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The objective of this study was to assess seed health and the effect of plant extracts on Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum mycelial growth and sporulation, plant pathogen reduction in seeds and fusariosis control in okra seedlings. Health was assessed by the Blotter Test, after immersing the seeds in natural extracts and plating. To verify the mycelial growth of the plant pathogen, the extracts were incorporated in PDA culture medium and the pathogen was added and assessed, including the spore count. In the greenhouse, the seeds were immersed in the extracts, sown and at 15 days they were sprayed with extracts, at 21 days inoculated with the pathogen and disease severity on the seedlings was assessed 7 days later. There were higher incidences of Fusarium sp. and Rhizopus stolonifer in the seeds of the cultivars Valença and Santa Cruz 47. The extracts that resulted in lower pathogen incidence was basil, in cv. Valença and cinnamon and neem, in cv. Santa Cruz 47. The neem treatment presented the best inhibition percentage and the lowest sporulation mean in mycelial growth of the pathogen. Neem presented higher disease incidence control in the seedlings of cv. Valença and basil on the seedlings of cv. Santa Cruz 47.

The difficulty in obtaining commercial fertilizers by smallholder farmers in sub-Saharan Africa makes it very important to optimize the use of local organic resources. In VilanKulo, Mozambique, a study was carried out on okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) over two growing seasons. The soil was a haplic, loamy-sand textured Lixisol. As organic amendments, bat guano and biochar were used. Bat guano is a phosphorus (P)-rich and low-carbon (C)/nitrogen (N)-ratio material from natural deposits on a cave floor. Biochar is a C-rich material prepared via an artisanal process using forest residues as a feedstock. Bat guano was applied at two rates (5 and 10 t ha−1) just before sowing. It was also applied at the same rates one month before sowing. Biochar was used at two rates (5 and 10 t ha−1) applied at sowing. Biochar and guano were mixed at the rates of 1 and 4 t ha−1 and 2 and 8 t ha−1, respectively, and applied at sowing. The experiment also used a non-fertilized control. Field trials were arranged in a completely randomized design with three replicates. The treatments that received high rates of guano tended to show significantly higher fruit yields (>10 t ha−1 as the two-year average) in comparison with the control, which showed the lowest average okra fruit yield (6.21 t ha−1). In the guano treatments, the apparent recovery by okra of some important nutrients, such as N, was greater than the amount of the nutrient contained in the guano itself. This result, together with many others related to the tissue nutrient concentration, soil properties and residual fertilizing value in guano plots, indicated a strong mineralization of guano during the growing season. This was probably due to its low C/N ratio and favourable environmental conditions for the mineralization process. The result also suggests some kind of manuring effect, i.e., a fertilizing effect of guano beyond what can be explained by the nutrient supply. The use of biochar increased the total organic C in the soil and cation exchange capacity (CEC) compared with the control but did not affect the variables related to plant performance. Overall, the results showed that farmers can benefit from the use of guano in the short term because it releases nutrients, while with the use of biochar, the benefits can arise in the long term by improving the soil properties.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the growth and yield of okra as a function of phosphorus (P) doses and to obtain the critical leaf P content, under the edaphoclimatic conditions of Maranhão (MA), Brazil. The field experiment was carried out from February 15, 2017, to May 9, 2017, in São Luís, MA. The experimental design was randomized blocks, with four replications. The treatments were doses of 0, 80, 160, 240 and 320 kg ha-1 of P2O5, in the form of triple superphosphate, at planting, plus 10 t ha-1 of solid cattle manure. The increase of the P dose increased plant height, leaf dry mass and stem dry mass. With phosphorus supply, flowering occurred earlier than in plants without fertilization. Considering soils with low P content (P(resin) = 11 to 25 mg dm-3) and the minimum recommended organic fertilization for the okra crop of 10 t ha-1 of solid cattle manure, the maximum number of fruits, length of fruit and yield (9960.36 kg ha-1) were obtained with the fertilization of 80 kg ha-1 of P2O5, for the edaphoclimatic conditions of MA, Brazil. The critical leaf P content in okra is 3.4 g kg-1. RESUMO O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o crescimento e a produtividade do quiabo em função de doses de fósforo (P) e obter o teor crítico de P foliar, nas condições edafoclimáticas do Maranhão (MA), Brasil. O experimento de campo foi realizado no período de 15 de fevereiro de 2017 a 9 de maio de 2017, em São Luís, MA. O delineamento experimental foi de blocos casualizados, com quatro repetições. Os tratamentos foram doses de 0, 80, 160, 240 e 320 kg ha-1 de P2O5, na forma de superfosfato simples, no plantio, mais 10 t ha-1 de esterco bovino sólido. O aumento da dose de P aumentou a altura das plantas, massa seca de folhas e caule. Com o fornecimento de fósforo a precocidade do florescimento foi maior que em plantas não fertilizadas. . Considerando solos com baixo teor de P (P(resina) = 11 a 25 mg dm-3) e a adubação orgânica mínima recomendada para a cultura do quiabo de 10 t ha-1 de esterco bovino sólido, o número de frutos, comprimento do fruto e a produtividade máxima de frutos (9960.36 kg ha- 1) foram obtidos com a adubação de 80 kg ha-1 de P2O5, para as condições edafoclimáticas de MA, Brasil. O teor crítico foliar de P em quiabeiro é de 3,4 g kg-1.

Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] also known as bhindi or lady’s finger is an important vegetable crop in India, West Africa, South Africa, Brazil, USA and Turkey. It belongs to the family Malvaceae. Okra is mainly grown in tropics and subtropics of the world. The studies regarding the molecular marker development are very limited; still there is no SSR development from comprehensive transcriptome data in this crop. This study presents the first comprehensive transcriptome data, using RNA from different parts of okra such as root, stem, leaf, bud, flower, different stages of developing pod and from twenty days old plantlets of heat, drought and salt stressed. A total of 10,492 SSRs were identified in this study. Among these tri repeats (2112) were found to be predominant followed by di (1285), tetra (149), penta (24) and hexa. Thirty four SSRs were standardized for PCR and screened for 36 okra genotypes and accessions. Among these 18 SSR primers were found to be highly polymorphic with the PIC values more than 0.5. And the overall results of analysis showed that expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.000 to 0.971 with a mean of 0.593; the values for observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.000 to 0.794 with the mean of 0.254; the number of allele per locus ranged from 1 to 30 and the Polymorphic Information Content (PIC) ranged from 0.000 to 0.940 with the mean value of 0.5546. The genic SSR markers developed will help in germplasm characterization mapping, genetic diversity studies, molecular assisted breeding and also in gene discovery.

Polymer flooding is arguably the oldest chemical oil recovery method. The use of natural polymers in enhanced oil recovery process has gained wide acceptance due to their excellent viscosity, high resistance to challenging reservoir conditions ranging from increased salinities, temperatures and divalent cations. In recent times, research into the efficiency of green natural polymers is gaining attention as an eco-friendly, readily available and cost-effective option. In this study, the displacement efficiency ofAbelmoschus esculentusas a natural polymer in recovering heavy crude from sandstone reservoirs was examined and a simulation model was built to replicate the laboratory model.Abelmoschus esculentuswas cleaned, sun-dried, and grinded into powder form and enclosed in an airtight bag. The various phases were analyzed to ascertain the fluid-fluid compatibility and consistency. Polymer rheological studies was conducted at varied temperatures. Core flooding at optimum polymer concentration was considered in an oil-wet sandstone core under reservoir conditions. Results showed that the solubility of the fluids is a function of temperature. Furthermore, polymer viscosity showed a direct relationship to the polymer concentration and temperature. Polymer flooding resulted in additional recovery of 16.26 % oil initially in place (OIIP), thus affirming the efficiency of this natural polymer in recovering heavy oil. However, a viscosity enhancer is required for improved performance. The simulation model was built, and the recovery factors of both models was successfully matched.

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) is one of the plants from the Malvacea. The secondary metabolite compounds with quite large composition flavonoid compound that is able to provide pharmacological activity to lower blood sugar. This study aimed to isolate, identify find out the results of the inhibition test on the alpha amylase enzyme one of enzyme that affects blood sugar levels. Herein, the extraction was initially carried out using the remaceration method of okra fruit powder using 80% ethanol followed by fractionation process using n-hexane, ether, and ethyl acetate. The marker was isolated using the preparative TLC method with a silica gel and n-butanol:acetic acid : water (4:1:5) as stationary and mobile phases. The isolates were a yellow powder with a yield of 0.18% and a melting point of 307-309.5oC. TLC Densitometry was used to determine the Rf value and the spectral form of the standard quercetin and isolates wich are found to be identical. The isolate showed that quercetin compounds had the inhibitory power of the amylase enzyme by 49.74% compared to acarbose 58.90%. IC values, by quercetin isolates were8,358/ml and acarbose 7,598mg/ml and statistically, the t-group showed no significant differences.

Composted swine (Sus domesticus) lagoon solids may provide a nutrient rich alternative to peatmoss (Sphagnum sp.) in a transplant substrate while dispersing the concentrated nutrients of this waste product in a cost effective, environmentally conscientious manner. The objective of this study was to evaluate the physical and chemical characteristics of swine lagoon solids composted with peanut (Arachis hypogaea) hulls and evaluate the utility of this substrate to support growth of vegetable transplants. Swine lagoon solids were composted in an in-vessel compost reactor with peanut hulls 15:85 v/v producing a transplant substrate, swine lagoon compost (SLC). A greenhouse study was conducted with three vegetable species: ‘Moneymaker’ tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), ‘Traviata’ eggplant (Solanum melongena), and ‘Clemson Spineless’ okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) grown in SLC, an organic potting mix (OM), and a peatmoss-based substrate (PEAT). ‘Traviata’ eggplant, ‘Clemson Spineless’ okra, and ‘Moneymaker’ tomato transplants produced in SLC substrate were significantly greater in height and dry weight than those produced in either the OM or PEAT. Based on these findings SLC can provide both the physical and chemical requirements needed for vegetable transplant production without additional amendments or fertilizers.

