The assessment of the distribution and importance of the protection of tulip varieties around the world and separately rare, wild-growing ancestors of cultivated tulips, in particular Tulipa fosteriana and Tulipa inge...The assessment of the distribution and importance of the protection of tulip varieties around the world and separately rare, wild-growing ancestors of cultivated tulips, in particular Tulipa fosteriana and Tulipa ingens on the globe, including Central Asia, Uzbekistan and the Samarkand region, was described. A distribution map was introduced to visualize the data. Information about the morphological description of the studied species was also given.展开更多
One of the most devastating diseases of rice worldwide is bacterial blight (BLB) caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. Oryzae (Xoo). In Benin, Xoo was first described in 2013 on wild rice Oryzae longistaminata. So far, no ...One of the most devastating diseases of rice worldwide is bacterial blight (BLB) caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. Oryzae (Xoo). In Benin, Xoo was first described in 2013 on wild rice Oryzae longistaminata. So far, no study has been done on Beninese Xoo strains. We do not know whether the pathogen has already passed into the rice varieties grown, or if they are exposed to other bacteria. Whereas the use of resistant varieties, carrying resistance genes, is the only highly effective and environmentally friendly way to control this disease, no information is available on these Xoo resistance genes in rice varieties grown in Benin apart from the one we recently. This study aims to identify Beninese Xoo strains, causing BLB and screen rice varieties grown in Benin for the main resistance genes. Diseased rice leaves showing typical symptoms of fire blight collected from different rice fields in the three phytogeographic areas of Benin were analyzed by PCR for Xoo-specific sequence identification. Furthermore, seventy-five collected rice accessions were screened to identify xa5, Xa7, xa13, and Xa21 resistance genes to Xoo. The results reveal that Xanthomonas oryzae was identified in two fields in Banikouara and one in Malanville. On the other hand, Sphingomonas sp. has been identified in several other rice fields in Benin. Forty-seven of seventy-five rice accessions examined (62.66%) carried Xoo resistance genes with 3 (4%) and 40 (53.33%) of xa5 and Xa21 respectively. None of the accessions had either Xa7 or xa13 resistance genes. Three accessions possess both xa5 and Xa21 genes. Isogenic lines IRBB60 and IRBB21, supposed to be a positive control, presented a Xoo sensitivity allele. These results indicate that Xoo has moved from the wild rice variety to the cultivated variety in northern Benin and varietal improvement programs must be implemented with varieties having several resistance genes for the efficient response against a possible BLB pandemic in Benin.展开更多
Understanding the level of genetic diversity in any population is an important requisite towards strategizing measures for conservation and improvement of stocks. This study focused on the assessment of phylogenetics ...Understanding the level of genetic diversity in any population is an important requisite towards strategizing measures for conservation and improvement of stocks. This study focused on the assessment of phylogenetics and molecular divergence of tilapia fish species obtained from two populations (Domita in South-South and Odeda in South-West, Nigeria) using the displacement loop (D-loop) and cytochrome b region of the mitochondrial deoxyribonucleic acid (mtDNA). A total of 28 samples (15 from South-South and 13 from South-West) were used for the genetic analysis. DNA was extracted from the tissue of all the samples using Quik-gDNATM miniPrep kit. The D-loop containing the hypervariable region was sequenced for all samples from the two populations, while cytochrome b (Cyt b) region of mtDNA was only sequenced for samples from South-South population. Chromatograms of the sequences were viewed and edited using Bioedit software. Multiple sequence alignment was carried out using molecular evolutionary genetic analysis (MEGA) software before subsequent genetic analyses. Phylogenetic analysis grouped the samples into two clusters based on population. Also, when the two mitochondrial regions were pooled together, they clustered into two major groups based on mitochondrial regions. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) revealed 37.32% variation within population and 62.68% variation among population with a significant fixation index of 0.627 (p 0.05). The genetic distance inferred between D-loop regions of South-South and South-West populations was 0.243. Maternal lineage analysis revealed that the origin of tilapia fish from both populations could be traced to Oreochromis spirilus and Oreochromis leucostictus based on mitochondrial D-loop region. The findings of this study revealed molecular divergence among the tilapia populations and may serve as pivot information for the genetic improvement of this important species.展开更多
Objective:To examine the inhibitory effect of Hydrangea serrata extract against hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells and its underlying mechanisms.Methods:The effects of Hydrangea serrata extract on growth inhibition ...Objective:To examine the inhibitory effect of Hydrangea serrata extract against hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells and its underlying mechanisms.Methods:The effects of Hydrangea serrata extract on growth inhibition of tumor cells and spheroids were assessed using MTT and 3D culture assays.Quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot analyses were employed to investigate the changes in mRNA and protein expression levels of molecules related to cell cycle and apoptosis.Results:Hydrangea serrata extract effectively inhibited the growth of both tumor cells and spheroids.The extract also significantly upregulated p27 mRNA expression and downregulated CDK2 mRNA expression,leading to cell cycle arrest.Moreover,increased BAX/Bcl-2 ratio as well as caspase-9 and-3 were observed after treatment with Hydrangea serrata extract,indicating the induction of tumor cell apoptosis.Conclusions:Hydrangea serrata extract has the potential to alleviate tumors by effectively modulating cell-cycle-related gene expressions and inducing apoptosis,thereby inhibiting tumor growth.展开更多
Congenital anomalies of the hand are malformations occurring during the development of the human limb,and present as isolated disorders or as a part of a syndrome.During the last years,molecular analysis techniques ha...Congenital anomalies of the hand are malformations occurring during the development of the human limb,and present as isolated disorders or as a part of a syndrome.During the last years,molecular analysis techniques have offered increasing knowledge about the molecular basis of hand malformations.Disturbances in the signaling pathways during the development of the upper limb result in malformations of the upper extremity.At present,several genes have been identified as responsible for hand anomalies and other have been recognized as suspect genes related to them.Different and new high throughput methods have been introduced for the identification of the gene mutations.In the current editorial,we summarize concisely the current molecular status of isolated hand genetic disorders and the recent progress in molecular genetics,including the genes related to the disorder.This progress improves the knowledge of these disorders and has implications on genetic counselling and prenatal diagnosis.展开更多
