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Sequence analysis is a computational biology method to study protein sequences by comparing amino acids of one protein sequence with the other (residual level comparison). This study reveals a new concept of comparing protein sequences at their basic atomic level. Aquaporins from various origin were compared at their atomic level and the study revealed that all the aquaporin proteins have a closed range of 31.0% to 34.2% of carbon atoms irrespective of their origin and amino acid sequence. Further the protein interaction and functional enrichment analysis of AQP7 showed significant interaction with glycerol kinase and ATP-sensitive inward rectifier potassium channel protein. Our insilico analysis on aquaporin proteins exposed that nature tends to maintain the overall carbon atom composition in the proteins regardless of their amino acid sequence composition which could be further used for their classification. Also, the most highly interacting partners for AQPs are the potassium buffering channel proteins.

A deficiency of the essential macronutrient sulfur leads to stunted plant growth and yield loss; however, an association with a symbiotic fungus can greatly improve nutrient uptake by the host plant. Here, we identified and functionally characterized a high-affinity sulfate transporter from the endophytic fungus Serendipita indica. SiSulT fulfills all the criteria expected of a functional sulfate transporter responding to sulfur limitation: SiSulT expression was induced when S. indica was grown under low-sulfate conditions, and heterologous expression of SiSulT complemented a yeast mutant lacking sulfate transport. We generated a knockdown strain of SiSulT by RNA interference to investigate the consequences of the partial loss of this transporter for the fungus and the host plant (maize, Zea mays) during colonization. Wild-type (WT) S. indica, but not the knockdown strain (kd-SiSulT), largely compensated for low-sulfate availability and supported plant growth. Colonization by WT S. indica also allowed maize roots to allocate precious resources away from sulfate assimilation under low-sulfur conditions, as evidenced by the reduction in expression of most sulfate assimilation genes. Our study illustrates the utility of the endophyte S. indica in sulfur nutrition research and offers potential avenues for agronomically sound amelioration of plant growth in low-sulfate environments.

Every industry objective is to improve quality as well as productivity of manufacturing product. Casting defects is one and the only limitation in any casting process. Sand casting process too suffers from the same problem. Finding out the optimum condition towards acquiring minimum casting defects is very critical. The normal method that most of the companies use is the trial and error method. But due to limitations like error prone results, expensive and time consuming, this method causes too much cost to company. In this paper, an attempt has been made to minimize the casting defects by following right practices in the sand casting process. It was found from Casting defects and their remedies that defects can be minimised by controlling the quality of moulding sand such as sand grain size, clay content and moisture percentage. From sand testing, it was found that the clay content in the moulding sand was very high and the size of sand particles was coarse. It resulted in various sand casting defects such as blow holes, shrinkage, sand inclusions, etc. It is very important to provide preventive action to improve quality as well as productivity an industrial level. By following right practices such as proper melt treatment, optimum sand quality, right pouring temperature the sand casting defects can be reduced successfully.

Pseudomonas protegens strain BNJ-SS-45 possesses potential to secrete multiple antifungal molecules and other metabolites. To expand its metabolic potential, herein, an attempt has been made to characterize rhamnolipid and siderophore molecules. The analysis of purified biosurfactants using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) revealed different congeners where mono-rhamnolipids Rha-C10-C14:1/Rha-C12-C12:1, Rha-C10-C12/Rha-C12-C10, Rha-C12-C12/Rha- H2O C10-C14/Rha-C14-C10, Rha-C10-C10:1/Rha-C10:1-C10, Rha-C10-C12:1/Rha-C12:1-C10 are present. Structural investigation of XAD-4 purified siderophores using liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC–MS-QTOF) analysis revealed the presence of isoquinoline N oxide as a chromophore. Using response surface methodology for optimization a sustainable increase in the level of metabolites is achieved and resulted in 81% and 66% enhancement in rhamnolipids and siderophores level in a 7 L fermentor respectively. Rhamnolipids obtained also exhibited antagonistic activity against both pathogenic fungi and bacteria. These are promising candidates to be used as biocontrol agents especially due to their biodegradable and eco-friendly nature.

Rationale: Patients with fibrotic interstitial lung disease often progress to the point of requiring supplemental oxygen. This is invariably accompanied by an impaired quality of life and limitatio...

The COVID-19 global pandemic has caused millions of infections and deaths despite mitigation efforts that involve physical distancing, mask-wearing, avoiding indoor gatherings and increasing indoor ventilation. The purpose of this study was to compare ways to improve indoor ventilation and assess its effect on artificially generated aerosol counts. It was hypothesized that inbuilt kitchen vents would be more effective in reducing indoor aerosol counts than opening windows alone. A fixed amount of saline aerosol was dispersed in the experimental area using a nebulizer under constant temperature and a narrow range of humidity. A laser air quality monitor was used to record small particle counts every 30 minutes from baseline to 120 minutes for four different experimental groups for each combination of kitchen vents and windows. The results of the study demonstrate that aerosol counts were lowest with the kitchen exhaust vents on. This study suggests that liberal use of home exhaust systems like the kitchen vents could achieve significantly more air exchange than open windows alone and may present an effective solution to improving indoor ventilation, especially during the colder months when people tend to congregate indoors in closed spaces. There were no safety concerns involved when conducting this experiment.

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is rare disorder caused by a SERPING1 gene mutation that triggers severe swelling of the skin and upper airway. Treatment options for HAE with deficient and dysfunctional C1-inhibitor are expanding to include small-molecule drugs that inhibit protein interactions in the kallikrein-kinin system. Discovered by BioCryst Pharmaceuticals, BCX7353 is a synthetic, once-daily, small molecule drug that can be taken as an oral capsule to treat HAE attacks and for prophylaxis. This article will summarize recent and current BCX7353 clinical trials. Overall, results indicate BCX7353 is a promising form of therapy with a rapid 1 h onset of action, long duration of action, and acceptable tolerance.