Nitrogen (N) is the third nutrient more absorbed by okra. Therefore, an adequate supply of this element is essential for okra growth through the accumulation of dry matter in the leaves, stem, root and fruit. The objective was to evaluate the influence of N doses on growth, photoassimilates partition and yield of okra. The experiment was carried out in a Red-Yellow Argisol. A randomized complete block design with four replicates was used. The treatments consisted of N doses applied as topdressing (0, 60, 120, 240, 360 kg/ha). Samples of plants were held at 60, 75, 90, 105, 120, 135, 150 and 165 DAS for determination of the plant’s dry weight. The plant showed slow growth until 70 days, and after that time, intensified its growth until the end of the cycle. Total dry mass and absolute plant growth rate increased with increasing N availability, reaching the maximum marketable fruit yield of 10,665 kg/ha with 346 kg/ha N. The growth and partition of photoassimilates among the organs of the okra plant ‘Santa Cruz’ are altered with increasing nitrogen availability applied in topdressing. RESUMO O nitrogênio (N) é o terceiro nutriente mais absorvido pelo quiabo. Portanto, o suprimento adequado deste elemento é essencial para o crescimento do quiabeiro por meio do acúmulo de massa seca nas folhas, caule, raízes e frutos. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a influência do nitrogênio no crescimento, na partição de fotoassimilados e na produtividade do quiabeiro. O experimento foi realizado em Argissolo Vermelho-Amarelo. Utilizou-se o delineamento em blocos ao acaso com quatro repetições. Os tratamentos foram constituídos de doses de N aplicadas em cobertura (0, 60, 120, 240 e 360 kg/ha). As amostragens de plantas foram realizadas aos 60, 75, 90, 105, 120, 135, 150 e 165 dias para determinação da massa seca da planta. A planta apresentou um crescimento lento até 70 dias, e após esse tempo, intensificou o seu crescimento até o final do ciclo. A massa seca total e a taxa de crescimento absoluto das plantas aumentaram com o aumento da disponibilidade de N, alcançando a máxima produtividade de frutos comercializáveis de 10.665 kg/ha com a dose 346 kg/ha de N. O crescimento e a partição de fotoassimilados entre os órgãos da planta do quiabo ‘Santa Cruz’ são alterados com o aumento da disponibilidade de nitrogênio aplicado em cobertura.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of calcium supplementation on saline water as a minimizing agent of saline stress in okra cultivars. The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse in Mossoró-RN using a completely randomized experimental design in a 2x5 factorial scheme with four replications. Two okra cultivars (Santa Cruz 47 and Valença) were tested fertigated with five fertigation managements [F1= irrigation with non-saline water (0.5 dS m-1) and fertigation with a standard dose of calcium (4,733.8 mg plant-1); F2, F3, F4 and F5= irrigation with saline water (3.5 dS m-1) and fertigation with increasing doses of calcium (4,733.8; 7,100.7; 9,467.7 and 11,834.5 mg plant-1, respectively)]. Plants were collected at 120 days after emergence and evaluated for growth variables (plant height, leaf number, stem diameter, leaf dry mass, stem, fruit and total) and yield (fruit number, average length of fruits, average diameter and yield). Cultivar Santa Cruz 47 presented the highest vegetative development but cultivar Valença was earlier and presented the largest number of harvests (19), allowing more harvested fruits (27 fruits per plant) and the highest yield (659 g plant-1). The cultivars were not affected by the saline level and showed little response to extra calcium fertilization. RESUMO Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da suplementação cálcica em água salina como agente minimizador do estresse salino em cultivares de quiabeiro. O experimento foi desenvolvido em casa de vegetação, em Mossoró-RN utilizando o delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 2x5, com quatro repetições. Foram testadas duas cultivares de quiabeiro (Santa Cruz 47 e Valença) fertirrigados com cinco manejos de fertirrigação [F1= irrigação com água não salina (0,5 dS m-1) e fertirrigação com dose padrão de cálcio (4.733,8 mg planta-1); F2, F3, F4 e F5= irrigação com água salina (3,5 dS m-1) e fertirrigações com dose crescentes de cálcio (4.733,8; 7.100,7; 9.467,7 e 11.834,5 mg planta-1, respectivamente)]. As plantas foram coletadas após 120 dias da emergência e avaliadas quanto aos fatores de crescimento (altura de plantas, número de folhas, diâmetro do caule, biomassa seca de folhas e biomassa seca de caule) e rendimento (número de frutos, comprimento médio de frutos, diâmetro médio e produção). A cultivar Santa Cruz 47 apresentou maior desenvolvimento vegetativo mas a cultivar Valença foi mais precoce e apresentou maior número de colheitas (19), possibilitando mais frutos colhidos (27 frutos por planta) e maior produção (659 g planta-1). As cultivares não foram afetadas pelo nível salino utilizado e apresentaram pouca resposta à adubação extra de cálcio.

This study was conducted to collect local Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) genotypes belonging to Malvaceae (Mallow) family in the Northern Cyprus and morphological characterization of this collected material. On the other hand, due to the limited studies on collection and morphological characterization, which are the first step of breeding; the genetic potential of the local okra genotypes of Northern Cyprus has not been determined before. This research was carried out in two stages as the collection and morphological characterization of genotypes. In the first stage of the study, it was aimed to collect local okra genotypes and a total of 58 different locations were reached in line with this target and 24 samples of okra genotypes were collected from these areas. In the second year of the study, morphological characterization studies of 24 okra genotypes from the collected genetic material were carried out according to UPOV and IPGR criteria. As a result of morphological characterization showed that 24 okra genotypes can be categorized under 6 different groups. The regenerated seeds of these 6 different genotypes were preserved. In conclusion, although morphological characterization analyses performed in this study are the methods used to differentiate new species from each other, but it will be insufficient alone. Therefore, it is concluded that this method will be used in coordination with molecular characterization studies to provide more reliable results.

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.), a tropical annual crop, is a highly perishable vegetable. Okra pods deteriorate rapidly after harvesting. The pods undergo physical and physiological changes that diminish storability and quality. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of bio-stimulants on the storability and quality of okra pods stored at 4 °C and 25 °C for 12 days. Dipping okra pods for 5 min in a solution of 0.5% ascorbic acid, citric acid, or salicylic acid pre-storage significantly extended the shelf life and preserved the quality of the pods compared to the control condition at 4 °C and 25 °C. Citric acid and ascorbic acid were the most effective in preserving most traits. Citric acid reduced the loss in weight, firmness, appearance, and prevented decay at 4 °C and 25 °C. Ascorbic acid decreased the loss of moisture and the degradation of carbohydrates, vitamin C and lycopene at 4 °C and 25 °C. Salicylic acid decreased the degradation of protein at 25 °C. The low temperature was highly effective in decreasing the loss or degradation of most of the studied traits. Taken together, bio-stimulants and storing at 4 °C played a prominent role in extending the shelf life and preserving the quality of okra pods.

Salinity is one of the most devastating abiotic stresses that limit plant growth and yield, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of foliar application of salicylic acid in mitigating the effects of salt stress on okra cultivation in a hydroponic system. The study was conducted in a greenhouse, consisting of two experiments. A completely randomized design was adopted in a split-plot scheme, with four levels of electrical conductivity of the nutrient solution—EC (2.1; 3.6; 5.1, and 6.6 dS m−1) considered the plots and four salicylic acid concentrations—SA (0, 1.2; 2.4, and 3.6 mM), the subplots, with four replications. The second experiment differed from the first only by the increase in the EC levels (3.0, 5.0, 7.0, and 9.0 dS m−1). An increase in the electrical conductivity of the nutrient solution negatively affected the physiology and production components of okra. However, foliar application of salicylic acid at concentrations between 1.2 and 2.3 mM reduced the harmful effects of salt stress. The salinity threshold for hydroponic cultivation of okra was 2.54 dS m−1, with a reduction of 7.98% per unit increment in EC above this level.

Sandhanasamy Devanesan, Mohamad S AlSalhi Department of Physics and Astronomy, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Kingdom of Saudi ArabiaCorrespondence: Mohamad S AlSalhi Email malsahi@ksu.edu.saBackground: Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench, an economically important malvaceous vegetable crop popularly known as okra, is used in various culinary preparations and is rich in vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. The biological properties of okra flowers in relation to nanoparticle synthesis have not yet been reported.Materials and Methods: In the current study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized using extracts of the flowers of A. esculentus. The characteristics of the AgNPs were studied using a UV-vis spectrometer, Fourier transmission infrared spectrophotometer (FTIR), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDX). Antibacterial activity screening was performed using the agar well diffusion method, and cytotoxicity and cell viability studies were conducted using a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay.Results: The synthesized AgNPs were spherical and ranged in size from 5.52 to 31.96 nm, with an average size of 16.19 nm, as determined by UV-vis spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, TEM and EDX. A. esculentus flower extract-mediated silver nanoparticles (AME-AgNPs) exhibited excellent activities in vitro studies, particularly in vitro cytotoxic and antiproliferative studies against cancer cell lines, such as the TERT-4 and A-549 cell lines. The antibacterial effects on the Gram-positive pathogens Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Streptococcus pyogenes and the Gram-negative pathogens Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris, Salmonella typhimurium and Shigella sonnei were tested. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values varied with the bacterial strain. The IC50 values of the synthesized NPs for the tested cell lines were close to that of a standard drug.Conclusion: Compared to other NPs the NPs synthesized in this study were smaller in size and exhibited a higher level of antibacterial activity, cytotoxicity and apoptosis at minimal concentrations, and this is the first study on okra flower-induced anticancer and antimicrobial activities.Keywords: Abelmoschus esculentus, silver nanoparticles, okra green pods, cell lines and cytotoxicity

