International Journal of Life Sciences

A Development and Evaluation of a Multipurpose Fruit Pulping Machine

Nelson Makange — 2025-01-12

A multipurpose fruit pulping machine was designed, constructed and evaluated for performance using oranges, watermelon, pineapple, and tangerine. The machine was fabricated using locally available construction materials. The essential components of the machine include a feeding hopper, top cover, worm shaft, juice sieve, juice collector, waste outlet, transmission belt, main frame, pulleys and bearings. In operation, the worm shaft conveys, crushes, presses and squeezes the fruit to extract the juice. The juice extracted is filtered through the juice sieve into the juice collector while the residual waste is discharged through the waste outlet. The design analysis of the components provided the data that were used in the sizing, fabrication and assembling of the machine. Performance tests were carried out using oranges, watermelon, pineapple, and tangerine that were introduced into the machine. The performance indicators considered were percentage juice yield, extraction efficiency and extraction loss. Results showed that pineapple was leading in juice extraction efficiency (91.2%, followed by watermelon (90.5%). Further, it was found that watermelon was leading in juice yield (85.1%) and the last was tangerine (69.1%). The results also demonstrated that watermelon (2.9%) was observed to have the highest juice extraction loss, and the orange (2.3%) was the least. Powered by a 3Hp single-phase electric motor, the machine has a capacity of 1.24M³/h. The machine is simple to operate and maintain, therefore it is recommended for smallholder and local fruit juice processors.

Biochemical study of scent glands of Coridius janus (Heteroptera : Pentatomidae )

Dr. Ch. Srinivasulu — 2025-02-15

Insects of many varieties have developed various modes of chemical and behavioral defensive mechanisms. When disturbed, many hemipterans release a pungent and volatile fluid with an offensive odour. These secretions may be used by the bugs as defensive substances. In the present investigation, chemical composition of the scent secretion of larval abdominal scent glands and metathoracic scent glands of adults, estimations of glycogen, glucose, lactate, pyruvate, total proteins and free amino acids contents of scent glands of larvae and adults, have been studied. The both larvae and adults of C. janus contained eight predominant amino acids identified by paper chromatography, namely glutamic acid, proline, tyrosine, histidine, aspertic acid, alanine, cystine and ornithine. The parameters of substrates showed higher values of glucose, lactate in the metathoracic scent glands of adults bugs, while the glycogen, pyruvate, total proteins, free amino acids are higher in the abdominal scent glands of larvae of C. janus.

Bio particle monitoring and its significance in public health

Jayshree Thaware — 2025-02-15

Our environment has a great influence on public health. The atmosphere is loaded with essential and non-essential particles of biological and a-biological origin. The particles of biological origin are often referred to as bioparticles. Pollen grains released from the anthers of flowering plants and spores from lower plants constitute the airborne bioparticles/aerosol. In the atmosphere, the fungal spores are most predominant. The ratio of pollen to fungal spore goes up to 1:30 in certain seasons. Aerobiological survey of pollen/spore monitoring is carried out by operating a volumetric Rotorod Air Sampler (Model-40) installed at about 15 meters above the ground level on the rooftop of the terrace of S.K.Porwal College, Kamptee from June 2018 to May 2019. Respiratory diseases like asthma and chronic pulmonary obstructive diseases mostly relate to fungal bioparticles. A questionnaire method was used to facilitate the testing and monitoring appraisal of airborne bioaerosols and their impact on human health.

Keywords: Bioparticles, Fungal spores, Pollen grains, Public health, Rotorod air sampler.

