Nature and Science
(Nat Sci)
ISSN: 1545-0740
Volume 8 - Number 9 (Cumulated No. 42), September 1, 2010
Cover (online), Cover (print), Introduction, Contents, Call for Papers, ns0808
CONTENTS
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Titles / Abstracts / Authors
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1
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Community Participation for
Educational Planning and Development
Abrisham Aref
Department of Social Science, Tehran Education, Ministry of Education, Iran
abrishamaref@yahoo.com
Abstract: This research set out to explore the
roles communities in the development of education. The concept
of community participation has been important around the world.
In developed countries communities have important role in the
processes of educational planning and development. But in third
world countries there are some important barriers in face of
community participation in education activities. This paper
looks at the barriers of community participation in educational
activities as well as role of community participation in
educational planning. This research draws from my scientific
experience in a variety of disciplines namely; anthropology and
education. [Nature and Science
2010;8(9):1-4]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.01
Keywords: participation, development, education
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2
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Micropropagation of Spilanthes acmella Murr.
– An Important Medicinal Plant
Kuldeep Yadav* and Narender Singh
Department of Botany, Kurukshetra
University Kurukshetra
136119 (India)
*Email: kuldeep0608@gmail.com
Abstract: A rapid and
efficient protocol for in vitro propagation of Spilanthes
acmella Murr.-an endangered medicinal plant has been
developed. Multiple shoots induced on Murashige and Skoog
medium supplemented with various auxins and cytokinins
individually and in various combinations. MS medium fortified
with 1.0 mg/l BAP was found to be effective individually. The
medium with 3.0 mg/l BAP + 1.0 mg/l IAA responded better as
compared to other combinations. The in vitro raised
shoots were excised and implanted on MS half strength medium
fortified with NAA and IBA (0.5-3.0 mg/l) in an attempt to
produce roots. The half strength medium supplemented with IBA
(0.5-3.0 mg/l) developed roots after 15 days of implantation.
The maximum frequency of roots obtained on 1.0 mg/l of IBA
fortified medium. Most of the roots were long and healthy. The
regenerated plantlets were successfully transferred to pots
containing sterilized soil and sand mixture (3:1) and
acclimatized with 70% survival rate in the field conditions. [Nature and Science 2010;8(9):5-11].
(ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.02
Key words: Multiple shoots, Nodal segments, Spilanthes
acmella
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3
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Antitumor
and Synthesis of Furochromenly Pyrazoles, and Thiosemicarbazide Derivatives
Asmaa A. Magd-El-Din*1, Amira
S. Abd-El-All1, A. H. Abdel-Rhaman2,
Mashalla M.S. El-Baroudy1.
1Chemistry of Natural
Products and Microbial Department, National Research Centre,
Dokki, Cairo,
Egypt.
2Chemistry Department, Mansoura
University, Mansoura, Egypt.
*E-mail: asmaaaly2003@yahoo.com
Abstract: 4,9-Dimethoxy-5-oxo-5H-furo[3,2-g]benzopyran-6-carboxaldehyde III react with diethylmalonate in pyridine
to give furochromen ethylacrylate IV, which in turn react
with Hydrazines to form furochromen pyrazole derivatives (Va,b and VIIIa,b) by refulex
in absolute ethanol, and on the other hand gave 3-
hydrazinyl ethyl acrylate derivatives
(VIIa,b), by stirring
at room temperature. Pyrazole-3-hydrazaid
(Va) react with Isothiocyanate
derivatives upon heating in chloroform in presence of catalytic
amount of Triethylamine to give thiosemicarbazide derivatives (VIa-d). Also 3- Hydrazinyl ethyl acrylate
react with aromatic aldehydes by stirring
at room temperature in absolute
ethanol to give arylidene derivatives IXa-c. The work was further extended to react IV
with hydroxylaminehydrochloried in absolute ethanol lead to the
formation of furochromen isoxazole derivative X. Then IV
react with both malonitrile and cyanoactamaide in ethanol in presence of catalytic amount of pipredine, lead to the
formation of 3- cyano- 6- pyridone derivative (XI) and 3- cyano
-2- pyridone derivative (XII) respectively. [Nature and Science
2010;8(9):12-22]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.03
Key Words: Furochromen ethylacrylate,
Thiosemicarbazide, Pyrazole, Arylidene , Oxazole, Pyridine and
Antitumor
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4
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Effect of Metformin Therapy on Serum
Interleukin-6 and Interleukin-18 Levels in Patients with Polycystic
Ovary Syndrome
Sherif F. ELMekkawi 1 ,MD,
Amr S. ELHosseiny1MD, Ghada M. Mansour,MD, 1
Amal A Abbas ,MD 2Ashraf M Asaad1 MD,
Khadiga S Ali1
1 Department of Obstetrics and
Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine - Ain
Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
2 Department of Clinical Pathology,
Faculty of Medicine - Ain
Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
gmansour@hotmail.com
Abstract: Objective: to compare the level of
plasma interleukin-6 and interleukin-18 in patients with (PCOS)
before and after treatment with metformin. Subjects and method:
Forty patients with PCOS were recruited. Venous blood sample
was drawn for measurement of serum IL-18 and IL-6 by Elisa at
the start of the study and after three months of the treatment
with metformin (850mg/d). Results: Treatment with metformin for
three months showed significant effect on reducing body
weight,BMI, serum IL-6 and IL-18 levels in patients with PCO.Conclusion:There
is a beneficial impact of metformin on the inflammatory process
related to PCOS. [Nature and Science 2010;8(9):23-26]. (ISSN:
1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.04
Keywords: Metformin; Therapy; Serum;
Interleukin-6; Interleukin-18; Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
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Analysis and Homology Modeling of
Proteins Derived from NKX2.5 Non-synonymous Single
Nucleotide Polymorphisms Involved in Congenital Heart Disease
Dinesh S. M1, Prashantha
Karunakar2, C. Amruthavalli3and Nallur B
Ramachandra1
1.
Genomics Laboratory,
Department of Studies in Zoology, University of
Mysore, Mysore-570006, Karnataka, India, dineshmgowda1@gmail.com,
nallurbr@gmail.com
2. Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Kuvempu University,
Shankarghatta, Shivamogga - 577451, Karnataka, India,
prashantha.karunakar@gmail.com
3. Bioinformatics Division, Centre for Information Science and
Technology, University
of Mysore,
Mysore-570006, Karnataka,
India,
dramrutha_2002@yahoo.co.in
Abstract: Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the
most common type of birth defect, affecting 1% of all live
births and is the leading noninfectious cause of death in the
first year of life. With the progress in molecular genetics and
developmental biology, many genes associated with heart development
have been identified. NKX 2.5 is an important transcription
factor for heart development and the single nucleotide
polymorphisms (SNPs) in NKX 2.5 are associated with
various CHD phenotypes. Bioinformatics analysis may help to
discriminate between synonymous SNPs and non-synonymous SNPs
(nsSNPs), located in coding regions and resulting in amino acid
variation in the protein products of genes. We made an attempt
to analyse the nsSNPs of NKX2.5 which are involved in
CHD by using bioinformatics tools to predict protein structural
changes. 61 nsSNPs of NKX2.5, which are involved in CHD
were analysed. We edited nsSNPs into the control sequence
manually and made all 61 sequences with nsSNPs. Translated
these sequences into amino acid polymorphisms and were
subjected for protein secondary structure prediction. We analysed the 3-D structure of all the
mutated proteins of the NKX2.5 nsSNPs. This
investigation revealed the side chain differences of the amino
acids in the 3-D structure of the protein. [Nature and Science
2010;8(9):27-38]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.05
Key words: Congenital heart disease; Single
nucleotide polymorphisms; NKX 2.5
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Rotary Tiller Design
Proportional to a Power Tiller using Specific Work Method (SWM)
Hemad
Zareiforoush1,*, Mohammad Hasan Komarizadeh1,
Mohammad Reza Alizadeh2
1. Department of Mechanical Engineering of Agricultural Machinery,
Faculty of Agriculture, University of Urmia, P.O. Box 165, Urmia 57135, Iran
2. Research
Institute of Iran
(RRII), P.O. Box 1658, Rasht
41235, Iran
hemad.zareiforoush@yahoo.com
Abstract:
The
present research has dealt with rotary
tiller design for the power tiller model
Mitsubishi VST SHAKTI 130DI that is made for using in
primary and secondary tillage. In this design, the rotary
tiller work width determined 70 cm appropriate to the power
tiller, by estimating the total specific work, which is equal
to the sum of static and dynamic specific work of tiller. It
was revealed that the tiller model Mitsubishi
VST SHAKTI 130DI is only able to pull the rotary tiller
with 70 cm width and 15 cm depth, at gear I. For selecting work
width of tiller, maximum benefit power of the power tiller was
considered, which it could be decreased by increasing work
speed. In designing the rotary tiller shaft, it was revealed
that in addition to the torsional moment, the flexural moment
was also effective on the system safely design. It was also
recognized that in designing a rotary tiller, blades are most
subjected to be fractured by incoming stresses. The optimal
value of rotor’s diameter considering the values of
maximum tangent force was determined about 3.94 cm. This paper
presents a theoretical method for rotary tillers design. The
results of this study should be verified by further tests on
rotary tillers according to the results offered in this paper. [Nature and Science 2010;8(9):39-45].
(ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.06
Key words: Rotary tiller, Garden tractor,
Design, specific work
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Aneuploidy in
In-vitro Matured Buffalo
Oocytes with or without Cumulus Cells
Karima Gh. M.
Mahmoud 1*, Youssra M. A. Mohamed2, Amer M. A. 2, Magda M. Noshy2,
Nawito M. F. 1
1Dept. Anim. Reprod. & A.
I., National Research Center,
Dokki, Tahrir
Street, 12622 Giza
2Dep Zoology, Faculty of
Science, Cairo
University
*Corresponding author: Tel.: 002 0101827716;
Fax: 002 02 33370931
E.mail address: karima_mahmoud@hotmail.com (K.Mahmoud)
Abstract: Proper oocytes selection in the
laboratory is crucial for successful embryo production in
vitro. Presence of an intact complement of cumulus cells
surrounding the oocyte and a homogenous appearing ooplasm have
been the best indicators of an immature oocyte ability to
undergo maturation and embryonic development. The present study
was undertaken to investigate the effect of cumulus cells on
the in vitro maturation and aneuploidy rate of buffalo oocytes.
Ovaries were collected from slaughtered buffaloes. The
follicular contents were collected from 2 to 5 mm diameter
ovarian follicles by aspiration. Oocytes with homogenous
cytoplasm (450) were selected for in vitro maturation. Oocytes
with or without cumulus cells were cultured for 24-26 h in
TCM-199 supplemented with 10 % fetal calf serum and 50
mg/ml gentamycin sulfate. Matured
Oocytes were fixed and stained for nuclear evaluation. The
meiotic stages and rate of aneuploidy were determined.
Maturation rate represented by the percentage of oocytes
reaching Telophase I and Metaphase II stages was higher (p
<0.005) in oocytes with cumulus cells than without cumulus
cells. Aneuploidy percentage represented by hypoploids and
hyperploids MII were nearly identical for both types of
oocytes (overall average 4.6 ± 0.8 % for oocytes with
cumulus and 5.6 ± 1.1 % for denuded oocytes). The total
abnormalities represented by aneuploid and diploid MII also
were similar for oocytes with and without cumulus. In
conclusion, the maturation rate was improved by the presence of
cumulus cells, but aneuploidy percentage was not affected.
[Nature and Science 2010;8(9):46-51]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.07
Key
words: Buffalo
oocytes, cumulus cells, meiotic maturation, aneuploidy
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In Vitro Antibacterial Potentials and
Synergistic Effect of South-Western Nigerian Plant Parts Used
in Folklore Remedy for Salmonella typhi infection
1Oluduro Anthonia and 2Omoboye Olumide
1Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Obafemi
Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State,
220005, Nigeria.
2Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, University of Ado-Ekiti,
PMB 5363, Nigeria.
aoluduro@oauife.edu.ng
Abstract: In the present study, antibacterial
potency and synergistic effect of crude aqueous and methanolic
extracts of nine plant parts against multi-drug resistant S.
typhi were investigated and compared. Salmonella typhi isolated from patients suffering from typhoid
fever in University of
Ado-Ekiti Teaching Hospital, Nigeria was tested
against nine plant parts: unripe Carica papaya
fruit, Citrus aurantifoliia, Anana sativus, Citrus
paradisi, Cymbopogon citratus, Cocos nucifera chaffs,
brown leaves of Carica papaya, leaves of Euphorbia
heterophylla and Gossypium spp. The antibacterial
activities of the extracts, individually and in combination
were determined using agar diffusion method and the minimum
inhibitory concentration (MIC) carried out by agar dilution
technique. Both the aqueous and methanol extracts of each plant
material and mixture showed appreciable antimicrobial
activities on S. typhi. Antimicrobial activity increased
with increasing concentration of the extracts.
Synergistic activity of crude aqueous and crude methanolic
extracts of the plant parts, in various combinations of two to
nine against the test organism ranged from 10-33mm zone of
growth inhibition. The antibacterial efficacy of the mixture of
extracts from plant parts increased considerably compared to
the low activities recorded with the extract of individual
plant parts (P>0.05). Methanolic extracts of each plant material
and mixture produced greater antimicrobial activity than the
aqueous extracts at all concentrations. The minimum inhibitory
concentration (MIC) of the individual plant parts ranged
between 0.1 and 1.0mg/ml in aqueous extracts and 0.01 and
0.1mg/ml in methanol extracts while the MICs of the combined
extracts ranged between 0.1 and 0.01mg/ml in aqueous extracts
and 0.01 and 0.0001mg/ml in methanolic extracts. The combined
or synergistic activity of the plant parts compared favorably
with the standard antibiotics of choice for
salmonella-infections therapy, and contained two or more
phytochemicals responsible for their antimicrobial activities.
The plant materials possessed antimicrobial activity with
greater efficacy when used synergistically on the test
organism. There is the need therefore to develop effective
combination of antimicrobial agents in purified form from
higher plants and their parts for clinical trials. [Nature and
Science 2010;8(9):52-59]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.08
Keywords: Antimicrobial activity, aqueous
extract, methanolic extract, Salmonella typhi, typhoid
fever, phytochemicals
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Biocompatibility of Intravenous Nano
Hydroxyapatite in Male Rats
Eman I. Abdel-Gawad1 and Sameh A.
Awwad2
1Radioisotops
Department, Atomic Energy Authority,
Egypt 2Egyptian
Army Forces, Cairo,
Egypt
Abstract:
This study was carried out to evaluate the potential impact of
nano hydroxyapatite (nano-HAp) intravenous injection with
different concentrations on survival rates and the reaction
affecting heart, liver and thyroid functions as well as the
level of circulating nitric oxide. An inorganic-organic
complexion route was selected for the synthesis of nano-HAp
which was characterized by fourier transform infrared, x-ray
diffraction, transmission electron microscope, and analyzed
using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The
synthesized nano HAp was thermally sterilized and prepared with
different concentrations (150, 300, 600, 1200, 1800 and 2400
mg/kg b.w.) to be injected intravenously into different groups
of male rats. Mortality percentage was recorded throughout the
experiment. Blood samples were collected at time intervals of
1/2, 3, 6, 12, 24 and 48 hours after injection. The present
results revealed that intravenous injection of nano- HAp at a
dose of 2400 mg/kg b. w. was determined as lethal dose, where
all the animals in this group died within ten minutes after
injection. On the other hand, the amount of 150 mg/kg b.w. nano-HAp
did not affect on the investigated parameters but the amount of
300 mg/kg b.w. appeared slightly variable changes in CKMB, LDH,
AST and T3 recovered after 24 hours. The animals injected with
600, 1200 1800 mg/kg b.w. appeared significant increase in serum
CKMB, LDH, AST and thyroxin returned to approximate the normal
level after 48 h. This experiment was repeated for two years
under the same environmental conditions as well as the animals
strain and the results were almost the same. [Nature and Science
2010;8(9):60-68]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.09
KeyWords: Nano hydroxyapatite, Intravenous
injection, thyroxin, cardiac enzymes, liver enzyme, NO
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Immobilized-microalga
Scenedesmus sp. for Biological Desalination of Red Sea
Water: I. Effect on growth
metabolites
El-Sayed, A. B; El-Fouly, M.M and Abou
El-Nour, E. A.A.