Type 2 diabetes(T2D)mellitus is a common complex disease that currently affects more than 400 million people worldwide and has become a global health problem.High-throughput sequencing technologies such as whole-genom...Type 2 diabetes(T2D)mellitus is a common complex disease that currently affects more than 400 million people worldwide and has become a global health problem.High-throughput sequencing technologies such as whole-genome and whole-exome sequencing approaches have provided numerous new insights into the molecular bases of T2D.Recent advances in the application of sequencing technologies to T2D research include,but are not limited to:(1)Fine mapping of causal rare and common genetic variants;(2)Identification of confident genelevel associations;(3)Identification of novel candidate genes by specific scoring approaches;(4)Interrogation of disease-relevant genes and pathways by transcriptional profiling and epigenome mapping techniques;and(5)Investigation of microbial community alterations in patients with T2D.In this work we review these advances in application of next-generation sequencing methods for elucidation of T2D pathogenesis,as well as progress and challenges in implementation of this new knowledge about T2D genetics in diagnosis,prevention,and treatment of the disease.展开更多
Drought and salinity are the most widespread soil problems, posing a big threat to food security in rice growing regions. The present study evaluated the performance of eleven rice genotypes using morphological and ph...Drought and salinity are the most widespread soil problems, posing a big threat to food security in rice growing regions. The present study evaluated the performance of eleven rice genotypes using morphological and physiological parameters, under induced drought and salinity conditions. The seedlings were raised in 5 kg of homogenous soil in plastic bags in the </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">greenhouse</span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. For the drought experiment, each bag was watered with 200 ml of water twice daily until plants reached the five-leaf stage when watering was suspended for 2 weeks for the drought stressed plants but not suspended for the control plants. The experiment was a 2 × 11 factorial and the set up was arranged using the completely randomized design with three replications. Data were taken on Plant height, Number of tillers, leaf length, Number of green leaves, Number of dead leaves, Leaf rolling score (LRS) and Rate of water loss. The salinity experiment was set up in a similar manner except that the plants were irrigated twice a day for 2 weeks with 200 ml of treatment solution containing either 0 mM NaCl or 75 mM and data were collected on plant height, number of tillers, shoot fresh weight, shoot dry weight, Na</span><sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;">+</span></sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> and K</span><sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;">+</span></sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> concentrations, relative water content and chlorophyll content. Data from both experiments were subjected to Analysis of variance test using the GenStat software 10</span><sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;">th</span></sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> edition and the means separated using least significant difference test. Individual stress response index (ISRI) was calculated for each parameter and the means used in grouping the varieties. Of the genotypes evaluated, four (FARO 44, NERICA 2, NERICA 8 and NERICA 5) were identified as tolerant, two (NERICA 4 and FARO 57) as moderately tolerant, while the rest were found to be sensitive to drought. Equally, two varieties (FARO 44 and RAM 137) stood out in the salinity screening as tolerant varieties, five were moderately tolerant while four (FARO 64, FARO 52, NERICA 2 and FARO 55) were clearly susceptible. FARO 44 is the only genotype that </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">showed </span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">tolerance</span><span style="font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">to both drought and salinity. The identified drought and salinity tolerant rice genotypes from this study can be recommended as genetic sources for future breeding programs for drought and salinity </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">tolerance</span><span style="font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">in rice.展开更多
The goal of this study was to determine whether mutation of the Mn-binding site of wild-type recombinant Phlebia radiata manganese peroxidase 3 affected the pH-dependence kinetic parameters. pH range investigated was ...The goal of this study was to determine whether mutation of the Mn-binding site of wild-type recombinant Phlebia radiata manganese peroxidase 3 affected the pH-dependence kinetic parameters. pH range investigated was 2.5 – 12.0. The catalytic efficiency of the mutant enzymes at high and low pH in comparison to the wild-type was investigated using standard rPr-MnP3 protocol. Wild-type recombinant Phlebia radiata MnP3 enzyme showed optimal activity with Mn (II) as substrate at pH 5.0 and remained moderately active (approximately 40%) in the pH range of 6.0 - 9.0. The rPr-MnP3 mutants’ maximum activity ranged between 5.5 and 8.0. Wild-type and mutants rPr-MnP3 enzymes exhibited a similar pH profile with optimum pH of 3.0 for ABTS oxidation. Mutation has severely decreased the catalytic efficiency for Mn (II) oxidation at pH 5.0. The rPr-MnP3 enzymes showed enhanced affinity for Mn (II) at alkaline pH and a more alkaline range for catalysis than ever reported for any Manganese Peroxidase. This study reveals that at higher pH, rPr-MnP3 can function with alternative ligands in the Mn (II) site and does not have an absolutely obligate requirement for an all carboxylate ligand set. These results further strongly confirm that Mn<sup>2+</sup> binding site is the only productive catalytic site for Mn (II) oxidation.展开更多
Aflatoxins are the potential lethal toxin produced by Aspergillus sp. important health hazard throughout the world. In this study, 26 Aspergillus sp. have been isolated from 50 samples of red chilli collected througho...Aflatoxins are the potential lethal toxin produced by Aspergillus sp. important health hazard throughout the world. In this study, 26 Aspergillus sp. have been isolated from 50 samples of red chilli collected throughout the country. These 26 isolates were grown primarily on agar media to identify the aflatoxin producing species. It is possible to distinguish A. flavus strains from other Aspergillus sp. developing orange colour on the reverse of the plates. The Coconut Cream Agar (CCA) is used to detect aflatoxin producer strains having blue fluorescence when exposed to a UV-light. Several other media were used for morphological characteristics of Aspergillus sp. Out of 26 isolates, four isolates were confirmed as Aspergillus sp. These isolates were subjected to cross contamination with freshly ground, sterile maize and after 15 days of incubation the contaminated maize were analyzed by HPLC and found aflatoxin in each of the sample containing 186 ppb (max.). This study was conducted to assay the ability to produce aflatoxins by the Aspergillus spp. isolated from red chilli (Capsicum annuum L. Solanaceae) available throughout the country. The results found in the experiment are much more behind the acceptable limit according to some international standard. As red chilli is a widely used spice in Bangladesh, the proper controlling measures may be taken for controlling the surveillance of aflatoxinic fungi like as use of bio-pesticides, proper drying method and storage conditions.展开更多
