Welcome to send your manuscript to: sciencepub@gmail.com

No.

Titles / Abstracts / Authors

Full Text

No.

1

Stand Structure, Density And Yield Of Tree Community In Ukpon River Forest Reserve, Cross River State, Nigeria

Egor Bassey Etigale, Opeyemi Olajide, Enefiok Sunday Udo

Department of Forestry & Wildlife, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

E-mails: egoretigale@gmail.com, Solaolajide1967@gmail.com, enefioks_udo@yahoo.com

Abstract: The stand structure, density and yield of trees in Ukpon River Forest Reserve, a tropical rainforest reserve in Cross River State, Nigeria, was surveyed. The study aimed at obtaining quantitative information on stem-diameter, basal area-diameter and standing volume-diameter distributions as well as stand density and yield of trees in the reserve and recommending suitable management practices for the reserve. Adopting systematic cluster sampling technique, 16 sample plots of 50m x 50m were enumerated. A total of 1,534 trees, belonging to 79 species were encountered. The average number of trees, basal area and volume of wood per hectare were estimated at 385 trees, 29.78m² and 174.98m³ respectively, and the inversed-J shaped stem-diameter distribution, typical of all natural forest, was obtained. Fully stocked with wood, coupled with a high percentage of smaller trees and a large merchantable volume of wood per hectare, the area was considered viable for sustainable production of wood on long rotation basis, with the adoption of an initial conservative annual allowable cut of 1.5m³/ha/yr.

[Etigale, EB, Olajide, O, Udo ES. Stand Structure, Density and Yield of Tree Community in Ukpon River Forest Reserve, Cross River State, Nigeria. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):1-8]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 1. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.01 

Keywords: Trees, stand density, population structure, yield, natural tropical rainforest reserve.

Full Text

1

2

Intrafamilial spread of hepatitis C Virus in low socioeconomic population, Menoufiya Governorate

Ibrahim Mohamed Boghdadi*, Tarek El MahdeyKorah*, El Sayed Ibrahim El Shayeb*and Amir Makram El Marzouky**

* Department of Internal Medicine, Faulty of Medicine, Menoufiya University, Egypt.

** ShebinElkom teaching hospital, Menoufiya Governorate, Egypt.

amirelmarzouky@gmail.com

Abstract: Objective: Study the Intrafamilial spread of Hepatitis C Virus in low socioeconomic population, Menoufiya Governorate. Background: HCV infection is a major public health problem worldwide. Intrafamilial HCV transmission is considered an important route of transmission where living in a house with an infected family member is a risk factor for HCV transmission. Low socioeconomic standard was associated with an increased risk of HCV infection and with poor prognosis in HCV infected patients. Methods: A cross-sectional study. This study will include previously diagnosed HCV positive patients (No.100) of low socioeconomic standard and their family members (No.427). All members of the study group were subjected to full history through a questionnaire with special emphasis on risk factors of HCV exposure, Symptoms and its duration. Complete clinical examination and HCV antibody testing by one step test. Results : Prevalence of HCV in family members of HCV positive patient was 20.14%. The intrafamilial pattern of spread of HCV infection was 37.2% between spouses, was 29.1% from parent to their children and was 33.7% between brothers and sisters. The intraspousal transmission of HCV infection, the wife to husband transmission (56.3%) is higher than husband to wife transmission (43.7%). Conclusion: Our results support the role of intrafamilial transmission in the spread of HCV and low socioeconomic standard increase the possibility of transmission.

[Ibrahim Mohamed Boghdadi, Tarek El Mahdey Korah, El Sayed Ibrahim El Shayeb and Amir Makram El Marzouky. Intrafamilial spread of hepatitis C Virus in low socioeconomic population, Menoufiya Governorate. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):9-12]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 2. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.02

Key Words: Intrafamilial, Hepatitis C, Low socioeconomic

Full Text

2

3

Protective Effect of pomegranate molasses (PM) Against Genotoxicity Induced by Benzoic acid (E-210) in human lymphocytes in vitro

EKHLAS. M.F. Al -Tai٭

Ministry of Sciences and technology, Environment and Water Res.

Iraq- Baghdad

 E-mail: sunlife882010@yahoo.com

Abstract: The Middle Eastern diets contain many foods, among which the pomegranate molasses, are believed to have antioxidant effects, but yet, no research has been performed to evaluate the possible prophylactic role of this product to the protection of the genetic material of the cellular effects, therefore This the current study was undertaken to investigate the effects of pomegranate molasses in three concentrations (5, 10 and 15µg / mL) on induced genotoxicity by Benzoic acid (E-210) with concentration of 500µg / mL in human peripheral lymphocytes by using two types of cytogenetic studies ) mitotic index and chromosomal aberration test through three types of transactions (before, after, with treatment). Results showed that Benzoic acid (E-210) induced chromosomal aberrations, and decreased mitotic activity in human peripheral lymphocytes. An interaction study of pomegranate molasses with Benzoic acid (E-210), All the treatment led to reduce the toxic effect of Benzoic acid (E-210). be concluded that the pomegranate molasses, of the antimutagenic potential that may prevent the mutagenic effect of various cytotoxic Food additives.

[EKHLAS. M.F. Al –Tai. Protective Effect of pomegranate molasses (PM) Against Genotoxicity Induced by Benzoic acid (E-210) in human lymphocytes in vitro. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):13-16]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 3. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.03

Keywords: cytogenetic, pomegranate molasses, Benzoic acid (E-210), blood cells in human lymphocytes

Full Text

3

4

Potential Protective Effect of Curcumin on Acitretin - Induced Nephrotoxicity in Adult Albino Rat (Biochemical and Ultrastructure Studies)

Hala  Hammed  Mossalam and Asmaa Fathy Yousuf

Departments of Anatomy & Physiology, Faculty of Medicine for Girls Al-Azhar University – Cairo.

catandsod@yahoo.com

Abstract: Acitretin is an oral retinoid (Vitamin A- derivative) which widely used to treat severe psoriasis; however it can cause severe damage to the kidneys. The purpose of this study was to find out the effect of acitretin administration on rat kidney and the possible protective effect of curcumin against acitretin –induced nephrotoxicity.  In this study four groups of rats (10 rats each) were used G1: control group. G2: animals received curcumin only (300 mg/kg/day) for three months. G3: animals received acitretin only (25mg/ kg /day) orally for three months. G4: animals received both curcumin the same dose of G 2 and acitretin the same dose of G 3 for three months. At the end of the experimental period the kidney function and markers of oxidative stress were investigated. Moreover, histopathological examination of the renal tissue was carried by light and electron microscopes. The result of the present study showed that the treatment with acitretin resulted in elevation in the levels of serum urea, creatinine, cystatin C and lipocalin in acitretin treated group indicating kidney dysfunction. Furthermore acitretin induced marked alteration in kidney tissue; these included glomerular tuft congestion, tubular degeneration and tissue necrosis. Acitretin administration also resulted in significant decrease in the activity of oxidative stress markers, renal superoxide dismutase (SOD) and reduced glutathione (GSH). However curcumin supplementation to acitretin treated rats resulted in improvement in kidney functions as shown by the significant decrease in serum urea and creatinine as well as cystatin C, and lipocalin.  Furthermore there was significant improvement in the histological picture towards the normal when curcumin is used with acitretin. Moreover, the activity of oxidative stress markers, renal SOD and GSH, were also significantly elevated by curcumin administration when compared to acitretin treated rats. Conclusion the results of the current study showed that curcumin possess a potent protective effect from the oxidative stress induced by acitretin on the kidney.

