Phytogenic-Mediated Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using the Seed Extract of Citrullus lanatus and Its Integrated Potency against Multidrug Resistant Bacteria

In the current research study, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) were synthesized via a green synthesis technique using the seed extract of Citrullus lanatus. The study further intended to evaluate the potential synergistic effects of ZnO-NPs with antibiotics against multidrug resistant (MDR) bacteria. It was observed that C. lanatus seed extracts obtained by n-hexane and methanolic solvents revealed the presence of constituents, such as tannins, flavonoids, and terpenoids. Furthermore, the extract of n-hexane displayed the strongest antibacterial activity against Yersinia species (17 ± 1.2 mm) and Escherichia coli (17 ± 2.6 mm), while the methanolic extract showed the maximum antibacterial activity against E. coli (17 ± 0.8 mm). Additionally, the ZnO-NP synthesis was confirmed by ultraviolet-visible analysis with a characteristic absorption peak at 280 nm. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis suggested the absorption peaks in the 500-3800 cm-1 range, which corresponds to various groups of tertiary alcohol, aldehyde, amine, ester, aromatic compounds, thiol, amine salt, and primary amine. The scanning electron microscopy spectra of ZnO-NPs demonstrated the presence of zero-dimensional spherical particles with well-dispersed character. Moreover, encapsulation with ZnO-NPs improved the antimicrobial activity of antibiotics against the panel of MDR bacteria, and the increases in the effectiveness of particular antibiotics against MDR bacteria were significant (P = 0.0005). In essence, the synthesized ZnO-NPs have the potential as drug carriers with powerful bactericidal properties that work against MDR bacterial strains. These outcomes are an indication of such significance in pharmaceutical science, giving possibilities for further research and development in this field.

A short report on the current landscape of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in vascular surgery in Pakistan

This study focuses on the current applications, potential, and challenges to Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration in vascular surgery with specific emphasis on its relevance in Pakistan. Despite the benefits of AI in vascular surgery, there is a substantial gap in its adoption in Pakistan compared to global standards. In our context with limited resources and a scarcity of vascular surgeons, AI can serve as a promising solution. It can enhance healthcare accessibility, improve diagnostic accuracy, and alleviate the workload on vascular surgeons. However, hurdles including the absence of a comprehensive vascular surgery database, a shortage of AI experts, and potential algorithmic biases pose significant challenges to AI implementation. Despite these obstacles, the study underscores the imperative for continued research, collaborative efforts, and investments to unlock the full potential of AI and elevate vascular healthcare standards in Pakistan.

Association between smoking status and inpatient outcomes of acute cholangitis in the United States: a propensity matched analysis

Background

Acute cholangitis (AC) is an infection of the biliary tract superimposed on stasis. This study aimed to investigate the effects of smoking on inpatient outcomes of AC.

Methods

We identified primary AC hospitalizations using the National Inpatient Sample database (2017-2020). Using a 1:1 matching method, we created a matched comparison cohort of AC patients who were non-smokers, based on demographics, hospital characteristics and comorbidities.

Results

We matched 3960 smoker patients with 3960 non-smoker patients within the AC population. Non-smokers were older than smokers (70 vs. 59 years, P<0.001). Smokers had a stronger association with bile duct calculi (74.37% vs. 69.29%, P<0.001) and other bile duct disorders (clots, parasites, extrinsic compression and other rare disorders) (6.82% vs. 5.05%, P=0.011). No significant difference in inpatient mortality, median length of stay (LOS), or median inpatient cost (MIC) was found between the matched cohorts (P>0.05). However, smoking was associated with higher odds of complications, including sepsis without shock (0.88% vs. 0.51%, P=0.042), sepsis with shock (1.26% vs. 0.51%, P<0.001), biliary pancreatitis (6.57% vs. 4.42%, P<0.001) and myocardial infarction (6.19% vs. 3.54%, P<0.001), as well as a greater need for inpatient endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) (72.85% vs. 63.76%, P<0.001) and early ERCP (50.76% vs. 42.32%, P<0.001) compared to non-smokers.

Conclusions

This study found no difference in mortality, LOS, or MIC in acute cholangitis-related hospitalizations associated with smoking. However, smoking was associated with a higher risk of complications and a greater need for ERCP and early ERCP.

Usefulness of electrocardiography QT interval for prediction of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction: a cross-sectional study

Heart failure (HF) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with projections showing a further rise in incidence, impacting a decline in quality of life and the costs incurred in its diagnosis and treatment. The authors aim to establish the correlation between the prediction of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction based on a change in QT wave intervals.

Methods

A cross-sectional at Holy-family Hospital, Rawalpindi Medical University, Pakistan. One thousand five hundred patients were referred for electrocardiography (ECG) for clinical suspicion of HF between May and July 2022. Ejection fraction (EF), lateral mitral annulus velocity (e'), mitral inflow early (E) and late (A) velocities, left ventricular filling pressure (E/e' ratio), and QT interval (QTc) was calculated. Odds ratios with a 95% CI (odds) were obtained by comparing QTc with all variables.

Results

The patients were mostly middle-aged adults with a mean age of 30.27 (±7.64). Male to female ratio was nearly balanced, with 771 (51.4%) males included in the clinical survey. The ECG parameters were; QT interval-494.07 (±63.61), EF-57.11 (±11.96), early to atrial filling velocity ratio-0.71 (±0.20), and lateral mitral annulus velocity-8.29 (±1.64).

Conclusion

The promising results for correlation between QT interval and ECG parameters, particularly EF and lateral mitral annulus velocity, should not be considered as the alternative in diagnosing left ventricular diastolic dysfunction thus far. Prolonged electrocardiographic QTc interval in patients with HF is useful in predicting diastolic dysfunction.