Sandhanasamy Devanesan, Mohamad S AlSalhi Department of Physics and Astronomy, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Kingdom of Saudi ArabiaCorrespondence: Mohamad S AlSalhi Email malsahi@ksu.edu.saBackground: Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench, an economically important malvaceous vegetable crop popularly known as okra, is used in various culinary preparations and is rich in vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. The biological properties of okra flowers in relation to nanoparticle synthesis have not yet been reported.Materials and Methods: In the current study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized using extracts of the flowers of A. esculentus. The characteristics of the AgNPs were studied using a UV-vis spectrometer, Fourier transmission infrared spectrophotometer (FTIR), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDX). Antibacterial activity screening was performed using the agar well diffusion method, and cytotoxicity and cell viability studies were conducted using a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay.Results: The synthesized AgNPs were spherical and ranged in size from 5.52 to 31.96 nm, with an average size of 16.19 nm, as determined by UV-vis spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, TEM and EDX. A. esculentus flower extract-mediated silver nanoparticles (AME-AgNPs) exhibited excellent activities in vitro studies, particularly in vitro cytotoxic and antiproliferative studies against cancer cell lines, such as the TERT-4 and A-549 cell lines. The antibacterial effects on the Gram-positive pathogens Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Streptococcus pyogenes and the Gram-negative pathogens Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris, Salmonella typhimurium and Shigella sonnei were tested. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values varied with the bacterial strain. The IC50 values of the synthesized NPs for the tested cell lines were close to that of a standard drug.Conclusion: Compared to other NPs the NPs synthesized in this study were smaller in size and exhibited a higher level of antibacterial activity, cytotoxicity and apoptosis at minimal concentrations, and this is the first study on okra flower-induced anticancer and antimicrobial activities.Keywords: Abelmoschus esculentus, silver nanoparticles, okra green pods, cell lines and cytotoxicity

Okra is consumed in several countries and is an important source of nutrients for human food. To promote okra production and consumption is essential the development of new cultivars with high nutritional levels, besides desirable agronomic traits. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate nine okra landraces by agronomic and biochemical traits. The accessions UEL2, UEL3, UEL5, UEL6, UEL7, UEL9, UEL10, UEL13 and UEL15 were grown in open field condition and evaluated in relation to fruit yield, fruit weight, fruit diameter, number of fruits per plant and plant height. The biochemical analysis included mineral composition, crude protein content, vitamin C content, total flavonoid and phenolic content and antioxidant activity. The UEL7 accession stood out for the high levels for biochemical traits such as content of some minerals, vitamin C and antioxidant activity. On the other hand, UEL3 accession had a low performance for biochemical traits, but stood out for agronomic traits such as fruit yield and number of fruits per plant. Hence, the UEL7 and UEL3 landraces may be introduced in breeding programs focused on human food and agronomic performance, beyond to contribute for okra germplasm conservation.

Seed priming is an effective, eco-friendly method to promote seed germination and seedling vigor of okra to overcome the reduced and delayed germination in fresh or stored okra seeds caused by seed hardness. An experiment was carried to evaluate the effects of different priming on okra seeds germination and seedling vigor using Arka Anamika variety at Horticulture lab of Agriculture and Forestry University, Rampur, Chitwan, Nepal. Investigation was carried out with 6 treatments (T1: seed priming with tap water, T2: seed priming with 200ppm NAA solution, T3: seed priming with 10% PEG-200 solution, T4: seed priming with 200ppm GA3 solution, T5: seed priming with 5% Trichoderma solution and T6 no priming) with 4 replications in Complete Randomized Design (CRD). Seeds primed with T1 to T5 were soaked for 24 hours and shade dried for 6 hours before sowing. Priming with T4 was found to be best in terms of maximum seed germination (60.12%), seed vigor index (5772.68 cm), mean germination rate (7.53 seeds per day). The highest shoot length (81.40 mm) was observed at T1 whereas enhancement of root length occurred with the priming with T3. All treatments had a significant positive effect on all the germination parameters in comparison to control. The study concluded that GA3 priming enhanced germination as well as seed vigor in okra and hydro priming and tricho-priming can be used as an alternative to GA3 priming among farmers in Nepal.

The article presents the results of bioecological characteristics and phenological features of some varieties of Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench in Vinnytsia region: two varieties of Ukrainian origin - ‘Sopilka’ and ‘Alabama red’, as well as a variety of okra of Turkish origin - ‘Sultani’. Germination energy and seed germination were studied. The results of phenological observations are obtained: calendar terms of the beginning of phenological phases, duration of phases and interphase periods of selected varieties. It was found that the earliest passage of phenological phases is the variety Abelmoschus esculentus of Turkish origin - ‘Sultani’. For this variety, the duration of the interphase periods (for 2018-2019) was: «sowing-germination» - 20 days, «germination-flowering» - 54 days, «flowering-beginning of fruiting» - 4 days. According to the results of 2020, the interphase periods for the variety ‘Sultani’ were longer by an average of 3-4 days., У статті представлено результати біоекологічних характеристик та фенологічних особливостей деяких сортів виду Аbelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench в умовах Вінницької області: два сорти українського походження – ‘Сопілка’ та ‘Alabama red’, а також сорт бамії турецького походження – ‘Sultani’. Досліджено енергію проростання та схожість насіння. Отримано результати фенологічних спостережень: календарні терміни початку фенологічних фаз, тривалості фаз і міжфазних періодів обраних сортів. Було встановлено, що найбільш раннім за строками проходженням фенологічних фаз є сорт Abelmoschus esculentus турецького походження - ‘Sultani’.Для цього сорту тривалість міжфазних періодів (для 2018-2019 рр) становила: «сівба-сходи» - 20 днів, «сходи-цвітіння» - 54 дні, «цвітіння-початок плодоношення» - 4 дні. За результатами 2020 р міжфазні періоди для сорту ‘Sultani’ були більшими в середньому на 3-4 дні.

This study investigated the response of Abelmoschus esculentus to food industry processing effluent at different concentrations of 0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80% and 100%. The physicochemical properties of the effluent and experimental soil were analysed. The effluent had a high BOD of 39.20mg/l compared to WHO standard of 10 and a pH of 6.12 which is within WHO allowable limit of 6.5-8.5. The conductivity was low 130.00 μs/cm compared to WHO standard of 750.5. The study also revealed that food industry effluent had a significant (p

Okra ( Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) is a vegetable crop of high nutritional value, which presents great losses after harvest when stored under poor storage conditions. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of different low-density polyethylene (LDPE) thicknesses on the preservation and post-harvest quality of okra fruits under different storage periods. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design, with nine replicates, in a 5 × 5 factorial scheme, corresponding to five forms of packaging at a temperature of 10 ± 1 ℃: no film and four LDPE thicknesses (10, 20, 30, and 40 µm) with five storage periods (0, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days). It was revealed that the use of LDPE plastic films provided lower loss of mass, higher fruit firmness containment of increase in soluble solids, and lower color change at 21 days of storage compared to no film. The LDPE thickness of 30 µm showed lower incidence of rotting, better appearance throughout storage, lower color changes, containment of increase in soluble solids content, higher chlorophyll, ascorbic acid, and total phenolic content compared to other forms of packaging, and is the most appropriate package for storing okra fruits up to 21 days, under refrigeration condition. The results of this study show that the thickness of LDPE has significant effects on the conservation and quality of okra. Our findings can be used to minimize post-harvest losses of okra during marketing.

Background: Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) is a vegetable with fiber, vitamin C and flavonoids that can delay emptying of the stomach and cause longer satiety based on the fiber contents so that calorie intake is reduced. The presence of vitamin C and flavonoids in okra acts as an antioxidant that can fight free radicals and detain oxidative stress caused by hyperglycemia. This study aimed to compare the effect of steamed and boiled okra on fasting blood glucose levels in patients of type 2 diabetes mellitus with hypercholesterolemia. Methods: The independent variables consisted of steamed and boiled okra and the dependent variable was fasting blood glucose level. Forty patients who suffered from type 2 diabetes mellitus and with hypercholesterolemia were enrolled and divided into three groups including the control group (G1), treatment group of G2 (boiled okra intervention as much as 40 g for 14 days) and G3 (steamed okra intervention as much as 40 g for 14 days). Results: A greater decrease in fasting blood glucose level was noted for boiled okra group when compared with steamed okra group among patients suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus and with hypercholesterolemia. Conclusion: Administration of boiled and steamed okra as much as 40 g for 14 days was shown to reduce fasting blood glucose level among patients suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus and with hypercholesterolemia.

Plant growth promoting rhizobacterial strain Bacillus thuringiensis A5-BRSC was applied as charcoalbased biofertilizer on Abelmoschus esculentus plants under field condition for consecutive two years (spring-summer season). The objective of the present study is to evaluate the growth promoting parameters of the plant under field condition. Field application of biofertilizer showed statistically significant increase (at 0.05 levels by one-way ANOVA) in seed germination, shoot height, root length, leaf diameter, vigor index, fruit weight, seed weight and total fresh weight as well as dry weight of inoculated plants in comparison to the plants not treated with biofertilizer. Biofertilizer inoculated plants exhibited 68% more protein content in leaves, as well as about 70% more catalase and 52% more peroxidase activity than control plants; although leaf chlorophyll content was not significantly changed. Biofertilizer treatment increased nutritional content of the fruits. About 66% increase in the soluble sugar content, 34% more protein content and more than 75% phosphorus content in pods were noted in biofertilizer treated plants, compared to untreated plants.

