Genome architecture and genetic diversity of allopolyploid okra (Abelmoschus esculentus).

The allopolyploid okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) unveiled telomeric repeats flanking distal gene-rich regions and short interstitial TTTAGGG telomeric repeats, possibly representing hallmarks of chromosomal speciation. Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes organize into 5S clusters, distinct from the 18S-5.8S-28S units, indicating an S-type rRNA gene arrangement. The assembly, in line with cytogenetic and cytometry observations, identifies 65 chromosomes and a 1.45 Gb genome size estimate in a haploid sibling. The lack of aberrant meiotic configurations implies limited to no recombination among sub-genomes. k-mer distribution analysis reveals 75% has a diploid nature and 15% heterozygosity. The configurations of Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Ortholog (BUSCO), k-mer, and repeat clustering point to the presence of at least two sub-genomes one with 30 and the other with 35 chromosomes, indicating the allopolyploid nature of the okra genome. Over 130 000 putative genes, derived from mapped IsoSeq data and transcriptome data from public okra accessions, exhibit a low genetic diversity of one single nucleotide polymorphisms per 2.1 kbp. The genes are predominantly located at the distal chromosome ends, declining toward central scaffold domains. Long terminal repeat retrotransposons prevail in central domains, consistent with the observed pericentromeric heterochromatin and distal euchromatin. Disparities in paralogous gene counts suggest potential sub-genome differentiation implying possible sub-genome dominance. Amino acid query sequences of putative genes facilitated phenol biosynthesis pathway annotation. Comparison with manually curated reference KEGG pathways from related Malvaceae species reveals the genetic basis for putative enzyme coding genes that likely enable metabolic reactions involved in the biosynthesis of dietary and therapeutic compounds in okra.

Genomic and cytogenetic analyses reveal satellite repeat signature in allotetraploid okra (Abelmoschus esculentus).

BACKGROUND: Satellite repeats are one of the most rapidly evolving components in eukaryotic genomes and play vital roles in genome regulation, genome evolution, and speciation. As a consequence, the composition, abundance and chromosome distribution of satellite repeats often exhibit variability across various species, genome, and even individual chromosomes. However, we know little about the satellite repeat evolution in allopolyploid genomes. RESULTS: In this study, we investigated the satellite repeat signature in five okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) accessions using genomic and cytogenetic methods. In each of the five accessions, we identified eight satellite repeats, which exhibited a significant level of intraspecific conservation. Through fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) experiments, we observed that the satellite repeats generated multiple signals and exhibited variations in copy number across chromosomes. Intriguingly, we found that five satellite repeats were interspersed with centromeric retrotransposons, signifying their involvement in centromeric satellite repeat identity. We confirmed subgenome-biased amplification patterns of these satellite repeats through existing genome assemblies or dual-color FISH, indicating their distinct dynamic evolution in the allotetraploid okra subgenome. Moreover, we observed the presence of multiple chromosomes harboring the 35 S rDNA loci, alongside another chromosomal pair carrying the 5 S rDNA loci in okra using FISH assay. Remarkably, the intensity of 35 S rDNA hybridization signals varied among chromosomes, with the signals predominantly localized within regions of relatively weak DAPI staining, associated with GC-rich heterochromatin regions. Finally, we observed a similar localization pattern between 35 S rDNA and three satellite repeats with high GC content and confirmed their origin in the intergenic spacer region of the 35 S rDNA. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings uncover a unique satellite repeat signature in the allotetraploid okra, contributing to our understanding of the composition, abundance, and chromosomal distribution of satellite repeats in allopolyploid genomes, further enriching our understanding of their evolutionary dynamics in complex allopolyploid genomes.

Genetic Components Derived Parameters and Heterosis in Okra under Saudi Arabia Conditions.