Daily intravenous arsenic trioxide administered with all-trans retinoid acid, the standard-of-care for acute promyelocytic leukemia, is costly and challenging to administer. ORH-2014 is a novel, oral arsenic trioxide formulation, consisting of micron-size drug particles with rapid dissolution and high bioavailability. We conducted a multicenter phase 1 dose-escalating study in patients with advanced hematologic malignancies. Twelve patients received ORH-2014 at 5 mg (n=3), 10 mg (n=6), or 15 mg (n=3) orally once a day (fasted state). Objectives were to assess the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of ORH-2014 to support a dose recommendation for future trials. The median age of the patients was 77 years (range: 45-81) and they had received a median of two (range: 1-5) prior therapies. There were no dose limiting toxicities and no drug-related severe adverse events, except one grade III QT prolongation occurring beyond the dose limiting toxicity assessment period and resolving after treatment interruption. ORH-2014 steady-state plasma concentration was reached on day 15. ORH-2014, 15 mg Cmax was comparable to the calculated approved dose of intravenous arsenic trioxide (mean [% coefficient of variation]: 114 [21%] vs. 124 [60%] ng/mL) and area under the curve from 0 to 24 hours was 2,140 (36%) versus 1,302 (30%) h*ng/mL. These results indicate that ORH-2014 at 15 mg is safe, bioavailable, and provides the required arsenic exposure compared to intravenous arsenic trioxide at the approved dose (0.15 mg/kg); this ORH-2014 dose is recommended for future trials. (NCT03048344; www.clin-icaltrials.gov).

Hereditary angioedema with C1 esterase inhibitor deficiency is a rare disorder characterized by unpredictable swelling of the face, larynx and gastrointestinal tract. Kallikreins are serine proteases that cleave kininogens to produce bradykinin leading to inflammation. A new prophylactic drug is lanadelumab (DX-2930, SHP-643), a recombinant, fully human IgG1 monoclonal antibody kallikrein inhibitor. Pharmacokinetics show a half-life of 14 days with a dose-dependent effect. Completed trials for lanadelumab include two Phase III studies with updated efficacy in preventing angioedema in hereditary angioedema patients. Ongoing data show the safety of the targeted therapy along with less frequent administration requirements. Information on long-term safety is still needed, as well as, further studies on the correlation of subcutaneous administered dosing requirements and severity of side effects.

Phosphate is an indispensable metabolite in a wide variety of cells and is involved in nucleotide and lipid synthesis, signaling, and chemical energy storage. Proton-coupled phosphate transporters within the major facilitator family are crucial for phosphate uptake in plants and fungi. Similar proton-coupled phosphate transporters have been found in different protozoan parasites that cause human diseases, in breast cancer cells with elevated phosphate demand, in osteoclast-like cells during bone reabsorption, and in human intestinal Caco2BBE cells for phosphate homeostasis. However, the mechanism of proton-driven phosphate transport remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate in a eukaryotic, high-affinity phosphate transporter from Piriformospora indica (PiPT) that deprotonation of aspartate 324 (D324) triggers phosphate release. Quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics molecular dynamics simulations combined with free energy sampling have been employed here to identify the proton transport pathways from D324 upon the transition from the occluded structure to the inward open structure and phosphate release. The computational insights so gained are then corroborated by studies of D45N and D45E amino acid substitutions via mutagenesis experiments. Our findings confirm the function of the structurally predicted cytosolic proton exit tunnel and suggest insights into the role of the titratable phosphate substrate.

BACKGROUND: Riociguat and phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5i), approved for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), act on the same pathway via different mechanisms. Riociguat might be an alternative option for patients with PAH who do not respond sufficiently to treatment with PDE5i, but comparisons of the potential benefits of riociguat and PDE5i in these patients are needed. The aim of this trial was to assess the effects of switching to riociguat from PDE5i therapy versus continued PDE5i therapy in patients with PAH at intermediate risk of 1-year mortality.METHODS: Riociguat rEplacing PDE5i therapy evaLuated Against Continued PDE5i thErapy (REPLACE) was an open-label, randomised controlled trial in 81 hospital-based pulmonary hypertension centres in 22 countries. The study enrolled patients aged 18-75 years with symptomatic PAH at intermediate risk of 1-year mortality (based on the European Society for Cardiology-European Respiratory Society guideline thresholds for WHO functional class and 6-min walk distance [6MWD]) who were receiving treatment with a PDE5i with or without an endothelin receptor antagonist for at least 6 weeks before randomisation. Patients were excluded if they had been previously treated with riociguat, had used prostacyclin analogues or prostacyclin receptor agonists within 30 days before randomisation, had clinically significant restrictive or obstructive parenchymal lung disease, or had left heart disease. Patients were randomly assigned (1:1) to remain on PDE5i treatment (oral sildenafil [≥60 mg per day] or oral tadalafil [20-40 mg per day]; the PDE5i group) or to switch to oral riociguat (up to 2·5 mg three times per day; the riociguat group), using an interactive voice and web response system, stratified by cause of PAH. The primary endpoint was clinical improvement by week 24, defined as an absence of clinical worsening and prespecified improvements in at least two of three variables (6MWD, WHO functional class, and N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide), analysed using last observation carried forward in all randomly assigned patients with observed values at baseline and week 24 who received at least one dose of study medication (the full analysis set). Secondary endpoints included clinical worsening events. The trial has been completed and is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02891850.FINDINGS: Between Jan 11, 2017, and July 31, 2019, 293 patients were screened, of which 226 patients were randomly assigned to the riociguat group (n=111) or to the PDE5i group (n=115). 211 patients completed the study and 14 patients discontinued (seven in each group). One patient assigned to the PDE5i group did not receive treatment, so 225 patients were included in the safety analysis, and one further patient in the PDE5i group had missing components of the composite primary endpoint at baseline, so 224 patients were included in the full analysis set. The primary endpoint was met by 45 (41%) of 111 patients in the riociguat group and 23 (20%) of 113 patients in the PDE5i group; odds ratio [OR] 2·78 (95% CI 1·53-5·06; p=0·0007). Clinical worsening events occurred in one (1%) of 111 patients in the riociguat group (hospitalisation due to worsening PAH) and 10 (9%) of 114 patients in the PDE5i group (hospitalisation due to worsening PAH [n=9]; disease progression [n=1]; OR 0·10 [0·01-0·73]; p=0·0047). The most frequently occurring adverse events were hypotension (15 [14%]), headache (14 [13%]), and dyspepsia (10 [9%]) in the riociguat group, and headache (eight [7%]), cough (seven [6%]), and upper respiratory tract infection (seven [6%]) in the PDE5i group. Serious adverse events were reported in eight (7%) of 111 patients in the riociguat group and 19 (17%) of 114 patients in the PDE5i group. During the study, four patients died in the PDE5i group, one of them during the safety follow-up period.INTERPRETATION: Switching to riociguat from PDE5i treatment, both of which act via the nitric oxide-soluble guanylate cyclase-cyclic guanosine monophosphate pathway, could be a strategic option for treatment escalation in patients with PAH at intermediate risk of 1-year mortality.FUNDING: Bayer AG, Merck Sharp & Dohme.

