bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trading Activity and Ethnodomestication of Plants by Manipuri Muslims
Authors: AHMED Mohd Mustaque , SINGH Kumar Potsangbam
Published: April 2018

Long distance traveling and trading activity of Muslims from great antiquity brought plants into Manipur (Indo)-Burma-China region. The indigenous traveling vehicles, horses needed poppy as their essential medicinal food as well as horse diet. Some words such as- Turushka, Pasha (Pasa), Pangal, Pathan, Mangal, Mughal, are found to be synonymous with the word Muslims and these words were associated with the plants. Ethno-domestication of 18 (eighteen) plants in their kitchen garden, flower garden, courtyard, fields, orchards etc, was found. Survey of literature couples with field survey was carried out with an aim to understand the sustainable use of bio-resources. Uses of plants among Manipuri community in various purposes were known to this community. To this aspect, an approach of traditional plant stalk conservation is observed from time immemorial.
Elemental Composition of Two Rice Cultivars under Potentially Toxic an Aquept and Aquent
Authors: OLALEYE Adesola Olutayo , OGUNKUNLE Ayoade Olayiwola , SINGH Baij Nath , ODELEYE Festus Olugbenga , DADA Oyeyemi Adigun , SENJOBI Bolarinwa Ayoola
Published: April 2018

Iron toxicity is a major nutrient disorder affecting rice production of wetland rice in the irrigated and rainfed ecosystem in West Africa sub-region. Little attention has been paid to evaluating nutrient contents of rice cultivars grown on such soils and their relationship to the iron toxicity scores, grain yield and dry matter yields. A pot experiment was conducted on two potentially Fe-toxic soils (Aeric Fluvaquent and Aeric Tropaquept). The experiment was a 2 x 2 x 4 factorial experiment with three replicates in arranged in a randomized fashion. The factors were two soil types, two rice cultivars (ITA 212) and tolerant (Suakoko 8) and four Fe 2+ levels (control, 1000, 3000 and 4000 mg L-1). The result showed that for both susceptible cultivar (ITA 212) and the relatively tolerant (Suakoko 8) cultivar, little or no differences were observed in their elemental composition with regards to micro and macro-nutrients. For the susceptible cultivar, results showed that none of the tissue nutrients significantly relates to iron toxicity scores (ITS), grain yield and dry matter yield on both soil types. However, for the tolerant cultivar, ITS was observed to be significantly related to tissue K and P contents on the two soil types respectively. Tissue Ca and Mg were observed to be significantly related to the dry matter yield (DMY) on Aeric Tropquept. It could be concluded that for these rice cultivars grown on two potentially Fe-toxic soils, different tissue nutrients may trigger the manifestation of bronzing or yellowing symptoms of rice cultivars.
Introduction pages
Authors: SESTRAS Radu
Published: April 2018

Introduction pages
In Vitro Shoot Regeneration of NAA-Pulse Treated Plumular Leaf Explants of Cowpea
Authors: AASIM Muhammad
Published: April 2018

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) is an economically important grain legume crop and is an important source of dietary protein in many of the developing countries. The present study reports the effect of pulse treatment duration, concentration of NAA and presence of NAA in the culture medium on shoot regeneration from plumular leaf explant of Turkish cowpea cv. ‘Akkiz’ and ‘Karagoz’. Pulse treatment of mature embryos with 20 mg l-1 NAA for 1 and 3 weeks followed by culturing of plumular leaf explant on MS medium containing 0.25, 0.50 and 1.0 BAP with 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 mg l-1 NAA promoted somatic embryogenesis in both cultivars. Longer duration of pulse treatment was deleterious resulting in browning and consequently death of the embryos on explants. Pulse treatment with 20 mg l-1 NAA for one week was less deleterious and developed two plantlets after the explants were transferred to MS0 medium after 6 weeks through somatic embryogenesis in cv. ‘Akkiz’. Pulse treatment with 10 mg l-1 NAA for 1 week showed 33.33-50.00% and 25.00-50.00% shoot regeneration frequency in cv. ‘Akkiz’ and ‘Karagoz’ respectively on MS medium containing 0.25-1.00 mg l-1 BAP. Maximum number of 2.50 shoots each per explant were recorded in cv. ‘Akkiz’ and ‘Karagoz’ on MS medium containing 1.00 and 0.50 mg l-1 BAP respectively. Contrarily, maximum shoot length of 8.98 cm of cv. ‘Akkiz’ and 9.42 cm of cv. ‘Karagoz’ was recorded on MS medium containing 0.50 mg l-1 BAP and 1.00 mg l-1 BAP respectively. Regenerated shoots were rooted on MS medium containing 0.5 mg l-1 IBA and and acclimatized in growth room at room temperature where they produced viable seeds.
Photosynthetic Reaction Centres-from Basic Research to Application
Authors: NAGY László , HAJDU Kata , FISHER Béla , HERNÁDI Klára , NAGY Krisztina , VINCZE János
Published: April 2018

