bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect of Globularia alypum aqueous extract in hypercholesterolemic rats
Authors: Fayçal Djellouli  , Amina Kaddour  , Djamil Krouf
Published: August 2021

Globularia alypum (G. alypum) is a medicinal plant commonly used intradi-tional pharmacopoeias. In this study, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of G. alypum lyophilized aqueous extract were evaluated. Male Wistar rats (n=24) weighing 232±10g were divided into 4 groups (n=6). Two control groups were fed a standard-diet (St-D) supplemented (C-Ga) or not (C) with 1.66% G. alypum extract. The two others were fed enriched choles-terol diet (EC-D) for 15 days, which contains the St-D plus 1% of cholesterol and 0.5% of cholic acid (HC) with the same amount of G. alypum (HC-Ga). At d28, EC-D leads to increase TBARS concentrations in plasma, lipoproteins (VLDL-LDL, HDL), tissues (liver, heart, kidney and adipose tissues) and ery-throcytes (p<0.05) in HC vs C and HC-Ga vs C-Ga. While, in HC vs C group, antioxidant defenses were decreased in tested tissues, except in kidney and heart for GSH and SOD (p<0.05). Whereas, treatment with G. alypum indu-ced a reduction of lipid peroxidation (p<0.05) in HC vs C and HC-Ga vs C-Ga by enhancing CAT and GSH-Px activities in all tissues (p<0.05); GSH and SOD activities were increased in liver, adipose tissue and erythrocytes in HC-Ga vs HC (p<0.05). Also, an increase in the concentration of IL-6 and TNF-α was noted in HC vs C group (p<0.05). Moreover, the concentration of these pro-inflammatory cytokines was diminished in HC-Ga vs HC group (p<0.05). Our findings showed that G. alypum lyophilized aqueous extract presented anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory potential in hypercholosterolemic rats and can be explored in patients with hypercholesterolemia.
Health risk assessment linked to consumption of water contaminated by lead in the cotton area of Kerou (BENIN) in the watershed of Niger
Authors: Bernadin Elegbede , Patrick Edorh A. , Lucien Agbandji , Luc Koumolou , Armelle Hounkpatin S. , Bertrand Rihn , Michel Boko
Published: August 2021

This survey is an assessment of risks associated with consumption of contaminatedÂ drinking water by lead in the cotton zone of Kerou. Lead (Pb) wasÂ measured by atomic absorption spectrophotometer and risk assessment wasÂ made following a standardized method. The results obtained showed thatÂ 22% (7/18) of studied boreholes have been contaminated by lead. In addition,Â boreholes of Ganbore and Korigourou showed relatively high values ofÂ lead levels: 0.061, 0.098 and 0.604 mg/L compared to the accepted value,that is 0.04 mg/L. Risk assessment revealed that Daily Exposure Dose (DED)of lead due to consumption of drinking water in these three regions are thesame, namely 12.54 Æ’ÃŠg/kg/day for children and 3.85 Æ’ÃŠg/kg/day for adultscompared to the daily allowed dose defined by WHO that is 3.6Æ’ÃŠg/kg/day.Kerou in Benin is a good reference of a site to test the hypothesis of the connectionÂ between groundwater and river contamination with heavy metals(Pb in the present investigation) and the intensity of farming activities andcotton cultivation in the zone.These high values can be attributed to infiltrationÂ of residues of pesticides. Also, they can be attributed to contaminationÂ of groundwater by the Mekrou River containing wastewater rich in organicÂ matter. This contamination and exposure are serious risks for human healthÂ and especially for children and needs serious attentions of public health authoritiesÂ and policy makers.
Utilization of water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipies Mart Solms) as liquid fertilizer on the growth and yield of fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis)
Authors: Sanni K. O. , Adesina J. M.
Published: August 2021

The present experiment was carried out during the 2010 planting season, atthe Teaching and Research Farms, School of Agriculture, Lagos State Polytechnic,Ikorodu, Lagos State with the view to produce liquid fertilizer fromwater hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipies) and compare its effectiveness withpoultry manure on the performance and yield of fluted pumpkin (Telfairiaoccidentalis). Data on number of leaves and length of main vine 2 weeksbefore fertilizer application (BFA) and 3, 6 and 9 weeks after fertilizer applicationÂ (WAFA) and the yield at harvesting were collected and subjected toÂ Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and means compared using Least SignificanceÂ Difference (LSD). The results showed that at 3 WAFA, water hyacinth had theÂ highest number of leaves (245) and longest length main vine (2.04 cm) and inÂ terms of yield at harvesting, water hyacinth (16.08 kg) was not significantlyÂ different (P>0.05) compared to poultry manure (18.13 kg) application. FromÂ the study it can be concluded that water hyacinth liquid fertilizer can be utilizedÂ as good source of organic fertilizer for the growth of fluted pumpkin andÂ thus serve as veritable means of curbing the menace of water hyacinth onÂ our water ways.
Capacity of biodemographic developpment of Tribolium castaneum Herbst (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae) and Sitophilus zeamais Motschulsky (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) in stored cereals in Senegal
Authors: GuÃ¨ye A. C. , Diome T. , Thiaw C. , Ndong A. , Gueye A. Ndiaye , SembÃ¨ne M.
Published: August 2021

