bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Influencing Construction Stakeholders’ Engagement Outcome in Nigeria
Authors: Ekung Samuel B. , Okonkwo E. , Odesola I.
Published: October 2022

As a result of an increasing cases of community protest and opposition to construction projects in the Niger Delta during the construction stages, the present study investigated factors influencing construction stakeholders‟ engagement outcome. The aim was to determine the severity of factors influencing construction stakeholders‟ engagement in the research environment. Due to the pluralist usage of the term stakeholder, the study examined community stakeholders. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected using semi-structured interview and questionnaire survey administered on 186 respondents selected from two stakeholders groups using snowballing. 32 factors generated individually and collectively from literature, interview and practice were ranked and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Gap between regulatory requirements and public expectations, location of projects, effect of cumulative development effects, poverty, and lack of information disclosure are some of the high ranking factors influencing engagement performance. Further analysis involving Levene‟s Homogeneity test indicates no significant difference in the population ranking opinion of these factors. This heterogeneous distribution demonstrates strong similarity across the population studied. These factors must therefore be smoothened in future construction engagement process to enhance successful project delivery. The study unveils inherent lacunas in construction project management which strongly correlates project performance.
In Vitro Seed Germination and Embryo Culture in Nothapodytes foetida (Wight) Sleumer
Authors: Kaveri S. , Srinath Rao
Published: October 2022

In vitro seed germination and embryo culture have been achieved in Nothapodytes foetida, this plant is known for its rich source of anticancer drug i. e., Camptothecin. In present study both normal and decoated seeds were subjected to different treatments viz., H2O, GA3, H2O2, H2SO4, chlorine water and mechanical scarification, further these were germinated on water agar medium (WA), filter paper bridge (FB), half strength MS (HMS) and full strength MS (FMS) medium. The highest percentage (69%) of germination was achieved from decoated seeds treated with 10mg/L GA3 and germinated on Filter Paper Bridge. And for embryo culture mature embryos were inoculated on MS medium containing various combination and concentrations of cytokinins (BAP, Kn and TDZ) and auxin (IAA and NAA) for rapid conversion into a plantlet. Among the different combinations of growth regulators; highest frequency (100%) of plantlet conversion was obtained on MS medium containing Kn (1.0mg/L) and NAA (0.2mg/L).
Simultaneous Generation of Bioelectricity and Treatment of Swine Wastewater in a Microbial Fuel Cell
Authors: Egbadon Emmanuel , Akujobi Campbell O. , Nweke Chris O. , Braide Wesley , Akaluka Cynthia K. , Adeleye Samuel A.
Published: October 2022

This study aimed at the simultaneous treatment of wastewater obtained from swine and generation of bioenergy in form of electricity from the energy stored in the organic component of the wastewater. The Open circuit voltage, current, power density and microbiological and physicochemical parameters were monitored. An initial Open circuit voltage of 516mV, Current of 0.29mA, and Power density of 32.74mW/m2 were recorded, which increased to give maximum Open Circuit Voltages of 836mV, Current of 0.49mA, and Power density of 88.45mW/m2. The results revealed that The Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Organic carbon, Total Soluble solids (TSS), Ammonia, Ammonium and Ammonium-Nitrogen all showed percentage decrease of 85.92%, 51.74%, 78.16%, 98.87%, 55.87%, 55.79% and 55.90% respectively while parameters such as Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Nitrate, Nitrate-Nitrogen, Phosphates, Phosphorus and Orthophosphates however increased after treatment to give a percentage increase of -273.60%, -131.65%, -134.85%, -168.77%, -159.26%, and -157.03% respectively. Bacteria isolates identified at the biofilms on the anode were Corynebacterium specie, Bacillus specie, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Streptococcus faecalis. The results from this study further exacerbate the Bioelectricity production as well as wastewater treatment potentials of the Microbial Fuel Cell technology.
An Attitude of Subcarpathian’s Residents to Sustainable Solutions for Urban Transport
Authors: Zimon Dominik
Published: October 2022

Sustainable development is a concept that appears more frequently in the context of urbanized cities. Rational management of city logistics and urban population change of consciousness becomes a priority. The purpose of this publication is to emphasize the need for changes in city logistics, to characterize the concept of sustainable transport and to present the results of research on: the views of residents of Podkarpacie on choosing alternatives to the car, and urban transport concept. The research process was conducted in two stages. The first stage of the research was conducted in 2014 within its scope included the study compared the inhabitants of Podkarpacie to sustainable forms of transport. The second stage of the study carried out in 2015 was designed to examine whether the implementation of Intelligent Public Transport Management System, has changed the ratio of respondents to sustainable transport.
Fish Fauna of Kurikotta Bridge Bennithora River, Gulbarga District of Karnataka, India
Authors: Ravikiran K. , Kulkarni R.S. , Padashetty Sharanappa
Published: October 2022

The present study deals with the fish fauna of Kurikotta Bridge Bennithora River, Gulbarga district of Karnataka. The study was undertaken for a period of one year and monthly collections were made from April-2013 to March-2014, in four sites. The result of present study reveals the occurrence of seventeen (17) fish species belonging to five orders. The order Cypriniformes was dominant with nine (9) followed by order Siluriformes (4) Channiformes (2), Mastacembelidae and Osteoglossiformes each with one species.
Ethnomedicinal Aspects of some Weeds from Paddy Fields of Villupuram District in Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Dhanam S. , Elayaraj B.
Published: October 2022

