Riaz Ahmad | Government College University, Lahore (original) (raw)

Papers by Riaz Ahmad

Research paper thumbnail of In-gel detection of esterase-like albumin activity: Characterization of esterase-free sera albumin and its putative role as non-invasive biomarker of hepatic fibrosis

Arabian Journal of Chemistry, 2014

ABSTRACT

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of N'-nitrosodimethylamine on red blood cell rheology and proteomic profiles of brain in male albino rats

Interdisciplinary Toxicology, 2011

We investigated the effects of N'-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) induced toxicity on red blood cell ... more We investigated the effects of N'-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) induced toxicity on red blood cell rheology in male rats and identified bands in proteomic profiles of brain which can be used as novel markers. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) profiles exhibited constitutive as well as induced expression of the polypeptides. Remarkably, the molecular weight range of the polypeptides (8-150 kDa) corresponded to that of the family of heat shock proteins. Our results revealed significant changes in blood parameters and showed the presence of acanthocytes, tear drop cells, spicules and cobot rings in the treated categories. Lactate dehydrogenase and esterase zymograms displayed a shift to anaerobic metabolism generating hypoxia-like conditions. This study strongly suggests that NDMA treatment causes acute toxicity leading to cell membrane destruction and alters protein profiles in rats. It is therefore recommended that caution should be exercised in using NDMA to avoid risks, and if at all necessary strategies should be designed to combat such conditions.

Research paper thumbnail of Transcript analyses of the gene associated with CMS in Brassica napus

Euphytica, 2014

We analysed DNA and complementary DNA (cDNA) from two inbred lines (CMS-ARIT121 and CMS-ARIT2) al... more We analysed DNA and complementary DNA (cDNA) from two inbred lines (CMS-ARIT121 and CMS-ARIT2) along with their respective maintainer lines with eight known genes (atpa, atp6, atp9, coxI, coxII, orfB, orf222 and orf224) reported in other cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) systems. DNA analyses indicated that only orf224 was different in the maintainer and CMS in ARIT121. Sequencing analysis indicated that CMS-ARIT121 has a similar sequence to that of polima CMS. However, CMS-ARIT2 was quite unique, with no sequence difference at DNA or cDNA level in all eight candidate genes, with the exception of a two-base substitution in the atp6 gene between the CMS and maintainer lines. The similar amplification pattern with all primers, especially orf224, indicates that CMS-ARIT2 is unique and does not correspond to polima, ogura or nap. However, further research is required to establish the causes of sterility in this cms, since we could not find any significant difference at transcript level between CMS-ARIT2 and its corresponding maintainer line. However, the same restorer PR121 as for CMS-ARIT121 was able to restore CMS-ARIT2, and as such can be used for hybrid seed production in Brassica napus L. Overall, this study provides important information for breeders selecting new cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) in B. napus L. and use of molecular markers to identify CMS lines at early seedling stage that will enhance the B. napus L. breeding program.

Research paper thumbnail of Design and Optimization of multi echelon Green Distribution Network

2011 IEEE 2nd International Conference on Software Engineering and Service Science, 2011

Abstract According to World Bank report, in Pakistan about 360 Billion rupees are being wasted an... more Abstract According to World Bank report, in Pakistan about 360 Billion rupees are being wasted annually due to poor logistic operation.[1] This paper is a small effort for increasing the awareness of making the Green Distribution Network a competitive advantage in ...

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of the Combined Effects of Paecilomyces lilacinus and Trichoderma harzianum Against Root-knot Disease of Tomato

Journal of Biological Sciences, 2001

OnLine Journal of Biological Sciences 1 (3): 139-142, 2001 © Asian Network for Scientific Informa... more OnLine Journal of Biological Sciences 1 (3): 139-142, 2001 © Asian Network for Scientific Information 2001 Evaluation of the Combined Effects of Paecilomyces /¡/acinus and Trichoderma harzianum Against Root-knot Disease of Tomato Hafeez Ullah Khan1, Riaz Ahmad2, Waqar ...

Research paper thumbnail of Improving Wheat Productivity in Calcareous Soils through Band Replacement of Farmyard Manure with Phosphorus

An experiment on band placement of farmyard manure (FYM) with different phosphorus levels on prod... more An experiment on band placement of farmyard manure (FYM) with different phosphorus levels on productivity of wheat was conducted under arid climates during 2005-06 and 2006-07. The crop was sown as per farmyard manure (FYM) treatments viz: 120, 180 and 240 kg ha-1, while phosphorus (P) levels were 60, 90 and 120 kg P2O5 ha -1 in calcareous silty loam

Research paper thumbnail of Genetic Diversity and Spread of Thiobencarb Resistant Early Watergrass ( Echinochloa oryzoides ) in California

Weed Science, 2011

... Phytochem. Bull.19:11–15. Fischer, AJ, CM Ateh, DE Bayer, and JE Hill. 2000. ... Refoufi, A. ... more ... Phytochem. Bull.19:11–15. Fischer, AJ, CM Ateh, DE Bayer, and JE Hill. 2000. ... Refoufi, A. and MA Esnault. 2006. Genetic diversity and population structure of Elytrigia pycnantha (Godr.) (Triticeae) in Mont Saint-Michel Bay using microsatellite markers. Plant Biol.8:234–242. ...

