ARCHIVES OF APPLIED SCIENCE RESEARCH 2010 : VOLUME TWO : ISSUE 6

Archidium acanthophylum (Moss) and Cyanotis lanata (Succulent monocot) Succession model: Inselberg Indicators in Southwestern Nigeria

Succession progression on an Inselberg, an insular rock with its peculiar microclimate, and vegetation was monitored quarterly for three years. Lichen (Buellia canescens), moss (Achidium acanthophyllum), and succulent monocot (Cyanotis lanata) formed major vegetation on the rock, and the three plants were zero in for study. Quadrat method was use to measure the density of the target plants. Operational succession models accessed. Density cover of B. canescens remained constant throughout the year, while C. lanata and A. acanthophyllum coexist. C. lanata density increased and A. acanthophyllum decreased from March to September, while the A. acanthophyllum and C. lanata decreased from September to December. Measure of pH value of the substrate on the rock in December was significantly higher than any other month (7.3 ± SE 0.12, p < 0.05). Temperature of the substrate increased significantly (39.6 o C ± SE 0.56, p < 0.05) in December. Relative humidity above vegetation on rock surface increased significantly (78.78 ±SE 0.90, p ≤ 0.05) in June and September. B. canescens exhibited inhibition model of succession while the coexisting C. lanata and A. acanthophyllum exhibited facilitation model. Tolerance model was not visible among the rock vegetation. Inselberg was established as indicator of C. lanata and A. acanthophyllum.

Status of Lipid profile, MDA and protein carbonyl in patients with cardiovascular diseases

Total 185 patients of both sexes were included in study and further classified into 3 groups as hypertensive, Ischemic heart disease and cerebrovascular disease/stroke.The 60 healthy subjects in the control group were not on any kind of prescribed medication or dietary restrictions were included in the control group. In this study, we investigated first; the possible involvement of MDA and protein carbonyl as the end product of oxidative stress. and second we investigated serum lipid profiles (total, HDL and LDL cholesterol,trygliceride) to determine the relationship between these parameters in atherosclerosis. Serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol ,VLDL-cholesterol were significantly high in all groups than controls (p < 0.001) while HDL-cholesterol was found to be decreased significantly in all groups as compared to controls (p < 0.001). Total cholesterol, TC/HDL-C ratio, Triglycerides, LDL-cholesterol, LDL-C/HDL-C ratio were higher in all three groups (p<0.001). HDL-C concentration was significantly lower in all three groups than controls (p<0.001). Higher ratio of TC/HDL-C, TG/HDL-C and LDL-C/HDL-C was observed in all three groups compared to controls. MDA is estimated as a marker of lipid peroxidation, levels were significantly increased in all groups than controls ( P <0.001). Carbonyl content is estimated as a marker of protein oxidation in red cell extract is found to be significantly increase in all groups when compared with normal ( P <0.001). The present study concludes the importance of assessing the lipid ratios even in a normal individual as it is one of the atherogenic factors for development of myocardial infarction and other coronary complications. The existing evidence supports the view that oxidative stress may play a crucial role in cardiac and vascular abnormalities in different types of cardiovascular diseases and that the antioxidant therapy may prove beneficial in combating these problems.

Representation of p-Groups by character tables

In this paper, we applied some group concepts to construct some p-groups as well as to display their nature, which represent them by character tables. It was observed that if and belongs to different conjugacy class say and then the entries in the character table for are complex conjugate of the corresponding entries for Also, if and belongs to the same conjugacy class then the entries in the character table for are real valued. We also applied the Groups, Algorithms and Programming (GAP) version 4.4.12 to assist towards validations of result.

Influence of nutritional factors on xanthan production by Xanthomonas malvacearum

Xanthan gum is an extra cellular microbial hetero polysaccharide of great commercial importance, secreted by the yellow pigmented bacterium Xanthomonas malvacearum. Polysaccharides are macromolecules with diverse applications in the food, chemical, energy production and pharmaceutical Industries. The nutrient factors influencing the production of Xanthan polymer by Xanthomonas malvacearum isolated from infected cotton leaves were investigated. Xanthomonas malvacearum showed the highest yield of polymer 0.621 kg of sucrose at 48 hours. Xanthan production and biomass with varying carbon source, nitrogen source, different pH and different temperature were investigated. Physical characterization of Xanthan is solubility. Chemical characterization of Xanthan is Osazone test were investigated crystal shaped structure are viewed on viewing under microscope .To degrading the Xanthan gum using bacterial strains.

Anxiolytic and explorative behavioral effects of low SAR microwave radiation exposures on Sprague Dawley rats

This paper reports the effects of low SAR MW exposures on explorative activities and anxiolytic behaviours Sprague Dawley rats. 30 rats of both sexes, 6-8 weeks old, weighing 90 -130 g were exposed to various values of SAR from MW generator model ER660E from Toshiba UK. Exploratory activity studies were carried out using white-painted wooden board with 4 elevated plus maze (EPM) holes 1 cm diameter and 2 cm depth. Anxiolytic studies were carried out using EPM and Y-maze models. The mean number of dips in the explorative study varied with time after exposure from a minimum of 1.1 in females exposed to 2.39 W.kg-1 6 days post-exposure to 15.4. 1 h post-exposure to SAR of 0.48 W kg-1, the number reduced from 15.6 ± 4.88 to 8.5 ± 0.58 in males and from 14.8 ± 1.51 to 8.3 ± 0.44 in females. In the anxiolytic activity studies, the variation in the percentage time spent at open end of maze models was from a minimum of 3.92 % with SAR of 2.39 W kg-1 in males 1 h post exposure, to 75.11 % in females after 15 days. 1 h after exposure, it reduced from 79.13 to 28.45 with females and increased gradually with time to attain the control value after 15 days. These results showed that MW exposures influence the anxiolytic and exploratory behavioural activities in rats.

