Halogens engineering-based design of agonists for boosting expression of frataxin protein in Friedreich's ataxia

OBJECTIVE

Decreased expression of the mitochondrial protein frataxin is the cause of the neurodegenerative disorder Friedreich's ataxia. In patients with cardiac disorders, the death rate of this disease is very high, up to 66%. In order to combat Friedreich ataxia, which is a potentially toxic disorder, de novo drug discovery and design have been created utilizing the approach of compound engineering with halogens. This study aimed to investigate the potential for effective treatment of Friedreich ataxia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The screening of twenty different agonist compounds was carried out in order to find the most promising agonist compound that may be used for molecular docking prediction against the Frataxin Protein. The compound with the lowest binding energies is then optimized by halogens. The final candidate's drug-like properties are identified through Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, and Toxicity (ADMET) profiling. Lipinski's rule of five was checked. Molecular dynamic stimulations were evaluated.

RESULTS

The most potent agonist compound was identified out of twenty different compounds utilizing a docking approach against the Frataxin Protein. The compound with the lowest binding energies was next subjected to optimization by halogens. The optimized agonist 9-[1-[(1S, 5R)-8, 8-dimethyl-8-azoniabicyclo[3.2.1]octan-3-yl]triazol-4-yl]fluoren-9-ol  has higher binding energy of -10.4Kcal/mol with molecular weight of 705.63 g/mol. Drug-like properties are identified through ADMET profiling, having water solubility of about -7.59, skin permeation -7.08 cm/s, bioavailability score 0.17, and high GI absorption. The candidate fulfills the Lipinski rule of five and portrays efficient molecular dynamic stimulations.

CONCLUSIONS

The selected agonist is one of the most potent compounds in increasing Frataxin protein expression. Furthermore, optimization with halogens can be a productive approach to improve the candidate's drug efficacy. The development of effective medications for the treatment of Friedreich ataxia would be aided by the results of these computational investigations.

Candida pneumonia in young and immunocompetent lady: A case report and literature review

Background

Candida is a frequent respiratory tract colonizer. True candida pneumonia is rare and seen with predominance in immunosuppressed patients. Our aim is to document a previously unreported case of Candida pneumonia in a young and immunocompetent patient, highlighting, an unusual pathological manifestation of this infection in immunocompetent individuals.

Case summary

We report a previously healthy young lady who remained symptomatic with fever, cough and shortness of breath for three weeks duration despite treatment with extensive antibiotics regimen for community acquired pneumonia. She was eventually treated as a probable, rare case of candida pneumonia. The patient demonstrated a dramatic response to single antifungal treatment both clinically and biochemically within the first 24hrs of treatment. Candida albican was isolated on repetitive cultures form the sputum and bronchoalevolar lavage samples. The patient had negative blood cultures. Her HRCT scan revealed bilateral basal air space opacities with peri bronchovascular distribution and centrilobular nodules with branching pattern suggestive of tree in bud predominantly in lower lobes. Her endobronchial biopsies was mostly unremarkable apart from rare non-necrotizing granuloma.

Conclusion

Candida can rarely cause clinically significant pneumonia in immunocompetent patients and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of granulomatous lung disease.

Side chain inset of neurogenerative amino acids to metalloproteins: a therapeutic signature for huntingtin protein in Huntington's disease

OBJECTIVE

Huntington's disease is a dominant autosomal inherited neurodegenerative disease that results in progressive impairment, characterized by dementia, chorea, and behavioral and cognitive decline. The objective of this study was to investigate the potential activity of metalloproteins against the huntingtin protein using various insertion-based engineering computational methods. Metalloproteins, metal protein complexes involved in important biochemical and physiological processes, were explored as potential drug candidates for Huntington's disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 18 metalloproteins were selected as drug candidates and studied to assess their potential inhibitory effects on the huntingtin protein. The screening process was based on the lowest binding energy. The metalloprotein with the lowest docking score was chosen for side chain insertion of neurogenerative amino acids. The engineered metalloprotein was then evaluated based on physiochemical properties, allergenicity, toxicity, and surface accessibility. Cloning and expression analysis was performed to further investigate its potential as a therapeutic agent.

RESULTS

The metalloprotein chosen for side chain insertion, cytochrome C oxidase, showed promising results. It was computed as a probable non-allergen and exhibited no toxic domains, indicating its non-toxic nature. Additionally, it demonstrated a strong binding affinity with the huntingtin protein, with a binding energy of -1,253.3 Kcal/mol.