Fertilization
Technology Department, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
Abstract: The green alga Scenedesmus sp.
was grown hetero-tropically during indoor stage to evaluate
their growth potential under both recommended and drastic
salinity conditions. Recommended growth was performed with the
routine nutritional regime of NPK, while growth under four
different stress regimes was operated. The given ratios of
fresh and saline water were ranged from 0.0 to 100% of sea
water (Red Sea, Ismailia
Governorate) on three sequences batches. Saline media were
supported by N and P under free K conditions to allow the completely
consumption of Na on the expense of K. The evaluated growth
measurements were dry weight and pigments. Growth containers of
10L from rough polyethylene bottles were used for
immobilization purposes. Growth was developed with all
treatments due to the high initial biomass used. Dry weight was
enhanced by the first treatment of 25% sea water and no
chlorophyll decomposition was observed. Increasing of salinity
levels led to chlorophyll decomposition with carotenoids
accumulation. The rate of decomposition was markedly decreased
by the extended batches. Chlorophyll /carotenoids ratio was
decreased by the salinity treatments within the sole batch;
however, it was increased among the three batches. [Nature and
Science 2010;8(9):69-76]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.10
Key words: Red Sea Water; Immobilized;
Desalination
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Antitumor Potential of Total Alkaloid
Extract from Tabebuia rosea (Bertol.) DC. Leaves on MOLT-4 Cells In Vitro
Mani Sathiya1, Krishnaswamy
Muthuchelian1*
1. Department of Bioenergy, School of Energy, Environment and
Natural Resources,
Madurai
Kamaraj University, Madurai
– 625 021, Tamil Nadu, India
Sathiyamarch84@gmail.com,
drchelian1960@yahoo.co.in
Abstract: Currently there is
considerable scientific and commercial interest in the
continuing discovery of new anticancer agents from plants. Here the in vitro antitumor potential
of the total alkaloid extract from Tabebuia rosea (Bertol.)
DC. leaves was evaluated by MTT
(3-(4,5-dimethythiazol-2yl)2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide)
based cytotoxicity test using the human leukemic cells (MOLT-4)
and the genotoxic potential of the extract was also
tested using cytokinesis block in vitro micronucleus
assay. Simultaneously, the cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of
the extract were compared with mitogen stimulated T-lymphocyte
cultures derived from peripheral blood of healthy volunteers.
The MTT test revealed that the extract exhibited comparatively
higher toxicity towards the cancer cells than the normal cells
and the GI50 values at 24, 48 and 72 h exposure were
found to be 46.95, 36.05, and 25.75 µg/ml/1×106
cells against cancer cells. The micronucleus assay showed that
in both cultures the number of micronuclei obtained even at the
highest exposure concentration tested was very low than that of
the positive control mitomycin-C. The results of the present
investigation demonstrate that the alkaloid extract from Tabebuia
rosea leaves is preferentially cytotoxic to human T-cell
leukemia (MOLT-4) cells in a dose and time dependent manner
with the absence of genotoxicity. [Nature and Science
2010;8(9):77-85]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.11
Key words: Tabebuia rosea; total
alkaloid extract; MOLT-4 cells; MTT test; micronucleus assay
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A Convenient Synthesis of Some New
Pyrazolo-Pyrimidine Derivatives with Potential Biological
Activity
Saleh A. Bashwan1, Ahmed A.
Fayed2 and Atef A. Amer* 3
1Parmacology
Department, Faculty of Health Science, Taibah University,
Madina Munowara,
Saudi Arabia, 2National
Research Center, Photochemistry Department, Cairo, Dokki,
Egypt, 3Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science,
Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
*E-mail:amer_1eg@yahoo.com
Abstract: A series of pyrazolopyrimidines and
their derivatives were synthesized using 2-[(N-methyl indolyl)
methyl]-6-hydroxy-pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine as a
starting material. Nineteen new heterocyclic containing a
pyrimidine ring were thus prepared. The biological screening
showed that many of these compounds have good antibacterial and
antifungal activities. The structure assignments of the new
compounds based on chemical and spectroscopic evidence. The
detailed synthesis, spectroscopic data and biological
properties are reported. [Nature and Science 2010;8(9):86-91].
(ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.12
Key words: Imidazole, pyrazole, pyrimidine,
triazole, triazine, antibacterial activity
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EFFECTS OF CALCIUM CARBONATE OF
DIFFERENT COMPOSITIONS AND PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTIONS ON THE
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF FLEXIBLE POLYURETHANE FOAM
Ganiyu K.
Latinwo*1, David S. Aribike2, Layioye
O. Oyekunle2, Akpoveta A. Susu3,,
Semiu A. Kareem4
1. Department of Chemical Engineering, Ladoke
Akintola University of Technology, P.M.B.
4000, Ogbomoso,
Nigeria.
2. Department
of Chemical Engineering, University
of Lagos, Nigeria.
3. Department
of Chemical and Polymer Engineering, Lagos
State University, Epe Campus, Lagos, Nigeria.
4. Department
of Chemical Engineering, Federal
University of
Technology, Yola, Adamawa,
Nigeria.
kayodelatinwo@yahoo.com
Abstract: Effects of calcium carbonate of
different compositions (0 – 40 wt%) and particle size
distributions (0.06, 0.5, 3.5, 10, 20, and 841µm) on the
mechanical properties of flexible polyurethane foam were
investigated in this study. The experiments were conducted in a
foaming plant (ISOBLOCK IB 150/4F-SS) and the mechanical
properties determined such Indentation Force Deflection,
Tensile strength, and Elongation at break were measured with
the aid of a Hampden testing machine. The finely divided filler
material increased the hardness characteristics of the foam to
compositions of up to 35wt%, while coarse filler did not show
any appreciable improvement in the property. For all particle
sizes, the tensile strength and elongation at break decreased
while increasing the load of the filler weight percentages.
However, the tendency with which the coarse filler reduce the
properties is not as much as for the fine fillers. Scanning
Electron Microphotography of the foam samples shows how the
filler affect the foam cellular structure and cell size
distributions. [Nature and Science 2010;8(9):92-101]. (ISSN:
1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.13
Keywords: Flexible polyurethane foam, calcium
carbonate, Indentation Force Deflection, Tensile strength, Elongation-at-break
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Comparative Study of Biodiesels
Produced from Unrefined Vegetable Oils
Ganiyu K. Latinwo1, David
S. Aribike2 and Semiu A. Kareem3
1. Department
of Chemical Engineering, Ladoke
Akintola University of Technology, P.M.B.
4000, Ogbomoso,
Nigeria.
2. Department
of Chemical Engineering, University
of Lagos, Nigeria.
3. Department
of Chemical Engineering, Federal
University of Technology,
Yola, Adamawa,
Nigeria.
kayodelatinwo@yahoo.com
Abstract: Biodiesels were prepared according to
standard methods from unrefined oils of cashew nut and palm
kernel cultivars and compared for differences in physical
properties important for fuel performance. Dynamic viscosity,
kinematic viscosity and density were measured from 100 to 15 oC,
and differences in these physical properties occurred more
frequently at lower temperatures when comparing the different
cultivars. It was observed that their was no meaningful
correlation among the biodiesels fatty acid profiles and either
fuel viscosity or density as opposed to what was obtained for
data of oil feedstocks. The cultivars data were also compared
to biodiesel from soy. Biodiesel produced from cashew nut
cultivar gives the best performance for use in diesel engines.
[Nature and Science 2010;8(9):102-106]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.14
Keywords: Cashew nut; palm kernel; viscosity;
biodiesel
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Therapeutic Effect of BerenilR
in Experimental Murine Trypanosomiasis using Stocks Isolated
from Apparently Healthy Captive - Reared
Grasscutters (Thryonomys swinderianus).
Opara, M.N.
and Fagbemi, B.O. +
Tropical
Animal Health and Production Research Group, Department
of Animal Science and Technology,
Federal University of Technology, P.M.B.
1526, Owerri,
Nigeria
Email:
oparamax@yahoo.com
+
Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Parasitology,
University of Ibadan,
Ibadan Nigeria.
