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CONTENTS YEAR 2010
Where Do We Come From? What Are We? Where Are We Going?*: Ethics in an Era of Human-influenced Rapid Climate Change
John Cairns, Jr. Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, USA
This manuscript is dedicated to Professor A. L. Bhatia, a valued colleague who has rejoined the universe Abstract : In early 2009, humankind was afflicted with a global financial meltdown that, in the United States, has resulted in loss of employment for persons who had thought their jobs were secure. Many individuals who have already retired or are approaching retirement found that a plunging stock market had made a secure retirement plan much less secure. A number of corporations and other institutions had such poor management that the US government had to provide “bailout funds,” which have helped corporations and institutions avoid bankruptcy. Some failing financial institutions that received “bailout funds” because they were “too big to allow them to fail” (since failure would disrupt the global economic system) gave huge bonuses to their top officers, which angered US taxpayers and politicians. However, no moral outrage was voiced when “toxic paper” mortgages were given to citizens who could not afford the house they were buying. Nor was the ethical outrage widespread when anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions continued rapid increases, endangering both present and future generations. How did humankind get in these unenviable situations? Would a better grounding in ethics have prevented these and other tragic situations? Key words : Ethics, Global financial meltdown, Global climate change, Rapid ecological change, Evolution, Economic growth, Vested interests, Ethical dilemmas, Pandemic disease.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Radical Scavenging Activity, Phenol and Flavonoid Content of Selected Traditionally used Indian Medicinal Plants
S.J. Sudharshan1, N.C. Valleesha1, A. Chinmaya1, T.R. Prashith Kekuda2*, Syed Murthuza3, A.N. Rajeshwara1 1 P.G Department of Studies and Research in Biochemistry, School of Chemical Sciences, Jnana Sahyadri, Shankaraghatta-577451 (Karnataka); India 2 Department of Microbiology, S.R.N.M.N College of Applied Sciences, Balraj Urs Road, Shivamogga-577201 (Karnataka); India 3 P.G Department of Studies and Research in Biochemistry, Shivagangothri, Tholahunase, Davangere (Karnataka); India
Abstract : Free radicals contribute to more than one hundred disorders in humans. In the present study, the methanol extracts of three traditionally used medicinal plants Nardostachys jatamansi DC, Coscinium fenestratum Colebr and Drypetes roxburghii Wall were evaluated for antioxidant activity (DPPH free radical scavenging assay), total phenol (Folin Ciocalteu reagent method) and flavonoid content (Aluminium chloride colorimetric method). High phenol content was detected in D. roxburghii (213.33mg/g) followed by C. fenestratum (54.60mg/g) and N. jatamansi (53.33mg/g). Flavonoid content, expressed in terms of quercetin equivalent, was found to be high in case of N. jatamansi (31.25mg/g) which was followed by D. roxburghii (23.12mg/g) and C. fenestratum (20.00mg/g). Among the extracts, N. jatamansi exhibited high free radical scavenging activity (0.5mg- 86.70%; 1mg- 90.15%) followed by D. roxburghii (0.5mg- 73%; 1mg-88.19%) and C. fenestratum (0.5mg- 64.00%; 1mg- 83.01%). According to our study, the presence of phytoconstituents such as flavonoids and phenols in the methanol extracts of the plants may be responsible for the high radical scavenging activity. The plants selected for the study have demonstrated marked antioxidant activity. These plants may be used to prevent damage caused by free radicals. Key words : Nardostachys jatamansi DC, Coscinium fenestratum Colebr, Drypetes roxburghii Wall, Antioxidant activity, DPPH, Flavonoids
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Life Boat Ethics Revisited: What Should Be the Reaction to the Maldives Crisis?
John Cairns, Jr. Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, USA
Abstract : The climate change crisis and exponential population growth have now reached a point where thinking about the unthinkable cannot be postponed. Over 30 years ago, Garrett Hardin used a lifeboat metaphor to describe the consequences of unlimited growth on a finite planet. He proposed the situation of a lifeboat in the ocean with 50 people aboard and room for only 10 more. The lifeboat is surrounded by 100 swimmers. Hardin discussed the ethics of whether and under what circumstances swimmers in distress should be taken aboard. The Maldives crisis is a current case illustrating Hardin’s metaphor. The President of the Maldives has declared his search for a new homeland for Maldivians somewhere else in the world because their homeland is in peril from rising ocean levels and increased ferocity of storm surges. The small island nation of Tuvalu, with a population of less than 12,000 people, is already being evacuated for the same reasons. The Maldives, however, has a population of 396,334 (July 2009 estimate), so relocation is a much greater problem than for Tuvalu. Which nations should accept such ecorefugees and under what circumstances? Ocean levels are rising because the anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions of the entire world have caused the problem, but the United States and China are responsible for approximately half the anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. What is the United States and China’s ethical responsibility? What, if any, is the obligation of the host, receiving country? What should be done about people who refuse to leave their homeland? Key words : Lifeboat ethics, Maldives, Garrett Hardin, Rising oceans, Storm surges, Ecorefugees.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - In Vitro Comparative Antifungal Study of Turmeric Oil with Allopathic Drugs on Pityriasis Versicolor Disease
Meenakshi Sharma and Richa Sharma* Laboratory of Mycology and Microbiology, Department of Botany, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302004
