Search

Stable agronomic performance in semiarid regions is a prerequisite for sunflower to obtain high seed and oil yields. Hence, efforts were made to evaluate 28 sunflower genotypes, including those of the USDA (USA) and the INRAE (France) collections and germplasm maintained at ICAR-IIOR, Hyderabad, India, in four semiarid locations in India from 2021 to 2022. The screening of the selected genotypes for sunflower downy mildew (SDM) caused by Plasmopara halstedii race-100 in India was undertaken from 2017 to 2020, and a validation experiment was performed in 2021. Weighted Average of Absolute Scores (WAASB) and Multi-Trait Stability Index (MTSI) were adopted for stability analysis. The Additive Main Effects and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI) analysis of variance showed highly significant effects of climate, genotype, and the interaction between the two. Only 56.13% of the total genotype-by-environment (GEI) variation was explained by the first two principal components (PCs), thus indicating the complexity of the GEI and suitability of the WAASB statistics. Based on the WAASB study, the most stable genotypes identified for yield were GMU-494, LTRR-341, EC-601901 and, GMU-481 for oil content as well. Based on the WAASBY scores, the most stable genotypes identified for seed yield were GMU-770 (96.76) and EC-178168-2 (96.53), and those for oil content were GMU-481 (93.64) and EC-601901 (91.30). The simultaneous MTSI was employed for selecting high-yielding genotypes with medium to high oil content. The MTSI revealed the ideal genotype EC-198078, which was closer to the hypothetical ideotype with the lowest MTSI coupled with a high WAASBY score and resistant reaction to SDM. The population structure based on 20 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers depicted the Delta (k) value (k = 4), which indicated four populations within the collection of 28 sunflower germplasm accessions. Based on multi-year screening, 13 sources of resistance to SDM were identified and validated for semiarid regions, with 3 being new sources. The identified stable genotypes coupled with SDM resistance may be useful for the development of inbred cultivars or may be used to develop superior populations in sunflower. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To keep pace with the skyrocketing demand of vegetable oil and reduced dependency on import, there is a need to focus on indigenous oilseed crops, such as niger (Guizotia abyssinica L.F. Cass). Niger is a minor oilseed crop that consists of 32 to 40% quality oil and 18 to 24% protein in the seeds. Despite its considerable importance, self-incompatibility and high outcrossing pose difficulty in breeding through conventional methods. Double haploid (DH) technology is one of the alternatives to overcome the problem and develop inbred lines in a shorter time. In context to this, a highly efficient protocol for DH production through anther culture in Indian niger varieties JNS 9 and JNS 28 was developed. The investigation was conducted to identify the suitable microspore stage for anther culture, cold pre-treatment, hormonal combinations for callus induction (T1–T4), shooting (S1–S26), rooting (R1–R3), hardening, ploidy index, and the effect of different colchicine treatments on the efficiency of the developed protocol. Anthers in disc florets of light green to greenish yellow color have uninucleate microspores (7 d of bud initiation). For callus initiation, Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium containing 2.0 mg L−1 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and 0.3 mg L−1 kinetin (KIN) showed 100% efficiency. For shoot initiation, 37 to 40% greening was observed on MS medium with 0.5 mg L−1 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) and 0.5 mg L−1 activated charcoal and, subsequently, 19% shoot emergence on MS medium containing 0.5 mg L−1 BAP and 0.5 mg L−1 KIN. Low efficiency of shoot regeneration was addressed by adding 0.2% colchicine for 30 h at the callusing stage which resulted in 90 to 95% increased efficiency in shooting. For rooting, MS medium containing 2.0 mg L−1 indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) was efficient with a frequency of 85 to 90% followed by hardening in 1:1:1 ratio of vermiculite:sand:soil in pots. Ploidy indexing was done using cell size analysis followed by chromosome count using a microscope which confirmed the ploidy level of regenerants as compared to diploid control. Thus, the procedure developed in the study demonstrates the successful development of DH which in turn facilitates the acceleration of the breeding program through the development of homozygous inbreds and new cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Powdery mildew is one of the most important diseases in niger (Guizotia abyssinica) in India and Ethiopia. Fungi causing the powdery mildew on niger have previously been reported as Golovinomyces cichoracearum and Sphaerotheca sp., but the involved causative agents have not yet been studied in detail. In the present investigation, powdery mildew infections observed on niger in Hyderabad, India, were analyzed by using morphological and multilocus gene sequence analyses. Results based on anamorph characteristics, amplification products obtained with eleven pairs of primers, including powdery mildew-specific primers, combined sequence analyses of internal transcribed spacer (ITS), 28S rDNA and intergenic spacer (IGS) regions, and sequence variations unequivocally indicated mixed infections caused by Golovinomyces ambrosiae and Podosphaera xanthii. Variation in reaction to powdery mildew was observed, and infections were higher in the Ethiopian accessions compared to the Indian varieties. This constitutes the first report of morphological and molecular analyses that confirm mixed powdery mildew infection of niger caused by G. ambrosiae and P. xanthii, two species with wide host ranges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress has been implicated in deadly lifestyle diseases, and antioxidants from plant sources are the primary option in the treatment regime. Kenaf seeds are the storehouse of potential natural antioxidant phytoconstituents. Perhaps, none of the studies documented the phytoconstituents and their antioxidant potential from Kenaf seed coat so far. Thus, the current study focuses on exploring the protective effect of Kenaf Seed Coat Ethanol Extract (KSCEE) against sodium nitrite and diclofenac-induced oxidative stress in vitro (red blood cell and platelets model) and in vivo (female Sprague Dawely rat's model) along with the antithrombotic activity. The infrared spectrophotometry data showed the heterogeneous functional groups (CH, OH, C = C, C = C–C) and aromatic rings. Reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry chromatogram of KSCEE also evidenced the presence of several phytochemicals. KSCEE displayed about 76% of DPPH scavenging activity with an IC50 value of 34.94 µg/ml. KSCEE significantly (***p < 0.001) normalized the stress markers such as lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyl content, superoxide dismutase, and catalase in sodium nitrite and diclofenac-induced oxidative stress in RBC, platelets, liver, kidney, and small intestine, respectively. Furthermore, KSCEE was found to protect the diclofenac-induced tissue destruction of the liver, kidney, and small intestine obtained