ABSTRACT:
We investigated the
effects of a trypanocide (Berenil R) on Swiss albino
mice infected with Trypanosoma congolense and Trypanosoma
vivax stocks isolated from apparently healthy captive -
reared grasscutters. The two trypanosome organisms elicited
severe parasitaemia and anaemia in the mice after a pre- patent
period of 6 to 10 days and 4 to 7 days for T. congolense
and T. vivax respectively. T. vivax produced a
more severe anaemia than T. congolense. At 10 days post
infection, the red blood cell (RBC) indices, packed cell volume
(PCV) and hemoglobin concentration (Hb) were significantly
(p< 0.01) lower in mice infected with T. vivax than
those infected with T. congolense. Curative
treatment of the infected rodents using 1mg / kg Diminazene
aceturate (Berenil R) given on the 10th
day of infection resulted in complete recovery of the animals
from the parasitaemia and anaemia. It appears that the
grasscutter is trypano- tolerant and this is note- worthy for
possible vaccine development in the future. [Nature and Science
2010;8(9):106-110]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.15
Key
words: Berenil,
Murine, Trypanosomiasis, Apparently, Healthy, Wild,
Grasscutters
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The Effects of Steeping with Chemicals (Trona and Alum)
on the Functional Properties and Proximate Composition of
Asparagus Bean (Vigna
sesquipedalis)
Nwosu Justina Nne
Department of Science of Food and Technology Federal University
of Technology, Owerri, PMB 1526 Owerri Imo State Nigeria
ifytina19972003@yahoo.com
Abstract: Asparagus
bean (Vigna sesquipedalis)
was steeped in alum and trona of different concentrations for
24h and 48h, changing the steep solution at 6h intervals. The
steeped beans were dehulled, dried and milled into flour.
Proximate composition and functional properties of the bean
flour were determined for each sample. The result obtained from
the proximate analysis showed that samples steeped in trona had
an increase in the ash, fibre and carbohydrate contents and a
decrease in the moisture, protein and fat content of the beans
as concentration and time increased. This was also applicable
to samples steeped in alum, but with slight variations. Both
alum and trona effected an increase in wettability and water
absorption capacities of the flour samples and a decrease in
the oil absorption capacities. Opposite effect was observed in
the case of bulk density, swelling index, gelling point temperature,
foam capacity, boiling point temperature, pH and viscosity. The
result from this study are indicative that good manipulation of
the steeping time, steeping solution and steeping solution
concentration can be used to modify the functionality of Asparagus
bean and as such could be used in different food formulations,
like ice cream, sausages. [Nature and Science
2010;8(9):111-120]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.16
Key words: functional properties, steeping,
dehulling.
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A theory of the lifecycle of bacteria
Yuri Heymann
Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de
Lausanne, Laboratoire de Biotechnologie, Environnementale, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.
Present address : 3 rue de
Chandieu, 1202 Geneva – Switzerland
Abstract: The
principal objective of this study was to investigate viability
kinetics in aerobic AS (Activated Sludge). A kinetic
model was developed in order to predict viable cells,
non-degraded dead cells and inert VSS (Volatile Suspended
Solids) in a biological reactor – usually conventional
models only predict active biomass and inert VSS. The following
processes were considered in the derivation of the model: the
death rate of viable cells, and the hydrolysis rate of dead
cells. Equations development led to a decay coefficient (b)
– previously considered constant – function of
death rate, hydrolysis rate and solid retention time. Cell
growth on soluble COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand) resulting from
lysis/hydrolysis has been introduced in the model. Simulation
methods of viability in AS, and OUR (Oxygen Uptake Rate) tests
of AS in batch under starvation were developed in order to
validate the approach, and to estimate model parameters. The
OUR test results have been refined introducing the lysis
process. The results from the herein study indicate that
the proposed models have good explanatory power of experimental
data, and provide strong evidence of regulatory processes
controlling bacterial death and lysis. [Nature and Science
2010;8(9):121-31]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.17
Key words: activated sludge; cryptic growth;
death; hydrolysis; lysis; viability.
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Differential inhibitory effects of medicinal plant
extracts on proline uptake in clinically isolated three Candida spp.
Ch. Tanushree Das 1,
Ritarani Das 2 & R.C. Mohanty 2
1.
P.G.
Department of Applied and Industrial Microbiology, Utkal
University, Vani Vihar, Bhubaneswar- 751004, Orissa, India.
2.
Department
of Botany, Utkal University, Bhubaneswar-
751004, Orissa,
India.
tanushree_das2005@yahoo.co.in,
das.ritarani@yahoo.com, rc_mohanty@sify.com
Abstract: Estimation of
proline, a stress amino acid with help of antifungal plant
extracts. Proline was estimated with Bate’s acid
ninhydrin method. The selected ten test plants like Allium cepa, Aegle marmelos,
Allium sativm, Aloe vera, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Eugenia
caryophyllus, Moringa oleifera, Mentha viridis, Piper nigrum,
Zingiber officinale, were collected for the experiment. Candida species are reported
to germinate in high proline medium and the Candida spp. change from
yeast phase to mycelial phase, the virulence phase. With the
addition of plant extracts to the medium along with maximum
utilizable concentration of proline, growth of all the three Candida spp. was
inhibited .After 48hrs incubation at 37°C , the findings
presented that Allium
sativum strongly inhibited the growth as Candida albicans with
biomass 0.232 ± 0.01 g / 50 mL , Candida parapsilosis with biomass 0.265 ± 0.01 g /
50 mL and Candida
tropicalis with biomass 0.206 ± 0.01 g / 50 mL in
comparision to control ( 2.077 ± 0.08 g / 50 mL in C.albicans, 0.943 ± 0.01
g / 50 mL in C.parapsilosis
and 1.192 ± 0.08 g / 50 mL in C.tropicalis ). On extraction of proline from
respective broth cultures of three Candida spp. it was found that the enzyme
proline-permease which helps in the uptake of proline into the Candidal cell may be
inhibited. So proline cannot be utilized by the Candida spp. Bioactive
compounds from plants in purified form, can replace synthetic
drugs and used efficiently against dreadful diseases.
[Nature and Science 2010;8(9):132-139]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.18
Key words: Candida
spp.; proline uptake; selected plant extracts; inhibitory
effects
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HYDROCHEMISTRY AND PLANKTON DYNAMICS OF EUTROPHIC
TROPICAL LAGOON
1Paul. Chuks. Onuoha, and 2Vyverman, Wim.
1Department of Fisheries and Marine Biology, Federal
College of Fisheries and Marine Technology, Bar-beach Victoria Island,
Lagos Nigeria. E-mail- hydro_vision@yahoo.com
2Protistology and Aquatic Ecology Research Laboratory, University of Ghent, Belgium
Abstract: The
hydrochemistry and plankton dynamics of the Ologe lagoon was
investigated between February, 2002 and January, 2004. Whereas
the lagoon remained freshwater (S%o < 0.5%o) and acidic to
alkaline conditions (pH 5.8-8.1), all through the sampling
period, the dissolved oxygen (DO) and biochemical oxygen demand
(BOD5) values (0-28mg/l) indicated stress. Although
nutrient levels at the lagoon were high (NO3-N
>1.02mg/L; PO4-P < 1.5mg/L), heavy metal values
were low (Fe < 0.99 mg/L, Cu < 0.06 mg/L, Zinc
< 0.03 ). The
occurrence of Melosira
granulata, Nitzschia
palea, Cyclotella meneghiniana, Gomphonema parvulum, Pinnularia
major , P. ambigua (diatoms), Euglena viridis, Lepocinclis sp, Phacus accuminatus
(euglenoids), Microcystis
aeruginosa, M. flos-aquae (cyanobacteria), Brachionus angularis, B.
calicyflous, B. urceolaris (rotifers) in high numbers may
highlight pollution stress in the lagoon. The proliferation of
the cyanophyta and other plankton species encountered were
controlled by the nutrient level. The physico-chemical
characteristics, Margalef, Shannon and Wiener and Equitability indices indicated
pollutions stress and dominance by a few species. [Nature and
Science 2010;8(9):140-149]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.19
Keywords: hydrochemistry;
plankton dynamics; Ologe; physico-chemical characteristics
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Hussein. A. Attia, Zeinab H. Osman, M.
