Mean Survival Percentage Research Articles

Response of the growth and survival of tree species planted in a degraded land with a supplement of diammonium phosphate (DAP) fertilizer

AbstractDegraded lands pose significant challenges for tree establishment and growth due to poor soil quality and limited nutrient availability. This research aims to explore the potential of using DAP (diammonium phosphate) fertilizer as a supplement for enhancing the survival and growth of tree species in degraded lands; Casuarina equisetifolia L., Grevillea robusta var. robusta R.Br., and Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata (Wall. & G. Don). To achieve the objectives, seedlings of the species were planted in degraded land using a randomized complete block design (RCBD), with a supplement of DAP fertilizer. Six replications, each consisting of 20 seedlings, were used for each of the species with the DAP treatment. The survival and growth data were collected from January 2015 to May 2022. One‐way ANOVA, t‐test, and mean survival percentage were used for data analysis. The results revealed that the mean final survival percentage of C. equisetifolia that received DAP fertilizer (73.6%) was higher than that of C. equisetifolia without fertilizer (44.4%). The statistical t‐test also showed significant differences between the mean survival percentages of C. equisetifolia planted with a supplement of DAP and without fertilizer (p = 0.033). The mean survival percentage of O. europaea and G. robusta, whether fertilized or not, was poor (0%–7%). The one‐way ANOVA result showed significant differences in both fertilized and unfertilized seedlings among the C. equisetifolia, G. robusta, and O. europaea species (p < 0.001). The dry biomass of C. equisetifolia grown with a supplement of DAP fertilizer and the unfertilized was 15.4 kg/tree and 11.2 kg/tree. The t‐test result revealed no significant differences in the dry biomass of the C. equisetifolia grown with a supplement of DAP fertilizer and without fertilizer. Finally, it is concluded that the effect of DAP fertilizer on the growth and survival of the species is species‐specific.

Phytochemical analysis and insight into insecticidal and antifungal activities of Indian hawthorn leaf extract

Fungicides or insecticides are popular means of controlling a variety of pathogens and insect pests; however, they can cause harmful effects on both human health and the environment. Different researchers have suggested using plant extracts, which have shown promise in managing fungi and insects. The purpose of this investigation was to explore the antifungal activities of an acetone extract made from the leaves of Indian Hawthorn (HAL) against phytopathogens that are known to harm maize crops, Fusarium verticillioides (OQ820154) and Rhizoctonia solani (OQ820155), and to evaluate the insecticidal property against Aphis gossypii Glover aphid. The HAL extract demonstrated significant antifungal activity against the two fungal pathogens tested, especially at the high dose of 2000 µg/mL. Laboratory tests on the LC20 of HAL extract (61.08 mg/L) versus buprofezin 25% WP (0.0051 mg/L) were achieved on A. gossypii Glover. HAL extract diminished the nymph's production over 72 h and their total reproductive rate. This extract was like buprofezin 25% WP in decreasing the daily reproductive rate, reproductive period, and mean survival percentage. Nevertheless, the newly-born nymphs of treated females with HAL extract attained the highest reduction in survival percentage at 46.00%. Equalized prolongations on the longevity of nymphs to 9.33, 8.33, and 7 days and the total life cycle to 15.00, 14.00, and 12.67 days were realized by HAL extract, buprofezin 25% WP, and the control, respectively. The olfactory choice test on the aphids showed the minimum attraction rate to HAL extract. The HPLC of HAL extract comprised an abundance of phenolic compounds (ferulic acid, gallic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, salicylic acid, ellagic acid, and pyrogallol), and the concentrations of these compounds vary widely, with salicylic acid being the most concentrated at 25.14 mg/mL. Among the flavonoids, epicatechin has the highest concentration at 11.69 mg/mL. The HAL extract GC–MS consists of various organic compounds, including sesquiterpenes, cyclopropenes, fatty acids, steroids, alcohols, ketones, esters, bufadienolides, opioids, and other organic compounds. The most abundant compounds in the sample are n-hexadecanoic acid (12.17%), followed by 5α, 7αH, 10α-eudesm-11-en-1α-ol (9.43%), and cis-13-octadecenoic acid (5.87%). Based on the findings, it can be inferred that the HAL extract may be a viable option for plants to combat both fungal and insect infestations. This presents an encouraging prospect for utilizing a natural and sustainable approach toward long-term pest management in plants.