Four parental genotypes of okra were crossed in complete diallel design to study the direction and extent of relative heterosis and heterobeltiosis for yield and its associated traits for utilization of existing genetic diversity to develop heterotic F1 hybrids in okra. The additive genetic component (D) was significant in all studied traits except average pod weight. Nonadditive (H1 and H2) components were found to be significant in all studied traits. However, the values of the dominant effect (H1) were smaller than the D components for no. of nodes/plant, no. of pods/plant, weight of medium pods, weight of large pods, and total fresh pod yield. The maximum significant MP heterosis in the desirable direction (149.9%) was recorded for the weight of large pods/plot. The maximum significant heterobeltiosis in the desirable direction (120.1%) was recorded for the weight of small pods/plot followed by total fresh pod yield (107.4%), the weight of large pods/plot (104.9%), weight of medium pods/plot (92.1%), average pod weight (51.8%), number of pods/plant (38.4%), and plant height (34.3%). It could be concluded that plant height, average pod weight, and the number of branches could be considered for the development of elite hybrids (heterosis breeding) or inbred lines (pure line selection) in succeeding generations. Therefore, these parameters can be considered for selecting genotypes to improve the pod yield of okra. The superior crosses identified through heterosis analysis were Egyptian Balady × Line 4.1.18 (30.8 ton/ha), Line 4.1.18 × Egyptian Balady (29.8 ton/ha), Dwarf Green Long Pod × Line 4.1.18 (28.3 ton/ha), and Egyptian Balady × Dwarf Green Long Pod (27.6 ton/ha) as these crosses had high performance as well as significant and higher estimates of heterobeltiosis for fruit yield per plant and yield attributing other characters.

The flower of Abelmoschus manihot (L.) medik exerts antioxidant effects by regulating the Nrf2 signalling pathway in scald injury.

Scald is a common skin injury in daily life. It is well known that skin burns are associated with inflammation and oxidative stress. In our previous study, we found that Abelmoschus manihot (L.) medik had excellent therapeutic effects on scald-induced inflammation, but its effect on scald-induced oxidative stress was not reported. In this study, a deep second-degree scald model in mice was established, and the wound healing rate, healing time, malondialdehyde (MDA) and total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) levels, and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related Factor 2 (Nrf2) expression in wound tissue were measured to evaluate the scald wound healing performance of extraction from A. manihot (L.) medik (EAM). Scalding activity in mice was examined in vivo by hot water-induced finger swelling. The treatment scald activities were also examined in vivo by subjecting mice to thermal water-induced digit swelling. Additionally, the antioxidant effect of EAM on fibroblasts was also used to determine the mechanism in vitro. The results showed that EAM not only decreased the wound healing time but also effectively regulated the levels of oxidising, MDA and T-SOD in wound tissue. Concurrently, EAM suppressed digit swelling and hyperalgesia. Furthermore, EAM had a significant protective effect on NIH-3T3 cells after H2 O2 injury by regulating the Nrf2 signalling pathway against oxidative injury. Therefore, EAM is a promising drug for the treatment of scald-induced inflammation.

The effect of Abelmoschus esculentus L. (Okra) extract supplementation on glycaemic control, inflammation, kidney function and expression of PPAR-α, PPAR-γ, TGF-ß and Nrf-2 genes in patients with diabetic nephropathy: a triple-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial.

The present study was carried out to evaluate the effects of okra extract supplementation on kidney function, glycaemic control, inflammation and gene expression in patients with diabetic nephropathy (DN). A total of sixty-four DN patients based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria were recruited in this triple-blind placebo-controlled randomised clinical trial. Participants were randomly allocated to receive a 125-mg capsule of dried okra extract (DOE) (n 32) or placebo (n 32) for 10 weeks. At the baseline and endpoint of the trial, kidney function, glycaemic indices, inflammation and gene expression were evaluated. Statistical analysis showed that fasting blood glucose, HbA1c and insulin resistance significantly reduced in the DOE group although between-group analysis did not show any significant difference. Also, no significant difference was observed in urine protein, urine creatinine and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein between the two groups. Furthermore, gene expression of PPAR-α, PPAR-γ, transforming growth factor-beta and Nrf-2 did not affect the end of the trial in comparison with the baseline. According to the present study, DOE did not have impressive effects on kidney function, inflammation, glycaemic management and gene expression in patients with DN.

Transient expression analysis of promoters of okra enation leaf curl virus in Nicotiana benthamiana, cotton and okra plants.