[Hala  Hammed  Mossalam and Asmaa Fathy Yousuf. Potential Protective Effect of Curcumin on Acitretin - Induced Nephrotoxicity in Adult Albino Rat (Biochemical and Ultrastructure Studies). Nat Sci 2014;12(11):17-30]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 4. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.04

Keywords: kidney, Acitretin, Curcumin, ultra structure, anti oxidant protective effect

Full Text

        4

5

Genetic variability for yield, its components and quality traits in upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)

Hafiz Ghazanfar Abbas¹, Abid Mahmood¹, Qurban Ali², Saif-ul-Malook², Muhammad Waseem³ and Nazar

Hussain Khan⁴

¹Cotton Research Institute, Ayub Agricultural Research Institute, Faisalabad.

²National Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab Lahore, Pakistan

³Faculty of Agriculture, Lasbela University of Agriculture, Water and Marine Sciences Uthal, Pakistan

⁴Department of Continuing Education, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan

Corresponding E-mail: saim1692@gmail.com

Abstract: The study was carried out at Ayub Agricultural Research Institute Faisalabad Pakistan during 2012 to evaluate twelve cotton genotypes for the development of high yielding cotton varieties. The genotypes were sown in completely randomized block design with three replications. Data was recorded for various quantitative traits and analyzed to access genetic variability among genotypes. It was found that the boll size of FH-207 (1) and FH-207 (22) was large, tapering shape, good opening and leaf was of broad size as compared to all other varieties. Higher values of heritability and genetic advance were recorded for first bud days (98.186%, 126.640%), sympodial branches (53.846%, 63.992%), monopodial branches (99.392%. 51.475%), number of bolls (95.937%, 181.233%), plant height (94.233%, 151.062%), boll weight (89.912, 23.485%), GOT% (56.938%, 39.959%) and fibre strength (66.545%, 51.332%) respectively. Significant correlations were found for boll weight, number of bolls, staple length, fibre strength and fibre fineness. From prescribed study it was concluded that higher heritability indicated that selection for hybrid cotton may be helpful to improve yield and quality of cotton while genetic advance suggested that selection for synthetic variety may be fruitful and significant correlation among traits suggested that selection may be useful for the enhancement of yield and quality of cotton.

[Hafiz Ghazanfar Abbas, Abid Mahmood, Qurban Ali, Saif-ul-Malook, Muhammad Waseem and Nazar, Hussain Khan. Genetic variability for yield, its components and quality traits in upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). Nat Sci 2014;12(11):31-35]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 5. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.05

Keywords: heritability, genetic advance, correlation, Gossypium hirsutum

Full Text

5

6

THE GREAT UNIVERSAL SPIN

The creation of the Universe and estimation of its lifetime

Theory by

Dr Mohammed Faig A Alrazak

MBCHB (Bagdad), FRCS (London)

Abstract: The origin and creation of the Universe by the gradual formation of the energy wrapped around the elementary elements. This formation followed by the Great Cosmic spin or the Universal twister with its tremendous speed has led to the first nucleosynthesis from the eventual interaction of the fundamental or elementary elements, aided by the Universal energy and the Universal factor ends with the birth of the first primeval atom. There was no explosion and no Big Bang. In this theory, the Origin of the fundamental elements and the energy that led to the creation of the Universe are also revealed. This theory also provides the equation for calculation (according to current available knowledge) the life span or life time of the observable Universe.

[Dr Mohammed Faig A Alrazak. The Great Universal Spin, The creation of the Universe and estimation of its lifetime. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):36-39]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 6. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.06

Keywords: universe; fundamental elements; mass; freedman equation; cosmos; life span; creation; lifetime; radiation; Hubble constant; galaxy; supernova; multiple universe, universal compartments.

Full Text

6

7

Study the Nematicidal Efficiency of Corchorus olitorius, Cinnamomum camphora, Portulace oleraceae and Lantana camara Extracted Saponins and Their Formulations on Root-Knot Nematodes Meloidogyne Spp.

Hala S. Ibrahim¹, S.E.S. Hamouda² A. M. A. El-kady² and H. I. Abd-Alla²

¹Fungicide, Bactericide and Nematicide Research Department, Agriculture Research Center (ARC), Cairo, Egypt.

²Formulation Research Department, Central Agricultural Pesticides Lab. (CAPL), Agriculture Research Center (ARC), Cairo, Egypt.

Saad_capl@yahoo.com

Abstract: Total saponin was extracted from plants namely Corchorus olitorius, Portulace oleraceae, Cinnamomum camphora and Lantana camara. The nematicidal efficiency was evaluated against second stage larvae under laboratory conditions through dipping and migration techniques. Also the effect of the tested saponins on the penetration of second stage larvae to egg-plant roots was studied under green house conditions. Migration technique was found to be more accurate in evaluating the nematicidal efficiency than dipping technique. The saponin of Portulace oleraceae was more effective against the migration of second stage larvae than that of Lantana camara, the respective EC₅₀ values were 4526.04 and 4906.8 ppm. On the other hand there was no relationship found between the tested concentrations and the inhibition percentage of migration in case of Cinnamomum camphora. From another point of view no gall formation was recorded on roots of egg-plant that was infected by 330 second stage larvae when treated with 5000 and 10000 ppm, for the saponins of Portulace oleraceae and Lantana camara the respective percentage of inhibition in root galling formation was 98.9 and 100 %. Both saponins of Portulace oleraceae and Lantana camara were formulated as soluble concentrate (SL) and passed successfully all the tests determined by the organizations of pesticides. Both saponin formulations of Portulace oleraceae and Lantana camara increased the nematicidal efficiency than their active ingredient saponins by 18.36 and 97.9 % respectively.

[Hala S. Ibrahim, S.E.S. Hamouda A. M. A. El-kady and H. I. Abd-Alla. Study the Nematicidal Efficiency of Corchorus olitorius, Cinnamomum camphora, Portulace oleraceae and Lantana camara Extracted Saponins and Their Formulations on Root-Knot Nematodes Meloidogyne Spp. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):40-45]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 7. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.07

Keywords: Saponin, Nematicides, Root-Knot Nematode and Formulation.

Full Text

7

8

Analysis of the physico-chemical properties of the soil and climatic attribute on vegetation in Central Himalaya

J P Mehta¹, Shreshthamani² and V P Bhatt¹

¹ Department of Botany, HNB Garhwal University Srinagar Garhwal, India

² Department of Botany, Govt P G College Gopeshwar, Chamoli, India

E mail: bhattvp3@yahoo.com, jagatpmehta@gmail.com

Abstract: The present study was undertaken in moist temperate forest of Taknaur reserve forest of Uttarkashi in Central Himalaya, India. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of climatic attributes and physico-chemical properties of soils on structure and composition of forest vegetation. On the basis of altitude, slope, aspect, and species composition four forest types were selected for the study. Physical and chemical properties of the soil as, soil type, water holding capacity, moisture percentage, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, available potassium, organic carbon, C:N ratioand pH were analyzed for three different depths viz., (i) (0–10 cm), (ii) (11–20 cm), and (iii) (21–30 cm) in all the selected forest types. Phytosociological and diversity parameters viz., density (ha^-1), basal cover (m²ha^-1), species richness, Shannon–Wiener diversity index () and concentration of dominance (Cd) were also calculated for each forest type. It was remarked to notice that the entire study area has the sandy loam soil. Water holding capacity was ranged from 15.67 to 22.58. Phosphorus was higher in the soil of lower horizons of all the forest types. pH of all the forest types was slightly acidic. The values of physical and chemical properties of the soil in all the forest types were higher than the values previously recorded for the similar forests of the central Himalaya. The possible reason being luxuriant vegetation and undisturbed nature of these forest types, which is evident from higher values of diversity and other phytosociological parameters.

