040218   MOULI, T , KRUPAVATHI, K, GANESWARA RAO C S (Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural Univ, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, Email: tmouli4@gmail.com ) : Urban rooftop area assessment for estimation of rooftop rainwater-harvesting potential. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(3), 275-83.

Rooftop water conservation is a promising technique for sustainable water resource management especially in urban areas. The tedious available roof top area estimation can be made easy with advances in geospatial technologies. The present study taken up to develop the roofing layer to estimate potential rooftop area from high resolution satellite imagery (1 m) i.e., Google earth Pro in GIS environment. The roof surfaces are considered as the micro catchments and GIS is employed to calculate the area of various types of roofs and their potential for planning of water harvest. The results are validated for errors in digitization by ground-truthing against 112 household systems through manual measurement. It is also attempted to identify the type of the roof to know the quality of the harvested water. The annual rainfall was analyzed to quantify the potential of the rainwater harvesting. The results of this study will demonstrate the Application capability of Google Earth Pro and GIS in estimating rainwater harvesting potential to tackle the prevailing water shortage. The estimated total roofing area is 818565.53 sq. m. The results of the study revealed the huge potential of 71.154 cubic meter with 1 mm of uniform distribution of rainwater over the roof tops.

6 illus, 5 tables, 11 ref

040216   NIGAM A, AWASTHI M K, BUNKAR N (Soil and Water Engineering Dep, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, Email: abhishanknigam@gmail.com) : Assessment of groundwater potential zones of tons basin using spatial data. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(3), 261-8.

The Tons basin is the subbasin of the river Ganga having its geographical extent of 80 °18’ to 83 °20’ east longitude and 23 °58’ to 25 °17’ north latitudes of the country. The major river in this sub-basin. Tons is the longest tributary of Yamuna river. Total basin area in Madhya Pradesh is 11974 km². Total land put to use for agriculture purpose in Tons basin is 8460 km². State of Madhya Pradesh has varied hydrogeological characteristics due to which ground water potential differs from place to place. An attempt has been made to delineate the groundwater potential zone of the Tons basin using spatial data. For delineation of groundwater potential zones, thematic maps of different governing themes of groundwater potential zone such as geology, drainage, drainage density, Land use/Land cover, slope, soil texture have been created to their relative importance. A multicriteria decision analysis technique i.e., Analytical Hierarchy process (AHP) technique have been used for the probable weightage of different governing themes. Weighted index overlay analysis tool in ArcGIS 10.3 have been used for the creation for groundwater potential zone. The resultant map demonstrates possible groundwater potential zone of the Tons basin under three categories such as Good groundwater potential, moderate groundwater potential and poor groundwater potential. From the study it was concluded that, delineation of groundwater potential zones helpful for the information of groundwater prospective zone, extraction and development of groundwater and better planning and management.

13 illus, 3 tables, 25 ref

040215   GOSWAMI K, DAS K N, BHATTACHARYYA D, MEDHI B K, DEKA J, DEKA R L (IRRI India Hub, Guwahati, Assam, Email: kasturi.goswami23@gmail.com) : Effect of crude oil spillage on chemical properties of soils of Moran and Duliajan oil fields of Assam. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(2), 253-60.

Crude oil spillage is a regular phenomenon in the oil drilling sites and due to raining and flooding the spilled oil spread to the nearby cultivated field causing soil pollution and considerable reduction in the crop yield. Therefore, present investigation aimed to study the effect of crude oil spillage on chemical properties of soils of two major oil fields in Assam, India viz. MFN oil field, Moran and Kathalguri, HYR, Duliajan oil field. Five soil samples were collected in triplicates at an interval of 50 m from three directions (E, W& S) from the spilled areas upto 200 m horizontally and one sample from each direction was collected from adjacent unpolluted areas i.e. beyond 200 m as control. Standard analytical procedures were followed to determine soil pH, EC, organic carbon, total petroleum hydrocarbon, available nutrients, and exchangeable elements. Results revealed pH of the soils remarkably dropped towards spillage point making the soil strongly acidic in nature whereas the organic carbon content increased near the point of spillage in both oil fields. The total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) was recorded maximum at spillage point in both Moran and Duliajan oil fields and was negligible beyond 200m. The available N and P₂ O₅ were low near the spillage point and substantially increased with distance. Conversely, available K₂ O, exchangeable Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺ significantly increased near the spilled point.

3 tables, 34 ref

040213   SINGH G, KHATI A, CHAUHAN R S (G. B. Pant Univ of Agriculture &Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, Email: gulgul21195@gmail.com) : Applications of environment biotechnology in aquaculture. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(2), 239-47.

This paper explains all the chances of environmental biotechnology techniques useful in aquaculture and reviews its various areas together. Biotechnology has played a vital role in boosting production in the aquaculture sector. Considering the number of issues which deteriorate the ecological conditions in an aquaculture system, the field of environmental biotechnology has shown new possibilities to enhance the terms. Since the environment turns to be a vital segment in the survival of aquatic flora and fauna its day by day deterioration via pollution and toxic substances are need to be checked. The distinct role of environmental biotechnology within the sector of aquaculture emphasized finding the opportunities to contribute with new solutions and directions in remediating the contaminated environments, minimizing future waste release and creating pollution prevention alternatives. 

52 ref

040212   RAY P, MANDAL S, MONDAL S, ANKURE P (Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan, West Bengal, Email: prabuddha_ray1@rediffmail.com) : Yield analysis of oilseed crops under front line demonstration programmes in medium and high land farming situations of Birbhum district. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(2), 231-7.

The present study is based on the analysis of yield obtained from the Front Line Demonstration Programmes (as Demonstration is one of the most time-tested method in Extension Education) on Oilseed Crops (viz. Sesame, Rapeseed and Mustard and Linseed) organized by the Rathindra KVK in Medium and High Land Farming Situations of Birbhum District and comparative yield analysis over the Birbhum District Average and the West Bengal State Average. The study revealed that the FLD Programme on Sesame; Rapeseed and Mustard and Linseed produced an average yield higher than the Birbhum District Average and also higher than the State Average consistently over the years (as mentioned in the Paper) with the one and only exception in the Rabi Season of 2017-18, when the State Average Yield of Rapeseed and Mustard was higher than the Average yield achieved in the Rathindra KVK FLD Progtramme. The Study also pointed out another important fact that the Birbhum District average yield of Sesame; Rapeseed and Mustard and Linseed were consistently and significantly lower than the state Average with only bright and positive exception in the case of Linseed (the Birbhum District Average Yield of Linseed was higher than that of the state average in both the years of 2016-17 and 2017-18) showing a huge un-tapped potential for production of Linseed in the District. The study further showed us that the positive yield gap achieved by the FLD Programme on Sesame, Rapeseed and Mustard and Linseed over Birbhum District Average Yield and at same time over the West Bengal State Average Yield was consistently and significantly higher in the specified time period with the only exception in the Rabi Season of 2017-18, when the State Average Yield of Rapeseed and Mustard was slightly higher (by 0.25 q / ha) over the average yield obtained from Rathindra KVK FLD Programme.

3 illus, 6 tables, 16 ref

040211   HARIKA J V, DUVVADA S K, MAITRA S, SHANKAR T (Centurion Univ of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi-761211, Odissa, Email: sagar.maitra@cutm.ac.in) : Energetics of finger millet (Eleusine coracana l. gaertn) cultivation as influenced by integrated nutrient management. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(2), 227-30.

Finger millets ((Eleusine coracana L. Gaertn) is one of the important small millets cultivated in India under subsistence farming in drylands. Though it is low demanding crop energy involvement is there in profitable raising of finger millet. Increase in energy use in agriculture production at a faster rate in India because of mechanization and enhancing chemical usage. To study the energy use in finger millet cultivation, a field trail was conducted at Bagusala Farm of M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology Management, Paralakhemundi, Odisha. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications and ten treatments. The treatment comprises of T1: control, T2: FYM @ 4 t ha^-1,T3: FYM @ 8 t ha^-1, T4: 100 % RDF (40:20:20 kg ha-1 of N: P2 O5 : K2 O), T5: 50 % RDF + 4 t FYM, T6, 75 % RDF + 2 t FYM, T7: FYM 4 t ha^-1 + Azospirillum@ 5 kg ha^-1, T8: FYM 8 t ha^-1 + Azospirillum@ 5 kg ha^-1, T9: 50 % RDF + 4 t FYM + Azospirillum@ 5 kg ha^-1 and T10: 75 % RDF + 2 t FYM + Azospirillum@ 5 kg ha^-1. The results revealed that all the energy parameters except energy productivity were significantly influenced by different treatments. The highest maximum energy input, gross energy output, net energy and energy intensity in term of economics were recorded maximum with application of 100% RDF and maximum energy use efficiency and energy productivity was noticed with application of FYM 8 t ha^-1 + Azospirillum. 

2 tables, 18 ref

040208   DUVVADA S K, MISHRA G C, MAITRA S, ADHIKARY R (Centurion Univ of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi, Odissa, Email: sarathkumarduvvada010@gmail.com) : Effect of irrigation regimes and staggered transplanting on growth and yield of summer rice (Oryza sativa l.) in south Odisha. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(2), 205-11.

A field experiment was conducted at Agriculture Research Farm, Bagusala, M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi, Odisha during summer season, 2018-19. The soil of experimental field was sandy clay loam in texture, slightly acidic in reaction (pH 6.4) low in available nitrogen (208 kg/ha) and high in both phosphorus (139 kg/ha) and potassium (390 kg/ha). The field experiment was laid out in split-plot design with three replications and 12 treatments combination. The treatments were comprised of three water regimes assigned in main plot (Continuous ponding, continuous soil saturation and saturation after hair crack) and four transplanting dates in sub plots (Transplanting on 23^rd and 31^st January, 6^th and 13^th February). The experimental results revealed that irrigation treatments failed to exhibit significant effect on growth parameters like plant height, tillers/clump, LAI, dry matter production and CGR until the peak crop growing period up to 60 DAT excepting plant height at 60 DAT. Crop growth parameters except LAI were significantly influenced by irrigation regimes at harvest. Irrigation regimes had the remarkably effect of grain yield and WUE but it had no significant effect on straw yield. Irrigation with continuous ponding produced the highest grain yield (4.57 t/ha) which was at par with continuous soil saturation (4.30 t/ha). The WUE was significantly increased with saturation after hair (49.62 kg/ha/cm). Dates of transplanting significantly reflected all the crop growth parameters throughout the crop growing period. Transplanting on 23^rd January significantly recorded the highest grain yield (4.72 t/ha) and maximum straw yield was obtained in 31^st January (7.99 t/ ha) being at par with 23^rd January (7.63 t/ha). Significantly the highest WUE was obtained in transplanting date of 23^rd January (47.09 kg/ha/cm).

