Effect of head covering on phototherapy induced hypocalcemia in term neonates with hyperbilirubinemia: A randomised controlled study

BACKGROUND

Phototherapy is the primary treatment for hyperbilirubinemia in neonates. Hypocalcemia is a lesser known but potential detrimental effect of phototherapy. It has been hypothesized that phototherapy inhibits pineal secretion of melatonin, which blocks the effect of cortisol on bone calcium. Therefore, unchecked cortisol increases bone uptake of calcium and induces hypocalcemia. Covering head during phototherapy in order to prevent light reaching to the pineal gland which eventually leads to the prevention of hypocalcemia is hypothesized to prevent hypocalcemia but it lacks sufficient evidence worldwide.

METHOD

It is a prospective, randomized controlled study. 112 neonates were randomized into two groups of 56 neonates. Group A underwent phototherapy without head cover and group B with head covered by a cap.

RESULT

The mean decline in serum ionic calcium after 48 hours of phototherapy in group A and group B was 0.57±0.37 mg/dl and 0.34±0.24 mg/dl respectively. This decline in serum ionic calcium was significantly higher in group A. (p < 0.001). 26.8% newborns from group A developed hypocalcemia while in group B only 14.3% developed hypocalcemia however it was not found to be statistically significant. Incidence of symptomatic hypocalcemia between the two groups was also not significant.

CONCLUSION

There was significant reduction in serum calcium in neonates undergoing phototherapy without head cover as compared to neonates with head cover but risk of hypocalcemia was not significant. Further studies with larger sample size including preterm are recommended.

Forecasting of COVID-19 cases using deep learning models: Is it reliable and practically significant?

The ongoing outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic prevails as an ultimatum to the global economic growth and henceforth, all of society since neither a curing drug nor a preventing vaccine is discovered. The spread of COVID-19 is increasing day by day, imposing human lives and economy at risk. Due to the increased enormity of the number of COVID-19 cases, the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is imperative in the current scenario. AI would be a powerful tool to fight against this pandemic outbreak by predicting the number of cases in advance. Deep learning-based time series techniques are considered to predict world-wide COVID-19 cases in advance for short-term and medium-term dependencies with adaptive learning. Initially, the data pre-processing and feature extraction is made with the real world COVID-19 dataset. Subsequently, the prediction of cumulative confirmed, death and recovered global cases are modelled with Auto-Regressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA), Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), Stacked Long Short-Term Memory (SLSTM) and Prophet approaches. For long-term forecasting of COVID-19 cases, multivariate LSTM models is employed. The performance metrics are computed for all the models and the prediction results are subjected to comparative analysis to identify the most reliable model. From the results, it is evident that the Stacked LSTM algorithm yields higher accuracy with an error of less than 2% as compared to the other considered algorithms for the studied performance metrics. Country-specific analysis and city-specific analysis of COVID-19 cases for India and Chennai, respectively, are predicted and analyzed in detail. Also, statistical hypothesis analysis and correlation analysis are done on the COVID-19 datasets by including the features like temperature, rainfall, population, total infected cases, area and population density during the months of May, June, July and August to find out the best suitable model. Further, practical significance of predicting COVID-19 cases is elucidated in terms of assessing pandemic characteristics, scenario planning, optimization of models and supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Alpha lipoic acid supplementation ameliorates the wrath of simulated tropical heat and humidity stress in male Murrah buffaloes

A supplement which ameliorates temperature-humidity menace in food producing livestock is a prerequisite to develop climate smart agricultural packages. A study was conducted to investigate the heat stress ameliorative efficacy of alpha lipoic acid (ALA) in male Murrah water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis). Eighteen animals (293.61 ± 4.66Kg Bwt) were randomly allocated into three groups (n = 6); NHSC (non-heat-stressed control), HS (heat-stressed) and HSLA (heat-stressed-supplemented with ALA@32 mg/kg Bwt orally) based on the temperature humidity index (THI) and ALA supplementation. HS and HSLA were exposed to simulated heat challenge in a climatically controlled chamber (40 °C) for 21 consecutive days, 6 h daily. Physiological responses viz. Respiration rate (RR), Pulse rate (PR) and Rectal temperature (RT) were recorded daily before and after heat exposure. Blood samples were collected at the end of heat exposure on days 1, 6, 11, 16, and 21 and on day 28 (7th day post exposure which is considered as recovery) for peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) separation, followed by RNA and Protein extraction for Real time quantitative PCR and Western blot analysis respectively, of heat shock proteins (HSPs). Two-way repeated measure ANOVA was performed between groups at different experimental periods. RR (post exposure) in HS and HSLA was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than NHSC from day 1 onwards but HSLA varied significantly from the HS 8th day onwards. Post exposure RT and PR in both HS and HSLA varied (P < 0.05) from NHSC throughout the study; but between HS and HSLA, RT significantly varied on initial 2 days and last 6 days (from days 16 to 21). HSP70 mRNA expression significantly up regulated in high THI groups with respect to the low THI group throughout the experimental period. During chronic stress (days 16 and 21) HSP70 significantly (P < 0.05) increased in HS but not in HSLA (P > 0.05) with respect to NHSC. ALA supplementation up-regulates and sustains (P < 0.05) the expression of HSP90 in HSLA in comparison to the HS and NHSC. HSP105 expression was significantly up-regulated (P < 0.05) in HS on days 16 and 21 (during long-term exposure) but only on day 21 (P < 0.05) in HSLA. HSP70, HSP90, and HSP105 protein expression dynamics were akin to the mRNA transcript data between the study groups. In conclusion, supplementing ALA ameliorates the deleterious effect of heat stress as reflected by improved physiological and cellular responses. ALA supplementation improved cellular antioxidant status and sustained otherwise easily decaying heat shock responses which concertedly hasten the baton change from a limited window of thermo tolerance to long run acclimatization.

Cryopreservation of Axillary Buds of Cannabis sativa L. by V-Cryoplate Droplet-Vitrification: The Critical Role of Sucrose Preculture

BACKGROUND

Cryopreservation is the only method allowing the safe and cost-effective long-term conservation of important germplasm. Recent use of the cryo-plate system has proven beneficial in further simplifying the cryopreservation protocols.

OBJECTIVE

Developing an efficient protocol for the cryopreservation of axillary buds of Cannabis sativa elite cultivars (MX and V1-20) by the V-cryoplate droplet-vitrification technique.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Stem segments (~5 cm in length) with mature axillary buds collected from indoor-grown plants were surface sterilized and then either precultured on MS basal medium with 0.1 M sucrose (1^st step preculture) for 72 h or non-precultured. All mature axillary buds (~1 mm) were aseptically excised from stem segments and precultured for an additional 48 h on MS basal medium with sucrose (0.3 M) and 5% DMSO prior to cryopreservation (2^nd step preculture). Biomass samples of fully mature mother plants and regrown cryopreserved plants were analyzed for Δ⁹-THC and CBD content using gas chromatography-flame ionization detector (GC/FID).