Comprehensive Insights into the Impact of Microcystis on Aquaculture: Challenges and Future Perspectives

Mehtab Yasmeen — 2025-03-01

The occurrence of harmful blue-green algae blooms is becoming more frequent worldwide. In recent years, the incidence has increased globally in frequency, severity, and duration. Many cyanobacteria species produce a group of toxins known as microcystins. The species most commonly associated with microcystin production is Microcystis aeruginosa. Succession of toxic cyanobacterial species and fluctuation in biomass, which is influenced by seasonal changes in various environmental factors including nutrients, grazing, light and temperature, is believed to affect the concentration of microcystin in the field. More than 200 Microcystin variants have been identified in cyanobacteria blooms and cultures, among which microcystin-LR, RR, and YR are the most common. Microcystins can cause liver damage that can lead to death in dogs and livestock. No known deaths have been reported in humans from the ingestion of microcystins. Regardless of species, the mechanism of action is the same, the inhibition of protein phosphatase which causes primarily liver damage, but also affects other organs. Cyanotoxins cause serious poisoning in aquatic species and humans. Ingestion of Microcystins cells has negative consequences in a variety of aquatic species. In the case of fish, the toxic effects induced disruptions in the primary development processes, making the early life stages more vulnerable to microcystin. Microcystin has great toxic effect on shrimps. High dose of M. aeruginosa cells would exert great mortality in shrimps, and low dose depressed the immunity of shrimp, including antioxidant, detoxification and antimicrobial activity. Hence, a comprehensive review on impact of microcystins, water quality dynamics and practical management of aquaculture ponds is very important and provide tangible benefits to fish and shrimp producers. In order to minimize the unnecessary losses in the aquaculture sector, an effective approach for aquaculture monitoring must be developed.

Comparative Pollen Morphological Studies of Forest Plant Species of Leguminosae

Sonalkumar S. Nagarkar — 2025-03-01

Pollen morphological studies of different forest plant species representing three families Fabaceae, Caesalpiniaceae and Mimosaceae of Leguminosae were undertaken. Morphological characters were studied using microscopic study and the pollen key based upon differentiating characters was prepared. The diversified characters of the sporomorphs provide an important basis for generic and specific delimitations. Among the various categories of pollen morphological characters, the aperture is considered as primary and most conservative, exine ornamentation as secondary and other characters as tertiary in order of their importance. The four plant species belonging to Fabaceae i.e. Butea monosperma, Dalbergia sisoo, Gliricidia maculata and Pongamia pinnata showed similarities in aperture pattern but variations in shapes and sizes. The five plant species Bauhinia variegata, Cassia siamea, Delonix regia, Peltophorum pterocarpum and Tamarindus indica belonging to family Caesalpiniaceae showed the variations in exine pattern. The pollen types belonging to Mimosaceae i.e. Acacia arabica, Acacia nilotica, Albizzia lebbeck and Pithecellobium dulce are polyado-polyad excluding Prosopis juliflora i.e. monad. An attempt has been made to see how far palynology helps in taxonomy and throws light on the evolutionary trends. Pollen morphology is widely used in taxonomic treatments particularly with differences in exine structure and aperture forms. These investigations revealed that the palyno-taxanomic characters help to arrange the pollen genera and families bio-systematically. The data generated through the work will be helpful to taxonomist and modern palynologist to predict the relation between these three families of Leguminosae.

Electrophoretic Studies of Tissue Specific Inhibition of Esterases In Different Tissues (Intestine,Muscle,Brain) Of Fresh Water Fish Channa punctatus Exposed To Enzyme Inhibitors Paraxon, Eserine , Parachloro Mercuric Benzoate

Venkateswara Rao Mandalapu — 2025-03-31

The current research was under taken to discover the electrophoretic studies of tissue specific inhibition of esterases in different tissues (intestine, muscle, brain) of Channa punctatus exposed to enzyme inhibitors i.e. Paraxon, Eserine (Physostigmine), Parachloro Mercuric Benzoate (pCMB). The inhibition studies of Esterases were conducted as per the standardized procedures.The results revealed that Intestine tissue E-1 are CHsp esterases which are inhibited by all the three inhibitors. E-2 are Carboxyl Esterases (CE) which are inhibited by paraoxon only. While E-3 are Ese-Esterases which are inhibited by eserene only. Muscle tissue E-1 are CHsp, E-2 are enzymes resistent to inhibitors (ER)esterases , which are not inhibited by all inhibitors, E-3 are Ese-esterases which are inhibited by eserene only. Brain tissue E-1 and E-2 are Carboxyl Esterases (CE) which are inhibited by paraoxon only, E-3 are Cholinesterases (ChE) which are inhibited by both paraoxon and eserine.

