Effects of endocrine disruptor furan on reproductive physiology of Sprague Dawley rats: An F1 Extended One-Generation Reproductive Toxicity Study (EOGRTS)

The present study investigated the reproductive toxicity of furan in an Extended One-Generation Reproductive Toxicity Study in rats. Sprague Dawley F0 weaning rats (30 per sex per group) were exposed to furan orally at 0, 1, 2.5, 5, and 10 mg kg^-1 for 10 weeks (males) and 2 weeks (females) and then mated. Results of F0 indicated that in the furan-treated groups (5 mg kg^-1 and 10 mg kg^-1), body weight (bw) gain decreased during prebreed and gestational period while increased during lactation periods. F0 animals prebreeding exposure resulted in head tilt and foot splay at 10 mg kg^-1. Number of live pups at birth were decreased (p < 0.001) at 10 mg kg^-1. At postnatal day (PND) 70, a significant (p = 0.03) decrease in testosterone levels of male rats and estrogen levels of female rats (p = 0.05) was observed in 10 mg kg^-1 furan-treated group in F1 generation. Luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and progesterone levels were also reduced, but their reduction was not statistically significant in all groups. In higher dose furan group (10 mg kg^-1), testicular and ovarian weights were reduced in F1 generation at PND 70, with decreased daily sperm production (p = 0.01) and disturbed estrous cyclicity (p < 0.01). Some histopathological changes were also observed in testis and ovaries in groups whose parents were previously exposed to 10 mg kg^-1 bw of furan group. Based on the above results, it is suggested that exposure to food-based contaminant furan induced remarkable changes in the F0 (parental stage) and F1 (offspring, pubertal, and adult stage) generations of Sprague Dawley rats.

Effects of early rearing enrichments on modulation of brain monoamines and hypothalamic-pituitary-interrenal axis (HPI axis) of fish mahseer (Tor putitora)

Enriching rearing environment is the strategy suggested for improving the post release survivorship of captive-reared animals. Here, an attempt has been made to evaluate the impact of early rearing enrichment on the hypothalamic-pituitary-interrenal axis (HPI axis), blood glucose, and brain dopaminergic and serotonergic systems of Tor putitora. Fifteen-day-old hatchlings of T. putitora were reared up to advanced fry stage in barren, semi-natural, and physically enriched environments and compared them with regard to pre-stress and post-stress levels of whole-body cortisol, blood glucose, brain serotonergic activity (5HIAA/5HT ratio), dopaminergic activity (DOPAC/DA and HVA/DA ratios) and norepinephrine (NE) levels. Significantly low basal whole-body cortisol, glucose and brain NE levels were observed in a physically enriched group of fish as compared to the other two groups. However, after acute stress, all rearing groups showed elevated levels of cortisol, blood glucose, brain 5HIAA/5HT, DOPAC/DA and HVA/DA ratios and NE levels but the magnitude of response was different among different rearing groups. The barren reared group showed a higher magnitude of response as compared to semi-natural and physically enriched groups. Similarly, the recovery rate of whole-body cortisol, blood glucose, and whole-brain monoamines were long-lasting in barren-reared mahseer. We illustrate that increased structural complexity (physical enrichment) during the early rearing significantly modulates various physiological and stress-coping mechanisms of mahseer.

A review of airport dual energy X-ray baggage inspection techniques: Image enhancement and noise reduction

In this paper, we present a review of the research literature regarding applying X-ray imaging of baggage scrutiny at airport. It discusses multiple X-ray imaging inspection systems used in airports for detecting dangerous objects inside the baggage. Moreover, it also explains the dual energy X-ray image fusion and image enhancement factors. Different types of noises in digital images and noise models are explained in length. Diagrammatical representations for different noise models are presented and illustrated to clearly show the effect of Poisson and Impulse noise on intensity values. Overall, this review discusses in detail of Poisson and Impulse noise, as well as its causes and effect on the X-ray images, which create un-certainty for the X-ray inspection imaging system while discriminating objects and for the screeners as well. The review then focuses on image processing techniques used by different research studies for X-ray image enhancement, de-noising, and their limitations. Furthermore, the most related approaches for noise reduction and its drawbacks are presented. The methods that may be useful to overcome the drawbacks are also discussed in subsequent sections of this paper. In summary, this review paper highlights the key theories and technical methods used for X-ray image enhancement and de-noising effect on X-ray images generated by the airport baggage inspection system.

