Ali El-Keblawy | University of Sharjah (original) (raw)

Papers by Ali El-Keblawy

Research paper thumbnail of Trait-Environment Relationships Reveal the Success of Alien Plants Invasiveness in an Urbanized Landscape

Plants

Urban areas are being affected by rapidly increasing human-made pressures that can strongly homog... more Urban areas are being affected by rapidly increasing human-made pressures that can strongly homogenize biodiversity, reduce habitat heterogeneity, and facilitate the invasion of alien species. One of the key concerns in invaded urban areas is comparing the trait–environment relationships between alien and native species, to determine the underlying causes of invasiveness. In the current study, we used a trait–environment dataset of 130 native plants and 33 alien plants, recorded in 100 plots covering 50 urban areas and 50 non-urban ones in an urbanization gradient in the arid mountainous Saint-Katherine protected area in Egypt. We measured eleven morphological plant traits for each plant species and ten environmental variables in each plot, including soil resources and human-made pressures, to construct trait–environment associations using a fourth-corner analysis. In addition, we measured the mean functional and phylogenetic distances between the two species groups along an urbaniz...

Research paper thumbnail of Phytoremediation Perspectives of Seven Aquatic Macrophytes for Removal of Heavy Metals from Polluted Drains in the Nile Delta of Egypt

Biology, 2021

The current study addressed the heavy metals accumulation potentials of seven perennial aquatic m... more The current study addressed the heavy metals accumulation potentials of seven perennial aquatic macrophytes (Cyperus alopecuroides, Echinochloa stagnina, Eichhornia crassipes, Ludwigia stolonifera, Phragmites australis, Ranunculus sceleratus and Typha domingensis) and the pollution status of three drains (Amar, El-Westany and Omar-Beck) in the Nile Delta of Egypt. Nine sites at each drain were sampled for sediment and plant analyses. Concentrations of eight metals (Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn, Co, Cd, Ni, and Pb) were determined in the sediment and the aboveground and belowground tissues of the selected macrophytes. Bioaccumulation factor (BF) and translocation factor (TF) were computed for each species. The sediment heavy metals concentrations of the three drains occurred in the following order: El-Westany > Amar > Omar-Beck. The concentrations of sediment heavy metals in the three drains were ordered as follows: Fe (438.45–615.17 mg kg−1) > Mn (341.22–481.09 mg kg−1) > Zn (245.08–3...

Research paper thumbnail of Differential effects of chloride salts on seed germination and seedling growth of Cistus monspeliensis: Towards revegetation of the Mediterranean salt-contaminated soils

Research paper thumbnail of Single-Cell Genomics and Metagenomics for Microbial Diversity Analysis

Unravelling the Soil Microbiome, 2019

Soil metagenomic analysis was previously limited by technological restrictions and the few refere... more Soil metagenomic analysis was previously limited by technological restrictions and the few reference genomes. The advent of next-generation ‘omics’ technologies has provided high-throughput methods for analysing community structure and reconstructing soil metagenomes. High-throughput sequencing technology and single-cell genomics have revolutionized metagenomic analysis by enabling large-scale sequencing at reduced sequencing costs with less time required. In the present chapter we discuss various technological advances in metagenomics, their processes and the methods of data analysis, and metagenomic success stories under various environments that can be applied for studying the functional and structural diversity of soil microorganisms.

Research paper thumbnail of Greening Gulf Landscapes

Environmental Politics in the Middle East, 2018

Gulf states have paid too much effort toward the greening of cities and too little to fundamental... more Gulf states have paid too much effort toward the greening of cities and too little to fundamentally changing the way they see agricultural lands and deteriorated natural habitats. Most of the greening programs prioritise techniques and interventions, such as introducing exotic plants, that are not adapted to the local environments. The result is that greening projects, especially those in deserts, have failed and proven unsustainable. This chapter discuss what the alternative -maintaining sustainable green desert landscapes- might look like. Proposed innovations include using native trees, instead of exotics, and introducing genetically modified crops designed to tolerate the abiotic stresses and salt tolerant plants (halophytes) to reduce the pressure on fresh water resources

Research paper thumbnail of Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy in Plant Biology

Sustainable Agriculture Reviews, 2021

Electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is a non-invasive approach to characterize the electrical... more Electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is a non-invasive approach to characterize the electrical properties such as resistance and capacitance of many materials including biological tissues. For measurement, the plasma membrane acts as an electrical insulator that controls the movement of ions and electrolytes across the cells. Under application of a voltage to a tissue, an electric current flows through cell walls, from cell to cell and in fluids, giving rise to an electrical impedance. The magnitude of the impedance and its phase angle can be measured at multiple frequencies using an analyzer. Here we review EIS theory, instrumentation, application, model validation and data assimilation for studying of physiological and biochemical changes in biological tissues. EIS thus allows to understand cellular and synthetic membranes, cell biophysics and ionic systems. Ions are the main current carriers inducing the impedance inside tissues. The symplastic and apoplastic resistances form a parallel impedance circuitry at a given frequency. EIS allows to assess physiological attributes, leaf water content, root size and fruit quality traits. Impedance dispersions are described using Nyquist graphs. Best fitting circuit parameters can be optimized.