There is no doubt that studying the photosynthetic conversion of light into chemical energy is extremely important in many points of view; e.g., 1) technical-in order to improve the utilization of the solar energy; 2) food production-to improve the photosynthetic production of plants in agriculture; 3) ecology-keeping the primer production in ecosystems in the biosphere balanced, etc. In the photosynthetic reaction centre protein, RC, light energy is converted by a quantum yield of almost unity. There is no such a system designed by human which is able to do that. The RC purified from purple bacteria provides an extremely unique system for studying the requirements for high efficiency conversion of light into electrochemical energy. Thanks to the recent structural (e.g. crystallography (Nobel prize to Michel, Deisenhofer, Huber) and functional (Nobel prize to Marcus)) results together with the works of molecular biology, computer- and electro-techniques, a wealth of information made a relatively clear picture about the kinetics, energetics and stabilization of electron transport within this protein that opens possibilities for new generation practical applications. In this paper we provide a short summary of fields in which the reaction centre protein can be important from practical points of view.
Effects of Nano-Iron Oxide Particles on Agronomic Traits of Soybean
Authors: SHEYKHBAGLOU Roghayyeh , SEDGHI Mohammad , SHISHEVAN Mehdi Tajbakhsh , SHARIFI Rauf Seyed
Published: April 2018

This study was performed to determine the effect of nano-iron oxide on soybean yield and quality. Field experiment was designed based on randomized complete block design with three replications. Treatments were five levels of nano-iron oxide (0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75 and 1 g l-1). Results showed that nano-iron oxide at the concentration of 0.75 g l-1 was increased leaf + pod dry weight and pod dry weight. The highest grain yield was observed with using 0.5 g l-1 nano-iron oxide that showed 48% increase in grain yield in comparison with control. Other measured traits were not affected by the iron nano- particles.
Authors: SEMWAL Dinesh Prasad , UNIYAL Prem Lal , BHATT Ajay Ballabh
Published: April 2018

Plant diversity assessment was carried out on the basis of species richness, tree crown cover and dominance-diversity pattern in different forests of Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary (KWLS), Central Himalaya, India during 2006-2009. The maximum tree species richness (10 spp.) was observed in Rhododendron arboreum Sm. dominated mixed forest and minimum in Quercus leucotrichophora A. Camus. forest (8 spp.). Maximum tree density (170 trees/ha) and high importance value index (89.68) was found in Q. semecarpifolia Sm. forest. Mixed Rhododendron arboreum Sm. forest showed high tree diversity (H=0.96), while shrub were found highest in Quercus leucotrichophora A. Camus forest (H=0.62) and herb diversity in Q. semecarpifolia Sm.forest (H=0.73) respectively Maximum tree crown cover (82%) was observed in Rhododendron arboreum Sm. dominated mixed forest while minimum tree crown cover (58%) was observed in Q. semecarpifolia Sm. forest. In general random distribution pattern (A/F ratio) was observed in all three types of forest. Alterations of land use pattern and population pressure are found to be main cause of increase in resources exploitation and that ultimately decreases species richness and diversity. Agro-forestry, alternate use of sites for resources and providing a recovery period to the forests are some of the strategies suggested for forest conservation, management and sustainable utilization of resources by the local people.
Environmental Resource Consumption in Wheat (Triticum aestivum) and Bean (Vicia faba) Intercropping: Comparison of Nutrient Uptake and Light Interception
Authors: ESKANDARI Hamdollah , GHANBARI Ahmad
Published: April 2018

Wheat (Triticum aestivum) and bean (Vicia faba L.) sole crops and their mixture in three planting pattern (M1: alternate-row intercrop, M2: within-row intercrop, M3: mixed intercrop) were used to investigate the amount of resource consumption in terms of PAR interception and nutrient uptake. The experiment was carried out as randomized complete block design with four replications. The results showed that intercropping systems had a significant effect on environmental resources consumption, where intercropping systems had more nutrient uptake and light interception compared to sole crops, suggesting the complementarity effect of intercropping components in resources consumption. The ability of wheat and bean was different in intercropping systems in absorbing nutrients because of their differences in root morphology and cation exchange capacity.
Mangroves and Associated Flora of Vashista and Vainateyam Estuaries, A.P. India
Authors: NARASIMHA RAO Geddada Mohan , PRAYAGA MURTY Pragada
Published: April 2018

Mangroves are highly productive ecosystems occurs intertidal regions only. Mangroves and associated flora occurring in two major estuaries of Godavari river (India) were studied using transect with 4x4 m2 quadrats and the quadrat samples were analyzed. Seasonal data were collected on environmental, hydrographical and chemical observations from three different stations of the two estuaries. Low values in Secchi depth, salinity and pH were reported during the monsoon season, while higher values were reported in pre-monsoon and post monsoon seasons. In the present study three mangrove species and nine associated species were reported. Transect studies in these two estuaries showed that mangrove and halophytes occurred up to 40 meters from water front region. In some places mangrove vegetation was in the form of long strips only. In Vainateyam estuary, the species with the highest density was Suaeda monoica whereas the species with lowest density was Avicennia officinalis. In Vashista estuary, maximum density was reported for Suaeda maritima and minimum density for Avicennia officinalis. The maximum height in these two stations varied from 5 to 8 meters only. Percentage frequencies of DBH (Density at Breast Height) classes were estimated. In the present study only two diameter classes were reported. This is indicative of the small and bushy mangrove vegetation in the region studied. Human interference, urban settlements and aqua industry play a critical impact on the survival of these tropical ecosystems. If management and conservation programmes are not undertaken, these ecosystems may be depleted.
Evaluation of Geostatistical Techniques for Mapping Spatial Distribution of Soil PH, Salinity and Plant Cover Affected by Environmental Factors in Southern Iran
Authors: ZARE-MEHRJARDI Mohammad , TAGHIZADEH-MEHRJARDI Ruhollah , AKBARZADEH Ali
Published: April 2018