Research paper thumbnail of Glyphosate-Resistant Italian Ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) in California: Distribution, Response to Glyphosate, and Molecular Evidence for an Altered Target Enzyme

Weed Science, 2008

Selection by herbicides has resulted in widespread evolution of herbicide resistance in agricultu... more Selection by herbicides has resulted in widespread evolution of herbicide resistance in agricultural weeds. In California, resistance to glyphosate was first confirmed in rigid ryegrass in 1998. Objectives of this study were to determine the current distribution and level of glyphosate resistance ...

Research paper thumbnail of High density SNP mapping and QTL analysis for fruit quality characteristics in peach (Prunus persica L.)

Tree Genetics & Genomes, 2013

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were used to construct an integrated SNP linkage map of pe... more Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were used to construct an integrated SNP linkage map of peach (Prunus persica (L.) Batsch). A set of 1,536 SNPs were evaluated with the GoldenGate® Genotyping assay in two mapping populations, Pop-DF, and Pop-DG. After genotyping and filtering, a final set of 1,400 high quality SNPs in Pop-DF and 962 in Pop-DG with full map coverage were selected and used to construct two linkage maps with Join-Map®4.0. The Pop-DF map covered 422 cM of the peach genome and included 1,037 SNP markers, and Pop-DG map covered 369 cM and included 738 SNPs. A consensus map was constructed with 588 SNP markers placed in eight linkage groups (n08 for peach), with map coverage of 454 cM and an average distance of 0.81 cM/marker site.

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of AASHTO Rigid Pavement Design Model Using Long-Term Pavement Performance Data Base

Transportation Research Record, 1996

Research paper thumbnail of Fate and behaviour of pesticides in the agroecosystem—a review with a New Zealand perspective

Australian Journal of Soil Research, 2004

Australian Journal of Soil Research, 2004, 42, 125–154 ... Fate and behaviour of pesticides in th... more Australian Journal of Soil Research, 2004, 42, 125–154 ... Fate and behaviour of pesticides in the agroecosystem—a review with a ... Ajit K. SarmahA,C, Karin MüllerB, and Riaz AhmadB ... ALandcare Research New Zealand Ltd, Private Bag 3127, Hamilton, New Zealand. ...

Research paper thumbnail of Understanding the mechanism of hepatic fibrosis and potential therapeutic approaches

Saudi Journal of Gastroenterology, 2012

Hepatic fibrosis (HF) is a progressive condition with serious clinical complications arising from... more Hepatic fibrosis (HF) is a progressive condition with serious clinical complications arising from abnormal proliferation and amassing of tough fibrous scar tissue. This defiance of collagen fibers becomes fatal due to ultimate failure of liver functions. Participation of various cell types, interlinked cellular events, and large number of mediator molecules make the fibrotic process enormously complex and dynamic. However, with better appreciation of underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms of fibrosis, the assumption that HF cannot be cured is gradually changing. Recent findings have underlined the therapeutic potential of a number of synthetic compounds as well as plant derivatives for cessation or even the reversal of the processes that transforms the liver into fibrotic tissue. It is expected that future inputs will provide a conceptual framework to develop more specific strategies that would facilitate the assessment of risk factors, shortlist early diagnosis biomarkers, and eventually guide development of effective therapeutic alternatives.

Research paper thumbnail of Transition from conventional to alternative agriculture in Pakistan: The role of green manures in substituting for inorganic N fertilizers in a rice-wheat farming system

American Journal of Alternative Agriculture, 1995

Abstract. Nitrogen, a vitally important plant nutrient, is subject to various losses that affect ... more Abstract. Nitrogen, a vitally important plant nutrient, is subject to various losses that affect its efficiency. We tested prilled urea (PU), urea supergranules (USG), green manures (GM) and farmyard manure (FYM) in a rice-wheat cropping system to determine which were the ...

