MOSP - Macao Scientific Publishers

Review

Potential use of rhizobial bacteria as promoters of plant growth for increased yield in landraces of African cereal crops

Viviene N. Matiru and Felix D. Dakora*

Abstract: Rhizobia form root nodules that fix nitrogen (N2) in symbiotic legumes. Extending the ability of these bacteria to fix N2 in non-legumes such as cereals would be a useful technology for increased crop yields among resource-poor farmers. Although some inoculation attempts have resulted in nodule formation in cereal plants, there was no evidence of N2 fixation. However, because rhizobia naturally produce molecules (auxins, cytokinins, abscicic acids, lumichrome, rhiboflavin, lipo-chito-oligosaccharides and vitamins) that promote plant growth, their colonization and infection of cereal roots would be expected to increase plant development, and grain yield. We have used light, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy to show that roots of sorghum and millet landraces from Africa were easily infected by rhizobial isolates from five unrelated legume genera. With sorghum, in particular, plant growth and phosphorus (P) uptake were significantly increased by rhizobial inoculation, suggesting that field selection of suitable rhizobia/cereal combinations could increase yields and produce fodder for livestock production.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Rhizobia Rhizobia, N2 fixation, natural endophytes, non-legume infection, cereal crops, landraces, sorghum, millet.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Review

Small round structured viruses (SRSVs) and transmission electron microscopy

Advanced Journal of Microbiology Research Vol. 2004

Available online at http://internationalscholarsjournals.org/journal/ajmr

Review

Small round structured viruses (SRSVs) and transmission electron microscopy

Etsuko Tajiri-Utagawa

Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Gakuen 4-7-1, Musashimurayama-shi, Tokyo 208-0012, JAPAN. E-mail: etu@nih.go.jp. Tel: +81(42)561-0771.

Accepted 24 December 2003

Key words: Small round structured viruses, Caliciviruses, automated specimen search (ASS) system, transmission electron microscopy.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Pathogenic and genetic characterization of Algerian isolates of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lentis by RAPD and AFLP analysis

Lakhdar Belabid *, Michael Baum, Zohra Fortas, Zouaoui Bouznad , and Imad Eujayl

Abstract: Thirty-two isolates of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lentis were isolated from wilted lentil plants collected from different lentil growing areas in north-west Algeria. A pathogenicity test was performed for all isolates. Results indicated that the Fol isolates represent a single race but differ in their aggressiveness on the susceptible lines. The amount of genetic variation was evaluated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification with a set of 6 RAPD primers and 3 AFLP selective nucleotide primer pairs. All amplifications revealed scorable polymorphisms among the isolates, and a total of 8 polymorphic fragments were scored for the RAPD primers and 93 for the AFLP primers. Genetic similarity between each of the isolates was calculated by using the Jaccard similarity coefficient and cluster analysis was used to generate a dendrogram showing relationship between them. The isolates could be grouped into two subpopulations based on RAPD and AFLP analysis. Results obtained indicate that there is little genetic variability among a subpopulation of Fol as identified by RAPD and AFLP markers and that there is no apparent correlation with geographical origin or aggressiveness of isolates. Also, the data suggest that Fol isolates are derived from two genetically distinct clonal lineages.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Lens culinaris, Fusarium wilt, molecular markers, pathogenicity.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Patterns of phenotypic variation in endod (Phytolacca dodecandra) from Ethiopia

Kassa Semagn*, Brita Stedje and Asmund Bjornstad

Abstract: The extent of morphological variability of endod (Phytolacca dodecandra) sampled from 17 localities in Ethiopia that varied from 1600 to 3000 meters above sea level (m.a.s.l) was investigated using 16 characters. Statistical analyses were performed using leaf hairiness and altitude as categorical variables. Cluster analysis performed using average taxonomic distance matrix revealed the separation of most plants into their respective leaf hairiness and altitude groups. When leaf hairiness was used as categorical variable, canonical discriminant analysis performed using characters selected by the stepwise procedure revealed the distinct separation of all glabrous plants from the pubescent ones with the slightly pubescent plants being intermediate. Classificatory discriminant analysis was used to assign 95.8% of the plants into their respective hairiness groups. Our data therefore support the hypothesis that pubescent forms are highly likely to be a different taxon. For altitude groups, canonical discriminant analysis performed using characters selected by the stepwise procedure resulted to the separation of most plants into lowland (1600-2100 m.a.s.l.), central highlands (2101-2500 m.a.s.l.), and highland (2501-3000 m.a.s.l) groups. Classificatory discriminant analysis was able to assign 70.8% of the plants into their respective altitude groups. However, all results from discriminant analyses of the morphological data were not strong enough to support the presence of morphological ecotypes in endod along altitudinal gradients.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Altitude, endod, morphological variation, Phytolacca dodecandra, pubescence.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Reproductive biology in Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del., a semi-arid forest tree

Mansor Ndoye*, Ismaïla Diallo, Yaye Kène Gassama/Dia

Abstract: Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) is an important tree in the semi-arid ecosystem with beneficial attributes. However, very little information is available in its reproductive biology. In order to better control the reproduction system of B. aegyptiaca, three experimental approaches are used: floral morpholgy, fluorochromatic procedure and hand pollination. The floral morphology shows that B. aegyptiaca flowers are hermaphrodite and gathered in several types of inflorescence (clusters, fascicles or glomerules). They blossomed asynchronically and nectar is exuded by the flowers. Top ovary holds five anatropous ovules. The second approach consisting in fluorochromatic procedure reveals a pollen with 3 apertures and a viability rate of 92%. This viability decrease down to 50% after a storage at -5°C for 7 days. Finally, the hand pollination proves that B. aegyptiaca is a partially auto-compatible plant and the main vectors of pollination are Halictidae (Hymenopterae) and Dipterae.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Balanites aegyptiaca, fluorochromatic test, pollen, pollination, auto-compatible.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Effects of soaking duration on germination and seedling growth of tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum Mill)