Research paper thumbnail of Impacts of Surviving and Dead Shrubs and Grasses on Floral Diversity and Community Structure of Sandy Dunes of the UAE

Desertification of sandy areas driven by wind erosion in the Arabian Gulf region often results in... more Desertification of sandy areas driven by wind erosion in the Arabian Gulf region often results in the dominance of few shrubs and grasses, while most of the land are devoid of vegetation. The impact of surviving and dead shrubs and grasses on floral diversity and plant community structure was assessed on stabilized sand dunes in Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Shrubs have greater role in facilitating plant recruitment and survivorship and hence enhancing floral diversity, compared to grasses. Both dead shrubs and grasses attained significantly greater species richness, abundance and diversity indices compared to comparable surviving shrubs and grasses, so the effect of dead grasses was more pronounced than that of dead shrubs. Grasses have a greater role in enhancing floral diversity after their death. For restoring the productivity and species diversity of degraded sandy desert habitats, the study recommends the maintenance and growing shrubby plants as an early successional sta...

Research paper thumbnail of Nutritional and Medical Benefits of Moringa Oleifera, the Miracle Tree

Sustainable Agriculture Reviews, 2021

Research paper thumbnail of Macromorphology and recruitment of Prosopis cineraria in the United Arab Emirates

Recruitment frequency of Prosopis cinerariain the United Arab Emirates is poorly understood, thou... more Recruitment frequency of Prosopis cinerariain the United Arab Emirates is poorly understood, though heavy browsing by camels is often assumed to be a limiting factor. Macromorphological characteristics were recorded at eight locations from the northern United Arab Emirates. Tree size (canopy diameter, trunk diameter, and tree height) showed conformity within locations. Height of browse line was strongly affected by camels, which removed foliage to a height of 3 meters whenever present. Recruitment by seed was not observed during the study, and observed asexual recruitment was limited to root suckers produced only within the season. Presence of suckers was unrelated to browsing but strongly affected by a shifting ground surface. Viable theories for the absence of sexual recruitment include seedling destruction by herbivores, a lack of safe sites for seedling growth and establishment, and that sexual recruitment events might naturally occur rarely, but produce many recruits in the rar...

Research paper thumbnail of Unravelling the Soil Microbiome

SpringerBriefs in Environmental Science, 2020

SpringerBriefs in Environmental Science present concise summaries of cuttingedge research and pra... more SpringerBriefs in Environmental Science present concise summaries of cuttingedge research and practical applications across a wide spectrum of environmental fields, with fast turnaround time to publication. Featuring compact volumes of 50 to 125 pages, the series covers a range of content from professional to academic. Monographs of new material are considered for the SpringerBriefs in Environmental Science series. Typical topics might include: a timely report of state-of-the-art analytical techniques, a bridge between new research results, as published in journal articles and a contextual literature review, a snapshot of a hot or emerging topic, an in-depth case study or technical example, a presentation of core concepts that students must understand in order to make independent contributions, best practices or protocols to be followed, a series of short case studies/debates highlighting a specific angle. SpringerBriefs in Environmental Science allow authors to present their ideas and readers to absorb them with minimal time investment. Both solicited and unsolicited manuscripts are considered for publication.

Research paper thumbnail of Correction: El-Sawah et al. Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria Enhance Soil Key Enzymes, Plant Growth, Seed Yield, and Qualitative Attributes of Guar. Agriculture 2021, 11, 194

Agriculture, 2021

This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY

Research paper thumbnail of Seed provenance, thermoperiod, and photoperiod affect low water potential tolerance during seed germination of the multipurpose exotic tree Prosopis juliflora

Journal of Arid Environments, 2021

Research paper thumbnail of Critical discovery and synthesis of novel antibacterial and resistance-modifying agents inspired by plant phytochemical defense mechanisms

Chemico-Biological Interactions, 2021

Introduction: Anaemia is common in haemodialysis patients and treating it with erythropoiesis-sti... more Introduction: Anaemia is common in haemodialysis patients and treating it with erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) is complex due to many factors. Objectives: To assess the usefulness of the anaemia control model (ACM) in the treatment of anaemia in haemodialysis. Methods: ACM is a software that predicts the optimal dose of darbepoetin and iron sucrose to achieve target haemoglobin (Hb) and ferritin levels, and makes prescription suggestions. Study conducted in dialysis clinics lasting 18 months with two intervention phases (IPs) with ACM (IP1, n: 213; IP2, n: 218) separated by a control phase (CP, n: 219). The primary outcome was the percentage of Hb in range and the median dose of ESAs, and the secondary outcomes were transfusion, hospitalisation and cardiovascular events. Clinical and patient analyses were performed. Hb variability was assessed by the standard deviation (SD) of the Hb. We also analysed the patients with most of the suggestions confirmed (ACM compliant group). Results: ACM increased the percentage of Hb in range: 80.9% in IP2, compared with 72.7% in the CP and reduced the intake of darbepoetin (IP1: 20 [70]; CP 30 [80] g, p = 0.032) with less Hb fluctuation (0.91 ± 0.49 in the CP to 0.82 ± 0.37 g/dl in IP2, p < 0.05), improving in the ACM compliant group. The secondary outcomes decreased with the use of ACM. Conclusions: ACM helps to obtain better anaemia results in haemodialysis patients, minimising the risks of treatment with ESAs and reducing costs.

