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Potato production in Malawi still remains low, estimated at 11t/ha as compared to the potential 40t/ha due to disease infection resulting from seed recycling. Shoot tip culture in vitro is one of the tissue culture techniques that can potentially eliminate pathogens from infected plantlets. A study was therefore carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of repeated shoot tip culture on pathogen load reduction of some selected local potato genotypes grown in Malawi. A factorial experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) in which five genotypes including Magalabada, Rosita, Simoki, Usiwawatha and Violet were evaluated. Results showed that the mother stock tubers for all genotypes were infected with multiple pathogens at different incidences and intensities. PVY had an incidence of 100% with a low intensity in all genotypes. PVX had an incidence of 100% in Rosita and Magalabada, 80% in Usiwawatha and Violet and 60% in Simoki and their intensity was very high. The incidence for PVM was 80% in Usiwawatha, 60% in Violet, 10% in Rosita and Magalabada and 3% in Simoki; and their intensity was high. The incidence for PVS was 60% for Rosita, Magalabada and Usiwawatha, 18% for Violet and 10% for simoki; with a very high intensity. PVA incidence was 100% for Usiwawatha, 60% for Violet, 18% for Rosita and Simoki, and 5% for Magalabada; with a very low intensity. PLRV incidence was 10% for all genotypes and had a very low intensity. Traces of Bacterial wilt in low intensities were detected. Potato plantlets obtained after repeated sub-culturing of over six times resulted in reduced pathogen load at (P?0.05) for the different pathogens. The chance of reducing the pathogen load in the different genotypes was relatively high at (P?0.05). Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes in the existing literature of tissue culture technique by providing a less expensive tool for the developing nations’ attainment of food security; since repeated sub-culturing can reduce and/eliminate pathogens load in potato (Solanum tuberosum L) due to the cells undifferentiation principle, for enhanced yield and quality. Biological Sciences » The International Journal of Biotechnology » Month: 07-2014 Issue: 7
A Socio-Economical Perspective for a Holistic Management of Temporary Watersheds in Central Mexico Based on a Simple Mathematical Model for Decision-Makers
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Natural Sciences Research
This paper deals with the development of a new holistic math model to manage watersheds in Central Mexico. Hydrological resources in this medium-dry North-American region supply water to more than 49 million people. In addition, this region is considered as one of the most eco-diverse regions in the world. However, the high population density exerts great pressure on water resources in the area, leading to the edge of extinction to most of its biodiversity. Many mathematical models for estimating environmental flows have been developed, yet no model is truly holistic, even integrated, by not taking into account a variable of extreme importance to the ecological functioning of the watershed, its marked seasonal nature (temporality). Due to this lack of information on how to manage temporary rivers, most managers use conventional indices to estimate environmental flows or at best, use the standard Integrated River Basin Management model developed by http://wwf.panda.org/about_our_earth/about_freshwater/rivers/irbm/ [1] though it is only for rivers with permanent flow. The aim of this paper is to present a reflection on the management of temporary flows, presenting a mathematical model that helps decision makers in their operation programs. The holism of the third culture is taken as the paradigm framework to build the model. It should be noted that an important aspect of the model is its simplicity, since it is to be used by people with little knowledge in mathematics and thus easy to take, and common to all the rivers of the region data. Contribution/ Originality
•Seasonality of watersheds is an important factor as a source of biodiversity.
•Regulated rivers can be modeled as seasonal rivers.
•The proposed model presents diagnostic and control indicators easy to measure.
•This is the first model that really promotes a holistic management for seasonal basins.