Piriformospora indica is one of the prominent mutualistic root endophyte known to overcome phosphate and nitrogen limitation in a wide variety of plant species, reciprocally takes up carbohydrates for its survival and growth. A total of nineteen potential hexose transporters have been identified from P. indica genome, that may contributes to its potential of carbohydrate assimilation from host plant. Phylogenetic analysis assembles it in 10 groups within 3 clusters. To ease the study, systematic nomenclature were provided to 19 putative hexose transporters as “PiST1-PiST19” in accordance to their appearance on the supercontigs genome sequence of P. indica. The protein length ranges from 487 to 608 amino acids. Out of 19 putative hexose transporters, 9 have been predicted to contain 12 transmembrane domains (PiST1, PiST2, PiST5, PiST6, PiST9, PiST10, PiST11, PiST12 and PiST17), along with MFS family and Sugar porter subfamily motif. Therefore, transcripts were detected for these 9 genes. During colonization, three P. indica genes PiST1, PiST5 and PiST9 have shown induction as compared to axenic culture. Similarly during phosphate starvation, revealed PiST12 to be strongly enhanced. Carbon starvation study in liquid axenic culture resulted in induction of 4 genes, PiST6, PiST9, PiST12 and PiST17. We found co-relation in the expression pattern of PiPT and PiST12 during phosphate starvation. In silico analysis revealed the presence of functional conserved fucose permease (FucP) domain, involved in fructose transport. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that PiST12 groups closely with basidiomycetes hexose transporters. Further, functional complementation of Δhxt null mutant revealed, PiST12 is able to complement growth on fructose and galactose but negligible on glucose.

SUMMARY Bacterial pneumonia is a global healthcare burden, and unwarranted inflammation is suggested as an important cause of mortality. Optimum levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 are essential to reduce inflammation and improve survival in pneumonia. Elevated levels of the mitochondrial-DAMP cardiolipin (CL), reported in tracheal aspirates of pneumonia patients, have been shown to block IL-10 production from lung MDSCs. Although CL-mediated K107 SUMOylation of PPARγ has been suggested to impair this IL-10 production, the mechanism remains elusive. We identify PIAS2 to be the specific E3-SUMOligase responsible for this SUMOylation. Moreover, we identify a concomitant CL-mediated PPARγ S112 phosphorylation, mediated by JNK-MAPK, to be essential for PIAS2 recruitment. Furthermore, using a clinically tested peptide inhibitor targeting JNK-MAPK, we blocked these post-translational modifications (PTMs) of PPARγ and rescued IL-10 expression, improving survival in murine pneumonia models. Thus, we explore the mechanism of mito-DAMP-mediated impaired lung inflammation resolution and propose a therapeutic strategy targeting PPARγ PTMs., Graphical Abstract, In Brief Garg et al. identify the role of post-translational modifications of PPARγ in causing cardiolipin-mediated IL-10 suppression from lung myeloid-derived suppressor cells, thus increasing pneumonia severity. They identify multiple targets to reverse this suppression and improve IL-10 expression and lung inflammation resolution in bacterial pneumonia.

Glaucoma is the second largest cause of permanent blindness all over the world. Glaucoma is marked by change in shape and size of optic disc (OD) and optic cup (OC). Contrast enhancement is necessary to improve the visuality of OD and OC in images for early detection, screening and timely treatment planning of glaucoma. Morphological filters are adapted for the contrast enhancement of the retinal fundus images. Combination of morphological filters such as top-hat transform and bottom-hat transform are considered for enhancement of retinal fundus images. The quality of the improvement of the image can be determined by the use of measure of enhancement (EME). The resultant enhanced images have been obtained with the increased value of EME indicating that enhancement has been done.

The strategies and experimental approaches that led the author to demonstrate the role of auxin in caulonema differentiation in the protonema of the moss Funaria hygrometrica are discussed. In stationary suspension cultures, the status of cell differentiation is regulated by inoculum cell density and auxin level. At low inoculum cell densities, 2-5 µM indole acetic acid (IAA) led to the differentiation of 65-70% caulonema filaments in 5-6 days. Caulonema can also differentiate in auxin-free medium if buffered at pH 5.0 after a lag of 6±1 days. The duration of lag can be manipulated and the cells are capable of responding to auxin at a higher level (3-10 µM) and produce about 20% caulonema after 3 days. This responsiveness or sensitivity to auxin can be enhanced further by growing cells in a nutrient-limited medium buffered at pH 5.0. In this medium, addition of 3 µM IAA led to the differentiation of 75-80% caulonema and rhizoids within 3 to 4 days. Work done in other laboratories has shown that auxin promotes caulonema differentiation in the moss Physcomitrella patens by positively regulating two basic helix-loop-helix type of transcription factor genes namely root hair defective six-like1 (PpRSL1) and PpRSL2 (Jang and Dolan 2011, New Phytologist 192: 319-327).

The properties of jute- and chicken-feather-fiber (CFF)-reinforced polymer hybrid composites have been investigated experimentally. The scanning electron microscopy was used to analyze their failure under various loading conditions and the morphology of fracture surface. The composite specimens were finally characterized using the multiple criteria decision making technique TOPSIS.

