: The results of present investigation indicated that, application of GA 3 75 ppm showed maximum height (170.75 cm), spread of plant (152.50 cm), the maximum length of fruit (8.67 cm), diameter of fruit (9.20 cm), the highest mean fruit volume (308.00 ml). The chemicals showed non-significant differences in height, spread of plant and length of fruit while. The preharvest spray of boron 0.3 per cent showed significantly maximum diameter of fruit (8.57 cm), highest mean fruit volume (291.00 ml), maximum number of fruits per plant (99.9), average weight of fruits (161.56 g) and fruit yield per ha (16.25 Mt/ha).Interactive treatment combination consisting of GA 3 75 ppm + boron 0.3 per cent produced higher growth and yield of pomegranate fruits. KEY WORDS

Previous studies have demonstrated the role of fatty acids in modulation of various functions in the wound healing process. However, there are very few reports indicating effective utilization of natural oils rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) for treatment of burn wounds. Accordingly, it was thought appropriate to investigate the potential of black cumin, chicken skin and flax seed oils incorporated in topical gel formulations employing biodegradable and bacteriostatic macromolecules like chitosan and carbopol-934. Topical gels/hydrogel systems (F1-F3) containing these selected natural oils were formulated. The prepared formulations were evaluated for their physicochemical characteristics and in vivo testing in rat burn wound healing model. The formulations (F1-F3) exhibited quick film forming ability, adequate mechanical and swelling properties, and efficient water loss capability and may prove to be beneficial in treatment of exudating wounds. In the in vivo burn wound model, significant wound contraction (F1: 69.74 %, F2: 73.72%, F3: 70.88%) with faster reepithilisation comparable to standard silver sufadiazine 0.5% treated group (61.3%) were observed. Histopathological examinations exhibited intense disposition of collagen fibres with active fibroblasts indicating their potential in accelerating the wound healing process. GC-MS analysis of oils confirmed the presence of PUFA like oleic, linoleic, linolenic and ricinoleic acid that are beneficial in wound healing and skin tissue regeneration. Our studies demonstrate that gel formulations prepared incorporating natural oils like black cumin, chicken skin and flax seed oil exhibit significant wound healing properties and may prove beneficial in burn wound management.

Uredinial and telial stages of rust pathogen Puccinia duthiae are described on a new host grass species, Dichanthium foveolatum, for the first time from a range of the Western Ghats in Satara District, Maharashtra, India.

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