A field experiment was conducted in the Sudan to study the extent of variability in grain yield and yield components of ten sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. ( Moench) genotypesat three environments: Shendi (season, 2005/06), Shambat (season, 2005/06) and Shambat (season, 2006/07). A split- plot design with four replications was used. Two levels of water treatments were used, namely, irrigation every 10 days and every 21 days (drought stress condition). The main plots were allocated for water treatments and the sub plots for genotypes. Data on five characters, namely seed yield/plant, number of seeds/head, 1000-seed weight, seed yield (kg/ha) and harvest index, were collected. Genotypic and phenotypic correlations between different traits were determined. Grain yield exhibited strong positive phenotypic and genotypic correlations with its components. Significant positive associations were detected between performance of the evaluated genotypes under normal irrigation at Shendi and under water stress at Shamba tseasons (2005/06-2006/07) for number of seeds/head and 1000-seed weight. On the other hand, negative correlations were obtained between the performances at Shendi and Shambat (2006/07) under normal irrigation for seed yield/plant. Generally, these relations influenced the degree of associations between these traits and with the other traits in these environments. Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes in the existing literature by providing data and information concern with interrelationships among grain yield and some of its components in ten grain sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. (Moench) genotypes under normal irrigation and water stress conditions in three different environments of Sudan Agricultural Sciences » International Journal of Sustainable Agricultural Research » Month: 09-2014 Issue: 3
Understanding Stakeholder’s Perceptions on Practice of Nature-Based Sports in A Portuguese Natural Park
Nature recreation and tourism in protected areas (PA) can play an important role in the development of local communities and in regional or national economies. This effect depends on sound management and, facing limited resources, collaboration between different interested parties. This study was developed in a Portuguese Natural Park and focuses on the Nature Based Sport activities developed within the scope of recreation and tourism. Perceptions and opinions of five stakeholders were taken into account, as baseline information on the components of the PA management. A qualitative approach based on semi structured interviews has been used. Results allowed improving the understanding on some existing problems in the studied PA as well as to define important actions and changes to be taken into account in short to medium term. Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes to the literature in that it addresses issues associated with management of nature-based sports, under the viewpoint of institutions, a less common aspect in the investigative panorama which usually focuses on visitors perceptions. This seems to be an important approach if we are trying to begin a new recreation management approach (e.g. collaborative). Business & Management » Journal of Tourism Management Research » Month: 12-2014 Issue: 2
Mechanisms of the Decline in Reproductive Fitness with Age in the Moth Spodoptera Litura
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Research Journal of Insect Sciences
Although several hypotheses have been proposed, the mechanisms underlying the decline in reproduction of insects with age remain unclear. In this study, the effect of aging on the reproductive performance of both sexes was studied in Spodoptera litura. Aging in both sexes significantly reduced reproductive fitness. Female aging had a significantly stronger effect than male aging on fecundity and fertility. This study clearly demonstrates that oviposition by virgin females is an important contributor to the decline in female fecundity with delayed mating. However, the reduction in fecundity in females mated late relative to females mated early was much greater than (almost three times) the number of eggs laid by virgin females before mating. What accounts for this additional loss in fecundity? To answer this question, egg production, oosorption, mating frequency and longevity in both sexes were analysed. The results suggest that S. litura females may emerge with extra nutrient reserves that can be allocated to adult survival and egg production; delayed mating may cause females to allocate more resources towards survival, leaving less for egg production after mating relative to females mated young. This mechanism is likely the key cause of the decline in fecundity due to aging. In addition, the fertility rate was significantly influenced by female, but not male, age at mating, suggesting that senescence degraded egg quality but not sperm quality. The results of this study also showed that the mating frequency of moth pairs was negatively correlated with male age at mating, which is likely the primary mechanism underlying the negative effects of male aging on female reproductive success. Contribution/ Originality
