Biology and Biotechnology

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Heavy metals in vegetables grown in the vicinity of Hawassa industrial zone, Ethiopia: Estimation of possible human health risks
(African Science Publications, 2021-04-05) Samuel Bekele*, Solomon Sorsa, Daniel Fitamo, Zinabu Gebremariam and Gunnhild Riise
Concentration of heavy metals (Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, Pb and Hg) in cabbages and potatoes were determined and the potential human health risks due to the consumption of the vegetables have been estimated. Mean concentrations of Zn (134.0 + 5.62 mg/kg), As (0.12 + 0.01 mg/kg) and Cd (0.32 + 0.01 mg/kg) in cabbages from Biological Lagoon area as well as Zn (103.0 + 8.34 mg/kg), As (0.14 + 0.01 mg/kg) and Cd (0.31 + 0.01 mg/kg) in cabbages from Boicha stream area were above the safety limits of FAO/WHO. Likewise, mean concentrations of As (0.24 + 0.03 mg/kg) in potatoes from Biological Lagoon area as well as As (0.35 + 0.07 mg/kg) and Pb (0.50 + 0.04 mg/kg) from Boicha stream area were also above safety limits. Assessment of Target Hazard Quotients (THQ) indicated no human health concern from consumption of both cabbages and potatoes grown in the areas except as through consumption of potatoes from Biological Lagoon and Boicha stream areas. However, effects of all the metals put together may affect human health as revealed by the high Hazard Index (HI > 1). Assessment of Target Cancer Risk (TCR) revealed human health concern from consumption of these vegetables for As and Cd. Overall, vegetables consumption from industrial zone is more risky than consuming vegetables from the Reference site indicating effluents from industries to be a potential sources of the heavy metals.
Ameliorating effects of Cissus populnea aqueous stem bark extract on some parameters in diabetic Wistar rats
(African Science Publications, 2021-04-05) Aondoaseer Kasar, Ndubisi A Chidi, Adilieje Chioma M and Ibegbu Madu D
This study investigated the effects of aqueous stem bark of Cissus populnea (C.p) extract on some parameters in diabetic Wistar rats. Fresh stem bark of C.p was air dried, pulverized, and mixed with distilled water at room temperature for 72 h; then flittered (11 µm) and the dried filtrate (C.p extract) was used for the animals treatment, which was in 5 groups of 6 rats each: Group 1: normal control, Group 2: treated with 200 mg/kg body weight (b.w) of C.p extract; Group 3: treated with 500 mg/kg b.w of C.p extract, Group 4: treated with 100 mg/kg b.w metformin, while Group 5 untreated, after groups 2-5 were induced with diabetes mellitus with alloxan, the study was for 21 days. Treatment of groups 2 and 3 with C.p extract restored the blood glucose to level comparable to group 1, p > 0.05, but significantly different to group 5, p < 0.05. Treatment of group 3 with C.p extract stabilized the antioxidant enzymes activity without significant difference p > 0.05, when compared to groups 1 and 4; but significantly differed from group 5, p < 0.05. The pancreatic histology of groups 2 and 3 appeared normal, while group 5 had tissue atrophy. The results showed that C.p extract had potentials to modulate glucose, MDA and antioxidant enzymes activity, with no pathological effect on the pancreas. Therefore, further work is suggested for possible extrapolation to diabetic treatment.