Known for its high nutritional and medicinal value, okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) is commonly used for replacing plasma and expanding blood volume in humans. It is a major economic crop cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. The present study aimed to investigate and evaluate the nutritional properties and prospective applications of the consumable parts of okra. The total ash content (mineral content), carbohydrate, crude fiber, fat, protein, and moisture fractions of okra pod aqueous extract were determined. The results show that okra aqueous extract contained 84.670–87.650% moisture, 1.514–1.197% ash, 7.857–8.261% carbohydrate, 2.367–3.410% crude protein, and 6.781–8.314% crude fiber. Okra was determined to have high nutritional value, with γ-tocopherol and α-tocopherol contents about 2.67 mg/100 g and 1.62 mg/100 g, respectively. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was performed to determine the sugars present in okra aqueous extract. The water-soluble polysaccharide content was 10.22–16.45 g/100 g. The tested aqueous extract was a rich source of total phenolic compounds in gallic acid equivalents (288.2–3426.2 mg/100 g), chlorophyll a (3.53 mg/100), chlorophyll b (2.43 mg/100), and carotenoids (1.3 mg/100 g). The detected minerals were Ca, Mg, Cu, Zn, Fe, K, Na, and Mn. Atomic absorption spectrometry analysis of these ashed minerals was performed. In addition to the nutritional benefits, okra pods exhibited antimicrobial, anticancer, and antioxidant properties. The aqueous extract was found to be potentially active against bacterial strains of Staphylococcus aureus (MIC value = 21.8 mg/mL), Escherichia coli (MIC value = 18.7 mg/mL), Bacillus cereus (MIC value = 20.7 mg/mL), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (MIC value = 20.2 mg/mL). Okra aqueous extract exhibited inhibitory activity against α-amylase (IC50 = 120 µg/mL) and α-glucosidase (IC50 = 115 µg/mL). The okra extract exhibited high anticancer activity, concentration-dependent and with an IC50 value of about 158.3 mg/mL. The results indicated that okra pods have nutritional and medicinal properties and, hence, can be used as a functional food and broad-spectrum nutraceutical supplement.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a prevalent endocrine disorder with clinical manifestations of hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia due to malfunction and/ or insufficiency of insulin in the body. DM is considered as a public health problem worldwide due to its adverse effects on the body. Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) is an annual medicinal plant rich in antioxidant components, bioactive polysaccharides, and fibers. This systematic review aimed to summarize the effects of okra on glycemic indices and lipid profile. PubMed, Scopus, Web of Knowledge, and Google scholar databases were searched until May 2021 with no limitation. Totally, 54 studies which investigated the effects of okra on glycemic control and lipid profile were included in the present systematic review. Most of the included studies showing favorable effects of okra products on glycemic variables and lipid profile, were performed on animal models. Therefore, more clinical trials are needed for a definitive conclusion.

In this work, stable and spherical silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized in situ from silver salt (silver nitrate) using the aqueous extract of the okra plant (Abelmoschus esculentus) at room temperature and ambient pH conditions. The influences of different parts of the plant (such as the leaves, stems, and pods) on the chemical-reducing effectiveness of silver nitrate to silver nanoparticles were investigated. The aqueous extract of the leaves was found to be more effective in the chemical reduction of silver nanoparticles and in stabilizing them at the same time. The silver nanoparticles produced were stable and did not precipitate even after storage for 1 month. The extract of the stem was less effective in the reduction capacity followed by the extract of the pods. The results indicate that the different amounts of phytochemicals present in the leaves, stems, and pods of the okra plant are responsible for the chemical reduction and stabilizing effect. The silver nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peak at 460 nm confirmed the formation of silver nanoparticles. The nanoparticles were spherical with an average size of 16 nm and polycrystalline with face-centered cubic (fcc) structures. The z-scan technique was used to study the nonlinear refraction and absorption coefficients of AgNPs at wavelengths of 488 and 514 nm under C.W. mode excitation. The nonlinear refraction index and nonlinear absorption coefficients were calculated in the theoretical equations in the experimental data. The antibacterial properties of the nanoparticles were evaluated against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench (okra) is a commonly consumed vegetable that consists of the seeds and peel component which are rich in polyphenolic compounds. The aim of this study is to utilize pressurized hot water extraction (PHWE) for the extraction of bioactive phytochemicals from different parts of okra. A single step PHWE was performed at various temperatures (60 °C, 80 °C, 100 °C and 120 °C) to determine which extraction temperature exhibits the optimum phytochemical profile, antioxidant and antidiabetic activities. The optimum temperature for PHWE extraction was determined at 80 °C and the biological activities of the different parts of okra (Inner Skin, Outer Skin and Seeds) were characterized using antioxidant (DPPH and ABTS), α-glucosidase and vasoprotective assays. Using PHWE, the different parts of okra displayed distinct phytochemical profiles, which consist of primarily polyphenolic compounds. The okra Seeds were shown to have the most antioxidant capacity and antidiabetic effects compared to other okra parts, likely to be attributed to their higher levels of polyphenolic compounds. Similarly, okra Seeds also reduced vascular inflammation by downregulating TNFα-stimulated VCAM-1 and SELE expression. Furthermore, metabolite profiling by LC/MS also provided evidence of the cytoprotective effect of okra Seeds in endothelial cells. Therefore, the use of PHWE may be an alternative approach for the environmentally friendly extraction and evaluation of plant extracts for functional food applications.

Abelmoschus esculentus has fruit popularly known as okra and belongs to the Malvaceae family. It is commonly used in cooking but also in traditional medicine in the treatment of worms, dysentery, inflammation, and also irritation of the stomach, intestines, and kidneys, as it is a potential functional food. Its mucilage is a highly viscous polysaccharide that is mostly composed of monosaccharides D-galactose, L-rhamnose, and galacturonic acid, as well as proteins and minerals. The functional properties of okra mucilage have been widely studied, mainly for its potential antidiabetic activity; thus, its use as adjuvant or nutraceutical therapy for diabetes is very promising. Due to its rheological properties, it is a potential resource for pharmaceutical and food applications. Okra mucilage can be extracted by several methods, which can directly influence its physicochemical characteristics and biological activity. Features such as low cost, non-toxicity, biocompatibility, and high availability in nature arouse the interest of researchers for the study of okra mucilage. The survey of research on the applications of okra mucilage highlights the importance of using this promising source of bioactive compounds with interesting technological properties. The potential of okra as a functional food, the properties of okra mucilage, and its technological applications are discussed in this review.

In this work, experiment was carried out resulting in the utilization of local viscosifiers as substitute to conventional method (PAC-R) for hole cleaning purposes in drilling mud. The proposed viscosifiers are Irvingia gabonensis (Ogbono) and Abelmoschus esculentus (Okro) as alternative to the imported poly-anionic cellulose-regular (PAC-R) which is used in cutting carrying capacity efficiency. Laboratory tests were carried out on the proposed viscosifiers to evaluate their rheological properties. Slip velocity, annular velocity, shear stress, shear rate and cuttings transport efficiency on hole cleaning parameters were calculated to ascertain the effectiveness of the proposed viscosifiers in comparison with the conventional one (PAC-R). The results of the study showed that the proposed viscosifiers Sample B Irvingia gabonensis (Ogbono) had cutting carrying capacity of 96% for 5, 8, 10 and 15 (g), respectively. However, Sample C Abelmoschus esculentus (Okro) had 96% for 5 g and 8 g and 95% for 10 g and 15 g on the cutting transport efficiency. Based on the result of this work, the proposed viscosifiers compared favorably to that of PAC-R on hole cleaning and cutting carrying capacity.

In the study, 37 okra genotypes have been investigated for their responses against salinity and drought stresses in early plant growth stage. For these purposes, several morphological and physiological measurements and analysis have been done. Shoot and root dry weights, plant height, leaf number, leaf area, relative water content, stomatal conductance, leaf osmotic potential, leaf water potential, shoot Na, K, Ca and Cl concentrations were measured and analyzed. Salt and drought tolerant and sensitive (intolerant) genotypes have been found out according to the responses of the okra genotypes to the above mentioned morphological and physiological parameters. At the end of the study, 37 okra genotypes were classified as tolerant, mildly tolerant or susceptible. The leaf water potential, osmotic potential, stomatal conductance, membrane injury, K, Ca, Na and Cl concentrations in shoot and root were more relevant parameter for screening studies. © 2019 International Society for Horticultural Science. All rights reserved. ZF2011KAP3, ZF2010KAP1 The authors want to thank to the UNDP (United Nation Development Programme) for supporting our work with “MDG-F 1680 UN joint programme on enhancing the capacity of Turkey to adapt to climate change”. Many thanks also Cukurova University for the financial supports of ZF2009KAP7, ZF2010KAP1 and ZF2011KAP3 projects.

The aim of this research was to investigate the antioxidant, and anticholinergic properties, phenolics profile and antibacterial activities of Abelmoschus esculentus ethanol extract. The analysis of phenolic compounds was performed with LC–MS/MS. The antioxidant capacity (radical scavenging, metal-reducing power and total antioxidant activity) was assessed by DPPH, ABTS, Cu2+–Cu+ reducing (CUPRAC), Fe3+–Fe2+ reducing and ferric thiocyanate methods. The antibacterial activity was determined by disc diffusion and MIC (Minimum inhibitory concentration) methods and the anticholinergic property was predicted by inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Acetohydroxamic acid was determined as the main phenolic compound with the highest amount in the flower extract. Also, quercetin, myricetin, fumaric acid, vanillic acid, ellagic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, salicylic acid, caffeic acid, kaempferol, butein, protocatechic acid, catechin hydrate, oleuropein and other components were detected, respectively. The ethanolic extract of the plant has 29.41% DPPH radical scavenging activity, 20.59% ABTS radical scavenging activity, and also moderate metal reduction potential. Also, the extract showed an inhibition effect on the AChE with IC50 values (0.18 mg mL−1). The ethanol extract of the plant showed antibacterial effect on Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella Typhimurium at different levels. These results suggested that extract of the flowers of A. esculentus extract might play a role in the treatment of some diseases with its antioxidant, anticholinergic, and antibacterial activity., Bu araştırmanın amacı, Abelmoschus esculentus’a ait çiçek kısımınlarının etanolik ekstraktının antioksidan ve antikolinerjik özelliklerini, fenolik bileşik profilini ve antibakteriyel aktivitesini araştırmaktır. Fenolik bileşiklerin analizi LC-MS/MS ile gerçekleştirilmiştir. Antioksidan kapasitesi (radikal giderme, metal indirgeme gücü ve toplam antioksidan aktivite) DPPH, ABTS, Cu2+-Cu+ indirgeme (CUPRAC), Fe3+-Fe2+ indirgeme ve ferrik tiyosiyanat yöntemleri ile değerlendirilmiştir. Antibakteriyel aktivite, disk difüzyon ve MIC (Minimum inhibitör konsantrasyonu) yöntemleri ile belirlenmiştir. Antikolinerjik özellik ise, asetilkolinesterazın (AChE) inhibisyonu ile tespit edilmiştir. Bitki özütünde miktar bakımından en fazla bulunan başlıca fenolik bileşiğin asetohidroksamik asit olduğu belirlenmiştir. Ayrıca, sırasıyla kuarsetin, myrisetin, fumarik asit, vanillik asit, ellagik asit, 4-hidroksibenzoik asit, salisilik asit, kafeik asit, kemferol, bütein, protokateşik asit, kateşin hidrat, oleuropein ve diğer bileşenler tespit edilmiştir. Bitkinin etanolik özütü, %29.41 DPPH radikal giderme aktivitesi gösterirken, %20.59 ABTS radikal giderme aktivitesine ve ayrıca orta düzeyde metal indirgeme potansiyeline sahiptir. Ayrıca ekstrakt, 0.18 mg mL-1 IC50 değeri ile AChE üzerinde bir inhibisyon etkisi göstermiştir. Bitkinin etanol özütü, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli ve Salmonella Typhimurium üzerinde farklı düzeylerde antibakteriyel etki göstermiştir. Elde edilen sonuçlar, A. esculentus çiçek özütünün, sahip olduğu antioksidan, antikolinerjik ve antibakteriyel özellikleri ile bazı hastalıkların tedavisinde rol oynayabileceğini düşündürmektedir.

