Showing papers in "Electronic Journal of Biology in 2015"

Phytochemical Screening and Antioxidant Activity of Edible Wild Fruits in Benguet, Cordillera Administrative Region, Philippines

Abstract: This study identified the secondary metabolites present and determined the antioxidant activity of 31 edible wild fruits grown in Benguet province, Cordillera Administrative Region, Philippines. Total polyphenol and flavonoid content were estimated using Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminium chloride method respectively. Antioxidant activity was measured through diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay. Based on the results, the following bioactive constituents are present in the fruits: alkaloids, steroid glycosides, saponins, flavonoids, polyphenols and tannins. The fruits contain more polyphenols than flavonoids. All the fruits except Physalis peruviana (Solanaceae) exhibited higher antioxidant activity than Vitamin E (Myra E), ascorbic acid (50 ug/mL), and trolox (1000 uM). Dillenia philippinensis (Dilleniaceae) exhibited the highest antioxidant activity. The antioxidant activity of the fruits and controls is significantly different (ρ ≤ 0.05). Post-hoc Tukey analysis of data reveals that several fruits have equal activity. Finally, there is a positive moderate correlation (r=0.50) between the total polyphenol content and antioxidant activity of the fruits.

Biology and Applications of Halophilic Bacteria and Archaea: A Review

Abstract: Extremophiles include a diverse group with ability to survive in highly saline conditions, the halophiles. Halophiles are characterized in major life domains including Archaea as well as Bacteria. Archaea represents halophiles with heterotrophic, chemotrophic aerobes and anaerobes. A large number of members from these domains are found growing in diverse habitats including both thalassohaline and athalassohaline environment. Well-developed strategies of adaptation allow halophiles to sustain their survival in saline extremes. Certain important biotechnological and ecological features are grabbing the attention of scientists to study halophilic biology more deeply. This review presents overview of the halophilic biology with special focus on taxonomy, diversity, habitat, osmoadaptation and biotechnological applications of Bacteria and Archaea.

Ethnomedicinal Plants in Bayabas, Sablan, Benguet Province, Luzon, Philippines

Abstract: The traditional knowledge on medicinal plants is inherent in indigenous communities and important in the development of drugs and plant-based medicine as it lays down the foundation of drug discovery. Ethnobotanical survey using interviews and focused group discussions in the local community of Sablan, Benguet province revealed that there are 75 plants that belong to 68 genera and 43 families to have medicinal value. The leaves are predominantly used for the treatment of the various ailments. Decoction is the major mode of preparation for the cure of cough, kidney ailments, and stomach disorders such as diarrhea, ulcers and related ailments. In Benguet province, documentation of the claimed medicinal plants by local communities will not only provide a baseline data but also unlock opportunities for the discovery and development of new and less expensive plant-based medicines.

Isolation and Characterization of Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans Strain FJS from Ramsar, Iran

Abstract: The present work describes a research approach to the aerobic bioleaching of U (IV) ores. Three strains (Acidithiobacillus sp.) isolated from sulfur springs in Ramsar province, Iran and nucleotide sequences of gene fragments of examined Acidithiobacillus sp. strains were recorded in NCBI .Then, uranium bioleaching experiment carried out with native bacteria in different pulp densities. In following, the performance of the isolates was improved progressively by optimizing the pH and initial iron concentrations. The results showed that total uranium extraction was achieved with 100% efficiency using native isolated Acidithiobacillus sp. strain FJ2 in 2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10% pulp densities of the ore. Whereas, the isolates could leach the U (VI) with 68% efficiency at 12.5% ore pulp density. In addition, Acidithiobacillus sp. strain FJ1 leaded to 100% uranium extraction at 2.5% pulp density and 59%at 5% pulp density of the ore. As well, determined optimized values showed that initial ferrous iron concentration at 2.5 g/L and initial pH at 2, gives maximum uranium extraction yields. This is very promising results since, the native isolated strains especially Acidithiobacillus sp. strain FJ2 can be used as a capable bacteria in uranium extraction process.