Molecular identification of endophytic fungi associated with orchids from Mount Cameroon region
(African Science Publications, 2021-04-05) Essomo Sylvie Etanke, Arrey Doris Besem, Afanga Yannick Afanga*, Meshi Joice, Eneke Tambe Bechem and Fonge Beatrice Ambo
The orchidaceae (orchid family) is the second largest family of flowering plants after the Asteraceae. Orchids are important in herbal medicine, the food industry, perfumery industry and as ornamentals. They rely on mycorrhizal fungi to provide the carbon sources for seed germination and seedling establishment. The Mount Cameroon Region has a rich diversity of orchids which is under threats from land use patterns. This study was aimed at (i) identifying fungi associated with orchid mycorrhiza; and (ii) identifying non-mycorrhizal endophytic fungi. Nine species of orchids were selected for this study, three each from the different life forms. Selection criteria were based on vulnerability, scarcity and abundance. Mycorrhizal and non-myccorrhizal endophytic fungi were isolated from dissected single pelotons and from non-peloton root tissues respectively. Identification of fungi was based on morphological and sequencebased molecular methods. A total of 18 fungi species belonging to 12 genera were identified with Penicillium being the most abundant. The inferred phylogenetic tree grouped all endophytes into 9 major clusters belonging to 2 phyla. Clustering was independent of whether endophytes were mycorrhizal or non-mycorrhizal. The results of this study could contribute to orchid conservation and for the discovery of bioactive compounds.
Chicken feathers degrading bacteria isolated from flamingo feathers in Lake Nakuru, Kenya
(African Science Publications, 2021-04-05) Musikoyo, Eddison Opiyo*, Muia, Anastasia Wairimu and Oduor, Steve Omondi
This study investigated the ability to degrade chicken feathers by bacteria isolated from flamingo feathers in Lake Nakuru which can be applied in the degradation of poultry and abattoir wastes for the production of protein supplement for animal feed formulations. Proteolytic activity of the isolates was screened on casein agar and their efficiency ranged from 3 to 27 mm. Two bacteria isolates; LNC06 later identified as Bacillus agaradhaerens by 16S rDNA sequencing and LNN03 which were found to have high potential in feather degradation. They were grown on chicken feather substrate and growth of bacteria was evidenced by increase in turbidity which was measured using optical density (DO) method and by reduction in dry weight and ash free dry weight. Their degradation performance in relation to temperature and pH was also measured using DO and the optimum growth in feather hydrolysis was achieved at a temperature of 35 ºC and pH of 10. Reduction in feather dry weight and ash free dry weights were both showing significant correlations (p < 0.05) for the test bacteria. Results showed that both bacteria were good feather degraders but Bacillus agaradhaerens exhibited remarkably higher abilities than LNN03. Evidence from this study indicated that Bacillus agaradhaerens has high potential for application in feather degradation but further studies should be carried out to optimize the production and investigate the products for suitability as animal feeds protein supplements to improve the health of farm animals.
Mechanisms of biochar and vermicompost in suppression of root rot fungal disease of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L)
(African Science Publications, 2021-04-05) Samuel Were, Rama Narla, E. W. Mutitu, J.W Muthomi, Luiza Munyua , Dries Roobroeck, Bernard Vanlauwe and Janice Thies
Composts and biochar improve soil fertility and also suppress fungal soil-borne diseases through their ability to promote beneficial microbial communities. The study sought to determine the mechanisms through which biochar and vermicompost suppress root rot pathogens. Extracts of biochar and vermicompost were used for spore germination, mycelial growth tests at different concentrations. To assess the ability of biochar and vermicompost to adsorb signaling molecules from bean, root and seed exudates were filtered through biochar and vermicompost. Antagonistic activity of Trichoderma harzianum and Penicillium spp against root rot pathogens was also assessed. Germination of Pythium ultimum sporangia and Fusarium solani macroconidia was significantly inhibited by various concentrations of water extractible substances from biochar and vermicompost. Water extracts from biochar and vermicompost inhibited the germination of root rot propagules and reduced the ability of root and seed exudates to induce sporangial and conidial germination. Trichoderma harzianum and Penicillium spp significantly inhibited the growth of Pythium ultimum sporangia and Fusarium solani. The water extracts significantly reduced the growth of root rot colonies on PDA plates. Biochar and Vermicompost greatly inhibit germination of spores and mycelial growth of root rot pathogens.
