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Aporcelaimellus obtusicaudatus was recovered from mustard and sugarcane fields of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, India. The present species was identified through morphology, molecular and phylogenetic analysis. The Indian populations are characterized by having females with a body length (1.7–3.4 mm), lip region (4.9–8.8 µm), Amphids 6–9 µm, odontostyle length (15.7–26.4 µm), neck length (374.6–745.1 µm), pharyngeal expansion occupying 45–60% of neck length, simple uterus (67.4–124.3 µm), V = 49.1–58.7, female tail (32–44.9 µm, c = 41.1–105, c' = 0.5–1.3) with short, conoid, rounded terminus to convex conical. The molecular phylogenetic analysis based on 18S and 28S rDNA revealed A. obtusicaudatus as a paraphyly. The present populations of Indian A. obtusicaudatus (OM269524; OP020675) placed close to deposited Indian sequence (OP048816; OP048823) and Slovakian populations of A. obtusicaudatus (MH206119). The result of 28S rDNA phylogeny showed that the present population (OM258706) placed close to other populations of the same species from India (OM418794) with 0.55 posterior probability supports. The haplotype analysis based on 28S rDNA revealed 6 haplotypes, which displayed low nucleotide (π = 0.013) diversity. In contrast, haplotype diversity (Hd) was 1.00, and the number of segregating sites (S) was 14. The phylogenetic analysis grouped the various populations into two clades, and the result showed German populations placed into two clades, which showed high variability in haplotype supported by the haplotype network. Tajima (D) and Fu's Fs were found to be negative (P > 0.05), whereas the overall FST value was 0.31040 (P = 0.118). In conclusion, genetic analysis revealed 31.04% variation among groups/populations and 68.95 within populations, indicating a low genetic variation between the same populations of A. obtusicaudatus belonging to the same country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gayralia brasiliensis Pellizzari, M.C. Oliveira et N.S. Yokoya (Gayraliaceae Ulotrichales), a new record for Indian waters, is described based on morphological, anatomical, and molecular characterization. Gayralia brasiliensis was growing luxuriantly towards the upper limit of the intertidal zone at Shirgaon Creek, Maharashtra, west coast of India. The thalli were pale green in color, growing mat-like on muddy substrata. Juvenile thalli were attached to pneumatophores of mangroves, and barnacles, as well as on polyethylene sheets through a rhizoidal disc. The molecular characterization verifies the presence of G. brasiliensis in western India. We observed overlapping morphological traits between G. brasiliensis and G. oxysperma. However, the ITS sequence showed 100 % similarity with no nucleotide divergence to Brazilian G. brasiliensis. The phylogenetic analysis based on ITS rDNA sequence showed that G. brasiliensis from Shirgaon Creek forms a sister lineage to G. oxysperma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Snakebite envenomation remains a critical public health concern in India, with its substantial morbidity and mortality burden. Addressing this issue is imperative, as snakebite-related deaths are preventable and yet disproportionately affect vulnerable populations in rural India. Materials and Methods: This autopsy-based study aimed to assess the prevalence and characteristics of lethal snakebite cases in the Guntur region, Andhra Pradesh by considering case data, autopsy findings and ancillary investigation findings. Additionally, an attempt was made to recommend preventive measures and raise awareness among the local population regarding snakebite prevention. Results: Snakebite incidents were more common among males who belonged to the agricultural workforce. These bites predominantly occurred during the rainy season and during daylight hours. The majority of victims were from rural areas, and the incidence was higher among younger individuals. Most of the bites were localized on the lower extremities. Additionally, a significant number of victims experienced fatal outcomes within six hours of envenomation. Conclusion: Snakebite is a highly neglected tropical disease but a preventable one. The Indian government is giving priority to snakebite venomics, proteomics, and the application of recombinant DNA technology for developing antivenoms, diverging from conventional animal-derived sources. Given the wide-ranging biogeographic distribution of venom type in venomous snakes, a re-evaluation of the 'big four' strategy is being advocated, promoting alternative methods for effective antivenom production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As a biological control agent, entomopathogenic fungus (EPF) can give an alternative to high-risk pesticides. Metarhizium anisopliae is one of the most promising pest controls EPF in the worldwide. Result: On fungi-specific selective media, the EPF isolate SVPUAT was isolated from Western Uttar Pradesh, India. The isolate was identified as M. anisopliae (GenBank accession no. OP962431) after molecular screening utilizing PCR amplification with the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region primer. In a contact toxicity experiment, the isolate SVPUAT was tested against the 4th instar larvae of Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) at concentrations ranging from 103 to 1010 spores ml−1. The lethal time LT50 and LT90 values for the 4th instar larvae of H. armigera injected with 1 × 1010 spores ml−1 were 3.46 and 5.54 days, respectively. Conclusions: The present M. anisopliae isolate SVPUAT was identified using the ITS-5.8s rDNA region from GenBank and has showed significant pathogenicity to H. armigera. More research is needed to prove the efficacy against various pests of economic important as a legitimate choice for an integrated pest management program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Heteraxinoides atlanticus Gayevskaya et Kovaleva (1979) is described from the locality of Arabian Sea, India. This monogenean species is first time reported from India, infesting the gills of Nemipterus japonicus (Bloch). The present study redescribes H. atlanticus and its phylogenetic status using morphometric and molecular tools. Methods: A total of 35 parasites were collected from the 234 specimens of Nemipterus japonicus at Mumbai, India. The temporary and permanent mounts were prepared for the morphometric analyses of H. atlanticus. For PCR, the genomic DNA was isolated from the parasites using primers for 18S rDNA, 28S rDNA and mtCOI gene. The obtained DNA sequences were subjected to different bioinformatics softwares (BLASTn, Clustal Omega and MEGA) for phlyogenetic analyses. Result: Phylogenetic analyses with the help of partial 18S and 28S rDNA sequences of H. atlanticus and other available sequences of heteraxinids provided the better understanding of relationship in the family Heteraxinidae. Another species, H. karachiensis Hadi and Bilqees (2014) showed similar morphological features such as number of clamps and structure of genital atrium to H. atlanticus except few minor differences, so it must be considered as synonym of H. atlanticus and placed into Heteraxinidae instead of Axinidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Callus like galls were observed inside the stem of more than 5-year old papaya trees in Kerala, India. The bacterium Pantoea dispersa and the fungus Fusarium spinosum were isolated from these galls. Identity of the fungus was confirmed by sequencing and analysis of rDNA region, EFα gene and phylogenetic and barcode analyses. Bacterial identity was confirmed by analysis of rDNA region. Pathogenicity tests with a combination of the fungus and bacterium and bacterium alone, resulted in gall formation. Individual inoculation of F. spinosum did not result in gall. Only P. dispersa was re-isolated from the galls, indicating its etiological role. Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/03235408.2021.1974686. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sapota is an important horticultural crop grown in India, and Karnataka is a major producer of sapota. A characteristic leaf blight disease was observed in Southern Karnataka during field surveys conducted in 2019 with an incidence of 13–22% in approximately 45 ha of sapota field. The leaf blight‐associated pathogen was isolated on the potato dextrose agar medium. A total of 12 isolates obtained from each location were identified culturally and morphologically. Based on the morphological and cultural features, the pathogen was identified as Pestalotiopsis or Neopestalotiopsis, which was further confirmed by molecular identification using a representative isolate (MZ03). The ITS rDNA and β‐tubulin genes were amplified and sequenced using ITS1/ITS4 and T1/T22 primer pairs respectively. nBLAST search analysis and concatenated (ITS‐rDNA and TUB2 loci) phylogenetic analysis confirmed the pathogen identity as Neopestalotiopsis vitis. Pathogenicity tests conducted on detached leaves by inoculation with a conidial suspension of N. vitis produced typical blight symptoms after 4–5 days and progressed to cover the entire leaf lamina after 10–12 days. The pathogen's identity was confirmed after re‐isolation by cultural and morphological features. Although Pestalotiopsisclavispora and Pestalotiopsis versicolor causing diseases on sapota seedlings and trees have been reported, no reports are available for the occurrence of N. vitis to sapota from India. This is the first report of N. vitis associated with leaf blight disease of sapota from India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel cyanobacterial species from the genus Iningainema is described according to the International Code of Nomenclature for Algae, Fungi, and Plants. The new species, Iningainema sahyadrensis sp. nov., is recorded from the Western Ghats (Sahyadri mountain range), India. The description is based on morphological features and the phylogenetic analysis of partial 16S rDNA gene. Phylogenetic analysis places I. sahyadrensis in the Iningainema clade, within the family Scytonemataceae. The novel strain formed a strongly supported monophyletic lineage with strains of the type species of Iningainema, I. pulvinus. Laboratory-grown culture and the naturally occurring samples of I. sahyadrensis differed from the type species of the genus (I. pulvinus) by the size of vegetative cells, thickness of sheath, presence of vacuole-like structures in cells and habitat type. Comparison of predicted secondary structures of the partial 16S rRNA molecule of I. sahyadrensis and three clones of I. pulvinus showed a number of evolutionary events in Domain 1 (H8-H10, H17), Domain 2 (H21, H22) and Domain 3 (H33, H34). Amplification of a fragment of the ndaF gene involved in nodularin biosynthesis from I. sahyadrensis did not confirm that it has this genetic determinant, in contrast with I. pulvinus. The recognition and description of this novel species suggests that the cyanobacterial flora of mountain habitats of India has yet to be fully documented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food security of our country is at risk due to heavy yield losses of agricultural crops caused by pests and diseases known together as biotic stresses. Conventional management practices in vogue are not competent under the current situations obscured by the incitants of biotic stresses which have either enhanced their offensive capabilities due to adaptive mutations or regained their pathogenic/herbivory potential owing to climate change. Numerous causal agents of biotic stresses are also introduced in the country or new regions of the country either through natural dispersal as invasive species, or on account of quarantine irregularities at national or international levels. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to appraise the impact of these new biotic stresses burgeoned in the recent past and to develop novel technologies for their management. To devise an effective preventive and eradicative strategy for containing these biotic stresses, new research innovations need to be practiced such as deciphering basic/molecular mechanism of host-pathogen/insect interactions; endophytic mechanisms of plant protection; nanotechnology in pest management; host resistance strengthening by gene cloning, recombinant DNA technologies, RNA biology, utilizing gene editing technologies such as CRISPR/Cas9, etc. This article presents a comprehensive account of new biotic stresses of agricultural crops built up in the country and also reviews the novel scientific inventions made worldwide which can be further employed to devise more efficient methods for alleviating impact of these biotic stresses of food crops in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Second Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS2) ribosomal DNA (rDNA) sequence is a widely used molecular marker for species-identification or -delimitation due to observed concerted evolution which is believed to homogenize rDNA copies in an interbreeding population. However, intra-specific differences in ITS2 of Anopheles stephensi have been reported. This study reports the presence of intragenomic sequence variation in the ITS2-rDNA of An. stephensi and hypothesizes that observed intra-specific differences in this species may have resulted due to ambiguous DNA sequence-chromatogram resulting from intragenomic heterogeneity. Anopheles stephensi collected from different parts of India were sequenced for complete ITS2 and the variable region of 28S-rDNA (d1-d3 domains). Intragenomic variations were found in ITS2 region of all An. stephensi sequenced, but no such variation was observed in d1 to d3 domains of 28S-rDNA. Cloning and sequencing of ITS2 through the d3 domain of the 28S region of rDNA from representative samples from northern, central, and southern India confirmed the presence of intragenomic variation in ITS2 due to transitions at three loci and two bp indel in a di-nucleotide microsatellite locus. Multiple haplotypes were observed in ITS2 raised from such variations. Due to the absence of detectable intragenomic sequence variation in the d1 to d3 domain of 28S rDNA of An. stephensi, this region can serve as an ideal reference sequence for taxonomic and phylogenetic studies. The presence of intragenomic variation in rDNA should be carefully examined before using this as a molecular marker for species delimitation or phylogenetic analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinostomum is a fish-borne pathogen, digenetic trematode with worldwide distribution. Despite its zoonootic significance, the molecules involved in the host-parasite interaction remains unknown. The present study deals with the proteome profile of the rDNA of Clinostomum piscidium using in silico workflow. The physicochemical properties, mass spectrometry, atomic composition, estimated half-life in different hosts, Grand average of hydropathy (GRAVY), extinction coefficient and instability index of the rDNA was studied. We identified hypothetical proteins(polar in nature) that showed similarities with proteins of Trichellina pseudospiralis and Melampsora laricipopulina. The functionality of these proteins revealed their role in intracellular signalling as a substrate for O - linked N - acetylglucosaminetransferases and death transcription factor (DIDO-1). This is the first report of our findings that aims to provide a better understanding of the mechanism by which this digenetic trematode adapts to extreme environments. It is expected that this study will lead to new insights into drug designing strategies and disease control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In India, yellow leaf disease (YLD) is known to be caused by Sugarcane yellow leaf virus (SCYLV) and Sugarcane yellows phytoplasma (SCYP; 16SrI-B). Therefore, present study was conducted to confirm the association of specific phytoplasma with YLD in Co 0238 and CoS 510 sugarcane genotypes during 2019-2020 at Indian Institute of Sugarcane Research, Lucknow. The YLD affected genotypes were characterized by yellowing of leaf mid-ribs and leaf-lamina, leaf-tip necrosis, bunching of leaves at crown region and drying of plants with an incidence ranged from 28.26-35.81%. YLD symptomatic leaf samples were collected from the two genotypes and subjected to genomic DNA extraction by DNeasy Plant Mini Kit followed by nested PCR assay using universal phytoplasma primers (16S rDNA region). The nested PCR assays of samples from both the genotypes showed specific amplification. 