2 tables, 14 ref

040207   PONGEN L Y, TEMJENNUNGSANG (Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kohima, Nagaland, Email: longmakvk@gmail.com) : Performance evaluation of tubular maize sheller under frontline demonstration. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(2), 201-4.

The study was conducted to assess the performance of tubular maize sheller under Frontline Demonstration programme during 2016-2019 under Kohima district of Nagaland. Maize sheller developed by CIAE was compared to farmers practice of bare hand maize shelling using the finger tips and thumb pressing. The demonstrated result revealed that the performance level of tubular maize sheller (31.36 kg/hr) was double that of farmers practice (13.11kg/hr) in a given time which had increased the shelling capacity by 140 %. Shelling efficiency under demonstration remain as high as 99.69 %. The average cost of operation per quintal in tubular maize sheller was found to be ` 171.58 over farmers practice (` 423.70) which saved the operation cost of farmers by 60 %. The farmers attitude towards the demonstrated tool was also noted and it was observed that 100 % were in agreement that no special training was required for handling the tool, it avoided injury to fingers during use, reduced drudgery and that the tool to be women friendly. It also revealed that majority were in agreement that it saves time and energy (98.66), avoids irritation of eyes, nose mouth during shelling (98%) followed by convenient to use and operate (97.33 %). It was also suggested that 4% percent of the farmers were in agreement to the statement that the tool requires modification.

4 tables, 10 ref

040206   SARLACH R S, BRAR A S (Plant Breeding and Genetics Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Punjab, Email: amanbrar@pau.edu) : Growth, productivity and quality of bt and non-bt cotton hybrids (Gossypium hirsutum l.) as influenced by environment. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(2), 193-9.

A field experiment was conducted to study the effect of environments (timely sown and late sown) on crop phenology development, yield and fibre development of Bt and non-Bt cotton hybrids viz., G cot hy 8 BG II (Bt), G cot hy12 (non-Bt), NCS 145 BG II (Bt), DHH 263 (non-Bt), Ankur 3028 BG II (Bt) and LHH 144 (non-Bt) commonly grown in different ecological zones of the country. Results revealed that timely sown crop produced significantly higher seed cotton yield (14.80 q/ha) than the late sown crop (8.00 q/ha) due to petite crop canopy, lesser number of sympods, bolls and lower boll weight per plant. The maximum seed cotton yield was recorded with Ankur 3028 BG II (14.72 q/ha) which was significantly superior to all other Bt as well as non-Bt cotton hybrids. Further, LHH 144 (12.94 q/ha) and G cot hy 8 BG II (12.88 q/ha) recorded significant edge over rest of the hybrids. Among the rest of the hybrids, G cot hy 12 (10.81 q/ha), DHH 263 (9.09 q/ha) and NCS 145 BG II (7.99 q/ha) followed significantly diminishing order in seed cotton yield. The higher yield in Ankur 3028 BG II, LHH 144 and G cot hy 8 BG II was mainly attributed to higher sympods, boll number and boll weight per plant. The fibre length was also significantly more in timely sown crop as compared to late sown crop. Among the hybrids, Ankur 3028 BG II registered significantly more fibre length than rest of the hybrids.

4 tables, 9 ref

040205   NIKAM M B, BURARK S S , DEORUKHKAR A C, CHAVAN B R, MHADIK R P (Agricultural Economics and Management Dep, Rajasthan Coll of Agriculture, Udaipur, Rajasthan, Email: mangesh_nikam@rediffmail.com) : Integrated farming systems for sustainable agriculture in Raigad district of Maharashtra. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(2), 185-92.

An integrated farming system comprises the crop production, livestock, horticulture crops and fisheries etc. The status of these combinations depends on the prevailing modal of these systems in a particular area. Therefore, it is necessary to identify the existing major integrated farming systems with internal cost adjustment, return, income and employment in the farming systems. The present study was conducted in Raigad district of Maharashtra during year 2015-16. A total sample of 120 households was selected. Out of seven farming systems six systems were found livestock based systems, viz; FS-I: Crops + Vegetable, FS-II: Crops + Dairy, FS-III: Crops + Poultry, FS-IV: Crops + Vegetable + Dairy, FS-V: Crops + Poultry + Dairy, FS-VI: Crops + Vegetable + Goat and FSVII: Crops + Vegetable + Orchard + Dairy. The total cost of farming system was minimum in FS-I and highest in FS-V. On per farm basis employment generated was minimum in FS-I (267.76 man days) and maximum in FS-V (758.82 man days).

9 tables, 19 ref

040204   SAFI H, HUSSAIN S, SHAHID M, NAZIR M (Plant Pathology Dep, Agriculture Univ, Peshawar, Pakistan, Email: habibsafi75@gmail.com) : Incidence and severity of early blight of tomato in Peshawar, Mardan and Malakand divisions and variability amongst the isolates of Alternaria solani jones and mart. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(2), 175-83.

An extensive survey for incidence and severity of early blight of tomato was conducted in Peshawar, Mardan and Malakand Divisions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province after flower formation and fruit setting during 2012. The survey points were 3-5 km apart from one another. At each location fields were assessed in “X” shaped pattern. A high incidence of the disease (40 %) was recorded at Jahangira District Nowshera, whereas the lowest disease incidence 4.9 % was recorded at Taru Jaba in Peshawar Division. In Mardan Division high incidence of the disease was recorded at Galadher 38.6% in District Mardan whereas the lowest at Jalbai 3.3 % in Distrct Swabi. A similar disease incidence was found at Osaki and Nasafa locations in District Dir (L). Conversely, high incidence of the disease was recorded in Ghalegai (20 %) in District Swat Malakand Division. In terms of the disease severity Jahangira (8.66 %) in District Nowshera was the most severely infested area closely followed by Basher Mian Kaly (7.98 %) and Shabqadar (7.66 %). In general, isolates collected from Peshawar and Mardan Divisions were more virulent than those collected from Malakand Division by exhibiting rapid growth on PDA medium as well as producing high number of spore’s ml-1. Isolates collected from Shabqadar measured 33 mm in diameter with 28000 spore ml-1 and proved virulent by producing high disease severity (27.6 %). Conversely, isolates collected from Talash (Malakand Division) showed minimum growth (22 mm) with least number of spores ml-1 and disease severity of 16.44 % only. Regression analysis showed a simple linear relationship between growth parameters and virulence and as expected virulence increased with increase in colony diameter and spore concentration of the pathogen. Results are indicative of segregation in population structure of the pathogen and may correlate with the different environmental conditions prevalent in the central part of the province

2 illus, 6 tables, 42 ref

040203   VIGNESH S, CHANDRASEKARAN M, AMBETHGAR V, JEEVA S (Plant Protection Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Tiruchirappalli- 620 027, Tamil Nadu, Email: vigneshsivakumaran@gmail.com) : Diversity, distribution and varietal preference of fruit fly, Bactrocera spp. in mango ecosystem. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(2), 169-74.

Mango is the second major fruit crop cultivated in India, it is known as “King of fruits” owing to delicious quality of fruit with richness in vitamins and minerals and has a socio economic significance in international market. It is attacked by many insects and mite pests; the yield and quality aspects of the mango are highly inflicted by fruit flies and make it unmarketable and inconsumable. The varied agro climatic conditions prevailed in tropical and subtropical regions makes them to spread all over the country. The documented information in a particular area on the population dynamics of fruit flies is essential to take preventive measures and to implement suitable management strategies. Keeping this in mind, the experiment on its species diversity, distribution pattern with its varietal preference of fruit flies in mango ecosystem was undertaken by using methyl eugenol based parapheromone traps during 2017-18 at Anbil Dharmalingam Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tiruchirappalli. The major diversity of species registered in mango ecosystem is viz., Bactrocera caryeae (Kapoor), B.dorsalis (Hendel) and B.correcta (Bezzi). The activity of fruit fly is maximum in the month of August and September with the mean catch ranges from 27.00 to 57.00 flies/ trap/week. The poor activity of fruit flies in mango orchards was registered in the month of November to February with the least trapped population of < 3.0 flies/trap/week. Considering the varietal preference, the prevalence of B.correcta both in rumani and PKM 1 varieties is comparatively less when compared with the B.dorsalis and B.caryeae. The correlation analysis results revealed that, the fruit fly incidence is positively correlated with maximum, minimum temperature and negatively correlated with morning, evening relative humidity (RH) and rainfall.

2 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

040202   CHANDRASEKARAN M (Plant Protection Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Tiruchirappalli - 620 027, Tamil Nadu, Email: chantrue2020@gmail.com) : Screening of bhendi accessions (Abelmoschus esculenthus [l.] moench) against the fruit borer, Earias spp. (Noctuidae; Lepidoptera). Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(2), 163-8.

The study on screening of bhendi accessions against fruit borer (Earias spp.) infestation was conducted by evaluating 55 numbers of IC entries with 6 different varieties/hybrids as a local standard check to assess their performance in naturally infested field conditions in augmented block design with three replications. The identified resources of accessions further subjected to the artificial screening to cross verify their reaction against the incidence of sucking insect pests, viz., leaf hopper (Amrasca biguttula biguttula) and whitefly (Bemisia tabaci). Out of 55 IC accessions screened, the entries viz., IC 27821-A, IC 42531, IC 22237-C, IC 42485-B, IC 43743, IC 43746-D, IC 45728 and IC 45804 were found to be the best tolerant sources for the management of fruit borer, Earias spp. with the cross resistance to leaf hopper and whitefly. The results on the artificial screening indicated that the identified tolerant sources were registered the minimum leaf hopper index ( 80/cm2 is in tune with the tolerant checks i.e., CO 4 and Arka abhay. Hence, the present investigation conclude that, these identified 8 accessions can be utilized in further breeding programmes to develop varieties/hybrids resistant to major insect pests of bhendi with good phenological traits

4 tables, 20 ref

040201   MAHARJAN S, UPADHYAY N, BHATTARAI A M (Prime Minister Agriculture Modernization Project, Nawalparasi, Nepal, Email: salinamaharjan82@yahoo.com) : Pesticides use pattern and handling practices among cucumber (Cucumis sativus l.) growing farmers of parsa district of Nepal. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(2), 155-62.

