bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Studies on the effect of different nitrogen source on the photoautotrophic growth of a freshwater microalga Chlorella ellipsoidea
Authors: Bora Ajitabh , Purkayastha Jubilee , Gogoi Hemanta Kumar , Veer Vijay
Published: August 2021

Nitrogen is an essential component needed for the growth and multiplica-tion of green microalgae. An experiment was conducted to study the effect of different sources of nitrogen on the phototrophic growth of the green microalga Chlorella ellipsoidea. Sodium nitrate, Sodium nitrite, urea, ammo-nium sulphate, ammonium nitrate and ammonium nitrite were added to BG11 medium as the sole source of nitrogen and the cultures were main-tained under in vitro condition. Highest absorbance and cell density was ob-served in the medium containing sodium nitrate followed by sodium nitrite while the medium with urea sustained poor growth of the microalgae. Thus BG11 medium containing sodium nitrate added at a concentration of 1.5g/L was found to be suitable for the cultivation of C. ellipsoidea.
Antimicrobial properties and phytochemical constituents of the metha-nol extracts of Euphorbia retusa Forssk. and Euphorbia terracina L. from Saudi Arabia
Authors: Abdallah Emad M.
Published: August 2021

This study aimed to investigate the phytochemical constituents and antimi-crobial activities of the crude methanol extracts of leaves of Euphorbia re-tusa Forssk and Euphorbia terracina L. collected from Saudi Arabia (Al-Rass province). Extracts of both plants showed presence of some bioactive phyto-chemicals such as tannins, saponins, terpenoids and traces of alkaloids for E. terracina; and tannins, saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids and terpenoids for E. retusa. Among investigated microorganisms, methanol extracts exhibited some degree of antimicrobial activity towards some microorganisms; name-ly,Candida albicans ATCC 1405, Staphylococcus epidermidis ATCC 49461, Bacillus cereus ATCC 10876 and Klebsiella pneumonia ATCC 27736 respec-tively for E. retusa and towards Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923.Staphylococcus epidermidis ATCC 49461,Candida albicans ATCC 1405,Bacillus cereus ATCC 10876 and Klebsiella pneumonia ATCC 27736 re-spectively for E. terracina. MIC testing was ranged from 100 to 6.2 mg/ml, proving the antimicrobial potency of these plants’ extracts against some mi-croorganisms. Further studies regarding purification and fractionation are required since the antimicrobial activities of tested extracts were not com-petitor when compared to the antibiotics Chloramphenicol 25mg/ml or Clot-rimazole 10 mg/ml.
Physico-chemical quality assessment of ultra high temperature sterilized milk and milk products in Western Algeria
Authors: Benyagoub Elhassan , Ayat Mohammed , Belarbi Djamila
Published: August 2021

The present study focused on the physico-chemical and bacteriological quality assessment of samples including ultra-high-temperature (UHT) sterilized milk, melted cheese and yoghurt, collected from dairy product factories in western Algeria. Hazards identification and development of a quality man-agement standard for these subsidiaries were established. The physico-chemical and bacteriological quality of products analyzed was satisfactory, with the exception of 20% of the samples of fruity yoghurts where the titrat-able acidity was relatively high 1.337 ± 0.143%. Prerequisite programs (PRP) established will prevent the occurrence of hazards microbiological origin, which confirms the fact that hygiene measures are the best safety assurance. The hazard analysis of the production process of yoghurt and cheese allowed us to determine their causes, preventive measures for certain sensitive stages where hazards can be eliminated or reduced to acceptable levels, the de-termination of critical points for mastery (CCP) and operational prerequisite programs (PRPo), establishing critical limits, and monitoring plans. Awareness actions and information on potential risks are essential for consumers.
In vitro propagation of the bay laurel (Laurus nobilis.L) in Morocco
Authors: Chourfi Abdelali , Alaoui Tajelmolk , Echchgadda Ghizlane
Published: August 2021

Laurus nobilis L. is among the species which are most threatened by massive degradation in Morocco. The multiplication by seed or by cuttings gives very low percentages of recovery that is insufficient to meet the demand of growing market. In vitro culture proves to be a tremendous asset to solve this problem. Our work has focused on the study of seed germination of this species and its multiplication from microcuttings. Finally, we studied the ac-climatization ability of the plantlets resulting from this germination. The study of the germination, via the further measurement of the length of the aerial part and the roots and the number of axillary buds for nine weeks, showed that the MS basal medium was more efficient than media 1/2M.S and WPM. Among the eight tested hormones, IAA yielded the best growth of the plantlets. Hormonal combination of NAA and kinetin resulted into a per-centage of the greatest success in reaching 67 % micropropagation. The study also revealed that the MS basal medium in the presence of the IAA plants can acclimate most easily in two types of substrates with improved development in the peat alone.
Barleria species (endangered of Al-Baha province, Saudi Arabia) and their phylogenetic study using the internal transcribed spacer sequence of ribosomal DNA
Authors: Alaklabi Abdullah
Published: August 2021