Effect of Insect Meals on the Growth Efficiency, Survival and Total Carotenoid Content of an Ornamental Fish Xiphophorus maculatus (Gunther, 1866)

To evaluate the effects of three non-conventional insects (cricket, grasshopper and mealworm) and commercial diet (control) on growth, survival and total carotenoid content of ornamental fish, platy (Xiphophorus maculatus), a feeding trial was conducted in Zoology laboratory, Vidyasagar College, West Bengal, India, between November 2021 and May 2022. A total of 250 platy juveniles (0.04±0.002 gm) were stocked in 12 glass aquariums with 20 fishes for each experimental feed set. Each experimental diet was made per triplicate. The growth efficiency parameters of platy fish in terms of weight gain percentage, specific growth rate (SGR), feed conversion ratio (FCR) were measured at the end of the study period. Protein content in percent is significantly higher in mealworm (46±0.58) and then in grasshopper (42.50±0.29). Final weight of fishes was significantly higher in mealworm fed sets (2.134gm±0.008) and lower in commercial meal fed sets (0.827gm±0.003). The lowest FCR was found in commercial diet (0.458±0.002) and best FCR values was found in cricket diet (0.280±0.001). Higher value of SGR was obtained in mealworm fed sets (2.209±0.002) and lower SGR was in commercial diet (1.683±0.002). Mean survival percentage was 90% in mealworm diet and lowest survival value was 55% at commercial diet. Carotenoid content in fish body was significantly higher in mealworm diet (9.23μg/g±0.071), while lowest was observed in commercial diet (0.47μg/g±0.001). Present study shows that insect diets were better than commercial diet, but mealworm diet was better to increase survival and carotenoid content in X. maculatus.

Socio-economic and ecological outcomes of a community-based restoration of peatland swamp forests in Peninsular Malaysia: A 5Rs approach

Restoration of degraded forest lands is a global priority that aims to restore ecosystems and their functions in ways that provide multiple socio-economic benefits. The Selangor State Forestry Department (SSFD) of peninsular Malaysia in collaboration with an NGO, local people and other stakeholders had been implemented a community-based restoration of degraded peat swamp forest (1000 hectare) programme in Raja Musa Forest Reserve, North Selangor since 2008. However, socio-economic and ecological impacts of this restoration programme are yet to study fully. In this pioneer study, we followed 5Rs approach to peatland restoration and assessed rewetting status (R1), reduction of fire incidences (R2), revegetation (R3), revitalization (R4) and reporting and monitoring (R5) to understand socio-economic and ecological outcomes of the programme. Data on R1, R2, R3 (restoration approach), R4 (qualitative data on socio-economic outcomes) and R5 (management actions and stakeholders’ participation) were collected through four focus group discussions, five key informant interviews, review of NGO’s documents and a stakeholders’ workshop. Quantitative data on R4 (local peoples’ willingness to contribute (WTC) and socio-economic impact (e. g. benefits, education, awareness) were collected through structured interviews of 200 randomly selected households in four surrounding villages. Data on R3 (ecological outcomes- survival rate and growth of planted trees, status of natural regeneration) were gathered through a series of vegetation survey. Restoration project created jobs (e. g. patrolling) and small business (e. g. forest nursery) opportunities for local people, and enhanced tourism, nature education and research in RMFR thus contributed to locals’ socio-economic development (R4). Local people were WTC to tree planting and maintenance (69 %), canal blocking and maintenance (26 %), forest vigilance (34 %), fire control (35 %), trail construction (27 %), and education and awareness creation (40%) voluntarily without remuneration (R1, R2, R3). The SSFD and NGO adopted an innovative approach of PSF restoration where volunteers (local people and other stakeholders) participated in canals blocking to keep PSF wetted, monthly tree planting events, and education and awareness creation campaigns (R1, R3). Canal blockings helped to maintain a mean ground water level of − 24.96 cm. Due to continuous motivation and awareness creation among surrounding villagers, fire incidents in RMFR were reduced (R2). Between 2008 and 2019, 323.72- hectare plantations were developed mainly with Euodia redlevi tree species and few trees of Shorea leprosula, Myristica lowiana and M. pruinose (R3). Selection of species was done by the SSFD and NGO without input from local people (R5). The mean survival percentage of planted trees was 65%. Mean annual increment (MAI) of diameter and height of E. redlevi decreased from younger plantations (3-year) toward older ones (5-, 7-year) (R3). Overall, MAI (dbh and height) across four tree species between age groups was found significantly different (p = 0.001). Regeneration study identified 16 tree species with an average density of 17,798. E. redlevi was dominant, but only 10.6 % of its regeneration attained young tree stage (R3). Suggestions are made to expedite restoration with diverse tree species (R3) with effective participation of local people (R5) and to ensure post-planting maintenance for greater survival of planted trees (R1, R2, R3).