P187 Late outcomes of all patients at a single center with diabetes mellitus undergoing SYNTAX scoring after angiographic screening for the FREEDOM trial

Background

The Future Revascularization Evaluation in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus: Optimal Management of Multi-Vessel Disease (FREEDOM) trial randomized only a minority of screened patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and 2-3 vessel disease (MVD), representing an high risk diabetic MVD cohort.

Methods

Consecutive patients with DM underwent angiographic screening from June 2006  to March 2010 at Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, Australia, for the FREEDOM trial; SYNTAX Scores (SS) were subsequently performed. Patients had late follow-up to determine late rates of death, non-fatal MI and stroke.

Results

Among 1263 patients with DM 833 (66%) had 0-1 vessel disease and 430 (34%) had MVD of whom 139 had prior coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), and SS were 0 in 272, 1-9 in 336, 10-22 in 264, 23-32 in 109, and 271 patients had SS ≥33. Revascularisation was performed by coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in 139 (11%), 486 (38%) underwent PCI, and 638 (51%) did not undergo a revascularization procedure; respective mean ages were 63.5, 64.2 and 64.7 years; p = 0.39, and presentation rates with an ACS were 52%, 57% and 37%; p &lt; 0.05. Amongst patients with MVD, those undergoing CABG had lower rates of MACE than either PCI or medical therapy (22%, 40%, and 51% respectively; p &lt; 0.001). Kaplan-Meier curves (Figure) with respect to SS and late events are shown for: A) Death; B) Non-fatal MI; C) Death/MI/Stroke; D) Late Revascularization. Multi-variable analyses found independent predictors of late mortality were age &gt;75 (HR 6.2), prior MI (HR 1.1), prior CABG (HR 1.6); and LVEF &lt;40% (all p &lt; 0.05). Predictors of late MI were older age, ACS presentation at screening, LVEF &lt; 40% and insulin use.

Conclusions

Among diabetic patients who screened for the FREEDOM Trial, among 34% with MVD CABG was associated with lower rates of non-fatal MI and MACE compared to PCI and medical therapy. The poorest outcomes were observed in DM patients with MVD managed with medical therapy alone.

Abstract P187 Figure. SYNTAX scores &late events in diabetics

4xTrifolium ambiguum and 2xT. occidentale hybridise despite wide geographic separation and polyploidisation: implications for clover breeding

The widely divergent species 4xTrifolium ambiguum and 2xT.occidentale are inter-fertile long after speciation (including polyploidisation) has occurred. Tri-species hybrids (T. repens × T. ambiguum × T. occidentale) have the potential to achieve introgression of stress resistant traits from both wild species into white clover. Trifolium ambiguum and T. occidentale are geographically, adaptionally and phenotypically contrasting species in the white clover section (Trifoliastrum) of the genus. T. ambiguum occurs as a high-altitude polyploid series (2x, 4x, 6x) in W Asia and NE Europe. T. occidentale is a diploid coastal species, occurring at sea level in W Europe. This study investigated hybridisation between 4xT. ambiguum and 2xT. occidentale and considered the significance of the hybrids for introgression breeding of white clover. Partially fertile F₁ hybrids between 4xT. ambiguum and 2x and 4xT. occidentale were generated by embryo rescue. Hybrid plant morphology and fertility varied widely and hybrids generally expressed traits from both species. Advanced generation (F₂-F₅) 4x hybrids were highly fertile and constitute a new synthetic allotetraploid species. FISH analyses of 4x hybrids showed multivalent chromosome configurations with homoeologous associations between T. ambiguum and T. occidentale chromosomes. Crosses of the hybrids with T. repens produced fertile tri-species progeny. These very divergent species remain inter-fertile long after speciation (including polyploidisation) has occurred. Tri-species hybrids have the potential to achieve introgression of stress resistance traits from both wild species into white clover.

P2656Real-world Outcomes for STEMI in octogenarians and nonagenarians: A 5-year review from an Irish primary PCI centre

Background

Progress made by modern healthcare has led to improved life expectancy across the globe. This progress, however, also means that individuals are living with more chronic illnesses and co-morbidities than in previous generations. Due to this aging population, we can expect increasing rates of STEMI in octogenarians and nonagenarians in the future. The challenge of older patients with STEMI is that they are particularly high-risk for complications. At present, very little is known about the outcomes of STEMI in the very old population because they were under-represented in previous studies. Many cardiologists around the world have been hesitant in performing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) in octogenarians and nonagenarians due to fear of complications and poor outcomes.