CONCLUSIONS

Metal-based proteins, when engineered with additional neurogenerative amino acids, hold potential as drug candidates for treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Huntington's disease. The successful development of these engineered metalloproteins could offer therapeutic advantages. Further testing, both in vitro and in vivo, is necessary to evaluate their efficacy and validate their potential activity as novel drugs for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

A one-health approach to design an mRNA-based vaccine candidate against the lumpy skin disease virus as an alternative to live-attenuated vaccines

OBJECTIVE

Recently, lumpy skin disease (LSD) has been spread over the Asian, European, and Middle Eastern regions making it a significant hazard to the chain of cattle production, milk production, and human milk consumption, requiring prompt attention. Lumpy skin disease virus has high morbidity and low fatality rates, but its infections have led to terrible economic and agricultural consequences. Although live-attenuated vaccines have been commercialized, farmers in different regions have not taken them well because of the allergic responses against the vaccines. The study aims to develop an mRNA-based vaccine candidate for LSDV, using immunoinformatic approaches to minimize allergenicity and homology while maximizing immunogenic potential.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study used extensive immunoinformatic approaches to shortlist five proteins from the LSDV genome that belong to the transmembrane region and are crucial in early viral interaction with host cells. The B-cell and T-cell-specific epitopes were chosen based on non-allergenicity, antigenicity, non-homology, surface accessibility, and lower IC50 inhibition values. The construct's stability, hydrophilicity, and antigenic potential were analyzed using the instability index, Grand Average of Hydropathicity (GRAVY) index, and antigenicity, respectively.

RESULTS

We selected a total of 34 epitopes, consisting of 12 B-cell-specific epitopes and 22 T-cell-specific epitopes. These epitopes were chosen based on their characteristics such as non-allergenicity, antigenicity, non-homology, surface accessibility, and lower IC50 inhibition values. Specifically, 11 epitopes were selected for Major Histocompatibility Complex-I, and another 11 epitopes were chosen for Major Histocompatibility Complex-II. The inclusion of the RS09 adjuvant enhanced the immunogenic potential of the vaccine. The instability index was found to be 38.60. Additionally, the GRAVY index, indicating hydrophilicity, was calculated as -0.151. Furthermore, the antigenicity value of 0.6073 confirmed its potential to elicit an immune response. Further supporting its immunogenic potential, strong immune stimulation was observed, with IgM+IgG titers reaching 6,000 (arbitrary units) and IFNg titers measuring 400,000 ng/mL. These results provide additional evidence of the vaccine's ability to stimulate a robust immune response.

CONCLUSIONS

The study results indicate that the developed mRNA-based vaccine candidate for LSDV has high immunogenic potential and could serve as an effective alternative to live-attenuated vaccines. Further experimental validations are required to test its efficacy. The study also highlights the potential of the One-Health approach to tackle non-zoonotic diseases that have significant consequences for the environment and humanity.

Revolutionizing treatment for toxic shock syndrome with engineered super chromones to combat antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

OBJECTIVE

Staphylococcus aureus-induced toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare, but potentially fatal disease with limited treatment options. The emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains has led to a pressing need for the development of effective therapies. This study aimed to identify and optimize potential drug candidates against toxic shock syndrome by targeting the pathogenic toxin protein using chromones as lead compounds.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, 20 chromones were screened for their ability to bind to the target protein. The top compounds were further optimized through the addition of cycloheptane and amide groups, and the resulting compounds were evaluated for their drug-like properties using chemical absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) profiling.

RESULTS

Among the compounds screened, 7-Glucosyloxy-5-hydroxy-2-[2-(4-hydroxyphenyl) ethyl] chromone exhibited the highest binding affinity with a molecular weight of 341.40 g/mol and a binding energy of -10.0 kcal/mol. The optimized compound exhibited favorable drug-like properties, including high water solubility, synthetic accessibility, skin permeation, bioavailability, and gastrointestinal absorption.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that chromones can be engineered to develop effective drugs against TSS caused by S. aureus. The optimized compound has the potential to be a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of TSS, providing new hope for patients suffering from this life-threatening disease of toxic shock syndrome.