To contribute to food security and reduce poverty among Senegaleses’populations through a strategy of integrated management of insect pests of cereal crops, experiments were conducted on corn and millet (in the grain form and flour form) to track development of T. castaneum and S. zeamais after infestations controlled. The mean duration of development of S. zeamais was 35.33 days in the kernels of corn. Its development was more favorable in corn stored in the form of grain but the grain was more resistant to Sitophilus after processing into flour. Millet was found to be more protected against attacks by S. zeamais. The average duration of development of T. castaneum was shorter in the grains of millet than in corn. The transformation of these grains into flour influenced the development of T. castaneum which was accelerated in the corn flour and slowed in the millet. The nature of the food affected the weight of T. castaneum when several grains were made available.
Cadmium stabilization by plant growth promotory fluorescent Pseudomonas in combination with Indian mustard var. Kranti
Authors: Sharma Disha , Chauhan Swati , Kumar Govind , Singh K. P. , Kumar Rajesh
Published: August 2021

Two cadmium resistant fluorescent Pseudomonas strains, originally isolated from oil contaminated sites were tested for their plant growth promotory properties and cadmium stabilization in combination with Indian mustard var kranti (Brassica juncea) in a pot experiment. Both the strains showed 99% homology to Pseudomonas aruginosa and were positive for all five plants growth properties like siderophore, IAA, hydrogen cyanide, Ammonia production and phosphate solubilization. Growth and health of plants in all the measured parameters under controlled conditions in insitu experiment was inhibited in the presence of cadmium, as indicated by a decrease in measured values of plant health. However, in the presence of fluorescent Pseudomonas strains, all the parameters of plant health showed improvement over the control with decrease in cadmium uptake by the plant as revealed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The presence of test strains stabilizes cadmium in the rhizosphere with less uptake of cadmium by the plants and siderophore property helps plant combat abiotic stress posed by cadmium. This technology [Phytobioremediation: Synergistic use of plants and microbes in bioremediation] enables the remediation of cadmium contaminated wastelands for raising Brassica plant for feed and fodder without any harm in combination with the test strains used in the present study.
Lengthâ€Weight Relationship (LWR), Growth estimation and Length at maturity of Eleutheronema tetradactylus in the Chilika Lagoon, India
Authors: Karna S. K. , Sahoo D. K. , Panda S.
Published: August 2021

An attempt was made to study the lengthâ€weight relationship (LWR), growth and length at 50% maturity (L50) of Eleuthronema tetradactylus (Sahala) in Chilika lagoon, which will helpful for the future management of the stocks as well as the lagoon. For LWR study, a total of 255 fish specimens collected from April 2008 to May 2009 of which fork length (FL) and body weight (BW) were measured to the nearest 0.1cm and 0.01g respectively. The equation, y = 4Eâ€06x3.115 found from the study where the computed condition factor (a), growth coefficient (b) and regression coefficient (r2) were 4Eâ€06, 3.115 and 0.996 respectively. In total, 3356 number of specimen measured to study growth of the species. The estimated growth parameters found from von Bertalanffy Growth Function (VBGF) i.e., Linf(cm), K, and t0 were 78.1cm, 0.15, and â€0.47 respectively. Logistic equations used to estimate the length at 50% maturity (L50) of a total of 68 specimens, sampled from April 2008 to May 2009. The estimated L50 was 315mmFL.
An efficient protocol for the isolation of fungal DNA for strains obtained from oil contaminated fields
Authors: Ravi Bhavya , Rai Madhulika , Mehrotra Sandhya , Mehrotra Rajesh
Published: August 2021

A natural ecosystem contaminated with petroleum hydrocarbons is likely to favor the growth of taxonomically diverse microbes having the ability to degrade these organic compounds. They can be exploited for purposes like bioremediation of oil contaminated soils and to obtain enzymes like lipases having important industrial applications. In this paper, a novel “IBG” (Improved ‘Bust and Grab’) protocol has been reported for the isolation of fungal DNA from strains collected from oil contaminated fields. Conventional methods for DNA isolation from fungi require the use of enzymes, liquid nitrogen, glass beads etc. The method reported here circumvents the use of enzymes or glass beads and is cost effective and can be used while handling large number of samples. The DNA yield obtained by the IBG protocol is significant and of good quality. The good quality DNA isolated by IBG protocol can be used for the quick and cost effective isolation of fungal genomic DNA facilitating the genomic study of microbes obtained from oil contaminated fields.
Comparative assessment of genetic diversity among twenty varieties of Brassica juncea [L.] Czern & Coss using RAPD and ISSR markers
Authors: Ahmad Javed , Khan Salim , Khan Gohar Taj
Published: August 2021

PCR based molecular markers such as RAPD (random amplified polymorphic DNA) and ISSR (inter simple sequence repeats) were employed for the evaluation of genetic diversity among twenty varieties of Brassica juncea. Mean polymorphism information content (PIC) value was greater for RAPD (0.4195) as compared to ISSR (0.2602). In RAPD analysis, 98.9% loci were polymorphic whereas in ISSR, 94.8 % were polymorphic. The number of loci in RAPD profile ranged from 7 to 10 with an average of 9.3 per primer whereas in ISSR, these were from 3 to 12 with an average of 6.8 loci per primer. RAPD based genetic similarity ranged from 0.224 to 0.842 whereas ISSR derived genetic similarity 0.467 to 0.880. The mental test between two Jaccard’s similarity matrices gave r = 0.89, showing good fit correlation in between ISSRâ€ and RAPDâ€based similarities. The results obtained from the consensus tree constructed from RAPD+ISSR marker more likely support the distribution of the twenty genotypes of B. juncea based on ISSR analysis. The twenty varieties were clustered into three main clusters 1, 2, and 3 respectively. In combined dendrogram study, each cluster has 13, 3, and 4 varieties.
Rearing of Chilo partellus (Swinhoe) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) on artificial diet and its use in resistance screening
Authors: Panchal Balaji M. , Kachole Manvendra S.
Published: August 2021