Pesticide is one of the major inputs for commercial vegetable farming in Nepal. The study examined pesticides use pattern and farmers’ knowledge, perception, awareness about pesticides and the handling practices. The study is based on survey data consisting of 150 samples collected randomly from Parsa district of Nepal. The results show that 54.7 % of the cucumber farmers used pesticides as control measure of insect and fungus in Parsa district. Out of which insecticides was found to be applied more i.e.68 % followed by the fungicides i.e. 22.33 % of total application volume sprayed. Regarding toxicity level farmers were found to use Moderately Hazardous Pesticides (II). The research identified that farmers do 2 times spray as mandatory frequency of application however, nearly half of farmers were found to spray pesticide four to five times. Regarding their knowledge 53 % of farmers found to read label on pesticide bottle/packages. More than half (57 %) of the farmers has found to receive Integrated Pest Management (IPM) training but only 7 % practiced alternative pest control measures. Regarding the disposal only 6 % found to bury the empty bottles, packages after use and others throw the containers anywhere. The results show that, in Nepal, pesticide was mostly applied for the vegetable farming. If area under vegetable farming increases by 1 % the probability of the pesticide application by household is increased by the 22 %.

5 illus, 10 tables, 10 ref

040200   SURESH, BISHNOI O P (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar, Haryana, Email: suresh.nyol@gmail.com) : GGE biplot based stability analysis of durum wheat genotypes using statistical package GGEbiplotGUI. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(2), 149-53.

The investigation was aimed to identify stable genotypes of durum wheat which can perform consistently under multiple environments. The experiment was conducted in Research Area of CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar during rabi 2015-16. In the present investigation seven released varieties of durum wheat were evaluated on four environments (timely vs late sown, irrigated vs drought) in randomized block design with three replications. Grain yield data was collected from randomly selected five plants of each genotype and used to carry out GGE biplot analysis using the R software and GGEBiplotGUI package. Analysis of variance revealed significant genetic variability among the genotypes. Significant variability was also observed due to both environment and GEI. The four environments were grouped into three major groups. Both irrigated environments were grouped together and were more alike for genotypic comparisons. Genotype WHD 948 was the most stable genotype in all the environments.

3 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

040199   PANDEY R K, NAYAK D K , PRADHAN D, KAR R K (Nematology Dep, Odisha Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Odisha, Email: ritupandey1091@gmail.com) : Molecular characterization among susceptible and resistant ridge gourd cultivars to root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita through ISSR markers. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(2), 145-8.

The root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita is the main nematode pest with host range more than 3000 plant species causes vast damage worldwide. The knowledge of genetic diversity in a crop species is essential for its improvement. Microsatellite sequences are especially suited to distinguish closely related genotypes in crop like ridge gourd. Several susceptible and resistant ridge gourd cultivars to root-knot nematode were identified on the basis of artificial screening and the present investigation was under taken for purity discrimination and characterize of these cultivars at molecular level taking ISSR markers. Standardized reported procedure was followed in order to conduct the experiment. The phylogenetic tree constructed by UPGMA method generated two main clusters i.e., cluster-I and cluster - II. The cluster I was further sub-divided into sub-cluster IA and IB. The cluster I consisted of three varieties (Aneeta, Aarti and BSS-1009), while cluster II consisted of two varieties (Harsha and Priya). Sub-cluster IA consisted of one variety (Aneeta), while Sub-cluster IB consisted of two varieties (Aarti and BSS-1009). Polymorphic per cent ranges from 13.16 per cent (between BSS-1009 and Aneeta ) to 43.18 per cent (between Aarti and Harsha). This study showed that ISSR markers produced specific DNA fragments for the identification of ridge gourd varieties. The knowledge acquired through this investigation may play a pivotal role in the application of molecular markers in ridge gourd improvement programmes.

2 illus, 3 tables, 15 ref

040198   GARIYA K , DWIVEDI, G K , KUMAR V, TEWARI, S K (Vivekananda Global Univ, Jaipur, Rajasthan, Email: vkskumar49@gmail.com) : Agrobiodiversity, composition and functional characteristics of homegardens in bhimtal block of Nainital district, Uttarakhand, India. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(2), 133-43.

Present investigation was carried out to access the agrobiodiversity, composition and functional characteristics of homegardens in bhimtal block of Nainital district, Uttarakhand during 2011-12. The study was carried out in three villages diversified in respect to elevation and agroecological situations viz., Amritpur (520 mts) at low hill, Jeolikote (1219 mts) at mid hill and Ghorakhal (2000 mts) at high hill in Bhimtal block of district Nainital. In these villages a total of 22 respondents of different economic status in each village with a total of 66 respondents were selected and interrogated for the information related to the study. It was found that 80.30 per cent household practicing homegardening and the tree species, fruit tree species (Malus domestica, Citrus sinensis, Psidium guajava), sacred groves species (Ficus roxburghii, Tamarindus indica, Aegle marmelos), timber, fuel wood and fodder tree species (Grevia optiva, Toona ciliata, Mangifera indica, Citrus aurentifolia) were contributed as 33.33, 38.09, 11.90 and 40.74 per cent respectively

1 illus, 7 tables, 33 ref

040190   PADHY C, RAJU P S (Centurion Univ of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi-761 211, Odisha, Email: chitrasenapadhy@cutm.ac.in) : Mental health of farmers- Need of the hour. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(1), 87-91.

Farmers are presently facing tough times. Farming is hard physical labour from morning to evening. Managing a farm can lead to monetary stress, anxiety, depression, financial ruin, marital strife, and addiction. The mental health message should reach not only to the farmers but also to the bankers, extension workers, counsellors and veterinarians. Farmers face a number of challenges when it comes to their mental health. Farming can create stress that can seriously impact the farmer’s well being. Some of the behavioural signs due to stress in farming are loss of interest in social activities, poor concentration, confusion, forgetfulness, indecision, impatience in relationships, irritability, and withdrawal from society. Some of the physical symptoms are poor or disturbed sleep, weight loss or gain, changes in appetite, stomach upset, headache, and chest pain. In farms and rural areas issues of mental health are often ignored. The present is not an easy time to be in agriculture. Low commodity prices and mounting input costs are resulting in poor returns from farming. This has led to mental stress amongst farmers, which when unaddressed can lead to serious consequences in the farming community. Farmers and their families facing high levels of stress get into depression and even nourish suicidal thoughts. In rural areas, there is a paucity of mental health professionals who are culturally competent to serve farmers. In times of great stress, farmers need someone to talk to and get advice from. It can make all the difference in sorting out during troubled situations. Extension workers and advisors should understand the mental well being of farmers. Social activities must be encouraged and avenues for entertainment must be created in rural areas for farmers to get away from farm stress.

31 ref

040180   MAITRA S, REDDY M D, NANDA S P (Centurion Univ of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi- 761 211, Email: sagar.maitra@cutm.ac.in) : Nutrient management in finger millet (Eleusine coracana l. gaertn) in India. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(1), 3-21.

In India finger millet is mostly cultivated in resource poor soils of tropics and sub-tropics. Synchronizing nutrient supply with crop demand is essential to maximize yield and fertilizer use efficiency. It has been found that incorporation of N fertilizer during seeding stage increased yield as compared to broadcasting of fertilizer. The continuous application of inorganic N fertilizer reduced the soil organic carbon level. The foliar application of 2 % urea produced higher grain and straw yield. Application of fertilizer P @ 125 % recommended dose of phosphorus (RDP) with recommended N, K and FYM in different fertility soils recorded higher grain and straw yield. Nutrient management for targeting production and sustainability, integrated nutrient management (INM) will be the most suitable option. Application of 100 % NPK along with FYM @ 10 t ha-1 recorded significantly higher grain and straw yield and enriched the soil organic carbon. Application of farmyard manure (FYM) alone or in a combination with chemical fertilizers contributed to higher amounts of carbon inputs and build up a higher soil organic carbon pool in rain fed groundnut–finger millet rotation in alfisol of semi-arid region. Cropping system approach either sequential or intercropping with legume was found beneficial. Treating seeds with Azospirillum brasilense (N fixing bacterium) and Aspergillus awamori (P Solubilizing fungus) @ 25 g kg-1 seed of finger millet found to be beneficial. Soil test crop response (STCR) need to be considered for supplying nutrients more precisely with a target yield output. In the present paper, the available literature on different options of nutrients application to finger millet for sustainable productivity is reviewed.

3 tables, 44 ref

040179   VERMA A, CROSSA J, VARGAS M, JOSHI A K, SINGH G P (CIMMYT, Mexico, Email: ajay.verma1@icar.gov.in) : Adaptability measures for wheat genotypes evaluated under northern hills zone of country for irrigated timely sown conditions. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(1), 1-12.

Wheat genotypes were evaluated under multi environment trials for Northern Hills Zone of India to study the adaptability performance. Genotypes HS612, HS507 and HPW430 were of high yield and better adaptability by analytic measures of adaptability based on BLUP values during 2015-16. Two interaction principal components, accounted for 89.9 % of total GxE interaction sum of squares in biplot analysis. HPW428, HS613, VL2020, VL2024 had specific adaptations to Almora and Malan while HS616, HPW423, HPW430, VL2021, HPW426 expressed for Shimla and Khudwani locations. Wheat genotypes HS612, HS507 and HPW430 were cited by analytic measures as per BLUE values. HPW429, HS613, VL2020, VL2024 had specific adaptations to Almora and Malan while HS616, HS618, HPW425, HPW426, HPW430, VL2023, VL2021, HPW426 observed for Shimla and Khudwani. Second year (2017-18) had seen high yield and better adaptability of HS631, HS632, VL2030, VL2025 genotypes as per BLUP values. Biplot analysis expressed specific adaptations of HPW429, HS613, VL2020, VL2024 to Almora and Malan locations. BLUE values based measures showed high yield and better adaptability of HS631, HS632, VL2030, VL2025 genotypes. Biplot analysis while utilizing 79.5 % of total GxE interaction sum of squares exhibited specific adaptations of HPW446, VL907, HS632, VL2025, VL2030 to Almora and Shimla. Stratification of wheat genotypes as per BLUP values was more efficient than that by BLUE. Biplot analysis exhibited more of GxE interactions sum of squares by first two significant principal components based on BLUP as compared to BLUE values.