The genus Barleria has many potential species whose study is very necessary to search novel genes to improve the other potential crop species. The first step to use the plant is its identification as sometimes morphological mark-ers are less reliable as compared to the biochemical and DNA based markers. The conservation of the endangered plant species is very important in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as these are important genetic resources. The numbers of endangered plant species are increasing every year in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia due to various harsh environmental conditions. Barleria bispinosa and B. trispinosa are endangered plants of Al-Baha province and whose con-servation is very necessary. We studied its phylogenetic relationship based on the internal transcribed spacer sequence of nrDNA. The marker showed their phylogenetic relationship with the other species of the same genus available at GenBank database and was proven very effective. Thus, nrITS, can be used for the phylogenetic study of the other species of the same fam-ily which is very important to understand the relationship among them.
Comparing genetic diversity of Sitophilus zeamais (Motchulsky) popula-tions sampled in several agro-ecological areas between Central African Republic and Senegal
Authors: Bambou Asta Eliane , Ouantinam Serge Florent Bolevane , Thiaw Cheikh , Mokossesse Jean Alain , Ndong Assane , Kane Mamadou , SembÃ¨ne Mbacke
Published: August 2021

Maize is attacked by many post-harvest pests including Sitophilus spp and Prostephanus spp, which causes remarkable loss during storage. Approxi-mately 30 to 40 % loss in the absence of treatment has been reported world-wide. This study compare genetically Central African and Senegalese popula-tions of Sitophilus zeamais from various agroecological zones using 3 mark-ers namely cytochrome b, cytochrome oxidase and nuclear 28S gene. S. zeamais samples were analyzed on both of two other sites 34 for the 28S gene; 68 for cytochrome b and 36 for the cytochrome oxydase. Results ana-lyzed by AMOVA have shown high genetic variation outside population of each country (6.17 % with Cyt b; 21.45 % with 49.83 % and COI in the case of 28S) and low within subpopulations (-10.06 % for Cyt b, 9.36 % for the COI and -15.23 % for 28S). Majority haplotype is shared between the two popula-tions for 28S and cytochrome b genes and there is a very high haplotype di-versity in populations of Senegal considering the Cytochrome b gene (0.781 + / - 0.00364) while with COI and 28S, high values of diversity are observed in Central African sequences, respectively 1.000 + / - 0.00274 and 0.867 + / - 0.011. Genetic differentiation obtained according to the geographical origin is significant between the two populations; however, it is not at the level of subpopulations. Developed by the three approaches (parsimony, likelihood and Bayesian) phylogenetic trees are resolved and show a speciation of the two populations according to the geographical origin.
Processes contributing to the improvement in antifungal effect of bio-molecules extracted from Moroccan Laurus nobilis against Verticillium dahliae
Authors: Chourfi Abdelali , Darai Soumia , Echchgadda Ghizlane , Alaoui Tajelmolk
Published: August 2021

This work offers comparisons between stakeholder’s labor works before and during extraction of biomolecules extracted from Laurus nobilis in Morocco. The objective of this study was to determine some paths to follow in order to have a better extract that can inhibit or minimize the development of Ver-ticilium dahliae. For essential oils, we studied the effect of harvest region, harvest period, plant part, drying temperature, pressure of distillation, distil-lation temperature and fraction of applied essential oil. For extracts with organic solvents, we compared their effect by pursuing both techniques dur-ing extraction. The first one was about using an organic solvent for total ex-traction; while the second technique concerned a fractional extraction by using some solvents and pursuing an increasing polarity. The results showed that the degree of development inhibition in plant pathogen show a signifi-cant difference. Thus, these findings will be helpful in preparing a technical draft to be followed in the extraction of biomolecules from this plant in or-der to obtain better results in getting antifungal compounds.
Effect of culture medium, temperature and incubation time on growth and ochratoxin A production by Aspergillus tubingensis and A. niger isolated from Moroccan vineyards
Authors: Selouane Atar , Qjidaa Souad , Zouhair Souad , Lebrihi Ahmed , Bouya Driss , Bouseta Amina
Published: August 2021

The effects of culture media (YES, CYA, SNM), temperature (10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 37°C), incubation time (5, 10, 15 and 20 days) and their interactions on radial growth and OTA production by six A. tubingensis and two A. niger were studied. Growth rate increased as temperature increased, regardless of the culture media and isolates. Total inhibition of fungal growth of all strains on the three culture media was observed at 10°C. Mean growth rates calcu-lated for A. niger (2 isolates) and A. tubingensis (6 isolates) revealed that optimal temperatures for growth were observed at 30-37°C on CYA and YES media with maximal growth rates of 5.7 and 5.4 mm/day for A. niger and A. tubingensis cultivated in YES medium, respectively. Growth on SNM medium is generally slow, regardless the temperature and strain used. For both spe-cies, maximum means growth rates were determined at 37°C (3.7-3.8 mm/day). For OTA production, an incubation period of 5 days is sufficient to de-tect the OTA. Levels of this toxin are dependent on temperature, incubation time and strain. In the A. tubingensis specie, maximum of 0.710 μg/g of OTA was obtained after 10 days of incubation at 25°C on SNM medium while for A. niger, the maximum (0.36 μg/g) was obtained on CYA medium. The opti-mum conditions for OTA production are 25 °C/10 days. Analysis of variance showed that the effects of single factors (culture medium, temperature, in-cubation time and strain) and their interactions on growth and OTA produc-tion were highly significant (P=0.000).
Comparitive performance of in-house RT-PCR for NSP4 gene with a commercial enzyme immunoassay for the detection of rotavirus in stool samples of children with diarrhoea
Authors: Srivastava Shilpi , Jain Amita , Awasthi Shally , Singh Mastan
Published: August 2021