The study presented in this paper attempts to evaluate some interpolation techniques for mapping spatial distribution of soil pH, salinity and plant cover in Hormozgan province, Iran. The relationships among environmental factors and distribution of vegetation types were also investigated. Plot sampling was applied in the study area. Landform parameters of each plot were recorded and canopy cover percentages of each species were measured while stoniness and browsing damage were estimated. Results indicated that there was a significant difference in vegetation cover for high and low slope steepness. Also, vegetation cover was greater than other cases in the mountains with calcareous lithology. In general, there were no significant relationships among vegetation cover and soil properties such as pH, EC, and texture. Other soil properties, such as soil depth and gravel percentage were significantly affected by vegetation cover. Moreover, the geostatistical results showed that kriging and cokriging methods were better than inverse distance weighting (IDW) method for prediction of the spatial distribution of soil properties. Also, the results indicated that all the concerned soil and plant parameters were better determined by means of a cokriging method. Land elevation, which was highly correlated with studied parameters, was used as an auxiliary parameter.
Descriptive Study of an Outbreak of Avian Urolithiasis in a Large Commercial Egg Complex in Algeria
Authors: SID Hicham , FETTAH Amine , LOUNAS Abdelaziz
Published: April 2018

Avian urolithiasis is one of the major causes of mortality in poultry. However, in Algeria this condition has never been described. An outbreak of avian urolithiasis was observed on a large commercial egg complex in the department of Chlef (West of Algeria). The clinical features of this condition are to be described. Mortality associated to urolithiasis started at the onset of egg production, estimated to 0.7 % per week. Urolithiasis induced an egg drop estimated to 12%. Dead and live layers were both necropsied and examined for kidney lesions. Most of the birds examined presented enlarged ureters, renal atrophy and visceral gout deposition.
Assessment of Morphometric and Genetic Variation in Three Freshwater Fish Species of the Genus Garra (Osteichthyes: Cyprinidae)
Authors: DHINAKARAN Arulraj , ALIKUNHI Nabeel Mannalamkunnath , CHINNATHAMBI Selvaraj , SORNAM Ramaiya , KALAISELVAM Murugaiyan , RAJASEKARAN Ramodoss , MANIVANNAN Subramanian
Published: April 2018

The present study evaluated the patterns of morphometric and genetic variation using RAPD-PCR techniques for the first time on three species of Garra, viz. G. mullya, G. kalakadensis and G. gotyla stenorhynchus, collected from various river basins of South-India. The results of morphological analysis revealed that G. mullya and G. kalakadensis hold many similar characters compared to the other congener, G. gotyla stenorhynchus. However, the G. gotyla stenorhynchus fish species exhibited distinct variation in the morphological characters such as snout length, pre-nasal length, inter-nasal width, gap width, lower jaw to isthmus, head depth at pupil, dorsal fin length and disc width from the other two species of Garra. However, certain morphometric characters overlapped. Hence the RAPD finger printing was used to assess the levels of genetic variation in Garra spp. using RAPD-PCR technique. A total of 72 reliable fragments were detected using 10 Operon primers, ranging from 2600 molecular weight to 3100. The shared RAPD fragments found in both G. mullya and G. kalakadensis with fixed frequencies were observed with all the investigated primers, implying their genetically closer relationship. However, the similarity index observed for G. gotyla stenorhynchus was less with the other two species specifying a genetically distant link. The present investigation thus contribute to the knowledge on morphological and genetic variation in these three Garra species.
Systematic Revision of the Genus Pancratium L. (Amaryllidaceae) in Egypt with a New Addition
Authors: EL-HADIDY Azza , ABD EL-GHANI Monier , AMER Wafaa , HASSAN Rania
Published: April 2018

In Egypt, taxonomic aspects of the genus Pancratium L. (Amaryllidaceae, Pancratieae) were thoroughly studied to point out the most reliable characters for taxon delimitation. Here, we base our species on both geographical and morphological features. The detailed taxonomic revision of genus Pancratium is based on field studies and the examination of representative specimens together with the authentic types deposited in the major herbaria of Egypt and Kew. Variations in the aerial scape, spathe, perianth, corona-teeth, pistil, stamens, capsules and seeds, as well as those of leaf base and leaf orientation are good markers to separate the different species. As a result, five species are recognized, including P. trianthum as a new record to the flora of Egypt. It is restricted to the south-eastern corner of Egypt (Gebel Elba region) and being unique in possessing solitary spathe and long attenuate leaf base. A specific key and descriptions are given with typifications.
Polyphenolic Compounds and Free Radical Scavenging Activity in Eight Lamiaceae Herbs of Manipur
Authors: KHOMDRAM Sandhyarani Devi , SINGH Potsangbam Kumar
Published: April 2018

Eight plants of Lamiaceae under subfamily Nepetoideae found in Manipur, India were selected for estimation of their polyphenolic compounds and free radical scavenging activity which is expressed on dry weight basis. In this present study, the total phenol and flavonoid contents as well as the free radical scavenging activity were studied using spectrophotometric method. The total phenol content was determined based on Folin-Ciocalteau reagent, flavonoid was determined by aluminium chloride spectrophotometric method and tannin by Folin Dennis Method. The free radical scavenging activity was determined by using DPPH radical which is expressed as IC50 (μg/ml). The total phenolic content varied from 21.39±0.927 to 46.28±0.543 mg/g, flavonoids content in the selected samples varied from 13.30±0.684 to 26.03±0.217 mg/g and tannin content varied from 8.72±0.160 to 17.04±0.206 mg/g. The free radical scavenging activity among the selected samples varied from 11.67±0.221 to 38.29±0.532 μg/ml. The correlation between the free radical scavenging activity with total phenol content (R2=0.511), with flavonoids (R2=0.241) and with tannin (R2=0.690) was calculated and maximum correlation value was found between tannin content and the free radical scavenging activity of the plant samples. The result supports that tannins were more responsible for free radical scavenging activity in the presently selected plants.
In Vitro Selection of Foeniculum vulgare for Salt Tolerance
Authors: KHORAMI Azita , SAFARNEJAD Abbas
Published: April 2018