Polydactyly is a malformation during the development of the human limb,which is characterized by the presence of more than the normal number of fingers or toes.It is considered to be one of the most common inherited h...Polydactyly is a malformation during the development of the human limb,which is characterized by the presence of more than the normal number of fingers or toes.It is considered to be one of the most common inherited hand disorders.It can be divided into two major groups:Non-syndromic polydactyly or syndromic polydactyly.According to the anatomical location of the duplicated digits,polydactyly can be generally subdivided into pre-,post-axial,and mesoaxial forms.Non-syndromic polydactyly is often inherited with an autosomal dominant trait and defects during the procedure of anterior-posterior patterning of limb development are incriminated for the final phenotype of the malformation.There are several forms of polydactyly,including hand and foot extra digit manifestations.The deformity affects upper limbs with a higher frequency than the lower,and the left foot is more often involved than the right.The treatment is always surgical.Since the clinical presentation is highly diverse,the treatment combines single or multiple surgical operations,depending on the type of polydactyly.The research attention that congenital limb deformities have recently attracted has resulted in broadening the list of isolated gene mutations associated with the disorders.Next generation sequencing technologies have contributed to the correlation of phenotype and genetic profile of the multiple polydactyly manifestations and have helped in early diagnosis and screening of most nonsyndromic and syndromic disorders.展开更多
Rice genes OsDjA2 and OsERF104,encoding a chaperone protein and an APETELA2/ethylene-responsive factor,respectively,are strongly induced in a compatible interaction with blast fungus,and also have function in plant su...Rice genes OsDjA2 and OsERF104,encoding a chaperone protein and an APETELA2/ethylene-responsive factor,respectively,are strongly induced in a compatible interaction with blast fungus,and also have function in plant susceptibility validated through gene silencing.Here,we reported the CRISPR/Cas9 knockout of OsDjA2 and OsERF104 genes resulting in considerable improvement of blast resistance.A total of 15 OsDjA2(62.5%)and 17 OsERF104(70.8%)T_(0)transformed lines were identified from 24 regenerated plants for each target and used in downstream experiments.Phenotyping of homozygous T1 mutant lines revealed not only a significant decrease in the number of blast lesions but also a reduction in the percentage of diseased leaf area,compared with the infected control plants.Our results supported CRISPR/Cas9-mediated target mutation in rice susceptibility genes as a potential and alternative breeding strategy for building resistance to blast disease.展开更多
Two commonly consumed spices in Nigeria—Piper nigrum (leaf and seed) and Monodora myristica (seed) were evaluated for natural antioxidant potentials in complementary in vitro assay systems. Extracts of the tested pla...Two commonly consumed spices in Nigeria—Piper nigrum (leaf and seed) and Monodora myristica (seed) were evaluated for natural antioxidant potentials in complementary in vitro assay systems. Extracts of the tested plant parts contained low amounts of antioxidant compounds: 4.00 - 6.65 μg GAE/mg and 2.50 - 10.38 μg RE/mg for phenols and flavonoids respectively. The extracts scavenged DPPH and hydroxyl radicals in the range of 4.32% - 37.37% (inferior to ascorbic acid and gallic acid used as standards) and 6.43% - 17.10% respectively. In the reducing power and phosphomolybdenum assays, the extracts showed ability to reduce Fe (III) and Mo (VI) ions to their lower valence states of Fe (II) and Mo (V) respectively, although these activities were inferior to those of the standards used. Comparatively, Monodora myristica seed extract was superior to Piper nigrum leaf and seed extracts in antioxidant potential, but all the extracts generally showed dose-dependent antioxidant activities. Evidently, the studied spice plants are not without some natural antioxidant capacity and would contribute appreciably in combating free radical damages when consumed.展开更多
Methylotrophic yeast Pichia pastoris is an object of modern biotechnology. Decisive understanding of gene regulation mechanisms is essential for successful protein production. In this study, we investigated the effect...Methylotrophic yeast Pichia pastoris is an object of modern biotechnology. Decisive understanding of gene regulation mechanisms is essential for successful protein production. In this study, we investigated the effect of deletions in P. pastoris genes encoding proteins, homologous to S. serevisiae Rtg1p, Rtg 2p, Msn2p and Msn4p. It was shown, that deletion in PpRTG1 gene results in inability of P. pastoris to grow on medium with methanol as a carbon source and ammonium sulfate as a source of nitrogen. We also demonstrate that deletions in PpRTG1 and PpRTG2 decrease activity of AOX1 promoter.展开更多
The adaptation of cassava plantlets to natural conditions remains the main obstacle in the process of free virus plantlets production. In this study, cassava plantlets acclimatization was assessed by pre-acclimatizati...The adaptation of cassava plantlets to natural conditions remains the main obstacle in the process of free virus plantlets production. In this study, cassava plantlets acclimatization was assessed by pre-acclimatization, height of acclimated plantlets, substrate, and nutrient watering solution. The results revealed that pre-acclimatization gave a high survival rate (61.9%) whereas the direct tunnel acclimatization was conducted to low rate (27.31%) of plantlets. Furthermore, the height of plantlets influenced significantly (p < 0.05) their survival rate with best survival rate observed on plantlet height from 1 cm to 5 cm. There was no significant difference between the substrates used and watering solutions. However, the Sawdust substrate gave a high survival rate (46.67%) and better phylogenesis (1.8) in the variety RB 89509. Likewise, plantlets treated with NPK nutrient watering solutions (20-10-10) had a better survival rate (48.57%), better phylogenesis (2.125) with the variety RB 89509 and better growth in height (1.18 cm) with the variety BF92/0267. These findings constitute a database for the establishment of the technical itinerary for the acclimatization of cassava plantlets.展开更多