Rotaviruses are the most significant pathogen in the etiology of watery diarrhoea in infants and young children all over the world. Laboratory diagnosis is important both for clinical management and estimation of the disease bur-den. We collected faecal samples from 260 children under the age of five years hospitalized with acute diarrhoea and tested them for rotavirus anti-gen by Enzyme immuno assay (EIA) kit [RIDASCREEN]. RNA was also extract-ed from supernatant of 10% stool suspensions in Phosphate Buffered Saline (PBS) and amplified by Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for Non Structural Protein 4 (NSP4) gene. EIA was positive in 58(22.3%) samples while RT-PCR was positive in 45(17.3%) samples. Compared to EIA, RT-PCR was 77.5% sensitive and 100% specific. The Positive Predictive Value (PPV) and Negative Predictive Value (NPV) were 100% and 93.9% respective-ly. We infer that RT-PCR is a moderately sensitive but highly specific diagnos-tic test for rotavirus infection in this study.
Eradication of Pseudomonas biofilm by disinfectants and some plants extracts
Authors: Aicha Lattab , Imane Belkacem , Rachid Djibaoui , Oifa Rebai , Abdelwaheb Chibani , Abed Arabi
Published: August 2021

In the present study three isolates belonging to Pseudomonas sp and one reference strain of P. aeruginosa ATCC 27853 were tested for biofilm formation on two types of support (glass and polystyrene), using two cultures medium Tryptone Soy Broth (TSB) and Modified Biofilm Broth (MBB). The results showed that the quantity of biofilm formed depends on the nature of culture medium, where the rate of the adherent bacteria was more significant in TSB medium. Polystyrene was more favorable to bacteria for adherence compared to glass. We examined the effectiveness of three types of disinfectants, sodium hypochlorite, hydrogen peroxide and temperature on a biofim formed by the studied bacteria. Sodium hypochlorite reached good levels of biofilm eradication using all isolates adhered on the two types of support. Hydrogen peroxide exerted less significant effect compared to sodium hypochlorite, eliminating approximately 56% from the biofilm adhered on polystyrene at concentration of 3%. The elimination of biofilm temperature (80°C) was rather weak compared with the two chemical disinfectants. Our study included the testing of extracts of three plants: Allium sativum, Aloe vera and Lawsonia inermis on biofilm eradication formed by P. aeruginosa ATCC 27853. The effect of these plant extracts on planktonic cells was also studied. The results showed that Allium sativum and Lawsonia inermis inhibit both bacterial growth and biofilm formation and no activity was detected for Aloe vera extract.
Gamma Radiation Method for the Determination of Density of Wood materials
Authors: Rajasekhar E. , Kumar R. Jeevan , Sai K. Vijay , Shaji Sai Prem , Avinash B. V. , Venkataramaniah K.
Published: August 2021

Mass attenuation coefficients of ten different types of wood materials were determined using gamma radiation of 1332 keV from 60Co source. Two mathematical models have been developed for the prediction of density using variation with relaxation length and half value layer of wood materials. A good agreement was observed (greater than 83%) between the measured values and the predicted model 1 and 2. Results show that Azadiracta indica has the highest relaxation length and the lowest mass attenuation coefficient, while Albizia saman has the least relaxation length and the highest mass attenuation coefficient. Results also show that Azadiracta indica has the highest half value layer and Albizia saman has the least half value layer.
Genotyping of micromycetes as a biodegradation agents based on the nucleotide sequence analysis of ITS region
Authors: Shegebayeva A. A. , Bissenova G. N. , Karmenova Zh. K. , Li K. G. , Almagambetov K. H.
Published: August 2021

This article presents the results of the molecular genetic analysis of the 12 micromycetes isolates biodegradation agents (MBA) ITS-region nucleotide sequences isolated from building materials and cultural monuments of Astana. In the study of micromycetes-destructors species composition involved in the biodegradation processes of building materials and cultural monuments 3 isolates of A. obovoidea, 2 isolates of A. alternata and one of each isolate of A. tenuissima, A. arborescens, A. infectoria, P. commune, P. corylophilum, P. chrysogenum, S. chartarum were found. The most frequently contami-nating construction materials based on the cellulose, polymer and mineral and cultural monuments in descending order of importance were representatives of fungi of the genera Alternaria spp. (66.6 %), Penicillium spp. (24.9 %), Stachybotrys spp. (8.3 %). The study was carried out in the laboratory of microbiology RSE "Republican Collection of Microorganisms" in the framework of the project G.2013 "Microbiological monitoring of biodegradation of building materials by microscopic fungi, providing mycological security of the living quarters and historical monuments of culture".
Enhancement of growth and yield of Trigonella foenum graecum L. by foliar application of Pyraclostrobin (F500)
Authors: Sharma Sonika , Joshi Juhie , Guruprasad K. N.
Published: August 2021

Pyraclostrobin (F500), an agricultural fungicide derived from the fungal sec-ondary metabolite strobilurin, is known to enhance growth and yield of cere-als when applied on healthy plants. A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of Pyraclostrobin (F500) on growth and yield of healthy plants of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum L.) var. Pusa early under field conditions. Pyraclostrobin (F500) was applied as a foliar spray in the four different concentrations (0.005 g L-1, 0.01 g L-1, 0.025 g L-1 and 0.1 g L-1), on 15th, 30th and 45th days after emergence of seedlings. Unsprayed plants served as control. F500 treatment enhanced the biomass (Plant height, fresh weight and dry weight) and yield parameters (Number of pods per plant, seeds per plant and 100 seed weight). Although enhancements in growth and yield parameters were observed with all the concentrations of F500 used, it was maximum at 0.01 g L-1 concentration. Enhanced biomass showed positive correlation with increase in yield and seed quality (seed weight per plant). Thus, F500 can be successfully employed as a foliar spray under field conditions to enhance the yield of T. foenum graecum.
Thermal effect of chronic mobile phone radiation exposure at frequen-cy 1800 MHz on adult Sprague-Dawley rats
Authors: Alchalabi Ali S. H. , Aklilu Erkihun , Aziz Abd Rahman , Khan Mohd Azam
Published: August 2021