A pharmacophore screening approach of homeopathic phenols for a renovated design of fragment-optimized Bauhiniastatin-1 as a drug against acromegaly

OBJECTIVE

Acromegaly is a fatal and chronic disease that is caused by the abnormal secretion of growth hormone (GH) by the pituitary adenoma or pituitary tumor, resulting in an increased circulated concentration of insulin-like growth factors 1 (IGF-1), where in most of the cases it is secreted by a pituitary tumor. Higher levels of GH cause an increase in IGF-1 in the liver leading to multiple conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, glucose imbalance, cancer, and sleep apnea. Medical treatments such as surgery and radiotherapy can be used as the first choice of patients; however, specified human growth hormone control should be an essential treatment strategy due to an incidence rate of 0.2-1.1 yearly. Therefore, the main focus of this study is to develop a novel drug for treating acromegaly by exploiting medicinal plants that have been screened using phenol as a pharmacophore model to identify target therapeutic medicinal plant phenols.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The screening identified thirty-four pharmacophore matches of medicinal plant phenols. These were selected as suitable ligands and were docked against the growth hormone receptor to calculate their binding affinity. The candidate with the highest screened score was fragment-optimized and subjected to absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) analysis, in-depth toxicity predictions, interpretation of Lipinski's rule, and molecular dynamic simulations to check the behavior of the growth hormone with the fragment-optimized candidate.

RESULTS

The highest docking energy was calculated as -6.5 K/mol for Bauhiniastatin-1. Enhancing the performance of Bauhiniastatin-1 against the growth hormone receptor with fragment optimization portrayed that human growth hormone inhibition can be executed in a more efficient and better way. Fragment-optimized Bauhiniastatin-1 (FOB) was predicted with high gastrointestinal absorption, a water solubility of -2.61 as soluble, and synthetic accessibility of 4.50, achieving Lipinski's rule of 5, with low organ toxicity prediction and interpreting a positive behavior against the targeted protein. The discovery of a de novo drug candidate was confirmed by the docking of fragment-optimized Bauhiniastatin-1 (FOB), which had an energy of -4,070 Kcal/mol.

CONCLUSIONS

Although successful and completely harmless, present healthcare treatment does not always eradicate the disease in some individuals. Therefore, novel formulas or combinations of currently marketed medications and emergent phytochemicals will provide new possibilities for these instances.

Impact of root hairs on microscale soil physical properties in the field

AIMS

Recent laboratory studies revealed that root hairs may alter soil physical behaviour, influencing soil porosity and water retention on the small scale. However, the results are not consistent, and it is not known if structural changes at the small-scale have impacts at larger scales. Therefore, we evaluated the potential effects of root hairs on soil hydro-mechanical properties in the field using rhizosphere-scale physical measurements.

METHODS

Changes in soil water retention properties as well as mechanical and hydraulic characteristics were monitored in both silt loam and sandy loam soils. Measurements were taken from plant establishment to harvesting in field trials, comparing three barley genotypes representing distinct phenotypic categories in relation to root hair length. Soil hardness and elasticity were measured using a 3-mm-diameter spherical indenter, while water sorptivity and repellency were measured using a miniaturized infiltrometer with a 0.4-mm tip radius.

RESULTS

Over the growing season, plants induced changes in the soil water retention properties, with the plant available water increasing by 21%. Both soil hardness (P = 0.031) and elasticity (P = 0.048) decreased significantly in the presence of root hairs in silt loam soil, by 50% and 36%, respectively. Root hairs also led to significantly smaller water repellency (P = 0.007) in sandy loam soil vegetated with the hairy genotype (-49%) compared to the hairless mutant.

CONCLUSIONS

Breeding of cash crops for improved soil conditions could be achieved by selecting root phenotypes that ameliorate soil physical properties and therefore contribute to increased soil health.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11104-022-05530-1.

Assessment of proarrhythmogenic risk for cannabidiol using dog and rabbit cardiac preparations: the electrophysiological effects on action potential and transmembrane potassium currents

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): Economic Development and Innovation Operative Programme GINOP-2.3.2-15-2016-00012, the National Research Development and Innovation Office (NKFIH K 135464 and NKFIH K 128851), the Ministry of Human Capacities Hungary (20391-3/2018/FEKUSTRAT and EFOP-3.6.2-16-2017-00006), and from the Eötvös Loránd Research Network

Background

Cannabidiol (CBD), a major active phytogenic cannabinoid, is one of the main constituents of cannabis. Cannabis has been widely used as recreational drug over the decades and its use is constantly increasing as hallucinogenic and/or medicinal agent. However, significant cardiovascular side effects can accompany its use ranging from arrhythmia to sudden cardiac death.

Purpose

The aim of the present work was to investigate the possible cardiac adverse electrophysiological effects of cannabidiol (CBD) on action potentials and various transmembrane potassium currents, such as the rapid (IKr) and slow (IKs) delayed rectifier, the transient outward (Ito) and inward rectifier (IK1) potassium currents in rabbit and dog cardiac preparations to assess the cardiac safety profile and proarrhythmic risk.