Polystyrene is a highly popular plastic packaging material. It is essentially non-biodegradable and takes hundreds of years to decompose in case of land filling while other disposal methods or treatments methods creat...Polystyrene is a highly popular plastic packaging material. It is essentially non-biodegradable and takes hundreds of years to decompose in case of land filling while other disposal methods or treatments methods create hazardous effects on the environment. However, this material is known to possess properties such as sound insulation, high thermal conductivity, and lightweight, thereby making it a great additive in concrete. Haven incorporated this material into a concrete matrix;in various percentages which served as partial replacement for coarse aggregates, the concretes’ properties were tested and compared with the properties of the conventional concrete. The experimental data was obtained based on the replacement coarse aggregate by EPS volume ratio of 0%, 4%, 8%, 12% and 16%. The concretes’ properties such as its slump, density, compressive strength, flexural strength and split tensile strength were experimentally determined. These results were then used to determine the influence of polystyrene as partial replacement for coarse aggregate was analyzed and the results compared with that of a concrete mix containing no polystyrene. The results obtained from this analysis indicate that the addition of polystyrene in a concrete mix implies smaller densities as the densities of concrete containing 0%, 4%, 8%, 12% and 16% are 2536, 2443, 2363, 2339 and 2316 Kg/m<sup>3</sup> respectively. It was also observed that the compressive strength of the concrete decreased with an increase in the percentage of polystyrene incorporated. This is clearly shown using in the 28<sup>th</sup> day strength of the concrete samples (21.68, 17.25, 15.87, 14.53 and 13.92 mpa for replacements at 0%, 4%, 8%, 12% and 16% respectively). Similarly, the flexural strength of the concrete decreased with an increase in the percentage of polystyrene incorporated. Whereas, the variations in the split tensile strengths were inconsistent as they were notable increments and decrease in the 28th day strength of the various concrete matrixes.展开更多
The work was carried out by microinjections of an aromatase inhibitor letrozole, an estrogen receptor modulator tamoxifen in incubated eggs Gallus g. domesticus, the first day of incubation. It also used 5-azacytidine...The work was carried out by microinjections of an aromatase inhibitor letrozole, an estrogen receptor modulator tamoxifen in incubated eggs Gallus g. domesticus, the first day of incubation. It also used 5-azacytidine (5-AC) at the same time. Injection of progesterone was carried out before the onset of meiosis prophase 1 on 16 h of incubation. Morphologically and histologically and by PCR, sex of the 17-day embryos was controlled. According to information received microinjection of letrozole caused almost a 100% inversion of genetic males to females, which is manifested in the morphology of the gonads. In other experiments, sex reversal is not revealed. The results are obtained in this study, and the data suggest that the presence of gonadogenesis in female chickens makes earlier emergence of aromatase in the beginning of incubation, than that according to the classical scheme of sex determination in birds. Presumably this kind of synthesis is triggered by some W-chromosomal factors. It failed to detect the phenomenon of gender inversion—the transformation of males into females after exposure to demethylating agent 5-AC that casts doubt on the participation of male hypermethylated (MHM)-RNA-segment in regulating the activity of sex determining genes.展开更多
Unavailability of performant planting material of pineapple constitutes a major problem of its cultivation in Africa. For this purpose, indirect organogenesis technique is used to evaluate the in vitro responses of tw...Unavailability of performant planting material of pineapple constitutes a major problem of its cultivation in Africa. For this purpose, indirect organogenesis technique is used to evaluate the in vitro responses of two cultivars of pineapple during the explant’s regeneration. Calli were induced from crown leaf and plantlets leaf of “Smooth Cayenne” and “Sugarloaf cultivars”. Murashige and Skoog medium with vitamins B5 supplemented with different growth regulators combinations were used. BAP and/or 2,4-D have been added to base medium for calli cells’ differentiation while BAP and GA3 have been added for plant elongation. The results indicated that explants from regenerated plantlets leaves cultivated on MS supplemented with copper (II) sulphate 5-hydrate concentrations incorporated had significant (p < 0.0001) influence on callus induction in pineapple cultivars. Likewise, MS medium with NAA (0.5 mg/l) + BAP (1 mg/l) had a highly significant influence with 8.8 differentiated Calli. Also, MS medium supplemented with BAP (3 mg/l) + GA3 (2 mg/l) for the “smooth Cayenne” had significantly influenced (p < 0.0001) Calli regeneration with a high rate of 55.25% plantlets. MS medium containing 0.5 mg/l of NAA + 0 mg/l IBA produced a high number of roots in Sugarloaf whereas the medium containing 1.5 mg/l NAA + 0.5 mg/l (IBA) produced high number of roots in smooth Cayenne. We have established an efficient and reproducible protocol for mass propagation and genetic transformation of pineapple though indirect organogenesis. This protocol may be used in genetics engineering studies for pineapple breeding.展开更多
The antioxidant activities of Ocimum basilicum and Ocimum gratissimum consumed as spices in Nigeria were evaluated in a bid to provide better scientific basis for increased domestication efforts on them. Total phenol ...The antioxidant activities of Ocimum basilicum and Ocimum gratissimum consumed as spices in Nigeria were evaluated in a bid to provide better scientific basis for increased domestication efforts on them. Total phenol and flavonoid contents of the spice extracts ranged from 9.09 - 27.41 μg GAE/mg and 5.38 - 22.88 μg RE/mg respectively. The DPPH and hydroxyl radical scavenging activities of the spice extracts ranged from 58.43% - 92.37% and 6.27% - 16.67% respectively. The total antioxidant capacities and reducing powers of the extracts (measured as absorbance values) ranged from 0.137 - 0.160 and 0.130 - 0.158 respectively. Generally, Ocimum basilicum maintained superior antioxidant activities to O. gratissimum in all the test assays, and all the extracts showed dose-dependent antioxidant activities. Ascorbic acid, Gallic acid and Rutin used as reference compounds generally showed higher antioxidant activities to the spice extracts except in the hydroxyl radical scavenging assay. Put together, these results confirm that Ocimum basilicum and O. gratissimum extracts possess appreciable natural antioxidant potentials, thereby providing good justification for their increased domestication and consumption.展开更多