The mobile communication technology, although integral to our everyday life, has been accounted to suffer negative impacts on the living body via two effects, thermal and non-thermal. The aims of this study were to assess the thermal effects by using Infra-red camera techniques and thermographic analysis and to find out how much electromagnetic fields from mobile phones contribute to increase the skin temperature due to thermal effects from chronic exposure to Global System for Mobile communication (GSM) mobile phone radiation. Eighty female Sprague Dawley rats were employed throughout the experiment, and the animals were dealt into four groups, control, 15, 30 and 60 days respectively (n=20) for 1h/day whole body expo-sure at SAR levels of 0.048 W/Kg. GSM-like signals at a frequency of 1800 MHz were provided by a signal generator. Thermographic analysis was done by using FLIR Tool software to estimate the changes in skin temperature in different regions of the physical structure. Statistical analysis shows signifi-cant changes in skin temperature between unexposed and exposed groups for 15 and 30 days of exposure (P< 0.001). While the skin temperature of 60 days exposure group remained consistent with unexposed group values. Our data suggest that mobile phone radiation at frequency 1800 MHz has a ther-mal effect represented by skin temperature rises in the whole body. The infra-red image analysis results are anticipated to help change mobile phone users' behavior to minimize the negative effects of mobile phone radiation.
Cellulase Enzyme based Biodegradation of Cellulosic Materials: An Overview
Authors: Chatterjee Soumya , Sharma Sonika , Prasad Rajesh Kumar , Datta Sibnarayan , Dubey Dharmendra , Meghvansi Mukesh K , Vairale Mohan G , Veer Vijay
Published: August 2021

Cellulose, a macromolecule of β -D- anhydroglucopyranose units linked by β (1,4)-glycosidic bonds, is the world’s most abundant organic polymer and is the main component of plant biomass that provides stability. Due to its sta-ble fibrous property, it has become one of the most important commercial raw materials for many industries. However, accumulation of waste cellulose due to natural and/or anthropogenic sources is a matter of concern in terms of environmental pollution. Wastes cellulosic substrates can be utilized as sources of energy through controlled hydrolysis using cellulases- a complex group of enzymes capable of degrading all types of cellulosic waste materials. A number of bacteria, fungi and insects are having the capability to degrade cellulose by production of cellulase enzymes. Further, the symbiotic insect-microbe relationships present in the insect gut microbiome for the production of cellulolytic system is of immense importance as this would lead to applications in different fields like biodegradation of cellulosic wastes, pollution reduction, biofuel production, insect/pest control etc. Cel-lulase gene can also be improved by genetic or protein engineering methods using recent technological advances. This review deals with the advances of cellulase enzymes and its utilization for different application.
Development of PCR-Based Technique for Checking Authenticity of Fish Fillets Supplied in Tabriz (Iran)
Authors: Ebrahimisadr N. , Motalebi A. , Rokni N.
Published: August 2021

Increasing consumer demand for seafood, combined with concern over the health of our oceans, has led to many initiatives aimed at tackling destructive fishing practices and promoting the sustainability of fisheries. So, our aim was to develop a PCR-based technique for checking authenticity of fish fillets supplied in Tabriz (Iran). In present study, about 80 samples of frozen fish fillet with general trademarks including south fillet, excellent fillet and 40 samples of Javelin grunter fillet and Scomberomorus commerson fillets were collected from different chain markets all over the Tabriz. Lot Tolerance Per-cent Defective (LTPD) method was used in collecting the samples which is the low errors. Our research showed a higher rate of misbrandingand misla-beling found in markets with general names (85%) and specified names of Javelin grunter and Scomberomorus commerson (40%). Based on present study, the capacity of shark is high in mislabeling and fraud because of their situation in making steaks and fillet, low price in compared with other spe-cies and religious limitations.
Chemical composition, antibacterial and antioxidant activities of Juniperus oxycedrus essential oils from North Western Algeria
Authors: Zahaf Cherifa , Achour Djilali , Mokhtar Meriem , Brada Moussa
Published: August 2021