Abstract : The present study aimed to evaluate the potential inhibitory effect of Curcuma longa (turmeric) oil on lipophilic, yeast like fungus Malassezia furfur which causes Pityriasis versicolor disease, a common superficial fungal skin disease. The antifungal activity of turmeric oil was screened by using disc diffusion method and microdilution method. Results indicated that, in screening of turmeric oil by disc diffusion method, the diameter of inhibition zone was found to be 55 mm which was greater than the inhibiton zone of reference antibiotics i.e streptomycin and gentamycin of 17 mm and 16.5 mm, respectively. By using microdilution method, the Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of turmeric oil was found to be 0.1µl/ml against Malassezia furfur. These findings provide promising information for the potential use of Curcuma longa (turmeric) oil as a traditional herbal medicine for the treatment of Pityriasis versicolor disease. Key words : Skin disease, Superficial, Malassezia furfur, Curcuma longa
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulphonate Behavior in Vertisols in Relation to Detergent Pollution
Javeed Ahmad Lone* and Ajay Indian Institute of Soil Science (IISS) Bhopal (M.P); India (ICAR)
Abstract : Eight (8) detergent powder’s purchased in Indian markets were tested for Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulphonate concentrations. An experiment was setup for analyzing the Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulphonate in short term LAS treated vertisols in pots and it was found that after 30 days period greater than 90% of LAS was removed. The Biodegradability of anionic surfactant LAS was determined in soil samples collected from (1) Detergent treated plots (Having plantation of lady finger and soybean) (2) and also in long term sewage treated plots at two depths i.e. 0-15 cm and 15-30 cm. The rates of biodegradation were determined by Methylene-Blue active substance method. Key words : Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulphonate, Vertisols, Biodegradation, Sewage, Detergent, Methylene Blue-Active substance method
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Global Crisis Collaboration: The Key to the Survival of Civilization in the 21st Century
John Cairns, Jr. Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, USA
Abstract : In the 21st century, civilization is threatened by multiple, interactive crises, any one of which could, in a worst case scenario, cause a huge reduction of population size and even human extinction. In short, both the planet and human society, including its economic system, are changing rapidly because tipping points have been passed and return to predisturbance condition is improbable. The primary areas in which humankind must adapt or take immediate remedial action include: (1) global climate change, (2) acidification of oceans, (3) overpopulation, (4) ecological overshoot, (5) damage to the biospheric life support system. Since risks and security are intimately connected, humankind must be very concerned. Improvising policies to resolve all these crises is essential since natural selection does not offer the option of coping with one crisis at a time. Economic globalization of a human population of nearly 7 billion has exacerbated problems that can only be resolved by global collaboration. Failure to do so successfully might well end in a population crash that would return Homo sapiens to its original state of small tribal groups spread thinly over the planet. Even if this catastrophe occurs, the small groups will have to adapt to conditions quite different from those that characterized the period of exponential population growth. Key words : Interactive crises, Global collaboration, Improvising adaptation to climate change, Return to tribes, Biosphere, Ecological overshoot, Tipping Points, Population Crash
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Plant Regeneration from Immature Zygotic Embryos of Two Drought Tolerant Wild Germplasm of Indian Gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica Gaertn.) and Medium Term In vitro Conservation
S. Mercy, N. Sangeetha, M. Kavitha, R. Soranam and D. Ganesh* Division of Plant Genetic Improvement, Department of Biotechnology, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Alwarkurichi-627 412, Tirunelveli District (Tamilnadu); India.
Abstract : Two drought tolerant germplasm of Indian gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica) with high yielding potential and with higher vitamin content were identified in the Southern Western Ghats of India. Retrieval of these germplasm by conventional method was found to extremely difficult due to high percent of defective seeds besides their poor ability of rooting in vegetative propagation. Restoration of these germplasm by rescuing zygotic embryos at premature stage followed by in vitro culture on MS medium fortified with different concentrations of ABA resulted in effective induction of embryo dormancy and efficient plant regeneration. Of the various concentrations of ABA (0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 2.5 and 5 mg/l) tested, ABA at 1mg/1 was found to be the optimum concentration for effective induction of dormancy as evidenced by complete inhibition of embryo germination. Zygotic embryos cultured in lower concentrations of ABA (0.1, 0.25 and 0.5 mg/l) show varying responses of germination, whereas, increase in levels of ABA (2.5 and 5.0mg/l) adversely affected the embryos as evidenced by browning leading death of embryos during preservation. Embryos cultured in presence of ABA (1 mg/l) could be preserved under room temperature for two years without subculture. Retrieval of plantlets by germinating the preserved embryos on half strength MS medium fortified with different concentrations of Kn (0, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0 mg/l) resulted in optimizing the germination protocol of zygotic embryos. Regenerated plants could be successfully planted in the field with 95% survival after two years of conservation. The importance of this finding in conservation of several other wild germplasm of Indian gooseberry and its possible utility in genetic improvement is discussed. Key words : Germplasm, Phyllanthus emblica, Abscissic acid, Genetic improvement, In vitro conservation.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Organogenesis from Leaf and Internode Explants of Gardenia gummifera Linn.f. – An Endangered Medicinal Plant
Firdoous. A. Mir*, A.S. Yadav1, A. Bajaj, Ajit. K. Sharma, A. Rai, S.A. Lone and D.K. Raghuwanshi Molecular and Seed Technology Laboratory, Government Motilal Vigyan Mahavidyalaya, Bhopal (M.P.); India. 1 Department of Biotechnology, Louisiana State University, USA.