Chilo partellus is considered to be among the most damaging pests of sorghum crop throughout the world. Insects are reared in the laboratory on artificial diets for various purposes, namely for biological control, host and nonâ€host plant resistance and development of new artificial diets. The growth and development of Sorghum bicolor, C. partellus (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) on six host plants and non host plants (five plant gum extracts and six tuber extracts PIs) was compared in the laboratory. Insect larval growth was significantly faster on 30% casein with 70% Zea mays in artificial diet. There was a significant variation in  larval mortality, malformed pupae andpupal weights. 80% larval mortality was observed in Acacia leucophloea PIs containing diet, and 70 and 60% larval mortality in Ipomoea batatas and Mangifera indica PIâ€containing diet fed, respectively.
A Survey of browse plants used in feeding small ruminants in the Komendaâ€ Edinaâ€Eguafoâ€Abrem district (K.E.E.A) of the Central Region of Ghana
Authors: Agyeman K. , Apori S. O.
Published: August 2021

A study was carried out to identify species used as fodder by small ruminant farmers in the selected villages in the Komendaâ€Edinaâ€Eguafoâ€Abrem district of the Central Region of Ghana. Livestock farmers in fifteen communities were interviewed using questionnaires to obtain information on the personal background and livestock feeding and management practices. The main aim of the study was first to identify existing browse species and to determine problems associated with the use of those existing browse species. Some problems identified include harboring of insects, causing of abortion as well as causing bloat. The survey showed that Ficus exasperata, Ficus umbellate, Baphia nitida, Griffonia simplifolia, Antiaris africana, Terminalia catappa, Grewia carprinifolia, Pethecellobium dulceand Leucaena leucocephala were the main browse species that were used in the district to feed small ruminants. Other feedstuffs that were used in feeding animals such as Aspillia africana and Manihot esulentus tops (leaves and peels) were also identified. The level of browse usage showed that Ficus exasperata had the highest value of 66.7% and Terminalia catappa had the lowest value of 13.3%. Farmers in the district preferred Ficus exasperata which they perceived to promote the best production response in livestock. Various reasons were assigned for the selection of a particular browse plant. Farmers in the district may have to be helped to cultivate browse plant in order to sustain the availability and usage of  browse for livestock feeding due to the rateof destruction of browse (shrubs and trees) resulting from urbanization, use of stem of shrubs and trees for fuelwood and other livelihood activities and desertification arising from human related activities.
Incidence and antibiotic susceptibility of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus in pus samples of patients of Bastar region, Central India
Authors: Khan Mohammad Fareed , Neral Arvind , Yadav Vikas Chandra , Khan Farah Aziz , Ahmed Sarfaraz
Published: August 2021

Increasing prevalence of methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and resistanceto multiple antibiotic classes is a global issue. Regional surveillance of antibiotic susceptibility of the organism is a necessary step to overcome the issues of antimicrobial resistance and treatment failure in MRSA infections. The study was conducted to find the pattern of antibiotic susceptibility in MRSA isolated from the pus samples of patients attending a tertiary care hospital in Bastar tribal region in Central India. The study was performed on 215 MRSA isolates cultured from pus samples of patients over a period of two years and five months. In the methicillin resistant organisms selected by oxacillin screen agar test and cefoxitin disk diffusion test, antibiotic susceptibility was determined by Kirby Baur disk diffusion test with CLSI guide lines. Of the total S. aureus isolates, the incidence of MRSA was 34.1% of which 82.8% were resistant to coâ€trimoxazole, 77.2% to tetracycline, 68.8% to gentamycin, 66% to erythromycin, 64.2% to ciprofloxacin, 1.4% to vancomycin, and 0.9% to linezolid. All these isolates were resistant to the ßâ€lactam antibiotics tested. Emergence of linezolid resistance and relatively higher vancomycin resistance in the MRSA isolates is a worrisome finding of this study. The antibiotic prescribing must rely on both initial empirical therapy and microbiological antibiotic susceptibility result.
Antimicrobial and free radical scavenging activities of crude extract and fractions from the tuberous root of Mirabilis jalapa L.
Authors: Gogoi J. , Nakhuru K. S. , Rai A. K. , Chattophadhayay P. , Gogoi H. K. , Singh L.
Published: August 2021

Mirabilis jalapa L. belonging to family Nyctaginaceae is a widely used traditionalmedicinal plant in different parts of the world. In present study, aqueous methanolic extract and fractions from tuberous root of M. jalapa were evaluated for antimicrobial and free radical scavenging activities. The tuberousroot was extracted in 80 % methanol. Phytochemical constituents were tested following standard procedures which revealed the presence of terpenoids, flavonoids, tannins, steroids, phenolic compounds and alkaloids. The dried extract was further fractionated by using solvents chloroform, ethyl acetate, amyl alcohol, methanol and water. Free radical scavenging capacity was evaluated by 2, 2 diphenyl 1 picrylhydrazine (DPPHô€ˆ©Ë™) and 2, 2’–azinobis (3â€ethylbenzothiazolineâ€6â€sulfonic acid) (ABTS+) assays. IC50 values of extractwere 60±0.71μg/ml and 80±0.56 μg/ml with DPPH and ABTS assays, respectively. Ethyl acetate and amyl alcohol fractions exhibited strong antioxidant activity among the fractions. Antimicrobial activity of extract and fractions was evaluated against selected human pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans, Escherchia coli and Candida albicans by agar well diffusion method. The extract and fractions were most active against S. mutans and E. coli. The present study indicated that the root of M. jalapa possess potential antioxidant and broad spectrum antimicrobial activity which could be explored for pharmaceutical applications.
In vitro antimicrobial and preliminary phytochemical screening of some Samburu Antiâ€diarrhoeal medicinal plants â€ Kenya
Authors: Omwenga E. O. , Okemo P. O. , Mbugua P. K.
Published: August 2021