Phytochemical analysis and acute toxicity of two medicinal plants (Anogeissus leiocarpus and Daniellia oliveri) used in traditional veterinary medicine in Burkina Faso

The traditional veterinary pharmacopoeia is a common practice of smallholders and pastoralists to treat small ruminant gastro-intestinal parasitism in the Central Plateau of Burkina Faso. The remedies made from plants such as Anogeissus leiocarpus and Daniellia oliveri are commonly used to treat this disease. In this study, surveys were conducted to understand the traditional practice use of both plants, to identify their phytochemical composition and to evaluate their acute toxicity in mice. The results showed that leaves and stem bark are plant parts used for A. leiocarpus and D. oliveri respectively. They are traditionally used as a decoction of which the lyophilized product is administered orally to small ruminants at a rate of 160 mg/kg for A. leiocarpus leaves and 242.5 mg/kg for D. oliveri stem bark. In both plants, flavonoids, tannins and polyphenols are present. On the other hand, the lethal doses (LD50) obtained were 2403.6 mg/kg for A. leiocarpus leaves extract and more than 3500 mg /kg for D. oliveri stem bark extract. Thus, these plant extracts can possibly use as alternative products in the treatment of animal diseases and the result of this study can be used as the basis of clinical studies on animals.

Synthesis and electrical conductance studies of p-Cresol-Adipamide-Formaldehyde Copolymer

Copolymers were synthesized by condensation of p-cresol (p-C) and adipamide (A) with formaldehyde (F) in the presence of 2 M HCl as catalyst with varied molar ratios of reacting monomers. The electrical properties of p-CAF-I, p-CAF -II, p-CAF -III and p-CAF -IV copolymers were measured over a wide range of temperature (303-423 K). From the electrical conductivity of these copolymers, activation energies of electrical conduction have been evaluated and values lies in the range 4.35 x 10-20 – 7.15 x 10-20 J/K. The plots of log σ vs 103/T are found to be linear over a wide range of temperature, which indicate that the Wilson’s exponential law σ = σ0 exp(-ΔE/kT) is obeyed. On the basis of above studies, these copolymers can be ranked as semiconductors.

The concentrations of some heavy metals of Al-Gabal Al-Akhdar Coast Sediment

The concentrations of organic matter, carbonate, total phosphorous, and some heavy metals (iron, manganese, zinc, copper, cadmium, cobalt, lead, nickel and chromium) were determined for sediment samples collected from near shore stations on Al-Gabal Al- Akhder coast during summer 2008. The results showed that, the high levels of heavy metals were recorded at regions which receive high effluents from brackish water.

Synthesis and characterization of some new thiazolidinones containing coumarin moiety and their antimicrobial study

A series of novel thiazolidinones have been synthesized by reaction of various Schiff bases of coumarin with thioglycolic acid. The reaction of 4-hydroxy coumarin with POCl3 yielded 4-chloro coumarin 2 and 4-chloro-3, 4', 3', 4"-tercoumarin 2a. Compound 2 was reacted with p-phenylene diamine to yield 4-[(4-aminophenyl)amino]-2H-chromen-2-one.Various Schiff bases of coumarin were synthesized by condensation of 4-[(4-aminophenyl)amino]-2H- chromen-2-one with different aldehydes. The structures of the newly synthesized compound were confirmed by IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and C, H, N analysis. The thiazolidinone derivatives were evaluated for their anti bacterial and antifungal activity by broth dilution method.

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticle using Euphorbia hirta L and their antifungal activities

Development of biologically inspired experimental processes for the synthesis of nanoparticles is evolving into an important branch of nanotechnology. Metallic nanoparticles are traditionally synthesized by wet chemical synthesis techniques where the chemicals used are quite often toxic and flammable. The present study deals with cost effective and environment friendly given synthesis from 1mM AgNo3 solution through the leaf extract of Euphorbia hirta L, as reducing as well as capping agent. Nanoparticles were characterized using UV-VIS absorption spectroscopy’s. Green synthesized silver nanoparticles showed the antifungal activity against the Candida albicans, C.kefyr, A.niger.

Metallic and organic nanomaterials and their use in pollution control: A Review

A number of chemical contaminants have endangered the quality of drinking water. Realizing the molecular nature of contamination in drinking water, significant progress has beenmade to utilize the chemistry of nanomaterials for water purification. This article summarizes recent efforts in the area of metallic and organic nanoparticle synthesis and the origin of their reactivity at the nanoscale. The application of metallic and organic nanomaterials based chemistry for waste water treatment is summarized for three major types of contaminants: halogenated organics including pesticides, heavy metals and dyes. Besides the above efforts for the removal, as well as ultra low concentration detection of such species, using metal nanoparticles and organic nanomaterial are summarized. Important challenges during the commercialization of nano-based products are highlighted through a case study of pesticide removal using metalallic and organic nanoparticles. Recent efforts in drinking water purification using other forms of nanomaterials are also summarized. The article concludes with recent investigations on the issue of nano size metallic and organic material and its applications for the pollution control.

Homology modeling of neuraminidase protein of the novel H1N1 subtype of swine influenza virus of A/California/04/2009/H1N1

Influenza A virus H1N1 is the causative agent of the recent 2009 Swine flu or Swine influenza. The virus shows high rate of antibiotic resistance due to rapid mutation which leads to the production of new viral strains and hence, new vaccines are made to treat the new H1N1 variants. Neuraminidase plays an important biological role in this viral infection. It has been found that it has a major function at the final stage of infection when it cleaves sialic acid from cell surface and progeny virions facilitating virus release from the infected cells.The recent sequence of influenza A virus, A/California/04/2009(H1N1) for the protein, neuraminidase was selected for the study. Homology modelling was used to model the three-dimensional structure of the neuraminidase protein using Modeller 9v6, Swiss Model and GENO3D. Energy minimization was performed by GROMACS and functional motifs were identified by the ProFunc server. CASTp server was used to determine the potential ligand binding sites. These ligand binding sites identified can thus provide an insight to design potential inhibitors in future.