Identification of culturable microalgae diversity in the River Nile in Egypt using enrichment media
(African Science Publications, 2021-04-05) Amal A. Badr and Walid M. Fouad
This study aimed to morphologically identify the highest possible microalgae biodiversity in a sample collected from the River Nile using the culture-based method. Water samples were cultured on the two commonly used media BG-11 and BBM media to obtain a broad spectrum of microalgae biodiversity. Likewise, the effects of nutrients concentration and vitamin supplements to BG-11 and BBM for supporting the maximum diversity of culturable microalgae were tested. Cell counts and morphology-based identification were conducted to evaluate the population diversity. A total of 35 species have been identified using the two media combined. The standard BG-11 and BBM media enriched 25 and 27 species, respectively, while the reduced nutrient concentration of BG-11 and BBM had a species richness of 19 and 24, respectively. The vitamin-enriched media each sustained BG-11+Vit (23) and BBM+Vit (20). We found that some algae species were uniquely identified on the reduced nutrient concentration or vitamin-enriched media. The results of this study report the current algae diversity in the Nile demonstrating that the usage of single-culture media for algal enrichment would result in underestimating the species richness. The diversity identified can be used as a reference for continuos monitoring of the River Nile microalgae diversity in Cairo.
The use of Bacillus subtilis bacteria as a tool to assess the toxicity of pharmaceuticals in the environment
(African Science Publications, 2021-04-05) Williams Kwari Joshua* and Yaduma Gaiuson Wandiahyel
Pharmaceuticals and personal care products are now known as microcontaminants due to their effects on bacterial resistance and effect on non-targeted organisms. Most recently, these substances have been found in surface water, sewage, hospital and care home wastewaters and landfill. Pharmaceuticals have been known to pose acute and chronic effects especially when exposed at higher concentrations and for longer durations. This study adopted the spectrophotometric method to assess the acute and chronic effects of seven pharmaceuticals on Bacillus subtilis bacteria. The effects were observed in terms of the conversion of 3-(4.5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium, inner salt; (MTS) to a colored formazan product. The effect of pharmaceuticals was measured as a reduction of tetrazolium solution and expressed as percentage. The results indicate that both acute and chronic effects exist with Bezafibrate, Diclofenac, Diatrizoate, Ibuprofen and Atenolol inhibiting bacterial growth at 50 μg/ml. Consequently, at 500 μg/ml, all the pharmaceuticals inhibited growth thereby posing acute effects. In addition, all the eight pharmaceutical substances tested inhibited bacterial growth at 50 μg/ml and 500 μg/ml when exposed to pharmaceuticals for more than 24 h. The implication is that wastewater from hospitals can likely inhibit biological process of breaking waste in the wastewater treatment plants.
Antibiotic resistance of bacteria responsible for lower respiratory tract infections seen in the University Hospital of Befelatanana Antananarivo Madagascar
(African Science Publications, 2021-04-05) Zafindrasoa Domoina Rakotovao-Ravahatra*, Fidiniana Mamy Randriatsarafara and Andriamiadana Luc Rakotovao
The majority of bacteria responsible for Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (LRTIs) are multiresistant to antibiotics. The objectives of this study are to describe the antibiotic resistance of these bacteria in LRTIs and to describe the factors associated with these infections. It is a prospective study of 54 respiratory samples of patients with LRTIs for a period of six months from July 2019 to December 2019 in the laboratory of the University Hospital of Befelatanana Antananarivo. The microbiological results showed 12 (22%) isolates of nonfermenting gram-negative bacilli, 10 (19%) isolates of streptococci and 6 (11%) isolates of enterobacteria. Regarding the isolates of nonfermenting gram-negative bacilli, the antibiotic resistance, varies from 42% (amikacin) to 100% (cotrimoxazole). Concerning the isolates of streptococci, it varies from 0% (vancomycin) to 80% (penicillin G). And the antibiotic resistance of the isolates of enterobacteria varies from 0% (imipenem and amikacin) to 100% (amoxicillin). Concerning the associated factors, subjects aged 40 and over (58.6%) (p = 0.84; NS), men (71.4%) (p = 0.01) and subjects hospitalized in intensive care units (70.3%) (p = 0.004) are the most affected by LRTIs. In brief, the knowledge of antibiotic resistance of bacteria responsible for LRTIs allows better patient management.
