bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Media Optimization for Depolymerization of Alginate by Pseudomonas aeruginosa AG LSL-11
Authors: Koti Basawaraj A. , Manohar S. , Lalitha J.
Published: October 2022

An agar degrading bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa AG LSL-11 was acclimatized to alginate for the production of alginase. Production parameters such as pH, temperature, influence of simple carbohydrates and nitrogen sources, and effect of NaCl on growth and alginase production were carried out. Maximum growth was observed at pH 9.0 and 35°C, while alginase was produced optimally at pH 9.0 and 30°C. The alginase produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa AG LSL-11 was inducible by alginate, and repressed by other simple sugar when supplemented along with alginate in the medium. The bacterium did not require NaCl for growth and production of alginase. The activity staining of partially purified culture supernatant after native PAGE revealed the presence of a single alginase.
Antimicrobial Activity of Chloroform and Methanol Extract of Lennea coromandelica Merr
Authors: Vedhanarayanan P. , Vaithiyanathan T. , Sundaramoorthy P.
Published: October 2022

The antimicrobial activity of chloroform and methanol extracts of Lennea coromandelica were screened for their was studied against gram positive bacteria strains Staphylococcus aureus,Streptococcus pyogenes and Bacillus subtilis gram negative bacteria strains Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli and fungal strains such as Candida albicans, C. parapsilosis, C. krusei and C. glabrata using disc diffusion method, determination of Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MIC), Minimum Bacterial Concentrations (MBC) and Minimum Fungicidal Concentrations (MFC). The antimicrobial activity for different concentrations like 250 μg, 500 μg and 1000 μg of different solvent extracts of Lannea cormandelica. bacterial strains and recorded in highest mean zones of inhibition ranged from 19.6 mm and Candidal strains and the exhibited the highest mean zones of inhibition ranged from 10.6 mm. Methanol extracts showed the best results as inhibition zones against tested organisms. Results showed also that, the greatest effect was towards Staphylococcus aureus and the lowest was against Candida krusei. The present study reported the great effect of Lannea cormandelica extracts against some of most important pathogens.
Wood Decay Fungi Associated with Tamarind Tree in Gujarat, India
Authors: Kumar N. Praveen , Arya Arun
Published: October 2022

Fungi may cause internal decay, cankers, loosening of tissue and cell walls result into weak forks in the trunk and large branches. Tree rot may be associated with root decay, damage to foliage and fruits. Wood decay fungi isolated from Tamarindus indica were Daldinia concentrica, Schizophyllum commune, Flavodon flavus,Irpex hydnoides, and Phellinus fastuosus, in which D. concentrica causing canker rot is reported for the first time from India and F. flavus and I. hydnoidesP. fastuosus are recorded for the first time on T. indica wood causing white rot. During canker rot, formation of bark canker and extensive internal decay of wood was observed; as a result the tree growing in the M.S. University campus became structurally unstable and broken off at the canker face. Early detection and removal of such hazardous branches of trees is advocated to avoid loss of life and property.
Effects of Salinity Stress on Growth and Phenolics of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Minh Luong The , Khang Do Tan , Thu Ha Pham Thi , Tuyen Phung Thi , Minh Truong Ngoc , Quan Nguyen Van , Xuan Tran Dang
Published: October 2022

This study was conducted to determine the correlation between of salinity stress on growth and phenolic compounds in rice. It was observed that salinity stress caused a significant decrease in shoot lengths, fresh and dry weights of all rice varieties. Under salinity stress, changes of chemical contents also differed among phenolic compounds and rice cultivars. Total phenolics and flavonoids, and contents of vanillin and protocatechuic acid in tolerant varieties were strongly increased, whereas in contrast, they were markedly reduced in the susceptible cultivar. Ferulic acid and p-coumaric acid were detected only in tolerance rice. Vanillin and protocatechuic acid may play a role, but ferulic acid and p-coumaric acid may be much involved in the tolerant mechanism against salinity stress. Ferulic acid and p-coumaric acid and their derivatives are able to be exploited as promising agents to reduce detrimental effects of salinity stress on rice production.
Preliminary Studies of Organochlorine Pesticides (OCPs) in Sediment, Water and Fish Samples from Ethiope River, Abraka Axis, Southern Nigeria
Authors: Edjere Oghenekohwiroro , Ukpebor Justina E. , Emebu Samuel , Okieimen Felix E.
Published: October 2022

Selected persistent organochlorine pollutants, including DDT and its metabolites, hexachlorobenzene, dieldrin, Aldrin, heptachlor, HCH as well as some of their isomers were determined in water, sediment and fish samples from the Ethiope River in Southern Nigeria. Twenty organochlorine pesticides were detected in both seasons from October 2012 – September 2013. Results revealed ∑HCH to be 0.620µg/L (water), 33 ng/g (sediment) and 29.00 ng/g (fish) for the rainy season while concentrations of 0.170 µg/L (water), 14 ng/g (sediment) and 28.00 ng/g (fish) were obtained for the dry season. 0.05–0.15 ng/g for aldrin, 0.12–5.8 ng/g for dieldrin, 0.22–0.64 ng/g for endrin, 0.24–6.37 ng/g for endosulfan and 0.21–8.81 ng/g for ΣDDT (p, p` -DDD, p, p` -DDE, p, p` -DDT). Among the OCPs, ∑HCH, endosulfan and PDDT were the most dominant compounds in the river sediments. γ- HCH was the most frequent detected compound in all the samples from this river. Among the cyclodiene compounds, aldrin was in abundance in most of the sediments, water and fish samples. γ-HCH, γ-HCH and HCB contributed this highest value for the water, sediment and fish sample respectively in the rainy season while aldrin, endrin and HCB were the highest contributors to the ΣOCPs to the mean of water, sediment and fish respectively. Hazard quotient and bioaccumulation analysis carried out on the fish sample revealed that the fishes were heavily contaminated with values >1 for both seasons which possess a possibility for ecological concern.
Optimization of Banana Peels Hydrolysis for the Production of Bioethanol: Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Gebresemati Mebrahtom , Gebregergs Alula
Published: October 2022