In vitro selection of Foeniculum vulgare for salt tolerance was undertaken by the use of somaclonal variation. In this idea, explants of root, hypocotyl and cotyledon of sterilized seedling were transferred to callus and regeneration media with concentrations of 0, 50, 100 and 150 mM of NaCl. After 4 weeks, calli induction, regeneration frequency and calli fresh and dry weights, in both control and stress conditions, were measured. The results showed that salinity caused a significant decrease in the callus induction and shoot regeneration of fennel. However, in the presence of 100 and 150 mM NaCl, the highest frequency of callus induction in hypocotyl and cotyledon explants was recorded on the media supplemented with 1 mg l-1 IAA (Indol-3-Acetic Acid) plus 1 mg l-1 2,4-D (2, 4- dichlorophenoxyacetic acid) and 2 mg l-1 kinetin. Among different growth regulator treatments, the combination of 2 mg l-1 NAA (Naphtaleneacetic acid) and 0.5 mg l-1 kinetin was found to be the most effective for shoot regeneration under stress condition. The highest dose of NaCl (150 mM) inhibited callus induction and shoot regeneration compared to control with 41% and 96% respectively. The calli fresh and dry weights of all explants were decreased with the increas of NaCl concentration. The highest and the lowest of dry and fresh weight of calli were observed in 0 and 150 mM respectively.
The Effect of Water Temperature on Argulus foliaceus L. 1758 (Crustacea; Branchiura) on Different Fish Species
Authors: KOYUN Mustafa
Published: April 2018

Parasites belonging to Argulus genus, known as fish louse (Argulus foliaceus L.) significantly affect in negative way both in natural and farming environment. In this study, the pathogenic effect of fish louse temperature on fish depending on water was investigated. In this research to estimate the effects of several factors such as water temperature, gender of the fish and the infection of fish louse were studied through Poisson regression method. As fish species, Alburnus alburnus (bleak), Carassius carassius (crucian carp) and Carassius auratus (golden carp) were caught periodically, starting from May during the year, and the parasites were counted. The gender and metrical measures of the examined fish were categorized separately. The degrees of water temperature of the dam were measured. Results from Poisson regression analysis showed that fish louse has harmful effect on the mentioned fish, depending on the water temperature.
Authors: CHAKRABORTY Supriyo , MOTSINGER-REIF Alison
Published: April 2018

From a study of 28 human populations, linkage disequilibrium (LD) between ABO and Rh blood group loci in human genome were estimated using two different statistic of population genetics viz. D and Q. In general, the haplotypes iRh+ and iRh- were, on average, 2 to 3-fold and 1.1 to 1.8-fold more frequent respectively than the corresponding expected haplotype frequency in the populations under study. Expected haplotype frequencies were calculated for each population assuming equal frequencies of alleles at ABO and Rh loci. The observed frequency of IARh+ haplotype was more or less close to the expected frequency (0.165). The haplotypes IARh-, IBRh+ and IBRh- were less frequent than expected in the populations. The D value for haplotype iRh+ was positive for all the populations suggesting preponderance of this haplotype and hence non-random association between ABO and Rh loci. Q is a single measure of LD and suitable for estimation of LD between loci having multiple alleles. Q value ranged from 2.18 (Finland) to 8.07 (Hongkong). High LD, indicated by high Q, between ABO and Rh loci was observed in the populations of Hongkong, BV Muslims, Saudi Arabia, BV Hindus, India and Iceland. But the populations of Finland, Austria, Estonia, Poland and Israel showed low LD revealed by low Q between ABO and Rh loci.
Soil Fertility Status under Different Tree Cropping System in a Southwestern Zone of Nigeria
Authors: OGUNKUNLE Clement O. , AWOTOYE Olusegun O.
Published: April 2018

Tree cropping has been known to bring about changes in edaphic component among other components of the ecosystem through their interactions with the soil and soil faunas. Premised on this, this study assessed the effects of sole cropping of teak and intercropping of cocoa and kola on the soil fertility status. The study was carried out using stratified-randomed sampling technique for the study plots in all the sampling sites. Three sampling sites consisting of four (4)-4oo m2 sampling plots each were established in which vegetation and some soil parameters were assessed. Results analysis showed that the synergistic interaction of leaves decomposition of cocoa and kola improved the organic matter content of the soil under the cocoa/kola site. Considerable improvement in soil fertility was enjoyed in the cocoa/kola site due to the large girth sizes and basal area of trees present in the cocoa/kola site while soil under the sole cropping of teak was impoverished. The degradation effects was due to the high rate of nutrient uptake of the teak, organic matter content was high in the forest site (9.12%) and cocoa/kola site (7.34) while the least was in the teak site (3.04%). A very strong correlation existed between organic matter content and some vegetation parameters.
Warm Stratification and Chemical Treatments Overcome the Dormancy and Promotes Germination of Colchicum kotschyi Boiss Seeds under in Vitro Condition
Authors: ALIREZAIE NOGHONDAR Morteza , AROUEE Hossein , REZAZADEH Shamsali , SHOOR Mahmoud , SELAHVARZI Yahya , VAHDATI MASHHADIAN Navid
Published: April 2018