Research paper thumbnail of Surface Canopy Position Determines the Photosystem II Photochemistry in Invasive and Native Prosopis Congeners at Sharjah Desert, UAE

Forests, 2020

Plants have evolved photoprotective mechanisms in order to counteract the damaging effects of exc... more Plants have evolved photoprotective mechanisms in order to counteract the damaging effects of excess light in hyper-arid desert environments. We evaluated the impact of surface canopy positions on the photosynthetic adjustments and chlorophyll fluorescence attributes (photosystem II photochemistry, quantum yield, fluorescence quenching, and photon energy dissipation), leaf biomass and nutrient content of sun-exposed leaves at the south east (SE canopy position) and shaded-leaves at the north west (NW canopy position) in the invasive Prosopis juliflora and native Prosopis cineraria in the extreme environment (hyper-arid desert area, United Arab Emirates (UAE)). The main aim of this research was to study the photoprotection mechanism in invasive and native Prosopis congeners via the safe removal—as thermal energy—of excess solar energy absorbed by the light collecting system, which counteracts the formation of reactive oxygen species. Maximum photosynthetic efficiency (Fv/Fm) from dar...

Research paper thumbnail of Importance of Environmental Factors on Production of Computationally- Defined Natural Molecules against COVID-19 Pandemic

Current Topics in Medicinal Chemistry, 2020

The outbreak caused by the novel Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) and designated COVID-19 by the World He... more The outbreak caused by the novel Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) and designated COVID-19 by the World Health Organization (WHO), spread aggressively across the continents [1]. COVID-19 resulted in 6.93 million infected cases and over 401,000 deaths around the world as of June 09, 2020. The emergence of such pandemic infections poses serious threats to the global public health and world economy. Currently, there are no safe and effective drugs available for SARS-CoV-2, and the development of new antiviral drug is a time-consuming process, while the COVID-19 pandemic requires a quick response. There is an urgent need for defining a safe and guaranteed source of medicines including in particular medicinal plants that can fight SARS-CoV-2, especially in poor and developing countries, where they rely on herbal medicines as a main source of medicines. Plants produce a diverse number of secondary metabolites to fight against several types of pathogens including viruses [2]. The antiviral activities of some of these plant compounds make them possible candidates to fight against SARS-CoV-2. Computational modeling helped in proposing several plant compounds as potential candidates to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 by targeting enzymes that are necessary for viral pathogenesis. Molecular docking has been used to predict suitable active compounds that have high affinity to bind with the enzyme receptor (Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, ACE2) to form a stable complex [3]. By using molecular docking, several compounds were suggested during the last few months as potential candidates to inhibit SARS-CoV-2. For example, Chen and Du [4] defined the potentials of five natural compounds for the prevention and treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infections; these are baicalin from Scutellaria baicalensis (Baikal skullcap), scutellarin from Erigeron breviscapus, hesperetin from Citrus aurantium (Bitter orange) and Citrus reticulate (mandarin orange), glycyrrhizin from Glycyrrhiza radix (licorice), and nicotianamine from Glycine max (soybean). Similarly, ul Qamar et al. [5] virtually screened more than 32,297 antiviral phytochemicals and identified nine potential natural phytochemicals that can inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infection. These compounds are 5,7,3′,4′-tetrahydroxy-2'-(3,3-dimethylallyl) isoflavone from Psorothamnus arborescens, myricitrin from Myrica cerifera, methyl rosmarinate from Hyptis atrorubens, 3,5,7,3′,4′,5′-hexahydroxy flavanone-3-Obeta-D-glucopyranoside from Phaseolus vulgaris, (2S)-eriodictyol 7-O-(6″-O-galloyl)-beta-D-glucopyranoside from Phyllanthus emblica, calceolarioside B from Fraxinus sieboldiana, myricetin 3-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside from Camellia sinensis, licoleafol from Glycyrrhiza uralensis, and amaranthin from Amaranthus tricolor. These phytochemicals showed higher binding affinity to ACE2 than other drugs used as control such as Nelfinavir, Prulifloxacin and Colistin [5]. Another study by Basu et al [6] reported five flavonoid and anthraquinone phytochemicals with potential inhibition activities of virus activation. These compounds are hesperidin from Valeriana jatamansi, emodin from Rheum emodi, anthraquinone from Cassia angustifolia, rhein from Cassia angustifolia, and chrysin from Oroxylum indicum [6]. Furthermore, Farshi et al. [7] reviewed over 110 articles related to the effects of plant metabolites on different coronaviruses. Based on the IC 50 value, docking score, and binding energy, the authors were able to identify five natural compounds including curcumin from Curcuma longa (turmeric), hesperidin and diosmin from citrus, apiin from Petroselinum crispum (parsely), and rutin from tea and apples, as promising inhibitors for the virus activation by targeting the host transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2), which is a promising therapeutic target since it is critical for viral activation and invasion [7]. Inhibition of TMPRSS2 is an excellent target since it avoids possible development of drug resistance, a common viral feature [3]. Other computational analyses were conducted on plant compounds growing in the Middle East and North Africa have identified different compounds with potential activities on coronavirus. For example, Aanouz et al. [8] assessed the activities of 67 antiviral compounds of natural origin derived from Moroccan plants. The results revealed three molecules including crocin from Crocus sativus, digitoxigenin from Nerium oleander, and β-eudesmol from Lauris nobilis that exhibited promising antivi

Research paper thumbnail of Seed germination behavior of five Resedaceae species from arid Arabian desert: gibberellic acid and light effects

Plant Biosystems - An International Journal Dealing with all Aspects of Plant Biology, 2019