16S rRNA gene sequence analyses of CoS 510 isolate (MN913611) revealed 100% identity with Sugarcane white leaf phytoplasma (SCWLP) belongs to 16SrXI-B subgroup. Similarly, virtual RFLP analyses revealed 1.00 similarity coefficient with 16SrXI-B subgroup. Thus, present study first time reports the association of SCWLP related strain with YLD of sugarcane in India. Phytoplasma infecting sugarcane are more diverse and needs systematic studies on their single or mixed infections in different varieties in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of Pseudocercospora is described causing leaf spot disease on Crotalaria assamica from India. The identity of isolate was based on asexual morphs, cultural characteristics and phylogenetic analyses of partial nuclear ribosomal 28S large subunit and complete internal transcribed spacer rDNA sequence data with high statistical support value. Morphologically this species has characters similar to allied species in genus Pseudocercospora but differs in having catenate and branched conidia. Phylogenetic analysis using LSU and ITS reveals it a new species of Pseudocercospora (Capnodiales, Mycosphaerellaceae). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The subclass Peniculia (Oligohymenophorea, Intramacronucleata) is one of the most known groups of the phylum Ciliophora, being composed by very notorious representatives, such as Paramecium and Frontonia. Nevertheless, phylogenetic relationships among genera within this subclass are still far from being resolved. Moreover, for several members of the group the characterization by molecular markers is still lacking, such as for Wenrichia, Clathrostoma, Paraclathrostoma, Didieria and, to date, also for Neobursaridium. The finding of one strain of Neobursaridium gigas from India led to the first molecular characterization of this uncommonly sampled ciliate. The 18S rDNA sequence and the COI sequence were obtained and used for phylogenetic analyses. Moreover, the partial mitochondrial genome of N. gigas was sequenced, annotated and employed for phylogenomics analysis. To increase the sampling effort for the Paramecium clade, several newly obtained 18S rDNA sequences of parameciids are herein presented. Unexpectedly, the inclusion of N. gigas's molecular data in phylogenetics/phylogenomics analyses did not help to solve the complex evolution relationships inside Peniculia. Conversely, it raised new and intriguing questions about Paramecium phylogeny, since N. gigas clustered inside Paramecium clade as sister species of Paramecium bursaria in all the performed analyses. A critical revision of past and present data led to rename N. gigas as Paramecium gigas (Balech, 1941) comb. nov., and triggered the revision of genus Paramecium, with the proposal of the new subgenus Gigaparamecium subgen. nov. Hypotheses on the evolution of giant morphologies in ciliates are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The infrageneric delimitation of Momordica, a medicinally important genus of Cucurbitaceae, is ill-defined until date. Momordica chromosomes are extremely small and are difficult to stain and visualize because of the dense cytoplasmic background. We have conducted karyomorphometric analysis by EMA method in five Indian Momordica species, and the nuclear genome sizes were estimated by flow cytometry for the first time. The somatic chromosome numbers ranged from 2n = 18 to 56 in the species. We have resolved previously disputed chromosome numbers in M. cymbalaria and M. dioica as 2n = 18 (lowest) and 2n = 56, respectively. Chromosome counts in the other species were re-confirmed as 2n = 22 in M. charantia, 2n = 28 in M. cochinchinensis and 2n = 56 in M. subangulata. The largest genome size was recorded in M. cymbalaria (3.74 pg 2C−1), while the smallest size (0.72 pg 2C−1) was detected in M. charantia var. charantia. The nuclear genome sizes were analysed in comparison to chromosome numbers and total chromosome lengths of the species. Karyomorphometric indices showed comparable symmetric karyotypes in the species except in M. cymbalaria having tendency towards asymmetry. The UPGMA phenogram and principle component analysis based on nuclear DNA contents and karyomorphometric parameters demonstrated interspecies differences, intraspecific distinction within M. charantia varieties and highlighted distinction of M. cymbalaria. This study was further supported by the rDNA ITS sequence-based phylogenetic analysis which revealed the monophyletic origin of the Indian members of Momordica and clarified the intraspecies relationship among the studied members. As a whole, the study brought out new insights on species diversification within the genus Momordica in India and would benefit further studies on biosystematics and plant breeding programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A population of a nematode species belonging to the genus Oscheius was isolated in western Uttar Pradesh, India. Morphological and morphometrical studies on this species showed its high similarity with six species described previously from Pakistan (Oscheius citri, O. cobbi, O. cynodonti, O. esculentus, O. punctatus and O. sacchari). The molecular analysis of the ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 rDNA sequences of the Indian population and the six species described from Pakistan showed that all the sequences are almost identical. Thus, based on morphological and molecular characteristics, all of the six above-mentioned Pakistani species and Indian strain do not differ from each other, hence can be considered synonyms. The correct name for this taxon is the first described species O. citri. Additionally, the phylogenetic analysis of the 18S rDNA and the 28S rDNA sequences showed that Oscheius citri is sister to the clade formed by O. chongmingensis and O. rugaoensis from China. The high similarity of morphological and morphometric characteristics of O. citri and other species, O. maqbooli, O. nadarajani, O. niazii, O. shamimi and O. siddiqii, suggest their conspecificity; however, lack of molecular data for these species does not allow this hypothesis to be tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During ongoing studies of the mycoflora of Kerala State, India, three species of Crepidotus , namely, C. exilis A.M.Kumar & C.K.Pradeep sp. nov., C. globisporus A.M.Kumar & C.K.Pradeep sp. nov. and C. croceotinctus Peck, were discovered. These species are described and illustrated. A phylogenetic reconstruction based on maximum-likelihood analyses of nuclear ribosomal large subunit rDNA sequences are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pityriasis versicolor (PV) is the most common chronic superficial infection of the stratum corneum, reported in 40–60% of the tropical population. After the description of the new Malassezia species, only a few studies have been conducted from India. Aims: Molecular identification, quantification of Malassezia species implicated with PV and correlation to its clinical presentation. Materials and Methods: The subjects include 50 PV patients, who attended the dermatology outpatient department of our hospital and 50 healthy individuals. Same size area of the skin was sampled from lesional and non‑lesional sites in the patient group and from forehead, cheek, and chest of healthy individuals. Malassezia spp. isolated were identified by conventional method and confirmed by ITS2 PCR‑RFLP and sequencing of D1/D2 region of 26S rDNA. Results: Eighty percent of patients presented with hypopigmented lesions and 20% with hyperpigmented lesions. From PV lesions, the most frequently isolated species was M. furfur (50%), followed by M. globosa (27.3%), mixture of M. furfur and M. globosa (15.9%), M. sympodialis (4.5%), and M. slooffiae (2.3%). Higher Malassezia density was found in lesional area as compared to non‑lesional area of PV patients and in healthy individuals (P 0.0001). Conclusion: Although M. furfur was the most prevalent species isolated from both patients and controls, significantly higher isolation of M. globosa from the lesional area compared to non‑lesional area indicates its possible role along with M. furfur in causing PV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Equine ocular setariasis arising mainly from ectopic infestation of Setaria digitata is a common vision impairing ophthalmic disease in India, and the identification of this filarial nematode is based solely on morphology. However, morphological characters alone are inadequate to detect and differentiate S. digitata from its congeners. The present communication reports the first phylogenetic characterization of equine S. digitata from India based on sequences derived from the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI), the