The present investigation has been carried out to enumerate the ethnomedicinal plant growing in the paddy field of Villupuram district, Tamil Nadu. Ten selected sites in the Villupuram district was taken for investigation. Random quadrate method was adapted for studying the phytosociological attributes of the weeds. A total of 145 plant species belonging to 22 families were identified, out of which 39 plant species are medicinally important to cure different diseases in human beings directly. Amaranthaceae and Euphorbiaceae was the dominant family seen during observation. Frequency, Relative frequency, Density, Relative density, Abundance, Relative abundance and Important Value Index (IVI) of the species were calculated.
Fruiting Phenology of a Scrub Forest in Thiruporur, Eastern Ghats, India
Authors: Aruna R. , Balasubramanian P.
Published: October 2022

This paper describes the fruiting phenology of 110 individuals of woody species belonging to 22 taxa (21 species, 1 variety) belonging to 15 families including 2 species of figs in a scrub forest, Thiruporur, Eastern Ghats. Fruiting peak was observed during July 2009 with 11 species in fruiting, a dip was observed during March 2009 where only 2 species were in fruiting. Season wise fruiting peak was observed during South-west and North-east Monsoon while the dip was during summer.
Effect of FYM, N, P Fertilizers and Biofertilizers on Germination and Growth of Paddy (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Rajasekaran S. , Sundaramoorthy P. , Ganesh K. Sankar
Published: October 2022

Biofertilizers are becoming increasingly popular in many countries and for many crops, but very few studies on their effect on growth in seedling stage have been conducted in rice. The experiments were conducted under laboratory conditions due to organic manure, fertilizers and bio fertilizers were observed in all experiments. The treatments such as organic manure, chemical fertilizers and Biofertilizers alone and in combination were applied. The growth parameters viz. germination percentage, root length, shoot length, fresh weight and dry weight were measured. Similarly the pigment contents such as chlorophyll-a, b, total chlorophyll and carotenoid were also measured at seventh day after sowing. All the parameters were higher in combined application of Biofertilizers than in single application and other treatments including control.
Antibacterial Potentials of Vernonia amygdalina against Antibiotic-Resistant Salmonella Specie Isolated from Nworie River, Imo State, Nigeria
Authors: Chikwendu Chinwe I. , Egbadon Emmanuel , Okuma Blessing
Published: October 2022

Salmonella specie were isolated from Nworie River and then tested against several antibiotics to include; Gentamycin, Streptomycin, Amoxycillin, Kanamycin, Oxacillin, Ofloxacin, Imipenem, Ciprofloxacin, Aztreonam and Ceftazidime. Salmonella isolates obtained from the river were resistant to at least three different antibiotics. All isolates were resistant to Amoxycillin, Oxacillin and Iminipem showing a 100% resistant rate, while showing sensitivity to Ciprofloxacin, Aztreonam, Gentamycin, Ceftazidime, Kanamycin, Streptomycin, and Ofloxacin at sensitivity rates of 71.4%, 7.1%, 77.1%, 11.4%, 44.3%, 48.6% and 78.6% respectively. The antibiotic-resistant Salmonella species were further tested against the aqueous, ethanol and acetone extracts of Vernonia amygdalina leaf, stem and roots to assess their antibacterial potential at a concentration of 100mg/ml. Aqueous extracts of the leaf, stem and roots showed no activity against antibiotic resistant Salmonella isolate, while the ethanol and acetone extracts showed activity rates of 20% and 17% for roots, 14.3% and 12.9% for stem, and, 15.7% and 11.4% for leaf. The results from this study further confirms the antibacterial potentials of Vernonia amygdalina against antibiotic-resistant bacterial isolates.
The Effects of Different Plant Activators on Protein, Lipid and Fatty Acids in Snack-Seed Pumpkin
Authors: Dayan Aygul , Sari Nebahat , Özogul Fatih
Published: October 2022

In this study, Nusem and Beppo snack seed pumpkin cultivars were used to determine the effects of different plant activators on seed protein, lipid and fatty acids contents. In the context of study, plant activators consist of Crop-set (CR), EM1, ERS, Vitormone-Plus Drip (VIT), Bacillus subtilis (OSU 142), Bacillus megatorium (M3), Azospirillum sp. (SP 245), Spirulina platensis (SIP), Ecocompost (EKO), Camli Botanica liquid organic fertilizer (BOT) and Zincon (ZIN) were used as organic fertilizer. In the experiment, the plant activators were applied to the plants alone or in combination with each other and organic fertilizer. Two separate control groups which were organic and conventional (CONV.) fertilizer have been identified. As a result of the use of different plant activators, the highest protein content was obtained from CONV. application (35.50%), M3+SP 245 (33.09%) and M3 (33.04%); the highest lipid content was observed from SP 245+OG (45.90%), CR (44.48%) and SIP+OG (44.26%) applications. The use of different plant activators effected the fatty acid contents of seeds. Total 11 fatty acids were identified. Among the fatty acids, C16:0 (Palmitic acid), C18:0 (Stearic acid), C18:1 (Oleic acid) and C18:2 (Linoleic acid) were found dominant.
Nucleic Acid Content in Tissue of the Fish N. notopterus Collected from Different Aquatic Bodies
Authors: Ravikiran K. , Kulkarni R.S.
Published: October 2022