Context Phosphate has gained recognition as a risk factor for adverse cardiovascular outcomes, potentially due to accelerated vascular calcification. Fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23) is a counter-regulatory hormone that increases renal phosphate excretion to maintain normal levels. Objective The purpose of the study was to determine the association of phosphate and FGF-23 to atherosclerosis. Design and Setting A prospective cohort study (n = 204) of outpatients referred for coronary angiography over of a 1-year recruitment period at the Kingston General Hospital. Intervention Blood was collected, and a focused carotid ultrasound was performed. Main Outcome Measure Degree of angiographic coronary artery disease was scored. Carotid maximum plaque height, total area, grayscale median, and tissue pixel distribution were measured. Plasma phosphate was assessed by mineral assay and FGF-23 by ELISA. Results Carotid plaque burden [total plaque area (TPA)] was associated with higher levels of phosphate (TPA, r = 0.20, P < 0.01) and FGF-23 (r = 0.19, P < 0.01). FGF-23 was associated with increased plaque % calcium-like tissue. Participants with no coronary artery disease had significantly lower phosphate levels. Phosphate was associated with higher grayscale median (GSM) in male subjects but with lower GSM in female subjects. FGF-23 was associated with increased plaque % fat in male subjects but increased plaque % calcium in female subjects. Conclusions Phosphate was independently associated with the severity of atherosclerosis in terms of plaque burden and composition. FGF-23 was associated with plaque calcification. These findings suggest that abnormal phosphate homeostasis may play an under-recognized but potentially modifiable role in cardiovascular disease.

Ground and airborne gamma ray spectrometers are routinely used in uranium exploration for search of deposits and lithological mapping. These systems are calibrated using standard concrete calibration pads which are constructed with known concentrations of K, U and Th and simulate the infinite source geometry for gamma ray survey instruments. In India Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research, a constituent of Department of Atomic Energy created such calibration facility at Nagpur civil Airport in 1984 and maintained it till date. The cost of maintaining these old pads is very high, therefore we have constructed new transportable calibration pads which are much smaller in size (1m x 1m x 30cm) and also transportable to field areas. Five pads namely Background pad, potassium pad, uranium pad, thorium pad and composite pad have been constructed. These are made of concrete spiked with pre determined concentrations of radio-elements uranium, thorium and potassium. These transportable calibration pads are 750kg in weight and are mounted on a trolley. This has eliminated the need for large standard calibration pads, which needed an airport with very high land leasing costs and thereby reducing the maintenance cost significantly. A very distinctive feature of designed transportable pads as compared to pads worldwide, is the achievement of high density and high compressive strength. This high density has resulted in higher sensitivity thereby improving the statistical accuracy of calibration. This has also resulted in reducing the fluctuations in calibration due to moisture in field condition. Another distinctive feature is the achievement of higher potassium concentration > 8.0% in potassium pad. Creation of this new calibration facility has resulted in substantial savings to government exchequer by eliminating the need of the airport. This has enabled calibration in the field areas with easy transportability and thereby reducing the downtime of the survey operations in uranium exploration. This paper describes the design and fabrication of transportable calibration pads in India.

Ultrasound controlled drug delivery and release has attracted increased attention for targeted delivery of drug. In this report, we present a strategy for targeted drug delivery by using ultrasound to image the location of drug carriers, as well as simultaneously controlling the release rate of drug from elastic eccentric microcapsules (EEMs), based on their mode shapes (MSs) and resonant natural frequencies (NFs). We prepared a series of EEMs with various diameters of inner spherical cavities using a microfluidic chip. The EEMs could be visualized by an ultrasound imaging system within a tissue mimic (i.e. phantom). Using theoretical modeling techniques, we investigated the effects of MSs and NFs on the resonant modes of EEMs. Guided by this modelling, we applied external ultrasonic stimuli at various levels of low frequency to regulate the release rate of Rhodamine 6G (R6G, as a model drug) from EEMs. To further demonstrate the control of drug release and evaluate the efficacy of the encapsulated drugs on cancer cells, we released an anticancer drug, doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX), from the EEMs and tested the viability of cancer cells in vitro. The results show that this novel strategy holds great promise towards development of a controlled drug release system visualized and triggered by ultrasound.

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a major cause of dementia in older adults and is fast becoming a major societal and economic burden due to an increase in life expectancy. Age seems to be the major factor driving AD, and currently, only symptomatic treatments are available. AD has a complex etiology, although mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, inflammation, and metabolic abnormalities have been widely and deeply investigated as plausible mechanisms for its neuropathology. Aβ plaques and hyperphosphorylated tau aggregates, along with cognitive deficits and behavioral problems, are the hallmarks of the disease. Restoration of mitochondrial bioenergetics, prevention of oxidative stress, and diet and exercise seem to be effective in reducing Aβ and in ameliorating learning and memory problems. Many mitochondria-targeted antioxidants have been tested in AD and are currently in development. However, larger streamlined clinical studies are needed to provide hard evidence of benefits in AD. This review discusses the causative factors, as well as potential therapeutics employed in the treatment of AD.

Sulfur is an important macronutrient required for the growth, development of plants and is a key component of many metabolic pathways. We have functionally characterized a high-affinity sulphate transporter (PiSulT) from an endophytic fungusSerendipita indica. ThePiSulTbelongs to the major facilitator superfamily (MFS) of membrane transporter. ThePiSulTfunctionally complements the yeast sulphate transporter mutant HK14.PiSulTis a high-affinity sulphate transporter, havingKm15μM. We found enhanced expression ofPiSulTin external fungal hyphae which helps the fungus in the acquisition of sulphate from the soil. When knockdown (KD)-PiSulT-P.indicacolonized with the plant, it results in an 8-fold reduction in the transfer of sulphate to the colonized plants as compared to the plants colonized with the WTS. indica, which suggests thatPiSulTis playing a role in sulphate transfer from soil to host plant. Further, plants colonized with the WTS. indicawere found to be healthy in comparison to the plants colonized with the KD-PiSulT-P.indica. Additionally,S. indicacolonization provides a positive effect on total sulfur content and on plant metabolites like sulfate ions and glutathione, particularly under low sulphate condition. We observed that the expression of sulfur assimilation pathway genes ofS. indicaand plant is dependent on the availability of sulphate and on the colonization with the plant. Our study highlights the importance ofPiSulTin the improvement of sulfur nutrition of host plant particularly under low sulphate condition and in plant growth development. This study will open new vistas to useS. indicaas a bio-fertilizer in the sulphate deficient field to improve crop production.One-Sentence SummaryHigh-affinity sulphate transporter ofSerendipita indica(PiSulT) transfer sulphate from soil to plant under low sulphate condition and improve plant growth and development.