Energy consumption has increased steadily over the last four decades as the population has grown and more countries have become industrialized. On the other hand waste disposal has become the major concern of developing cities. Many countries such as Ethiopia have abundant raw materials for biofuels, yet these have not been explored. This study was designed to utilize banana peels for the production of bioethanol using the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The effects of factors in hydrolysis (the effect of hydrolysis parameters) were investigated and the optimum combination factor was carried out with response surface design. The parameters were varied over 3 levels and 17 experimental runs were conducted to produce fermentable sugar. The optimum results were obtained at 1.50 % v/v acid concentration, 91.02 °C temperature and 21.66 min retention time. At this optimum condition, fermentation with and without benzyl penicillin was performed to determine its effect on bioethanol.
Licorice Root Extract Boosts Capsicum annuum L. Production and Reduces Fruit Contamination on a Heavy Metals-Contaminated Saline Soil
Authors: Desoky El Sayed M. , Elrys Ahmed S. , Rady Mostafa M.
Published: October 2022

Natural supplementations are used in agriculture nowadays not only for improving plant performance but also for reducing the contamination of plant edible parts. Two field trials were conducted to study the potential effects of licorice root extract (LRE; 0.5%) on performance, physio-biochemical components, antioxidant defense system, and contaminants concentrations of Capsicum annuum L. plants grown on a saline soil contaminated with heavy metals. LRE was applied in single (i.e., as rhizosphere application with drip irrigation water; -RA or as foliar spray; -FA) or in integration (i.e., LRE-RA + LRE-FA) treatment. The results showed that both single or integrative treatments significantly increased plant growth and yield, leaf concentrations of photosynthetic pigments, free proline, total soluble sugars, N, P, and K+, ratio of K+/Na+, and activities of CAT, POX, APX, SOD and GR, while significantly reduced contaminants; Na+, Cd, Cu, Pb and Ni concentrations in plant leaves and fruits on heavy metals-contaminated saline soil compared to the control (without LRE). Additionally, the integrative LRE-RA + LRE-FA treatment significantly exceeded both single treatments in this concern, which had been recommended for maximizing pepper plant performances with minimizing heavy metals in fruits on contaminated saline soils.
Enzymatic Assay of Opioid Analgesic, Tramadol, Using Horseradish Peroxidase
Authors: Sridevi N. , Srilakshmi C. , Alekya G. , Sekharan Chandra Bala
Published: October 2022

Three novel and sensitive enzymatic methods have been developed for the quantification of tramadol in pharmaceutical dosage forms. The proposed methods are based on the reaction of tramadol with 3-methylbenzothiazoline-2-one hydrazone (method A), aniline (method B) and aminoantipyrine in the presence of hydrogen peroxide and horseradish peroxidase to give colored complexes. The colored complexes obtained with 3-methylbenzothiazoline-2-one hydrazone, aniline and aminoantipyrine exhibit absorption maxima at 480 nm, 550 nm and 530 nm, respectively. Regression analysis of Beer’s plots showed good correlation for tramadol in the concentration range (μg/mL) 2-12 for the methods A & B and 4-24 for the method C. The experimental parameters were studied and optimized. The precision and accuracy of the methods were satisfactory. The proposed methods were successfully applied for the quantification of tramadol in 3 brands of commercially available tablet dosage forms. The results were compared satisfactorily with the official method.
Studies on Effect of Physical and Chemical Mutagens in Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) in M2 Generation
Authors: Suthakar V. , Mullainathan L.
Published: October 2022

Seeds of Sorghum (sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) Variety CSV – 23. Were mutagenesis with gamma rays and EMS to determine their mutagenic sensitivity in morphological and yield characters. The spectrum of Mutation and induced variability for various quantitative and yield traits were observed in M2 generation. Plant height (cm),total number of leaves, leaf length (cm), leaf width(cm), stem girth (cm),Days taken to first flowering (days),ear head length(cm),ear head width(cm), Grain weight(gm),100 seed weight(gm), Biomass weight(gm)
Effect of Salt on Growth of Rice Landraces in Vietnam
Authors: Anh La Hoang , Hue Hoang Thi , Quoc Nguyen Kien , Nghia La Tuan , Trung Khuat Huu , Trung T.N. , Trang D.H. , Xuan Tran Dang , Khanh Tran Dang
Published: October 2022