Nucleic acid content in brain, liver, kidney and gonads of the freshwater fish Notopterus notopterus collected from different aquatic bodies were studied during pre-spawning phase of the reproductive cycle. The three different aquatic bodies selected were Saradgi nala, Bennithora River and Bheema River and their physiochemical parameters also studied. The present study of nucleic acid content in brain, liver, kidney and gonads of the fish Notopterus notopterus collected from aquatic body Bennithora River shows normal levels of the nucleic acid as compared to that of fish from other two aquatic bodies. The normal content of nucleic acid content of N.notoptuers in the aquatic body Bennithora may be due to favorable environmental condition for survival, growth, distribution and reproductive activity.
Profitability of Coarse Cereals Production in India
Authors: Ayalew Birhanu , Sekar I.
Published: October 2022

This study was aimed at investigating profitability of selected coarse cereals production in major producing states of India through analyzing cost, return and profitability of coarse cereals cultivation. Cost concepts and farm business income measures used for analysis the data ranging from 1980-81 to 2011-12. Net return of coarse cereals cultivation was observed to be highest for maize and it was highest in Bihar (Rs. 15,429/ha) and lowest Uttar Pradesh (Rs. -4,006/ha). Net return from cultivation of sorghum was found to be highest in Andhra Pradesh (Rs. 952/ha) and lowest for Madhya Pradesh (Rs. -1,456/ha). For pearl millet net return was highest in Andhra Pradesh (Rs. 4,995/ha) and lowest for Karnataka (Rs. -1,252/ha) whereas cultivation of finger millet was observed to be at a loss
Vegetation Structure in Shahbazgari, District Mardan
Authors: Khan Musharaf , Hussain Farrukh , Musharaf Shahana
Published: October 2022

The present work was made to investigate the vegetation structure of shrubs and herbs in research area. Total 48 plant species consisting of 7 shrubs and 41 herbs constructing Cenchrus-Zizyphus-Saccharum community from 9 sites in which 9 communities i.e. Fumaria-Rumex-Xanthium community, Cynodon-Solanum-Sonchus community, Cynodon-Sorghum-Alhagi community, Ajuga-Malvastrum-Calotropis community, Cynodon –Convolvulus-Cyperus community, Ajuga-Saccharum-Chenopodium community, Alhagi-Rumex-Euphorbia community, Saccharum-Cannabis-Xanthium community and Achyranthus-Ajuga-Euphorbia community were found. The contribution of total important values by shrubs was 43.78 and 256.2 by herbs. The soil of the area had better calcium carbonate in the range of (11.72 – 12.99 %), with soil pH (6.45 – 8.11). The EC was found in the range of (0.13-0.22 dS m-1). The concentrations of P and K content were found in the range of (3.54-3.92 mg Kg-1) and (111.21-127.14 mg Kg-1). These results highlight the constant need for long-term ground-based conservation monitoring in combination with satellite-based monitoring of changes in vegetation cover.
Phytochemical and Antibacterial Evaluation of Various Extracts of Amoora ruhituka Bark
Authors: Umesh M.K. , Sanjeevkumar C.B. , Londonkar Ramesh
Published: October 2022

Preliminary phytochemical screening of various extracts of Amoora ruhituka bark were investigated which reveals the presence of several secondary metabolites in each extracts. The antibacterial activity of all the extracts was tested against four gram negative bacterial strains. The results indicated the zone of inhibition which ranges from 11.30±577 to 18.7±0.577 for different extracts in which Methanol extract has shown highest zone of inhibition for Salmonella typhimurium followed by Enterobacter aerogenes , E coli and P aeruginosa whereas benzene extract has showed the least zone of inhibition and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the different extracts ranging from 0.78 mg/ml to 6.25mg/ml.The complete results of this study provides a essential data for the use of Amoora ruhituka for the treatment of infection associated diseases
Socio-Environmental Survey of an Ecologically Important Hamlet of Darjeeling District West Bengal, India
Authors: Bhattacharya Sayan , Ghosh G. , Banerjee T. , Goswami S. , Das P.
Published: October 2022

Forest cover in hills is essential to maintain environmental, economic and ecological balances. North Bengal accounts for 3,086 sq km (26 %) of the 11,876 sq km area of classified forests in the state, and for nearly 5,000 sq km (40 %) of all land under tree cover. Upper Chatakpur is one of the emerging ecotourism spots of north Bengal, located at an altitude of 7887 feet in Darjeeling district. It is a 180 years old ethnic village with 19 houses and a population of about 89, and at an altitude of 7887 ft. It is about 8 km. from Sonada (26° 57' N, 88° 16' E), 22 km. from Darjeeling (26° 2' N, 88° 15' E) and 72 km. from Siliguri (26° 42' N, 88° 25' E). Upper Chatakpur Village situated within Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary, Darjeeling. The sanctuary with an area of 38.88 sq. km has an elevation of 1500-2600 m. The survey work was done in December, 2014 by visiting upper Chatakpur village and the primary data were gathered through field survey and direct contact with common people and authorized centers of the region. Surveys on the topography, demography, agriculture, livestock, water management, education, culture, health, waste management, transport, biodiversity, human animal conflict were done in this area. Medicinal plant diversity was studied in the village area and information was gathered from the local forest department centre. Information regarding the transport system was collected from the local transport office and syndicate. Census report was collected from the Sonada Panchayat Office. Health and education information was collected from the local primary school and the local sub health centre. Information on sustainable agricultural practices and waste management policies is collected through surveys in the village houses and agricultural fields. Biodiversity of Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary was documented by visiting the forest areas. Pictorial documentation was done in every phase of study. In spite of getting so much attention in the recent time, the village is not adequately developed. There is an urgent need for implementing sustainable management systems in the areas for the betterment of the socio-environmental structures. Some of the possible management strategies have been suggested for maintaining the social, environmental, economic and ecological balance of the region.
Callus Induction and Organogenesis in Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) var 93v297
Authors: Arjun  , Srinath Rao
Published: October 2022