Colchicum kotschyi Boiss grows wildly in Iran. Propagation of this perennial geophyte plant takes a long time either by corm or seed. Seeds usually have a deep dormancy and take more than a year to germinate. Therefore in order to find out an effective method to shorten this period, a factorial experiment based on completely randomized design with four replicates was conducted to investigate the effects of warm stratification (no stratification and 8 weeks at 25oC) and different chemical priming treatments. Priming was done by: H2SO4 (0 and 50%) and GA3 at (0, 250, 500 and 1000 ppm) and KNO3 at (1 and 2%). Seeds were all cultured in a Potato Dextrose Agar media (1%) and put in a dark position for germination. The results showed that warm stratification priming alone, had a germination percentage of 28.7%. No germination was observed in control, H2SO4 and KNO3 treatments alone. Warm stratification along with GA3 significantly increased the germination percentage. Maximum germination percentage (70%) was obtained in warm stratification and GA3 (1000 ppm). It seems that the germination problem for most of the Colchicum kotschyi seeds is probably due to a kind of morphophysiological dormancy which is broken by warm stratification along with GA3.
Genetic Analysis of ABO and Rh Blood Groups in Backward Caste Population of Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: RAI Vandana , KUMAR Pradeep
Published: April 2018

A series of glycoproteins and glycolipids on red blood cell surface constitute blood group antigens. These are AB, A, B and O in ABO blood group system and Rh in rhesus blood group system. A total of 1065 unrelated Backward Caste (OBC) individuals from Uttar Pradesh were studied for the phenotype and allele frequency distribution of ABO and Rh (D) blood groups. Total 1065 samples analyzed, phenotype B blood type has the highest frequency 36.81% (n=392), followed by O (32.68%; n=348), A (23.66%; n=252) and AB (6.85%; n=73). The overall phenotypic frequencies of ABO blood groups were B>O>A>AB. The allelic frequencies of O, A, and B alleles were 0.5819, 0.1674 and 0.2506 respectively. Out of total 1065 samples, 1018 (95.59%) samples were Rh-positive and 47 (4.41%) were Rh-negative. Phenotypic frequency of Rh-negative in Koari, Yadav, Kurmi and Maurya samples were 0.99%, 4%, 1.4% and 7.6% respectively.
Biochemical Changes During Seed Germination of Sterculia urens Roxb.
Authors: SATYANARAYANA Botcha , DEVI Prattipati Subhashini , ARUNDATHI Atluru
Published: April 2018

The present study describes biochemical changes taking place during seed germination of Sterculia urens. The levels of proteins, total amino acids, reducing sugars, total soluble sugars and lipids were studied during various stages of seed germination (0-15 days). Total protein content was decreased in cotyledons during seed germination while free amino acid content increased to its maximum extent by 9th day of germination and reverse trend thereafter. The levels of reducing sugars and total soluble sugars increased till 6th day of germination and decreased thereafter. The lipid content was high at initial stages of germination (0-6 days) but gradually decreased by 15th day of germination.
Integrated Management of Damping-off, Root and/or Stem Rot Diseases of Chickpea and Efficacy of the Suggested Formula
Authors: ABDEL-MONAIM Montaser Fawzy
Published: April 2018

Eleven fungal isolates were isolated from naturally infected chickpea roots collected from different locations in New Valley Governorate (Egypt). The isolated fungi were purified and identified as Rhizoctonia solani (5 isolates), Fusarium solani (4 isolates) and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (2 isolates). The isolated fungi proved their pathogenicity on cv. ‘Giza 3’. Response of chickpea cvs. ‘Giza 1’, ‘Giza 2’, ‘Giza 3’, ‘Giza 4’, ‘Giza 88’, ‘Giza 195’, ‘Giza 531’ to infection by the tested fungi was significantly varied. ‘Giza 1’ was the most resistant one followed by ‘Giza 531’, while the other tested cvs. were highly susceptible. Seven biocontrol agents, namely Bacillus subtilis, B. megaterium, B. cereus, Trichoderma viride, T. harzianum, Aspergillus sp., Penicillium sp. isolated from chickpea rhizosphere, were tested for their antagonistic action against the tested pathogens. B. subtilis isolate BSM1, B. megaterium isolate TVM5, T. viride isolate TVM2 and T. harzianum isolate THM4 were the most antagonistic ones to the tested fungi in vitro, while the other isolates were moderate or weak antagonists. The most antagonistic isolates as well as the commercial biocide Rhizo-N were applied as seed treatment for controlling damping-off, root and/or stem rot diseases caused by the tested fungi under greenhouse conditions. The obtained data showed that all tested antagonistic isolates were able to cause significant reduction of damping-off, root and/or stem rot diseases in chickpea plants. T. viride (isolate TVM2) and B. megaterium (isolate BMM5) proved to be the most effective isolates for controlling the diseases. Under field condition, the obtained data indicated that all the tested antagonistic isolates significantly reduced damping-off, root and/or stem rot. T. viride (isolate TVM2) and B. megaterium (isolate BMM5) recorded the highest reduction of damping-off, root and/or stem rot in all sowing dates. Sowing of treated seeds with bioagents in first of November gave the highest protection against root diseases in chickpea. The reduction in damping-off, root and/or stem rot severity was significantly reflected on the produced seed yield. In this respect, seeds previously treated with T. viride (TVM2) produced the highest seed yield in all sowing dates followed by seed treated with B. megaterium (TVM5). First of November was the best sowing date to reduce these diseases and to increase seed yield/fed. On the other hand, the antagonistic isolates isolated from chickpea rhizosphere, were most active than the commercial biocide Rhizo-N in reducing chickpea root diseases and increase of seed yield in greenhouse and field conditions.
Effect of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi on Growth and Antioxidant Activity in Gmelina arborea Roxb. under Salt Stress Condition
Authors: DUDHANE Mayura Prakash , BORDE Mahesh Yashwant , JITE Paramjit Kaur
Published: April 2018