S. Sabongari* and B. L. Aliero

Abstract: The effects of soaking duration on germination and seedling growth of tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum Mill) Roma VF, UC82B and Xina varieties were investigated. The treatments consisted of three soaking durations (12, 24, 36 h) and control replicated four times in a latin square design. Results indicated significant enhancement of germination by all soaking durations except for Xina variety where 36 h treatment showed no significant difference from the control. Maximum total germination (%) was obtained under 24 h treatment for all the seed varieties. Soaking durations of 12 and 24 h enhanced growth and dry matter accumulation for both Roma VF and UC82 B. The study has demonstrated the advantages of soaking seeds in water for about 24 h prior to sowing them in the field.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Seed, tomato, soaking duration, varieties, germination, seedling, growth.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Feather wastes digestion by new isolated strains Bacillus sp. in Morocco

Ilham Zerdani, Mohamed Faid* and Abderahim Malki

Abstract: Eight strains of Bacillus were isolated from non treated soil, characterized and used for the digestion of feather wastes in the laboratory. Non-protein nitrogen (NPN) and total protein (TP) were determined during the incubation time and the microbial counts of the different strains during feather hydrolysis were also monitored. Results of the screening test showed that the solid pieces of feather were completely digested by all the strains. The most efficient isolated strain selected was compared with Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633. Results showed that the total protein decreased from 13.6% to 1.92 % with the isolated strain, and from 12.25 % to 2.99% with the standard strain. The NPN reached a concentration of 43.2mg/100g and 20.5 mg/100g with the isolated and standard strains, respectively.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Feather, keratin, Bacillus, fermentation, process.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Effect of lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus Stapf) powder and essential oil on mould deterioration and aflatoxin contamination of melon seeds (Colocynthis citrullus L.)

S.A. Bankole* and A.O. Joda

Abstract: Experiments were carried out to determine the potential of using the powder and essential oil from dried ground leaves of Cymbopogon citratus (lemon grass) to control storage deterioration and aflatoxin contamination of melon seeds (Colocynthis citrullus L.). Four mould species: Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, A. tamarii and Penicillium citrinum were inoculated in the form of conidia suspension (approx. 106 conidia per ml) unto shelled melon seeds. The powdered dry leaves and essential oil from lemon grass were mixed with the inoculated seeds at levels ranging from 1-10% (w/w) and 0.1 to 1%v/vt respectively. The ground leaves significantly reduced the extent of deterioration in melon seeds inoculat4ed with different fungi compared to the untreated inoculated seeds. The essential oil at 0.1 and 0.25% (v/w) and ground leaves at 10% (w/w) significantly reduced deterioration and aflatoxin production in shelled melon seeds inoculated with toxigenic A. flavus. At higher dosages (0.5 and 1.0% v/w), the essential completely prevented aflatoxin production. After 6 months in farmers’ stores, unshelled melon seeds treated with 0.5% (v/w) of essential oil and 10% (w/w) of powdered leaves of C. citratus had significantly lower proportion of visibly diseased seeds and Aspergillus spp infestation levels and significantly higher seed germination compared to the untreated seeds. The oil content, free fatty acid and peroxide values in seeds protected with essential oil after 6 months did not significantly differ from the values in seed before storage. The efficacy of the essential oil in preserving the quality of melon seeds in stores was statistically at par with that of fungicide (iprodione) treatment.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Aflatoxin, Cymbopogon citratus, essential oil, powdered leaves, melon seeds, mould deterioration, oil content, free fatty acid, peroxide values, seed germination.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Inhibition of growth and mycotoxins formation in moulds by marine algae Cystoseira tamariscifolia

SOUHAILI Zineb, LAGZOULI Mohamed, FAID Mohamed*, FELLAT-ZERROUCK Khadija

Abstract: Different extracts from marine algae (Cystoseira tamaricifolia) were tested for their antimicrobial activities. These extracts were examined for their activities on growth of moulds and yeasts and mycotoxines formation by moulds. The Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) was determined in every case in terms of dilutions. A total inhibition (100%) was obtained with the ethanolic crude extract on all the fungal species at the concentration of 10%. The aqueous extract showed an activity only on some strains used while no activity was observed on yeasts and moulds for both methanolic and aqueous extract. The other extracts (chloroform, hexane and methanol) had no activity on the microbial growth. Mycotoxins formation in Aspergillus flavus was inhibited by the ethanolic extracts at the concentration of 5%.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Algae, antimicrobial, minimal inhibitory concentration, moulds.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Laboratory evaluation of the improved tube test detection limits for Î²-lactam residues in Kenyan milk

Anakalo Shitandi* and Gathoni Kihumbu

Abstract: In Kenya there is currently no screening of antimicrobial drug residues in milk. This study evaluated the improved tube test as a possible screening method using seven representatives of the β-lactam antibiotics. The group comprises antimicrobials most frequently used to treat bacterial infections in dairy cows. Each antimicrobial was tested at five concentrations based on established codex alimentarius maximum residue limits (MRLs). Test parameters studied were practicability and limits of detection (LODs) compared to MRLs and repeatability. The LODs established using a logistic regression model were: penicillin G (2 µg /kg), ampicillin (2 µg /kg), amoxicillin (2 µg /kg), oxacillin (30 µg /kg), cefalexin(100 µg /kg), cephapirin(60 µg /kg) and ceftiofur(100 µg /kg) all within codex alimentarius MRLs. The cost per ten samples using the improved tube test was less than 1 USD compared with 5 USD for the Delvo test. The improved tube test is concluded to be an affordable method, which could be used for qualitative identification of residues in low-income countries dairies.[...] Read More.

Keywords:

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

The effects of aluminium and selenium supplementation on brain and liver antioxidant status in the rat

M. G. Abubakar*, A. Taylor and G. A. Ferns

Abstract: This in vivo study was designed to investigate the potential of aluminium (Al), in the absence of added iron, to participate in either antioxidant or pro-oxidant events. Some markers of oxidative stress were determined in liver and brain of rats exposed to aluminium lactate, either alone or in the presence of dietary supplements of selenium (se) as selenite. Exposure to aluminium for 21 days resulted in a statistically significant (P0.05) was observed in the GSH content. Contrary to what is known, Al exposure resulted in statistically significant decrease (P[...] Read More.

