bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection and cloning of Phospholipase Câ€zeta (PLCÎ¶) gene fragments from testes of Rattus tiomanicus (Malayan wood rat)
Authors: Nordin Noor Faezah Mohd , Kqueen Cheah Yoke , Sukardi Sabrina
Published: August 2021

PLCâ€zeta is a novel, spermâ€specific phospholipaseâ€C that is highly effective in causing Ca2+ oscillation and activation in mouse eggs during fertilization. Upon spermâ€oocyte fusion, PLCâ€zeta diffuse into the oocyte cytosol and stimulate the inositol1, 4, 5â€trisphosphate (IP3) pathway thus increasing IP3 levels and activating IP3 receptorâ€mediated Ca2+ release from intracellular stores. This event will trigger oocyte activation, essential for embryo development. The importance of PLCâ€zeta was demonstrated when PLCâ€zeta removal from sperm extracts stops Ca2+ release in eggs. In addition, sperm from transgenic mice expressing short hairpin RNAs targeting PLCâ€zeta mRNA has been shown to reduce PLCâ€zeta protein and significantly disturbs the calcium oscillatory behavior of eggs inseminated with these sperm. Rattus tiomanicus (Malayan wood rat) is the predominant rodent pest targeting oil palm estates in Malaysia. Various methods have been used to control their population. In the current study, PLCâ€zeta expression was detected using oneâ€step RTâ€PCR from the testes. The PLCâ€zeta sequence of R. tiomanicus showed strong similarity on alignment with PLCâ€zeta sequence of R. norvegicus. Discovery of a highly conserved PLCâ€zeta among rodents and understanding of the molecular properties of PLCâ€zeta can lead to further development of alternative approaches of controlling them in a more environmental friendly way. Disruption of the expression of PLCâ€zeta in R. tomianicus could lead to poor fertility in the male thus lowering the population of this pest and its deleterious effects to the agriculture sector especially oil palm, one of the most broadly grown crops in South East Asia.
Therapeutic potential of wheatgrass (Triticum aestivum L.) for the treat-ment of chronic diseases
Authors: Sharma Sachin , Shrivastav Vivek Kumar , Shrivastav Archana , Shrivastav B. R.
Published: August 2021

Wheat (Triticum aestivum), belonging to poaceae family is a vital constituent of the human diet. At the germinated stage, the leaves of wheat over 6-10 days are commonly called wheatgrass, it contain very good quantity of chlo-rophyll, which shows the structural similarity to haemoglobin molecule hence, known to play a significant role in blood deficiency diseases such as Thalassemia and myelotoxicity in cancer patients during chemotherapy. Moreover, wheatgrass has been reported as the richest source of vitamins, enzymes, minerals, aminoacids, trace elements, phytochemical components and a glycoprotein P4D1 etc. which can stimulate the repair of DNA and RNA in case of their damage. All of them collectively provide a good therapeutic potential against a broad range of ailments including chronic diseases. The recent researchers reporting its antioxidant, anti-arthritic, anti-hyperlipidemic or cardio-protective, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities have made this plant more valuable in herbal research. In the present review attempt is made to focus on the therapeutic potential of wheatgrass against the various chronic diseases.
Prevalence of opportunistic intestinal parasite infection in HIV positive population of central India region
Authors: Singh Desh Deepak , Singh Vinod , Singh Rambir , Dwivedi L. K.
Published: August 2021

Intestinal parasitic infections are major cause of public health problems and mortality and morbidity in tropical countries. However, everyone is suscepti-ble to parasitic infections but HIV/AIDS patients having lower immune status are at greater risk. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in patients living with HIV/AIDS. A total of 244 consecutively sampled HIV/AIDS patients from Peoples College of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Bhopal were included in the study. Prior con-sent of every subject was taken before collecting the stool and blood sample of every volunteer for microscopic examination and CD4 cells count. The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection was 31.5% among HIV/AIDS pa-tients. Maximum Isospora belli infection (n=27; 35%) were observed. Para-sitic density was higher among the patients having lower CD4 T cells counts (<200/μL). Also, the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection was decreas-ing with improvement in CD4 cell count. Considering the outcome of present study, stool examination of every HIV positive individual should also be man-datorily done to identify intestinal parasitic infections, if present and treated accordingly.
Protective role of parasites against the autoimmune diseases: a benefit of being host
Authors: Dhingra Naveen , Sharma Shaligram , Dwivedi L. K.
Published: August 2021

Parasites are the accomplished evaders of host immunity. Several life threat-ening disorders have been reported to be caused by them. But, at the same time their immunogenic effect in terms of stimulation of production of cyto-kines like IL-4 and IL-10 which can potentially stop the activation of self ag-gressive T lymphocyte may also not be overlooked. Several in-vivo experi-ments to explore the beneficial effects of parasites like helminthes, protozo-ans and others have been performed at various levels. The encouraging re-sults of them, depicting lasting protection against the chronic autoimmune disorders like diabetes, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Arthritis and Encephalomye-litis have attracted the scientific brains in last decade. Few of those studies with possible mechanisms of protective role of parasitic infections are criti-cally reviewed in the present article. Also, futures prospective to exploit the parasites for the treatment of such life challenging autoimmune disorders are discussed.
Exploiting the biocontrol potential of indigenous Trichoderma sp. against major phytopathogens of Vanilla (Vanilla planifolia)
Authors: R. Athul Sandheep , Asok Aju K. , A. Fathima P. , S. Jisha M.
Published: August 2021