An efficient protocol for induction of callus and regeneration of a sugar cane var 93v297 has been developed and reported here. Callus induction from immature young leaf explants derived from 2-3-month-old plants was achieved on Murashige and Skoog’s (MS) medium supplemented with different auxins viz, 2,4-D, NAA and IAA. Among different auxins, 2, 4-D at 3.5mg/l + 0.5mg/l BAP was found favourable in inducing callus. Addition of coconut milk and BAP further enhanced the growth of callus maximum being on MS medium supplemented with 0.5mg/l BAP (3602.33±0.88mg). Calli were further evaluated for regeneration. MS medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/l BAP was found suitable where 100% calli regenerated with maximum number of multiple shoots per callus mass (41.40±0.89). Highest number of root emergence (28.33±1.16) and maximum root length (3.40±0.67cm) was achieved on MS medium supplemented with 3mgl/l NAA. The in vitro grown plants were transferred to polycups containing a mixture of sterilized sand, soil and cocopeet (1:1:1) for hardening. The hardened plants were transferred to green-house conditions where they survived with 90% frequency.
Quantitative Profile Analysis of Mulberry Silkworm Bombyx mori L. (CSR2XCSR4)
Authors: Reddy B. Venugopal , Divya P. , Anitha M.
Published: October 2022

Bombyx mori. L. (CSR2XCSR4) is a bivolitne crossbreed that produces high quantity of silk. The weights of worms and glands are directly related to the yield of silk, higher larval weights leads to higher silk production. In the present study, quantitative parameters of 5th instar and pupal stages of silkworm larvae were observed. The analysis of quantitative estimation showed that the maximum weights and lengths of silk gland and silk worm were recorded on 7th day of 5th instar larval stage. The day dependent variation in protein concentration was observed in total silk gland 5th instar larval and pupal stages.
Involvement of Phenolic Compounds in Anaerobic Flooding Germination of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Khang Do Tan , Thu Ha Pham Thi , Thi Lang Nguyen , Tuyen Phung Thi , Minh Luong The , Minh Truong Ngoc , Bach Do Tuan , Xuan Tran Dang
Published: October 2022

By this study, thirty rice varieties were evaluated for anaerobic flooding tolerance using the direct sowing method. Phenolic profiles of strong and weak tolerant varieties were identified and compared based on HPLC chromatograms. The germination rates and shoot heights of rice were recorded for calculating the seedling vigor, which indicate the tolerant ability of rice in flooding condition. The results revealed a high variation of germination rate (10.01 to 100%), shoot height (0.35 to 78.17 mm) and seedling vigor (0.05 to 72.83). There was a high correlation between (r = 0.71) germination rate in 5 cm and 10 cm flood. Phenolic and flavonoid contents of the strong tolerant cultivar significantly and proportionally increased in the flooding levels (5 cm and 10 cm). There was a total difference in terms of number of phenolic acids found in the strong and weak tolerant varieties. In particular, six phenolic acids (gallic acid, catechol, caffeic acid, syringic acid, vanillin, and ellagic acid) were only identified with high concentration in the strong tolerant cultivar. The findings suggest that the phenolics presented in the strong tolerant varieties probably have a certain function in response and adaptation to anaerobic flooding condition. Further researches on exogenous application of these phenolic acids to increase the flooding tolerant level of rice should be continued at both green house and field treatments.
Land Degradation Analysis on Coastal Area of Ampara District
Authors: Kaleel Mohamed Ibrahim Mohamed
Published: October 2022

The island of Sri Lanka is free from serious natural hazards such as volcanic activity and earthquakes resulting from climatic extremes, but there are impacts of many natural disasters, such as landslides, floods and droughts, the intensity and frequency of which are increasing due to human interventions. Some areas of Sri Lanka are also periodically subject to cyclones that occur due to climatic conditions and geographical locations. Land degradation denotes all natural or anthropogenic processes that diminish or impair productivity of land. This occurs mainly through soil erosion, loss of organic matter and nutrients in the soil; salinization and large scale land degradation in Sri Lanka. Its manifestations today are heavy loss of soil, siltation in the water bodies, reservoirs and coastal waters, unplanned settlements, loss of arable land leading to declining productivity in agricultural lands and intensification of impacts of natural hazards such as flooding and landslides. Land degradation is a major problem in Eastern Coastal Area from Kalmunai MC, Karaitivu and Nintavur Divisional Secretariat Divisions (DSDs) of Ampara District. However, there is a considerable spatial heterogeneity exists within this area in terms of land use, topography, land management and socio-economic conditions. Therefore, land degradation assessment studies are very important for the sustainable development of the area. Considering the above background, this study was conducted with the objectives of developing a land degradation assessment model using a GIS based approach.
Comparative Study of Nitrosamine in Roasted Food Base on the Roasting Methods
Authors: Ogunmodede O.T. , Ojo A.A. , Jegede O.
Published: October 2022

