Phylogenetic and recombination analysis of Begomoviruses associated with Cotton leaf curl disease and in silico analysis of viral-host protein interactions

Cotton leaf curl disease (CLCuD), caused by numerous begomoviruses (BGVs), is a highly disastrous disease in cotton crops worldwide. To date, several efforts have shown limited success in controlling this disease. CLCuD-associated BGVs (CABs) are known for their high rate of intra and interspecific recombinations, which raises an urgent need to find an efficient and conserved target region to combat disease. In the present study, phylogenetic analysis of selected 11 CABs, along with associated alphasatellites, and betasatellites revealed a close evolutionary relationship among them. Recombination analysis of 1374 isolates of CABs revealed 54 recombination events for the major players of CLCuD in cotton and the Cotton leaf curl Multan virus (CLCuMuV) as the most recombinant CAB. Recombination breakpoints were frequent in all regions except C2 and C3. C3-encoded protein, known as viral replication enhancer (REn), promotes viral replication by enhancing the activity of replicase (Rep) protein. Both proteins were found to contain significantly conserved domains and motifs. The identified motifs were found crucial for their interaction with host protein PCNA (Proliferating cell nuclear antigen), facilitating viral replication. Interruption at the REn-PCNA and Rep-PCNA interactions by targeting the identified conserved motifs is proposed as a prospect to halt viral replication, after suitable experimental validation.

Material-level countermeasures for securing microfluidic biochips

Flow-based microfluidic biochips (FMBs) have been rapidly commercialized and deployed in recent years for biological computing, clinical diagnostics, and point-of-care-tests (POCTs). However, outsourcing FMBs makes them susceptible to material-level attacks by malicious actors for illegitimate monetary gain. The attacks involve deliberate material degradation of an FMB's polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) components by either doping with reactive solvents or altering the PDMS curing ratio during fabrication. Such attacks are stealthy enough to evade detection and deteriorate the FMB's function. Furthermore, material-level attacks can become prevalent in attacks based on intellectual property (IP) theft, such as counterfeiting, overbuilding, etc., which involve unscrupulous third-party manufacturers. To address this problem, we present a dynamic material-level watermarking scheme for PDMS-based FMBs with microvalves using a perylene-labeled fluorescent dye. The dyed microvalves show a unique excimer intensity peak under 405 nm laser excitation. Moreover, when pneumatically actuated, the peak shows a predetermined downward shift in intensity as a function of mechanical strain. We validated this protection scheme experimentally using fluorescence microscopy, which showed a high correlation (R2 = 0.971) between the normalized excimer intensity change and the maximum principal strain of the actuated microvalves. To detect curing ratio-based attacks, we adapted machine learning (ML) models, which were trained on the force-displacement data obtained from a mechanical punch test method. Our ML models achieved more than 99% accuracy in detecting curing ratio anomalies. These countermeasures can be used to proactively safeguard FMBs against material-level attacks in the era of global pandemics and diagnostics based on POCTs.

Epidemiology, treatment patterns, and disease burden of cytomegalovirus in hematopoietic cell transplant recipients in selected countries outside of Europe and North America: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease impacts morbidity and mortality in hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) recipients. This systematic review summarized data on the epidemiology, management, and burden of CMV post-HCT outside of Europe and North America.

METHODS

The MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases were searched for observational studies and treatment guidelines in HCT recipients across 15 selected countries from Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East (search period: 1 January 2011-17 September 2021). Outcomes included incidence of CMV infection/disease, recurrence, risk factors, CMV-related mortality, treatments, refractory, resistant CMV, and burden.

RESULTS

Of 2708 references identified, 68 were eligible (67 studies and one guideline; 45/67 studies specific to adult allogeneic HCT recipients). The rates of CMV infection and disease within 1 year of allogeneic HCT were 24.9%-61.2% (23 studies) and 2.9%-15.7% (10 studies), respectively. Recurrence occurred in 19.8%-37.9% of cases (11 studies). Up to 10% of HCT recipients died of CMV-related causes. In all countries, first-line treatment for CMV infection/disease involved intravenous ganciclovir or valganciclovir. Conventional treatments were associated with serious adverse events such as myelosuppression (10.0%) or neutropenia only (30.0%, 39.8%) and nephrotoxicity (11.0%) (three studies), frequently leading to treatment discontinuation (up to 13.6%). Refractory CMV was reported in 2.9%, 13.0%, and 28.9% of treated patients (three studies) with resistant CMV diagnosed in 0%-10% of recipients (five studies). Patient-reported outcomes and economic data were scarce.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of CMV infection and disease post-HCT is high outside of North America and Europe. CMV resistance and toxicity highlight a major unmet need with current conventional treatments.

Epidemiology, management, and burden of cytomegalovirus in solid organ transplant recipients in selected countries outside of Europe and North America: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a frequent infectious complication following solid organ transplantation (SOT). Considering significant differences in healthcare systems, a systematic review was conducted to describe the epidemiology, management, and burden of CMV post-SOT in selected countries outside of Europe and North America.

METHODS

MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases were searched for observational studies in SOT recipients across 15 countries in the regions of Asia, Pacific, and Latin America (search period: January 1, 2011 to September 17, 2021). Outcomes included incidence of CMV infection/disease, recurrence, risk factors, CMV-related mortality, treatment patterns and guidelines, refractory and/or resistant CMV, patient-reported outcomes, and economic burden.

RESULTS

Of 2708 studies identified, 49 were eligible (n = 43/49; 87.8% in adults; n = 34/49, 69.4% in kidney recipients). Across studies, selection of CMV preventive strategy was based on CMV serostatus. Overall, rates of CMV infection (within 1 year) and CMV disease post-SOT were respectively, 10.3%-63.2% (9 studies) and 0%-19.0% (17 studies). Recurrence occurred in 35.4%-41.0% cases (3 studies) and up to 5.3% recipients died of CMV-associated causes (11 studies). Conventional treatments for CMV infection/disease included ganciclovir (GCV) or valganciclovir. Up to 4.4% patients were resistant to treatment (3 studies); no studies reported on refractory CMV. Treatment-related adverse events with GCV included neutropenia (2%-29%), anemia (13%-48%), leukopenia (11%-37%), and thrombocytopenia (13%-24%). Data on economic burden were scarce.

CONCLUSION

Outside of North America and Europe, rates of CMV infection/disease post-SOT are highly variable and CMV recurrence is frequent. CMV resistance and treatment-associated adverse events, including myelosuppression, highlight unmet needs with conventional therapy.