The aim of the current study was to identify the essential oils of Juniperus oxycedrus from North Western Algeria (Mostaganem) by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometer (GC-MS), and to evaluate their antibac-terial and antioxidant activities. Extraction was carried out by two processes, hydrodistillation (HD) and steam distillation (SD). Analysis by GC-MS led to the identification of 38 components using both methods. HD was found to be the best process for the extraction of Juniperus essential oil, and the ma-jor identified compounds were: germacrene-D (38.28%), followed by α.-pinene (17.66%), and δ-cadinene (5.91%). In the antibacterial test, SD oil had a higher inhibitory effect. The strain Staphylococcus aureus was the most sensitive with an inhibition zone of 15.25 mm and a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.25 mg/mL. The antioxidant activity of J. oxycedrus es-sential oils obtained by HD was more important than SD (IC50= 19.52 mg/mL and IC50= 38.62 mg/mL) with DPPH and β-carotene bleaching tests respec-tively. Essential oils of J. oxycedrus could therefore represent good candidates to be used as antioxidant and antibacterial agents.
Anti-inflammatory properties of the carotenoids and polyphenols of pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duchesne)
Authors: Sarah Bouamar , Meriem Mokhtar , Nabil Bouziane , Kamel Boukazzoula , Ali Riazi
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory activities of carotenoids and polyphenols extracts of pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duchesne). The evaluation was conducted using in vitro (BSA: bovine serum albumin and HRBC: Human Red Blood Cell membrane stabilization) and in vivo (Carrageenan-Induced Inflammation) tests. Pumpkin extracts obtained with organic solvents exhibited a good denaturation inhibition with 66 and 53% in the presence of 1000 μg/mL of carotenoids and polyphenols, respectively. In the HRBC membrane stabilization test, carotenoids had a better protection effect than polyphenols (66.17% vs 53.88%). In the in vivo test, polyphenol and carotenoid extracts were able to suppress the carrageenan-induced increases in paw thickness; carotenoids exerted a higher inhibition than the standard diclofenac. Both natural compounds decreased also C-Reactive Protein (CRP) production and lymphocytes, granulocytes and mid-sized cells. The histopathological study showed an accumulation of infiltrated inflammatory cells after the injection of carrageenan, but this inflammatory response was reduced in the pumpkin-treated animals. Pumpkin carotenoids and polyphenols reduced the neutrophils in the inflamed tissues. These findings suggest that polyphenols and carotenoids of pumpkins repre-sent good candidates as anti-inflammatory drugs.
Common Ancestry & Genetic Diversity of Few Indigenous Chilli Land Races of North East India
Authors: Bhattacharjee Minakshi , Boro Jutika , Singha Swati , Boro Hitesh , Gengla Narbu , Sarma Manash Pratim
Published: August 2021

Since chilies contain high quantities of bioactive potential compounds, they are expected to possess large number of pharmacological values like antioxi-dants, antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiulcer, diuretics activi-ties and is being employed for the treatment of different ailments in the indigenous system of medicine. The current study aimed at comparative evaluation of antioxidant properties, phytochemicals and RAPD assay from extracts of 6 different types of chilli found in the states of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh of North East India. The plant extracts were screened for phyto-chemicals, antioxidant analysis and RAPD profile. Phytochemical analysis shows abundant presence of alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids, saponins etc. The antioxidants activities of all the aqueous extracts were evaluated using the DPPH method. The antioxidant activity (% oxidation inhibition) ranged from as high as 86.56% in Bhut Jolokia (Capsicum assamicum) extracts to as low as 18.77% in Badami Jolokia (Capsicum annum) extract. Chilli samples studied possess potential health benefits by inhibiting many oxidation reactions caused by free radicals. Genetic diversity in 6 chilli genotypes was analyzed by RAPD markers of the fourteen random primers among which 11 were polymorphic. The phylogenetic tree showed common ancestry and the divergence among the chilli species. Based on the current study findings, it may be concluded the RAPD technology can be a useful tool in explaining the genetic diversity among chilli genotypes.
Coconut milk regulates the allergic response in Balb/c mice sensitized with whey proteins
Authors: Benaissa Yamina , Addou Samia , Dib Wafaa , Grar Hadria , Kheroua Omar , Saidi Djamel
Published: August 2021

In this work the effect of coconut milk on mice sensitized to cow's milk proteins was evaluated. Balb/c mice treated orally for twenty eight days with coconut milk were sensitized intraperitoneally with β-lactoglobulin (β-Lg) or α-Lactoglobulin (α-Lac). We used Ussing chamber to analyze ex vivo electrical parameters characterizing the intestinal tissue of mice by measuring the variations of the short current circuit Isc (μA/cm2) as well as the epithelial conductance (G). Jejunal fragments of sensitized and treated mice were mounted in Ussing chamber and stimulated by the deposit of β-Lg or α-Lac. Symptom scores were determined after in vivo challenge to β-Lg or α-Lac. Intestinal damage was assessed by histological analysis. Coconut milk influ-enced the electrophysiological parameters by significantly decreasing the short-circuit current (Isc) (p < 0.001) and the epithelial conductance ((p< 0.01 and (p < 0.001, respectively). Moreover, in coconut milk-treated mice, no significant clinical symptoms were observed. Analysis of histological sections revealed that coconut milk reduced the microscopic lesions induced by β-Lg or α-Lac sensitization. We speculate that the administration of coconut milk could prevent the systemic and anaphylactic responses in sensitized mice.
Evaluation of lactase activity in new isolated Lactobacillus strains
Authors: Nawal Boukezzoula , Abdelmalek Chaalel , Choukri Tefiani , AurÃ©lia Bruneau , Philippe GÃ©rard , Nabil Bouziane , Yassine Nait-Chabane , Elisabeth Girbal-Neuhauser , Ali Riazi
Published: August 2021