This study was conducted to evaluate the biocontrol potential of indigenous Trichoderma sp. against fungal pathogens of Vanilla. The pathogens namely Fusarium oxysporum, Rhizoctonia solani and Sclerotium rolfsii caus-ing wilt and rot diseases of vanilla were isolated from naturally infected va-nilla plants. Among the ten isolates mainly two species Trichoderma harzi-anum T2 and Trichoderma virens T5 which showed 80 to 90% inhibitions against the selected fungal pathogens were selected. The Trichoderma iso-lates were identified using internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region amplifica-tion and sequencing. The sequences generated in this study were deposited in the NCBI GenBank under the accession number JN 863298 for the isolate T. virens and JN 000305 for the isolate T. harzianum.The compatibility of the bioagents with selected fungicides was also investigated under in vitro con-ditions. Bordeaux mixture was found to be inhibitory to Trichoderma at all given concentrations whereas it was found to be compatible with Potassium phosphonate. T. harzianum inoculation resulted into 90-95 % disease sup-pression under green house experiment and was superior than the inocula-tion of T. virens and the standard T. harzianum (MTCC 801). Application of biocontrol agents for crop protection is very significant as it has several ad-vantages such as possibility of multiple pathogen suppression, low cost and promotion of soil fertility.
Production of Iron-fortified eggs for changing consumer needs
Authors: T. Sujatha , Sunder Jai , Kundu A. , Kundu M. S.
Published: August 2021

An experiment was carried out in Nicobari fowl to investigate the efficiency of dietary iron supplementation on iron fortification in eggs. Birds were as-signed to each of four dietary treatments in a completely randomized de-sign: T1: Control (commercial layer feed); iron was supplemented in the form of iron- soy proteinate (Fe-SP) chelate @ 200 ppm (T2), 400 ppm (T3) and 600 ppm (T4). Birds were fed ad-libitum as per nutritional specification of BIS (2007). 60 d feeding trial showed that 200 ppm enhanced iron content in egg yolk to 64 μg/g yolk at 15th day of feeding as compared to control (50 μg/g yolk) and improved hatchability (24%). Further fortification beyond 200 ppm (400 & 600 ppm) was not effective. Egg iron content was maximized at 15 days after feeding supplemental Fe. It was concluded that iron enriched egg could be produced on commercial basis to meet the consumers changing need.
HAT-RAPD profiling of seven fungi isolated from central Kazakhstan soils
Authors: Li Konstantin , Moldagulova Assel , Bekenova Eleonora , Kazhibaev Abzal , Kairova Markhabbat , Urazova Maira , Shaikhin Serik , Almagambetov Kairtay
Published: August 2021

Stable HAT-RAPD (high annealing temperature) profiles were obtained for 7 micromycetes isolated from the central Kazakhstan soils with single non-specific primers. An arbitrary primer (decamer AP3), a primer derived from the intergenic spacer regions (T3B) and microsatellite primer (GTG)5 were applied in PCR. Precise and reproducible profiles of the amplification prod-ucts were obtained for all seven hyphomycetes isolates in spite of increased annealing temperature application. The number and size of amplicons reflect a species specificity. In some cases intraspecific variability was observed. Cluster analysis of the profiles demonstrated the phylogenetic relationships between isolates that are consistent with those of ITS-region genotyping. Obtained results completely justify the application of the HAT-RAPD in mark-ing and rapid identification of soil hyphomycetes.
In vivo stimulatory effects of wheat bran on intestinal microbial ecosystem of mice
Authors: Keddari Soumia , Aldib Iyas , Riazi Ali
Published: August 2021

The prebiotic effect in vivo of wheat bran on growth and colonization of both strains bifidobacteria (Bifidobacterium animalis subsp lactis Bb12 and B. bifi-dum Bb 443) and two lactic strains (Lactobacillus acidophilus LbA - CEC-T4529; L.rhamnosus LBRE - LSAS) was investigated. Conventional Swiss mice received a daily dose of orogastric monocultures of different strains tested for 4 weeks. These mice were fed a diet supplemented with or without wheat bran by weight. Changes in weight, implantation of strains and modifi-cation of microflora were monitored throughout the study. At the end of the experiment, after 4 weeks of observation, the sample of blood, various or-gans, and tissues of the digestive tract were collected to determine the he-matological parameters and biochemical parameters, blood and various or-gans were used in the study of bacterial translocation and gut tissue in the histological study. The results show the prebiotic effect of wheat bran on the location of the strains studied. This colonization by beneficial bacteria con-tributes significantly to the modification of the intestinal microbiota. Indeed, a reduction rate of the germ Bacteroides was recorded. The results of hema-tological and biochemical parameters showed no significant difference be-tween mice of different lots. In general, the values were within the stand-ards. According to the histological study of vital tissues, administration of lactic three strains (Bb12, Bb443 and LBRE- LSAS) has revealed no expression of inflammation or necrosis. In contrast, inflammatory effects and tissue ne-crosis were detected during the administration of Lactobacillus acidophilus strain.
Effect of Citrus sinensis (Sweet Orange) on coagulation
Authors: Mallick Neelam , Khan Rafeeq Alam
Published: August 2021