Reduced intestinal lipid absorption improves glucose metabolism in aged G2-Terc knockout mice

BACKGROUND

Biological aging is an important factor leading to the development of pathologies associated with metabolic dysregulation, including type 2 diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Telomere length, a central feature of aging, has additionally been identified as inversely associated with glucose tolerance and the development of type 2 diabetes. However, the effects of shortened telomeres on body weight and metabolism remain incompletely understood. Here, we studied the metabolic consequences of moderate telomere shortening using second generation loss of telomerase activity in mice.

RESULTS

Aged male and female G2 Terc-/- mice and controls were characterized with respect to body weight and composition, glucose homeostasis, insulin sensitivity and metabolic activity. This was complemented with molecular and histological analysis of adipose tissue, liver and the intestine as well as microbiota analysis. We show that moderate telomere shortening leads to improved insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance in aged male and female G2 Terc-/- mice. This is accompanied by reduced fat and lean mass in both sexes. Mechanistically, the metabolic improvement results from reduced dietary lipid uptake in the intestine, characterized by reduced gene expression of fatty acid transporters in enterocytes of the small intestine. Furthermore, G2-Terc-/- mice showed significant alterations in the composition of gut microbiota, potentially contributing to the improved glucose metabolism.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows that moderate telomere shortening reduces intestinal lipid absorption, resulting in reduced adiposity and improved glucose metabolism in aged mice. These findings will guide future murine and human aging studies and provide important insights into the age associated development of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

Comparative expression analysis of water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) to identify genes associated with economically important traits

The milk, meat, skins, and draft power of domestic water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) provide substantial contributions to the global agricultural economy. The world's water buffalo population is primarily found in Asia, and the buffalo supports more people per capita than any other livestock species. For evaluating the workflow, output rate, and completeness of transcriptome assemblies within and between reference-free (RF) de novo transcriptome and reference-based (RB) datasets, abundant bioinformatics studies have been carried out to date. However, comprehensive documentation of the degree of consistency and variability of the data produced by comparing gene expression levels using these two separate techniques is lacking. In the present study, we assessed the variations in the number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) attained with RF and RB approaches. In light of this, we conducted a study to identify, annotate, and analyze the genes associated with four economically important traits of buffalo, viz., milk volume, age at first calving, post-partum cyclicity, and feed conversion efficiency. A total of 14,201 and 279 DEGs were identified in RF and RB assemblies. Gene ontology (GO) terms associated with the identified genes were allocated to traits under study. Identified genes improve the knowledge of the underlying mechanism of trait expression in water buffalo which may support improved breeding plans for higher productivity. The empirical findings of this study using RNA-seq data-based assembly may improve the understanding of genetic diversity in relation to buffalo productivity and provide important contributions to answer biological issues regarding the transcriptome of non-model organisms.

Measurement of the ν_{e}-Nucleus Charged-Current Double-Differential Cross Section at ⟨E_{ν}⟩=2.4 GeV Using NOvA

The inclusive electron neutrino charged-current cross section is measured in the NOvA near detector using 8.02×10^{20} protons-on-target in the NuMI beam. The sample of GeV electron neutrino interactions is the largest analyzed to date and is limited by ≃17% systematic rather than the ≃7.4% statistical uncertainties. The double-differential cross section in final-state electron energy and angle is presented for the first time, together with the single-differential dependence on Q^{2} (squared four-momentum transfer) and energy, in the range 1  GeV≤E_{ν}<6  GeV. Detailed comparisons are made to the predictions of the GENIE, GiBUU, NEUT, and NuWro neutrino event generators. The data do not strongly favor a model over the others consistently across all three cross sections measured, though some models have especially good or poor agreement in the single differential cross section vs Q^{2}.

On Comparison of Heat Treated and Non-Heat-Treated LOM Manufactured Sample for Poly(lactic)acid: Mechanical and Morphological View Point

This work reports the comparison of heat-treated and non-heat-treated laminated object-manufactured (LOM) 3D-printed specimens from mechanical and morphological viewpoints. The study suggests that heat treatment of the FDM-printed specimen may have a significant impact on the material characteristics of the polymer. The work has been performed at two stages for the characterization of (a) non-heat-treated samples and (b) heat-treated samples. The results for stage 1 (non-heat-treated samples) suggest that the infill density: 70%, infill pattern: honeycomb, and six number of discs in a single LOM-manufactured sample is the optimized condition with a compression strength of 42.47 MPa. The heat treatment analysis at stage 2 suggests that a high temperature: 65 °C, low time interval: 10 min, works equally well as the low temperature: 55 °C, high time interval: 30 min. The post-heat treatment near Tg (65 °C) for a time interval of 10 min improved the compressive strength by 105.42%.

On Laminated Object Manufactured FDM-Printed ABS/TPU Multimaterial Specimens: An Insight into Mechanical and Morphological Characteristics

Fused deposition modeling (FDM) printing of commercial and reinforced filaments is a proven and well-explored method for the enhancement of mechanical properties. However, little has hitherto been reported on the multi-material components, fused or laminated together into a single specimen by using the laminated object manufacturing (LOM) technique for sustainable/renewable polymers. TPU is one such durable and flexible, sustainable material exhibiting renewable and biocompatible properties that have been explored very less often in combination with the ABS polymer matrix in a single specimen, such as the LOM specimen. The current research work presents the LOM manufacturing of 3D-printed flexural specimens of two different, widely used polymers available viz. ABS and TPU and tested as per ASTM D790 standards. The specimens were made and laminated in three layers. They were grouped into two categories, namely ABS: TPU: ABS (ATA) and TPU: ABS: TPU (TAT), which are functionally graded, sandwiched structures of polymeric material. The investigation of the flexural properties, microscopic imaging, and porosity characteristics of the specimens was made for the above categories. The results of the study suggest that ATA-based samples held larger flexural strength than TAT laminated manufactured samples. A significant improvement in the peak elongation and break elongation of the samples was achieved and has shown a 187% increase in the break elongation. Similarly, for the TAT-based specimen, flexural strength was improved significantly from approximately 6.8 MPa to 13 MPa, which represents a nearly 92% increase in the flexural strength. The morphological testing using Tool Maker’s microscopic analysis and porosity analysis has supported the observed trends of mechanical behavior of ATA and TAT samples.