The aim of this study was to isolate and characterize new Lactobacillus strains in order to check their β-galactosidase activity. A total of 28 strains were isolated from camel and goat milks collected from the Algerian Sahara. These strains were identified with the method of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) of the 16S rRNA gene. Their ability to hydrolyze O-nitrophenyl-β-D ga-lactopyranoside (ONPG) was determined. Cell lysis method involving soni-cation and lysozyme treatment was used for β-galactosidase release from the isolated strains. Analysis of their 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that the strains clustered in the Lactobacillus genus, 17 isolates were identified as L. plantarum, 10 isolates as L. herbarum and one isolate as L. brevis. The best intracellular enzymatic β-galactosidase activities obtained in descending order are 14.84 (L. plantarum P4), 14.66 (L. plantarum P17), 14.33 (L. planta-rum P12), 14.10 (L. plantarum P10), 13.49 (L. plantarum P6), 12.13 (L. herba-rum H10) and 11.27 (L. plantarum P7) U/mL; while a very low level of this activity was found for Lactobacillus brevis B1. These findings are an argu-ment for the use of these isolated Lactobacilli in the dairy industry in order to alleviate lactose intolerance.
Evaluation of anti-oxidative effects of Mentha spicata essential oils in rats at the period of gestation and lactation co-exposed to lead and manganese
Authors: Mostapha Brahmi , E. H. Adli Djallal , Miloud Slimani , Wafaa Arabi , Narimane Taibi , Khaled Kahloula
Published: August 2021

The mechanisms in the origin of lead and manganese poisoning (Pb-Mn) are multiple, and potentially touch all the body cells. For this purpose, we are interested in oxidative stress induced by Pb-Mn at the erythrocytic level at a dose of 0.2% (Pb) and 4.79 mg/ml (Mn) during the period of gestation and lactation in wistars rats and the ability of mint essential oil, Mentha spicata (MEO) to restore or not this state of stress. The extraction of MEO “HEM” via steam distillation allows us to obtain MEO with an output of 0.49%. Moreo-ver, the analysis of the anti-oxidativeerythrocytic status showed that the co-exposure to Pb-Mn significantly increases enzymes activity of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), and significantly reduces the enzyme activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), by causing a dysfunction in the anti-oxidative defense system. In contrast, the administration of MEO via intra-peritoneal (IP) during a period of 21 days in the previously Pb-Mn intoxicated rats, that MEO contributes significantly in the improvement of the defenses against radical aggression, through a recovery at the level of anti-oxidative enzymes activities by increasing their ability to eliminate radical compounds.
5-Phenyl-1, 2, 4-Triazole- 3- Thiol subchronic exposure induce neuro-comportemental desorder in Wistar rats
Authors: Hadjadj Hassina , Kahloula Khaled , Meddah Boumediene , Slimani Miloud
Published: August 2021

Triazole and its derivatives possess a great importance in medicinal chemis-try with different biological effects; antiviral, antifungical, antibacterial and analgesic. The purpose of the present work is to assess the effects of 5 phe-nyl 1,2,4 Traizole 3 thiol (5 PTT) through a neurobehavioral exploration in Wistar rats. 5 PTT exposured rats showed increased body weight and brain weight. The open field test revealed a significant decrease in the number of crossed squares. However, the results related to the forced swimming test present a significant rise in the immobility time compared to the vehicle group. Furthermore, the Y maze test show that exposure to 5 PTT is associated with impairment of spatial learning performance and memory deficit is explained by a significant increase of the percentage of spontaneous alterna-tion in the exposed animals, the plus maze test revealed that 5 PTT admin-istrations reduced significantly the open arms time. Histological brain analy-sis show an alteration of tissue architecture and perivascular palisade in treated rats compared to vehicle rats. Our study demonstrated that 5 PTT exposures can cause neurotoxic effects that disrupt spatial learning and memory performance and induce a depressive state which reflects an altera-tion of the neurodevelopment process.
Phytochemical and antioxidant properties of Algerian Medicago Sativa L. Water, Ethenol and Chloroform extract
Authors: Megdad Hanane , Chiomokhare Samuel , Mâ€™Hamedi Ahmed , Chazot Paul L
Published: August 2021

Plant natural products have a long history of being a rich source of neuroactive drugs.The total phenolic and flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity of ethanol, chloroform and aqueous extracts of AlgerianMedicagoSativaL, leaves were measured to discover new potential sources of Algerian natural antioxidants and neuroactives. All extracts were non-neurotoxic up to 1 mg/ ml for 24 h exposure. The total phenolcontent of M.Sativa extracts ranged between 38 and 69 mg GAE per g extracts. All of the extracts displayed antioxidant capacityassessed by two methods, but at different levels depending on the concentration and the extraction solvent used. The overall antioxidant potency was in the order water > chloroform> ethanol extracts, and the phenolic content exhibited a positive correlation with the antioxidant activity of M. Sativa extracts.Despite a weaker antioxidant activity, the ethanol extract elicited a calcium spike and suppressed the KCl-induced depolarisation response in neurons, indicating effect on ligand-and/or voltage gated calcium channels. In contrast, the chloroform and water extractsdisplayed no apparent direct functional effects. In conclusion, the antioxidant and functional properties related to phenolic content of Algerian Medicago Sativa L. in water and ethanol extracts, respectively.
Climo-edaphic impact on the growth of Aleppo pine (Pinus halepensis Mill.) in the reforestation of the NaÃ¢ma region (South-West Algeria)
Authors: Samira Mebkhouti , Okkacha Hasnaoui , Nadjat Medjati , Naima Brahimi , Noury Benabadji , Abdelkader Ammam
Published: August 2021