Keywords: Aluminium, selenium, rat, brain, liver, antioxidant enzymes.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Characterization of Trypanosoma brucei gambiense stocks isolated from humans by RAPD fingerprinting in CÃ´te dâ€™Ivoire: Another evidence for multiple infections

Bruno Oury, Vincent Jamonneau, Michel Tibayrenc, Philippe Truc*

Abstract: Trypanosoma brucei gambiense was isolated twice from each of 23 patients in Côte d’Ivoire. Genetic characterization using RAPD (Random Primed Amplified Polymorphic DNA) showed additional variability within a given isoenzyme profile (zymodeme), confirming that this fingerprinting method has a higher discriminative power (faster molecular clock) than isoenzymes. RAPD confirmed also the evidence of multiple infections by different genotypes in the same patient despite a low genetic variability among Trypanosoma brucei gambiense stocks. The involvement of this phenomenon in treatment failure is discussed.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Human African Trypanosomiasis, Trypanosoma brucei gambiense, RAPD, multiple infections.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Comparative biochemical and molecular evaluation of swarming of Proteus and effects of anti-swarm agents

Iwalokun BA*, Olukosi YA, Adejoro A, Olaye JA, Fashade O

Abstract: In addition to inadequate understanding of swarming motility and virulence of Proteus, there is paucity of information on the relative effectiveness of the various anti-swarm agents. The anti-swarming effects of urea, sodium dodecylsulphate (SDS) and trihydroxymethylglycine (Tris) on 40 clinical isolates of Proteus Spp. were comparatively investigated and plasmids associated with swarming were characterized. The three substances elicited a comparable concentration-dependent anti-swarming property at 0.25 – 1.25% on nutrient agar. Anti-swarm agents displayed heterogeneity in their ability to cause significant decreases in the expression of virulence factors. Swarm motility was further found to be strongly associated with the expression of virulence factors in these strains. Of the Proteus strains tested, 32 were found to harbour 1 – 4 plasmids of size ranging from 6.0 – 33.5 kb. Plasmid curing resulted in loss of swarming in 65.6% of these strains. In order to reduce the risk of infection with virulent Proteus strains, the laboratory use of urea and SDS is suggested.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Proteus, swarming, urea, SDS, Tris.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Expression of green fluorescent protein (GFPuv) in Escherichia coli DH5-Î±, under different growth conditions

Thereza Christina Vessoni Penna*, Marina Ishii, Luciana Cambricoli de Souza , Olivia Cholewa

Abstract: The recombinant green fluorescent protein (GFPuv) was expressed by transformed cells of Escherichia coli DH5-α grown in LB/amp broth at 37oC, for 8 h and 24 h. To evaluate the effectiveness of different parameters to improve the expression of GFPuv by E. coli, four variable culturing conditions were set up for assays by a fractional factorial (24-1) design at two levels: (i) the effect of storing (24-48 h) the seeded broth at 4oC prior to incubation at 37oC; (ii) the effect of agitation speed (100-200 rpm); (iii) the final concentration (0.05-0.5 mM) of IPTG (isopropyl–β-D-thiogalactopyranoside) and (iv) the addition of IPTG at set cell densities (OD660 0.01-0.8). GFPuv was extracted from cells by the three phase partitioning method (TPP) and further purified with a methyl HIC column. The cultures grown at 37oC/24 h provided the highest yields of GFPuv under the conditions: (i) pre-storage at 4oC/24 h; (ii) agitation speed at 100 rpm; (iii) 0.5 mM IPTG and (iv) IPTG addition at OD660~0.01. On the other hand, at 37oC/ 8 h, GFPuv expression was dependent upon agitation of broth cultures at 200 rpm and the IPTG addition at the beginning of the growth exponential phase.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Green fluorescent protein (GFPuv), Escherichia coli DH5-α, growth kinetic parameters, expressed GFPuv kinetic parameters, three phase partitioning extraction (TPP).

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Biolistic transformation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae with Î²-glucosidase gene from Cellulomonas biazotea

S. Parvez*, Z. Mukhtar, F. Rashid, M.I. Rajoka

Abstract: A β-glucosidase genomic DNA from Cellulomonas biazotea NIAB 442 was isolated and coated onto tungsten microprojectiles for direct transformation of the gene into Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Transformation of β-glucosidase into S. cerevisae conferred the ability to hydrolyse esculin and cellobiose, indicating that the gene is expressed in the bombarded yeast.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Biolistic transformation, β-glucosidase, Cellulomonas biazotea, Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Opportunities in Africa for training in genome science

Daniel K. Masiga* and Raphael D. Isokpehi

Abstract: Genome science is a new type of biology that unites genetics, molecular biology, computational biology and bioinformatics. The availability of the human genome sequence, as well as the genome sequences of several other organisms relevant to health, agriculture and the environment in Africa necessitates the development and delivery of several types and levels of training that will enhance the use of genome data and the associated computational resources. A survey of initiatives that provide opportunities for training in genome science is presented. Current efforts to increase the ability of African scientists to computationally process and analyse genomic and post-genomic data have the potential to produce excellent scientists who perform cutting-edge, hypothesis-based research, and who will accelerate the continent’s scientific and technological development.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Bioinformatics, computational biology, genome science, networking.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Research communications in the 21st century

Nyerhovwo J. Tonukari

Abstract: Scientific inquiry thrives only in a society that fosters the free flow of ideas and information. The power of online (internet) publication in democratizing science and incorporating scientists from developing countries into the scientific community is profound. The desired and obvious properties of scientific publishing such as accessibility, economy, quality, innovation, and retrieval can be more readily achieved with electronic methods. Online publication is much cheaper and faster, and that is major reason Africa should embrace the open access model for research communication. An open access African journal (the African Journal of Biotechnology) is evaluated.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Open access, African Journal of Biotechnology, research communications.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Review