Abstract Light and growth-promoting compounds, such as gibberellic acids (GA3), are among the mos... more Abstract Light and growth-promoting compounds, such as gibberellic acids (GA3), are among the most important factors that can break physiological seed dormancy. Here, we investigate the effects of GA3 and light on germination of five species of Resedaceae that are known to have different levels of physiological dormancy. Seeds were incubated at 20/30 °C in both 12-hr photoperiod and complete darkness. To study the effect of growth hormone on germination, seeds were soaked for 24 h in different concentrations of GA3 before sowing. The annuals (Reseda aucheri and Oligomeris linifolia) and the perennial Ochradenus arabicus had deep physiological dormancy, and exogenous application of GA3 enhanced their germination in the light, but not in darkness; few or no seeds germinated in the dark in these species. Ochradenus aucheri and O. baccatus had intermediate and non-deep dormancy, respectively, and application of GA3 enhanced their germination in both light and darkness. Germination of the annual species was much slower than that of the shrubby perennials. Overall, these results indicate that conditions under which seed developed, matured and stored on maternal plants as well as incubation conditions should be taken into consideration when assessing germination behavior of the perennial species of Resedaceae.

Research paper thumbnail of Methods for Exploring Soil Microbial Diversity

Unravelling the Soil Microbiome, 2019

Belowground microbial processes are at the helm of terrestrial ecosystem functions, and the enorm... more Belowground microbial processes are at the helm of terrestrial ecosystem functions, and the enormous diversity of soil microorganisms acts as a key player. Thus, understanding the community dynamics of microorganisms in the soil is essential to know their distribution, abundance, and structure. Further, it is also important to know how these communities are shaped in structure and function in response to changes in space and time. Various microbial diversity analysis methods—fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis, terminal restriction fragment length polymorphisms, and the automated version of ribosomal intergenic spacer analysis, RISA (ARISA)—have been developed to analyse the diversity of soil microorganisms based on their genetic structure. However, methods such as phospholipid and fatty acid analysis utilise the differences in lipid components of the microbial cell membrane to analyse their diversity. In the present chapter, we explore the conventional methods of soil microbial diversity analysis.

Research paper thumbnail of Natural product coumarins: biological and pharmacological perspectives

Biologia, 2019

Plants produce and release a vast variety of secondary metabolites with diversified functions, an... more Plants produce and release a vast variety of secondary metabolites with diversified functions, and possess ecological, toxicological and biological effects that mimic the activities of synthetic chemicals. Coumarins extracted from bacteria, fungi and many edible plants are widely used for their antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-HIV and anticancer activities. This review presents a concise summary based on the latest knowledge of the biological and pharmaceutical uses of coumarin and its derivatives, including an evaluation of future therapeutic potential. The presence of coumarins in various plant organs like fruits, seeds, roots, leaves and latex supplement recent work reported in scientific literature related to these compounds and their development. Due to low production in plants, the upscaling and industrial scale production, commercialization and industry demand of coumarins has faced hurdles. We searched Google Scholar and Web of Science for relevant literature upto 2018 using the keywords pharmaceutical, biological activities and coumarins. This review has thoroughly overviewed the related facts and figures about coumarins and its derivatives, especially in terms of biological and pharmaceutical properties including anti-microbial, anti-viral, anti-diabetic, anticoagulant, estrogenic, dermal photosensitizing, vasodilator, molluscacidal, antithelmintic, sedative and hypnotic, analgesic, hypothermic, anti-cancer activity, antioxidant, anti-parasitic, antihelmintic, anti-proliferative, anti-convulsant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-hypertensive activities. The pharmaceutical impact of coumarins on public health is a complex phenomenon, with several questions in relation to safety during medical therapies and consumption through diet. The present review focuses on coumarin clinical studies in the treatment of various chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, depression, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and HIV. However, further research and review are necessary to broaden the therapeutic effectiveness of coumarin in patients suffering from such ailments.

Research paper thumbnail of Nitrogen fixation and carbon assimilation of the desert legume Tephrosia apollinea under PEG-induced osmotic stress

Flora, 2019

Plant biomass and tissue N were decreased after osmotic stress in T. apollinea.  Intrinsic water... more Plant biomass and tissue N were decreased after osmotic stress in T. apollinea.  Intrinsic water use efficiency was increased by osmotic stress.  Different nitrogen fixing bacteria from 4 strains formed symbiotic associations.  At low osmotic stress T. apollinea was less affected due to support from root nodule bacterial N fixation.  Increased δ 15 N after osmotic stress indicates reduced symbiotic N fixing activity.

Research paper thumbnail of Seed mass and germination traits relationships among different plant growth forms with aerial seed bank in the sub-tropical arid Arabian deserts

Plant Ecology & Diversity, 2018

Background: Seed mass and plant growth forms can affect dispersal syndrome that determine where s... more Background: Seed mass and plant growth forms can affect dispersal syndrome that determine where seed stored until germination, which consequently could determine germination requirements and the fate of emerged seedlings. Aims: This study aimed to assess the relationships between seed mass, germination rate and light and temperature requirements during germination of 23 desert plants with an aerial seed bank. Methods: Freshly collected seeds and those stored for nine months at room temperatures and enclosed within plant parts in the field were germinated in three growth chambers adjusted to three temperatures and two light regimes. Results: Trees and shrubs had significantly heavier seeds with greater dormancy, compared to herbs. Germination at all storage conditions responded positively to light in herbs and germinated in both light and dark in both shrubs and trees. Field storage enhanced light germination in trees, but not in shrubs and herbs. Germination rate index was greater for seeds of herbs and trees, compared to those of shrubs. The relationships between seed mass and final germination in both light and dark regimes were positive in herbs, but negative in shrubs. Conclusions: Growth form, seed size, storage condition can affect light, but not temperature, requirement of the studied plants.