Gmelina arborea Roxb. is medicinally and economically important tree species were selected for study. An experiment was conducted to determine the influence of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungus Glomus fasciculatum on salt stress tolerance of tree species Gmelina arborea. Mycorrhizal and nonmycorrhizal seedlings were treated with 100 mM and 200 mM concentration of NaCl. G. fasciculatum treated plant showed increase in fresh and dry weight, greater percentage of mycorrhizal colonization, higher accumulation of proline and chlorophyll content with increasing levels of salinity. G. fasciculatum colonization significantly increased tolerance of salinity, acid phosphatases, and Proline content and also antioxidant enzymes like peroxidase, catalase and superoxide dismutase at all levels of salinity treatments of Gmelina plants in comparison with non-mycorrhizal salinity treated plants. These results demonstrate that AM fungus (G. fasciculatum) is very effective in strengthening the tolerance of Gmelina arborea grown in arid and semi arid areas.
Oxidative Stress Induction by Lead in Leaves of Radish (Raphanus sativus) Seedlings
Authors: BITEUR Nadjet , AOUES Abdelkader , KHAROUBI Omar , SLIMANI Miloud
Published: April 2018

Oxidative stress was induced by lead acetate (Pb) in Raphanus sativus seedlings grown in a hydroponic system using sand as substrate. Thirty day old acclimated seeds were treated for 7 days with five Pb levels (0 as control, 100, 200, 500 and 1000 mg l-1). Parameters such as growth, oxidative damage markers (lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation and hydrogen peroxide contents) and enzymatic activities of catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POD) were investigated. Lead concentration in plant tissues increased with increasing of Pb levels. Shoot fresh weight, chlorophyll and carotenoid concentration were significantly decreased at 100 mg l-1 Pb. Lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation and H2O2 levels were increased at 500 and 1000 mg l-1 Pb compared to control treatment, in shoots. Peroxidase activity showed a straight correlation with H2O2 concentration, whereas CAT activity decreased only in shoots. These changes in enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants showed that the Pb exposition had a significant disturbance on Raphanus sativus plantlets and affect the biochemical and physiological processes.
Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal Diversity in Sugarcane Rhizosphere in Relation with Soil Properties
Authors: DATTA Promita , KULKARNI Mohan
Published: April 2018

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) species diversity and their root colonization patterns may vary in a plant species as influenced by soil environmental and biological factors. In the present study, sugarcane rhizospheric soils were collected from 41 main sugarcane producing tehsil places belonging to 10 districts from Maharashtra, India. Rhizospheric soil samples and roots were analyzed for spore density, relative abundance and frequency of AM spores at genus as well as at species level, extent of AM colonization in roots and various soil chemical properties. Soil sample from Jalgaon district possessed maximum spore density and AM root colonization. Genus Glomus exhibited highest relative abundance with maximum frequency of 32.55%. Species wise, Glomus fasciculatum possessed highest relative abundance and maximum frequency was observed in case of Glomus fasciculatum, Glomus intraradices, Glomus mosseae and Glomus versiforme. Maximum similarity of AM spores was recorded between Satara and Sangli districts which may be because of almost similar soil pH profile. Data obtained after cluster analysis represented the close relationship between spore density, AM root colonization and soil Cu, Zn and Fe concentrations. A statistically significant positive correlation was also found when AM spore density and root colonization was compared with soil Cu, Zn and Fe contents. This kind of data can be used to predict type of AM fungi to be used as bioinoculant in particular region.
Environmental Impacts to Residual Stand Damage due to Logging Operations in Hyrcanian Forest
Authors: JOURGHOLAMI Meghdad
Published: April 2018

The development of harvesting systems aims to provide physically feasible, economically viable, and environmentally sound solutions. Residual stand-damage data have been collected from a mixed broadleaved stand in Kheyrud area in Hyrcanian forest in the northern of Iran. After the harvesting operations, for all trees, damage to the bole, roots, extent of the damage, wounding patterns, size and distribution was assessed using stratified systematic sampling with a random start and fixed area plots. Results show that wounding occurred on 16.4% of the remaining trees, but the severity of wounding varied significantly by species. Forty-six percent of wounding for all species combined was considered as small size. The greatest average amount of damage, to a bole, occurred along the first 1m up from the ground and also within 3m of the skid trail centerline (86.4%). Gouges were present on 79% of all scars. The stratification of the study unit would effectively improve accuracy of stand damage surveys. Selection of the appropriate method for damage reduction to trees adjacent skid trails was crucial. According to the results, skidding damage cannot be completely avoided in practice. We suggest that the education and the entertainment of the foresters and workers in forest would be enhanced and the injuries could be explained before the harvesting to the workers. In such a way the damages would be less in the future.
Pollen Dimorphism of Several Members of Nymphaeaceae and Nelumbonaceae: An Index of Geographical and Ecological Variation
Authors: BHOWMIK Somnath , DATTA Badal Kumar
Published: April 2018