Agricultural genomics and sustainable development: perspectives and prospects for Africa

Agricultural genomics and sustainable development: Perspectives and prospects for Africa

Abstract: The genomes of various organisms have now been fully sequenced, including human and representative microbial, insect, animal and plant genomes. The research challenge in the post-genome era is to establish how genes and proteins function to bring about changes in phenotype. Some of these phenotypes, and products obtainable through modern biotechnology, are of crucial importance within the context of sustainable development of African economies. The greatest ultimate impact will be in agricultural genomics, especially for marker assisted selection and breeding programs in crop and animal agriculture, development of animal disease diagnostics and vaccines, crop genetic engineering to overcome abiotic and biotic stresses and for improvement of the nutritional quality of major food staples. It is imperative that African countries become key players in the “gene revolution” since the cost of leaving them behind may be higher than the cost of empowering them to become players in mastering and benefiting from biotechnology. This paper highlights the potential impact of the latest advances in modern biotechnology, including genomics and bioinformatics, on sustainable development, in line with the goals of the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD). These include acceleration of economic growth, eradication of widespread and severe poverty and efforts to halt the marginalization of Africa in the globalization process.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Genomics, modern biotechnology, agriculture, sustainable development, Africa.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Review

Plant genetic resources: Advancing conservation and use through biotechnology

N. Kameswara Rao

Abstract: Conservation and sustainable use of genetic resources is essential to meet the demand for future food security. Advances in biotechnology have generated new opportunities for genetic resources conservation and utilization. Techniques like in vitro culture and cryopreservation have made it easy to collect and conserve genetic resources, especially of species that are difficult to conserve as seeds. While technologies like enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) have provided tools that are more sensitive and pathogen specific for seed health testing, tissue culture methods are now widely applied for elimination of systemic diseases such as viruses for safe exchange of germplasm. Molecular markers are increasingly used for screening of germplasm to study genetic diversity, identify redundancies in the collections, test accession stability and integrity, and resolve taxonomic relationships. The technology is also expanding the scope of genetic resources utilization.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Biotechnology, conservation, plant genetic resources.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Estimates of outcrossing rates in Moringa oleifera using Amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP)

Muluvi GM*, Sprent JI, Odee D, Powell W

Abstract: The mating system in plant populations is influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Proper estimates of the outcrosing rates are often required for planning breeding programmes, conservation and management of tropical trees. However, although Moringa oleifera is adapted to a mixed mating system, the proportion of selfing has not been previously estimated. The current work therefore, shows the use of AFLP markers in a mating system study of M. oleifera seed orchard. Data revealed a mixed mating system with a multilocus outcrossing rate (tm) of 0.74. It further demonstrated that AFLP markers, though dominant with a lower information content than co-dominant markers are adequate for the study of the mating system in plant populations. The 26% selfing observed in M. oleifera can lead to overestimation of the proportion of additive genetic variance and appropriate adjustments are therefore required. However, the presence of selfing as well as early sexual maturity (6 months to 1 year) in M. oleifera provides an opportunity for developing inbred lines and hybridisation. Additionally, in designing M. oleifera seed orchards, randomisation and minimum distance between related individuals need to be worked out to maximise cross-fertilisation among unrelated clones and minimise selfing or mating among related ramets.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Moringa oleifera, mating system, outcrossing rates, amplified fragment length polymorphism.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Comparative genetics of alcoholism in the Kenyan populations

KORIR Elena Doudoladova*, OCHIENG David, NDIRITU Douglas

Abstract: Hepatic alcohol dehydrogenase and aldehyde dehydrogenase are major enzymes in the metabolism of exogenous ethanol. These enzymes are polymorphic and are involved in alcohol drinking and risk of alcoholism in some world populations. Three hundred and seventy one samples of hair root lyzates from five Kenyan communities were screened for ADH 2, ADH 3 and ALDH 2 polymorphisms via isoelectric focusing. Additional information on alcohol drinking behaviour, alcohol intake, frequency of alcohol drinking, preference of alcoholic drinks, and alcohol dependence was collected via interview and questionnaire. SAS JPIN statistical program was used to analyze obtained data using chi-square, Anova and t-tests. The results showed that ADH 2*2, ADH 3*1 and ALDH 2*2 alleles do not have protective properties against risk of alcoholism in the selected Kenyan populations. Other factors than ADH and ALDH polymorphisms interfered in the protective mechanism of the latter alleles against excessive alcohol drinking.[...] Read More.

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2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Plant gene technology: Social considerations

Berhanu Abraha Tsegay

Abstract: The genetic modification of plants by gene technology is of immense potential benefits, but there may be possible risks. The advantages and social concerns of plant gene technology are discussed.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Gene technology, genetically modified plant, agriculture.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Review

Microcystis aeruginosa: source of toxic microcystins in drinking water

Oberholster PJ, Botha A-M* and Grobbelaar JU

Abstract: Cyanobacteria are one of the earth’s most ancient life forms. Evidence of their existence on earth, derived from fossil records, encompasses a period of some 3.5 billion years in the late Precambrian era. Cyanobacteria are the dominant phytoplanton group in eutrophic freshwater bodies worldwide. They have caused animal poisoning in many parts of the world and may present risks to human health through drinking and recreational activity. Cyanobacteria produce two main groups of toxin namely neurotoxins and peptide hepatotoxins. They were first characterized from the unicellular species, Microcystis aeruginosa, which is the most common toxic cyanobacterium in eutrophic freshwater. The association of environmental parameters with cyanobacterial blooms and the toxicity of microcystin are discussed. Also, the synthesis of the microcystins, as well as the mode of action, control and analysis methods for quantitation of the toxin is reviewed.[...] Read More.