Abstract : Gardenia gummifera Linn.f. belongs to family Rubiaceae is an important endangerd medicinal plant and it’s exudates is used in the form of paste and powder to treat lack of taste, wound, indigestion, constipation, abdominal distention, colic pain, round worm, cough, respiratory diseases, fever and skin diseases. A very high rate of multiple shoots of G.gummifera was obtained from leaf and internode explants via shoot organogenesis. In the present investigation, it was found that the concentrations of plant growth regulators and explant types exhibited discrete roles in the efficacy of shoot induction. In addition to this, BAP was the most effective cytokinin for the induction of shoots and synergy between BAP and auxins exhibited a positive effect in the induction of shoots in G.gummifera. Murashige and Skoog (MS) basal medium with 1mgl-1 BAP and 0.5mgl-1 IBA yielded the highest number of shoots from leaf and internode explants (74.0 and 92.3 shoots, respectively). Leaf and internode explants cultured on MS medium supplemented with 2,4-D and BAP developed shoots and calli. Calli subcultured onto medium supplemented with 1mgl-1 BAP and 0.5 mgl-1 IBA developed a mean of 40.1 shoots within 25 days. Excision and culture of internode and leaf explants from the established cultures on MS basal medium significantly enhanced the number of shoots and yielded a mean of 35.4 and 33.3 shoots respectively, within 25 days. Key words : Gardenia gummifera Linn.f., Internode explant, Organogenesis, Dekamali, Endangered
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A Comparative Study of Anopheles gambiae Male Mosquito's Response to Frequency Modulated [Fm] and Pulse Modulated [Pm] Waves at Different Acoustic Frequencies and Distances
O.M. Maweu*1, A.L. Deng2 and L.M. Muia1 1 Physics Department, Egerton University, P.O.Box 536, Egerton, Kenya. 2 Zoology Department, Egerton University, P.O.Box 536, Egerton, Kenya.
Abstract : The efficiency of an electronic device meant to disrupt acoustic communication between male and female Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes was tested by recording approaches of the males towards the device as a function of distance and frequency. Different bioassays were conducted with broadcasts from the device and taped mimics of the female species wing beats at different distances and frequencies. A large number of the males, 85% remained near the broadcast speaker for a significantly longer period when the broadcast sounds of the device were at 380 Hz than at any other frequency range. The taped mimic sounds of the female mosquitoes in flight elicited a maximum response rate of 75%. A test involving a choice between the device and taped sound mimics by male mosquitoes revealed that a high number (75%) of them flew towards the device while 10% were attracted by the taped sounds whereas 15% were undecided and made oscillatory motion between the two sources. Additional bioassays conducted to examine the effect of the device on non-flying males showed that almost 75% were disturbed and approached the speaker within a distance of 0.5 m, which confirmed a radiative near-field communication for these insects. Key words : Pulse Width Modulator (PWM), Bioassay, Broadcasting transmitter, Anopheles gambiae, Acoustic communication.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Effective Role of Eosinophil in Hymenolepiasis: Hymenolepis diminuta
S. Gaherwal and M. M. Prakash* Department of Biotecnology, Govt. Holkar Science College, Indore (M.P.); India.
Abstract : The present study deals with the eosinophil cell count in the blood of infected and vaccinated mice with Hymenolepis diminuta. The results obtainted indicate that the eosinophils have significant role in the immune system of host. The eosinophil action showed early host defense mechanisms against helminth, which showed its effective role in hymanolepiasis. Key words : Eosinophils, Helminth, Immunity, Immune system, and H. diminuta.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Prevalence of Keratinophilic Fungi in Semi-arid Region, with Particular Reference to Soil pH.
Anima Sharma*, Subhash Chandra1 and Meenakshi Sharma2 * Department of Biotechnology, Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Applied Sciences, JECRC Campus, Sitapura, Tonk Road, Jaipur (Raj.); India. 1 Department of Biotechnology, Jayoti Vidyapeeth Women's University, Ajmer Road, Jaipur (Raj.); India. 2 Mycology and Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302004 (Raj.); India.
Abstract : The enzymatic ability of fungi to decompose keratin has long been interpreted as a key innovation. The biological function of keratinophilic fungi in the soil is to degrade keratinized material such as hides, claws and horns of dead animals. In the present investigation prevalence and distribution of keratinophilic fungi in semi-arid region was studied. Some of the soil samples yielded a single species and other samples yielded a mixture of species of keratinophilic fungi. The mixture of population contained Microsporum canis, Microsporum gypseum, Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Epidermophyton floccosum, Chrysosporium tropicum, Chrysosporium keratinophilum, Aspergillus fumigatus, Fusarium oxysporum, Fusarium moniliforme, Histoplasma capsulatum and Torula species. The industrial soil samples were most diverse in fungal flora. Key words : Keratinophilic fungi, pH, Soil sample, Hides, Claws, Horns.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Phenotypic and Genotypic Characterization for Lactic Acid Bacteria Isolated from Traditional Cheese in Egypt
M.M. Muharram*, R.A. Bayoumi and E.A. Makky Botany and Microbiology Department, Al-Azhar University, Faculty of Science (Boys), Nasr city, Cairo, Egypt. P.N. 11884.
