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Centre for Advancement of Applied Sciences
ISOLATION OF GENOMIC DNA FROM TUBERS OF WHITE GUINEA YAM (Dioscorea rotundata Poir.) WITHOUT USING LIQUID NITROGEN
Isolation of genomic DNA of high quality is a prerequisite for molecular genetic characterisation of any plant. Genomic DNA is usually extracted from plant leaves for downstream applications such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR).Plants have to be grown in fields or pots for leaves. In white Guinea yam (Dioscorea rotundata Poir), raising the plants in fields is a challenging task due to tuber dormancy in many genotypes. DNA can be directly extracted from yam tubers, obviating the need to raise plants in fields. However, high concentrations of secondary metabolites like polyphenols and polysaccharides in yam tubers may affect the genomic DNA extraction.A simple, rapid, inexpensive CTAB-based modified method with high PCR fidelity was standardised for DNA isolation from tubers without using liquid nitrogen. Fresh tubers and tuber samples prepared by alcohol-drying, freezing, and oven-drying were employed for genomic DNA isolation.The quantity, quality, and PCR fidelity of DNA isolated from various methods were verified and compared with the DNA isolated using liquid nitrogen. Alcohol-dried tuber tissues provided consistent, high-quality genomic DNA with absorbance ratio A260/280 of 1.787–1.854 and a concentration of up to 1.8 μg μL⁻¹, with ISSR profile comparable to that of tuber DNA isolated using liquid nitrogen.
WEED MANAGEMENT IN CHIA (Salvia hispanica L.) THROUGH HERBICIDE APPLICATIONS UNDER SEMI-ARID CONDITIONS OF INDIA
A field experiment was conducted under arid conditions of western Rajasthan (India) to evaluate the efficacy of pre- and post-emergence herbicides for weed management in chia (Salvia hispanica L.). The study employed a randomized block design with ten treatments, comprising two doses each of bentazon (500 and 750 g ha⁻¹), fluazifop-p-butyl (100 and 200 g ha⁻¹), sulfentrazone (50 and 75 g ha⁻¹), and pendimethalin (200 and 400 g ha⁻¹), along with a weed-free control and a weedy check.Key weed control indices, viz., weed control index (WCI), weed persistence index (WPI), crop resistance index (CRI), and herbicide efficiency index (HEI), were assessed along with crop growth and yield parameters.The results revealed that sulfentrazone and pendimethalin, applied as pre-emergence herbicides, provided superior early-season weed control with WCI values of 85.4% and 82.7% at 30 days after sowing (DAS), respectively. Among post-emergence treatments, bentazon gave the highest WCI (83.2%) at harvest and demonstrated superior CRI (9.33) and HEI (2.45), indicating strong crop safety and herbicide effectiveness.The highest seed yield (554 kg ha⁻¹) was obtained in the weed-free treatment, followed by bentazon @ 750 g ha⁻¹ (495 kg ha⁻¹) and sulfentrazone @ 75 g ha⁻¹ (467 kg ha⁻¹), showing respective yield increases of 90.4% and 60.5% over the weedy check.The study suggested that an integrated weed management approach, combining pre-emergence herbicides (sulfentrazone or pendimethalin) with post-emergence bentazon, can significantly improve weed control and productivity in chia under arid farming systems.
EFFECT OF INCORPORATION OF GERMINATED MILLET FLOUR ON IRON BIOACCESSIBILITY AND GLYCEMIC INDEX IN RTS FRUIT BEVERAGES
The study was carried out to formulate and evaluate the suitability of different germinated millet flour incorporation in mango, pineapple and pomegranate ready-to-serve (RTS) beverages. Incorporation of germinated foxtail millet or little millet flour @ 1% in mango, pineapple and pomegranate RTS beverages showed high dialyzable iron in germinated foxtail millet incorporated (GFMI) mango (2.47 µg mL-1), GFMI pineapple (2.68 µg mL-1) and GMFI pomegranate (1.65 µg mL-1) RTS beverages as compared to the germinated little millet incorporated (GLMI) mango (1.51 µg mL-1), GLMI pineapple (1.11 µg mL-1) and GLMI pomegranate (1.38 µg mL-1) RTS beverages and respective control samples. Similarly, predicted glycemic index (GI) was 95.76 to 105.91, 93.86 to 103.90 and 98.62 to 110.60 in germinated foxtail millet flour, little millet flour incorporated beverages and their control samples, respectively; even though the GI of all the samples did not fall under low GI range. The findings suggest that germinated millet flours can be incorporated to increase dialyzable iron content and reduce GI of fruit beverages with further increasing the incorporation amount in fruit beverages and validation with adequate in vivo studies.
YIELD PERFORMANCE AND STABILITY OF CASTOR (Ricinus communis L.) ACROSS MULTIPLE ENVIRONMENTS IN INDIA
Twelve castor genotypes were evaluated across ten environments in India during kharif 2022 to assess the genotype performance and to identify the stable and high-yielding genotypes. Genotype plus genotype × environment interaction (GGE) biplot for seed yield was employed to evaluate the genotype × environment interaction (GEI). The polygon view of GGE biplot revealed the "which-won-where" pattern of genotypes across different environments. Genotypes with the shortest vectors from the average environmental coordinates (AEC) line were identified as highly stable across the test environments, exhibiting higher mean seed yield per hectare. These findings indicate that certain genotypes possess both higher seed yield potential and stability across diverse environments, as demonstrated by GGE biplot analysis.