In this study, total 41 Vietnamese rice landraces were evaluated for their salt tolerance in the laboratory and field conditions. Amongst them, 15 landraces have shown moderate to high salinity tolerance in both screening conditions. The three landraces Chanh trui, Cuom dang 2 and Nep cuc have revealed the highest salt tolerance which were similar to the Pokkali. However, with time and levels of salt treatments, salt injury symptoms were clearly observed in all landraces with different symptoms. All plants growth parameters were remarkably reduced in all landraces under increasing salt-treated concentrations. By use of molecular marker RM217 linked with salinity tolerance QTL located on the chromosome 4, 11 landraces have been found to carry the allen involving in salt tolerance. This study has provided useful information on salinity tolerance of rice landraces for breeding programs to deal with the climate change in this country.
Influence of Subgrade Soil on Pavement Perfomance: A Case Study of Ago-Iwoye - Ilishan Road, Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Fatoba J.O. , Sanni A.O. , Ayantunji A.B.
Published: October 2022

Ago-Iwoye –Ilisan road is the major road that links Abeokuta the state capital of Ogun –state to Ijebu towns. The road has always been experiencing pavement failure, which occurs inform of cracks and potholes. Being the major road, the effect of the failure has negative impact on the soico-economic growth of Ijebu –areas. The primary objective of the study was to determine the influence of the geotechnical properties of the sub-grade materials on the pavement performance of Ago-Iwoye – Ilishan Road. Eleven (11) soil samples were collected at eight (8) different locations with the aid of hand auger and were air-dried before taken to the laboratory for determination of engineering properties. The Liquid limit and the Plastic limits ranged from 13.9 – 46.2% and 8.1 – 32.7%, with the Plasticity index from 10.6 – 15.9% and Shrinkage limit from 6.2 – 27.7% respectively. The soaked CBR values of the subgrade materials is between 67% and 75% compared with 30% minimum specified by FMWH, 1997.The soils were classified by ASSHTO under the A-6 and A-7 category which shows that the soils are fair to poor as a sub-grade material and USCS classification shows that the soil falls into the SM and SC group.The comparison of all the results with the Nigeria specification (Federal Ministry of Works and Housing general guidelines) for the sub grade materials along the Ago-Iwoye-Ilisian road show that the materials underlain the pavement do satisfy the Nigeria standard. Therefore, the perennial failure frequently experience along the road route is not significantly influenced by subgrade materials. Hence, influence of other factors such as poor drainage courses, level of groundwater table, variation of geologic materials along the road route and poor construction materials should be thoroughly addressed before embarking on future rehabilitation of the highway.
Review on Pharmacological Effects of Plectranthus forskohlii (Willd) Briq
Authors: Lakshmanan Ganapathy Murugan Alagu , Manikandan Selvarasuvasuki
Published: October 2022

Plectranthus forskohlii (Willd). Briq. (Syn: Coleus forskohlii) is an important indigenous medicinal plant in India. It has been used in traditional Ayurveda medicine for curing various disorders and this is the only source of the diterpenoid forskolin. Forskolin is used for the treatment of eczema, asthma, psoriasis, cardiovascular disorders and hypertension, where decreased intracellular cAMP level is believed to be a major factor in the development of the disease process. A comprehensive account of the morphology, medicinal uses, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, analytical methods and biotechnological approaches for forskolin production reported are included in view of the many recent findings of importance on this plant.
Bioaccumulation of Total Hydrocarbon and Heavy Metals in Body Parts of the West African Red Mangrove Crab (Goniopsis pelii) in the Niger Delta, Nigeria
Authors: Numbere Aroloye O.
Published: October 2022

This study is based on bioaccumulation of total hydrocarbon (THC) and heavy metals in body parts of the West African red mangrove crab (G. pelii), which inhabit polluted mangrove forests. Thirty crabs were captured in October, 2018 and sorted into male and female. Their lengths and widths were measured, and body parts dismembered and oven-dried at 70 ͦ C for 48 hours. Physicochemical analysis for Cadmium (Cd), Zinc (Zn), Lead (Pb) and THC was measured by spectrophotometric method using HACH DR 890 colorimeter (wavelength 420 nm) and microwave accelerated reaction system (MARS Xpress, North Carolina) respectively. There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in THC and heavy metals in the body parts of crabs.  However, Zinc was highest in claw (993.4±91.3 mg/l) and body tissues (32.5±1.9 mg/l), Pb was highest in carapace (34.6±2.8 mg/l) and gill (151.9±21.6 mg/l) while THC was highest in intestine (39.5±2.9 mg/l) and gut (52.4±13.4 mg/l). The order of concentration is Zn>Pb>THC>Cd. Male crabs had slightly higher THC and heavy metal concentration than female crabs probably because of their large size. There is negative correlation between carapace area and THC concentration (R =-0.246), meaning THC decreases with increasing carapace size. Internal parts of crab had higher THC and heavy metal concentration than external parts. These results show that there is high bioaccumulation of THC and heavy metals in crab, which is above WHO/FAO standard. This implies that the crabs are unfit for human consumption. The smaller the crab the better it is for consumption in terms of bioaccumulation of pollutants.
Water Pollution: Sources, Effects, Control and Management
Authors: Owa F.W.
Published: October 2022