The response of blood plasma metabolite concentrations of anestrus lactating buffalo to CIDR-eCG with or without melatonin treatment

The objective of this study was to compare the efficiency of CIDR-eCG protocol with or without melatonin treatment on blood plasma metabolites in anestrus Murrah buffaloes during out-of-breeding season. Twelve lactating Murrah buffaloes were allotted to control and treated groups each of six animals. Treated buffaloes were implanted with melatonin (18 mg melatonin / 50 kg body weight) for 45 days, then animals of both groups received CIDR for 9 days. All animals received 500 IU eCG intramuscularly one day before CIDR removal and 10 µg GnRH on the day of AI. The animals were subjected to estrus detection daily as per farm routine. At weekly intervals, blood samples were collected to determine the concentration of blood plasma metabolites over 84 days’ period between June and September. All buffaloes exhibited estrus after CIDR removal. CIDR-eCG preceded with melatonin treatment increased plasma total protein, albumin, cholesterol and HDL-cholesterol (P<0.05) in comparison to only CIDR treated control. Buffaloes treated with melatonin plus CIDR exhibited increased (P<0.01) plasma glucose on days 28, 53 and 55 and reduction (P<0.01) in HDL and AST at time of pregnancy diagnosis, while plasma concentration of phosphorus was the highest (P<0.05) at day 84. In conclusion, CIDR-eCG treatment preceded with melatonin implantation improved reproductive performance and altered blood metabolite composition of lactating buffaloes during out-of-breeding season as compared to CIDR-eCG only.

996 EFFECT OF COVID-19 ON HIP FRACTURE CARE IN WALES - AN ANALYSIS OF HOW ORGANISATION OF SERVICES AFFECTED HOSPITAL LENGTH OF STAY

Introduction

The National Hip Fracture Database (NHFD) report that length of stay (LOS) fell (from 19.7 to 16.9 days) in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, as patients, families, cares, and staff in health and social care responded to this challenge. This analysis examines trends in Wales where LOS can be profiled very completely as it predominantly remains within a single health board.

Method

We used data from the NHFD www.nhfd.co.uk to define pre-pandemic LOS (in the year to 1st March 2020) and compare this with the following 18 months. We set figures for all 12 hospitals in Wales against the changes in service organisation which each reported to the NHFD's 2020 Facilities Survey, and against the local incidence of COVID-19 among their hip fracture patients.

Results

Monthly LOS fell markedly at the pandemic's onset; the national figure falling 8.3 days (from 31.2–22.9 days) between February and June 2020. Overall LOS in Wales fell by 1.6 days across the year as a whole, but this ranged from a fall of 6.3 days in one hospital to a rise of 4.5 days in another. Five hospitals reported a rise in LOS. These hospitals had either never had orthogeriatric support, or lost this to COVID-19 duties, they did not achieve the initial fall in LOS in response to the pandemic, and they reported pressures with ‘outliers’ after the first wave. Unlike other units in Wales they cited problems with workload, particularly in terms of physiotherapy.

Discussion

NHFD data provide a detailed picture of hospitals’ response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and allow us to examine service factors underpinning their resilience in the face of this challenge. More detailed work should be carried out for the 150 hospitals in England using the same sources of data.

PAT2 regulates vATPase assembly and lysosomal acidification in brown adipocytes

OBJECTIVE

Brown adipocytes play a key role in maintaining body temperature as well as glucose and lipid homeostasis. However, brown adipocytes need to adapt their thermogenic activity and substrate utilization to changes in nutrient availability. Amongst the multiple factors influencing brown adipocyte activity, autophagy is an important regulatory element of thermogenic capacity and activity. Nevertheless, a specific sensing mechanism of extracellular amino acid availability linking autophagy to nutrient availability in brown adipocytes is unknown.

METHODS

To characterize the role of the amino acid transporter PAT2/SLC36A2 in brown adipocytes, loss or gain of function of PAT2 were studied with respect to differentiation, subcellular localization, lysosomal activity and autophagy. Activity of vATPase was evaluated by quenching of EGFP fused to LC3 or FITC-dextran loaded lysosomes in brown adipocytes upon amino acid starvation, whereas the effect of PAT2 on assembly of the vATPase was investigated by Native-PAGE.

RESULTS

We show that PAT2 translocates from the plasma membrane to the lysosome in response to amino acid withdrawal. Loss or overexpression of PAT2 impair lysosomal acidification and starvation induced S6K re-phosphorylation, as PAT2 facilitates the assembly of the lysosomal vATPase, by recruitment of the cytoplasmic V1 subunit to the lysosome.

CONCLUSION

PAT2 is an important sensor of extracellular amino acids and regulator of lysosomal acidification in brown adipocytes.

Prevalence of HIV Infection among Blood Donors in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Haryana: A Retrospective Study

Introduction: Blood is a scarce, but life saving resource. At the same time, unsafe transfusion practice also puts millions of people at risk of Transfusion Transmissible Infections (TTIs). Aim: To determine the prevalence and trend of blood borne infection namely Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) among blood donors donating blood in a tertiary care hospital of Haryana, India. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted from September 2012 to August 2014 to calculate the prevalence and trend of HIV positivity among blood donors over a period of five years (2008-2012). Results were expressed in terms of frequency and percentage. Results: There were a total of 1,59,077 donations, including both voluntary and replacement donors. The overall prevalence of HIV infection among blood donors was found to be 0.26% over a period of five years (2008-2012). The HIV prevalence among blood donors showed an increased trend from 2008 (0.18%) to 2011 (0.34%), and then there was a dip in the year 2012 (0.23%). Conclusion: The number of female blood donors were less in comparison to male blood donor. The maximum number of donors were voluntary males followed by replacement males.

Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics, Efficacy and Safety of a Romiplostim Biosimilar in Chronic Refractory Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) Patients

Romiplostim (Nplate®, Amgen Inc.) is an orphan drug approved for the treatment of chronic refractory immune thrombolytic purpura (ITP) in adult and pediatric patients. Limited availability of pharmacokinetic (PK) data and large inter- and intra-subject variability in PK and platelet response is a challenge in the clinical development of a romiplostim biosimilar. We compared pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD)/efficacy, and safety of a romiplostim biosimilar with Nplate in 24 patients with ITP following a single 3 μg/kg dose, and assessed efficacy of the romiplostim biosimilar at a titrated dose range of 1-5 μg/kg in 50 patients with ITP. The PK of the romiplostim biosimilar did not differ compared to the PK of Nplate, and PD/efficacy responses were similar between the products following the single dose. The romiplostim biosimilar showed historically comparable PD/efficacy with Nplate over 8 weeks when treated at the titrated dose range. It was well tolerated in both the studies.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12288-021-01431-y.