Citrus sinensis (sweet orange) is widely known for its health-related benefits and has been reported to contain anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and hypo-lipidemic activities. Hence, present study was designed to investigate the effect of Citrus sinensis on blood parameters, coagulation and anticoagula-tion factors. Freshly obtained C. sinensis juice was given to rabbits in three different doses i.e. 2ml/kg, 5ml/kg and 8ml/kg. Erythrocyte count was signifi-cantly increased at all three doses but hemoglobin was found to increase significantly at the doses of 5ml/kg and 8ml/kg. Thrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time were prolonged significantly at all doses similar to warfarin but prothrombin time was significantly prolonged at 5ml/kg and 8ml/kg. There was highly significant increase in protein C levels at 5ml/kg and 8ml/kg, while significant increase in thrombin antithrombin complex at 8ml/kg. Percentage inhibition of platelets aggregation at 2ml/kg was only significant by epinephrine, while at 5ml/kg inhibition of platelets aggregation was significant by arachidonic acid (AA) and epinephrine (Epi) whereas inhi-bition of platelets aggregation was significant at 8ml/kg by adenosine di-phosphate, epinephrine and arachidonic acid, while it was highly significant by collagen. These results suggest that C. Sinensis possess an anticoagulant component and may serve as cardio protective. This might be due to phyto-chemicals and other essential nutrients that possess an antithrombin compo-nent preventing thrombosis and playing cardio protective role.
In vitro effect of pyrimethanil on the fungal growth of ochratoxigenic and non-ochratoxigenic species of Aspergillus tubingensis and Aspergil-lus foetidus isolated from Moroccan grapes
Authors: Qjidaa Souad , Selouane Atar , Zouhair Souad , Bouya Driss , Decock Cony , Bouseta Amina
Published: August 2021

The contamination of Moroccan grapes by ochratoxin A is mainly due to the contamination of grapes by some species of Aspergillus section Nigri with prevalence of A. niger aggregate. Pyrimethanil, systemic fungicide of the anilinopyrimidine family, is commonly used in vineyard to control grey mould caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea. In the current study, the effica-cy of this chemical compound for controlling growth of eight strains of A. tubingensis and A. foetidus (4 ochratoxigenic and 4 non-ochratoxigenic strains) isolated from Moroccan grapes was examined at 25°C on CYA medi-um. The results of molecular identification showed that similarity of all iso-lates studied compared with various sequences of references strains of A. tubingensis and A. foetidus from GenBank ranged from 100 to 99%, differing then by one to 4 positions. OTA produced by ochratoxigenic strains varied from 0.02 to 0.13 μg/g of CYA. Pyrimethanil effectively reduced the growth rate of A. tubingensis and A. foetidus. In general, there was a decrease of the RGR and an increase of lag phase as the fungicide dose increased regardless of strain. The EC50 concentrations ranged from 0.00013 to 2.89 mg/L (average = 1.15 mg/L) and EC90 varied from 26.75 to 502.81 mg/L. Statistical analysis revealed that fungicide concentrations, strains and their two inter-actions had significant effects on radial growth rate (p-values = 0.000). At concentration above 0.5xRD, growth of all strains was inhibited. Low doses of pyrimethanil (0.01xRD and 0.02xRD) reduced significantly the mycelia growth but the ochratoxigenic isolates were favoured.
Membrane stabilizing, thrombolytic, analgesic, anti-diarrheal and CNS activities of Polyalthia longifolia (Sonn.)
Authors: Islam Ridwan , Sikder Md. Al Amin , Khan Rafeeq Alam , Ahmed Mansoor , Rashid Mohammad A.
Published: August 2021

Different fractions of Polialthia longifolia (Sonn.) bark were evaluated for membrane stabilizing, thrombolytic, analgesic, anti-diarrheal and CNS de-pressant activities upon oral administration at 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight. The membrane stabilizing activity was assessed by heat and hypo-tonic solution. Carbon tetrachloride fraction of methanol extract of P. longi-folia bark demonstrated strong membrane stabilizing activity, while the crude methanol extract demonstrated mild to moderate thrombolytic activi-ty in human blood specimen. The analgesic activity was assessed by tail im-mersion and formalin-induced pain method in Swiss-albino mice. The crude methanol extract of P. longifolia bark exhibited significant peripheral and central analgesic activity, since inhibited chemical induced writhing at 200 mg/kg and increased tail flick latency time both at 200 and 400 mg/kg. The anti-diarrheal activity of the bark extract was assessed by using castor oil induced diarrhea in mice however significant anti-diarrheal activity was not revealed. The CNS inhibitory activity of the methanol extract was assessed in Swiss albino mice where it reduced phenobarbitone sodium induced sleep-ing time at 400 mg/kg.
Evaluating the diesel biodegradation potential of wild microfungi isolat-ed from decaying wood in Nigeria
Authors: C. Nwinyi Obinna , O. Okonkwo C. , E. Nwinyi C. , O. Ajanaku K. , O. Siyanbola T. , O. Ogunniran K. , O. Ehi-Eromosele C. , A. Akinsiku A. , T. Ayano
Published: August 2021