Methods

In the current study, conventional microelectrode and voltage clamp techniques were used to record the action potential and transmembrane ionic currents in dog and rabbit ventricular tissue preparations and enzymatically isolated myocytes, respectively.

Results

The results show that CBD lengthens APD90 significantly at the concentration of 5 µM both in dog and rabbit ventricular tissues without changing other action potential parameters significantly. To further investigate the APD90 lengthening effect of CBD, transmembrane potassium currents (IKr, IKs, Ito and IK1) were investigated in dog and/or rabbit ventricular myocytes using voltage clamp technique. CBD significantly inhibited IKr and IKs currents in rabbit ventricular myocytes with an estimated EC50 values of 4.9 and 3.1 µM, respectively. The effect of CBD on rabbit’s Ito current was not significant while it was significant on dog’s Ito current with an estimated EC50 value of 5 µM. IK1 was not responsive to CBD even at high concentration.

Conclusion

In conclusion, looking at the inhibitory effects of CBD on repolarizing potassium currents, despite of the fact that these calculated EC50 values are higher than pharmacokinetics based Cmax values of CBD recorded after smoking and oral intake, it can be speculated that in the presence of certain cardio active drugs or co-morbidity where CBD metabolism or cardiac repolarization reserve is impaired CBD can have an additive and proarrhythmic effect.

Molecular evidence, risk factors analysis, and hematological alterations associated with Theileria spp. spillover in captive wild mouflon sheep in Punjab, Pakistan

Background

Landscape anthropization and interaction between domestic and wild animals are the major contributing factors involved in the emergence of new pathogens in wild animals. Theileriosis is an emerging issue of wild ungulates, especially in the tropical and subtropical areas of the globe.

Aims

The current study investigated the mouflon sheep for Theileria infection using molecular methods and hematological analysis.

Methods

This study was conducted on a total of 103 captive wild mouflon sheep present in eight different recreational zoos, and wildlife parks in Punjab, Pakistan to investigate the genotypic prevalence of Theileria spp. by targeting 18S rRNA and molecular evidence for Theileria spillover between domestic and wild mouflon sheep by phylogenetic analysis. The association of assumed risk factors and the effect of Theileria spp. on various hematological parameters were also assessed.

Results

The results depicted that Theileria spp. was prevalent in 8 (7.77%, CI 95%: 3.99-14.59%), and 11 (10.68%, CI 95%: 06.07-18.12%) animals based on microscopy, and PCR, respectively. The phylogenetic analysis of the 18S rRNA gene of Theileria spp. from mouflon revealed a close resemblance with T. annulata from domestic animals. The risk factor analysis revealed that tick infestation, enclosure hygiene, previous tick infestation history, and the presence of wooden logs in the enclosure were significantly (P<0.05) associated with the occurrence of Theileria spp. infection in the captive mouflon sheep of Pakistan. Furthermore, a significant reduction in blood parameters like PCV, RBCs count, Hb, and platelets was observed in Theileria-positive animals.

Conclusion

This study is the first evidence at the molecular level to characterize the spillover of Theileria spp. between the captive wild mouflon sheep and domestic animals of Pakistan, and it will be useful in developing control strategies for emerging theileriosis in captive wild animals.

Significance of root hairs for plant performance under contrasting field conditions and water deficit

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Previous laboratory studies have suggested selection for root hair traits in future crop breeding to improve resource use efficiency and stress tolerance. However, data on the interplay between root hairs and open-field systems, under contrasting soils and climate conditions, are limited. As such, this study aims to experimentally elucidate some of the impacts that root hairs have on plant performance on a field scale.

METHODS

A field experiment was set up in Scotland for two consecutive years, under contrasting climate conditions and different soil textures (i.e. clay loam vs. sandy loam). Five barley (Hordeum vulgare) genotypes exhibiting variation in root hair length and density were used in the study. Root hair length, density and rhizosheath weight were measured at several growth stages, as well as shoot biomass, plant water status, shoot phosphorus (P) accumulation and grain yield.

KEY RESULTS

Measurements of root hair density, length and its correlation with rhizosheath weight highlighted trait robustness in the field under variable environmental conditions, although significant variations were found between soil textures as the growing season progressed. Root hairs did not confer a notable advantage to barley under optimal conditions, but under soil water deficit root hairs enhanced plant water status and stress tolerance resulting in a less negative leaf water potential and lower leaf abscisic acid concentration, while promoting shoot P accumulation. Furthermore, the presence of root hairs did not decrease yield under optimal conditions, while root hairs enhanced yield stability under drought.