The present study examined the interrelationships of roasting methods and nitrosamine compounds (NA) content in eleven food sample investigated. The total level of NA in examined food ranged from 1.1x10-3 μg per g in oven roasted white maize to 5.0x10-3 μg per g in wood roasted pig meat that is lower than the legal level in WHO (0.001 μg per kg ). The significant increase of NA concentration in all food samples on roasting was observed. Methods of roasting have significant effects on the level of nitrosamine in each of the material used.
Morphological Characterization of Biocontrol Isolates of Trichoderma to Study the Correlation between Morphological Characters and Biocontrol Efficacy
Authors: Muthu Kumar A. , Sharma Pratibha
Published: October 2022

The morphological characterization was carried out for 5 isolates of Trichoderma harzianum and 7 isolates of Trichoderma viride and tested for their biocontrol efficacy. The isolates belonging to T.harzianum were analogous in colony colour, culture smell, mycelial colour, conidiation, conidial shape, conidial wall and conidial colour. Correspondingly the isolates of T.viride showed certain similarity in colony colour, colony edge, culture smell, conidiophore branching, conidial wall, conidial colour and chlamydospores. Inter specific differences through cluster analysis based on morphological characters grouped the twelve isolates into three major clusters where all the isolates of T.harzianum formed a single cluster while the isolates of T.viride were bifurcated into two groups. The clustering was substantiated by similarity index which showed maximum similarity among T.harzianum isolates with only less than 20% variation among themselves. Similarly the clusters having isolates of T.viride also had less variation within them. The biocontrol efficacy of these twelve isolates of Trichoderma was experimented by dual culture test under laboratory condition and there existed some relation between the biocontrol efficacy of these isolates and morphology.
Chemical Composition, Antioxidant Activities of the Essential Oil of Mentha pulegium L, South East of Algeria
Authors: Ouakouak H. , Chohra M. , Denane M.
Published: October 2022

Aerial parts of Mentha pulegium L. collected from south east of Algeria (Reguiba, El-Oued) possessed an essential oil in 2.34% (v/w) yield. GC and GC-MS analysis of the oil revealed recognition of Thirty-seven compounds, representing 95.02% (area percent) of the total oil composition. Oil was rich in Oxygenated hydrocarbons, exhibited higher percentage of Pulegone (46.31%) followed by Piperitenone (23.3%), Menthone (6.2%) and Limonene (4.7%). The antioxidant activity by DPPH free radical scavenging bioassay (IC50 = 157 µl/ml).
Applying In Silico Approaches for Designing a Chimeric InaV/N-DFPase Protein and Evaluating its Binding with Diisopropyl-Fluorophosphate
Authors: Allahyari Hossein , Karami Ali , Tebyanian Hamid , Nouri Hamid Reza , Khodi Samaneh , Farnoosh Gholamreza , Arab Seyed Shahriar , Latifi Ali Mohammad
Published: October 2022

The N-terminal domain of the ice-nucleation protein InaV (InaV-N) of Pseudomonas syringae was applied to display the DFPase on the cell surface. In silico techniques were used to generate a model in order to examine the possibility of DFPase exhibition on the cell surface. The secondary and tertiary structures of a chimeric protein were determined and then, the predicted model was subjected to several repeated cycles of stereochemical evaluation and energy minimization. The homology-modeled structure of the InaV/N-DFPase protein was docked to DFP. The optimized inaV/N-dfpase gene was translated to 519 amino acids. The minimum free energy of the best-predicted secondary structures was formed by RNA molecules (-215.45 kcal/mol). SOPMA analysis results showed that the main helix peak corresponded to the anchor fragment. Validation of the 3D model indicated that 86.1% of amino acid residues were incorporated into the favored regions. The moldock score was 360.22 for DFP. Results of this study indicated that according to in silico analysis, all of these findings were effective in targeting DFPase.
Study on Web-Site Attributes and Predatory Efficiency of Dark Tetragnathid Spider in Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary
Authors: Jayakumar Samidurai , Paramanandham Joothi Pillai , Duraimurugan Veerapan , Sankari Ambalavanan , Ramya Arunagiri , Sathishkumar Selvaraj , Durga Amirthalingam
Published: October 2022

Spiders represent one of the most abundant components of the predatory arthropods in terrestrial ecosystem. Their effectiveness at restricting pest populations, both alone and as part of natural enemy complex has well demonstrated in many countries. The web, web-site attributes and predatory efficiency of Dark Tetragnathid SpiderTetragnatha mandibulatawere assessed in Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary between August 2015 and March 2016. In the present study, the spiders used limited number of plants species. The relationship between web architecture and web-site attributes was estimated using Pearson’s correlation. Number of spiders recorded in the web showed the positive correlation with web horizontal and vertical length of the capture areas (p<0.05). Similarly, the web circumference showed the positive interaction with plant height and canopy width (p<0.05), which clearly indicated the importance of vegetations across the webs of Dark Tetragnathid Spider. Further, the microhabitat selection and utilization could also be impacted by non-trophic factors like structural features of plants that provide architectural supports to spiders. A total of 4620 insect pests comprising seven orders were entangled by the webs of dark tetragnathid spiders. Number of spiders in the web were positively correlated with number of insect pests (p<0.05), which clearly explained that the Dark Tetragnathid spiders restricting pest populations and therefore they are considered as useful organism in biological control.
Household Environmental Sanitation Practices in Katsina Metropolis
Authors: Olajide Komolafe A.
Published: October 2022