Viral promoters can be used to drive heterologous gene expression in transgenic plants. As part of our quest to look for new promoters, we have explored, for the first time, the promoters of okra enation leaf curl virus (OELCuV), a begomovirus infecting okra (Abelmoschus esculentus). The Rep and CP promoters of OELCuV fused with the gfp reporter gene, were expressed transiently in the natural host okra and the laboratory host cotton and Nicotiana benthamiana. The expression levels of the promoters were quantified through confocal laser scanning microscopy and GFP assay in N. benthamiana and okra. The results indicated that the Rep promoter was more active than the CP promoter, whose activity was similar to that of CaMV 35S promoter. Additionally, the Rep and CP promoters showed increase of expression, probably due to transactivation, when assayed following inoculation of OELCuV and betasatellite DNAs in cotton plants. A moderate increase in promoter activity in N. benthamiana was also seen, when assayed following the inoculation of the heterologous begomovirus Sri Lankan cassava mosaic virus.

Total flavone of Abelmoschus manihot regulates autophagy through the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway to treat intestinal fibrosis in Crohn's disease.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Drug therapy is the treatment of choice for Crohn's disease because it effectively controls or prevents intestinal inflammation. The purpose was to research the molecular mechanism of the total flavones of Abelmoschus manihot (TFA) on intestinal fibrosis in Crohn's disease. METHODS: A 2,4,6-Trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis model and IGF-1-treated intestinal fibroblasts were established. Then, TFA, 3-MA, and compound C were used treatments. Hematoxylin and eosin, Masson, and Picrosirius red staining were performed to observe the colon tissue. Immunohistochemical staining was used to detect α-SMA expression. Flow cytometry, CCK8, wound healing, and Transwell assays were conducted to determine apoptosis, proliferation, invasion, and migration. Col1a1 and Col3a1 levels were detected using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Proteins related to autophagy and apoptosis were detected using western blotting. RESULTS: TFA treated intestinal fibrosis in chronic Crohn's disease. Colon length was the shortest in the ethanol + TNBS group, and TFA treatment significantly improved the situation. Intestinal fibrosis and the percentage of collagen area decreased after TFA treatment. TFA reduced fibrosis by enhancing autophagy stimulation, whereas an autophagy inhibitor reversed the TFA effect. TFA also inhibited migration, proliferation, and collagen synthesis in intestinal fibroblasts. Moreover, it enhanced autophagy and apoptosis of intestinal fibroblasts. TFA upregulated p-AMPK expression and decreases p-mTOR levels. Compound C partially rescued the effect of TFA, indicating that TFA affected intestinal fibroblasts via the AMPK/mTOR pathway in vitro and in vivo. TFA also downregulated Col1a1 and Col3a1 expression. CONCLUSION: TFA regulates autophagy through AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway to treat intestinal fibrosis, which may provide a new therapy for Crohn's disease treatment.

Novel adsorbent for malachite green from okra stalks waste: synthesis, kinetics and equilibrium studies.

In this study, malachite green (MG) removal was performed with activated carbon synthesized from okra stalks by microwave assisted chemical activation method. In the synthesis of activated carbon, the effects of gas in the microwave, activation, and impregnation rate were investigated. The synthesized activated carbon characterization was investigated using BET, FT-IR, and SEM analyses. The activated carbon surface area achieved was 759.453 m2 g-1. In addition, the surface area of activated carbon synthesized using the conventional method was17.766 m2 g-1. The effect of the initial solution concentration on MG adsorption was investigated. According to the kinetic and equilibrium data, it was found that the adsorption process best fitted the pseudo-second order kinetic model and the Langmuir isotherm. According to the equilibrium data, the maximum adsorption capacity (qmax) of the monolayer was 119.05 mg g-1. In addition, MG adsorption was investigated by the experimental design method. The adsorption capacity at the determined optimum conditions was 99.63 mg g-1. All results show that activated carbon synthesized from waste biomass by combining the conventional method with microwave-assisted impregnation is a cheap and environmentally friendly adsorbent.

The synthesis of activated carbon from waste biomass using the conventional activation method is quite common. Activated carbon synthesis studies have increased in recent years with microwave-assisted impregnation, which has been integrated into the conventional activation method. Using this new method, the synthesis of activated carbon from okra stalk waste was carried out for the first time in this study. In addition, with this novel adsorbent, malachite green was removed from the aqueous solutions for the first time.

Optimization of Flavonoid Extraction from Abelmoschus manihot Flowers Using Ultrasonic Techniques: Predictive Modeling through Response Surface Methodology and Deep Neural Network and Biological Activity Assessment.