HIGHLIGHTS Salt water reduces gas exchange in the okra crop, but organomineral fertilization mitigates these effects. The use of organic and mineral fertilization is viable in okra crops under salt stress. Organic fertilizer (100% bovine biofertilizer) decreases internal CO2 concentration. RESUMO O manejo adequado de águas salobras pode aumentar a produção vegetal no Semiárido brasileiro. A fertilização organomineral contribui para a minimização dos efeitos deletérios da salinidade. Nessa perspectiva, objetivou-se avaliar os índices fisiológicos do quiabeiro cultivado sob adubação organomineral e irrigado com água salina. O experimento foi no delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado no esquema fatorial 6 x 2, com seis repetições, referente a seis formas de adubação: T1 - Adubação mineral com NPK; T2 - Adubação com biofertilizante bovino; T3 - Adubação com cinza vegetal; T4 - Adubo mineral (50%) + biofertilizante bovino (50%); T5 - Adubo mineral (50%) + cinza vegetal (50%); T6 - Controle; e a duas condutividades elétricas da água de irrigação (0,5 e 5,0 dS m-1). Aos 30 e 60 dias após o transplantio, foram analisados os índices fisiológicos do quiabeiro. O estresse salino afeta de forma negativa os indicies fisiológicos da cultura do quiabo, no entanto, a fertilização organomineral atenua parcialmente os efeitos dos sais sobre a fisiologia do quiabeiro. Desta forma, recomenda-se o uso da adubação orgânica e mineral no cultivo do quiabeiro em condições de salinidade.

In this study, silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) were successfully synthesized by using the green chemistry method, which is simple, environment friendly, and economical by using plant extract obtained from Abelmoschus esculentus. The synthesized Ag NPs were characterized using ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The synthesized Ag NPs showed absorbance peaks at 432 nm in the UV–Vis spectroscopy. The mean particle size of Ag NPs was found to be 8.96 nm. The antimicrobial activity of Ag NPs was examined on Escherichia coli (E. coli), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Besides, the antibacterial activity of Ag NPs was compared with commercially available antibiotics (Penicillin–streptomycin and Ampicillin–sulbactam). Ag NPs exhibited excellent antimicrobial activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. In addition, Ag NPs were used in ceramic glaze, and thus, an antibacterial ceramic glaze was developed. © 2020, Islamic Azad University (IAU).

RESUMO O quiabo é uma hortaliça que destaca-se agronomicamente por apresentar ciclo vegetativo rápido, de alto rendimento, além de apresentar considerável valor nutritivo. Em razão da sua composição e de ser consumido ainda verde, a sua vida útil é bastante curta, requerendo algum processo de conservação para manter a aceitabilidade. Nesse sentido, objetivou-se secar o quiabo em fatias, com espessura de aproximadamente 2 mm, nas temperaturas de 50, 60, 70 e 80 °C, ajustar modelos matemáticos aos dados experimentais e determinar os coeficientes de difusão, a energia de ativação e as propriedades termodinâmicas. Observou-se que o aumento de temperatura de secagem em 30 °C reduziu em 50,55% o tempo total de processo. Dentre os modelos matemáticos testados, o modelo de Midilli apresentou os melhores parâmetros de ajustes aos dados experimentais. Os coeficientes de difusão efetivos aumentaram com o incremento da temperatura, apresentando-se na ordem de 10-11 m2 s-1, e sua dependência com a temperatura foi descrita pela Equação de Arrhenius, que indicou uma energia de ativação de 26,12 kJ mol-1. Os valores de entalpia e entropia se reduziram com a elevação da temperatura de secagem, enquanto que a energia livre de Gibbs foi aumentada na faixa de temperatura avaliada.

The objective of this work was to verify the effect of hydroalcoholic extract and neem oil on mycelial growth, sporulation, germination, and conidia adhesion of the fungus F. oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum. Also, to evaluate the effect of the extract and oil mentioned in the induction of resistance in treated okra trees and, later, inoculated with the fungus, through the activity of antioxidant enzymes related to plant defense processes. The results showed that both the extract and the neem oil were efficient in inhibiting mycelial growth and sporulation of the fungus. In addition, there was inhibition of germination and fixation of conidia produced in the presence of the products. Neem extract and oil reduced the severity of the disease in okra, as measured by the disease’s infection rate. In addition, significant increases in the enzymes guaiacol-peroxidase, polyphenoloxidase, superoxide dismutase and catalase were observed in the okra treated with the products, these increases being directly proportional to the increases in the concentrations used. Thus, both the extract and the neem oil have direct effects on the development of the fungus F. oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum and induce resistance in okra from the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). El objetivo de este trabajo fue verificar el efecto del extracto hidroalcohólico y el aceite de neem sobre el crecimiento micelial, la esporulación, la germinación y la adhesión de conidios del hongo F. oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum y evaluar el efecto de estos productos sobre la inducción de resistencia en árboles de okra tratados y, posteriormente, inoculados con el hongo, mediante la actividad de enzimas antioxidantes relacionadas con los procesos de defensa de las plantas. Los resultados mostraron que tanto el extracto como el aceite de neem eran eficientes para inhibir el crecimiento micelial y la esporulación del hongo. Además, hubo inhibición de la germinación y fijación de conidios producidos en presencia de los productos. El extracto y el aceite de neem redujeron la gravedad de la enfermedad en la okra, medida por la tasa de infección de la enfermedad. Además, se observaron incrementos significativos de las enzimas guayacol-peroxidasa, polifenoloxidasa, superóxido dismutasa y catalasa en la okra tratada con los productos, siendo estos incrementos directamente proporcionales a los incrementos en las concentraciones utilizadas. Así, tanto el extracto como el aceite de neem tienen efectos directos sobre el desarrollo del hongo F. oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum e inducen resistencia en la okra a partir de la formación de especies reactivas de oxígeno (EROs). O objetivo deste trabalho foi verificar o efeito do extrato hidroalcoólico e do óleo de nim sobre o crescimento micelial, esporulação, germinação e adesão de conídios do fungo F. oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum e avaliar o efeito desses produtos na indução de resistência em quiabeiros tratados e, posteriormente, inoculados com o fungo, por meio da atividade de enzimas antioxidantes relacionadas com processos de defesa vegetal. Os resultados evidenciaram que tanto o extrato quanto o óleo de nim foram eficientes em inibir o crescimento micelial e esporulação do fungo. Além disso, houve inibição da germinação e fixação de conídios produzidos na presença dos produtos. O extrato e o óleo de nim reduziram a severidade da doença nos quiabeiros, medida pelo índice de infecção da doença. Além disso, incrementos significativos das enzimas guaiacol-peroxidase, polifenoloxidase, superóxido-dismutase e catalase foram observados nos quiabeiros tratados com os produtos, sendo estes aumentos, diretamente proporcionais aos aumentos das concentrações utilizadas. Assim, tanto o extrato quanto o óleo de nim têm efeitos diretos sobre o desenvolvimento do fungo F. oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum e induzem resistência em quiabeiros a partir da formação de espécies reativas de oxigênio (EROs).