from seven groups of female Sprague Dawely rats. KSCEE delayed the clotting time of platelet-rich plasma and platelet-poor plasma and activated partial thromboplastin time, suggesting its anticoagulant property. In addition, KSCEE also exhibited antiplatelet activity by inhibiting both adenosine diphosphate and epinephrine-induced platelet aggregation. In conclusion, KSCEE ameliorates the sodium nitrite and diclofenac-induced oxidative stress in red blood cells, platelets, and experimental animals along with antithrombotic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anti-IL17A therapies have proven effective for numerous inflammatory diseases including psoriasis, axial spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis. Modulating and/or antagonizing protein–protein interactions of IL17A cytokine binding to its cell surface receptors with oral therapies offers the promise to bring forward biologics-like efficacy in a pill to patients. We used an NMR-based fragment screen of recombinant IL17A to uncover starting points for small molecule IL17A antagonist discovery. By examining chemical shift perturbations in 2D [1H, 13C-HSQC] spectra of isotopically labeled IL17A, we discovered fragments binding the cytokine at a previously undescribed site near the IL17A C-terminal region, albeit with weak affinity (> 250 µM). Importantly this binding location was distinct from previously known chemical matter modulating cytokine responses. Subsequently through analog screening, we identified related compounds that bound symmetrically in this novel site with two copies. From this observation we employed a linking strategy via structure-based drug design and obtained compounds with increased binding affinity (< 50 nM) and showed functional inhibition of IL17A-induced cellular signaling (IC50~1 µM). We also describe a fluorescence-based probe molecule suitable to discern/screen for additional molecules binding in this C-terminal site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study is to characterise the cellular structures in tension wood and compare its effect on the selected anatomical parameters in two mangrove wood species viz. Excoecaria agallocha Linn. and Sonneratia caseolaris (L.) Engl. Wood blocks of 1 cm3 were prepared and thin sections of cross sections were cut using microtome and stained with Azure II to differentiate the structure of normal wood from tension wood fibres. The anatomical parameters analysed in this present study were vessel frequency, tangential vessel diameter and fibre wall thickness in tension wood as well as in normal wood. Vessel diameter and vessel frequency were significantly lower in tension wood compared to the normal wood in both the species. The reduction of tangential diameter in tension wood region is a way of protecting these elements from cavitation and providing mechanical support for the plant than liquid transport. A significant variation in fibre wall thickness was observed between tension wood and normal wood in both species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaf blight disease of sunflower caused by Alternaria species is one of the major foliar diseases occurring in sunflower cultivated areas of India. Leaf blight samples collected from sunflower growing areas during rainy season were colonized by Alternariaster helianthi while samples collected during spring season incited by Alternaria alternata. Among two Alternaria species, A. helianthi was the predominant pathogen among the isolates. A total of 220 A. helianthi isolates; 30 A. alternata isolates collected during 2009–10 to 2011–12 from infected sunflower leaves in nine states of India were characterized based on phenotypic, molecular and pathogenic aggressiveness. Molecular identification based on phylogenic analysis using partial internal transcribed spacer regions showed that A. helianthi and A. alternata isolates separated into 11 phylogenetic groups. The pathogenicity on sunflower cultivars KBSH-1, KBSH-44, DRSF-108, PI-535890, TX-16R, Morden revealed that some A. helianthi isolates were highly aggressive with blighting on Morden and DRSF-108. Based on aggressiveness on sunflower cultivars, four groups identified in A. helianthi isolates; three groups in A. alternata isolates. There was no association between phylogenetic group, disease severity and geography of collection among the isolates. Isolates Ah-15, 38, 47, 48, 49, 50, 97, 98, 99, 100, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 125 and 126 in A. helianthi; Aa-3, 7, 4 and 9 in A. alternata were aggressive on sunflower cultivars which would be utilized in future disease screening programmes. This is the first report on population structure of Alternaria species and also highlights that A. helianthi is the predominant pathogen associated with sunflower leaf blight in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-transcriptional gene silencing (PTGS)-mediated gene silencing exploits the cellular mechanism wherein transcripts having sequence similarity to the double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) molecules present in the cell will be subjected to degradation. PTGS is closely related to natural processes such as RNA-mediated virus resistance and cross-protection in plants. Gene silencing and the cellular machinery for affecting this phenomenon might have evolved as a natural protective measure against viral infection in plants. In PTGS, small interfering RNA (siRNA) molecules of 21–23 nucleotides length act as homology guides for triggering the systemic degradation of transcripts homologous to the siRNA molecules. PTGS phenomenon, first discovered in transgenic petunia plants harbouring chalcone synthase gene and termed co-suppression, has been subsequently exploited to target specific gene transcripts for degradation leading to manifestation of desirable traits in crop plants. Targeted gene silencing has been achieved either through the introduction of DNA constructs encoding dsRNA or antisense RNA or by deploying co-suppression constructs producing siRNAs against the transcript of interest. Understanding the mechanism of gene silencing has led to the development of several alternative strategies for inducing gene silencing in a precise and controlled way. This has paved the way for using PTGS as one of the chief functional genomics tools in plants and has helped in unraveling the mechanism of many cellular processes and identifying the focal points in pathways, besides, opening new vistas in genetic engineering of plants for human benefits. PTGS has shown great potential in silencing the deleterious genes efficiently so that value-added plant products could be obtained. Thus, PTGS has ushered in a new era in the genetic manipulation of plants for both applied and basic studies. In this review, we have outlined the basics of RNAi-mediated gene silencing and summarized the work carried out at our institute using this approach, as case studies. In particular, adopting RNAi-mediated gene silencing (a) as a method to restore fertility in transgenic male sterile lines developed based on orfH522 gene from sunflower PET1-CMS source, (b) as a tool to suppress the production of toxic proteins, ricin and RCA, in castor, and (c) as an approach to induce bud necrosis virus resistance in sunflower has been discussed. Examples from other plant systems also have been mentioned to exemplify the concept and utility