Artificial Neural Network based Prediction Model for reduction of failure frequency in Thermal Power Plants

This paper describes a systematic approach to predict the water level in the drum of a steam boiler with the help of artificial neural networks (ANN). The parameters of the model can be obtained from the physical dimensions and characteristics of the boiler. The frequency of deviations and the degree of deviation of the water level in the drum can be significantly reduced by the ANN modeling of the water tube boiler water feed system to the drum. The ANN model to be applied for the boiler feed system in the power plant will not only increases the efficiency of the system but shall considerably reduce the tripping of the power plant. The model so developed can be used for synthesis of model-based control algorithms of boiler system.

Effect of Karate 25Ec, neem seed aqueous extract and cigarette filter extract on the yield of Ife-Brown in Mubi, Adamawa State, Nigeria

Experiment was carried out in 2006 and 2007 cropping seasons at Adamawa State University, Mubi experimental farm. The experiment was to sort for safer, affordable, available control measure to cowpea (vigna ungniculate) pest for the poor resource farmers who are involved in the highest percentage production. The research was to investigate the effect of karate 25Ec, neem need aqueous extract and cigarette filter extract on the yield of Ife-brown in Mubi. Four chemicals karate 25Ec, neem seed aqueous extract, cigarette filter extract and the combination of the three chemicals were used. Control plots were laid down in series of similar experiment in a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Data were collected and analysed. The result in 2006 and 2007 showed that the combination of karate25Ec, neem seed aqueous extract and cigarette filter extract recorded the highest weight of 380.09g and 490.00 the control plot recorded the lowest weight of 165.16g and 162.15g respectively.

Effects of density on variations in the mechanical properties of plantation grown Tectona grandis wood

The effects of density on variations in the mechanical properties of plantation grown Tectona grandis wood aged 15, 20 and 25-year were examined. Six trees were selected from each age class from the Edo State Forestry plantation sites located within the Forest Reserves. Wood samples were collected from innerwood, middlewood and outerwood at 10, 50 and 90% of the tree merchantable height. The mean density values on oven dry weight and volume basis were 480, 556 and 650 Kg m-3, moduli of rupture were 76.86, 103.95 and 134.69 N mm-2, moduli of elasticity were 6846.92, 9920.54 and 12845.57 N mm-2, compressive strength parallel to grain were 43.74, 58.47 and 75.36 N mm-2 for age 15, 20 and 25-year old Tectona grandis wood. Wood density and mechanical properties increased with increase in age. Whereas wood density and mechanical properties increased from pith to bark, they however decreased from base to top at any particular height. The correlations between density and MOR, density and MOE, density and CS were significant (p < 0.001). Therefore wood density can be used in predicting the mechanical properties of Tectona grandis wood.

Molecular iodine- catalyzed convenient synthesis of meso substituted dipyrromethanes

The reaction at room temperature of an aromatic aldehyde with pyrrole in the presence of Iodine, acetic acid catalyzed of meso-substituted dipyrromethane. The mixture was ground together in a mortar with a pestle at room temperature for short reaction time and easy operation under at room temperature. The meso substituted dipyrromethane is purified by crystallization and column chromatography on silica with eluants containing methanol: benzene. The reaction is compatible with aromatic aldehyedes. The meso substituted dipyrromethanes are stable in the purified from in the presence of atmospheric temperature. Meso-substituted dipyrromethane were obtained in excellent yield of the product.

Ground Water Quality Assessment Nearer to the Dye user Industry

The water quality index (WQI) was calculated for the assessment of ground water quality near to the dye user industry. For the calculation of WQI physicochemical characteristics of groundwater nearby dyeing- printing, pulp-paper and tanning industrial areas were studied. Various physicochemical parameters such as pH, total dissolved solids, total hardness, total alkalinity, calcium, magnesium, chloride and dissolved oxygen etc have been calculated in all the samples. In some of the parameters the concentration observed were found to be above the permissible limits of World Health Organization (WHO), Bureau of Indian standard (BIS) and Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Drinking water was found to be severely contaminated at all the sites of study. Estimated higher values of different parameters verify the results of contamination on the basis of calculated values of water quality indices.

Kinetics of oxidation of m-Toluidine by Sodium Dichromate

The Oxidation of m-toluidine by sodium dichromate has been studied both spectrophotometrically (640nm) and iodometrically in aqueous nitric acid medium. The reaction is said to follow consecutive reaction mechanism. The reaction shows substrate inhibition at low H+ concentration. Oxidation proceeds by two routes and both routes give the colored product. Suitable mechanism is proposed. The rate constants, equilibrium constants and kinetic parameters are calculated.

Emblica Officinalis (AMLA) leaves extract as corrosion inhibitor for copper and its alloy (CU-27ZN) in natural sea water

The inhibition efficacy of Emblica officinalis leaves extract on the corrosion of Copper and its alloy (Cu-27Zn) in Natural sea water environment has been studied by mass loss measurements at various time and temperature. The inhibition efficiency is markedly higher in Natural sea water environment with addition of Emblica officinalis leaves extract compared with those in the inhibitor free solution. The inhibition efficiency increased with increase of inhibitor concentration but decreased with rise in temperature and time. Corrosion inhibition may be due to the spontaneous physical adsorption of the plant constituents on the surface of Copper and its alloy. Experimental data fitted the Langmuir and Temkin adsorption isotherms. On comparing the UV and IR spectrum of alcoholic crystals of inhibitor and the corrosion product on Copper in the presence of inhibitor is reported.