mitochondrial small subunit ribosomal DNA (12S rDNA), and the nuclear internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2). Three isolates were characterized for each gene, and respective sequences were submitted to NCBI database (MN078131, MN078132, and MN095798). The sequences were also compared with the other related sequences available from PubMed around the globe, and phylogenetic analysis was carried out in conjunction with nucleotide homologies. There was no intraspecific variation among the Indian isolates. The phylogenetic analysis of S. digitata, inferred from these genes, showed that the isolate sequences obtained from different host species created a separate monophyletic clade within the genus Setaria with minor sequence variations revealing similar molecular characteristics of S. digitata isolates throughout the globe. In addition, the studied Indian isolates were found closer to Sri Lankan isolates. The S. digitata and S. labiatopapillosa appeared as sister species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Indian freshwater fish myxosporean infections are among the most cosmopolitan parasites, they are relatively well studied morphologically but their phylogenetic relationships were unclear and the genetic data is limited only to a few species. The study aims to present molecular data for two myxosporean species, Henneguya namae Haldar et al. 1983 and Myxobolus sophorae Jayasri, 1982 collected from Indian freshwater fish, the elongate glass-perchlet Chanda nama (=Ambassis nama) and pool barb Puntius sophore, respectively. In the present study molecular data are provided for H. namae and M. sophorae using nested PCR. The obtained partial 18S rDNA gene sequences were analyzed using maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) methods. The 18S rDNA gene sequences of H. namae showed similarity with the sequences of H. chaudhuryi, Henneguya sp. RA-2015, H. voronini and H. setiuensis about 72.1 to 78% and M. sophorae with Myxobolus ticto was about 90% respectively. The aim of this paper was to identify H. namae and M. sophorae morphologically and using molecular methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two cultured populations of Acrobeloides saeedi are described from India. Morphologically and morphometrically this material agrees with other species of the Maximus-group (A. bodenheimeri, A. longiuterus, and A. maximus), especially with A. longiuterus. However, molecular studies based on 18 S, 28 S and ITS rDNA confirmed the Indian material is well differentiated from all of these species. According to this, A. saeedi is considered a valid taxon distinguished mainly from A. bodenheimeri by having dextral female reproductive system (vs sinistral), from A. longiuterus by having larger females (1.03-1.57 vs 0.57-0.88 mm) and from A. maximus by having seta-like labial processes (vs absent) and males as frequent as females (vs males very infrequent). Molecular and phylogenetic studies revealed the present specimens to be conspecific to undescribed Acrobeloides sp. population from Iran, and hence, both regarded to be conspecific to each other. In addition, other similar species are revised: Acrobeloides ishraqi is considered new junior synonym of A. saeedi, Acrobeloides mushtaqi is considered new junior synonym of A. bodenheimeri, while Acrobeloides gossypia is also considered junior synonym of A. saeedi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hamatopeduncularia was erected with Hamatopeduncularis arii as the type species. This genus comprises monogenoidean species mostly found as ectoparasites of marine catfishes belonging to the Ariidae. There is a significant taxonomic ambiguity among Hamatopeduncularia species due to their morphological similarity, but so far only a few morphological studies have succeeded in addressing interspecific variation and relationships. Moreover, little molecular data is available for this genus. A multidisciplinary, integrated study consisting of morphological, morphometric and molecular analyses was conducted on different species of Hamatopeduncularia recovered from the gills of two marine catfishes, Arius jella Day and Plicofollis dussumieri (Valenciennes). Five species of Hamatopeduncularia, two of which represent new species, were investigated: H. arii, H. elongatum, H. thalassini, H. madhaviae sp. nov. and H. bifida sp. nov. Phylogenetic analysis was performed using the 18S rDNA sequence as a molecular marker. The most important results of the present work are: (1) the multidisciplinary description of two novel species; (2) the multidisciplinary redescription of two species and of the type species of the genus; (3) the first molecular characterisation of 18S rDNA sequences of five species of genus Hamatopeduncularia; and (4) molecular support for the monophyly of the genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Archana, C.; Zacharia, P.U., and Sanil, N.K., 2019. Myxobolus chanosi n. sp., a novel Myxosporean infecting farmed Chanos chanos (Forsskål, 1775) from Alappuzha, along the southwest coast of India. In: Jithendran, K.P.; Saraswathy, R.; Balasubramanian, C.P.; Kumaraguru Vasagam, K.P.; Jayasankar, V.; Raghavan, R.; Alavandi, S.V., and Vijayan, K.K. (eds.), BRAQCON 2019: World Brackishwater Aquaculture Conference. Journal of Coastal Research, Special Issue No. 86, pp. 128-133. Coconut Creek (Florida), ISSN 0749-0208. The present study describes a new species of Myxobolus infecting the kidney tissues of farmed Chanos chanos from Alappuzha, Kerala, India. Of the 42 fishes screened, 27 were infected (prevalence 64.28%). The parasites appeared dispersed in the posterior kidney tissues in squash preparations, cysts measuring 56.82±4.13 µm × 51.11±1.40 µm were observed histologically. Oval, bivalvular spores with smooth shell valves, two unequal and elongate-oval polar capsules, and binucleate sporoplasm place the parasite under the genus Myxobolus. Mature spores measured 11.06±0.60 × 7.71±0.74 × 7.62±0.30 (7.35-8.12) µm. Unequal, elongate-oval polar capsules with pointed anterior ends were aligned obliquely to the longitudinal spore axis. Large polar capsule occupied two-thirds the spore length, measured 6.61±0.74 × 4.64±0.58 µm; possessed polar filament with four coils, measured 28.05 ±0.54 µm. Small polar capsule, reached half the spore length, measured 3.33±0.78 × 2.50±0.41 µm; with three coils of polar filament, measured 11.81±0.52 µm. Vegetative stages ellipsoidal, monosporic and dispersed in kidney tissues. A comparison of the present species with closely related forms showed that it differs morphologically and morphometrically from the others. In BLASTn analysis, the partial SSU rDNA (1239 bp) nucleotide sequence showed close identities with M. linzhiensi and Myxobolus sp. SKBU-RC1. In the molecular analysis, it exhibited 4.2% divergence with both M. linzhiensi and Myxobolus sp. SKBU-RC1. Neighbour Joining and Maximum Likelihood trees were topologically similar, and the present species stands out with M. linzhiensi and Myxobolus sp. SKBU-RC1 as sister branches. Gross pathological changes were not apparent in kidneys. However, the fibrous cyst encircling the parasite indicates host immune responses. Based on morphology, morphometry, molecular and phylogenetic analyses, tissue and host specificities along with geographic location, the present parasite is treated as new and is reported here as M. chanosi n. sp. This forms the second report of a myxosporean infection from C. chanos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Blood derived immunoglobulin for rabies PEP is costly and in short supply. • Monoclonal antibodies against rabies could be a cost-effective alternative. • One monoclonal antibody product has been recently licensed in India. • Several other products are in the clinical development stage. Despite successful control in many parts of the world, rabies virus continues to result in tens of thousands of deaths each year. Death from rabies can be prevented by timely and appropriate post exposure prophylaxis including wound cleaning and administration of vaccine and rabies immunoglobulin. Currently, rabies immunoglobulin is derived from the blood plasma of horses or humans and has several limitations relating to supply, cost and quality. Monoclonal antibodies produced through recombinant DNA technologies could potentially overcome these limitations. The first anti-rabies monoclonal antibody