Pinus halepensis Mill. (Aleppo pine) is a forest species. Since the 1970s thisspecies has been used in the reforestation of Naâma region (South-WestAlgeria) for the restoration of supposedly degraded lands and to fight againstsilting. Our study focused on the growth of this taxon and some environmental descriptors. Climatic analyses classify the study area in the arid bioclimatic stage. A clear setback of the selected stations was observed on theEmberger diagrams, and this consequently allowed us to deduce the accentuation of the pejorative effects of climate on the dynamics of the vegetationcover in place, and that P. halepensis can develop in arid climates. The results of the physicochemical analyses of the studied soils revealed silt-sandyand sandy-loam textures, with a pH ranging from 7.1 to 8.08. The measurement of the electrical conductivity allowed deducing that the soils of thestudied stations were unsalted. The total carbonate content was high; thishigh grade was related to the nature of the bedrock, which is often limestone. The recorded values of the organic matter were low and ranged from0.3% to 1.7%. The average heights of the trees sampled in the reference stations were very contrasting; they generally oscillated between 2.3 and 16.4m. The CPA based statistical combinations highlighted the importance of thesoil depth and that of the texture on P. halepensis growth. Despite an aridclimate (low rainfall, high temperature) and poor and shallow soils, Pinushalepensis stands can develop in pre-steppe areas. This species has a remarkable ecological plasticity and is resistant to changes in the region ofNaâma (south-west Algeria).
Study on molecular identification of lactic acid bacteria from fermented milks and â€œSmenâ€ (a traditional steppe butter) and their enzyme producing attributes
Authors: Labtar Asmaa , Larouci Saliha , Guermouche Amel , Bensalah Farid
Published: August 2021

Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus belong to a widely-knowngroup of bacteria that have been frequently used as starter bacteria in fermented dairy products. The aim of this study was to isolate, characterize andidentify of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from raw cow’s fermented milk and‘Smen’ (a traditional steppe butter) in steppic area of Algeria to study someof their important enzyme-producing attributes. All selected strains of lacticacid bacteria (LAB) were identified and typed by phenotypic and genotypiccriteria.Six strains were identified as cocci thermophilic LAB and two of themwere selected and identified by using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification for proA gene. Six strains of lactobacilli were identified as Lactobacillus genus using 16S rRNA gene. Species identification was performed by 16SrRNA gene sequencing and sequences were analysed using Basic LengthAlignment Search Tool (BLAST) programs. A phylogenetic tree based on 16SrRNA genes was constructed by the neighbor-joinin method.S. thermophilusstrains screened for their ability to produce lactic acid, titratable acidity, andpH was measured at 2h intervals, proteolytic activity in milk was examined.In another part, the four selected Lactobacillus were able to hydrolyze X-Galby production of β-galactosidase enzyme. All strains of LAB exhibited production of diacetyl. Overall, this study provides bacterial strains having potentialfor dairy industry.
Stress tolerance in Lactobacillus plantarum LMF6 isolated from human breast milk
Authors: Belhadj Fatima Zohra Baghdad , Boublenza Faiza , Karam Nour-Eddine
Published: August 2021

Lactobacillus plantarum is a lactic acid bacterium widely used in the food industry because of its beneficial effects on human health and its ability of adaptation to different stress conditions, hence the purpose of this work was to study the adaptation abilities of Lactobacillus plantarum LM6 and stress proteins involved during this adapta on. Lb. plantarum LMF6 was isolated from human breast milk and was exposed to acid, alkaline, thermal, oxidative, osmotic, detergent and nutritional stresses in order to determine their effects on growth, viability, tolerance and mortality. SDS-PAGE electrophoresis allowed us to compare the total proteins in the absence and in the presence of stress then the ImageJ® so ware analyzed the obtained pro les. The results show that Lb. plantarum LMF6 is highly tolerant to osmo c (at 9% NaCl, the UFC number is 3.4×1010 UFC/ml), alkaline (4.7×107UFC/ml at pH10), detergent (the UFC number is close to the control), oxydative (3.3×108 UFC/ml), nutri onnal (5.2×107 UFC/ml), acid (pH5, pH4 and pH3) and heat (40°C, 45°C and 50°C with 1.45×1011, 2.78×109 and 2.80×108UFC/ml respec vely) stresses, but sensi ve to extreme acid stress (pH1 and pH2 with mortality rate variable from 5log to 10log) and extreme heat stress (55°C and 60°C when mortality increases to 8log at 60°C). Comparison of proteins profiles allowed us to see quantitative and qualitative differences. Our results allowed to say that Lb. plantarum LMF6 showed interesting characteristics and could be used in food industry as probio c lactobacilli.
Study of the chemical composition, antimicrobial activity of the essen- al oil of Cistus salviifolius from Tissemsilt National Park (Algeria) and influence of the drying period in the shade on the yield of this oil
Authors: Nadjet Meharrar , Ali Bekada Ahmed Mohamed , Ibrahim Dris , Dommes Jacques , Abed Arabi , Aek Larbi
Published: August 2021