Keywords:

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Screening cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] varieties by inducing water deficit and RAPD analyses

François Abaye Badiane, Diaga Diouf*, Djibril Sané, Omar Diouf, Venceslas Goudiaby and Nicolas Diallo,

Abstract: The effects of water deficit induced by polyethylene glycol-6000 on some cowpea varieties, which belong to the national germplasm in Senegal are reported. Our results showed that, the length of the epicotyl was not affected by water deficit but the length of primary root was influenced only in Mouride variety. Water deficit influenced mostly the number of lateral roots. The 985 variety showed a great increase of its lateral root numbers and could be considered a drought tolerant variety. In contrast, the IT81D-1137 variety is very sensitive to water deficit because its lateral root number were reduced 3.8 fold compared to the control. These physiological studies were complemented by analyzing the genetic diversity of these varieties with random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD). The RAPD analysis suggested that the samples were also genetically diverse.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Vigna unguiculata, drought tolerance, PEG, RAPD.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Short Communication

Effects of sulphuric acid, mechanical scarification and wet heat treatments on germination of seeds of African locust bean tree, Parkia biglobosa

B. L. Aliero

Abstract: Effects of different treatment methods on the germination of seeds of Parkia biglobosa (mimosaceae) were carried out. Prior treatment of seeds with sulphuric acid, wet heat and mechanical scarification were found to induce germination of the dormant seeds. These methods could be applied to raise seedlings of the plant for field propagation.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Scarification, germination, seeds, Parkia biglobosa.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Short Communication

Enhancement of the feeding value of some agro-industrial by-products for laying hens after their solid state fermentation with Trichoderma viride

Eustace A. Iyayi* and Zaid A. Aderolu

Abstract: This study with some agro-byproducts was carried out to provide information on the use of fermentation by-products; brewer’s dried grains (BDG), rice bran (RB), palm kernel meal (PKM) and corn bran (CB). Changes in the nutrient compositions of some selected agro industrial by-products on biodegradation with Trichoderma viride and their feeding value as an energy source for layers were investigated. The protein in BDG, RB, PKM and CB increased by 87, 68, 32 and 61%, respectively, when they were fermented with the fungi for 14 days. At the same time, the fiber in the by-products decreased by 35.00, 40.00, 36.50 and 37.50%, respectively with a corresponding increase of 49.00, 37.00, 9.00 and 5.50% in the level of soluble sugars. The energy in the biodegraded by-products increased by 6.30, 5.00, 9.00 and 18.50%, respectively. In a feeding trial with layers, 50% of the maize in a standard commercial diet was replaced with biodegraded BDG, RB and PKM. Birds on the BDG and RB diets had significantly (P[...] Read More.

Keywords: Agro by-products, fungal fermentation, nutrient improvement, poultry feeding.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Short Communication

Changes in the cellulose, sugar and crude protein contents of agro-industrial by-products fermented with Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus and Penicillium sp.

Changes in the cellulose, sugar and crude protein

Abstract: Changes in the protein, sugar and cellulose of three agro-industrial by-products after fermentation with Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus and Penicillium sp. in solid state were determined. Cellulose was significantly reduced (P[...] Read More.

Keywords: Cellulose, sugar, protein, changes, fermentation, fungi.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Identification of exopolysaccharides-producing lactic acid bacteria from Burkina Faso fermented milk samples

Aly Savadogo*, Cheik A. T. Ouattara, Paul W. Savadogo, Nicolas Barro, Aboubacar S. Ouattara, Alfred S. Traoré

Abstract: Spacer region between 16S and 23 S rRNA genes of thirteen lactic acid bacteria strains from Burkina Faso fermented milk samples were amplified by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Lactobacillus delbrueckii, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus fermentum, Streptococcus thermophilus, Pediococcus spp, Leuconostoc mesenteroides subsp mesenteroides were identified. The Lactobacillus group was the predominant bacteria. Plasmids identified ranged between 2000 and 4000 bp. Exopolysaccharides (EPS) production varied from 181 mg/l and 814 mg/l, monomer analysis showed that glucose and galactose were predominant.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Lactic acid bacteria, fermented milk, PCR, exopolysaccharides.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Colletotrichum circinans and Colletotrichum coccodes can be distinguished by DGGE analysis of PCR-amplified 18S rDNA fragments

Olajire Fagbola+ and Mathew M. Abang*

Abstract: The rDNA 18S region of Colletotrichum circinans and C. coccodes was amplified by PCR to evaluate this DNA region as a tool for species delineation. PCR amplification of the 18S of both species produced 1.65 Kb long fragments that covered most of the entire 18S rDNA molecule. DGGE analysis of the amplified fragments distinguished C. circinans from C. coccodes isolates. This result provides molecular evidence that supports the current treatment of C. circinans as a species distinct from C. coccodes, in spite of the failure of previous attempts at genetic differentiation of the two species based on RFLP analysis of the rDNA ITS region.[...] Read More.

Keywords: DGGE, Colletotrichum circinans, Colletotrichum coccodes, molecular differentiation, species delineation.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Isolation of a kernel oleoyl-ACP thioesterase gene from the oil palm Elaeis guineensis Jacq.

Omorefe Asemota*, Cha Tye San, Farida H. Shah

Abstract: Thioesterases play a central role in determining chain lengths of fatty acids in oil storage tissues and have been isolated from a number of plant sources. While in some species enzymes that are specialized for the predominant fatty acids in the tissues examined have been found, in others, enzymes that are active over a broad range were observed. We have isolated a cDNA clone from the developing kernel of the oil palm Elaeis guineensis which encodes a thioesterase enzyme. Its highest homology was to the Brassica napus oleoyl-ACP thioesterase with which it had 72% homology at the nucleotide level, over the coding region examined, and 83% identity (90% positives) at the amino acid level.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Elaeis guineensis, kernel, oleoyl-ACP thioesterase, cDNA.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Dockovdia cookarum infection and the prosobranch gastropod Lanistes libycus host in Omi Stream, Ago-Iwoye, south-western, Nigeria

O. M. Agbolade*, A. B. Odaibo

Abstract: Dockovdia cookarum infection was studied in relation to the abundance and size classes of Lanistes libycus from Omi Stream, Ago-Iwoye, Nigeria, between September 1997 and June 1998. 57.6% of the 262 L. libycus recorded were collected during periods of heavy rainfall. 17.2% (45) of the L. libycus examined had D. cookarum infection. The water mite prevalences were higher in rainy season than in dry season, and ranged between 3.0% and 44.4% monthly. L. libycus in 21-30 mm size class had the highest prevalence (73.3%). Intensity of infection was higher in rainy season than in dry season, and ranged between 1 and 6 mite(s)/snail. 2.6% of the L. libycus specimens in the 21-30 mm size class had concurrent D. cookarum and Chaetogaster limnaei infections.[...] Read More.