The objective of this work was to carry out a phytosociological survey of weeds in the cultivation of cabbage in consortium with okra. The experiment was carried out in random blocks, with four replications. The treatments consisted of the following arrangements: T1 (three lines of cabbage with okra between the lines), T2 (three lines of cabbage with okra every two lines), T3 (three lines of cabbage with dense okra between the lines), T4 (three lines of cabbage with thick okra every two rows), T5 (cabbage), T6 (okra), T7 (thick okra) and T8 (oat straw). At 17 days after transplantation (DAT) and at fortnightly intervals up to 152 DAT, samples with 0.09 m2 were taken, randomly in each plot. Weeds were quantified and identified by establishing the total number of individuals and the total plant density per m². At the end of 77 and 152 DAT, absolute frequency, relative frequency, absolute density, relative density, absolute abundance, relative abundance and the importance value index of the most representative species were established. It was identified 23 species distributed in 14 families, highlighting the Asteraceae family, with 5 species. The most important species were Sonchus oleraceus and Richardia brasilenses, present in at least 5 of the 8 treatments. The T1 consortium had a reduction of 38% in the number of individuals and 37.9% in the density of plants per m² in relation to the cultivation of single cabbage. The consortium of cabbage with okra reduces weed infestation and can be explored as a management alternative. El objetivo de este trabajo fue realizar un relevamiento fitosociológico de malezas en el cultivo de col de hoja en consorcio con okra. El experimento se realizó en bloques al azar, con cuatro repeticiones. Los tratamientos consistieron en los siguientes arreglos: T1 (tres líneas de repollo con okra entre las líneas), T2 (tres líneas de repollo con okra en cada dos líneas), T3 (tres líneas de repollo con okra denso entre las líneas), T4 (tres líneas de repollo con okra espeso cada dos líneas), T5 (repollo), T6 (okra), T7 (okra espeso) y T8 (paja de avena). A los 17 días posteriores al trasplante (DAT) y a intervalos quincenales hasta 152 DAT, se tomaron muestras con 0.09 m2, al azar en cada parcela. Las malezas se cuantificaron e identificaron estableciendo el número total de individuos y la densidad total de plantas por m². Al final de 77 y 152 DAT se estableció la frecuencia absoluta, frecuencia relativa, densidad absoluta, densidad relativa, abundancia absoluta, abundancia relativa y el índice de valor de importancia de las especies más representativas. Se identificaron 23 especies distribuidas en 14 familias, destacando la familia Asteraceae, con 5 especies. Las especies más importantes fueron Sonchus oleraceus y Richardia brasilenses, presentes en al menos 5 de los 8 tratamientos. El consorcio T1 tuvo una reducción del 38% en el número de individuos y del 37,9% en la densidad de plantas por m² en relación al cultivo de col simple. El consorcio de repollo con okra reduce la infestación de malezas y puede explorarse como una alternativa de manejo. O objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar o levantamento fitossociológico de plantas daninhas no cultivo de couve-folha em consorciação com o quiabeiro. O experimento foi conduzido em blocos casualizados, com quatro repetições. Os tratamentos foram constituídos pelos seguintes arranjos: T1 (três linhas de couve com quiabeiro nas entrelinhas), T2 (três linhas de couve com quiabeiro a cada duas entrelinhas), T3 (três linhas de couve com quiabeiro adensado nas entrelinhas), T4 (três linhas de couve com quiabeiro adensado a cada duas entrelinhas), T5 (couve), T6 (quiabeiro), T7 (quiabeiro adensado) e T8 (palhada de aveia). Aos 17 dias após o transplante (DAT) e em intervalos quinzenais até 152 DAT foram realizadas amostragens com quadro de 0,09 m2, aleatoriamente em cada parcela. As plantas daninhas foram quantificadas e identificadas estabelecendo-se o número total de indivíduos e a densidade total de plantas por m². Ao final de 77 e 152 DAT estabeleceu-se a frequência absoluta, frequência relativa, densidade absoluta, densidade relativa, abundância absoluta, abundância relativa e o índice de valor de importância das espécies mais representativas. Identificou-se 23 espécies distribuídas em 14 famílias, destacando a família Asteraceae, com 5 espécies. As espécies mais importantes foram Sonchus oleraceus e Richardia brasilenses, presentes em no mínimo 5 dos 8 tratamentos. O consórcio T1, teve redução de 38% no número de indivíduos e de 37,9% na densidade de plantas por m² em relação ao cultivo de couve-folha solteiro. O consórcio de couve-folha com quiabeiro reduz a infestação de plantas daninhas e pode ser explorado como alternativa de manejo.

Beneficial soil microorganisms influence nutrient recycling, soil fertility, plant growth, and productivity and reduce chemical fertilizer application. This study aimed to isolate bacteria from non-agricultural soils in the Al-Ahsa region and characterize the bacteria with the best biostimulating characteristics at the physiological, biochemical, and molecular level. DPM17, a bacterial isolate, promotes plant growth through phosphate solubilization, nitrogen fixation, and ammonia production. DPM17 also produces the phytohormones, indole acetic acid (IAA; 4.516 μg mL−1) and gibberellin (1.33 µg mL−1), and ammonia (0.06 µg mL−1). Additionally, DPM17 grows in the presence of up to 10% NaCl, indicating its halophilic nature. DPM17 was identified as Bacillusbaekryungensis based on comparative sequence analysis of the 16S rRNA gene, and neighbor-joining phylogenetic analyses indicated that DPM17 was 96.51% identified to Bacillus sp. DPM17 inoculation substantially improved Abelmoschus esculentus (okra) root length, lateral root count, and dry weight from 7.03 to 9.41 (p = 0.03), 3.2 to 7.2, and 6 to 13 mg (p = 0.032), respectively. The results suggest that DPM17 enhances plant growth and can be exploited to develop efficient formulations for sustainable agriculture and food security in Saudi Arabia.

International audience; Agroforestry helps to increases crop yields through facilitation as there will be no competition and improved availability of resources for the growing crop. The integration of trees and crops further helps to improves income of the local farms while also conserving soil and water for environmental protection. Trees generally have the capacity for reducing wind velocity and trapping dust and also contribute to food security and poverty alleviation by providing fruits, wood (fuel and construction) and fodder. The study was aimed at studying the effect of some Sahelian tree species on the growth and yield of some selected crops in Maiduguri. 8 active farmlands were randomly selected, tree species (Faiherbia albida, Balanies aegyptica and an exotic species Azadirachta indica) from the farmlands were identified and randomly selected for the study. The crops grown on the farmlands (Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea), Cowpea, Vigna unguiculutu, Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) were measured for the growth (plant height, plant width and number of leaves) and yield (Number of pods and pods yield) parameters under the 3 divided zones (under canopy, neighboring canopy and control) in each sampling station. The result of this study showed that A. indica has yield adverse effect on the growth and yield of groundnut but has no effect on okra crop. F. albida on the other hand shows no effects on the growth and yield of both groundnut and okra. The study further revealed that B. aegyptica shows adverse effects on the growth and yield of groundnut but has no effect on the growth and yield of cowpea.

Background Insulin resistance could be associated with the development of Alzheimer disease (AD). The neuropathological hallmarks of AD are beta amyloid (Aβ) produced from sequential cleavage initiated by β-secretase and degraded by insulin degradation enzyme (IDE), as well as hyperphosphorylation of tau (p-tau). Insulin action involves the cascades of insulin receptor substrates (IRS) and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), while phosphorylation of IRS-1 at ser307 (p-ser307IRS-1) hinders the response. Our previous report suggested dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) is crucial to insulin resistance, and the subfractions of Abelmoschus esculentus (AE), F1 and F2, attenuate the signaling. Here we aim to investigate whether AE works to reduce Aβ generation via regulating DPP4 and insulin resistance. Methods The subfractions F1 and F2 were prepared according to a succession of procedures. F1 was composed by quercetin glycosides and triterpene ester, and F2 contained a large amount of polysaccharides. The in vitro insulin resistance model was established by SK-N-MC cell line treated with palmitate. MTT was used to define the dose range, and thereby Western blot, ELISA, and the activity assay were used to detect the putative markers. One-way ANOVA was performed for the statistical analysis. Results Treatment of palmitate induced the level of p-ser307IRS-1. Both F1 and F2 effectively decrease p-ser307IRS-1, and recover the expression of p-PI3K. However, the expression of total IRS plunged with 25 μg/mL of F1, while descended steadily with 5 μg/mL of F2. As palmitate increased the levels of Aβ40 and Aβ42, both AE subfractions were effective to reduce Aβ generation of and β-secretase activity, but IDE was not altered in any treatment conditions. The expression of DPP4 was also accompanied with insulin resistance signals. Inhibition of DPP4 attenuated the activity of β-secretase and production of Aβ. Moreover, the present data revealed that both AE subfractions significantly decrease the level of p-Tau. Conclusions In conclusion, we demonstrated that AE would be a potential adjuvant to prevent insulin resistance and the associated pathogenesis of AD, and F2 seems more feasible to be developed.

Este trabalho objetivou avaliar as características produtivas da couve de folha em consórcio com quiabeiro sob manejo orgânico. O experimento foi conduzido em delineamento de blocos ao acaso, com quatro repetições. Os tratamentos: T1 (três linhas de couve com quiabeiro nas entrelinhas), T2 (três linhas de couve com quiabeiro a cada duas entrelinhas), T3 (três linhas de couve com quiabeiro adensado nas entrelinhas), T4 (três linhas de couve com quiabeiro adensado a cada duas entrelinhas), T5 (couve), T6 (quiabeiro) e T7 (quiabeiro adensado). Nos monocultivos a couve e quiabeiro possuíam espaçamento entre linhas de 1,20 x 0,50 m e entre plantas. O quiabeiro adensado estava no espaçamento entre plantas de 0,25 m. Na couve foi avaliada a altura, número de folhas, massa fresca e seca das folhas, área foliar, produtividade comercial e não comercial. No quiabeiro foi avaliado a altura a massa fresca de frutos e produtividade. Foi calculado o índice de uso eficiente da terra (UET). O T3 apresentou maior número de folhas comerciais e área foliar. Os consórcios reduziram a massa de frutos de quiabo por planta. Todos os consórcios apresentaram UET acima de um com ganhos variado de 16 até 60% de eficiência produtiva.