Research paper thumbnail of Trait-Environment Relationships Reveal the Success of Alien Plants Invasiveness in an Urbanized Landscape

Plants

Urban areas are being affected by rapidly increasing human-made pressures that can strongly homog... more Urban areas are being affected by rapidly increasing human-made pressures that can strongly homogenize biodiversity, reduce habitat heterogeneity, and facilitate the invasion of alien species. One of the key concerns in invaded urban areas is comparing the trait–environment relationships between alien and native species, to determine the underlying causes of invasiveness. In the current study, we used a trait–environment dataset of 130 native plants and 33 alien plants, recorded in 100 plots covering 50 urban areas and 50 non-urban ones in an urbanization gradient in the arid mountainous Saint-Katherine protected area in Egypt. We measured eleven morphological plant traits for each plant species and ten environmental variables in each plot, including soil resources and human-made pressures, to construct trait–environment associations using a fourth-corner analysis. In addition, we measured the mean functional and phylogenetic distances between the two species groups along an urbaniz...

Research paper thumbnail of Phytoremediation Perspectives of Seven Aquatic Macrophytes for Removal of Heavy Metals from Polluted Drains in the Nile Delta of Egypt

Biology, 2021

The current study addressed the heavy metals accumulation potentials of seven perennial aquatic m... more The current study addressed the heavy metals accumulation potentials of seven perennial aquatic macrophytes (Cyperus alopecuroides, Echinochloa stagnina, Eichhornia crassipes, Ludwigia stolonifera, Phragmites australis, Ranunculus sceleratus and Typha domingensis) and the pollution status of three drains (Amar, El-Westany and Omar-Beck) in the Nile Delta of Egypt. Nine sites at each drain were sampled for sediment and plant analyses. Concentrations of eight metals (Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn, Co, Cd, Ni, and Pb) were determined in the sediment and the aboveground and belowground tissues of the selected macrophytes. Bioaccumulation factor (BF) and translocation factor (TF) were computed for each species. The sediment heavy metals concentrations of the three drains occurred in the following order: El-Westany > Amar > Omar-Beck. The concentrations of sediment heavy metals in the three drains were ordered as follows: Fe (438.45–615.17 mg kg−1) > Mn (341.22–481.09 mg kg−1) > Zn (245.08–3...

Research paper thumbnail of Differential effects of chloride salts on seed germination and seedling growth of Cistus monspeliensis: Towards revegetation of the Mediterranean salt-contaminated soils

Research paper thumbnail of Single-Cell Genomics and Metagenomics for Microbial Diversity Analysis

Unravelling the Soil Microbiome, 2019

Soil metagenomic analysis was previously limited by technological restrictions and the few refere... more Soil metagenomic analysis was previously limited by technological restrictions and the few reference genomes. The advent of next-generation ‘omics’ technologies has provided high-throughput methods for analysing community structure and reconstructing soil metagenomes. High-throughput sequencing technology and single-cell genomics have revolutionized metagenomic analysis by enabling large-scale sequencing at reduced sequencing costs with less time required. In the present chapter we discuss various technological advances in metagenomics, their processes and the methods of data analysis, and metagenomic success stories under various environments that can be applied for studying the functional and structural diversity of soil microorganisms.

Research paper thumbnail of Greening Gulf Landscapes

Environmental Politics in the Middle East, 2018

Gulf states have paid too much effort toward the greening of cities and too little to fundamental... more Gulf states have paid too much effort toward the greening of cities and too little to fundamentally changing the way they see agricultural lands and deteriorated natural habitats. Most of the greening programs prioritise techniques and interventions, such as introducing exotic plants, that are not adapted to the local environments. The result is that greening projects, especially those in deserts, have failed and proven unsustainable. This chapter discuss what the alternative -maintaining sustainable green desert landscapes- might look like. Proposed innovations include using native trees, instead of exotics, and introducing genetically modified crops designed to tolerate the abiotic stresses and salt tolerant plants (halophytes) to reduce the pressure on fresh water resources

Research paper thumbnail of Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy in Plant Biology

Sustainable Agriculture Reviews, 2021

Electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is a non-invasive approach to characterize the electrical... more Electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is a non-invasive approach to characterize the electrical properties such as resistance and capacitance of many materials including biological tissues. For measurement, the plasma membrane acts as an electrical insulator that controls the movement of ions and electrolytes across the cells. Under application of a voltage to a tissue, an electric current flows through cell walls, from cell to cell and in fluids, giving rise to an electrical impedance. The magnitude of the impedance and its phase angle can be measured at multiple frequencies using an analyzer. Here we review EIS theory, instrumentation, application, model validation and data assimilation for studying of physiological and biochemical changes in biological tissues. EIS thus allows to understand cellular and synthetic membranes, cell biophysics and ionic systems. Ions are the main current carriers inducing the impedance inside tissues. The symplastic and apoplastic resistances form a parallel impedance circuitry at a given frequency. EIS allows to assess physiological attributes, leaf water content, root size and fruit quality traits. Impedance dispersions are described using Nyquist graphs. Best fitting circuit parameters can be optimized.