Effects of Ionizing Radiation on Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs) in the Presence of Mentha-Pulegium Essential Oil: A Study on the Radioprotective Effect.

Background: The Mentha-Pulegium essential oil (MP-EO) contains different antioxidant compounds and reduces the indirect effects of dispersed ionizing radiation on biological systems.Objective: The current study aimed to assess a possible radio-protective effect of MP-EO on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs).Material and Methods: In this experimental study, MP-EO was firstly prepared and PBMCs were then irradiated in various groups with doses of 25 and 200 cGy of X-rays in the presence of IC10 of MP-EO. After incubation times of 48h and 72h, the survival, apoptosis, and necrosis percentages of PBMCs were determined by MTT assay and flow cytometry analyses; the radio-protective effect of MP-EO was examined.Results: In the presence of 80 µg/ml (IC10) MP-EO, the mean survival percentage of irradiated PBMCs by radiation doses of 25 and 200 cGy was significantly increased after 48h of incubation compared with the control. At 72h of incubation, the mean survival percentage of irradiated PBMCs was significantly increased only at 25 cGy. The percentage of apoptosis and necrosis of PBMCs was significantly reduced in the presence of the MP-EO at both incubation times and radiation doses; therefore, the highest reduction was at 200 cGy and 48h incubation compared to the control.Conclusion: MP-EO as a natural, non-toxic, and cost-effective compound can exhibit a favorable in-vitro radio-protective effect by increasing the survival and decreasing the percentage of apoptosis and necrosis of irradiated PBMCs.

Survival estimates of atraumatic restorative treatment versus traditional restorative treatment: a systematic review with meta-analyses.

Objectives The hypothesis tested was that there is no significant difference between the survival estimates of atraumatic restorative treatment/high-viscosity glass-ionomer cement (ART/HVGIC) restorations, in posterior primary and permanent teeth, and traditional amalgam and resin composite restorations.Data sources The databases PubMed, DOAJ, LILACS, IndMed, Google Scholar and CNKI were searched.Data selection Using inclusion and exclusion criteria led to 14 eligible randomised trials. A low risk of bias was observed for two reports. Homogeneity was obtained for single-surface ART restorations after one and two years in the primary dentition.Data synthesis No statistically significant difference was found between the weighted mean survival percentages of ART/HVGIC and traditional treatments in both single- and multiple-surface restorations in primary molars and in single-surface restorations in posterior permanent teeth at years 1, 2, 3 and 5. At years 4.3 and 6.3, the difference between the two treatments was statistically significant, favouring the ART/HVGIC restorations. No statistically significant difference was found between the weighted mean survival percentages of ART/HVGIC and traditional treatments in multiple-surface restorations in posterior permanent teeth.Conclusion The ART method using HVGICs can be considered as a replacement for traditional restorations in single- and multiple-surface cavities in primary molars, and in single-surface cavities in posterior permanent teeth, particularly for amalgam.