Purpose

To review the trend of octogenarians and nonagenarians presenting with STEMI and to assess the 30-day and 1-year mortality rates.

Methods

A single-centre retrospective observational study was conducted. All patients presenting with STEMI between January 2012 and December 2017 were reviewed. Individuals aged 80 years or older were included for the purpose of this analysis. Patient level data was collected by chart review and individuals were identified using the local STEMI database. Standard Bayesian statistics were employed for analysis.

Results

1,268 patients presented with STEMI during this period. 172 (13.6%) were 80 years or older. Of this subgroup, 159/172 (92.4%) were true STEMI (figure 1). 124/159 (77.9%) patients were brought to the catheterization lab and 35/159 (22%) were managed medically on the ward.107/159 (67.29%) were treated with PPCI. Patients in the PPCI group had a 30-day mortality rate of 20.6% while those in the medically managed group had a mortality rate of 37.1%; with a trend towards statistical significance (p=0.07). The one-year mortality rate in patients treated with PPCI was 22.4% which was significantly lower than those who received medical management 48.6% (p=0.005).

Conclusions

This review demonstrates that there is a high mortality rate with STEMI in those aged 80 years or above, however, patients who are treated with PPCI tend to do better and have a significantly lower mortality rate at 1-year. The incidence of STEMI in the very old cohort is likely to continue to rise and this may prove challenging. PPCI remains the most feasible treatment approach towards STEMI and this should not be biased based on age, however, interventionists will need to take into account patient suitability on a case-by case basis. Octogenarians who undergo angiography and PPCI as required have 77.6% survival at 1 year (figure 1) with 92.4% likelihood of going home and don't require long term nursing home care.

Acknowledgement/Funding

University Hospital Limerick

Toxicological effects of furan on the reproductive system of male rats: An "in vitro" and "in vivo"-based endocrinological and spermatogonial study

Furan is a colorless toxic chemical produced in various food items during heat processing and in chemical industries. Both in vitro and in vivo studies have reported that it induces oxidative stress and endocrine disruption; however, limited data are available regarding the effects of furan on the reproduction of mammals. In the present study, an in vitro experiment was designed to investigate the direct effects of furan exposure on oxidative stress and testosterone concentration in rat testicular tissue. Furan not only generated high oxidative stress but also decreased antioxidant enzyme activity in the testicular tissue. On the basis of in vitro study results, an in vivo sub-chronic exposure study was performed. Male rats were orally exposed to different concentrations of furan (0, 5, 10, 20, and 40 mg kg^-1). An increase (P < 0.05) of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and of the lipid profile (cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL) in higher dose treatment groups of furan was observed, while total protein content and antioxidant enzyme activity were considerably decreased after furan exposure. Also, plasma and intratesticular testosterone concentrations were reduced in high-dose treatment groups. Sperm parameters such as sperm viability, sperm count, and sperm motility showed a decrease (P < 0.05) in a dose-dependent manner. Histopathological findings revealed significant alterations in testis and epididymis tissues. These results confirm that furan can induce toxic effects on the reproductive system of male rats.

An overview of the ongoing insights in selenium research and its role in fish nutrition and fish health

In the present review, the ongoing researches about selenium research in fish nutrition have been comprehensively discussed. Selenium research is getting popularity in fish nutrition as it is required for the normal growth and proper physiological and biochemical functions in fish. Its deficiency or surplus amounts create severe problems in fish. It is available as inorganic form, organic form, and nano form. In fish, most of the previous research is about the selenium requirements for fish by using only one selenium source mainly the inorganic one. Selenium shows maximum biological activity and bioavailability when it is supplied in proper form. However, to differentiate the more bioavailable and less toxic form of selenium, sufficient information is needed about the comparative bioavailability of different selenium forms in different fish species. In fish, important data about the new forms of selenoproteins is still scarce. Therefore, it is necessary to focus on the determination and elucidation of the new selenoproteins in fish through the utilization of recent approaches of molecular biology and proteomics. The adaptation of these new approaches will replace the old fashioned methodologies regarding the selenium research in fish nutrition. Moreover, the use of molecular biology and proteomics-based new approaches in combination with selenium research will help in optimizing the area of fish nutrition and will improve the feed intake, growth performance, and more importantly the flesh quality which has a promising importance in the consumer market.