Understanding the optimal extraction methods for flavonoids from Abelmoschus manihot flowers (AMF) is crucial for unlocking their potential benefits. This study aimed to optimize the efficiency of flavonoid extraction from AMF. After comparing extraction methods, the ultrasonic cell crusher demonstrated superior performance over conventional techniques. Four key factors-solid-to-liquid ratio (1:10 to 1:50 g·mL-1), ethanol concentration (55% to 95%), ultrasonic time (10 to 50 min), and ultrasonic power (5% to 25% of 900 W)-were investigated and normalized using the entropy weight method. This led to a comprehensive evaluation (CE). Optimization of extraction conditions for the ultrasonic cell crusher was achieved through response surface methodology and a deep neural network model, resulting in optimal parameters: ethanol volume fraction of 66%, solid-to-liquid ratio of 1:21 g/mL, extraction efficiency of 9%, and extraction duration of 35 min, yielding a CE value of 23.14 (RSD < 1%). Additionally, the inhibitory effects of the optimized extracts against Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) were assessed. The results revealed that AMF extract (AMFE) exhibits inhibitory effects on S. mutans, with concomitant inhibition of sucrase and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). The MIC of AMFE against planktonic S. mutans is 3 mg/mL, with an MBC of 6 mg/mL. Within the concentration range of 1/8 MIC to 2 MIC of AMFE, the activities of sucrase and LDH decreased by 318.934 U/mg prot and 61.844 U/mg prot, respectively. The antioxidant activity of AMFE was assessed using the potassium ferricyanide reduction and phosphomolybdenum methods. Additionally, the effect of AMFE on DPPH, ABTS, and ·OH free radical scavenging abilities was determined. The concentrations at which AMFE exhibited over 90% scavenging rate for ABTS and DPPH free radicals were found to be 0.125 mg/mL and 2 mg/mL, respectively.

Extraction and In Vitro Skincare Effect Assessment of Polysaccharides Extract from the Roots of Abelmoschus manihot (L.).

Obtaining high-added value compounds from agricultural waste receives increasing attention, as it can both improve resource utilization efficiency and reduce waste generation. In this study, polysaccharides are extracted from the discarded roots of Abelmoschus manihot (L.) by the high-efficiency ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE). The optimized condition was determined as solid-liquid ratio SL ratio = 1:20, temperature T = 30 °C and time T = 40 min, achieving an extraction yield of 13.41%. Composition analysis revealed that glucose (Glc, 44.65%), rhamnose (Rha, 26.30%), galacturonic acid (GalA, 12.50%) and galactose (Gal, 9.86%) are the major monosaccharides of the extract. The extract showed a low degree of esterification (DE) value of 40.95%, and its Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectrum exhibited several characteristic peaks of polysaccharides. Inspired by the wide cosmetic applications of polysaccharides, the skincare effect of the extract was evaluated via the moisture retention, total phenolic content (TPC) quantification, 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)-free radical scavenging activity, anti-hyaluronidase and anti-elastase activity experiments. The extract solutions demonstrated a 48 h moisture retention rate of 10.75%, which is superior to that of commercially available moisturizer hyaluronic acid (HA). Moreover, both the TPC value of 16.16 mg GAE/g (dw) and DPPH-free radical scavenging activity of 89.20% at the concentration of 2 mg/mL indicated the strong anti-oxidant properties of the extract. Furthermore, the anti-hyaluronidase activity and moderate anti-elastase activity were determined as 72.16% and 42.02%, respectively. In general, in vitro skincare effect experiments suggest moisturizing, anti-oxidant, anti-radical and anti-aging activities of the A. manihot root extract, indicating its potential applications in the cosmetic industry.

Okra extract alleviates lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation response through the regulation of bile acids, the receptor-mediated pathway, and gut microbiota.