Multi-omics integration to explore the molecular insight into the volatile organic compounds in watermelon

A range of volatile organic compounds played an important role in the formation of watermelon fruit aroma, while due to the low content and difficulty in detection, it is often neglected in watermelon breeding programs, resulting in a decline in fruit flavor. VOCs in the flesh of 194 watermelon accessions and seven cultivars at four developmental stages were determined by SPME-GC-MS. Ten metabolites with significant differences in the natural population and positive accumulation during fruit development are considered to be the key metabolite related to watermelon fruit aroma. And the link between metabolite and, flesh color and sugar content by correlation analysis was established. The results of the genome-wide association study showed that (5E)-6,10-dimethylundeca-5,9-dien-2-one, and 1-(4-methylphenyl) ethanone were colocalized with watermelon flesh color on chromosome 4, which may be regulated by LCYB and CCD. (E)-4-(2,6,6-trimethylcyclohexen-1-yl)but-3-en-2-one is the VOC produced by the cleavage of carotenoids, which has a positive correlation with the sugar content of the fruit, and the candidate gene Cla97C05G092490 on chromosome 5 may interact with PSY to influence the accumulation of this metabolite. In addition, Cla97C02G049790 (enol reductase), Cla97C03G051490 (omega-3 fatty acid desaturase gene), LOX, and ADH may play important roles in the synthesis of fatty acids and their derived VOCs. Taken together, our findings provide molecular insights into the accumulation and natural variation of VOCs in watermelon, and give data support for breeding watermelon cultivars with better flavor.

Comparative physiological and biochemical mechanisms in diploid, triploid, and tetraploid watermelon (Citrullus lanatus L.) grafted by branches

Seed production for polyploid watermelons is costly, complex, and labor-intensive. Tetraploid and triploid plants produce fewer seeds/fruit, and triploid embryos have a harder seed coat and are generally weaker than diploid seeds. In this study, we propagated tetraploid and triploid watermelons by grafting cuttings onto gourd rootstock (C. maxima × C. mochata). We used three different scions: the apical meristem (AM), one-node (1N), and two-node (2N) branches of diploid, triploid, and tetraploid watermelon plants. We then evaluated the effects of grafting on plant survival, some biochemical traits, oxidants, antioxidants, and hormone levels at different time points. We found significant differences between the polyploid watermelons when the 1N was used as a scion. Tetraploid watermelons had the highest survival rates and the highest levels of hormones, carbohydrates, and antioxidant activity compared to diploid watermelons, which may explain the high compatibility of tetraploid watermelons and the deterioration of the graft zone in diploid watermelons. Our results show that hormone production and enzyme activity with high carbohydrate content, particularly in the 2-3 days after transplantation, contribute to a high survival rate. Sugar application resulted in increased carbohydrate accumulation in the grafted combination. This study also presents an alternative and cost-effective approach to producing more tetraploid and triploid watermelon plants for breeding and seed production by using branches as sprouts.

Thermo-neutrophilic cellulases and chitinases characterized from a novel putative antifungal biocontrol agent: Bacillus subtilis TD11

Cellulose and chitin are the most abundant naturally occurring biopolymers synthesized in plants and animals and are used for synthesis of different organic compounds and acids in the industry. Therefore, cellulases and chitinases are important for their multiple uses in industry and biotechnology. Moreover, chitinases have a role in the biological control of phytopathogens. A bacterial strain Bacillus subtilis TD11 was previously isolated and characterized as a putative biocontrol agent owing to its significant antifungal potential. In this study, cellulase and chitinase produced by the strain B. subtilis TD11 were purified and characterized. The activity of the cellulases and chitinases were optimized at different pH (2 to 10) and temperatures (20 to 90°C). The substrate specificity of cellulases was evaluated using different substances including carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), and crystalline substrates. The cellulase produced by B. subtilis TD11 had a molecular mass of 45 kDa while that of chitinase was 55 kDa. The optimal activities of the enzymes were found at neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0). The optimum temperature for the purified cellulases was in the range of 50 to 70°C while, purified chitinases were optimally active at 50°C. The highest substrate specificity of the purified cellulase was found for CMC (100%) followed by HEC (>50% activity) while no hydrolysis was observed against the crystalline substrates. Moreover, it was observed that the purified chitinase was inhibitory against the fungi containing chitin in their hyphal walls i.e., Rhizoctonia, Colletotrichum, Aspergillus and Fusarium having a dose-effect relationship.

Risk factors for Hyponatremia in COVID-19 hospitalised patients

Objectives

To determine the risk factors for Hyponatremia in Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients.

Methods

Medical records of all patients admitted in COVID-19 Isolation Intensive Care Unit of Farooq Hospital Westwood Branch, Lahore from 1st July to 30th September, 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 by Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) and having Hyponatremia (serum Sodium (s/Na+ <135mEq/L) were included, patients with Eunatremia (s/Na+ within 135 - 145mEq/L) were taken as control while subjects with Hypernatremia (s/Na+ >145mEq/L) at admission, incomplete medical records and pregnant females were excluded from the study. Demographic, clinical and laboratory data at time of admission in hospital was extracted.

Results

Of 182 included patients, 79.1% (n=144) were male 40.7% (n=74) had Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and 44.5% (n=81) were hypertensive. Forty seven percent (n=86) patients had Hyponatremia while 52.7% (n=96) were eunatremic. Forty nine percent (n=90) patients had Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) and 4.9% (n=9) patients died. Risk factors for Hyponatremia were age >60 years (OR=2.52, p=0.006); DM (OR=2.79, p=0.001); Hypoxemia (OR=3.74, p<0.001); Lymphopenia (OR=7.62, p<0.009); Hypoalbuminemia (OR=9.15, p<0.001); high serum Ferritin (OR=4.46, p<0.001), high Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) (OR=3.58, p<0.001) and AKI (OR=3.40, p<0.001).

Conclusions

Hyponatremia was common in COVID-19 hospitalized patients. Increasing age, DM, Hypoxemia, Hypoalbuminemia, high serum Ferritin and AKI were the most significant risk factors for Hyponatremia. Hyponatremic patients had comparatively higher mortality than Eunatremic patients.

Genome-wide association study provides genetic insights into natural variation in watermelon rind thickness and single fruit weight

Rind thickness and fruit weight are agronomic traits closely related to quality and yield, which have attracted much attention from consumers and breeders. However, the genetic mechanism of these two traits is still not well understood in natural populations. In this study, rind thickness and single fruit weight in 151 watermelon accessions were determined in 2019 and 2020, and genome-wide association analysis was performed by integrating phenotypic and genotype data. Abundant phenotypic variation was found in the test population, and the watermelon with thinner rind thickness tended to have smaller fruit weights. Five significant SNPs were closely associated with rind thickness on chromosome 2 by Genome-wide association study (GWAS), i.e., 32344170, 32321308, 32304738, 32328501, and 32311192. And there were 21 genes were annotated in the candidate interval, most notably, Cla97C02G044160 belonged to the MADS family, and part of the genes in this family played an important role in regulating organ size, further analysis of gene structure, gene expression level, and phylogenetic tree showed that Cla97C02G044160 was a candidate gene for regulating target traits. In conclusion, our study provides molecular insights into the natural variation of watermelon rind thickness and single fruit weight, meanwhile, providing data support for molecular marker-assisted breeding.