Research paper thumbnail of Comparing ripening and storage characteristics of ‘Oded’ peach and its nectarine mutant ‘Yuval’

Postharvest Biology and Technology, 2011

A peach-to-nectarine mutant 'Yuval', a white, melting-flesh, cling-stone fruit was compared over ... more A peach-to-nectarine mutant 'Yuval', a white, melting-flesh, cling-stone fruit was compared over three seasons with its peach progenitor 'Oded', an early season cultivar, to study ripening and storage characteristics. Twenty-four genome-spanning single sequence repeats markers showed the identity of the peach with its nectarine mutant at the DNA level. There was no difference in cell size at harvest between the 'Oded' peach and 'Yuval' nectarine, although 'Oded' peach was 24% larger by weight than 'Yuval'. The 'Oded' peaches were also less acidic, and had less soluble solids than the 'Yuval' nectarine at harvest. Fruit were stored at two temperatures, 5 • C and 0 • C. Softening was faster in the fruit of both cultivars stored at 5 • C than 0 • C. At 3 d ripening at 20 • C after cold storage, there was more expressible juice at 5 • C than 0 • C in the fruit of both cultivars. 'Oded' peaches developed internal browning and woolliness at 3 d ripening at 20 • C after 5 and 7 weeks 5 • C storage, and had lower expressible juice than 'Yuval' nectarines. Cold storage at 0 • C plus ripening reduced flesh browning, woolly texture and flesh bleeding incidence in 'Oded' fruit compared to ripening after storage at 5 • C. Flesh browning and woolly texture incidence was lower in the 'Yuval' nectarines than 'Oded' peaches. Overall, the data suggest that 'Oded' and 'Yuval' are genetically similar and 'Yuval' conserves several fruit and ripening characteristics that usually come with peach-to-nectarine mutations. Furthermore, 'Yuval' nectarine is comparatively more resistant to chilling injury (flesh browning and woolly texture) than 'Oded' peach after prolonged storage.

Research paper thumbnail of Genetic diversity analyses of Brassica napus accessions using SRAP molecular markers

Plant Genetic Resources, 2014

Research paper thumbnail of Vitamin B 12 supplement alleviates N ′-nitrosodimethylamine-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats

Pharmaceutical Biology, 2014

Abstract Context: Altered vitamin B12 levels have been correlated with hepatotoxicity; however, f... more Abstract Context: Altered vitamin B12 levels have been correlated with hepatotoxicity; however, further evidence is required to establish its protective role. Objective: To evaluate the effects of vitamin B12 supplement in protecting N'-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA)-induced hepatic fibrosis in Wistar rats. Materials and methods: Hepatic fibrosis was induced by administering NDMA in doses of 10 mg/kg body weight thrice a week for 21 days. Another group received equal doses (10 mg/kg body weight) of vitamin B12 subsequent to NDMA treatment. Animals from either group were sacrificed weekly from the start of the treatment along with their respective controls. Progression of hepatic fibrosis, in addition to the effect of vitamin B12, was assessed biochemically for liver function biomarkers, liver glycogen, hydroxyproline (HP) and B12 reserves along with histopathologically by hematoxylin and eosin (H & E) as well immunohistochemical staining for α-SMA expression. Results and discussion: Elevation in the levels of aminotransferases, SALP, total bilirubin and HP was observed in NDMA treated rats, which was concomitant with remarkable depletion in liver glycogen and B12 reserves (p < 0.05). Liver biopsies also demonstrated disrupted lobular architecture, collagen amassing and intense fibrosis by NDMA treatment. Immunohistochemical staining showed the presence of activated stellate cells that was dramatically increased up to day 21 in fibrotic rats. Following vitamin B12 treatment, liver function biomarkers, glycogen contents and hepatic vitamin B12 reserves were restored in fibrotic rats, significantly. Vitamin B12 administration also facilitated restoration of normal liver architecture. Conclusion: These findings provide interesting new evidence in favor of protective role for vitamin B12 against NDMA-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats.

Research paper thumbnail of Microsatellite variation points to local landscape plantings as sources of invasive pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana) in California

Molecular Ecology, 2007

Mediterranean climates worldwide. To gain insight into the introduction history of invasive popul... more Mediterranean climates worldwide. To gain insight into the introduction history of invasive populations in California, we analysed microsatellite marker variation in cultivated and invasive C. selloana. We sampled 275 cultivated plants from diverse sources and 698 invasive plants from 33 populations in four geographical regions of California. A model-based Bayesian clustering analysis identified seven distinct gene pools in cultivated C. selloana. Probabilities of assignment of invasive individuals to cultivated gene pools indicated that two gene pools accounted for the genomic origin of 78% of the invasive C. selloana sampled. Extensive admixture between cultivated source gene pools was detected within invasive individuals. Sources of admixed invasive individuals are probably landscape plantings. Consistent with the Bayesian assignment results indicating that multiple cultivated gene pools and landscape plantings are probable sources of invasive populations, F ST and neighbour-joining clustering analyses indicated multiple escapes from shared sources in each geographical region. No isolation by distance or geographical trend in reduction of genetic diversity was evident. Furthermore, a generally random and discontinuous distribution of proportional assignments of invasive populations to cultivated gene pools suggests that introductions occurred recurrently within each geographical region. Our results strongly suggest that dispersal through local landscape plantings has contributed to the range expansion of invasive C. selloana in California.