Abstract : Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are found in many nutrient rich environments and occur naturally in various food products, such as dairy, meat products and vegetables. About fifteen LAB isolates obtained from five different traditional cheese samples in Egypt, phenotypically and genotypically were characterized. Genotypic characterization was made by random amplified polymorphic DNA-polymerase chain reaction (RAPD-PCR) and cell wall proteins analyses. For phenotypic and genotypic characterizations, LAB isolates were divided into five clusters (A–E). Cluster (A) contained two Lactobacillus plantarum starins andone Lactobacillus curvatus strain. Cluster (B) contained three Leuconostoc mesenteroides straines. Cluster (C) contained two Pediococcus acidilactici strains and one Pediococcus pentosaceus strain while cluster (D) contained three Lactococcus lactis strains. Cluster (E) contained three Microccus lactis strains. RAPD-PCR and cell wall proteins proved to be helpful analyses in discrimination between LAB strains. Key words : Phenotypic characterization, Genotypic characterization, Lactic Acid Bacteria, RAPD-PCR, Cheese.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - An Improved Protocol for Rapid, Efficient and High Frequency Regeneration of Glycyrrhiza glabra L.
Ajit K. Sharma, A.S. Yadav*, D. K. Raghuwanshi, Firdoous. A. Mir, S.A. Lone and Atul K. Rai Molecular Biology and Seed Technology Laboratory, Govt Motilal Vigyan Mahavidyalaya (MVM) Bhopal - 462008 M.P.)
Abstract : This paper presents procedures for rapid, efficient and high frequency regeneration of a Glycyrrhiza glabra L. using young leaf and shoot tips explants via callus mediated shoot regeneration. This was achieved on MS medium fortified with BAP and NAA within four weeks of inoculation. Normally, shoot tip explants gave rise to 3-4 shoots with organogenic callus, while leaf explant was found to be highly amenable to in vitro callus culture. A high yield of shoots (18 and 24 shoots per explant) was achieved by sub culturing the in vitro raised shoots tip and leaf segment on the medium supplemented with BAP (5.0 mgl-1) and NAA (1.25 mgl-1). This medium proved to be more effective for callus mediated shoot regeneration. On an average, within a period of three subcultures, both, leaf and shoot tips explants generated 210, 84 shoots, respectively. Elongation of shoots and subsequent root induction were achieved on MS (half basal) medium supplemented with NAA (1.0 mgl-1) or 2.0 mgl-1 IAA. Rooted plantlets were transplanted in potting mixture under controlled polyhouse conditions for hardening and acclimatization followed by their successful establishment in the field. Key words : Glycyrrhiza glabra, Mulethi, Liquorice, Tissue Culture, Micropropagation
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Effect of Cassia occidentalis in Various Aspects of Asthma - An In vitro and In vivo Study
Gautam P.Vadnere*1 and Abhay Kumar Singhai2 1 Smt.S.S.Patil College of Pharmacy, Chopda-425 127 (MS); India. 2 Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dr. Hari Singh Gour Vishwavidyalaya, Sagar-470003 (MP); India.
Abstract : Petroleum ether (60-80oC), ethanol (95%) and aqueous extract of Cassia occidentalis Linn. leaves was screened in-vitro and in-vivo animal models to ascertain their role in various aspects of asthma. Ethanol extract in comparison to petroleum ether and aqueous shown significant inhibitory effect (P<0.05) on histamine (H1) receptors of isolated goat tracheal chain preparation. Pretreatment with ethanol extract at a maximum dose of 100 mg/kg, i.p. significantly (p< 0.05) reduced milk induced eosinophilia as well the leukocytosis (54.35% and 77.57%, respectively) as compared to control group in mice (n=5). Mast cells were also protected against degranulation at all doses administered with ethanol extract as compared to standard drug DSCG (disodium cromoglycate). Control of vascular permeability in mice was evident from its effect on optical density of the dye by ethanol extract. Thus, the result obtained signifies the utility of this herb in some aspects of asthma and related afflictions and thus validate its traditional claim in allergic asthma. Key words : Cassia occidentalis, Capillary permeability, Eosinophilia, Histamine, Mast cell
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Spider (Order: Araneae) Fauna of grain fields in the northern part of Iran
Sahra Ghavami Iranian Research Institute of Plant Protection, Insect Toxonomy Research Department, Araneology Research Laboratory, Tehran (Iran)
Abstract : The present study was carried out to identify the spider as fauna of grains fields in Guilan, Mazandaran and Golestan provinces, during 2005-2006. Specimens were collected from wheat, barley, soybean and corn bushes by aspirator, pans, pitfall trap, bottle and shaking and were taken to the laboratory after labeling. A total of 151 specimens were classified in 30 species and 35 genera belonging to15 families. Key words : Iran, Grains fields, Predator, Fauna, Spiders.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Investigation Density of Population of Spiders in the Rice Fields in the Northern Part of Iran
Sahra Ghavami Iranian Research Institute of Plant Protection, Insect Toxonomy Research Department, Araneology Research Laboratory, Tehran (Iran)
