Search

The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of Moringa olifera on the growth and gut health of Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). The feed having 30% crude protein was prepared as an experimental diet with 4%, 8% and 10% M. olifera leaf supplementation, respectively. The control diet was devoid of M. olifera leaves. The 10 weeks feeding trial was carried out on 60 fish in aquaria. Fish was fed @ 3% of body weight twice a day. Diet with the high level of inclusion of M. olifera leaves significantly increased the growth rate, Survival Rate (SR), Specific Growth Rate (SGR) and Feed Conversion Efficiency (FCE) in all treatment groups compared to the control group. Similarly, Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) gradually decreased and found highly-significant. To check the gut health of the Tilapia, random samples were selected and dissected. Nutrient agar was used as culture media to check the growth of bacteria. Pour Plate Method was used for viable colonies count by colony counter. Through staining method, the different bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Shigella and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were identify abundantly in the intestine of control diet fish but less number present in treatment diets groups. These results showed that M. olifera leaves up to 10% of dietary protein can be used for Nile tilapia for significant growth and healthy gut microbiota of fish. Resumo O estudo foi conduzido para avaliar o efeito da Moringa olifera no crescimento e saúde intestinal da tilápia (Oreochromis niloticus). A ração com 30% de proteína bruta foi preparada como dieta experimental com 4%, 8% e 10% de suplementação de folhas de M. olifera, respectivamente. A dieta controle foi desprovida de folhas de M. olifera. O ensaio de alimentação de 10 semanas foi realizado em 60 peixes em aquários. O peixe pesava 3% do peso corporal duas vezes ao dia. A dieta com alto nível de inclusão de folhas de M. olifera aumentou significativamente a taxa de crescimento, taxa de sobrevivência (SR), taxa de crescimento de sobrevivência (SGR) e eficiência de conversão alimentar (FCE) em todos os grupos de tratamento em comparação com o grupo de controle. Da mesma forma, a taxa de conversão de alimentação (FCR) diminuiu gradualmente e foi considerada altamente significativa. Para verificar a saúde intestinal da tilápia, amostras aleatórias foram selecionadas e dissecadas. O ágar nutriente foi usado como meio de cultura para verificar o crescimento das bactérias. O método da placa de Verter foi usado para a contagem de colônias viáveis por contador de colônias. Através do método de coloração, diferentes como Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Shigella e Pseudomonas aeruginosa foram identificados abundantemente no intestino de peixes da dieta controle, mas em menor número nos grupos de dieta de tratamento. Esses resultados mostraram que M. olifera deixa até 10% da proteína dietética e pode ser usado para tilápia do Nilo para um crescimento significativo e microbiota intestinal saudável de peixes.

The goal of this study was to see how much genetic and environmental interaction affects essential oil yield and patchouli alcohol content and find superior genotypes over the years of patchouli's unique aroma in India. The tests were carried out for one year in 2013–2014 (initial evaluation trial) and then for three years in 2015–2016, 2016–2017, and 2017–2018 (major yield assessment trials). The fourteen patchouli genotypes and one commercial variety (CIM- Samarth) were studied in an RBD design with three replications. A pooled analysis of variance was performed across the environments/years for the eleven economic attributes. The results showed that most of the attributes had significant differences. In all three environments/years, genetic correlations between economic traits played a critical role in genetic improvement, for example, the traits X3-vs-X4, X3-vs-X5, and X4-vs-X5. As a result, according to correlations throughout the selective environments/years, picking these features will be favorable. Furthermore, the heritability in a broad sense (h2BS) was expressed as a percentage. The scores for all ten attributes ranged from 87.13 to 99.25%. The genetic advance over mean (GAM) percent, which ranged from 13.42 to 162.83%, was equally fascinating. The four winning genotypes for essential oil yield, G/PATC-11, G/PATC-1, G/PATC-2, and G/PATC-5, and the lines G/PATC-1, G/PATC-4, G/PATC-9, and G/PATC-11 for patchouli alcohol percent), were explained by biplot analysis as stable and higher-yielding genotypes. The percentage of ar-curcumene in stable genotypes with a distinct fragrance ranged from 8.60 to 8.71% in G/PATC 4, G/PATC 11, G/PATC 14, and G/PATC 1. Ar-curcumene has been found for the first time in the patchouli (Pogostemon cablin (Blanco) Benth) species. As a result, it may be prudent to cultivate these stable genotypes on a big scale in India.

Epiboly, the coordinated spreading of the enveloping layer (EVL), the yolk syncytial layer (YSL) and the deep cells (DCs) toward the vegetal pole, is required for gastrulation. Interference with the EVL leads to early developmental failure. However, the genetic factors underlying EVL differentiation are so far unknown. By in-depth analyzing of single-cell sequencing data from 4 h post fertilization zebrafish embryos, we identified 105 genes (FDR

Background Medicinal plants occupy an important place in the lives of people around the world. This study covers an area where medicinal plants are widely used for various health-related problems due to easily available sources. Objective: The current study aimed to document the quantities of data about the most commonly used medicinal plants in the district Bannu and two common species' biological activities. Methods Ethno-pharmacological data were collected from different locations of district Bannu in the period from 2018 to 2019.The information about biological activities was concentrated on two species: Withania coagulans (Stocks) Dunal and Mentha viridis L. The data was compiled randomly by semi-structured interviews from having different groups, ages consist of both genders, male and female. Results The ethno-pharmacological data were collected from 115 native people, including 14 traditional healers. The most frequently cited families were: Solanaceae and Moraceae with 5 species (5.88%) followed by Apiaceae, Cucurbitaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Fabaceae with 4 species each (4.7%). The highest use-value was reported for Withania coagulans (0.47), followed by M. viridis (0.44), Tamarix aphylla (0.43), Curcuma longa (0.42), Plantago ovata (0.41), Linum usitatissimum (0.40). Least use value was reported for Ziziphus nummularia (0.04).The highest RFC value was reported for W. coagulans (47.82), followed by M. viridis (44.34), and T. aphylla (43.47). Conclusion The study will result in further pharmacological and clinical research to discover new medicines to improve the health system. It is the first step in unraveling natural products' potential and requires careful study and investigation to enrich the system worldwide. The study will also contribute to the conservation of medicinal plants in the area of Bannu.

An 8-week feeding trial investigated the optimum dietary vitamin K3 requirements of largemouth bass. A total of 600 healthy fish (12.96 ± 0.07 g) were fed diets containing varying levels of vitamin K3 at 0.78 (K0), 5.80 (K5), 10.82 (K10), 15.84 (K15), and 20.85 (K20) mg/kg with four replicates per level. Results showed that dietary vitamin K3 enhanced growth, with weight gain rate and specific growth rate in K15 trials significantly higher than K0 trials (P 0.05). However, the supplementation of vitamin K3 significantly contributed to calcium accumulation in muscle tissues and vertebrae (P 0.05). The antioxidant capacity was improved with the addition of vitamin K3, which was inconsistent with the changes in malondialdehyde and MK-4 (a form of menaquinone) within liver and serum, suggesting that the toxicity of excessive artificial vitamin K3 may account for this difference. Using regression analysis, the appropriate dietary vitamin K3 levels within a largemouth bass diet was determined to be in the range of 9.93–15.22 mg/kg, which will provide a reference for the preparation of vitamin premix and artificial diet for largemouth bass.