The Study focused on household environmental sanitation practices in Katsina Metropolis. Survey research design was adopted for the study. Structured questionnaire was used for data collection from 250 households which were randomly selected from five wards in the study area. Multistage sampling technique was used to select respondents for the study. Four research questions were answered. Data collected for the study were analyzed, using frequency counts and mean to answer the research questions. The findings of the study revealed that households in Katsina metropolis dispose their solid wastes in vacant or unused plots, back of homes, along the road and drains among others. Some strategies such as implementation of national environmental sanitation policy. Provision and use of waste disposal facilities, inculcation of right attitudes in householders/homemakers on waste disposal through the introduction of environmental education in primary and post primary schools curriculum, were identified to improve environmental sanitation practices. Based on the findings, some recommendations were made to improve on the practices.
Understanding Climate Changes in Malaysia through Space Weather Study
Authors: Hamidi Zety Sharizat , Shariff N.N.M. , Monstein C.
Published: October 2022

Space weather has a close connection with the interaction of the Earth and the Sun. As equatorial country, the characteristic features of the climate of Malaysia are uniform temperature, very high humidity and copious rainfall. Malaysia has an average of temperature of 26.7 °C per year. Therefore, it is suitable to monitor the Sun. In the following work, we will emphasize the development of Sun monitoring in Malaysia. The number of observatories are increasing. A dedicated work to understand the Sun activity in radio region is a part of an initiative of the United Nations together with NASA in order to support developing countries participating in „Western Science‟ research. Realizing how important for us to monitor the space weather, therefore, we have been utilizing the new radio spectrometer, CALLISTO (Compound Low Cost Low Frequency Transportable Observatories) spectrometer. Malaysia is one of the earliest country from South- East Asia (ASEAN) that involve this research. One of the advantages to start the solar monitoring in Malaysia is because our strategic location as equator country that makes possible to observing a Sun for 12 hours daily throughout a year. We strongly believe that Malaysia as one of contributor of solar activity data through E-CALLISTO network. This is a very good start for developing a space weather in Malaysia. With the implementation of CALLISTO systems and development of solar monitoring network, a new wavelength regime is becoming available for solar radio astronomy. Overall, this article presents an overview of space weather in Malaysia. With the present level of the international collaboration, it is believed that the potential involvement of local and international scientist in space weather will increase.
Role of Cholera Toxin in Vibrio cholerae Infection in Humans - A Review
Authors: Pal Partha
Published: October 2022

Vibrio cholerae, the causative agent of Asiatic cholera, is a gram-negative motile bacterial species acquired via oral ingestion of contaminated food or water sources. Cholera has spread from the Indian subcontinent where it is endemic to involve nearly the whole world seven times during the past 185 years. V. cholerae serogroup O1, biotype El Tor, has moved from Asia to cause pandemic disease in Africa and South America during the past 35 years. A new serogroup, O139, appeared in south Asia in 1992, has become endemic there, and threatens to start the next pandemic. The facultative human pathogen V. cholerae represents a paradigm that evolved from environmental non-pathogenic strains by acquisition of virulence genes. The major virulence factors of V. cholerae, cholera toxin (CTX) encoded by the ctxAB genes residing in the genome of filamentous lysogenic bacteriophage (CTXɸ) and toxin coregulated pilus (TCP) encoded by vibrio pathogenicity island (VPI). CTX, a potent stimulator of adenylate cyclase, causes the intestine to secrete watery fluid rich in sodium, bicarbonate, and potassium, in volumes far exceeding the intestinal absorptive capacity, by ADP-ribosylation of the alpha subunit of the GTP-binding protein. Thus intestinal infection with V. cholerae results in the loss of large volumes of watery stool, leading to severe and rapidly progressing dehydration and shock. Without adequate and appropriate rehydration therapy, severe cholera kills about half of affected individuals. Today, cholera still remains a burden mainly for underdeveloped countries, which cannot afford to establish or to maintain necessary hygienic and medical facilities. During the last three decades, intensive research has been undertaken to unravel the virulence properties and to study the epidemiology of this significant human pathogen. This review provides an overview of the role of CTX in the occurrence of this disease in humans.
Influence of Lead on Growth and Nutrient Accumulation in Black Gram (Vigna mungo. L)
Authors: Ravikumar S. , Thamizhiniyzn P.
Published: October 2022

This study was conducted to investigate toxic effects of Pb on growth and nutrient uptake in Black gram. Black gram was subjected to seven (5, 10, 25, 50, 75, 100 & 200 kg-1) levels of lead. Due to Pb toxicity, plant growth was adversely affected and relatively a severe reduction in root biomass was recorded. The Pb accumulation increased with the increase in lead concentrations. The uptake of different nutrients, i.e., N, P, K, Ca and Mg was reduced in black gram due to the lead treatment.
Genetic Diversity in Tomato Genotypes (Solanum lycopersicum) Based on Salinity Responsive Candidate Gene Using Simple Sequence Repeats
Authors: Umar Ja'afar , Aliero Aliyu A. , Shehu Kasimu , Abubakar Lawali
Published: October 2022