Globally, gastric cancer has been acknowledged as a disease of public health concern because of its related morbidity, deaths and influence on multiple dimensions of the quality of life of the patient and their family members. The objective of this article is to systematically review the published literature on the potential risk factors of gastric cancer, and eventually suggest range of interventions to eventually minimize the prevalence of gastric cancer. An extensive search of all materials related to the topic was made using library sources including Pubmed, Medline, World Health Organization website and Google scholar searches for one month. Keywords used in the search include Gastric cancer, health, and Helicobacter pylori. Multiple ranges of factors have been attributed to the causation of gastric cancer in heterogeneous settings. To counter the consequences of gastric cancer, there is a crucial need to develop and implement a public health strategy to enable early detection of the cancer. In conclusion, in the global aim to reduce the burden of gastric cancer, the need of the hour is to formulate comprehensive & cost-effective strategies well supported by intensified awareness campaigns and strengthening of the health care delivery system. Contribution/ Originality
This study explores the potential risk factors of gastric cancer, and suggests multiple interventions to minimize the prevalence of gastric cancer on a global scale. Medical Sciences » Cancers Review » Month: 06-2014 Issue: 1
Olfactory Response of an Assassin Bug, Rhynocoris Longifrons (Insecta: Hemiptera: Reduviidae) To the Hexane Extracts of Different Agricultural Insect Pests
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Research Journal of Insect Sciences
The predator-prey interaction of five prey species with the assassin bug, Rhynocoris longifrons (Stål) (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) was assessed in a Y-shaped olfactometer and the prey preference was assessed in six-arm olfactometer provided with the bodyextracts in hexane. Although R. longifrons responded to all the hexane extracts of testedinsect pests, R. longifrons showed maximum response to the lepidopterans Spodoptera litura (F.) (6.67±1.18 min), Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (5.17±0.89 min) and Achaea janata (L.) (4.42±1.04 min) followed by the coleopteran Mylabris indica (Thunberg) (3.00±0.82 min) and the least response to the hemipteran Dysdercus cingulatus (F.) (2.42±0.76 min).Thus, the present study clearly reveals the order of the host preference of R. longifrons to the tested hexane extracts of the taxonomically diverse insect pests. Contribution/ Originality
This paper contributes the first hand information on the allelochemical interaction of Rhynocoris longifrons with its prey species Spodoptera litura, Helicoverpa armigera, Achea janata, Dysdercus cingulatus and Mylabris indica and reveals its prey preference. It also enables one to employ R. longifrons as a biocontrol agent against these insect pests. Agricultural Sciences » International Research Journal of Insect Sciences » Month: 03-2014 Issue: 1
Study on Adaptability of Released Midland Maize Varieties around South Ari Woreda, South Omo Zone, Southern Nation Nationality Peoples Region, Ethiopia
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: Current Research in Agricultural Sciences
Ten released maize varieties were tasted at two sites in randomized complete block design with three replication during 2013 cropping season. The experiment was carried out to test the adaptability of improved mid-altitude maize varieties and identify and select the best high yielding variety/ies for the target area. ANOVA revealed significant differences (p<0.05 and 0.01) between varieties for grain yield at both sites and six characters studied (biomass, plant height, ear length, tassel length and northern corn leaf blight). The significance of varieties difference indicates the presence of variability for each of the characters among the tested entries. The mean grain yield at both sites ranged from 71.7 qt/ha for BH545 to 108.71qt/ha for BH670. Shapi (84.38qt/ha) site was low yielding location than Gumter site (92.31qt/ha). Varieties BH660, BH540, BH140, Gibe -2 and BH670 had high mean grain yield and had good mean performance for yield related traits (biomass, ear length and tassel size), except BH540 that sowed high susceptible to northern corn leaf blight. Variety Gibe-2 is open pollinated; possible for farmers to recycle seed up to five year and also it had relatively high mean grain yield, moderate tolerant to northern corn leaf blight and it was the shortest one. Therefore; Gibe -2 would be highly recommended to growing farmers in the studied area and its vicinity, next the two hybrids; BH540 and BH140 would be recommended from yield point of view with great care of disease especially northern corn leaf blight. Further study should be carried out with disease management and improved varieties to improve maize production with increased yield and biomass production. Contribution/ Originality