The antimicrobial effect of some selected Samburu medicinal plants was evaluated on bacterial strains like Staphylococcus aureus â€ ATCC 20591, Bacillus subtillis â€ Local isolate, Salmonella typhiâ€ATCC 2202, Escherichia coliâ€STD. 25922 and Pseudomonas aeroginosa â€ ATCC 25852 and fungal strains like Candida albicans ATCC EK138, Aspergillus niger ATCC 16404, Aspergillusflavusâ€Local isolate, Fusarium lateritiumâ€Local isolate, and Penicillium spp.â€ local isolate. Methanol was used as solvent for the extraction from the selected medicinal plants used by the Samburu community. The in vitro antimicrobial activity was performed by agar disc diffusion and microâ€dilution technique. The most susceptible Gramâ€positive bacterium was S. aureus, while the most susceptible Gramâ€negative bacterium was P. aeroginosa. The extracts of Gomphocarpus fruticosus (L) W.T. Aiton showed less activity against the bacterial strains investigated. The most active antibacterial plants were Euphorbia scarlatica S. Carter, and Euclea divinoram Hiern. Incidentally most of the extracts were inactive against the fungal strains with only a few proving to be slightly active against the C. albicans i.e. Loranthus acaciae Zucc., Kedrostis pseudogijef (Gilg) C. Jeffrey, Euclea divinoram Hiern. and Croton macrostachyus (A. Rich). Benths. The significant antimicrobial activity of active extracts was compared with the standard antimicrobials, cefrodoxima, amoxicillin and fluconazole. The MICs of the most active plants ranged from 18.75mg/ml to 37.50mg/ml. The MBCs ranged between 18.75mg/ml to75mg/ml. These results were significant at P< 0.01. The findings show that most of the medicinal plants used by the Samburu community have some significant activity on the bacterial but not fungal pathogens known to cause diarrhoea.
Prevalence and Composition of Urinary Tract Stones from a Tertiary Care Hospital, Riyadh
Authors: Khan Farah Aziz , Alâ€Jameil Noura , Tabassum Hajera , Hasanato Rana , Khan Mohammad Fareed
Published: August 2021

Urolithiasis is a common problem in elderly population of developed countries. Urinary stones formation is thought to be multifactorial because of climatic conditions, eating habits, luxurious lifestyle. A monocentric study was carried out to find the rate and chemical composition of calculi in Saudi Population of Riyadh. We studied total 332 urolithiasis patients of King Khalid University Hospital, of age ranging from 1â€90 years (255 M & 77 F). Stone samples were obtained after surgery, for analysis. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy determines the type and composition of each stone. Urolithiasis was mainly observed in patients aged 51â€60 yrs (24%), especially males belonging 51â€60 yrs (25.8%). Anatomically, stones were found prevalent in kidneys (79.2%). Nephrolithiasis mainly affect females (88.3%). Calcium was the main constituent being seen in 316 (95.1%) stones, of these 178 (53.6%) stones show calcium as only cation with other anions and 138 (41.4%) stones show calcium with magnesium and other anions. Magnesiumcontaining stones were profound in females (57.14%) than males (36.86%). Uric acid (28.1%) and cystine (12.9%) stones were least observed. The current findings demonstrate an increased incidence of stone disease in males, but a shift is noticed in the prevalence by gender in nephrolithiasis in the population. In addition Calcium oxalate stones remain most frequent, with magnesium and uric acid.
Prevalence of Malaria in relation to antiâ€retroviral therapy among HIV/ AIDS patientâ€™s in selected Hospitals in Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors: T Amoo I , E Yakubu S , A Ado S
Published: August 2021

The prevalence of malaria infection was determined in 400 patients (331 HIV positive and 69 HIV negative patients) in Kaduna metropolis and Zaria. The study combined the use of structured questionnaires and analysis of blood samples taken from consenting patients. The blood samples were analyzed using thick and thin blood films for malaria infection and enzyme linked immunoâ€ sorbent assay for HIV analysis. Malaria infection was detected in 153 samples among HIV patients giving a prevalence of 46.2% and 36 samples among HIV negative patients giving a prevalence of 52.2%. HIV patients on highly active antiâ€retroviral therapy (HAART) had a prevalence of 43.0% while HIV patients not on HAART had a prevalence of 55.1%. HIV negative patients had a prevalence of 52.2%. The prevalence recorded among HIV patients was high even though it was lower than that of HIV negative patients. This indicates that more attention and care needs to be given to HIV patients to reduce risks of malaria infection and also to significantly reduce the burden of malaria in endemic regions especially Subâ€Saharan Africa.
Relationship between dietary factors and risk of Preeclampsia: A Systematic review
Authors: Alâ€Jameil Noura , Tabassum Hajera , Khan Farah Aziz , Ansar Sabah , Ali Mir Naiman
Published: August 2021