Combining ALT/AST Values with Surgical APGAR Score Improves Prediction of Major Complications after Hepatectomy

Hepatectomy is a complex procedure with high morbidity and mortality. Early prediction/prevention of major complications is highly valuable for patient care. Surgical APGAR score (SAS) has been validated to predict post-surgical complications (PCs). We aimed to define a simple complications classification following hepatectomy based on a therapy-oriented severity Clavien-Dindo classification (CDC). 119 patients undergoing liver resection were included. PCs were determined at follow-up based on CDC. Clinicopathological factors were used to calculate SAS. A receiver-operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis estimated the predictive value of SAS for PCs. Circulating markers levels of liver injury were analyzed as critical elements on PCs. SAS (P=0.008), estimated blood-loss (P=0.018) and operation time (P=0.0008) were associated with PCs. SAS was reduced in patients with (+) compared to those without (-) complications (6.64±1.84 vs 5.70±1.79, P=0.0079). The area-under-the-curve was 0.646 by ROC, indicating an acceptable discrimination with 65% possibility to distinguish (-) and (+) groups (P=0.004). Best cutoff value for SAS was ≤6/≥7, at which sensitivity and specificity were maximal. ALT/ASL levels were significantly different within the group with 9-10 SAS points (P=0.01 and 0.02). In conclusion, SAS provides accurate risk stratification for major PCs after hepatectomy, and might help improving the overall patient outcome.

Equal rates of drug resistance in leprosy cases with relapse and recurrent /chronic type 2 reaction; Time to revise the guidelines for drug resistance testing in leprosy

BACKGROUND

Leprosy relapse/recurrence is a serious concern especially in a leprosy endemic nation like India. It is believed that bacilli persisting even after multi-drug therapy could cause relapse; recently however drug resistance as a cause for recurrences and chronic erythema nodosum leprosum (ENL) has been speculated. Our objective was to study drug resistance patterns in cases of leprosy relapse and chronic/recurrent ENL's.

METHODOLOGY

This cross-sectional study conducted over a period of 1 year included patients diagnosed as leprosy relapse and those with chronic/recurrent (c/r) ENL. Skin biopsy specimens were subjected to conventional PCR for resistance testing for rifampicin, dapsone and ofloxacin, targeting rpoB, folP and gyrA gene of M.leprae respectively.

RESULTS

A total of 61 patients (25 smear negative) were included in the study. Of these, 37 were diagnosed as leprosy relapse and 24 had c/r ENL. Drug resistance to at least one drug was identified in 10 (16.4%) cases. Rates of drug resistance were 5.4% (2/37) for dapsone, 10.8% (4/37) for rifampicin and 2.7% (1/37) for ofloxacin amongst cases of relapse where as it was 12.5% (3/24) and 8.3% (2/24) for dapsone and rifampicin respectively amongst those with c/rENL.. Multi drug resistance was seen in 3.3% (2/61) patients.

CONCLUSION

Drug resistance rate amongst those with c/rENL was almost equaled that of relapse. Smear negative leprosy relapse cases also had resistance to bactericidal drugs. These findings call for modifications in criteria for testing under leprosy drug resistance surveillance and all cases of relapse and those with recalcitrant c/rENL should be tested.

Assessment of eco-hydrological parameters for important sympodial bamboo species in Himalayan foothills

Bamboos due to high soil water conservation potential are gaining increased attention in plantation programs across the globe. Large-scale plantation of fast-growing bamboo, however, can have important hydrological consequences. The study aims to quantify the eco-hydrological parameters, viz., throughfall (TF), stemflow (SF), and interception (I) in seven important sympodial bamboo species in north western Himalayan foothills of India. The species selected include Bambusa balcooa, Bambusa bambos, Bambusa vulgaris., Bambusa nutans, Dendrocalamus hamiltonii, Dendrocalamus stocksii, and Dendrocalamus strictus. Throughfall versus gross rainfall (GR) relationship in different species indicated high throughfall production during high rainfall events with r² > 0.90. Average throughfall was lowest (62.1%) in D. hamiltonii and highest in B. vulgaris (74.6%). SF ranged from 1.32% in B. nutans to 3.39% in D. hamiltonii. The correlation coefficient (r) between leaf area index (LAI), number of culms, and crown area with the interception were 0.746, 0.691, and 0.585, respectively. The funneling ratio (F) was highest (27.0) in D. hamiltonii and least in B. nutans. Canopy storage capacity was highest in D. strictus (3.57 mm) and least in D. hamiltonii (1.09 mm). Interception loss was highest (34.4%) in D. hamiltonii and lowest in B. vulgaris (23.5%) and D. strictus (23.6%). Higher interception in bamboos make them suitable for soil conservation, but careful selection of species is required in low rainfall areas.

Effect of prosthetic framework material, cantilever length and opposing arch on peri-implant strain in an all-on-four implant prostheses

Aim

To evaluate the effect of prosthetic framework material and cantilever length on peri-implant strain in mandibular all-on-four implant-supported prostheses with different types of arch antagonist forces.

Materials and Methods

Models simulating a completely edentulous mandibular arch fabricated in heat-cured acrylic resin were used. On the acrylic models, four implants were placed at regions 34, 32, 42, and 44 simulating all-on-four implant placements. Implant-supported screw-retained fixed prosthesis frameworks were fabricated using three different materials (cobalt-chromium, zirconia, and polyetheretherketone) and with three different cantilever lengths (zero mm, 15 mm, and 25 mm). Strain gauges were attached on the model at the buccal and lingual positions of each implant. Forces simulating opposing natural dentition, conventional complete denture, and the parafunctional habit were applied to the models. The peri-implant strain in each strain gauge was recorded.

Results

Least peri-implant strains (67 microstrains) were observed when forces simulating conventional complete dentures were applied on the models and the highest peri-implant strains (9091 microstrains) were observed when forces simulating parafunctional habit were applied. One-way ANOVA test followed by Tukey's post hoc analysis was performed to compare the mean deformation scores between different materials at 50 N load. The level of significance [P-value] was set at P < 0.05. Tests showed significant differences between zero mm and the other types in all the different materials, and also between 1.5 x AP and 2.5 x AP for Zirconia and Peek material at P = 0.02 & P = .008, respectively. The results showed that the type of framework material, cantilever length, and occlusal forces from the opposing arch influence the peri-implant strain in the bone in all-on-four implant-supported prostheses.

Conclusion

Rehabilitation of a single, completely edentulous arch with implant-supported prostheses should consider the situation of the opposing arch. The choice of framework material, as well as the cantilever length, should be altered based on the forces from the opposing arch.