The genera Cistus present groups of about twenty species of shrubs belon- ging to the Cistaceae family are very common throughout the Mediterranean region. Cistus salviifolius, known as Melliya is a species of this genus that occurs in the forest region of Mount Ouarsenis (northwest Algeria), exactly in Thniet El Had Na onal Park in the Wilaya of Tissemsilt. This study was un- dertaken to evaluate the an bacterial effects of C. salviifolius and its chemical composition in addition the effect of shade drying me on essen al oil yield in order to op mize this parameter which is most o en not controlled for producers. The op mal yield recorded is about 0.07± 0.02%. Its characte- riza on by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry shows a dominance of hydrocarbon compounds. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) is established using 6 strains of Gram-positive and negative bacteria. The antibiotic susceptibility test is performed using the giliose- environment diffusion method, a bacterial suspension is prepared and subsequently well homogenized. Opacity must be adjusted to 0.5 McF (McFarland), from a young exponen al culture (18 to 24 hours). The an mi- crobial ac vity of C. salviifolius EO was tested against three Gram-posi ve and three Gram-nega ve bacteria. In fact, a strong inhibitory and bactericidal effect has been demonstrated against all Gram-positive and Gram- negative bacteria tested. It appears from this study that the EO of C. salviifo- lius has a very high antimicrobial activity, it shows a wide spectrum covering Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria. Taking into account the results of this study, new an bacterial agents could be developed and the use of C.salviifolius should be encouraged in the pharmaceutical and perfumery industries.
Study of genetic polymorphism of some populations of Atriplex halimus.L by isoenzymatic markers
Authors: Yssaad Athmen Reguieg , Medjdoub Hellou Mohammed , Brahim Lotmani
Published: August 2021

Atriplex halimus is a bush na ve to North Africa where it occurs abundantly. It spreads also along the Meditearnean coastal areas of Europe. This plant cons tutes a renewable richness and presents a great exibility against abiotic stress. An evalua on of its elemental and ecological use needs a determinism of the gene c pro le of its popula ons represen ng this species. In this context, a compara ve study of gene c polymorphism of six A. halimus representing different regions of Algeria : (Bechar, Ain Sefra, Mascara, Arzew, Mostaganem and Chle) was realized by the isoenzyma cs markers, which were represented by the esterases and phosphatases acids. This study show that the esterases are less polymorphes at the level of ecotypes stu- died. We no ced three isoesterases in Bechar, Ain Sefra, Mascara, Arzew and Mostaganem and an addi onal one that characterized Chle ’s ecotype and show its gene c diversity. The phosphatases acids demonstated also a weak interspeci c variability. However, it was signi cant with characteris c Chle ’s ecotype than others. The zymogram of acid phosphatases revealed the presence of 5 alleles coded by the same locus for the Bechar Ain Sefra, Mascara, Arzew and Mostaganem ecotypes and 4 alleles for the Chle eco- type.
Cataclysmic Variables in the Second Year of the Zwicky Transient Facility
Authors: Szkody Paula , Olde Loohuis Claire , Koplitz Brad , van Roestel Jan , Dicenzo Brooke , Ho Anna Y. Q. , Hillenbrand Lynne A. , Bellm Eric C. , Dekany Richard , Drake Andrew J. , Duev Dmitry A. , Graham Matthew J. , Kasliwal Mansi M. , Mahabal Ashish A. , Masci Frank J. , Neill James D. , Riddle Reed , Rusholme Benjamin , Sollerman Jesper , Walters Richard
Published: August 2021

Using a filter in the GROWTH Marshal based on color and the amplitude and timescale of variability, we have identified 372 objects as known or candidate cataclysmic variables (CVs) during the second year of the operation of the Zwicky Transient Facility. From the available difference imaging data, we found that 93 are previously confirmed CVs and 279 are strong candidates. Spectra of four of the candidates confirm them as CVs by the presence of Balmer emission lines, while one of the four has prominent He ii lines indicative of containing a magnetic white dwarf. Gaia EDR3 parallaxes are available for 154 of these systems, resulting in distances from 108–2096 pc and absolute magnitudes in the range of 7.5–15.0, with the largest number of candidates between 10.5 and 12.5. The total numbers are 21% higher than from the previous year of the survey with a greater number of distances available but a smaller percentage of systems close to the Galactic plane. Comparison of these findings with a machine-learning method of searching all the light curves reveals large differences in each data set related to the parameters involved in the search process.
Stars with Photometrically Young Gaia Luminosities Around the Solar System (SPYGLASS). I. Mapping Young Stellar Structures and Their Star Formation Histories
Authors: Kerr Ronan M. P. , Rizzuto Aaron C. , Kraus Adam L. , Offner Stella S. R.
Published: August 2021

Young stellar associations hold a star formation record that can persist for millions of years, revealing the progression of star formation long after the dispersal of the natal cloud. To identify nearby young stellar populations that trace this progression, we have designed a comprehensive framework for the identification of young stars and use it to identify ∼3 × 104 candidate young stars within a distance of 333 pc using Gaia DR2. Applying the HDBSCAN clustering algorithm to this sample, we identify 27 top-level groups, nearly half of which have little to no presence in previous literature. Ten of these groups have visible substructure, including notable young associations such as Orion, Perseus, Taurus, and Sco-Cen. We provide a complete subclustering analysis of all groups with substructure, using age estimates to reveal each region’s star formation history. The patterns we reveal include an apparent star formation origin for Sco-Cen along a semicircular arc, as well as clear evidence for sequential star formation moving away from that arc with a propagation speed of ∼4 km s−1 (∼4 pc Myr−1). We also identify earlier bursts of star formation in Perseus and Taurus that predate current, kinematically identical active star-forming events, suggesting that the mechanisms that collect gas can spark multiple generations of star formation, punctuated by gas dispersal and cloud regrowth. The large spatial scales and long temporal scales on which we observe star formation offer a bridge between the processes within individual molecular clouds and the broad forces guiding star formation at galactic scales.