5 illus, 10 tables, 23 ref

039647   DREGER A, ADAMCZAK A ,LOZYKOWSKA K S , WIELGUS K (Biotechnology Dep, Institute of Natural Fibres and Medicinal Plants, Poland, Email: mariola.dreger@iwnirz.pl) : Pharmacological properties of fireweed (Epilobium angustifolium L.) and bioavailability of ellagitannins.. Herba Polo 2020, 66(1), 1-13.

Fireweed (Epilobium angustifolium L.) is a well-known medicinal plant traditionally used in the treatment of urogenital diseases, stomach and liver disorders, skin problems, etc. E. angustifolium extracts show antiandrogenic, antiproliferative, cytotoxic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antimicrobial activities. The unique combination of biological properties demonstrated by the results of some studies indicates that fireweed has a positive effect in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and potentially in the prostate cancer chemoprevention. However, the efficacy of E. angustifolium phytotherapy is still poorly tested in clinical trials, while numerous beneficial effects of extracts have been documented in the in vitro and in vivo tests. Fireweed is rich in polyphenolic compounds, particularly ellagitannins. Currently, polyphenols are considered to be modulators of beneficial gut microbiota. The literature data support the use of ellagitannins in the prostate cancer chemoprevention, but caution is advised due to the highly variable production of urolithins by the individual microbiota. A better understanding of the microbiota’s role and the mechanisms of its action are crucial for an optimal therapeutic effect. This paper aims to summarize and discuss experimental data concerning pharmacological properties of E. angustifolium and bioavailability of ellagitannins – important bioactive compounds of this plant.

1 illus, 1 table, 74 ref

039465   KAPILDEV G, CHINNATHAMBI A, SIVANANDHAM G, RAJESH M, JEYARAJ M, SELVARAJ N, ALHARBI S A, GANAPATHI A (Microbial Biotechnology Dep, Bharathiar Univ, Coimbatore-641 046, Email: aganapathi2003@rediffmail.com) : Meta-Topolin and ?-cyclodextrin enhance multiple shoot and root production in black gram Vigna mungo (L.) hepper. Indian J Expl Biol 2020, 58(5), 314-22.

The recalcitrant nature of black gram is the major constraint of in vitro regeneration and agrobacterium- mediated genetic transformation, to overcome this, a productive shoot regeneration protocol has been achieved in black gram cultivar T9 using 7-day old cotyledonary node explants excised from in vitro- raised black gram seedlings using meta-topolin. An aromatic cytokinin, meta-topolin along with BA (1.5+0.5 mg/L) in 0.50 strength MS medium with 1.5 % (w/v) sucrose exhibited a maximum number of multiple shoots (32.0±0.37 shoots/explant) at the end of 6 weeks of culture. The shoots were elongated in (6.40±0.50 cm/shoot) in MS medium supplemented with GA3 (2.0 mg/L). A maximum number of roots (9.60±0.50/shoot) and root length (11.20±0.73 cm/shoot) were obtained in combination with β-cyclodextrin (a cyclic oligosaccharide; 1.5 mg/L) and IBA (1.5 mg/L). The rooted plantlets were hardened and acclimatized with least mortality rate of 2 % in pot mixture consisting red soil:sand:farm yard manure (FYM) (2:1:1) and grown in green house with 85 % relative humidity. Ploidy levels were analyzed using flow cytometry which confessed the chromosomal stability in invitro raised plants similar to parent plants. This protocol may be useful for producing transgenic black gram with desirable agro-traits in Indian cultivars.

4 illus, 5 tables, 26 ref

039424   TIPPABATHANI J, NELLORE J, KATHIRKANNAN P, NACHIYAR C V (Biotechnology Dep, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Email: sree_nellore@yahoo.com) : Developmental effects of three textile chemicals on locomotor activity, antioxidant markers and acetylcholine esterase activity in zebrafish. Indian J Expl Biol 2020, 58(3), 212-8.

Textile chemicals discharged into the water bodies cause huge impact on human health and environment. However, the adverse effects of textile chemicals during critical period of brain development are not explored. This study uses zebrafish to assess the developmental toxicity of three textile chemicals. Zebrafish embryos were exposed to different concentrations (1, 5, 10, 20 and 40 PPM) of Naphthalene sulfonic acid (NSA), Metanilic acid (MA) and Acid blue 113 (AB113) from 18 h post-fertilization (HPF) to 96 HPF, respectively. Several endpoints, such as mortality, morphological abnormalities and locomotor activity of embryos and larvae were studied. Biochemical detection of oxidative stress, glutathione and acetylcholine esterase was subsequently tested. The survival rate was decreased (LC (50): 1PPM) by NSA, MSA or AB113 and at > 5PPM a90 % mortality was observed respectively. Exposure to 1 PPM of NSA, MSA or AB113 significantly reduced the locomotoractivity in an age dependent manner. However, no neurodegenerative phenotypes were noted. The glutathione and acetylcholineesterase activity (P <0.05) was decreased while malondialdehyde content was accumulated by NSA, MSA or AB113 treatment. The overall findings suggest that the selected textile dyes exposed during critical window development is able to produce oxidative stress and exert noticeable effects on locomotor activity in zebrafish embryos by altering acetylcholine esterase activity.

6 illus, 36 ref

039335   SIROHI P, YADAV B S, AFZAL S, MANI A, SINGH N K (Biotechnology Dep, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology Allahabad, Prayagraj - 211 004, Email: singhnand@gmail.com) : Identification of drought stress-responsive genes in rice (Oryza sativa) by meta-analysis of microarray data. J Genet 2020, 99, 35.

Meta-analysis provides a systematic access to the previously studied microarray datasets that can recognize several common signatures of stresses. Three different datasets of abiotic stresses on rice were used for meta-analysis. These microarray datasets were normalized to regulate data for technical variation, as opposed to biological differences between the samples. A t-test was performed to recognize the differentially-expressed genes (DEGs) between stressed and normal samples. Gene ontology enrichment analysis revealed the functional distribution of DEGs in different stressed conditions. Further analysis was carried out using software RICE NET DB and divided into three different categories: biological process (homoiothermy and protein amino acid phosphorylation), cellular component (nucleus and membrane), and molecular function (zinc ion binding ad DNA binding). The study revealed that 5686 genes were constantly expressed differentially in Oryza sativa (2089 upregulated and 3597 downregulated). The lowest P value (P = 0.003756) among upregulated DEGs was observed for naringenin, 2-oxoglutrate 3-dioxygenase protein. The lowest P value (P = 0.002866816) among the downregulated DEGs was also recorded for retrotransposon protein. The network constructed from 48 genes revealed 10 hub genes that are connected with topological genes. These hub genes are stress responsive genes that may also be regarded as the marker genes for drought stress response. Our study reported a new set of hub genes (reference genes) that have potentially significant role in development of stress tolerant rice.

7 illus, 5 table, 33 ref

039221   AMBEHABATI K K, HANAPI S Z, BAZ A F E, SAYYED R Z, DAILIN D J, ENSHASY H A E (Teknologi Malaysia(UTM), Malaysia, Email: henshasy@ibd.utm.my) : Isolation and identification studies on potential xylanase producing strain Trichoderma sp. WICC F46 isolated from tropical soil. J Sci Ind Res 2020, 79(02), 153-9.

Trichoderma is one of few fungal species of high potential application as bio factory for xylanase production. During last few years increased demand have been observed on the need to isolate high efficient strains from soil sample and to use different microbiological and bioprocess engineering approaches to increase the production yield. In this work, efficient xylanase producer strain was isolated from soil and fully identified using phylogeny analysis. In order to develop an efficient submerged medium for xylanase production, media screening was carried out followed by optimization using one factor at a time (OFAT) method. After optimization of medium composition, the maximal xylanase volumetric production reached 311.71 UmL^-1. This medium was composed of corn cob, peptone, magnesium sulphate, calcium chloride, and ammonium sulphate.

3 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

039185   SIDDIQUI M Z, AHMAD G, AMIN K M Y, AKHTAR S, REHMAN A (Biotechnology Dep, Faculty of Natural Sciences, New Delhi- 110 025, Email: drzakiramu10@gmail.com) : HPLC profiling conclusively distinguished two important Unani drugs, namely, Suranjan Shirin (Colchicum autumnale) and Suranjan Talkh (Colchicum luteum). Indian J Tradit Know 2020, 19, 170-3.

Suranjan (colchicum) is one of the prime drugs used for arthritis in Unani System of Medicine. Two varieties of the drug are available in the market under the name of Suranjan; one is Suranjan Shirin (Colchicum autumnale) and the other is Suranjan Talkh (Colchicum luteum). The two varieties are often confused with each other due to morphological resemblance. So there is a need to set a distinction between these two varieties of Suranjan. For this purpose the marker compound (Total Alkaloid Content) were estimated quantitatively and the High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) was conducted on both the drugs. 3 g of the powdered drug was extracted in petroleum ether and dissolved in 6 mL of 75 % ethanol to yield test sample. Methanol at a flow rate of 1 mL/min was used as a standard. The peaks eluted were detected at 254 nm and compared with the authentic standard at 3.2 min of retention time. The colchicine concentration was found to be higher in Suranjan Talkh (0.21 %) as compared to the Suranjan Shirin (0.15 %). Therefore the present study offers a phytochemical concentration criterion, namely, colchicine content to distinguish between Suranjan Shirin (Colchicum autumnale) and Suranjan Talkh (Colchicum luteum).

1 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

039176   GOPI B, SINGH R V, KUMAR S, KUMAR S, CHAUHAN S, CHAUHAN A, KUMAR A, SINGH S V (ICAR- Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar - 243 122, Email: rvsingh.icar@gmail.com) : Single-nucleotide polymorphisms in CLEC7A, CD209 and TLR4 gene and their association with susceptibility to paratuberculosis in Indian cattle. J Genet 2020, 99, 99:14.