Effect of aliphatic diisocyanates on the properties of Cardanol-based polyurethanes

New formulations of novel polyurethanes based on cardanol-formaldehyde resin, polypropylene glycol and two different aliphatic diisocyanates viz., hexamethylene diisocyanate(HDI) and isophorone diisocyanate(IPDI) are reported. Cardanol based novolac type phenolic resin has been condensed with hexamethylene diisocyanate/ isophorone diisocyanate to produce rigid polyurethanes. Tough polyurethanes have been produced by condensing the commercially available polyol, polypropylene glycol-1200(PPG-1200) with the above system. The physico-chemical, mechanical and thermal properties of polyurethanes have been studied. These studies revealed better mechanical properties and higher thermal stability of rigid polyurethanes and also the high performance character of the isophorone diisocyanate based polyurethanes with respect to their mechanical and thermal properties when compared with those of the hexamethylene diisocyanate -based polyurethanes.

Extracellular biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using the filamentous fungus Penicillium sp.

The aim of the study was to synthesize silver nanoparticles by using filamentous fungus Penicillium sp. The fungal culture was isolated from the soil samples collected from agriculture fields in Vellore district, Tamil Nadu, India. The purified fungal isolates were inoculated in minimal medium and incubated at room temperature for three days. For the synthesis of silver nanoparticles, 50 ml of cell filtrate was mixed with equal volume of 1mM silver nitrate [AgNO3 (1 mM)] and agitated at room temperature in dark. The synthesis of silver nanoparticles was investigated by UV-Vis spectroscopy, Atomic force microscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopic analysis. Results indicate the synthesis of silver nanoparticles in the reaction mixture. Mechanism of silver nanoparticles synthesis was determined by nitrate reduction test.

Study on the effects of foliar spray of micronutrient on yield and yield components of durum wheat

In order to study the effect of foliar spray of microelement fertilizers Fe, Zn and Cu on yield and yield components of durum wheat (cv. Dehdasht) an experiment was conducted as strip split plots in randomized completely block design with 3 replications. Treatments were spraying time as main factor (at two levels including 2 weeks before flowering and 50% flowering) and microelement fertilizer as subfactor (at 8 levels including N1=Fe, N2=Zn, N3=Cu, N4=Fe+Zn, N5=Fe+Cu, N6=Zn+Cu, N7=Fe+Zn+Cu and N8= no spraying). Analysis of variance showed that spraying time was significant only for test weight at 5% level. However, fertilizer effects were significant for most of studied traits. Means comparison revealed that all fertilizer treatments imposed positive effects on spike length and kernel protein content, but Zn had highest positive effect on them (13.4% and 9.6% compared to check, respectively). All fertilizer treatments imposed positive effects on test weight, but Cu had highest positive effect on it (6.1% compared to check). Also, all fertilizer treatments imposed positive effects on economic yield, but Fe+Cu had highest positive effect on it (34.1% compared to check). Although all fertilizer treatments imposed positive effects on fertile tiller number, but Cu+Zn had highest positive effect on it (61.6% compared to check). This treatment, also, had highest positive effect on 1000-kernel weight and spike number per unit area, and highest negative effect on sterile floret number (9.2, 17.3 and -18% compared to check, respectively). Fe+Cu+Zn treatment had highest positive effect on plant height, fertile floret number and kernel number per spike (15.1, 17.6 and 14.3% compared to check, respectively). If only one micronutrient was to be utilized, Zn is obviously the best choice for improvement of yield and its components. Since all fertilizer treatments had positive effects on most of important traits, it can be suggested the utilization of Fe+Zn+Cu treatment in the form of foliar spray in culture of durum wheat.

Bromate ion oxidation of Pyrocatechol Violet in aqueous hydrochloric acid: Kinetics and mechanism

The kinetics of the oxidation of pyrocatechol violet hereafter (refered to PCVH) by bromate ions has been carried out in aqueous hydrochloric acid medium at λmax of 440nm, T = 26 ± 0.1oC, I = 0.50 mol dm-3 (NaCl) and [H+] = 0.10 mol dm-3 (HCl). The reaction is first order with respect to oxidant and reductant concentration. The reaction obeyed a general rate law with k2 = 2.74 dm-3mol-1s-1. The reaction rate is affected by changes in the concentration of hydrogen ions and in the ionic strength of reaction medium. Added cation and anion inhibited the reaction rate respectively. The results of spectroscopic and kinetic investigation show that no intermediate complex is formed in the course of this reaction.

Effect of added impurities on the electrical properties of L-arginine acetate single crystals

L-arginine acetate (LAA) single crystal is an interesting nonlinear optical and dielectric material. In order to understand the effect of some impurities (both inorganic and organic) on the electrical properties of LAA, we have grown from aqueous solutions pure and impurity (NaC/KCl/glycine/urea) added single crystals and electrically characterized. DC and AC (with five different frequencies, viz. 100 Hz, 1 kHz, 10 kHz, 100 kHz and 1 MHz) electrical measurements were carried out at various temperatures ranging from 40-150oC along both a- and c- directions. Results indicate an increase of the electrical parameters, viz. sac, er, tand and sdc with the increase of temperature. The results also indicate that the organic impurities decrease the er value < 4.0 for a wide temperature range, 40-150oC.