of gene silencing in crop plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The continuous and indiscriminate use of NPK fertilizers for boosting productivity in the farming sector longer periods resulted in the imbalance of soil nutrients in the long run. This nutrient disparity in soil gradually throw back in crops, animals and human beings, leading to various degenerative and deficiency related diseases now more than ever. This constrained site specific nutrient management for crops, which essentially rely upon evaluation of variability spatially and temporarily. In this study we scrutinized the spatial variation of soil fertility in exhaustive plough lands of Thrissur district, Kerala, India. A total of 600 geo referred soil samples were collected from different agroecological units of the district and examined for selected micronutrients such as Fe, Cu, Mn, Zn and B. Geo-statistical mapping tool (Arc GIS10.2.2) was used to quantify the degree of spatial variability in various soil fertility parameters. The spatial variation of nutrients in the study area was assessed by using semivariogram method in kriging interpolation and spatial dependence was calculated. The best fit model was applied to the kriging interpolation according to the determination coefficient, which is the correlation of measured and predicted values on space and spatial distribution maps of all the micronutrients. Among the variables analyzed, B revealed strong spatial dependence (24%), Zn with weak spatial dependence (78%) with model gaussian and others with moderate spatial dependence. The results from the present study call to develop a strategy for site-specific management for the parameters showing moderate spatial dependence and weak spatial dependence. But for B, showing strong spatial dependence, only uniform management is needed because it was greatly affected by the structural factors such as climate, topography and parent material. Spatial variability of soil properties is essential for precision agriculture because soil parameters with little or no spatial dependence will not be conducive to site-specific management, and will be managed on the average level only. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An increasing industrial demand for timber and the depletion of durable wood species in India have encouraged the utilization of many nondurable species which require protection against biodegradation. Such protection is usually carried out by pressure-impregnating toxic chemicals as wood preservatives. To study the treatability class of plantation timbers with water- and oil-type wood preservatives by an anatomical approach, five species of plantation timbers, Acacia auriculaeformis, Acacia mangium, Eucalyptus eurograndis, Eucalyptus tereticornis and G. arborea, were treated with two stains, silver nitrate and red oil. Their absorption was calculated, penetration of stains was studied anatomically, and their specific gravity was also calculated before the treatment. Based on the penetration with silver nitrate stain, A. auriculaeformis, A. mangium, E. eurograndis and E. tereticornis were classified under treatability class 'c' and G. arborea was classified under treatability class 'd' and with red oil stain, A. mangium was classified under treatability class 'b', E. eurograndis was classified under treatability class 'c', and A. auriculaeformis, E. tereticornis and G. arborea were classified under treatability class 'd'. From the values obtained with the two stains, overall treatability class of A. auriculaeformis was 'd', A. mangium and E. eurograndis were class 'c', and E. tereticornis and G. arborea were class 'd'. The absorption of the preservatives shows that the specific gravity does not affect the absorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The study estimates the association of VEGF gene polymorphism (-1154 G/A, -2549 I/D, -2578 C/A, and +936 C/T) in recurrent pregnancy loss from South Indian population. Methods: A total of 100 couples with the history of recurrent pregnancy loss and 100 couples with medically terminated pregnancies were considered. Fetal tissues with < 20 weeks of gestation including peripheral blood from case and control couples were collected. VEGF gene polymorphisms were determined by allele-specific polymerase chain reaction. Genotypic distribution and allele frequencies were evaluated by odds ratio with 95% confidence intervals. Haplotype analysis was done to determine the association of specific haplotypes with recurrent pregnancy loss. Results: The VEGF -1154 G/A polymorphism was significantly prevalent in the aborted fetuses and in their mothers whereas -2549 I/D polymorphism was significantly higher in the aborted fetuses while the + 936 C/T polymorphism showed prevalence in the case mothers revealing their statistically significant association to recurrent pregnancy loss. A1154D2549A2578T936 haplotype showed an increased risk in case fetuses and mothers whereas A1154D2549C2578C936, in case mothers and fathers while haplotype G1154I2549A2578C936 found a protective association in the case fetuses compared to controls. Conclusion: This is the first report of family-based triad study revealing a significant association of VEGF gene polymorphism in the etiology of recurrent pregnancy loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spontaneous abortion is the loss of pregnancy during an early gestational period. Interleukin-10 is an anti-inflammatory cytokine which plays an important role in successful pregnancy outcome. The aim of the study is to elucidate an association of IL-10 gene promoter polymorphisms (-1082G/A, -819 C/T, -592C/A) in spontaneous abortions from Telangana state of South India. The present population-based retrospective case-control triad study includes a total of 80 case families with spontaneous abortions and 100 control families with medically terminated pregnancies. Peripheral blood from all the couples and fetal tissues of <20 weeks of gestation were collected. Genotype analysis was carried out by a standard amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction followed by agarose gel electrophoresis. The strength of the association between IL-10 gene promoter polymorphisms and spontaneous abortions were measured by odd ratios and their respective 95% confidence intervals. Haplotype analysis was carried out for the three polymorphisms to establish an association of specific haplotypes with spontaneous abortions. The increased frequency of AA genotype and A allele of -1082G/A, TT genotype and T allele of -819C/T, and AA genotype and A allele of -592C/A was observed in case fetuses and case mothers compared to their respective controls. Haplotype analysis revealed that A-C-A, G-C-A haplotypes in fetuses and haplotypes A-C-C, G-T-C, A-T-A, and G-C-A in mothers were associated with increased risk of spontaneous abortions. IL-10 gene promoter polymorphisms may act as a major genetic regulator in the etiology of spontaneous abortions with maternal genome imprinting effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Anti-fibrinolytic agents are used to reduce obstetric blood loss as the fibrinolytic system is known to get activated after placental delivery. Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of parenteral tranexamic acid in reducing blood loss during normal labour and to compare it with the amount of blood loss in patients who received placebo in the third stage of labour. Methodology: Patients with spontaneous labour or planned for induction of labour and fulfilling the inclusion criteria were recruited for the study. In each patient, the pre-delivery pulse rate, blood pressure, Hb gm% and PCV% were noted. Labour was monitored carefully using a partogram. The study group received Inj. Oxytocin and Inj. Tranexamic acid. The control group received Inj. Oxytocin and Placebo injection. Immediately after delivery of the baby, when all the liquor was drained, the patient was placed over a blood drape-a disposable conical, graduated plastic collection bag. The amount of blood collected in the blood drape was measured. Then the patient was given pre-weighed pads, which were weighed 2 h post-partum. The blood loss was measured by measuring the blood collected in the drape and by weighing the swabs before and after delivery. Results: The total number of patients studied was 100-equally distributed in both the groups. The age group of the patients and BMI were comparable. There was a significant increase in the pulse rate and decrease in blood pressure in the control group as compared with the study group. The post-delivery haemoglobin and haematocrit were significantly reduced in the control group as compared to the study group. The mean blood loss at the end of 2 h was 105 ml in the study group and 252 ml in the control group. There was a significant increase in the usage of uterotonics and also in the need for blood transfusion in the control group; 12 % of the patients in the control group had to stay for more than 3 days compared to 2 % in the study group. Conclusion: Tranexamic acid injection, an antifibrinolytic agent when given prophylactically after the delivery of the baby, by intravenous route appears to reduce the blood loss and maternal morbidity during normal labour effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The third stage of labour commences after the delivery of the foetus and ends with the delivery of the placenta and its membranes. Postpartum haemorrhage is the most common cause of maternal mortality and accounts for about 25 % of maternal deaths in India. Objectives: The present study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of placental blood drainage after spontaneous vaginal delivery as part of active management of third stage of labour in decreasing the duration, blood loss, and complications of the third stage, against no drainage of placental blood. Methodology: Two hundred pregnant patients with 37 or more weeks of gestation, with single live foetus in cephalic presentation, who underwent a spontaneous vaginal delivery, were included in the study. The patients were prospectively randomized equally into two groups (100 each in the study and control groups). Placental blood was drained in all the patients in the study group, whereas in the control group the cord blood was not drained. Blood lost in the third stage of labour was measured by collecting in a disposable conical measuring bag, and blood from the episiotomy was mopped, and the mops were discarded separately. Results: The baseline statistics in both the group were comparable. The duration of third stage of labour was 210.5 s in the study group and 302.5 s in the control group. The 'p' value was statistically significant ( p ≤ 0.0001). The mean blood loss in study group was 227.5 ml and was 313.3 ml in the control group ( p ≤ 0.0001). The incidence of postpartum haemorrhage was 1 % in study group and 9 % in control group. The mean drop in Hb % level was 0.6 gm/dl in study group and 1.1 gm/dl in control group. These above differences were both statistically significant. Conclusion: Placental blood drainage as part of active management of third stage of labour was effective in reducing the duration, the blood loss, and also the incidence of PPH. Placental blood drainage is a simple, safe, and non-invasive method of managing the third stage of labour, which can be practiced in both tertiary care centres as well as rural setup in addition to the routine uterotonics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The present study is a triad study designed to determine the co-relation of IL-10 −819C/T promoter polymorphism with the risk of spontaneous abortions. Materials: A total of 50 families with spontaneous abortions and 60 families with medically terminated pregnancies were considered for the present study. Fetal tissue of less than 20 weeks of gestation along with peripheral blood from all the couples was collected in this study. Methods: A standard amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction was carried out to determine the IL 10 genotype in all the subjects. Odd's ratio and their respective 95 % confidence intervals were used to determine the strength of association between IL-10 promoter gene polymorphism and spontaneous abortions. Results: The study revealed a statistically significant association of IL-10 −819C/T polymorphism between the two family groups among fetuses ( p = 0.0000003) and mothers ( p = 0.0000001). No significant difference was observed in the genotype distribution of IL-10 among fathers. Conclusion: An increased frequency of TT genotype and T allele was observed in spontaneously aborted fetuses and their mothers compared to respective controls. In conclusion, IL-10 C −819T gene promoter polymorphism may act as a major genetic regulator in the etiology of spontaneous abortions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The increased complications to the mother and fetus during or after pregnancy and birth are often caused by a wide array of pathogenic organisms mostly belonging to the TORCH group [toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus (CMV), and herpes simplex virus (HSV)]. These agents cause asymptomatic or mild infection in the mother while serious consequences in fetus. The present study was aimed to find significant etiological pathogens in the causation of high risk pregnancy (HRP) in South Indian population. Material and Methods: A total of 1,158 HRP women (2010-2013) from Modern Government Maternity Hospital, Hyderabad were considered. Two milliliter of blood was obtained and the serum was analyzed for IgG and IgM antibodies against TORCH agents by ELISA. Results: Twenty-five percent of the study group had fetal congenital malformation in the present pregnancy (Group 1; N = 291) while 75 % showed bad obstetric history (BOH) (Group 2; N = 867). Maternal age of ≤25 years, primi gravida, and consanguinity showed predisposing role for Group 1 while maternal age ≥30 years and ≥ 3 gravida were contributing risk for Group 2. The seropositvity in HRP women for toxoplasma, rubella, CMV, and HSV was 28, 84, 92, and 61 %, respectively for IgG while it was 6, 3, 4, and 3 % for IgG + IgM. Total seropositvity of toxoplasma, rubella, CMV, and HSV in Group 1 was 29, 97, 97, and 62 % while it was 36, 84, 97, and 65 % in Group 2, respectively. Conclusion: Maternal age of ≤25 years, primi gravida, and consanguinity contributed to fetal congenital malformation in the present pregnancy while maternal age of ≥30 years and ≥ 3 gravida towards BOH. Toxoplasma is protective while rubella and CMV are the infectious agents for HRP. Among the groups, toxoplasma and rubella conferred a predisposing risk towards Group 2 and Group 1, respectively. Sixty-one percent seropositvity of HSV in