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of a Population With Occupational Exposure to Airborne Ammonium Perchlorate for Possible Acute or Chronic Effects on Thyroid Function

Journal of Occupational & Environmental Medicine, 1998

Employees at an ammonium perchlorate production facility in Nevada and a larger control populatio... more Employees at an ammonium perchlorate production facility in Nevada and a larger control population from the same chemical complex without direct AP exposure were monitored extensively for airborne perchlorate exposure. Single-shift and working-lifetime cumulative dose estimates were made using standard breathing-rate estimates and assuming rapid absorption, based upon solubility. Calculated single-shift doses ranged from 0.2 to 436 micrograms/kg, with an average of 36 micrograms/kg. Working-lifetime cumulative doses in the higher exposure group ranged from 8,000 to 88,000 micrograms/kg, with an average of 38,000 micrograms/kg. Thyroid profiles, including free thyroxine index and thyroid-stimulating hormone level, were obtained both before shift and after shift to assess thyroid-axis perturbation due to single working-shift perchlorate exposure. Thyroid-function data were also analyzed with respect to estimates of cumulative exposure to assess any measurable chronic effects on thyroid gland function. Additionally, standard clinical blood test parameters of liver, kidney, and bone marrow function were evaluated to assess any measurable chronic effects of perchlorate exposure on those organs. Multiple regression was used to assess the effects of exposure variables and demographic variables on organ function parameters. No perchlorate-attributable effects on thyroid, bone marrow, kidney, or liver function were detected.

Research paper thumbnail of Dislocation of the fibular head in an unusual sports injury: a case report

Journal of Medical Case Reports, 2008

One of the primary functions of the proximal tibiofibular joint is slight rotation to accommodate... more One of the primary functions of the proximal tibiofibular joint is slight rotation to accommodate rotational stress at the ankle. Proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation is a rare injury and accounts for less than 1% of all knee injuries. This dislocation has been reported in patients who had been engaged in football, ballet dancing, equestrian jumping, parachuting and snowboarding.

Research paper thumbnail of Significance of Serum Lactate Dehydrogenase and its Isoenzymes During Post-Burn Follow-Up

Journal of Medical Biochemistry, 2000

Kratak sadr`aj: Cilj studije je da se odredi uloga izo enzima laktat dehidrogenaze (LDH) u termi~... more Kratak sadr`aj: Cilj studije je da se odredi uloga izo enzima laktat dehidrogenaze (LDH) u termi~kim opeko tinama. Analizirano je ukupno 18 pacijenata oba pola sa ukupnom povr{inom opekotina 20 -50% koji su primljeni na Odeljenje za opekotine Medicinskog koled`a i bolnice D`avaharlal Nehru. Pacijenti su podvrgnuti op{tim i sistemskim ispitivanjima. Za kvantifikaciju LDH kori{}eni su serumi uzeti posle 1, 2, 5 i 10 dana pra}enja stanja paci jenata sa opekotinama. Profili PAGE pokazali su zna~ajne razlike u nivoima izoenzima LDH kod svih pacijenata sa opekotinama (P=0,05). Softverskom analizom gel-skenova otkriveno je prisustvo pet nizova izoenzima, od kojih su LDH-1 i -2 dali najmanji doprinos. Tokom pra}enja stanja uo~eno je da se rangiranje izoenzima LDH pribli`ava kontrol nim vrednostima 2. dana kod pacijenata sa ukup nom povr{inom opekotina od 20%, dok se u preostalim slu~ajevima isto doga|a 5. dana. Trodimenzionalni densi togrami MERA~ GUSTINE pokazali su visoku aktivnost LDH kod 50% pacijenata sa opekotinama ~ak i 10. dana, me|utim, relativno rangiranje tih izoenzima bilo je sli~no kontrol nim vrednostima (LDH-4>-5>-3>-1>-2). Mi{lje nja smo da se visoka aktivnost enzima LDH javlja usled kompleksa enzim-imunoglobulin-G (LDH-IgG), ali za~udo nismo uo~ili taj kompleks kod 50% pacijenata sa opekotinama u bilo kom tre nutku. Stoga, verujemo da izoenzimi LDH u~estvuju u pato fiziologiji bolesti i mogu biti korisni za utvr|ivanje nevidljivih o{te}enja tkiva. {tavi{e, visoka aktivnost LDH kod 50% pacijenata sa opekotinama javlja se usled nekog drugog mehanizma a ne usled vezivanja LDH za IgG.