Synthesis, Characterizations and Multifunctional Activities of New Thiourea-Based Non-Ionic Surfactants

Six new thiourea-based non-ionic surfactants were prepared from easily existing raw resources in good yield name 1-sec-butyl-3-dodecanoylthiourea, 1-dodecanoyl-3-phenylthiourea, 1,1-dibutyl-3-dodecanoylthiourea, 3-dodecanoyl-1, 1-diphenylthiourea, 1-cyclohexyl-3-dodecanoylthiourea and 1-butyl-3-dodecanoylthiourea. The structural chemistry of these compounds was studied by multinuclear magnetic resonance (1H, 13C), Infrared spectroscopy and UV-Visible spectrophotometry techniques. Their solubility varies according to temperature. They show a low solubility, which increases with the temperature of the water. However, they are not stable. The are soluble in organic solvent like ethanol. These molecules possess a low critical micelle concentration and due to this it shows that they are moderately hydrophobic. These molecules were studied regarding their antimicrobial activities and their antifungal and antibacterial efficiency was tested against five microoganism strains. In all cases, the new compounds show a significant inhibition growth against the tested five bacterial and fungal strains. Due to these behaviors they can be used as future candidates in cleaning as well as in agriculture features. The corrosion inhibition behavior was also studied using chromium and aluminum metals.

Review - Ricinus cmmunis - Ethnomedicinal uses and pharmacological activities

Ricinus cmmunis L. (Castor oil plant) is an important medicinal plant belonging to family Euphorbiaceae. Its phytochemistry, biological and pharmacological activities, and ethnomedicinal uses have been reviewed in the present study. The reported chemical constituents showed the presence of flavonoids, phenolic compounds, fatty acids, amino acids, terpenoids, phytosterol etc. The compounds have been reported to exhibit anticonceptive, antidiabetic, antifertility, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, insecticidal and wound-healing activities. They also showed free radical scavenging and Hg scavenging activities, and repellent properties. Various parts of R. communis have been widely used in traditional medicine such as abdominal disorders, arthritis, backache, muscle aches, bilharziasis, chronic backache and sciatica, chronic headache, constipation, expulsion of placenta, gallbladder pain, period pain, menstrual cramps, rheumatism, sleeplessness, and insomnia. Castor oil plant has also revealed toxic effects due to the presence of ricin (protein) and ricinine (alkaloid). Comparatively, ricin is more toxic. But still there is need of more research to be conducted with reference to its medicinal importance (particularly exploring of medicinal recipes) and active compounds responsible for various activities.

Overview of dendritic cell-based vaccine development for leishmaniasis

Leishmaniasis is one of the most serious vector-borne diseases in the world and is distributed over 98 countries. It is estimated that 350 million people are at risk for leishmaniasis. There are three different generation of vaccines that have been developed to provide immunity and protection against leishmaniasis. However, their use has been limited due to undesired side effects. These vaccines have also failed to provide effective and reliable protection and, as such, currently, there is no safe and effective vaccine for leishmaniasis. Dendritic cells (DCs) are a unique population of cells that come from bone marrow and become specialized to take up, process and present antigens to helper T cells in a mechanism similar to macrophages. By considering these significant features, DCs stimulated with different kinds of Leishmania antigens have been used in recent vaccine studies for leishmaniasis with promising results so far. In this review, we aim to review and combine the latest studies about this issue after defining potential problems in vaccine development for leishmaniasis and considering the importance of DCs in the immunopathogenesis of the disease.

Abstract P6-01-04: Evolutionary analyses of matched primary and metastatic breast cancer reveal both linear and parallel progression with lack of axillary lymph node involvement

This abstract was withdrawn by the authors.

Synthesis and Spectrophotometric Study of Toxic Metals Extraction by Novel Thio-Based Non-Ionic Surfactant

A new thio-based non-ionic surfactant 1-(3-chlorophenyl)-3-te-tradecanoylthiourea has been synthesized from potassium thiocyanate, tetradecanoyl chloride and 3-chloroanaline. The purity of the compound was characterized by techniques like 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and FT-IR. The compound was used to detect the toxic metals like copper, mercury and manganese by using UV-Visible spectrophotometric technique. The compound is able to act as a ligand as well to form micelles. Due to this the compound extracts these toxic metals in form of solubilization and complexation. The extracted metals settle down to the bottom in a water tank. The visible change in color with time proves the interaction of the compound with the metals. The compound having carbonyl as well as sulfur groups have soft corner to metal for complexation. This will be used to remove toxic metals from polluted soil and soft drinking surface and underground water. The surfactant is easily synthesized, very economical and environmentally acceptable. The CMC of the surfactant is also determined.