[J P Mehta, Shreshthamani and V P Bhatt. Analysis of the physico-chemical properties of the soil and climatic attribute on vegetation in Central Himalaya. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):46-54]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 8. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.08

Keywords: Basal cover, Climate, Density, Diversity, Forest type, Soil type, C:N ratio, Organic carbon.

Full Text

8

9

Prevalence and Antimicrobial Sensitivity of Urinary Tract Infection among Pregnant Woman in Khartoum Stat

Nazar Abdalazeem Osman¹, Amal Mohammed Osman², Habeeb Allah Abdullah²

¹Departments of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Sebha University, Sebha, Libya

²West Nile College, Department of medical laboratory, Khartoum, Sudan

Email: nazar585@hotmail.com

Abstract: Introduction: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common infections and it account for about 1 – 2% of all consultation. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common medical complications of pregnancy; it has been reported among 20% of the pregnant women. Objective: This study was conducted to detect the frequency of UTIs in pregnant women, isolate and identify the bacterial causative agents, determine the effective treatment and to study the validity of pyuria as indication to UTIs. Methods: Descriptive cross–sectional study, fifty pregnant women randomly selected was admitted into the study. All samples were inoculated into cystine lactose electrolyte deficiency (CLED) and incubated aerobically. Microscopic examination was done to detect the presence of pus cells, red blood cells, epithelial cells, yeast cells, crystals, casts, ova or other materials. Results: Out of Fifty pregnant women, the frequency of significant bacteruria of urine culture was 30% and significant Pyuria was 42.7%, the rate of the infection with UTIs was higher in women with the first trimester. The commonest organism isolated was Escherichia coli accounting for (50%) followed by Klebsiella. Pneumonia (20%), Staph. Saprophyticus (10%), Staph. aureus (8%) and Proteus. Mirabilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated with equal rate of (6%). Most isolates were sensitive to Meropenem 66.7% and Chloramphenicol (63.6%). Conclusion: frequency of significant bacteruria of urine culture and significant Pyuria were (30%) and (42.7%) respectively, the commonest organism isolated was E.coli. Most isolates were sensitive to Meropenem and Chloramphenicol.

[Nazar Abdalazeem Osman, Amal Mohammed Osman, Habeeb Allah Abdullah. Prevalence and Antimicrobial Sensitivity of Urinary Tract Infection among Pregnant Woman in Khartoum Stat. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):55-58]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 9. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.09

Keywords: Prevalence, Antimicrobial Sensitivity, Urinary Tract Infection, Pregnant Woman ,Khartoum Stat

Full Text

9

10

Comparative Study of Auramine-O Staining and Ziehl-Neelsen for Diagnosis of Pulmonary Tuberculosis

Nazar Abdalazeem Osman¹, Mustafa Altigani Mustafa², Mona khalafalla Hassan³, Mohamed Mohamed Tarek ³

¹Departments of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Sebha University, Sebha, Libya. ²Departments of Microbiology, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, Al Neelain University, Khartoum, Sudan. ³West Nile College, Department of Medical Laboratory, Khartoum, Sudan.

Email: nazar585@hotmail.com

Abstract: Introduction: ZN stain is commonly used throughout the world and still remains the standard method against which new tests must be measured. FL staining is regarded as a more reliable method due to more intensive binding of mycolic acids of the bacilli to phenol auramine-O, so that the bacilli can stand out sharply against black background to allow rapid and accurate screening under low power objective. Objective: this study was to compare the performance of Zn stains and Auramine-O fluorescent microscopy staining techniques in detecting the presence of Mycobacterium bacilli in sputum. Method: one hundred patients suspected of having pulmonary TB, referred to Aboanga hospital were admitted to this study, sputum samples were examined by using direct and concentrated auramine O and ZN stain. Result: Positive concentrated auramine method result distributed as (14/3+++, 11/2++ and 30/1+), Positive concentrated ZN method distributed as (4/3+++, 10/2++ and 10/1+) while Positive direct auramine smears distribute as (4/3+++, 10/2++ and 11/1+), positive direct ZN method distributed as (2/3+++, 3/2++ and 9/1+). Conclusion: FM greatly improves the diagnostic value of the sputum smear especially in patients with a low density of bacilli that are likely to be missed on ZN stained smears, concentrated method on both auramine O and ZN stain more sensitive than direct method.

[Nazar Abdalazeem Osman, Mustafa Altigani Mustafa, Mona khalafalla Hassan, Mohamed Mohamed Tarek. Comparative Study of Auramine-O Staining and Ziehl-Neelsen for Diagnosis of Pulmonary Tuberculosis. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):59-63]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 10. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.10

Keywords: Comparative Study, Auramine-O Staining, Ziehl-Neelsen, Diagnosis, Pulmonary Tuberculosis

Full Text

10

11

Identification of Fungal Growth in Formalin Fix Human Cadaver among Faculties of Medicine at Khartoum Stat

Nazar Abdalazeem Osman¹, Smah Mustafa Abdeen², Aisha Ahmed Edriss², Amel Ali Sulieman³

¹Departments of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Sebha University, Sebha, Libya. ²West Nile College, Department of Medical Laboratory, Khartoum, Sudan. ³Ahfad University for Women, Ahfad Center for Research and Technology, Omdurman, Sudan

Email: nazar585@hotmail.com

Abstract: Cadavers are main teaching tools in Anatomy and are handled by the staff and students routinely. One of the problems that face anatomists is the growth of fungi on cadavers. The aim of this study is to detect fungi that growth on formalin fix human cadaver in different medical colleges in Sudan. Fifty one swabs from issecting room was collected from 13 faculties of medicine, swabs inoculated into Sabouraud dextrose agar with the addition of chloramphenicol to suppress bacterial growth and incubated at 25⁰C. Five different species, Microsporum spp, Aspergillus spp, Cryptococcus spp, Trichophyton spp and Candida spp, the source of our isolated fungi, could be air or water, or they could have been brought with the dead bodies in the first place. Instructors and student should use face masks and rubber gloves for protection.

[Nazar Abdalazeem Osman, Smah Mustafa Abdeen, Aisha Ahmed Edriss, Amel Ali Sulieman. Identification of Fungal Growth in Formalin Fix Human Cadaver among Faculties of Medicine at Khartoum Stat. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):64-67]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 11. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.11

Keywords: formalin, fungal growth

Full Text

11

12

Effect of plant growth regulators on callus induction and plant regeneration of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L. Beith Alpha)

I.I. Lashin* and D. Mamdouh

Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt

*lashnislam@yahoo.com

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to develop an efficient protocol for callus induction and regeneration of cucumber cultivar Beith Alpha. Shoot tip, leaf, nodal segment and internode explants of cucumber Cucumis sativus L. (Beith Alpha) were cultured on MS medium supplemented with different concentrations of auxin and cytokinins. Formation of calli from leaf, nodal segment and internode were obtained on MS media with NAA 1mg/L and BA 1mg/L while, the best result of calli from shoot tip was obtained on MS with 0.5 mg/L 2-4.D and 0.5 mg/L Kin. Optimum shoot regeneration was observed on MS media containing 1mg/L BA. The obtained results revealed that the highest significant of root number formation (5.33) and length of root (3.63 cm) was recorded with MS supplemented with 2mg/L NAA.