Research paper thumbnail of Impacts of Surviving and Dead Shrubs and Grasses on Floral Diversity and Community Structure of Sandy Dunes of the UAE

Desertification of sandy areas driven by wind erosion in the Arabian Gulf region often results in... more Desertification of sandy areas driven by wind erosion in the Arabian Gulf region often results in the dominance of few shrubs and grasses, while most of the land are devoid of vegetation. The impact of surviving and dead shrubs and grasses on floral diversity and plant community structure was assessed on stabilized sand dunes in Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Shrubs have greater role in facilitating plant recruitment and survivorship and hence enhancing floral diversity, compared to grasses. Both dead shrubs and grasses attained significantly greater species richness, abundance and diversity indices compared to comparable surviving shrubs and grasses, so the effect of dead grasses was more pronounced than that of dead shrubs. Grasses have a greater role in enhancing floral diversity after their death. For restoring the productivity and species diversity of degraded sandy desert habitats, the study recommends the maintenance and growing shrubby plants as an early successional sta...

Research paper thumbnail of Nutritional and Medical Benefits of Moringa Oleifera, the Miracle Tree

Sustainable Agriculture Reviews, 2021

Research paper thumbnail of Macromorphology and recruitment of Prosopis cineraria in the United Arab Emirates

Recruitment frequency of Prosopis cinerariain the United Arab Emirates is poorly understood, thou... more Recruitment frequency of Prosopis cinerariain the United Arab Emirates is poorly understood, though heavy browsing by camels is often assumed to be a limiting factor. Macromorphological characteristics were recorded at eight locations from the northern United Arab Emirates. Tree size (canopy diameter, trunk diameter, and tree height) showed conformity within locations. Height of browse line was strongly affected by camels, which removed foliage to a height of 3 meters whenever present. Recruitment by seed was not observed during the study, and observed asexual recruitment was limited to root suckers produced only within the season. Presence of suckers was unrelated to browsing but strongly affected by a shifting ground surface. Viable theories for the absence of sexual recruitment include seedling destruction by herbivores, a lack of safe sites for seedling growth and establishment, and that sexual recruitment events might naturally occur rarely, but produce many recruits in the rar...

Research paper thumbnail of Unravelling the Soil Microbiome

SpringerBriefs in Environmental Science, 2020

SpringerBriefs in Environmental Science present concise summaries of cuttingedge research and pra... more SpringerBriefs in Environmental Science present concise summaries of cuttingedge research and practical applications across a wide spectrum of environmental fields, with fast turnaround time to publication. Featuring compact volumes of 50 to 125 pages, the series covers a range of content from professional to academic. Monographs of new material are considered for the SpringerBriefs in Environmental Science series. Typical topics might include: a timely report of state-of-the-art analytical techniques, a bridge between new research results, as published in journal articles and a contextual literature review, a snapshot of a hot or emerging topic, an in-depth case study or technical example, a presentation of core concepts that students must understand in order to make independent contributions, best practices or protocols to be followed, a series of short case studies/debates highlighting a specific angle. SpringerBriefs in Environmental Science allow authors to present their ideas and readers to absorb them with minimal time investment. Both solicited and unsolicited manuscripts are considered for publication.

Research paper thumbnail of Correction: El-Sawah et al. Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria Enhance Soil Key Enzymes, Plant Growth, Seed Yield, and Qualitative Attributes of Guar. Agriculture 2021, 11, 194

Agriculture, 2021

This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY

Research paper thumbnail of Seed provenance, thermoperiod, and photoperiod affect low water potential tolerance during seed germination of the multipurpose exotic tree Prosopis juliflora

Journal of Arid Environments, 2021

Research paper thumbnail of Critical discovery and synthesis of novel antibacterial and resistance-modifying agents inspired by plant phytochemical defense mechanisms

Chemico-Biological Interactions, 2021

Introduction: Anaemia is common in haemodialysis patients and treating it with erythropoiesis-sti... more Introduction: Anaemia is common in haemodialysis patients and treating it with erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) is complex due to many factors. Objectives: To assess the usefulness of the anaemia control model (ACM) in the treatment of anaemia in haemodialysis. Methods: ACM is a software that predicts the optimal dose of darbepoetin and iron sucrose to achieve target haemoglobin (Hb) and ferritin levels, and makes prescription suggestions. Study conducted in dialysis clinics lasting 18 months with two intervention phases (IPs) with ACM (IP1, n: 213; IP2, n: 218) separated by a control phase (CP, n: 219). The primary outcome was the percentage of Hb in range and the median dose of ESAs, and the secondary outcomes were transfusion, hospitalisation and cardiovascular events. Clinical and patient analyses were performed. Hb variability was assessed by the standard deviation (SD) of the Hb. We also analysed the patients with most of the suggestions confirmed (ACM compliant group). Results: ACM increased the percentage of Hb in range: 80.9% in IP2, compared with 72.7% in the CP and reduced the intake of darbepoetin (IP1: 20 [70]; CP 30 [80] g, p = 0.032) with less Hb fluctuation (0.91 ± 0.49 in the CP to 0.82 ± 0.37 g/dl in IP2, p < 0.05), improving in the ACM compliant group. The secondary outcomes decreased with the use of ACM. Conclusions: ACM helps to obtain better anaemia results in haemodialysis patients, minimising the risks of treatment with ESAs and reducing costs.