El-Shibini, and Ahmed A. Moftah
Electrical
Power and Machine Dept. Cairo University, Egypt.
ah_mof_1977@hotmail.com
Abstract: High
levels of penetration of distributed generation (DG) are a new challenge for
traditional electric power systems. Power injections from DGs
change network power flows, modifying energy losses and voltage
profile of the system. Proper locations of DGs in power systems
are extremely important in order to obtain maximum potential
benefits. This paper presents a global performance index (GPI)
considering a wide range of technical issues for distribution
networks with distributed generation. Many indices related to
involvement of (DG) units in distribution system can be
considered individually, but a global performance index (GPI)
has to be obtained to give a complete comprehensive concept of
the whole system.
Distributed generations are extensively located and
sized within a test system, where in the global performance
index is computed for each configuration in order to assign the
best locations of the DGs. The encouraging results are
presented and discussed. [Nature and Science
2010;8(9):150-158]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.20
Key Words:
Distributed
Generation (DG), Distribution Networks, Global Performance
Index
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Evaluation and Modelling of the
Dynamics of Filled Flexible Polyurethane Foam
Ganiyu Kayode Latinwo*1,
David Stan Aribike2, Layioye Oyekunle2
and Alfred Akpoveta Susu3
1. Department
of Chemical Engineering, Ladoke Akintola University of
Technology, P.M.B. 4000, Ogbomoso, 210001, Oyo State, Nigeria.
2. Department
of Chemical Engineering, University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos
State, Nigeria.
3. Department
of Chemical and Polymer Engineering, Lagos State University,
Epe Campus, Lagos Nigeria.
kayodelatinwo@yahoo.com
Abstract:
Models for flexible polyurethane
foaming process containing filler have been developed to
predict the dynamics of the foam formation system. Kinetic
parameters of the polymerization and blowing reaction for the
co-generation of carbon dioxide were determined as necessary
precursors for evaluation of the thermal model, assuming the
foam reaction kinetics to be controlled by the rate of
generation of carbon dioxide. The dynamics of the foam process
evaluated in terms of the temperatures predicted agree well
with the measured exotherm of the foam growth process during
initial foam growth, but with reaction at gel point, the predicted
temperatures were higher than experimentally determined.
Mechanical properties of foam and hence its quality have been
related to the dynamics of the foam formation system. High
temperatures that favour formation of the chemical species
– biuret and allophanate promotes foam of improved
quality in hardness. [Nature and Science 2010;8(9):159-167].
(ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.21
Keywords: flexible polyurethane foam,
indentation hardness, temperatures, kinetics, calcium carbonate
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Phytic Acid Ameliorates
Acrylamide-Induced Genotoxicity and Biochemical Disturbance in
Mice
Ayman A. Farghaly1, Mona A. Abo-Zeid1*,
Asmaa S. Salman1, Naglaa E. Mohamed2
1. Genetics
and Cytology Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology
Division, National Research Center, El-Behooth St. 31, Dokki
12622, Cairo, Egypt.
2.
Biological Applications Department, Radioisotopes Applications
Division, Nuclear Research Center, Atomic Energy Authority,
P.O. 13759, Cairo, Egypt.
* monaabozeid@yahoo.com
Abstract: Acrylamide (AA) has sparked renewed
interest in assessing human health hazards in addition to the long-term
risk associated with exposure to vinyl compounds. For this reason, this study aims to
evaluate the chemo- protective efficacy of Phytic Acid (PA) against AA- induced
genotoxicity and biochemical disturbance in mice in vivo.
PA is found in wheat and rice bran, legumes and
virtually every kind of mammalian cell. It plays an important
role in regulating vital cellular functions, including cell
proliferation and differentiation. For genotoxicity, using of
different cytogenetic endpoints such as Micronucleus test (MN)
and chromosome aberrations in somatic and germ cells as well as
sperm abnormalities were evaluated in the tested mice. The
biochemical assays included ALT, AST, AlP, cholesterol,
triglycerides, TBARS, GSH and testosterone. Male
Swiss mice were treated orally with AA and/or PA at doses 10
and/or 30mg/ kg b. wt/ day for 1, 7 and 14 days respectively. The percentages of MNPCE
and chromosome aberrations in somatic and germ cells were
increased significantly with the duration of time after treatment
with AA. Consecutive administration of PA with AA for 1, 7 and
14 days reduced these percentages statistically in high
significance. AA also induced a significant increase in the
percentage of sperm shape abnormalities. This percentage was
reduced with animals administered PA. For the biochemical
analysis, AA induced elevation in ALT, AST, ALP, total cholesterol,
triglycerides and TBARS. Also, significant decrease in GSH
content and testosterone were recorded after 14 days from
treatments with AA. Administration of PA with AA regulated the
biochemical disturbance induced by AA. In conclusion, the
results demonstrate the protective role of PA against the
genotoxicity and biochemical disturbance of AA. [Nature and
Science 2010;8(9):168-177]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.22
Key words: Acrylamide, Phytic acid,
Micronuclei, Chromosome aberrations, Sperm abnormalities,
Oxidative stress, Liver function.
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Microbiological
Characteristics of Ghanaian Traditional Fermented Milk Product,
Nunu
F.
Akabanda1, *, J. Owusu-Kwarteng1, R. L.
K.Glover1, K. Tano-Debrah2
1Department
of Applied Biology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University for
Development Studies, P. O. Box 24, Navrongo Campus, Ghana
2Department
of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Ghana, P. O. Box
LG 134, Legon, Ghana
fakabanda@yahoo.com, jowusukwarteng@yahoo.co.uk
Abstract: Nunu
is a spontaneously fermented yoghurt-like milk product consumed
as a staple food commodity in parts of the Saharan West Africa.
Its production and consumption derives much food security and
economic benefits to the rural people in the region. However,
the process characteristics result in products which are not
appealing to many people, have very short shelf-life and could
have food safety concerns.
In a framework of research to improve the product
quality and increase consumption, a study was conducted to
determine the process characteristics and elucidate the
predominant microflora associate with the production of the
product. A survey was
done on the technology of nunu
production in three major towns of the Upper East region,
during which fermenting nunu
were taken from 15 processors for laboratory analysis. pH, and
titratable acidity were determined, as well as isolation and
identification of the predominant microorganisms. Processing of
nunu in northern
Ghana takes place at ambient conditions in calabashes or
plastic containers, and spontaneously. No pre-fermentation
heating of the milk is done. The duration of fermentation is 24
to 48 hours. Several microorganisms were isolated from the
fermenting samples, including LAB classified as lactobacillus,
Leuconostoc, Lactococcus, Enterococcus, and Streptococcus;
yeasts classified as Saccharomyces
cerevisiae, Saccharomyces pastorianus,
Candida kefyr, Yarrowia lipolytica, Candida stellata, Kluyveromyce maxianus, Zygosaccharomyces bisporus,
Zygosaccharomyces rouxii.
The enterobacteriaceae, which were associated with the early
stages of fermentation but eliminated as fermentation
progressed were identified as Enterobacter, Klebsiella,
Escherichia, Proteus vulgaris, and Shigella. The
fermentation of nunu
is spontaneous. Potential pathogens may be present in the milk
fermented, but are eliminated as the fermentation progresses to
48 hours, increasing the safety of the product. [Nature and
Science 2010;8(9):178-187]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.23
Keywords: Nunu, fermented milk,
spontaneous fermentation, lactic acid bacteria.
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Comparative efficiencies of the
degradation of C.I. Mordant Orange 1 using UV/H2O2,
Fenton, and photo-Fenton processes
A.M. Gamal
Chemistry Department, Faculty of
Science, Al-Azhar University (Girls), Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt.