Polyethylenimine Increases Antibacterial Efficiency of Chlorophyllin

Polyethylenimines (PEIs), a group of polycationic molecules, are known to impair the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria and exhibit antimicrobial activity. The outer membrane of Gram-negative strains hinders the uptake of photosensitizer chlorophyllin. In this study, we report chlorophyllin and branched PEI combinations’ activity against Escherichia coli strains DH5α and RB791, Salmonella enterica sv. Typhimurium LT2, and Bacillus subtilis 168. The minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) was determined by plating cells treated with different concentrations of PEI and chlorophyllin on agar and monitoring their growth after 24 h. All tested combinations of PEI and chlorophyllin were lethal for S. enterica after 240 min of incubation in light, whereas PEI alone (<100 µg mL−1) was ineffective. In the darkness, complete inhibition was noted with a combination of ≥2.5 µg mL−1 chlorophyllin and 50 µg mL−1 PEI. If applied alone, PEI alone of ≥800 µg mL−1 of PEI was required to completely inactivate E. coli DH5α cells in light, whereas with ≥5 µg mL−1 chlorophyllin, only ≥100 µg mL−1 PEI was needed. No effect was detected in darkness with PEI alone. However, 1600 µg mL−1 PEI in combination with 2.5 µg mL−1 resulted in complete inactivation after 4 h dark incubation. PEI alone did not inhibit E. coli strain RB791, while cells were inactivated when treated with 10 µg mL−1 chlorophyllin in combination with ≥100 µg mL−1 (in light) or ≥800 µg mL−1 PEI (in darkness). Under illumination, B. subtilis was inactivated at all tested concentrations. In the darkness, 1 µg mL−1 chlorophyllin and 12.5 µg mL−1 PEI were lethal for B. subtilis. Overall, PEI can be used as an antimicrobial agent or potentiating agent for ameliorating the antimicrobial activity of chlorophyllin.

Toxicities and Cross-Resistance of Imidacloprid, Acetamiprid, Emamectin Benzoate, Spirotetramat, and Indoxacarb in Field Populations of Culex quinquefasciatus (Diptera: Culicidae)

Culex quinquefasciatus is a major vector of several pathogens and is capable of breeding in various aquatic habitats. The extensive and injudicious use of synthetic chemicals against the mosquito species has led to the problem of insecticide resistance. To explore this resistance in detail, toxicity bioassays of imidacloprid, acetamiprid, emamectin benzoate, spirotetramat, and indoxacarb were performed on five Cx. quinquefasciatus field populations from Pakistan in addition to a laboratory susceptible strain. Compared with the susceptible strain, results for the five Cx. quinquefasciatus field populations were as follows: susceptibility to high resistance against imidacloprid (resistance ratio (RR): 0.09-11.18), susceptibility to moderate resistance against acetamiprid (RR: 0.39-8.00), susceptibility to emamectin benzoate (RR: 0.002-0.020), susceptibility to spirotetramat (RR: 0.01-0.07), and low to high resistance against indoxacarb (RR: 3.00-118.00). Correlation analyses revealed a significant positive correlation between imidacloprid, acetamiprid, and spirotetramat median lethal concentration (LC₅₀) values, indicating the possibility of cross-resistance. In contrast, there were no significant correlations between the LC₅₀ values of other tested insecticides, indicating the possible absence of cross-resistance. These results can assist public health authorities, medical entomologists, and pest managers to manage the insecticide resistance of Cx. quinquefasciatus as well as the associated pollution and human health issues.

Transcriptome Profiling to Dissect the Role of Genome Duplication on Graft Compatibility Mechanisms in Watermelon

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is a popular crop worldwide. Compared to diploid seeded watermelon, triploid seedless watermelon cultivars are in great demand. Grafting in triploid and tetraploid watermelon produces few seedlings. To learn more about how genome duplication affects graft compatibility, we compared the transcriptomes of tetraploid and diploid watermelons grafted on squash rootstock using a splicing technique. WGCNA was used to compare the expression of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between diploid and tetraploid watermelon grafted seedlings at 0, 3, and 15 days after grafting (DAG). Only four gene networks/modules correlated significantly with phenotypic characteristics. We found 11 genes implicated in hormone, AOX, and starch metabolism in these modules based on intramodular significance and RT-qPCR. Among these genes, two were linked with IAA (r² = 0.81), one with ZR (r² = 0.85) and one with POD (r² = 0.74). In the MElightsteelblue1 module, Cla97C11G224830 gene was linked with CAT (r² = 0.81). Two genes from the MEivory module, Cla97C07G139710 and Cla97C04G077300, were highly linked with SOD (r² = 0.72). Cla97C01G023850 and Cla97C01G006680 from the MEdarkolivegreen module were associated with sugars and starch (r² = 0.87). Tetraploid grafted seedlings had higher survival rates and hormone, AOX, sugar, and starch levels than diploids. We believe that compatibility is a complicated issue that requires further molecular research. We found that genome duplication dramatically altered gene expression in the grafted plants' IAA and ZR signal transduction pathways and AOX biosynthesis pathways, regulating hormone levels and improving plant survival.

Frequency and Risk Factors for Acute Kidney Injury in patients with COVID-19

Objective

To determine the frequency of Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) and its underlying risk factors in patients with Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19).

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted by reviewing the medical records of patients admitted in Covid-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Farooq Hospital, West Wood Branch, Lahore during the period from 1st April, 2020 to 30th June, 2020. COVID-19 was diagnosed on basis of Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) through nasal swab. Demographic, clinical and laboratory data were collected at the time of admission in the hospital. AKI was diagnosed on basis of ≥ 0.3 mg/dl increase in serum Creatinine (sCr) from baseline during the hospital stay. The outcome of study was AKI.