The aim of this study was to identify the single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in bovine candidate genes CLEC7A, CD209 and TLR4, and explore the association between these SNPs with the occurrence of bovine paratuberculosis (PTB) disease. For this purpose, 549 animals were screened by a panel of four diagnostic tests, namely Johnin PPD test, ELISA test, faecal microscopy and IS900 blood PCR against Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis (MAP) to develop case–control populations. SNPs were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method. Genotypic–phenotypic associations were assessed by the PROCLOGISTIC procedure of SAS 9.3. Of the seven SNPs; rs110353594 in CLEC7A gene and rs8193046 in TLR4 gene were found to be associated with PTB. For SNP rs110353594, odds of CC and CT genotypes vs TT genotype was 1.543 (0.420–5.667; 95 % CI) and 0.284 (0.104–0.774; 95 % CI), respectively which means that CT genotype was more resistant than TT and CC genotypes against bovine PTB. For SNP rs8193046, odds of AA and AG genotypes versus GG genotype was 0.947 (0.296–3.034; 95 % CI) and 3.947 (1.555–10.022; 95 % CI), respectively, i.e. probability for getting an infection in animals with AG genotype was 3.94 times more as compared to GG genotype. Hence, a selection programme favouring CT genotype for rs110353594 and against AG genotype for rs8193046 may be beneficial for conferring resistance against bovine PTB.

2 illus, 5 tables, 63 ref

039175   ZHA X, WANG X, LI J, GAO F, ZHOU Y (Minzu Univ, China, Email: gaofei@muc.edu.cn) : Complete chloroplast genome of Sophora alopecuroides (Papilionoideae): Molecular structures, comparative genome analysis and phylogenetic analysis. J Genet 2020, 99, 99:13.

Sophora alopecuroides belongs to the genus Sophora of the family Papilionoideae. It is mainly distributed in the desert and semidesert areas of northern China, and has high medicinal value and ecological function. Previous studies have reported the chemical composition and ecological functions of S. alopecuroides. However, only a few reports are available on the genomic information of S. alopecuroides, especially the chloroplast genome, which greatly limits the study of the evolutionary relationship between other species of Papilionoideae. Here, we report the complete chloroplast genome of S. alopecuroides. The size of the chloroplast genome is 155,207 bp, and the GC content is 36.44 %. The S. alopecuroides chloroplast genome consists of 132 genes, including 83 protein-coding genes, 41 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, and eight ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the taxonomic position of S. alopecuroidesin Papilionoideae, and the genus Sophora and the genus Ammopiptanthus were highly related. Comparative genomics analysis revealed the gene rearrangement in the evolution of S. alopecuroides. The comparison between S. alopecuroides and the species of the Papilionoideae identified a novel 23 kb inversion between the trnC-GCA and trnF-GAA which occurred before the divergence of Sophora and Ammopiptanthus of Thermopsideae. This study provided an essential data for the understanding of phylogenetic status of S. alopecuroides.

10 illus, 3 tables, 38 ref

039113   SONG J, LUO H, XU Z, ZHANG Y, XIN H, ZHU D, ZHU X, LIU M, WANG W, REN H, CHEN H, GAO T (Qingdao Agricultural Univ, Qingdao- 266109, China, Email: gt_kelly@163.com.) : Mining genes associated with furanocoumarin biosynthesis in an endangered medicinal plant, Glehnia littoralis. J Genet 2020, 99, 1-11.

The endangered medicinal plant Glehnia littoralis is one of the important natural source of furanocoumarin, which has been used as mucolytic, antitussive, antitumour and antibacterial. However, the genetic information of furanocoumarin biosynthesis in G. littoralis is scarce at present. The objective of this study was to mine the putative candidate genes involved in the biosynthesis pathway of furanocoumarin and provide references for gene identification, and functional genomics of G. littoralis. We carried out the transcriptome analysis of leaves and roots in G. littoralis, which provided a dataset for gene mining. Psoralen, imperatorin and isoimperatorin were detected in G. littoralis by high performance liquid chromatography analysis. Candidate key genes were mined based on the annotations and local BLAST with homologous sequences using BioEdit software. The relative expression of genes was analysed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Further, the CYP450 genes were mined using phylogenetic analyses using MEGA 6.0 software. A total of 156,949 unigenes were generated, of which 9021 were differentially-expressed between leaves and roots. A total of 82 unigenes encoding eight enzymes in furanocoumarin biosynthetic pathway were first obtained. Seven genes that encoded key enzymes in the downstream furanocoumarin biosynthetic pathway and expressed more in roots than leaves were screened. Twenty-six candidate CYP450 unigenes expressed abundantly in roots and were chiefly concentrated in CYP71, CYP85 and CYP72 clans. Finally, we filtered 102 differentially expressed transcription factors (TFs) unigenes. The transcriptome of G. littoralis was characterized which would help to elucidate the furanocoumarin biosynthetic pathway in G. littoralis and provide an invaluable resource for further study of furanocoumarin.

11 illus, 1 tables, 15 ref

026691   SWORNAKUMARI C, MEIGNANALAKSHMI S, LEGADEVI R, PALANISAMMI A (Animal Biotechnology Dep, Madras Veterinary Coll, Chennai- 600 007, Email: smeignanalakshmi@gmail.com) : Preparation of microspheres using poly-3-hydroxybutyrate biopolymer and its characterization. J Environ Biol 2018, 39(3), 331-38.

Biodegradable poly-3-hydroxybutyrate is one of the most common biopolymer which is used in different fields such as medicine, agriculture, textile, industrial and food packaging. PHB microspheres are useful for targeting drugs to specific infection sites and for prolonged drug release. The present study focus on microsphere preparation for effective controlled drug release using poly-3-hydroxy butyrate biopolymer. In the present study, poly-3-hydroxy butyrate microspheres were prepared using solvent evaporation technique and characterized by SEM and FTIR. Poly-3-hydroxy butyrate microspheres were encapsulated with BSA and gentamicin. Drug encapsulation efficiency was determined. In vitro drug release profile and in vitro cytotoxicity was also studied. The prepared microspheres were of 2µm in size. Microspheres fabricated with 1 % polyvinylalcohol showed encapsulation efficiency of 94.3 % and 90.27 % with BSA and gentamicin, respectively. The in vitro release studies in simulated body fluid, phosphate buffered saline and contact lens solution showed initial burst release followed by controlled release. In vitro cytotoxicity analysis showed 98 % and 95 % viability of cells in 3T3L1 cell line for microsphere encapsulated with BSA and gentamicin, respectively. Poly-3-hydroxy butyrate microspheres were found to release BSA and gentamicin in a controlled manner and were found to be non-toxic by in vitro cytotoxicity studies.

9 illus, 20 ref

026690   SULTANA N, SAHA P (Microbiology Dep, Burdwan Univ, Burdwan- 713 104, Email: psaha@microbio.buruniv.ac.in) : Studies on potential application of crude keratinase enzyme from Stenotrophomonas sp. for dehairing in leather processing industry. J Environ Biol 2018, 39(3), 324-30.

Chicken feathers represent huge pool of waste biomass which can undergo microbial degradation to generate value added products. Chicken feathers can be used as cheap substrate for production of keratinase enzyme which can be effectively used in dehairing of hides. Such enzyme based process is superior over conventional chemical based dehairing process, known to be responsible for pollution of the aquatic ecosystems. Isolation, characterization and identification of keratin degrading bacteria in feather meal broth medium using 0.5 % chicken feather as substrate. The effect of various parameters such as temperature; pH and substrate concentration on enzyme activity was assayed. The crude keratinase was evaluated comparatively with conventional chemical based process for dehairing activities with specific references to goat skin and cow hide. Application of bacterial crude keratinase enzyme towards eco-friendly dehairing process was highlighted from Norja-1, which was identified as Stenotrophomonas sp. by combination of 16S rRNA gene based molecular phylogenetic approach and phenotypic characterization. Keratinolytic activity was qualitatively demonstrated by scanning electron microscopic studies and quantitatively by using keratin azure as substrate. The crude keratinase enzyme showed optimum activity at 55 $°$C, pH 9 and 5 % substrate concentration. So, the enzyme was considered to be thermo-tolerant and alkaliphilic. Conventional chemical based process generated black spot on hide surface with broken hair while enzyme based process produced hides with better texture and intact hair which may be used further for making other value added products (such as wigs, doll's hair, carpets and mattresses). The dehairing activities of crude keratinase enzyme were demonstrated to be better in comparison to conventional chemical methods and might be useful towards development of pollution free dehairing process for leather processing industries. Presence of enzyme activity at wide range of temperatures (10 to 60$°$C) and pH (7.4 to 10.7) makes it a potential candidate for possible biotechnological application towards development of eco-friendly cost effective dehairing process in leather industries.

5 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

026686   PRIYADARSHINI S, MADHUMADHURYA V R, SHWETHA P, KUMAR D J K, MAHESH M (Biotechnology Dep, Government Science Coll, Bangalore - 560 061, Email: priyadarshiniplm@gmail.com) : Strain improvement for the production of antioxidant activity from Bacillus sp. by induced stress. J Appl Nat Sci 2018, 10(2), 614 - 9.

In the present study, water samples were collected from different beaches in Chennai such as Marina beach, Elliott beach, VGP Golden beach and Kovalam beach to evaluate the best source for antioxidants. The bacteria were isolated on Starch Casein Agar media and screened for the antimicrobial activity. Among 11 isolates, 5 isolates showed antimicrobial potential which were further evaluated for the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl) scavenging activity. Among 5 isolates, one sample showed significant DPPH scavenging activity with half minimal inhibitory concentration of (IC50) 344.754 µg/ mL. The maximum antioxidant production was observed at pH 7 and at temperature of 37 ºC with an IC50 of 188.66µg/mL and 293.76µg/mL respectively. The potent antioxidant producing strain was subjected for mutagenesis. In physical mutagenesis, the organism exposed for UV light for 25 minutes showed maximum antioxidant production with an IC50 of 133.55 µg/mL. This mutant strain was then subjected for chemical mutagenesis with the addition of different concentrations of Ethidium bromide such as 10 µL, 20 µL, 30 µL, 40 µL and 50 µL. The mutant strain obtained with the addition of 20 µL Ethidium bromide (EtBr) showed significant antioxidant activity with an IC50 of 325.4 µg/mL. The sample was purified by solvent extraction method and was evaluated for antioxidant production. The analyte was subjected to HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography) analysis to avince the presence of antioxidants. The ethyl acetate extract showed the total phenolic content of 0.892 mg GAE/g of dry extract. It also showed the total flavonoid content of 0.522 mg RE/g of dry extract.