Preeclampsia is characterized by development of high blood pressure (hypertension) and proteinuria after 20 weeks of gestation. It is found in 3â€ 10% of pregnancies and remains a major cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality worldwide. The etiology of preeclampsia is unknown. Preeaclamptic pregnancies are characterized by endothelial dysfunction, disturbed placentation, oxidative stress, and an exaggerated inflammatory response to pregnancy. A possible modification of these pathophysiological events by lipids, nutrients, and antioxidant supplementation has been hypothesized in previous reports, suggesting that the dietary factors may play a role in Preeclampsia. This review was undertaken to show the relationship between the dietary factors and risk of developing preeclampsia. The review finally suggests women to have a diet containing plant food (vegetables, fruits and vegetable oils) rich in calcium, vitamin D and antioxidants.
Effect of ionizing radiation on soil bacteria, fungi and germination of red gram seeds (Cajanus cajan L.)
Authors: Rajasekhar E. , Mohiddin G. Jaffer , Srinivasulu M. , Rangaswamy V. , Kumar R. Jeevan
Published: August 2021

Effect of ionizing radiation on survival of bacteria, fungi and red gram seed (Cajanus cajan L.) germination was assessed in laterite soil in the laboratory. The mercury vapor lamp (l = 400 nmâ€700 nm), sodium vapor lamp (l =589.3 nm ) and ultra violet (l = 400 nm â€ 10 nm) radiations were exposed to the laterite soils for 20, 40, 60 and 80 min and their effect on survival of bacterial, fungal colonies and seed germination were enumerated. Sodium vapor was found to be very effective in inhibiting the bacterial and fungal populations. Ultra violet radiation was efficient in reducing the survival of the microbial densities than mercury vapor lamp. In the exposed soil, the germination of seeds in terms of percentage, the stem length (SL) and root length (RL) of seeds were calculated at 7th day of incubation. The laterite soil was shown significant stimulation in the germination of seed at 40 min exposure with ultra violet radiation. Results obtained in the present study indicate that the energy captivated by molecules was prominent at lower radiation and shorter exposure time enhanced the proliferation of bacterial cells and red gram seed germination.
Exposure of Cu and Mn to Cicer arietinum L. VAR. BGDâ€72 seeds induces morphological and biochemical changes in the plant
Authors: Siddiqui Sazada
Published: August 2021

Copper (Cu) and Manganese (Mn) are micronutrients that are essential for normal growth and development of the plants. These transition metals are involved in cellular redox reactions. In the present study effect of various concentrations (Ck, 25, 50, 75, 100 and 125ppm) of Cu and Mn on the chlorophyll content, catalase (CAT) activity, malonedialdehyde (MDA) level, root biomass and tolerance index was investigated in 25 days old seedlings of Cicer arietinum L. Effect on morphological parameters such as seed germination and radicle length was investigated in 5 days old seedlings. At higher concentrations, Cu and Mn resulted in loss of the photosynthetic pigments (Chl a and Chl b). CAT activity significantly in root and shoot with the increase in Cu and Mn concentration as compared to control (Ck=untreated) plants. A similar trend was observed in MDA activity in leaves. Combination of Cu and Mn exhibited additive effect on these parameters.
Butylated hydroxyanisole alleviates ferric nitrilotriacetate induced nephrotoxicity in rats by abrogation of oxidative stress
Authors: Ansar Sabah , Iqbal Mohammad , Jameil Noura Al
Published: August 2021

In this study the effect of butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), a phenolic antioxidantused in food on Ferricâ€Nitrilotriacetate (Fe–NTA) induced nephrotoxicity is reported. Feâ€NTA (9 mg Fe/kg body weight, intraperitoneally) treatment enhanced the renal microsomal lipid peroxidation and hydrogen peroxide generation to ~2â€2.5 folds compared to salineâ€treated control and glutathione levels and the activities of antioxidant enzymes decreased to a range of 2–2.5 fold in kidney. These changes were reversed significantly in animals receiving a pretreatment of BHA. Pretreatment with BHA prior to Feâ€ NTA treatment reduced microsomal lipid peroxidation and hydrogen peroxide generation to 1.3â€1.5 fold compared to control group and glutathione and the activities of antioxidant enzymes increased to a range of 1.5â€2 folds in kidney. Feâ€NTA administration enhanced value of blood urea nitrogen and creatinine to 3.7 and 2.5 fold respectively as compared to their corresponding control group. Administration of Feâ€NTA to rats receiving a pretreatment of BHA led to a significant diminution in both of these values. The results indicate that BHA is a potent chemopreventive agent and suppresses Feâ€NTA induced nephrotoxicity in rats.
Assessment of a Loopâ€Mediated Isothermal Amplification Assay targeting lytA genes with conventional PCR for the direct detection of Streptococcus pneumoniae in clinical samples
Authors: Marie Mohammed Ali , S. Pradeep C. , John James , Gopalkrishnan Sanggeetha , K. Lakshmana Gowda , Dabwan Khaled Homoud M.
Published: August 2021

Streptococcus pneumoniae is one of the most encountered pathogens in developed and developing countries. It is a leading cause of invasive bacterial disease in adults as well as in children. This study focuses on the loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay to validate its suitability for directly detecting lyt A target genes of S. pneumoniae in clinical samples. We studied the clinical sensitivity and specificity of the LAMP assay targeting lyt A using 42 selected CSF specimens from children with suspected meningitis in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and culture tests were also performed. The detection rate of the LAMP assay was significantly higher than the rates of PCR and culture tests and the detection limits (10 copies by LAMP) were considerably lower than those for PCR (103 copies). Our study suggests that LAMP reaction-based detection of target genes of suspected pathogens could be applied in a various clinical settings. In addition, the lower cost of LAMP assay than PCR makes it more economical, allowing its use in laboratories with limited resources.
Determination of cell proliferative activity by immnunohistochemical detection of proliferating cell nuclear antigen in Nâ€methyl nitrosoureainduced rat mammary tumours
Authors: Barathidasan R. , Pawaiya R. V. S. , Rai R. B. , Dhama K.
Published: August 2021