Abstract: The kinetics of the photo degradation
of C.I. Mordant Orange 1 imparted by UV/H2O2,
Fenton and photo- Fenton process were investigated. Negligible effects
were observed in the presence of either UV light or H2O2
alone. As expected the Fenton-mediated degradation occurred
much faster than the photolytic process. Photo Fenton showed
higher in treatment efficiency than that of Fenton process. The
effects of dye concentrations, H2O2
concentration, pH values and the presence of Fe2+
concentration on the degradation rate constant were also
studied. The rate constant of dye degradation that occurred in
both the phtolytic as well as in the Fenton and photo-Fenton
processes was found to pseudo first-order kinetics. [Nature and
Science 2010;8(9):188-195]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.24
Keywords: C.I. Mordant Orange
1, Degradation, Kinetic, UV/H2O2, Fenton,
photo-Fenton processes.
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Effect of
Seminal Plasma Centrifugation for Viscosity Elimination on
Cryopreservation of Dromedary Camel Semen
El-Bahrawy, K. A.
Animal and Poultry Physiology
Department, Desert Research Center
(DRC), Cairo,
Egypt
bhrawi@yahoo.com
Abstract: Dromedary camel semen is
characterized by bad freezability and low post-thaw motility.
The highly viscous nature of camel semen is one of the major
constrains facing semen packing and freezing process. A primary
experiment was conducted on fresh semen obtained from five
dromedary bulls (n=5) to compare two methods of semen
cryopreservation (pellets vs. 0.5 ml French straws). The
results showed significant (P<0.05) decrease in post thaw
motility of pellets (20.8%) compared to straws (43.3%).
Meanwhile, the sperm survival rates were 68.7 and 33.1%
for both French straws and pellet post cryopreservation
respectively.
Centrifugation of viscous seminal plasma and re-suspension of
sperm rich fraction in a Tris-Lactose extender under two
glycerol levels (3 and 6%) was carried out in end experiment.
High glycerol level (6 %) had a significant deleterious effect
(P<0.05) on semen freezability and showed low post-thaw
motility (19.2%) for the un-centrifuged semen compared to the
centrifuged semen (38.3%). However, no significant effect was
observed using the 3% glycerol level for neither the
un-centrifuged (40.3%) nor the centrifuged (43.3%) raw samples.
The survival rates of the centrifuged samples were 62.2 and
72.2 % compared to the un-centrifuged samples 39.7 and 68.8%,
for both 6 and 3% glycerol levels, respectively. Percentage of
intact acrosome decreased significantly (P<0.05) for the
centrifuged semen samples regardless of glycerol level. In conclusion,
French straws technique is preerable for camel semen
cryopreservation than pellets technique. In addition, using
Tris-Lactose extender of 3% glycerol level after eliminating
seminal plasma viscosity by centrifugation is an efficient
method to overcome constraints of dromedary camel semen
freezability. [Nature and Science 2010;8(9):196-202]. (ISSN:
1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.25
Key Words: Camel; Semen; Cryopreservation;
Straws; Pellets; Glycerol
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Artificial
insemination and ovulation induction in dromedary she-camel
E. E. El-Hassanein1
, K. A. El-Bahrawy2**, A. A. Zagloul2
Animal and
Poultry Production Division, Desert Research Center1,
Maryout Research Station2
bhrawi@yahoo.com
Abstract: Dromedary female camels are known as
induced ovulators, which need different treatments for
induction of ovulation. In this study, 24 adult female
dromedary camels were randomly allocated into four equal
groups. Animals of group (1) were introduced to the male for
natural mating for two subsequent estrous cycles without any
hormonal treatments. The second and third groups of animals
were synchronized for ovulation using GnRH, and then animals of
the second group were mated naturally while those in the third
were artificially inseminated using frozen-thawed semen. In the forth group, estrous females were inseminated
artificially after deposition of camel seminal plasma in the
uterus for induction of ovulation. In the absence of an ultrasound
device in this study, blind artificial insemination depended
mainly on rectal palpation of the ovaries. Pregnancy rate was
used as an indicator for successful induction of ovulation and
fertilization. Raw semen samples (n=30) had 13.45 ± 1.7 ml. volume, 296.3 ± 41.7 X 106/ml. sperm
concentration, 64.16 ± 4.3 mass motility, 23.04 ± 2.3 % progressive forward motility, 96.6 ±0.57% intact acrosomes,
5.08± 0.4 % primary abnormalities and 8.08 ± 1.7 %
secondary abnormalities. Raw semen samples (n=30) were
collected from 6 adult males of 12 years old twice a week,
pooled and processed for cryopreservation in 0.5 French straws,
using Tris-lactose glycerolated extender with concentration of
75 x 106 sperm/ml. Post-thawing progressive motility
of 46.6± 9.2% using slow thawing procedure. The results
indicated that during the breeding season, 6 (100%) animals
conceived by using natural mating during two subsequent estrous
cycles. On the other hand, estrus synchronization and ovulation
induction protocols decreased conception rate to 5(83.3%)
animals conceived when using natural mating and 3 animals
conceived when using cryopreserved semen for insemination. No
pregnancies were achieved after intrauterine deposition of
seminal plasma for induction of ovulation in estrous females by
using cryopreserved semen for insemination. In conclusion: to
achieve high pregnancy rates using artificial insemination in
camels, a good understanding of the mechanism of induced
ovulation and hormonal treatments for ovulation induction must
be employed accompanied by using high quality cryopreserved
semen. [Nature and Science 2010;8(9):203-208]. (ISSN:
1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.26
Key words: artificial insemination/ ovulation/
camel/ semen/ cryopreservation
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Carotenoids Accumulation in the Green
Alga Scenedesmus sp. Incubated with Industrial Citrate
Waste and Different Inductions Stress
El-Sayed, A.B
Fertilization Technology Department,
National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
bokhair@msn.com
Abstract: A laboratory experiment was conducted
in the algae-station of the Fertilization Technology
Department, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt with
the green alga Scenedesmus sp. to study the effect of
citrate waste in the nutrient solution on vegetative growth and
pigments accumulation. The alga was incubated in 2000 ml
culture with 10 ml citric acid waste characterized by high CNPK
contents. After maximum growth rate was achieved induction was
performed (by the day ten) and separate addition of NaCl, FeSO4
and chelated FeSO4 was performed and citrate volume
was raised to be 50ml.l-1. Growth measurements were
dry weight, total chlorophyll and carotenoids. Results showed
that maximum vegetative growth was reached after approximately
10 days of incubation. The maximum growth rate during this
period was 0.29 and 0.26d-1, while average growth
rate was 0.14 and 0.16d-1for dry weight and total
chlorophyll, respectively. Except of cultures received chelated
FeSO4, all other treated cultures (control, metal
FeSO4 and NaCl) resulted in complete degradation of
chlorophyll and carotenoids massive accumulation. The cultures
were completely greenish yellow and yellow colored. Maximum
chlorophyll ratio was found in control cultures which received
citrate only (50ml.l-1), however maximum carotenoids
ratio was detected in the algae supplied with metal FeSO4,
followed by 2% NaCl. [Nature and Science 2010;8(9):209-215].
(ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.27
Key
words: Citrate
wastes; Green algae; Vegetative growth; Caroteno
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Establishment
of an in vitro propagation protocol for Taxodiumdistichum and Taxodium
distichum var. ‘distichum’
1Abou Dahab, A.M., 1Habib, A.M., 2El-Bahr, M.K., and 2Gabr,
A.M.M.
1Department
of Ornamental Plant, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University,
Giza, Egypt.
2Department
of Plant Biotechnology, National Research Center, Cairo, Egypt.