Fast gammametry for evaluation shielding concrete specimens

Concrete truly is a building material. It can be used in many fields as building structures, shielding materials as concrete biological shield surrounding the reactor pressure vessel, radioactive waste cementation and even decorative objects. As a result, it is important to inspect some parameters of concrete structures. For achieving this aim, an industrial computed tomography (CT) system was designed and developed on the base of the first generation CT system. The CT scanner consists of a 50.8mm NaI(Tl) detector in diameter and a 137Cs (30 mCi) radioactive source. The position of phantom was defined by three motors. The CT scans were taken out in one dimension and total count for each gammametry of concrete was 15 minutes. In this study, several concrete cylindrical specimens of various components were prepared. Internal structures of the specimens were considered using industrial gamma CT apparatus to compare homogeneous and linear attenuation coefficient (that has direct relation with total density and atomic number, etc). After that, the special software was prepared for determination of homogeneity and attenuation coefficient. Consequently, the greater homogeneity and density give the higher quality and durability especially for using in concrete shield surrounding the reactor pressure vessel.

Synthesis of Cerium doped Zinc oxide nanoparticles by aqueous hydrothermal method and study of their properties

A new and simple method to synthesize stable and crystalline pure phase Cerium doped Zinc oxide nanoparticles has been developed using glycerol as a structure directing agent and cerium nitrate Ce(NO)3.6 H2O as a dopant. Cerium doped Zinc nanoparticles are prepared by hydrothermal technique, calcinated at 3500C and characterized by using the x-ray diffraction(XRD), scanning electron microscopy(SEM), electron dispersive X-ray spectrometry(EDS), UV-visible spectrophotometry and FTIR spectroscopy. The results indicate that the synthesized powders are nanocrystalline Ce doped Zinc oxide with cubic structure.

Influence of material parameters on Small Punch Test using curved specimens

Remaining life assessment of in-service components is a critical issue in the safety and reliability of power generating industries, because material properties reduce throughout the service life due to order to assess the strength of aged materials during the service life, miniature testing methods especially small punch test (SPT) has become a powerful tool of design engineers. SPT is a promising technique for those circumstances where only a small amount of material is available for characterization. Majority of the literature reported on SPT deals with flat samples. Flat samples are suitable to evaluate material properties of almost planer components only. For curved components, preparation of flat samples is a tedious process. Sometimes, in case of high curvature, it may not be even possible to prepare flat sample. In this regard, SPT using curved samples will be a promising tool for characterizing curved components. In present study, effects of some key material parameters on SPT using curved specimens and their effects are critically examined using simulation technique.

Photometric facial analysis of the Ibo Ethnic Group in Nigeria

A single standard of facial aesthetics is not appropriate for application to diverse racial and ethnic groups. The purpose of this study is to document a baseline data of aesthetic facial angles amongst the Ibos in Nigeria using photometric analysis. Computer assisted analysis of lateral facial photographs of 100 Ibo subjects (50 males and 50 females) aged between 18 and 25 years was done. Iconographic protractor screen software took the measurements of the Nasofrontal, Nasofacial Nasomental and Mentocervical angles. The Ibos have a mean Nasofrontal angle of 134.1 degrees (0), Nasofacial angle of 38.950, Nasomental angle of 125.650 and Mentocervical angle of 85.60. This study demonstrates significant gender differences in the nasofacial and nasomental angles (p= 0.005 and p=0.004 respectively). This study has shown that the aesthetic angles (Nasofacial, Nasofrontal, Nasomental and Mentocervical angles) may serve as means of ethnic and racial identification. These angles may also serve as tools in gender differentiation.

Investigation on the growth, structural, nonlinear optical, electric and dielectric properties of L-tartaric acid-nicotinamide single crystal

An organic nonlinear optical single crystal of L-tartaric acid-nicotinamide (LTN) has been grown by slow evaporation of the saturated solution at constant temperature of 45 0C. The grown crystal is subjected to single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis to identify the space group and unit cell parameters. The crystalline quality of LTN has been investigated by high-resolution X-ray diffractometry (HRXRD). The powder SHG study demonstrates the phase matching characteristics of the materials. The laser induced damage threshold data indicate the moderate quality of the developed sample to with stand laser radiation. The dielectric response of the sample is studied as a function of frequency and temperature. The ac conductivity properties of the sample are also reported.

Novel s-Triazinyl piperazines: Design, synthesis, characterization and anti-microbial activity

Eleven compounds have been synthesized in a series of [1, 3, 5] triazine analogues which, in addition to 4-amino benzonitrile, contain 8-hydroxy quinoline and different piperazines as well as piperidine substituents on the C-6 position of s-triazine ring. The title compounds were then evaluated for their in vitro microbial activity against 2 gram –Ve bacteria (E.coli, P. aeruginosa), 2 gram +Ve bacteria (S. aerues, B. subtilis) and 2 fungal species (C. albicans and A. niger). The most of the synthesized compounds have shown promising antimicrobial activity. All the final compounds were structurally elucidated on the basis of IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and elemental analysis.

Pre-treatment of Orange Mesocarp with alkaline solutions to optimize glucose yield by Trichoderma reesei

Orange Mesocarp was Pre-treated with alkali solutions in this study. This raw material was crushed to (100-150µm,200-250µm and 300-425µm) and fed into a bioreactor, where delignification was effected with sodium hydroxide and calcium hydroxide followed by washing with warm water. The optimum weight lose percent was determined to be between 63% at 15 minutes and 71%, at 25 minutes soaking time respectively. The optimum orange mesocarp to alkaline solution ratio for favourable saccharification is 1:0.1. The enzymatic hydrolysis of the untreated and pre-treated orange mesocarp by Trichoderma reesei enzymes (endo-β-1,4 glucanase, Cellobiohydrolase and β-1,4 glucosidase) gave 74% and 97% glucose yield respectively.