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2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Comparative analysis and relationships of six important crop species chloroplast genomes using whole genome web-based informatics tools

Beatrice Kilel

Abstract: Using informatics tools to compare important species is now feasible as structural genomics continue in importance and establishment of structure-function relationships become a common way of comparative analysis. Currently, many of the technical issues involved in sequencing complete genomes have been solved. The smallness in size of chloroplast genomes facilitates being used for the discovery of disease resistance genes, introgression of important traits in transgenic plants, quantitative trait analysis and phylogenetic studies. Knowledge from this can be extrapolated to important crops like sorghum, millet, taro, and cassava that have not been fully sequenced. This study compared six important crop species using GeneOrder3.0 and CoreGenes2.0 web-based informatics tools using complete chloroplast genomes. Results obtained depict cases of major genome rearrangements, translocation, duplication, inversion and deletion of genes. Members of the poaceae family indicate a close relationship in the nature of conserved sequences while Oryza sativa and Chlorella vulgaris, which are not members of poaceae indicate no synteny. Gene content indicates that there are common sets of putative orthologs across the different species. Zea mays, O. sativa, Nicotiana tabacum, Spinacea oleracea, Triticum aestivum had 71 rows of putative orthologs (355 total) with one hypothetical protein (GI:11465969) in N. tabacum, which is homologous to cemA and ORF230 protein in O. sativa and Z. mays, respectively. There was a clear indication from these sets of putative orthologs that maturase-encoding genes were found only in the terrestrial plants and not in the unicellular organisms.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Chloroplast genomes, comparative analysis, informatics tools, whole genome, synteny.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Analysis of Tunisian date palm germplasm using simple sequence repeat primers

Zehdi S.*, Sakka H., Rhouma A, Ould Mohamed Salem A. Marrakchi M. and Trifi M.

Abstract: Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) markers involve polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of DNA using a single primer composed of a microsatellite sequence. ISSR technology rapidly reveals high polymorphic fingerprints and determines genetic diversity. We used genetic markers generated from selected ISSR primers to assess genetic diversity among a set of Tunisian date palm varieties. Seven primers were used to cluster 12 date palm varieties and 77 polymorphic markers were sufficient to identify all of the varieties. These discrete molecular markers were used to estimate genetic distances among the 12 accessions and to examine their genetic relationships. Data analysis identified phenetic groups that were in agreement with those obtained according to agronomic traits and random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. Among the 12 simple sequence repeat (SSR) motifs tested, the most abundant were AG.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Genetic diversity, ISSR polymorphisms, date palm, Pheonix dactylifera.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Analysis of genetic diversity in bambara groundnut [Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdc] landraces using amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) markers

Wazael H. Ntundu, *, Inga C. Bach, Jørgen L. Christiansen and Sven B. Andersen

Abstract: Amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) was used to assess genetic diversity among 100 selected bambara groundnut [Vigna subterranea (L.) Verdc] landraces from a diverse geographic area of Tanzania. Eleven informative AFLP primer combinations generated a total of 49 scorable polymorphic amplification fragments across the bambara groundnut accessions. Genetic distances between all accessions based on Jaccard’s variability index ranged from 0.1 to 0.68, with a total average of 0.3. The results showed that bambara groundnut landraces from Tanzania form a genetically diverse population, and AFLP markers can be effectively employed to assess genetic diversity and to measure genetic relationship among accessions. Cluster analysis revealed that bambara groundnut from Tanzania constitute two major groups in line with their putative geographic origins, one genetically distinct group from the Southern agro-ecological zone and a mixed group with accessions from Central, Lake Victoria and Western agro-ecological zones. The clustering of accessions compared relatively well to clustering based on phenotypic characters. However, correlation of the AFLP marker distances with phenotypic distances showed r-values of 0.4 only.[...] Read More.

Keywords: AFLP markers, genetic diversity, landraces, Tanzania, Vigna subterranean.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Direct genetic transformation of Hibiscus sabdariffa L.

Yaye Kène Gassama-Dia*, Djibril Sané and Mansor Ndoye

Abstract: Transgenic Hibiscus sabdariffa plants have been produced by a tissue culture independent method using Agrobacterium tumefasciens transformation procedure. Embryo axes of mature seeds with one cotyledon excised were infected by immersion in a suspension of Agrobacterium LBA 4404 strain culture that carries pBal plasmid with β-glucuronidase p35SGUSINT and plant selectable marker Neomycin Phospho-Transferase gene (nptII). Following a 24 h co-cultivation with Agrobacterium strain and decontamination with cefotaxime, embryos were grown on soil rite containing MS medium added with a killer concentration of kanamycin (100 µg/ml) during 4 weeks at room conditions and thereafter transferred to greenhouse. 54.3% of the seedlings grew well on the selective medium; 68% of the explants excised from putative transformed plants were found to be GUS positive. After 60 days evaluation point, the assessment of the transformation by PCR revealed that H. sabdariffa line tested, carried the nptII gene.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Hibiscus sabdariffa, genetic transformation.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Nutrients requirements in biological industrial wastewater treatment