Results

One hundred and seventy-six patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were recruited of which most were males (78.4%). The mean age was 51.26 ± 15.20 years and the frequency of AKI was 51.1%. The risk factors for AKI were increasing age (OR=2.10, p=0.017); presence of COVID-19 symptoms (OR=6.62, p=0.004); prolonged hospital stay (OR=2.26, p=0.011); Diabetes Mellitus (OR=1.81, p=0.057); hypoxemia (OR=5.98, p=0.000); leukocytosis (OR=2.91, p=0.002); lymphopenia (OR=5.77, p=0.000); hypoalbuminemia (OR=4.94, p=0.000); elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) (OR=6.20, p=0.000) and raised D-diamers (OR=3.16, p=0.000).

Conclusions

AKI was present in half of the COVID-19 patients. The most significant risk factors for AKI were increasing age, prolonged hospital stay, hypoxemia, hypoalbuminemia, DM and raised inflammatory markers.

Genome-wide association analysis provides molecular insights into the natural variation of watermelon seed size

Seed-consumption watermelon tend to have larger-sized seeds, while flesh-consumed watermelon often require relatively smaller seed. Therefore, the seed size of watermelon has received extensive attention from consumers and breeders. However, the study on the natural variation and genetic mechanism of watermelon seed size is not clear enough. In the present study, 100 seed weight, seed hilum length, seed length, seed width, and seed thickness in 197 watermelon accessions were examined. Furthermore, association analysis was conducted between seed size traits and high-quality SNP data. The results revealed that there was a strong correlation between the five seed traits. And seed enlargement was an important feature during watermelon seed size domestication. Meanwhile, the seed consumption biological species C. mucosospermu and C. lanatus edible seed watermelon had a significantly bigger seed size than other species's. Eleven non-repeating significant SNPs above the threshold line were obtained by GWAS analysis. Four of them on chromosome 5 were considered to be closely associated with seed size traits, i.e. S5: 32250307, S5: 32250454, S5: 32256177, S5: 32260870, which could be used as potential molecular markers for the breeding of watermelon cultivars with target seed size. In addition, combined with gene annotation information and previous reports, five genes near the four significant SNPs may regulate seed size. And qRT-PCR analysis showed that two genes Cla97C05G104360 and Cla97C05G104380, which may be involved in abscisic acid metabolism, may play an important role in regulating the seed size of watermelon. Our findings provide molecular insights into natural variation in watermelon seed size, and gives valuable information of molecular marker-assisted breeding.

Bio-purification of domestic wastewater through constructed wetland planted with Paspalidium flavidum

The current study was aimed to designed laboratory scale constructed wetland (CW) for the treatment of domestic wastewater under temperature range (18-38°C) and hydraulic retention times (24 and 48 h). Besides, the soil of vegetative unit of CW was assessed using conventional culturing techniques, and 13 different bacterial species (Escherichia coli, Micrococcus, Pseudomonas, Proteus, Klebsiella, Streptococcus, Alcaligenes, Salmonella, Bacillus, Enterobacter, Staphylococcus, Shigella and Corynebacterium spp.) were determined. The pathogenic microbial load was high in influent samples, but after treatment, about 73.1-99.7% and 43.5-86.7% reduction in CFU/ml and MPN/100 ml index, respectively, were observed. Moreover, the organic loads in terms of COD, TDS, TSS, and turbidity were high in all influent samples, but after treatment, average percentage removal in different physico-chemical parameters was observed during overall treatment operations, that is, COD (59.7-65.6%), TDS (59.6-76.8%), TSS (64.9-76.7%), and turbidity (72.7-91.6%), while pH of the effluent samples was observed in the prescribed limits. It was concluded that laboratory scale CW using natural flora Paspalidium flavidum and bacterial species was efficient in the reduction of different pollution indicators and hence a best option to be modified on pilot-scale for wastewater treatment in the rural regions of Peshawar. PRACTITIONER POINTS: Role of retention times on performance of CW were studied. The commonly existing vegetation was utilized to treat domestic waste water. Both vegetations and HRT are key ingredients in obtaining high treatment efficiency.

Biological control of fungal pathogens of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) by chitinolytic bacterial strains

The need to increase food production and to reduce the pollution caused by synthetic chemicals has led to a search for biocontrol agents against plant pathogens. In the present study, a total of 37 chitinolytic bacteria were isolated from the rhizospheric soil of tomatoes using a chitin agar medium. In vitro bacterial isolates, that is, TD9, TD11, TD15, and TD24 showed strong antagonistic and enzymatic activities against Rhizoctonia (8%-55%), Fusarium (31%-48%), Colletotrichum (24%-49%), and Aspergillus on a dual culture plate and enzyme assay. Furthermore, these putative antagonistic bacterial isolates were identified as Pantoea agglomerans (TD9), Bacillus subtilis (TD11), Bacillus cereus (TD15 and TD24) using 16S rRNA sequence analysis. Additionally, in culture filtrate in vivo assay, the isolates TD11 and TD15 inhibited the growth of Rhizoctonia solani about 40% and Fusarium oxysporum about 80%. However, in the pot trials, these two bacterial isolates (TD11 and TD15) considerably suppressed the disease rate in tomatoes caused by Fusarium and Rhizoctonia fungal species. Moreover, it was concluded that B. subtilis (TD11) was found to be the most promising putative biocontrol agent, inhibiting the fungal diseases of tomatoes by 50% and showing versatile antagonistic potential.

Comparison between different methods of calculating Kt/V as the marker of adequacy of dialysis

Objectives:

To compare different methods of calculating adequacy of hemodialysis in terms of Kt/V.

Methods:

This was an observational, quantitative study undertaken after the approval of Internal Review Board at the Hemodialysis Unit of Nephrology department, Mayo Hospital, Lahore from 1st December 2018 to 30th June 2019. Sixty hemodynamically stable patients of end stage renal disease undergoing hemodialysis for more than three months with age 18 to 70 years were included in the study by convenience non probability sampling. Critically ill patients with multiple co-morbidities like sepsis (i.e. total leukocyte count >11000 or <4000 x 109/L), ischemic heart disease, pace- makers, malignancies, cirrhosis etc. were excluded. Patients who were not adherent to dialysis prescription or hemodynamically unstable were also excluded. One way ANOVA and Pearson’s correlation were used to find correlation between three methods of measuring Kt/V.