An experimental investigation of cultivator shank shape on draft requirement

This study has been carried out to investigate the effect of shank geometry on draft requirement under simulated conditions. Experiments were conducted in a soilbin sizing L:W: H as 16.0 : 2.5 : 1.0 m. The shank geometry was varied with respect to bend angle and bend length. Bend angles of 00, 150, 300 and 450 and bend lengths of 150, 200 and 250 mm were used in experimentation in the soilbin under uniform conditions, at 50, 100, 150 and 200 mm depth levels. Using the experimental results, the bend angle and bend length were parametrically optimized for the shank of duckfoot cultivator. A significant increase in draft was observed for all the shanks with increase in tillage depth. Shank with 300 bend angle and 200 mm bend length gave minimum force at all depth of operation, as compared to other shanks.

Biomass – Furfural based ion exchange resins. preparation of polymeric composition

Novel organic cation - exchangers based on biomass and furfural suitable for processing into ion exchangers was prepared. The polymer has been processed chemically into different types of cation exchange resins. The role of various parameters such as catalyst concentration, the effects in the different particle sizes in exchange capacity, etc., for preparing the polymer is systematically studied and presented. Similarly, the conditions for preparing the various cation exchange resins (Sulphonated, Furfuraldehyde, and unmodified type from the polymer) are also described. The overall best particle size in exchange of ions is the 500μm size.

Bioinoculation of halophilic phosphobacteria for raising vigorous seedlings of Rhizophora mucronata

Phosphorous is an essential nutrient which is added to soil as soluble inorganic phosphate that, in a large portion, becomes insoluble and, therefore, unavailable to plants. Furthermore, this mineral is one of the most affected by the degrading processes of the soils. Numerous microorganism, especially those associated with roots, have the ability to increase plant growth and productivity. The PSB inoculated with Rhizophora mucoronata seedlings, increased significantly the average root length by 19.09%, average shoot length by 21.26%, number of primary roots by 19.57%, number of secondary roots by 21.28%, shoot biomass by 47.33%, root biomass by 47.33%, leaf area by 44.76%, the level of total chlorophyll by 61.86%, chlorophyll-a by 41.86%, chlorophyll-b by 55.56%, and Carotenoids by 64.29%, the level of carbohydrate by 40.34%, protein by 43.56% and amino acid by25.71% as compared to control. Thus, PSB is beneficial in raising vigorous seedling of Rhizophora mucoronata under nursery and field conditions.

Studies on biomass - furfural-based cation- exchange resins I. preparation of polymeric composition

Antagonistic activity of marine actinomycetes from Arabian Sea coast

The sponge-microbial association is a potential chemical, ecological phenomenon, which provides sustainable source of supply for developing novel pharmaceutical leads. The present study was carried out to investigate the in vitro antimicrobial activity of sponge associated actinomycetes and actinomycetes isolated from marine soil. Sixty three marine actinomycetes strains were isolated from the sponge and soil samples collected from two different stations from Arabian sea, south west coast of India. The counts of actinomycetes were found maximum in sponges during south west monsoon season. The antimicrobial screening showed that, five Streptomyces sp. exhibited antimicrobial activity against eye pathogens, antibiotic sensitive and resistant bacterial pathogens.

Kinetics of removal of hexavalent chromium from aqueous solution using an eco-friendly activated carbon adsorbent

One of the heavy metals that have been a major focus in water and waste water treatment- has been studied by adsorption technique. The pods of Delonix regia were used for preparing low cost activated carbon/ adsorbent and used in the removal of hexavalent chromium from aqueous solution. The optimum time required for the adsorption process has been evaluated. The kinetic of the process has been calculated using Lagergren’s first order equation. The results demonstrate that the carbon derived from the Delonix regia pods can be used as an efficient adsorbent for the removal of toxic Cr(VI) from aqueous solution. The adsorption of Cr(VI) was found to be time and concentration dependent. Maximum Cr(VI) removal (≈ 66%) was achieved with just 100mg of the adsorbent with an optimum contact time of 180 minutes at pH~4 when the initial concentration of Cr(VI) solution was 0.06 mg/l. Confirmation of data to the Lagergren’s rate equation indicates first order kinetics.

Intermolecular hydrogen bonding formation in aqueous D-Mannitol

The density and ultrasonic velocity measurements were carried out in aqueous solutions of D-mannitol in the concentration range of 0.1 to1.0 M and temperature between 303.15K to 323.15K.. The thermoacoustical parameters viz. adiabatic compressibility, free volume, internal pressure and Moelwyn-Hughes parameter have been computed from the experimental parameters shows nonlinear increase or decrease with various concentrations and temperatures. These parameters were interpreted as due to the formation of intermolecular hydrogen bonding between the hydroxyl groups of D-mannitol and water molecules.

Partial purification and characterization of Aspergillus tamarii IMI388810 (B) tannin acyl hydrolase

Aspergillus tamarii IMI388810 (B) a tannic acid degrading fungus produced two major tannases in a fermentation medium M, containing tannic acid as the only carbon source. The culture broth was filtered through filter paper and the crude enzyme filtrate was concentrated by dialysis against different changes of 6M sucrose solution. The tannases were separated by Ion-exchange chromatography on Q-Sepharose Fast Flow column and Phenyl Sepharose 6 Fast Flow (High Sub) hydrophobic interaction chromatography and were identified as Tannase I and II. The optimum temperature for enzyme activity was 35oC for Tannase I and 50oC for Tannase II. Both tannases retained over 70% of its activity between 35o and 50oC, for 30 minutes. The optimum pH for the enzyme activity was 5.0 for Tannase I and 3.0 for Tannase II and with their maximum stability at pH 3.0 and 6.0, respectively. Their Km values for methyl gallate were 0.08 mM, for Tannase I, and 0.02mM, for Tannase II. Ca2+, Co2+, Cu2+, Fe2+, Hg2+, Mg2+, Mn2+, SDS, EDTA, EGTA and Bromosuccinamide were inhibitory to the Tannases.