Denosumab biosimilar in postmenopausal osteoporotic women: A randomized, assessor-blind, active-controlled clinical trial

OBJECTIVE:

The study assessed the efficacy, safety, pharmacokinetic (PK), and immunogenicity profiles of denosumab-biosimilar and denosumab-reference in postmenopausal osteoporotic women from India.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In this randomized, assessor-blind, active-control, multicenter trial, 114 patients were randomly allocated to receive denosumab-biosimilar (n = 58) or denosumab-reference (n = 56) at a subcutaneous dose of 60 mg every 6 months, for a year. Vitamin D and oral calcium were given daily. Lumbar spine bone mineral density (BMD) change was the primary end point.

RESULTS:

Of 114 randomized patients, 111 (denosumab-biosimilar, n = 56; denosumab-reference, n = 55) completed the study. All 114 patients were part of safety and immunogenicity analyses, 110 (denosumab-biosimilar, n = 56; denosumab-reference, n = 54) were part of efficacy analysis, and 20 (denosumab-biosimilar, n = 10; denosumab-reference, n = 10) were part of PK analysis. The bone mineral density (BMD) (lumbar spine) percent change at 1 year with denosumab-biosimilar and denosumab-reference (7.22 vs. 7.62; difference:−0.40; 95% confidence interval: −5.92, 5.12) showed no statistically relevant difference. Likewise, alkaline phosphatase (bone-specific) and PK parameters also did not show statistically relevant differences. Adverse events were reported in 44.83% of patients on denosumab-biosimilar versus 33.93% of patients on denosumab-reference; most events were mild or moderate and not related to the study drugs. No patients showed anti-denosumab antibody positivity.

CONCLUSIONS:

Denosumab-biosimilar and denosumab-reference showed biosimilarity in osteoporotic postmenopausal women. Availability of denosumab-biosimilar provides a treatment alternative for patients.

Single-Dose Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics and Immunogenicity, and Multiple-Dose Immunogenicity of INTP5 (Pegfilgrastim Biosimilar) Versus Reference Pegfilgrastim in Healthy Subjects

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: INTP5 has been developed as a pegfilgrastim biosimilar. Single-dose, crossover study compared the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) of INTP5 (pegfilgrastim biosimilar) with reference pegfilgrastim (Neulasta^®, pegfilgrastim-ref) and a multiple-dose, parallel-group study compared the immunogenicity of INTP5 with pegfilgrastim-ref in healthy subjects as part of a complete clinical development plan.

METHODS

In the PK/PD study, subjects received a single subcutaneous 6 mg dose of INTP5 and pegfilgrastim-ref (N = 142) separated by a 6-week washout period. The primary endpoints were area under the serum concentration-time curve measured from time zero to infinity (AUC_0-∞) and maximum measured serum concentration (C_max) of pegfilgrastim and area under the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) versus time curve from time zero to t (AUEC_0-t) and maximum measured ANC (E_max) of baseline non-adjusted ANCs. In the immunogenicity study, subjects received two 6 mg doses of INTP5 (N = 100) or pegfilgrastim-ref (N = 100) separated by 21 days. The primary endpoints were incidence of anti-drug antibodies (ADAs) in the two treatment groups.

RESULTS

The primary PK endpoints [AUC_0-∞ (90% CI 108.59-123.11) and C_max (106.24-118.99)] and the primary PD endpoints [AUEC_0-t (99.07-102.32) and E_max (100.24-104.25)] met the acceptance criteria of 80-125%. The incidence of ADAs was 10.6% in the INTP5 arm and 9.0% in the pegfilgrastim-ref arm. The 90% CI for risk difference of the ADA incidence between INTP5 and pegfilgrastim-ref was 1.64% (- 5.40 to 8.68) and was within the 10% margin. No neutralizing antibodies were reported. Immunogenicity did not impact PK/PD parameters and subjects with aberrant PK/PD/safety did not show immunogenicity concerns. Incidence of adverse events (AEs) was similar with INTP5 and pegfilgrastim-ref in both studies. The most common AEs were musculoskeletal pain and headache.

CONCLUSION

INTP5 showed PK/PD equivalence with pegfilgrastim-ref following a single dose, no clinically meaningful difference in the immune response following multiple doses, and a comparable safety profile.

What’s in a Name? Comparative Analysis of Laboratory Test Naming Guidelines as Applied to Common Confusing Test Names

Introduction/Objective

Laboratory test names frequently do not enable easy understandability or promote correct test utilization, which leads to difficulty for providers in finding the correct test and results in unnecessary cost and medical errors. Laboratory test names are also largely unstandardized and are not named by a consistent set of conventions. To address these issues, the TRUU-Lab (Test Renaming for Understanding & Utilization) initiative aims to generate a consensus test naming guideline for better human understandability of laboratory test names. These studies address the first aim of the TRUU-Lab initiative: to identify root causes and challenges in understanding and using laboratory test names.

Methods

We conducted survey studies to capture the most problematic laboratory test names, then performed analysis of these names to identify aspects of these names that led to confusion among providers. A subset of these test names were used to evaluate five existing laboratory test naming guidelines (LOINC, ONC TigerTeam, Pan- Canadian iEHR Viewer Name, Standards for Pathology Informatics (Australia), and ARUP Laboratories internal style guides) for their ability to produce understandable test names.

Results

274 survey responses yielded ~100 unique laboratory tests cited as confusing, and highlighted substantial diversity both in the names of these tests between institutions and in respondent opinion on the best alternative names. The top 10 most commonly-cited tests yielded ≥ 3 unique names, and the top 2 tests (Vitamin D and anti- factor Xa) yielded ≥ 10 unique names. Post-survey analysis identified eight characteristics associated with poor understandability of a test name, including ambiguity, abbreviations, homophones, multiple indications for a single test, proprietary names, synonyms, truncation, and “panels” where components are obfuscated. Existing guidelines produced highly variable names given the same prompt, and varied in their ability to avoid pitfalls associated with poor understandability.

Conclusion

These studies highlight aspects of existing laboratory test names that lead to confusion among ordering providers, and identify the inability of existing laboratory test naming practices to adequately address these issues. Efforts are ongoing within TRUU-Lab to use these results to inform novel laboratory test naming guidelines to promote universal human understandability.