[Lashin II and Mamdouh D. Effect of plant growth regulators on callus induction and plant regeneration of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L. Beith Alpha). Nat Sci 2014;12(11):68-74]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 12. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.12

Keywords: Cucumis sativus; callus induction; plant growth regulators; multiple shoot and acclimatization

Full Text

12

13

Manganese and Zinc nutrition of Sesame (Sesamum indicum) in Mubi, Northern Guinea Savannah Zone of Nigeria.

H. E. Shehu

Department of Crop Science, Adamawa State University, Mubi, Adamawa State, Nigeria.

Email: harushe2003@gmail.com

Abstract: Studies were conducted during the 2005 and 2006 rainy season at the Food and Agriculture Organisation/Tree Crop Programme (FAO/TCP) Teaching and Research farm of the Adamawa State University, Mubi to assess the effects of Mn and Zn on the growth and yield characters of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) in Mubi, Northern Guinea savannah zone of Nigeria. The experiment consisted of optimum rates of N, P, and K (75 kg N, 45 kg P₂O₅ and 22.5 kg K₂O) combined with two rates of Zn (0.5 and 1 kg ha^-1) and two rates of Mn (0.5 and 1 kg ha^-1) which gave 8 treatments combinations replicated 3 times giving a total of 24 plots. The treatment combinations were 0, NPK, NPK + 0.5 kg Zn ha^-1, NPK + 1 kg Zn ha^-1, NPK + 0.5 kg Mn ha^-1, NPK + 1 kg Mn ha^-1, NPK + 0.5 kg Zn ha^-1 + 0.5 kg Mn ha^-1, NPK + 1 kg Zn ha^-1 + 1 kg Mn ha^-1. These were laid out in randomized complete block design. Results shows that there were no significant (P=0.05) effect of Mn and Zn on stem height, number of leaves, number of branches and capsules. The different grain yield responses were associated to their differences in Mn and Zn concentrations. Sesame seed yield increased by 2 and 5% from the application of 0.5 kg Mn ha^-1 and 0.5 kg Zn ha^-1, respectively. Dry matter increased by 13.2 and 2% from 1 kg Mn ha^-1 and 0.5 kg Zn ha^-1 rates, respectively. Mn uptake was associated to Zn uptake (r=0.403).

[Shehu HE. Manganese and Zinc nutrition of Sesame (Sesamum indicum) in Mubi, Northern Guinea Savannah Zone of Nigeria. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):75-80]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 13. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.13

Keywords: Manganese, Zinc, nutrition, yield, sesame

Full Text

13

14

A review of production for various Bt and non Bt cotton varieties in Pakistan

¹Ghulam Mustafa, ¹Ehsanullah, ^2*Saif-ul-Malook, ¹Muhammad Sarfaraz, ⁴Muhammad Khalid Shahbaz ¹Usman Chopra and Qurban Ali^2,3

¹Department of Agronomy, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad

²Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad

³Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore Pakistan

⁴Department of Agronomy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan

*Corresponding author Email: saifulmalookpbg@gmail.com

Abstract: Cotton is an important fibre cash crop throughout world. It is adversely affected by the attack of various biotic and abiotic factors. Among biotic factor insects/pests damage is highly adversive that caused a great loss of yield and quality of cotton. To develop resistance use of molecular biology has become an important technology for introducing genes of interest in crop plants. Development of genetically modified crops has helped to increase the yield and quality significantly in the developing countries. Bt cotton is grown throughout the world that has showed a significant effect to improve yield and quality. The present review will describe the use of Bt by various workers to evaluate its yield potential. It was concluded by many of the workers that Bt cotton should be used to meet the demand and supply of good yield and quality of cotton.

[ Ghulam Mustafa, Ehsanullah, Saif-ul-Malook, Muhammad Sarfaraz, Muhammad Khalid Shahbaz Usman Chopra and Qurban Ali. A review of production for various Bt and non Bt cotton varieties in Pakistan. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):81-91]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 14. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.14

Keywords: Bt cotton, genetically modified crops, molecular biology, cotton quality

Full Text

14

15

Yield attributes and productivity of various Bt and non Bt cotton varieties in Faisalabad environment.

¹Ghulam Mustafa, ¹Ehsanullah,^2*Saif-ul-Malook, ³Ejaz Ahmad,¹Muhammad Sarfaraz, ³Saeed Ahmad Qaisarani and ⁴Muhammad Khalid Shahbaz

¹Department of Agronomy, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad

²Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad

³Department of Environmental Sciences, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Vehari, Punjab, Pakistan

⁴Department of Agronomy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan

*Corresponding author Email: *saifulmalookpbg@gmail.com

Abstract: A field experiment was conducted during summer 2012 to evaluate the yield potential of different Bt. And non Bt. cotton varieties at Agronomic Research Area, University of Agriculture Faisalabad. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications. Net plot size was 6.0 m × 3.0 m and crop was sown on ridges manually. Ridge to ridge distance was 75 cm and plant to plant distance was 30 cm. Crop was sown on fifth May using Bt cotton varieties AA-703, AA-905, MNH-886, MNH-456, SGA-1, ST-009, Sitara-010, FH-142, CIM-506, CIM-598, CIM-599 CIM-602, IUB-222. All the other agronomic practices were kept uniform. Data were recorded for yield parameters. Data collected was analyzed statistically using Fisher’s analysis of variance technique and by employing computer program MSTATC. Least significance difference test at 5% probability level was evaluated to compare the treatment means. The results expressed that the variety MNH-886 performed significantly better than other Bt varieties. The variety MNH-886 attained the maximum height of 158.1cm, while in case of number of flowers per plant, the maximum number of flowers were observed in variety MNH-886. Maximum number of flower shed was observed in variety AA-905. Maximum number of bolls were observed in variety MNH-456, while the maximum number of opened bolls per plant and boll weight was observed in variety MNH886. MNH-886 gave maximum yield which was 3111.08(kg ha¹).

[ Ghulam Mustafa, Ehsanullah, Saif-ul-Malook, Ejaz Ahmad, Muhammad Sarfaraz, Saeed Ahmad Qaisarani and Muhammad Khalid Shahbaz. Yield attributes and productivity of various Bt and non Bt cotton varieties in Faisalabad environment. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):92-103]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 15. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.15

Keywords: yield attributes, productivity, various Bt and non Bt cotton varieties, Faisalabad environment

Full Text

15

16

Grand relativity theory

Dr. Mohammed Faig Abad Alrazak

MBCHB (Baghdad), FRCS

alrazak@yahoo.com

Abstract: The grand force which control our universe is the vital force and not the so called gravity. The vital force is the force which control the interaction, movements of particles, energy, the force which control the formation of particles, stars, planets, dark energy, dark matter, the movements, expansion, interaction, acceleration and the dark drift of the universe and how mass and particles interacts in the universe at the macroscopic, microscopic or subatomic level in the visible and non-visible universe. The Grand relativity is a new theory to explain the  universe holds together and it will eventually replaces both the Newton's law of gravity (by Isaac Newton)(1) and the relativity theories (by Elbert Einstein) (2), because gravity, if it does exist, it is  one of the weakest force in the universe, speed of light is no longer the speed limit of the universe and the force that govern the quantum particles and energy is the vital force with particles travels and exchange energy and information with speed faster than speed of light. The Grand Relativity theory contain the grand equation and as follows: Fvr = Ee Ur. Fvr is the vital force, Ee is the differential energy and Ur (depending on the object or energy) is the rate of the natural accretion, rate of  growth, rate of acceleration, rate of intussusceptions, rate of drifting, rate of changes of any natural matters (whether biological or non-biological) or energy in the universe.