BACKGROUND: Okra contains flavonoids and vitamin C as antioxidants and it contains polysaccharides as immunomodulators. Flavonoids regulate the inflammatory response in mice and may be related to gut microbiota. This study therefore aimed to investigate the impact of okra extract (OE) on inflammation in mice and to elucidate its underlying mechanism. METHOD: Forty male Kunming (KM) mice were categorized into four groups: the control (CON) group, the lipopolysaccharide stimulation (LPS) group, the 5 mg mL-1 OE intervention (LPS + OE) group, and the 5 mg mL-1 OE supplementation plus mixed antibiotics (LPS + OE + ABX) group. RESULTS: The results showed that, compared with the OE group, the expression of inflammatory signaling pathway genes was upregulated and gut barrier genes were inhibited in the OE + ABX group. The Fxr receptor was activated and the abundance of Akkermansia was increased after OE supplementation, whereas the effect was reversed in the OE + ABX group. Meanwhile, Fxr was correlated positively with Akkermansia. CONCLUSION: The OE supplementation alleviated the inflammatory response in mice under LPS stimulation, accompanied by changes in gut microbiota and bile acid receptors, whereas the addition of antibiotics caused a disturbance to the gut microbiota in the OE group, thus reducing the effect of OE in alleviating the inflammatory response. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Evaluating the potential of Abelmoschus esculentus, Solanum melongena, and Capsicum annuum spp. for nutrient and microbial reduction from wastewater in hybrid constructed wetland.

Utilizing engineered wetlands for the cultivation of vegetables can help to overcome the problems of water and food scarcity. These wetlands are primarily designed for wastewater treatment, and their efficiency and effectiveness can be improved by selecting an appropriate substrate. To investigate the potential for nutrient and microbial removal, the Abelmoschus esculentus, Solanum melongena, and Capsicum annuum L. plants were selected to grow in a hybrid constructed wetland (CW) under natural conditions. The removal efficiency of the A. esculentus, S. melongena, and C. annuum L. in the CW system varied between 59.8 to 68.5% for total phosphorous (TP), 40.3 to 53.1% for ammonium (NH4+), and 33.6 to 45.1% for total nitrogen (TN). The influent sample contained multiple pathogenic bacteria, including Alcaligenes faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli, with Capsicum annuum exhibiting a positive association with 7 of the 11 detected species, whereas microbial removal efficiency was notably higher in the S. melongena bed, potentially attributed to temperature variations and plant-facilitated oxygen release rates. While utilizing constructed wetlands for vegetable cultivation holds promising potential to address the disparity between water and food supply and yield various environmental, economic, and social benefits, it is crucial to note that the wastewater source may contain heavy metals, posing a risk of their transmission to humans through the food chain.

Organic amendments improve salinity-induced osmotic and oxidative stress tolerance in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.)Moench).

AIMS: Salinity adversely affects okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] plants by inducing osmotic and oxidative stresses. This study was designed to enhance salinity-induced osmotic and oxidative stress tolerance in okra plants by applying organic amendments. METHODS: The effects of different organic amendments (municipal solid waste compost, farmyard manure (FYM) and press mud) on osmotic potential, water use efficiency, activities of antioxidant enzymes, total soluble sugar, total soluble proline, total soluble protein and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents of okra plants grown under saline conditions (50 mM sodium chloride) were evaluated in a pot experiment. The organic amendments were applied each at the rate of 5% and 10% per pot or in various combinations (compost + FYM, FYM + press mud and compost + press mud each at the rate of 2.5% and 5% per pot). RESULTS: As compared to control, high total soluble sugar (60.41), total soluble proline (33.88%) and MDA (51%) contents and increased activities of antioxidant enzymes [superoxide dismutase (83.54%), catalase (78.61%), peroxidase (53.57%] in salinity-stressed okra plants, were indicative of oxidative stress. Salinity significantly reduced the osmotic potential (41.78%) and water use efficiency (4.75%) of okra plants compared to control. Under saline conditions, 5% (farmyard manure + press mud) was the most effective treatment, which significantly improved osmotic potential (27.05%), total soluble sugar (4.20%), total soluble protein (73.62%) and total soluble proline (23.20%) contents and superoxide dismutase activity (32.41%), compared to saline soil. Application of 2.5% (FYM + press mud), 5% press mud, and 10% compost significantly reduced MDA content (27%) and improved activities of catalase (38.64%) and peroxidase (48.29%), respectively, compared to saline soil, thus facilitated to alleviate oxidative stress in okra plants. CONCLUSIONS: Using organic amendments (municipal solid waste compost, farmyard manure and press mud) was a cost-effective approach to improve salinity-induced osmotic and oxidative stress tolerance in okra plants.