Abstract Salinity inhibition of plant growth is the result of osmotic and ionic effect and different plant species have developed different mechanisms to cope with those effects. With the discovery of molecular markers and marker assisted selection technology, it is possible to develop markers that identify salt tolerance. The genetic diversity of tomato genotypes were analyzed using SSRs polymorphic markers and Unweighted Pair Group Method with Arithmetic Mean. Leaves of the twenty tomato genotypes (landraces/accessions in Nigeria) were used to isolate their DNA using Bioland Plant Genomic DNA protocols. Primers were designed from 15 different salt responsive candidate genes, using Vector NTI and the sequence genes were obtained from ncbi genomice web site. All 15 primers sets generated shows clear distinct polymorphic profiles as evident from the 6% agarose gel profile. Dendrogram generated shows three groups, none of the panel intermixed in a subgroup. The genetic distance information reported in this study might be used by breeders when planning future crosses among tomato genotypes. From the result obtained UC82B recorded the highest vegetative and yield parameters, therefore, adoption of this genotype could be help increasing the tomato production in Sokoto agro-climatic area. Abstract Salinity inhibition of plant growth is the result of osmotic and ionic effect and different plant species have developed different mechanisms to cope with those effects. With the discovery of molecular markers and marker assisted selection technology, it is possible to develop markers that identify salt tolerance. The genetic diversity of tomato genotypes were analyzed using SSRs polymorphic markers and Unweighted Pair Group Method with Arithmetic Mean. Leaves of the twenty tomato genotypes (landraces/accessions in Nigeria) were used to isolate their DNA using Bioland Plant Genomic DNA protocols. Primers were designed from 15 different salt responsive candidate genes, using Vector NTI and the sequence genes were obtained from ncbi genomice web site. All 15 primers sets generated shows clear distinct polymorphic profiles as evident from the 6% agarose gel profile. Dendrogram generated shows three groups, none of the panel intermixed in a subgroup. The genetic distance information reported in this study might be used by breeders when planning future crosses among tomato genotypes. From the result obtained UC82B recorded the highest vegetative and yield parameters, therefore, adoption of this genotype could be help increasing the tomato production in Sokoto agro-climatic area.
Indigenous Knowledge on Animal Health Care Practices in Kendrapara District of Odisha, India
Authors: Panda Taranisen , Mishra Nirlipta
Published: October 2022

The objective of this work was to register and document the traditional knowledge of plant resources used in ethnoveterinary practices in Kendrapara district of Odisha, India. Investigation was carried out in the interior of the district, to explore the therapeutic uses of plants by local inhabitants. Information was collected using structured questionnaires, complemented by unstructured interviews and informal conversations with traditional healers, elderly people and farmers. Samples of plants that were reported to have medicinal value were collected and identified by botanical classification. Fifty five plant species, distributed among 34 families, were indicated for 27 different medicinal uses. The family Solanaceae had the largest number of reported species followed by Mimosaceae, Fabaceae and Apocynaceae. Prominent diseases treated by plant remedies were wounds, diarrhea, constipation, snake bite, skin ailments and rheumatism. Leaves were more commonly utilized for the preparation of ethnoveterinary medicine than other plant parts. The knowledge of traditional healers, and other experienced elderly people should be tapped to gather information on these practices so that it gets documented for the benefit of future generations. The present study contributed to the construction of an inventory of ethnoveterinary plants, which might provides a better database for future scientific validation studies.
Utilization of Industrial Effluent for Irrigation - Pros and Cons
Authors: Noel S. David , Rajan M.R.
Published: October 2022

Decreasing water level and shortage of water is being a major problem worldwide. For agriculture purpose this problem gives rise to the use of alternative sources of water. Most of these water sources are affected by the discharge waste of effluent from various types of industries like mining, textiles, chemical etc. Due to reason this effluent may contains many organic toxic substances that could have hazardous impact on human health. In addition, technological development has contributed to increase other industrial dumping that contaminates surface waters. The irregular disposal of industrial effluent has created pollution problems since this effluent is disseminated in the environment or is accumulated in sediments, aquatic organisms, and water. In this paper a solution for this global issue has been addressed and strategies have been suggested for this problem.
Allelopathic effect of Azadirachta indica L. on the germination of Abelmoschus esculentus L.
Authors: Vaithiyanathan T. , Soundari M. , Rajesh M. , Ganesh K. Sankar , Sundaramoorthy P.
Published: October 2022

The chemical compounds have been reported to be exuded by plants and their inhibitory effects of other plants. The research work was carried out to study the allelopathic effect of root, bark and leaf extracts of Azadirachta indica L. on the seed germination of Abelmoschus esculentus L. Germination studies were conducted in laboratory, the bhendi seeds treated with the root, bark and leaf extracts of Neem. On the seventh day the morphological parameters, photosynthetic pigment and biochemical contents were analysed. The result showed that the rate of germination of bhendi decreased in all Azadirachta indica L. extracts. The reduction in biochemical contents of bhendi was also noted. The highest rate of germination was observed in control (distilled water) treatment and the highest rate of inhibition was observed in root extract followed by bark and leaf extracts.
Impacts of Artisanal Mining on some Heavy Metals Concentration in Surface Water in Kutcheri, Zamfarastate, North-West Nigeria
Authors: Ishola Rasheed A. , Amuda Abdulgafar K.
Published: October 2022