RESULTS

The survival and regrowth rates of cryopreserved axillary buds of cultivar MX following this two-step preculture were 45% and 42% respectively, while those of cultivar V1-20 were 47% and 44% respectively. A direct preculture of axillary buds (2^nd step preculture) on high sucrose (0.3M sucrose) significantly decreased both the survival and regrowth levels of axillary buds of cultivar MX (5% and 3% respectively) as well as those of cultivar V1-20 (20% and 17% respectively). Δ⁹-THC and CBD content of mother plants and regrown cryopreserved plants were found to be highly comparable to each other.

CONCLUSION

The resulting plants after cryopreservation appeared normal without any callus formation or morphogenetic variation. On maturity, mother plants and re-grown cryopreserved plants were comparable in terms of Δ⁹-THC and CBD content. This report provides an efficient protocol for cryopreservation of axillary buds of Cannabis sativa cultivars which may be applicable to other important cultivars, plant parts and other related medicinal plants.

Dynamics of antibiotic resistance with special reference to Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli infections

The discovery of antibiotics was paralleled by the evolution of antibiotic resistance which is probably the best example of contemporary evolution in action. The selection pressure, imposed by indiscriminate use of antibiotics, has changed the scale, mode and tempo of antibiotic resistance evolution. The presence of multidrug resistance, wide range of adaptability features and the infectivity make antibiotic resistance of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) more dangerous. The characterization, prevalence and the virulence factors of STEC have been profusely reported, whereas, the antibiotic resistance has been largely ignored because the antibiotic use in STEC infections is controversial. Thus, the current review has focussed on the source, evolution, persistence, mechanism, dissemination and control of antibiotic resistance viz-a-viz the STEC infections. The resistance development occurs by the inactivation of antibiotics, regulating the membrane permeability, modification of natural antibiotic targets or the use of efflux pumps against antibiotics. And, the dissemination of resistance genes occurs vertically by DNA replication and horizontally by conjugation, transduction and transformation. The prevention of development and dissemination of antibiotic resistance needs international public health bodies to rationalize the antibiotic use, prevent the flux of antibiotics into the environment, develop the rapid diagnostics tests, undertake proper surveillance of antibiotic resistance, promote the research on antibiotic resistance prevention, promote the research and development of novel alternative antibiotics, and encourage the widespread social awareness campaigns against the inappropriate antibiotic usage.

Assessment of allelic diversity among drought-resistant cotton genotypes using microsatellite markers

Drought, in conjunction with high temperature, is an important environmental constraint to cotton production. Development of cotton varieties with increased tolerance against adverse environmental conditions has been proposed as effective strategy for ensuring reliable yields. In the present study, 30 simple sequence repeat (SSR) primers were used to estimate genetic divergence among 22 cotton genotypes for drought stress tolerance. Genetic diversity is a prerequisite for developing drought resistant cotton genotypes. Eleven SSR primers out of 30 were able to discriminate among the cotton genotypes, implying that 37% of the primers were informative. In total, 41 alleles were detected, with an average of 3.72 alleles per primer. The number of alleles per locus ranged from one (JESPR-284) to six (JESSPR-302), and the allelic diversity in the experimental material was 0.40. Genetic similarity coefficients ranged from 0.87-1.00. The result of principal component analysis confirmed the clustering of 21 cotton genotypes in two groups leaving one genotype (CIM-109) ungrouped. Overall, genetic diversity among the 22 cotton genotypes was low. More polymorphic SSR markers are needed to explore the workable genetic variation among the screened cotton genotypes in future studies.

Anionic and Cationic Silver Nanoparticle Binding Restructures Net-Anionic PC/PG Monolayers with Saturated or Unsaturated Lipids

We have examined the interactions between polymer-coated anionic (Ag-COOH) and cationic (Ag-NH) silver nanoparticles, and net-anionic lipid monolayers using dynamic surface pressure measurements. Monolayers composed of saturated or monounsaturated mixtures of anionic phosphatidylglycerol (PG) and zwitterionic phosphatidylcholine (PC) lipids (3:1 molar ratio) were used to determine how lipid packing and monolayer phase state influence the extent of nanoparticle binding and the monolayer response. Anionic Ag-COOH inserted into saturated dipalmitoyl-PC/PG (DPPC/DPPG) and dioleoyl-PC/PG (DOPC/DOPG) monolayers at a low initial surface pressure (10 mN m^-1) and caused lipid condensation at high initial surface pressures (20 and 30 mN m^-1). Hydrophobic interactions were responsible for insertion, while electrostatic and charge-dipole interactions with PCs were responsible for condensation. In contrast, cationic Ag-NH inserted only into saturated DPPC/DPPG monolayers and otherwise led to lipid condensation. For Ag-NH, adsorption was driven primarily by electrostatic interactions with PGs. Analysis of the subphase Ag and phosphorus concentrations confirmed that Ag-NH had a higher degree binding compared to Ag-COOH, and that the monolayer response was not due to lipid extraction.

Chemical composition and biological activities of Artemisia judaica essential oil from southern desert of Jordan

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGIC RELEVANCE

Artemisia judaica L. (Arabic name: Beithran), is a medicinal and aromatic plant growing in the valley bottoms of desert areas, particularly in the southern desert of Jordan nearest to the Jordan-Saudi Arabia borders and in Wadi Araba in the Southern Badia. In Jordan, A. judaica is widely used in traditional medicine being recommended by aboriginal Bedouins in the North Badia region of Jordan as calmative. Furthermore, it is used for the treatment of stomach ache, heart diseases, sexual weakness, diabetes, gastro-intestinal disorders and external wounding. Additionally, other folk medicines of the Arabic region commonly use this aromatic plant for the treatment of inflammatory-related diseases, for instance fungal infections, diabetes, atherosclerosis, cancer and arthritis.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Considering the traditional medicinal uses and the lack of scientific studies addressing the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind A. judaica claimed activities, the present study was designed to validate some of the traditional uses ascribed to this species, specifically the antifungal and anti-inflammatory activities of A. judaica essential oil at doses devoid of cytotoxicity to mammalian cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Chemical analysis of A. judaica essential oil isolated by hydrodistillation from aerial parts was carried out by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The antifungal activity (minimal inhibitory concentrations and minimal lethal concentrations) was evaluated against yeasts, dermatophyte and Aspergillus strains. In order to deeply explore the mechanisms behind the anti-fungal effect of the essential oil, the germ tube inhibition assay and the biofilms formation assay were evaluated using Candida albicans. The assessment of cell viability was accomplished using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay in both hepatocytes and macrophages. Furthermore, the in vitro anti-inflammatory potential of A. judaica oil was evaluated by measuring nitric oxide (NO) production using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated mouse macrophages.