[Dr.Mohammed F. Abad Alrazak. Grand relativity theory. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):104-107]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 16. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.16

Keywords: Energy; mass; universe; black hole; force; relativity; photon; gravity; radiation; mass; acceleration; speed of light; galaxy; particle; biology; dark matter; quantum; nebula; force; acceleration; subatomic; supernova

Full Text

16

17

Study of the mesophase behavior of the possible dimers formed through mixing of two different para-substituted benzoic acid derivatives

Refaat I. Nessim¹ and Imad Ed. Albalaa²

¹ Dept. of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza- Egypt

² Dept. of Science, Faculty of Basic Education, PAAET

refaat_nessim@hotmail.com

Abstract: Binary mixtures of two types of 4-substituted benzoic acids, covering the whole composition range, were prepared by melting both components together, stirring to give an intimate blend, and then cooling to room temperature. The mixtures prepared were characterized for their mesophase behavior by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and polarized-optical microscopy (POM). The first type of the acid is substituted with a small compact polar group that cover a wide range of polarity. The other type of the acid is 4-alkoxy benzoic acid bearing an alkoxy (OCnH2n+1) group with varying chain length (n = 6–16). Binary phase diagrams were constructed whereby all phases observed were identified by POM. The smectic C. (SmC) mesophase was observed in all mixtures investigated, while the nematic phase (N) was observed, together with the SmC phase, only in mixtures possessing the acid homologues with n≤12 carbons. Complex formation was also supported by FT-IR spectroscopic measurements.

[Refaat I. Nessim and Imad Ed. Albalaa. Study of the mesophase behavior of the possible dimers formed through mixing of two different para-substituted benzoic acid derivatives. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):108-113]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 17. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.17

Keywords: Alkoxy benzoic acid, Smectic C, Nematic phase

Full Text

17

18

Evaluation of Garcinia mangostana seed oil based feed in male rats.

Sarah Onyenibe Nwozo ^1*, Oluwafemi James Talabi ¹, Babatunji Emmanuel Oyinloye ²

¹ Nutritional and Industrial Research Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan 200002, Nigeria; ² Department of Biochemistry, College of Sciences, Afe Babalola University, PMB 5454, Ado-Ekiti 360001, Nigeria Ado Ekiti, Nigeria.

Email: sonwozo@yahoo.com; onyenibe.nwozo@mail.ui.edu.ng

Phone: 234-802-3658-268; Fax: 234-2-810-3043

Abstract: Evaluation of the nutritional and probable toxicological effect of Garcinia mangostana (GM) seed oil-based formulated diet on some biochemical parameters of selected rat tissue and serum was studied. The physicochemical properties of the seed oils gave acid value of 4.58±0.49 mg KOH/g, the iodine value of 53.65±2.34 mg I₂/100g, peroxide value of 3.27±0.07 mEq / kg and saponification value 134.0±6.56mgKOH/ 100g. The smoke and flash points were 170 and 215 ^oC. Animals were placed in four groups of 6 rats each, group 1 had 10 % vegetable oil (VO), Group 2 had10 % GM, group 3 had 5 % GM and 5 %VO and group 4 had 3 % GM and 7 % VO. All animals had increase in body weight of over 30%, with group 4 having the highest gain in weight of 38.5%. The liver and brain weight were significantly decreased (p<0.05) in group 2 compared to control and Group 4 rats had significantly increased (p<0.05) organ weights relative to control. The serum triglyceride, cholesterol and high density lipoprotein cholesterol of the rats on GM seed oil increased but the artherogenic index decreased, specifically Garcinia mangostana decreased the atherogenic index by over 200 % compared to VO. 10 % GM seed oil feeding for eight weeks caused significant (p<0.05) increase in SOD and MDA, significantly (p<0.05) decreased catalase activity while GSH concentration was not statistically significant. GM oil fed animals had serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities decreased compared to control and histopathology result showed normal tissue architecture. The results from this study show GM oil is edible and 5 % G. Mangostana seed oil based feed was identified to have better effects in this experiment.

[Sarah OnyenibeNwozo, Oluwafemi James Talabi, Babatunji Emmanuel Oyinloye. Evaluation of Garcinia mangostana seed oil based feed in male rats. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):114-121]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 18. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.18

Keywords: Garcinia mangostana, physicochemical properties, lipid profile, antioxidant, histopathology

Full Text

18

19

Using Ridge Least Median Squares to Estimate the Parameter by Solving Multicollinearity and Outliers Problems

Kafi Dano Pati, Robiah Adnan, Bello Abdulkadir Rasheed

Department of Mathematical Sciences, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 Skudai, Johor, Malaysia

kafi_dano@yahoo.com

Abstract: In the multiple linear regression analysis, the ridge regression estimator is often used to address multicollinearity. Besides multicollinearity, outliers are also a problem in the multiple linear regression analysis. We propose new biased estimators robust ridge regression called the ridge least median squares (RLMS) estimator in the presence of both outliers and multicollinearity. For this purpose, a simulation study is conducted in order to see the difference between the proposed method and the existing methods in terms of their effectiveness; the mean square error. In our simulations, the performance of the proposed method RLMS is examined for different number of observations, and the different percentage of outliers. The results of different illustrative cases are presented. This paper also provides the results of the RLMS on a real-life data set. The results show that RLMS is better than the existing methods. (OLS, RLAV and Ridge Regression) in the presence of multicollinearity and outliers.

[Pati K.D., Adnan R., Rasheed  B. A. Using Ridge Least Median Squares to Estimate the Parameter by Solving Multicollinerity and Outliers Problems. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):122-128]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 19. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.19

Keywords: Multicollinearity, ridge regression, outliers, robust estimation, robust ridge methods

Full Text

19

20

Physico-Chemical And Bacteriological Characterization Of Oke-Afa Canal Water In Lagos State, Nigeria

¹Raji  Olawale Razaq., ²*Oluduro Anthonia Olufunke, ¹Ofoezie  Emmanuel.

¹ Institute of Ecology and Environmental Studies, Faculty of Science, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria, 220005, Email: wale14980@yahoo.com

¹ Institute of Ecology and Environmental Studies, Faculty of Science, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria, 220005, Email: emma_ofoezie@yahoo.co.uk, +2348034395652

^2* Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife,  Osun State, Nigeria, 220005,  aoluduro2003@yahoo.co.uk; aoluduro@oauife.edu.ng, +2348069379885- Corresponding author

Abstract: The physico-chemical and bacteriological characteristics of Oke-Afa canal water, Nigeria were investigated. Samples were collected during rainy and dry seasons from April 2009 to March 2010. The physico-chemical parameters were assessed by standard methods and the total viable bacteria by multiple tube technique. Antibiotic susceptibility of isolates was by agar-diffusion method. The mean value of physico-chemical parameters investigated include; water temperature (28.6 ± 0.3^°C), pH (6.9 ± 0.1), conductivity (495.9 ± 47.8 mS cm^-1), Total Dissolved Solid (TDS) (288.0 ± 28.5 mg l^-1), Dissolved Oxygen (4.4 ± 0.3 mg l^-1) and Biological Oxygen Demand  (1.3 ± 0.2 mg l^-1). Conductivity, TDS and turbidity varied significantly (P = 0.001) between the seasons. The concentrations of heavy metals (Fe, 0.0 – 0.03 mg l^-1, Zn, 0.0 – 0.09 mg l^-1and Mn, 0.0 – 0.02 mg l^-1) varied. Nineteen bacterial species were recovered of which Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella edwardsii were the most prevalent. Resistance to antibiotics was in varying proportions-Ceftriazone (50%), nitrofurantoin (37.1%) and cotrimoxazole (18.5%). Nine different multiple antibiotic resistance patterns were observed. The chemical composition of the canal and the quality of bacteria detected could pose serious health hazard to residents around the canal.