Pollen morphology of five Nymphaea (Nymphaeaceae) species, growing in Tripura, India were analysed using Scanning Electron Microscopy. Pollen grains of Nymphaea are dimorphic (ellipsoidal and spheroidal). The exine pattern also varies among the species. The variation as reported in the present study in terms of exine pattern of the studied species suggests the feasibility of applying the data in the identification of the genus of Nymphaea. The difference in exine patterns with the earlier reports may be interpreted as reflections of genetic variations possibly due to mutational changes effected by ecological conditions. The present pollen dimorphism may be attributed by introgression of populations. The variability in pollen morphology, including size variation and morphological differences, is often associated with hybrids among angiosperm groups. The examinations of percentages of aborted grains, generally considered a good indicator of hybridity. The occurrence of monosulcate pollens in Nelumbo nucifera along with dominant tricolpate pollens may be considered as aberrant pollens because of very low percentage of occurrence of monosulcate pollens. The ecological and geographical variations in pollen morphology could be an index of the genetic impact of the environment on the plant. Thus the present difference in terms of exine pattern could be useful to separate them at varietal level.
Comparative Ultrasonographic, Anatomotopographic and Macromorphometric Study of the Spleen and Pancreas in Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
Authors: DIMITROV Rosen Stefanov
Published: April 2018

The study aims to perform comparative analysis of the metric anatomy of the spleen and pancreas in rabbit, determined by applying of transabdominal ultrasonography and convectional anatomical research. Twelve mature, clinically healthy New Zealand White rabbits 8 months of age from and weighed between 2.8 kg and 3.2 kg were looked at. The transabdominal B-mode ultrasonography was performed by Diagnostic Ultrasound System. The spleen and pancreas were imaged sagittally and transversally. The approaches w?re percutaneous transabdominal hypochondral left and percutaneous transabdominal epigastric. After euthanizing the animals a laparotomy was performed. The topography, shape and morphometry were made. In longitudinal ultrasongraphic study of the spleen has been seen its elongated shape. There were ultrasonographic metric data presented. The organ was seized to the greater curvature of the stomach in the area of the bottom and portions of the body of the stomach. The ultrasonography and postmortem study showed that the pancreas in rabbit is disseminated organ. The body of the pancreas was localized in the mesoduodenum of the duodenal sigmoid flexure, immediately behind the porta hepatic, as it has been cut through by the portal vein. From the comparative analysis of the obtained results could be conclude, that the study of some quantitative parameters of the structure of the pancreas in rabbit should contribute to the accurate diagnostics of the pancreatic lesions and the abdominal surgical practice in the animals.
Comparative Performance of Bovans Nera (Rhode Black) and other Commercial Pullet Strains
Authors: IMOUOKHOME James Ien-oa , OJOGHO Osaihiomwan
Published: April 2018

The present study examined the comparative performance between Bovans Nera and other commercial pullet strains in Nigeria. This study was carried out in the pullet house at the Teaching and Research Farm of the University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria, from January to April, 2002. The experiment was carried out to compare the growth performance and profitability of Bovans Nera with three other commercial pullet strains, Bovans Godline, Lohmann White and Lohmann Tradition. All data collected were subjected to the analysis of variance using the SAS General Linear Model procedure. Differences between treatment means were separated using Duncans New Multiple Range Test. Profitability was assessed using net returns by subtracting costs (rearing pullet, feed and packaging excluding overheads and labour) from income (from egg sales and spent birds). The results showed that Bovans Nera was better in feed conversion ratio, feed efficiency (a greater weight gain per unit feed intake) and attained a greater weight and a better market value than the other pullet strains. There was a higher production cost for Bovans Nera when compared with other strains. However, Bovans Nera will give more returns on investment even when their eggs are translated to monetary terms. These differences can be attributed to variation in the genetic constitution of individual strains.
Reproductive Biology of Commercially Valuable Squid, Sepioteuthis lessoniana (Lesson, 1830) Taken as By-Catch in a Tropical Trawl Fishery
Authors: VENKATESAN Vellathi , RAJAGOPAL Santhanam
Published: April 2018

Some aspects of the reproductive characteristics of the commercially important squid Sepioteuthis lessoniana (Lesson, 1830) in the coastal waters of Mandapam, Palk Bay was studied with a view to provide possible management measures in this region. A total of 984 individuals (508 males and 476 females) were collected between April, 2009 to March, 2010. The size of specimens ranged from 40 mm to 290 mm in mantle length. Sex ratio was not significantly different from the expected ratio of 1:1 except for months of July, October and December. Spawning season as revealed by seasonal maturity stages, gonadosomatic index of sexes and nidamental gland length (NGL) and dorsal mantle length (DML) ratio of females, lied between January to June with peak at February. Size at maturity as determined by graphical method was 83.5 for males and 112.5 for females.
The Investigation of Decontamination Effects of Ozone Gas on Microbial Load and Essential Oil of Several Medicinal Plants
Authors: VALI ASILL Razieh , AZIZI Majid , BAHREINI Maasome , AROUIEE Hossein
Published: April 2018