RESULTS

Oxygen containing monoterpenes are a representative group of constituents (68.7%) with piperitone (30.4%), camphor (16.1%) and ethyl cinnamate (11.0%) as main compounds. The highest antifungal activity of the oil was observed against Cryptococcus neoformans, with a MIC value of 0.16µL/mL. The oil revealed an important inhibitory effect on germ tube formation in C. albicans with 80% inhibition of filamentation at a concentration of 0.16µL/mL. Importantly, the oil also interfered with pre-formed biofilms by reducing the amount of the attached biomass. Furthermore, the essential oil significantly inhibited NO production evoked by LPS on macrophages at concentrations with very low toxicity (0.32µL/mL) or without toxicity (0.16µL/mL) to both macrophages and hepatocytes.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study revealed that A. judaica essential oil from Jordan significantly inhibited germ tube formation and disrupted preformed biofilms of C. albicans, emphasizing the therapeutic potential for the treatment of disseminated candidiasis. Additionally, safe concentrations of this essential oil significantly inhibited NO production elicited by LPS in macrophages, highlighting its potential anti-inflammatory activity. Overall, A. judaica bears promising therapeutic potential for further drug development. Importantly, this work also validates some of the traditional uses of A. judaica.

ErbB2-dependent downregulation of a pro-apoptotic protein Perp is required for oncogenic transformation of breast epithelial cells

The ability of breast cancer cells to resist anoikis, apoptosis caused by detachment of the non-malignant epithelial cells from the extracellular matrix (ECM), is thought to be critical for breast tumor growth, invasion and metastasis. ErbB2, an oncoprotein that is often overproduced in breast tumors, can block breast cancer cell anoikis via mechanisms that are understood only in part. In an effort to understand them better we found that detachment of the non-malignant human breast epithelial cells from the ECM upregulates a protein Perp in these cells. Perp is a component of the desmosomes, multiprotein complexes involved in cell-to-cell adhesion. Perp can cause apoptosis via unknown mechanisms. We demonstrated that Perp upregulation by cell detachment is driven by detachment-induced loss of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). We also found that Perp knockdown by RNA interference (RNAi) rescues detached cells from death which indicates that Perp contributes to their anoikis. We observed that ErbB2, when overexpressed in detached breast epithelial cells, causes Perp downregulation. Furthermore, ErbB2-directed RNAi or treatment with lapatinib, an ErbB2/EGFR small-molecule inhibitor used for breast cancer therapy, upregulated Perp in ErbB2-positive human breast and ovarian carcinoma cells. We established that ErbB2 downregulates Perp by activating an ErbB2 effector protein kinase Mek that blocks detachment-induced EGFR loss in a manner that requires the presence of a signaling protein Sprouty-2. Finally, we observed that restoration of the wild-type Perp levels in ErbB2-overproducing breast epithelial cells increases their anoikis susceptibility and blocks their clonogenicity in the absence of adhesion to the ECM. In summary, we have identified a novel mechanism of ErbB2-mediated mechanism of anoikis resistance of ErbB2-overproducing breast epithelial cells. This mechanism allows such cells to grow without adhesion to the ECM and is driven by ErbB2-induced activation of Mek, subsequent EGFR upregulation and further EGFR-dependent Perp loss.

Comparative studies on the chemical and enzymatic stability of alpha- and beta-arbutin

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to establish a comparative analysis of the chemical and enzymatic stability of α- and β-arbutins as potential sources of the substance of concern hydroquinone (HQ). The study was performed using an array of techniques including HPLC-PDA, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and optical rotation (OR). Both arbutins are emerging as popular and effective skin whiteners, acting as tyrosinase inhibitors in a fashion similar to the popular whitening agent HQ. Due to their structural similarity to the regulated agent HQ, both arbutins may be regarded as potential sources of the active aglycone after chemical or metabolic conversion.

METHODS

Various cosmetic formulations including creams, sera, gels and lotions were analysed by HPLC-PDA for their arbutin and HQ content in freshly opened and aged samples stored for 16 months. Solutions of pure compounds were also aged and periodically checked for degradation products using 1D and 2D NMR experiments and OR measurements. The metabolic stability was investigated using pear peels as a biological model.

RESULTS

Both arbutins were found to be stable in water and methanol solutions in the absence of buffer or stabilizers. Their stability in cosmetic formulations, however, was found to depend on the type of formulation and pH. Both compounds were unstable under strong hydrolytic conditions, with consequent release of HQ. Enzymatic instability of both arbutins was also observed, although no formation of HQ was observed under the chosen experimental conditions.

CONCLUSION

Both arbutins were found to possess similar stability profiles, and to be more prone to in vivo rather than in chemico degradation, although no HQ was found after enzymatic hydrolysis. Also, no epimerization was observed in any of the tested conditions. Diverse experimental approaches can be applied to analyse the chemical and enzymatic stability of arbutins in regard to the potential release of HQ in different types of preparations. These result showed the potential use of NMR and OR as complementary investigative tools for the stability and safety assessment of arbutin along with more established HPLC methods.

Stem cell intervention ameliorates epigallocatechin-3-gallate/lipopolysaccharide-induced hepatotoxicity in mice

Stem cells are identified as a novel cell therapy for regenerative medicine because of their ability to differentiate into many functional cell types. We have shown earlier a new model of hepatotoxicity in mice by administering (1500 mg/kg) epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) intragastric (IG) for 5 days after a single intraperitoneal dose (6 mg/kg) of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In this study, we aimed to study the effect of intrahepatic (IH) injection of mouse embryonic stem cells (MESCs) on the hepatotoxicity induced by EGCG/LPS in mice. Mice were administered EGCG/LPS and rested for 3 days. MESCs were obtained from American Type Culture Collection and cultured in vitro for 4 days. Stem cells were injected IH. Seven days later, a single dose of LPS (6 mg/kg) followed by daily doses of IG administration of EGCG were re-administered for 5 days. At the end of the experiment, blood samples were collected for analysis of biochemical parameters associated with liver. Results showed that the group of mice that were administered MESCs prior to EGCG/LPS showed lower levels of alanine amino transferase, alkaline phosphatase, and bilirubin, higher albumin/globulin ratio, and less remarkable histopathological lesions. Also, that group of mice showed less expression of oxidative stress biomarkers (oxidized low-density lipoprotein Ox.LDL and chemokine CXCL16), less expression of nuclear protein receptors (retinoic acid receptor and retinoid X receptor), and less expression of inflammatory biomarkers (tumor necrosis factor α and transforming growth factor β1) compared with other groups of mice that were not given MESCs. In conclusion, MESCs can ameliorate EGCG/LPS-induced hepatotoxicity in mice.

Anoikis of colon carcinoma cells triggered by β-catenin loss can be enhanced by tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 antagonists

Detachment of non-malignant epithelial cells from the extracellular matrix causes their apoptosis, a phenomenon called anoikis. By contrast, carcinoma cells are anoikis-resistant, and this resistance is thought to be critical for tumor progression. Many oncogenes trigger not only anti- but also pr-apoptotic signals. The proapoptotic events represent an aspect of a phenomenon called oncogenic stress, which acts as a safeguard mechanism blocking tumor initiation. In cells that become malignant, oncogene-induced antiapoptotic signals outbalance the proapoptotic ones. It is now thought that treatments blocking the antiapoptotic events but preserving the proapoptotic signals can be particularly effective in killing tumor cells. Whether or not oncogenes induce any proanoikis signals that can be used for enhancing the efficiency of approaches aimed at triggering anoikis of cancer cells has never been explored. β-Catenin is a major oncoprotein that is often activated in colorectal cancer and promotes tumor progression via mechanisms that are understood only in part. We found here that β-catenin triggers both anti- and proanoikis signals in colon cancer cells. We observed that the antianoikis signals prevail and the cells become anoikis-resistant. We further established that one proanoikis signal in these cells is triggered by β-catenin-induced downregulation of an apoptosis inhibitor tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 (TNFR1) and subsequent reduction of the activity of a transcription factor NF-κB (nuclear factor-κB), a mediator of TNFR1 signaling. We also found that the effect of β-catenin on TNFR1 requires the presence of transcription factor TCF1, a β-catenin effector. We demonstrated that ablation of β-catenin in colon cancer cells triggers their anoikis and that this anoikis is enhanced even further if low TNFR1 or NF-κB activity is artificially preserved in the β-catenin-deprived cells. Thus, inhibition of TNFR1 or NF-κB activity can be expected to enhance the efficiency of approaches aimed at blocking β-catenin-driven anoikis resistance of colon carcinoma cells.