Biological Properties of Iranian Zataria Multiflora Essential Oils: A Comparative Approach

Abstract: Zataria multiflora Boiss, known as Avishan-e- Shirazi in Persian, with traditional pharmacological properties take advantage of being useful medicinal plant. In this study, the chemical composition of different parts of Iranian Z. multiflora Boiss oils and also its antioxidant and antibacterial properties have been considered. The results showed that the main oil components especially thymol and carvacrol are identical in the oils exctracted derived from leaf, flower and aerial parts of the plant. In addition, the different part oils indicated the high radical scavenging and antioxidant properties. Also, E. coli and P. aeroginosa are more sensitive to the effects of the oil samples. However, the flower and aerial part oils of Z. multiflora are more efficient than the leaf in sensitivity to these microorganisms. These findings suggest the antioxidant and antibacterial activities of the oils derived from the leaf, flower and aerial parts of Z. multiflora regarding thymol and carvacrol as the major components. With a view to these biological properties, the applications of the oils in medicinal purposes are promising findings.

Genetic Potential, Variability and Heritability of Various Morphological and Yield Traits among Maize Synthetics

Abstract: Breeders are interested in screening and development of open pollinated population in maize. In the current study a set of four maize populations, i.e. PSEV-3-2ES, Pop 2004-BS, Pop 2006 and Jalal 2003 were evaluated for genetic potential and variability. Breeding material was evaluated in randomized complete block design with three replications. Analysis of variance results showed highly significant differences (P≤ 0.01) for all the traits. The highest values for plant height (169.1 cm), ear height (75.13 cm), leaves plant-1 (11.33), flag leaf area (106.5 cm2), grain rows ear-1 (13.67) and grain yield (5927 kg ha-1) were recorded for Jalal-2003. Broad sense heritability (h2bs) ranged from 0.29 to 0.95 for various traits. Among the tested populations Jalal-2003 proved to be superior for most of the traits studied. The present study revealed a considerable amount of genetic variation and heritability estimates that could be manipulated for further improvement in maize breeding.

Statistical Approach for Optimization of Independent Variables on Alkali-Thermo Stable Protease Production from Bacillus Licheniformis Strain BIHPUR 0104

Abstract: An alkalophilic and thermostable protease producing Bacillus licheniformis strain BIHPUR 0104 was isolated from poultry farm. Response surface methodology by Box-Behenken design was employed for the enhanced production of protease using independent variables selected through one variable at one time approach. Under the optimized condition of sucrose (1.5% w/v), temperature (40°C) and incubation period (24 h), the protease production from strain BIHPUR 0104 was enhanced 2 fold compared to one variable at one time approach. The protease experimental yield (483.23 U/ml) closely matched the predicted value (480.74 U/ml) by the statistical model (R2=0.9997). The p values showed that the independent variables had highly significant effect on proteolytic activity (p<0.0001) of the strain tested. The crude protease obtained from strain BIHPUR 0104 showed stability at a wide range of pH (9) and temperature (50°C) indicating thermo-alkali stable nature of the crude enzyme.

Toxicological Evaluation of Aqueous and Acetone Extracts of Combretum molleTwigs in Wistar Rats

Abstract: Combretum molle (Combretaceae) is used in folkloric medicine against pain, diabetes mellitus and microbial infections. In this study, toxicological profile of aqueous and acetone extracts of C. mo lle twigs was investigated. In acute toxicity test, female rats were divided into two groups and treated orally with distilled water (10 mL/kg) and single dose of aqueous extract (2000 mg/kg). Animals were observed during 14 days, during which toxic signs, mortality and body weight were evaluated. For sub - chronic toxicity, rats received respectively 0, 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg/day of each extract during 28 days. Body and organs weights, food and water intake, selected b iochemical, histological hematological a nd parameters were evaluated. Results showed that the acute toxicity study did not produce any grossly toxic signs, mortality and body weight changes. In the sub - chronic study, higher doses of both extracts caused significant loss in body weight, food and water intake and significant increase in transaminases levels. In increase in relative organs weight and a periportal inflammation and mesengial hyperplasia in the liver and kidneys were also observed in extract treated rats. An increase in platelet count and a decrease in proteinemia, creatininemia, MCH and MCHC levels were noticed with the aqueous extract while enlarged alveoli sacs were observed at 125 mg/kg of acetone extract. In conclusion, the aqueous extract did not exhibit acute toxicity then it app ears to be relatively non - toxic one. Prolonged administration of extracts caused hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. Lower dose of acetone extract caused pulmonary toxicity