Human activities including industrialization and agricultural practices contributed immensely in no small measure to the degradation and pollution of the environment which adversely has an effect on the water bodies (rivers and ocean) that is a necessity for life. This paper tries to discuss basically what water pollution is and equally to address the source, effect control and water pollution management as a whole. Some recommendations such as introduction of environmental education were mentioned.
Neonauclea formicaria (Rubiaceae) Leaf Extract Inhibits Vascularization in the Chorioallantoic Membrane of Duck Embryos
Authors: Vergara Jonathan , Demetillo Meljan , Ombat Leila , Rosal Jashin
Published: October 2022

Plants are reservoirs of bioactive compounds with the potential for pharmaceutical use. In this study, the secondary metabolites of Neonauclea formicaria leaf crude ethanolic extract were determined using phytochemical screening. The plant's leaf extract was then used to test its angiogenesis activity using the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay. Four concentrations of the extract were prepared—0.1 mg/L, 1.0 mg/L, 10.0 mg/L, and 100.0 mg/L and were topically applied on the CAM. Phytochemical screening revealed that N. formicaria leaves contain heavy amounts of flavonoids and tannins, while alkaloids, saponins, and steroids were present in trace amounts. The crude ethanolic extract was anti-angiogenic, as indicated by the significant decrease of vascular density at higher concentrations (P<0.05).  The 100 mg/L extract concentration showed the highest vascular inhibition (50.93%) among the other concentrations, suggesting its angiopreventive potential (P<0.05). Further investigation on the embryo's gross morphometry revealed no significant effects in the weight, crown-rump length, head-beak length, forelimb length, and hind limb length. Also, these indices were not associated with the angiogenesis activity on the CAM. Further studies exploring the specific metabolites of the different plant parts of N. formicaria and the plant's angiopreventive potential are recommended.
Natural Enemy (Arthropoda-Insecta) Biodiversity in Vegetable Crops in Northeastern Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Anbalagan Veeramuthu , Gabriel Paulraj Michael , Ignacimuthu Savarimuthu , Baskar Kathirvelu , Gunasekaran Jonas
Published: October 2022

Natural enemies of insect pests in vegetable crops (brinjal, okra and tomato) were recorded and their diversity was studied in Kancheepuram and Tiruvallur Districts, Tamil Nadu. Natural enemies were collected by pitfall traps, sweeping nets and by hand picking from January 2011 to December 2013 twice in a month. Totally 129 species of predatory and parasitic insects were recorded. All the natural enemies were grouped into 50 families under eight different orders. Order hymenoptera contained the highest number of families and species. Among the predators, Coccinellidae (ladybird beetles) was found to be the dominant group with high number of species. It was clear that Coccinellidae, Staphylinidae, Carabidae and Pentatomidae were the predominant natural enemies throughout the study period. In 2013, formicidae formed the major family of occurrence from July to December in the vegetable fields; in this period the total number of individuals collected from all families was the highest. The maximum Shannon-Wiener diversity index was 3.70 during the second season in 2013. Maximum richness (5.99) was recorded in the second season of 2012. The variations in the diversity, species richness and evenness between two cropping systems are discussed in this paper.
Role of Nanoplanktons in Marine Food-Webs
Authors: Das Neelava , Pandey Ashish
Published: October 2022

Nanoplanktons are ubiquitous protozoan zooplankton in a size range of 2 to 20 μm, play key ecological roles in aquatic ecosystems. Heterotrophic nanoflagellates are distributed through the continental shelf and margin area of the oceans as well as deep-sea. These organisms contribute significantly to the total living biomass within these systems, serve as the major top–down control on bacterial assemblages, and are an important source of mortality for microalgae and other heterotrophic nanoflagellates. From many recent studies, it is generally accepted that HNF is one of the most important bacterial consumers. They also function as important remineralizers of organic matter and nutrients in aquatic systems. In accordance with these important ecological roles, heterotrophic nanoflagellates have been the subject of considerable study both in the field and laboratory.
Spatiotemporal Monitoring of CO2 and CH4 over Pakistan Using Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS)
Authors: Mahmood Irfan , Iqbal Muhammad Farooq , Shahzad Muhammad Imran , Waqas Ahmed , Atique Luqman
Published: October 2022

Carbon dioxide (CO2), Methane (CH4) are two most potent greenhouse gases and are major source of climate change. Human activities particularly fossil fuels burning have caused considerable increase in atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases. CO2 contributes 60% of anthropogenic greenhouse effect whereas CH4 contributes 15%. Ice core records also show that the concentrations of Carbon dioxide and methane have increased substantially. The emission of these gases alters the Earth’s energy budget and are drivers of climate change. In the present study, atmospheric concentration of CO2 and CH4 over Pakistan is measured using Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS). Time series and time averaged maps are prepared to measure the concentrations of CO2 and CH4. The results show considerable increase in concentration of Carbon dioxide and methane. The substantial increase in these concentrations can affect human health, earth radiative balance and can damage crops.
Activity of Catabolic Enzymes of Film-Forming Strains of Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Voronkova Olga S. , Shevchenko Tetiana M. , Vinnikov Albert I.
Published: October 2022