ANTICANCER MECHANISMS OF Commelina forskaolii EXTRACT THROUGH INDUCTION OF FERROPTOSIS IN HT-29 COLON CANCER CELL LINES
Colon cancer is the 3rd most prevalent cancer globally, presenting significant epidemiological and economic challenges. Natural products have shown promise as effective alternatives to chemotherapy. The present study was aimed to study the anticancer potential of rat’s ear (Commelina forskaolii) on HT-29 colon cancer cells, focusing on cytotoxic activity, antioxidant potential, and underlying molecular mechanisms. The cytotoxic activity of the ethanolic extract of C. forskaolii was assessed by measuring IC₅₀ value on HT-29 cell lines, enzymatic antioxidant potential and heme oxygenase activity. Gene expression and cell cycle analyses were performed to explore molecular mechanisms. The extract demonstrated significant cytotoxic activity with an IC₅₀ value of 27.4 ± 0.25 μg mL⁻¹. Cell cycle analysis showed that C. forskaolii effectively arrested the cells at G₀/S phase. Additionally, the study revealed an increase in lipid peroxidation and intracellular iron accumulation, leading to the formation of lipid-iron radicals and triggering ferroptosis. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) was found to regulate cellular iron levels and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, where moderate HO-1 activity offered cytoprotection, but excessive activity in cancer cells led to oxidative cell death. The findings suggest that C. forskaolii may serve as a valuable natural treatment for colon cancer, targeting oxidative processes that induce cancer cell death and anticancer activity.
RESTORATION OF NATURAL COLOURATION IN INDIAN ROSY BARB (Pethia conchonius) USING ONION PEEL POWDER IN HOME AQUARIA
The use of natural carotenoids in fish-feed to intensify the colouration is a sustainable and cost-effective choice for ornamental fish farmers to meet the demand of radiant ornamental fish within budget.Onion (Allium cepa) peel powder in formulated feed was used to restore natural colour in Indian rosy barb (Pethia conchonius) fish. A basal diet was prepared by using fishmeal, soybean meal, groundnut oil cake, rice bran, wheat flour, starch powder, soya oil, and vitamins & minerals. Experimental diets were prepared by replacing equivalent rice bran with onion peel powder at three concentrations viz., 5% (D1), 10% (D2), and 15% (D3) of the basal diet (D0).The feeding trial was conducted for 60 days. At the end of the feeding trial, a significant increase in total carotenoids concentration (4.3 ± 0.2 μg g⁻¹; p < 0.05) and weight gain (35.17%) was observed in rosy barb of D2 (10%) diet. All the tanks showed 100% fish survival.The result revealed that 10% inclusion of onion peel powder in the diet of Indian rosy barb can give a fruitful impact on restoration and retention of rosy barb’s natural colour in home aquaria.
VERTICAL DISTRIBUTION OF CARBON AND NITROGEN DYNAMICS IN BLACK SOIL OF CENTRAL INDIA UNDER LONG-TERM ZERO- TILLAGE WITH DIFFERENT CROPPING SYSTEMS
Conservation agriculture (CA) based zero-tillage system has gained prominence for its potential to improve soil health, enhance nutrient cycling, and increase carbon sequestration in soil. Knowledge about the changes in soil carbon and nitrogen dynamics under no-tillage and different cropping systems is necessary to assess the feasibility of adopting conservation agriculture to sustain soil health and productivity. This study compared conventional tillage (CT) and zero-tillage (ZT) systems, and three cropping systems (soybean-wheat, maize-wheat and maize-chickpea) on soil carbon and nitrogen dynamics. The experiment was established in 2010 on a Vertisol in Bhopal, India. After the completion of the 14th cycle of the experiment (2023-24), soil samples were collected from each plot and analysis processes were executed. The soil under ZT had found significantly higher concentrations of soil organic carbon (0.93%), total organic carbon (1.23%), very labile pool (0.55%), labile pool (0.19%), non-labile (0.36%) and total carbon (1.39%) than CT at 0-10 cm depth. Available nitrogen (229.83 kg ha1) and total nitrogen (0.133%) also had significantly higher in ZT than CT at surface soil. Tillage and cropping systems had no significant impact on soil inorganic carbon and mineral nitrogen (ammonium and nitrate nitrogen). Therefore, under Vertisols, 14 years of ZT practices are likely to improve organic carbon concentration and increase the availability of nitrogen in soil, allowing a positive trend for soil preservation and carbon sequestration in soil.
Trigonella foenum-graecum-BASED GREEN SYNTHESIS OF NANO- PARTICLES: PRODUCTION, CHARACTERIZATION AND APPLICATIONS
Nanoparticles (1–100 nm) are increasingly explored for environmental and biomedical applications. In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized using Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) seed extract as a natural reducing and capping agent. Phytochemicals such as flavonoids, saponins, and polyphenols facilitated efficient formation and long-term stabilization of AgNPs. The synthesis, confirmed by surface plasmon resonance with an absorption peak at 420 nm, was further characterized by FTIR, revealing functional groups (C=C, O-H/N-H) responsible for reduction and capping. The AgNPs demonstrated strong antimicrobial activity against E. coli (19 mm) and S. aureus (17 mm), with MIC values of 25–50 μg/mL. Antioxidant potential was confirmed by DPPH assay (IC₅₀ = 46 μg/mL), indicating potent radical scavenging activity. The nanoparticles exhibited high yield (>85%), 30-day stability, and resistance to agglomeration. Bioactivity profiling across varying concentrations (100, 75, 50, and 25%) highlighted dose-dependent responses. The results suggest that fenugreek-mediated AgNPs act through membrane disruption, ROS generation, and interference with microbial DNA/protein synthesis. This green synthesis approach underscores the multifunctionality and sustainability of fenugreek-based AgNPs as promising next-generation antimicrobial agents.