Abstract : A survey of spiders associated with consideration the spider’s fauna and abundance in the rice fields situated in the northern part of Iran (Guilan, Mazandaran and Golestan provinces) during 2005-2006. Specimens were collected from rice fields in the cropping season by shaking bushes, pans, bottle and aspirator and were taken to the laboratory after labeling. A total of 287 individuals belonging to 27 species, 33 genera and 14 families were recorded during the study period. Among them 2 families, 3 genera and 1 spider species were new for Iranian spider fauna. Tetragnathidae and Araneidae were dominant families and Tetragnatha extensa (Linnaeus, 1785) (Family Tetragnathidae) and Neoscona adianta (Walckenaer, 1802) (Family Araneidae) were the most abundant species. Orb weavers were dominant at all study sites. Specimens were immature in the spring and they were adult in the summer. Key words : Iran, rice fields, predator, abundance, fauna, spiders.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Antifungal Activity of Origanum majorana L. against Some Deteuromycetes Fungi
Naveen Sharma and Kanika Sharma Microbial Research Laboratory, Department of Botany, MLS University, Udaipur-313001 (Rajasthan), India
Abstract : Leaves and inflorescence extracts of Origanum majorana L a medicinal herb of Labiatae were screened for antifungal activity against some deteuromycetes fungi viz. Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium solani, Fusarium moniliformae, Helminthosporium halodes, Drechslera graminea, Alterneria solani, Curvularia lunata. Crude and hot extracts of both plant parts were prepared in different organic solvent, which were subsequently recycled by vacuum evaporator. Antifungal activity of different fractions was determined by agar well diffusion method. Maximum percent extractive value was observed with alcoholic extract of inflorescence and methanolic extract of leaves. Maximum inhibitory effect of both extract was observed against Rhizoctonia solani. Results suggests that Origanum majorana L. leaves and inflorescence extract can be used to develop a biocontrol agent against Rhizoctonia solani. Keywords: Medicinal herb, Fungi imperfectii, Agar well diffusion, Phytochemical study, Antifungal activity
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Cadmium Induced Alterations in Chlorophyll a Fluorescence Kinetics and Organization of Thylakoid Membranes of Wheat Primary Leaves
MD. Azeem ul Hasan1, A. Phaninatha Sarma2 and S.D.S. Murthy*2 1 Department of Biochemistry, Chaitanya Post Graduate College, Warangal-506002 (A.P.); India. 2 Department of Biochemistry, S.V.University, Tirupati-517502 (A.P.); India.
Abstract : Exposure of wheat plants to the CdCl2 caused alterations. Specifically in the photosystem II photochemistry. Cd at the level of 0.2 mM caused the increase in F0 and decrease in the Fv. The increase in the F0 indicates the alterations in the light harvesting complex of photosystem II and decrease in Fv shows the decreased electron transport activity of photosystem II. SDS-PAGE polypeptide profile clearly demonstrates the loss of 24 kDa polypeptide, changes in D1 protein and disappearance of 41 kDa polypeptide, which is intimately associated with photosystem II in the wheat primary leaves under Cd stress. Key words : Cd stress, Chlorophyll fluorescence, SDS-PAGE, Wheat plants.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Performance Analysis of a Single-Cylinder Four-Stroke Diesel Engine Operating with Diesel Blended with Jatropha Biodiesel
Sunil Kumar1, Alok Chaube1 and Shashi Kumar Jain*2 1. Reader (Mech.), R. G. P. V. Bhopal (India) 2. Research Scholar, R.G.P.V. Bhopal (India)
Abstract: Nowadays various vegetable oils both edible as well as non-edible are being used as promising alternative to diesel. Jatropha is a serious contender for mass scale biodiesel production in India on account of its non-edible nature and ease in cultivation on different terrains in India. Important parameters like: lesser environmental pollution, satisfactory performance of vehicle running on biodiesel blended with diesel also substantiates the claim of Jatropha biodiesel. The aim of this paper is to analyse suitability of biodiesel blended with diesel in varying proportions to be used in engines. For this purpose, a stationary single-cylinder four-stroke diesel engine was tested with different blends of diesel with Jatropha biodiesel. The results showed that mechanical efficiency of 5% and 10% biodiesel blended with diesel was comparable. Moreover, mechanical efficiency of 20% biodiesel blended with diesel and 100% biodiesel were found to be almost similar. Specific fuel consumption (sfc) of biodiesel blended diesel as well as for 100% biodiesel was found to be higher than that of diesel. Data related to volumetric efficiency showed almost no variation for all the blends of Jatropha biodiesel blended with diesel. Keywords: Jatropha, Biodiesel, Single-cylinder, Diesel engine, Mechanical efficiency
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - The Effect of Combination of Rosiglitazone, Metformin and Glimepiride on the Nuclear Defects in Normal and NA-STZ Diabetic Rats
Syed Imam Rabbani1, Kshama Devi1* and Salma Khanam2 Department of Pharmacognosy Al-Ameen College of Pharmacy, Opp. Lalbagh Main Gate, Hosur Road, Bangalore-560027 (Karnataka); India.