DNA barcoding for species identification in the Palmae family

DNA barcoding is a promising tool for species identification at the molecular level. The barcoding system is well established for species differentiation in animals, while it is less common in plants. We evaluated 2 barcoding regions, maturase K (matK) and ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase (rbcL), to compare species of Palmae according to amplification success, discrimination power, and inter- and intra-specific divergence. Both regions appear to have potential to discriminate most species of Palmae, but 2 species, Phoenix dactylifera and Phoenix sylvestris, did not show variation in the nucleotides of the barcode genes. P. sylvestris is said to be the sister species of P. dactilyfera according to its morphological and genetic proximity to the cultivated date palm. Thus, the status of these 2 species needs to be re-evaluated considering more genes as barcodes. Furthermore, rbcL has a higher discrimination power (90%) than matK (66.6%) and can thus be potentially used as a standard barcode to discriminate the species of Palmae.

Identification and authentication of Rosa species through development of species-specific SCAR marker(s)

Roses (Rosa indica) belong to one of the most crucial groups of plants in the floriculture industry. Rosa species have special fragrances of interest to the perfume and pharmaceutical industries. The genetic diversity of plants based on morphological characteristics is difficult to measure under natural conditions due to the influence of environmental factors, which is why a reliable fingerprinting method was developed to overcome this problem. The development of molecular markers will enable the identification of Rosa species. In the present study, randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis was done on four Rosa species, Rosa gruss-an-teplitz (Surkha), Rosa bourboniana, Rosa centifolia, and Rosa damascena. A polymorphic RAPD fragment of 391 bp was detected in R. bourboniana, which was cloned, purified, sequenced, and used to design a pair of species-specific sequence-characterized amplified region (SCAR) primers (forward and reverse). These SCAR primers were used to amplify the specific regions of the rose genome. These PCR amplifications with specific primers are less sensitive to reaction conditions, and due to their high reproducibility, these species-specific SCAR primers can be used for marker-assisted selection and identification of Rosa species.

Modulation of ethanol toxicity by Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) in Japanese ricefish (Oryzias latipes) embryogenesis

Alcohol consumption by women during pregnancy often induces fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) in children who have serious central nervous system (CNS), cardiovascular, and craniofacial defects. Prevention of FASD, other than women abstaining from alcohol drinking during pregnancy, is not known. A limitation of the use of synthetic anti-alcoholic drugs during pregnancy led us to investigate herbal products. In particular, many plants including Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) have therapeutic potential for the treatment of alcoholism. We used Japanese ricefish (medaka) (Oryzias latipes), an animal model of FASD, for identifying herbal medicines that can attenuate ethanol toxicity. Fertilized eggs in standard laboratory conditions were exposed to ginseng (PG) root extract (0-2 mg/mL) either 0-2 (group A) or 1-3 (group B) day post fertilization (dpf) followed by maintenance in a clean hatching solution. The calculated IC50 as determined 10 dpf in A and B groups were 355.3±1.12 and 679.7±1.6 μg/mL, respectively. Simultaneous exposure of embryos in sub-lethal concentrations of PG (50-200 μg/mL) and ethanol (300 mM) for 48 h disrupted vessel circulation and enhanced mortality. However, PG (100 μg/mL) may partially protect trabecular cartilage (TC) deformities in the neurocranium in B group embryos induced by ethanol (300 mM). To understand the mechanism, embryonic ethanol concentration was measured at 2 dpf and adh5, adh8, aldh2, aldh9a, catalase, GST, and GR mRNAs were analyzed at 6 dpf. It was observed that although ethanol is able to reduce adh8 and GST mRNA contents, the simultaneous addition of PG was unable to alter ethanol level as well as mRNA contents in these embryos. Therefore, antagonistic effects of PG on ethanol toxicity are mediated by a mechanism which is different from those regulating ethanol metabolism and oxidative stress.

Establishment of an in vitro regeneration system for genetic transformation of selected sugarcane genotypes

A good culture system provides considerable quantities of highly regenerable target tissues. Embryogenic callus cultures are ideal for micro-projectile-mediated transformation, because regenerable cells are not very stable. Effective exploitation of genetic transformation requires good regeneration systems. We selected three sugarcane genotypes for the establishment and optimization of good in vitro regeneration systems, viz., S-2003-us-359, S-2006-sp-30, and S-2003-us-165. Three callus induction media were investigated. These media were composed of Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium salt plus 1, 2, and 3 mg/L 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D). Medium with 3 mg/L 2,4-D gave the greatest mass of embryogenic calli. The calli produced on the three callus induction media were transferred to 18 types of regeneration media (RM1-RM18). They varied with respect to plant growth regulators and sucrose levels but the basal medium was MS. Two levels of sucrose (30 and 40 g/L), three levels of 2,4-D (0.1, 0.25, 0.5 mg/L) and three levels of 6-benzylaminopurine (0, 0.25 and 0.5 mg/L) were studied in the regeneration media. The effects of callus age on regeneration were evaluated by transferring the calli to regeneration media after 15, 21, 28, and 35 days of culture. The 21-day-old callus of the genotype S-2003-us-359 on RM3 yielded the largest number of plants and was selected as the best for transformation. Six RAPD DNA primers were used to check genetic stability; this medium did not affect the sugarcane genomes.

Development of a species-specific sequence-characterized amplified region marker for roses

DNA fingerprints of four rose species, Rosa centifolia, R. Gruss-an-Teplitz, R. bourboniana, and R. damascena, were developed using RAPD-PCR. We identified a unique polymorphic band in R. centifolia. This 762-bp fragment was produced by the random primer GLI-2. The fragment was eluted and directly cloned in a TA cloning vector, pTZ57R/T. Digestion of the plasmid with EcoRI confirmed the cloning of GLI-2(762) in pTZ57R/T. A second enzyme, PstI, used in combination with EcoRI, gave complete digestion of the plasmid, and the 762-bp fragment was confirmed on the gel. Subsequently, the polymorphic amplicon was sequenced with an AB1 373 DNA sequencer system using the PRISM(TM) Ready Reaction DyeDeoxy(TM) Terminator Cycle Sequencing kit. After sequencing, specific primers (23 bp long) were designed based on the sequence of the flanking regions of the original RAPD fragment. These primers will effectively allow fingerprinting for the identification of R. centifolia species. In essence, we developed an SCAR marker to authenticate the identity of R. centifolia species and to distinguish it from its substitutes. Such techniques are required not only to complement conventional parameters in creating the passport data of commercial and medicinal products of rose, but also for routine quality control in commercial and government rosaries and rose nurseries.