We evaluated the potentials of pure wild microfungi isolated from decaying wood in utilizing diesel as source of carbon/energy and monitoring of their physiological responses via OD and pH gradient fluxes. The fungi diversity was obtained by conventional enrichment culture methods. Pure cultures of tentative fungal species namely: SC1, SC2, SC3, YI and Y2 were tested for their ability to utilize diesel oil as carbon and energy source. From the cultural, morphological and biochemical characterization and comparison with respect to the standard reference of fungi, the wild microfungi tentatively named as SC1, SC2, SC3, YI and Y2 were seemingly the members of Penicil-lum, Aspergillus, Mucor, Candida and Cryptococcus species. The diesel de-pendent growth of the pure microfungi was assessed by monitoring the flux-es in the pH and Optical density OD of the minimal media slurry for 288 hours. There were fluctuations in OD as well as pH values for the different microfungi. The mean pH data 5.90 ± 0.01-7.01± 0.01 and the OD 0.349± 0.001 -1.232 ± 0.002 were obtained. The ability of our fungal isolates to tol-erate diesel and grow in it, suggests that the isolates can be employed as bioremediation agent.
Preliminary screening for toxin genes amongst stock cultures of Clostridium perfringens strains isolated from dogs and calves
Authors: O. Egwari L. , S. Oghogho E. , E. Okwumabua O. , I. Oniha M.
Published: August 2021

The spectrum of Clostridium perfringens infections ranges from food toxinosis to myonecrosis. In the current study, whole cell protein and toxin gene types were profiled in 12 randomly selected C. perfringens veterinary stock cultures from the University of Wisconsin, Madison to determine epidemio-logical similarity, or diversity amongst strains of animal origin. Whole cell protein analysis was done by SDS-PAGE while toxin gene typing was achieved by extracting DNA by boiling, DNA concentration and purity was determined by spectrophotometer and nanodrop while separation was carried out by checking it on gel electrophoresis. Multiplex PCR was used to identify the toxigenic gene-type. C. perfringens B and C. perfringens EE with established profiles were used as control strains. Isolates typed included strains cp 296, 309, 12872 (from dogs) and 304, 305, 306, 341, 342, 10754, 12218-2, 12218-3, 12473 (from calves). All 12 strains possess the cpa gene, 4 strains have cpb2, 3 strains etx, 2 strains positive for cpe and 1 for cpb. None of the strains carries the itx gene. Two strains have only cpa gene however no strains has more than two toxin gene types, with cpa-cpb2 combination be-ing more frequent. C. perfringens 305 (etx and cpa) and 342 (cpe and cpa) shared the same protein profile but belong to different toxinotype. It is evi-dent that the cpa gene is a marker for all C. perfringens strains, and similarity in protein profile is not sine qua non for toxin gene type.
Determination of Sexual Harassment and Abuse Women Athletes Face in Sports: A case study
Authors: Yucel A. serdar , Korkmaz Murat , KarataÅŸ Ã–zgÃ¼r , HergÃ¼ner GÃ¼lten , Yaman Ã‡etin , Ã‡atÄ±kkaÅŸ Fatih
Published: August 2021

Sexual harassment and abuse news are frequent subjects in the written and visual media in our country. In the recent years, sexual harassment and abuse women athletes suffer in sports are frequently brought to agenda. Women are faced with such incidents in sports as in the case of all other surroundings. The main objective of the study was to determine the sexual harassment and abuse women athletes suffer in sports at FÄ±rat University School of Physical Education and Sports and to review the cases in terms of various variables. Target population of the study was made up 280 female students attending to FÄ±rat University School of Physical Education and Sports and research sample is made up of 170 students, who are randomly selected. Questionnaires were conducted on 170 students within the scope of the study. Questionnaire data obtained from the participants were analyz-es using the SPSS 17.0 program. Descriptive statistical methods (Number, Percentage) were used within the scope of the analysis. Chi-square analysis was used in the comparison of the qualitatively categorical variables. As a result of the study, it was found out that 14.7% of the participants suffered from sexual harassment and there was no significant relation between the age, branch and active years of sports and exposure to sexual harassment. Those suffering from sexual harassment stated that they were exposed to sexual harassment by their team mates at the sports halls or fields and most-ly during the trainings and these incidents reduced their performance.
Estimation of the efficiency of siderophore production in pathogenic bacteria Bacillus anthracis and Serratia marcescens
Authors: Baruah Daisy , Handique P. J.
Published: August 2021

Siderophores are iron--chelating agents synthesized by microbes to overcome low availability of iron in the growth environment. In some pathogenic bacteria like Bacillus anthracis, they act as virulence mediators and the strains incapable producing siderophores are non-pathogenic. In the current study, the efficiency of siderophore production in Bacillus anthracis and Serratia marcescens was estimated in different growth conditions. The growth in terms of protein was found to be greater in S. marcescens than B anthracis at all growth conditions. Siderophores detected in Chrome Azurol Assay and the estimated production of hydroxamate type and catechol type siderophores were greater in S marcescens in comparison to B. anthracis. The studies revealed a greater efficiency of siderophore production in S marcescens than B anthracis irrespective of the growth conditions.
Diversity of Macrophytes in Maijan Wetland, Upper Assam, India
Authors: Abujam Santoshkumar Singh , Shah Rajesh kumar , Deori Dibya Jyoti , Biswas Shyama Prasad
Published: August 2021