Pseudomonas protegens strain W45 recovered from rhizosphere of wheat possesses potential to produce an antifungal compound in the culture medium. Therefore, to enhance its production, statistical optimization of medium was employed. Peptone, glycerol and incubation period were identified as significant variables affecting its production. These variables were further optimized by response surface methodology that resulted in 38% enhancement in inhibition zone with optimal values of 2.5%, 1.49% and 48 h for peptone, glycerol and incubation period, respectively. PCR amplification by gene specific primers for phloroglucinol, pyrrolnitrin and pyoluteorin resulted in amplicon of 745, 719 and 773 bp respectively, confirming the presence of all three genes. Antifungal compound was purified by thin layer chromatography. Gas chromatography mass spectrometry analysis of the methanolic extract reveals the presence of pyrrole type antifungal molecule 3-(2-methylpropyl)-hexahydropyrrolo [1,2-a]pyrazine-1,4-dione (C11H18N2O2). The compound significantly inhibited the growth of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum.

Serum phosphate independently predicts cardiovascular events and mortality. Sixteen healthy adults and 9 adults with cardiovascular disease (CVD) ingested 500 mg of sodium phosphate after an over-night fast. In control subjects, the urine phosphate/creatinine ratio was significantly higher at 2 h (3.12 ± 1.02) than at baseline (1.98 ± 0.58, p < 0.001) but no change was observed in CVD patients. Decreased postprandial urinary excretion of phosphate could accelerate vascular calcification and may be an under-recognized risk factor for CVD.

Despite the advent of anticoccidial drugs and vaccines, coccidiosis continues to result in substantial economic losses to the poultry industry. Berberine, a natural alkaloid is well known in studies involving synergistic approaches, thereby reducing the dosage of principal drugs. Therefore, a study was designed to see whether a synergistic anticoccidial effect could be obtained between amprolium and berberine, in vivo using broiler chicken. Anticoccidial activity was measured in comparison to the reference drug amprolium on the basis of oocyst output reduction, mean weight gain and feed conversion ratio. Oocyst output was measured using Mc-Masters counting technique. Different combinations of berberine and amprolium were tested and out of which 1:1 ratio was the most effective for controlling these parasites. Oral gavaging of 100(50 + 50) mg/kg body weight of 1:1 ratio of amprolium and berberine caused the equivalent reduction in number of oocysts (38.85 ± 9.61) one day prior to that of standard drug amprolium (49.95 ± 16.65) as well as pure berberine (44.4 ± 9.61) used in the study. Weight gain of birds was also highest in the synergistic group (1547.43 ± 12.86) among all the infected groups. Besides feed conversion ratio in the synergistic group was also better (1.387 ± 0.026). The results of this study proved the effectiveness of both amprolium and berberine and revealed synergism between amprolium and berberine against coccidian oocysts, confirmed by significant reduction in the number of coccidian oocysts shed in the feces, leading to better weight gain and improved feed conversion ratio. The study deep-rooted the synergistic potential of berberine, a natural bioactive compound for controlling a protozoan parasite and the results of this study corroborate with its use for treatment of severe diarrhoea, amoebiasis and intestinal infections.

The current work presents the synthesis and properties of cerium doped magnetite (Fe 3 O 4 ) nanoparticles synthesized by standard chemical co-precipitation method using NH 4 OH as co-precipitating agent. The effects of cerium ion substitution on structural and magnetic properties of magnetite (Fe 3 O 4 ) nanoparticles were reported. These materials were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The cerium content has a significant influence on structural and magnetic properties. The X-ray diffraction study confirmed the formation of single-phase magnetite with space group Fd 3 m and crystallite size ranging from 39 to 58 nm. The addition of cerium resulted in a reduction of crystallite size and an increase of cell parameters. FTIR measurements confirmed the formation of different samples and suggested that the reduction of Fe +3 to Fe +2 preferred on a site adjacent to Ce +4 . Magnetic measurements revealed that the saturation magnetization (Ms) and remanence (M r ) decreased while the coercivity (H C ) and squareness (M r /M S ) increased with increasing cerium content.

Because pure cultures and a stable transformation system are not available for arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, the role of their phosphate transporters for the symbiotic interaction with the plant up till now could not be studied. Here we report the cloning and the functional analysis of a gene encoding a phosphate transporter (PiPT) from the root endophytic fungus Piriformospora indica, which can be grown axenically. The PiPT polypeptide belongs to the major facilitator superfamily. Homology modeling reveals that PiPT exhibits twelve transmembrane helices divided into two halves connected by a large hydrophilic loop in the middle. The function of the protein encoded by PiPT was confirmed by complementation of a yeast phosphate transporter mutant. The kinetic analysis of PiPT (K(m) 25 mum) reveals that it belongs to the high affinity phosphate transporter family (Pht1). Expression of PiPT was localized to the external hyphae of P. indica colonized with maize plant root, which suggests that external hyphae are the initial site of phosphate uptake from the soil. To understand the physiological role of PiPT, knockdown transformants of the gene were prepared using electroporation and RNA interference. Knockdown transformants transported a significantly lower amount of phosphate to the host plant than wild-type P. indica. Higher amounts of phosphate were found in plants colonized with wild-type P. indica than that of non-colonized and plants colonized with knockdown PiPT P. indica. These observations suggest that PiPT is actively involved in the phosphate transportation and, in turn, P. indica helps improve the nutritional status of the host plant.

