GC-MS analysis of hydrophobic root exudates of sorghum and implications on the parasitic plant Striga asiatica.

Striga asiatica is a parasitic angiosperm that responds to germination stimulants produced by host plants, including many grasses. GC-MS analyses of hydrophobic root exudates of sorghum revealed the root exudates to be composed of fatty acids, resorcinol, and a series of structurally related hydroquinones, three of which were previously unknown. High yields of resorcinol and the hydroquinone series were detected in sorghum. At least one of the hydroquinones induces germination in Striga, and the resorcinol is thought to stabilize the hydroquinones in the soil. The previously unknown series of hydroquinones offers insight into the possible biosynthesis of the components of the exudate and their possible importance in initiating Striga germination.     

Determination of genotoxicity of Fenaminosulf by Allium and Comet tests

Genotoxic effects of Fenaminosulf, fungicide and micro-biocide, were examined by using mitotic index (MI), mitotic phase, and Comet assay on the root meristem cells of Allium cepa. In the Allium root growth inhibition test, EC₅₀ value was firstly determined as 25 ppm and, 12.5 (0.5 × EC₅₀), 25 (EC₅₀) and 50 (2 × EC₅₀) ppm concentrations of Fenaminosulf were introduced to onion tuber roots. Distilled water was used as a negative control. All obtained data were subjected to statistical analyses by using SPSS 15.0 for Windows software. For comparison purposes, Duncan multiple range tests by using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were employed and p < 0.05 was accepted as significant value. While MI (except in 24 h at 12.5 and 50 ppm) and prophase index increased, metaphase, anaphase and telophase indexes decreased in all concentrations compared to control at each exposure time. A significant increase in DNA damage was also observed at the concentration of 25 ppm in 24 h, 25 and 50 ppm in 96 h by Comet assay.     

Use of aglepristone and aglepristone + intrauterine antibiotic for the treatment of pyometra in bitches

In this study, the efficacy of aglepristone and/or intrauterine antibiotic administration for the treatment of bitches with cystic endometrial hyperplasia/pyometra complex was investigated. Twenty-four bitches (5-12 years old) with the diagnosis of pyometra were treated at the University of Kafkas and at Istanbul University. The diagnosis of pyometra was established on the basis of the results of clinical, ultrasonographic and vaginal examinations, the haematological and biochemical findings and the history data. In Group I (n = 13), aglepristone (Antiprogestin, Alizine, Virbac, France; 0.33 ml/kg, s.c.) was administered on days 1, 2, 7, and 14 (day 1: diagnosis). In Group II (n = 11), intrauterine antibiotic treatment was performed according to the antibiogram on days 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 in addition to aglepristone given as in Group I. Clinical and ultrasonographic examinations, haematological results and occurrence of oestrous cycles revealed that the ratio of effectively treated bitches was 6/13 and 9/11 in Groups I and II, respectively.     

Potency of some nematicides for controlling nematodes and improving banana production in the southern region of Oman (Dhofar)

Abstract

An established banana field was treated by applying three compounds, fenamiphos, isazofos and carbofuran, to the soil around each mat. The tested compounds were found to reduce significantly soil and root nematode populations. The production cycle of the nematocide treatments was 24 days faster than that of the untreated control. Application of the above chemicals enhanced to the total production of banana. Carbofuran may be ranked top of these nematocides, followed by isazofos. Application of 2 g a.i. of carbofuran three times at intervals of 4 months, yielded 2.66 tonnes per acre more than that of the control.