The use of yam vine cuttings as propagules with appropriate synthetic rooting hormones such as IBA (Indole-Butyric Acid) and NAA (Naphthalene Acetic Acid) has previously been reported as successful but expensive. To s...The use of yam vine cuttings as propagules with appropriate synthetic rooting hormones such as IBA (Indole-Butyric Acid) and NAA (Naphthalene Acetic Acid) has previously been reported as successful but expensive. To source for cheaper alternatives, this study compared the effect of some natural and synthetic hormones on rooting of vine cuttings in two varieties of Dioscorea alata. Vine cuttings from three months old water yam varieties were treated separately with 1%, 3% and 5% concentrations of each of the following: neem leaf ash, coconut water, 2,4-D and IBA with water as control. Treated cuttings were planted in triplicates in polythene bags using the completely randomised design and watered once in two days for 49 days. Data collected on rooting percentage, number of roots per plant, mean root length, number and length of new vines were subjected to analysis of variance tests and the means separated using least significant difference tests. A 100% rooting was observed in vines treated with 1% or 3% coconut water and neem ash. These vines also generated significantly greater number of new vines (P < 0.05) compared to those from synthetic hormones. Vines treated with 5% neem produced the highest number of roots (145.33 ± 9.21;P < 0.001) while those treated with 3% neem produced the longest roots (45.3 ± 9.23 cm) followed by those treated with 3% coconut water (24.3 ± 3.48). The study reveals that neem leaf ash and coconut water are better root promoting agents for water yam vines than 2,4-D and IBA and could be tested further for use as natural hormonal substitutes to the synthetic hormones.展开更多
Dear Editor:Quantitative real-time PCR has revolutionized molecular diagnostics with its ease of use,increased sensitivity and specificity and low turnaround time.PCR/quantitative PCR(qPCR)-based assays offer a distin...Dear Editor:Quantitative real-time PCR has revolutionized molecular diagnostics with its ease of use,increased sensitivity and specificity and low turnaround time.PCR/quantitative PCR(qPCR)-based assays offer a distinct advantage over other serological/conventional diagnostic approaches^([7-10]).The ability to diagnose infectious diseases has benefited from the availability of US FDA approved and Conformite Europeenne(CE)-marked qPCR-based in-vitro diagnostic kits from international companies.The high-quality kits are calibrated with the World Health Organization(WHO)reference standards and the National Institute for Biological Standards and Control(NIBSC)standards.展开更多
文摘The assessment of the distribution and importance of the protection of tulip varieties around the world and separately rare, wild-growing ancestors of cultivated tulips, in particular Tulipa fosteriana and Tulipa ingens on the globe, including Central Asia, Uzbekistan and the Samarkand region, was described. A distribution map was introduced to visualize the data. Information about the morphological description of the studied species was also given.
文摘One of the most devastating diseases of rice worldwide is bacterial blight (BLB) caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. Oryzae (Xoo). In Benin, Xoo was first described in 2013 on wild rice Oryzae longistaminata. So far, no study has been done on Beninese Xoo strains. We do not know whether the pathogen has already passed into the rice varieties grown, or if they are exposed to other bacteria. Whereas the use of resistant varieties, carrying resistance genes, is the only highly effective and environmentally friendly way to control this disease, no information is available on these Xoo resistance genes in rice varieties grown in Benin apart from the one we recently. This study aims to identify Beninese Xoo strains, causing BLB and screen rice varieties grown in Benin for the main resistance genes. Diseased rice leaves showing typical symptoms of fire blight collected from different rice fields in the three phytogeographic areas of Benin were analyzed by PCR for Xoo-specific sequence identification. Furthermore, seventy-five collected rice accessions were screened to identify xa5, Xa7, xa13, and Xa21 resistance genes to Xoo. The results reveal that Xanthomonas oryzae was identified in two fields in Banikouara and one in Malanville. On the other hand, Sphingomonas sp. has been identified in several other rice fields in Benin. Forty-seven of seventy-five rice accessions examined (62.66%) carried Xoo resistance genes with 3 (4%) and 40 (53.33%) of xa5 and Xa21 respectively. None of the accessions had either Xa7 or xa13 resistance genes. Three accessions possess both xa5 and Xa21 genes. Isogenic lines IRBB60 and IRBB21, supposed to be a positive control, presented a Xoo sensitivity allele. These results indicate that Xoo has moved from the wild rice variety to the cultivated variety in northern Benin and varietal improvement programs must be implemented with varieties having several resistance genes for the efficient response against a possible BLB pandemic in Benin.
文摘Understanding the level of genetic diversity in any population is an important requisite towards strategizing measures for conservation and improvement of stocks. This study focused on the assessment of phylogenetics and molecular divergence of tilapia fish species obtained from two populations (Domita in South-South and Odeda in South-West, Nigeria) using the displacement loop (D-loop) and cytochrome b region of the mitochondrial deoxyribonucleic acid (mtDNA). A total of 28 samples (15 from South-South and 13 from South-West) were used for the genetic analysis. DNA was extracted from the tissue of all the samples using Quik-gDNATM miniPrep kit. The D-loop containing the hypervariable region was sequenced for all samples from the two populations, while cytochrome b (Cyt b) region of mtDNA was only sequenced for samples from South-South population. Chromatograms of the sequences were viewed and edited using Bioedit software. Multiple sequence alignment was carried out using molecular evolutionary genetic analysis (MEGA) software before subsequent genetic analyses. Phylogenetic analysis grouped the samples into two clusters based on population. Also, when the two mitochondrial regions were pooled together, they clustered into two major groups based on mitochondrial regions. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) revealed 37.32% variation within population and 62.68% variation among population with a significant fixation index of 0.627 (p 0.05). The genetic distance inferred between D-loop regions of South-South and South-West populations was 0.243. Maternal lineage analysis revealed that the origin of tilapia fish from both populations could be traced to Oreochromis spirilus and Oreochromis leucostictus based on mitochondrial D-loop region. The findings of this study revealed molecular divergence among the tilapia populations and may serve as pivot information for the genetic improvement of this important species.
基金funded by the GRRC Program of Gyeonggi province[GRRC-KyungHee2023(B01)],Republic of Korea.
文摘Objective:To examine the inhibitory effect of Hydrangea serrata extract against hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells and its underlying mechanisms.Methods:The effects of Hydrangea serrata extract on growth inhibition of tumor cells and spheroids were assessed using MTT and 3D culture assays.Quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot analyses were employed to investigate the changes in mRNA and protein expression levels of molecules related to cell cycle and apoptosis.Results:Hydrangea serrata extract effectively inhibited the growth of both tumor cells and spheroids.The extract also significantly upregulated p27 mRNA expression and downregulated CDK2 mRNA expression,leading to cell cycle arrest.Moreover,increased BAX/Bcl-2 ratio as well as caspase-9 and-3 were observed after treatment with Hydrangea serrata extract,indicating the induction of tumor cell apoptosis.Conclusions:Hydrangea serrata extract has the potential to alleviate tumors by effectively modulating cell-cycle-related gene expressions and inducing apoptosis,thereby inhibiting tumor growth.