The activity of glucose catabolism pathways of staphylococci strains able to form biofilm and isolated from vagina of women with dysbiosis of reproductive tract and strains isolated from women without disorders of microflora was studied. It was established that the investigated film-forming strains utilized the carbohydrates by pentose phosphate pathway mainly, as indicated by 23-33% higher enzyme activity compare to strains isolated from healthy women. Instead strains, isolated from women without reproductive tract dysbiosis, have higher activity of glycolytic enzymes on 13-28%. The prevalence of glycolytic transformation of glucose by strains isolated from healthy women also indicates by the depression of glucose oxidation during action of monoiodinacetate – classical inhibitor of glycolysis. It inhibit glycolysis of strains isolated from healthy women more significant. It was established that oxidase activity of film-forming strains isolated from women with dysbiosis, increased over 40% during the use of basic substrates of citric acid cycle. These data indicate a general increase of catabolic activity of oxidative type of staphylococci isolated during vaginal dysbiosis and able to form biofilm.
Screening of Different Leaf Extracts of Cassia fistula Linn for Investigation of Hypolipidemic Activity in Two Different Rat Models
Authors: Sutar Guruprasad V. , Das Kuntal , Einstein John Wilking
Published: October 2022

The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the hypolipidemic activity of methanolic and aqueous leaf extracts of Cassia fistula (CF) Linn (Family: Fabaceae) on atherogenic diet (2% cholesterol, 1% Choline Chloride and 2% Lard) induced Male Sprauge-Dawley rats for the period of 21 days. The rats receiving the treatment with leaf methanol and aqueous extract of CF showed significant (P < 0.001) reduction in total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), High density lipoprotein (HDL), lipid peroxidation (LPO) and other parameters at dose dependent manner but the effect was less than the standard drug Atorvastatin. The results revealed the effectiveness of CF plant against hyperlipidemic activity.
Ethnomedical Value of Plants in Nagapattinam District of Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Vinoth B. , Manivasagaperumal R.
Published: October 2022

The present survey was undertaken to explore the traditional knowledge of plant species found in four villages (Athamangalam, Vadukkuveli, Thalainayar and Perumangalam) in Sirkali taluk of Nagapattinam district, Tamilnadu state, The ethnomedicinal information was collected through oral interviews to village elders and vaidyas (those who cure disease by traditional methods) of the rural areas of this district. The knowledge available to the rural population of the area is transmitted only through oral language from generation to generation over time and therefore it needs to be recorded in order to be preserved. Medicinal plants are listed by botanical name, family name, local name, plant parts used and mode of preparation and the names of the diseases cured. About 50 plant species belonging to 27 families were described as effective herbal drugs for various ailments. The documented ethnobotanical uses of plants mostly related to the treatment in curing stomach pain, breast pain, headache, bleeding, yellow fever, muscle pain and blood purifier.
Bioactive Compounds from Marine Invertebrates for Potential Medicines - An Overview
Authors: Datta D. , Nath Talapatra S. , Swarnakar S.
Published: October 2022

The present review deals with the bioactive compounds of the marine non-chordates. The potent medicinal usage of the bioactive compounds viz. steroids, terpenoids, isoprenoid and non-isoprenoid compounds, quinones, brominated compounds, nitrogen heterocyclics and nitrogen-sulphur heterocyclics from marine non-chordates have been compiled. Various literatures survey revealed that the bioactive compounds isolated in recent past from the marine poriferans, cnidarians, annelids, arthropods, molluscs and echinoderms could be rich sources of therapeutic agents having antibacterial, antiinflamatory, anticarcinogenic properties. In overall, the present study will be benefitted to know global drug discovery researches on bioactive compounds from marine organisms for students, scholars, scientists, pharmaceutical sector, and government regulating authorities as new challenging technology in clinical applications through medicines.
Antimicrobial Activity of Methanolic Root Extract of Decalepis hamiltonii Wight & Arn
Authors: Prakash P. , Manivasagaperumal R.
Published: October 2022

The present study was quantitative analysis and antimicrobial activity of petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate, methanol root extracts. The gram positive and gram negative bacterial and fungal species by the disc diffusion method at various concentration (250μl-1000μl). The results was present in the phenolic and flavonoid content compared to extracts. All the root extract against to Bacillus subtilis and Streptococcus pyogenes and fungal species Candida albicans at highest inhibition at concentration of methanolic root extract of zone formation. The preliminary studies on Decalepis hamiltonii root extract exhibited their antimicrobial potential which could be exploited further and future pharmaceutical, therapeutic efficiency and food preservation and applications.
New Records of Lignicolous Fungi from Ratanmahal Wildlife Sanctuary, Gujarat, India
Authors: Kumar N. Praveen , Arya Arun
Published: October 2022

Thirty species of lignicolous fungi belonging to Ascomycetes and Basidiomycete are reported from the Ratanmahal Wildlife Sanctuary, Gujarat, India. The new species are Coriolus versicolor, Coriolopsis gallica, Daedalea quercina, F. resupinate, D. unicplor var. hydnoidea, Fomitopsis rosea, Hypodontia comptopsis and Lenzites betulina. F. varigatum is reported for the first time from India. All the species are new to studied area.
Water Footprint for Garlic under Irrigation Levels and Agrispon Application
Authors: Farag A.A. , Abdrabbo M.A.A. , Maharik Z.Y. , El-Morshedy Rasha
Published: October 2022