has recently gained regulatory approval in India and there are several other candidates being evaluated in clinical trials. Given the advances in the field, rabies monoclonal antibodies have been recently considered by the World Health Organization's Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization and included in updated WHO immunization policy recommendations for rabies published in April 2018. This article reviews the current landscape of the clinical trial development of anti-rabies monoclonal antibodies and the historical clinical trial pathways followed for blood-derived rabies immunoglobulin before discussing challenges in the clinical evaluation, regulatory approval, uptake and monitoring of these products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world's second stand of P. primjenningsi (Paramecium jenningsi complex, Ciliophora, Protista), heretofore known only from India, has been revealed in Ethiopia (Africa). This finding has enlarged the range of this cryptic species and was a trigger to re-analyse the distribution of all members of the complex (known from ∼20 tropical locations). The current survey is an initial one, where, based on haplotype networks, a detailed analysis of the relationship within the P. jenningsi complex has been performed. Although the V4 hypervariable fragment of the SSU rDNA gene is widely used as a first-step barcode marker for microbial HTS analyses, it has provided inconclusive results based on the dataset investigated. However, the ITS1-5.8S-ITS2-5'rDNA and COI mtDNA fragments indicate the possibility of the delimitation of the cryptic species of P. jenningsi (which is crucial from the point of view of metabarcoding surveys). We suppose that future sampling of unexplored, tropical regions will certainly change our knowledge about Paramecium biodiversity and biogeography. This sampling will probably rely on the integration of metabarcodes from environmental DNA studies, with molecular data obtained from identified representatives of particular cryptic species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Seven populations of Moshajia idiofora , six from India and one from Japan, are characterised, including morphological description, morphometrics, LM and SEM observations, and molecular (18S rDNA gene sequence) analysis. These populations are compared to previous records of the species as well as its closest species. Two of these species, M. cultristyla and M. qasimi , are regarded as junior synonyms of M. idiofora. SEM pictures provide new details of the lip region form. Molecular data indicate that M. idiofora belongs to a morphologically heterogeneous clade whose components share the absence of a distinctly developed pars refringens vaginae and raise a serious doubt about the traditional position of Lordellonematinae representatives in the Dorylaimina system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new amphimictic species Oscheius indicus n. sp. is described and illustrated with morphological and molecular data. The species is characterized by a medium-sized and slender body (female: L = 1.1 to 1.5 mm; a = 16.8 to 20.6; b = 5.7 to 7.1; c = 7.5 to 10.4; c' = 5.0 to 7.6; V = 45 to 51%), presence of four incisures each in the lateral fields with three minute warts, long rectum (2 to 3 anal body diameters), nine pairs of papillae arranged as 1+1+1/3+3 pattern, a prominent double-flapped epipytigma on vulval opening, presence of open leptoderan bursa and crochet needle-shaped spicules place it in the insectivora group. Morphologically, O. indicus n. sp. closely resembles O. carolinensis, O. chongmingensis, O. colombiana, and O. nadarajani. Molecular phylogenetic analysis carried out using ITS and D2/D3 expansion region of 28S rDNA sequences suggests that O. indicus n. sp. is closer to O. chongmingensis and O. rugaonensis. In summary, the morphometrical data, morphological observations and molecular phylogenetic analysis suggested that O. indicus n. sp. is sufficiently different from any known species and is therefore proposed as a new species within the insectivora group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the year 2018–19, collar rot symptoms on Sugandh mantri plants were observed in fields in Agartala district of West Tripura state of India with a disease incidence of 20%. In the early stages of disease development, typical collar rot symptoms exhibited were dark brown necrotic lesions on the stem base. Later, the affected plants completely rotted and died. The diseased samples plated on PDA medium showed abundant, fluffy, dense white mycelia with reddish brown spherical sclerotia matching with the morphology of Sclerotium delphinii. The internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of rDNA of the fungus was amplified and sequenced. The sequences revealed 99–100% identity with Sclerotium delphinii. The Koch's postulates were performed on three-month-old Sugandh mantri plants to confirm the pathogenicity of the isolated fungus. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of Sclerotium delphinii causing collar rot disease on Sugandh mantri plants in India. • The disease incidence was recorded 20% from West Tripura state of Agartala district (23°54′48.9″N 91°19′13.4″E) of India. • Sclerotium delphinii was identified as causal agent. • The pathogen was identified based on morphological and molecular characterization. • Pathogenicity test was also employed to confirm the causal agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The morphology of a new oxytrichid ciliate, Oxytricha buxai n. sp., isolated from a soil sample collected from the Buxa Tiger Reserve, West Bengal, India, was studied based on live observation and protargol impregnation. The new species is characterised by a body size of 85 × 35 µm in vivo, two macronuclear nodules with one or two micronuclei attached at variable positions, a few colourless cortical granules scattered throughout cortex, adoral zone of membranelles about 35% of body length with 26 membranelles on average, about 18 cirri in left and 16 cirri in right marginal row, right marginal row starts at the level of buccal vertex, usually 18 frontoventral transverse cirri, five dorsal kineties including one dorsomarginal row, three caudal cirri. Further, a redescription based on live and protargol-impregnated specimens of Oxytricha quadricirrata Blatterer and Foissner, 1988, isolated from a moss sample collected from the Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, India, is provided. The Indian population of O. quadricirrata is similar in morphology to the type population. However, the dorsal side shows some variation, i.e., the presence of a second dorsomarginal row with one or two bristles and incomplete fragmentation of dorsal kinety 3 (vs single dorsomarginal row and complete fragmentation). The resting cyst is spherical and about 20 µm across, with a wrinkled surface. Morphogenesis is in typical Oxytricha pattern. Based on 18S rDNA, phylogenetic analyses show Oxytricha to be a polyphyletic genus. Further, O. quadricirrata clusters away from O. granulifera , thereby supporting the validity of the former. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prosorhynchoides aspinosus n. sp. , a new species of digenean trematode, is described based on morphological, ultrastructural and molecular data from the freshwater fish, Xenentodon cancila Hamilton, 1822 , of Tuikum and Tuirial river in Mizoram, Northeast India. It differs from its congeners in the absence of tegumental spines and the length of cirrus sac. These unique morphological characteristics were further supported by the ultrastructural data showing distinct knob-like protrusions in the tegument. Each knob-like protrusion is without cutting plates or spines and appears granulated at higher magnification. The molecular data analyses, along with the sequences of other Prosorhynchoides available in the Genbank, using internal transcribed spacer 2 and 28S rDNA revealed a gap of 4% K2P (Kimura 2 parameter) distance with its closest congener, P. karvei, confirming the novelty of the species, and thus, clearly differentiates the new species from all other valid Prosorhynchoides spp. [Display omitted] • Prosorhynchoides aspinosus n. sp. is described from Mizoram, India. • Differ from its congeners in the absence of tegumental spines. • ITS2 and 28S rDNA distinguished it from all other valid Prosorhynchoides spp. • SEM revealed the presence of distinct