Efficacy of entomopathogenic nematodes against the cabbage butterfly (Pieris brassicae (L.) (Lepidoptera: Pieridae) infesting cabbage under field conditions

Experiments were conducted to test the pathogenicity of entomopathogenic nematode, Heterorhabditis pakistanensis alone and in combination with the chemical insecticides, viz., Dichlorvos and Quinalphos and Neem product, viz., Azadirachtin against the cabbage butterfly, Pieris brassicae (L.) (Lepidoptera: Pieridae) infesting cabbage plants under laboratory and field conditions. In laboratory test, inoculum level of 200 infective juveniles (IJs) was most effective causing mortality to both 3rd and 4th instars larvae at 48 h. Nematode multiplication rate in insect cadaver was inversely proportional to the size of initial inoculum level of IJs, whereas IJs yield was directly proportional to the size of larva. The 4th instar larva resulted in a highest yield of IJs, followed by 3rd, 2nd, and 1st instars larvae at all the inoculum levels used in the study. IJs were found compatible with the chemical insecticides and Neem product at lower than half of the optimum single dose. The cumulative mean survival percentage of IJs recorded the highest (77.5%) in the combination of 100 IJs + Azadirachtin (0.25%) and lowest (70.6%) in 100 IJs + Dichlorvos 76 EC (0.05%). Under field conditions, H. pakistanensis (3.0 lakh IJs/m2) + Dichlorvos 76 EC (0.025%) resulted to the highest larval mortality (79.65%), followed by H. pakistanensis (3.0 lakh IJs/m2) + Azadirachtin (0.25%), where it was 76.22%. The larval mortality was the least (61.16%) in case of H. pakistanensis (3.0 lakh IJs/m2) when applied alone. H. pakistanensis + Dichlorvos resulted to the highest increase (31.42%) in cabbage yield over untreated control.

Streptococcus mutans isolated from children with severe-early childhood caries form higher levels of persisters

ObjectivesDental caries is the most common chronic infectious disease in children. Streptococcus mutans, the main cariogenic bacterial species, produces persisters, nongrowing dormant variants of regular cells associated with chronicity of diseases. We hypothesized that the recurrent nature of caries, particularly within populations with high-caries risk, is due partly to specific phenotypic features of S. mutans such as its ability to form persisters. We aimed to investigate the genotypic and phenotypic differences between the S. mutans from children with severe early-childhood caries (S-ECC) and those without caries. MethodsS. mutans from plaque samples of caries-free (CF) and S-ECC children were tested for their ability to adapt to a lethal pH in an acid tolerance response assay. The persister levels of S. mutans isolates was quantified in both groups. ResultsS. mutanswas identified in all 23 S-ECC but only 6 of the 21 CF subjects. In most subjects, only one dominant S. mutans genotype was detected. No statistically significant differences in the mean survival percentage of S. mutans were observed between the two groups at a lethal pH of 3.5. However, the dominant genotype within a particular S-ECC subject exhibited a higher percentage of cell survival compared to those in the CF group. In S-ECC patients, S. mutans isolates displayed a ∼15-fold higher persistence phenotype than S. mutans isolates from CF patients. ConclusionsThe ability of S. mutans to produce high levels of persisters may contribute to part of an individual’s ability to control caries disease activity and recurrent lesions.

Induced breeding of endangered striped dwarf Catfish (Mystus vittatus) and its embryonic and larval development

The present study reports successful induced breeding of endangered striped dwarf catfish Mystus vittatus and its different embryonic and larval developmental stages. Three different doses of PG were tested, viz. 17, 15 and 13 mg PG/kg body weight for female and 14, 12 and 10 mg PG/kg body weight for male with maintaining (1:1) male and female ratio. The hormone doses 13 mg/kg for female and 10 mg/kg for male provided the best result i.e. 91.33±2.08% fertilization and 85.00±2% hatching rates. Mean survival percentage of the spawns up to 21 days was 8.00±1%. The fertilized eggs were found to be transparent, demersal, spherical, adhesive and brownish in colour and first cleavage took place within 35-40 min post-fertilization at 29.56± 0.25oC. Hatching took place at 24 h. after fertilization. Newly hatched larvae were 3-4 mm in length and slender, transparent and the yolk sac oval in shape. Anus was situated at almost mid ventrally. Larvae started to feed at 48-72 h post-hatching. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ralf.v1i1.22376 Res. Agric., Livest. Fish.1(1): 127-136, Dec 2014