Research paper thumbnail of In-gel detection of esterase-like albumin activity: Characterization of esterase-free sera albumin and its putative role as non-invasive biomarker of hepatic fibrosis

Arabian Journal of Chemistry, 2014

ABSTRACT

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of N'-nitrosodimethylamine on red blood cell rheology and proteomic profiles of brain in male albino rats

Interdisciplinary Toxicology, 2011

We investigated the effects of N'-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) induced toxicity on red blood cell ... more We investigated the effects of N'-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) induced toxicity on red blood cell rheology in male rats and identified bands in proteomic profiles of brain which can be used as novel markers. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) profiles exhibited constitutive as well as induced expression of the polypeptides. Remarkably, the molecular weight range of the polypeptides (8-150 kDa) corresponded to that of the family of heat shock proteins. Our results revealed significant changes in blood parameters and showed the presence of acanthocytes, tear drop cells, spicules and cobot rings in the treated categories. Lactate dehydrogenase and esterase zymograms displayed a shift to anaerobic metabolism generating hypoxia-like conditions. This study strongly suggests that NDMA treatment causes acute toxicity leading to cell membrane destruction and alters protein profiles in rats. It is therefore recommended that caution should be exercised in using NDMA to avoid risks, and if at all necessary strategies should be designed to combat such conditions.

Research paper thumbnail of Transcript analyses of the gene associated with CMS in Brassica napus

Euphytica, 2014

We analysed DNA and complementary DNA (cDNA) from two inbred lines (CMS-ARIT121 and CMS-ARIT2) al... more We analysed DNA and complementary DNA (cDNA) from two inbred lines (CMS-ARIT121 and CMS-ARIT2) along with their respective maintainer lines with eight known genes (atpa, atp6, atp9, coxI, coxII, orfB, orf222 and orf224) reported in other cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) systems. DNA analyses indicated that only orf224 was different in the maintainer and CMS in ARIT121. Sequencing analysis indicated that CMS-ARIT121 has a similar sequence to that of polima CMS. However, CMS-ARIT2 was quite unique, with no sequence difference at DNA or cDNA level in all eight candidate genes, with the exception of a two-base substitution in the atp6 gene between the CMS and maintainer lines. The similar amplification pattern with all primers, especially orf224, indicates that CMS-ARIT2 is unique and does not correspond to polima, ogura or nap. However, further research is required to establish the causes of sterility in this cms, since we could not find any significant difference at transcript level between CMS-ARIT2 and its corresponding maintainer line. However, the same restorer PR121 as for CMS-ARIT121 was able to restore CMS-ARIT2, and as such can be used for hybrid seed production in Brassica napus L. Overall, this study provides important information for breeders selecting new cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) in B. napus L. and use of molecular markers to identify CMS lines at early seedling stage that will enhance the B. napus L. breeding program.

Research paper thumbnail of Design and Optimization of multi echelon Green Distribution Network

2011 IEEE 2nd International Conference on Software Engineering and Service Science, 2011

Abstract According to World Bank report, in Pakistan about 360 Billion rupees are being wasted an... more Abstract According to World Bank report, in Pakistan about 360 Billion rupees are being wasted annually due to poor logistic operation.[1] This paper is a small effort for increasing the awareness of making the Green Distribution Network a competitive advantage in ...

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of the Combined Effects of Paecilomyces lilacinus and Trichoderma harzianum Against Root-knot Disease of Tomato

Journal of Biological Sciences, 2001

OnLine Journal of Biological Sciences 1 (3): 139-142, 2001 © Asian Network for Scientific Informa... more OnLine Journal of Biological Sciences 1 (3): 139-142, 2001 © Asian Network for Scientific Information 2001 Evaluation of the Combined Effects of Paecilomyces /¡/acinus and Trichoderma harzianum Against Root-knot Disease of Tomato Hafeez Ullah Khan1, Riaz Ahmad2, Waqar ...

Research paper thumbnail of Improving Wheat Productivity in Calcareous Soils through Band Replacement of Farmyard Manure with Phosphorus

An experiment on band placement of farmyard manure (FYM) with different phosphorus levels on prod... more An experiment on band placement of farmyard manure (FYM) with different phosphorus levels on productivity of wheat was conducted under arid climates during 2005-06 and 2006-07. The crop was sown as per farmyard manure (FYM) treatments viz: 120, 180 and 240 kg ha-1, while phosphorus (P) levels were 60, 90 and 120 kg P2O5 ha -1 in calcareous silty loam

Research paper thumbnail of Genetic Diversity and Spread of Thiobencarb Resistant Early Watergrass ( Echinochloa oryzoides ) in California

Weed Science, 2011

... Phytochem. Bull.19:11–15. Fischer, AJ, CM Ateh, DE Bayer, and JE Hill. 2000. ... Refoufi, A. ... more ... Phytochem. Bull.19:11–15. Fischer, AJ, CM Ateh, DE Bayer, and JE Hill. 2000. ... Refoufi, A. and MA Esnault. 2006. Genetic diversity and population structure of Elytrigia pycnantha (Godr.) (Triticeae) in Mont Saint-Michel Bay using microsatellite markers. Plant Biol.8:234–242. ...