Evaluation of cellular and circulatory antioxidant- and glutathioneassociated enzymes in patients with acute coronary syndrome
(African Science Publications, 2021-04-05) Kazi Rafsan Radeen, Fahmida Binte Hafiz, Rumana Haque, Talita Zahin Choudhury, Mohammad Kamruzzaman and Laila Noor Islam
Destabilization of atherosclerotic plaque in the coronary artery is the result of Oxidative Stress (OS) that damage the myocardial tissues in Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS). This study investigated the activities of certain circulatory and cellular antioxidant- and glutathione-associated enzymes in ACS patients in comparison to a control group. Standard assay methods were followed to evaluate the activities of Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), catalase, Glutathione-S-transferase (GST), Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx) and Glutathione Reductase (GR). For data analysis, the categorical variables were measured in percentages, and continuous variables were expressed in means and standard deviations. The ACS patients had significantly higher activities of circulatory SOD, GPx and GST compared to the controls (4.36 ± 2.28 U/mL, 49.20 ± 14.12 U/mL and 5.02 ± 3.03 U/mL versus 2.87 ± 1.28 U/mL, 21.53 ± 10.80 U/mL and 3.03 ± 1.99 U/mL, respectively) but their catalase and GR activities were significantly lower. While the catalase activities in the erythrocyte and leukocyte lysates were similar in both groups, the leukocyte SOD activity was significantly lower in patients. A significant positive correlation was found between the GR and catalase activities in patients. The circulatory enzymes SOD, GPx and GST are over-expressed in controlling excessive OS, while the reduced activities of catalase and GR could be the consequence, suggesting therapeutic potentials of using enzymes in reducing OS-mediated endothelial injury in ACS patients.
Assessment of performance of wastewater stabilization ponds using faecal indicator bacteria reduction efficiency in a tropical environment
(African Science Publications, 2021-04-05) Khasisi D. Lukhabi*, Muia A. Wairimu and Kipkemboi K. Julius
Egerton University (EU) uses Wastewater Stabilization Ponds (WSPs) for wastewater treatment. An adjoining wetland with gravel bed substrate and freesurface flow meant to polish discharge before releasing into River Njoro is currently non-operational. The current study aimed at establishing the performance of WSPs in terms of concentration and reduction efficiencies of Faecal Indicator Bacteria (FIB); Total Coliforms (TC) and Escherichia coli (E. coli). Wastewater samples were collected weekly for one month from mid- November to mid-December 2017. Total Coliforms and E. coli were isolated using selective and differential media following Membrane Filtration (MF) method. Colonies were cultured on Chromocult Coliform Agar (CCA) and enumerated using standard procedures for examination of water and wastewater. The results were expressed as Colony Forming Units (CFUs) per 100 ml of the original sample. The inlet showed highest concentration of FIB which reduced along the treatment pathway. Total Coliforms and E. coli ranged between 2.5 × 108 - 2.9 × 1011 and 5.9 × 105 - 1.8 × 1010 CFUs/100 ml respectively with cumulative reduction efficiencies between 2 to 4 log units for E. coli and 2 to 3 log units for TC in the two maturation ponds. Although concentration of FIB in EU WSPs reduces along the treatment pathway, the effluent quality is above recommended international standards for discharge into surface waters. The trend is attributed to lack of frequent monitoring, insufficient maintenance, together with short- circuiting effect due to by-passing of wastewater in the design of the new pond system.