Stable Expression Of Chimeric Antigen Receptors (CARs) By Sleeping Beauty-Mediated Gene Transfer and Efficient Expansion Of Leukemia-Specific Cytokine-Induced Killer (CIK) Cells

Gene-manipulation of effector T cells with CARs has recently turned into a powerful tool to redirect antigen specificity for adoptive immunotherapy of tumors. Although promising clinical efficacy has been demonstrated, critical issues concerning the profile of efficacy, safety and feasibility of cell manufacturing and gene therapy still remain partially unsolved. In order to rescue the concerns associated to viral vectors that limit so far their clinical applicability, we have explored here the use of the latest generation Sleeping Beauty Transposon-mediated gene transfer. Since current protocol of nucleofection associated with Transposons impaired subsequent expansion and vitality of modified cells, we generated and propagated CAR+ cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells with the purpose of optimizing cell expansion. Actually, our experience with CIK cells clearly proved that the production of large numbers of unmanipulated allogeneic cytotoxic effector T cells is feasible under clinical-grade conditions, and repeated infusions in patients are safe and well tolerated (Introna et al., Haematologica 2007). Using an optimized stimulation protocol based on the addition of accessory cells, irradiated PBMCs, after nucleofection, we genetically modified CIK cells to express two distinct 3rd generation CARs (CD28/OX40/TCR zeta) specific for acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) CD123+ or acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) CD19+ blasts. With this system, the average transfection at 24hours was 54.6% (±8.6, n=8) and mean survival percentage was 63.8% (±8.8, n=12). Nucleofection did not affect the phenotype of CIK cells, and, most importantly, the addition of accessory cells was effective in inducing T-cell expansion, with a fold increase of 39.4±9.8 within 3 weeks, sufficient to be translated into adoptive cell therapy clinical protocols. Transposed CIK cells displayed stable expression of CD123-CAR or CD19-CAR with a frequency of modified cells of 48.9%±3.3 (n=11) and 47%±6.4 (n=4), respectively. Efficient lysis of leukemic cell lines and primary blasts was observed and cytotoxic degranulation was associated to CAR expression, indicating a specific target recognition by the CAR. Interestingly, CAR triggering by the encounter with the specific antigen expressed by leukemic cells promoted specific cytokine secretion and proliferation, suggesting activation and selection of modified CIK cells upon encounter with cancer cells. Finally, preliminary insertion-site analysis by LAM-PCR confirmed the polyclonal profile of integrations in the genome of Sleeping Beauty system. These Results provide pre-clinical evidences of efficient transfection of CD123- and CD19- CARs using Sleeping Beauty-mediated gene transfer, specificity of action and improvements in Methods of expansion of cytotoxic effector T cells. The development of an adoptive cell therapy protocol based on a reproducible clinical-grade method of expansion and an innovative gene transfer process will be fundamental to envisage clinical protocols to control relapse in leukemic patients and to improve the range of applications of such novel therapeutic approaches. Disclosures:No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Effect of Some Acaricide Treatments on Some Biological Aspects of the Two-Spotted Spider Mite Tetranychus urticae Koch and its Predator Phytoseiulus persimilis Athias-Henriot

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of the field recommended rate of five commercial acaricides namely Ethion, Fenpyroximate , Etoxazole, Chlorfenapyr and Abamectin on some biological aspects of the two-spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae) and its predator Phytoseiulus persimilis Athias- Henriot. Both predator and prey were proceeded under laboratory conditions at 28 ±2 °C. Results showed significant differences among the five developmental treatments and control in the duration of male and female of P. persimilis and T. urticae after treating eggs with certain acaricides.The results also revealed that Abamectin was the most effective acaricide on growth index, developmental rate and mean survival percentages of immature stages of T. urticae female. On the other hand, Chlorfenapyr was the most effective acaricide on growth index and mean survival percentages of P. persimilis immature stages, while Abamectin was the most effective of female, acaricide on its developmental rate.