Immunohistochemical evaluation of p53, FHIT, and IGF2 gene expression in esophageal cancer

The aim of the study was to evaluate the expression of tumor suppressor genes p53, fragile histidine triad gene (FHIT), and an oncogene insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) as prognostic markers in the etiology of esophageal cancer. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed in 39 archival tissue samples of different esophageal pathologies for the three genes. Abnormal p53 expression was maximum in all the cases of squamous cell carcinoma, while IGF2 expression was enhanced in squamous cell carcinoma (81%), adenocarcinoma (100%), and dysplasia of squamous epithelium (75%) samples when compared with normals (50%). To our surprise, 75% of normal tissues did not show FHIT expression, which was also not seen in 40% of dysplasias of squamous epithelium, 33.3% of adenocarcinoma, and 41% of squamous cell carcinoma. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study evaluating IGF2 by IHC, as well as, correlating it with the expression of the two tumor suppressor genes, p53 and FHIT, in esophageal tissue. p53 expression was threefold higher than normal in dysplasias of squamous epithelium and adenocarcinoma, while it was eightfold higher in squamous cell carcinoma. IGF2 expression was low in normal and dysplasia tissue but was increased 1.97-fold in both types of malignancy. FHIT and p53 expression were well correlated in squamous cell carcinoma, supporting the observation that FHIT regulates and stabilizes p53. Altered/lowered FHIT levels may be a result of exposure to various exogenous agents; however, this could not be assessed in the present study as it was carried out on archival samples. A larger prospective study is warranted to establish the role of exogenous factors in FHIT expression.

Further insights into the strange role of bacterial endosymbionts in whitefly, Bemisia tabaci: comparison of secondary symbionts from biotypes B and Q in China

The percentage infection of secondary symbionts (SS) (Wolbachia, Arsenophonus, Rickettsia, Hamiltonella, Fritschea and Cardinium) in the exotic Bemisia tabaci (Genn.) invaders, commonly known as biotypes B and Q from China, were determined by PCR. In total, 373 biotype B and 1830 biotype Q individuals were screened for the presence of SS. Biotype B was more abundant than biotype Q from 2005 to 2006, and biotype Q was more abundant from 2007 to 2009. Each of the SS, with the exception of Fritschea, was detected in both biotypes B and Q; Fritschea was found in none of the samples examined. For biotype B, the percentage infection of Hamiltonella was the highest (92.0%) followed by Rickettsia (70.2%). For biotype Q, the percentage infection of Hamiltonella was again the highest (73.3%). Arsenophonus was the least common of the SS observed in both biotypes B and Q. The percentage infection of Wolbachia, Rickettsia and Hamiltonella in biotype B was each significantly higher than in biotype Q, whereas the percentage infection of Cardinium in biotype B was significantly lower than in biotype Q. The percentage infection of SS in biotypes B and Q varied from year to year over the period 2005-2009. Furthermore, within biotype Q, two distinct subgroups were identified which differ from each other in terms of their SS complement. We discuss these results in the light of the potentially influential factors and roles of the SS.

Expressed sequence tag-simple sequence repeat-based molecular variance in two Salicornia (Amaranthaceae) populations

Salicornia spp is one of the most salt-tolerant vascular plants and is native to salt marshes and estuaries. We developed expressed sequence tag derived-simple sequence repeat (EST-SSR) markers for estimating genetic diversity and marker-assisted Salicornia breeding. Six polymorphic EST-SSRs of 40 detected 27 alleles, ranging from three to five alleles per locus. The average number of alleles per locus was 4.33 and 4.17, and the major allele frequency at locus DY529765 was high, being 0.859 and 0.857 in S. bigelovii and S. europea, respectively. Gene diversity, heterozygosity and polymorphism information content were highest at locus DY529950 and similar in these two species. Gene diversity increased with increase in the number of alleles that had a low major allele frequency at a locus. Six polymorphic loci effectively discriminated 46 taxa into three clusters via different analyses. Significant deviation of F(ST) from zero in three suggested populations for six loci indicated population differentiation and limited gene flow among them. A reduced median network established that taxon SB65 is primitive. SMART (simple modular architecture research tool) analysis of peptide sequences of six EST-SSRs showed that loci DY529765, DY529950 and EC906203 contained transmembrane, TLC, AgrB and NTR domains and might be involved in salinity stress tolerance. These EST-SSRs are a valuable resource for marker development and may be useful in marker-assisted Salicornia breeding.

Elucidation of thermotolerance diversity in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) using physio-molecular approaches

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) is an important cash crop, but high temperature during its growing season is one of the major factors that limit its productivity. This problem compels plant breeders to breed for heat tolerance, which can help to overcome this challenge. It is very important to make a comprehensive screening of heat-tolerant genotypes so that only the best are chosen. Here we report the combined use of several techniques that can help breeders to screen their germplasm. Twelve cultivated cotton genotypes were evaluated for thermotolerance, using assays that included electrolyte leakage, chlorophyll accumulation and protein profiling, as well as RAPDs to assess genetic diversity. Two genotypes (B-557 and NIAB-78) showed tolerant behavior in three thermotolerance assays. RAPD analysis results showed maximum similarity in a range of 86.7-66.7% between the genotypes MNH-554 and CIM-443. We conclude that combined use should be made of relative electrolyte leakage, chlorophyll stability and differential display with SDS-PAGE to aid in screening for stress tolerance. RAPD-based diversity analysis will further help to improve the efficiency of breeding programs.

Genotoxicity in agricultural farmers from Guntur district of South India—A case study

Background: Pesticides play an important role in controlling the pests on agricultural crops and thereby to increase the yield of agricultural produce. Farmers occupationally exposed to pesticides during spraying activities are more prone to genotoxicity than unexposed. Aim: To assess the genotoxicity in farmers, engaged in spraying complex mixture of pesticides in the cultivation of cotton crops. Material and methods: A total number of 152 male subjects were selected randomly from Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh (AP), South India. The demographic particulars viz., personal habits, duration of exposure to pesticides, types of pesticides used were collected from the study subjects using an interview schedule. Among them 76 subjects were farmers and the remaining individuals served as unexposed or controls. Blood samples from these subjects were collected for assessing the genetic damage by chromosomal aberrations (CAs) test and micronucleus test (MNT). Results: The results of the study indicated that CA was significantly higher with 2.8% in farmers who were exposed to pesticides when compared to unexposed (0.72%). However, there was a minor difference in MN with 0.13% and 0.12% between exposed and unexposed which was not statistically significant ( p < 0.05). Conclusion: A correlation between CA frequency and exposure to benzene hexachloride (BHC) pesticide residue was observed.