CONCLUSIONS

Selecting for beneficial root hair traits can enhance yield stability without diminishing yield potential, overcoming the breeder's dilemma of trying to simultaneously enhance both productivity and resilience. Therefore, the maintenance or enhancement of root hairs can represent a key trait for breeding the next generation of crops for improved drought tolerance in relation to climate change.

Review of potential risk groups for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)

The current pandemic of coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) is a global issue caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Studies have revealed that this virus results in poorer consequences and a higher rate of mortality in older adults and those with comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes and prolonged respiratory illness. In this review, we discuss in detail the potential groups at risk of COVID-19 and outline future recommendations to mitigate community transmission of COVID-19. The rate of COVID-19 was high in healthcare workers, smokers, older adults, travellers and pregnant women. Furthermore, patients with severe medical complications such as heart disease, hypertension, respiratory illness, diabetes mellitus and cancer are at higher risk of disease severity and mortality. Therefore, special effort and devotion are needed to diminish the threat of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Proper vaccination, use of sanitizers for handwashing and complete lockdown are recommended to mitigate the chain of COVID-19 transmission.

Selection and screening of drought tolerant high yielding chickpea genotypes based on physio-biochemical indices and multi-environmental yield trials

BACKGROUND

Chickpea is one of the major legume crops being cultivated in the arid and semi-arid regions of Pakistan. It is mainly grown on the marginal areas where, terminal drought stress is one of the serious threats to its productivity. For defining the appropriate selection criteria for screening drought tolerant chickpea genotypes, present study was conducted. Distinct chickpea germplasm was collected from different pulses breeding institutes of Pakistan and evaluated for drought tolerance at germination and early seedling stages, furthermore, at late vegetative growth stages physiochemical traits and multi-environment yield performance were also tested.

RESULTS

Chickpea genotypes under different environments, were significantly varied for different seedling traits, physio-chemical attributes and seed yield. Genotypes showing drought tolerance by performing better at an early seedling stages were not correspondingly high yielding. Screening for drought tolerance on seed yield basis is the most appropriate trait to develop the drought tolerant as well as high yielding chickpea genotypes. Results confirmed that traits of early growth stages were not reflecting the drought tolerance at terminal growth stages and also did not confer high yielding. NIAB-rain fed environment proved ideal in nature to screen the chickpea genotypes whereas, NIAB-lysimeter and Kalur Kot was least effective for selecting genotypes with high seed yield. Genotypes D0091-10, K010-10, D0085-10, K005-10, D0078-10, 08AG016, 08AG004, D0080-10, 09AG002, K002-10 and D0099-10 were high yielding and drought tolerant based on their performance across multiple hotspot environments.

CONCLUSIONS

The selected genotypes are intended for further evaluation for varietal approval to recommend for general cultivation on farmer fields in drought hit areas of Pakistan. Among physio-biochemical traits, higher proline, glycine betain, RWC and CMS were reflecting the higher capability to tolerate the drought stress in chickpea. Drought sensitive genotypes (K0037-10, 2204, K0052-10, 09AG015, K0042-10, CM709/06, K0068-10, K004-10, K0026-10 and K0063-10) were also identified in present study which were resourceful asset for using as contrasting parents in hybridization programs. To our knowledge, this is first report using an integrated approach involving, physio-biochemical indices, and multi-environmental yield trials, for comparison, screening and selection of chickpea genotypes for drought tolerance.

Antibiotic resistance profile in relation to virulence genes fimH, hlyA and usp of uropathogenic E. coli isolates in Lahore, Pakistan

Uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) is the major etiological agent of urinary tract infections. The objectives of this study were to evaluate E. coli isolates from these patients for the phenotypic pattern of antibiotic resistance and to detect the genes responsible for virulence namely fimH, hlyA and usp. A total of 110 E. coli isolates were studied and 30 antibiotics were applied for susceptibility testing. PCR detection of the genes fimH, hlyA and usp was done followed by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. The results showed that the isolates were highly resistant to cephalaxin (100%) and cephradine (100%) but displayed high sensitivity to amikacin (96.27%), Imipenem (92.63%) and Meropenem (92.63%). The prevalence of fimH, hlyA and usp was 86%, 83% and 16%, respectively. The sequencing showed 99% similarity with previously reported sequences in NCBI GenBank database. The co-existence of multiple drug-resistant bodies and virulent genes has important implications for the treatment of patients with urinary tract infection. This study provides information about treating drug-resistant E. coli and the relationship of virulent genes with phenotypic resistance patterns.