knob-like protrusions in the tegument. • ITS2 is more relevant to distinguish species among the Prosorhynchoides spp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eisenia foetida and Perionyx excavatus are potent vermicomposting earthworms having immense importance in organic matter recycling under tropical conditions, particularly in India. Comparative assessment of the cultivable gut microbiome of these two epigeic earthworms after growth on lignocellulosic biomass, revealed populations of 3.2-8.3 × 109 CFU. Diversity analyses using 16S rDNA sequences revealed that the major dominating classes were Firmicutes (50-60%), followed by Actinobacteria (26.7-33%), and Alphaproteobacteria (5.6-6.7%). Despite exhibiting similar diversity indices and species richness, Betaproteobacteria (6.7%) and Gammaproteobacteria (11.1%) were solely present in E. foetida and P. excavatus, respectively. A set of 33 distinct morphotypes, including 18 from E. foetida and 15 from P. excavatus were selected. Carbohydrate utilization profiles generated using Hi-Carbo™ kits revealed that the isolates from the gut of P. excavatus - Arthrobacter pascens IARI-L13 and Bacillus subtilis IARIC were able to utilize 54 and 51.4% of the carbohydrates tested. Sorbose was not utilized, while unusual carbohydrates - adonitol and methyl- d-mannoside were utilized only by members from the gut of P. excavatus, while melizitose was utilized by those uniquely by E. foetida microbiome. Functional characterization revealed that β-glucosidase activity was most prevalent in the culturable microbial community. Alkaline and acid phosphatase activity was more widespread in the E. foetida gut microbiome. All the culturable gut bacterial isolates produced ammonia, but IAA was detected only in five cultures. The unique functional attributes of the two culturable microbiomes, grown on a similar diet, reveals the significance of proper selection of earthworm substrate combinations for effective vermicomposting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Promotion of genetic engineering research and encouraging GM crops can help to overcome the future deficit of food production in India. Hunger, poverty, malnutrition etc. are significant problems that still need to be addressed. "The National Food Security Act, 2013" is expected to resolve some of these challenges. The country's agricultural GDP need to be augmented by the increase in food crop production. Regulation of transgenic plant research is guided by several legislations in the country. Policy and social considerations related to GM crops continue to be a popular debate in the country. Regulatory agency approvals impact commercialization of transgenic crops. As greater capacity continues to develop in transgenic research on plants in Asia one of the prime considerations is whether Indian legislation and regulation adequately promote transgenic plant research. The present study maps and analyses various legislations that are involved in the research to commercialization of transgenic crops. The suggested framework will serve as a ready reckoner for firms practicing in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infection of stolbur phytoplasma was detected in kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus) plants at CRIJAF research farm, Barrackpore, India. The infected plants formed profuse short branches at the top with bushy and bunchy top appearance. PCR with universal 16S rDNA phytoplasma primers P1/P7 yielded amplicons of 1.5 kb from all symptomatic leaf samples. Nested PCR with 16S-rDNA-specific nested primer pair R16F2n/R2 generated an amplicon of 1241 bp confirming the presence of a phytoplasma. The nested PCR products were sequenced and BALSTn analysis revealed 100% identity with 16S rRNA gene of phytoplasma. Phylogenetic analysis showed kenaf phytoplasma having 99% identity with both “Bois noir” stolbur phytoplasma 16SrXII group (Accession no: JQ181540). The RFLP data also supported the phylogenetic analysis. Multi-locus sequence characterisation assay was conducted by using different locus-specific primers viz. tuf, rpsC-rplV, rplF-rplR, map-SecY and uvrB-degV. The infected phytoplasma samples amplified only SecY gene and generated 1224 bp product which was deposited at NCBI (accession no: KC508636). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study describes the molecular characterization of the monogenea Dactylogyroides tripathii (Tripathi, 1959) Gussev, 1973 infecting the gill filaments of fish, Puntius ticto from River Brahmaputra, Guwahati, Assam, India. This study shows the D. tripathii species identification resulted from the use of molecular data, particularly the 28S rDNA gene. We compared the 28S partial rDNA sequence of D. tripathii with same gene region of the other species of monogeneans available in GenBank. With this comparison, we determined that the sequence had a similarity with one available species of the genus Dactylogyroides Gussev, 1963 i. e., D. longicirrus and also with the species of Dactylogyrus from which this genus was distinguished. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citrus greening (Huanglongbing, HLB) is a widespread and economically important citrus disease all over the world. The disease is caused by a phloem-limited fastidious gram negative bacterium, ' Candidatus Liberibacter spp.' which belongs to the alpha-proteobacteria group classified on the basis of its 16SrDNA sequence. Although the pathogen has been classified under three distinct groups, viz. Asian, African and American isolates, nothing is known about the status and the molecular variabilities among the Indian HLB isolates collected from different citrus cultivars grown in India. Five different HLB isolates showing variable symptoms based on their severity of infection on different citrus, viz. Mosambi, Rangpur lime, Cleopatra mandarin, acid lime and rough lemon, were studied by PCR amplification, sequence and evolutionary analysis of their 16S and 16S/23S rDNA intergenic regions. Analysis of the 16S/23S rDNA intergenic region separated all five Indian isolates from existing African isolates but failed to differentiate among Asian, American and Indian isolates. However, further analysis of complete 16S rDNA clearly indicated that Indian isolates fall within the Asian HLB group. Overall, our results suggest that all the five Indian HLB isolates taken for the current analysis belong to the Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus strain, which showed distinct sequence variabilities and produced noticeable symptoms on the citrus trees. These results provide a robust framework for understanding how differences in pathogenicity among various HLB isolates may be related to evolutionary history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper describes the taxonomy of two new monogeneans, namely, Thaparocleidus longiphallus sp. n. and T. siloniansis sp. n., based on morphological, morphometric and molecular biological analysis, collected from the fish Wallago attu (Bloch & Schn.) and Silonia silondia (Ham.), respectively, at Meerut, UP, India. Genetic characterization of the two new species is based on sequence analyses of the rDNA 28S gene using neighbour-joining and maximum-parsimony techniques. These methods are congruent in depicting T. longiphallus sp. n. and T. siloniansis sp. n. as closely related species, but distinct from each other and forming a subclade with other species of the genus Thaparocleidus Jain, 1952. Secondary-structure models of the large subunit rDNA of the two species were also predicted using a combined comparative and thermodynamic approach. Molecular morphometric and phylogenetic relationships of the isolates of the Thaparocleidus species are discussed in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biotechnology tools involving plant tissue culture and recombinant DNA technologies are powerful to complement conventional breeding and expedite spices improvement. The rate of progress in improvement of perennial spices is relatively slow due to their long pre-bearing period and other crop specific problems compared to other horticultural crops and studies are underway aimed at genetic improvement against pests, diseases and abiotic stresses. Hairy root transformation strategy is also being used for secondary metabolite production using seed spices, which are repertoire of medicinally important compounds. This review presents a consolidated