文摘Congenital anomalies of the hand are malformations occurring during the development of the human limb,and present as isolated disorders or as a part of a syndrome.During the last years,molecular analysis techniques have offered increasing knowledge about the molecular basis of hand malformations.Disturbances in the signaling pathways during the development of the upper limb result in malformations of the upper extremity.At present,several genes have been identified as responsible for hand anomalies and other have been recognized as suspect genes related to them.Different and new high throughput methods have been introduced for the identification of the gene mutations.In the current editorial,we summarize concisely the current molecular status of isolated hand genetic disorders and the recent progress in molecular genetics,including the genes related to the disorder.This progress improves the knowledge of these disorders and has implications on genetic counselling and prenatal diagnosis.
基金Supported by D.O.Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics,Gynaecology and Reproductology,project 558-2019-0012(АААА-А19-119021290033-1)of FSBSI
文摘Type 2 diabetes(T2D)mellitus is a common complex disease that currently affects more than 400 million people worldwide and has become a global health problem.High-throughput sequencing technologies such as whole-genome and whole-exome sequencing approaches have provided numerous new insights into the molecular bases of T2D.Recent advances in the application of sequencing technologies to T2D research include,but are not limited to:(1)Fine mapping of causal rare and common genetic variants;(2)Identification of confident genelevel associations;(3)Identification of novel candidate genes by specific scoring approaches;(4)Interrogation of disease-relevant genes and pathways by transcriptional profiling and epigenome mapping techniques;and(5)Investigation of microbial community alterations in patients with T2D.In this work we review these advances in application of next-generation sequencing methods for elucidation of T2D pathogenesis,as well as progress and challenges in implementation of this new knowledge about T2D genetics in diagnosis,prevention,and treatment of the disease.
文摘Drought and salinity are the most widespread soil problems, posing a big threat to food security in rice growing regions. The present study evaluated the performance of eleven rice genotypes using morphological and physiological parameters, under induced drought and salinity conditions. The seedlings were raised in 5 kg of homogenous soil in plastic bags in the </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">greenhouse</span><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. For the drought experiment, each bag was watered with 200 ml of water twice daily until plants reached the five-leaf stage when watering was suspended for 2 weeks for the drought stressed plants but not suspended for the control plants. The experiment was a 2 × 11 factorial and the set up was arranged using the completely randomized design with three replications. Data were taken on Plant height, Number of tillers, leaf length, Number of green leaves, Number of dead leaves, Leaf rolling score (LRS) and Rate of water loss. The salinity experiment was set up in a similar manner except that the plants were irrigated twice a day for 2 weeks with 200 ml of treatment solution containing either 0 mM NaCl or 75 mM and data were collected on plant height, number of tillers, shoot fresh weight, shoot dry weight, Na</span><sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;">+</span></sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> and K</span><sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;">+</span></sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> concentrations, relative water content and chlorophyll content. Data from both experiments were subjected to Analysis of variance test using the GenStat software 10</span><sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;">th</span></sup><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> edition and the means separated using least significant difference test. Individual stress response index (ISRI) was calculated for each parameter and the means used in grouping the varieties. Of the genotypes evaluated, four (FARO 44, NERICA 2, NERICA 8 and NERICA 5) were identified as tolerant, two (NERICA 4 and FARO 57) as moderately tolerant, while the rest were found to be sensitive to drought. Equally, two varieties (FARO 44 and RAM 137) stood out in the salinity screening as tolerant varieties, five were moderately tolerant while four (FARO 64, FARO 52, NERICA 2 and FARO 55) were clearly susceptible. FARO 44 is the only genotype that </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">showed </span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">tolerance</span><span style="font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">to both drought and salinity. The identified drought and salinity tolerant rice genotypes from this study can be recommended as genetic sources for future breeding programs for drought and salinity </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">tolerance</span><span style="font-family:""> </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;">in rice.
文摘The goal of this study was to determine whether mutation of the Mn-binding site of wild-type recombinant Phlebia radiata manganese peroxidase 3 affected the pH-dependence kinetic parameters. pH range investigated was 2.5 – 12.0. The catalytic efficiency of the mutant enzymes at high and low pH in comparison to the wild-type was investigated using standard rPr-MnP3 protocol. Wild-type recombinant Phlebia radiata MnP3 enzyme showed optimal activity with Mn (II) as substrate at pH 5.0 and remained moderately active (approximately 40%) in the pH range of 6.0 - 9.0. The rPr-MnP3 mutants’ maximum activity ranged between 5.5 and 8.0. Wild-type and mutants rPr-MnP3 enzymes exhibited a similar pH profile with optimum pH of 3.0 for ABTS oxidation. Mutation has severely decreased the catalytic efficiency for Mn (II) oxidation at pH 5.0. The rPr-MnP3 enzymes showed enhanced affinity for Mn (II) at alkaline pH and a more alkaline range for catalysis than ever reported for any Manganese Peroxidase. This study reveals that at higher pH, rPr-MnP3 can function with alternative ligands in the Mn (II) site and does not have an absolutely obligate requirement for an all carboxylate ligand set. These results further strongly confirm that Mn<sup>2+</sup> binding site is the only productive catalytic site for Mn (II) oxidation.
文摘Aflatoxins are the potential lethal toxin produced by Aspergillus sp. important health hazard throughout the world. In this study, 26 Aspergillus sp. have been isolated from 50 samples of red chilli collected throughout the country. These 26 isolates were grown primarily on agar media to identify the aflatoxin producing species. It is possible to distinguish A. flavus strains from other Aspergillus sp. developing orange colour on the reverse of the plates. The Coconut Cream Agar (CCA) is used to detect aflatoxin producer strains having blue fluorescence when exposed to a UV-light. Several other media were used for morphological characteristics of Aspergillus sp. Out of 26 isolates, four isolates were confirmed as Aspergillus sp. These isolates were subjected to cross contamination with freshly ground, sterile maize and after 15 days of incubation the contaminated maize were analyzed by HPLC and found aflatoxin in each of the sample containing 186 ppb (max.). This study was conducted to assay the ability to produce aflatoxins by the Aspergillus spp. isolated from red chilli (Capsicum annuum L. Solanaceae) available throughout the country. The results found in the experiment are much more behind the acceptable limit according to some international standard. As red chilli is a widely used spice in Bangladesh, the proper controlling measures may be taken for controlling the surveillance of aflatoxinic fungi like as use of bio-pesticides, proper drying method and storage conditions.