Abstract : Inadequate glycemic control is the leading cause for oxidative stress intervened diabetic complications. Combination of rosiglitazone (Rosi – 0.2 mg/kg) + metformin (Met – 50 mg/kg) + glimepiride (Gmp – 0.2 mg/kg) for 4 weeks orally was tested against the nicotinamide (NA – 230 mg/kg, ip)-streptozotocin (STZ – 65 mg/kg, ip) mediated micronuclei (MN) formation in erythrocytes and sperm abnormalities in Wistar rats. The oxidative stress was evaluated by measuring the serum lipid peroxidation (LPO), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx). The combination drugs significantly (P<0.05) reduced the MN frequency and protected the sperm abnormalities in diabetic animals. Further, the combination improved the antioxidant status in the diabetics. The findings suggest that the combination of Rosi+Met+Gmp possess antidiabetic property due to the antioxidant potential. Key words : Triple drug combination, Micronuclei, Sperm abnormality, Antioxidant.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Food Consumption, Food Preference and Effect of Additives on the Acceptability of Bait in Rattus rattus
Kavita Sahni, ChandraPrabha and Ruchika Yadav Department of Zoology, Vedic Kanya P.G. Mahavidyalaya, Raja Park, Jaipur - 302004 (Raj.); India.
Abstract : Food preference and food consumption test was carried out in Rattus rattus by offering four cereals, bajra (Pennisetum typhoides), wheat (Triticum aestivum), maize (Zea mays) and rice (Oryza sativa) in the form of flour, whole grains and broken grains. Among flours bajra was most preferred with a mean daily consumption (MDC) of 15.91 gms/rat/100g.b.wt. Among whole grains wheat was preferred to the bajra, rice and maize. The mean daily consumption (MDC) of wheat grain was 17.9gms/rat/100 g. b.wt. In broken grains again the order of preference was wheat followed by bajra, rice and maize. Mean daily consumption of wheat (broken grain) was 9.09 gms/rat/100 g.b.wt. Influence of additives on the amount of food consumed was also noted. Among additives MDC of sugar mixed with most preferred (bajra) flour was increased to that of individually tested food items. Further, their consumption decreased when oil and essence was added to bajra flour. This study was carried out to find out a simple and effective bait base to control rats. Key words : Bajra, Wheat, Maize, Rice
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Methionine and Glutathione Induced Inhibition of Heavy Metal Accumulation in the Liver of Albino Rats
Ajay Kumar1, Alok Kumar2 and Purnima Sharma2 1 P.G. Department of Zoology, Chinmaya College of Sciences, Haridwar-249403 (U.K.); India. 2 Department of Chemistry, Chinmaya College of Sciences, Haridwar-249403 (U.K.); India.
Abstract : In the present study, the effects of methionine and glutathione on heavy metal accumulation has been determined in the liver of albino rats, Rattus rattus albino, fed on metals viz. Copper (Cu), Manganese (Mn), Molybdenum (Mo), Chromium (Cr), Cadmium (Cd) and Zinc (Zn). Significant deposition of metal content in hepatic tissue caused by oral administration of individual metal. Supplementation of methionine to the diet of rats, significantly inhibited the accumulation of Cu, Mn and Zinc only. However an insignificant decline in Mo, Cr and Cd deposition was also observed after supplementation of methionine in respective metal fed rats. Whereas, rats fed on metal in addition to glutathione showed a significant inhibition in metal accumulation except Zn which was inhibited insignificantly. Present results confirm that glutathione is more effective than methionine in declining the accumulation of metals in the liver. Key words : Methionine, Glutathione, Liver and Heavy Metal
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Neuroendocrine Effects of Synthetic Pyrethroids; Fenvalerate and Cypermethrin in the Third Instar Larvae of Othreis materna (Linn.)