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) is one vegetable crops most cultivated in Côte d'Ivoire. However, the plant is attacked by insects which caused important damage. This study was carried out to inventory entomofauna associated with okra crop and assess the damage caused by the pests. The insects were captured using pliers, sweep net by mowing technique and colored traps. Overall, a total of 61 species belonging to 36 families grouped into 10 orders were identified. During the plant cycle, 11602 insects were collected, including 3663 individuals at before stage flowering (31.57%); 3757 individuals at the flower bud stage (32.38%) and 4182 individuals at the flowering-fruiting stage (36.05%). Analysis of the occurrence frequency showed thatPodagrica decoloratawas ubiquitous in the crop, causing considerable damage to all organs of the plant. The damage assessment revealed that the defoliators, induced the highest average attack rates at all phenological stages. During the collections, six species (Rhinocoris albopilosus,R. rapax,R. bicolor,Hediocoris fasciatus,CosmolestespictusandCoranussp) belonging to the family of Reduviidae were identified as predators ofP. decolorata. This study therefore made it possible to identifyP. decolorataas a major pest of okra and its predators, thus opening up a perspective of biological control as an alternative to chemical control.&nbsp

In this study total twenty seven gram negative NaCl tolerant rhizobacterial strains were isolated from disturbed soils of Lucknow districts. The 3 selected sampling sites were Bijnor, Pasi Quila and Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University Campus, Lucknow, India. The isolates have been investigated for different plant growth promoting and biochemical activities. Based on morphological and biochemical tests the total eight (8) rhizobacterial strains were designated as Pseudomonas spp. Among PGP traits, all 8 Pseudomonas strains were examined for Indole-3-Acetic Acid (IAA) production activity. The bacterialisolate IAA4 produces maximum 21.16 ± 3.24 μg mL–1 of IAA at 100 μg mL−1 tryptophan concentration among Pseudomonas strains. This strain show excellent P solubilization and N fixatation in qualitative assay. The higher amount of NaCl salt in soils positively reduces paddy plant physiology and growth parameters. The IAA4 inoculation in okra seeds significantly (p < 0.001) improved plant growth parameters, green pigments and modulate antioxidant activities under pot experimental study.

Background Obesity is associated with chronic inflammation, which contributes to cardiovascular diseases. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are reported to be involved in vascular inflammation and atherosclerosis. Abelmoschus esculentus (AE) and metformin have been suggested to improve inflammation in vascular system. The aim of this study is to evaluate whether miRNAs are involved in high fat induced endothelial inflammation, and whether AE and metformin improve endothelial inflammation by regulating miRNAs. Methods We established high fat treated rats and human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs). AE and metformin were added to explore their effects on endothelial inflammation induced by high fat and the possible mechanism. Results The vascular inflammatory genes were increased in rats treated with high fat diet. The decreased miR-146a and miR-155 were involved in endothelial inflammation induced by high fat through targeting IL-1 receptor-associated kinase 1 (IRAK1), TNF receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) and nuclear factor-κB p65 (NF-κB p65), respectively. While AE and metformin could ameliorate the endothelial inflammation by increasing miR-146a and miR-155. Conclusions These results indicate that miR-146a and miR-155 play roles in the high fat induced endothelial inflammation, which could be potential therapeutic targets. AE and metformin can attenuate endothelial inflammation through regulating miR-146a and miR-155.

The Abelmoschus esculentus (okra) belonging to the Malvaceae family, is a plant native to Africa and India and is part of the diet in various parts of the world. The fruits have carotene, folic acid, vitamin B1, B2, B3, Vitamin C, ethanedioic acid and amino acids. There are several therapeutic and nutritional properties attributed to okra. Thus, the objective of the present study was to carry out a pharmacognostic prospecting and to carry out the physico-chemical characterization of A. Esculentos fruits. The study was carried out with the fruits of A.esculentos collected in the city of Coelho Neto, Maranhão, The exsiccata was made and deposited in the Herbarium of the Federal University of Piauí Graziela Barroso (TEPB), afterwards the crude extract was obtained, subsequently pharmacognostic and photochemical analyzes were carried out and, finally, infrared analysis. The results show that samples are constituted by hydrolyzable tannins also flavonoids, from the group of flavonols and dihydroflavonoids in addition to cardiotonic glycosides, which are biologically active substances of pharmacological interest. Through infrared spectroscopy of the raw extract of Abelmoschus esculentus, physical-chemical, nutritional and functional characteristics were demonstrated. Therefore, the results presented in this initial study suggest that Abelmoschus esculentus is a species with great potential for further studies and future pharmacological application. El Abelmoschus esculentus (okra) perteneciente a la familia Malvaceae, es una planta nativa de África e India y es parte de la dieta en varias partes del mundo. Las frutas tienen caroteno, ácido fólico, vitamina B1, B2, B3, vitamina C, ácido etanodioico y aminoácidos. Hay varias propiedades terapéuticas y nutricionales atribuidas a la okra. Así, el objetivo del presente estudio fue realizar una prospección farmacognóstica y realizar la caracterización fisicoquímica de frutos de A. Esculentos. El estudio se realizó con los frutos de A.esculentos recolectados en la ciudad de Coelho Neto, Maranhão. La exsiccata se realizó y depositó en el Herbario de la Universidad Federal de Piauí Graziela Barroso (TEPB), luego se obtuvo el extracto crudo, posteriormente. Se realizaron análisis farmacognósticos y fotoquímicos y, finalmente, análisis infrarrojo. Los resultados muestran que las muestras están constituidas por taninos hidrolizables también flavonoides, del grupo de flavonoles y dihidroflavonoides además de glucósidos cardiotónicos, que son sustancias biológicamente activas de interés farmacológico. Mediante espectroscopía infrarroja del extracto crudo de Abelmoschus esculentus, se demostraron características físico-químicas, nutricionales y funcionales. Por lo tanto, los resultados presentados en este estudio inicial sugieren que Abelmoschus esculentus es una especie con gran potencial para futuros estudios y futuras aplicaciones farmacológicas. O Abelmoschus esculentus (quiabo) pertencente à família Malvaceae, é uma planta nativa da África e da Índia e faz parte da dieta em várias partes do mundo. Os frutos apresentam caroteno, ácido fólico, vitamina B1, B2, B3, Vitamina C, ácido etanodioico e aminoácidos. Várias são as propriedades terapêuticas e nutricionais atribuídas ao quiabo. Dessa forma o objetivo do presente estudo foi realizar uma prospecção farmacognóstica e realizar a caracterização fisico-química de frutos de A. Esculentos. O estudo foi realizado com os frutos de A.esculentos coletados na cidade de Coelho Neto, Maranhão, A exsicata foi confeccionada e depositada no Herbário da Universidade Federal do Piauí Graziela Barroso (TEPB), em seguida foi realizada a obtenção do extrato bruto, posteriormente foram realizadas as análises farmacognósticas e fotoquímicas e por último a análise de infravermelho. Os resultados mostram que amostras são constituídas por taninos hidrolisáveis também flavonoides, do grupo dos flavonóis e dos dihidroflavonois além de glicosídeos cardiotônicos, que são substâncias biologicamente ativas de interesse farmacológico. Através da espectroscopia no infravermelho do extrato bruto da Abelmoschus esculentus demonstrou-se características físico-químicas, nutritivas e funcionais. Portanto, os resultados apresentados neste estudo inicial sugerem que a Abelmoschus esculentus é uma espécie com grande potencial para estudos mais aprofundados e futura aplicação farmacológica.

Resumen Introducción. El crecimiento, la producción y la calidad de okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) están relacionados con la aplicación de fertilizantes, siendo el nitrógeno (N) el que más destaca, debido a la relación directa con la fotosíntesis y crecimiento vegetativo de la planta. Objetivo. El objetivo fue evaluar las características agronómicas y de productividad de okra en función de la dosis de N. Materiales y métodos. El estudio se realizó en el área experimental Campus Gurupi, de la Universidad Federal de Tocantins (UFT), Brasil, en dos períodos de siembra (otoño/invierno y primavera/verano). El diseño experimental utilizado fue bloques al azar (DBC), con seis tratamientos (0, 50, 100, 150, 200 y 250 kg N ha-1) y cuatro repeticiones. Se utilizó urea como fuente de N. Las características evaluadas fueron: productividad, masa media del fruto, altura e índice de clorofila de la planta. Resultados. La productividad y la altura de la planta resultaron superiores en el cultivo de otoño/invierno. La masa media e índice de clorofila no sufrieron influencia por el período de siembra. Para la productividad, se obtuvo una respuesta lineal en aumento de la dosis hasta el límite de la dosis de N utilizada (250 kg ha-1), con valor medio superior a 14 t de fruto. La masa media y la altura de la planta respondieron linealmente al aumento de la dosis de N. El nitrógeno afectó el índice de clorofila, con valores máximos de 45,96 y 47,19, observados en los dos periodos de evaluación. Conclusión. La época de siembra y el contenido de N en el suelo interactuaron con la altura de la planta, siendo favorable en el periodo que no hubo precipitación. El N influyó en todas las características, lo que demuestra la importancia de la fertilización nitrogenada en el desarrollo de las plantas de okra. Abstract Introduction. The growth, production, and quality of the okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) are related to the application of fertilizers with nitrogen (N) being the most prominent, due to the direct relationship with photosynthesis and vegetative growth of the plant. Objective. The objective was to evaluate the agronomic and productivity characteristics of the okra based on the dose of N. Materials and methods. The study was carried out in the experimental area Campus Gurupi, of the Universidad Federal de Tocantins (UFT), in two planting periods (autumn/winter and spring/summer). The experimental design used was randomized blocks (DBC) with six treatments (0, 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 kg N ha-1) and four repetitions. Urea was used as a source of N. The characteristics evaluated were: productivity, average fruit mass, height and chlorophyll index of the plant. Results. The productivity and height of the plant were higher in the autumn/winter crop. The average mass and chlorophyll index were not influenced by the sowing period. For productivity a linear response was obtained, increasing the dose up to the limit of the dose of N used (250 kg ha-1), with an average value higher than 14 t of fruit. The mean mass and plant height responded linearly to the increase in the dose of N. Nitrogen affected the chlorophyll index, with maximum values of 45.96 and 47.19, observed in the two evaluation periods. Conclusion. The sowing season and the N content in the soil interacted with the height of the plant, being favorable in the period when there was no precipitation. N influenced all characteristics, demonstrating the importance of nitrogen fertilization development okra plants.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, highly conserved non-coding RNA molecules involved in theregulation of gene expression in eukaryotes. Gene expression involves post-transcriptionalgene regulation by miRNAs. miRNAs are formed from precursor RNA molecules that fold intoa stem loop secondary structure. The mature miRNA is one end of the precursor miRNA,defined by the cut from ‘Drosha’ on either the 5’ or 3’ arm. In this study, we have used abioinformatics approach to identify miRNAs in 3,361 contigs obtained from partial genomesequence data of Abelmoschus esculentus (okra) sequenced by NGS technology. Using C-miiand psRNA Target tools, we identified two miRNAs and their target RNAs for which a regulatorymiRNA binding has been verified. Their targets consisted of transcription factors involved ingrowth and development, gene regulation and metabolism. Phylogenetic analysis of the newlyidentified miRNA family has been done to compare their level of conservation with respect tothe other members of the plant kingdom.

