Journal of Experimental Biology and Agricultural Sciences
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Effects of seed pretreatments and storage duration on germination performance in medicinal herbs
Get PDFSome potential medicinal plants for organic farming face challenges due to inadequate market demand. This study aimed to establish suitable germination and seed banking methods for five potential medicinal plants: Cyathillium cinereum (L.) H. Rob., Hibiscus sabdariffa L., Phyllanthus amarus Schumach. & Thonn., Solanum trilobatum L., and Solanum violaceum Ortega. These plants have significant benefits for local communities. The experiment was conducted using five pretreatments: non-soaking (control), soaking in room temperature (RT) water for 24 hours, soaking in 100 °C water for 5 minutes, soaking in 0.1% gibberellic acid (GA3) for 24 hours, and soaking in 0.1% potassium nitrate (KNO3) for 24 hours. Additionally, the effects of three storage temperatures (RT, 4°C, and −20°C) and three storage durations (3, 6, and 9 months) on seed viability were evaluated for each species using the most effective pretreatment. Among the studied plants, H. sabdariffa exhibited optimal seed propagation under the non-soaking (control), RT water, 0.1% GA3, and 0.1% KNO3 treatments, achieving a seed germination rate above 92%. S. trilobatum also germinated best under non-soaking and RT water conditions, with a germination rate exceeding 90%. In contrast, S. violaceum required GA3 treatment to achieve a 96% seed germination rate. C. cinereum and P. amarus exhibited optimal germination rates of less than 60% under both control and GA3 treatments. Regarding seed storage, seeds of H. sabdariffa, S. trilobatum, and S. violaceum maintained over 90% germination for up to nine months when stored at RT, 4°C, and −20°C. However, the other two species showed reduced viability over time. These findings suggest that, in most cases, non-soaking pretreatment is sufficient for optimal germination, given its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. Nonetheless, for S. violaceum, GA3 application is necessary. Furthermore, RT storage proves to be suitable for the long-term banking of seeds from selected medicinal species
Biological control of cocoa black pod rot caused by Phytophthora spp., using formulations based on Trichoderma spp. spores and bioactive extracts in Côte d’Ivoire
Get PDFWith more than 42% of the world's cocoa bean production, cocoa cultivation is of paramount economic importance for Côte d'Ivoire. However, black pod rot is caused by Phytophthora spp. leads to considerable reductions in local production. The excessive use of synthetic fungicides to control this disease has led to the development of pathogen resistance and poses risks to human health and the environment. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of two biological formulations based on the antagonistic fungus Trichoderma spp. spores and bioactive extracts against cocoa black pod rot development. The two Trichoderma sp. bioformulations were applied directly to detached pods under laboratory conditions (curative treatment) and to the cocoa trees' aerial parts under field conditions. Applications of these spore- and extract-based biofungicides significantly reduced blackrot development on cocoa pods. In the laboratory, cocoa pods treated with Trichoderma sp. spores after inoculation with Phytophthora palmivora showed no black rot symptoms. However, among the treatments with Trichoderma sp. bioactive extracts, only 50 mg/ml completely prevented symptom development caused by Phytophthora. In the field, the mean black pod rot reduction rates on cocoa pods were 68.68 and 38.81% for the spore and extract-based biofungicide treatments, respectively, compared with 61.10 % for the synthetic fungicide (Metalaxyl and Copper oxide)
Optimizing the Mg, Mn, and Mo co-inoculation impacts in soil using a response surface technique approach to ameliorate the N fixation efficiency of Enterobacter sp. GG1
Get PDFNitrogen fertilizers play a crucial role in enhancing crop productivity. However, the extensive use of synthetic fertilizers in recent years can disrupt the balance of soil nutrients, leading to deficiencies or toxicities in other essential nutrients such as magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), and molybdenum (Mo). This imbalance can interfere with nitrogen cycling processes, particularly affecting the activity of nitrogenase enzymes involved in ammonium production. To improve soil fertility sustainably, it is essential to adopt eco-friendly agricultural practices that maximize the activity of nitrogen-fixing bacteria. This study used an in-vitro response surface methodology to enhance ammonium production efficiency in the nitrogen-fixing bacterium Enterobacter sp. GG1. The research aimed to optimize the co-inoculation rates of Mg, Mn, and Mo to increase nitrogen fixation efficiency. The findings revealed that the three independent variables (Mg, Mn, and Mo) significantly interacted with ammonium production. The optimal conditions resulted in a maximum ammonium production of 18.48 ppm per day per gram of biomass
Effects of density and climate on leaf size and specific leaf area in Neolamarckia cadamba plantations in the Southern Highlands of Vietnam