Surface tension, rheology and hydrophobicity of rhizodeposits and seed mucilage influence soil water retention and hysteresis

AIMS

Rhizodeposits collected from hydroponic solutions with roots of maize and barley, and seed mucilage washed from chia, were added to soil to measure their impact on water retention and hysteresis in a sandy loam soil at a range of concentrations. We test the hypothesis that the effect of plant exudates and mucilages on hydraulic properties of soils depends on their physicochemical characteristics and origin.

METHODS

Surface tension and viscosity of the exudate solutions were measured using the Du Noüy ring method and a cone-plate rheometer, respectively. The contact angle of water on exudate treated soil was measured with the sessile drop method. Water retention and hysteresis were measured by equilibrating soil samples, treated with exudates and mucilages at 0.46 and 4.6 mg g-1 concentration, on dialysis tubing filled with polyethylene glycol (PEG) solution of known osmotic potential.

RESULTS

Surface tension decreased and viscosity increased with increasing concentration of the exudates and mucilage in solutions. Change in surface tension and viscosity was greatest for chia seed exudate and least for barley root exudate. Contact angle increased with increasing maize root and chia seed exudate concentration in soil, but not barley root. Chia seed mucilage and maize root rhizodeposits enhanced soil water retention and increased hysteresis index, whereas barley root rhizodeposits decreased soil water retention and the hysteresis effect. The impact of exudates and mucilages on soil water retention almost ceased when approaching wilting point at -1500 kPa matric potential.

CONCLUSIONS

Barley rhizodeposits behaved as surfactants, drying the rhizosphere at smaller suctions. Chia seed mucilage and maize root rhizodeposits behaved as hydrogels that hold more water in the rhizosphere, but with slower rewetting and greater hysteresis.

Role of fungal-induced stress in biochemical and phytochemical profiling of Peganum harmala

The current study was designed to evaluate bioactive compounds under the influence of biotic stress on seedlings of Peganum harmala. Biologically active compounds were determined by using different techniques. The HPLC and GC-MS analyses detected the significant amount of phenolic acids and active biological compound. Total protein content, activity of proteases, α-amylases, catalases and peroxidases were observed to be accelerated under fungal stress. The seedling extracts exhibited prominent antifungal and antimicrobial activity against selected strains. The present study showed that P. harmala is a good candidate to be used in natural therapies and medicine.

Fluid flow in porous media using image-based modelling to parametrize Richards' equation

The parameters in Richards' equation are usually calculated from experimentally measured values of the soil-water characteristic curve and saturated hydraulic conductivity. The complex pore structures that often occur in porous media complicate such parametrization due to hysteresis between wetting and drying and the effects of tortuosity. Rather than estimate the parameters in Richards' equation from these indirect measurements, image-based modelling is used to investigate the relationship between the pore structure and the parameters. A three-dimensional, X-ray computed tomography image stack of a soil sample with voxel resolution of 6 μm has been used to create a computational mesh. The Cahn-Hilliard-Stokes equations for two-fluid flow, in this case water and air, were applied to this mesh and solved using the finite-element method in COMSOL Multiphysics. The upscaled parameters in Richards' equation are then obtained via homogenization. The effect on the soil-water retention curve due to three different contact angles, 0°, 20° and 60°, was also investigated. The results show that the pore structure affects the properties of the flow on the large scale, and different contact angles can change the parameters for Richards' equation.

Plant exudates may stabilize or weaken soil depending on species, origin and time

We hypothesized that plant exudates could either gel or disperse soil depending on their chemical characteristics. Barley (Hordeum vulgare L. cv. Optic) and maize (Zea mays L. cv. Freya) root exudates were collected using an aerated hydroponic method and compared with chia (Salvia hispanica L.) seed exudate, a commonly used root exudate analogue. Sandy loam soil was passed through a 500-μm mesh and treated with each exudate at a concentration of 4.6 mg exudate g-1 dry soil. Two sets of soil samples were prepared. One set of treated soil samples was maintained at 4°C to suppress microbial processes. To characterize the effect of decomposition, the second set of samples was incubated at 16°C for 2 weeks at -30 kPa matric potential. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of the exudates showed that barley had the largest organic acid content and chia the largest content of sugars (polysaccharide-derived or free), and maize was in between barley and chia. Yield stress of amended soil samples was measured by an oscillatory strain sweep test with a cone plate rheometer. When microbial decomposition was suppressed at 4°C, yield stress increased 20-fold for chia seed exudate and twofold for maize root exudate compared with the control, whereas for barley root exudate decreased to half. The yield stress after 2 weeks of incubation compared with soil with suppressed microbial decomposition increased by 85% for barley root exudate, but for chia and maize it decreased by 87 and 54%, respectively. Barley root exudation might therefore disperse soil and this could facilitate nutrient release. The maize root and chia seed exudates gelled soil, which could create a more stable soil structure around roots or seeds.