A digital camera was used to photograph images around the Sheldonian Theatre, which is a semicircular building located in central Oxford, UK. Close-up images included a color chart for lightness and chromatic calibration across images taken between 10:00 and 13:00 in the spring in order to obtain comparative brightness levels for vertical limestone surfaces around this historical building. A digital light (Lux) meter was also employed in this study to capture variations in incoming sunlight onto building walls at ground-level. The outdoor integrated digital photography and image processing (O-IDIP) method was used, focusing on orientational effects on the lightness and coloration of surfaces. Images in Lab Color were calibrated based on a 3-point (black-white and green-red) procedure. The results convey the brightest surfaces on average to be west-facing. Conversely, the most variation in the means was evident on the east-facing side of the building and lowest on the west wall. These variances convey the effects of piecemeal maintenance of the building, so that on the same wall the lowest and greatest values of calibrated % Mean L appear. Soiling patterns are affected by microclimatic effects, with wind-driven rain in Oxford coming predominantly from the southwest, affecting buildings differently at the regional to local scale. This means that south- and west-facing walls may be relatively more rainwashed than north- and east-facing walls, which could complicate the results as a confounding variable acting on the degree of soiling and surface brightness. However, Lux meter readings helped to clarify this complication, showing the least illumination on west- and south-facing building walls. The study, hence, contributes to disentangling between and elucidating outdoor lighting conditions and soiling patterns imposed by microclimatic effects on vertical (limestone) surfaces, such as this historical building exterior, where the brightest illuminated surfaces are not west-and south-facing, but rather east- and north-facing. It thereby quantifies the extent of brightness ranges in soiling patterns created by rainwashing (exposure versus sheltering) effects. Finally, the 3-point calibration procedure now integrates chroma as well as brightness and contrast adjustments, allowing for the outdoor measurement of areal chromatic change on building exteriors. The building walls in this study are mainly Slightly Dark and only a minority are actually classifiable as Dark. Contribution/ Originality
This study contributions to the quantification of building soiling in polluted (urban) environments. Rather than using point-source measurements, the O-IDIP allows for the areal quantification of color. Its application allows for the differentiation of microclimatic effects on outdoor lighting (orientational effects) and surface brightness and coloration. Engineering » Journal of Building Construction, Planning and Materials Research » Month: 03-2014 Issue: 1
Philosophical Texts on Travels: Chronicles and Testimonies of Travellers
The present essay review explores the role played by travels to form cultures as well as the use of travel writing in the social science. Over centuries, intellectuals rested their reflections on the testimonies of travels as they have been formulated by other travelers. Whether medieval or pre-industrial travel experiences were used to delineate the epistemology of the whole social sciences in Europe, the viewpoint of tourist is neglected as naïve or subject to the lack of objectivity. Why travels now are not taken into consideration for the epistemologists?. Are modern tourists more naïve or enrooted in a great variety of prejudices? Are ancient travellers very different to tourists? Contribution/ Originality
This study contributes in the existing literature adding a new point of entry in the history of travels, which have been employed by social sciences to construct their epistemological objects. Additionally, if the ancient traveler’s chronicles were used as historical sources today, why tourist-based experience is trivialized as liable source of research is an interesting issue which deserves to be discussed. Business & Management » Journal of Tourism Management Research » Month: 12-2014 Issue: 2
Landau-Pekar Bipolaron in Singlet and Triplet States
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: Review of Advances in Physics Theories and Applications
We give an overview of studies a bipolaron stability by variational method. For bipolaron formations, a relation is established between the variational principle and the virial theorem optimizing the electronic wave functions. We present a large number of qualitative and quantitative arguments, which indicate that the Landau-Pekar bipolaron is an axially-symmetrical formation. Much attention is paid to the analysis of the influence of the Coulomb electron-electron correlations on the stability of a large bipolaron. In detail we analyzed the criteria for determining the optimal wave functions. It is established that a step-by-step increase in the flexibility of the electronic wave function due to the electron correlations does not stabilize a one-center bipolaron. We show after into account of electron-electron correlations a singlet bipolaron retains spatial axially-symmetrical. At the same time, the electron-excited triplet states of Landau-Pekar bipolaron have spherical symmetry. The results of Kasirina and Lakhno are based on the one-center bipolaron model are incorrect. Presented evidence that the correct application of the variational method and correct account of electron-electron correlations only increase the binding energy of the bipolaron but symmetry of Hartree-Fock approximation can not change. We adduce proofs which point to methodological errors of one-center bipolaron model as well as arising from their calculations incorrect physical consequences. As illustrated in this review the axially symmetric Landau-Pekar bipolaron can correctly interpret the experimentally detected spectroscopic data. Contribution/ Originality