Research paper thumbnail of Glyphosate-Resistant Italian Ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) in California: Distribution, Response to Glyphosate, and Molecular Evidence for an Altered Target Enzyme

Weed Science, 2008

Selection by herbicides has resulted in widespread evolution of herbicide resistance in agricultu... more Selection by herbicides has resulted in widespread evolution of herbicide resistance in agricultural weeds. In California, resistance to glyphosate was first confirmed in rigid ryegrass in 1998. Objectives of this study were to determine the current distribution and level of glyphosate resistance ...

Research paper thumbnail of High density SNP mapping and QTL analysis for fruit quality characteristics in peach (Prunus persica L.)

Tree Genetics & Genomes, 2013

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were used to construct an integrated SNP linkage map of pe... more Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were used to construct an integrated SNP linkage map of peach (Prunus persica (L.) Batsch). A set of 1,536 SNPs were evaluated with the GoldenGate® Genotyping assay in two mapping populations, Pop-DF, and Pop-DG. After genotyping and filtering, a final set of 1,400 high quality SNPs in Pop-DF and 962 in Pop-DG with full map coverage were selected and used to construct two linkage maps with Join-Map®4.0. The Pop-DF map covered 422 cM of the peach genome and included 1,037 SNP markers, and Pop-DG map covered 369 cM and included 738 SNPs. A consensus map was constructed with 588 SNP markers placed in eight linkage groups (n08 for peach), with map coverage of 454 cM and an average distance of 0.81 cM/marker site.

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of AASHTO Rigid Pavement Design Model Using Long-Term Pavement Performance Data Base

Transportation Research Record, 1996

Research paper thumbnail of Fate and behaviour of pesticides in the agroecosystem—a review with a New Zealand perspective

Australian Journal of Soil Research, 2004

Australian Journal of Soil Research, 2004, 42, 125–154 ... Fate and behaviour of pesticides in th... more Australian Journal of Soil Research, 2004, 42, 125–154 ... Fate and behaviour of pesticides in the agroecosystem—a review with a ... Ajit K. SarmahA,C, Karin MüllerB, and Riaz AhmadB ... ALandcare Research New Zealand Ltd, Private Bag 3127, Hamilton, New Zealand. ...

Research paper thumbnail of Understanding the mechanism of hepatic fibrosis and potential therapeutic approaches

Saudi Journal of Gastroenterology, 2012

Hepatic fibrosis (HF) is a progressive condition with serious clinical complications arising from... more Hepatic fibrosis (HF) is a progressive condition with serious clinical complications arising from abnormal proliferation and amassing of tough fibrous scar tissue. This defiance of collagen fibers becomes fatal due to ultimate failure of liver functions. Participation of various cell types, interlinked cellular events, and large number of mediator molecules make the fibrotic process enormously complex and dynamic. However, with better appreciation of underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms of fibrosis, the assumption that HF cannot be cured is gradually changing. Recent findings have underlined the therapeutic potential of a number of synthetic compounds as well as plant derivatives for cessation or even the reversal of the processes that transforms the liver into fibrotic tissue. It is expected that future inputs will provide a conceptual framework to develop more specific strategies that would facilitate the assessment of risk factors, shortlist early diagnosis biomarkers, and eventually guide development of effective therapeutic alternatives.

Research paper thumbnail of Transition from conventional to alternative agriculture in Pakistan: The role of green manures in substituting for inorganic N fertilizers in a rice-wheat farming system

American Journal of Alternative Agriculture, 1995

Abstract. Nitrogen, a vitally important plant nutrient, is subject to various losses that affect ... more Abstract. Nitrogen, a vitally important plant nutrient, is subject to various losses that affect its efficiency. We tested prilled urea (PU), urea supergranules (USG), green manures (GM) and farmyard manure (FYM) in a rice-wheat cropping system to determine which were the ...