HIGHLIGHTS

Rheological measurements quantified physical behaviour of plant exudates and effect on soil stabilization.Barley root exudates dispersed soil, which could release nutrients and carbon.Maize root and chia seed exudates had a stabilizing effect on soil.Physical engineering of soil in contact with plant roots depends on the nature and origin of exudates.

Plant exudates improve the mechanical conditions for root penetration through compacted soils

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Plant exudates greatly affect the physical behaviour of soil, but measurements of the impact of exudates on compression characteristics are missing. Our aim is to provide these data and explore how plant exudates may enhance the restructuring of compacted soils following cycles of wetting and drying.

METHODS

Two soils were amended with Chia (Salvia hispanica) seed exudate at 5 concentrations, compacted in cores to 200 kPa stress (equivalent to tractor stress), equilibrated to -50 kPa matric potential, and then compacted to 600 kPa (equivalent to axial root stress) followed by 3 cycles of wetting and drying and recompression to 600 kPa at -50 kPa matric potential. Penetration resistance (PR), compression index (CC) and pore characteristics were measured at various steps.

RESULTS

PR decreased and CC increased with increasing exudate concentration. At 600 kPa compression, 1.85 mg exudate g-1 soil increased CC from 0.37 to 0.43 for sandy loam soil and from 0.50 to 0.54 for clay loam soil. After 3 wetting-drying cycles the clay loam was more resillient than the sandy loam soil, with resilience increasing with greater exudate concentration. Root growth modelled on PR data suggested plant exudates significantly eased root elongation in soil.

CONCLUSION

Plant exudates improve compression characteristics of soils, easing penetration and enhancing recovery of root induced soil compaction.

Sero-prevalence of Hepatitis B and C Virus from rural areas of northern Punjab (Sargodha District), Pakistan

Pakistan is endemic for hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections with 10 and 11 million infections, respectively. The epidemiological studies of these virus showed that the information is only from few cities of the country and is relevant to high risk groups. It is of great importance to have an idea about the prevalence of infectious agents in general population to help in identification of hot spot for infections. Identification of hot spots will help in disease management for future. As the there is no report form district Sargodha (Punjab Province) so this study was designed to analyze the prevalence of HBV and HCV in general population. Blood samples of 2373 randomly selected individuals from six different tehsils were collected and were analyzed for HBV and HCV sero-positivity. An overall prevalence of both HBV and HCV in district Sargodha was 28.10% (667/2373). HCV prevalence was (20.01%) and HBV seropositivity was (8.09%). Males were more infected than females, and a significant difference was found in positive cases between male (58.77%) and female (41.22%). The most common routes of transmission of hepatitis virus in present study were shaving assisted by barbers in male patients 143 (21.43%), non sterile or used needles and syringes 127 (19.04%), dental surgical procedures 88 (13.19%), and sharing razors in males 49 (7.34%). In female patients a significant factor is labor and child birth process. Most cases of hepatitis were seen in mesons, farmers and house wives. The prevalence of HBV and HCV in general population of district Sargodha is very high. The study will help for better management of disease to contain the disease spread. The study highlighted that District Sargodha is endemic for these viral infections and it is highly warranted to carry out more studies to get better idea about the infection spread. Community education campaigns are also highly warranted to general population as well as high risk population to control future disease spread.