文摘Polydactyly is a malformation during the development of the human limb,which is characterized by the presence of more than the normal number of fingers or toes.It is considered to be one of the most common inherited hand disorders.It can be divided into two major groups:Non-syndromic polydactyly or syndromic polydactyly.According to the anatomical location of the duplicated digits,polydactyly can be generally subdivided into pre-,post-axial,and mesoaxial forms.Non-syndromic polydactyly is often inherited with an autosomal dominant trait and defects during the procedure of anterior-posterior patterning of limb development are incriminated for the final phenotype of the malformation.There are several forms of polydactyly,including hand and foot extra digit manifestations.The deformity affects upper limbs with a higher frequency than the lower,and the left foot is more often involved than the right.The treatment is always surgical.Since the clinical presentation is highly diverse,the treatment combines single or multiple surgical operations,depending on the type of polydactyly.The research attention that congenital limb deformities have recently attracted has resulted in broadening the list of isolated gene mutations associated with the disorders.Next generation sequencing technologies have contributed to the correlation of phenotype and genetic profile of the multiple polydactyly manifestations and have helped in early diagnosis and screening of most nonsyndromic and syndromic disorders.
基金financially supported by Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa)-Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education PersonnelNational Council for Scientific and Technological Development, Federal District Research Support FoundationFoundation for Scientific and Technological Development of Mato Grosso do Sul State
文摘Rice genes OsDjA2 and OsERF104,encoding a chaperone protein and an APETELA2/ethylene-responsive factor,respectively,are strongly induced in a compatible interaction with blast fungus,and also have function in plant susceptibility validated through gene silencing.Here,we reported the CRISPR/Cas9 knockout of OsDjA2 and OsERF104 genes resulting in considerable improvement of blast resistance.A total of 15 OsDjA2(62.5%)and 17 OsERF104(70.8%)T_(0)transformed lines were identified from 24 regenerated plants for each target and used in downstream experiments.Phenotyping of homozygous T1 mutant lines revealed not only a significant decrease in the number of blast lesions but also a reduction in the percentage of diseased leaf area,compared with the infected control plants.Our results supported CRISPR/Cas9-mediated target mutation in rice susceptibility genes as a potential and alternative breeding strategy for building resistance to blast disease.
文摘Two commonly consumed spices in Nigeria—Piper nigrum (leaf and seed) and Monodora myristica (seed) were evaluated for natural antioxidant potentials in complementary in vitro assay systems. Extracts of the tested plant parts contained low amounts of antioxidant compounds: 4.00 - 6.65 μg GAE/mg and 2.50 - 10.38 μg RE/mg for phenols and flavonoids respectively. The extracts scavenged DPPH and hydroxyl radicals in the range of 4.32% - 37.37% (inferior to ascorbic acid and gallic acid used as standards) and 6.43% - 17.10% respectively. In the reducing power and phosphomolybdenum assays, the extracts showed ability to reduce Fe (III) and Mo (VI) ions to their lower valence states of Fe (II) and Mo (V) respectively, although these activities were inferior to those of the standards used. Comparatively, Monodora myristica seed extract was superior to Piper nigrum leaf and seed extracts in antioxidant potential, but all the extracts generally showed dose-dependent antioxidant activities. Evidently, the studied spice plants are not without some natural antioxidant capacity and would contribute appreciably in combating free radical damages when consumed.
文摘Methylotrophic yeast Pichia pastoris is an object of modern biotechnology. Decisive understanding of gene regulation mechanisms is essential for successful protein production. In this study, we investigated the effect of deletions in P. pastoris genes encoding proteins, homologous to S. serevisiae Rtg1p, Rtg 2p, Msn2p and Msn4p. It was shown, that deletion in PpRTG1 gene results in inability of P. pastoris to grow on medium with methanol as a carbon source and ammonium sulfate as a source of nitrogen. We also demonstrate that deletions in PpRTG1 and PpRTG2 decrease activity of AOX1 promoter.
文摘The adaptation of cassava plantlets to natural conditions remains the main obstacle in the process of free virus plantlets production. In this study, cassava plantlets acclimatization was assessed by pre-acclimatization, height of acclimated plantlets, substrate, and nutrient watering solution. The results revealed that pre-acclimatization gave a high survival rate (61.9%) whereas the direct tunnel acclimatization was conducted to low rate (27.31%) of plantlets. Furthermore, the height of plantlets influenced significantly (p < 0.05) their survival rate with best survival rate observed on plantlet height from 1 cm to 5 cm. There was no significant difference between the substrates used and watering solutions. However, the Sawdust substrate gave a high survival rate (46.67%) and better phylogenesis (1.8) in the variety RB 89509. Likewise, plantlets treated with NPK nutrient watering solutions (20-10-10) had a better survival rate (48.57%), better phylogenesis (2.125) with the variety RB 89509 and better growth in height (1.18 cm) with the variety BF92/0267. These findings constitute a database for the establishment of the technical itinerary for the acclimatization of cassava plantlets.
文摘Polystyrene is a highly popular plastic packaging material. It is essentially non-biodegradable and takes hundreds of years to decompose in case of land filling while other disposal methods or treatments methods create hazardous effects on the environment. However, this material is known to possess properties such as sound insulation, high thermal conductivity, and lightweight, thereby making it a great additive in concrete. Haven incorporated this material into a concrete matrix;in various percentages which served as partial replacement for coarse aggregates, the concretes’ properties were tested and compared with the properties of the conventional concrete. The experimental data was obtained based on the replacement coarse aggregate by EPS volume ratio of 0%, 4%, 8%, 12% and 16%. The concretes’ properties such as its slump, density, compressive strength, flexural strength and split tensile strength were experimentally determined. These results were then used to determine the influence of polystyrene as partial replacement for coarse aggregate was analyzed and the results compared with that of a concrete mix containing no polystyrene. The results obtained from this analysis indicate that the addition of polystyrene in a concrete mix implies smaller densities as the densities of concrete containing 0%, 4%, 8%, 12% and 16% are 2536, 2443, 2363, 2339 and 2316 Kg/m<sup>3</sup> respectively. It was also observed that the compressive strength of the concrete decreased with an increase in the percentage of polystyrene incorporated. This is clearly shown using in the 28<sup>th</sup> day strength of the concrete samples (21.68, 17.25, 15.87, 14.53 and 13.92 mpa for replacements at 0%, 4%, 8%, 12% and 16% respectively). Similarly, the flexural strength of the concrete decreased with an increase in the percentage of polystyrene incorporated. Whereas, the variations in the split tensile strengths were inconsistent as they were notable increments and decrease in the 28th day strength of the various concrete matrixes.