Results:

Mean ultrafiltration was 2.1+ 0.76 liter/session. Pre dialysis weight was 64.7 +14.7 kgs, mean post dialysis weight was 62.5 + 14.7 kgs. For every patient blood flow rate was 300 ml/m and dialysis flow rate was 500 ml/min. The mean values of Kt/V measured by Daugirdas formula was 1.35 ± 0.33, mean online clearance monitoring (OCM) value was 1.17 ± 0.29 and by normogram was 1.36 ± 0.33. There was positive significant correlation between values of Daugirdas formula, Normogram and online clearance monitoring (OCM) i.e. r = 0.897 (p-value < 0.001) measured by Pearson’s correlation and one way-ANOVA.

Conclusion:

Online clearance monitoring can be used for measuring adequacy of hemodialysis, but OCM slightly underestimates Kt/V as compared to Daugirdas formula and Normogram.

Factors Associated with Seroconversion of Hepatitis C Virus in End Stage Renal Disease Patients

OBJECTIVE

To determine patient and dialysis services-related factors associated with seroconversion of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in hemodialysis (HD) patients.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY

Department of Nephrology, Mayo Hospital, King Edward Medical University (KEMU), Lahore, from January to December, 2018.

METHODOLOGY

All patients on regular HD for more than three months were enrolled. All patients who seroconverted from HCV-negative to positive status three months after starting HD, were included. Patient-related factors (age, gender, blood transfusion, duration and frequency of dialysis, history of dental treatment and surgical intervention) and dialysis services-related parameters (dedicated staff, isolated room, hemodialysis machine, reverse osmosis plant, compliance of universal infection control measure) were noted.

RESULTS

Out of 990 patients, 492 (49.7%) were reported as seroconverted for HCV during HD. Factors determined statistically significant for seroconversion were surgical intervention (p<0.001), history of dental procedure (p <0.001), blood transfusions (p <0.001), multiple sexual partner (p <0.001), age (p=0.035) and duration of hemodialysis (p <0.001). Factors not affecting seroconversion included frequency of dialysis (p=0.062), history of renal transplant (p =0.097) and family history of hepatitis (p=0.941). A significant negative correlation was observed between the rate of seroconversion of HCV and the score of universal infection control measures (r=-0.665, p=0.018).

CONCLUSION

There was a high rate of seroconversion of HCV in HD patients. Factors responsible for seroconversion were history of surgical intervention, dental treatment, blood transfusion, multiple sexual partners, age and duration of dialysis. The dialysis centres non-compliant with universal infection control measures were having high rate of seroconversion. Key Words: Hemodialysis, Seroconversion, HCV, Blood transfusion, Dental treatment, Surgical intervention, Infection, Isolation.

Coexistence of Anti Neutrophilic Cytoplasmic Antibody (ANCA) Negative Renal Limited Vasculitis and Atypical- Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (aHUS)

Small vessel necrotizing vasculitis is divided into two groups; Immune complex mediated and Pauci immune vasculitis. Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is a rare disease manifested as microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia and renal involvement. The coexistence of ANCA negative vasculitis and atypical HUS (aHUS) is rare. We describe a case of a 40 years old lady with rapidly declining kidney function. Renal Biopsy revealed Crescentic necrotizing glomerulonephritis (CGN). She was treated with plasmapheresis alternating with hemodialysis (HD) and immunosuppressive therapy. One month later she developed hemolytic anemia with peripheral schistocytes and thrombocytopenia and diagnosed as aHUS. Same treatment continued and her aHUS resolved spontaneously over one week. However her kidney functions didn't improve and ended up with end stage renal disease (ESRD). DOI: 10.52547/ijkd.6443.

Prevalence and antifungal drug resistance of dermatophytes in the clinical samples from Pakistan

Dermatophytosis is a major health problem all over the world including Pakistan. This is the first report of detection of dermatophytes and their antifungal drug resistance in the Northern and Western parts of Pakistan. A total of 154 samples were collected from different hospitals of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and out of them 136 samples were found positive. Tinea corporis (35%) was the most predominant type of infection followed by Tinea capitis (22%). The fungi identified in Tinea corporis infection types were identified as Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Epidermophyton floccosum. The fungi identified in Tinea capitis included Trichophyton violaceum, T. mentagrophytes, Microsporum ferrugineum. The gender wise distribution showed both males (52%) and females (48%) were infected with the fungi. More cases belonged to the rural parts of the country. Age wise distribution showed that the infection was more prevalent in the children and the prevalence decreased with the increase in age. The positive samples were checked against two antifungal agents: fluconazole and nystatin. Among 136 positive samples, none of the isolates showed resistance to nystatin while 7% of the samples showed resistance to fluconazole. The resistant isolates were then identified by amplifying the 18S rRNA gene, using universal primers (ITS1, ITS4). Among the 9 resistant isolates, 5 isolates were identified as Trichophyton spp., 3 as Microsporum spp. and 1 as Epidermophyton spp.

An integrated transcriptome and metabolome approach reveals the accumulation of taste-related metabolites and gene regulatory networks during watermelon fruit development

Accumulation patterns and gene regulatory networks of sugars and cucurbitacins and related primary and secondary metabolites during cultivated watermelon 'Cheng Lan' and wild watermelon 'PI 632,751' fruit development were identified. Metabolites are the end products of cellular regulatory processes and play important roles in fruit taste formation. However, comprehensive studies on the accumulation patterns of watermelon fruit metabolites and transcriptional regulatory networks are still scarce. In this study, 451 annotated metabolites were identified at four key fruit developmental stages in wild watermelon 'PI 632,751' and modern cultivated watermelon 'Cheng Lan'. Interestingly, 11 sugars and 25 major primary metabolites were mainly accumulated in 'Cheng Lan' during fruit development, which are considered to be the potential metabolites beneficial to the formation of watermelon taste. Cucurbitacins and the main flavonoids were mainly specifically accumulated in 'PI 632,751', not being considered to be responsible for the taste. Moreover, forty-seven genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism, glycolysis, and TCA cycle were highly expressed in 'Cheng Lan', which was positively correlated with the accumulation of major primary metabolites. Alternatively, seven UDP-glycosyltransferase genes are closely related to the glycosylation of cucurbitacins through co-expression analysis. Our findings established a global map of metabolite accumulation and gene regulation during fruit development in wild and cultivated watermelons and provided valuable information on taste formation in watermelon fruit.