COMPARATIVE TOXICITY AND RISK ASSESSMENT OF SOME PESTICIDES ON THE PARASITOID, Habrobracon hebetor (Say)
Habrobracon hebetor (Say) is a widely used gregarious ectoparasitoid in biological control programs targeting lepidopteran pests. However, the extensive use of chemical pesticides poses potential risks to such beneficial organisms. This study evaluated the lethal and sublethal effects of four commonly used pesticides—imidacloprid, acephate, propiconazole, and fenoxaprop-p-ethyl—on adult H. hebetor using concentration–mortality assays and risk quotient (RQ) analysis. Among the tested compounds, acephate was the most toxic, with LC₅, LC₃₀, and LC₅₀ values of 0.01, 0.15, and 0.52 mg L⁻¹, respectively, and an RQ value of 1442.31, indicating a high ecological risk. In contrast, imidacloprid exhibited LC₅, LC₃₀, and LC₅₀ values of 0.27, 8.27, and 40.75 mg L⁻¹, respectively, with an RQ of 0.61, suggesting minimal risk. The fungicide propiconazole (LC₅₀: 23.79 mg L⁻¹; RQ: 5.25) and the herbicide fenoxaprop-p-ethyl (LC₅₀: 995.41 mg L⁻¹; RQ: 0.06) also showed low toxicity, with sublethal concentrations well above field-relevant levels. These findings highlight the need to integrate both lethal and sublethal toxicity endpoints when assessing pesticide compatibility with natural enemies. Future research should examine long-term sublethal impacts on reproductive, behavioural, and molecular traits to enhance sustainable integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.
ANTIHYPERGLYCEMIC ACTIVITY OF A FLOUR MIX PREPARATION FROM Amorphophalus campanulatus (ELEPHANT FOOT YAM) AGAINST STREPTOZOTOCIN – NICOTINAMIDE INDUCED DIABETIC WISTAR RATS
Elephant foot yam (Amorphophallus campanulatus) is a tropical tuber with significant nutritional and medicinal potential but is underutilized due to its anti-nutritional factors. This study evaluated the anti-hyperglycaemic effects of resistant starch (RS) derived from A. campanulatus in streptozotocin–nicotinamide (STZ-NIC) induced diabetic Wistar rats. RS was prepared by autoclaving, retrogradation, and enzymatic hydrolysis. Acute toxicity tests confirmed safety up to 2000 mg kg⁻¹. Diabetic rats treated with RS at 100 and 200 mg kg⁻¹ for 28 days exhibited a significant reduction in fasting blood glucose levels. In the diabetic control group, blood glucose was 284.8 ± 6.1 mg dL⁻¹ on day 1 and 293.2 ± 6.5 mg dL⁻¹ on day 28. RS treatment also resulted in improved HbA1c, urea, and creatinine levels, alongside increased plasma insulin, liver glycogen, total protein, and body weight, comparable to the standard drug glibenclamide. Histopathological analysis revealed β-cell preservation in RS-treated groups. Additionally, RS promoted the growth of beneficial gut microbiota, reinforcing its prebiotic role. These findings indicate that RS from A. campanulatus holds promise as a functional food ingredient with anti-diabetic and gut-modulatory benefits.
FOLIAR APPLICATION OF NANO IRON OXIDE ENHANCES THE GROWTH, YIELD AND OIL CONTENT OF GROUNDNUT (Arachis hypogaea L.) IN CALCAREOUS VERTISOLS
Iron deficiency is a widespread nutritional problem, particularly in plants grown on calcareous and high pH soils. This study evaluated the impact of foliar application of nano iron oxide (Fe₂O₃ NPs) on the growth, yield attributes, and oil content of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) under controlled pot culture conditions in a calcareous vertisol. Treatments included soil-applied ferrous sulphate, foliar-applied conventional ferrous sulphate, and various concentrations of nano-iron oxide (100 to 1500 ppm) applied 30 days after sowing. Among all treatments, foliar application of nano iron @ 1000 ppm recorded the best results, significantly enhancing dry matter production (69.37 g), root parameters, number of pods per plant (58.0), kernels per plant (89.33), pod dry weight (30.5 g/plant), kernel dry weight (23.2 g/plant), oil content (48.1%), oil yield (11.24 g/plant), and crude protein (26.75%). Yield improvement was 46% and 35% higher compared to the recommended practice and foliar FeSO₄ application, respectively. The control treatment showed the lowest performance in all parameters.
INTERACTION EFFECT OF VARIETIES AND PLANT SPACING, UNDER ULTRA HIGH DENSITY SYSTEM, ON GROWTH AND YIELD OF CASHEW (Anacardium occidentale L.)