[ Raji  Olawale Razaq.,  Oluduro Anthonia Olufunke,  Ofoezie  Emmanuel. Physico-Chemical And Bacteriological Characterization Of Oke-Afa Canal Water In Lagos State, Nigeria. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):129-136]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 20. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.20

Keywords: Canal water,   Physico-chemicals, Pollutants, Heavy metals, bacteria

Full Text

20

21

Surgical Management of Femoral Neck Non Union in Children with Valgus Intertrochanteric Osteotomy

Adel Abdel Azim and Amr M El –Adawy

Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine Zagazig University, Egypt

a4_sf@hotmail.com

Abstract: Pediatric femoral neck fractures are quite rare; they represent less than 1% of all pediatric fractures. Non united femoral neck fractures are more commonly reported in developing countries because of mismanagement by bone setters and delayed referrals. Non union of the femoral neck fractures in children represents a challenge to orthopedic surgeons; this is due to difficult treatment and high complication rates. Since the introduction of Pauwel`s osteotomy and its modifications in treatment of these cases it became the preferable method of treatment by many orthopedic surgeons. Twelve children with non united femoral neck fractures (10 males and 2 females) with an average age of 8.5 years (7 – 15 years). The mechanisms of injury were RTA in ten patients and fall from a height in 2 cases. The children (4 neglected cases and 8 cases of femoral neck non union after failed internal fixation) were treated at Zagazig University hospitals in the period from September of 2008 to August of 2012. All were treated with valgus intertrochnateric osteotomy and fixed with pediatric dynamic hip screw (PDHS). The average postoperative follow period was 18.6 months, range (18 -24 months). Plain films were studied thoroughly to detect signs of avascular necrosis, proximal migration of the femur, the degree of neck resorption, inclination of fracture lines (Pauwel`s angle) and the neck shaft angle. Lateral view was taken to detect retroversion. Healing was achieved in the fracture site and osteotomy site in 9 cases (75%). The mean time of union was 4.5 months (range from 3.5 to 9 months). Healing was achieved both clinically and radiologically. The 3 cases failed to achieve union, one case had avascular necrosis preoperative, the other 2 cases showed increase fracture gap, neck resorption and implant failure. Two cases of preoperative avascular necrosis healed completely in average time of 9 months while one case had progression of the osteonecrosis with head collapse. Treatment of pediatric femoral neck fractures with accurate anatomical rigid fixation on urgent base is the golden standard for optimum results and the best way to avoid a high rate of complications associated with these fractures. For neglected cases of pediatric femoral neck fractures valgus intertrochnateric osteotomy and rigid internal fixation is the technique of choice in treating this problem.

[Adel Abdel Azim and Amr M El –Adawy. Surgical Management of Femoral Neck Non Union in Children with Valgus Intertrochanteric Osteotomy. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):137-141]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 21. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.21

Key Words: Pediatric femoral neck fracture, non union, valgus intertrochnateric osteotomy.

Full Text

21

22

Impact of Joint Toxic Action of Mineral and Plant Oils on Efficiency Enhancement of Insect Growth Regulators and Indoxacarb against Spodoptera Littoralis (Boisd.)

Yacoub, Sh.S.¹; M.Singab² and Hala, M. Abou Yousef²

¹Plant Protection Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Dokki, Egypt

²Central Agricultural Pesticide Laboratory, Agricultural Research Center, Dokki, Egypt

halaabouyousef1@yahoo.com

Abstract: The joint toxic action of Avaunt compound, IGRs (Dimilin and Cymax), plant oil (Orange) and mineral oils (KZ-Kapee) was investigated on laboratory strain of the 4^th instar larvae of Egyptian cotton leaf worm, Spodoptera littoralis (Boisd). Mixtures of Avaunt/Dimilin showed highest synergistic action that was clearly observed with the combinations of the lowest concentration of Dimilin (LC₁₀+LC₁₀), (LC₂₅+LC₁₀) and (LC₅₀+LC₁₀), while, Mixtures of Avaunt/Cymax showed the highest synergistic action that was only observed with the combination of LC₂₅+LC₁₀. Mixtures of Avaunt with Kapee oil or with Orange oil at different concentrations showed the highest potential action that was clearly observed with the combinations (LC₁₀+LC₁₀), (LC₂₅+LC₁₀), (LC₁₀+LC₂₅), (LC₂₅+LC₂₅) and (LC₁₀+LC₅₀), also, slight synergism was clearly shown with the combination (LC₅₀+LC₁₀), while, mixtures of Avaunt / KZ oil produced different levels of antagonism, except with the combination (LC₂₅+LC₁₀) showing slight potentiation. Mixtures of Dimilin with KZ oil or Orange oil showed different levels of antagonism, except with (LC₁₀+LC₂₅) that was produced the highest level of synergism for Dimilin/KZ oil and mixture of Dimilin/Kapee oil showing different levels of additive and synergistic action. While Cymax was the highest synergistic action when mixed with KZ or Kapee oils at concentrations (LC₁₀+LC₁₀) and (LC₁₀+LC₂₅). The additive effective produced from mixtures Cymax/KZ and Cymax/Kapee oil with combinations (LC₅₀+LC₂₅) and (LC₅₀+LC₅₀) for both mixtures. Though, use mineral or plant oils, IGR (Cymax-Dimilin) and Avaunt compound in binary mixtures with low concentration, proved to be effective in control of S. littoralis is a well polyphagous as one of the most important agricultural pest in Egypt.

[Yacoub, Sh.S.; M.Singab and Hala, M. Abou Yousef. Impact of Joint Toxic Action of Mineral and Plant Oils on Efficiency Enhancement of Insect Growth Regulators and Indoxacarb against Spodoptera Littoralis (Boisd.). Nat Sci 2014;12(11):142-146]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 22. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.22

Keywords: Spodoptera Littoralis (Boisd.), Insecticide, Insect Growth Regulators, Mixture, Oils.

Full Text

22

23

Adsorption of Acetaminophen from aqueous solutions onto hexadecyltrimethylammonium modified kaolinite

Chigbundu C. Emmanuel, Omonoh I. Odigie

Department of Chemical Sciences, Bells University of Technology, Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria.

emmachijy@yahoo.com

Abstract: In this study, N-acetyl-p-aminophenol (APAP) otherwise known as acetaminophen, a pharmaceutical active compound, was adsorbed from aqueous solution onto cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) (hexadecyltrimethylammonium) functionalized kaolinite clay (CTAB–Kao). The modification of CTAB–Kao was corroborated by the use of the Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy technique. The effect of varied pH, adsorbent dose, initial adsorbate concentration and contact time on the adsorption capacity of CTAB-Kao was investigated by batch adsorption process and compared with that of unmodified kaolinite clay (kao). The moderately basic nature of CTAB-Kao deprotonated the Phenolic end of APAP producing nucleophilic phenoxide anion or phenolate ion, that instigated repulsion between APAP and CTAB-Kao. The resultant of this nucleophilicity between both adsorbent and adsorbate brought about insignificant APAP removal from aqueous solution. When compared with Kao that has a negatively charged edge, the removal of APAP was not significantly attainable because of the same phenomenon.