Biological activity and development of functional foods fortified with okra (Abelmoschus esculentus).

The Abelmoschus esculentus plant, better known as okra, is an interesting crop from a nutritional standpoint. The okra plant is native to the African region but can now be found throughout tropical and subtropical areas of the world. This plant, known for its healing abilities, has been used as a traditional medicine to treat several diseases and external ailments, such as wounds or boils. This article reviews the potential health benefits from okra consumption, as well as the bioactive compounds that are suggested to be responsible. Furthermore, the okra plant and its derivatives have been evaluated in the formulation and manufacture of new functional food products. The latest advances in this direction, which includes characterizing the technical properties of functional foods fortified with okra are also presented in this review. A series of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and catechins have been found in the okra plant, which were associated with numerous biological properties observed in research studies that reported potential anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, anti-hypertensive, and antimicrobial effects, among others, as a result of their consumption. These potential health benefits contribute to the development of new and useful functional foods, with okra (or its derivatives) being used as the highlighted ingredient.

Effects of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) leaves, fruits and seeds extracts on European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) leukocytes, and their cytotoxic, bactericidal and antioxidant properties.

Okra, Abelmoschus esculentus L., is a popular vegetable crop with many bioactive compounds. The in vitro immunostimulant, cytotoxic, bactericidal and antioxidant activities of ethanolic extracts obtained from different parts of okra (leaves, fruits, and seeds) were studied. Phytochemical screening of hydroalcoholic extracts of okra leaves, fruits and seeds revealed a significant content of total phenols and flavonoids. Notable effects on the activities of leukocytes in the head kidney of European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) (viability, phagocytic ability and capacity, and respiratory burst), as well as on peroxidase leukocyte contents were detected after incubation for 24 h with different concentrations (0.01-1 mg mL-1) of the extracts. The mean concentrations (0.1 and 0.5 mg mL-1) of the different extracts increased the phagocytic ability and respiratory activity of head kidney leukocytes. However, the mean concentrations (0.1 mg mL-1) of leaf and fruit extracts significantly decreased the peroxidase activity of leukocytes. In addition, all ethanolic okra extracts at higher concentrations (1 mg mL-1) produced a marked reduction in the viability of the DLB-1 cell line compared to the viability recorded in the control samples. In addition, ethanolic extracts used at 0.5 and 1 mg mL-1 had a significant cytotoxic effect on the viability of PLHC-1 cells. Finally, all doses of seed and leaf extracts at higher concentrations (0.5 and 1 mg mL-1) showed significant bactericidal activity on two fish pathogenic bacteria, Vibrio anguillarum and V. harveyi strains. Finally, a remarkable antioxidant activity was detected on the ethanolic extracts. All these results point to their possible use as an alternative to chemical compounds in farmed fish.

Seedless okra pod, chlorophyll, vitamin C and mineral content development using plant growth regulator in vitro and in vivo culture.

Vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber that keep a significant role in the functioning of the human body to refrain human health benefits. The experiment was carried out to investigate the effect of different concentrations of IAA on the seedless pod, chlorophyll, vitamin and mineral content of okra as human health benefits. The innovative seed soaking method of application using 0, 25, 50, 100 & 200 mg/l of IAA concentrations was used in okra before germination and cultured in vitro and in vivo. The lower concentrations (25 and 50 mg/l) of IAA significantly increased the pod setting compared to the higher concentration (100 and 200 mg/l). The higher concentration (100 and 200 mg/l) had lower fruit settings than the lower concentration (25 &50) had higher fruit settings. The higher pod size was obtained in the concentration of 100 & 200 mg/l of IAA (34.18 cm²) as compared to the control and other concentrations. In addition, the highest soluble solid content was obtained by 100 and 200 mg/l of IAA concentration as compared to the other concentrations. The maximum vitamin C was found in the concentration of 100 mg/l of IAA as compared to the control and other concentrations. Moreover, higher mineral contents like K, Ca, Mg, Na and Fe were found in 100 & 200 mg/l of IAA. The higher concentrations (100 and 200 mg/l) of IAA greatly increased the seedless okra percentage as compared to the lower concentration. It seemed that 100 and 200 mg/l concentration IAA was a better concentration for mineral content and seedless okra production as compared to the other concentrations.