Research paper thumbnail of Surface Canopy Position Determines the Photosystem II Photochemistry in Invasive and Native Prosopis Congeners at Sharjah Desert, UAE

Forests, 2020

Plants have evolved photoprotective mechanisms in order to counteract the damaging effects of exc... more Plants have evolved photoprotective mechanisms in order to counteract the damaging effects of excess light in hyper-arid desert environments. We evaluated the impact of surface canopy positions on the photosynthetic adjustments and chlorophyll fluorescence attributes (photosystem II photochemistry, quantum yield, fluorescence quenching, and photon energy dissipation), leaf biomass and nutrient content of sun-exposed leaves at the south east (SE canopy position) and shaded-leaves at the north west (NW canopy position) in the invasive Prosopis juliflora and native Prosopis cineraria in the extreme environment (hyper-arid desert area, United Arab Emirates (UAE)). The main aim of this research was to study the photoprotection mechanism in invasive and native Prosopis congeners via the safe removal—as thermal energy—of excess solar energy absorbed by the light collecting system, which counteracts the formation of reactive oxygen species. Maximum photosynthetic efficiency (Fv/Fm) from dar...

Research paper thumbnail of Importance of Environmental Factors on Production of Computationally- Defined Natural Molecules against COVID-19 Pandemic

Current Topics in Medicinal Chemistry, 2020

The outbreak caused by the novel Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) and designated COVID-19 by the World He... more The outbreak caused by the novel Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) and designated COVID-19 by the World Health Organization (WHO), spread aggressively across the continents [1]. COVID-19 resulted in 6.93 million infected cases and over 401,000 deaths around the world as of June 09, 2020. The emergence of such pandemic infections poses serious threats to the global public health and world economy. Currently, there are no safe and effective drugs available for SARS-CoV-2, and the development of new antiviral drug is a time-consuming process, while the COVID-19 pandemic requires a quick response. There is an urgent need for defining a safe and guaranteed source of medicines including in particular medicinal plants that can fight SARS-CoV-2, especially in poor and developing countries, where they rely on herbal medicines as a main source of medicines. Plants produce a diverse number of secondary metabolites to fight against several types of pathogens including viruses [2]. The antiviral activities of some of these plant compounds make them possible candidates to fight against SARS-CoV-2. Computational modeling helped in proposing several plant compounds as potential candidates to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 by targeting enzymes that are necessary for viral pathogenesis. Molecular docking has been used to predict suitable active compounds that have high affinity to bind with the enzyme receptor (Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, ACE2) to form a stable complex [3]. By using molecular docking, several compounds were suggested during the last few months as potential candidates to inhibit SARS-CoV-2. For example, Chen and Du [4] defined the potentials of five natural compounds for the prevention and treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infections; these are baicalin from Scutellaria baicalensis (Baikal skullcap), scutellarin from Erigeron breviscapus, hesperetin from Citrus aurantium (Bitter orange) and Citrus reticulate (mandarin orange), glycyrrhizin from Glycyrrhiza radix (licorice), and nicotianamine from Glycine max (soybean). Similarly, ul Qamar et al. [5] virtually screened more than 32,297 antiviral phytochemicals and identified nine potential natural phytochemicals that can inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infection. These compounds are 5,7,3′,4′-tetrahydroxy-2'-(3,3-dimethylallyl) isoflavone from Psorothamnus arborescens, myricitrin from Myrica cerifera, methyl rosmarinate from Hyptis atrorubens, 3,5,7,3′,4′,5′-hexahydroxy flavanone-3-Obeta-D-glucopyranoside from Phaseolus vulgaris, (2S)-eriodictyol 7-O-(6″-O-galloyl)-beta-D-glucopyranoside from Phyllanthus emblica, calceolarioside B from Fraxinus sieboldiana, myricetin 3-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside from Camellia sinensis, licoleafol from Glycyrrhiza uralensis, and amaranthin from Amaranthus tricolor. These phytochemicals showed higher binding affinity to ACE2 than other drugs used as control such as Nelfinavir, Prulifloxacin and Colistin [5]. Another study by Basu et al [6] reported five flavonoid and anthraquinone phytochemicals with potential inhibition activities of virus activation. These compounds are hesperidin from Valeriana jatamansi, emodin from Rheum emodi, anthraquinone from Cassia angustifolia, rhein from Cassia angustifolia, and chrysin from Oroxylum indicum [6]. Furthermore, Farshi et al. [7] reviewed over 110 articles related to the effects of plant metabolites on different coronaviruses. Based on the IC 50 value, docking score, and binding energy, the authors were able to identify five natural compounds including curcumin from Curcuma longa (turmeric), hesperidin and diosmin from citrus, apiin from Petroselinum crispum (parsely), and rutin from tea and apples, as promising inhibitors for the virus activation by targeting the host transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2), which is a promising therapeutic target since it is critical for viral activation and invasion [7]. Inhibition of TMPRSS2 is an excellent target since it avoids possible development of drug resistance, a common viral feature [3]. Other computational analyses were conducted on plant compounds growing in the Middle East and North Africa have identified different compounds with potential activities on coronavirus. For example, Aanouz et al. [8] assessed the activities of 67 antiviral compounds of natural origin derived from Moroccan plants. The results revealed three molecules including crocin from Crocus sativus, digitoxigenin from Nerium oleander, and β-eudesmol from Lauris nobilis that exhibited promising antivi

Research paper thumbnail of Seed germination behavior of five Resedaceae species from arid Arabian desert: gibberellic acid and light effects

Plant Biosystems - An International Journal Dealing with all Aspects of Plant Biology, 2019

Abstract Light and growth-promoting compounds, such as gibberellic acids (GA3), are among the mos... more Abstract Light and growth-promoting compounds, such as gibberellic acids (GA3), are among the most important factors that can break physiological seed dormancy. Here, we investigate the effects of GA3 and light on germination of five species of Resedaceae that are known to have different levels of physiological dormancy. Seeds were incubated at 20/30 °C in both 12-hr photoperiod and complete darkness. To study the effect of growth hormone on germination, seeds were soaked for 24 h in different concentrations of GA3 before sowing. The annuals (Reseda aucheri and Oligomeris linifolia) and the perennial Ochradenus arabicus had deep physiological dormancy, and exogenous application of GA3 enhanced their germination in the light, but not in darkness; few or no seeds germinated in the dark in these species. Ochradenus aucheri and O. baccatus had intermediate and non-deep dormancy, respectively, and application of GA3 enhanced their germination in both light and darkness. Germination of the annual species was much slower than that of the shrubby perennials. Overall, these results indicate that conditions under which seed developed, matured and stored on maternal plants as well as incubation conditions should be taken into consideration when assessing germination behavior of the perennial species of Resedaceae.