文摘The work was carried out by microinjections of an aromatase inhibitor letrozole, an estrogen receptor modulator tamoxifen in incubated eggs Gallus g. domesticus, the first day of incubation. It also used 5-azacytidine (5-AC) at the same time. Injection of progesterone was carried out before the onset of meiosis prophase 1 on 16 h of incubation. Morphologically and histologically and by PCR, sex of the 17-day embryos was controlled. According to information received microinjection of letrozole caused almost a 100% inversion of genetic males to females, which is manifested in the morphology of the gonads. In other experiments, sex reversal is not revealed. The results are obtained in this study, and the data suggest that the presence of gonadogenesis in female chickens makes earlier emergence of aromatase in the beginning of incubation, than that according to the classical scheme of sex determination in birds. Presumably this kind of synthesis is triggered by some W-chromosomal factors. It failed to detect the phenomenon of gender inversion—the transformation of males into females after exposure to demethylating agent 5-AC that casts doubt on the participation of male hypermethylated (MHM)-RNA-segment in regulating the activity of sex determining genes.
文摘Unavailability of performant planting material of pineapple constitutes a major problem of its cultivation in Africa. For this purpose, indirect organogenesis technique is used to evaluate the in vitro responses of two cultivars of pineapple during the explant’s regeneration. Calli were induced from crown leaf and plantlets leaf of “Smooth Cayenne” and “Sugarloaf cultivars”. Murashige and Skoog medium with vitamins B5 supplemented with different growth regulators combinations were used. BAP and/or 2,4-D have been added to base medium for calli cells’ differentiation while BAP and GA3 have been added for plant elongation. The results indicated that explants from regenerated plantlets leaves cultivated on MS supplemented with copper (II) sulphate 5-hydrate concentrations incorporated had significant (p < 0.0001) influence on callus induction in pineapple cultivars. Likewise, MS medium with NAA (0.5 mg/l) + BAP (1 mg/l) had a highly significant influence with 8.8 differentiated Calli. Also, MS medium supplemented with BAP (3 mg/l) + GA3 (2 mg/l) for the “smooth Cayenne” had significantly influenced (p < 0.0001) Calli regeneration with a high rate of 55.25% plantlets. MS medium containing 0.5 mg/l of NAA + 0 mg/l IBA produced a high number of roots in Sugarloaf whereas the medium containing 1.5 mg/l NAA + 0.5 mg/l (IBA) produced high number of roots in smooth Cayenne. We have established an efficient and reproducible protocol for mass propagation and genetic transformation of pineapple though indirect organogenesis. This protocol may be used in genetics engineering studies for pineapple breeding.
文摘The antioxidant activities of Ocimum basilicum and Ocimum gratissimum consumed as spices in Nigeria were evaluated in a bid to provide better scientific basis for increased domestication efforts on them. Total phenol and flavonoid contents of the spice extracts ranged from 9.09 - 27.41 μg GAE/mg and 5.38 - 22.88 μg RE/mg respectively. The DPPH and hydroxyl radical scavenging activities of the spice extracts ranged from 58.43% - 92.37% and 6.27% - 16.67% respectively. The total antioxidant capacities and reducing powers of the extracts (measured as absorbance values) ranged from 0.137 - 0.160 and 0.130 - 0.158 respectively. Generally, Ocimum basilicum maintained superior antioxidant activities to O. gratissimum in all the test assays, and all the extracts showed dose-dependent antioxidant activities. Ascorbic acid, Gallic acid and Rutin used as reference compounds generally showed higher antioxidant activities to the spice extracts except in the hydroxyl radical scavenging assay. Put together, these results confirm that Ocimum basilicum and O. gratissimum extracts possess appreciable natural antioxidant potentials, thereby providing good justification for their increased domestication and consumption.
文摘The use of yam vine cuttings as propagules with appropriate synthetic rooting hormones such as IBA (Indole-Butyric Acid) and NAA (Naphthalene Acetic Acid) has previously been reported as successful but expensive. To source for cheaper alternatives, this study compared the effect of some natural and synthetic hormones on rooting of vine cuttings in two varieties of Dioscorea alata. Vine cuttings from three months old water yam varieties were treated separately with 1%, 3% and 5% concentrations of each of the following: neem leaf ash, coconut water, 2,4-D and IBA with water as control. Treated cuttings were planted in triplicates in polythene bags using the completely randomised design and watered once in two days for 49 days. Data collected on rooting percentage, number of roots per plant, mean root length, number and length of new vines were subjected to analysis of variance tests and the means separated using least significant difference tests. A 100% rooting was observed in vines treated with 1% or 3% coconut water and neem ash. These vines also generated significantly greater number of new vines (P < 0.05) compared to those from synthetic hormones. Vines treated with 5% neem produced the highest number of roots (145.33 ± 9.21;P < 0.001) while those treated with 3% neem produced the longest roots (45.3 ± 9.23 cm) followed by those treated with 3% coconut water (24.3 ± 3.48). The study reveals that neem leaf ash and coconut water are better root promoting agents for water yam vines than 2,4-D and IBA and could be tested further for use as natural hormonal substitutes to the synthetic hormones.
文摘Dear Editor:Quantitative real-time PCR has revolutionized molecular diagnostics with its ease of use,increased sensitivity and specificity and low turnaround time.PCR/quantitative PCR(qPCR)-based assays offer a distinct advantage over other serological/conventional diagnostic approaches^([7-10]).The ability to diagnose infectious diseases has benefited from the availability of US FDA approved and Conformite Europeenne(CE)-marked qPCR-based in-vitro diagnostic kits from international companies.The high-quality kits are calibrated with the World Health Organization(WHO)reference standards and the National Institute for Biological Standards and Control(NIBSC)standards.