In the current study, a total of 42 macrophytes have been recorded under 34 genera belonging to 28 families from the Maijan wetland, Assam during February 2013 to March 2014. Out of recorded species, the Asteraceae family was found to be maximum (6 spp.) and followed by the Amaranthaceae, Araceae, Convolvulaceae, Cyperaceae, Hydrocharitaceae, Malvaceae, Onagraceae, Poaceae and Solanaceae (2 spp. each). The remaining families were represented by 1 species each. The macrophytes were classified into 5 major categories such as terrestrial (24 spp.), marginal (09 spp.); floating (05 spp.); emergent (2 spp.) and submerged (2 spp.). Most of the recorded macro-phytes have medicinal properties and some of them have been used as vegetable. The habitat and uses of the recorded macrophytes also have been discussed.
Comparative anatomy and DNA fingerprinting of two species of the genus Ceratostylis Bl. (Orchidaceae) from North-East India with their adaptive significance
Authors: Sharma Hidangmayum Bishwajit , Thokchom Dhanaraj Singh Thokchom Singh , Ahongshangbam Jadumani Singh , Devi Yumnam Nanda , Chowlu Krishna , Rao A. Nageswara
Published: August 2021

Taxonomic classification of the family Orchidaceae are generally based on morphological features and the floral attributes. At this juncture, a general query arises when species with morphological variations are placed under the same genera at times. This has triggered investigations towards comparative study on anatomy and genetic polymorphism. Anatomical studies of stem and leaf was carried out for the first time in two species of Ceratostylis Bl. viz., C. himalaica Bl. and C. subulata Hk. f. which are distributed in North-East India. Anatomical features like cuticle, epidermal layer, stomata, water storage cells, mesophyll, shape and arrangement of vascular bundles of both the species were comparatively studied. Cellulose wall of water storage cells with banded thickenings were observed in C. himalaica, whereas banded and mesh like thickenings were found in C. subulata. The water storage cells were larger in C. subulata. Anisocytic and paracytic stomata were observed in C. subulata but C. himalaica possess only paracytic type. Inter- simple sequence repeats (ISSR) analysis using 17 different primers showed differential banding patterns in the DNA fingerprint of the two orchid species with commendable polymorphism which helped in differentiating the two species at genomic level. This study shows that the significant differences between the two species in relation to their morphological appearance, internal structures and genetic polymorphism throws an insight towards a better understanding of their divergent adaptation and genetic diversity which is beneficial for the conservation of these two species.
A study on floral phenology, pollination mechanisms and molecular characterisation of pollinator in Bulbophyllum careyanum (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Gonmei A. , Thithila K. S. , Ahongshangbam J. S. , Rao A. N. , Thokchom D. S.
Published: August 2021

The present study focuses on flowering phenology, pollinator intensity in Bulbophyllum careyanum during different times of the day and visitation rates with the number of flowers per inflorescence. The average time taken from bud initiation of inflorescence till its maturity (27.4±0.79 days), flower longevity (15.3±1.09 days) and wilting period (4.2±0.27 days) were almost same during flowering seasons in two consecutive years (2012 and 2013). However, inflorescence bud initiation and flower opening delayed for about three weeks during 2013 as compared to the former. Hand pollination and bagging experiments showed that induced and spontaneous autogamy, agamospermy and geitonogamy failed to produce fruits, but flowers under natural conditions (control) and those introduced to xenogamy produced fruits with 23.3% and 86.7% respectively. Pollinators mostly visited the flowers during morning hours (0615-0645) and evening hours (1645-1710). Pollinator visitation rates were significantly correlated with the number of flowers per inflorescence (r values ranges from 0.84 to 1.00, significant at 0.01). Molecular characterisation of the pollinators were done by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) amplification of four mitochondrial gene fragments (12s rDNA, 16s rDNA, Cytochrome c oxydase I and NADH 4 & 5 dehydrogenase). Different insect species including flies, wasps, grasshoppers and bees visited the B.careyanum flowers, but only Drosophila melanogaster was found to be the real pollinator.
Determination of impact of Azadirachta indica L. leaves on adults and eggs of Callosobruchus maculatus Fabricius, the largest predator of stored cowpea (Vigna unguiculata Walp) by an applicable method by farmers
Authors: Faye Ablaye , Sarr Malick , Samb Abdoulaye , Thiaw Cheikh , SembÃ¨ne MbackÃ©
Published: August 2021

The effect of neem leaves has been tested in the laboratory on eggs and adults of cowpea weevil (C. maculatus). Different formulations of this plant were applied to these forms of C. maculatus Fab. Grinding fresh contact sheets induced significant lethal effects from 96.12% to 100% on eggs; whereas 100% of mortality was recorded at the end of eight days of applica-tion to three adults with higher doses. Fumigation on turn proved less effec-tive than contact on eggs. It induced a maximal effect of 95.73% mortality with the larger dose (D4: 0.02912g/cm3). On adults, we recorded highest mortality (100%) from the 7th day of the show with the highest dose. The aqueous extract of neem leaf powder was less effective than all other formu-lations on the eggs as well as adults of this insect; with a higher mortality rate (74.99%) observed on the eggs with the application of the concentration C2. On adults we recorded a maximum effect (100% mortality) from the 13th day of the application with the highest concentration (C1). These mortalities would be related to the support of several active molecules contained in neem as established in literature.
Pattern of Hypothyroidism with Liver Cirrhosis among Indian population
Authors: Chitkara Ekta , Abdulahi Abdikarem , Arjuna Anania
Published: August 2021