Identification of Key Gene Networks Associated With Cell Wall Components Leading to Flesh Firmness in Watermelon

Flesh firmness of watermelon is an important quality trait for commercial fruit values, including fruit storability, transportability, and shelf life. To date, knowledge of the gene networks underlying this trait is still limited. Herein, we used weighted genes co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) based on correlation and the association of phenotypic data (cell wall contents) with significantly differentially expressed genes between two materials, a near isogeneic line "HWF" (with high average flesh firmness) and inbred line "203Z" (with low average flesh firmness), to identify the gene networks responsible for changes in fruit flesh firmness. We identified three gene modules harboring 354 genes; these gene modules demonstrated significant correlation with water-soluble pectin, cellulose, hemicellulose, and protopectin. Based on intramodular significance, eight genes involved in cell wall biosynthesis and ethylene pathway are identified as hub genes within these modules. Among these genes, two genes, Cla012351 (Cellulose synthase) and Cla004251 (Pectinesterase), were significantly correlated with cellulose (r 2 = 0.83) and protopectin (r 2 = 0.81); three genes, Cla004120 (ERF1), Cla009966 (Cellulose synthase), and Cla006648 (Galactosyltransferase), had a significant correlation with water-soluble pectin (r 2 = 0.91), cellulose (r 2 = 0.9), and protopectin (r 2 = 0.92); and three genes, Cla007092 (ERF2a), Cla004119 (probable glycosyltransferase), and Cla018816 (Xyloglucan endotransglucosylase/hydrolase), were correlated with hemicellulose (r 2 = 0.85), cellulose (r 2 = 0.8), and protopectin (r 2 = 0.8). This study generated important insights of biosynthesis of a cell wall structure and ethylene signaling transduction pathway, the mechanism controlling the flesh firmness changes in watermelon, which provide a significant source to accelerate future functional analysis in watermelon to facilitate crop improvement.

Rhabdomyolysis Leading to Acute Kidney Injury

Rhabdomyolysis constitutes an uncommon cause of acute kidney injury (AKI). A large variety of causes with different pathogenic mechanisms may involve skeletal muscles resulting in rhabdomyolysis with or without acute kidney injury. Crush syndrome and unaccustomed physical exertion are the most common causes of rhabdomyolysis. This study reports local cases of AKI secondary to rhabdomyolysis that presented to a tertiary care centre over a period of four years. Most of them were males and belonged to younger age group. Muscle enzyme creatine phosphokinase level was raised in all patients, while myoglobinuria was detected only in one patient. Most of the patients (10/16) were managed conservatively with fluid replacement; and some of them (6/16) needed dialysis. AKI was resolved in all the patients after a variable period of time. Key Words: Rhabdomyolysis, Acute kidney injury, Myoglobinuria, Creatine phosphokinase, Trauma.

Prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time secondary to factor XII deficiency in two surgical patients

Factor XII (FXII) plays a pivotal role in hemostasis, inflammation and complement system. Its deficiency is usually an incidental finding in an otherwise asymptomatic patient who is identified during his/her routine preoperative blood work. This study aimed in evaluating the clinical course of the surgical patients having FXII deficiency. Information regarding demographics, laboratory tests and management of patients was obtained through medical chart and in-house integrated laboratory management system whereas the medical literature was searched through PubMed®. During the study period, two patients were consulted for FXII deficiency prior to the various surgical procedures. Both patients had uneventful surgeries without any thrombotic events while hemorrhage observed in one patient was secondary to obstetric complications. With the limited evidence today, it is concluded that patients having FXII deficiency are not at increased risk of bleeding, thrombosis or infections during surgery, but a personalized approach is needed for planning an appropriate perioperative management.

Pulmonary Functions in Patients with End Stage Renal Disease and their Effect after Hemodialysis

OBJECTIVE

To determine the pulmonary functions in patients with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) and the associated factors including the acute effects of hemodialysis.

STUDY DESIGN

Observational, cross-sectional study.   Place and Duration of Study: Nephrology Department in collaboration with Pulmonology Department, Shalamar Hospital, Lahore,  from October to November 2019.

METHODOLOGY

 All patients of age 18-75 years, on regular hemodialysis (HD) for more than three months, who quitted smoking 10 years back and stable, were included in the study. Demographic data was collected and blood samples were sent for hematological and biochemical laboratory parameters. Pulmonary functions were assessed by spirometry for Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) and Forced Expiratory Volume in first second (FEV1) and FVC/FEV1 before and after dialysis.

RESULTS

 Out of 102 patients, 62 (60.8%) were males and 79 (77.5%) were on twice-weekly dialysis. DM 44 (43.1%) and chronic glomerulonephritis 21 (19.5%) were the major causes of ESRD in these patients. In this study, FVC and FEV1 were abnormal in majority of the patients 73 (71.6%) and 76 (74.5%), which was statistically significant (p<0.05) supporting restrictive lung disease (RLD). Factors associated with RLD were male gender (p=0.006) and diabetes mellitus (p=0.003). Hemodialysis did not improve pulmonary functions significantly. FEV1 and FVC had a negative correlation with age and body mass index (BMI).

CONCLUSION

Restrictive lung disease is the most common pulmonary dysfunction among ESRD patients.  Factors associated with pulmonary dysfunctions were male gender and diabetes mellitus. Hemodialysis did not improve pulmonary functions. Key Words: ESRD, Pulmonary functions, Restrictive lung disease, Fluid overload.

Metabolome and Transcriptome Integration Reveals Insights Into Flavor Formation of 'Crimson' Watermelon Flesh During Fruit Development

Metabolites have been reported as the main factor that influences the fruit flavor of watermelon. But the comprehensive study on the dynamics of metabolites during the development of watermelon fruit is not up-to-date. In this study, metabolome and transcriptome datasets of 'Crimson' watermelon fruit at four key developmental stages were generated. A total of 517 metabolites were detected by ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry and gas chromatography-solid-phase microextraction-mass spectrometry. Meanwhile, by K-means clustering analysis, the total differentially expressed genes were clustered in six classes. Integrating transcriptome and metabolome data revealed similar expression trends of sugars and genes involved in the glycolytic pathway, providing molecular insights into the formation of taste during fruit development. Furthermore, through coexpression analysis, we identified five differentially expressed ADH (alcohol dehydrogenase) genes (Cla97C01G013600, Cla97C05G089700, Cla97C01G001290, Cla97C05G095170, and Cla97C06G118330), which were found to be closely related to C9 alcohols/aldehydes, providing information for the formation of fruit aroma. Our findings establish a metabolic profile during watermelon fruit development and provide insights into flavor formation.