Research paper thumbnail of Comparing ripening and storage characteristics of ‘Oded’ peach and its nectarine mutant ‘Yuval’

Postharvest Biology and Technology, 2011

A peach-to-nectarine mutant 'Yuval', a white, melting-flesh, cling-stone fruit was compared over ... more A peach-to-nectarine mutant 'Yuval', a white, melting-flesh, cling-stone fruit was compared over three seasons with its peach progenitor 'Oded', an early season cultivar, to study ripening and storage characteristics. Twenty-four genome-spanning single sequence repeats markers showed the identity of the peach with its nectarine mutant at the DNA level. There was no difference in cell size at harvest between the 'Oded' peach and 'Yuval' nectarine, although 'Oded' peach was 24% larger by weight than 'Yuval'. The 'Oded' peaches were also less acidic, and had less soluble solids than the 'Yuval' nectarine at harvest. Fruit were stored at two temperatures, 5 • C and 0 • C. Softening was faster in the fruit of both cultivars stored at 5 • C than 0 • C. At 3 d ripening at 20 • C after cold storage, there was more expressible juice at 5 • C than 0 • C in the fruit of both cultivars. 'Oded' peaches developed internal browning and woolliness at 3 d ripening at 20 • C after 5 and 7 weeks 5 • C storage, and had lower expressible juice than 'Yuval' nectarines. Cold storage at 0 • C plus ripening reduced flesh browning, woolly texture and flesh bleeding incidence in 'Oded' fruit compared to ripening after storage at 5 • C. Flesh browning and woolly texture incidence was lower in the 'Yuval' nectarines than 'Oded' peaches. Overall, the data suggest that 'Oded' and 'Yuval' are genetically similar and 'Yuval' conserves several fruit and ripening characteristics that usually come with peach-to-nectarine mutations. Furthermore, 'Yuval' nectarine is comparatively more resistant to chilling injury (flesh browning and woolly texture) than 'Oded' peach after prolonged storage.

Research paper thumbnail of Genetic diversity analyses of Brassica napus accessions using SRAP molecular markers

Plant Genetic Resources, 2014

Research paper thumbnail of Vitamin B 12 supplement alleviates N ′-nitrosodimethylamine-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats

Pharmaceutical Biology, 2014

Abstract Context: Altered vitamin B12 levels have been correlated with hepatotoxicity; however, f... more Abstract Context: Altered vitamin B12 levels have been correlated with hepatotoxicity; however, further evidence is required to establish its protective role. Objective: To evaluate the effects of vitamin B12 supplement in protecting N'-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA)-induced hepatic fibrosis in Wistar rats. Materials and methods: Hepatic fibrosis was induced by administering NDMA in doses of 10 mg/kg body weight thrice a week for 21 days. Another group received equal doses (10 mg/kg body weight) of vitamin B12 subsequent to NDMA treatment. Animals from either group were sacrificed weekly from the start of the treatment along with their respective controls. Progression of hepatic fibrosis, in addition to the effect of vitamin B12, was assessed biochemically for liver function biomarkers, liver glycogen, hydroxyproline (HP) and B12 reserves along with histopathologically by hematoxylin and eosin (H & E) as well immunohistochemical staining for α-SMA expression. Results and discussion: Elevation in the levels of aminotransferases, SALP, total bilirubin and HP was observed in NDMA treated rats, which was concomitant with remarkable depletion in liver glycogen and B12 reserves (p < 0.05). Liver biopsies also demonstrated disrupted lobular architecture, collagen amassing and intense fibrosis by NDMA treatment. Immunohistochemical staining showed the presence of activated stellate cells that was dramatically increased up to day 21 in fibrotic rats. Following vitamin B12 treatment, liver function biomarkers, glycogen contents and hepatic vitamin B12 reserves were restored in fibrotic rats, significantly. Vitamin B12 administration also facilitated restoration of normal liver architecture. Conclusion: These findings provide interesting new evidence in favor of protective role for vitamin B12 against NDMA-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats.

Research paper thumbnail of Microsatellite variation points to local landscape plantings as sources of invasive pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana) in California

Molecular Ecology, 2007

Mediterranean climates worldwide. To gain insight into the introduction history of invasive popul... more Mediterranean climates worldwide. To gain insight into the introduction history of invasive populations in California, we analysed microsatellite marker variation in cultivated and invasive C. selloana. We sampled 275 cultivated plants from diverse sources and 698 invasive plants from 33 populations in four geographical regions of California. A model-based Bayesian clustering analysis identified seven distinct gene pools in cultivated C. selloana. Probabilities of assignment of invasive individuals to cultivated gene pools indicated that two gene pools accounted for the genomic origin of 78% of the invasive C. selloana sampled. Extensive admixture between cultivated source gene pools was detected within invasive individuals. Sources of admixed invasive individuals are probably landscape plantings. Consistent with the Bayesian assignment results indicating that multiple cultivated gene pools and landscape plantings are probable sources of invasive populations, F ST and neighbour-joining clustering analyses indicated multiple escapes from shared sources in each geographical region. No isolation by distance or geographical trend in reduction of genetic diversity was evident. Furthermore, a generally random and discontinuous distribution of proportional assignments of invasive populations to cultivated gene pools suggests that introductions occurred recurrently within each geographical region. Our results strongly suggest that dispersal through local landscape plantings has contributed to the range expansion of invasive C. selloana in California.

