association with BMI range of 18.5-24.9 and 25-29.9 (P < 0.001). Our study revealed significant knowledge and understanding of the relationship between obesity with diabetes. However, it was observed that majority of respondents exhibited fundamental knowledge regarding obesity and diabetes, there was a notable absence of understanding regarding crucial elements, such as the significance of maintaining a healthy body weight, participating in physical activity, and implementing appropriate dietary strategies for weight control. We recognize the necessity for education initiatives and strongly encourage them to assist individuals in managing diabetes resulting from obesity.

Inter-observer and intra-observer agreement of cervical vertebral maturation staging: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: The accurate assessment of active growth is pivotal for the correction of skeletal malocclusion in growing patients. Cervical vertebral maturation (CVM) staging is easy and devoid of unnecessary radiation, but its inter- and intra-observer agreement is still debatable. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to assess inter-observer (reliability) and intra-observer agreement (reproducibility) for CVM staging. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search across five databases up to October 2023 was conducted. Inclusion criteria comprised observational studies that specifically reported intra-rater, inter-rater, or both agreements as their primary objectives for cervical vertebral maturation (CVM) staging. Studies with a sample size exceeding 15 participants were considered for inclusion. After duplicate study selection, data extraction, and risk-of-bias assessment, random-effects meta-analyses of kappa (k)/correlation coefficient (r) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were performed, followed by meta-regressions, sensitivity analyses, and subgroup analyses. RESULTS: Seventeen observational studies (comprising 1437 lateral cephalograms and 110 assessors) were included. The reliability (8 studies; k=0.62 [95% CI: 0.44, 0.78]) and reproducibility (9 studies; k=0.708 [95% CI: 0.59, 0.82]) were substantial. The inter-observer correlation was almost perfect (in 9 studies; r=0.86 [95% CI: 0.82, 0.89]) while intra-observer correlation was substantial (in 2 studies; r=0.75 [95% CI: 0.62, 0.84]). Tracing of lateral cephalograms significantly increased inter-observer reliability (ß=0.29 [0.57, 0.0031]) but cropping and time of assessment (initial vs. follow-up) had no significant impact. The reliability (P<0.001) and reproducibility (P=0.049) of high-quality studies were superior to those observed in low-quality studies. CONCLUSION: Assessment of the CVM staging is accurate and reproducible to a satisfactory level. The accuracy and reproducibility of CVM are higher in studies utilizing traced cephalograms and those with a low-risk of bias. REGISTRATION: PROSPERO registration (CRD42023468521). Data is openly available at https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10599129.

Optimization of inclusion level of lipid in larval diet of Labeo rohita (Hamilton, 1822).

Formulation and preparation of larval feed according to the requirement of Indian major carp is a prerequisite for improving the survival (%) and growth during early developmental stages. A feeding trial of 50 days in a replicate of five was conducted to determine the optimal inclusion levels of fish oil (lipid) in the larval diet of Labeo rohita. Four isonitrogenous (50% CP) nanoparticulate diets with four lipid inclusion levels, L5 (5%), L7 (7%), L9 (9%), and L11 (11%) were prepared and fed to four groups of rohu (Labeo rohita) larvae. At the end of feeding trial, survival (%), growth performance, digestive enzyme activity, gut morphology, and expression of growth and feed intake genes were evaluated. All pairwise comparisons among groups indicated higher growth performance (weight gain, specific growth rate, and daily weight gain), survival (%), and IGF-1 gene expression of the L9 group followed by the L7 while the L11 showed poor performance even less than L5. All studied intestinal enzymes except amylase showed a similar trend. Amylase showed comparable results among L7, L9, and L5, while L11 showed the lowest value. The intestinal villi length also showed higher values in L9 followed by L7, and lowest in the L11 group. Feed intake regulating genes, leptin showed lipid inclusion level upregulation, while ghrelin showed the highest expression in the L9 group. Based on growth performance, gut morphology, intestinal enzyme activity, and gene expression analysis, 9% dietary lipid could be recommended to ensure the optimum growth and survival of L. rohita larvae.