This study was carried out to examine the effect of combining factors for immersion technique on masculinization of red tilapia (Oreochromis spp.). Three selected doses (1000, 1,500, and 2000 μg/L) of 17α-methyltestosterone (17 MT) immersion, 2 exposure times (3 and 6 h) once or twice a week, and interaction of these factors were tested. A total of 12 treatment combinations under 3 × 2 × 2 factorial experiments in randomized complete block design were conducted to compare with the negative control group (no 17 MT-treated) and positive control group (17 MT-treated feed administration). One hundred red tilapia larvae (14 days post-hatch) were randomly allocated in each treatment and were operated in a 10-L glass jar for 21 days. At the end of the treatment regime, the survival rate was determined. Then, fish were raised in a 150-L glass tank using normal commercial feed for 2 months and sex ratios were determined via the gonad squash technique. None of the immersion treatments tested resulted in a statistically significant (p > 0.05) decrease in survival rate. All 17 MT-treated groups produced progenies with a significantly higher (p

This study aimed to control lesser grain borer Rhizopertha dominica via using of Zingier officinale (ginger) and Helianthus annuus (sunflower) oils as protectant of Tritium spp. The inhibition rates were 38.00, 28.98, 22.67 and 4.60% respectively when the wheat treated by 0.5, 1, 1.5and 2% of sunflower oil while the inhibition rates were 35.50, 28.00, 7.25 and 3.25% respectively when the wheat treated by the same concentrations of Z. officinale oil. The damage assessments were decreased while increasing the concentration of the oils, the H. annuus oil is more protectant than Z . officinale oil in 2%. Approximately the two plant oils caused same damage percentage when the wheat treated by 1% during storage. To sum up, the results strengthen the possibility of using the plant oils for the management this insect. http://dx.doi.org/10.25130/tjps.23.2018.026

India is an agricultural country. Nearly 70% of the populations thrive in rural areas, engaged in agriculture making the backbone of our economy. The Trichoderma genus is widely distributed and provides an alternative to chemical pesticides in crops and plants growth. Trichoderma species are free living and commonly found in soil and root ecosystems. Root colonization by Trichoderma also regularly promotes growth and development of plants. They also perform beneficial and significant role in enhancing crop productivity, fight against pathogens, resistant to abiotic stress and increase of nutrients uptake from soil. The present study was undertaken to investigate quantitative and qualitative estimation of phosphate solubilizer by using nineteen isolates of Trichoderma grown on Pikovskaya’s Agar and NBRIP media. It was found that all isolates were capable of differentially utilizing 5 g/L TCP in NBRIP broth. This was indicated by the soluble phosphate concentrations and increase in acidity of growth medium. Out of 19 isolates, all isolates were capable in phosphate solubilization. However, the P- solubilizing efficiency was found higher in case of the isolate number-59 and 89. While isolate number-102 was the strongest and isolate number-23 was the weakest P-solubilizer. Minimum Phosphate solubilization concentration was observed in 3rd day (0%) that simultaneously increased on 7th day (52.63%) followed by 9th day (100%) and remaining all days 13th, 17th and 21st days also observed 100% efficiency.

This study investigated the effects of replacing fishmeal with Clostridium autoethanogenum protein (CAP) on growth, feed utilization and intestinal histology of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). The control diet contained 350 g/kg fishmeal, and then dietary fishmeal was decreased to 300 g/kg, 250 g/kg, 200 g/kg, 150 g/kg and 100 g/kg by CAP inclusion, respectively (FM-30, FM-25, FM-20, FM-15, FM-10). The largemouth bass (110.0 ± 1.0 g) were fed one of the six diets for 8 weeks. The groups of FM-30, FM-25 and FM-20 showed the similar weight gain (WG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) to the control (P > 0.05), while the WG of FM-10 group was decreased by 15.9%, and FCR increased by 0.12 when compared to the control (P 0.05). In conclusion, CAP could replace 150 g/kg fishmeal in diet (350 g/kg fishmeal) without adverse effects on growth, feed utilization and intestinal histology of largemouth bass.

Light is an essential natural factor of fish growth and development. A light regime in indoor aquaculture is critical for sustainable fish production. This research aimed to investigate the effect of light intensity and photoperiod on the growth performance and stress response of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), which is an important commercial species, in a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS). Fingerlings with an average weight of 5 ± 0.9 g were randomly assigned to nine 1.5 m3 tanks with 145 fish in each tank, cultured under different light intensities (1000, 2000, and 3000 lx) and photoperiods (12L:12D, 18L:6D, 24L:0D), and fed to apparent satiation twice a day for 160 days. The growth of tilapia subjected to 2000 lx was significantly better than that exposed to 1000 and 3000 lx (P 0.05). Light intensity and photoperiod manipulation did not cause a significant chronic stress response in tilapia. This study demonstrated that light intensity, especially at 2000 lx, and photoperiod manipulation could stimulate the growth of tilapia in the RAS and significantly affect economic profitability. This study also served as an important reference for tilapia indoor aquaculture.

Cryptococcus neoformans is a capsule containing yeast pathogen, commonly found in urban environments that causes Cryptococcosis which is a worldwide fungal disease. The current study. This study was aimed to compare the ability of some culture media to detect melanin production by C. neoformans isolates. A total of 202 clinical samples obtained from patients suffering from meningitis, during the period from September 2020 through April 2021. The isolation and identification results revealed that 179 (88.61%) samples were positive for yeast growth. 29 (14.35%). Twenty-nine from 202 of samples were C. neoformans according to the morphological characteristics and the biochemical tests, and 150 (74.25%) samples for Candida spp. All C. neoformans isolates produced blue dry colonies on cryptococcus differential agar. Several differential media were used for the purpose of testing the ability of C. neoformans to produce melanin pigment, these includes: Niger seed agar medium (Staib’s Agar), and the colonies of C. neoformans appeared on this medium in a brown color after 2–5 days of incubation, Tobacco agar where those colonies gave a dark brown color after 48–72 h, and Methyldopa agar which was the best medium for the detection of melanin production because the results were faster from the other media, interestingly the colonies can produce the pigment and can growth very fast within 24hr.

Introduction The incidence of infections caused by aerobic actinomycetes is increasing. Recent changes in taxonomy and the variability in susceptibility patterns among species make necessary a proper identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing. Material and methods Fifty-three strains of aerobic actinomycetes were identified by MALDI-TOF MS using the VITEK MS Mycobacterium/Nocardia kit (bioMerieux, France) in a tertiary hospital in Spain during a six-year period. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing of the isolates was performed using the Sensititre Rapmycoi microdilution panel (Thermo Fisher Scientific, Massachusetts, USA). Results Forty strains of Nocardia spp. were identified in the study, being N. farcinica and N. cyriacigeorgica the most prevalent ones. All isolates were susceptible to linezolid and the resistance to amikacin was only observed in one isolate of Gordonia sputi. Resistance to cotrimoxazole was only found in five isolates. Conclusions Routine identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing of aerobic actinomycetes is advisable for an efficient identification of species and effective treatment.

Clove basil (Ocimum gratissimum L.) is an aromatic, perennial herb belonging to the family Lamiaceae. The plant is indigenous to tropical areas especially India and West Africa. In Nigeria, it is found in the Savannah and coastal areas. The whole herbs of the plant contain essential oils and it is cultivated for various purposes. The plant is a rich source of eugenol in its essential oil. It is also used in the preparation of tea and infusions. It is also used in the treatment of fungal infections, fever, cold, and cough. Eugenol (4-allyl-2-methoxy phenol) is a phenolic compound from the class of phenylpropanoids. It is used in the food industry as a preservative, mainly due to its antioxidant property, and flavoring agent. The fresh herb × winter season/environment produced the highest essential oil 2.07 mL/plot with essential oil content 0.41% followed by fresh herb × summer season/environment (M1S2) = 1.68 mL. For the eugenol content, the autumn season/environment was found highly favorable = 74.52% (leaves = 69.024, stem = 74.531, and in inflorescence = 80.012) followed winter season/environment 72.30% (leaves = 71.841, stem 69.389, inflorescence 76.042, mean = 72.42%). These seasons are recommended for harvesting to obtain the optimum benefit for the quality essential oil yield.

Wenchengia alternifolia C.Y. Wu & S. Chow (Lamiaceae), the sole species of the genus Wenchengia C.Y. Wu & S. Chow, is extremely rare and is currently listed as Critically Endangered (CR) on the IUCN Red List. The species had long been considered endemic to Hainan Island, China and was once believed to be extinct until a small remnant population was rediscovered at the type locality in 2010. Four more populations were later found on Hainan and in Vietnam. In order to develop genomic resources for further studies on population genetics and conservation biology of this rare species, we identified infraspecific molecular markers in the present study, using genome skimming data of five individuals collected from two populations on Hainan Island and three populations in Vietnam respectively. The length of plastome of the five individuals varied from 152,961 bp to 150,204 bp, and exhibited a typical angiosperm quadripartite structure. Six plastid hotspot regions with the Pi > 0.01 (trnH-psbA, psbA-trnK, rpl22, ndhE, ndhG-ndhI and rps15-ycf1), 1621 polymorphic gSSRs, as well as 1657 candidate SNPs in 237 variant nuclear genes were identified, thereby providing important information for further genetic studies.