Field experiment was conducted in Giza, Egypt, during two growing seasons of 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 on garlic crop, with the objective of investigating the effect of different irrigation levels (60, 80 and 100 % of water requirements and their combination with the foliar spraying applications of agrispon (with 0.5 and 1.0 ml/ liter) on growth and yield. The results indicated that increased irrigation level up to 100% led to increased vegetative characters of garlic and that the lowest growth and productivity was obtained by 60% irrigation level. When considering spray application of agrispon; with 1.0 ml/L increased growth and productivity followed by 0.5 ml/L; while control treatment gave the lowest productivity during the both seasons. Interaction effect between irrigation level and agrispon treatments indicated that 100% irrigation level combined with 1.0 ml/L spray application of agrispon gave the highest garlic productivity followed by 100% irrigation level combined with 0.5 ml/L spray application. The chemical analysis showed that the highest NPK was obtained by 100% irrigation level combined with 1.0 ml/L agrispon application during the both seasons. Regarding water footprint, the highest irrigation water footprint was obtained by 80% irrigation level followed by 60% irrigation level, while the lowest footprint was obtained by 100% irrigation level due to high garlic productivity under 100% irrigation level. The estimate water footprint for garlic was 525 m3/ton. The blue water footprint for garlic was 422 m3/ton about 80% form total water footprint, while gray water percentage about 20% with value of 103 m3/ton.
Protecting Environment, Managing E-Waste and Ensuring Development: Perspective on ‘Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment’ Situation in Guiyu, Agbogbloshie and Dhaka
Authors: Masoom Muhammad Rehan , Toufique Mohammad Mokammel Karim
Published: October 2022

Fast development of the electronics industry and an eminent value of obsolescence of the electronic productions conduce to the uninterrupted production of great amounts of electronic waste or e-wasteworldwide. Due to the frequent commingling of a wide range of reusable, or recyclable, and non-recyclable surplus electronics, the term "e-waste" infer all sorts of these leftovers. Even though the economic benefits are potentially enormous, only a small proportion of the electronic waste is being recycled all around. There is a transaction cost associated with therecycling process due to the environmental protection regulations, hence economically less attractiveat the industry level in developed nations. However, to the least developed nations where owing to low living standard the demand for the better quality environment is low, even nonexistent, recycling e-waste has become a livelihood earning opportunity. The study intends to interpret the socio-economic consequences of e-wastes by focusing the detrimental effects that it have created in China and Ghana, and attempts to outline what developing nations like Bangladesh can do to prevent or reduce the harmful consequences of it.
Mapping of India’s Contribution on “Down Syndrome” during 40 Years from 1973-2012
Authors: Siwach Anil Kumar
Published: October 2022

Down syndrome, a genetic disease, is commonly diagnosed congenital malformation/mental retardation syndrome occurring in people of all races and economic levels. The present study is aimed to examine the contribution of Indian scientists on Down syndrome during the 40 years span from 1973-2012. The study analyses the Indian share in the research output, contribution and citation impact of top Indian institutions, most prolific Indian authors, top journals for publication, top collaborating countries, number of citations received and the highly cited papers in the Indian research on Down syndrome.
Presoaking Treatment of Propolis Aqueous Extract Alleviates Salinity Stress in Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) Plants Grown under Calcareous Saline Soil Conditions
Authors: El-Yazal Mohamed A. Seif
Published: October 2022

Two pot experiments were conducted during the two successive seasons of 2014 and 2015 to study the effect of propolis extract at the rates 0, 6000, 7000, 8000 and 9000 ppm solution used as seed soaking to spinach seedlings on growth, yield and some chemical constituents of spinach plants (Spinacia oleracea L.) grown under saline soil conditions. The obtained results indicated that increasing the rates of propolis extract as seed soaking application increased the growth parameters of the treated plants. The best result was obtained by the middle rate (7000ppm) as seed soaking in both seasons of the study. The same trend was also observed regarding all studied chemical constituents, i.e. chlorophyll a, b and total caroteniods concentration, anthocyanine, total carbohydrates, total and reducing sugars, total free amino acid, free proline, crude protein, total indoles, total phenols, N, P and K in leaves. Moreover, soaking seeds in propolis extract before planting improved the metabolic activity of seeds through the increase in seed values from total and reducing sugar, total free amino acid, total indoles and total phenols as well as the lowest values from , total carbohydrate. Thus, the coincident application of propolis extract at (7000ppm) as seed soaking is recommended for improving growth, yield and chemical composition of spinach plants and to overcome the adverse effect of salinity conditions.
Immobilization of Pseudomonas sp. KLM9 in Sodium Alginate: A Promising Technique for L-Glutaminase Production
Authors: Mahesh Divatar , Sandhya G. , Sarfraaz Ahemad , Lingappa K.
Published: October 2022

Microbes and process development are gaining considerable importance owing to their exploitation and suitability for the production of the enzymes of therapeutic and industrial significance. In the present study attempts were made to immobilize the Pseudomonas Sp. KLM9 in different supporting matrix to analyze the possible enhancement in the production of L-Glutaminase. The consequences of the study reveal that, sodium alginate at 3.5% concentration was found to be the better supporting matrix than the others. Further, initial pH 7 of the incubation media, incubation temperature of 37°C were supported good yield of L-Glutaminase by immobilized Pseudomonas Sp KLM9. The fermentation period was reduced to 36 hr with immobilized cells. There is moderate increase in the production L-Glutaminase by the immobilized cells than the free cells of Pseudomonas Sp KLM9. Biomass obtained from the 18 hr old culture of Pseudomonas Sp KLM9 was found better to immobilize for the production of L-Glutaminase.
Behavioural Toxicology of Midge Larvae Chironomous sp. after Acute In Situ Exposure of Different Industrial Effluents and Drinking Water
Authors: Bhunia Debika , Sarkar Subhodeep , Banerjee Kushal , Nandy Abantika , Talapatra Soumendra Nath
Published: October 2022