Bashaar Y. Ammary

Abstract: Wastewaters from olive mills and pulp and paper mill industries in Jordan have been characterized and treated using laboratory scale anaerobic and aerobic sequencing batch reactors, respectively. Nutrient requirements for these two industrial wastewaters were found to be less than what is usually reported in the literature for C:N:P ratio of 100:5:1 for aerobic treatment and 250:5:1 for anaerobic treatment. This was ascribed to the low biomass observed yield coefficients and relatively low removal efficiencies in these wastewaters. It was found that for anaerobic treatment of olive mills wastewater COD:N:P ratio of about 900:5:1.7 was able to achieve more than 80% COD removal. The observed biomass yield was about 0.06 kg VSS per kg of COD degraded. For extended aeration aerobic treatment of pulp and paper mill wastewater COD:N:P ratio of about 170:5:1.5 was able to achieve more than 75% COD removal. The observed biomass yield was about 0.31 kg VSS per kg of COD degraded. In both these wastewaters nutrients were not added. A simple formula is introduced to calculate nutrient requirements based on removal efficiency and observed biomass yield coefficient.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Olive mill wastewater, anaerobic treatment, aerobic treatment, sequencing batch reactor, biomass yield, nutrient requirement.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

A morphometric analysis of the genus Ficus Linn. (moraceae)

Mubo, A. Sonibare*, Adeniyi, A. Jayeola and Adeyemi Egunyomi

Abstract: Foliar parameters of Ficus in Nigeria were subjected to quantitative analysis. The morphometric analysis is based on ten quantitative parameters of the leaves of species. Principal compound analysis produced six groups whose characters are described. Highly significant positive correlation exists between leaf length and leaf width, leaf length and lamina length, leaf length and petiole length, lamina length and lamina width. Negative correlation was observed between leaf width and leaf length/width ratio, petiole length and fruit length/petiole length ratio. The groups that emerged compared well with existing traditional classification with some sub-sectional discrepancies.[...] Read More.

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2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Potential of cassava flour as a gelling agent in media for plant tissue cultures

Moses F. A. Maliro,* and Grace Lameck

Abstract: The potential of a tissue culture medium gelled with cassava flour to support shoot proliferation of stem nodal sections of Uapaca kirkiana and Faidherbia albida was studied. A two factorial experiment was conducted with the first factor as type of gelling agent (80 g/L cassava flour; 80 g/L cassava flour mixed with 3.5 g/L agar; and 7 g/L agar) while the second factor was two plant species. Explants were obtained from 8-months old U. kirkiana and F. albida in vitro raised seedlings. Data included number of shoots and height and analysis of variance was performed. Number of shoots proliferating and shoot height from cultures on medium gelled with cassava flour was the lowest. This was attributed to the degradation of the cassava flour gel after two weeks. Performance of the cassava flour mixed with 3.5 g/L agar gel was better than agar alone. The stability of cassava flour as a gelling agent can therefore be improved by mixing with some agar.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Gelling agent, cassava flour, agar, shoot proliferation.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

A Study on the use of carrot juice in the tissue culture of Daucus carota

D. Puchooa* and R. Ramburn

Abstract: Effects of using carrot juice in the in vitro growth of Daucus carota were investigated. Callus was the only form of growth obtained after five weeks in culture. The increase in fresh weight, dry weight and moisture content of the explants with increasing concentration of carrot juice in the medium was much lower when compared to either the cytokinin benzyladenine (BA) and/or the auxin picloram. Spectrophotometric and chromatographic analyses revealed the presence of both indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and abscissic acid (ABA) in the carrot juice, while gibberellic acid was absent.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Carrot juice, auxin, abscissic acid.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Short Communication

A simple, rapid and efficient method for the extraction of genomic DNA from lychee (Litchi chinensis Sonn.)

D. Puchooa

Abstract: A simple, rapid and efficient method for isolating genomic DNA from lychee (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) was developed. This modified CTAB protocol include the use of 2 M NaCl, PVP, 5% mercaptoethanol and 80% ethanol in the extraction as well as reducing the centrifugation times during the separation and precipitation of the DNA. Isolated genomic DNA showed high purity and high quantity following restriction digestion analysis.[...] Read More.

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2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

High frequency plant regeneration from desiccated calli of indica rice (Oryza Sativa l.)

Vinod Saharan*, Ram C. Yadav, Neelam R. Yadav, Bishnu P. Chapagain

Abstract: An efficient and reproducible protocol is required to achieve high frequency transformation from transformed calli. We report here high frequency plant regeneration from mature seed derived embryogenic calli of two recalcitrant indica rice cultivars HKR-46 and HKR-126 after partial desiccation treatment. Embryogenic and nodular callus was initiated on MS basal medium supplemented with 2.5 mg l-1 2,4-D, 500 mg l-1 proline, 500 mg l-1 casein hydrolysate, 30 g l-1 sucrose and 2.5 g l-1 gelrite. Several media with different combinations of growth regulators were tried. Maximum shoot regeneration frequency (63%) was observed in partially desiccated calli for 48 h in cv. HKR 46 and 82.1 per cent in cv. HKR-126 on the MS modified medium supplemented with 2 mg l-1 kinetin + 0.5 mg l-1 NAA + 30 gl-1 sucrose + 6 g l-1 gelrite followed by in the medium supplemented with 1 mgl-1 2ip + 30 g l-1 sucrose + 6 g l-1 gelrite (61% in cv. HKR-46 and 79.2 % in cv. HKR-126). Highly significant regeneration differences were observed in partially desiccated calli (48 h) in comparison to non-dehydrated (0 h desiccation) calli. Shoot regeneration frequency increased from 1.2 to 5.6 fold after 48 h of desiccation in both the cultivars on different regeneration media. Shoot regeneration frequency declined at 72 h desiccation treatment as compared to 48 h treatment. Well-developed plantlets were hardened and transferred to the green house.[...] Read More.