Abstract: This study was carried out in
cooperation between Plant Biotechnology Department, Genetic
Engineering and Biotechnology Division, National Research
Center, Giza, Egypt, and the Ornamental Horticulture
Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, during
the period from 2004 to 2008. The aim of the study is
investigating the factors affecting rooting and
acclimatization, and establishing an effective protocol for
propagation of Taxodium distichum and Taxodium
distichum var. ‘distichum’, using tissue
culture techniques. Nodal explants from young branches were
sterilized by using different concentration of Clorox and
mercuric chloride (MC), and then cultured on different
concentrations of Benzyl adenine (BA) and different types of
media. The recorded data showed that the best results in
sterilization of nodal explants were recorded with using 20%
Clorox for 5 min., followed by 0.2% MC for 5 min. Half strength
B5 medium supplemented with 0.4 mg BA/l gave better
shoot lets multiplication, as compared with half strength MS
medium. The longest shoot lets were recorded with woody plant
medium (WPM) at full salt strength. Half strength WPM medium +
1.0 g activated charcoal (AC)/l + 0.5 mg IBA/l was the best
medium for in vitro rooting percentage and root
number/shoot let. The maximum percentage of acclimatized
plantlets survival (86.5%) was recorded with the mixture of
sand and peat (1:1, v/v). [Nature and Science
2010;8(9):216-227]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.28
Keywords: acclimatization; propagation; Taxodium
distichum; Taxodium distichum; tissue culture
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Study on Fish pathogenic fungi and its periodicity in
Tunga river of Karnataka (South India)
Prasad D and Rajanaika
Department of P.G. Studies and Research
in Applied Botany, School of Biological Science, Kuvempu
University, Jnana Sahyadri, Shankaraghatta-577 451, Shimoga
Dist, Karnataka State, India
prasad.bhujanga@gmail.com, rajump.nayak@gmail.com
Abstract: A riverine ecosystem consists of a wide
range of diversified flora and fauna. The microflora in the
riverine ecosystem is dominated by Algae, Bacteria and fungi.
Fungi in the riverine ecosystem play an important role, they
vitally link the food web primarily as saprophytes and
secondarily as pathogens. Tunga river ecosystem consists a
diversified flora of aquatic phycomycetes, in which majority of
them are Chytrids and Oomycetes. These fungi are zoosporic in
nature and some of them mainly predate on Ichthyofauna and
other riverine fauna. Aquatic phycomycetes are the primitive
fungi and they are at the bottom of evolutionary series and
they have their significance as pathogens, combating them in
the riverine ecosystem has become a mammoth’s task. During monsoon and winter the fisher mans face severe loss in
fish productivity majority of them are due to fungal infections
on fishes and on their eggs. Tunga river traverse a distance of
147 Km in Shimoga where the major fishing points are located in
the right bank of some important Taluks viz., Thirthahalli,
Mandagadde, Gajanur and Shimoga. In monsoon, these fishing
docks face a considerable decline in Fish catch. Hence,
sustainability and economical criteria of fish production in
Tunga river adverse the fisher mans lively hood. In this
scenario a detailed investigation was undertaken to identify
the occurrence, periodicity and disease incidence of the
phycomycetes fungi in the riverine ecosystem. [Nature and
Science 2010;8(9):228-231]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.29
Key words: Aquatic phycomycetes, Fish pathogenic
fungi, oomycetes, Fish mycosis
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Growth and yield response of chick pea
(Cicer arietinum) to seed inoculation with Rhizobium sp.
Giri,
Nishita1 and Joshi, N.C.2*
1.
Forest Ecology and Environment Division, Forest Research
Institute, University, Dehradun, India.
2.
Deptt. of Zoology and Environmental Sciences, Gurukula Kangri
University, Haridwar-249404, India.
Nishi28n@yahoo.com,
ncjoshi83@yahoo.com
Abstract: The
present study was conducted to evaluate effect of seed
inoculation by using Rhizobium sp. as a biofertilizer on
nodule formation and growth of chick-pea plant and to study the
efficiency of seed inoculation for nitrogen fixation. Rhizobium
effect was studied using Cicer arietinum and controlled
condition. Soil analysis was done for all physico-chemical and
microbiological parameters. Rhizobium sp. was isolated
from root nodules of cicer arietinum, sterilized,
prepared serial dilutions, incubated then applied on Cicer
arietinum seeds and also on controlled seeds, pot
experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of bacterized
seeds and controlled seeds. The results obtained from the study
using observation and data reveals that, the bacterized seeds
showed, 14.06% in total length over control, Increase of 10.83%
in total weight over control and an increase of 9.0% on
germination over control in pot experiment. The results indicate
that Rhizobium inoculation is a promising fertilizer
because it is cheap, easy to handle and improves plant growth
and seed quality. [Nature and Science 2010;8(9):232-236].
(ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.30
Keywords: seed
inoculation; bacterized seeds; nitrogen fixation; fertilizer
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Land Capability Classification and growing period for Guila
Abena Watershed in Sassie Tseda Emba District in Eastern
Tigray, Ethiopia
Amir Seid Ahmed1, Fassil
Kebede*, 2 and Mitiku Haile2
1-
World Vision Ethiopia, Atsibi ADP, 2, Department of Land
Resource Management and Environmental Protection, Mekelle
University, Ethiopia
fyimamu@gmail.com
Abstract: Land capability classification
and defining the growing period are important tools to assess
the natural resources for sustainable land management and land
use planning. This study was conducted to identify the land
capability classes and describe the growing period of Guila
Abena watershed, at Sassie Tseda Emba district, in Eastern
Tigray. In this study, 13 land units were identified, with an
area of 269 ha. The LCC study revealed that land units 1, 2, 3,
4, 5, 7, 8, 9 & 10 were categorized in the range of land
classes II to IV with an area of 146 ha (54.3 %).
These land units are mainly used for crop and livestock
production. Land units 5 with an area of 18 ha (6.7 %) was
grouped under IIes class and subclass having limitation
of slightly erosion and surface stoniness. Land units 3, 4, 7,
8, 9 and 10 were found as IIIs good for cultivated crops
and accounts for 28.6 % (77ha). Land units 1 and 2 were
categorized as IVs, with an area of 51 ha. These land
units are best suited for grazing land and the actual farmers
practice go with the result. On the other hand, land units 6,
11, 12 and 13 were rated as class VIIs, with a total
area of 123 ha (45.7 %). Moreover, this study divulged that the
length of growing period in the area is 102 days where the
growing period begins on June 18 and ends on September 28.
Besides, rain ends in the study area around September 5. The
humid period begins and ends on June 29 and August 26,
respectively, which the humid period extends for about 58 days.
Hence the study concludes that 54.3% the study area is suitable
for agricultural purposes. Early maturing varieties are
recommended to grow so that their crop cycle fits in the short
growing period. [Nature and Science 2010;8(9):237-243]. (ISSN:
1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.31
Keywords: Land, capability classification,
growing period
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De novo Shoot Organogenesis from Cultured
Root Explants of Swertia chirata Buch.-Ham.ex Wall: An
Endangered Medicinal Plant.
Manu Pant*, Prabha Bisht*
and Manju P. Gusain**
* Tissue Culture Discipline, Botany Division, Forest
Research Institute, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, 248006, India.
** Zoo.-Biotech Deptt. HNB Garhwal
University, Srinagar Garhwal, Uttarakhand, India.
himaniab@gmail.com
Abstract: In vitro regeneration of plants from root
cultures of Swertia chirata Buch.-Ham. ex Wall was
obtained. Root explants from axenic shoot cultures were used
for shoot induction. Optimal shoot regeneration without any callus
intervention was observed on 1/2 MS (Murashige and
Skoog’s medium, 1962) + 4.44 µM 6, benzylaminopurine
(BAP) +1.07 µM α-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA).Regenerated
shoots were further multiplied on full strength MS medium
supplemented with different concentrations of plant growth
regulators. Maximum shoot multiplication was achieved on MS
medium fortified with 4.44 µM BAP + 2.85 µM indole-3 acetic
acid (IAA) + 271.45 µM adenine sulphate (Ads). Best results of
rooting were observed on 1/2 strength MS medium containing 4.90
µM IBA. Plants with well-developed shoots and roots were
successfully hardened with over 80% survivability. [Nature and
Science 2010;8(9):244-252]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.32
Keywords: Swertia chirata, root culture, de novo organogenesis,
in vitro plant regeneration
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Chemical
Constituent, Inorganic Elements and Properties of Cordyceps
sinensis - a Review
(Cordyceps
sinensis - a Review)
Arvind
Kumar Bhandari*1, J.S. Negi 1,
V.K. Bisht1, C.S. Rana1, M.K. Bharti1
and Narayan Singh2
1Herbal Research and Development Institute,
Mandal-Gopeshwar (Chamoli), Pin-246401,
Uttarakhand
(India)
2National Mission on Medicinal Plant, Mandal-Gopeshwar (Chamoli), Pin-246401,
Uttarakhand (India)
Author for
corresponding: Arvind Kumar Bhandari, Project Scientist, Herbal Research and Development
Institute, Mandal-Gopeshwar (Chamoli), Pin-246401, Uttarakhand
(India)
arvindbhandari2001@yahoo.co.in
ABSTRACT: This review looks in depth at the history and
medicinal value of the Cordyceps species, especially C.