Potential role of thermography in cancer management

Thermographic technique and energy exchange processes in 107 cancer patients were studied in order to determine relevance in cancer management. The mean oxygen consumption rate in control subjects (36.13 ml/s) was higher than in breast (31.89 ml/s), head and neck (30.64 ml/s), cervical (28.05 ml/s) and other forms of cancers (30.78 ml/s). Mean metabolic heat production rate in control subjects (150.71 Jh-1) was higher than in breast (133.04Jh-1), head and neck (127.80 Jh-1), cervical (117.00 Jh-1) and other cancers (128.37 Jh-1). Convective rate of heat exchange was -14462.91 Jh-1 for non-cancer persons while it was -15841.98 Jh-1 for breast, -15509.34 Jh-1 for head and neck, -13873.86 Jh-1 for cervical and -3950.10 Jh-1 for other forms of cancers. Evaporative heat loss was -10949.40 Jh-1 for non-cancer patients, -11326.39 Jh-1 for breast, -11229.40 Jh-1 for head and neck, -10788.62 Jh-1 for cervical and -10946.63 Jh-1 for other forms of cancers. Respirative rate of heat loss was - 6.89 Jh-1 for non-cancer patients, -6.08 Jh-1 for breast, -5.85 Jh-1 head and neck, -5.35 Jh-1 for cervical patients and -5.87 Jh-1 for other forms of cancers. Mean skin temperature for non-cancer patients was 35.44 oC, breast was 36.43 oC, head and neck was 36.19 oC, cervical was 35.01 oC and other forms of cancers was 35.43 oC. The results showed that cancer patients consume less oxygen and gain heat at a higher rate than the non-cancer patients. Skin temperature combined with related physiological energy parameters could be useful in assessing and monitoring cancer patients.

Bio-energy production from glucose at various Temperatures from Citrus sinnesis by Trichoderma reesei

Preform design for near net shape close die gear forging using simulation technique

In this study, attempts have been made to design preform for near net shape upsetting of gear forging using simulation techniques which is based on the filling of the material during closed die forging. Four types of preforms were tried. Using this parametric study, best die and process parameters are suggested for near net shape gear forging. In present scenario when there are a lot of emphases on accurate design in short span of time. Such study has a lot of industrial value.

Inhibitory effect of different solvent extracts of Vitex negundo L. and Allium sativum L. on phytopathogenic bacteria

There is a worldwide interest in searching for the safe and effective novel antibacterial compounds of plant origin for the control of plant pathogenic bacteria which is responsible for the great impact on the growth and productivity of agriculture crops. In this study an attempt was made to determine the in vitro antibacterial activity of sequentially extracted different solvent (dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, ethanol, methanol and water) extracts of leaf, flower and fruit of Vitex negundo L. and bulb of Allium sativum L. (Garlic) against phytopathogens namely Pseudomonas solanacearum and Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. citri. The preliminary antibacterial activity was performed by agar well diffusion method and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were determined by agar dilution method. The test samples were also subjected to qualitative phytochemical analysis. One way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by least significant difference (LSD) test were done for the statistical analysis of the data. All the test samples showed inhibitory effect on both of the test pathogens and the diameter of inhibition zone ranged from 9.9 ± 0.5 mm to 48.5 ± 1.3 mm and the inhibitory effect differed significantly (P<0.05) among the samples. Ethyl acetate extract of flower of Vitex negundo L. showed significantly (P<0.05) higher inhibition on Pseudomonas solanacearum and Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. citri. The MIC values of ethyl acetate extracts of fruit and flower of Vitex negundo L. and Allium sativum and ethanol extract of flower of Vitex negundo L. ranged from 2.5 mg / ml to 40 mg / ml. Phytochemical analysis of above extracts revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, cardiac glycosides and terpenoids. Further studies are being carried out to elucidate the active principles responsible for the inhibitory effect of these pathogens and to determine their activity in vivo. This is the first report that reveals the inhibitory effect of Vitex negundo L. on Pseudomonas solanacearum and Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. citri.

Synthesis and characterization of some quinoline based azetidinones and thiazolidinones as antimicrobial agents

A series of potentially active quinoline based azetidinones and thiazolidinones analogues has been synthesized by simple and efficient synthetic protocol. The tetrazole nucleus formed from 2-chloroquinoline-3-carbaldehyde using p-toluenesulphonic acid and sodium azide followed by reaction with various substituted amine to form the corrosponding schiff base intermediates. Attempt made to derive final azitidinone and thiazolidinone analogues from Schiff base intermediates by using chloroacetyl chloride and 2-marcapto acetic acid respectively. The newly synthsiszed analogues were then examined for antimicrobial activity against some human pathogenic bacterial and fungal strains as 2 gram –Ve bacteria (E. coli, P. aeruginosa), 2 gram +Ve bacteria (S. aerues, B. subtilis) and 2 fungal species (C. albicans, A. niger) to develop novel class of anti microbial agents with varied mode of action. The results of bioassay showed that some of the newly synthesized azetidinones and thiazolidinones analogues emerged as lead molecules with excellent MIC (mg/ml) values against mentioned organisms. The structure of the final analogues has been confirmed on the basis of IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and elemental analysis.

Isolation of 3β-16α-dihydroxy-5-cholesten-21-al, n-Docosanoic acid and Stigmasterol from petroleum ether extract of stem bark of Michelia champaca

This study described phytochemical investigation of the stem bark of Michelia champaca lead to the isolation of 3β-16α-dihydroxy-5-cholesten-21-al, n-docosanoic acid and stigmasterol from petroleum ether extract and were categorized under steroid, long chain fatty acid and triterpenoid constituents. Their structures were established by direct interpretation of their spectral data of IR, 1HNMR and GC-MS. These phytochemicals have been reported for the first time from the stem bark of Michelia champaca.