The thyroid plays a vital role in the overall body function during all stages of life. Although relatively small, it produces hormones that regulate the body’s overall metabolism ,the rate at which the body produces energy from nutri-ents. Thyroid hormones influence growth and development, oxygen con-sumption and heat production, nerve function and metabolism of lipids , carbohydrates ,proteins, nucleic acids ,vitamins and inorganic ions. Cirrhosis and chronic liver failure are leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the whole the world-with the majority of preventable cases attributed to exces-sive alcohol consumption, viral hepatitis or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. The main objective of the study is to assess the relationship and interconnec-tion between hypothyroidism and chronic liver disease specially cirrhosis patients. All patients selected for this study were diagnosed as type of cir-rhosis in the line with the criteria set up by WHO. The study is comparative study containing two groups (1) cases and (2) controls. The result showed that TSH increased, T3 slightly decreased and T4 seems normal where the P value is 0.039,0.014 and 0.245 respectively. The mean of TSH levels of cir-rhotic patients is higher than the mean of non cirrhotic subjects and show significant difference. And also there are significant difference for T4 and T3 between two groups.
Mycoflora and Patulin-producing strains of cereals in North-Western Morocco
Authors: Mansouri Aouatef , Hafidi Majida , Mazouz Hamid , Zouhair Rachid , Karbane Miloud El , Hajjaj Hassan
Published: August 2021

Cereals are considered a food that is exposed to fungal contamination and mycotoxin production. The present study was conducted to evaluate and identify the patulin-producing fungal flora contaminating the wheat and bar-ley grain in the field, the storage silo, and products of transformation (flour, semolina). Sampling was carried out in the region of Meknes (Morocco) dur-ing the growing season of 2012. The study of macroscopic and microscopic characters enabled to isolate and identify over 140 isolates belonging mainly to the genuses Aspergillus, Penicillium, Fusarium, Cladosporium, Alternaria, Ulocladium, Rhizopus, Mucor and Trichoderma. Of the 51 isolates of Penicilli-um, eight were found to be producer of patulin by TLC and HPLC. Six out of the eight mycotoxigenic isolates were classified and identified as Penicillium expansum. The patulin content varied from one species to another and reached 41.72 μg/mL in one of the Penicillium expansum isolates.
Bioproduction of Docosahexaenoic Acid by the Marine protist Schizochytrium
Authors: Arjuna Anania , Chitkara Ekta
Published: August 2021

The heterotrophic protist Schizochytrium sp. was batch cultivated in media containing glucose, yeast extract, peptone, dihydrogen potassium phosphate and sea salt prepared in distilled water. The increasing amounts of yeast ex-tract stimulated growth however, influenced lipid accumulation negatively. It has been observed that the sea salt concentrations above half the average seawater salinity were required for good growth and lipid accumulation. Schizochytrium sp. was able to grow on a glucose concentration as high as 60 g/l, which resulted in reduced biomass and lipid yield. Although, the culture in study, effectively utilized certain simple and complex nitrogen sources lipid yield was more in complex nitrogen source, i.e. yeast extract and pep-tone, than in simple nitrogen source. Comparison of growth at 20 and 28 ºC showed that the higher incubation temperature was more favorable for the growth. The optimum pH was optimized as 7 with a rotation speed of 220 rpm. Incubation for 120 h was required for the maximum production of bio-mass, lipid and DHA. In this period, the percentage of docosahexaenoic acid (20.0 %) was produced in the lipid (4.0 g/l).
A study on flowering phenology, synchrony, and pollination mechanism of Dendrobium primulinum Lindl. (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Gonmei A. , Rao A. N.
Published: August 2021

Studies were conducted on the pollination mechanisms of Dendrobium prim-ulinum, epiphytic orchids distributed from India to South East Asia, Australia and Newzeland. The average longevity of flowers of the species was record-ed 10.1 ± 0.21 days. The species was proved to be strictly self-incompatible and pollinator dependent. Higher flowering synchrony resulted higher repro-ductive output. Out of many insects visitors to the flowers, only two species of bees viz. Andrena cineraria and Bombus species were identified as the successful pollinators for the species. The locations of the insect body where the pollinia attached during the pollination process varied; head in case of Bombus species and thorax in A. cineraria. The reason for the pollen attach-ment at different places of the two pollinators was attributed to the insects’ body size in relation to the size of the floral parts especially the labellum chamber, which was an adaptation character of the orchid species.
In-vitro validation of self designed siRNA targeting non-structural 1 gene of Influenza A virus
Authors: Jain Bhawana , Jain Amita , Prakash Om , Singh Ajay K. , Dangi Tanushree , Singh Mastan , Singh K. P.
Published: August 2021

The genomic variability makes Influenza A virus (IAV) difficult to be con-trolled by existing vaccines or anti-influenza drugs. Viral gene targeting siRNA induces the RNAi mechanism in the host and silents the gene by cleaving mRNA. Objective was to develop siRNA targeting non-structural 1 gene and to validate its efficiency in vitro. siRNA was designed rationally, targeting the most conserved region (delineated with the help of multiple sequence align-ment) of NS1 gene of IAV strains. To choose the most efficient siRNA, three levels screening method was developed. Ultimately one siRNA duplex was selected on the basis of its unique position in conserved region. siRNA effica-cy was confirmed in vitro on commonly used Madin Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) cell line for IAV propagation using two clinical isolates i.e. Influenza A/H3N2 [A/India/LKO864/2011(H3N2)] and Influenza A/pdmH1N1 [A/India/LKO2151/2012(H1N1)]. Of total 173 strains worldwide and 30 strains from India, 32 bp long (position 561 - 592) conserved region was identified. The longest ORF of NS1 gene was targeted by the selected siRNA, which showed 65.5% inhibition in replication of Influenza A/pdmH1N1 and 67.2% inhibition in replication of Influenza A/H3N2 at 48 hpi on MDCK cell line. This study shows that siRNA targeting NS1 may be quite effective in controlling IAV rep-lication so can be used as anti-IAV therapeutic agent.
Characteristics of circadian rhythms in rest-activity and energy expendi-ture in cancer in-patients
Authors: Sultan Armiya , Choudhary Vivek , Parganiha Arti
Published: August 2021