Establishing suitable salt tolerant all-male tilapia strains with fast growth rate is a crucial requirement for successful euryhaline farming required for controlling prolific breeding and as an adaptation to the effect of climate-induced drought. This study assessed the percentage of tilapia male hybrids, their growth performance and survival rate produced by crossing female Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and male Rufiji tilapia (Oreochromis urolepis urolepis) at different salinities. The fingerlings were reared for 70 days in triplicate concrete tanks (1 m3), each stocked with 15 fish weighing 1.62 ± 0.03 g, 1.69 ± 0.02 g and 1.41 ± 0.06 g exposed to 2, 15 and 35 ppt salinities, respectively. Acclimatization was done by adding seawater to freshwater at a rate of 2 ppt per day for 18 days. Fish sexing was done by visual assessment of the genital papilla followed by rearing the hybrids for six months to observe reproduction. Results showed that, the cross between O. niloticus (female) and O. urolepis urolepis (male) produced hybrids that were all-males without any reproduction within six months post hybridization. The hybrids reared at a salinity of 2 ppt had higher growth performance than those reared at 15 and 35 ppt. Similarly, hybrids cultured at 15 ppt had significantly higher growth performance than those reared at 35 ppt. All the hybrids produced had survival rates of 100%. This study indicated that, all-male tilapia produced by crossing between O. niloticus (female) and O. urolepis (male) can be used by fish farmers as alternative species for mariculture development to control prolific breeding and as an adaptation strategy to climate change.

The present study was conducted to estimate the optimum requirement of phosphorus in practical diets for largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). Six iso-energetic and iso-nitrogenous diets were formulated with the supplementation of monocalcium phosphate (MCP) of 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 g/kg in basal diet containing 350 g/kg fish meal, respectively. The digestible phosphorus of the six diets was measured as 5.7, 6.7, 7.8, 8.7, 9.3 and 10.0 g/kg, respectively. Each diet was randomly fed to triplicate groups of 25 juvenile fish (initial body weight, 16.0 ± 0.2 g) for 60 days. The results showed that weight gain increased, and feed conversion ratio decreased with the increase of dietary phosphorus. When dietary MCP exceeded 15 g/kg (digestible phosphorus of 8.7 g/kg), the WG and FCR were maintained at the similar values. The crude ash, phosphorus and calcium contents in whole body, apparent digestibility of phosphorus and protein retention also increased with the increasing phosphorus level in diets. Vertebrae phosphorus and calcium levels and plasma phosphorus showed no further increase when dietary MCP reached 20, 20 and 10 g/kg with digestible phosphorus of 9.3, 9.3 and 7.8 g/kg, respectively. Broken-line analysis indicated that the digestible phosphorus requirement for largemouth bass were 8.9, 8.7 and 9.6 g/kg based on weight gain, feed conversion ratio and vertebral phosphorus content. In conclusion, the supplementation of MCP in a diet containing 350 g/kg fish meal improved the growth and feed utilization of largemouth bass, and the digestible phosphorus requirement was suggested to be 8.7–8.9 g/kg with MCP supplementation of 15.0–15.8 g/kg.

BackgroundEnvironmental water samples are increasingly recognised as an important reservoir of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and next generation sequencing (NGS) offer a potentially inclusive surveillance platform for a wide range of AMR genes. However, molecular methods are dependent upon the extraction of DNA of high yield and quality. Current options for DNA extraction from complex environmental matrices for downstream molecular applications are either expensive or low yielding. We present here a novel magnetic bead-based DNA extraction method, for the detection of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) from river water in Malawi, named MagnaExtract. MethodsMagnaExtract involves initial filtration of 250ml freshwater, followed by an overnight incubation of the filter in 15ml buffered peptone water (BPW), common procedure in microbiology laboratories. 200{micro}l is then taken for a boil (95{degrees}C) and spin step and mixed with magnetic beads to bind DNA. Following washes with ethanol, the DNA is eluted in nuclease-free water. To determine the effectiveness of this method, 98 freshwater samples were collected from two rivers in Southern Malawi, and DNA was isolated using the MagnaExtract method, two commercial Qiagen (Germany) kits; PowerWater and DNeasy Blood and tissue, alongside a boil and spin of BPW, and a boil and spin from bacterial isolate grown on agar media. All samples were screened with a high-resolution melt (HRM) PCR panel previously validated for the detection of third generation cephalosporin and carbapenem ARGs. We compared the DNA yield obtained using all extraction methods, as well as the identification of each ARG. ResultsDNA yield using MagnaExtract was statistically greater than both boil and spin methods and DNeasy Blood & Tissue (Qiagen, Germany). DNA yield was slightly lower than using PowerWater (Qiagen) but the difference was not statistically significant. MagnaExtract was the only method to identify ARGs in all 98 water samples compared with PowerWater (n=82), DNeasy (n=95) boilate of BPW (n=75) and boilate of bacterial isolate (n=87). The most commonly detected ARG was OXA-48 (n=93). In addition, we found overnight incubation in non-selective enrichment broth (BPW) to promote the growth of bacteria harbouring extended spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL) genes and reduction in the detection of carbapenemase genes. ConclusionThe MagnaExtract approach offers a simple, affordable, high yielding DNA extraction method for the detection of ARGs isolated from river water samples.

In the present study, biocompatible nanofibers containing aqueous extracts from Muscari neglectum (M. neglectum) plants (produced nanofiber) were prepared and their antifungal and cytotoxicity effects were investigated. For this purpose, the extracts obtained from flowers, stem leaves, and fresh onion from M. neglectum were lyophilized at various concentrations. Produced nanofibers were prepared using electrospinning techniques. During the electrospinning process, two auxiliary natural polymers including gelatin and chitosan were used. After synthesis, the physicochemical properties of the nanofibers were confirmed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray energy diffraction spectroscopy (EDS or EDX), and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). The electrospun produced nanofibers have continuous and uniform structures. The cytotoxicity assay of these electrospun nanofibers were done on Human dermal fibroblast cell (HDF) and HUVEC cell (Human Umbilical Endothelial Cells) lines and results showed that nanofiber doesn't have any toxicity to normal cell lines. For anti-fungal activity tests, the appropriate amounts of nanofibers containing M. neglectum were placed in media with five different fungal species utilizing two methods: disc diffusion and well diffusion. In vitro results showed that all electrospun nanofibers containing M. neglectum had strong antifungal activity against Candida albicans, Glabrata, Parapacillus, Guillermoides, Crocus fungi species. Our findings also showed that nanofibers containing 86.88% polyvinyl alcohol/ gelatin/ chitosan/ M. neglectum root extract (produced nanofibers) were had better swelling and physicochemical properties and stronger antifungal activity than others (fiber formed with plant root). In a nutshell, natural nanofibers can be used as a beneficial drug delivery system.

This work reports for the first time the anticandidal activity of the dichloromethane (DCM) extract from the Algerian invasive red marine algae A. armata Harvey. In a preliminary assessment, the DCM extract was screened for its antifungal activity against two strains of Candida albicans, namely (IP 444) and (ATCC 10231). As a well-established approach, the anticandidal activity was expressed as zone of inhibition by agar well and disk diffusion methods. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was also determined for the two fungal strains. Within this framework, the DCM extract of the red algae A. armata has a strong inhibition effect against the considered Candida albicans strains. In addition, Candida albicans IP444 (MIC = 0.58 mg/mL) was more sensitive to DCM algal extract when compared to Candida albicans ATCC 10231 (MIC = 2.34 mg/mL). GC–MS analysis suggested that brominated compounds and fatty acids are responsible for anticandidal activity of dichloromethane extract of A. armata. These preliminary results may constitute a future applied of lipophilic extract of the red algae A. armata as a promising source of natural compounds with antifungal properties.