relation to bad obstetric outcome is the highest prevalence reported so far in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Spontaneous abortion or miscarriage is the natural death of an embryo or foetus in the early stages of prenatal development. Interleukin-10 is an anti-inflammatory cytokine, produced by human cytotrophoblasts, and defects in its production result in specific pathological conditions during pregnancy. The present study is aimed to evaluate the association of IL-10 -1082G/A polymorphism in spontaneous abortions by comparing foetal, maternal and paternal groups-a triad study. Methods: A total of 50 families with spontaneous abortions and 60 families with medically terminated pregnancies were considered for the present study. DNA from foetal tissue and parental blood samples were extracted, and the genotype analysis of IL-10 -1082G/A promoter polymorphism was carried out by amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction followed by agarose gel electrophoresis. A statistical analysis was applied to test for the significance of the results. Results: There was a statistically significant difference in the distribution of AA genotypes and A allele of IL-10 -1082G/A between the two family groups among foetuses ( P = 0.0002) and mothers ( P = 0.00005). The paternal group showed no significant difference in the genotype distribution of IL-10 between cases and controls. Conclusion: In conclusion, IL-10 G-1082A gene promoter polymorphism may act as a major genetic regulator in the etiology of spontaneous abortions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is demonstrated that a square patch array on a moderately lossy dielectric can be transformed into a near-perfect absorber by the addition of a metallic square loop layer between the patch array and the metal back. In this configuration, the condition of perfect absorption can be easily obtained by modifying loop dimensions. The absorption properties of this configuration are analyzed theoretically using an equivalent circuit model and full-wave electromagnetic simulations. Experimental investigations included a bistatic radar cross-section measurement, which ensured that there are no scattered fields in other directions. An array structure built on a commercially available FR4 substrate with copper metallization is used to experimentally validate these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Certain wood quality parameters of about 9-year-old Melia dubia Cav. trees grown in a seedling seed orchard at Yeshwanthpura Research Station of Kolar research range, Karnataka India were studied. Trees were categorized into three classes depending upon their girth at the breast height--small (<40 cm), medium (40-60 cm) and big (>60 cm). Different anatomical (gross structure), physical and mechanical properties of the wood were evaluated using standard testing procedures and Indian Standards. The results of this study showed that there was no significant difference in the heartwood percentage and specific gravity among three girth classes. High shrinkage values from green to oven-dry condition in all the classes indicate that the timber is dimensionally unstable compared to teak. The static bending strength parameters--FS at LP, MOR and MOE, compression strength parallel to grain, compressive strength perpendicular to grain at limit of proportionality and surface hardness (side and end) were evaluated and compared among all the three girth classes. The data on mechanical properties were statistically analysed using ANOVA between three girth classes. The results on wood quality parameters may be utilized in selection of suitable genotypes for raising large scale plantations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lack of a genotype-independent transformation protocol for sunflower is a major bottleneck in improving this important oilseed crop. An efficient Agrobacterium-mediated transformation protocol is described, which was adaptable across a broad range of sunflower genotypes. The improved transformation approach used cotyledons from mature seeds vertically split through the embryo axis. The LBA 4404 Agrobacterium strain was used, which carried pCAMBIA 2301 plasmid containing UidA as the reporter gene and nptII as the selectable marker for transformants on kanamycin. Bacterial titer, cotyledon type, acetosyringone concentration and vacuum application enhanced the transformation efficiency. Wounding, enzyme pretreatment and sonication significantly reduced the transformation frequency. Putative transgenic shoots were obtained through both axillary proliferation and adventitious shoot regeneration. Following two and three cycles of selection on kanamycin for axillary and adventitious shoots, respectively, putative transformed shoots were obtained at an average frequency of 3.0 %. Reporter gene histochemical assay and molecular characterization of primary and T transgenic plants revealed stable transgene integration, expression and monogenic inheritance. The standardized procedure was tested on 28 genotypes comprising sets of inbred, maintainer, restorer and hybrid lines. Transformation was successful in all genotypes albeit with variable frequency in all except the hybrid lines wherein it was stable around 4.0 %. The procedure opens possibilities of directly improving any commercial genotypes of sunflower. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increase in crude oil prices, climate change concerns and limited reserves of fossil fuel, attention has been diverted to alternate renewable energy sources such as biofuel and biomass. Among the potential biofuel crops, Jatropha curcas L, a non-domesticated shrub, has been gaining importance as the most promising oilseed, as it does not compete with the edible oil supplies. Economic relevance of J. curcas for biodiesel production has promoted world-wide prospecting of its germplasm for crop improvement and breeding. However, lack of adequate genetic variation and non-availability of improved varieties limited its prospects of being a successful energy crop. In this review, we present the progress made in molecular breeding approaches with particular reference to tissue culture and genetic transformation, genetic diversity assessment using molecular markers, large-scale transcriptome and proteome studies, identification of candidate genes for trait improvement, whole genome sequencing and the current interest by various public and private sector companies in commercial-scale cultivation, which highlights the revival of Jatropha as a sustainable energy crop. The information generated from molecular markers, transcriptome profiling and whole genome sequencing could accelerate the genetic upgradation of J. curcas through molecular breeding . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Short-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (ACAD) deficiency is an extremely rare inherited mitochondrial disorder of fat metabolism. This belongs to a group of diseases known as fatty acid oxidation disorders. Screening programmes have provided evidence that all the fatty acid oxidation disorders combined are among the most common inborn errors of metabolism. Mitochondrial beta oxidation of fatty acids is an essential energy producing pathway. It is a particularly important pathway during prolonged periods of starvation and during periods of reduced caloric intake due to gastrointestinal illness or increased energy expenditure during febrile illness. The most common presentation is an acute episode of life threatening coma and hypoglycemia induced by a period of fasting due to defective hepatic ketogenesis. Here, the case of a 4 month old female patient who had seizures since the third day of her birth and persistent hypoglycemia is described. She was born to parents of second degree consanguinity after 10 years of infertility treatment. There was history of delayed cry after birth. Metabolic screening for TSH, galactosemia, 17-OHP, G6PD, cystic fibrosis, biotinidase were normal. Tandem mass spectrometric (TMS) screening for blood amino acids, organic acids, fatty acids showed elevated butyryl carnitine (C4) as 3.40 μmol/L (normal <2.00 μmol/L), hexanoyl carnitine (C6) as 0.92 μmol/L (normal <0.72 μmol/L), C4/C3 as 2.93 μmol/L (normal <1.18 μmol/L). The child was started immediately on carnitor syrup (carnitine) 1/2 ml twice daily. Limitation of fasting stress and dietary fat was advised. Baby responded well by gaining weight and seizures were controlled. Until now, less than 25 patients have been reported worldwide. The limited number of patients diagnosed until now is due to the rarity of the disorder resulting in under diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reproducible and highly efficient protocols for shoot regeneration and genetic transformation mediated by Agrobacterium have been established for safflower ( Carthamus tinctorius L.). Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain LBA 4404 with gus reporter gene and hygromycin ( hpt gene) as plant selection marker was used as the plant transformation vector. Genetic transformation experiments were carried out to evaluate the efficacy of various parameters such as genotype, seedling age, co-cultivation period, bacterial titer, enzymatic pre-treatment of target tissues, use of compounds that induce vir-gene enhancer, acetosyringone (AS), explant type and explant injury to enhance transformation efficiency. Transformation frequency was high when root and hypocotyl explants of 8-day-old seedlings of safflower cv. HUS-305 were co-cultivated with bacterial cell density of 0.5 OD during a period of 2 days followed by selection regime of 10-15-15 mg/l hygromycin. The frequency of rooting of the primary transformants was low (18.0%) when compared with the regenerated shoots (70.0%), and seven shoots survived on transfer to soil. The putative transformants were confirmed by β-glucuronidase (GUS) histochemical assay, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), reverse-transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR) and Southern blot analysis. With the optimized transformation protocol, putative transformed shoots were obtained with frequency of 51.0% within 8-10 weeks of culture initiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims at characterization of Jatropha species occurring in India using nuclear and organelle specific primers for supporting interspecific gene transfer. DNA from 34 accessions comprising eight agronomically important species ( Jatropha curcas, J. gossypifolia, J. glandulifera, J. integerrima, J. podagrica, J. multifida, J. villosa, J. villosa. var. ramnadensis, J. maheshwarii) and a natural hybrid, J. tanjorensis were subjected to molecular analysis using 200 RAPD, 100 ISSR and 50 organelle specific microsatellite primers from other angiosperms. The nuclear marker systems revealed high interspecific genetic variation (98.5% polymorphism) corroborating with the morphological differentiation of the species used in the study. Ten organelle specific microsatellite primers resulted in single, discrete bands of which three were functional disclosing polymorphism among Jatropha species. The PCR products obtained with organelle specific primers were subjected to sequence analysis. PCR products from two consensus chloroplast microsatellite primer pairs (ccmp6 and 10) revealed variable number of T and A residues in the intergenic regions of ORF 77–ORF 82 and rp12– rps19 regions, respectively in Jatropha. Artificial hybrids were produced between J. curcas and all Jatropha species used in the study with the exception of J. podagrica. Characterization of F1 hybrids using polymorphic primers specific to the respective parental species confirmed the hybridity of the interspecific hybrids. Characterization of both natural and artificially produced hybrids using chloroplast specific markers revealed maternal inheritance of the markers. While the RAPD and ISSR markers confirmed J. tanjorensis as a natural hybrid between J. gossypifolia and J. curcas, the ccmp primers (ccmp6 and 10) unequivocally established J. gossypifolia as the maternal parent. Evaluation of backcross interspecific derivatives of cross involving J. curcas and J. integerrima indicate scope for prebreeding and genetic enhancement of Jatropha curcas through interspecific hybridization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jatropha curcas (Euphorbiaceae) is an oil-bearing species with multiple uses and considerable potential as a bioenergy crop. The present investigation has been undertaken to assess the extent of genetic diversity in a representative set of 42 accessions of J. curcas encompassing different crop growing regions in India along with a non-toxic genotype from Mexico as a prelude for utilization of promising and genetically divergent materials in the breeding programmes. Molecular polymorphism was 42.0% with 400 RAPD primers and 33.5% with 100 ISSR primers between accessions indicating modest levels of genetic variation in the Indian germplasm. The within-population variation based on RAPD polymorphism was 64.0% and was on par with the inter-population variation. Polymorphic ISSR markers have been identified that could differentiate the Indian accessions from the Mexican genotype and two of them were converted to SCAR markers. The SCAR primer pair ISPJ1 amplified a 543 bp fragment in all the Indian populations, while ISPJ2 with a specific amplicon of 1,096 bp was specific to the Mexican genotype. Population-specific bands have been identified for the accession from Kerala (2 RAPD markers), Neemuch-1 from Rajasthan (1 each of RAPD and ISSR markers) and the non-toxic genotype from Mexico (17 RAPD and 4 ISSR markers), which serve as diagnostic markers in genotyping. The study indicates an immediate need for widening the genetic base of J. curcas germplasm through introduction of accessions with broader geographical background. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spodoptera litura (Fabr.), the tobacco caterpillar, is a major defoliator on sunflower in the tropics. Genetic variability for resistance to S. litura is limited in the cultivar germplasm of sunflower. In the present investigation, 43 accessions of 17 wild Helianthus species of the annual and perennial habit groups were evaluated along with cultivated sunflower under field and no-choice conditions in the laboratory for resistance to this pest. Under field conditions, H. occidentalis and H. argophyllus were found to be immune with no leaf damage and few accessions of the species belonging to section Divaricati were found to be resistant. Laboratory bioassays against neonate, two and 4-day-old larvae confirmed resistance both in terms of high larval mortality and low larval weight gain in eight species viz., H. occidentalis, H. argophyllus, H. tuberosus, H. maximiliani, H. mollis, H. simulans, H. divaricatus and H. hirsutus. Intra-accessional variability was observed and accessions of few species showed varied reaction (resistant, partially resistant to susceptible) to the target pest. Field evaluation of 224 backcross derived inbred lines from five cross combinations involving diploid species under high natural pest incidence revealed low damage in plants derived from crosses involving H. argophyllus and H. petiolaris. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation discusses the scope for transferring of resistance to leaf spot disease incited by Alternaria helianthi from two hexaploid wild species ( H. tuberosus and H. resinosus) to diploid cultivated sunflower. Interspecific hybrids produced between sunflower and these two hexaploid species were partially fertile with tetraploid chromosome status. Backcrosses of these interspecific hybrids with cultivated sunflower resulted in the formation of sterile triploid plants. To overcome the problem of sterility and facilitate backcrosses with cultivated sunflower, anther culture of the tetraploid interspecific hybrids was carried out to bring down their chromosome number to diploid status. Anthers from both interspecific hybrids were cultured on basal Murashige and Skoog media supplemented with varying concentrations of organics and the growth regulators benzyladenine and naphthaleneacetic acid. Anthers of interspecific hybrids involving H. resinosus responded well and regenerated through an embryogenic route at a frequency of 98.7%. But in interspecific hybrids with H. tuberosus, anthers formed callus and subsequently regenerated shoots through an organogenic pathway. DNA ploidy analysis of anther culture plants of interspecific hybrids derived from H. tuberosus crosses was carried out to identify plants with desired diploid status. In vitro screening of parents, interspecific hybrids and anther culture plantlets against A. helianthi showed resistance in 68.5% of the anther culture plants of interspecific hybrids from H. tuberosus and in 24.3% of the plants derived from interspecific hybrids involving H. resinosus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A protocol for the transformation of castor embryo axes using the pCAMBIA vector 1304 in disarmed Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain EHA105 is presented. Co-cultivated explants were initially subjected to expansion and proliferation on MS medium with 0.5 mg l−1 TDZ followed by three cycles of selection on medium with 0.5 mg l−1 BA and increasing concentrations of hygromycin (20–40–60 mg l−1). Selected shoot clusters were transferred to medium with 0.5 mg l−1 BA for proliferation and 0.2 mg l−1 BA for shoot elongation. Elongated shoots were rooted on half-strength MS medium with 2.0 mg l−1 NAA. The presence and stable integration of the hpt gene was confirmed through PCR, RT-PCR, PCR-Southern blot, sequence analysis, Southern blot analysis and PCR analysis of progeny. Southern blot analysis of the primary transformants showed single copy integration and progeny analysis revealed monogenic inheritance of the introduced gene. This paper reports the first successful attempt at producing transgenic castor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent studies have presented evidence for the involvement of L1CAM gene mutations in various X-linked mental retardation syndromes. The neural cell adhesion molecule, L1CAM is a transmembrane protein belonging to the super family of the immunoglobulins that play a key role in embryonic development of the nervous system and is involved in memory and learning. No studies were carried out from India on L1 CAM gene in X-linked mental retardation syndromes. Hence, an investigation was taken up to delineate the role of L1CAM gene in mental retardation. Two families (Family I and Family II) having only two members affected with mental retardation in each family were studied for mutations in L1CAM gene. In family II, the younger sibling showed deletion involving region between the nucleotide 13,773 (intron 25) and 14,158 (intron 27) region. The mutation what we observed in younger sibling of the family II is a novel mutation which was not hitherto reported in the world literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first success at interspecific hybridization between cultivated sunflower (H. annuus) and a diploid perennial species, H. simulans is reported. The F1s from both direct and reciprocal directions exhibited dominance of the wild species phenotype and were pollen sterile. Meiosis was irregular in the F1 hybrids and both univalents and multivalents were observed. Multiplication of the interspecific hybrids was achieved through in vitro culture of nodal sections on Murashige & Skoog medium supplemented with 0.5 mg l-1 benzyladenine. Fertility of the interspecific hybrids was improved by subjecting the in vitro proliferating shoots to 0.001% colchicine incorporated in the shoot multiplication medium. The amphiploids serve as fertile bridges and facilitate interspecific gene transfer through conventional breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interspecific hybridization has been successful between two economically important species of Jatropha, viz., J. curcas and J. integerrima. The interspecific hybrids exhibited morphological intermediacy for various vegetative characteristics but produced flowers with three distinct colours. Backcrossing of the F1 hybrids resulted in a number of flower colours varying from dark pink through green to white enhancing the ornamental value of the genus. Hybridity was confirmed through PCR amplification using random primers. The various propagation methods for these new ornamental Jatrophas are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract We present a report of the parental ages (n = 865) and parental origin of meiotic nondisjunction (n = 236) that are likely to show a predisposition in the etiology of Down syndrome (DS). Chromosomal analysis, performed over a 20-year period, on 1001 Down syndrome subjects, revealed pure trisomy 21 karyotype in 880 subjects (87.92%), mosaic trisomy karyotype in 77 (7.69%), and translocation karyotype in 44 (4.39%). The mean maternal age was found to be 30.34 years, and mean paternal age was 31.04 years. Nondisjunctional error was 79.24% maternal and 20.76% paternal. The findings of the study revealed the significant contribution of advanced parental age and increased maternal meiotic nondisjunctional error to the origin of trisomy 21 Down syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jatropha tanjorensis Ellis & Saroja, a species found abundantly in Tanjore, Pudukottai, Trichirapalli and Ramnad districts of Tamil Nadu state, India and grown as a fence plant showed intermediacy in phenotypic characters of J. curcas L. and J. gossypifolia L. A detailed survey at its place of occurrence supplemented with data employed from cytological and peroxidase isozyme studies revealed that J. tanjorensis is a natural interspecific hybrid between these two species. Since there was no seed set, propagation through tissue culture using leaf discs was attempted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from twenty three patients with non specific mental retardation and fourteen age matched normal samples was subjected for qualitative analysis of