In vitro regeneration in pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) and characterization of plant-regenerants

Abstract: The regeneration answer of hypocotyl and cotyledon explants of two pepper genotypes on MS0 medium content of macro- and micro- nutrients – ½ MS0, 1 ¼ MS0, 1 ½ MS0 1 ¾ MS0 and MS0 (control) with 3.0 mgL-1 BA, 0.3 mgL-1 IAA, 0.3 mgL-1 GA3 was studied. It has been found higher frequency of indirect regeneration in control culture medium while differentiation and elongation of obtained shoots has been established in culture medium variant with 1 ½ MS0 + 0.2 mgL-1 AgNO3 and 0.3 mgL-1 GA3. In R0 generation the regenerants were characterized with reduced plant height, leaf size, fruit weight and seeds per fruit. Statistical analysis of fruits morphology and productivity per plant in the next R1 generation indicated variation between lines and compared to parents. Most lines were with shorter, but wider fruits with thicker pericarp and lower productivity per plant. For breeding purposes the complex of traits is of interest for following investigation deserve lines 3/13 and 2-1/13 from initial variety Yasen F1. Observed differences confirm the possibility for using of somaclonal variation as a method for improving and enriching the diversity in pepper

Golden Natural Plant Compounds Activate Apoptosis via BothMitochondrial and Death Receptor Pathways: A Review

Abstract: Apoptosis (programmed cell death) is an intricate process that involves multiple signaling pathways, and failure to activate apoptosis is one of the main obstacles in cancer treatment. The apoptosis resistance of cancer cells is an inherent part of the carcinogenic process, which is also associated with chemotherapy resistance. Therefore, new drugs are required to improve cytotoxicity to cancer cells without affecting normal cells. The current knowledge of apoptosis is the theoretical source for novel and effective treatments with the selective induction of apoptosis in cancer cells and augmentation of the cytotoxicity of established chemotherapeutic agents. Based on these goals of treatment for cancer, recent attention has focused on the phytochemicals as anticancer agents. For that reason, designing new anti-tumor agents must include recognizing and developing those agents that have the ability to target various genes that regulates apoptosis. There are several natural plant compounds that demonstrate anti-tumor activity, according to various mechanisms. In view of the immense medicinal importance of natural products, this review strives to compile a brief statement on the mechanisms of apoptosis and effective natural compounds that induce apoptosis through both mitochondrial and death receptor pathways.

Ethnobotany Survey of the Wonegizi, Ziama Clan-Lofa County,Liberia

Abstract: Background: Wonegizi landscape is one of the poorest areas in Liberia; lacks basic social services including road network, or inaccessible. The knowledge of indigenous medicine by these people has not being recorded separately, though some botanical research works have occurred. We conducted this research to record local knowledge on what plant resources are used daily for the wellbeing of Wonegizi people. The main objective is to draw attention to traditional practice of medication, providing a comprehensive list of indigenous medicinal plants of potential for the cure of diseases and wounds in Wonegizi, which will serve as the beginning of a systematic recording of medicinal plants in Ziama Clan separate from the previous works conducted in Liberia by western botanists. Methods: The survey was conducted during May- June 2014 using photographic documentation of indigenous medicinal plants. The use of keyinformants, community consultations, transects and articles and books on West Africa flora were used. Results: A total of 101 plants of medicinal potential were surveyed belonging to 48 families and 97 genera. Accessed plants are used for treatment of 11 categories of different diseases and disorder common in Wonegizi area. The majority recorded were cure to internal complications and others for external body parts. Trees were the primary source for treatments of diseases and ailments followed by herbs and liana/climbers. Conclusion: The Wonegizi survey demonstrated significant role of unique traditional medicinal practitioners whose beliefs prohibited the collection of plant specimens during field work. They believe their ancestral spirits must be consulted on the exclusive collection of medicinal plant parts through sacrificing cattle. Hence, traditional medicine continues to be extremely important for the people of Wonegizi in meeting their basic health services.