Background: Fatty liver (fatty liver) or Non-lcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is an excessive accumulation of fat (lipids) in liver cells. Fatty liver is generally associated with metabolic syndrome, obesity, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. Insulin resistance causes an increase in the entry of Free Fatty Acids (FFA) into the liver and occurs due to the failure of insulin to suppress hormone-sensitive lipases. Basil contains chemical compounds such as phenolic compounds and flavonoids that act as antioxidants that can ward off free radicals. Experimental animals use mice because they have physiological similarities to humans and are easy to keep experimental animals. Purpose: This study aims to determine the effect of basil extract (Ocimum basilicum L.), the effective dose and the duration of the effective dose in reducing SGOT and SGPT levels. Methods Research: The research design used was a descriptive research design. Literature review using the PubMed database and ncbi.mlm.nih.gov using keywords used in data searches to search for journals related to basil extract, SGOT, SGPT, rats, and high-fat diets. Results: The results of the research from 8 journals that have been reviewed found that the levels of SGOT and SGPT had decreased significantly. Basil extract (Ocimum basilicum L.) has been proven preclinically and clinically to reduce AST and ALT levels. Conclusion: The conclusion that can be drawn is that the extract of basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) can reduce levels of SGOT and SGPT. Keywords: Basil Extract, High Fat Diet, NAFLD, SGOT, SGPT, White Rat

Background: Streptococcus sanguinis can contribute to tooth demineralization, which can lead to dental caries. Antibiotics used indefinitely to treat dental caries can lead to bacterial resistance. Discovering new antibacterial agents from natural products, like Ocimum basilicum, will help combat antibiotic resistance. In silico analysis (molecular docking) can help determine the lead compound by studying the molecular interaction between the drug and the target receptor (MurA enzyme and DNA gyrase). It is a potential candidate for antibacterial drug development. Objective: The research objective is to isolate the secondary metabolite of O. basilicum extract that exhibits activity against S. sanguinis through in vitro and in silico analysis. Methods: n-Hexane extract of O. basilicum was purified by combining column chromatography with bioactivity-guided fractionation. The in vitro antibacterial activity against S. sanguinis was determined using the disc diffusion and microdilution method, while molecular docking simulation of nevadensin (1) with MurA enzyme and DNA gyrase was performed by using PyRx 0.8 program. Results: Nevadensin from O. basilicum was successfully isolated and characterized by spectroscopic methods. This compound showed antibacterial activity against S. sanguinis with MIC and MBC values of 3750 and 15000 μg/mL, respectively. In silico analysis showed that the binding affinity to MurA was -8.5 Kcal/mol, and the binding affinity to DNA gyrase was -6.7 Kcal/mol. The binding of nevadensin-MurA is greater than fosfomycin-MurA. Otherwise, Nevadensin-DNA gyrase has a weaker binding affinity than fluoroquinolone-DNA gyrase and chlorhexidine-DNA gyrase. Conclusion: Nevadensin showed potential as a new natural antibacterial agent by inhibiting the MurA enzyme rather than DNA gyrase.

In sub–Saharan Africa, Tanzania is one of the countries of global significance for biodiversity conservation. However, some plants in Tanzania, including Aloe species, are critically endangered. Tanzanian critically endangered aloes have generally limited distribution ranges and are represented by very small populations in the wild. Knowledge about their conservation, distribution, ecology and population status is also limited in the country. We carried out field surveys to assess conservation, distribution and ecological habitat of Tanzanian critically endangered aloes (CEAs) i.e. Aloe boscawenii, Aloe flexilifolia, Aloe leptosiphon and Aloe dorotheae. The study aimed to assess (i) the current population of CEAs, (ii) ecological habitats of CEAs and (iii) awareness of local people about CEAs and their conservation status. A stratified random meander survey was used to assess CEAs distribution and abundance. Their abundance was estimated by counting the number of each individual found in the area. Data on ecological habitat of CEAs were collected using direct field observations while recording signs of anthropogenic activities that threaten their survival. We recorded 141, 58 and 61 individuals of A. dorotheae, A. leptosiphon and A. flexilifolia, respectively. Most A. leptosiphon and A. flexilifolia individuals were hanging on bare rocks on higher cliffs. Moreover, we found that conservation initiatives to protect CEAs are absent in the study areas. Besides, local people were uninformed of the existence of CEAs and their conservation status. Our findings generally inform conservation gap regarding aloe species and their ecological habitats.

Background Since the last two decades, substantial increase in fungal infections has been observed in immunocompromised hosts. Virulence factors of Candida albicans play a role in adherence, haemolytic activity, phenotypic switching and production of hydrolytic enzymes. The secreted aspartyl proteinases (SAP family) contribute to adhesion, tissue damage and invasion, while phospholipase (PLB) supports the hydrolysis of phospholipids. Very few studies showed the correlation of phenotypic activity and detection of genes contributing to the similar enzyme activity. Therefore, our study aimed at demonstrating correlation between in vitro phenotypic production of phospholipase and proteinase enzymes with genetic level detection of SAP and PLB genes. Methods The present study was carried out on a total of 799 samples over a period of one year. Culturing was carried out on Sabouraud's dextrose agar. Confirmation and speciation of Candida spp. was carried out using cornmeal agar and CHROMagar and by the germ tube test, urease test and automated identification system Vitek-2, and antifungal susceptibility testing was performed on Candida isolates. Phenotypic phospholipase and proteinase activity was analysed, and molecular detection of SAP4 and PLB genes was carried out. Results In our study, we have screened 799 samples for mycological protocol; of which, 269 (33.6%) were Candida species, 44% (119) of which were C. albicans. Proteinase activity was exhibited by 77 (64.7%) and phospholipase activity was exhibited by 73 (61.34%) isolates, while 46.2% exhibited both activities among the C. albicans species. The PLB gene was detected in 97.3% isolates, while SAP4 was detected in 94.7% of C. albicans isolates. Conclusion The study of in vitro expression of virulence factors and gene detection of C. albicans will help to improve the prognosis despite the nature of the sample.

The present study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of phytogenic extract on growth and health of tilapia. Three experimental diets were designed as the basal diet (Con) and phytogenic extract (Flourishing, F) supplemented diets at 0.5 and 1 g/kg inclusion (F-1 and F-2), which the phytogenic additive was extracted from Eucommia ulmoides, Astragalus membranaceus, Lonicera japonica and Codonopsis pilosula. The three diets were fed to juvenile tilapia (14.0 ± 0.1 g) with 30 fish per cage, and three replicate cages from the three groups were placed in one indoor concrete pool (a total of three pools were used). After 8 weeks of feeding, the weight gain was significantly increased, and feed conversion ratio was decreased in F-2 group (P

The objective of the study was to explore the effects of pomegranate juice (PJ) as a water supplement on performance, egg quality, and blood parameters in laying hens. For this purpose, a total of 72 Babcock laying hens, were divided into three groups, one control and two experiments (n = 24). Each main group consists of 4 subgroups, and each subgroup consists of 6 chickens. PJ was administered in drinking water at 0%, 5%, and 10% to the experimental groups for 4 weeks. Feed was offered to all groups ad libitum. The addition of PJ had no significant effect on performance parameters, Haugh unit, and egg breaking strength. The yolk color of the 5% PJ group was found to be lighter than the control and other experimental groups (P

Canola (Brassica napus L.) is a nitrogen (N)-demanding crop, so tissue N analysis should be related to soil N supply. We evaluated canola N uptake in relation to soil N pools in plots receiving 0, 50, 100, and 150 kg N·ha−1 from urea at three sites in eastern Canada in 2012. Soil N pools varied significantly at the rosette, flowering, pod filling, and maturity stages, but responded less predictably to urea. Canola N uptake was inconsistently related to soil N pools and urea input. This confirms the importance of site-specific N fertilizer management when growing canola in eastern Canada.

Complementary sex determination (CSD) is a widespread sex determination mechanism in haplodiploid Hymenoptera. Under CSD, sex is determined by the allelic state of one or multiple CSD loci. Heterozygosity at one or more loci leads to female development, whereas hemizygosity of haploid eggs and homozygosity of diploid eggs results in male development. Sexual (arrhenotokous) reproduction normally yields haploid male and diploid female offspring. Under asexual reproduction (thelytoky), diploidized unfertilized eggs develop into females. Thelytoky is often induced by bacterial endosymbionts that achieve egg diploidization by gamete duplication. As gamete duplication leads to complete homozygosity, endosymbiont-induced thelytokous reproduction is presumed to be incompatible with CSD, which relies on heterozygosity for female development. Previously, we excluded CSD in four Asobara (Braconidae) species and proposed a two-step mechanism for Wolbachia-induced thelytoky in Asobara japonica. Here, we conclusively reject CSD in two cynipid wasp species, Leptopilina heterotoma and Leptopilina clavipes. We further show that thelytoky in L. clavipes depends on Wolbachia titer but that diploidization and feminization steps cannot be separated, unlike in A. japonica. We discuss what these results reveal about the sex determination mechanism of L. clavipes and the presumed incompatibility between CSD and endosymbiont-induced thelytoky in the Hymenoptera.