Sero-epidemiology of equine toxoplasmosis using a latex agglutination test in the three metropolises of Punjab, Pakistan

Toxoplasmosis is a serious threat for livestock in addition to being of zoonotic significance. In this study, serodiagnosis of equine toxoplasmosis was conducted in a randomly selected population from the 3 metropolises of Punjab, Pakistan. To this end, 272 draught equines were screened using a commercial latex agglutination assay kit. Association of probable risk factors of equine toxoplasmosis was also documented. A total of 91 (33.5%) equines were found sero-positive for Toxoplama (T.) gondii having antibody titers ranging between 1:32 to 1:612. The highest rates of seropositive cases were observed in donkeys (58.7%) followed by mules (28.6%) and horses (23.5%). Age, sex and species of draught equines were found not to be statistically (p>0.05) associated with the distribution of T. gondii antibodies. The results of the study provided a baseline data for the exposure of equine population in this area. In addition, it is recommended that the contiguous population of domestic ruminants and possible reservoirs such as feral cats should be screened in order to explore the potential risk for the human population in Pakistan.

Useful ethnophytomedicinal recipes of angiosperms used against diabetes in South East Asian Countries (India, Pakistan & Sri Lanka)

This paper is based on data recorded from various literatures pertaining to ethnophytomedicinal recipes used against diabetes in South East Asia (India, Pakistan and Srilanka). Traditional plant treatments have been used throughout the world for the therapy of diabetes mellitus. In total 419 useful phytorecipes of 270 plant species belonging to 74 Angiospermic families were collected. From the review it was revealed that plants showing hypoglycemic potential mainly belong to the families, Cucurbitaceae (16 spp.), Euphorbiaceae (15 spp.), Caesalpiniaceae and Papilionaceae (13 spp. each), Moraceae (11 spp.), Acanthaceae (10 spp.), Mimosaceae (09 spp.), Asteraceae, Malvaceae and Poaceae (08 spp. each), Hippocrateaceae, Rutaceae and Zingiberaceae (07 spp. each), Apocynaceae, Asclepiadaceae and Verbenaceae (06 spp. each), Apiaceae, Convolvulaceae, Lamiaceae, Myrtaceae, Solanaceae (05 spp.each). The most active plants are Syzigium cumini (14 recipes), Phyllanthus emblica (09 recipes), Centella asiatica and Momordica charantia (08 recipes each), Azadirachta indica (07 recipes), Aegle marmelos, Catharanthus roseus, Ficus benghalensis, Ficus racemosa, Gymnema sylvestre (06 recipes each), Allium cepa, A. sativum, Andrographis paniculata, Curcuma longa (05 recipes each), Citrullus colocynthis, Justicia adhatoda, Nelumbo nucifera, Tinospora cordifolia, Trigonella foenum-graecum, Ziziphus mauritiana and Wattakaka volubilis (4 recipes each). These traditional recipes include extracts, leaves, powders, flour, seeds, vegetables, fruits and herbal mixtures. Data inventory consists of botanical name, recipe, vernacular name, English name. Some of the plants of the above data with experimentally confirmed antidiabetic properties have also been recorded. More investigations must be carried out to evaluate the mechanism of action of diabetic medicinal plants. Toxicity of these plants should also be explained. Scientific validation of these recipes may help in discovering new drugs from these medicinal plants for diabetes.