Main text Carbon monoxide (CO) in nitrogen was one of the first types of gas mixtures used in an international key comparison. This comparison dates back to 1998 (CCQM-K1a) [1]. Another key comparison on carbon monoxide is the CCQM-K51 at the lower amount fraction of 5 μmol/mol. Since then, many National Metrology Institutes (NMIs) have developed Calibration and Measurement Capabilities (CMCs) for these mixtures. Recently, NMIs in the APMP region have actively participated in international comparisons to provide domestic services. At the 2017 APMP meeting, several NMIs requested a CO comparison to establish CO/N2 certification for supporting industrial needs, which was to be coordinated by KRISS. Consequently, this supplementary comparison provides an opportunity for APMP regional NMIs to meet their industrial needs. It is a replica of APMP.QM-S9.[2] To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database https://www.bipm.org/kcdb/. The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCQM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

Main text Carbon dioxide (CO2) in nitrogen was one of the first types of gas mixtures performed at an international key comparison. The comparison dates back to 1998 (CCQMK1a) [1]. Since then, many National Metrology Institutes (NMIs) have developed Calibration and Measurement Capabilities (CMCs) for these mixtures. The international comparison of CO2 at ambient level through CCQM-K52 was compared in 2007 [2]. Recently, NMIs in the APMP region have focused on developing emission standards for regulating CO2 released by various powered vehicles such as automobiles (motor cars). At the 2017 APMP meeting, several NMIs requested a CO2/N2 comparison to establish their own standards related with automotive regulation, which was to be coordinated by KRISS. Consequently, this comparison provides a CMC for APMP regional NMIs to develop CO2/N2 CMC claim. To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database https://www.bipm.org/kcdb/. The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCQM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

8-oxo-2'-deoxyguanosine (OdG) is a prominent DNA lesion that can direct the incorporation of dCTP or dATP during replication. As the latter reaction can lead to mutation, the ratio of dCTP/dATP incorporation can significantly affect the mutagenic potential of OdG. Previous work with the A-family polymerase BF and seven analogues of OdG identified a major groove amino acid, Ile716, which likely influences the dCTP/dATP incorporation ratio opposite OdG. To further probe the importance of this amino acid, dCTP and dATP incorporations opposite the same seven analogues were tested with two BF mutants, I716M and I716A. Results from these studies support the presence of clashing interactions between Ile716 and the C8-oxygen and C2-amine during dCTP and dATP incorporations, respectively. Crystallographic analysis suggests that residue 716 alters the conformation of the template base prior to insertion into the active site, thereby affecting enzymatic efficiency. These results are also consistent with previous work with A-family polymerases, which indicate they have tight, rigid active sites that are sensitive to template perturbations.

Grayscale pixel ranges from ultrasound images, indicating differences in atherosclerotic plaque echogenicity, have been shown to represent different tissue types. Our objective was to determine whether carotid plaque composition was correlated with severity of coronary artery disease (CAD) and risk of cardiovascular (CV) events.A focused carotid ultrasound was performed in 522 participants who had recently undergone coronary angiography. In 468 participants found to have atherosclerotic plaque in at least one carotid artery, plaque composition was assessed for tissue-like types: grayscale ranges 0-4 (blood), 8-26 (fat), 41-76 (muscle), 112-196 (fibrous), and 211-255 (calcium). Logistic regression was used to evaluate correlations with significant CAD (≥50% stenosis). Cox proportional hazards models were used to determine risk for 5-year CV outcomes.Carotid plaque percent fibrous and percent calcium increased with severity of CAD (P .02). When adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and traditional cardiac risk factors, maximum plaque height and percent calcium remained independent contributors of significant CAD (P .01). Plaque height (≥2.74 mm), percent calcium (≥0.11%), and percent fat (11.6%) were associated with increased risk for CV events. Combined plaque height and percent fat gave the highest risk for events (risk ratio = 2.02; CI, 1.41-2.94, P = .0002).Carotid plaque fibrous and calcium-like tissues are correlated with increased CAD. Increased percent fat or percent calcium is associated with risk for CV events; however, a combination of plaque height, percent calcium, and/or percent fat increases risk for CV events. Incorporating ultrasound carotid plaque composition into screening practice may improve patient risk stratification for heart disease.

Here, we present the draft genome sequence of Pseudomonas protegens strain BNJ-SS-45, which was isolated from wheat rhizosphere. The genome is assembled with 7,116,445 bp with a GC content of 63.34% consisting of 32 scaffolds., Here, we present the draft genome sequence of Pseudomonas protegens strain BNJ-SS-45, which was isolated from wheat rhizosphere. The genome is assembled with 7,116,445 bp with a GC content of 63.34% consisting of 32 scaffolds. The genome is useful in prediction of secondary metabolites, particularly rhizoxin, pyoverdine, and bacteriocin.

The pulverized A. cosmosus peel was found to contain 25 ± 0.31 % cellulose, 28 ± 0.18 % hemicellulose and 8 ± 0.07 % of lignin on dry solid basis. 1 % H2SO4 delignified A. cosmosus peel yielded 38.81 % xylose, 29.31 % fructose and 18.89 % glucose under steam explosion, with a hydrolytic efficiency of 75.52 %. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy results not only indicated the penetration of H2SO4 in the amorphous region of the biomass and degradation of hemicelluloses but also shows the structural differences before and after pretreatment. Simultaneous Saccharification and Fermentation of pretreated A. cosmosus peel by cellulase and Mucor indicus MTCC 4349 were investigated in the present study. Important process variables for ethanol production from pretreated A. cosmosus peel were optimized using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) based on central composite design (CCD) experiments. A three level CCD experiments with central and axial points was used to develop a statistical model for the optimization of process variables such as incubation temperature (30, 32 and 34 °C) X1, inoculum level (2, 4 and 6 %) X2 and nutrients (1/2/3) X3. Data obtained from RSM on ethanol production were subjected to the analysis of variance and analyzed using a second order polynomial equation and contour plots were used to study the interactions among three relevant variables of the fermentation process. The fermentation experiments were carried out at flask level. The processing parameters setup for reaching a maximum response for ethanol production was obtained when applying the optimum values for temperature (30 °C), inoculum level (2 %) and fermentation medium (urea, NaH2PO4, tryptone and meat extract) for Mucor indicus MTCC 4349. Maximum ethanol concentration 10.4293 g/l was obtained after 72 h from Mucor indicus MTCC 4349 at the optimized process conditions in aerobic batch fermentation.

Pulverized sugarcane bagasse consists of 37 ± 0.29 % cellulose, 28 ± 0.26 % hemicellulose, and 21 ± 0.28 % lignin on dry solid basis. About 11.58 % xylose, 6.39 % glucose, and 4.56 % fructose were liberated in hydrolysate when bagasse was treated with 1 % HNO3, under steam explosion. Simultaneous saccharification and fermentation of pretreated bagasse by cellulase and Pachysolen tannophilus MTCC 1077 were investigated in the present study. Important process variables for ethanol production from pretreated bagasse were optimized using response surface methodology based on central composite design (CCD) experiments. A three-level CCD experiments with central and axial points was used to develop a statistical model for the optimization of process variables. Data obtained from RSM on ethanol production were further subjected to the analysis of variance, and contour plots were used to study the interactions among three relevant variables (incubation temperature, inoculum concentration, and nutrient factors) of the fermentation process. Maximum ethanol concentration 9.15 g/l was obtained after 72-h incubation with P. tannophilus MTCC 1077 at the optimized process conditions in anaerobic batch fermentation when optimum values for temperature (34 °C), inoculum level (6 %), and fermentation medium (ammonium sulfate, KH2PO4, peptone, and yeast extract) were applied.