From 2014 to 2016, approximately 5% of okra fruit were observed displaying gray mold symptoms at the research field of Jeollabuk-do Agricultural Research and Extension Services, Korea. The symptoms observed were water-soaked, brown or gray spots, and abundant mycelial with conidia appearing on the infected fruit. Initial infection commenced from the base of fruit and gradually moved to the pod, where it finally resulted in collapse. Colonies on potato dextrose agar were gray to grayish brown, felted and cottony expanding 65-80 mm after one week. The fungus formed several black sclerotia ranging 1.0-3.5×0.5-3.0 mm on the Petri dish after two weeks. The conidia were one-celled, ellipsoidal or ovoid, colorless or pale brown, and 6.2-15.4×5.0-10.4 µm. Conidiophores arose solitary or in groups, straight or flexuous, septate, with an inflated basal cell brown to light brown, and measured 85-450×10.0-40.0 µm. On the basis of the morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses of internal transcribed spacer rDNA, the fungus was identified as Botrytis cinerea Pers. Pathogenicity of a representative isolate was proved by artificial inoculation, fulfilling Koch’s postulates. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the occurrence of B. cinerea on okra in Korea.

Background: Leafy vegetables (Abelmoschus esculentus, Vigna unguiculata, Corchorus olitorius, Ipomea batatas, Solanum melongena.) are sold on markets to people who consume them in different forms. Studies have shown their nutritional value but there is little information on the amino acids and fatty acids of these leafy vegetables. The objective of this study was to evaluate the composition in the micronutrients of these leafy vegetables. Method: These leafy vegetables were washed and dried to determine protein and lipid levels. An evaluation of the amino acid levels and the fatty acid profile was performed on these samples. Results: Statistical analysis showed that leaves of Vigna unguiculata (18.31 ± 0.29 g / 100 g) and Corchorus olitorius (19.15 ± 0.32 g / 100 g) contained more protein (p> 0). , 05). The amino acid percentages of Solanum melongena leaves were significantly (p> 0.05) higher than other leafy vegetables. Overall, the essential fatty acid profiles of the five leafy vegetables studied were characterized by high levels of oleic acid (17.06-22.70%), linoleic acid (15.19-43, 90%) and α- linolenic acid (0.70 - 39.20%). Conclusion: All these results show that leafy vegetables are excellent sources of micronutrients for both humans and animals.

Background & Aim: Diabetes mellitus is the most common endocrine disorder in the world which causes ovarian dysfunction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of omelette powder on ovarian tissue changes in diabetic rats using a high-fat diet based on streptozotocin HFD / STZ. Methods: In this experimental study, 25 female rats (Wistar rats) were divided into 5 groups of 5. The first group, as the control group, the second group was received high-fat diet (HFD) (fat 60% + 25% carbohydrate + protein 15%), followed by STZ (35 mg / kg) intravenous 4 weeks. the third group received diazepam (200 mg / kg), the fourth group received metformin (200 mg / kg), the fifth group as sham or the control group of healthy rats (200 mg / kg) received only Abelmoschus esculentus powder. After 4 weeks of treatment the animals were euthanized body weight, ovary weight and insulin resistance markers (levels of insulin, glucose and HOMA-IR) were measured. From the right ovary sections of 5 to 6 micrometers in diameter were prepared, stained and then studied.Data were analyzed using ANOVA and LSD tests. Results: Hyperglycemia, insulin resistance and reduced body weight of diabetic rats were improved after administration of Abelmoscus esculentus powder in duration of 4 weeks. This effect was relatively similar to metformin. Abelmoscus esculentus powder was caused a significant increase in primordial, primary and graffian follicles (P

Background &Aims: Diabetes is the most common metabolic disorder in the world, which can disrupt ovarian function. The present study was designed to examine the effect of Okra powder on ovary histology in high-fat diet fed-streptozotocin (HFD/STZ) induced diabetic female rats. Materials & Methods: 25 adult Female Wistar rats were divided into 5 equal groups. Group I: (control group): served as helthy rats received normal diets. Group II diabetic(HFD+ STZ): rats were fed HFD (60% fat + 25% carbohydrate + 15% protein ) for 4 weeks and then injected with STZ (35 mg/kg body weight). GroupIII(HFD+STZ+A.E): HFD + STZ rats were treated with 200 mg/kg powder A. esculentus. Group IV (HFD+STZ+metformin): HFD + STZ rats were treated with 200 mg/kg metformin. Group V: Normal Diet + A. esculentus (200 mg/kg). After 4 weeks of treatment, animals were euthanized and body weight, ovary weight and insulin resistance markers (insulin and glucose levels and HOMA-IR) were determined. The right ovary was isolated and floated in appropriate fixative. 5-6 μm sections was prepared as paraffine embedding method and stained by H&E and PAS and studied by light microscopy. Results: Hyperglycemia, insulin resistance and reduced body weight of diabetic rats were improved after administration of Okra for 4 weeks. This effect was relatively similar to metformin. Okra powder was caused a significant increase in primordial, primary and graffian follicles (P

Evaluation of pre-commercial hybrids in a germplasm bank is essential for determining its commercial potential or its utility as a potential genitor in a breeding program. The objective of this study was to determine genetic divergence and per se behavior of 47 pre-commercial hybrids from okra germplasm bank of the Universidade Federal de Uberlândia. Precocity index (%), number of fruits (fruits per plant), average fruit mass (g) and productivity (g per plant) were evaluated. Analysis of genetic divergence was performed by multivariate analysis using Mahalanobis distance with different clustering methods (UPGMA and canonical analysis). The performance of hybrids was compared by Scott-Knott (p= 0.05). A significant genetic variability among okra hybrids was observed. UPGMA and canonical analysis grouped the hybrids similarly, being satisfactory to represent genetic divergence. Ten hybrids presented higher performance than the commercial hybrids. Among them, UFU-QB16 stood out as the most promising hybrid for being used as a potential parent in breeding programs after auto pollination. RESUMO A avaliação de híbridos pré-comerciais em um banco de germoplasma é essencial para determinar seu potencial comercial ou sua utilidade como potenciais genitores em um programa de melhoramento. Assim, o objetivo deste trabalho foi verificar a divergência genética e o comportamento per se de 47 híbridos pré-comerciais pertencentes ao banco de germoplasma de quiabeiro da Universidade Federal de Uberlândia. Foi avaliado o índice de precocidade (%), o número de frutos (frutos por planta), o peso médio do fruto (g) e a produtividade (g por planta). A análise da divergência genética foi realizada por meio de técnicas multivariadas utilizando-se a distância generalizada de Mahalanobis e empregando-se diferentes métodos de agrupamento (UPGMA e Variáveis Canônicas). O desempenho dos híbridos foi comparado pelo teste de médias Scott-Knott (p= 0,05). Houve significativa variabilidade genética entre os híbridos de quiabeiro. Os métodos UPGMA e Variáveis Canônicas agruparam os híbridos de forma semelhante, sendo satisfatórios para representar a divergência genética. Dez híbridos obtiveram desempenho superior aos híbridos comerciais. Dentre eles, o híbrido pré-comercial UFU-QB16 se destacou como o mais promissor, podendo também ser utilizado, após autofecundação, na obtenção de genitores potenciais em programas de melhoramento genético.

As climate changes increase, drought stress is becoming a problem for all major horticultural crops; among them is okra (Abelmoschus esculentus). Despite its superior resilience to heat stress and high nutritional content, it is still underutilized in contrast to other vegetable crops. Moreover, the drought-resistant and drought-sensitive genotypes of okra are also not well known and require further exploration to improve their productivity. To investigate this in more detail, we performed comparative physiological and large-scale chloroplast proteomics on drought-stressed genotypes of okra. We evaluated four major genotypes of okra, viz., NS7774, NS7772, Green Gold, and OH3312 for drought resilient rootstock. The physiological modulations demonstrated a significant change by 50–76% in biomass, net-photosynthetic machinery, water transport, and absorption both in early and late stages of drought stress compared to well-watered crops in all genotypes. Maximum oxidative damage due to drought stress was observed for the genotypes NS7772, Green Gold and OH3312 as depicted by H2O2 and O2− determination. Greater oxidative stress was correlated to lesser antioxidant activity and expression of antioxidant enzymes, such as catalase and ascorbate peroxidase under stress in okra genotypes. The overall photosynthetic pigments, such as total chlorophyll, and total carotenoid content, were also decreased, and stomatal guard cells were disrupted and appeared closed compared to the control for the above three mentioned genotypes, except NS7774. A subsequent tissue-specific proteome analysis of chloroplasts and thylakoids analyzed by BN-PAGE (blue native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis) revealed either over or under expression of specific proteins, such as ATPase, PSI, PSII core dimer, PSII monomer and ATP synthase. The expression of multiprotein complex proteins, including PSII-core dimer and PSII-core monomer, was slightly higher for the genotype NS7774 when compared to three other genotypes for both 5 and 10 days of drought stress. Further identification of specific proteins obtained in second dimension BN-PAGE provided descriptive detail of seven proteins involved in drought resistance across all genotypes. The identified proteins are majorly involved in photosynthesis under drought stress, suggesting NS7774 as a drought tolerant genotype. Further, the proteomic results were confirmed using Immunoblot by selecting specific protein such as PsaA. Overall, from our physiological modulations and chloroplast proteomics in all genotypes, we summarized NS7774 as a resilient rootstock and the other three genotypes (NS7772, OH3312, and Green Gold) as sensitive ones.