Hepatoprotective Effects of Deuterium Depleted Water(DDW)Adjuvant with Satureja rechingeri Essential Oils

Abstract: This study was carried out to investigate the hepatoprotective effect of deut erium depleted water (DDW) with and without Satureja rechingeri essential oil (E.O) mixture on paracetamol induced hepatotoxicity in rats. The animals were divided into 24 groups (n=5): The negative control group used tap water in 14 days following DMS O i.p injection at day 15th. The control group received tap water in 14 days following 500 mg/kg b.w. i.p injection of acetaminophen dissolved in DMSO. The treatment groups received only DDW (30 and 60 ppm) in 14 days concomitant with treatment groups receiving DDW plus i.p injection of S. rechingeri oil following acetaminophen injection at day 15th. Indeed, hepatoprotective activity was evaluated by the biochemical estimation of acetaminophen metabolism enzymes; cytochrome P450(CYP450), glutathione s-transferase (GST) together with the level of glutathione (GSH). The markers of liver injuries (ALT, AST, and ALP ) were also estimated in plasma. The results indicated that administration of DDW and DDW+E.O resulted in liver damage compensation as manifested by significant decrease in the activities of CYP450 and AST as well as significantly elevating the levels of GSH and GST. The present study reveals that the DDW could afford a significant protection against paracetamol? induced hepatocellular injuries.

Broad-Leaved Weeds in Chickpea (Cicer Arietinum L.) AsAffected By Plant Density and Lentagran Herbicide Application

Abstract: Broad-leaved weed in chickpea is one of the most important obstacles to product chickpea Thus, in order to determine the best time of herbicide application and plant density to decrease weed population and increase yield of chickpea a field experiment was carried out at Naveh kesh Agricultural Jihad Center in Khorramabad, Iran on March 15, 2014 The experiment was carried out as split-plot based on randomized complete block design with four replications Weed control was imposed at four levels – Lentagran herbicide application (15, 30 and 45 days after emergence) and control – as the main plot Plant density was adopted at three row spaces – 20, 30 and 40 cm with 10 cm on-row spacing – as the sub plot The results showed that plant density and Lentagran herbicide application significantly affected grain yield, weed weight and weed number The highest and lowest grain yields were obtained by 30 and 40 cm row spacing respectively Lentagran herbicide application at 30 days after emergence had the highest grain yield The highest weed weight and weed number were shown in row spacing of 40 cm The best combination treatments were found by row spacing of 30 cm and Lentagran herbicide application at 30 days after emergence, so that they could have the highest grain yield and lowest weed weight and weed number

Preliminary Analysis of Growth and Yield Parameters in Rice Cultivars When Exposed to Different Transplanting Dates

Abstract: The growing seasons usually depends on the seedling transplanting dates. Proper sowing time is good cultural practice to complete growing phase successfully. This research was conducted on the basis of randomized complete block design with split plot arrangement (three replicates) during the 2012 cropping season at Rice Research Institute of Iran, Mazandaran. Three seedling transplanting dates (1st May, 21st May and 10th June) and six rice cultivars (‘Neda’, ‘Hovaze’, ‘Hashemi’, ‘Domsiah’, ‘Tarom’ and ‘Fajr’) were studied. Among the studied cultivars, ‘Neda’, transplanted on 21st May, recorded higher effective tillers, fertile spikelets, bolder grains with greater 1000-grain weight and grain yield. However, panicle exertion, 1000-grain weight and fertile spikelets were equally greater with non-significant differences in 1st and 21st May except for plant height which declined in the early and mid transplanting. The suitability of early and mid transplanting was mainly due to favourable weather temperature during the growing phase. Correlation coefficient analysis showed that a unit increase in effective tillers, total number of spikelets and 1000-grain weight correspondingly increased grain yield by 236.6, 39.4 and 72.1 kg/ha, respectively. Irrespective of cultivars type, the late transplanting of 10th June increased plant height while it decreased important yield components. Observed trends associated with growth and yield features were found to be similar in all the studied cultivars. The study concludes that rice crop may be sown on early and mid transplanting dates (1st or 21st May) for achieving better growth and grain yield

Effects of γ-Aminobutyric Acid on Performance, Antioxidative Status and Biochemical Indices of Lactating Sows in Hot Weather