Study of fecundity and induced breeding of <i>Mystus vittatus</i>

The present study deals with the estimation of fecundity and induced breeding of Mystus vittatus by using carp PG hormone. Four different doses were tested, viz. 6, 8, 10 and 12 mg/kg body weight for female and 3, 4, 5 and 6 mg/kg body weight for male. For each dose, three different sex ratios were maintained, viz. 1?: 1?, 2?: 1? and 3?: 2?. The hormone doses 8 mg/kg for female and 4 mg/kg for male provided the best result in the sex ratio 2?: 1?. This treatment combination revealed 80% fertilization and 56% hatching rates. Mean survival percentage of the spawns up to 10 days was 60%.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjz.v39i2.10587 Bangladesh J. Zool. 39(2): 205-212, 2011

Comparative stereological study of the digestive tract of Artemia franciscana nauplii fed with yeasts differing in cell wall composition

Different yeast strains are considered as best alternative feeds for rearing brine shrimp, Artemia franciscana, nauplii. The feeding effects of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Baker's yeast) wild type strain and mnn9 mutant strain were investigated by stereological tools using the gnotobiotic Artemia rearing system as model. Gnotobiotic A. franciscana nauplii were fed daily with dead Aeromonas hydrophila, LVS3, and either wild type baker's yeast or mutant strain mnn9, of which the cell wall contains elevated chitin and glucan and lower mannose levels. Mean survival percentages, individual length, total length, volume and surface area of the digestive tract segments in relation to the individual length were compared between both groups of nauplii at 2, 4 and 6 days after hatching. The ratios between midgut length and individual length, between midgut volume and individual length and between midgut surface area and individual length for mnn9 yeast fed group and further wild type yeast fed group at day 6 were respectively 0.82 ± 0.01 and 0.76 ± 0.01, 4335.0 ± 72.1 and 2130.5 ± 211.4 μm 2, 1641.9 ± 55.6 and 465.5 ± 56.1 μm which were significantly different between both groups ( p < 0.05). Such clear differences were not observed for the ratios of hindgut segments. The results demonstrate better nutritional value of mnn9 yeast in comparison with wild type yeast. As far as we know, this is the first document which provides comprehensive data on the surface area of the various digestive tract segments in relation to the individual length of brine shrimp nauplii.

Effects of sand burial, soil water content and distribution pattern of seeds in sand on seed germination and seedling survival of Eremosparton songoricum (Fabaceae), a rare species inhabiting the moving sand dunes of the Gurbantunggut Desert of China

Sand burial, persistent seed bank and soil water content (SWC) are three factors that potentially can affect regeneration in sand dune plant populations. To evaluate the effects of these three factors on population regeneration of Eremosparton songoricum, a rare and endangered legume, we investigated seed germination, seedling emergence and seedling survival in greenhouse and controlled field experiments in different sand dunes microsites. Freshly matured seeds are physically dormant, and the highest germination was only 9.3 ± 5.8% at 25/10°C. Seed germination occurred at burial depths from 0 to 10 cm, but the maximum depth from which seedlings emerged was 6 cm; from 1 to 6 cm, the deeper the burial, the lower the percentage of seedling emergence. Only 36.2% of the total soil seed banks occurred at depths of 0–6 cm. For artificially sown seeds at different dune microsites, mean seedling emergence percentage was 6.8%. Of 150 seedlings that emerged in the field investigation at the study site, only those germinating in flat sandy areas survived, and mean survival percentage was only 2.0%. Thus, the proportion of non-dormant seeds in soil seed banks that developed into seedlings and survived to the end of the growing season was only 0.2%. Minimum SWC for seed germination, seedling emergence and seedling survival was 2.0%. During monitoring of emergent seedlings in the field, low seedling recruitment was at least partly due to the rate of root extension (1.6 ± 0.3 cm day−1) into the sandy soil, which was slower than that of the downward movement of plant-available moisture (2.8 ± 0.6 cm day−1). Thus, population regeneration under natural conditions rarely occurred via sexual reproduction, owing to the limited water resources available for seedling establishment. Rational field seeding practices, including manually scarified or dry stored seeds before sowing, sowing the seeds at right time and suitable place, are suggested for ecological restoration of endangered E. songoricum populations.