The objective of the current study was to assess the rest-activity (RA) and energy expenditure (EE) rhythms in cancer in-patients. Twenty chemothera-py receiving cancer in-patients (10 males and 10 females) and ten apparently healthy human subjects (5 males and 5 females) wore a non-invasive elec-tronic device – the Actical on their non dominant wrist. Data were recorded at 1-minute epoch for at least 3-4 consecutive days. Significant differences in RA and EE patterns were observed between cancer in-patients and control subjects, irrespective of gender. Control subjects showed absolute rhythm detection ratio in RA and EE, whereas, ratio was of low magnitude in cancer patients, especially with reference to EE. Statistically significant decrement in circadian amplitudes and advancement in circadian peaks of RA and EE were observed in cancer in-patients as compared to control subjects. Significant independent effects of factors, namely ‘disease’ and ‘gender’ on total activity count (TAC), average activity count (AAC), total energy expenditure (TEE) and average energy expenditure (AEE) were observed. TEE and AEE were signifi-cantly lower in cancer in-patients as compared to control subjects. Further, factors, ‘disease’ and ‘gender’ also produced significant effects on activity energy expenditure (AcEE), metabolic energy expenditure (MET) and resting energy expenditure (REE). In conclusion, the findings indicate disruption of the circadian rhythms in rest-activity and energy expenditure in cancer in-patients. This disruption is gauged from alterations in rhythm characteristics of RA and EE. However, additional studies involving more patients are re-quired for further validation of the present findings.
Effectiveness of crushed fresh leaves of Boscia senegalensis Lam Ex. Poir. harvested in Dakar and Richard Toll on Sitophilus zeamais (Motschulsky)
Authors: Bambou Asta Eliane , Thiaw Cheikh , Ndiaye Mama Racky , Diallo Younoussa , Gueye Momar Talla , SembÃ¨ne MbackÃ©
Published: August 2021

The maize is one of the most produced worldwide cereals. Its conservation in stock is attacked by many pests that cause huge loss to the qualitative and quantitative level. Several alternative methods of control resulting in the insecticidal plants replace chemical pesticides. Among these methods, fumi-gation has proved very effective on insects’ food stored. In the present work, fumigating insects of Sitophilus zeamais to different doses of fresh crushed leaves of Boscia senegalensis showed strong insecticidal activity of this plant depending on the locality. Leaves of two localities, Dakar and Richard Toll have been tested. Statistical analysis of the mortality rate expressed in cu-mulative frequencies showed a significant difference (p<0.0001) between the groups tested and control groups. Leaves from Richard Toll gave 100% mortality within 24 h to 1 g / l while those collected in Dakar gave 100% in 24 h to a maximum dose of 9 g / l. We can explain this by significant differences in the rate of glucocapparin content in the leaves of this plant according to the locality and period of harvest. It should be noted that crops leaves were not done during the same periods. In this work, the best season to obtain a high efficiency is during dry season.
Effect of different antibiotics against in vitro Staphylococcus aureus biofilm grown on chitin flakes
Authors: Banerjee Soma , Sahu Abira , Dutta Shouvik , Baishya Rimashree , Maiti Prasanta Kumar
Published: August 2021

MIC determination is the standard assay for testing the susceptibility of planktonic bacteria to antibiotics. It has been observed that biofilm grown cells express properties distinct from planktonic cells, for which antibiotics are generally not effective against biofilm forming organisms. The current study aims at comparison of the susceptibilities of biofilm grown cells to sin-gle antibiotic and in combination with others to identify those that were effective against Staphylococcus aureus biofilms. S. aureus ATCC 25923 were used for the purpose. They were grown in Tryptic Soya Broth (TSB) with chitin flakes as the inert surface to which the organisms adhered to produce the biofilm. Growth pattern of both biofilm producing and planktonic cells were studied. Viable counts were determined on Tryptic Soya Agar (TSA) plates. Different antibiotics viz. gentamicin, vancomycin, ciprofloxacin were used to determine the sensitivity of the bacterial strain. There was a marked differ-ence in antibiotic susceptibility between the planktonic and biofilm popula-tion of the organism. It was found that the biofilm colonies were more resistant to the antibiotics like ciprofloxacin, vancomycin and gentamicin than the planktonic cells. The reduction in growth of bacteria was much more for gentamicin compared to that of ciprofloxacin and vancomycin and when antibiotic combination gentamicin - vancomycin it is much more reduced. It is thus clear from the test that the antibiotic susceptibilities of planktonic populations are not necessarily applicable to the effective treatment of the same organism once a biofilm has been established.
Effect of polluted water on Danio rerio (Zebrafish) as a vertebrate model: A case study of Ibalur Lake, Bangalore, India
Authors: Raj Mathews P. , Abraham Anitha A. , Reddy Jayarama
Published: August 2021