TRUU-Lab: Methods for Optimizing Test Names for Understanding and Utilization

Introduction/Objective

Poor understandability of laboratory test names increases the risk for inappropriate test utilization and medical errors. Yet, human understandability has not been a major consideration in existing laboratory test names or naming guidelines. TRUU-Lab (Test Renaming for Understanding and Utilization for Laboratory Test Names) is a national initiative that now has more than 45 members representing more than 20 academic and industry organizations, the CDC, and the FDA. The goals of the initiative include: 1) Identify root causes and challenges in understanding and using laboratory test names; 2) Share resources related to potential solutions; 3) Develop consensus guidelines for laboratory test naming; 4) Establish consensus names for existing laboratory tests; and 5) Promote the adoption and implementation of consensus laboratory test names.

Methods

We previously addressed the first two goals of this initiative by identifying problematic test names and features of test names that contribute to misutilization. We also identified the advantages and limitations of current test naming guidelines and previous standardization efforts. This current study addresses goals 3 and 4. We developed an iterative process of guideline development. This process includes collecting feedback on consensus names to improve guidelines, which then informs the improvement of the consensus names.

Results

By analyzing test name characteristics, we found that the requirements for understandability vary with respect to the clinical scenario and provider background. We have used these results to design a 30-min long survey to test candidate names. The survey will be distributed through the Brand Institute, which offers expertise in pharmaceutical name and brand identity development. This pilot survey will be sent to primary care providers to assesses intuitive name preferences given a short and specific prompt. The second phase will take place in a simulated electronic medical record environment to present clinical scenarios where physicians will select an appropriate test.

Conclusion

We expect that results from survey studies will directly inform the development of TRUU-Lab naming guidelines, in turn permitting development of better-optimized laboratory test names. This process represents a new strategy for the intentional design of laboratory test names that are understandable and promote correct provider utilization.

Computed tomographic analysis of the prevalence of International Frontal Sinus Anatomy Classification cells and their association with frontal sinusitis

OBJECTIVES

To determine the radiological prevalence of frontal cells according to the International Frontal Sinus Anatomy Classification in patients undergoing computed tomography of the paranasal sinuses for clinical symptoms of chronic rhinosinusitis, and to examine the association between cell classification and frontal sinusitis development.

METHODS

A total of 180 (left and right) sides of 90 patients were analysed. The prevalence of each International Frontal Sinus Anatomy Classification cell was assessed. Logistic regression analysis was used to compare the distribution of various cells in patients with and without frontal sinusitis.

RESULTS

The agger nasi cell was the most commonly occurring cell, seen in 95.5 per cent of patients. The prevalence rates for supra agger cells, supra agger frontal cells, supra bullar frontal cells, supra bullar cells, supra-orbital ethmoid cells and frontal septal cells were 33.3 per cent, 22.2 per cent, 21.1 per cent, 36.1 per cent, 39.4 per cent and 21.1 per cent, respectively. There was no significant difference in the occurrence of any of the cell types in patients with frontal sinusitis compared to those without (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The presence of any of the International Frontal Sinus Anatomy Classification cells was not significantly associated with frontal sinusitis.

A randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, single‑dose, pharmacokinetic bioequivalence study of INTP24 and bevacizumab in healthy adult men

PURPOSE

To demonstrate pharmacokinetic (PK) equivalence and to compare safety of INTP24 (bevacizumab biosimilar) with that of US-bevacizumab and EU-bevacizumab in healthy male subjects.

METHODS

In this randomized, parallel-group, double-blind study, male subjects were randomized (1:1:1) to receive a single 1 mg/kg intravenous infusion of either INTP24, US-bevacizumab, or EU-bevacizumab. The primary endpoint was area under serum concentration (AUC) from time zero to infinity (AUC_0-∞). Secondary endpoints were AUC from time zero to last quantifiable concentration (AUC_0-t), maximum concentration (C_max), other PK parameters, immunogenicity, and safety.

RESULTS

A total of 117 subjects (39/group) were dosed; 113 subjects (37, 37, and 39 in INPT24, US-bevacizumab, and EU-bevacizumab groups, respectively) completed the study and were included in the PK analysis. Baseline demographics were similar across the three groups. The 90% confidence intervals (CI) of geometric mean ratios (GMR) of ln-transformed AUC_0-∞ and C_max of INTP24 relative to US-bevacizumab and EU-bevacizumab were within the acceptance range of 80%-125% (INTP24 vs. US-bevacizumab, 96.55-112.51% and 99.16-112.79%: INTP24 vs. EU-bevacizumab, 94.84-110.17% and 96.32-109.28%). The 90% CIs of GMRs for AUC_0-t was also within 80-125% for INTP24 vs. US-bevacizumab and INTP24 vs. EU-bevacizumab. Safety and immunogenicity profiles were similar across the three groups. Twenty-one (17.95%) subjects experienced at least one AE and 9 (7.69%) were ADA positive. One treatment-related serious adverse event (varicella zoster infection) was reported in INTP24 group.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated PK bioequivalence of INTP24 to US-bevacizumab and EU-bevacizumab in healthy male subjects and showed similar safety and immunogenicity profiles across the treatment groups.

Comparative study for intermediate crystal size of NaI(Tl) scintillation detector

The distinctive features of a well-known NaI(Tl) scintillation detector, by virtue of its crystal size, are experimentally investigated by observing changes in parameters such as intrinsic efficiency (ε_i), photo-peak efficiency (ε_p), resolution, and response function to incident gamma photon energy. This study provides a better understanding for the choice of crystal size of the scintillation detector in Compton scattering experiments. The response function of the NaI(Tl) detector is in the form of an inverse matrix focusing on the retort of the crystal when gamma photons are incident upon it. The response function of the NaI(Tl) detector depends upon the distance between the source and the detector, composition of the material for the crystal itself, photo-fraction, solid angle, incident gamma energy, and geometry of the experimental setup. The factors responsible for broadening of full energy and backscattered peaks are discussed for present investigations. The observed results indicate that the resolution of the detector varies with the incident energy of gamma radiation, and it also depends upon the size of the crystal of the detector. Statistical fluctuations related with the scintillation mechanism are found to be responsible for broadening of instrumental line width (photo-peak). The signal-to-noise ratio and photo-fraction for different crystal sizes of the scintillation detector corrected for efficiency of the detector are also discussed.

SAT0451 COMPARISON OF PHARMACOKINETIC, PHARMACODYNAMIC AND SAFETY OF A TERIPARATIDE BIOSIMILAR AND REFERENCE TERIPARATIDE

Background:

Intas is developing a biosimilar teriparatide. This teriparatide biosimilar has shown similarity to European Union approved teriparatide (EU teriparatide) and United States approved teriparatide (US-teriparatide) in analytical (structural and functional assays) and animal studies1.