Estimation of genetic distance based on RAPDs between 11 cotton accessions varying in heat tolerance

The genetic distance of 11 cotton genotypes varying in heat tolerance was studied using RAPD markers. Fifty-three random decamer primers were used for the estimation of genetic distance. Among the 53 RAPD primers, which were custom synthesized by GeneLink Inc., UK, 32 were polymorphic and 21 were monomorphic. The 32 polymorphic primers produced 273 fragments, with a mean of 8.3 fragments per primer. The number of polymorphic bands produced in the 11 cotton accessions ranged from 1 to 31. Primer GLC-20 produced 31 polymorphic bands, while two primers, GLB-5 and GLC-12, produced one polymorphic band each. A range of 88.89 to 42.48% genetic similarity was observed among the 11 cotton accessions. The highest genetic similarity was observed between FH-945 and BH-160 (88.89%), whereas the lowest value was found between NIAB-801/2 and FH-945 (42.48%). Unique amplification profiles were produced by most of the cultivars; the differences were sufficient to distinguish them from other genotypes. This confirms the efficacy of RAPD markers for the identification of plant genotypes. An accumulative analysis of amplified products generated by RAPDs was sufficient to assess the genetic diversity among the genotypes. This information should be helpful for formulating breeding and genome mapping programs.

Safe blood transfusion practices in blood banks of Karachi, Pakistan

BACKGROUND

Since 1997, legislations pertaining to safe blood transfusion (SBT) have evolved considerably in Pakistan. The objective of this study was to evaluate the SBT practices in the blood banks of Pakistan.

METHODS

Twenty-three blood banks were randomly selected from a list of registered 40 in Karachi, the largest city in Pakistan. To evaluate the SBT practices in the selected blood banks, a questionnaire and a checklist were administered during 2007-2008.

RESULTS

Of the 23 blood banks surveyed, 4 (17%) were affiliated with government or a semi-government institution; 16 (70%) blood banks had a healthy donor recruitment program and 2 (9%) of the blood banks agreed that they recruited remunerated (paid) blood donors. Donors were screened for HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and syphilis by all 23 blood banks, whereas malaria was screened by all blood banks but one.

CONCLUSION

SBT practices in Karachi have improved since 1995; an active role by the government in policy-making has proven effective.

Efficient mycobacterial DNA extraction from clinical samples for early diagnosis of tuberculosis

BACKGROUND

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in clinical samples requires the use of an extraction method that can efficiently lyse mycobacterial cells and recover small amounts of DNA.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the use of a benzyl-alcohol guanidine hydrochloride (DNA extraction) method (GuHClM) on blood samples.

DESIGN

GuHClM was evaluated in quantitatively spiked blood samples with M. tuberculosis. We assessed the insertion sequence (IS) 6110 region of M. tuberculosis to evaluate the efficacy of the method. The method was also applied on 102 clinical samples of suspected tuberculosis (TB) individuals and compared with smear microscopy of sputum specimens and the results of cultures.

RESULTS

This method reproducibly detected as low as 4-6 bacilli. Of 102 clinical samples, 84 were human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) negative, while 18 were HIV-positive. Among the HIV-negative individuals, 58.3% were TB-positive using PCR, while respectively 47.6% and 45.2% were sputum- and culture-positive. Among the HIV-positive individuals, 55.6% were PCR-positive, whereas only 38.9% were sputum-positive and 50% were culture-positive.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate that the identification of mycobacteria by PCR using GuHClM is very sensitive and therefore may have wide utility in the diagnosis of TB.

Platelet count in 100 cases of pregnancy induced hypertension

Hypertensive disorders are most common medical complication of pregnancy and the major causes of maternal & perinatal disease and death worldwide. The aim of the study was to see the platelet count in pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH). It was a prospective study. The study was done on 100 cases of PIH patients in Gynae & Obstetrics department of Mymensingh Medical College Hospital (MMCH) during the period of January to July 2006. Among the 100 cases 60 were eclamptic, 34 were pre eclamptic (PE) and 06 were gestational hypertensive (GH) patients. All the necessary informations and data were collected by interviewing the patients or their attendants on a pre-designed data collection sheet. Blood sample were collected from the patients and required investigations were done. Most of the eclampsia cases were from below average socioeconomic status of family, and other two groups were from average socioeconomic status of family. Among eclamptic patients 76.60% were primigravida. In eclamptic group 93.33% did not get any antenatal care but 83.33% GH cases had regular antenatal care. Among the eclamptic group mean maternal age was 23.12 years. In our study 47.00% had low platelet count (<1,50,000/cmm). Among eclampsia group 60.00% had low platelet count (<1,50,000/cmm). In our study 12% cases developed postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) and among them 66.67% had low platelet count (<1,50,000/cmm). Although there is chance of development of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and Liver Failure in patients with low platelet count, but in our study there is no such incidence. In our study mortality was 3% and all were in eclamptic group. Those patients had low platelet count 74.28% had low birth weight (LBW) babies. Platelet count is a very important investigation for antenatal mother having PIH, as it is directly related to maternal and perinatal outcome.

Estimation of genetic distance between 10 maize accessions with varying response to different levels of soil moisture

Ten maize accessions (NC-9, A50-2, M-14, B-42, NC-3, T-7, N-48-1, B-34, USSR, and WFTMS) were studied to estimate the genetic distance on molecular level by random amplified polymorphic DNA. These accessions were selected on the basis of their variable responses against different levels of moisture. Twenty-five primers were used to test genetic diversity, of which 14 were observed to be polymorphic. Ninety-three loci were amplified; among these, 77 showed polymorphism and the other 16 were monomorphic. Primers A-13 and C-02 gave the most polymorphic bands, while primers A-01 and C-06 gave the fewest polymorphic bands. The genetic similarities of the 10 maize accessions ranged from 82.8 to 54.8%. Accessions USSR and WFTMS showed greatest similarity, and accessions M-14 and B-42 were found more dissimilar than the other accessions. On the basis of cluster analysis, these 10 accessions were classified in two major groups, A and B, and than further divided into sub-groups. The cluster analysis showed that accessions in the same group as well as in the sub-groups were similar in their physical and morphological characters, since the characters are controlled genetically.

Molecular characterization of wheat germplasm using microsatellite markers

We investigated the genetic diversity of 63 wheat genotypes, composed of 48 accessions and 15 varieties, using 56 polymorphic simple sequence repeat primers. One hundred and eighty-six loci were found, with a mean of 131.26 alleles per locus. Cluster analysis based on microsatellite allelic diversity discriminated the accessions and varieties into different clusters; genetic diversity was the highest between variety Kohistan-97 and accession number 011512, giving a genetic similarity value of 0.4198. Accession numbers 011484 and 011356 gave a genetic similarity value of 0.9589, indicating that these accessions were 95.89% similar. We found that microsatellite markers could characterize and discriminate all of the genotypes; more primers could be used for saturation of different regions in further studies.

Resolution of ST-segment elevation after streptokinase therapy in anterior versus inferior wall myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

Resolution of ST-segment elevation is the best bedside predictor of myocardial reperfusion.

HYPOTHESIS

This study was conducted to examine the resolution of ST-segment elevation after streptokinase therapy in anterior versus inferior acute myocardial infarction (MI) and to corroborate it with echocardiographic and coronary angiographic data.