We have established mathematically that the spatial symmetry of the singlet bipolaron Landau-Pekar is axial-symmetric. At the same time, triplet states of the bipolaron are spherically symmetric formations. Increasing the flexibility of the wave function does not change the spatial symmetry of the bipolaron. Knowledge of the bipolaron symmetry allows to correctly interpret experiment. Engineering » Review of Advances in Physics Theories and Applications » Month: 06-2014 Issue: 1
Transesterification of Caso With Low Amount of Free Fatty Acids and Its Optimization
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: Review of Energy Technologies and Policy Research
This study revealed the application of ANN as a tool for optimization of transesterification of Chrysophyllum albidium seed oil (CASO) to Chrysophyllum albidium oil biodiesel (CAOB). 30 experimental runs were generated and used to determine the effects of four reaction variables namely reaction temperature, reaction time, catalyst amount and methanol/oil molar ratio on CAOB yield. It was noted that the highest observed yield obtained in this study was 89.30% (w/w) at the following variable conditions; reaction temperature 60 oC, catalyst amount of 0.7 (wt. %), reaction time of 50 (min) and methanol/oil molar ratio of 5. The coefficient of determination R2 and the adj. R2 were found to be 0.99919 and 0.998439, respectively. The root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.14261 was obtained. Meanwhile, the qualities and fuel properties of CAOB produced were found to be within the ASTM D6751 and DIN EN 14214 biodiesel standards. The fatty acid profile of the CAOB revealed that CAOB is highly unsaturated (78.505%). Hence, the study established that CASO is a good alternative seed oils for fuel production which are renewable, cheap and environmental friendly. Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have investigated the use of CASO to produced biofuel. Energy & Environmental Sciences » Review of Energy Technologies and Policy Research » Month: 06-2014 Issue: 1
Energy Trading and Congestion Management Using Real and Reactive Power Rescheduling and Load Curtailment
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: Review of Energy Technologies and Policy Research
Congestion is termed as the operating condition in which there is not enough transmission capacity to implement all the desired transactions. This paper deals with the power trading in electricity market to ensure regular supply at competitive rates with multi congestion case. Bidding process of 75 Indian bus systems is analyzed. It is shown that how can congestion cost can be addressed through active & reactive power rescheduling and load curtailment with transmission line constraints. With rescheduling of generation the congestion is removed with some congestion cost. Contribution/ Originality
The paper’s primary contribution is to find MCP and LMP for Pool based transaction. The Congestion so addressed by the real and reactive power rescheduling bids of generators. The revised rates for MCP and LMP are calculated. It is obtained that the congestion is relieved in problem under study. Energy & Environmental Sciences » Review of Energy Technologies and Policy Research » Month: 12-2014 Issue: 2
Religiosity, Paranormal Beliefs, and Psychopathological Symptoms in Two Ethnic Samples
This study was carried out to determine the influence of religiosity and paranormal beliefs on the development of psychopathological symptoms among groups of people from two different ethnic origin. A survey research was adopted using a purposive sampling method to draw the sample from Igbo and Yoruba ethnic groups. The sample consisted of two hundred and four respondents with the age range of 14 and 65 years. 101 were females and 103 were males; 6 traditional, 66 Islamic and 132 Christian religious adherents. 98 Igbo and 106 Yoruba all with minimum educational qualification of Junior Secondary School Certificate responded to Religious Affiliation Scale (Omoluabi, 1995), Revised Paranormal Belief Scale (Tobacyk, 1988) and General Health Questionnaire (Goldberg, 1978). Analysis of Variance, Independent t-test, and Multiple Regression were used to analyse the data and results indicated that paranormal beliefs significantly influenced only anxiety dimension of psychopathology but do not influence other dimension. No significant effect of religiosity was discovered on any dimension of psychopathology. There was a significant difference between Igbo and Yoruba on Paranormal Beliefs, depression and anxiety dimensions of psychopathology but no significant difference was discovered on religiosity. It was concluded that paranormal beliefs partially influence psychopathology but religious beliefs do not have any influence on psychopathology in this study. Contribution/ Originality
It originates new formula which stipulates that therapeutic attempt on health should consider the beliefs and norms of the people since these variables are interwoven. Social Sciences » Humanities and Social Sciences Letters » Month: 12-2014 Issue: 4
Teachers’ Perception on Laws and Education in Nigeria