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2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Improving bambara groundnut productivity using gamma irradiation and in vitro techniques

H.K. Adu-Dapaah* and R.S. Sangwan

Abstract: In recent times efforts are being made to improve the productivity of bambara groundnut. Studies were initiated (i) to characterise and evaluate landraces and to select superior ones for irradiation, (ii) to induce genetic variation through gamma irradiation and (iii) to use biotechnological approaches to shorten the generation cycle. The results of the study indicated that gamma irradiation induced higher genetic variation of up to four times within the varieties used in the study compared to the unirradiated control. Bambara groundnut yield could be increased through selection for number of pods per plant. Using the in vitro plus in vivo system and embryo axis explants, over four generations per year were obtained compared to 1 or 2 in the field. All the plants were morphologically normal and fertile. The shorter duration, high efficiency and genotype independency makes this system well suited for wider biotechnological applications in bambara groundnut. This novel approach is being applied to the variants/mutants obtained from gamma irradiation.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Gamma irradiation, generation cycle, genetic variation, Vigna subterranean.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Optimization of industrial production of rifamycin B by Amycolatopsis mediterranei. I. The role of colony morphology and nitrogen sources in productivity

El-Tayeb, O.M.*, Salama, A.A., Hussein, M.M.M. and El-Sedawy, H.F.

Abstract: A systematic approach to process optimization for production of rifamycin B was applied to a strain of Amycolatopsis mediterranei. Examination of the growth revealed 6 different morphologically distinct colonies on Bennett’s agar medium. Rifamycin B production in shake flasks by the six different colony types ranged between 0.5 and 1.2 g/l. There was a clear correlation between the colony morphology and rifamycin B productivity. The highest yield of rifamycin B (1.03-1.2 g/l) was obtained by using the orange-red colored colonies, rosette shaped, devoid of hollow center and 2-3 mm in diameter. Variability in colony morphology, however, remained and the appropriate colonies had to be picked up for preparing the inoculum of each experiment. Addition of yeast extract to the fermentation medium at different times increased rifamycin B production. The highest antibiotic production was obtained upon the addition of 0.1% yeast extract after 2 days of incubation, where the yield increased from 1.15 to 1.95 g/l (70%). The use of 1.8% KNO3 in the fermentation medium, instead of 0.96% (NH 4)2SO4, markedly increased rifamycin B production from 1.15 to 2.92 g/l (154%). It was also observed, upon microscopical examination, that KNO3 decreased branching and fragmentation of the mycelia in the fermentation medium.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Rifamycin B, fermentation, biotechnology, Amycolatopsis mediterranei, strain selection.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Optimization of industrial production of rifamycin B by Amycolatopsis mediterranei. II. The role of gene amplification and physiological factors in productivity in shake flasks

El-Tayeb, O.M.*, Hussein, M. M. M., Salama, A.A. and El-Sedawy, H.F.

Abstract: Amplification of gene expression of the most productive colony type of Amycolatopsis mediterranei strain N1 under stress of chloramphenicol, resulted in isolation of a variant NCH with productivity of 2.56 g/l compared to 1.15 g/l by the parent strain N1 (2.2 fold increase) . This amplified variant has a further advantage of reduced variation in colony morphology with predominance of the most productive colony type. Using variant NCH, modification of the fermentation medium F1 by the addition of 0.1% yeast extract or the use of 1.8% KNO3 resulted in 3.8 and 5.8-fold increase in productivity, respectively, compared to strain N1. When the F1 medium was replaced by a new medium F2 containing soytone, instead of the particulate constituents (peanut meal and soybean meal) the yield by variant NCH reached 7.85 g/l (6.8-fold increase). Modification of the F2 medium by addition of glycerol or the replacement of glucose by glucose syrup decreased rifamycin B production. Changing the concentration of soytone increased the yield only slightly while replacing it with peptone or tryptone or the addition of 1 % corn steep liquor failed to increase the yield. On the other hand, the addition of 0.1 % yeast extract, or the replacement of 0.6% (NH4)2SO4 by 1.2% KNO3 or 0.4% NH4NO3, to F2 medium led to 8.2, 10.2 and 10.4-fold increase in productivity, respectively, compared to productivity of strain N1 in F1 medium. The change in the concentrations of either MgSO4 or CaCO3, the use of different types of antifoams and the use of higher concentrations of sodium diethyl barbiturate did not significantly influence the yield. These collective optimization attempts thus resulted in a 10.4-fold increase in productivity, from 1.15 to 11.99 g/l.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Rifamycin B, fermentation, biotechnology, Amycolatopsis mediterranei, optimization, gene amplification, physiological factors.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Histological exploration of follicular population of the Moroccan bovine (Oulmes-Zaers) breed

A. Fassi Fihri, K.H. Hajji and H. Lakhdissi

Abstract: Follicular population and repartition in the ovarian cortex was investigated in the ovaries of the Oulmès-Zaers cattle breed and its crosses. A total of 30 ovaries were collected at slaughterhouse in Casablanca and Rabat from Oulmes-Zaers breed and its crosses (2 genotypes) of 3 age groups (5 years). The histological study of the ovary revealed that the ovarian cortex is composed of different areas (from the periphery to the medulla), the non stratified epithelium of the ovary, the tunica albuginea composed of two areas rich of collagen fibers directed into different ways white variable thickness. The primordial and antral follicles appear in underlying areas. Therefore, the follicles cannot appear on the ovarian surface when situated under thicker Layers. At the quantitative level, the ovary of the Oulmes-Zaears breed seems to contain less follicles in animals less than 3 years of age as compared to the crossbreed (P< 0.05). Between 3 and 5 years of age, the follicles occupied similar areas of the ovaries (17% and 18% for oulmes-Zaers and its crosses, respectively). This study shows that the ovary of the Moroccan local cattle breed (Oulmes-Zaers) is equipped with a whole plain follicular population that is more important than the one visible on the surface of the ovary and which is exploited by aspiration and picking techniques.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Ovary, Oulmès-Zaers, follicular population, bovine, age.

2004, 3(1), 1-6;

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