Impact assessment of natural variations in different weather factors on the incidence of whitefly, Bemisia tabaci Genn. and yellow vein mosaic disease in Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench.

Bemisia tabaci Gennadius, also renowned as the silver leaf whitefly, is among the most damaging polyphagous insect pests in many commercially important crops and commodities. A set of field experiments were conducted for three consecutive years i.e., 2018-2020, to investigate the role of variations in rainfall, temperature, and relative humidity on the abundance of B. tabaci in okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench). In the first experiment, the variety Arka Anamika was cultivated twice a year to analyse the incidence of B. tabaci concerning the prevailing weather factors and the overall pooled incidence recorded during the dry and wet season was 1.34 ± 0.51 to 20.03 ± 1.42 and 2.26 ± 1.08 to 18.3 ± 1.96, respectively. Similarly, it was observed that the highest number of B. tabaci catch (19.51 ± 1.64 whiteflies/3 leaves) was recorded in morning hours between 08:31 to 09:30 a.m. The Yellow Vein Mosaic Disease (YVMD) is a devastating disease of okra caused by begomovirus, for which B. tabaci acts as a vector. In another experiment, screening was conducted to check the relative susceptibility of three different varieties viz., ArkaAnamika, PusaSawani, and ParbhaniKranti against B. tabaci (incidence) and YVMD ((Percent Disease Incidence (PDI), Disease Severity Index (DSI), and Area Under the Disease Progress Curve (AUDPC)). The recorded data was normalized by standard transformation and subjected to ANOVA for population dynamics and PDI. Pearson's rank correlation matrix and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) have been used to relate the influences of various weather conditions on distribution and abundance. SPSS and R software were used to create the regression model for predicting the population of B. tabaci. Late sown PusaSawani evolved as a highly susceptible variety in terms of B. tabaci (24.83 ± 6.79 adults/3leaves; mean ± SE; N = 10) as well as YVMD i.e., PDI (38.00 ± 4.95 infected plants/50plants), DSI (71.6-96.4% at 30 DAS) and AUDPC (mean ß-value = 0.76; R2 = 0.96) while early sown Parbhani Kranti least susceptible to both. However, the variety ArkaAnamika was observed as moderately susceptible to B. tabaci and its resultant disease. Moreover, environmental factors were predominantly responsible for regulating the population of insect pests in the field and hence its productivity like rainfall and relative humidity were negative while the temperature was positively correlated with B. tabaci (incidence) and YVMD (AUDPC). The findings are helpful for the farmers to choose need-based IPM strategies than timing-based, which would fit perfectly with the present agro-ecosystems in all ways.

Uptake of nitrogen and nitrogen use efficiency of soil through agrotain coated urea and its integration with farmyard manure.

Since the green revolution, excessive utilization of chemical fertilizers has become prevalent due to concerns about the integrity of food production for the growing population. This indiscriminate use harms the fertility of the soil, especially in sandy soils where nutrient leaching, particularly nitrogen, results in yield losses as well as environmental and health problems. A pot experiment was carried out at Gomal University, Pakistan, in March 2022 to assess the nitrogen use efficiency, nitrogen uptake, and yield of okra. There were nine treatments with four replicates and the treatment combinations were established using a completely randomized design (CRD). Urea coated with agrotain (urease inhibitor) was applied each at 120 and 84 kg N ha-1 in 2 or 3 splits. Urea at 84 kg N ha-1 was also used in combination with Farmyard manure (FYM) and compared against the control (100% recommended urea). Obtained results showed that inhibitor-treated urea significantly increased soil concentrations of NO3-N and NH4-N over non-inhibitor-treated urea. The highest NO3-N was recorded where urea alone and urea treated with 3 L (3 L) agrotain was applied to 100%. The highest ammonical-N was recorded, where 70% urea treated with 3 L agrotain was applied. Urea, in combination with FYM, significantly increased the organic matter. Electrical conductivity in extract (ECe), and pH of the soil. The improvement in yield with inhibitor was at par with 70% and 100% urea. The highest improvement of 16% in fruit yield and 7.29% nitrogen use efficiency was obtained in the treatment receiving 120 kg N ha-1 treated with 3 L agrotain compared with non-inhibitor urea. The 2nd highest improvement of 10% in fruit yield on account of increased fruit length, stem diameter, and number of fruits, and 5.97% nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) was obtained in treatment receiving 120 kg N ha-1 in combination with FYM in comparison to control. These results suggested that the use of N inhibitor significantly increased the okra fruit yield on account of enhancing ammonical-N and increased N use efficiency.