This research assesses the concentration of Zn, Ag, Hg, Pb and Cu in surface water Kutcheri’s River Yankuzau and other streams coordinates range between longitude 11°48′ N to 11°53′N and latitude 7°00′ to 7°05′E using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometre (AAS). Artisanal mining has become prominent in these areas. It’s become imperative to analyze these metal concentrations because they are associated with gold mineralization. Apart from polluting the water by artisanal miners, heavy metals are released into the surface water which most villager drink without pre-treatment.
Physicochemical Parameter of Palm Oil and Soil from Ihube Community, Okigwe, Imo State Nigeria
Authors: Enyoh Christian Ebere , Ihionu Ezechiel Amarachukwu , Verla Andrew Wirnkor , Ebosie Patricia Ngozi
Published: October 2022

This study assessed the quality of palm oil and soil quality from Ihube community, Okigwe L.G.A of Imo state in October 2015. The soil samples were collected from the top soil and the palm oil were collected immediately after extraction. The soil and palm oil were analyzed using standard analytical methods and the results obtained were compared to standards. The physicochemical analysis of the soil samples showed that ranges of EC (323.33±0.57-480.33±1.53 us/cm); Temperature (28.0±0.26 29.1±0.20 °C); %MC (20.9±0.80-40.8±0.10); %SOM (1.92±0.61-4.85±0.01) which were within the acceptable limits while CEC (5.471-8.1063 mg/kg); iron (0.311-0.731 mg/kg) and lead (0.004-0.054 mg/kg) were is not appreciable. The palm oil result showed that MC (0.32±0.09 %) which is above the acceptable limit, pH (4.71±0.01-4.74±0.01) and viscosity (23.41±0.44-106.23±0.55 mPas) obtained at temperature range 20 °C-50 °C. The FFA result for 10days showed ranges from (2.15±0.01-6.07±0.05 mgNaOH/g) with Fe, (2.00±0.01-5.43±0.51 mgNaOH/g) with Pb and (1.27±0.03-5.04±0.03 mgNaOH/g) without contamination. This was tested using anova at p = 0.05 respectively and showed significant difference between the results. However, the result obtained from these areas shows good quality soil for palm tree cultivation.
Biomonitoring with Special Reference to Visible Damages in Different Plant Species due to Air Pollution - A Review
Authors: Pal Partha
Published: October 2022

Air pollution is a matter of great concern in the globe. Generally air pollutant generates from industries, automobiles, etc. and the primary pollutants may easily convert to secondary pollutants. Both of these pose serious threat to the plant community viz. crops, vegetables and avenue plant species are depending on the emission pattern, atmospheric transport and leaf uptake and on the plant’s biochemical defense capacity. An impact caused by air pollutants depends not only upon its concentration, but also on the duration (acute and chronic exposure) and combination of air pollutants. Biomonitoring on plant species is an easy tool to know bioindicator species in which exposure of air pollutants can easily be identified. The present review deals with past and present research works of major gaseous pollutants emissions and their impact on crop, vegetables and tree species performance from available literatures.
Shoot Growth in Typha angustifolia l. and Typha latifolia l. in the Kokemäenjoki River Delta Western Finland
Authors: Aulio Kai
Published: October 2022

The growth dynamics of two tall littoral helophytic plants, the narrow-leaved cattail (Typha angustifolia L.) and broad-leaved cattail (Typha latifolia L.; Typhaceae) were studied in the rapidly changing estuarine habitats in the Kokemäenjoki River delta, western Finland. The two cattails form uniform, single-species communities (monocultures) throughout the plant-covered estuary. Of the two taxa compared, the shoots were taller in T. angustifolia (mean 166 cm) than in T. latifolia (mean 120 cm). But due to the robust leaves, the relation in the average weight of individual ramets was opposite: The mean weight of T. angustifolia was 9.6 g (dry wt), and that of T. latifolia was 16.5 g. In a separate study, the leaf height was compared between the fertile (flowering) and sterile (non-flowering) ramets. In flowering ramets the average leaf length was 35 cm taller in Typha angustifolia than in T. latifolia. The differences were even more pronounced in sterile ramets, where the leaves of Typha angustifolia were 70 cm taller than those of T. latifolia. The differences were statistically highly significant. Interspecific competition between the two Typha species is negligible, because the microhabitats differ from each other. T. angustifolia grows in considerably deeper (mean depth 42 cm) waters than T. latifolia (mean depth 19 cm). The optimum range in the water depth is markedly stricter in T. angustifolia than in T. latifolia. The differences between the rooting depths of the two cattails were statistically highly significant. The physico-chemical characteristics of the rooting zones (rhizospheres) of the two cattails are similar, with the locally produced (autochthonous) organic matter dominating and determining the fertility of the habitats.
Indexes of Lipid Metabolism in Fish from the Zaporizke Reservoir
Authors: Ananieva Tamila
Published: October 2022

The total lipid contents and iodine value of fats had been determined in fish from two sections of the Zaporizke Reservoir (Ukraine) with different contamination levels. Research was conducted using the muscle and liver tissue samples from pike-perch (Sander lucioperca), european perch (Perca fluviatis), prussian carp (Carassius gibelio), roach (Rutilus rutilus) and rudd (Scardinius erythrophthalmus). Obtained data showed that at the contaminated zone, the total lipid contents were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) reduced in muscle tissue of pike-perch and european perch in comparison with the samples from “conventionally clean” lower section of the reservoir. Increased iodine value of fats in muscle tissue and liver tissue were detected in the predatory fish and both fish groups respectively. The research results could be used for estimation of the adaptation processes in freshwater fish as well as for indication of environmental contamination level in the natural and artificial reservoirs.