Objectives:

To primarily asses pharmacokinetic (PK) equivalence and to compare pharmacodynamic (PD) and safety profiles of teriparatide biosimilar against EU- and US-teriparatide in healthy men and postmenopausal women with potentially similar in-clinic real-life user profiles.

Methods:

In this assessor-blind, three-period study, 105 subjects were randomized (1:1:1) to receive single subcutaneous 20μg dose each of teriparatide biosimilar, EU-teriparatide, and US-teriparatide in a crossover manner on 3 consecutive days. The primary PK endpoints were area under the curve (AUC) from time zero to t (AUC0-t), AUC from time zero to infinity (AUC0-∞), and maximum concentration (Cmax). Secondary endpoints were total serum calcium level as a pharmacodynamic marker and safety.

Results:

The mean age of 48 men was 38.4 years and 57 women was 43.9 years. Mean serum teriparatide concentrations were similar for teriparatide biosimilar, EU- and US-teriparatide (Figure 1). The 90% confidence intervals (CI) of the geometric least square mean ratios (GMR) of Cmax, AUC0-tand AUC0-∞of teriparatide biosimilar relative to EU- and US-teriparatide were within the predefined acceptance range of 80.00% to 125.00% (Table 1). The baseline-adjusted and non-adjusted corrected total serum calcium levels were similar (Table 2). A total of 42 adverse events (AE) were reported by 31 (29.52%) subjects (9 subjects, teriparatide biosimilar; 14 subjects, EU-teriparatide; 13 subjects, US-teriparatide), with headache and pain in extremity being the most common AEs. No death or serious AEs were reported.

Table 1.

Summary of Statistical Analysis of Pharmacokinetic Parameters of Teriparatide

ParametersNGLSMNGLSMRatio (T/R1) %90% Confidence IntervalTeriparatide Biosimilar (T)EU-Teriparatide (R1)lnCmax(pg/mL)10499.31410499.229100.195.50 - 104.89lnAUC0-t(pg.h/mL)103130.402103129.067101.096.37 - 105.93lnAUC0-∞(pg.h/mL)103150.589103144.887103.999.19 - 108.90Teriparatide Biosimilar (T)US-Teriparatide (R2)Ratio (T/R2) %lnCmax(pg/mL)10499.25510496.397103.098.74 - 107.37lnAUC0-t(pg.h/mL)102131.212102126.837103.498.90 - 108.21lnAUC0-∞(pg.h/mL)102150.564102143.860104.799.88 - 109.67

GLSM: Geometric least squares mean; N: Number of subjects.

Table 2.

Summary of Corrected Total Serum Calcium Levels after Administration of Teriparatide

ParameterTeriparatide BiosimilarEU-TeriparatideUS-TeriparatideNMean (SD)NMean (SD)NMean (SD)Baseline-adjustedEmax(mg/dL)1010.314 (0.142)1010.333 (0.179)1020.341 (0.153)AUEC0-t(mg.h/dL)1011.764 (1.305)982.051 (1.816)1012.253 (1.732)Tmax(h)1015.457 (4.185)1015.023 (2.728)1025.252 (3.543)Baseline non-adjustedEmax(mg/dL)1049.724 (0.268)1049.719 (0.272)1049.729 (0.261)AUEC0-t(mg.h/dL)104222.215 (13.588)104223.389 (9.397)104223.972 (9.156)Tmax(h)1045.406 (4.149)1045.022 (2.691)1045.266 (3.510)Figure 1.

Mean Serum Concentration vs. Time Curve for Teriparatide

Conclusion:

This study showed PK equivalence as well as similar PD and safety profiles between teriparatide biosimilar, EU-teriparatide and US-teriparatide in healthy subjects.

References:

[1]Data on file

Disclosure of Interests:

Inderjeet Singh Employee of: Intas Pharmaceuticals Limited, Anshul Attrey Employee of: Lambda Therapeutics Research Limited, Ronak Patel Employee of: Lambda Therapeutics Research Limited, Sridevi Khambhampaty Employee of: Intas Pharmaceuticals Limited, Vinu Jose Employee of: Intas Pharmaceuticals Limited

Identification and characterization of trait-specific SNPs using ddRAD sequencing in water buffalo

Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) is one of the important molecular markers widely used in animal breeding program for improvement of any desirable genetic traits. Considering this, the present study was carried out to identify, annotate and analyze the SNPs related to four important traits of buffalo viz. milk volume, age at first calving, post-partum cyclicity and feed conversion efficiency. We identified 246,495, 168,202, 74,136 and 194,747 genome-wide SNPs related to mentioned traits, respectively using ddRAD sequencing technique based on 85 samples of Murrah Buffaloes. Distribution of these SNPs were highest (61.69%) and lowest (1.78%) in intron and exon regions, respectively. Under coding regions, the SNPs for the four traits were further classified as synonymous (4697) and non-synonymous (3827). Moreover, Gene Ontology (GO) terms of identified genes assigned to various traits. These characterized SNPs will enhance the knowledge of cellular mechanism for enhancing productivity of water buffalo through molecular breeding.

Shape Similarity by Fractal Dimensionality: An Application in the de novo Design of (-)-Englerin A Mimetics

Molecular shape and pharmacological function are interconnected. To capture shape, the fractal dimensionality concept was employed, providing a natural similarity measure for the virtual screening of de novo generated small molecules mimicking the structurally complex natural product (-)-englerin A. Two of the top-ranking designs were synthesized and tested for their ability to modulate transient receptor potential (TRP) cation channels which are cellular targets of (-)-englerin A. Intracellular calcium assays and electrophysiological whole-cell measurements of TRPC4 and TRPM8 channels revealed potent inhibitory effects of one of the computer-generated compounds. Four derivatives of this identified hit compound had comparable effects on TRPC4 and TRPM8. The results of this study corroborate the use of fractal dimensionality as an innovative shape-based molecular representation for molecular scaffold-hopping.

72 Prevalence of Reported and Unreported Vertebral Fractures in Ctpas in Older Adults Above 75 Years

Introduction

Identifying vertebral fractures is prudent in the diagnosis of osteoporosis as they occur early in this hidden condition. Unfortunately, due to their unspecific presentation, only 25% are clinically recognised. Computerised Tomography Pulmonary Angiogram (CTPA) are frequently requested to confirm pulmonary thromboembolisms, but could also aid in detecting clinically silent vertebral fractures. Current literature suggests that less than one-third of incidental vertebral fractures are reported. The aim of this study is to measure the prevalence of vertebral fractures in CTPA and its relevance to clinical outcomes.