Identification of key gene networks controlling organic acid and sugar metabolism during watermelon fruit development by integrating metabolic phenotypes and gene expression profiles

The organoleptic qualities of watermelon fruit are defined by the sugar and organic acid contents, which undergo considerable variations during development and maturation. The molecular mechanisms underlying these variations remain unclear. In this study, we used transcriptome profiles to investigate the coexpression patterns of gene networks associated with sugar and organic acid metabolism. We identified 3 gene networks/modules containing 2443 genes highly correlated with sugars and organic acids. Within these modules, based on intramodular significance and Reverse Transcription Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), we identified 7 genes involved in the metabolism of sugars and organic acids. Among these genes, Cla97C01G000640, Cla97C05G087120 and Cla97C01G018840 (r² = 0.83 with glucose content) were identified as sugar transporters (SWEET, EDR6 and STP) and Cla97C03G064990 (r² = 0.92 with sucrose content) was identified as a sucrose synthase from information available for other crops. Similarly, Cla97C07G128420, Cla97C03G068240 and Cla97C01G008870, having strong correlations with malic (r² = 0.75) and citric acid (r² = 0.85), were annotated as malate and citrate transporters (ALMT7, CS, and ICDH). The expression profiles of these 7 genes in diverse watermelon genotypes revealed consistent patterns of expression variation in various types of watermelon. These findings add significantly to our existing knowledge of sugar and organic acid metabolism in watermelon.

Pulmonary Functions and Factors Affecting Them in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease

OBJECTIVE

To determine the pulmonary functions in patients with chronic kidney diseases (CKD) and factors affecting them.

STUDY DESIGN

 Observational study.

PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY

Nephrology Department, Mayo Hospital, Lahore, from October 2018 to April 2019.

METHODOLOGY

All patients of CKD, coming in Nephrology OPD, were included. Patients on maintenance hemodialysis (HD), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), smokers, chronic heart disease, and neuromuscular diseases were excluded from the study. Demographic data, physical examination findings and laboratory parameters were taken. Patients underwent spirometry at Pulmonology Department for measurement of forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC) and FEV1/FVC.

RESULTS

One hundred and forty patients were included in the study. Mean GFR was 27.75 ± 17.49 ml/min/1.73m2 and 7(5%) patients belonged to stage 2 CKD, 48 (34.3%) belonged to stage 3 CKD, 45 (32.1%) belonged to stage 4 CKD and rest 40 (28.6%) were from stage 5 CKD. Pulmonary functions were FEV1 (90.81±25.84), FVC (88.91±28.54), and FEV1/FVC (108.57±13.0). According to laid down criteria, 62 (44.3%) cases had restrictive lung disease (RLD), 5 (3.6%) cases had mixed and 78 (55.7%) cases normal lung function status. Important factors affecting pulmonary functions were GFR (p=0.038), monthly income (p=0.017) and education (p=0.041). Drop in GFR and anemia have negative correlation and age has positive correlation with pulmonary dysfunctions.

CONCLUSION

Pulmonary functions were abnormal in almost half of the patients and restrictive lung disease was the most common pattern in these patients. Factors affecting the pulmonary functions were progression of CKD, falling hemoglobin level, monthly income and education. Drop in GFR and anemia had negative correlation and age had positive correlation with pulmonary functions. Key Words: CKD, Pulmonary functions, Restrictive lung disease, GFR, Anemia.

Synthesis, structural, spectral and biological evaluation of metals endowed 1,2,4-triazole

Biologically active triazole Schiff base ligand 2,4-dichloro-6-[(1H-1,2,4-triazol-3-ylimino)methyl]phenol (A) has been synthesized by the condensation reaction of an equimolar amount of 1H-1,2,4-triazole-3-amine and 3,5-dichlorosalicylaldehyde and then it coordinated with salts of metals [VO(IV), Fe(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II)] in 2:1 molar ratio to derive a series of transition metal chelates (1)-(6). All the compounds were characterized by various physical, spectral, analytical techniques and elemental analysis. Spectral characterization and magnetic moment data of complexes revealed square pyramidal geometry for vanadium complex and octahedral for remaining (2)-(6) complexes. Quantum chemical calculation has been carried out to explore optimized geometry and electronic structure of the ligand. Density functional theory (DFT) with B3LYP/6-311+g(d,p) method was performed to determine vibrational bands, frontier molecular orbitals (FMOs) and natural bond analysis (NBO) of the ligand. NBO analysis showed that the ligand bears higher molecular stability because of hyper conjugate interactions. Computational study results revealed that there was a close interaction of theoretical and experimental spectroscopic data. Global reactivity descriptors calculated by the energies of FMOs, indicated ligand to be bioactive. The synthesized compounds were studied for antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant and antiglycation activity and the results revealed that ligand has remarkable activity which considerably increased upon chelation.                     KEY WORDS: Triazole ligand, Transition metal chelates, Antibacterial, Antifungal, Antioxidant, Computational study   Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2020, 34(2), 335-351 DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v34i2.11

Reduced Perfusion On Nitrate Enhanced Study Compared To Resting With 99mtc-Sestamibi Imaging For Myocardial Viability

Patients with ischemic heart disease and left ventricular dysfunction need evaluation for myocardial viability. Two cases of myocardial perfusion imaging for viability study are discussed. Viability imaging is performed with 99mTc-Sestamibi (99mTc-MIBI), acquiring images with and without nitrate enhancement. Improvement in perfusion in nitrate enhanced images is suggestive of myocardial viability. In these cases, there was paradox effect showing reduced uptake on nitrate enhanced images than on resting images. Technical factors of equal radiotracer dose in both studies, pre-imaging time and processing were considered. Since no such contributing factor was delineated, it is postulated that phenomena can occur due to differential effects of oral glyceryl triglyceryl trinitrate (GTN) on normal and diseased vessels.