Get PDFLeaf characteristics are vital indicators of photosynthetic capacity; however, their response to planting density and climate in Neolamarckia cadamba is not well understood. A field experiment was conducted to investigate leaf size and specific leaf area "SLA" (the ratio of leaf area to leaf dry mass) in N. cadamba cultivated under both dry and wet conditions in a monoculture system. The aim was to assess the role of leaf trait plasticity in the species' adaptation to varied climatic conditions and planting densities. Four planting densities (1 × 1 m, 2 × 1 m, 2 × 2 m, and 3 × 3 m) were arranged in a randomized design over an area of 3 hectares, divided into two main plots (dry and wet plots). Results indicated that the highest SLA occurred at planting densities of 2 × 1 m and 3 × 3 m in both wet and dry conditions. Leaf area was found to be inversely proportional to mean air temperature (MAT) and monthly sunshine duration (SuH) but positively correlated with monthly precipitation (MAP) and monthly mean relative humidity (Hu) across all densities. In dry plot areas, SLA showed a positive correlation with all planting densities. In wet plot areas, SLA at 1 × 1 m and 2 × 1 m densities exhibited a positive correlation with all four climatic parameters. These findings underscore the significant role of precipitation in driving variations in leaf size, highlighting the importance of adjusting planting densities according to local climatic conditions to optimize growth and resource efficiency in this economically important species
Development and optimization of a microbial fuel cells consortium by response surface methodology for the effective reduction of hexavalent chromium with power generation
Get PDFMicrobial fuel cells (MFCs) present a promising green technology for wastewater treatment while simultaneously generating power. However, for MFCs to be sustainable and scalable, they require significant technological and operational improvements. This study aimed to optimize the MFC process using Response Surface Methodology (RSM), which integrates modeling techniques, optimization methodologies, experimental design, and analysis. RSM was applied to evaluate the interactions among three independent variables: the working volume of wastewater, the buffer's pH, and the bacterial consortia's inoculum size. Double-chambered MFCs were inoculated with various bacterial strains, including Pseudomonas stutzeri, Microbacterium algeriense, and Bacillus stratosphericus. The results indicated that MFC performance was significantly influenced by the interactions between (i) the volume of wastewater and buffer pH, (ii) the volume of wastewater and inoculum size, and (iii) buffer pH and inoculum size. The RSM findings identified the optimal conditions for power generation and hexavalent chromium (Cr6+) reduction as approximately 80% working volume of wastewater, a buffer pH of 6.9, and a 26% inoculum size of bacterial consortia. A strong correlation between the model predictions and experimental results confirmed the model's accuracy in capturing the interactions among the independent factors. These findings demonstrated the effectiveness of RSM in optimizing the performance of MFCs and provided valuable insights for the future development of sustainable MFC-based wastewater treatment systems
Genetic Diversity and Trait Association Analysis in Curry Leaf for Fresh Leaf Yield and Related Traits: An Ex-Situ Evaluation
Get PDFCurry leaf, a popular aromatic and medicinal plant native to India, has significant commercial value. However, our understanding of its genetic variability, particularly about traits important for agriculture and economics, remains limited. This study aimed to assess the level of genetic divergence and the relationships between various traits related to fresh leaf yield among 151 diverse germplasm accessions maintained in ex-situ conditions. The germplasm was evaluated over two consecutive years (2023 and 2024) using a blocked augmented design, and the data were subjected to thorough statistical analysis. The results revealed substantial genetic diversity across all traits among the tested accessions. The genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation were very high for ten-leaf weight, fifty-leaflet weight, and fresh-leaf yield. Furthermore, all traits except for internode length on the rachis exhibited very high heritability along with a high genetic advance, indicating strong additive genetic control and the potential for improvement through selection. Correlation analysis showed a significant positive association between fresh leaf yield and most traits, except leaflet number per leaf. Hierarchical clustering grouped the 151 accessions into four main clusters. Cluster C was the largest, comprising 64 accessions, followed by Cluster D with 45 accessions and Cluster A with 39 accessions. Cluster B was the smallest, containing only three accessions: IC652422, IC652456, and IC652523. Notably, Cluster B exhibited the highest mean values for all traits, indicating the superior genetic potential of these accessions for developing high-yielding curry leaf cultivars. The findings from this investigation provide valuable insights for developing effective breeding strategies to improve curry leaves, enhancing yield and quality
Analysis of Antibiotic-Resistant Genes in Escherichia coli strain DDWI-01 through Whole-Genome Characterization: A Comparative Genomic Study
Get PDFAntibiotic resistance is a contemporary public health issue that poses a significant threat to both the environment and public health. Antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) microorganisms have been found in various environments, regardless of location or geographical features. This study aimed to evaluate the antibiotic susceptibility of Escherichia coli isolates collected from drinking water supplies in Delhi. E. coli was isolated using the membrane filtration technique and cultivated on MacConkey agar. The agar well diffusion assay was employed to assess antibiotic sensitivity to ten therapeutically important antibiotics. Whole-genome sequencing was conducted to identify the presence of AMR genes, and the findings were analyzed using the Comprehensive Antibiotic Resistance Database (CARD), revealing the presence of 60 AMR genes. A comparative genomics approach was utilized to examine the global distribution of AMR genes in E. coli between 2014 and 2024. Antibiotic susceptibility tests showed that the E. coli isolates were completely resistant to metronidazole, ampicillin, and azithromycin, while remaining sensitive to ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin, doxycycline, and meropenem. Genetic analysis identified sixty AMR genes, with the mechanisms of resistance including antibiotic efflux, target alteration, antibiotic inactivation, target substitution, target protection, and decreased permeability to antibiotics. The distribution of AMR genes varied among 15 closely related strains, with a total of 35 resistance genes identified across these E. coli strains. The discovery of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in Delhi's drinking water sources highlights a serious environmental and public health concern and underscores the potential risk of ARG transmission within water systems