8 illus, 25 ref

026689   SELEIT I, BAKRY O A, GAYED E A E, GAWAD D A E (Dermatology Dep, Menoufiya Univ Hospital, 32817 Menoufiya Governorate, Egypt, Email: olabakry8@gmail.com) : Polymorphism of FAS and FAS ligand genes in Alopecia areata: A case–control study in Egyptian population. Indian J Dermatol 2018, 63(3), 220-6.

Alopecia areata (AA) is a common dermatologic disease with suspected autoimmune etiology. Tumor necrosis factor superfamily member 6 or CD95 (FAS) and FAS ligand (FASL) are proapoptotic proteins. The relationship between apoptosis and autoimmunity is well recognized. Inflammatory T cells in AA are cytotoxic and possess FAS/FASL antigens. This study aims to investigate the association between FAS-670 A/G and FASL-124 A/G gene polymorphisms and AA to clarify if these polymorphisms influence disease occurrence or increase disease risk. case–control study was conducted on sixty patients with AA, and 40 age- and sex-matched healthy subjects, as a control group. Disease severity was assessed by severity of alopecia tool (SALT) Score. FAS 670A/G and FASL 124A/G gene polymorphisms were investigated by the restriction fragment length polymorphism polymerase chain reaction. For FAS gene, G/G genotype was significantly higher in cases than in control group with odds ratio 5.1. G allele was more prevalent among patient group with odds ratio 1.75. For FASL gene, A/G genotype was significantly higher in cases than in control group with odds ratio 4.53. G allele was more prevalent among patient group with odds ratio 1.88. GG genotype of FAS was significantly associated with longer disease duration (P=0.001), recurrent attacks (P=0.01), higher SALT score (P=0.009), alopecia universalis (P=0.002), and severe disease (P=0.006). FAS and FASL gene polymorphisms are associated with AA. Further large-scale studies on different ethnicities are required for more clarification of their role in disease development. Therapeutic modalities based on their inhibition could be promising in the treatment of a common disease like AA.

2 illus, 2 tables, 36 ref

026688   BUTT J, ISHTIAQ S, IJAZ B, MIR Z A, ARSHAD S, AWAIS S (Pharmacognosy Dep, Punjab Univ Coll of Pharmacy, Lahore, Pakistan, Email: juwairiya.zulfiqar@pharm.uol.edu.pk) : Authentication of polyherbal formulations using PCR technique. Ann Phytomed 2018, 7(1), 131-9.

Unprecedented growth in popularity of complementary medicines raised concerns about their quality and safety. So, there is need to develop methods for their sensitive, specific and accurate analysis. Authenticity and similarity of medicinal nutrients and strict procedures of material handling are significant features to maintain the quality of herbal preparations. Genome based methods to authenticate these plants revolutionized the authentication process. Developing DNA molecular markers by sequencing a standard zone of the DNA is the best technique to identify the adulterants as well as to authenticate the required species of medicinal plants. Application of molecular biological technique serves as one of the very consistent system for authentication of natural herbal materials. The progress of authentic analytical methods is a major challenge to scientists as natural products are optimized as drug like molecules.This research work is based on the application of PCR technique for authentication of Glycyrrhiza glabra L. in its crude form as well as in final dosage form, i.e., Hamdard’s Joshanda, Marhaba’s Joshanda, GNC herbal supplement and Joshaba Sadar (Chest tea) available in market, provided isolated DNA from dried roots of the sample was used as templates in PCR. All the products gave the desired results except one. It proved to be a complementary tool to control quality of herbal materials alone and in different marketable herbal product having Glycyrrhiza spp. as their active ingredient.

5 illus, 5 tables, 77 ref

026687   DEVI N, AZMI W (Biotechnology Dep, Himachal Pradesh Univ, Shimla-171 005, Himachal Pradesh, Email: wamikazmi@yahoo.com) : Structural analysis and characterization of a clinically important low molecular weight natural dextran synthesized by Leuconostoc lactis KU665298 dextransucrase. Ann Phytomed 2018, 7(1), 52-62.

Dextransucrases are glucosyltransferases that catalyze the transfer of $\mathrm{\alpha }$-D-glucopyranose residues from sucrose to low molecular weight acceptors, forming oligos and polysaccharides. The main dextransucrase reaction product is dextran, along with the release of fructose. Dextran is a linear polymer of glucose joined mainly by $\mathrm{\alpha }$ (1 $\to$ 6) links and fewer $\mathrm{\alpha }$ (1 $\to$ 2), $\mathrm{\alpha }$ (1 $\to$3) and/or $\mathrm{\alpha }$(1 $\to$ 4) links. The structural characteristics or the frequency and type of linkage in dextran are dependent on the nature of the enzyme and type of producing micro organism. It has acknowledgeable industrial applications in medical, pharmaceutical, food, textile and chemical industries, depending on its structural characteristics. This paper offers the physical and chemical characterization of a clinically important dextran produced by dextransucrase of a newly isolated strain of L. lactis KU665298 in a laboratory fermenter. Structural analysis of dextran by FTIR, ¹HNMR,¹³C NMR confirmed the presence of a large percentage of $\mathrm{\alpha }$-(1 $\to$ 6) linear linkages with veryfew $\mathrm{\alpha }$-(1 3) branch points. The surface morphology and molecular weight distribution of purified dextran has also been included in this study.

11 illus, 68 ref

026685   NAIDU M A, PRASAD Y R (Biotechnology Dep, Acharya Nagarjuna Univ, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, Email: manaidupharmacy@gmail.com) : Synthesis of novel diarylsulfonylurea-chalcone hybrid molecules with potential in vitro antimicrobial activity. Asian J Pharm 2018, 12(2), 88-93.

To study the antimicrobial effect of novel diarylsulfonylurea-chalcone hybrids with significant associated morbidity and mortality which is mainly due to the development of microbial resistance to the existing antimicrobial agents. The antimicrobial effect of novel diarylsulfonylurea-chalcone hybrid molecules was evaluated by agar well diffusion method against various strains of bacteria and fungi. Most of the compounds showed promising antibacterial and antifungal activity.The results in the present study suggest that novel diarylsulfonylurea-chalcone hybrids can be used in treating diseases caused by the tested organisms.

2 tables, 11 ref

026680   KAUSHIK N, BHATT A K, CHAKRABARTI S K (Crop Improvement Div, Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI), Shimla- 171 001, Email: aneelamkaushik@gmail.com) : Plastid genome engineering and its potential applications: A review. Int J Agric Environ Biotechnol 2018, 11(4), 615-21.

Plastid genome engineering is a credible tool for the basic biotechnological research and various innovative techniques have led to the better understanding of the complex processes involved in the plastid transformation. Plastids in higher plants are the major biosynthetic centers for photosynthesis which is the main source of energy requirement. Plastids have their own genome i.e. plastome which is maternally inherited in most angiospermic plant species. Although production of transgenic plants has traditionally been through expression of transgene in the nucleus, but plastid transformation is considered more attractive and efficient target for genetic engineering due to several advantages over nuclear transformation including high level of foreign protein, eliminating the risk of cross pollination with weeds, absence of silencing mechanism and ability to engineer multiple genes rather than a single gene. The potential utility of plastid genome engineering has been explored in development of crops with various agronomic traits, development of vaccine, biopharmaceuticals, therapeutic proteins, biomaterials and industrial enzymes, which will definitely prove beneficial in near future. Plastid transformation is still to be fully utilized for product commercialization, because of the problems associated with protein purification and expression level control. This review article highlights the various possibilities and potential applications of plastid genome engineering for generation of marker free transplastomic plants, improvement in agronomic traits and role of plastids in the production of cost effective biopharmaceuticals and biomaterials.

62 ref

026679   YADAV S K, MAURYA S K, YADAV A K, KUMAR A, YADAV K (Narendra Deva Univ of Agriculture & Technology, Faizabad - 224 229, Email: dr.shivkumarjnp@gmail.com) : Study of prolactin receptor gene (PRLR5) polymorphisms and its association with egg production in Kadaknath hens. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(8), 1232-5.

The present study was conducted to investigate the polymorphisms of prolactin receptor (PRLR5) gene and its association with egg production in Kadaknath hens. Egg production is a polygenic inheritance trait.  Study was conducted on twenty female birds of Kadaknath kept for laying. Egg production performances were recorded as age at first laying (AFE), Body Weight at First Egg (WFE), Mean Egg Weight (MEW) and Total No. of Eggs at 90 days of laying (TEN). Genomic DNA isolated from 2- 3 of blood collected from wing vein of each bird was amplified for prolactin receptor (PRLR5) gene with specific primer by standardizing and optimising the PCR protocols.  PCR was performed in a final volume of 20 µl. The amplified PCR products were resolved on the gels to generate polymorphisms. PRLR5 was digested with BamHI. Retriction digested products were run on 2 % agarose gel electrophoresis. PRLR5 showed two alleles & two genotypes. The frequency of AA genotype at this locus was 0.75 & BB genotype was 0.25. The AFE (d), WFE (Kg), MEW (g) and TEN of Kadaknath hens in the present study were found to be 188.00 ± 0.71, 1.26 ± 0.03, 42.83 ± 0.21 & 37.75 ± 0.59 respectively. Birds with AA genotype of PRLR5 had a significantly (P < 0.05) better WFE & AFE than BB genotype. Prolactin receptor (PRLR5) genes produced polymorphism in Kadaknath and were associated with egg production traits.

1 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref

026678   DIALLO T, SINGLA L D, SUMBRIA D, KAUR P, BAL M S (Veterinary Parasitology Dep, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences Univ, Ludhiana- 141 004, Email: ldsingla@gmail.com) : Conventional and molecular diagnosis of haemo-protozoan infections in cattle and equids from Republic of Guinea and India. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(8), 1206-11.