Urbanization and industrialization have led to heavy metals in aquatic environments. These metals are toxic, nondegradable, and persistent. Lead (Pb) is an immunotoxicant that can adversely affect animal health, even at low levels. Chitosan (CHI) is an eco-friendly compound with exceptional antibacterial and immunostimulant characteristics. This study investigated the effect of dietary CHI on the antioxidant defense system and innate immune responses of tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) against the cytotoxic effect of prolonged Pb exposure. The results indicated dietary CHI could nullify the toxicity of prolonged Pb exposure in fish by substantially activating the antioxidant defense system capacity and fish innate immune responses. In addition, CHI minimized the alterations in the histology of fish organs. The findings suggest that chitosan can be a commercial, eco-friendly immunostimulant and bioactive compound for mitigating the effects of heavy metal toxicity in aquaculture.

We report, for the first time, and systematically describe chancelloriid from the region, including Chancelloria bella, Allonnia cf. tintinopsis, Al. cf. erromenosa, Al. tripodophora, Archiasterella cf. coriacea, Ar. cf. hirundo, Ar. cf. tetraspina, and Ar. cf. fletchergrully, along with previously reported chancelloriid species (Chancelloria cruceana, C. eros, and Archiasterella sp.). The current chancelloriid fauna is similar in taxonomic composition to the Cambrian Burgess Shale-type biotas and to those of China and South Australia. Based on the sclerite construction, we found that the different articulatory facet types may be used to distinguish Allonnia from Archiasterella, and the number of rays is closely related with the arrangement of sclerite rays. The chancelloriid fauna is found stratigraphically between the Glossopleura trilobite zone of the restricted-shelf facies and the Oryctocephalus trilobite zone of the open-shelf facies, spanning the Wuliuan Stage (Delmaran/Topazan) of the Miaolingian Series, middle Cambrian. This study is significant for better understanding the diversity of this enigmatic and cosmopolitan group in the middle Cambrian warm platform of the Precordillera.

Stemphylium leaf blight (SLB) caused by Stemphylium vesicarium is the dominant foliar disease affecting large-scale onion production in New York. The disease is managed by fungicides, but control failures are prevalent and recently attributed to fungicide resistance. Little is known of the relative role of inoculum sources in initiation and spread of SLB epidemics. The spatial and spatiotemporal dynamics of SLB epidemics in six onion fields were evaluated along linear transects in 2017 and 2018. Average SLB incidence increased from 0 to 100% throughout the cropping seasons with an average final lesion length of 28.3 cm. Disease progress was typical of a polycyclic epidemic and the logistic model provided the best fit to 83.3% of the datasets. Spatial patterns were better described by the beta-binomial than binomial distribution in half of the datasets and random patterns were more frequently observed by the index of dispersion. Geostatistical analyses of spatial pattern also found a low frequency of datasets with aggregation. Spatiotemporal analysis of epidemics detected that the aggregation was influenced by disease incidence. However, diseased units were not associated with the previous time period according to the spatiotemporal association function of SADIE. Variable spatial patterns suggested mixed inoculum sources dependent upon location, and likely an external inoculum source at the sampling scale used in this study. Plate testing of 28 commercially available organic onion seedlots from 2017 and 2018 did not detect S. vesicarium. This finding suggests that although S. vesicarium has been reported as seed transmitted, this is unlikely to be a significant inoculum source in commercially available organic seed lots and even less so in fungicide-treated seed used to establish conventional fields. A small-plot replicated trial was also conducted in each of two years to quantify the effect of S. vesicarium-infested onion residue on SLB epidemics in a field isolated from other onion fields. SLB incidence was significantly reduced in plots without residue compared to those in which residue remained on the soil surface. Burial of infested residue also significantly reduced epidemic progress in one year. The effect of infested onion residue on SLB epidemics in the subsequent onion crop suggests rotation or residue management may have a substantial effect on epidemics. However, the presence of an inoculum source external to fields in onion production regions as indicated by a lack of spatial aggregation may reduce the efficacy of in-field management techniques.

BACKGROUND Postoperative prolonged air leakage is a frequent complication after lung resection. We have developed a new sealant based on a hydrophobically modified Alaska pollock-derived gelatin (ApGltn) sealant. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the adhesive strength of the ApGltn sealant in comparison with a fibrin sealant using a new spray system in ex vivo and in vivo models. METHODS Pleural defects in ex vivo and in vivo porcine models were created, to which the ApGltn sealant or the fibrin sealant was applied. The pressure resistance was assessed with a stepwise increase in airway pressure to confirm air leakage from the sealing site. Tissue samples covered with each sealant were obtained for histologic assessment. RESULTS In the ex vivo experiment, the leak pressures of the ApGltn sealant were significantly greater than those of the fibrin sealant (102.94 ± 15.6 cm H2O and 28.37 ± 5.1 cm H2O, respectively) (P < .01). In the in vivo experiment, the leak pressures of the ApGltn sealant were also significantly greater than those of the fibrin sealant (68.82 ± 18.04 cm H2O and 43.33 ± 7.13 cm H2O, respectively) (P = .043). The histologic examination confirmed that the ApGltn sealant adhered tightly to both the pleura and the surface of the pleural defect. CONCLUSIONS The ApGltn sealant has sufficiently high adhesive quality in ex vivo and in vivo porcine lungs, which could be considered suitable and effective for use in the prevention of air leakage from the lungs.

Andrographis Herba, the aerial part of Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Wall. ex Nees (Acanthaceae), has a wide geographic distribution and has been used for the treatment of fever, cold, inflammation, and other infectious diseases. In markets, sellers and buyers commonly inadvertently confuse with related species. In addition, most Chinese medicinal herbs are subjected to traditional processing procedures, such as steaming and boiling, before they are sold at dispensaries; therefore, it is very difficult to identify Andrographis Herba when it is processed into Chinese medicines. The identification of species and processed medicinal materials is a growing issue in the marketplace. However, conventional methods of identification have limitations, while DNA barcoding has received considerable attention as a new potential means to identify species and processed medicinal materials. In this study, 17 standard reference materials of A. paniculata, 2 standard decoctions, 27 commercial products and two adulterants were collected. Based on the ITS2 sequence, it could successfully identify A. paniculata and adulterants. Moreover, a nucleotide signature consisting of 71 bp was designed, this sequence is highly conserved and specific within A. paniculata while divergent among other species. Then, we used these new primers to amplify the nucleotide signature region from processed materials. In conclusion, the DNA barcoding method developed in the present study for authenticating A. paniculata is rapid and cost-effective. It can be used in the future to guarantee the quality of Andrographis Herba of each regulatory link for clinical use.

In this study, to evaluate the effect of isolates of different species of Trichoderma on some morphological traits of canola and to obtain suitable antagonist isolates for biological control of canola crown rot disease, the effect of 71 Trichoderma isolates on Sclerotinia sclerotiorum was investigated in the laboratory by volatile compound and non-volatile metabolite methods. In the volatile metabolite assay, the isolate ARCTr281 (T. harzianum) was more efficient than the other isolates with a 20% reduction in hyphae density and non-formation of S. sclerotiorum sclerotia. In the non-volatile metabolite assay, ARCTr272 (T. harzianum) with 73.7 and 62.22 at 25 and 15% concentrations and T. viride isolate ARCTr432 (20.37%) at 5% concentration were successful in inhibiting S. sclerotiorum mycelia growth. Six superior isolates were selected for greenhouse studies. Using two-stage Trichoderma isolates in the greenhouse, height, fresh and dry weight of shoots and roots, number of pods, pod length, pod diameter and number of seeds per pod in the presence of pathogen all increased. The results of principal component analysis showed that the first two components accounted for 86% of the total variation among the data. The results showed that for the first component, the traits of total grain weight, pod diameter, branch number, shoot dry weight and fresh weight of root were the most important traits in grouping the isolates. In the trait second component, plant height and number of seeds per pod were important traits. Mean comparisons were performed using an LSD test and showed significant differences between the fungi used in non-volatile metabolite and greenhouse studies. According to the results of this research, the fungal isolates of T. harzianum (ARCTr281, ARCTr272 and ARCTr418) were the most effective antagonists in improving plant traits and controlling canola rot disease in both the laboratory and the greenhouse.

One victorivirus was detected in the isolate of Corynespora cassiicola strains 20180909-03, which was named Corynespora cassiicola victorivirus 1 (CcVV1). The whole-genome sequence of the virus was sequenced and identified. The CcVV1 genome is 5140 nt and contains 56.87%GC with two large open reading frames (ORFs) overlapping at the tetranucleotide AUGA. The two ORFs were predicted to encode coat protein (CP) and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) respectively, which were conservative in dsRNA fungal viruses of the family Totiviridae. Conservative domains comparison and phylogenetic analysis of the deduced amino acid sequence of RdRp and CP showed that CcVV1 was a new virus of the Victorivirus genus. As far as we know, it is the first report of a genomic sequence of the genus Victorivirus infecting Corynespora cassiicola.