Abstract: This study was carried out to determine the effects of γ-aminobutyric acid on the reproductive performance, antioxidative status and biochemical indices of lactating sows. Forty-two lactating sows (Landrace×Large White) were blocked by body weight, parity and backfat and randomly assigned to 6 treatments: 0 (control), 100, 200, 300, 400 and 500 mg γ-aminobutyric acid /kg diet. The average temperature and relative humidity were 30.5°C and 79.47% at 8:00 am while 38.5°C and 73.55% at 15:00 pm respectively during the 21 lactation period. Litter size was standardized to10 to12 piglets within 2 days after farrowing. Sow feed intake was measured daily. On days 1 and 21 of lactation, sow backfat and piglet weight were recorded, milk yield was measured by the weigh-suckle-weigh method, and milk and blood samples were collected for chemical analysis. The results showed that supplementation of 300 mg and 400 mg γ-aminobutyric acid/kg diet improved (P 0.05) in sow backfat loss during lactation, weaning to estrus interval, piglet survival rate and diarrhea index among treatments were observed in this trial. Milk contents of lactose, butterfat, milk protein, total solids and non-fat solids were generally similar (P>0.05) among treatments. The results also indicated that γ-aminobutyric acid improved the antioxidative status of sows in lactation. Addition of 300 to 500 mg γ-aminobutyric acid/kg diet led to an increase in serum levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSHPx) and a decrease of malondialdehyde (MDA) content in serum (P<0.05) compared with the control. Moreover, 200 to 500 mg/kg γ-aminobutyric acid generally decreased (P < 0.05) the serum contents of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), phosphokinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). In conclusion, our data indicated that γ-aminobutyric acid improved, in a dose-dependent manner, reproductive performance, antioxidative status and biochemical indices of multiparious lactating sows in hot weather.

The Effects of Zirconium Oxide Nanoparticles on FSH, LH and Testosterone Hormones in Female Wistar Rats

Abstract: Nowadays, nanoscience has attracted the attention of many researchers and different industries. Although nanostructures produced by nanoscience have many advantages, but their toxic and harmful effects are always the researchers' main concern. In the present study, the effects of Zirconium Oxide nanoparticles on FSH, LH and testosterone hormones were investigated in female rats. The main aim of the study was to find ways to prevent entry nanoparticles to human body. Zirconium oxide nanoparticles with dosage of 100, 200, 400 ppm doses were intraperitoneally injected to 40 female rats which were divided into 5 groups (each group 10 rats). Then, their blood samples were collected. The levels of LH, FSH and testosterone were measured by the Biochemical Kit and the groups were compared. The results showed no significant changes of studied hormones up to 200 ppm dose of nanoparticle; while in higher 400 ppm, the concentrations of LH, FSH and testosterone in the test groups were decreased significantly in comparison with those of the control group (P < 0.05). These changes are related to inhibitory effect of zirconium oxide nanoparticles on cells producing LH, FSH and testosterone functions. These findings suggest that zirconium oxide nanoparticles can change the levels of LH, FSH and testosterone in female rats that may have results in metabolic interferences and liver insufficiency.

Proteome alterations associated with the V144D SPTLC1 mutation that causes hereditary sensory neuropathy-I

Abstract: Background: Hereditary sensory neuropathy type I is the most common subtype and presents with clinical onset in the second to third decade of life with progressive degeneration of the dorsal root ganglion neurons. Three different missense mutations in the gene encoding for serine palmitoyltransferase long chain subunit 1 have been linked to HSN-I. Here we quantitatively assess the proteomes and identify marked protein alterations in both mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum from HSN-I patient lymphoblasts which harbour the V144D mutation. Methods: Mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum were fractionated and lysed from control and patient-derived lymphoblasts. Protein samples were separated into total soluble and total membrane fractions and analysed using a well-established topdown proteomic protocol. Altered protein species were identified by LC MS/MS. Results: Using a detailed proteomic approach, we identified 36 proteins that were completely altered in abundance in cells harbouring the V144D SPTLC1 mutation relative to normal controls. Conclusion: The data establish that major protein alterations occur in both the endoplasmic reticulum, where the SPTLC1 protein resides, and in the mitochondria from V144D patient lymphoblasts. These proteins potentially play a major role in disease pathogenesis and may thus help to further elucidate the molecular mechanism(s) underlying hereditary sensory neuropathy type I and might also prove to be potential therapeutic targets.