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of a Population With Occupational Exposure to Airborne Ammonium Perchlorate for Possible Acute or Chronic Effects on Thyroid Function

Journal of Occupational & Environmental Medicine, 1998

Employees at an ammonium perchlorate production facility in Nevada and a larger control populatio... more Employees at an ammonium perchlorate production facility in Nevada and a larger control population from the same chemical complex without direct AP exposure were monitored extensively for airborne perchlorate exposure. Single-shift and working-lifetime cumulative dose estimates were made using standard breathing-rate estimates and assuming rapid absorption, based upon solubility. Calculated single-shift doses ranged from 0.2 to 436 micrograms/kg, with an average of 36 micrograms/kg. Working-lifetime cumulative doses in the higher exposure group ranged from 8,000 to 88,000 micrograms/kg, with an average of 38,000 micrograms/kg. Thyroid profiles, including free thyroxine index and thyroid-stimulating hormone level, were obtained both before shift and after shift to assess thyroid-axis perturbation due to single working-shift perchlorate exposure. Thyroid-function data were also analyzed with respect to estimates of cumulative exposure to assess any measurable chronic effects on thyroid gland function. Additionally, standard clinical blood test parameters of liver, kidney, and bone marrow function were evaluated to assess any measurable chronic effects of perchlorate exposure on those organs. Multiple regression was used to assess the effects of exposure variables and demographic variables on organ function parameters. No perchlorate-attributable effects on thyroid, bone marrow, kidney, or liver function were detected.

Research paper thumbnail of Dislocation of the fibular head in an unusual sports injury: a case report

Journal of Medical Case Reports, 2008

One of the primary functions of the proximal tibiofibular joint is slight rotation to accommodate... more One of the primary functions of the proximal tibiofibular joint is slight rotation to accommodate rotational stress at the ankle. Proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation is a rare injury and accounts for less than 1% of all knee injuries. This dislocation has been reported in patients who had been engaged in football, ballet dancing, equestrian jumping, parachuting and snowboarding.

Research paper thumbnail of Significance of Serum Lactate Dehydrogenase and its Isoenzymes During Post-Burn Follow-Up

Journal of Medical Biochemistry, 2000

Kratak sadr`aj: Cilj studije je da se odredi uloga izo enzima laktat dehidrogenaze (LDH) u termi~... more Kratak sadr`aj: Cilj studije je da se odredi uloga izo enzima laktat dehidrogenaze (LDH) u termi~kim opeko tinama. Analizirano je ukupno 18 pacijenata oba pola sa ukupnom povr{inom opekotina 20 -50% koji su primljeni na Odeljenje za opekotine Medicinskog koled`a i bolnice D`avaharlal Nehru. Pacijenti su podvrgnuti op{tim i sistemskim ispitivanjima. Za kvantifikaciju LDH kori{}eni su serumi uzeti posle 1, 2, 5 i 10 dana pra}enja stanja paci jenata sa opekotinama. Profili PAGE pokazali su zna~ajne razlike u nivoima izoenzima LDH kod svih pacijenata sa opekotinama (P=0,05). Softverskom analizom gel-skenova otkriveno je prisustvo pet nizova izoenzima, od kojih su LDH-1 i -2 dali najmanji doprinos. Tokom pra}enja stanja uo~eno je da se rangiranje izoenzima LDH pribli`ava kontrol nim vrednostima 2. dana kod pacijenata sa ukup nom povr{inom opekotina od 20%, dok se u preostalim slu~ajevima isto doga|a 5. dana. Trodimenzionalni densi togrami MERA~ GUSTINE pokazali su visoku aktivnost LDH kod 50% pacijenata sa opekotinama ~ak i 10. dana, me|utim, relativno rangiranje tih izoenzima bilo je sli~no kontrol nim vrednostima (LDH-4>-5>-3>-1>-2). Mi{lje nja smo da se visoka aktivnost enzima LDH javlja usled kompleksa enzim-imunoglobulin-G (LDH-IgG), ali za~udo nismo uo~ili taj kompleks kod 50% pacijenata sa opekotinama u bilo kom tre nutku. Stoga, verujemo da izoenzimi LDH u~estvuju u pato fiziologiji bolesti i mogu biti korisni za utvr|ivanje nevidljivih o{te}enja tkiva. {tavi{e, visoka aktivnost LDH kod 50% pacijenata sa opekotinama javlja se usled nekog drugog mehanizma a ne usled vezivanja LDH za IgG.