The mammalian homeostatic oxygen sensing system (HOSS) initiates changes in vascular tone, respiration, and neurosecretion that optimize oxygen uptake and tissue oxygen delivery within seconds of detecting altered environmental or arterial PO2. The HOSS includes carotid body type 1 cells, adrenomedullary cells, neuroepithelial bodies, and smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in pulmonary arteries (PAs), ductus arteriosus (DA), and fetoplacental arteries. Hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (HPV) optimizes ventilation-perfusion matching. In utero, HPV diverts placentally oxygenated blood from the non-ventilated lung through the DA. At birth, increased alveolar and arterial oxygen tension dilates the pulmonary vasculature and constricts the DA, respectively, thereby transitioning the newborn to an air-breathing organism. Though modulated by endothelial-derived relaxing and constricting factors, O2 sensing is intrinsic to PASMCs and DASMCs. Within the SMC's dynamic mitochondrial network, changes in PO2 alter the reduction-oxidation state of redox couples (NAD(+)/NADH, NADP(+)/NADPH) and the production of reactive oxygen species, ROS (e.g., H2O2), by complexes I and III of the electron transport chain (ETC). ROS and redox couples regulate ion channels, transporters, and enzymes, changing intracellular calcium [Ca(2+)]i and calcium sensitivity and eliciting homeostatic responses to hypoxia. In PASMCs, hypoxia inhibits ROS production and reduces redox couples, thereby inhibiting O2-sensitive voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels, depolarizing the plasma membrane, activating voltage-gated calcium channels (CaL), increasing [Ca(2+)]i, and causing vasoconstriction. In DASMCs, elevated PO2 causes mitochondrial fission, increasing ETC complex I activity and ROS production. The DASMC's downstream response to elevated PO2 (Kv channel inhibition, CaL activation, increased [Ca(2+)]i, and rho kinase activation) is similar to the PASMC's hypoxic response. Impaired O2 sensing contributes to human diseases, including pulmonary arterial hypertension and patent DA.

Betelvine (Piper betle) leaves are known for its medicinal properties since 600 AD practiced in Ayurvedic system of medicine. It is a cash crop for many Southeast Asian countries and is, therefore, also known as “Green Gold.” Widely consumed as masticator, betelvine leaves are a rich source of phenolic compounds having antiproliferative, antimutagenic, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. The Piper betel leaf (PBL) extract is used as an antiseptic in cuts and wounds, is used as a diuretic, helps in digestion, and treats boils, conjunctivitis, stomach problems, hysteria, itches, leucorrhea, and ringworm. Also, the PBL extract is used as adjunct in Ayurvedic medicines, and the essential oil obtained from the betelvine leaves has antimicrobial and antiprotozoal activities. The high amounts of phenolic compounds present in betelvine leaf extract are of antioxidant nature which plays a key role to serve several medicinal properties. Apart from these medicinal properties reported since Ayurvedic times, modern researches have proved them to bear anticancer properties too. The compounds that confer the anticancer activity to betelvine leaves include antioxidant compounds such as eugenol, hydroxychavicol, β-carotene, and ascorbic acid, all of which are known for scavenging free radicals, thereby preventing cellular damages. In the present chapter, we have discussed the advances in betelvine research in the field of cancer as a cancer suppressor, killing agent for cancer cells, as nutraceutical and other medicinal properties helpful in cancer therapy.

Asthma, like many inflammation related disorders, has a complex etiology. Drugs targeting multiple pathways may prove more efficacious in these complex disorders. Cyclic 3′,5′-adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) phosphodiesterase IV (PDE IV) is one of the validated targets in bronchial asthma and despite availability of some therapeutic molecules targeting PDE IV, molecules with better properties are desired. Eosinophil/neutrophil infiltration into lung may also be an important component of bronchial asthma in which increased expression of epithelial cell adhesion molecules may play an important role. This study describes the synthesis of a novel class of compounds ‘triazine-aryl-bis-indoles’ having a catechol derived structure constituting a part of ‘triazine’ and a part of ‘bis-indole’ moiety on it. This class of molecules potently inhibited both phosphodiesterase IV and expression of cell adhesion molecules ICAM-1 and VCAM-1. The best molecule of this class (compound 11) inhibited PDE IV activity in vitro, with an IC50 value of 14 μM compared to 12.7 μM for an existing drug rolipram. The compound 11 not only stabilized the cAMP level in human lung epithelial cells (L132) following stimulation with forskolin, but also inhibited TNF-α induced expression of cell adhesion molecules such as ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 in human umbilical vein epithelial cells (HUVECs). It also significantly inhibited the adhesion of human neutrophils to the endothelial monolayer (IC50 = 17.86 μM) in a dose dependent manner. Its absolute bioavailability (in mice) was found to be 70% and its toxicity and pharmacokinetic profiles are excellent. The dual activity of this class of molecules suggests that this class of molecules could have broad therapeutic applications in neutrophil dominant diseases such as severe asthma, COPD and acute lung injury.

Piriformospora indica is an endophytic fungus of Sebacinaceae which colonizes the roots of many plant species and confers benefits to the hosts. We demonstrate that approximately 75% of the genes, which respond to P. indica in Arabidopsis roots, differ among seedlings grown on normal phosphate (Pi) or Pi limitation conditions, and among wild-type and the wrky6 mutant impaired in the regulation of the Pi metabolism. Mapman analyses suggest that the fungus activates different signaling, transport, metabolic and developmental programs in the roots of wild-type and wrky6 seedlings under normal and low Pi conditions. Under low Pi, P. indica promotes growth and Pi uptake of wild-type seedlings, and the stimulatory effects are identical for mutants impaired in the PHOSPHATE TRANSPORTERS1;1, -1;2 and -1;4. The data suggest that the fungus does not stimulate Pi uptake, but adapts the expression profiles to Pi limitation in Pi metabolism mutants.