The efficacy of biostimulants in the management of Agrobacterium tumefasciens the cause of crown gall disease of roses in Kericho, Kenya
(African Science Publications, 2021-04-05) Oniang’o Mary, Opisa; Oliver Stafford Achwanya; Daniel Otieno Otaye; Japheth Mburugu Muthamia
Experiments were conducted at James Finlay Kenya, Tarakwet farm in Kericho county to test the efficacy of various biostimulants, i.e., biozyme 2.5 ml/L, hicure 2.5 ml/L, foltron 2.0 ml/L, codamine radicular 2.0 ml/L, alexin 2.5 ml/L and control (water sprayed only) in controlling Agrobacterium tumefasciens the cause of crown gall disease in roses. Treatments were either sprayed or drenched. Both greenhouse and pot trials were conducted on a susceptible rose variety ‘Tropical amazone’. Plots treated with biozyme 2.5 ml/L, hicure 2.5 ml/L, foltron 2.0 ml codamine radicular 2.0 ml/L, alexin 2.5 ml/L were longer, with a bigger head size and had better yield of marketable rose stems compared to control plots treated with water only. It was therefore concluded the application of various biostimulants on roses affected by A. tumefasciens by drenching or spraying improved the yield and quality of marketable rose stems. This was attributed to the fact that biostimulants boosted the immune response of roses to A. tumefasciens through improving the nutrient use efficiency of the plant and enhanced tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses. However, more research is needed to elucidate this.
Bioremediation of heavy metal ions from contaminated soil and water by microbes: A review
(African Science Publications, 2021-04-05) P. A., Mendy; A., Kargbo; M. E., Entonu
Scientists all over the world are working tirelessly on the management of environmental toxicants and their control over the past two decades due to their injurious effects on plants, animals, and humans. These calcitrants released to the environment from both anthropogenic industries and natural sources can enter the food chain. The removal of such xenobiotic materials such as heavy metalsfrom the soil and water around industrial areas has received great attention nowadays globally. It is, therefore; against this backdrop that this review research was conducted solely to establish the potentials of microorganisms (algae, fungi, bacteria, and plants) in the bio-removal of heavy metals contaminated soils and water. The study revealed that the use of these microbes in the decontamination of the environment cannot be overemphasized hence cost-effective, eco-friendly, and available almost everywhere on planet earth.
Biochar and vermicompost soil amendments reduce root rot disease of common bean (Phaseolous Vulgaris L.)
(African Science Publications, 2021-01-01) Samuel A., Were; Rama, Narla; E. W., Mutitu; J.W., Muthomi; Liza M., Munyua; Dries, Roobroeck; Bernard, Vanlauwe; Janice, E
Common bean production is constrained by root rot complexes resulting to as much as 70% losses in Kenya. This study sought to establish the effect of soil amendments biochar and vermicompost on root rot fungal pathogens of commonbean in Western Kenya. Application of biochar, vermicompost and fertilizer were done in farmer fields in four agro ecological zones of Western Kenya prior to planting during the long rains of 2013 and 2014. No applications were done in the shot rains seasons of 2013 and 2014. Plant emergence and disease incidence was recorded in the field and disease severity determined in the laboratory. Isolation and identification of pathogens was done from treatment plots following a two weeks and six weeks sampling after planting. Pathogens isolated were identified using morphological characteristics. Soil amendments positively influenced plant emergence. Root rot disease incidence and severity was greatly reduced up to 40% and 60% every season respectively. Biochar and vermicompost treatments reduced the population of fungal pathogens and also influenced the populations of beneficial microorganisms such as Trichoderma and Paecilomyces lilacinus. Application of soil amendments increased yield by 46% and also soil pH and nutrients were increased. In conclusion treatment application of vermicompost and biochar reduce root rot disease and improve bean productivity.