METHODS

The study population consisted of 70 patients, 35 each in the anterior and inferior MI groups. The electrocardiograms (ECGs) were recorded before, on completion of, and on Days 1 and 2 post streptokinase therapy. The resolution of ST segment determined from post-streptokinase ECGs was compared between the two groups and correlated with echocardiographic and coronary angiographic data.

RESULTS

On completion of and on Day 1 post streptokinase therapy, ST-segment resolution in both groups was not significantly different. On Day 2 post streptokinase therapy, resolution of the ST segment per lead was significantly lower in anterior than that in inferior MI (61 +/- 21% anterior vs. 77 +/- 21% inferior, p 0.003). The number of patients with akinesis of infarct-related ventricular wall was significantly higher (17 anterior vs. 7 inferior, p 0.02), and left ventricular ejection fraction was significantly lower in anterior MI (39 +/- 7% anterior vs. 48 +/- 8% inferior, p < 0.01). There was no significant difference in coronary angiographic data. One patient in each group demonstrated normal coronary arteries.

CONCLUSIONS

The resolution of ST-segment elevation on the completion of and on Day 1 post streptokinase therapy was comparable between anterior and inferior MI. The significantly less frequent resolution of ST-segment elevation in anterior MI on Day 2 post streptokinase could be due to more akinesis, larger infarct size, and worse systolic function rather than due to failure to open the infarct-related vessel.

Worsening of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction during exercise causes decreased exercise tolerance in hypertension

BACKGROUND

Exercise tolerance is reduced in hypertension. Hypertension affects left ventricular (LV) diastolic filling by causing abnormal relaxation and decreasing compliance.

HYPOTHESIS

This study was designed to determine whether worsening of LV diastolic dysfunction during exercise causes decreased exercise tolerance in hypertension.

METHODS

Left ventricular diastolic filling parameters were examined at mitral valve by Doppler echocardiography at rest and at peak exercise in hypertensive patients and were compared with those of age- and gender-matched normotensive individuals. Treadmill exercise stress test was performed according to the Bruce protocol and the exercise time was recorded.

RESULTS

Exercise time was significantly shorter in the hypertensive group than that in the normotensive group (320 +/- 29 vs. 446 +/- 38 s, p 0.03). The hypertensive group demonstrated abnormal relaxation pattern of diastolic mitral inflow at rest, which became pseudonormal at peak exercise (E/A velocity ratio, rest 0.86 +/- 0.06 vs. exercise 1.19 +/- 0.09, p < 0.001). The diastolic mitral inflow pattern remained normal at peak exercise in the normotensive group. The deceleration time and the pressure half time of early mitral inflow at peak exercise were significantly shorter in the hypertensive group than those in the normotensive group (deceleration time, 182 +/- 20 vs. 238 +/- 22 ms, p 0.02: pressure half time, 54 +/- 5 vs. 70 +/- 12 ms, p 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that reduced exercise tolerance in hypertension is associated with worsening of diastolic dysfunction during exercise consistent with an increase in left atrial pressure.

Estimation of genetic diversity among sunflower genotypes through random amplified polymorphic DNA analysis

The genetic diversity among eight sunflower lines was determined through the estimation of the random amplified polymorphic DNA method. One hundred and fifty-six DNA fragments were generated by 20 random primers, for an average of about 7.8 bands per primer. Of these amplified DNA fragments, 104 were polymorphic among the eight sunflower lines. Nei and Li's similarity matrix gave values from 51.59 to 77.78%, which indicated a broad genetic base. The maximum similarity, 77.78%, was observed between R-SIN-82 and RN-46. The lowest similarity, 51.59%, was observed between the exotic lines CM-612 and HA-27. After knowing the knowledge of genetic diversity based on these random amplified polymorphic DNA markers, highly diverse lines can be used for further breeding programs to develop an ideal local hybrid of sunflower.

Transport of sennosides and sennidines from Cassia angustifolia and Cassia senna across Caco-2 monolayers--an in vitro model for intestinal absorption

Laxative effects of Senna preparations are mainly mediated by rheinanthrone, a metabolite formed in the intestinal flora from dianthrones. Nevertheless, it was not clear whether dianthrones are bioavailable at all and contribute to the overall effects of this important medicinal plant. Using the Caco-2 human colonic cell line as an in vitro model of the human intestinal mucosal barrier, the bioavailability of dianthrones was studied in apical to basolateral (absorptive) and basolateral to apical (secretive) direction. Permeability coefficients (P(c)) and percent transport were calculated based on quantitations by HPLC. From the data obtained it was concluded that sennosides A and B, as well as their aglycones sennidine A and B are transported through the Caco-2 monolayers in a concentration-dependent manner and their transport was linear with time. The absorption in apical to basolateral direction was poor and P(c) values were comparable to mannitol. The transport was higher in the secretory direction, indicating a significant efflux (e.g. by efflux pumps) of the (poorly) absorbed compounds in the intestinal lumen again. Our findings support the general understanding that the laxative effects of Senna are explainable mainly by metabolites and not by the natively present dianthrones.

A coupled drug kinetics-cell cycle model to analyse the response of human cells to intervention by topotecan

A model describing the response of the growth of single human cells in the absence and presence of the anti-cancer agent topotecan (TPT) is presented. The model includes a novel coupling of both the kinetics of TPT and cell cycle responses to the agent. By linking the models in this way, rather than using separate (disjoint) approaches, it is possible to illustrate how the drug perturbs the cell cycle. The model is compared to experimental in vitro cell cycle response data (comprising single cell descriptors for molecular and behavioural events), showing good qualitative agreement for a range of TPT dose levels.

Quantitative determination of vasicine and vasicinone in Adhatoda vasica by high performance capillary electrophoresis

A new method of capillary electrophoresis was developed for the quantitative determination of vasicine and vasicinone from Adhatoda vasica (L.) Nees. The electrophoretic separation was performed using a 47 cm x 50 microm ID (38.5 cm effective length) fused silica capillary. The samples were injected by pressure for 3 s at 50 mbar and the running voltage was 19 kV at the injector end of the capillary. The capillary temperature was maintained at 40 degrees C. The separation of the two alkaloids has been achieved within 11 min with good repeatability. The method was validated in terms of reproducibility, linearity, accuracy and applied for the quantitative determination of vasicine and vasicinone in A. vasica plant samples/extracts. Parameters affecting the resolution such as pH, temperature, organic modifier, buffer concentration and capillary dimensions were reported.

Study of genetic divergence among wheat genotypes through random amplified polymorphic DNA

The degree of genetic divergence was estimated in seven wheat genotypes, six exotic genotypes and one local variety, through random amplified polymorphic DNA methodology. A total of 112 DNA fragments were generated by the 15 random primers, with an average of about 7.4 bands per primer. Among the 112, 50 fragments showed polymorphism among the seven wheat genotypes. Nei and Li's similarity matrix ranged from 86.2 to 93.0%, which indicated a narrow genetic base among the genotypes. The maximum similarity, 93.0%, was observed between 12WLRG/1-12 and WL-43. The local variety, Chenab-70, showed the lowest similarity with the exotic types. We conclude that random amplified polymorphic DNA analysis can be used for the characterization and grouping of wheat genotypes; these results will be helpful in our wheat breeding program.