Behavioural activities in relation to toxicological aspects involve behavioural changes of aquatic organisms under the exposure of a contaminant. The present study aims to know behavioural activities of midge larvae Chironomus sp. at the in-situ acute exposure of different chemicals containing wastewater viz. lead-acid battery industrial effluent, mixed industrial effluent and fresh tap water (chlorinated) as drinking water in comparison to control (dechlorinated) water sample (aged tap water). The Chironomus larvae were kept in three different experimental chambers (perforated wall test vessels) with the exposure of different water samples. These samples were made with no dilution, 50 % dilution, 2.5 % dilution and control water sample. The behavioral activities for larvae of Chironomus sp. were measured at 0h, 2h, 24h and 48 h in in-situ condition. The behavioral activities viz. crawling, looping, ventilation, paralyses and subsequently death of the larvae were recorded in the field condition. A significant differences (P < 0.05, P < 0.01 and P< 0.001) were observed with increasing time of exposure while in few cases the data were increased without significance level. It was recorded that after exhibiting behavioural activities viz. crawling, looping, ventilation and paralyses finally all species were died 100 % of the population in lead acid battery effluent following both 24h and 48hr exposure. In addition, death of larvae were 70 % in mixed industrial effluent and 50 % in fresh tap water (chlorinated) after 48h exposure as compared to control sample water. In conclusion, the present results indicate that the larvae of Chironomous sp. are suitable indicators in the evaluation of the effluent quality in the studied stream, potential to know by behavioural toxicological study for heavy metals and organic pollution. Although it is a preliminary observation by assessing behavioural toxicology but future study in relation to biochemical and genetic damage of Chironomous larvae with the exposure of toxic water samples will provide bigger view.
Comparative Evaluation of the Nutrient Composition and Phytochemical Content of Selected Vegetables Consumed in Nigeria
Authors: Ukom Anthony N. , Obi J. A.
Published: October 2022

This study evaluated the phytochemical and nutrient composition of four selected vegetables consumed in Nigeria, namely, bush mallow (ahihara), garden egg leaf (okpokwa), African spinach (inine), and bush okro (ewedu). They were analyzed for proximate, minerals, vitamins and phytochemical contents. Proximate values maintained the following ranges: moisture 6.73% to 91.22%, protein 7.05% to 32.12%, crude fiber 2.75% to 6.36%, ether extract 3.15% to 6.81%, ash content 2.81% to 6.81% and carbohydrate 48.75% to 72.62% while energy value ranged from 340.54kcal to 363.07kcal. The vitamin contents for these vegetables ranged as follows: vitamin A 0.13.mg/100g to 370.64mg/100g, thiamin (vit B1) 3.12mg/100g to 7.45mg/100g, riboflavin (vit B2) 0.08mg/100g to 3.96mg/100g, vitamin B3 (niacin) 0.17mg/100g to 1.91mg/100g, and vitamin C 39.84mg/100g to 98.75mg/100g. The mineral content, namely, calcium ranged from 45.61mg/100g to 430.69mg/100g, magnesium 11.05mg/100g to 198.14mg/100g, potassium 49.82mg/100g to 708.28mg/100g, sodium 2.36mg/100g to 22.98mg/100g. Also the phytochemical contents of the vegetables for phytate ranged from 0.47% to 3.04%, tannin 0.10% to 1.01%, saponin 0.16% to 2.56% and oxalate 0.63% to 0.72%. The results obtained from these vegetables show that they can contribute qualitatively to the nutritional need of the Nigerian population especially among the rural dwellers where vegetables is major food source.
Edible Insects: Future of Human Food - A Review
Authors: Pal Partha , Roy Spandita
Published: October 2022

The practice of eating insects is known as entomophagy. Many animals, such as spiders, lizards and birds, are entomophagous, as are many insects. People throughout the world have been eating insects as a regular part of their diets for millennia. As people in rural areas suffer from under nutrition, especially protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) in Africa, Latin America and Asia, alternative nutritional food sources are needed. From ants to beetle larvae – eaten by tribes in Africa and Australia as part of their subsistence diets – to the popular, crispy-fried locusts and beetles enjoyed in Thailand, it is estimated that insect-eating is practised regularly by at least 2 billion people worldwide. More than 1900 insect species have been documented in literature as edible, most of them in tropical countries. The most commonly eaten insect groups are beetles, caterpillars, bees, wasps, ants, grasshoppers, locusts, crickets, cicadas, leaf and plant hoppers, scale insects and true bugs, termites, dragonflies and flies. The purpose of the present review is to determine the status of present research in the context of the potentiality of insects as alternative food source to cope up with the emerging problem of global food crisis
Frequency and Spectrum of Induced Viable Macromutations in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Cultivar ‘Vishwas’
Authors: Barshile J.D.
Published: October 2022