Neuroprotective effect of osmotin against ethanol-induced apoptotic neurodegeneration in the developing rat brain

Fetal alcohol syndrome is a neurological and developmental disorder caused by exposure of developing brain to ethanol. Administration of osmotin to rat pups reduced ethanol-induced apoptosis in cortical and hippocampal neurons. Osmotin, a plant protein, mitigated the ethanol-induced increases in cytochrome c, cleaved caspase-3, and PARP-1. Osmotin and ethanol reduced ethanol neurotoxicity both in vivo and in vitro by reducing the protein levels of cleaved caspase-3, intracellular [Ca²⁺]_cyt, and mitochondrial transmembrane potential collapse, and also upregulated antiapoptotic Bcl-2 protein. Osmotin is a homolog of adiponectin, and it controls energy metabolism via phosphorylation. Adiponectin can protect hippocampal neurons against ethanol-induced apoptosis. Abrogation of signaling via receptors AdipoR1 or AdipoR2, by transfection with siRNAs, reduced the ability of osmotin and adiponectin to protect neurons against ethanol-induced neurodegeneration. Metformin, an activator of AMPK (adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase), increased whereas Compound C, an inhibitor of AMPK pathway, reduced the ability of osmotin and adiponectin to protect against ethanol-induced apoptosis. Osmotin exerted its neuroprotection via Bcl-2 family proteins and activation of AMPK signaling pathway. Modulation of AMPK pathways by osmotin, adiponectin, and metformin hold promise as a preventive therapy for fetal alcohol syndrome.

A national house-staff audit of medical prophylaxis in medical patients for the PREVENTion of Venous ThromboEmbolism (PREVENT-VTE)

We established a national audit to assess the thromboprophylaxis rate for venous thromoembolism (VTE) in at risk medical patients in acute hospitals in the Republic of Ireland and to determine whether the use of stickers to alert physicians regarding thromboprophylaxis would double the rate prophylaxis in a follow-up audit. 651 acute medical admission patients in the first audit and 524 in the second re-audit were recruited. The mean age was 66.5 yrs with similar numbers of male and female patients and 265 (22.6%) patients were active smokers. The first and second audits identified 549 (84%) and 487 (93%) of patients at-risk for VTE respectively. Of the at-risk patients, 163 (29.7%) and 132 (27.1%) received LMWH in the first and second audit respectively. Mechanical thromboprophylaxis was instigated in 75 (13.6%) patients in the first and 86 (17.7%) patients in the second audit. The placement of stickers in patient charts didn't produce a significant increase in the number of at risk patients treated in the second audit. There is unacceptably low adherence to the ACCP guidelines in Ireland and more complex intervention than chart reminders are required to improve compliance.

Cost Effective Procedures for Extremely Efficient Synthesis of Environmental Friendly Surfactants

Für die Synthese von Tensiden mit bestimmten Eigenschaften werden verschiedene Vorgehensweisen der Synthese ausgearbeitet. In der gegenwärtigen Arbeit werden einige kostengünstige Vorgehensweisen mit reduzierter Anzahl an Reaktionsschritten zur äußerst effizienten Synthese biologisch abbaubarer und umweltfreundlicher Tenside diskutiert. Die in diesen Methoden verwendeten Ausgangsmaterialien stammen aus ökonomisch günstigen Quellen wie Monosacchariden, Harzsäuren, Fettsäuren etc. Kosten entstehen dann nur noch aufgrund des Einsatzes von Lösemitteln und Spezialreagenzien. Obwohl viele Naturprodukte bereits jetzt schon erhältlich sind, sind nur einige wenige für die Umsetzung zu Tensiden geeignet. Die Diskussion über die Herstellung von verschiedenen Tensiden für gängige Produkte ergibt sich aus der Tatsache, dass kein gutes Universaltensid für jede potentielle Anwendung erhältlich ist.

Change in heritability estimates due to half-sib family selection in the maize variety Pahari

This research was carried out at the Agriculture Research Farm, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Agricultural University, Peshawar, and the Cereal Crops Research Institute, Pirsabak, Nowshera, during 2009 and 2010. Half-sib families (HS) derived from the maize variety Pahari in spring crop seasons 2009 and 2010 were developed at the Cereal Crops Research Institute. All HS families were detasseled well before pollen shedding. At maturity, each family was harvested and shelled separately. During the summer crop of seasons 2009 and 2010, these HS families were evaluated in 12 x 12 and 11 x 11 partially balanced lattice square arrangements at the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Agricultural University, Peshawar, for various flowering and yield traits, respectively. The data on days to mid-silking, anthesis, anthesis-silking interval, 100-grain weight, and grain yield were recorded. The results revealed significant differences among families for all traits in both cycles. High heritability (0.88) was observed for days to mid-silking in cycle 0 (C₀), while moderate heritability (0.42) was recorded for 100-grain weight in C₁. The selection differential was quite reasonable and varied according to the traits of interest. The observed response for grain yield in C₀ (815.74 kg/ha) was greater than the expected response (681.76 kg/ha).