Avifaunal Diversity and Conservation Assessment of Shivapur Wetland, Umrer, Nagpur (M.S.), India

Renuka A. Lonkar — 2025-03-31

The recent biodiversity assessment at Shivapur Lake and its surrounding area has identified 33 avifauna species from 14 families, each utilizing distinct ecological zones for survival and reproduction amidst global climate shifts. Birds predominantly exploit shoreline vegetation for nesting, employing "green curtain" and "brown curtain" camouflage to evade predation. The wetland, as a dynamic ecosystem, supports unispecies and multispecies congregations of migratory, resident, and vagrant wading birds. Conservation strategies proposed by local communities, NGOs, and the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) aim to preserve beta-diversity across ecosystems. Urbanization and metropolitan expansion have fragmented habitats and introduced persistent noise pollution, negatively affecting bird assemblages and disrupting chronobiologically regulated breeding cycles. Additionally, agrochemical contaminants and parasite-laden food sources impact avian health, causing observable physiological changes that serve as bioindicators of wetland pollution. Regular bioremediation, guided by systematic water quality assessments, is essential to mitigate toxin accumulation and biomagnification. Shivapur Lake, located 4 km from the Nagpur-Umrer Highway, is a vital junction for wintering and resident wetland birds, enabling movement across a network of directionally distributed water bodies. Its ecological importance necessitates its designation as a protected avian heritage site to safeguard species survival, enhance conservation efforts, and preserve habitat integrity for both unispecies and multispecies assemblages.

Seasonal Distribution of Zygnemataceae and Mesotaenaceae Families of Algae at Site Joga of the Narmada River, Harda, MP, India

Pavan Kumar Rathore — 2025-03-31

The seasonal variation in algal growth was analy zed to understand the influence of environmental factors such as temperature, water turbulence, and nutrient availability on freshwater ecosystems. The study revealed that algal abundance was lowest during the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall, increased water currents, and nutrient dilution, with the lowest recorded values in June (30% abundance). Post-monsoon conditions facilitated rapid recovery, with abundance peaking at 80% in September, as stable water conditions and nutrient enrichment promoted algal proliferation. Winter maintained moderate to high algal growth, with abundance ranging from 72% to 78%, despite lower temperatures (18–22°C). The study highlights that temperature played a crucial role, with moderate temperatures (22–25°C) supporting peak growth, while extreme heat (30–34°C) in summer and extreme cold in winter limited algal development. These findings emphasize the impact of seasonal hydrological changes on algal biomass and provide insights into ecological monitoring and conservation. Understanding seasonal algal dynamics is essential for managing aquatic ecosystems and predicting the effects of climate variability on freshwater biodiversity.

The Ecological Role and Diversity of Macrofungi from North Maharashtra

Dipashri Chaudhari — 2025-03-31

ABSTRACT

Saprophytic fungi are vital organisms in ecosystems, playing a key role in the decomposition of organic material and the cycling of essential nutrients. This paper provides a detailed examination of saprophytic fungi, focusing on their morphology, ecological role, and identification methods, as well as the implications for both ecosystem health and human safety. The ecological significance of saprophytic fungi is tempered by the risks they pose to humans. While many species are edible and have culinary or medicinal value, others are highly toxic and can lead to severe health issues, including poisoning or even death. Therefor, identification is crucial, particularly for mushroom foragers, to avoid consuming toxic species. Their identification is both an ecological and safety imperative, as the same features that allow researchers to understand fungal ecology can also aid in distinguishing between edible and toxic species. Despite the critical ecological functions they provide, macrofungi remain understudied, especially in less-explored “ecosystems” like tropical rainforests and remote highlands. This diversity enhances ecological resilience and has economic and medicinal importance, as many macrofungi are utilized in food and medicine. Understanding the factors that drive macrofungal diversity is essential for biodiversity conservation and the sustainable management of ecosystems.