Present investigation was undertaken to study the frequency and spectrum of induced viable macromutations employing SA, EMS and gamma radiation in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) cultivar Vishwas (Phule G 5). The seeds of chickpea, cultivar Vishwas were treated with three different concentrations / doses of SA (2, 3 and 4 mM), EMS (8, 12 and 16 mM) and gamma radiations (400, 500 and 600 Gy). The mutagen administered seeds were sown in experimental fields to raise M1 progeny. Seeds of M1 plants and control were harvested separately and sown to raise M2 population. The M2 progeny were screened for viable macromutaions. A wide spectrum of viable macromutations was isolated in the M2 generation. In all twenty four different types of viable morphological macromutations were observed. These included 7 types of plant type mutations and 6 types of leaf mutations, 1 types of flower mutation, 5 types of pod mutation and 5 types of seed mutations. Results indicated that all mutagenic treatments were effective in inducing viable mutations in chickpea, during M2 generation. Differences in response to different mutagens were observed in the spectrum and frequency of viable mutations. Some mutation types occurred more frequently than others. The frequency and spectrum of viable mutations were relatively high with EMS followed by gamma radiation and SA. In the present investigation, an attempt has been made for increasing frequency and spectrum of locally important chickpea cultivar ‘Vishwas’ employing chemical and physical mutagens.
Improving Quality Attributes of Tomato during Cold Storage by Preharvest Foliar Application of Calcium Chloride and Potassium Thiosulfate
Authors: Semida Wael M. , Emara Ahmed E. , Barakat Mohammed A.
Published: October 2022

The aim of this trial was to investigate the pre-harvest foliar application of calcium chloride and potassium thiosulfate each at 0.0, 0.2 and 0.4 % on some quality of tomato fruit (hybrid 65010) during cold storage. The experimental layout of cold storage experiments was a split-split-plot based on Randomized Complete Blocks design with three replications. Time of cold storage, calcium chloride and potassium thiosulfate levels were randomly distributed in the main, sub-and sub-sub plots, orderly. At the termination of cold storage, effect on tomato fruit titratable acidity, vitamin C and lycopene contents while, negative impact on firmness and total soluble sugars contents was obtained. At termination of cold storage, pre-harvest foliar calcium chloride at 0.2 and/or 0.4 % caused increments in fruit titratable acidity, vitamin C, total soluble sugars, lycopene and firmness contents. In addition, pre-harvest foliar potassium thiosulfate at 0.4 % enhanced fruit vitamin C, total soluble sugars, lycopene and firmness contents and also increased titratable acidity content. Generally, the interaction between cold storage × pre-harvest foliar calcium chloride or potassium thiosulfate at 0.2 and/or 0.4% increased fruit total titratable acidity, vitamin C, total soluble sugars, lycopene and firmness contents. Also, the interaction between pre-harvest calcium chloride × potassium thiosulfate at 0.4 % was distinguished and increased all studied fruit quality at the end of cold storage. The interaction treatment of cold storage × calcium chloride at 0.4 % × potassium thiosulfate at 0.4 % was the best that improved fruit quality more than others.
Analysis of Meteorological Drought in Sokoto State for the Past Four Decades (1970-2009)
Authors: Bello Dogondaji Mansur , Muhammed Aishat
Published: October 2022

Meteorological drought disaster is a serious problem in the Sahelian region of the world. This strongly affects the hydrology of the region and creates severe constraint to agriculture and water management. This paper therefore, examines the rainfall characteristics and the extent of meteorological drought in Sokoto state, Nigeria. Daily rainfall data were obtained for a period of four decades (1970-2009) from Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) through Sultan Abubakar III International Airport, Sokoto Synoptic Station. Data collected were analysed using statistical techniques. The result of the descriptive statistics varies from year to year and slight increase of mean monthly rainfall was observed. Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) and Rainfall Anomaly Index (RAI) were used in classifying drought severity into severe, moderate and mild conditions. The result is already anticipated since Sokoto State lies within the Sudano-Sahelian region that generally known to be draught prone. Recommendations were offered based on the outcome of the result.
Length and Weight Relationship and Growth Performance of Meretrix casta under Experimental Culture Condition in Three Different Estuarine Environment
Authors: Srilatha G. , Manikandarajan T. , Ramamoorthy K. , Sundaravarman K. , Sankar G. , Anbarasu R.
Published: October 2022

The Meretrixcasta is an edible clam for human beings and it is widely distributed around the aquatic ecosystem. The clam has relatively thick shells that can attain a length of three inches. The knowledge of the biology, culture and biochemical composition of any edible organism is extremely important. Though the size, shape and colour of clam are different their nutritive value is very good. A maximum average length of 27.15mm was observed in the M.casta studied during 2011 and a maximum average length of 26.51mm was observed during 2012. The average lengths of M.casta in all the three different estuaries studied were as follows: 27.15 > 25.82 > 25.04 mm in 2011 and 26.51 > 25.88 > 25.17mm in 2012. A maximum average weight of 7.824 and 7.155g was observed during 2011 and in 2012; a maximum weight of 7.528g and minimum of 6.941g was recorded uniformly in all the three different estuaries. However, in 2011and 2012 a maximum and minimum of average length of 26.86, 25.10 mm, and average weight of 7.67 and 7.05g respectively were noticed in both Vellar and Uppanar estuaries of M.casta. the present investigation, it is clearly observed that M.casta can grow a weight of 0.13g/day and length of 0.122mm/day among the three different estuaries studied in the Cuddalore district which is located in Bay of Bengal.