The combination of the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae with the insecticide Imidacloprid increases virulence against the dengue vector Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae)

BackgroundDengue fever transmitted by the mosquito Aedes aegypti, is one of the most rapidly spreading insect borne diseases, stimulating the search for alternatives to current control measures. The dengue vector A. aegypti has received less attention than anophelene species, although more than 2.5 billion people are at risk of infection worldwide. Entomopathogenic fungi are emerging as potential candidates for the control of mosquitoes. Here we continue our studies on the pathogenicity of the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae against adult A. aegypti females. With the aim of further reducing mean survival times of A. aegypti exposed to fungus impregnated surfaces, a sub-lethal concentration of the neonicotinoid insecticide Imidacloprid (IMI) was added to fungal suspensions.ResultsA sub-lethal concentration of IMI that did not significantly alter the daily survival rates or mean survival percentages of mosquitoes was identified to be 0.1 ppm. This sub-lethal concentration was combined with M. anisopliae conidia (1 × 109 conidia mL-1). Both the combined treatment and the conidia alone were able to reduce the survival of A. aegypti compared with untreated or IMI treated mosquitoes. Importantly, mosquito survival following exposure to the combined treatment for 6 and 12 hrs was significantly reduced when compared with mosquitoes exposed to conidia alone.ConclusionsThis is the first time that a combination of an insecticide and an entomopathogenic fungus has been tested against A. aegypti. Firstly, the study showed the potential of IMI as an alternative to the currently employed pyrethroid adulticides. Secondly, as an alternative to applications of high concentrations of chemical insecticides, we suggest that adult A. aegypti could be controlled by surface application of entomopathogenic fungi and that the efficiency of these fungi could be increased by combining the fungi with ultra-low concentrations of insecticides, resulting in higher mortality following relatively short exposure times.

Mortalities of fish escaping from square and diamond mesh codends in the Aegean Sea

We investigated the survival of red mullet ( Mullus barbatus), annular seabream ( Diplodus annularis), and blotched picarel ( Spicara maena) escaping from 40 mm square and 40 mm diamond mesh codends in the Aegean Sea. A low mortality for red mullet and blotched picarel was observed, and annular seabream had no mortality for two different codends. Red mullet mortality for diamond mesh codends was greater than square mesh codends. The estimate of the mean survival rate of square mesh codends for red mullet was 95.1%, while diamond mesh codends were 81.2%. For blotched picarel, the mean proportion surviving in the 3 square mesh codends was 96.5%, whereas it was 91.2% for diamond mesh codends. Mean survival percentages of brown comber ( Serranus hepatus) were 96.7 and 94.6 for square and diamond mesh codends, respectively. Mortalities of scaldfish ( Arnoglossus laterna) and survival rates of common pandora ( Pagellus erythrinus) were 100.0% for all the cages.

Survival of fish after escape from a 40 mm stretched diamond mesh trawl codend in the Aegean Sea

This study aimed to determine the survival rates of three fish species, the brown comber ( Serranus hepatus ), black goby ( Gobius niger ) and annular seabream ( Diplodus annularis ), after their escape from a 40 mm stretched diamond mesh polyethylene (PE) codend. Experiments were carried out in the eastern Mediterranean in September 2007 using a conventional bottom trawl with 600 meshes around the mouth. A constant 15 min towing duration was used for all hauls. The towing speed varied between 2.0 and 2.5 knots. Codend covers, supported by two hoops, were used to retain escaping fish. At the end of each haul, these covers were detached from the codend, fixed to the sea floor at depths of 19 to 28 m, and then observed by the divers for a period of seven days. On the eighth day, all of the covers were lifted up and the survivors and mortalities were counted and measured. The mean survival percentages of open codend and experimental cages were found to be 97.1% and 98.3% for brown comber, 69.0% and 77.2% for black goby, and 97.5% and 98.6% for annular seabream respectively.

Pulsed magnetic fields applied to a transferred arterial loop support the rat groin composite flap.