Malaria vectors distribution, abundance and assessment of factors influencing acceptance and use of Insecticide Treated Nets in Uyo Akwa Ibom State Nigeria
(African Science Publications, 2021-01-01) Friday Maduka, Chikezie; Kenneth Nnamdi, Opara; Blessing, Akaka; Ebuka Kingsley, Ezihe; Nsima Ibanga, Udoidung; Clement Ameh, Yaro
The abundance and distribution of malaria vectors as well as compliance with the use of Insecticide Treated Nets (ITNs) are key factors in the fight against malaria. Malaria vector species composition, distribution and attitude of residents of Uyo to ITNs were studied. Weekly surveys were conducted in 2018. Anopheles mosquito larvae were collected from the four different axes of the metropolis, reared to adult stage and morphologically identified. Four hundred (400) structured and pre-tested questionnaires were administered to 400 respondents aged 18-70 for their knowledge and compliance with ITNs use [285 (71.25%) females and 115 (28.75%) males]. A total of 689 Anophelines were collected and identified, 289 (42%) males and 400 (58%) females distributed as follows: 182 (26.41%) from Idoro Road, 168 (24.38%) from Use Offot, 145 (21.04%) from Oron Road and 194 (28.15%) from Ikpa Road areas respectively. Anopheles gambiae s.l. made up 98 % (675) while 14 (2%) of the total collections were Anopheles funestus s.l. There was a significant difference in abundance of the two mosquito species in the studied areas (p < 0.05, (0.000); x2 calc=2.41, df =1). More females, 171 (60%) than males 46 (40%), used ITNs although there was no significant difference (p > 0.05), (0.000); χ2 = 28.050, df = 1). There was a significant difference (χ2 = 48.876, df = 1, p = 0.000*) in the usage of ITNs by respondents of different ages. There was no significant difference (χ2 = 1.265, df = 2, p = 0.531) in ITNs use with household population. Anopheles gambiae s.l. were the major malaria vectors from this study. Poor awareness of the benefits of ITNs was found although many respondents knew about the nets. Public enlightenment on the use and benefits of insecticide treated nets is needed to demystify the negative perceptions of insecticides with which the nets are treated and sustain the gains of the National Malaria Elimination Program.
In silico screening of some phytochemicals for treating urinary tract infection (UTI) targeting fimH gene
(African Science Publications, 2021-01-01) Indu, Sharma; Surajit, Chanda; Sagolsem, Yaiphathoi
Introduction: UPEC (Uropathogenic Escherichia coli) strains were evaluated to know the prevalence rate of virulence genes, antimicrobial activities of Cd-L1, Ni-L1 and Cu-L1 transition metal complexes, in silico screening of selected phytochemicals and their molecular docking. Methods: 140 urine samples were collected to assess the virulence properties of fimH, gafD and bmaE genes by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In vitro antibacterial screening activities of ligand, HL and complexes against UPEC bacterial strains was evaluated by inhibition zone method using well diffusion assay. The fimH was docked with the phytochemicals using software FlexX defining the active sites of amino acids and residues with radius showing 10Å were included. Results: Presence of urinary tract infection (UTI) infection in 124 (88%) samples of which 61.29% among females and 38.71% among males with overall incidence of UPEC were confirmed in 42 isolates (33.8%). PCR amplification of 16S rRNA gene revealed presence of adhesion genes with its highest prevalence in fimH gene (80.9%) while gafD and bmaE were reported to be negative. In vitro antibacterial activities of Cd-L1, Ni-L1 and Cu-L1 complexes and molecular docking performed by registered docking software FlexX revealed best scores over –20. Highest zone of diameter was observed to be 13 mm by Ni-L1- Complex and all the three complexes were reported as good antimicrobial compounds. Conclusion: Our findings hold efficient prospects in preventing and formulating new UTI strategies as significant epidemiological research tool in Silchar, India.