A cross-sectional study was carried out on 50 N’ Dama cattle and 35 equids blood samples from Republic of Guinea and Punjab, India, respectively to assess the level of exposure to obligatory haemoprotozoa Theileria equi and Trypanosoma evansi by 18S rRNA gene based primary and nested polymerase chain reaction (nPCR) and RoTat1.2 based card agglutination test (CATT), and to investigate risk factors associated with the infection. Blood smear examination revealed the prevalence rate of 6 % (95 % CI = 2.06-16.22) for Trypanosoma spp. in N’dama cattle and 5.7 % for T. equi in equids. In equids, 17.14 % (95 % CI = 8.10-32.68) samples showed positive titer by CATT. Primary PCR showed 5.71 % (95 % CI = 1.58-18.8) infection and on the other hand nested PCR depicted 20 % (95 % CI = 10.04-35.89) T. equi infection. Moreover, only 8.57 % (95 % CI = 2.96-22.38) prevalence of T. evansi was recorded by T. evansi based multiplex PCR. PCRs revealed higher risk of infection of both T. equi (OR = 5.28, 95 % CI = 0.68-49.81) and T. evansi (OR = 3.33, 95 % CI = 0.20-104.83) in the farms where proper deworming/vaccination schedule was not followed. The risk factor associated with the type of host species had an odds ratio (OR) of 5 (95 % CI = 3.90-74.33) for donkeys/mules versus horses for T. equi infection. This group was also at higher risk of infection with OR of 4.8 (95 % CI = 0.12-124.47) for T. evansi. The present exploration brings out a variety of commodities at risk of infectivity pertaining to trypanosomosis and theileriosis calculated by different PCRs assay.

2 tables, 23 ref

026677   CHANG W, WANG J, ZHANG Y, WU J (Tarim Univ, Xinjiang 843 300, China, Email: wjyn-w@126.com) : Discovery of two novel miRNAs from the Ovis aries by a combinatorial approach of experiments and bioinformatics. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(8), 1155-61.

In the study, we successful constructed a library from the ovine testis using next-generation sequencing technology, and identified 219 novel miRNAs by bioinformatics. Two of the novel miRNAs (ovis_aries_testis-m0052_5p and ovis_aries_testis-m0165_5p), which were expressed in the sheep testis and ovary, and were confirmed by real-time PCR and northern blotting. Ovis_aries_testis-m0052_5p was 23 nucleotides in length, was located on chromosome 15, and had 100 % similarity to mmu-miR-34c-5p, hsa-miR-34c-5p, gga-miR-34c-5p, and cfa-miR-34c. Ovis_aries_testis-m0165_5p was 21 nucleotides in length, located on chromosome 5, and had 100 % similarity to mmu-miR-145a-5p, hsa-miR-145-5p, ssc-miR-145-5p, and bta-miR-145. The pre-miRNAs for Ovis_aries_testis-m0052_5p and Ovis_aries_testis-m0165_5p were 75 and 81 nucleotides in length, and both had a standard hairpin stem-loop structure. From the consistency of the sequence and structure, we speculated that ovis_aries_testis-m0052_5p had a function similar to hsa-miR-34c-5p, mmumiR-34c-5p, and ovis_aries_testis-m0165_5p had a function similar to hsa-miR-145-5p, which were involved in the fine regulation of cell survival, spermatozoon generate, breeding activities. Therefore, we defined the identified miRNAs as oar-miR-34c-5p and oar-miR-145-5p. The results will enrich the miRNA database, and provide the basis for research into the regulatory mechanisms of miRNA in relation to breeding activities.

6 illus, 2 tables, 30 ref

026676   RUBAN S W, BABU R N, ROBINSON J J A, KUMAR T M A S, KUMARASAMY P, PORTEEN K, RAJA P (Livestock Products and Technology Dep, Veterinary Coll, Hassan- 573 202, Email: rubanlpt@gmail..com) : Molecular detection of enterotoxigenic Staphylococcus aureus isolated from mutton marketed in retail outlets of Chennai, India. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(7), 1048-52.

The present study was aimed at detection of enterotoxigenic S. aureus in mutton marketed in retail outlets of Chennai. A total of 120 meat samples were collected from across Chennai for isolation of S. aureus and it was observed that 66.28 per cent of the samples were contaminated with S. aureus. The S. aureus count in mutton samples ranged from 1.8 x 10² to 4.9 x 10⁴ CFU/ g with an overall average of 1.30 x 10⁴ CFU/ g. All the isolates presumptively identified as S. aureus biochemically, amplified 181 bp product specific for nuc gene by PCR, which is species specific marker for S. aureus. Enterotoxin gene profiles (multiplex PCR) results revealed that 70.17 percent of the isolates were enterotoxigenic carrying only six genes (seb, sed, seg, seh, sei and sej) either alone or in combination, whereas none of these isolates harbored sea, sec and see. It was clear that seb (72.5 %) was the predominant enterotoxin gene followed by seg and sei, seh, sej and sed. Six different toxin gene profiles were exhibited by different isolates and majority of the isolates (55 %) carried two or more genes as compared to only one toxin gene.

2 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

026675   KUMAR V, MAAN S, KUMAR A, BATRA K, CHAUDHARY D, DALAL A, GUPTA A K, BANSAL N, SHEORAN N, MAAN N S (Animal Biotechnology Dep, Lala Lajpat Rai Univ of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar- 125 004, Email: sushilamaan105@gmail.com) : Real time PCR assay for differentiation of Brucella abortus and Brucella melitensis. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(7), 1037-42.

Brucellosis is one of the zoonotic diseases of major concern and can cause huge economic losses to livestock industry. Serological tests and bacterial isolation are considered as the gold standard assay for diagnosis of Brucella spp. but they are time-consuming, hazardous and lack specificity. To control and eradicate a disease, a confirmatory diagnostic method which is sensitive, quick and specific is the foremost requirement. Therefore in this study, we evaluated the performances of two newly designed TaqMan real-time PCR assays targeting the BruAB_0168 gene and BMEII0466 gene for Brucella abortus and Brucella melitensis (respectively). Both the assays were found to be highly specific in differentiation of respective species. Both the assays can detect as low as 0.02 fg of DNA and there was no detectable difference found in sensitivity of these two tests. R2 value and efficiency of these tests ranged from 0.992 - 0.998 and 100- 106 %, respectively showing that these assays are highly efficient.  Compared to conventional PCR assays these qPCR assays were 100 times higher sensitive. In conclusion, the present study showed that the developed real-time PCR assays are more sensitive, specific, have high reproducibility and repeatability and are faster than serological and conventional PCR methods for differentiation of Brucella abortus and Brucella melitensis.

4 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

026674   NEUPANE S, MA Q, MATHEW F M, VARENHORST A J, ANDERSEN E J, NEPAL M P (Biology and Microbiology Dep, South Dakota State Univ, Brookings, United states of America, Email: madhav.nepal@sdstate.edu) : Evolutionary divergence of TNL disease-resistant proteins in soybean (Glycine max) and common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris). Biochem Genet 2018, 56(4), 397–422.

Disease-resistant genes (R genes) encode proteins that are involved in protecting plants from their pathogens and pests. Availability of complete genome sequences from soybean and common bean allowed us to perform a genome-wide identification and analysis of the Toll interleukin-1 receptor-like nucleotide-binding site leucine-rich repeat (TNL) proteins. Hidden Markov model (HMM) profiling of all protein sequences resulted in the identification of 117 and 77 regular TNL genes in soybean and common bean, respectively. We also identified TNL gene homologs with unique domains, and signal peptides as well as nuclear localization signals. The TNL genes in soybean formed 28 clusters located on 10 of the 20 chromosomes, with the majority found on chromosome 3, 6 and 16. Similarly, the TNL genes in common bean formed 14 clusters located on five of the 11 chromosomes, with the majority found on chromosome 10. Phylogenetic analyses of the TNL genes from Arabidopsis, soybean and common bean revealed less divergence within legumes relative to the divergence between legumes and Arabidopsis. Syntenic blocks were found between chromosomes Pv10 and Gm03, Pv07 and Gm10, as well as Pv01 and Gm14. The gene expression data revealed basal level expression and tissue specificity, while analysis of available microRNA data showed 37 predicted microRNA families involved in targeting the identified TNL genes in soybean and common bean.

4 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

026673   LAWANIA S, SINGH N, BEHERA D, SHARMA S (Biotechnology Dep, Thapar Univ, Punjab - 147 002, Email: siddharthsharma.phd@thapar.edu) : Association of XPA polymorphisms towards lung cancer susceptibility and its predictive role in overall survival of north Indians. Biochem Genet 2018, 56(4), 375–96.

The present study investigated the role of Xeroderma pigmentosum group A (XPA) polymorphism (A23G and G709A) with lung cancer risk and its association with overall survival in North Indians. 370 cases and 370 controls were investigated to evaluate association between XPA polymorphism (A23G and G709A) with lung cancer risk using logistic regression analysis. A follow-up study was also conducted for 291 lung cancer cases illustrating correlation between overall survival in lung cancer patients and XPA variants. GG genotype showed an increased lung cancer risk (p = 0.0007) for A23G polymorphism whereas G709A polymorphism was associated with significant protective effect in heterozygous (AG) subjects (p = 0.001). When stratified according to smoking status an increased risk for lung cancer was observed for GG genotype in A23G polymorphism (p = 0.0002). A poor survival in females carrying variant genotype (GG) was observed (p = 0.001; MST = 4.16 months) for A23G polymorphism. Adenocarcinoma patients with heterozygous genotype showed an increased hazard ratio (p = 0.02) for A23G polymorphism. G709A was associated with a reduced hazard ratio marking a better survival among mutant females (HR 0.17; p = 0.05; MST = 18.63 months). It can be concluded that A23G polymorphism might contribute to increased lung cancer risk in North Indian population emphasizing on poor survival among females. G709A polymorphism might result in protective effect in lung cancer subjects. The present study had a low sample size but it could act as reference for the large sample studies in future.

2 illus, 5 tables, 30 ref

026672   BO GAO B, WANG W, WU H, CHEN C, SHEN D, WANG S, CHEN W, ZHANG L, CHAN S, SONG C (Yangzhou Univ, Yangzhou 225009, China, Email: cysong@yzu.edu.cn) : Changes in skeletal muscle and body weight on sleeping beauty transposon-mediated transgenic mice overexpressing pig mIGF-1. Biochem Genet 2018, 56(4), 341–55.