Effect of the Association of Fixed Oils from Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench, Euterpe oleracea Martius, Bixa orellana Linné and Chronic SM® on Atherogenic Dyslipidemia in Wistar Rats.

Dyslipidemia presents high levels of serum cholesterol and is characterized as a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, especially for the development of atherosclerosis. E. oleracea oil (OFEO), A. esculentus oil (OFAE), B. orellana oil (OFBO), and Chronic SM® granules (CHR) are rich in bioactive compounds with the potential to treat changes in lipid metabolism. This study investigated the effects of treatments with oils from A. esculentus, E. oleracea, B. orellana, and Chronic SM® on Cocos nucifera L. saturated-fat-induced dyslipidemia. The chromatographic profile showed the majority presence of unsaturated fatty acids in the tested oils. The quantification of tocotrienols and geranylgeraniol in OFBO and CHR was obtained. Treatments with OFEO, OFAE, OFBO, and CHR were able to significantly reduce glycemia, as well as hypertriglyceridemia, total cholesterol, and LDL-cholesterol, besides increasing HDL-cholesterol. The treatments inhibited the formation of atheromatous plaques in the vascular endothelium of the treated rats. The obtained results suggest that the OFEO, OFAE, OFBO, and CHR exhibit antidyslipidemic effects and antiatherogenic activity.

[Effects and mechanisms of total flavones of Abelmoschus manihot in attenuating diabetic tubulopathy by targeting endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced cell apoptosis].

Renal tubular injury in patients with diabetic kidney disease(DKD) may be accompanied by glomerular and microvascular diseases. It plays a critical role in the progression of renal damage in DKD, and is now known as diabetic tubulopathy(DT). To explore the multi-targeted therapeutic effects and pharmacological mechanisms in vivo of total flavones of Abelmoschus manihot(TFA), an extract from traditional Chinese medicine for treating kidney disease, in attenuating DT, the authors randomly divided all rats into four groups: a normal control group(normal group), a DT model group(model group), a DT model+TFA-treated group(TFA group) and a DT model+rosiglitazone(ROS)-treated group(ROS group). The DT rat model was established based on the DKD rat model by means of integrated measures. After successful modeling, the rats in the four groups were continuously given double-distilled water, TFA suspension, and ROS suspension, respectively by gavage every day. After 6 weeks of treatment, all rats were sacrificed, and the samples of their urine, blood, and kidneys were collected. The effects of TFA and ROS on various indicators related to urine and blood biochemistry, renal tubular injury, renal tubular epithelial cell apoptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress(ERS), as well as the activation of the protein kinase R-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase(PERK)-eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α(eIF2α)-activating transcription factor 4(ATF4)-C/EBP homologous protein(CHOP) signaling pathway in the kidney of the DT model rats were investigated. The results indicated that hypertrophy of renal tubular epithelial cells, renal tubular hyperplasia and occlusion, as well as interstitial extracellular matrix and collagen deposition occurred in the DT model rats. Moreover, significant changes were found in the expression degree and the protein expression level of renal tubular injury markers. In addition, there was an abnormal increase in tubular urine proteins. After TFA or ROS treatment, urine protein, the characteristics of renal tubular injury, renal tubular epithelial cell apoptosis and ERS, as well as the activation of the PERK-eIF2α-ATF4-CHOP signaling pathway in the kidney of the DT model rats were improved to varying degrees. Therein, TFA was superior to ROS in affecting the pathological changes in renal tubule/interstitium. In short, with the DT model rats, this study demonstrated that TFA could attenuate DT by multiple targets through inhibiting renal tubular ERS-induced cell apoptosis in vivo, and its effect and mechanism were related to suppressing the activation of the PERK-eIF2α-ATF4-CHOP signaling pathway in the kidney. These findings provided preliminary pharmacological evidence for the application of TFA in the clinical treatment of DT.