Studies on some cytokines, CD4, iron status, hepcidin and some haematological parameters in pulmonary tuberculosis patients based on duration of treatment in Southeast, Nigeria
(African Science Publications, 2021-01-01) Obeagu Emmanuel, Ifeanyi; Chukwurah Ejike, Felix; Ochiabuto, M.T.B; Ugwuja Mabel, Chikodili; Chukwu Stella, Nchekwubedi; Ochei Kingley, Chinedum
The study was done to determine the levels of interferon-gamma, Interleukin 6 (IL-6), Interleukin 10 (IL-10), iron status, hepcidin and hematological parameters of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis based on duration of treatment in Southeast, Nigeria. This study was carried out at the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia. A total of two hundred (200) subjects aged 18-60 years comprising of 50 subjects each for TB on baseline, on two months treatment, four months treatment and six months treatment were recruited for this study. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 20. ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) was the tool employed. The results showed difference that was statistically significant in IFN-α (p = 0.000), IL-6 (p = 0.000) IL-10 (p = 0.000), CD4 (p= 0.000), hepcidin (p = 0.000), Iron (p = 0.000), TIBC (p = 0.000), %TSA (p = 0.000) WBC (p = 0.000), Neutrophils (p = 0.000), Lymphocytes (p = 0.000), Monocytes (p= 0.000), Eosinophils p = 0.000), Basophils (p = 0.018), RBC (p = 0.000), Haemoglobin (p = 0.000), PCV (p = 0.000), MCV (p = 0.000), MCH (p = 0.000), MCHC (p = 0.000), Platelets (p = 0.000), ESR (p = 0.000) when compared among PTB on Baseline, two months, four months and six months of treatment respectively. The study shows that interferon gamma, IL-6, IL-10 and hepcidin are adjunct to biomarkers in the pathogenesis of pulmonary TB. The haemtological parameters like haemoglobin, RBC and PCV increased significantly with increased duration of treatment showing improvement in health status of the patients and monocytes decreased significantly in pulmonary TB patients.
Genetic variability, character association and divergence studies in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) for improvement in oil yield
(African Science Publications, 2021-01-01) Shyam Sundar, Lakshman; Nihar Ranjan, Chakraborty; Sandip, Debnath; Achal, Kant
Present experiment was conducted on 32 sunflower genotypes (11 CMS lines and 21 Restorer lines) on the basis of their diverse origin, growth habit, phenology and adaptation with an object to assess variation in oil yield attributing traits. The total variability consisting heritable and non-heritable components of the characters were estimated by genotypic (GCV) and phenotypic (PCV) coefficient of variation, heritability and genetic advance (GA) and the best positive traits for sunflower improvement through selection and breeding were assessed. All the characters among the different genotypes exhibited significant variation. Oil yield was highly significant and positively correlated with seed yield (kg/ha) (0.95), number of filled grain/head (0.85), grain filling% (0.65), days to 50% flowering (0.417), plant height (0.33). Seed yield (kg/ha) was highly significant and positively correlated with plant height (0.33), head diameter (0.30). Seed yield (kg/ha) varied from 625 (CMS-16A) to 1120(CMS-302A) in lines and 576 (EC-601751) to 1221(R-630) in testers respectively. The highest 100 seed weight and hull content (%) was obtained from P-2-7-1A. Seed yield, oil yield (kg/ha) and numbers of filled grains were obtained from EC 601978. Genotypes were classified into eight distinct clusters with a maximum inter distance observed between cluster VI and VII. The experiment assisted to identify the superior genotype among diverse genotypes of sunflower which can act as parents with desirable traits like number of filled grain/head, volume weight/100 ml, 100 seed weight, oil content and seed yield/plant for further breeding purposes.