[Chigbundu C. Emmanuel. Omonoh I. Odigie. Adsorption of Acetaminophen from aqueous solutions onto hexadecyltrimethylammonium modified kaolinite. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):147-154]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 23. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.23

Keywords: Adsorption; Organokaolinite; Acetaminophen; Toxicity; Environment and PhACs

Full Text

23

24

Role of combining ability to develop higher yielding wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes: An overview

Syed Ahtisham Masood¹, Shoaib Ahmad¹, Muhammad Kashif¹ and Qurban Ali^1,2

^1.  Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, University of Agriculture Faisalabad,

^2. Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab Lahore, Pakistan

Corresponding author E-mail: s.ahtisham01@gmail.com, saim1692@gmail.com

Abstract: Triticum aestivum is an important cereal crop, grown through out the world as staple food for most of the people of world. It is very important to improve grain yield of wheat to nourish rapid growing population of world. Various conventional and non-conventional breeding methods and biometrical approaches have been used to achieve the goal of production. Combining ability analysis interprets the type and amount of various types of gene actions governing the expression of these metric traits. Direct selection for yield, in plant breeding program, may produce misleading results because yield is a complex polygenic trait, influenced greatly by the environmental fluctuations. Knowledge on genetic variability and relationship between various agronomic traits and yield is crucial for the success of breeding program. When improvement of the complex associated traits is desired, understanding of combining ability effects of grain yield and its component traits benefits in defining which character to choose. The present review described the use of general and specific combining ability to develop high yielding wheat varieties. The higher value of general combining ability suggested that the inbred lines may be used for the development of synthetic varieties through pure line selection, pedigree selection or recurrent back cross selection while higher specific combining ability suggested that the inbred lines may be used to develop hybrids to improve grain yield of wheat through heterosis breeding program.

[Masood SA, S Ahmad, M Kashif and Q. Ali. Role of combining ability to develop higher yielding wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes: An overview. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):155-161]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 24. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.24

Key words: Triticum aestivum, general combining ability, specific combining ability, heterosis, conventional

Full Text

24

25

Enzyme-Substrate specificity of β- D- glucosidase from fungal, bacterial and cassava sources using p-nitrophenol β-D-glucoside and cassava linamarin as substrates.

Ogundu Emmanuel. C. ^1*, Okoh Patrick N. ² and Ikediobi Christopher O ³

^1. Department of Animal Science Akwa Ibom State University Obio Akpa, Nigeria

^2. Bendel State University, Ekpoma, Nigeria.

^3. Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria.

* Correspondence Author e-mail: emmaogundu@yahoo.com.

Abstract: The production of β-D-glucosidase from fungal, bacterial isolates and cassava tubers and the ability of the enzyme to hydrolyze cyanogenic glycoside were studied. Bacterial isolates fermented in mineral salt cassava medium failed to produce β-D-glucosidase while the aerobic fermentation of fungal extracts of Aspergillus sydowi, A. terreus, A. Carneus and Fusarium equiseti produced β-D-glucosidase with A. Sydowl and F. equiseti having the highest amount and activity. However, enzyme from these fungal sources failed to hydrolyze crude cyanogenic glucoside, linamarin, from cassava tuber but hydrolyzed p-nitrophenyl β-D-glucoside, a synthetic chemical analogue of linamarin. The linamarase also a β-D-glucosidase from cassava cortex hydrolyzed both p-nitrophenyl β-D-glucoside and cassava linamerin indicatng that both partial and total hydrolysis of cassava linamarin could only be achieved by linamarase from cassava source showing enzyme-substrate specificity. Total cyanide hydrolysis in cassava tuber was achieved with 3-units of cassava linamarase in 10 minutes.

[Ogundu Emmanuel. C., Okoh Patrick N. and Ikediobi Christopher O. Enzyme-Substrate specificity of β- D- glucosidase from fungal, bacterial and cassava sources using p-nitrophenol β-D-glucoside and cassava linamarin as substrates. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):162-167]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 25. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.25

Key words: Enzyme production, activity, cassava, cyanogenic glucoside, detoxification

Full Text

25

26

Correlation analysis for grain and its contributing traits in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Syed Ahtisham Masood¹, Shoaib Ahmad¹, Muhammad Kashif¹ and Qurban Ali^1,2

^1.  Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan

^2. Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab Lahore, Pakistan

Corresponding author E-mail: s.ahtisham01@gmail.com, saim1692@gmail.com

Abstract: Among the parents, genotypes; 9595, 9703, AARI-11 and Millat-11, had the most desirable mean value for number of spikelets/spike, awn length, plant height, grain yield/plant and spike length respectively. On the other hand cross combination 9703 × AARI-11 was the best one, based upon the mean performance, having maximum mean value for grain yield/spike, awn length, flag leaf area and yield/plant. For plant height and number of spikelets/spike cross; 9705 × Pb-11 showed the most desirable mean value having minimum mean for height and maximum mean number of spikelets/spike.  Whereas, crosses 9554 × AARI-11, 9703 × Millat-11,  9595 × Pb-11, 9705 × Millat-11, 9554 × Millat-11 and 9554 × Pb-11 had the maximum mean value for tillers/plant, peduncle length, grains/spike, spike length, 1000-grain weight and extrusion length. All the morphological traits exhibited normal trend of association with grain yield/plant, the ultimate focus of breeders, except peduncle length which had a negative association with it at both genotypic and phenotypic levels while, extrusion length and spike length were negatively associated to grain yield/plant at phenotypic level only. So results of correlation for spike length, extrusion length and peduncle length were opposite to the normal association previously reported, indicating the effect of environment which resulted in the change of association for these studied traits.  It was concluded that the selection of suitable parents on the basis of higher 1000-grain weight and grain yield/plant be used for the development of synthetic and hybrids.

[Masood SA, S Ahmad, M Kashif and Q. Ali. Correlation analysis for grain and its contributing traits in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Nat Sci 2014;12(11):168-176]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 26. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.26

Key words: Triticum aestivum, genotypic, phenotypic, correlation, hybrid, synthetic

Full Text

26

27

Potassium Status and Some Chemical Properties in Calcareous Soil As Affected by Farmyard Manure, Moisture Content and Irrigation Water Salinity

R. A.Abou El-khair; M. O. El-Mohtasem Bella; Mohamed M.M. and M. H. Sheta

Soils and Water Dept., Fac.of Agric., Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt.

dr_mohamedmostafa@yahoo.com

Abstract: The current work was carried out to study the effect of irrigation water salinity, farmyard manure levels and moisture content on potassium content and uptake of wheat plants grown on a calcareous soil. A pot experiment was carried out in green house of Soils and Water Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Al-Azhar University) Nasr city, Cairo, Egypt), during the winter of season 2009. Wheat plant (Triticum aestivum, L.) Sakha 93 Variety, used as an indicator plant to experiment treatments. Twenty grains were sown in each pot and the treatments were three replicates including control. After 15 days, the pots were thinned to 10 seedlings. Completely randomized block design was used. Four salinity levels of irrigation water were prepared (control, 0.44, 1.56, 3.12 and 6.25 dSm^-1) under different moisture contents (100%, 75% and 60%) of field capacity determined by weight and four organic matter levels (0%, 1%, 2% and 4%) farmyard manure (FYM). Results showed that Potassium content and uptake in straw significantly decreased with increasing salinity levels. The lower values were 2.89 % and 238.39 mg pot^-1, respectively, at salinity level 6.25 dSm^-1. Increasing of farmyard manure application rates up to 2% induced significantly of potassium content and uptake in straw. The higher values were 3.56 % and 360.62 mg pot^-1, respectively. While being less pronounced with 4% farmyard manure. Potassium content and uptake in straw significantly increased with increasing moisture levels. The higher values were at 100% of field capacity 3.30 % and 335.95 mg pot^-1, respectively. Also, data showed that soil electrical conductivity increased as a result of increasing salinity levels of irrigation water and increasing moisture levels led to increase soluble cations and anions in soil under all treatments. Regarding to farmyard manure it's cleared that increasing farmyard rates increased soluble cations and anions in soil under all treatments.