Research paper thumbnail of Methods for Exploring Soil Microbial Diversity

Unravelling the Soil Microbiome, 2019

Belowground microbial processes are at the helm of terrestrial ecosystem functions, and the enorm... more Belowground microbial processes are at the helm of terrestrial ecosystem functions, and the enormous diversity of soil microorganisms acts as a key player. Thus, understanding the community dynamics of microorganisms in the soil is essential to know their distribution, abundance, and structure. Further, it is also important to know how these communities are shaped in structure and function in response to changes in space and time. Various microbial diversity analysis methods—fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis, terminal restriction fragment length polymorphisms, and the automated version of ribosomal intergenic spacer analysis, RISA (ARISA)—have been developed to analyse the diversity of soil microorganisms based on their genetic structure. However, methods such as phospholipid and fatty acid analysis utilise the differences in lipid components of the microbial cell membrane to analyse their diversity. In the present chapter, we explore the conventional methods of soil microbial diversity analysis.

Research paper thumbnail of Natural product coumarins: biological and pharmacological perspectives

Biologia, 2019

Plants produce and release a vast variety of secondary metabolites with diversified functions, an... more Plants produce and release a vast variety of secondary metabolites with diversified functions, and possess ecological, toxicological and biological effects that mimic the activities of synthetic chemicals. Coumarins extracted from bacteria, fungi and many edible plants are widely used for their antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-HIV and anticancer activities. This review presents a concise summary based on the latest knowledge of the biological and pharmaceutical uses of coumarin and its derivatives, including an evaluation of future therapeutic potential. The presence of coumarins in various plant organs like fruits, seeds, roots, leaves and latex supplement recent work reported in scientific literature related to these compounds and their development. Due to low production in plants, the upscaling and industrial scale production, commercialization and industry demand of coumarins has faced hurdles. We searched Google Scholar and Web of Science for relevant literature upto 2018 using the keywords pharmaceutical, biological activities and coumarins. This review has thoroughly overviewed the related facts and figures about coumarins and its derivatives, especially in terms of biological and pharmaceutical properties including anti-microbial, anti-viral, anti-diabetic, anticoagulant, estrogenic, dermal photosensitizing, vasodilator, molluscacidal, antithelmintic, sedative and hypnotic, analgesic, hypothermic, anti-cancer activity, antioxidant, anti-parasitic, antihelmintic, anti-proliferative, anti-convulsant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-hypertensive activities. The pharmaceutical impact of coumarins on public health is a complex phenomenon, with several questions in relation to safety during medical therapies and consumption through diet. The present review focuses on coumarin clinical studies in the treatment of various chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, depression, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and HIV. However, further research and review are necessary to broaden the therapeutic effectiveness of coumarin in patients suffering from such ailments.

Research paper thumbnail of Nitrogen fixation and carbon assimilation of the desert legume Tephrosia apollinea under PEG-induced osmotic stress

Flora, 2019

Plant biomass and tissue N were decreased after osmotic stress in T. apollinea.  Intrinsic water... more Plant biomass and tissue N were decreased after osmotic stress in T. apollinea.  Intrinsic water use efficiency was increased by osmotic stress.  Different nitrogen fixing bacteria from 4 strains formed symbiotic associations.  At low osmotic stress T. apollinea was less affected due to support from root nodule bacterial N fixation.  Increased δ 15 N after osmotic stress indicates reduced symbiotic N fixing activity.

Research paper thumbnail of Seed mass and germination traits relationships among different plant growth forms with aerial seed bank in the sub-tropical arid Arabian deserts

Plant Ecology & Diversity, 2018

Background: Seed mass and plant growth forms can affect dispersal syndrome that determine where s... more Background: Seed mass and plant growth forms can affect dispersal syndrome that determine where seed stored until germination, which consequently could determine germination requirements and the fate of emerged seedlings. Aims: This study aimed to assess the relationships between seed mass, germination rate and light and temperature requirements during germination of 23 desert plants with an aerial seed bank. Methods: Freshly collected seeds and those stored for nine months at room temperatures and enclosed within plant parts in the field were germinated in three growth chambers adjusted to three temperatures and two light regimes. Results: Trees and shrubs had significantly heavier seeds with greater dormancy, compared to herbs. Germination at all storage conditions responded positively to light in herbs and germinated in both light and dark in both shrubs and trees. Field storage enhanced light germination in trees, but not in shrubs and herbs. Germination rate index was greater for seeds of herbs and trees, compared to those of shrubs. The relationships between seed mass and final germination in both light and dark regimes were positive in herbs, but negative in shrubs. Conclusions: Growth form, seed size, storage condition can affect light, but not temperature, requirement of the studied plants.