Simultaneous identification and quantification by liquid chromatography of benzethonium chloride, methyl paraben and triclosan in commercial products labeled as grapefruit seed extract

A HPLC method has been developed which permits the quantification of methyl paraben, benzethonium chloride and triclosan in various samples of grapefruit seed extract (GSE). The best results were obtained with a Phenomenex Gemini C18 column using gradient mobile phase of water (0.1% acetic acid) and acetonitrile (0.1% acetic acid) with a flow rate of 1.0 mL per minute. The detection wavelength was 254 nm for methyl paraben, and 275 nm for benzethonium chloride and triclosan. The main synthetic antimicrobial agent identified in commercial GSE samples was benzethonium chloride in concentrations from 0.29-21.84%. Positive ion electrospray MS of a commercial GSE sample showed a molecular ion at m/z 412 [M+], which matched that of a standard of benzethonium chloride. Triclosan was detected in two samples at 0.009 and 1.13%concentrations; while methyl paraben was not detected in the samples analyzed.

Quantification of parthenolide in Tanacetum species by LC-UV/LC-MS and microscopic comparison of Mexican/US feverfew samples

LC-UV and LC-MS methods have been developed which permit the analysis of parthenolide in different Mexican/US feverfew samples and commercial products. The study was undertaken to confirm the presence of parthenolide in Mexican plant samples and its comparison with US feverfew samples. The best results were obtained with a Phenomenex Luna C18 (2) column using gradient mobile phase of water and acetonitrile:methanol (9 : 1). Elution was run at a flow rate of 1.0 mL per min and ultraviolet detection at 210 nm. The results obtained using LC-UV were comparable to those obtained using LC-MS. Parthenolide was detected in all the samples analyzed and is the major chemical constituent of feverfew. The samples collected in Oaxaca, Mexico (0.28%) and Puebla, Mexico (0.25%) showed the highest content of parthenolide. All Parthenium samples were also examined under light and fluorescent microscopy.

Molecular cloning and differential expression of three GnRH mRNAs in discrete brain areas and lymphocytes in red drum

Three gonadotropin releasing hormones, seabream GnRH (GnRH-I), chicken GnRH-II (GnRH-II) and salmon GnRH (GnRH-III) cDNAs were isolated from the brain of the red drum, Sciaenops ocellatus. The GnRH cDNA sequences of red drum showed more similarity to those of Atlantic croaker, sea bass and sea bream. The real-time quantitative RT-PCR study revealed expression of GnRH-I and GnRH III mRNAs in the olfactory bulb plus telencephalon (OB+TEL), and preoptic-anterior hypothalamic area (POAH), indicating an overlap of the GnRH-I and GnRH-III systems in these forebrain regions. However, GnRH-II mRNA expression was detected only in the midbrain tegmentum (MT). The GnRH-I mRNA expression in the POAH in fish undergoing gonadal recrudescence was significantly higher than that in gonadally immature individuals, suggesting involvement of the POAH GnRH-I in gonadal maturation. On the other hand, GnRH-III mRNA expression was significantly higher in the OB+TEL region compared with that in the POAH. Moreover, the demonstration of GnRH-I mRNA and peptide expression in red drum lymphocytes indicates that the GnRH-I is synthesized in these cells of the immune system similar to the situation in mammals.

Microplate nitrate reductase assay versus Alamar Blue assay for MIC determination of Mycobacterium tuberculosis

A rapid colorimetric, microplate based nitrate reductase assay (NRA) method for minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) determination of clinical isolates of Mycobacterium tuberculosis was compared with the microplate Alamar Blue assay (MABA), presently in vogue. Reproducible results were obtained in 7 days by NRA. The NRA method was found to be inexpensive, suitable for MIC determination against M. tuberculosis and can be suggested as an ideal substitute to MABA.

Authentication of medicinal plants using molecular biology techniques to compliment conventional methods

Medicinal plants have become extremely popular in the United States as botanical supplements, herbal medicines and sources of lead compounds for pharmaceutical development. It is estimated that in 1997 Americans used or consumed 5.1 billion US dollars worth of herbal medicines. For the protection of consumers, authentication of medicinal plants is a critical issue. Ideally, authentication should occur from the harvesting of the plant material to the final product. Unfortunately there is no single or superior method to assure 100 percent authentication during the entire process, but the goal can be achieved through the application of a variety of different methodologies. The whole process starts with good voucher specimens that act as reference material and to prove chain of custody. Macroscopic and microscopic examinations can be used as rapid and inexpensive identification techniques. Chemical analysis is by far the best method for the detection of contaminants and can be an excellent method for plant identification. Each of these methodologies has limitations and more analytical methods are needed to assist in the authentication process. Molecular biology offers an assortment of techniques that can be very useful for authentication of medicinal plants. This review covers various aspects of authentication methods, with special emphasis on molecular biology techniques.

Quantitative and qualitative HPLC analysis of thermogenic weight loss products

An HPLC qualitative and quantitative method of seven analytes (caffeine, ephedrine, forskolin, icariin, pseudoephedrine, synephrine, and yohimbine) in thermogenic weight loss preparations available on the market is described in this paper. After 45 min the seven analytes were separated and detected in the acetonitrile: water (80:20) extract. The method uses a Waters XTerra RP18 (5 microm particle size) column as the stationary phase, a gradient mobile phase of water (5.0 mM SDS) and acetonitrile, and a UV detection of 210 nm. The correlation coefficients for the calibration curves and the recovery rates ranged from 0.994 to 0.999 and from 97.45% to 101.05%, respectively. The qualitative and quantitative results are discussed.

Analysis of products suspected of containing Aristolochia or Asarum species

Aristolochia species have been administered by those trained in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for centuries. After determining Aristolochia fangchi was an adulterant that caused death due to renal failure in a number of patients at a Belgian weight loss clinic, many countries took steps to regulate products containing Aristolochia fangchi as well as other Aristolochia species. The US FDA issued a Consumer Advisory 'advising consumers to stop using any products that may likely contain aristolochic acid'. The Aristolochia and Asarum genera both have been found to contain aristolochic acids. A number of websites have been found from which individuals can order products containing either Aristolochia or Asarum as an ingredient through US merchants. We purchased 25 products from such sites and analyzed them for the presence of aristolochic acid I and II by HPLC with PDA. Six of the products contained detectable amounts of I and II.

Effect of precocene on development of ovarian follicles in flesh fly, Sarcophaga ruficornis F

Administration of precocene II (6,7-dimethoxy-2, 2-dimethyl chromene) to freshly emerged virgin female flies of S. ruficornis adversely affected the development and differentiation of ovarian follicles leading to a number of morphological abnormalities. Precocene treatment resulted into suppression of development of egg chamber, differentiation of follicular epithelium, degeneration of nurse cells, growth of oocyte and uptake of yolk granules by oocytes. The results suggest that precocene induced effects are due to deficiency of juvenile hormone.