The composition of the gut microbiome is linked to multiple diseases, including Parkinson’s disease (PD). Bacteria producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and fecal SCFA concentrations are reduced in PD. SCFAs exert various beneficial functions in humans. In the interventional, monocentric, open-label clinical trial RESISTA-PD (NCT02784145) we aimed at altering fecal SCFAs by an 8-week prebiotic intervention with resistant starch (RS). We enrolled 87 subjects in three study-arms: 32 PD patients receiving RS (PD + RS), 30 control subjects receiving RS, and 25 PD patients receiving solely dietary instructions. We performed paired-end 100 base pair length metagenomic sequencing of fecal samples using the BGISEQ platform at an average of 9.9 GB. RS was well-tolerated. In PD + RS, fecal butyrate concentrations increased significantly and fecal calprotectin concentrations dropped significantly after 8 weeks of RS. Clinically, we observed a reduction in non-motor symptoms load in PD + RS. The reference-based analysis of metagenomes highlighted stable alpha-diversity and beta-diversity across the three groups, including bacteria producing SCFAs. Reference-free analysis suggested punctual, yet pronounced differences in the metagenomic signature in PD + RS. RESISTA-PD highlights that a prebiotic treatment with RS is safe and well-tolerated in PD. The stable alpha-diversity and beta-diversity alongside altered fecal butyrate and calprotectin concentrations calls for long-term studies, also investigating whether RS is able to modify the clinical course of PD.

Herbal cosmetics are a valuable gift of nature and their demand is increasing in the world market. They have good activity with no side effects as compared to synthetic cosmetics. Herbal cosmetics are beauty products and because of natural ingredients, they possess desirable physiological activities. The present research work aimed to formulate and characterize cost-effective herbal nourishment cream containing Aloe vera gel and tomato powder. Four formulations i.e. F1, F2, F3, and F4 were prepared with varying concentrations of Aloe vera gel and tomato powder, while the composition of the cream base was kept the same. The oil phase of the cream base consisted of liquid paraffin (5.0 ml), stearic acid (4.8 g) and coconut oil (3.0 ml). The aqueous phase consisted of triethanolamine (1.5 ml), glycerin (5.0 ml), citric acid (0.4 g), methylparaben (0.1 g), water (q.s.) and key ingredients. The concentration of Aloe vera gel was 2.0 ml, 4.0 ml, 6.0 ml, 8.0 ml and the concentration of tomato powder was 0.2 g, 0.4 g, 0.6 g, 0.8 g in F1, F2, F3, and F4 respectively. The characterization of the formulated creams was carried out by standard methods, such as homogeneity test, smear type, irritancy test, pH test, spreadability test and acid value test. The stability test was carried out at different temperature conditions at 40 °C, below 5 °C and room temperature. All creams were homogeneous, non-irritant and easily removable. The pH of creams was in the range of 7.3–7.6 which is safe for human skin. Spreadability was in the range of 9–13. Acid values of the prepared creams were 5.6, 5.6, 6.4 and 7.2 respectively. Stability was examined by two parameters, homogeneity and pH change. The economical herbal creams prepared by using fewer chemicals are good for skin with moisturizing properties. The efficiency of creams can be improved by increasing the concentration of Aloe vera gel and tomato powder.

The current work investigates the impact of postharvest applications of calcium chloride (CaCl2) in combination with either 10% gum arabic or 50% cactus mucilage on the quality parameters and storability of tomato fruit (Izmir variety), at ambient storage conditions [21 ± 1 °C, relative humidity (RH) 45% ± 2%]. The tomato fruits were dipped in 6% CaCl2 for 10 min and then coated with either 10% gum arabic or 50% cactus mucilage for 3 min. During the time-course of storage, the fruit attributes, such as fresh fruit weight loss, fruit decay, firmness, titratable acidity (TA), total soluble solids (TSS), and color development were assessed. The results revealed a significant (P ≤ 0.05) effect of fruit postharvest treatment with 6% CaCl2 for 10 min combined with postharvest coating treatments with either 10% gum arabic or 50% cactus mucilage for 3 min on reducing fruit fresh weight loss, and decay percent of fruits. Fruit firmness, TA, and TSS were preserved compared with untreated fruit. In addition, treated fruits took more time to develop from pink to full red compared with untreated fruit. Hence, coating with natural substances combined with CaCl2 preserved the overall quality parameters and enhanced the shelf life of tomato fruit even after three weeks of storage at ambient temperature.

India is an emerging basil essential oil producer in South-east Asia. Two high essential oil yielding hybrids, namely one inter specific hybrid between of O. basilicum and O. kilimandscharicum Gurke (HYBL-1) and another intraspecific hybrid of O. basilicum × O. basilicum (OBL-1) of basil were analyzed using GC, enantiomeric GC, NMR, enantio-GC–MS and GC–MS methods. Inter specific hybrid HYBL-1 contained high essential oil-rich in linalool (68.5%), camphor (8%), and 1,8-cineole (4.6%) as characteristic constituents among monoterpenoids, whereas β-caryophyllene (1.9%), germacrene D (1.0%), and epi-α-cadinol (1.9%) were the sesquiterpenoids at the Lucknow (North Indian conditions) and linalool (71.8%), camphor (9.4%) and 1,8-cineole (4.3%) at Hyderabad (South Indian conditions) locations. Intraspecific hybrid (OBL-1) possessed linalool (66.1%), 1,8-cineole (5.4%) and geraniol (8.6%) with sesquiterpenoids in low proportions. Inter specific hybrid HYBL-1 showed superiority over OBL-1 in the multi-location trials conducted at Lucknow and Hyderabad. Average mean performance of inter specific hybrid over locations was: herb yield 44.80 t/ha, oil content 0.63%, oil yield 188.50 kg/ha, linalool content 67.65%, camphor content 8.90% v/s OBL-1 herb yield 21.32 t/ha, oil content 0.53%, oil yield 97.50 kg/ha, linalool content 65.55%, camphor content 0.00%, respectively. The essential oil of these two hybrids subjected to enantiomer differentiation revealed a high enantiomeric excess for (3R) -(−)-linalool, whereas (1R)- (+)-camphor was recorded exclusively in inter specific hybrid. The extensive NMR experiments were performed to confirm constituents in these hybrids and found that NMR spectroscopy could also be an ideal tool for the differentiation of essential oils from commercial samples declared as natural.

Anthracnose disease caused by Colletotrichum lindemuthianum (Sacc. and Magnus) Lams- -Scrib is one of the most devastating seed-borne diseases of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). In the present study, we evaluated the antifungal activity of Bunium persicum essential oil (EO) and its main constituents on mycelial growth, sporulation and spore germination inhibition of C. lindemuthianum. The main objective of this study was to investigate the effect of EO and its main constituents on decreasing the activity of cell wall degrading enzymes (CWDEs) produced by C. lindemuthianum, which are associated with disease progress. Also, the effects of seed treatment and foliar application of EO and its main constituent, cuminaldehyde, on anthracnose disease severity was investigated. The essential oil of B. persicum, was obtained by using a clevenger apparatus and its major constituents were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The EO was characterized by the presence of major compounds such as cuminaldehyde (37.7%), γ-terpinene (17.1%) and β-pinene (15.4%), which indicated antifungal effects against C. lindemuthianum. This pathogen did not grow in the presence of EO, cuminaldehyde and γ-terpinene, β-pinene at 1,500; 1,010 and 1,835 ppm concentrations, respectively. Also, sporulation and spore germination of C. lindemuthianum was completely inhibited by EO and cuminaldehyde. Synergistic effects of the main constituents showed that combing γ-terpinene with cuminaldehyde induced a synergistic activity against C. lindemuthianum and in combination with β-pinene caused an additive effect. Activities of pectinase, cellulase and xylanase, as main CWDEs, were decreased by EO and its main constituents at low concentration without affecting mycelial growth. Seed treatment and foliar application of peppermint EO and/or cuminaldehyde significantly reduced the development of bean anthracnose. We introduced B. persicum EO and constituents, cuminaldehyde and γ-terpinene, as possible control agents for bean anthracnose.