Role of halotolerant and chitinolytic bacteria in phytoremediation of saline soil using spinach plant

Novel technologies are required for rapid reclamation of saline soils. The halotrophic and chitinolytic bacterial strains were used for phytoremediation of saline soils using spinach plants (Spinacia oleracea L.). The previously isolated chitinolytic bacteria showed high antifungal potential against Fusarium oxysporum, and Alternaria spp. The halotolerant bacterial strains were previously isolated showing a salt tolerance of up to 20% in culture media. Specially designed microcosms were used here to investigate the reclamation of saline soil by bacteria. The soil salinity was reduced by both types of bacteria (from 6.5 to 2 dS/m). A decline in Na contents from 22-24 to 9-12 meq/L and in sodium adsorption ratio from 10-11 to 7-8 was also observed in saline soils. The Ca/Mg contents increased from 24 to 30-33 meq/L. The bioassays were performed to evaluate the effect of the bacteria on the phytoremediation. The shoot, root weights (both fresh (1.927 g, 0.244 g) and dry (0.387 g, 0.104 g)) increased by bacterial inoculation as compared to control in saline soils. The Na/K ratio decreased in plant tissues. Here we report the increased efficacy of phytoremediation by combined inoculation of chitinolytic and halotolerant bacterial strains in soil which has never been reported before.

In situ Impact of the Antagonistic Fungal Strain, Trichoderma gamsii T30 on the Plant Pathogenic Fungus, Rhizoctonia solani in Soil

Rhizoctonia solani is a soil-borne fungus causing a wide range of plants diseases. Trichoderma gamsii strain T30 has previously been reported as antagonistic against R. solani. Although there are a few studies about the influence of Trichoderma strains on the R. solani density in a pathosystem in the presence of plant hosts, this report for the first time comprehensively describes in situ effects of a T. gamsii strain on the population density of R. solani in the soil microcosmic conditions. The population dynamics of R. solani were followed in the autoclaved and non-autoclaved soils in artificially prepared microcosms up to day 25 after co-inoculation with T. gamsii in the variable ratios (R1/T1; R1/T0.1; R1/T0.01 of R. solani/T. gamsii). The population density of R. solani was evaluated by qPCR. In the autoclaved soil, target DNA copies of R. solani increased in the control samples from 1 × 10⁵ to 6.5 × 10⁶. At R1/T0.01, the number of target DNA copies were not significantly changed until day 11; however, it decreased by around five times at day 25. At R1/T0.1 and R1/T1, the number of DNA copies was reduced to 2.1 × 10⁶ and 7.6 × 10⁵ at day 11, respectively and the reduction was as much as 17 times at day 25. In the non-autoclaved soil, the number of the fungal cells decreased at day 25 whether inoculated or not with Trichoderma indicating a general suppression by the soil microbiome. In brief, T. gamsii significantly inhibited the growth of R. solani in the soil in situ and there was a general suppressive effect of the natural microbiome.

Changes in the Soil Microbiome in Eggplant Monoculture Revealed by High-Throughput Illumina MiSeq Sequencing as Influenced by Raw Garlic Stalk Amendment

The incorporation of plant residues into soil can be considered a keystone sustainability factor in improving soil structure function. However, the effects of plant residue addition on the soil microbial communities involved in biochemical cycles and abiotic stress phenomena are poorly understood. In this study, experiments were conducted to evaluate the role of raw garlic stalk (RGS) amendment in avoiding monoculture-related production constraints by studying the changes in soil chemical properties and microbial community structures. RGS was applied in four different doses, namely the control (RGS0), 1% (RGS1), 3% (RGS2), and 5% (RGS3) per 100 g of soil. The RGS amendment significantly increased soil electrical conductivity (EC), N, P, K, and enzyme activity. The soil pH significantly decreased with RGS application. High-throughput Illumina MiSeq sequencing revealed significant alterations in bacterial community structures in response to RGS application. Among the 23 major taxa detected, Anaerolineaceae, Acidobacteria, and Cyanobacteria exhibited an increased abundance level. RGS2 increased some bacteria reported to be beneficial including Acidobacteria, Bacillus, and Planctomyces (by 42%, 64%, and 1% respectively). Furthermore, internal transcribed spacer (ITS) fungal regions revealed significant diversity among the different treatments, with taxa such as Chaetomium (56.2%), Acremonium (4.3%), Fusarium (4%), Aspergillus (3.4%), Sordariomycetes (3%), and Plectosphaerellaceae (2%) showing much abundance. Interestingly, Coprinellus (14%) was observed only in RGS-amended soil. RGS treatments effectively altered soil fungal community structures and reduced certain known pathogenic fungal genera, i.e., Fusarium and Acremonium. The results of the present study suggest that RGS amendment potentially affects the microbial community structures that probably affect the physiological and morphological attributes of eggplant under a plastic greenhouse vegetable cultivation system (PGVC) in monoculture.

Measurement of Radioactivity in the Granites of Pakistan: A Review

All human beings are exposed to primordial radiation. The main source of primordial radiation has been naturally radioactive building materials. In Pakistan, among building materials, granites are most commonly used. This paper reviews the previous studies conducted for the estimation of natural radioactivity of granites from Rustam-Koga, Shewa-Shahbazgarhi, Bunair, Mansehra, and Nagarparkar. The techniques used for these studies include gamma spectrometry and field surveys. To assess the radiation hazards associated with granites of Pakistan, primordial radionuclides and corresponding radiation hazards have been estimated. Most of these granites are found to be safe except Rustam-Koga granite, which presents high excess lifetime cancer risk.

Control of the stereochemistry of C14 hydroxyl during the total synthesis of withanolide E and physachenolide C

The stereochemical outcome of the epoxidation of Δ_14–15 cholestanes with mCPBA is controlled by the steric bulk of a C17 substituent. When the C17 is in the β configuration, the epoxide is formed in the α face, whereas if the C17 is trigonal (flat) or the substituent is in the α configuration, the epoxide is formed in the β face. The presence of a hydroxyl substituent at C20 does not influence the stereochemical outcome of the epoxidation.

The epoxide configuration in oxidation of C14–C15 alkenes is determined by the configuration of the C17 substituent.