account of contemporary information on biotechnological advances made in spice crops and future perspective in this direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Virulence of 36 representative isolates of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris causing chickpea wilt, collected from 12 major chickpea-growing states of India was analysed on a new set of 10 differential chickpea cultivars, namely, C 104, JG 74, CPS 1, BG 212, WR 315, KWR 108, GPF 2, DCP 92-3, Chaffa and JG 62 to determine races of the pathogen. Differential cultivars for each races were identified and, based on differential reactions, the isolates were grouped into eight races. Except for the isolates from Delhi, Haryana, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, the race groups corresponded to the area of their origin. Genetic diversity of 14 isolates representing 8 races of the pathogen was determined using internal transcribed spacer region of rDNA-restriction fragment length polymorphism (ITS-RFLP) and ITS sequencing. ITS1, 5.8S rDNA and ITS2 region was amplified and digested with seven restriction enzymes. Some of the isolates showed area-specific ITS-RFLP patterns, whereas others from the same area showed distinct pattern. Thus, the ITS-RFLP pattern was partially corresponding to the area of origin of the isolates indicating the presence of highly variable populations in chickpea-growing areas of the country. The phylogenetic analysis of ITS sequences (JF727559-JF727572) of the isolates included in the present study also grouped them into eight categories and these groups were partially corresponding to the fungal races. Thus, the Indian populations of the pathogen were highly variable in respect of their virulence and genetic characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: To isolate antibacterial potential of sponge endosymbiotic bacteria from marine sponges at Lakshadweep archipelago. Also to identify the potent bacteria by 16s rDNA sequencing and determine the antibacterial activity against clinical pathogens by MIC. Methods: Sponge samples was collected from sub-tidal habitats at Kavaratti Island and identified. The endosymbiotic bacteria were isolated and selected potential bacteria which show antibacterial activity in preliminary screening against clinical pathogens Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Escherichia coli (E. coli), Salmonella typhi (S. typhi), Klebsiella pneumoniea (K. pneumoniea) and Streptococcus sp. by disc diffusion assay. The crude extracts of potential bacteria LB3 was tested against clinical pathogens by MIC. The LB3 strain was identified by 16s rDNA sequencing, 1 111 bp was submitted in NCBI (HQ589912) and constructed phylogenetic tree. Results: Sponge sample was identified as Dysidea granulosa (D. granulosa) and potential bacteria LB3 identified as Enterobacter sp TTAG. Preliminary screening of sponge isolates against clinical pathogens, LB3 strain was selected as potential producer of secondary metabolites and crude extract was implies on MIC of LB3 have confirmed with lowest concentration of 5.0 mg/mL in broth medium influence of crude extract on growth inhibitory activity after 5 h of incubation period and completed the inhibitory activity at 15 h. Conclusions: The present study concluded that phylogenetic analysis of endosymbiotic bacteria Enterobacter sp from sponge D. granulosa of Lakshadweep islands showed significant antibacterial activity against clinical bacterial pathogens. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

During January 2010, severe stunting symptoms were observed in clonally propagated oil palm ( Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) in West Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh, India. Leaf samples of symptomatic oil palms were collected, and the presence of phytoplasma was confirmed by nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using universal phytoplasma-specific primer pairs P1/P7 followed by R16F2n/R16R2 for amplification of the 16S rRNA gene and semi-nested PCR using universal phytoplasma-specific primer pairs SecAfor1/SecArev3 followed by SecAfor2/SecArev3 for amplification of a part of the secA gene. Sequencing and BLAST analysis of the ∼1.25 kb and ∼480 bp of 16S rDNA and s ecA gene fragments indicated that the phytoplasma associated with oil palm stunting (OPS) disease was identical to 16SrI aster yellows group phytoplasma. Further characterization of the phytoplasma by in silico restriction enzyme digestion of 16S rDNA and virtual gel plotting of sequenced 16S rDNA of ∼1.25 kb using iPhyClassifier online tool indicated that OPS phytoplasma is a member of 16SrI-B subgroup and is a ' Candidatus Phytoplasma asteris'-related strain. Phylogenetic analysis of 16S rDNA and secA of OPS phytoplasma also grouped it with 16SrI-B. This is the first report of association of phytoplasma of the 16SrI-B subgroup phytoplasma with oil palm in the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An investigation of Mastitis in cattle was carried out in Anand city and in nearby villages of Gujarat state using California Mastitis Test (CMT) kit. The prevalence of clinical and subclinical mastitis was found to be 5.5% and 15.75%, respectively. Staphylococcus aureus was identified through strain specific polymerase chain reaction; the remaining isolates identified on the basis of molecular analysis by 16S rDNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis were Staphylococcus species, B. pumilus, Staphylococcus chromogenes, Bacillus species, and Pseudomonas species. In vitro antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of all the isolates was checked against 13 different antibiotics using the agar disc diffusion method. Highest bacterial resistance was observed with penicillin G and oxacillin antibiotics. It was also observed that the patterns of bacterial resistance have not changed in India over the years. The data supports the decrease in the incidence of mastitis but the rate of decrease is minimal. More effective control strategies are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cr(VI) reducing bacterial strain FM1 was isolated from heavy metal contaminated agricultural soil irrigated with tannery effluents of Jajmau, Kanpur (India), and was identified as Bacillus sp. on the basis of biochemical methods and 16S rDNA gene sequence analysis. FM1 strain was found to be resistant to some toxic heavy metals (Cr(VI), Cr(III), Cu, Co, Cd, Ni and Zn) up to several fold concentrations to the normal levels occurring in highly polluted region. FM1 was resistant to very high concentration of Cr(VI) (1,000 mg/L) and completely reduced 100 mg/L Cr(VI) within 48 h. Factors (pH, temperature, initial Cr(VI) concentration) affecting Cr(VI) reduction under culture condition were also evaluated. Reduction was optimum at 37°C and pH 8. Cr(VI) reduction was enhanced by addition of glucose. The presence of heavy metal cations, such as Cu, Co, Cd, Ni and Zn showed differential effect on reduction. Since strain FM1 could grow in the presence of significant concentrations of metals and due to high Cr(VI) reduction ability, this bacterium may be potentially applicable in Cr(VI) detoxification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytoplasma strain was detected in leaves of sugarcane in India exhibiting symptoms of yellowing of midribs. A phytoplasma characteristic 1.2 kb rDNA PCR product was amplified from DNAs of all diseased samples but not in healthy sugarcane plants tested using phytoplasma universal primer pairs P1/P7 and f5U/r3U. Restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis of amplified 16S rDNA indicated that diseased sugarcane was infected by phytoplasma. The 16S rDNA sequence of the Indian sugarcane yellow leaf phytoplasma (SCYLP) showed the closest identity (99%) to that of SCYLP in Cuba identified as Macroptilium lathyroides (AY725233), which belongs to 16SrXII (Stolbur group). This is the first record of the detection of SCYLP, and identification of the 16SrXII group of phytoplasma associated with yellow leaf syndrome (YLS) in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study which examines the morphological and genetic aspects of the cyanobacteria isolates produced from cycads collected in India. The study uses the samplings of cyanobacteria gathered from January to March 2006, the morphological characterization of symbiotic isolates, and the extraction of total genomic DNA in cyanobacteria. The study shows the production of ensheathed filaments from cyanobacteria, and the identification of Calothrix species through the rDNA sequence.