Cd2+ Biosorption by Pretreatment Biomass of Highly Cadmium Resistant Fungus Humicola sp

Abstract: This research was carried out to estimate the removal of Cd2+ from an aqueous solution by pretreatment of Humicola sp. biomass with acid (H2SO4) and base (NaOH). The influence of different treatments of dried Humicola sp. biomass on its Cd2+ biosorption activity, indicated that 10% NaOH was increased biosorption of Cd2+ in comparison with the untreated and acid treated biomasses. Maximum Cd2+ biosorption of pretreated biomass by base took place at initial solution at pH 6 and 7 after 150 minutes, while the maximum adsorption of Cd2+ in pretreated biomass by acid was obtained highest at pH 6 after 60 minutes. Cadmium ions removal increase within the temperature has raised more than 40 oC. Desorption experiments indicate that the desorption efficiency with 0.1 M HNO3 solution reaches 96.35% and 83.32% in acid and base treatment, respectively.

Determination of Threshold Concentration of Kanamycin to Transfer Gene in Cumin

Abstract: Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) is an annual plant belonging to the Apiaceae family is one of the oldest and economically most important medicinal spices. This study was conducted to determination of threshold kanamycin concentration in cumin for the purpose of gene transfer in a completely randomized design with three replications. Percentage of regenerated plants was recorded to study kanamycin effect. Results of analysis of variance under different concentrations of kanamycin indicated that there were significant differences between the concentrations at level 0.05. The results of mean comparison of different concentrations of kanamycin also indicated significant differences between them and categorized them in terms of their impact on growth and regeneration of cumin into four groups. The results of the experiment showed that the maximum regenerated plants were observed in the treatments of control, 50 and 100 mg/l kanamycin and the minimum regenerated plants were observed in concentrations of 250 and 300 mg/l kanamycin. Results demonstrated which in compared to other plants in cumin was required high concentration of kanamycin for selection. Generally, result suggested that kanamycin antibiotic can be used for selection of transgenic tissues of cumin in gene transfer programs.

PCR Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism Analyses of V. Parahaemolyticus MAM-7 Virulence Gene in Clinical and Environmental Strains

Abstract: Virulent and non-virulent Vibrio parahaemolyticus (V. parahaemolyticus) strains coexist together in seawater. A PCR–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique could differentiate between clinical (virulent) and environmental V. parahaemolyticus strains. MAM- 7 corresponds to a virulence gene described in V. parahaemolyticus and that participates in initial stages of pathogen gut colonization. The objective of our study is to evaluate if PCR-RFLP analyses of MAM-7 gene can discriminate between clinical and environmental V. parahaemolyticus strains. Ten V. parahaemolyticus clinical isolates and nine V. parahaemolyticus environmental isolates were used to obtain genomic DNA. A 2619 bp PCR product from MAM-7 gene was digested with HindIII and AcuI restriction enzymes revealing a characteristic common pattern in 100% of V. parahaemolyticus clinical isolates. These patterns were absolutely different of those obtained from environmental isolates. PCR of toxin related genes (tdh and trh) showed that only clinical isolates were tdh+. As a conclusion, PCR-RFLP of V. parahaemolyticus MAM-7 gene could discriminate between clinical tdh+ isolates and environmental ones and could complement other diagnostic tools to detect and classify virulent strains. However, it is still necessary to analyze more samples of V. parahaemolyticus. Thus, while these results are promising, this study corresponds to preliminary work.

Optimizing the Performance of Full adder, NAND by the Use of Parameters of Nano Tube Carbon Field Effect Transistor Technology

Abstract: Full adder and NAND are the most important parts of digital circuits Therefore, optimizing the these blocks improves the whole output parameters of digital circuits In this paper controversial full adder and NAND are designed in CNFET technology and then different parameters of CNFET technology are changed to optimize the speed and power consumption of full adder and NAND The results of simulation by using HSPICE in 9v are presented The result of simulation shows the best parameters for better performance of these full adder and NAND in CNFET technology

Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns in Extended-spectrum β-lactamase Producing Klebsiella pneumoniaeIsolates in a Razi Hospital Marand,Iran