An experiment was conducted at AICRP on Cashew in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India, during the cropping seasons of 2022–23 and 2023–24 to assess the interaction between cashew varieties and planting densities under an ultra-high-density planting (UHDP) system. Three varieties viz., ‘VRI-3’, ‘NRCC Selection-2’, and ‘Balabhadra’ were tested at spacing of 2.5 m × 2.5 m, 3.0 m × 3.0 m, and 7.5 m × 7.5 m. The results revealed significant differences in yield and yield-related traits among cashew varieties under different plant densities. Adoption of UHDP significantly decreased trunk cross section area (36.07 cm²), average canopy spread (2.19 m), crown height (1.56 m), canopy volume (5.08 m³), total number of laterals m⁻² (22.29), number of flowering laterals m⁻² (12.60), and kernel weight (2.21 g) compared to the wider spacing of 178 plants ha⁻¹. The cultivar ‘NRCC Selection-2’ at 2.5 m × 2.5 m spacing achieved the highest nut yield (0.94 t ha⁻¹), whereas ‘VRI-3’ at 7.5 m × 7.5 m gave the lowest (0.18 t ha⁻¹). The cultivar ‘NRCC Selection-2’ exhibited superior performance across all the planting densities, attributed to its genetic potential and enhanced responsiveness to pruning.
DECIPHERING AIRBORNE MICROBIAL COMMUNITIES: LEVERAGING RNA APTAMERS VIA COMPUTATIONAL SLEUTHING
Airborne pathogens are a substantial threat to human health; hence, an efficient means to identify these contaminants is necessary to control their spread. The present work focused on developing innovative concepts for employing RNA aptamers to detect biological pollutants in indoor air environments. RNA aptamers are a promising tool for detecting indoor air microbes, thereby enhancing air quality and human health. This study utilized computational methods to identify and characterize RNA aptamer–target interactions. In silico techniques were used to design and predict aptamer sequences capable of binding to various microbial cells present in the air. Based on computational validation, lead aptamer candidates were identified by optimizing and refining sequences to demonstrate strong interactions with multiple microbial targets. RNA aptamer sequences were analyzed for various properties using an oligo-sequence analyzer. Secondary structures were predicted using RNAfold, followed by 3D structure prediction with RNA Composer and docking using the H-Dock server. Interaction modalities were further explored using the PHLIP server. RNA aptamers 1, 2, and 3 showed strong binding affinity scores of –344.95, –331.99, and –395.58, respectively, with target proteins. All aptamers demonstrated robust hydrophobic and hydrogen bond interactions through guanidine phosphate backbone-mediated contacts with Val, Lys, Arg, and Asp residues of target proteins. The in vitro synthesis and in situ environmental validation of these interactions will pave the way for implementing aptamer-based detection in real-time monitoring systems such as healthcare environments, air quality assessment frameworks, and environmental analysis platforms.
DEVELOPMENT AND CHARACTERIZATION OF GAMMA IRRADIATED MUTANTS OF Trichoderma, ISOLATED FROM APPLE RHIZOSPHERE OF NORTH-WESTERN HIMALAYAN REGION OF INDIA
The Subarnarekha river, known as the "Golden river" of the Chotanagpur Plateau in Jharkhand (India), is adversely impacted by industrial effluents and anthropogenic activities, threatening its aquatic biodiversity. This study assessed the seasonal variations in physicochemical properties and their influence on the growth, survival, and biomass of Indian white prawn (Fenneropenaeus indicus) at two sites in East Singhbhum, i.e., site I (Mango, Jamshedpur) and site II (Galudih, Ghatshila) from July 2019 to June 2022. The water quality-related physicochemical parameters (temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and salinity) were monitored seasonally, and their correlations with prawn survival rate, mean body weight, length, and biomass production were analysed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient and regression analysis.The results revealed notable seasonal fluctuations in physicochemical parameters, particularly water temperature and salinity, which exhibited strong positive correlations with prawn growth metrics. Site II consistently exhibited higher mean body weight, survival rate, and biomass production compared to site I, with optimal growth observed during the spring season. Water temperature showed a strong positive correlation with growth metrics, while salinity also played a crucial role, particularly influencing survival and biomass.These findings highlight that physicochemical parameters, especially temperature and salinity, significantly impact the growth and productivity of F. indicus in the Subarnarekha river. The study underscores the importance of regular water quality monitoring for sustaining aquaculture practices in riverine ecosystems impacted by pollution. Effective management of pollution sources is essential to conserve the river’s health and support the livelihoods dependent on its aquatic resources.
BIOMASS PRODUCTION OF INDIAN WHITE PRAWN (Fenneropenaeus indicus) AND PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROFILING OF WATER QUALITY IN SUBARNAREKHA RIVER, EAST SINGHBHUM, JHARKHAND (INDIA)
The Subarnarekha river, known as the "Golden River" of the Chotanagpur Plateau in Jharkhand (India), is adversely impacted by industrial effluents and anthropogenic activities, threatening its aquatic biodiversity. This study assessed the seasonal variations in physicochemical properties and their influence on the growth, survival, and biomass of Indian white prawn (Fenneropenaeus indicus) at two sites in East Singhbhum, i.e., Site I (Mango, Jamshedpur) and Site II (Galudih, Ghatshila), from July 2019 to June 2022.The water quality-related physicochemical parameters (temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and salinity) were monitored seasonally, and their correlations with prawn survival rate, mean body weight, length, and biomass production were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient and regression analysis. The results revealed notable seasonal fluctuations in physicochemical parameters, particularly water temperature and salinity, which exhibited strong positive correlations with prawn growth metrics.Site II consistently exhibited higher mean body weight, survival rate, and biomass production compared to Site I, with optimal growth observed during the spring season. Water temperature showed a strong positive correlation with growth metrics, while salinity played a crucial role, particularly influencing survival and biomass.The findings highlight that physicochemical parameters—especially temperature and salinity—significantly impact the growth and productivity of F. indicus in the Subarnarekha river. These findings underscore the importance of regular water quality monitoring for sustaining aquaculture practices in riverine ecosystems impacted by pollution. Effective management of pollution sources is essential to conserve the river’s health and support the livelihoods dependent on its aquatic resources.