Today, Ozone as a disinfectant method, without putting on the harmful effects on human and plant products, it is alternative common methods for disinfection of plant material. The research as a factorial experiment was conducted on the basis of randomized complete block design with three replications and the effects of Ozone gas on decreasing the microbial load of some important medicinal plants include: Peppermint (Mentha piperita), Summer savory (Satureja hortensis), Indian valerian(Valeriana wallichii), Meliss (Melissa officinalis) and Iranian thyme (Zataria multiflora) were investigated. Medicinal plants leaves were treated with Ozone gas concentration 0.3, 0.6 and 0.9 ml/L at times of 10 and 30 then total count, coliform and mold and yeast of the samples were studied. The result showed that Ozone gas decreases microbial load of medicinal plants samples. But Ozone gas and Ozone gas in medicinal plants interaction effect had no effect on essential oil content. The lowest and the highest of microbial load were detected in samples treated with concentration of 0.9 ml/L of Ozone gas and control respectively. The highest and the lowest of microbial load were observed in Iranian thyme and Indian valerian respectively. Also result showed that Ozone gas treatment for 30 min had the greatest of effect in reducing the microbial load and 0.9 ml/L Ozone gas concentration had the lowest of microbial load. Results of this survey reflect that the use of Ozone as a method of disinfection for medicinal plants is a decontamination.
Evaluation of Carrot Pomace (Daucus carota L.) as Hypocholesterolemic and Hypolipidemic Agent on Albino Rats
Authors: AFIFY Abd El-Moneim M.R. , ROMEILAH Ramy R.M , OSFOR Mahmoud M.H. , ELBAHNASAWY Amir S.M.
Published: April 2018

The current study examined the attenuating influence of dietary carrot pomace powder (CaPP) on hypercholesterolemia and various oxidative stress-associated with biochemical parameters in hypercholesterolemic rats. Thirty two male albino rats weighing 110±10 g were divided into four groups, the first group received the basal diet only and served as (negative control), the second group received the hypercholesterolemic diet and served as positive control, the other groups received hypercholesterolemic diet supplemented with 10%, 20% CaPP for six weeks. The obtained results revealed that groups supplemented with 10% and 20% CaPP significantly decrease total lipid, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, liver enzymes: alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase compared to positive and negative groups. Organs weight, body weight gain significantly decreased compared with positive control. Moreover dietary carrot pomace powder can used to reduce the body weight and reducing hypercholesterolemic complications. In addition, dietary carrot pomace powder serves to improve the blood picture and to reduce the blood glucose level in hypercholesterolemic rats and could use in obese people for body loss. Data of kidney function (Urea) record an increase in CaPP 20% level (26.9±2.96) but this increase was non significant with the negative control group (26.6±3.1).
Assessing Genetic Diversity Based on Gliadin Proteins in Aegilops cylindrica Populations from Northwest of Iran
Authors: KHABIRI Toraj , ASGHARI-ZAKARIA Rasool , ZARE Nasser , SOFALIAN Omid
Published: April 2018

Wild wheat progenitors served as a valuable gene pool in breeding perspectives. In this respect, gliadins could be an important tool in assessing genetic variability as protein markers. Thus, genetic diversity of gliadin protein patterns in seventeen populations of Aegilops cylindrica collected from northwest of Iran were investigated using acid polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Results showed that the highest number of bands in the electrophoregrams were related to the ω type of geliadins. Conversely, the lowest number of bands were pertained to the β type of gliadins. Genetic diversity between populations was greater than within population variation. Assessment of total variation for the three gliadin types indicated that the highest total variation was related to β type while, the lowest one was belonged to ω type. Cluster analysis using complete linkage method divided populations into two separated groups in which genetic diversity does not follow from geographical distribution.
In Vitro Propagation of Three Moroccan Prickly Pear Cactus Opuntia and Plant Establishment in Soil
Authors: EL FINTI Aissam , EL BOULLANI Rachida , AIT AABD Naima , MSANDA Fouad , SERGHINI Mohammed A. , EL MOUSADIK Abdelhamid
Published: April 2018

Opuntia is one of the most widespread cacti, primarily due to their edible fruit and vegetable mass used as feed. The high demand for young plants of Opuntia made it necessary to find a rapid method of multiplication of the cactus, the safest method consisting in vitro micropropagation of species belonging to this genus. With aim of large production of plant material, a propagation system of three important prickly pear cactus cultivar (Opuntia ficus-indica) in Morocco was developed. Segments of healthy young cladode (containing one areole) were cultivated in Murashige and Skoog medium (MS) containing adenine sulfate (40 mg/1), monosodium phosphate (50 mg/l), sucrose (50 g/l), phytagel (0.3%) and benzyladenine (BA) at 22.2 μM, to start the process of micropropagation. In vitro-developed shoots from areoles were used as secondary explants to induce shoot development in the MS medium with 5 mg/l of BA. All of the three studied cultivars showed an important multiplication rate in this medium. ‘Sidi Ifni M’ (‘Moussa’) cultivar shows the greatest number of shoots followed by ‘Sidi Ifni A’ (‘Aissa’) and ‘Delahia’ 17.26, 14.12 and 12.13 respectively. Rooting of in vitro-generated shoots was achieved most efficiently on half-strength MS basal medium supplemented with 0.5 mg/l of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) or IAA. Rooting frequencies were in the range from 95 to 100% and the highest mean number of root (19.1) was obtained with IBA for ‘Delahia’ cultivar. All micropropagated plants were transferred to greenhouse and all of them survived acclimatization process and showed good overall growth.