Abstract: The natural Saccharomyces and non-Saccharomyces yeast flora present on the grape berries significantly affect wine production. Six grape varieties, Bangalore blue, Zinfandel, Cabernet, Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz are being used in India for wine making. The yeast diversity was studied on the basis of morphological, colony, physiological characteristics and 5.8S-ITS sequencing of rDNA of the isolates. Eleven different species belonging to seven genera were identified as: Candida azyma, Candida quercitrusa, Debaryomyces hansenii, Hanseniaspora guilliermondii, Hanseniaspora viniae, Hanseniaspora uvarum, Issatchenkia orientalis, Issatchenkia terricola, Pichia membranifaciens, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Zygoascus steatolyticus. H. guilliermondii was the predominant species while S. cerevisiae was observed occasionally in the six vine varieties. For the first time, C. azyma was isolated from Bangalore blue and Cabernet varieties grown in different localities. This association may be attributed to the change in cropping pattern from sugarcane to viticulture in the vine growing regions and the known association of C. azyma with sugarcane phylloplane. Further analysis of the indigenous strains and the qualitative and quantitative changes in the flora during fermentation will be useful to understand wine quality and to design preservation strategies to control wine spoilage. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The aim of this study was to investigate the diversity of lactobacilli in Churpi cheese, a traditional variety of cheese made from yak milk. Thirty-five lactobacilli isolated from five different samples procured from different parts of Arunachal Pradesh (India) were analyzed by phenotypic and genotypic methods. The 16S rDNA sequencing for all the isolates was performed. Five different species of lactobacilli were isolated from Churpi cheese with the predominance of Lactobacillus paracasei followed by Lactobacillus plantarum. All the isolates were further evaluated for their technological properties such as citrate utilization, exopolysaccharide (EPS), bacteriocin, and acid production. Forty-three percent isolates were found positive for citrate utilization, while 14% were found good acid producer, and 11% for EPS production. Lactobacillus coryniformis was an uncommon species found in Churpi cheese. Isolates obtained in this study can be potentially used for the development of defined strain starter for Churpi cheese. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analyses of nucleolar organizer region (NOR) site polymorphism using silver staining were carried out in 72 individuals of 5 geographically isolated populations of Tor putitora from India. All Ag-NORs analyzed were constituted by rDNA that was confirmed by the presence of positive fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) signals. Analyses of the extra NORs among the populations confirmed the hypothesis that multi-chromosomal NOR site polymorphism is not an exception but a rule. We found a negative correlation between the mean number of extra NORs and geographical distance from the Alaknanda River population, and a significant positive correlation between the genetic distances obtained by NOR data and geographical distances among the isolated populations. These findings suggest a single geographical origin of this NOR polymorphism, from which it might have radiated to neighboring populations before their isolation. The distribution of NOR site variation was compared with the sequence variation of the ITS1 region of major rDNA (45S) and the two were found to be positively related. Different mechanisms such as transposable elements adjacent to ribosomal genes, repetitive elements which could serve as a point for chromosome exchange, amplification of minor rDNA loci, and reinsertion of extrachromosomal rDNA amplified during oogenesis have been proposed to explain the apparent NOR site polymorphism. The high dispersion of NOR site variants within and among the populations suggests that whatever transposition phenomenon is responsible for repetitive DNA or NOR jumping, it could still be active in T. putitora. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract  The bacterial diversity in the forest soil of Kashmir, India was investigated by 16S rDNA-dependent molecular phylogeny. Small subunit rRNA (16S rDNA) from forest soil metagenome were amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using primers specific to the domain bacteria. 30 unique phylotypes were obtained by PCR based RFLP of 16S rRNA genes using endonucleases Hae 111 and Msp 1, which were most suitable to score the genetic diversity. The use of 16S rRNA analysis allowed identification of several bacterial populations in the soil belonging to the following phyla: Firmicutes (33.3%), Bacteroidetes (13.3%), Proteobacterium (6.6%), Planctomycete (3.3%), and Deferribacteraceae (3.3%) in addition to the others that were not classified, beyond Archaea domain, However, 36.6% of the retrieved bacterial sequences could not be grouped with any phylum/lineage. The large amount of unclassified clone sequence could imply that novel groups of bacteria were present in the forest soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & objectives: Anopheles fluviatilis, which ranks second among the major malarial vectors in India occurs as a complex of three morphologically identical species (species S, T and U) of which only species S is a vector. Hence, it becomes pertinent to have a method for the detection of this vector species under field conditions to map the distribution of this vector. An rDNA-ITS2-PCR assay has been developed earlier for species S of this complex using female adult specimens. In order to widen the range of samples on which this technique can be employed, the utility of this PCR assay in detecting different life stages/gender/parts of the vector species was studied. Also, its reliability in detecting a single species S in pools of species T was studied. Methods: Mosquitoes were collected from Malkangiri and Koraput districts of Orissa State where species S and T of this complex are reported. The wild caught fed females, after egg laying were subjected to PCR assay for species identification. The F1 progeny of a few PCR identified specimens was raised and samples at larval, pupal and adult stages were used for PCR assay. Single adult specimen of species S was added to pools containing different numbers of adults of species T and the pools were subjected to DNA extraction and PCR assay. Results: The PCR assay could detect species S from pure DNA extracts of the immature stages and crude DNA extracts of parts of adult/whole adult mosquito of either gender. Crude DNA extracts of pools of mosquitoes had to be diluted and used in order to obtain the species diagnostic fragment. Interpretation & conclusions: The rDNA-ITS2-PCR assay producing an amplicon of 350 bp. diagnostic for species S, could detect all stages/gender. Any part of the adult can be used for species identification. Further, a single adult of species S in pools of as many as 99 adults of species T could be detected. Application of this PCR assay will be useful in mapping the distribution of species S, an important malarial vector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isolation and characterization of fluorescent pseudomonads with high phosphate-solubilizing ability is reported from the alkaline and calcium-rich soils with low P availability in the cold desert region of Lahaul and Spiti in the trans-Himalayas of India. Of 216 phosphate-solubilizing isolates, 12 exhibiting high solubilization of tricalcium phosphate (TCP) in NBRIP liquid culture were identified as Pseudomonas trivialis, P. poae, P. fluorescens, and Pseudomonas spp. on the basis of phenotypic features, whole-cell fatty acids methyl ester (FAME) profiles, and 16S rDNA sequencing. These isolates also showed relatively high solubilization of North Carolina rock phosphate (NCRP) in comparison to the solubilization of Mussoorie rock phosphate (MRP) and Udaipur rock phosphate (URP). The solubilization of phosphate substrates by P. trivialis and P. poae is reported for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]