[R. A.Abou El-khair; M. O. El-Mohtasem Bella; Mohamed M.M. and M. H. Sheta. Potassium Status and Some Chemical Properties in Calcareous Soil As Affected by Farmyard Manure, Moisture Content and Irrigation Water Salinity. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):177-183]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 27. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.27

Keywords: potassium content and uptake-irrigation water salinity-soil moisture - farmyard manure- wheat - calcareous soil and soil chemical properties.

Full Text

27

28

Evaluation of the powder of three medicinal botanicals in the control of Maize weevil, Sitophilus zeamais Motschulsky.

Omotoso Olumuyiwa Temitope

Department of Zoology, Ekiti State University, P.M.B.5363, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria

topeomoth@yahoo.co.uk

Abstract: Sitophilus zeamais is a key pest of maize. The weevils thrive well in the tropics because of the benevolent weather which favours their biological activity. The weevils can readily decimate untreated maize grains both on the field and in the store. In a bid to check their destructive activity, the leaves of three plants; Jatropha curcas, Citrus sinensis and Psidium guajava which are known to have medicinal properties were used to admix maize grains at the dosages of 0.1g, 0.2g, 0.3g, 0.5g and 1.0g per 50g of maize. The leaves were pulverized after allowing them to dry naturally on the laboratory tables. Five pairs of newly emerged adults of S. zeamais were introduced into each of the rearing cups and the mortality of the insects taken daily. The experiments were monitored for 4 weeks. The results show that all the plant materials are good grain protectants. All the dosages of J. curcas were toxic to the weevils. The highest mortality (32.1%) of S. zeamais occurred in 1.0g dosage in J. curcas within 4 weeks. C. sinensis caused insect mortality of 23% within 4 weeks while P. guajava caused 20.5% mortality of the weevils within the same period. The mortalities of the insects are dosage dependent and the period of acquaintance with the treated maize grains also contributed to the mortality of the insects. Lower dosages of P. guajava and C. sinensis were not effective in the first week of application but starting from the second week, the mortality effects of the plants started to manifest. There was a drastic reduction in the biological activity of the insects and this was attributed to the deleterious effect of the plant powder on the normal physiology of the insects.

[Omotoso Olumuyiwa Temitope. Evaluation of the powder of three medicinal botanicals in the control of Maize weevil, Sitophilus zeamais Motschulsky. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):184-190]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 28. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.28

Key words: Insecticidal property, medicinal property, Sitophilus zeamais, Psidium guajava, Jatropha curcas, Citrus sinensis, mortality.

Full Text

28

29

Estimation of general and specific combining ability for grain yield traits in Triticum aestivum

Syed Ahtisham Masood¹, Qurban Ali^1,2 and Hafiz Ghazanfar Abbas³

^1.  Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan

^2. Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab Lahore, Pakistan

^3. Cotton Research Institute, Ayub Agricultural Research Institute, Faisalabad, Pakistan.

Corresponding author E-mail: s.ahtisham01@gmail.com, saim1692@gmail.com

Abstract: A research experiment was performed to study the combining ability effects of various yield contributing characters of wheat genotypes by incorporating the line × tester analysis under standard field conditions (normal sowing) in the research area of Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, during 2012-14. it was found that for grains/spike, awn length, peduncle length and flag leaf area, genotype 9703 was the best general combiner. Genotype 9705 was best general combiner intended for plant height and spike length whereas genotypes 9554, 9704 and AARI-11 exhibited the best general combining ability effects for tillers/plant, extrusion length and grain yield/plant respectively. Cross combination 9705×AARI-11 came across as best specific combiner for 1000-grain weight plus grain yield/plant whereas, cross; 9703 × Millat-11, was best specific combiner for grains/spike and peduncle length. Cross 9705 × Millat-11 exhibited best specific combining ability estimates for awn length and spike length. Other best specific combiner in the present study were 9554 × Millat-11, 9546 × Pasban-11, 9595 × AARI-11, 9705 × Pasban-11, 9554 × Pasban-11 and  9703 × AARI-11 for plant height, grain yield/spike, tillers/plant,  spikelets/spike, extrusion length and flag leaf area sequentially. So it can be illustrated from these results that cross combinations viz., 9705 × AARI-11, 9703 × Millat-11 and 9705 × Millat-11 will be the best suited F₁ hybrid combinations, having best specific combining ability for two traits each, to fit into future hybrid breeding programs. So these parents and F₁ genotypes having superior performance can be further incorporated into the hybrid breeding programs or selection of the most appropriate parents based upon their performance.

[Masood SA, Q. Ali and HG Abbas. Estimation of general and specific combining ability for grain yield traits in Triticum aestivum. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):191-198]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 29. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.29

Key words: Triticum aestivum, specific combining ability, general combining ability, hybrid

Full Text

29

30

A new hydrocarbon prospect determination through subsurface and petrophysical evaluation of Abu Roash “G” Member in Abu Sennan area, North Western Desert, Egypt.

Abd Elhady, M. A.¹, Hamed, T. A.², Abdelwahhab, M. A.³

^1,3Geology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt.

²General Petroleum Company, Cairo, Egypt.

geo.mohammad85@yahoo.com

Abstract: This study aims to make a subsurface and petrophysical study to evaluate the petroleum potentialities of Abu Roash “G” Member in SWS and GPT oil and gas fields in Abu Sennan area North Western Desert of Egypt. It depends on the application of the available open-hole well log records of five wells distributed in the area of study, in addition to well distributed twenty 2D and 3D seismic lines. SWS and GPT Fields, which are being operated by the General Petroleum Company, have been producing oil and gas in the North Western Desert. The Late Cenomanian Abu Roash “G” Member conformably underlies the Turonian Abu Roash “F” Member and overlies the Late Albian- Early Cenomanian Bahariya Formation. It is mainly composed of shales, limestone, siltstone and sandstone thin interbeds. The Abu Roash “G” Member is evaluated as a good petroleum reservoir in the studied fields. The subsurface geologic setting, in terms of determining the stratigraphic and structural settings, is gained through the construction of different aligned lithostratigraphic corss sections, isochore and lithofacies maps, seismic and geologic structural corss sections, in addition to structure contour maps on top of Abu Roash “G” Member. The petrophysical evaluation, in terms of determining the petrophyical characteristics; effective porosity (ϕ_eff), shale content (V_sh), water saturation (S_w) and hydrocarbon saturation (S_h), is acquired through quantitative computer processed interpretation. The petrophysical characteristics are illustrated laterally in the form of iso-parametric maps and vertically in the form of litho-saturation cross-plots. The results of this paper revealed 2 new prospective areas to the southeast of the investigated SWS and GPT oil and gas fields. These locations are positioned as being located on a suitable structure, that is very convenient for petroleum accumulations. Moreover, they have an increase in net pay and effective porosity of Abu Roash “G” Member, and decrease in shale content and water saturation. So it is recommended to focus the exploration activities on the new prospective areas for more favorable economic petroleum discoveries.

[Abd Elhady, M. A., Hamed, T. A., Abdelwahhab, M. A. A new hydrocarbon prospect determination through subsurface and petrophysical evaluation of Abu Roash “G” Member in Abu Sennan area, North Western Desert, Egypt. Nat Sci 2014;12(11):199-218]. (ISSN: 1545-0740). http://www.sciencepub.net/nature. 30. doi:10.7537/marsnsj121114.30

Key words: Hydrocarbon Prospect, Subsurface Study, Petrophysical Study, Abu Sennan, Abu Gharadig Basin, North Western Desert, Egypt.

Full Text

30