COMPARATIVE EFFICACY OF READY-TO-USE BROMADIOLONE AND BRODIFACOUM BAITS IN MANAGING RODENT POPULATION IN SUGARCANE AND RICE CROP FIELDS IN PUNJAB (INDIA)
Brodifacoum, a highly potent second-generation anticoagulant, emerges as a powerful solution for controlling rodent populations that have developed resistance to other compounds within its class. This study highlights the comparable efficacy of ready-to-use brodifacoum bait (0.005% BB) and bromadiolone bait (0.005% RB) in managing rodent infestations in both sugarcane and rice cultivation systems.In sugarcane fields, two applications of brodifacoum bait, administered at 15-day intervals in September and November (@ 1 kg ha⁻¹ each), showed nearly equal effectiveness to bromadiolone treatments in reducing rodent populations and crop damage. Similarly, in rice fields, brodifacoum applied 15 days before transplanting (@ 5 g per burrow), followed by a second application before the milky grain stage (@ 1 kg ha⁻¹), also matched the performance of bromadiolone treatments in controlling rodent activity and minimizing damage.These findings strongly support the potential of brodifacoum as a reliable alternative for rodent control, especially in agricultural environments where conventional anticoagulants have limited success.
INDIRUBIN-LOADED NANOLIPOSOMES MITIGATE DAUNORUBICIN- INDUCED CARDIOTOXICITY IN ALBINO WISTAR RATS: EVIDENCE FROM BIOCHEMICAL AND HISTOPATHOLOGICAL STUDIES
Daunorubicin, a widely used chemotherapeutic agent, is known for its potent anticancer effects but is severely limited by its dose-dependent cardiotoxicity. This study investigated the potential of indirubin-loaded nanoliposomes (INB-NLP) as a protective strategy to mitigate this cardiotoxicity in albino Wistar rats, supported by biochemical and histopathological evidence. The effects of INB-NLP on cardiac markers, lipid profiles, inflammatory markers, and enzymatic antioxidants were assessed by biochemical assays, ELISA, qRT-PCR, and histopathology using H&E staining.The study revealed a significant rise in cardiac troponin I (cTnI), total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels upon administration of daunorubicin (DNB). Post-treatment with INB-NLP significantly restored cTnI and lipid profiles to normal levels. DNB caused a marked reduction in SOD, CAT, and GST levels, which was significantly prevented by INB-NLP treatment. Diminished sirt3 expression in DNB-administered rats was restored by INB-NLP, while elevated caspase 8 (casp8) expression in the DNB group was significantly downregulated by INB-NLP treatment.Histopathological analysis of the aorta revealed severe damage in DNB-treated rats, including plaque formation, foam cell infiltration, and calcium deposition. INB-NLP treatment restored the aortic architecture. Overall, INB-NLP significantly prevented the oxidative damage caused by DNB, indicating its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. These findings reveal the potential of INB-NLP as a cardioprotective agent by mitigating oxidative stress, inflammation, and tissue damage induced by DNB in rat myocardium.
OPTIMIZATION OF CoQ10 PRODUCTION BY A MUTANT OF Cereibacter sphaeroides GSPC DUBSRUSING RESPONSE SURFACE METHODOLOGY
While screening for a few novel bacterial strains capable of producing coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a wild-type Cereibacter sphaeroides strain was isolated and identified. To increase the production of CoQ10 by this wild-type strain, optimization of the upstream process was carried out through response surface methodology (RSM). To maximize CoQ10 synthesis, a central composite design (CCD) was used to optimize the media composition, which included sucrose, ammonium sulphate, peptone, and MgSO₄. The desirability function approach was used to determine the ideal level for each element, and CoQ10 concentrations were tracked as response variables. The results indicated that using the optimal culture composition (30 g L⁻¹ sucrose, 15 g L⁻¹ ammonium sulphate, 25 g L⁻¹ peptone, and 0.50 g L⁻¹ MgSO₄) produced an average of 8.5 mg g⁻¹ dry cell weight (DCW) of CoQ10. Regression analysis results showed that the most efficient factors in generating CoQ10 were MgSO₄ and ammonium sulphate concentrations.