As past usual diet quality may affect gut microbiome (GM) composition, we examined the association of the Healthy Eating Index (HEI)-2015 assessed 21 and 9 years before stool collection with measures of fecal microbial composition in a subset of the Multiethnic Cohort. A total of 5936 participants completed a validated quantitative FFQ (QFFQ) at cohort entry (Q1, 1993–1996), 5280 at follow-up (Q3, 2003–2008) and 1685 also at a second follow-up (Adiposity Phenotype Study (APS), 2013–2016). All participants provided a stool sample in 2013–2016. Fecal microbial composition was obtained from 16S rRNA gene sequencing (V1–V3 regions). HEI-2015 scores were computed based on each QFFQ. Using linear regression adjusted for relevant covariates, we calculated associations of HEI-2015 scores with gut microbial diversity and 152 individual genera. The mean HEI-2015 scores increased from Q1 (67 (sd 10)) to Q3 (71 (sd 11)) and APS (72 (sd 10)). Alpha diversity assessed by the Shannon Index was significantly higher with increasing tertiles of HEI-2015. Of the 152 bacterial genera tested, seven (Anaerostipes, Coprococcus_2, Eubacterium eligens, Lachnospira, Lachnospiraceae_ND3007, Ruminococcaceae_UCG-013 and Ruminococcus_1) were positively and five (Collinsella, Parabacteroides, Ruminiclostridium_5, Ruminococcus gnavus and Tyzzerella) were inversely associated with HEI-2015 assessed in Q1, Q3 and APS. The estimates of change per unit of the HEI-2015 score associated with the abundance of these twelve genera were consistent across the three questionnaires. The quality of past diet, assessed as far as ∼20 years before stool collection, is equally predictive of GM composition as concurrently assessed diet, indicative of the long-term consistency of this relation.

Baihuasheshecao (Hedyotis diffusa), a Chinese herb for cancer treatment, is frequently adulterated by a related species Hedyotis corymbosa. DNA sequencing of the complete internal transcribed spacer region was applied to differentiate H. diffusa from H. corymbosa and other closely related species. The molecular data showed that four out of seven herb samples of Baihuasheshecao were adulterants. Chemical analyses by TLC and HPLC were used to authenticate H. diffusa and H. corymbosa. Two marker compounds were identified exclusively in H. diffusa: 6-O-(E)-p-coumaroyl scandoside methyl ester (compound 1) and 10(S)-hydroxypheophytin a (compound 2). Both compounds showed moderate anti-proliferation effect on PC3 human androgen-independent prostate cancer cells, while compound 2 also showed strong anti-proliferation effect on LNCaP human androgen-sensitive prostate cancer cells. Accordingly, these bioactive marker compounds could be applied to verify the authenticity and assess the quality of Baihuasheshecao.

La Trobe University Faculty of Science, Technology and Engineering Murray Darling Freshwater Research CentreMDFRC item.Coastal lagoons of the principal islands of Bass Strait, between Australia's mainland and Tasmania, were sampled in two summers. Many, particularly those of low to moderate salinity, contain relatively rich assemblages of microinvertebrates and some endemic Australian freshwater algae. Several species of testate amoebae and rotifers could not be referred to known morphotypes and are probably new species. The presence of certain species on islands of Bass Strait provides a link between populations in mainland Australia and others in Tasmania. Those lagoons are identified that, by virtue of catchments or buffer zones clothed in native vegetation, are favourable for the survival of a native and partly endemic microbiota.

The South American fruit fly, Anastrepha fraterculus (Wiedemann, 1830) (Diptera: Tephritidae), is an important pest in the subtropical region of Brazil. This insect has tritrophic relation between wild fruits and parasitoids and is associated with apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) orchards adjacent to the Atlantic Forest in Paraná. We thus investigated the degree of infestation of the fruit fly and natural parasitism in wild and cultivated fruits surrounding apple orchards. For this purpose, we collected fruits of Acca sellowiana (Berg.) Burret, Campomanesia xanthocarpa (Mart), Eugenia uniflora L., Eugenia pyriformis Cambessèdes, Psidium cattleianum Sabine, Psidium guajava (L.), Annona neosericea Rainer and Eriobotrya japonica (Thumb) in apple orchards adjacent to the Atlantic Forest located in Campo do Tenente, Lapa and Porto Amazonas counties. In total, we collected 18,289 fruits during four growing years. The occurrence of A. fraterculus depends on the susceptible period of apple fruits. A. sellowiana and P. cattleianum were considered primary fruit fly multipliers and P. guajava was secondary, all occurring after the apple harvest (IS period). The group of parasitoids with A. fraterculus was Aganaspis pelleranoi (Brèthes, 1924) (Hymenoptera: Figitidae), Opius bellus (Gahan, 1930), Doryctobracon areolatus (Szépligeti, 1911) and Doryctobracon brasiliensis (Szépligeti, 1911) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) all of which are first records in the Atlantic Forest in Paraná. First record of O. bellus occurring in the State of Paraná, as well as, first record of the tritrophic association between host plant A. neosericea, parasitoids D. areolatus and O. bellus and fruit fly A. fraterculus. The host P. cattleianum stood out among the Myrtaceae species in regard to the high diversity of parasitoid species (81% of parasitoids). The total number of Figitidae species (76.5%) was higher than that of Braconidae species. The influence of climatic events in southern Brazil on wild fruit production should be further studied to understand the association of A. fraterculus with the tritrophic relationship. Resumo Mosca-das-frutas sul-americana, Anastrepha fraterculus (Wiedemann, 1830) (Diptera: Tephritidae), é uma importante praga da região subtropical do Brasil. Este inseto tem relação tritrófico entre frutos silvestres e parasitoides e está associado a pomares de macieiras (Malus domestica Borkh.) adjacentes à Mata Atlântica no Paraná. Assim, investigamos o grau de infestação da mosca-das-frutas e o parasitismo natural em frutas silvestres e cultivadas ao redor de pomares de maçã. Para tanto, foram coletados frutos de Acca sellowiana (Berg.) Burret, Campomanesia xanthocarpa (Mart), Eugenia uniflora L., Eugenia pyriformis Cambessèdes, Psidium cattleianum Sabine, Psidium guajava (L.), Annona neosericea Rainer e Eriobotrya japonica (Thumb) em pomares de maçã adjacentes à Mata Atlântica localizados nos municípios de Campo do Tenente, Lapa e Porto Amazonas. No total, coletamos 18.289 frutos durante quatro anos de cultivo. A ocorrência de A. fraterculus depende do período de suscetibilidade dos frutos da maçã. A. sellowiana e P. cattleianum foram considerados multiplicadores primários de mosca-das-frutas e P. guajava foi secundário, todos ocorrendo após a colheita da maçã (período IS). Os parasitóides a associados a A. fraterculus foram Aganaspis pelleranoi (Brèthes, 1924) (Hymenoptera: Figitidae), Opius bellus (Gahan, 1930), Doryctobracon areolatus (Szépligeti, 1911) e Doryctobracon brasiliensis (Szépligeti, 1911) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), todos os quais são primeiros registros na Mata Atlântica no Paraná. Primeiro registro de O. bellus ocorrendo no Estado do Paraná, assim como, primeiro registro da associação tritrófica entre o hospedeiro A. neosericea, parasitoides D. areolatus e O. bellus e mosca-das-frutas A. fraterculus. O hospedeiro P. cattleianum se destacou entre as espécies de Myrtaceae pela alta diversidade de parasitóides associados (81% dos parasitóides). O número total de espécies de Figitidae (76,5%) foi superior ao de espécies de Braconidae. A influência de eventos climáticos no sul do Brasil na produção de frutas silvestres deve ser mais estudada para entender a associação de A. fraterculus com a relação tritrófica.

Little is known about the prevalence, functionality and ecological roles of temperate phages for members of the mycolic acid producing bacteria, the Mycolata. While many lytic phages infective for these organisms have been isolated, and assessed for their suitability for use as biological control agents of activated sludge foaming, no studies have investigated how temperate phages might be induced for this purpose. Bioinformatic analysis using the PHAge Search Tool (PHAST) on Mycolata whole genome sequence data in GenBank for members of the genera Gordonia, Mycobacterium, Nocardia, Rhodococcus, and Tsukamurella revealed 83% contained putative prophage DNA sequences. Subsequent prophage inductions using mitomycin C were conducted on 17 Mycolata strains. This led to the isolation and genome characterization of three novel Caudovirales temperate phages, namely GAL1, GMA1, and TPA4, induced from Gordonia alkanivorans, Gordonia malaquae, and Tsukamurella paurometabola, respectively. All possessed highly distinctive dsDNA genome sequences.