Abstract: The prevalence of antibiotic resistance among extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae has increased markedly in recent years. This could be attributed to association of multi drug resistance in ESBL producing isolates. The present study was aimed to determine the antimicrobial resistance profile of ESBL producing Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates from various clinical samples. In this study,250 cases of Klebsiella pneumoniae within 9 months from patients referring to Razi Hospital Marand were collected and identified by biochemical tests. ESBL screening and confirmation along with antimicrobial resistance test was done according to the Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Of the 250 isolates, 150 (60%) were identified as having ESBL phenotype. Over 100% of ESBL isolates showed resistance to Ceftazidime and least resistance was found to Meropenem (3.3%). The prevalence of ESBL is increasing day by day in nearly every center of different countries and necessary steps to prevent the spread and emergence of resistance should be taken.

Vegetation A nalysis of a F our Y ear O ld L andslide S car in Poblacion Central, Atok, Benguet Province, Philippines

Abstract: The Municipality of Atok in Benguet Province, Philippines is a landslide prone area due to its mountainous topography, occurrence of earthquak e and heavy rainfalls brought by monsoon rains and typhoons, and human activities such as excavations and road construction. In the past years, massive landslides washed off vegetation cover of several areas in Atok, leaving these barren. Several of these landslide scars were left untouched, and eventually, revegetated by recolonizing species. In this study, we conducted vegetation analysis of a four - year - old landslide scar in Poblacion Central, Atok, Benguet Province, Philippines. The vegetation analysis w as performed within the landslide scar and the adjacent uneroded area, using line transects and quadrats, to determine the frequency and cover of the recolonizing species . The most dominant species was determined from the importance values computed from th e relative frequency and relative cover. There were 19 species identified in the landslide scar. The dominant species are the Campylopus sp. , Paspalum longifolium and Eupatorium adenophorum with importance values of 30.365%, 22.597% and 11.704% respectivel y. Comparatively, there were 21 species identified in the adjacent uneroded area, of which the dominant species are Paspalum distichum , Pteridium aquilinum , and Paspalum longifolium with importance values of 25.461%, 13.050% , and 12.105% respectively. T his study was conducted to document the recolonizing plant species in the landslide scar that can be used as revegetation species in other landslides .

Intraspecific and Interspecific Variation of Stabilimenta in Orb Webs of Argiope Spiders (Araneae: Araneidae)

Abstract: Argiope spiders decorate their orb-webs with very conspicuous while zigzag silk construct called stabilimenta. This study was conducted to describe and compare the stabilimentum structure within and among the five Argiope species -Argiope luzona, A. catenulata, A. Appensa and A. Aemula. Results showed that stabilimenta is an optional component of the orb-web across the four Argiope species. The frequency, type (cruciate or discoid) form (thickness, extend: continuous or discontinuous, number of bands or arms) vary from web to web of a single individual (intra-individual variation), same species (intraspecific variation), or webs of different species (interspecific variation) which might be correlated with variety of environmental factors such as presence of prey, predators, conspecifics and other abiotic factors. The stabilimentum types of Argiope spp. were either discoid or cruciate which vary with spider size or ontogenetic stage. Small juveniles (body length : 0.6 cm) spun strictly cruciate form which vary in the number of arms (1-arm to 5-arm).

Taxonomical and Anatomical Identification of a New Species of Canscora from South India: A Medicinally Important Genus

Abstract: A variety of Canscora diffusa was placed as a new species by their taxonomical and anatomical characters. Previous studies concluded that Canscora diffusa and its variety were synonymous. C. racemosa was differs from C. diffusa by the presence of limited branches, yellowish 4-angled stem, persistent corolla, stigma longer than stamens, yellow coloured anisomorphic stamens, usually each dichotomous branch ends in a solitary flower, raceme in nature and gynoecium longer than stigma style. Anatomical difference between both the species of Canscora reflects that C. racemosa differs mainly by the presence of trichomes in T.S of stem and leaf sections. Both taxonomical and anatomical studies conclude that the variety of C. diffusa differs from C. diffusa by various characters. Hence, variety of C. diffusa can be treated as a new species and named as Canscora racemosa by their raceme type of inflorescence.