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Education and Practice
This study sought to find out the perception of teachers on the applicability of the federal laws on education. 1,480 teachers were randomly selected from 3 geo-political zones in Nigeria. A 20 item questionnaire titled “Applicability of Federal Laws in Nigeria” (AFLEN) was designed by the researcher. This instrument was validated by experts in law as well as Test and Evaluation. The instrument was further subjected to a test of reliability using the test-retest method and the data were analysed using the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient. The questionnaire were administered by the researcher as well as 158 research assistants. They were collected on the spot. The data collected were analysed using simple descriptive statistics. The findings of the study include federal laws are made concerning education but not properly implemented by the various agencies as perceived by teachers. Laws on Examination malpractice, National Teachers Institute, Teachers Registration, free and compulsory education are not properly handled as expected by teachers. Recommendations were therefore made to ensure effectiveness and efficiency of the federal laws on education. Contribution/ Originality
This is an original work with equal contributions from the authors using authentic information gathered from the law reports and responses from teachers who are the respondents. Arts and Education » International Journal of Education and Practice » Month: 08-2014 Issue: 8
Students’ Perception of Girlchild Affirmative Action in High Schools in Masvingo Urban, Zimbabwe
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: International Journal of Education and Practice
This study sought to evaluate the effectiveness of the girlchild affirmative action policy in secondary schools in Zimbabwe using Christian and Ndarama high schools as case studies. Both theoretical study and empirical research methods were used to ensure a balanced evaluation of the problem. Ninety nine of the 230 Form six students at the two schools were used as questionnaire respondents, and 2 focal point teachers of the 20 A level teachers at the schools were sampled for the interviews. Case study, descriptive survey and qualitative participatory approaches were used as the main research methodologies. The study established that male students are more than female students in all advanced level disciplines studied at the schools; both male and female students do not support the idea of affirmative action in their schools; authorities are not doing enough to conscientise both teachers and their students on the need for affirmative action in schools; the affirmative action policy is not being implemented in secondary schools in Zimbabwe and thus the policy is not yet effective in meeting the desired goals. The main challenge faced by secondary schools in the implementation of affirmative action was found to be mainly the issue of negative attitudes towards affirmative action. Entering school at lower points than boys reinforces the idea that women are academically weaker than men. The study recommends intensive awareness campaigns and advocacy to remove negative attitudes towards affirmative action; formal training sessions on affirmative action in the schools to help students contextualize the concept of affirmative action; government monitoring and follow-ups to ensure that the affirmative action policy is being implemented; among other recommendations. Contribution/ Originality
The overall aim of this study is to contribute a theoretical framework that will help towards the implementation of the affirmative action policy in Zimbabwean high schools. The study aims at enlarging considerably the knowledge base and understanding of the affirmative action policy in Zimbabwe. Arts and Education » International Journal of Education and Practice » Month: 09-2014 Issue: 9
Evaluation of The Acute Toxicity of Three Locally Synthesized Dyes (3,5-Dimethoxypyrimidine Azo-6- Methyl Urazil, 5-Ethoxybenzothiazole Azobenzoloxyphenol and 4-Ethyl 5,2,3-Thiazole Azo-6-Methyl Uracil) Using Nitrosomonas Sp and Nitrobacter Sp
The acute toxicity of three dyes (3,5-dimethoxypyrimidine azo-6- methyl urazil, 5-ethoxybenzothiazole azobenzoloxyphenol and 4-ethyl 5,2,3-thiazole azo-6-methyl of uracil were evaluated using Nitrosomonas and Nitrobacter. Standardized inoculum ofeach test organism was introduced into various logarithmic concentrations (0.01 to 100 mg/L) of the dyes for a period of 96 hours and cell mortality was used as index for assessment. Results obtained Indicated that the three dyes were inhibitory to the survival of the organisms. An increase in cell mortality (toxic response) of each organism with increase in concentration of the dyes and the duration of exposure was observed. The 96h LC50 values of 3,5-dimethoxypyrimidine azo-6- methyl urazil, 5-ethoxybenzothiazole azobenzoloxyphenol and 4-ethyl 5,2,3-thiazole azo-6-methyluracil to Nitrosomonas were 2.89,2.80 and 5.30 (mg/L) respectively. Similarly, the96h LC50 values of 3,5-dimethoxypyrimidine azo-6- methyl urazil, 5-ethoxybenzothiazole azobenzoloxyphenol and 4-ethyl 5,2,3-thiazole azo-6-methyl of uracil to Nitrobacter were 0.001, 0.20 and 1.11 respective;ly. Anaysis of variance at p = 0.05 showed thatthere was no significant difference in the response of Nitrosomonas to the various dyes. However, there was a significant difference in the response of Nitrobacter to the three dyes in the order 3,5-Dimethoxypyrimidine azo-6 - methyl uracil >5-Ethoxybenzothazole azobenzoloxyphenol>4-Ethyl 5,2,3-thiazole azo-6-methyl uracil. T-test also revealed that there were significant differences in the response of NitrosomonasandNitrobacterto the toxicity of each of the dye. Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have investigated the possible effect of locally synthesized dyes such as 3,5-dimethoxypyrimidine azo-6- methyl urazil, 5-ethoxybenzothiazole azobenzoloxyphenol and 4-ethyl 5,2,3-thiazole azo-6-methyl uracil on the environment. The increased mortality of the test organisms, Nitrosomonas and Nitrobacter with increased concentrations of the dyes indicate that they are toxic to the environment. Biological Sciences » The Asia Journal of Applied Microbiology » Month: 06-2014 Issue: 2
Effect of Gamma Irradiation on the Microbial Quality of Dried Fishes
Sun dried fishes such as C. malabaricus, S. lysan, S. acutipinnis, L. dussumieri, L. platypterus, L. rubrioperculatus and A. thazard were irradiated using gamma radiation (5 kGy) and the microbial quality and shelf life were assessed in the irradiated and non-irradiated dry fish samples stored under ambient temperature for six months. Irradiation had significant effects on the reduction of microbial population. The total bacterial count in was in acceptable condition until the end of the sixth months of storage. Total fungal counts were below detectable level throughout the storage period. Growth of Salmonella and Vibrio were observed in the non- irradiated samples where as it was not observed in the irradiated dry fishes. Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of the very few studies which have investigated the microbial load in irradiated dry fishes. This study documents irradiation of dry fish with high moisture content provides safety, taste like fresh fish and extended shelf life due to the irradiations effectiveness in inactivating pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms. Biological Sciences » The Asia Journal of Applied Microbiology » Month: 09-2014 Issue: 3
Cultivation of Lentinus Edodes on Teff Straw (Agricultural Residue) At Dilla University, Ethiopia
Shiitake mushroom is worldwide one of the most widely cultivated mushrooms. Edible fungi are natural recycler which converts lignocelluloses wastes into protein rich health food and medicinal value of food. Mushroom cultivation represents the current economically viable biotechnology process for the conversion of waste plant residues from agriculture. As the result, mushrooms are increasingly becoming an important component of diets worldwide and it is of paramount importance to choose appropriate substrates in a given place to grow them. Therefore, study was undertaken to find suitable abundantly waste such as Teff straw used as substrate for cultivation of mushroom. As the result revealed, this agricultural residue was the best for cultivation of Lentinus edodes which help to collect large amount of fruit body. As conclusion, Lentinus edodes fungi can be converted this solid waste in to delicious foods. Contribution/ Originality
This study will help for scale up of mushroom cultivation on other substrate. Moreover, this study will help to cultivate the edible of wild mushroom this waste or other waste products. Biological Sciences » The Asia Journal of Applied Microbiology » Month: 09-2014 Issue: 3
Bio-Efficacy of Pupicidal Activity of Some Plant Essential Oils on Culex Quinquefasciatus and Anopheles Stephensi
Research Article
Author(s):
Journal: The International Journal of Biotechnology
Bio-efficacy of pupicidal potential of some essential oils from seven plants (Pimpinella anisum, Cinnamomum veerum, Myrtus caryophyllus, Citrus sinensis, Thymus vulgaris, Ocimum sanctum and Vetiveria zizanioides) was tested against the pupae of Culex quinquefasciatus and Anopheles stephensi. The pupal susceptibility test were carried out using WHO standard method. In the pupicidal assay at five different concentrations viz., 31.25, 62.5, 125, 250, and 500ppm concentrations were used andthe mortality was observed after 24-h exposure. All the tested essential oils showed moderate to good pupicidal activity. However, the maximum pupal mortality was registered at 500 ppm concentration as 100 ± 0.00% for Cx. quinquefasciatus and An. stephensi respectively. The Pupal mortality was resigered as of aniseed (87.5 ± 062%), tulsi (85.0 ± 0.72%) and cinnamom (82.2 ± 0.42%) at 500 ppm for Cx. quinquefasciatus respectively. The efficacy results of pupal mortality of aniseed (85.2 ± 023%), tulsi (84.1 ± 0.23%) and cinnamom (80.1 ± 0.51%) at 500 ppm for An. stephensi respectively. The LC50 and LC90 of clove oil (106.3 and 313.3 ppm), tulsi (133.6 and 539.3 ppm) and cinnamon (141.0 and 575.5 ppm) against Cx. quinquefasciatus after 24 h respectively, and LC50 values of 110.5, 144.2 and 150.1 ppm and LC90 values of 310.4, 502.3 and 603.0 ppm against An. stephensi after 24 h of treatment, respectively. The results suggest that the essential oils have potential to be used as a pupicidal activity an ideal eco-friendly approach for the control of filarial and malaria vectors, Cx. quinquefasciatus and An. stephensi as target species in vector borne diseases control programs. Contribution/ Originality
Abstract