Jagdish Shinde, Aneel Mohite* and C. P. Deshmukh Department of Zoology, Rashtrasant Tukdoji Maharaj Nagpur University, Nagpur-440 010 (M.S.); India
Abstract : Laboratory experiment was conducted to examine sub-lethal effects of two pyrethroids; fenvalerate and cypermethrin on the cephalic neuroendocrine system of third instar larvae of fruit-sucking moth, Othreis materna. Larvae were sprayed separately with half of the calculated LC50 dose of fenvalerate and cypermethrin for 1, 6, 12, 24 and 48 hrs. Variation in the action of fenvalerate and cypermethrin insecticides was observed. In the fenvalerate-treated larvae, the medial neurosecretory cells of the brain contain moderate quantity of neurosecretory material after 1 hr and the cells were totally devoid of neurosecretory material for rest of the experimental period, indicates release of neurosecretory material from the neurosecretory cells. In the cypermethrin-treated larvae, on the contrary, accumulation of neurosecretory material in the medial neurosecretory cells up to 24 hr and release of neurosecretory material after 48 hr was observed. A significant (P£ 0.05) reduction in the nuclear diameter of cells of corpora allata was observed in both the pyrethroid-treated larvae. Thus, disruption of the neuroendocrine system has been implicated as a factor contributing to the irreversible effects of pyrethroids intoxication in insects. Key words : Othreis materna, larvae, neuroendocrine system, pyrethroids
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Performance Evaluation of Evaporative Cooling Pads of Alternative Materials and Shapes Suitable for Second Stage
R.K. Kulkarni* and S.P.S. Rajput Department of Mechanical Engineering, Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal-462051 (M.P.); India
Abstract : Evaporative coolers are normally operated as direct evaporative coolers with wetted pads. Addition of an indirect pre-cooler stage increases their efficiency. In this study, rectangular, cylindrical and hexagonal shapes suitable for use in direct stage with rigid cellulose, corrugated paper, high density polythene packing and aspen fiber materials are analyzed for performance. The geometrical parameters of pad like volume, wetted surface area and mass flow rate of air and performance parameters like saturation efficiency, outlet temperature of air and cooling capacity are calculated for velocities between 0.75 to 2.25 m/s. The effect of air mass flow rate on the saturation efficiency for different shapes of each material is shown. Rectangular shape gives highest efficiency of about 89 % with aspen material and lowest of 80 % with cellulose material for mass flow rates of about 0.3 kg/s. Cylindrical and hexagonal shapes have highest efficiency of about 83 % with aspen material and lowest 72 % with cellulose material for mass flow rates of about 0.4 kg/s. These efficiencies decrease with increase in mass flow rate of air and decrease in wetted surface area of the material. Drop in dry bulb temperature of air decreases with mass flow rate where as cooling capacity increases. Key words : Evaporative cooler, Saturation efficiency, Cooling media, Pad shape.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Endohelminthiasis in Frogs (Rana cyanophylictus Schneider) and Toads (Bufo viridis Lourenti) of Kashmir Valley
Asiya Magray1 and M.Y. Peerzada2 1. Department of Zoology University of Kashmir, Srinagar (J&K); India. 2. Department of Zoology A.S.College, Srinagar (J&K); India.
Abstract : The present work was carried out in 10 months period from March to December 2007. Different types of endohelminths belonging to Nematoda, Cestoda and Trematoda were obtained from different organs of Frogs and Toads. It was observed that the incidence of infection of Nematodes was higher (85%) than cestodes (72%) and trematodes (35%). Out of 152 frogs and toads, 114 frogs and toads were infected with Rhabdias bufonis in their lungs while as 80 frogs and toads were infected with Cosmocerca; 110 frogs were found infected with the cestode Nematotaenia, and 45 frogs were found infected with trematodes. The nematodes were present in highest number in toads. It was also found that the infection of frogs and toads varied from region to region and season to season. Severe infection in frogs and toads was found in the month of August, September and October which later on decreased to a very low rate in the month of November and December. The infected organs (lungs and intestines) of frogs and toads were also preserved and processed for histopathological studies. The histopathology of infected organs showed a marked difference at different times during the course of work. It was observed that the mucous membrane of infected intestine was damaged by Nematodes, Cestodes and Trematodes. Severe damage was caused to the lungs of frogs and toads by Nematodes. The trematodes had caused slight damage to the intestinal walls. Key words : Cestode, Endohelminths, Frog, Kashmir, Toad, Trematode.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Antifertility Principles from Citrus medica Seeds: Anti-implantation, Abortifacient and Phytochemical Studies
Sharangouda and Saraswati B.Patil* Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Departement of Zoology, Gulbarga University, Gulbarga-585106 Karnataka, India.
Abstract : Citrus medica seeds have been used by the ancient Indian ayurvedic physicians to induce abortion. Petroleum ether, benzene and ethanol extracts of C. medica seeds were subjected for phytochemical studies. Bioactivity directed phytochemical investigation revealed that the seeds extracts showed the presence of alkaloids and glycosides and all the extracts were tested for antiimplantation and abortifacient acivity at the dose level of 200mg/kg body and 400mg/kg body weight to female albino rats. Though, all the treated groups showed significant antiimplantataion activity, when laparotomised on day 10th, it is maximum (87.24%) with the high dose of petroleum ether extract. Upon withdrawal of the treatments the rats which retained the implantation continued pregnancy. The pregnant rats which received the treatment from 8 to 14 days of pregnancy showed abortifacient activity and it is maximum (39.63%) with high dose of petroleum ether extract. The reasons for pregnancy interruption, due to the administration of C. medica seeds extracts, are discussed. Key words : Antifertility, Citrus medica, antiimplantation, abortifacient, phytochemical
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Functional Analysis of Catalytically Active Viral Coat Protein of Papaya Leaf Curl Virus (PaLCV)
Gomase V.S.*, Shyamkumar K., Dwivedi Sunilkumar, Gandhi Tejashri, Gagnani Namrata and Murti Madhur Department of Bioinformatics, Padmashree Dr. D. Y. Patil University, Plot No-50, Sector-15, CBD Belapur, Navi Mumbai-400614 (Maharashtra); India.