sinensis. In
Uttarakhand Himalayan region Cordyceps genus of Ascomycete fungi is represented by Cordyceps sinensis
(Keera jari). The Latin etymology describes cord as club, ceps
as head, and sinensis as Chinese. Cordyceps sinensis,
known as caterpillar fungus
in English commonly and considered as medicinal mushroom
in oriental medicines, such as Traditional Chinese
Medicines and Traditional Tibetan
medicine. When a Cordyceps fungus attacks a
host, the mycelium invades and
eventually replaces the host tissue, while the elongated
fruiting body (stroma) may be
cylindrical, branched, or of complex shape. The stroma bears
many small, flask-shaped perithecia that contain
the asci. These in turn contain the thread-like ascospores, which usually
break into fragments and are presumably infective. The best known of the cordyceps
family of fungi is Cordyceps sinensis, known in English
commonly as caterpillar fungus as it is known to grow inside
caterpillars and take them over. While cordyceps sinensis may
be the species of cordycepes that is most well known
throughout the world, there are many other species of cordyceps
in which modern science has found valuable medicinal
properties in as well. A few studies
have shown cordyceps feeding to increase the ratio of
adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to inorganic phosphate (Pi) in the
liver. [Nature and Science 2010;8(9):253-256]. (ISSN:
1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.33
Key
words: Cordyceps
sinensis, clavicipitales,
herbal Viagra, caterpillar, fungus
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Immunodiagnostic
Potential of Mucin (MUC2) and Thomsen-Friedenreich(TF) Antigen
in Egyptian Patients with Colorectal Cancer
Ibrahim H. El-Sayed1and
Mahmoud Moawad2
1Molecular
Biology Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology
Research Institute, Minufiya University, Sadat City, Minufiya,
Egypt.
2 Pathology
Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo,
Egypt.
Email: ibrahimelsayed@yahoo.com
Abstract: Colorectal
cancer (CRC) is more common in developed countries and is the
third most common cancer among both men and women. CRC provides
an attractive model of tumour biology with normal mucosa to
adenoma to carcinoma sequence. The TF-antigen
(Thomsen-Friedenreich) can be identified by galactose
oxidase-Schiff’s (GOS) reaction either on tissues or on
rectal mucus samples from patients with CRC. TF antigen is
expressed in the neoplastic mucosa and not expressed in colonic
mucosa of normal subjects. Apomucins play important role in cell
signalling and their specific pattern of expression during the
different steps of tumor progression toward adenocarcinoma
suggests that they play significant roles in tumorigenesis. The
family of secreted mucins including MUC2 is contributing in mucus formation to protect underlying epithelia
against diverse injuries. The current study was investigated
the expression of MUC2 and TF antigen in patients with adenoma
and CRC. MUC2 and TF antigen expressions were detected
immunohistochemically in CRC biopsies using specific monoclonal
antibodies. Moreover, the TF antigen was invesigated using GOS
reaction. The results showed that in normal colonic specimens,
MUC2 expression was detected in 20% , while TF antigen was
completely negative in 100% of samples as dected by GOS
and immunohistochemistry using anti-TF monoclone. Expressions
of MUC2, and TF antigen as detected by GOS and anti-TF
monoclone were positive in 96%, 80%, and 60% respectively in
cases with adenoma. On the other hand, in cases with
adenocarcinoma, the expression of MUC2 was seen in 92% of
cases, while TF antigen was detected in 84% and 60% of cases as
detected by GOS and immunohistochemically respectively. Thus,
it is concluded that the expression of MUC2 and TF antigens are
altered during CRC carcinogenesis. Furthermore, MUC2 and
TF antigens may have a diagnostic and or prognostic potential
in CRC. [Nature and Science
2010;8(9):257-264]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.34
Key Words: CRC, immunohistochemistry, MUC2, TF
antigen, Expression
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Effect
of Volatile and Non-volatile compounds from Trichoderma spp.
against Colletotrichum capsici incitant ofAnthracnose on
Bell
peppers.
AJITH.P.S and LAKSHMIDEVI.N*
DOS In Microbiology, University of Mysore, Mysore, Karnataka
State, India, Pin-570006.
lakshmi_devi64@yahoo.co.in
Abstract:
Volatile
and non-volatile compounds produced from Trichoderma sps.,
Viz., Trichoderma saturnisporum, Trichoderma harzianum,
Trichoderma viride, Trichoderma reesei were studied by
poisoned food technique against Colletotrichum capsici,
fungal pathogen responsible for anthracnose disease in Bell
peppers (Capsicum frutescence). The results showed that
all the selected Trichoderma sps has potential to
inhibit the mycelial growth of C.capsici. The volatile
compounds produced form all the selected Trichoderma
species showed 30 to 67% inhibition of C.capsici, However
non-volatile compounds or culture filtrate from Trichoderma
viride at 3%-4% concentration shows complete mycelial
inhibition of the test fungi. Trichoderma harzianum,
T.saturnisporum and T. reesei also have the ability
to control growth of C.capsici by 21 to 68% at a
concentration of 50% culture filtrate. From the results it is
clear that all the isolates taken were effective in controlling
the pathogen in-vitro.
. [Nature
and Science 2010;8(9):265-269]. (ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.35
Key words: Volatiles, Non-Volatiles, Trichoderma,
Colletotrichum cpasici, Bell peppers, Anthracnose, Fruit
rot
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Effect of
Different Plant Locations and Sowing Dates on
Some Jew's mallow Ecotypes (Corchorus olitorius L.)
Sameh. A. M. Abd- Allah , Amal Z. Hegazi and Mohammed
H. Tolba
Horticulture Research Institute, Agriculture Research
Center, Giza, Egypt.
samehabdullah81@yahoo.com;
amalhegazi2000@yahoo.com
Abstract: The present study was carried out
during the two successive summer seasons of 2008 and 2009 at
three locations in Egypt,
i.e.; a) farm of Sabahia, Alexandria
governorate, Horticultural Research Station; b) farm of Kaha,
Kalyiobia governorate, Horticulture Research Station; and c)
farm of Baramoun, Mansoura, Dakahlya governorate, Horticultural
Research Station. Sowing was done on three different dates, i.e., a) mid
of April, b) mid of May, and c) mid of June. The genetic
materials used in this study included six ecotypes of jew's
mallow, which were collected from different regions of Egypt
in addition to Eskandarany cultivar. This work was designed to study plant
response to different sowing dates in different locations to
detect the proper one that achieve maximum yield of seed and
fresh foliage of the seven Jew’s mallow genotypes. It was
found that sowing Eskandarany cultivar in Kaha and Mansoura on
mid of May gave the highest total fresh leafy yield. Meanwhile,
the best seed yield of Eskandarany cultivar was obtained by
sowing in Mansoura on mid of May or mid of June and in Alexandria
on mid of April. Sowing balady el-esma'aellyia ecotype
in Alexandria
on mid of June gave the
highest fresh leafy yield and seed yield. However, the highest
fresh leafy yield of balady bani sweef ecotype was obtained by sowing in
Mansoura district on mid
of May. But the best seed yield was obtained by sowing in Alexandria
on mid of May or mid of June. Sowing balady Sohag ecotype in Kalyiobia
on mid of May or mid of June and in Mansoura on mid of May gave
the highest total fresh
leafy yield. However, the maximum seed yield was
obtained by sowing in Alexandria
on mid of April or mid of May and in Mansoura on any sowing
date. The maximum total
fresh leafy yield for siwi and balady sharkeia ecotypes was obtained by sowing in Alexandria
on mid of June. The best seed yield values were obtained by
sowing both ecotypes in Alexandria
and Kalyiobia on any sowing date. Finally, the highest total
fresh leafy yield and seed yield of minia ecotype were obtained by sowing in Mansoura
on mid of May and mid of April, respectively. [Nature and Science 2010;8 (9):270-283].
(ISSN: 1545-0740).
doi:10.7537/marsnsj080910.36
Key words: Jew's mallow (Molokhia) cultivars,
sowing date, different location
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