ALGAL DIVERSITY IN TEA AND PINEAPPLE PLANTATION SOILS IN MARNGAR, MEGHALAYA (INDIA)
The algal distribution in farmland depends on the plantation type and soil properties, therefore the present study was aimed to assess the diversity of algal community in soils of tea- and pineapple-plantation soils and to correlate the relationship between algae and soil parameters. Soil samples were collected from tea- and pineapple-plantations every month from April 2022 to May 2023. The soil and algal samples were analyzed by appropriate standard methods. Tea plantation soil was clay loam while pineapple plantation soil was sandy loam. The soil samples from study sites were slightly acidic throughout the season. Significant differences in both the study sites were observed for conductivity, moisture content, water holding capacity, organic carbon and phosphorus content. Some frequently encountered algal species were Calothrix marchica, Oscillatoria limnetica, Phormidium retzii, Chlamydomonas reinhardii, Scenedesmus communis, Scenedesmus dimorphus, Gomphonema parvulum, and Navicula lanceolata. A total of 63 algal species were recorded from both the sites. Maximum species diversity was observed in tea plantation soil with diversity index of 2.56. Higher algal abundance was noted in the root zone of tea plantation. The soil physicochemical parameters and plantation type significantly influenced the occurrence, composition and abundance of algae in tea- and pineapple-plantation soils.
Copyright (c) 2025 Pranita Hajong, Saviodul G. Lamin
WHEAT PRODUCTIVITY, PROFITABILITY AND WEED INDICES AS INFLUENCED BY SORGHUM EXTRACT AND CLODINAFOP + METSULFURON
Wheat is a staple food crop and cultivated in most part of the world with having diverse use in food and bakery industry. Its cultivation and production are much affected by various weed flora. Considering the losses caused by weeds, an ecological plus herbicidal approach was followed with the objective to enhance the productivity and profitability of wheat crop. Sorghum extract (1:3) fb ready-mix of clodinafop + metsulfuron 64 g ha⁻¹ significantly increased the productivity by 37.55 kg ha⁻¹ day⁻¹ and profitability by ₹ 721.53 ha⁻¹ day⁻¹. Further, it significantly reduced weed infestation over weedy check. It was concluded that integrated management of weeds in wheat through sorghum extract (1:3) + ready-mix of clodinafop + metsulfuron 64 g ha⁻¹ yielded maximum productivity and profitability while minimizing the weed density, and improved weed indices.
Copyright (c) 2025 Devi Lal Kikraliya, U.N. Shukla, Ramesh, K.K. Bijarnia, Moola Ram, Anuj Kumar
CHARACTERISTICS AND SOME APPLICATIONS OF MODIFIED XSHANKER DISTRIBUTION
The selection of a suitable distribution for many bio-medical real data analysis is a tedious task. The general known distributions are not a good-fit, in such cases, researchers are trying for innovative distributions to overcome such situations. Since many such real data are non-symmetric, hence they do not follow normality. In this paper, we have developed a novel version of double XShanker distribution termed as 'Modified XShanker Distribution (MOXD)' which has been described by using the weighted technique. This particular new distribution has been illustrated and explored with different statistical properties and its parameters are estimated on the basis of maximum likelihood estimation. To illustrate the predictability and flexibility of new distribution, we introduced a real lifetime biomedical data set to newly developed distribution to determine its performance over other comparable well-known distributions. Two independent real-world datasets were examined. The first dataset involved the birth weights of 130 randomly chosen new-borns from a hospital in Chennai (India). The second dataset pertained to triglyceride levels, focusing on the mean reduction (mg dL⁻¹) in triglycerides observed in 177 randomly selected patients from another Chennai hospital. These patients were monitored after taking Atorvastatin (Atorvaliq, Lipitor) continuously for 3 weeks, with triglyceride levels measured using the Cholesterol-oxidase method.
Copyright (c) 2025 K. Ravikumar, Thomas Mathew, C.B. Prasanth
OPTIMIZATION OF METAL ION CONCENTRATION IN YEAST EXTRACT-PEPTONE MEDIUM FOR ENHANCED BIOETHANOL FERMENTATION USING RESPONSE SURFACE METHODOLOGY
Bioethanol is a renewable eco-friendly alternative energy source produced by fermenting simple sugars using Saccharomyces cerevisiae. However, stress factors during fermentation can reduce yeast efficiency. Optimizing the metal ion supplementation in the growth medium is one strategy to mitigate these effects and improve ethanol yield. The present study was aimed to determine the optimal concentrations of calcium, magnesium, and zinc ions for maximizing ethanol production. Fermentation was carried out in yeast extract-peptone (YEP) medium supplemented with these metal ions. Optimization was conducted using response surface methodology with a central composite design (RSM-CCD). The experimental steps included yeast cell rejuvenation, media preparation, starter culture development, and fermentation. Optimal concentrations of calcium, magnesium, and zinc were 26.36, 368.18, and 66.82 mg L⁻¹, respectively. Under these conditions, the predicted ethanol yield was 0.567 g g⁻¹, while the validation experiment produced 0.274 ± 0.018 g g⁻¹. This represents a 20.7% increase compared to the center point (0.274 vs 0.227 g g⁻¹). Although optimization enhanced ethanol yield, further refinement of fermentation conditions and medium composition is needed to reduce the gap between predicted and experimental values and to improve overall fermentation performance.