Rodent experimental models are considered useful experimental systems to study mammary cancer, which occurs in rodents as a result of hormonal imbalance, much like the breast cancer in women. Rodent cells are easier to transform by chemical carcinogen due to their relatively poorer controls of genetic stability and DNA repair systems. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) is one of the most sensitive biomarkers to measure the cell proliferative activities in the neoplasms, especially when the otherwise undetectable PCNA protein overâ€expresses to the immunohistochemically detectable levels. In the present study, mammary tumours were induced in Sprague Dawley rats by intraperitoneal administration of Nâ€methyl nitrosourea (MNU) chemical carcinogen. Palpable tumours were noticed after 60 days postinjection (dpi) with average latency period of 144 days, and 12 (46.15%) of 26 rats developed mammary tumours. A total of 18 tumours were diagnosed in 12 rats, including 2 cases (10%) of hyperplasia, 1 (5%) benign and 17 malignant tumours (85%). Malignant tumours included in situ ductal papillary carcinoma (11.11%), in situ ductal cribriform carcinoma (38.88%), invasive tubular adenocarcinoma (5.56%), invasive papillary carcinoma (16.67%) and invasive cribriform carcinoma (22.22%) were. PCNA immunohistochemistry revealed moderate to strong nuclear staining in neoplastic cells, with highest mean PCNA index of 55.53±10.13 in invasive cribriform carcinoma. The PCNA indices were significantly different (p<0.01; one way ANOVA) between control mammary gland, hyperplasia, benign and malignant tumours. It was concluded that the measurement of PCNA expressing cells employing immunohistochemistry can help in the determination of the level of malignancy in MNUâ€induced rat mammary tumours.
Impact of social factors in adoption of fertisureâ€1: A cost effective, mineral based infertility control technology for sustainable dairy production
Authors: Singh Balvir , Rai R. B. , Dhama K. , Chakraborty S. , Singh A. K. , Tiwari R. , Verma Med Ram , Saminathan M. , Damodaran T.
Published: August 2021

Livestock is the main source of cash income for the farmers. Infertility in animals accounts for major economic losses in dairy farming. The present study was undertaken to assess adoption status of fertisureâ€1, a highly effective, economic and easy to adopt mineral based infertility control technology. This technology was intervened to the farmers of Barabanki and Raebareli districts of Uttar Pradesh, India. Pashupalak gosthi (Livestock owner’s forums)were organized in project area frequently at village level. Information was provided regarding identification of estrus, proper heat, insemination time, importance of deworming, role of mineral mixture and vitamins, balance diet, high genetic merit of bull, role of artificial insemination (AI), feeding methods, animal reproduction and other management practices. Level of adoption during the years 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013 was observed to be 79.5, 82.0, 85.5, 89.0 and 94.0%, respectively. 85% of respondents belonged to the age group between 30 to 50 years. Majority of the respondents were male (93.50%) and showed inherent impression of our society. 19.25% of adopters were engaged in dairy farming as primary occupation, while 80.75% adopted it as subsidiary occupation. Majority of the respondents (67.25%) were having less than 1 ha land while 32.75% had more than that. 81.25% were having less than 6 animals while 18.75% had more than 6 animals. Most of the respondents were educated (88.25%). Fertisureâ€1 was found as unique intervention technology which attracted the small holders as well as marginal farmers and landless labours in enhancing the livelihood security.
Diversity and Distribution of Eulophia in Uganda, East Africa
Authors: Norah Mbeiza Mutekanga
Published: August 2021

This paper presents a study of the diversity and distribution of the Genus Eulophia, of the family Orchidaceae, in Uganda. Eulophia comprises varied patterned and coloured flowers; is being hybridized and has a high potential in the horticulture industry. Using data from available databases in Makerere University Institute of Environment and Natural Resources â€ MUIENR (2000), Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew and Leapendemics 1995 and from the herbarium collections, together with information from the field surveys of selected wetlands, a checklist, and distribution map were developed. This allowed for mapping of species distribution ranges and identification of areas of high Eulophia species diversity. The distribution maps of this genus are expected to open new avenues of botanical research, and also to make informed decisions on maintenance, restoration or reâ€ introductions in the future. The results show that there are thirty (30) species of Eulophia in Uganda. Their latitude and longitudinal ranges, altitude and habitats where they thrive are presented. Ground truthing for their presence was done with the major focus being in wetlands. From the field surveys, eight species were recorded. The paper concludes by highlighting that despite the rampant alterations in the habitats where Eulophia grows, some still are existent though their numbers are small in each patch. This is a major challenge to continued survival and sustainable management of this species.
DNA Methylation: An Epigenetic mechanism in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Bhatia Vikram , Goel Madhu Mati , Goel Madhu Mati , Makker Annu , Makker Annu
Published: August 2021