protein profiles by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) and the proteins were visualised by ultra sensitive silver staining. Two proteins designated as mental retardation associated proteins (MRAP-I and MRAP-II) were identified in six male patients out of twenty three patients CSF samples. MRAP-I had an isoelectric point of 7.4 with a relative molecular weight 16.5 kDa, while MRAP-II had an iso-electric point of 7.2 with a relative molecular weight 16.8 kDa. The two proteins are presumed to be originated from brain, as they could not be traced in the serum of patients, nor due to proteolytic degradation. Despite unknown origin and identity, their presence in the CSF of a specific group of mentally retarded male patients suggest their possible clinical utility and to define protein alterations in mental retardation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A highly efficient and reproducible method of in vitro propagation using meristematic explants has been developed for castor. Embryo axes and shoot tips were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 0.5–10.0 mg/l of adenine, N6-benzyladenine (BA), kinetin (Kn), thiadiazuron (TDZ) and zeatin. TDZ (1.0–10.0 mg/l) gave the maximum number of shoots (37.8–40.0) from embryo axes, while BA (2.0 mg/l) was found superior to other cytokinins for obtaining the highest number of shoots (46.7) from the shoot apex. Adenine and Kn at all of the tested concentrations resulted in low proliferation rates from embryo axes. The carryover effect of the cytokinins was tested by subculturing proliferating shoot cultures from various media onto the medium fortified with 0.5 mg/l BA. There was no significant influence of the cytokinins on subsequent proliferation from the two explant types except for TDZ with embryo axes. The number of shoots from TDZ-habituated embryo axes ranged between 36.0 and 81.7, while it varied from 5.7 to 22.0 and 3.7 to 28.3 in axillary buds and embryo axes, respectively, on the other media. For elongation of shoots, gibberellic acid (GA3) (0.1–1.0 mg/l) was added to the medium supplemented with 0.2–0.5 mg/l BA. Incorporation of GA3 (0.1 mg/l) significantly enhanced the frequency of elongated shoots but drastically reduced the multiplication ability. Hence, proliferating shoot clusters were periodically transferred to the medium supplemented with 0.5 and 0.2 mg/l BA for further multiplication and elongation. Well-developed shoots were rooted on half-strength MS medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/l indole-3-butyric acid. The rooted plantlets were acclimatized with more than 60% success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A rapid and efficient method of in vitro plant regeneration for large scale propagation of male sterile plants of niger (Guizotia abyssinica) was developed. Leaf segments from mature plants were cultured on Murashige & Skoog's basal medium (MS) supplemented with N6-benzyladenine (BA) and kinetin individually and in combination with low concentrations of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA); and α-Naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA). Prolific direct adventitious shoot regeneration occurred on most of the media tested. The best response in terms of frequency of shoot regeneration and the number of shoots per leaf explant was observed on medium supplemented with 2.22 μM BA. Transfer of shoot bud clusters to fresh medium with same composition promoted further multiplication of the shoot buds, while medium with reduced BA concentration (0.89 μM) facilitated shoot elongation. Shoots that were rooted on half-strength MS medium gelled with 0.2 or 0.4% agar and supplemented with 4.9μ M IBA survived with a frequency of 61.36% on transfer to ex vitrum conditions. Field evaluation of the regenerants revealed the genetic stability of the plantlets and are being used in breeding of experimental hybrids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acacia mangium Willd., a leguminous tree species of the sub-family mimosoideae and native of North Queens land, Australia, along with Acacia auriculaeformis is finding wide acceptance for afforestation and adaptable to widely differing soils on degraded land and on hill slopes overgrown with weeds. Because of fast growth and straight bole it has achieved wide popularity and many planters, progressive farmers and forest departments have raised the plantation in Gujarat, Orissa, Karnataka, Kerala and in many parts of the country. As this species is raised for pulp and paper, several enquiries are received from the above said planters and forest departments about its properties and engineering utility and suitability of this species for its commercial uses. Therefore, various anatomical, physical and mechanical properties of 18-year-old plantation grown A. mangium Willd. from Orissa have been studied to evaluate the wood quality parameters for recommending the timber for various end use applications. The timber exhibits distinct sapwood and heartwood. The heartwood is brownish yellow in colour, medium textured and lustrous. Based on testing results on physical and mechanical properties, suitability indices were computed and timber is classified as extremely heavy, hard, very strong, tough, and liable to warp and crack badly. The wood is found suitable for furniture, door and window frames and shutters and utility items for household goods like tables, teapoys etc. The experience of artisans working in the handicraft design and development centers has indicated the potential of the timber for making export orientated artifacts because of the glossy and smooth surface finish after polishing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Klinefelter’s syndrome is a sex chromosomal aneuploidy caused by an addition of X chromosome in males (47,XXY).Variants of this syndrome with X and Y polygamy are of rare occurrence. Here we describe a rare case of 48, XXXY Klinefelter’s variant from South India with a reported incidence of 1 per 17,000 to 1 per 50,000 male births. The presence of an extra X chromosome/s in these individuals has a great impact on the physical and cognitive functions, which could be attributed to gene dosage effects and genes involved in neurogenic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calcium plays an important role in the pathophysiology of essential hypertension. Serum calcium levels were measured in 117 subjects with essential hypertension and 77 first-degree relatives. The results showed that serum calcium levels were significantly (p<0.01) decreased in both males and females with essential hypertension and their first-degree relatives when compared with the normotensive controls. This is the first study in Indian population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 118 cases of microcephaly were clinically evaluated under two main groups: primary microcephaly (61 cases) and secondary microcephaly (57 cases). Secondary cases were generally characterized by convulsions, spasticity, and other congenital anomalies. Estimates of segregation frequency obtained separately in primary and secondary cases indicated that the primary consanguineous cases were most probably due to a single recessive gene. The segregation frequency was substantially less in other types, indicating much lower genetic risks in these cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]