Copyright (c) 2025 Safri Ishmayana, Deafani Nisrina Ulayya, Debora Tamaris Horasio, Agus Safari, Muhammad Fadhlillah, Fajriana Shafira Nurrusyda, Retna Putri Fauzia, Ukun M.S. Soedjanaatmadja
BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY AND ALKALOID COMPOSITION OF Chelidonium majus L. GROWING AT THREE SITES IN THE EASTERN PART OF KUNGEY ALATAU RIDGE (KAZAKHSTAN)
Chelidonium majus L. (family Papaveraceae), widely known as greater celandine, is a valuable plant used in traditional medicine. The present study was aimed to compare the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, as well as the alkaloid composition in different parts of C. majus collected from various locations in Kungei-Alatau region of Kazakhstan. The amount of total phenolic compounds and the antioxidant capability were determined by using Folin-Ciocalteu phenol reagent, radical (DPPH and ABTS) scavenging, and metal ion reducing (PFRAP) assays. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated by agar disc diffusion technique. The alkaloid composition was characterized by GC-MS. The root samples yielded the highest antioxidant and antimicrobial activity compared to the aerial parts. The root extracts yielded highest scavenging activity in DPPH (1745.37 ± 1.9 μmol TE mL⁻¹), ABTS (917.97 ±10.43 μmol TE mL⁻¹), and PFRAP value (18.93 ± 0.14 mmol AAE mL⁻¹) as well as exhibited highest phenolic content (2617.62 ±5.53 μg GAE mL⁻¹). The root extracts also showed largest inhibition zone (33.0 ±0.82 mm) against Bacillus subtilis. A total of 26 alkaloids, including chelidonine, demethylchelerythrine, dihydro-chelerythrine, dihydrochelirubine, and dihydrosanguinarine, were identified. The results indicated that the roots of C. majus possess more biologically active component than its other plant parts.
Copyright (c) 2025 Anar Dostemessova, Şükrü Canpolat, Meruyert Kurmanbayeva, Damezhan Sadykova, Elif Yürümez Canpolat, Elif Ildız, Klara Izbastina, Cemil İşlek
ACUTE TOXICITY STUDIES OF Cirsium wallichii DC. AND Galium rotundifolium L. COLLECTED FROM THE HIGHLANDS OF KUMAUN HIMALAYAS (INDIA)
A study was conducted to assess the acute toxicity profile of Galium rotundifolium and Cirsium wallichii used @ 2000 mg kg-1 body weight. These plants, traditionally used in Uttarakhand (India) for liver health, were evaluated for immediate cytotoxic effects in Wistar rats. The randomized controlled trial included five female rats each in control and treatment groups, receiving the doses of 5, 50, 300, and 2000 mg kg-1 over a 15-day period. No visible signs of poisoning or fatalities were observed nor any haematological and biochemical parameter did show any signs of toxicity, thereby supporting the safety of these plant extracts. The oral administration of aqueous extracts from G. rotundifolium and C. wallichii appeared safe and well-tolerated in a single-dose study. However, further research is necessary to assess the potential long-term effects on organs. The extracts may possess hepato-protective, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anticancer properties, making them promising candidates for therapeutic applications.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ankit Kumar, Mahendra Rana, Satpal Singh Bisht, Rashi Miglani, Chandrakanta, Nagma Parveen
PHYTOCHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF Fimbristylis ferruginea (L.) Vahl. AND EVALUATION OF ITS ANTIOXIDANT POTENTIAL
Medicinal plants serve as a valuable source of bioactive compounds essential for disease prevention and therapeutic interventions. This study investigated the phytochemical composition and evaluated the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antifungal potential of Fimbristylis ferruginea (L.) Vahl. Phytochemical screening of ethyl acetate, ethanol, acetone, and chloroform extracts revealed the presence of phenolics, flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, glycosides, and anthraquinones. Among the extracts, ethyl acetate exhibited the highest phenolic content (1.62 mg GAE g⁻¹), while chloroform extract showed the highest flavonoid content (59 mg QE g⁻¹). Antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH and FRAP assays, whereas antimicrobial and antifungal activities were evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Shigella flexneri, Enterococcus faecalis, Candida albicans, and Fusarium oxysporium through agar well diffusion and MIC/MBC methods. The ethyl acetate and chloroform extracts demonstrated significant bioactivity. Advanced analytical techniques including gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), ultraviolet–visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy were employed for the identification and structural elucidation of active compounds. A key compound identified was 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, bis(2-ethylhexyl) ester. The findings indicate the promising pharmaceutical and nutraceutical potential of F. ferruginea.
SURVEY ON ETHNOMEDICINAL PLANTS USED BY THE GARO TRIBES OF GOALPARA DISTRICT, ASSAM WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO HUMAN AND LIVESTOCK
This ethnobotanical survey documents the indigenous medicinal plant knowledge of the Garo tribes in the Goalpara district of Assam (India), focusing on their traditional plant-based treatments for a variety of human and livestock ailments. Through interviews with 30 key informants, recognized as holders of traditional knowledge within their community, the study aimed to record this knowledge, contributing to the conservation and sustainable use of medicinal plant species in the region, and providing a foundation for evaluating their therapeutic properties. The survey revealed the use of 45 medicinal plant species from 27 families for treating various human and livestock ailments. Trees were the most common plant form (37.77%), followed by herbs (31.11%). Leaves were the most frequently used plant part for both human (48.88%) and animal (35.71%) treatments. Quantitative analysis showed high use-value (UV) indices for species like Azadirachta indica, Centella asiatica, Leucas aspera, Bergera koenigii, Terminalia arjuna, and Curcuma longa, with the highest UV (0.96). Curcuma longa also demonstrated the highest fidelity level (93.33%).This study highlights the rich ethnomedicinal heritage of the Garo tribes and underscores the urgent need for conservation efforts to preserve both botanical resources and the associated traditional knowledge amidst rapid cultural and environmental transitions.