Abstract : Functional analysis of the binding ability of antigen peptides to major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class molecules is important in vaccine development, but variable length of each binding peptide complicates this prediction. This assay can be used to select epitopes for use in rational vaccine design and to increase the understanding of roles of the immune system in infectious diseases. Antigenic epitopes of coat protein form Papaya leaf curl virus (PaLCV) are important determinant for protection of many plants form viral infection. This study shows active part in host immune reactions and involvement of MHC class-I and MHC II in response to almost all antigens. We also found the SVM based MHCII-IAb peptide regions 30- RAAAPIVRV, 13- PASKVRRRL, 126- IKTKDHTNS, 42- KAWANRPMN, (optimal score is 1.055); MHCII-IAd peptide regions 225- NALMLYMAC, 131- HTNSVMFFL, 235- HASNPVYAT, 181- KWHATVTGG, (optimal score is 0.580); MHCII-IAg7 peptide regions 27- YVSRAAAPI, 28- VSRAAAPIV, 37- RVTKAKAWA, 25- SPYVSRAAA, (optimal score is 1.833); and MHCII- RT1.B peptide regions 187- TGGQYASKE, 222- HSENALMLY, 131- SFESRHDIQ, 235- HASNPVYAT, (optimal score is 0.655) which represented predicted binders from viral coat protein. These peptide nonamers are from a set of aligned peptides known to bind to a given MHC molecule as the predictor of MHC-peptide binding. Analysis shows potential drug targets to identify active sites against diseases. Key words : Antigen, Epitope, MHC, Peptide vaccine.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Biosorption of Heavy Metals by Pretreated Fungal and Rice Straw Biomass
E.A. Makky* and A.A. Farrag Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Nasr City, P.N.Box.: 11884, Al-Azhar University, Cairo (Egypt)
Abstract : Water pollution by toxic heavy metals is a burning environmental problem and has presented a challenge to humans. Removal of heavy metals using non-living biomass of fungi could be a potential solution to this problem. This study evaluated the potential of fungal and rice straw biomass to remove copper and cadmium from aqueous solution. Pretreated fungal biomass by autoclaving showed the uptake percentage 65% and 77% of copper and cadmium respectively at 30 min. of contact time. Maximum uptake percentage 79% and 82% of copper and cadmium respectively at 30 min. of contact time was obtained by pretreated fungal biomass by 0.04N NaOH. On the other hand, the pretreated of fungal biomass by 0.1N NaOH decreased the uptake percentage of copper and cadmium. The uptake percentage of copper and cadmium by rice straw was not differed but the pretreated of rice straw biomass by NaOH increased the uptake percentage of copper and cadmium. The fungal biomass was found to be effective in removing considerable amounts of copper and cadmium from aqueous solution compared with rice straw biomass. Thus, fungal biomass could be important in the removal of heavy metals Key words : Biosorption, Heavy metals, Fungi, Rice straw.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Physico-Chemical Properties of Petroleum Contaminated Soil Collected from Coastal Areas of Mumbai
Hardik Pathak1, Abhishek Vashishtha*1, Pankaj Kumar Jain1, A. Nagmani1, D.P. Jaroli2 and Madan Lowry2 1 Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Applied Sciences, Jaipur (Raj.); India. 2 Center for advance studies in Zoology, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur (Raj.); India.
Abstract : Many of petroleum compounds either immediately or ultimately come in contact with the environment or are sequestered by soil. These are priority organic pollutants of critical environmental and public concern. With the multiplying population and progress of urban civilization, pollution caused by petroleum products and their wastes is increasing in logarithmic manner. Bioremediation of these contaminants is a prerequisite of today’s world. Many parameters play an important role in microbial degradation. Physico-chemical analysis of contaminated soil was carried out using different methods. Physical analyses like soil texture, soil pH, bulk density, C/N ratio, soil moisture content, organic matter, presence of heavy metal etc. were performed. All of these parameters play an important role in biodegradation of petroleum compounds. Chemical analysis of soil was also performed using GC-MS. Presence of heavy metal ions was estimated by using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Excess hydrocarbons adversely altered the properties of the contaminated soils. Low water holding capacity and porosity and very high C:N ratio and bulk density were observed in every contaminated sample of soil. High concentration of many heavy metals was also seen. Key words : Bioremediation, Contaminated soil, GC-MS, Hydrocarbons, Petroleum, Soil parameters.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - In Vitro Propagation of Selinum wallichianum (DC), A High Value Medicinal Plant of the Himalaya
Meena Pandey1*, Uppeandra Dhar2, Indra D. Bhatt2 and S.R. Thengane1 1 National Chemical Laboratory, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road Pashan, Pune-411008 (Maharashtra); India. 2 G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development Kosi-Katarmal, Almora-263643 (Uttarakhand); India
Abstract : The paper reports the organogenetic potential of mature leaves of Selinum wallichianum Syn. Selinum tenuifolium. The basal medium, Murishige and Skoog (1962) supplemented with different concentrations of auxin showed callus induction. However, the maximum leaf explants (67%) produced callus in 3.0µM 2,4-dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-D). Significantly (P<0.05) higher percentage of explants producing shoots (100%), shoot number (14 shoots/explant) and shoot length 5.7cm was obtained in MS medium supplemented with 0.5 µM 6-benzyladenine (BA) and 0.5 µM gibberellic acid (GA3) combination. Regenerated shoots were rooted on Murashige and Skoog (MS medium) fortified with 2 µM indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) and maximum 93.3% rooted shoots were achieved after 4 weeks of incubation in rooting medium. About 79% plantlets survived after 60 days of transfer in autoclaved sand and soil (1:1 ratio). The results provided practical way to sustainable utilization of Selinum wallichianum, one of the high value medicinal plants of Himalaya region. Key words : Apiaceae, Effective propagation system, Himalayan medicinal plant, Sustainable utilization
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