Acoustical and thermodynamical properties of lactose in mixed aqueous electrolytic solutions at 298.15K

Ultrasonic velocity (U), viscosity (h) and density (ρ) of lactose of (0.5m) in three aqueous electrolytic solutions of guanidine hydrochloride (GuHCl), barium chloride (BaCl2) and strontium chloride (Sr Cl2) have been measured at 298.15 K. The derived acoustical parameters namely adiabatic compressibility (b), apparent molal compressibility ( ), apparent molal volume ( ), limiting apparent molal compressibility (), limiting apparent molal volume ( ), and their constant (SK, SV), viscosity B–coefficient and hydration number (nH) have been computed from the experimental data. The variation of these parameters with respect the molality of solute has been discussed in terms of solute-solvent and solute-co-solute interactions.

Status of Lipid profile, MDA and protein carbonyl in patients with cardiovascular diseases

Total 185 patients of both sexes were included in study and further classified into 3 groups as hypertensive, Ischemic heart disease and cerebrovascular disease/stroke. The 60 healthy subjects in the control group were not on any kind of prescribed medication or dietary restrictions were included in the control group. In this study, we investigated first; the possible involvement of MDA and protein carbonyl as the end product of oxidative stress. and second we investigated serum lipid profiles (total, HDL and LDL cholesterol, trygliceride) to determine the relationship between these parameters in atherosclerosis. Serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol ,VLDL-cholesterol were significantly high in all groups than controls (p < 0.001) while HDL-cholesterol was found to be decreased significantly in all groups as compared to controls (p < 0.001). Total cholesterol, TC/HDL-C ratio, Triglycerides, LDL-cholesterol, LDL-C/HDL-C ratio were higher in all three groups (p<0.001). HDL-C concentration was significantly lower in all three groups than controls (p < 0.001). Higher ratio of TC/HDL-C, TG/HDL-C and LDL-C/HDL-C was observed in all three groups compared to controls. MDA is estimated as a marker of lipid peroxidation, levels were significantly increased in all groups than controls ( P <0.001). Carbonyl content is estimated as a marker of protein oxidation in red cell extract is found to be significantly increase in all groups when compared with normal ( P < 0.001). The present study concludes the importance of assessing the lipid ratios even in a normal individual as it is one of the atherogenic factors for development of myocardial infarction and other coronary complications. The existing evidence supports the view that oxidative stress may play a crucial role in cardiac and vascular abnormalities in different types of cardiovascular diseases and that the antioxidant therapy may prove beneficial in combating these problems.

On generalized 2-step continuous linear multistep method of hybrid type for the integration of second order ordinary differential equations

This paper proposes a generalized 2-step continuous multistep method of hybrid type for the direct integration of second-order ordinary differential equations in a multistep collocation technique, which yields block methods. The scheme obtained is used as a single continuous form which serves as a family of formula involving ),( sx such that on substitution of an off-step point s a bi-hybrid continuous scheme is obtained. The discrete equivalent is also obtained thereafter from the continuous family of formula as a block method. It was discovered that Numerical schemes of StÖrmer-Cowell type were recovered via this technique. The scheme obtained is implemented to generate the numerical solution to second order ordinary differential equations. The results obtained are compared with the Renowned Numerov method, known to be of optimal

Unwanted self-pollination in crossing programs interferes with trait improvement and variety breeding

Clear-cut identification of elite crop varieties and hybrids is essential for guarantying purity of hybrid seeds. Unwanted self-pollination in field or during crossing programs is one of the major sources of impurity of hybrid seeds that interferes with trait improvement via conventional breeding programs or variety improvement via backcross scheme. Conventional characterization of hybrid seeds based on specific morphological and agronomic data is time-consuming, restricted to a few characteristics, and is influenced by environment. In contrast, DNA-based markers are highly heritable, available in high numbers, and exhibit enough polymorphism; hence they can be used to trace the alleles came from a given parent. To estimate the interference rate of self-pollination with the variety improvement, hybrid seeds in several backcross generations were studied using SSR markers. Results showed that in the case of hybrid seeds produced under uncontrolled low-stringent conditions frequency of off-types seeds ranged from ~17% (for BC1 of cross Sadri x Neda) to as high as 50% (for BC3 of cross Sadri x Neda) and averaged up to 40%, that may be seem an unexpected value. However, in the case of hybrid seeds produced under completely controlled conditions any off-type seeds were not found. Thus, we suggest that make crosses under completely controlled conditions to guarantee the production of true hybrid seeds.

Characterization of Carotenoids from Streptomyces sp. of marine and fresh water environment

In the present study characterization of carotenoids from selected strains of Streptomyces sp. of Tendania anhelan, Epinephelus diacanthus and Cyprinus carpio, and Osepherenemous gourami were observed. The interaction of microbes particularly Streptomyces sp. in the gut and sponges of fishes in two environmental biotopes and their ability of producing carotenoids were assessed. The UV spectrum, TLC and HPLC results showed the biosynthesis of carotenoids in various strains of Streptomyces sp., clearly indicate the presence of phytoene, phytofluene, α-carotene, β-carotene and β-isorenieratene. Carotenoids are also important due to their potential antitumor properties and because they are used as colorants in the food industry to pigment salmon, trout and poultry flesh, or to intensify the colour of egg yolk. These pigments are not essential for other carotene containing microorganisms, as is the case for fungi but they are indeed very important due to their ability to act as antioxidant agents.