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the most common malignan-cies worldwide, despite the fact that during the last decade numerous ad-vancements have been made in its detection, prevention and treatment. Screening and early detection are assumed to decrease the morbidity and mortality associated with OSCC. Accurate diagnosis of precancerous reactive or inflammatory lesions via conventional visual and tactile examination is still problematic. Although many efforts have been made to define the molecular signatures that identify the clinical outcome of OSCC, still there is lack of a reliable prognostic molecular marker. The transformation from normal epi-thelium to pre-malignancy, and finally to oral carcinoma is a multistep pro-cess accompanied by accumulation of genetic and epigenetic alterations. Unlike genetic alterations, epigenetic changes are heritable and potentially reversible. In recent years, epigenetic inactivation of genes by promoter DNA hypermethylation has been recognized as an important and alternative mechanism of OSCC initiation and progression. DNA methylation of promot-er region occurs not only in OSCC but it has also been found in precancerous lesions. The aim of the present review is to assess the current state of knowledge on the epigenetic alterations observed in the pathogenesis of OSCC; focusing mainly on DNA methylation changes.
Biochemical characterization of Tylophora indica and its immuno-modulatary effect
Authors: Singh Joginder , Singh Simranjeet , Kaur Parvinder , Kapoor Priyanka , Rasool Hakim Ishfaq , Sharma Jitender , Mir Sadia Shabir , Ibrahim Bilal , Vasist Deepak , Bhatia Deepika
Published: August 2021

The alkaloids of Tylophora have been shown to have an anti-asthmatic and anti-inflammatory response. The leaves of the plant are used in Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of asthma, bronchitis, and arthritis. In the cur-rent study, the phyto-constituents and major secondary metabolites found in Tylophora indica leaves and stem were isolated and extracted using differ-ent solvents and analysed by FT-IR spectroscopy to have a semi qualitative analysis by comparing the structure of tylophorine (major secondary metab-olite found in Tylophora leaves having anti-asthamatic activity) with the ex-tracted product. The chloroformic leaf extract (200μl) of T. indica was inves-tigated for altered immunologic response in mice. In response to plant ex-tract, lymphocyte count increased in mice representing the immuno-stimulatory effect of plant extract.
Effect of five fungicides on growth and ochratoxin A production by two Aspergillus carbonarius and Aspergillus niger isolated from Moroccan grapes
Authors: Zouhair Souad , Qjidaa Souad Qjidaa , Selouane Atar , Bouya Driss , Decock Cony , Bouseta Amina
Published: August 2021

Five fungicides azoxystrobin (ortiva), benomyl (benlate), hexaconazole (hexa), pyrimethanil (scala) and thiabendazole (tectocal) were tested sepa-rately in vitro for their ability to inhibit the growth of two ochratoxigenic strains of A. niger and A. carbonarius previously isolated from grapes. All fungicides effectively reduced the growth rate of A. carbonarius and A. niger from 34 to 100% at the recommended dose (RD). Thiabendazole caused total inhibition of spore germination and growth of the two strains, regardless of the doses assayed. Benomyl completely inhibited growth of A. niger whereas for A. carbonarius, concentrations above 0.02xRD were required to prevent the growth. The inhibitory effect of hexaconazole, azoxystrobin and pyrime-thanil was dose-dependent. At sub-lethal concentrations of three fungicides, a dose-dependent increase in in ochratoxin A biosynthesis by two strains was observed. The use of fungicide should be checked for its ability to inhibit fungal growth as well as for their effect in terms of mycotoxins biosynthesis.
Gamma radiation shielding characteristics of some soft and hard woods of medicinal plants from Nallamala forest of Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Rajasekhar E. , Kumar R. Jeevan , Venkataramaniah K. , Narasimham K. L.
Published: August 2021

Wood is a complex biomaterial useful for various applications. Wood can also be used to shield radiation from nuclear sources. In the present study, the radiation effects on various wood materials of medicinal plants collected from Nallamala forest in Andhra Pradesh, India was investigated. Gamma radiation shielding characteristics such as linear attenuation coefficient, mass attenuation coefficient, half- value thickness and relaxation length of ten different types of wood materials were measured for gamma energies 511, 662, 1173, 1275 and 1332 keV from 22Na, 137Cs and 60Co radioactive sources . Measurements were performed using a gamma spectrometer consisting of NaI (Tl) scintillation detector coupled to an 8K PC based Nuclear MCA with a good geometry set up. Classification of wood and their medicinal uses also studied. Analysis of results showed an appreciable evidence of radiation attenuation, attenuation coefficient decreasing with increase of gamma en-ergy and significant variation for different species.
Equilibrium Studies of the Reaction of Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) Haemoglobin Sulphydryl Groups with 5,5â€²-dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoate): Tertiary Conformational Change in Turkey Haemoglobin Induced by Inositol hexakisphosphate
Authors: Ehi-Eromosele C. O. , Edobor-Osoh A. , Ajanaku C. O. , Anake W. U. , Aladesuyi O. , Oduselu G. O.
Published: August 2021

The red blood cell of turkey contains two haemoglobin types, major and minor components. In the present study, the equilibrium constant, Kequ, for the reaction of 5,5′-dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoate), DTNB, with the sulphydryl group of the major turkey aquomethaemoglobin was determined at 25°C as a function of pH. Kequ varies by about 2 to 3 orders of magnitude between pH 5.6 and 9.0 for both haemoglobin [stripped and in the presence of inositol hexakisphosphate (inositol-P6)]. Calculations from the pH dependence of Kequ showed that in the r â‡Œ t tertiary conformational transition of aquomethae-moglobin, the t isomer population was 0.26 %. In the presence of inositol-P6, the t isomer population increased to 9.08 %. The results showed that while inositol-P6 increased the relative population of the t tertiary conformation by changing the relative distribution of two protein conformations, it had no effect on Kequ. The effect of Inositol-P6 on the nature and number of groups linked to the DTNB reaction was also determined.
Identification of L. casei and L. rhamnosus in the dairy products using Real-Time PCR assay
Authors: Li K. G. , Pogossian G. P. , Moldagulova A. K. , Bekenova E. E. , Abdikadirova A. , Kazhibaev A. K. , Kairova M. Zh. , Urazova M. S. , Shaikhin S. M. , Almagambetov K. H.
Published: August 2021