Lake ecosystems are degraded with the increase in urbanization and anthro-pogenic activities. A study was taken up to analyze the effects of water quality of Ibalur Lake, Bangalore, India. The physico- chemical parameters and bacteriological examination of lake water was done for a period of 3 months from December 2013 – February 2014. The values recorded for Dissolved oxygen (DO), Biological oxygen demand (BOD) and Chemical oxygen demand (COD) were found to be zero. The average values recorded for parameters like calcium, total alkalinity, hardness were 231mg/L, 197mg/L and 587.1 mg/L respectively which were found exceeding the WHO standards set for drinking water; Parameters like Magnesium, Sodium, Chlorides, Sulphates had an average value of 140, 18.4, 59.5, 15 expressed in mg/L, which were within the WHO standards. Coliform count customized using the standard Most Probable Number (MPN) test reported a very high bacterial activity and proved the lake water is non-potable. Analysis carried out to determine the effects of pollutants on the vertebrate system (zebra fish) showed that the polluted waters of the lake have deleterious effects on zebra fish. With these observations it can be concluded that the pollutants of the lake can have detrimental impact on the biotic components.
Report of outbreak of Hepatitis C and Hepatitis B virus infections in an Indian community
Authors: Prakash Shantanu , Jain Amita , Singh K. P. , Khan D. N. , Ahmad Syeed , Singh D. D. , Jain Bhawana
Published: August 2021

Community outbreaks of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) have been reported, but to best of our knowledge no outbreak of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) has been re-ported in community. A community outbreak of jaundice was reported in Northern U.P. India. To better understand the outbreak we conducted the investigation. A team consisting of physicians, research scientist/assistant and laboratory technicians, visited these villages and camp approach was applied to cover most of the cases. Detailed clinical data was collected. All collected samples were tested for hepatitis A, B, C, D and E virus infections. Nucleic acid testing for HBV and HCV was also done for all samples and am-plified products were sequenced to know the genotype and transmission mechanism. A total of 101 samples were collected of which 63(62.4%) were positive for HCV. HBV was also detected in 17(16.8%) individuals. Sequencing results of HCV and HBV revealed that 21of 22 samples of HCV were genotype 3a and all samples sequenced for HBV belonged to genotype D. Community outbreak of HCV is disastrous to human health as this, along with HBV infec-tion indicates towards the unsafe medical practices in developing world.
Chemical composition and antioxidant activity of Carob pulp (Ceratonia Siliqua L.) extracts
Authors: Boufadia Yasmina Mokhtaria , Elaoufi Manel , Tabet Fatiha , Benali Mohamed , Riazi Ali
Published: August 2021

The role of polyphenols and flavonoids in prevention of cellular damages carried out with the oxidative stress is well documented. In the present experiment, we determined the polyphenols and flavonoids concentrations of three extracts (ethanol 70%: V/V, methanol 80%: V/V and distilled water extracts) of carob pulp mature (Ceratonia siliqua L.) and their in vitro and in vivo antioxidant activity. A significant dose-dependent anti-free radical activ-ity of ethanolic extract of carob (EEC) was related to the highest polyphenol content (44.74 mg QE/mL) and to the in vitro antioxidant activity (EC50 = 0.28 mg/mL) of this extract. LC-MS /MS analysis of the EEC have shown the presence of several phenolic compounds as well as many types of flavonoids. The in vivo experiment brought out the significant effect of the daily EEC oral pre-treatment of rats, 30 min before AlCl3 administration for 28 d on the improvement of the total blood antioxidant capacity. These results suggest that the carob pulp contain many substances having in vitro and in vivo antioxidant effects, and which could be used as natural food additives in order to preserve food quality.
Morphological and Molecular Characterization of Lactic acid Bacteria from intestine of Freshwater Fishes and Their Possible Role in Probiotic Feeding in Aquaculture
Authors: Kumawat Dinesh Kumar , Chishty Nadim
Published: August 2021

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are a group of gram positive, non spore forming, cocci or rod shaped, catalase negative organisms. Generally they are known as "GRAS" (Generally Recognized As Safe) organisms. In the present study, an attempt was made to isolate lactic acid bacteria from gut of two freshwa-ter fishes in Udaipur region to obtain various efficient LAB strains for indus-trial applications. A total of 12 bacterial isolates were isolated from different fishes caught from Pichola lake, Udaipur on MRS agar at 37oC. All the isolates were tested for catalase activity, colony morphology and gram staining. Further these isolates were checked for technological properties (antibacterial activity, antibiotic susceptibility and bile salt tolerance). Based on technologi-cal properties results, two isolate (F-4 & F-11) have been tentatively selected for use as probiotic cultures in the aquaculture industries. They have strong antibacterial activity against various pathogens viz. Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 9144), Micrococcus luteus (ATCC 10240), Listeria monocytogens (MTCC 1143) and have bile salt tolerance limit up to 0.7%. These are the main features for selection of probiotic candidates. To differentiate the same species molecular typing was attempted, 16S rRNA gene amplification was done using specific 16S rDNA primers and amplified gene products were di-gested with different restriction endonuclease enzymes viz EcoRI and HindIII. A total of 2 different groups out of 12 isolates were obtained. This finding reveals that isolated LAB are useful for aquaculture and also used in food preservation.