Pulsed magnetic fields have been shown to stimulate neovascularization in the authors' laboratory. The rat groin composite flap was used to create a prospective randomized trial to test the effectiveness of these pulsed magnetic fields. The skin paddle to this flap is highly consistent, and the authors proposed using the flap to study how pulsed magnetic fields affect composite flap survival when the dominant vessel to the flap is divided and flap survival becomes dependent on a transferred vessel loop. Forty-three rats had the tail artery microsurgically anastomosed to the femoral artery and placed between the groin musculature and the abdominal skin. Pulsed magnetic energy of 1 gauss was applied for 8 (n = 14) or 12 (n = 8) weeks to the experimental groups. Control groups were treated in a comparable manner for 8 (n = 16) or 12 (n = 5) weeks. After the 8 or 12 weeks, all groups had an 8 x 4-cm skin flap raised, and the superficial epigastric artery, the main feeding vessel, was ligated. After 5 days, the total area of the flap and the area of necrosis were traced onto velum paper for each rat. The percent survival was calculated per rat, and a mean survival percentage was calculated per group. The experimental animals treated with pulsed magnetic fields for 8 weeks had statistically significant improved flap survival over the control animals. The study provides evidence that pulsed magnetic energy stimulates angiogenesis and suggests a possible use of this modality to create island vascular flaps in otherwise random vascular territories.

Antifungal activity of amphotericin B–lipid admixtures in experimental systemic candidosis in naive mice

We have shown previously that admixtures of amphotericin B (AMB) and Intralipid (AMB-IL) obtained by vigorous and prolonged agitation are stable and can be standardized. These preparations exhibited in-vitro activity against various Candida spp., and had significantly lower toxicity. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the activity of AMB-IL admixtures in vivo in comparison with the conventional formulation of AMB (Fungizone), using a murine model of experimental systemic candidosis. ICR female mice (4-6 weeks old) were injected iv with 5 x 10(4) Candida albicans CBS 562. The animals developed a lethal infection (100%) within 10 days. Systemic candidosis was demonstrated by the presence of fungal elements in kidneys and spleen tissue, and by enumeration of cfu of Candida in the tissue homogenates. AMB-IL or AMB was administered iv 48 h post-Candida inoculation for 5 consecutive days. Four experiments with 108 mice treated with AMB 5 x 0.4 mg/kg and followed up for 6 weeks, showed that the mean survival percentages at the end of the experiment were 0, 24.9 and 52.5% for the untreated group, conventional AMB-treated and AMB-IL-treated groups, respectively. The mean survival time (MST) was 7.4, 25 and 30 days for the untreated, conventional AMB-treated and AMB-IL-treated groups, respectively. Use of increased doses of AMB showed that conventional AMB at doses greater than 5 x 1 mg/kg caused immediate animal death. AMB-IL was used at doses of AMB up to 5 x 2 mg/kg. Experiments with 104 mice revealed that the mean survival percentage at the end of the experiment was 0, 34.5, 58.6 and 97% for the untreated, conventional AMB-treated (5 x 1 mg/kg), AMB-IL-1-treated (5 x 1 mg/kg) and AMB-IL-2-treated (5 x 2 mg/kg) groups, respectively. The MST was 7, 27.8, 34.8 and 41.4 days for the untreated, conventional AMB-treated, AMB-IL-1-treated and AMB-IL-2-treated groups, respectively. The results of this study reveal that AMB-IL is significantly more effective in treating systemic murine candidosis than conventional AMB.

Predation by Cyclops vernalis on Florida Largemouth Bass and Fountain Darter Larvae

Abstract Swim-up Florida largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides floridanus) were held in 1 L of water with the following combinations of zooplankton: 400 mixed cladocerans, 0 Cyclops vernalis; 200 mixed cladocerans, 200 C. vernalis; and 0 cladocerans, 400 C. vernalis. After 24 h, mean survival percentages for Florida largemouth bass were 97, 27, and 7%, respectively. Larval fountain darters (Etheostoma fonticola) were tested similarly; after 24 h, 100% of the fish combined with cladocerans only were alive, but no larvae survived either treatment containing C. vernalis.