Insulin-like growth factor (IGF-I) is an important growth factor in mammals, but the functions of the local muscle-specific isoform of insulin-like growth factor 1 (mIGF-1) to skeletal muscle development have rarely been reported. To determine the effect of pig mIGF-1 on body development and muscle deposition in vivo and to investigate the molecular mechanisms, the transgenic mouse model was generated which can also provide experimental data for making transgenic pigs with pig endogenous IGF1 gene. We constructed a skeletal muscle-specific expression vector using 5′- and 3′-regulatory regions of porcine skeletal α-actin gene. The expression cassette was flanked with Sleeping Beauty transposon (SB)-inverted terminal repeats. The recombinant vector could strongly drive enhanced green fluorescence protein (EGFP) reporter gene expression specifically in mouse myoblast cells and porcine fetal fibroblast cells, but not in porcine kidney cells. The EGFP level driven by α-actin regulators was significantly stronger than that driven by cytomegalovirus promoters. These results indicated that the cloned α-actin regulators could effectively drive specific expression of foreign genes in myoblasts, and the skeletal muscle-specific expression vector mediated with SB transposon was successfully constructed. To validate the effect of pig mIGF-1 on skeletal muscle growth, transgenic mice were generated by pronuclear microinjection of SB-mediated mIGF-1 skeletal expression vector and SB transposase-expressing plasmid. The transgenepositive rates of founder mice and the next-generation F1 mice were 30 % (54/180) and 90.1 % (64/71), respectively. The mIGF-1 gene could be expressed in skeletal muscle specifically. The levels of mRNA and protein in transgenic mice were 15 and 3.5 times higher, respectively, than in wild-type mice. The body weights of F1 transgenic mice were significantly heavier than wild-type mice from the age of 8 weeks onwards. The paraffin-embedded sections of gastrocnemius from 16-week-old transgenic male mice showed that the numbers of myofibers per unit were increased in comparison with those in the wild-type mice. mIGF-1 overexpression in mice skeletal muscle may promote myofibers hypertrophy and muscle production, and increased the average body weight of adult mice. Transgenic mice models can be generated by the mediation of SB transposon with high transgene efficiency.

7 illus, 4 tables, 36 ref

026671   SWELLAM M, HASHIM M, MAHMOUD M S, RAMADAN A, HASSAN N M (Biochemistry Dep, National Research Centre, Giza 12622, Egypt, Email: menhamswellam@gmail.com) : Aberrant expression of some circulating miRNAs in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Biochem Genet 2018, 56(4), 283–94.

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a heterogeneous cancer commonly affecting children due to dysregulation of miRNA expression. In the current study, authors investigated the expression profile for miRNA-125b-1 and miRNA203 among childhood ALL. Blood samples were collected from newly diagnosed childhood ALL and healthy control children. The expression profile for candidate miRNAs was detected using quantitative RT-PCR analysis. Statistical analysis were performed using receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) to examine the diagnostic efficacy of the two miRNA and their levels among ALL clinicopathological factors and phenotypes. The median expression level for miRNA-125b-1 was significantly high in childhood ALL; while miRNA-203 level was significantly low in childhood ALL as compared to control ones. MiRNA-125-1 reported significant increase in T-ALL as compared to other ALL phenotypes. Median miRNA203 level was high in T-ALL followed by pre-B-ALL although no significant difference was reported. Clinicopathological factors did not emphasize significance with either detected miRNAs. Using ROC curve the diagnostic efficacy was significant with an area under the curve 0.858 for miRNA-125b-1 (83.72, 100 %) and 0.878 for miRNA-203 (97.67, 86.96 %). The combination of the two key miRNAs revealed absolute sensitivity (100 %). MiRNA-125b-1 and miRNA-203 can be useful molecular markers for diagnosis of ALL. Further studies with large cohort are warranted to validate these results.

3 illus, 3 tables, 34 ref

026670   YADAV S, CHANDRA A, KUMAR A, MITTAL B (Biotechnology Dep, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Univ, Uttar Pradesh - 226 025, Email: balrajmittal@gmail.com) : Association of TERT-CLPTM1L and 8q24 common genetic variants with gallbladder cancer susceptibility and prognosis in north Indian population. Biochem Genet 2018, 56(4), 267–82.

Gallbladder carcinoma (GBC) is one of the common malignancy of the biliary tract. Several genome wide and candidate gene studies have reported associations between multiple cancer types and single-nucleotide polymorphisms on 5p15.33 and 8q24.21 loci. However, predisposition potential of these genetic variants has not been assessed in GBC. We performed the present study to assess the potential of five polymorphisms on 5p15.33 and one on 8q24.21 locus in GBC risk and treatment response in patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy. We extracted genomic DNA from peripheral blood and genotyped selected SNPs using TaqMan allelic discrimination assays in 523 GBC cases and 274 controls from the north-Indian population. Statistical tests were performed to assess the association of selected common genetic variants with gallbladder cancer susceptibility and prognosis. Binary logistic regression analysis showed significant association of TERT rs2736100C > A [OR(CI) = 0.690(0.515–0.924), p value = 0.013], CLPTM1L rs401681C > T [OR(CI) = 0.586(0.405–0.847), p value = 0.004], and CASC8 rs6983267G > T [OR(CI) = 1.629(1.215–2.186), p value = 0.001] with GBC risk. Further, using multivariate logistic regression, we observed that haplotype CLPTM1L  C_rs401681C_rs31489 TERT  T_rs2853676A_rs2736100 MIR4457  G_rs4635969 [OR(CI) = 7.52 (1.79–31.52), p value = 0.0064] is significantly associated with poor treatment response. In survival analysis, Kaplan–Meier survival curves showed significantly poor survival and COX regression suggested significantly higher hazard ratio in TT genotype carriers of CASC8 rs6983267 [OR(CI) = 4.28(1. 07–17.10), p value = 0.040] as compared to major allele and heterozygous (GG+GT) genotypes in metastatic GBC cases. The study revealed that 5p15.33 and 8q24.21 genetic variants significantly influence GBC risk and treatment response in north-Indian population. 

1 illus, 4 tables, 46 ref

026684   KANNAKI T R, VERMA P C, REDDY M R, SHANMUGAM M (Directorate of Poultry Research, Hyderabad-500 030, Email: trkannaki@gmail.com) : Molecular characterization of duck (Anas platyrynhos) Toll-like receptors, mRNA expressions profile in day-old duckling's tissues and cytokine response to in vitro TLR agonsists stimulation. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(6), 851-7.

TLR repertoire of duck, profiling of their mRNA expression in a range of duckling tissues and cytokine gene expressions upon TLR agonists stimulation in in vitro assay have been investigated. All ten TLR genes orthologous to chicken TLR repertoire were found in duck. Duck TLR genes showed 77-83 % similarity at amino acid level to their chicken counterparts. All ten TLRs-TLR1LA, 1LB, 2A, 2B, 3, 4, 5, 7, 15 and 21 mRNA expressions were significantly higher in bursa than other tissues studied, whereas in muscle all TLRs mRNA expressions were significantly lower except for TLR15 (P < 0.01). TLR7 gene expression was significantly higher in spleen, bursa and also in lung tissues (P < 0.01). The cytokine gene expression levels in duck PBMCs upon LPS and poly I:C stimulation have been quantified. IL-1γ gene expression level in LPS stimulated duck PBMC culture was significantly higher at both 12 h and 24 h time intervals (P < 0.05). However, there were no significant changes in IFN-γ gene expression levels in poly I:C stimulated duck PBMC culture at both the intervals. TLR gene expression in young ducklings together with cytokine response upon LPS stimulation demonstrates the innate preparedness of younger birds to encounter pathogens and their functional ability to respond to their ligands.

2 illus, 3 tables, 36 ref

026683   BORAH B, SINGH A P, GOGOI H, PHUKAN A J, SARKHEL B C (Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science Univ, Jabalpur- 482 004, Email: borah.drbiswajyoti@gmail.com) : Myostatin silencing effect on basic helix-loop-helix transcription factors in caprine foetal fibroblast cells. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(6), 843-50.

Transgenic food animal production is one of the potential and need oriented research to mitigate the food crises of the world. In vitro gene silenced animal cells and making use of these cells for transgenesis one of the suitable way to produce productive animals. Myostatin is a negative regulator of muscle growth, has the potential to increase the muscle mass upon its silencing. Four Hush 29-mer anti- myostatin (MSTN) shRNA constructs were checked for myostatin gene silencing in caprine foetal fibroblast cells and its subsequent effect on basic helix– loop–helix (bHLH) transcription factors. These factors are necessary for the terminal differentiation, proliferation, and homeostasis of muscle development. Different shRNA constructs displayed 55.1 to 91.5 % (p < 0.01) of myostatin silencing in caprine foetal fibroblast cells and upregulation of myogenic gene. Upregulation of 7.97 to 111.67 % for MyoD, 77.0 % to 319.47 % for myogenin, 16.67 % to 138.0 % for Myf5 were observed . The Pearson correlation established a negative correlation between myostatin and genes under study. Result suggests that knockdown of MSTN a potential approach to improve caprine musculatures.

8 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

026682   BASANG W, AN T, LUO X, ZHU Y, DANJIU L, HE S, E G (Southwest Univ, Lasa 850009, China, Email: eguangxin@swu.edu.cn) : Identification and characterization of microRNAs in white and black coated yak. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(6), 816-9.

In this study, we used high-throughput technology to provide the first transcriptome dataset for differentially expressed miRNA in mixed pools of dermis tissue from black- and white-coated yak to research the possible molecular mechanisms of yak coat pigmentation. In this study, 92,636,002 and 95,917,842 clear reads were generated through Illumina paired-end sequencing. A total of 78 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) were identified, including 59 upregulated and 19 downregulated miRNAs in the mixed pools of white-coated yak compared with the mixed pools of black-coated yak. In addition, 3634 genes were predicted as putative targets of DEMs. These DEGs related to 59 GO categories and were enriched in 216 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways, including melanogenesis and the Wnt signaling pathway. The results of the current study indicated that the coat color of the yak involved the transcriptional regulation process of miRNAs. These results provide helpful data to understand the molecular mechanisms of yak coat pigmentation.

1 illus, 1 table, 18 ref