Serological monitoring of thalassaemia major patients for transfusion associated viral infections

A total of 39 patients with thalassaemia major who received multiple blood transfusions were followed up clinically and serologically for 3 successive years (1993, 1994, 1995). They were screened for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), and antibodies to hepatitis B core (HBc-total), hepatitis C virus (HCV), human immunodeficiency virus I and II (HIV-I/II) and cytomegalovirus (CMV-total). In spite of transfusing HBsAg screened (by third generation ELISA) blood from voluntary non-remunerated donors, there was a significant increase of HBsAg positivity (P < 0.001) from 17.9 per cent (1993) to 35.9 per cent (1994) to 69.2 per cent (1995). This was probably due to the prevalence of undetectable HBV infection in the population. Anti HBc was present in 17 (43.6%), 14 (35.9%) and 16 (41%) patients in consecutive years. An increase in the units of blood transfused was observed every year. Blood units were not screened for anti HCV antibodies but a gradual increase in positivity [9 (23%), 12 (30.7%) and 14 (35.9%) patients] was seen in consecutive years. Anti-HIV antibodies were found in a 16 yr old male who was included in the study without any clinical evidence of AIDS. Anti CMV antibody was found in 30 (76.9%), 32 (82%) and 29 (74.3%) patients without any apparent clinical infection. Some patients showed change of antibody pattern (from negative to positive or vice versa) and a few patients showed inconsistent results probably due to immune modulation. Recruitment of 'repeat' non-remunerated voluntary blood donors may reduce the risk of high HBV transmission.

IgM rheumatoid factor estimation by ELISA in seronegative rheumatoid arthritis before and after IgM fractionation: does seronegative RA exist?

We looked for the presence of IgM rheumatoid factor (RF) using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in 25 patients with active seronegative rheumatoid arthritis. In unfractionated sera, 12 patients (48%) were positive for IgM RF (classical), but after IgM fractionation of 23 samples (2 samples were not available) using high performance liquid chromatography for fractionating IgM, 12 patients were positive for RF by ELISA indicating the presence of hidden RF. Finally, three patients were labelled as truly seronegative for IgM RF. Classical IgM RF as detected by ELISA correlated significantly with erosive disease. Hidden RF did not correlate with disease activity or severity in this cross-sectional study, and though its presence was associated with shorter disease duration this did not reach statistical significance.

Characterization of beta-thalassaemia mutations in 57 beta-thalassaemia families seen at Lucknow

As an initial step towards establishing prenatal diagnostic service for beta-thalassaemia in the state of Uttar Pradesh, we have investigated the prevalence of five common mutations reported from India in 57 families, each with an index patient of thalassaemia major, by amplification refractory mutation system (ARMS). Thirtyone of the 57 families (54.3%) hailed from Uttar Pradesh; 11 (19.3%) from Sindh in Pakistan, 6 (10.5%) from Punjab, 6 (10.5%) from North-West Pakistan and one each (1.8%) from Bengal, Madhya Pradesh and Bihar. In the 31 families from Uttar Pradesh, 29 were of beta-thalassaemia and 2 of HbE/beta-thalassaemia. IVS-1 nt 5 (G-C) mutation was the most common mutation in families native to Uttar Pradesh. This mutation was identified in 60 per cent (33 out of 55) of the obligate heterozygotes. Amongst the 43 obligate heterozygote carriers originating from Western India, the prevalence of IVS-1 nt 5 (G-C) mutation was 46.5 per cent; 619 bp deletion 23.3 per cent; Co 8/9 (+G) mutation 11.6 per cent and Co 41/42 (-CTTT) mutation 4.6 per cent. In 23.6 per cent of carriers from Uttar Pradesh and 7.0 per cent of carriers from Western India, none of the 5 mutations tested were detected. IVS-1 nt 1 (G-T) mutation was found in one family native to Sindh.

An autopsy study of relationship between perinatal stomach capacity and birth weight

BACKGROUND

Aspiration pneumonia is a common complication of overfeeding in neonates. Since overfeeding may be related to neonatal stomach capacity, it was considered worthwhile to obtain such data.

AIMS

To measure the capacity of stomach obtained from fresh stillbirths and liveborn infants at autopsy and correlate the same with their birth weights.

METHODS

Stomach capacity was measured at autopsy in 63 stillborn and 37 newborn infants with birth weights ranging from 500 g to 3500 g.

RESULTS

Stomach capacity had a significant positive correlation with birth weight (r = 0.56, p < 0.001). A formula and a nomogram have been derived to estimate stomach capacity from birth weight. There was no significant difference in stomach capacity between liveborn and stillborn infants in any of the weight groups, except in the 1501-2000 g weight group (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results have provided normative data on stomach capacity across a wide birth weight range in the perinatal period.

Overlap between Majewski and hydrolethalus syndromes: a report of two cases

We present 2 unrelated fetuses with manifestations of both the hydrolethalus syndrome and the short rib-polydactyly syndrome, type Majewski. It is proposed that cases of hydrolethalus syndrome with short limbs constitute a separate type of lethal osteochondrodysplasia mimicking short rib-polydactyly syndromes.