Mycobacterium chelonae hand infection following ferret bite

We present a case of hand infection caused by Mycobacterium chelonae. The patient was a 58-year-old woman with Type II diabetes mellitus and stage 4 chronic kidney disease. The infection occurred following a ferret bite and had not responded to oral antibiotics in the primary care setting. She developed signs of pyogenic flexor tenosynovitis of the index and middle fingers of her left hand. Laboratory parameters showed high C-reactive protein, raised erythrocyte sedimentation rate and leucocytosis. Ultrasound imaging confirmed the clinical diagnosis. Plain radiographs showed no osseous involvement. The infection was treated with surgical debridement and broad spectrum parenteral antibiotics. The intra-operative tissue specimens were initially negative on aerobic and anaerobic cultures. Following transient improvement of her inflammatory parameters and clinical signs, she developed a recurrence with added features of osteomyelitis of the index and middle finger metacarpal heads on repeat radiographs. A revision surgical debridement of the flexor tenosynovitis and osteomyelitis with specific long-term antibiotic cover has led to resolution of the infection. Extended cultures of the tissue specimens at the regional laboratory confirmed the causative organism to be M. chelonae. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of M. chelonae infection resulting from a ferret bite. This case reminds us of the need for a high index of suspicion for infection with uncommon pathogens following animal bites, especially in patients with altered immune status.

Detection of bacterial blight resistance genes in basmati rice landraces

Aromatic basmati rice is vulnerable to bacterial blight disease. Genes conferring resistance to bacterial blight have been identified in coarse rice; however, their incorporation into basmati varieties compromises the prized basmati aroma. We identified bacterial blight resistance genes Xa4, xa5, Xa7, and xa13 in 52 basmati landraces and five basmati cultivars using PCR markers. The Xa7 gene was found to be the most prevalent among the cultivars and landraces. The cultivars Basmati-385 and Basmati-2000 also contained the Xa4 gene; however, xa5 and xa13 were confined to landraces only. Ten landraces were found to have multiple resistance genes. Landraces Basmati-106, Basmati-189 and Basmati-208 contained Xa4 and Xa7 genes. Whereas, landraces Basmati-122, Basmati-427, Basmati-433 were observed to have xa5 and Xa7 genes. Landraces Basmati-48, Basmati-51A, Basmati-334, and Basmati-370A possessed Xa7 and xa13 genes. The use of landraces containing recessive genes xa5 and xa13 as donor parents in hybridization with cultivars Basmati-385 and Basmati-2000, which contain the genes Xa4 and Xa7, will expedite efforts to develop bacterial blight-resistant basmati rice cultivars through marker assisted selection, based on a pyramiding approach, without compromising aroma and grain quality.

Genetic diversity analysis of Bt cotton genotypes in Pakistan using simple sequence repeat markers

The popularity of genetically modified insect resistant (Bt) cotton has promoted large scale monocultures, which is thought to worsen the problem of crop genetic homogeneity. Information on genetic diversity among Bt cotton varieties is lacking. We evaluated genetic divergence among 19 Bt cotton genotypes using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. Thirty-seven of 104 surveyed primers were found informative. Fifty-two primers selected on the basis of reported intra-hirsutum polymorphism in a cotton marker database showed a high degree of polymorphism, 56% compared to 13% for randomly selected primers. A total of 177 loci were amplified, with an average of 1.57 loci per primer, generating 38 markers. The amplicons ranged in size from 98 to 256 bp. The genetic similarities among the 19 genotypes ranged from 0.902 to 0.982, with an average of 0.947, revealing a lack of diversity. Similarities among genotypes from public sector organizations were higher than genotypes developed by private companies. Hybrids were found to be more distant compared to commercial cultivars and advanced breeding lines. Cluster analysis grouped the 19 Bt cotton genotypes into three major clusters and two independent entries. Cultivars IR-3701, Ali Akbar-802 and advanced breeding line VH-259 grouped in subcluster B2, with very narrow genetic distances despite dissimilar parentage. We found a very high level of similarity among Pakistani-bred Bt cotton varieties, which means that genetically diverse recurrent parents should be included to enhance genetic diversity. The intra-hirsutum polymorphic SSRs were found to be highly informative for molecular genetic diversity studies in these cotton varieties.