Lactobacilli are essential and important biological objects used in food pro-duction and medicine. One of the sufficient problems is fast, reliable and highly specific identification of lactobacilli in the scientific research and cur-rent production control. We represent two species-specific real-time PCR in the present study to discriminate L. rhamnosus and L. casei basing on the unique peptidoglycan-hydrolase genes p40 and p75 respectively. PCR pri-mers and probes were designed to provide high specificity discrimination via high temperature of PCR annealing stage. High efficiency of the reactions is provided by the size of amplified DNA fragments minimization. Reliable re-producibility of the target sequences amplification and fluorescence detec-tion provide a basis for the future creation of industrial test-systems for op-erational control in the production of fermented dairy products.
Unmethylated/hypomethylated status of developmentally important genes in brain tissue of mammals
Authors: Sachan Manisha , Raman Rajiva
Published: August 2021

We have studied the de novo DNA methylation of 16 CpGs in the non-CpG island coding region of the proto-oncogene c-fos, 26 contiguous CpG in regu-latory region of HoxB5 and 27 CpGs in c-mos. This analysis has been done in brain tissue of mammals in fetal, neonatal and adult stages of development. The unmethylated/partial methylation of all CpGs in all three genes suggests that there could be tissue-specific hypomethylation of genes in brain or hy-pomethylation is a more common feature of specific genes in brain regard-less of their expression.
Studies on the periodicity of chlorophyceae of Jait Sagar lake, Bundi (Rajasthan)
Authors: Rathore Dilip Kumar , Sharma Preeti , Sumeria Harsh Kumar
Published: August 2021

The Chlorophyceae periodicity of Jait Sagar lake had been studied during Jan 2013 to Dec 2013. A total number of 44 species belonging to 15 genera of Chlorophyceae class were identified. Some of common genera belonging to Chlorophyceae of Jait Sagar lake were Pediastrum, Scenedesmus, Cosmari-um, Spirogyra, Closterium etc. The occurrence of algae varied in different study areas in various months. Scenedesmus showed a maximum popula-tion. Some species were common to all the seasons while others were repre-sented only at a particular season. The algal population was found to be maximum in summer season and the lowest in winter. Water becomes greenish due to population of Microalgae such as Pediastrum, Scenedesmus, Cosmarium and Closterium during May-October. Seasonal successions of phytoplankton are affected by strong seasonal ecological influences. In the present investigation it was observed that high temperature and pH were favourable for rapid development of Chlorophyceae.
The antibacterial activity expressed in vitro and in vivo by Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis CNRZ 1427 against Salmonella sp.
Authors: Najett Menad , Fadelaa Chougrani , Snoussi Moghtet , Abderrahim Cheriguene
Published: August 2021

The present study focused on the beneficial effects of Lactococcus lactis subsp lactis CNRZ 1427 with possible use as a therapeutic agent against Sal-monella sp.; also we have proposed different therapeutic possibilities of our situation against a pathogen Salmonella sp. We have conducted two tests In Vitro and In Vivo; where it is noted that treatment in the presence of this lac-tic strain is effective since it causes a remarkable decrease of the pathogen agent. At the end, the effectiveness of this lactic strain was confirmed by testing for resistance to gastrointestinal conditions (pH, bile salts and diges-tive enzymes).
Relationship between fruit ripening and aroma compounds of olives from Guercif area in Morocco
Authors: Hazzat Najoi El , Iraqi Rafika , Bouya Driss , Bouseta Amina
Published: August 2021

Green olives are characterized by a typical flavour mainly due to compounds formed during fruit ripening. Our previous studies have shown that the (Z)-3-hexenal, methional, guaiacol, (E,E)-2,4-decadienal and other terpenes such as α-farnesene significantly contribute to the olive aroma. In the present study, the impact of ripening stage on the aromatic composition of the green olives in Guercif area was evaluated. The extraction of flavours from samples collected at different stages of maturation was performed by simultaneous steam distillation-solvent extraction. The extracts were analyzed by GC-MS and GC-FID-O. The results showed that proportions of odorant compounds with sensory impact on the Moroccan green olives such as (Z)-3-hexenal/hexanal and methional, increased during fruit ripening. The olive fruit sam-ples from area of Guercif were characterized by the dominance of mono-and sesquiterpenes such as γ-terpinene, 3-carene, α-pinene, limonene, 3,7-dimethyl-1,3,7-octatriene, α-farnesene, β-caryophyllene and α-humulene. The monitoring of the aroma composition during olive ripening stage showed that the proportion of the 3,7-dimethyl-1,3,7-octatriene strongly decreases during maturation while the proportions of other monoterpenes characterized by olfactory notes of lemon, green and floral such as γ-terpinene, 3-carene and α-pinene are more important in the final stage of maturation. For the sesquiterpenes class, the formation of β-caryophyllene and α-humulene decreases in favour of the α-farnesene, important aroma compound of table olives. The comparison of volatile fraction of fresh olives at different stages of maturation showed that fruit ripening has an important impact on the formation of aromatic compounds and particularly the key flavours of green olives.