We will practice enumerating Listeria monocytogenes on commercial frankfurters by inoculating, dilution technique, and spread plating onto selective medium Modified Oxford Agar. The presumptive colonies will be identified using Gram staining, catalase test, and 12L test. In this chapter, it requires students to finish part of the work independently.

Traditional medicine is cheaper and easily available to local people, to care for most frequent diseases in the Northern parts of Pakistan. Our study aimed at inventorying medicine from local plants, documenting their uses, and assessing their market value in 2015-2018 during spring, summer, and winter seasons. A total of 15 trips were made, 5 in each season. Semi-structured interviews with 165 inhabitant’s age range between 20-80 years were conducted, analyzed the data is analyzed using Relative frequency of citation(RFC), Use Value(UV), Fidelity Level(FL), Informants consensus factor(ICF), and Jaccard index(JI) to find the most frequent and well-known used species in the area. A total of 86 species belonging to 39 vascular plant families, 33 genera were documented as medicinally important. Family Asteraceae was observed as the dominant family among all the families with 10 species, the leaf was the most used parts and decoction 36% was the most preferred preparation type. Herb was the predominant life form (67%). The maximum UV (0.92) was demonstrated by J. adhatoda L. species, while A. sativum L. shows maximum RFC (0.58), the highest ICF value represented by diarrhea and dermatitis 0.92, and high FL value is recorded 100%. According to our collections, wild species were 45%, invasive species were 38% and cultivated 17% recorded, dicots species were recorded more 81%. Seven 7 medicinal species is being economically important and export to the local and international market of the world, whereas P. integrima L. species were the most exported species according to the local dealers. The investigated area is rural and the local people depend on the area's plants for their health needs, and other uses like a vegetable, fuelwood, fodder, etc. The current result of RFC, UV, ICF, FL, and JI shows that medicinal flora needs to be pharmacologically and phytochemically investigated to prove their efficacy. The documentation of medicinal knowledge is important to preserve this precious old knowledge before it is lost forever, due to technological and environmental changes in the world. Resumo A medicina tradicional é mais barata e facilmente disponível à população local para cuidar das doenças mais frequentes nas áreas do norte do Paquistão. Nosso estudo teve como objetivo inventariar medicamentos de plantas locais, documentar seus usos e avaliar seu valor de mercado em 2015-2018 durante as temporadas de primavera, verão e inverno. Foram feitas 15 viagens, 5 em cada temporada. Foram realizadas entrevistas semiestruturadas com 165 moradores na faixa etária de 20 a 80 anos, com dados analisados por meio de frequência relativa de citação (RFC), valor de uso (UV), nível de fidelidade (FL), fator de consenso de informantes (CIF), e o índice de Jaccard (JI) para encontrar as espécies utilizadas mais frequentes e conhecidas na área. Um total de 86 espécies pertencentes a 39 famílias de plantas vasculares, 33 gêneros foram documentados como medicamente importantes. A família Asteraceae foi observada como a família dominante entre todas as famílias com 10 espécies, a folha foi a parte mais utilizada e a decocção 36% foi o tipo de preparação mais preferido. A erva foi a forma de vida predominante (67%). O UV máximo (0,92) foi demonstrado pelas espécies de J. adhatoda L., enquanto A. sativum L. mostra RFC máximo (0,58), o maior valor de ICF representado por diarreia e dermatite 0,92, e alto valor de FL é registrado 100%. De acordo com nossas coleções, as espécies selvagens foram 45%, as espécies invasoras 38% e as cultivadas 17% registradas, as espécies dicotiledôneas foram registradas mais 81%. Sete espécies medicinais estão sendo economicamente importantes e exportadas para o mercado local e internacional do mundo, enquanto as espécies de P. integrima L. foram as espécies mais exportadas de acordo com os comerciantes locais. A área investigada é rural e a população local depende das plantas da área para suas necessidades de saúde e outros usos como vegetal, lenha, forragem etc. O resultado atual de RFC, UV, ICF, FL e JI mostra que a flora medicinal precisa ser investigada farmacológica e fitoquimicamente para comprovar sua eficácia. A documentação do conhecimento medicinal é importante para preservar esse precioso conhecimento antigo antes que se perca para sempre, devido às mudanças tecnológicas e ambientais do mundo.

Viruses belonging to the genus Quaranjavirus in the family Orthomyxoviridae are known as argasid tick-borne viruses. Some viruses in this genus or an unassigned quaranjavirus-like virus have the ability to infect humans although little is known about their pathogenicity. During the surveillance of tick-borne viruses in ixodid ticks in Ehime Prefecture, Japan, novel quaranjavirus-like sequences were detected in three pooled samples of Haemaphysalis histricis nymphs. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the detected viruses formed a cluster with quaranjaviruses and other related viruses. Specifically, the viruses were closely related to Zambezi tick virus 1 and Uumaja virus, which are quaranjavirus-like viruses recently discovered in ixodid ticks in Africa and Europe, respectively. These findings indicate that the viruses detected in this study were probably a new member of the Quaranjavirus genus or a related group. The viruses were tentatively named Ohshima virus even though only limited sequences of their genome were available. This is the first report on the detection of a quaranjavirus-like virus in the East Asian region. Further investigations are needed to discern its infectivity and pathogenicity against humans or other animals and to determine the potential risk of an emerging tick-borne viral disease.

Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum, 2n = 4x = 48) is susceptible to downy mildew caused by Peronospora belbahrii. The Pb1 gene exhibits complete resistance to the disease. However, Pb1 became prone to disease because of occurrence of new virulent races. Here, we show that Zambian accession PI 500950 (Ocimum americanum var. pilosum) is highly resistant to the new races. From an interspecies backcross between PI 500950 and the susceptible ‘Sweet basil’ we obtained, by embryo rescue, a population of 131 BC1F1 plants. This population segregated 73 resistant (58) and susceptible (1:1; P = 0.22) plants, suggesting that resistance is controlled by one incompletely dominant gene called Pb2. To determine whether allelic relationship exists between Pb1 and Pb2, we used two differential races: race 0, which is avirulent to both PI 500945 (Pb1) and PI 500950 (Pb2), and race 1, which is virulent to PI 500945 but avirulent to PI 500950. F1 plants obtained from ‘12-4-6’ (BC6F3 derived from PI 500945) and ‘56’ (BC3F3 derived from PI 500950) showed resistant superiority to both races through dominant complementary interaction. F2 plants segregated to race 0 as follows: 12:3:1 (immune/incomplete resistant/susceptible) as opposed to 9:3:4 to race 1, indicating that Pb1 and Pb2 are not alleles. Because joint action is contributed in F1 plants and in advanced [BC3F3(56) × BC6F3(12-4-6) F4] populations that carry both genes, it can be assumed that both accessions carry two unlinked genes but share a common signal transduction pathway, which leads to dominant complementation superiority of the resistance against different races of basil downy mildew.

The Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, GIFT strain is suggested to be a good candidate for culture in brackish water. Gill is regarded as the dominate site of osmo-regulation. Recently, the mechanisms underlying salinity challenge in gill of tilapia are getting increasing attention. In this study, an integrated analysis of metabolomics and transcriptomics on gill of GIFT tilapia under salinity 17 and 27 challenge for three and a half months are conducted. 1164 DEGs in the comparison 0 vs 17 and 910 DEGs in the comparison 0 vs 27 are identified. Many typical genes involved in osmo-regulation are found, including calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II beta 1, Aquaporin 3, Potassium channel subfamily K member, chloride channel 2, Solute Carrier Family 12 Member 8, Solute Carrier Family 12 Member 2, Na +/K + ATPase. Some biosynthesis, metabolism, energy or transport related pathways are over-represented, such as Synthesis of UDP-N-acetyl-glucosamine, Synthesis of substrates in N-glycan biosynthesis, Biosynthesis of DPAn-3 SPMs, Metabolism of lipids, Gluconeogenesis and SLC-mediated transmembrane transport. In addition, totally 23 metabolites are significantly responded in gill under salinity challenge. Of which, 11 metabolites including 12-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid and choline are significantly down-regulated and 8 metabolites including adenine, Lys-Pro, inosine are significantly up-regulated under salinity challenge. Our study provides an important database for further functional analysis of osmo-regulation in gill of Nile tilapia.