Larvicidal activity of aqueous leaf extract of Caladium bicolor against Anopheles sp.

Atharva Charjan — 2025-03-31

As mosquitoes develop increasing levels of resistance to synthetic larvicides, there is a strong need to explore alternative solutions that are more environmentally friendly. In this study, we investigated the larvicidal activity of an aqueous leaf extract of Caladium bicolor against the malaria mosquito, Anopheles, which is considered the primary malaria vector. The leaf extract was prepared using Soxhlet extraction and was tested at doses of 125-500 mg/10ml following the recommended WHO (World Health Organization) protocols. The extract mixture showed substantial larvicidal activity, with an LC50 of 400 mg/10ml after 24 hours. The extract suggests that Caladium bicolor may be viable candidates for environmentally-friendly mosquito control. Anopheles larvae exposed to aqueous extract of Caladium bicolor gave behavioural responses to various toxic reactions such as erratic movements; air gulping with prolonged exposure resulted in dullness, inability to swim. This study concluded potential bioactive agents in Caladium bicolor leaf extract might have toxic and/or metabolic characteristics that are harmful to larvae. The widespread availability of Caladium bicolor as a plant enhances its feasibility as a sustainable larvicide. This study pioneers the use of its leaves, suggesting a novel resource for integrated vector management. Further research into active compounds and field applications is recommended to validate scalability and environmental safety.

Challenges and Advances in the Use of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells for Modeling and Treating Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome: A Comprehensive Review

Duong Dinh — 2025-02-14

Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) is a severe and rare congenital heart disease characterized by the underdevelopment of the left side of the heart, which is responsible for pumping oxygenated blood throughout the body. This underdevelopment results in an insufficient supply of oxygenated blood to vital organs and tissues. Current treatments for HLHS face significant challenges and typically involve complex surgical interventions that can only extend patient survival to a limited degree. Heart transplantation is another potential option, but it is constrained by the scarcity of donors and the risk of immune rejection. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), derived from somatic cells, possess the remarkable ability to differentiate into any cell type within the three primary germ layers, making them a promising tool for tissue regeneration, disease modeling, and repair. However, despite their potential, the clinical application of iPSCs remains limited, primarily due to the risk of tumorigenesis. This review explores the role of iPSCs in advancing the understanding and treatment of HLHS, examining their cellular and molecular mechanisms, historical development, and their application in cardiovascular research. Additionally, we consider the major challenges and limitations associated with the use of iPSCs in the context of HLHS, underscoring the critical need for further research to enhance their therapeutic efficacy and safety.

The Significant Potential of Robotics in Animal Welfare

sanjib borah — 2025-02-22

Robotics holds tremendous potential to revolutionize animal welfare by improving care, monitoring and management across various domains. From automated health monitoring systems in livestock, pets and wild animals to robotic surgical assistants and rehabilitation devices these technologies enhance the precision, efficiency and quality of veterinary and animal care. Robotics enables early detection of diseases, more accurate diagnostics, and less invasive treatments, which significantly reduce animal suffering and improve recovery outcomes. In livestock farming, robotics supports precision care, optimizing (re)productivity while ensuring animal health and welfare. For pets, robotic systems offer continuous monitoring and remote health management, making it easier to track their well-being and address health issues early. Additionally, robotics plays a critical role in wildlife conservation aiding in rehabilitation efforts that ensure animals are prepared for reintegration into their natural habitats.

As advancements in artificial intelligence, sensor technology, and automation continue, the integration of robotics into animal welfare practices will expand further, leading to more humane and effective care. By reducing human error, enhancing monitoring and improving treatment options, robotics can transform the animal welfare, contributing to healthier, more sustainable and compassionate practices. As technological advances continue, the integration of robotics in animal welfare promises to revolutionize the way humans care for animals, improve animal welfare, and provide ethical solutions to many existing challenges. These developments not only enhance the well-being of animals but also provide tools for humans to manage animals more responsibly and compassionately, bridging the gap between innovation and humane treatment.