Methods

This is retrospective observational study based on the analysis of existing CTPA for acutely unwell patients admitted to medical assessment unit or A & E across three acute sites within Aneurin Bevan University Health board, Wales, UK between January and December 2015. All CTPA reports were reviewed for fragility factures and CTPA images were reassessed for any unreported vertebral fractures. Age and gender were recorded for all patients. Analysis was done for all patients in respect to subsequent fragility fractures and mortality. Difference of proportion test was used to compare two groups with and without vertebral fractures.

Results

179 CTPA were reviewed, 161 patients were included for further analysis. 14.3% (n=23/161) were reported to have a vertebral fracture, however only 8.7% (n=14/161) of reports used the correct terminology of ‘fracture’. On subsequent review, an additional 24.2% (n=39/161) vertebral fractures were noted. Therefore, overall prevalence of vertebral fractures was 38.5% (n=62/161). Only 9.1% (n=9/99) of patients without a vertebral fracture developed a subsequent fragility fracture. In comparison, 22.5% (n=14/62) of patients with a previous vertebral fracture sustained a new fragility fracture over next 4 years and this was significantly higher (p = 0.017). Overall mortality over 4 years follow-up was significantly higher for patients with vertebral fractures (64.5%, n=40/62) as compared to those without fractures (43.4%, n=43/99, p = 0.009). Only 48.4% (n=30/62) received osteoporosis treatment.

Conclusions

Vertebral fractures could be underreported by radiologists, likely due to human factors as they might be concentrating on the clinical scenario to exclude a pulmonary embolism. However, considering a significant higher mortality in patients with underlying vertebral fracture, it justifies that radiologists could be asked to examine sagittal view in the bone window for possible underlying vertebral fractures, to ensure osteoporosis is treated to guidance.

Bevacizumab for eye diseases - Legal, regulatory, and ethical overview

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors, ranibizumab, aflibercept, and pegaptanib are approved treatments for certain eye diseases that occurs especially in the elderly. These drugs are mostly inaccessible due to their high cost. Bevacizumab is a VEGF inhibitor, approved for cancer treatment. Being a cheaper alternative, it is extensively used off-label as an intravitreal injection for the treatment of eye diseases. In this article, we have analyzed similarities and differences between bevacizumab and ranibizumab, and potential long-term safety concerns with off-label use of bevacizumab. We also analyzed legal, regulatory, and ethical background of off-label use and provided recommendations to resolve this issue. Based on the extensive clinical data, actions taken, and recommendations provided by agencies such as the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, International Council of Ophthalmology, United Kingdom and Thailand regulatory agency, intravitreal bevacizumab has adequate evidence for controlled licensing. Claiming better safety for ranibizumab at the expense of nonaffordability cannot be considered a positive risk-benefit scenario. Intravitreal bevacizumab is being used and will continue to be used off-label, if not regulatory controlled. Licensing will ensure the availability of intravitreal bevacizumab to the patients with eye diseases, without any legal or ethical concerns for the clinicians, and will also assist in generating long-term safety data. Safest delivery formulation and dosage form should be considered for approval. Both the regulatory agency and technical experts should join and take critical decision, which will be a big step forward to making a cost-effective drug available to the public.

Hollow nanostructures of metal oxides as emerging electrode materials for high performance supercapacitors

Comparative study of TMO based hollow and solid nanostructures for supercapacitor applications.

Waste Pomelo (Citrus Maxima) Peels – A Natural Source of Antioxidant and Its Utilization in Peanut Oil for Suppressing the Development of Rancidity

The antioxidant activity of pomelo peels was evaluated with different organic solvents. Minimum yield (11.1%) was obtained with chloroform +methanol (2:1), maximum yield (21.6%) with methanol whereas (15.9%) with ethanol and (12.7%) with hexane were observed. The maximum scavenging activity of (ethanolic pomelo peel extract) 88.8 % was observed at 14mg/ml concentration. Antioxidant activity of ethanolic pomelo peel extract was evaluated by calculating free fatty acid, iodine value and p-Anisidine value of peanut oil during 21 days of storage period at room temperature. Samples were drawn and analyze periodically after 7 days and after 21 days of storage, peanut oil containing 1500 and 2000 ppm pomelo peel extract, be revealed lower free fatty acid values (2.66, 2.15%), and p- anisidine value (6.6, 4.68) and higher iodine value (52.8, 51.46) than control peanut oil sample (free fatty acid 9.32%, p- anisidine value 9.85 and iodine value 33.9). From the results, it could be concluded that natural antioxidants extracted from pomelo peel could be added to fat and oil to increase their shelf life by preventing oxidative rancidity.

Co-existence of Leclercia adecarboxylata (LSE-1) and Bradyrhizobium sp. (LSBR-3) in nodule niche for multifaceted effects and profitability in soybean production

The present study was designed with the objective of improving growth and nodulation of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merill] with co-inoculation of native Bradyrhizobium sp. (LSBR-3) (KF906140) and non-rhizobial nodule endophytic diazotroph Leclercia adecarboxylata (LSE-1) (KX925974) with multifunctional plant growth promoting (PGP) traits in cereal based cropping system (Rice-Wheat). A total of 40 endophytic bacteria from cultivated and wild sp. of soybean were screened for multifarious PGP traits and pathogenicity test. Based on PGP traits, antagonistic activities and bio-safety test; L. adecarboxylata (LSE-1) was identified with 16 S rRNA gene sequencing along with the presence of nifH (nitrogen fixation) and ipdc (IAA production) genes. Dual inoculant LSE-1 and LSBR-3 increased indole acetic acid (IAA), P & Zn-solubilization, 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate deaminase (ACCD) activity, siderophore, biofilm formation and exo-polysaccharides in contrast to single inoculation treatment. Further, assessment of dual inoculant LSBR-3 + LSE-1 improved growth parameters, nodulation, soil enzymes activities, nutrient accumulation and yield as compared to single as well as un-inoculated control treatment under field conditions. Single inoculant LSBR-3 improved yield by 8.84% over control. Further, enhancement of 4.15% grain yield was noticed with LSBR-3 + LSE-1 over LSBR-3 alone treatment. Application of LSBR-3 + LSE-1 gave superior B:C ratio (1.29) and additional income approximately 116 USD ha-1 in contrast to control treatment. The present results thus, is the first report of novel endophytic diazotroph L. adecarboxylata (LSE-1) as PGPR from Indian conditions particularly in Punjab region for exploiting as potential PGPR along with Bradyrhizobium sp. (LSBR-3) in soybean.