Circular bioeconomy through fungi: Mycelium fermentation as an environmental solution for plant waste valorization
Get PDFThe rapid increase in agricultural waste and global food insecurity highlights the urgent need for sustainable resource utilization methods. This study investigates mycelium-based fermentation as a solution for converting plant-based agrarian byproducts, such as sugarcane bagasse and tomato pomace, into high-protein food products. The goal is to explore how fungi can improve the nutritional profile of inedible plant waste, transforming it into digestible, nutrient-rich, and palatable protein alternatives. The fermentation process breaks down complex plant fibers into simpler compounds that the fungi can metabolize, yielding high-protein biomass suitable for human or animal consumption. The results demonstrate that this approach not only addresses protein scarcity but also promotes circular agriculture by reducing waste, minimizing greenhouse gas emissions, and fostering sustainable resource management. Moreover, the scalability of mycelium-based fermentation shows promise for industrial applications, particularly in regions with abundant agricultural residues. In conclusion, this innovative biotechnological process presents a promising approach to addressing food security challenges while promoting a sustainable global food system. However, further research is needed to optimize fermentation processes, ensure regulatory compliance, and enhance consumer acceptance
EFFECT OF SOLVENT POLARITY ON THE PHYTOCHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND BIOACTIVITY OF Clerodendrum fragrans Vent. EXTRACTS COLLECTED FROM HUE CITY, VIET NAM
Get PDFClerodendrum fragrans Vent. (C. fragrans), is a valuable medicinal plant found in Vietnam. This study aims to investigate the chemical composition and biological activities of the aerial parts (stem and leaves) of C. fragrans. The chemical composition was determined using four different solvents: methanol, water, ethyl acetate, and n-hexane. The study also examined biological activities, including antioxidant properties and cytotoxicity. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) was used to analyze compounds with varying polarities in the extracts. Antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH method, while cytotoxic activity was measured by analyzing the optical density between total protein and stained Sulforhodamine B. Qualitative analysis of the extracts identified a total of 46 compounds across the four solvent extracts. The methanol, water, and ethyl acetate extracts yielded the highest number of compounds, ranging from 16 to 17 compounds each, whereas the n-hexane extract produced the fewest, with only 6 compounds identified. The DPPH scavenging activity demonstrated a range of IC50 values from 206.350 to 420.974 µg/mL, with the ethyl acetate extract showing the highest activity at 206.350 µg/mL. In terms of cytotoxic activity against HeLa cells, IC50 values ranged from 57.89 to 137.381 µg/mL, with the ethyl acetate extract again demonstrating the most potent effect, recording an IC50 of 137.381 µg/mL. These findings indicate that the above-ground parts of C. fragrans possess significant antioxidant and cytotoxic properties. Therefore, further research is warranted to explore its potential pharmacological applications in human health
Stay-green potential and interannual stability of sweet-stalk sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] genotypes cultivated in Burkina Faso
Get PDFSweet stalk sorghum is grown in Burkina Faso primarily for its grain, forage, and sugar-rich stalks. However, its productivity is heavily reliant on rainfall, and the variability in annual precipitation significantly limits its contribution to household food security. In this context, identifying drought-tolerant genotypes with stable performance is a key breeding priority. This study evaluated the agronomic performance of sweet stalk sorghum genotypes over two consecutive growing seasons (2022 and 2023). Field trials were conducted at the Gampéla research station using an alpha lattice design with three replications. The genetic material comprised 120 local genotypes and one stay-green check variety (B35). Fourteen agronomic traits were measured. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed significant seasonal effects for 12 traits. Multivariate analysis, supported by mean comparisons, identified 24 potentially stay-green genotypes, including B35. This group was characterized by high leaf retention (73.21%), high sugar content (Brix = 21.33%), and early flowering (78.44 days). Stability analysis highlighted genotypes BSA2 and NBO1 for their consistently high Brix levels. Genotypes KNO2 and KSK2 maintained stable juice yields, while BKO2 and BMK1 showed consistent biomass production. Despite seasonal variations, these stable genotypes represent strong candidates for developing resilient, dual-purpose sorghum varieties suited to low-rainfall environments