ESTABLISHING THE REFERENCE VALUES OF VAGINAL ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE FOR ESTRUS DETECTION IN BLACK BENGAL GOATS OF INDIA
Detecting estrus in goats becomes a challenging task in the absence of male goats, as behavioural signs of estrus are often subtle and easily missed. Traditional methods such as visual observation of physiological changes like vulvar edema and cervical mucus discharge may not always be reliable. To address this, the present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and establish reference values of vaginal electrical resistance (VER) for estrus detection in goats. A total of six goats (N = 6) were used, with their estrus cycles synchronized using progesterone sponges. Behavioural and physiological signs of estrus (viz., buck interest, cervical mucus, and vulvar oedema) and VER were monitored for 22 days, extending through the subsequent estrus cycle. The results revealed significantly lower (P < 0.001) VER values during estrus as compared to other phases of the estrus cycle. The VER values recorded in units (10 units = 1 Ohm) observed during estrous cycle phases were 262.50 ± 12.28 in estrus, 501.33 ± 60.59 in metestrus, 535.64 ± 63.17 in diestrus, and 488.33 ± 51.37 in proestrus. Further, PCA analysis revealed that buck interest and VER values play a more significant role in estrus detection as compared to cervical mucus and vulvar edema. Also, VER across the estrus phase strongly correlated with the physiological estrus signs viz. buck interest and vulvar edema. Based on these findings, we conclude that a reference minimum VER value of 300 units (30 Ω) could be used for estrus detection in Black Bengal and other small-sized goats.
THERAPEUTIC POTENTIALS OF Garcinia cambogia (L.) Roxb.: PHYTO- CHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION AND BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES
Garcinia cambogia, traditionally utilized for its medicinal properties, has garnered scientific interest for its potential health benefits. This study aimed to bridge the gap between traditional use and scientific validation by characterizing the phytochemical composition of G. cambogia hydro-alcoholic fruit extract and evaluating its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic properties.Phytochemical analyses identified numerous bioactive compounds within the fruit extract. The extract exhibited high total phenolic and flavonoid content, indicative of its potent antioxidant capacity. In antioxidant assays, the extract demonstrated significant activity, outperforming standard references. Enzyme inhibition assays revealed notable α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities, suggesting its antidiabetic potential. Furthermore, in an in vivo model, the extract significantly reduced inflammation, comparable to standard anti-inflammatory drugs.These findings support the therapeutic potential of G. cambogia in managing oxidative stress, inflammation, and diabetes, providing a scientific basis for its traditional medicinal use.
CHARACTERIZATION AND ANTIOXIDANT, ANTIDIABETIC AND IMMUNOSTIMULATING EFFICACY OF POLYSACCHARIDE EXTRACT FROM Syzygium cumini (L.) SEEDS
Syzygium cumini L., belonging to the family Myrtaceae, is an edible fruit well known for its nutritional values and several beneficial effects on human health. The present study aimed to isolate polysaccharides from S. cumini seeds and assess their biological activities. The S. cumini polysaccharide (SCP) was extracted using a hot water extraction process followed by ethanol precipitation and subjected to physiochemical characterization. UV-visible spectrum analysis confirmed the extract to be a protein-free polysaccharide, while Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed its functional groups. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images depicted a smooth and non-porous surface morphology, while thin-layer chromatography (TLC) indicated the presence of monosaccharide constituents in crude polysaccharide hydrolysates. SCP exhibited high total antioxidant capacity and strong radical scavenging activity in DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. Additionally, SCP effectively inhibited α-amylase and α-glucosidase, enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism. Furthermore, SCP enhanced the intracellular killing activity of stimulated neutrophils and increased neutrophil candidacidal activity in a dose-dependent manner. These findings suggest that polysaccharides isolated from S. cumini seeds possess significant antioxidant, antidiabetic, and immunostimulatory properties.
GENETIC ASSOCIATION OF KCNJ11 POLYMORPHISM AND TYPE 2 DIABETES SUSCEPTIBILITY: A CASE-CONTROL APPROACH
Diabetes is globally one of the leading non-communicable diseases that pose significant public health challenges. The Potassium Inwardly Rectifying Channel Subfamily J Member 11 (KCNJ11) gene polymorphism has been implicated in beta-cell dysfunction and altered insulin secretion through potassium-gated channels, potentially influencing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) susceptibility. Genotyping was performed using restriction fragment length polymorphism, with verification through Sanger Sequencing. The association between KCNJ11 genotypes and T2DM risk was evaluated using odds ratios and confidence intervals. Biochemical and clinical variables were compared between patients and controls using Student’s t-test and Chi-square (χ²) tests. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS software. The frequency distribution of KCNJ11 (rs5210) SNP (A/G) differed significantly between the control group and T2DM patients (X² = 31.7). The dominant genetic model (p value <0.00; OR = 4.41) showed its strong association with T2DM. Drug response analysis highlighted those patients with the GG genotype responded better to metformin + sulfonylurea (M + S) compared to lantus + gliptin (L + G), indicating genotype-specific therapeutic efficacy. This study confirms that the rs5210 genetic variant of KCNJ11 gene significantly increases susceptibility to T2DM. Furthermore, the GG genotype may influence the effectiveness of antidiabetic therapies, providing a potential basis for personalized treatment strategies. These findings underscore the importance of genetic screening in diabetes management.