Vitamin C protects against ethanol and PTZ-induced apoptotic neurodegeneration in prenatal rat hippocampal neurons

Exposure to alcohol during brain development may cause a neurological syndrome called fetal alcohol syndrome, characterized by pre- and postnatal growth deficiencies, craniofacial anomalies, and evidence of CNS dysfunction. The objective of this study was to evaluate pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) and ethanol effects on Bax, Bcl-2 expression, which further induced activation of caspase-3, release of cytochrome-c from mitochondria, and to observe the protective effects of vitamin C (vit-C) against PTZ and ethanol-induced apoptotic neurodegeneration in primary-cultured neuronal cells at gestational day 17.5. Apoptotic neurodegeneration and neuroprotective effect of vit-C were measured by using 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay, Western blot analysis, which further conformed by the measurement of mitochondrial membrane potential using JC-1 detection kit and immunofluorescence analysis. The results showed that PTZ and ethanol produced extensive Bax-dependent caspase-9 and caspase-3 activation and caused neuronal apoptosis. Furthermore, the cotreatment of vit-C along with ethanol and PTZ showed significantly decreased expression of Bax, caspase-9, caspase-3, cytochrome-c, and significantly increased expression of antiapoptotic Bcl-2 protein when compared with control group. Our findings indicate that PTZ and ethanol activate an intrinsic apoptotic death program in neurons that is likely to contribute to the neuropathologic effects in fetal alcohol exposure, and vit-C can prevent some of the deleterious effects of PTZ and ethanol on the developing brain. The available experimental evidence and the safety of vit-C in pregnancy suggest the experimental use of ascorbic acid as a new and effective protective agent ethanol and PTZ-induced apoptotic neurodegeneration.

Ethanol and PTZ effects on siRNA-mediated GABAB1 receptor: down regulation of intracellular signaling pathway in prenatal rat cortical and hippocampal neurons

GABA(B) receptors (R) are widely expressed and distributed in the nervous system, and have been implicated in variety of neurodegenerative and pathophysiological disorders. However, the exact molecular mechanism regarding responsibility of GABA(B1)R in downstream signaling pathway is not well understood. The present study was undertaken to explore the downstream signaling and role of GABA(B1)R upon acute ethanol and pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) exposure for (20 min) in cortical and hippocampal neuronal cell cultures by using GABA(B1)R RNA interference (i) (30 nM, 48 h) at gestational days 17.5. The results showed that GABA(B1)R and protein kinase A-alpha (PKA) showed decreased expression upon ethanol and PTZ exposure in cortical and hippocampal neurons during transfected and nontransfected conditions, whereas these effects could lead to significant changes in phosphorylation of cAMP-response element binding protein (p-CREB) expression where GABA(B1)R was knocked down. Furthermore, intracellular Ca(+2) concentrations were also reduced in some groups after transfection with GABA(B1)R RNAi. These results showed a critical role of GABA(B1)R upon ethanol and PTZ exposure by modulating downstream signaling pathway. Finally, these findings suggested that inhibition of GABA(B1)R results in the modulation of PKA, p-CREB pathway may play a role in long-term changes in the nervous system, and may be an underlying cause of ethanol's effects.

Genetic variation for stomatal conductance in upland cotton as influenced by heat-stressed and non-stressed growing regimes

Stomatal conductance is an important heat avoidance mechanism and its association with higher yield and heat resistance has been established in Pima cotton. Experiments were carried out on upland cotton under heat-stressed and non-stressed greenhouse and field regimes, to understand the impact of heat-stressed and non-stressed environments on the genetic and combining ability variations for stomatal conductance. The experimental material comprised 8 upland cotton cultivars and their 15 F 1 cross combinations obtained in a line × tester mating arrangement. The results showed high genetic variability for stomatal conductance in a single environment, but low genetic variability across environments, due to the higher magnitude of the environmental interaction, especially that caused by temperature regimes. The interaction effect of temperature regimes also substantially modified general and specific combining ability variations for stomatal conductance. The relative contributions of general and specific combining abilities to total phenotypic variation for stomatal conductance also underwent a great change across field temperature regimes. The non-stressed regime favoured the expression of genes causing the additive type of genetic variability. The heat-stressed field regime, however, favoured the expression of both additive and non-additive types of genetic variation for stomatal conductance in upland cotton. Recurrent selection for the accumulation of favourable genes for general combining ability under non-stressed conditions was suggested for improving stomatal conductance in applied cotton breeding programmes.