Methane is one of the major greenhouse gases that affect climate change. To mitigate anthropogenic CH4 emissions effectively, it is necessary to measure and monitor CH4 emissions from the production and transport of fossil fuels. Therefore, it is important for NMIs to demonstrate measurement equivalence for the standard gases of CH4. This is the third comparison on methane in nitrogen or air. The first comparison is the key comparison of CCQM-K82 (ambient level methane in air) and the second comparison is the supplementary comparison of APMP.QM-S7 (2000 μmol/mol methane in nitrogen). As a supplementary comparison, the purpose of this comparison is to study the comparability of CH4 standard gas mixtures at emission level (0.05 cmol/mol - 0.5 mol/mol in nitrogen or air). Furthermore, this comparison can provide a link to APMP.QM-S7 through KRISS who participated in both previous comparisons. In this comparison, KRISS prepared gas standards and sent to participants. Each participant measured the standard on their laboratory and reported their measurement results to KRISS according to the measurement protocol. This report describes the results of a supplementary comparison for methane in nitrogen at 2000 μmol/mol. Main text To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/. The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCQM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

Of the total 40 endophytic fungi isolated from foliar tissues of medicinal plant Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni, a fungal isolate, Aspergillus flavipes, was subjected to bioassay guided fractionation. The fractionation was found active against medicinal plant pathogen Sclerotinia sclerotiorum with an inhibition zone of 29 mm in size. Further the metabolite was extracted which shows 20% growth inhibition in 24 h and 46% after 48 h, respectively. Bioassay guided chemical compound was identified as 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, mono(2-ethylhexyl) ester. On the basis of morphological characters and rDNA sequencing of ITS region the endophyte was identified as Aspergillus flavipes which showed promising plant growth promotory properties.

Coccidiosis, caused by various Eimeria species, is a major parasitic disease in chicken. However the increasing resistance of these parasites to currently used anticoccidial drugs has stimulated the search for new methods of control. As part of this effort we investigated the root bark of Berberis lycium (barberry) as a potential source of compounds with anticoccidial activity. In the present study anticoccidial activity of different solvent extracts of the root bark of B. lycium and berberine was evaluated in vivo using broiler chicken. Results of the study demonstrated equipotent efficacy of pure berberine in comparison to that of standard drug amprolium on the basis of reduction in coccidian oocyst output, body weight gain of chicken and feed conversion ratio. Among the extracts crude methanolic extract showed highest anticoccidial activity tested at 300 mg/kg body weight which could be due to the presence of alcohol-soluble active ingredients in root bark of B. lycium. Toxicological studies revealed that B. lycium extracts as well as berberine were not lethal up to dosage of 2000 mg/kg body weight. LD(50) was not determined as mortalities were not recorded in any of the five groups of chicken. From the present study it can be concluded that root bark of B. lycium has the immense potential to contribute to the control of coccidian parasites of chicken. Our results corroborate the use of berberine for treatment of severe diarrhoea, amoebiasis and intestinal infections and could justify its use in folk medicine for treatment of haemorrhagic dysentery.

Background: The relationship between hyperuricemia and diabetes mellitus is proved to be associated with the risk of cardiovascular diseases, but it is unclear whether hyperuricemia is actually related to diabetes.Methods: A 50 patients with newly diagnosed diabetes according to ADA guidelines were selected. Uric acid level and HbA1C levels were measured. Results were calculated with the reference range of uric acid >7.0 mg/dl.Results: The mean serum uric acid level was higher in 72% of the newly diagnosed diabetic patients (36/50).Conclusions: Hyperuricemia seems to be associated with newly diagnosed diabetics. It can be used as a biomarker of deterioration of glucose metabolism.

Microwave cavity spectrometer and time domain reflectometer is used to measure the permittivity and dielectric loss at different temperatures in 2,4-dimethyl substituted pyridine. The observed data of the width of resonance profile and the shift in the resonance frequency have been analyzed using Slater perturbation equations for cavity spectrometer. The dielectric parameters measured from the time domain reflectometer as a function of time at different temperatures have been transformed to frequency domain to obtain the permittivity and dielectric loss. The observed values of the permittivity and dielectric loss at 9.0 GHz are fitted in Slater's perturbation equations to obtain the form factor, which represents interactions. The relaxation time has been evaluated at different temperatures using the ratio of width and twice of frequency shift and thermodynamical parameters have been determined. This experimental study provides fruitful information about the bulk properties of 2,4-dimethyl substituted pyridine.

A study of the dielectric response of dimethyl substituted pyridines (lutidines) has been reported in the temperature range 293-323 K. The microwave cavity spectrometer has been used to measure the relative shift, width and amplitude of the resonance profile for the sample loaded in the cavity operated in TM/sub 010/ mode at a fixed frequency of 9.0 GHz. The Slater's perturbation equations are used to analyze the measured data and permittivity and dielectric loss have been obtained using interaction form factor. Significant effect in the dielectric response and interaction has been found due to change of the position of the -CH/sub 3/ functional groups.

An endophytic fungus identified as Penicillium sp. CPF2 (NFCCI 2862) was used to evaluate the activity of its cellulolytic enzymes to degrade pretreated sugarcane bagasse and characterize the cellulase enzymes. Different substrates were evaluated for optimum cellulase production by CPF2. The best activities for FPase (1.2 IU/ml), endocellulase (19 IU/ml), xylanase (40 IU/ml) and β-glucosidase (2.8 IU/ml) with a protein content of 0.86 mg/ml were observed when cellulose (1.5 % w/v) was used in combination with peptone (0.2 % w/v) in the growth medium. Optimum temperature and pH for the extracellular cellulase production were 28°C and 5.5, respectively. Furthermore the hydrolysis performance of Penicillium cellulase was compared with Trichoderma reesei cellulase (celluclast). Concentrated filtrate (~20 fold) from the fermented broth of CPF2 was able to bring about > 90 % and >63 % hydrolysis of cellulose and steam exploded bagasse (SEB) respectively at 5 % (w/v) substrate concentration in 24 h which was significantly higher than hydrolysis yield obtained with the commercial enzyme Celluclast.