Acute cigarette smoke exposure induces oxidative damage and inflammation in Wistar rats: impact on lungs and erythrocytes
(African Science Publications, 2021-01-01) Shahdat, Hossain; Marzan, Sarkar; Sujan, Bhowmick; Jakir, Hussain; Mahmudul, Hasan; Borhan, Uddin; Md. Asaduzzaman, Khan; Taslima, Nahar
Smoking of cigarettes worsens morbidity and mortality rates by prompting cancer, pulmonary, cardiovascular, and oral diseases. Despite having all these severe risks of smoking, the habit is unacceptably widespread, particularly among teenagers in many countries, including Bangladesh. In this investigation, the acute effect of cigarette smoking on oxidative stress and inflammation (Tumor Necrosis Factor- α (TNF-α)) has been analyzed in the cigarette smoke (CS)-exposed rats. Exposure of smoke in vivo significantly increased the levels of Lipid Peroxide (LPO) and TNFα in the experimental rats, when compared to those of the control rats. Furthermore, washed erythrocytes isolated from control rats were exposed directly to CS in vitro. The time-dependent exposure of smoke to erythrocytes increased the oxidative stress in the erythrocytes, as indicated by increased levels of LPO in the erythrocytes. The toxic effect of acute cigarette smoke was also visible in the morphological studies of erythrocytes. Cigarette smoke-exposed erythrocytes revealed numerous leakage, breaks and membrane blobs in the plasma membrane of erythrocytes. Our results thus suggest that cigarette smoke not only affects the lung tissues but may also deteriorate the morphology of erythrocytes by instigating the oxidative stress in the erythrocytes.
Targeting AGEs pathway in delayed diabetic wound healing
(African Science Publications, 2021-01-01) Rasha H, Abdelghany; Nadia, Hassan; Waleed, Barakat
Introduction: Diabetic complications as peripheral neuropathy and delayed wound healing affect patient’s quality of life and may lead to amputation. Several mechanisms are involved in mediating these complications including accumulation of Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) and the subsequent state of inflammation which were investigated in the current study. Methos: A wound of fixed size was induced in STZ-diabetic rats and the effect of diabetes and treatment with glimepiride, α-lipoic acid and pyridoxamine on the levels of glucose, insulin, HbA1c, AGEs, RAGE, sRAGE, TNF-α and adiponectin were investigated. Also the latency time in the hotplate test and wound healing were quantified at different time points. Results: Our results have shown that STZ induced a condition of diabetes (elevated glucose, HbA1c, and reduced insulin), enhanced AGEs signaling (elevated AGEs, RAGE, and reduced sRAGE) and inflammation (elevated TNF-α and reduced adiponectin), accompanied by hyperalgesia and delayed wound healing, while all treatments were able to ameliorate most of these effects. Conclusion: These results confirm the involvement of AGEs signaling in mediating diabetic complications and suggest their possible use in the standard therapy for diabetic patients.
Improved Sclerocarya birrea (A. Rich.) Hochst. growth by mycorrhizal inoculation
(African Science Publications, 2021-01-01) Hadou, Haro; Kadidia, Semdé; Kadidiata, Bahadio; Kadidia B., Sanon
Sclerocarya birrea is a multipurpose species which is recognized as a plant species of commercial, medicinal and cultural importance in Africa. However, it remains in the wild and its production and existence are dependent on the vagaries of the weather. This study was carried out to improve this plant growth by mycorrhizal inoculation. In this study, Sclerocarya birrea was grown in the greenhouse for nine months and inoculated with three mycorrhizal inocula. The height and the collar diameter were measured at three and nine months after sowing. The shoot, root and total biomass as well as the relative growth rate in height and the collar diameter were evaluated at nine months after sowing. The results of this study show that the roots of Sclerocarya birrea are relatively mycorrhized by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and the M1 inoculum appears to be the best of all the inocula used. This inoculum improves height growth by 31.72% (9th month after sowing), collar diameter by 77.27% and 80.15% (respectively at 3rd and 9th month after sowing) and relative growth rate in height by 71.43%, shoot biomass of Sclerocariat birrea by 59.95%, root biomass by 101.75% and total biomass by 66.99% compared to the control.

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