National Journal of Biological Sciences (NJBS)

Authors:   Mohammad Adil, [1], Fawad Ali [2], Javed Khan [3], Muhammad Shafee [4], Haider Ali Khan [5], Saman Yaqub [6],
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37605/v6i1/1

Abstract

Ticks are ectoparasitic arthropods that play a crucial role in transmitting pathogens to humans and animals. This study focused on identifying the morphological diversity of ticks in Swabi, Mardan, and Charsadda districts, known for high tick prevalence in Pakistan. Field surveys were conducted over nine months, collecting tick specimen from forests, grasslands, and residential areas. Specimens were preserved and examined using a stereo-zoom microscope and taxonomic keys to classify them accurately. The study identified various tick species, including hard ticks (Ixodidae), in the study areas. The morphological characteristics of each species, such as body size, color patterns, capitulum shape, and scutum features, were documented. The results showed a diverse tick fauna in the study regions, with some species commonly found across all three districts and others having localized distribution patterns. This study provides valuable data on tick species in the studied districts, which can help in developing of targeted interventions and disease surveillance programs. Overall, the research offers important insights into the morphological identification of ticks in Swabi, Mardan, and Charsadda districts in Pakistan, contributing to tick taxonomy and epidemiology. These findings can serve as a basis for implementing preventive measures and protecting public health in the study regions and beyond. 

Authors:   Maryam Zain [1], Iqra Ikram [2],
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37605/v6i1/2

Abstract

Green nanotechnology has emphasized green chemistry concepts, and the principles of green Chemistry approach has been instrumental in the creation of modern nanotechnologies for economic, social, and health advantages. Nanotechnology has potential applications in nanocosmetics. This review contains a description of the green synthesis, characterization of silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesized using ginger and garlic extract and their applications in cosmetic formulations. Ginger and garlic extract possess strong antioxidative and antimicrobial properties. Citric acid serves as reducing and stabilizing agent in synthesis of nanoparticles. Concentration of NaOH also influence the size and structure of nanoparticles. The present review present various studies for synthesis of antibacterial and antifungal properties of Ag and ZnONPs. In cosmetic formulations, silver nanoparticles can be safely used in preparations of anti-acne, antidandruff, and antimicrobial products which are discussed in the present review. ZnO-NPs are commonly used to treat a number of different skin disorders and have anticancer characteristics. These are nontoxic, skin compatible, antimicrobial and have broad application in cosmetic industry.

Authors:   Muhammad Rahish [1], Hamza Noman [2], Usama Jahangir [3], Hina Asad [4], Malyka Qadir [5], Sara Bashir [6], Abdullah Ghulam Nabi [7], Anam Amir [8], Areeba Naveed [9], Ayesha Khan [10], Safa Adrees [11], Mehreen Fatima [12],
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37605/v6i1/3

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer. It is a cancer that originates in the hepatocytes, which are the main functional cells of the liver. HCC typically develops in the context of chronic liver diseases, such as cirrhosis (scarring of the liver tissue) or chronic hepatitis B or C infection. In its early stages, HCC may not cause noticeable symptoms. As the cancer progresses, symptoms may include abdominal pain or discomfort, unexplained weight loss, jaundice, fatigue, and a feeling of fullness in the abdomen. Treatment options for HCC depend on the stage of the cancer and the overall health of the patient. They may include, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and in some cases, chemotherapy. Liver transplantation can be curative for early-stage HCC in select patients

Authors:   Komal Tariq [1], Haroon Ur Rashid [2], Fatma Hussain [3], Fatima Imtiaz [4],
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37605/v6i1/4

Abstract

Plants for therapeutic purposes have been used since ancient times. The current study compares the cytotoxic, anti-diabetic, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of the Kala Kulu and Gacha apples (varieties of Malus domestica). In aqueous extract, the yield of Gacha and Kala Kulu was 57.492% and 43.988%, respectively. Gacha apple showed maximum values for both total phenols and flavonoid contents. The Gacha apple had a higher DPPH (67.87%) value than the Kala Kulu apple (77.10%). For alpha-amylase inhibition, the mean inhibition value of the Gacha apple was higher (86.69%) than Kala Kulu apple (69.27%). For antimicrobial activity, the zones of inhibition of the Gacha apple were 0 mm and 11 mm. In comparison, that of the Kala Kulu apples were 13 mm and 10 mm against E. coli and S. aureus respectively. The percent hemolysis by Gacha apple was 0.44% while for Kala Kulu it was 0.12%. FTIR of both varieties (Gacha and Kala Kulu apple) of Malus domestica showed the presence of compounds like alcohols, carboxylic acids, phenols, alkanes, esters, fluoride, secondary and primary amides. It is concluded that the aqueous extracts of both varieties have amazing pharmacological activities. Further research is needed to fully assess the remarkable qualities and therapeutic benefits of these medicinal plants.

Authors:   Maqsood Anwar [1], Naveed Akhtar [2], Shah Khalid [3],
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37605/v6i1/5

Abstract

This study was conducted in District Swabi in eight selected sites/stands during 2019- 2020. A total of 237 plant species were studied in these sites/stands. Phenological behavior of each plant species was observed in field and recorded every month of the year. The result revealed that maximum number of species (20.2%) were recorded in vegetative stage in February, in flowering stage (28.2%) in March, in fruiting stage (28.2%) in April and in post reproductive stage (27%) in June. Least number of species (1 species; 0.4%) were found in vegetative stage in September, in flowering stage (1 species; 0.4%) in December, in fruiting stage (1 species; 0.4%) in January and in post reproductive stage (2 species; 0.8%) in April. There were 83 species found in vegetative stage in spring followed by 82 species in winter, 67 species in summer and 5 species in autumn. In flowering stage, 121 species were recorded in spring followed by 63 species in summer, 46 species in autumn and 7 species in winter. In fruiting stage, 88 species were recorded in spring followed by 72 species each in summer and autumn and 5 species in winter. Similarly, 91 species were found in post reproductive stage in summer followed by 82 species in autumn, 56 species in winter and 8 species in spring. It was observed that spring was the peak flowering season followed by summer while spring was the peak fruiting season followed by summer and autumn.

Authors:   Ali Raza Jamali [1], Shamshad Jamali [2], Asif Ali Kaleri [3], Abdul Majeed Baloch [4], Zakia Khaskheli [5], Adeel Ahmed Khaskheli [6], Ali Baig Jadgal [7], Tofeeque Ahmed Soomro [8],
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37605/v6i1/6

Abstract

The present study demonstrated that potting media composition plays a crucial role in hollyhock seed germination. A mixture of canal silt, bagasse, and rice husk in equal proportions (PM4) consistently produced superior results across most germination parameters, including percentage, index, and velocity. By contrast, canal silt alone (PM1) was the least effective. These findings highlight the potential of combining readily available organic residues to enhance seed vigor and early establishment of hollyhock. For practical applications, nursery growers are recommended to adopt a 1:1:1 mixture of canal silt, bagasse, and rice husk as an economical and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional soil-based media. Future studies should investigate the longterm effects of these media on seedling growth, flowering, and overall plant performance.

Volume No. 6

Issue No. 01