National Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762320220901Mostafa Kamal Tolba, Egyptian Scientist, Environmental Expert, and the Founder of Environmental Diplomacy (1922 – 2016)59561024393610.21608/ejbo.2022.136833.1983ENHamed EadChemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, EgyptTarek Y.S. KapielBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, EgyptJournal Article20220503THE YEAR 2022 marks the birth centenary of Mostafa Kamal Tolba, a United Nations official considered the father of the Montreal Protocol, an agreement intended to protect the ozone layer. The Montreal Protocol is widely known as a section of the world’s most successful environmental treaty. Dr. Tolba was born on December 8, 1922 and died in Geneva on March 28, 2016. He was a professor and chief scientist. He is an outstanding Egyptian scholar whose brilliant letters in the environmental domain are remembered by the Eastern and Western world. He held senior academic and political positions in Egypt and was enumerated by all international fora as the founder of the concept of environmental diplomacy. He performed official duties in the Ministry of Youth and Telecommunications. Regionally, he was the first president of the Board of Trustees of the Arab Forum for Environment and Development. He was also designated Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) for 17 years. The Egyptian-born Dr. Tolba was praised for his leadership in steering the earlier Vienna Convention in addition to his groundbreaking work on the Montreal Protocol. He belonged to a generation of international civil servants who effectively led international organizations and programs and were also able to change international policymaking. However, his strong and impressive legacy continues to be disseminated through the UNEP’s work and the tasks accomplished by ministries of the environment worldwide. This paper highlights the crucial roles discharged by Dr. Tolba as a university professor and as a global administrator of a dossier of urgent interest. His work affected and continues to impact the global environment, especially climate change.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_243936_424583fb06f5c3ed53e3499400900a51.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762320220901Phytoremediation of Crude Petroleum Oil Pollution: A Review61164025456710.21608/ejbo.2022.136551.1980ENZahra S. HusseinFaculty of Biotechnology, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA), 6th of October, Giza 12451, Egypt0000-0002-9219-4257Nashwa HamidoFaculty of Biotechnology, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA), 6th of October, Giza 12451, EgyptAhmad K. HegazyDepartment of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt0000-0002-5286-7998Mohamed A. El-DessoukyChemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, EgyptNermen H. MohamedEgyptian Petroleum Research Institute, Nasr City, Cairo 11727, EgyptGehan SafwatFaculty of Biotechnology, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA), 6th of October, Giza 12451, EgyptJournal Article20220519ENVIRONMENTAL pollution is exacerbated by the rise in petroleum hydrocarbons due to exploration, production, transportation, and industrialization. This requires immediate remediation. Although crude oil removal using conventional techniques is efficient for cleaning up aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, it is costly and requires specialized staff and equipment. Despite their negative environmental consequences, chemical compounds such as dispersants, cleansers, emulsifiers, biosurfactants, and soil oxidizers are highly utilized. Phytoremediation and bioremediation have emerged as cost-effective and environmentally friendly technologies. This paper aims to review the impacts of crude oil pollution and the phytoremediation of polluted ecosystems. We have reviewed various phytoremediation/bioremediation mechanisms and environmental factors. Additionally, we have discussed the degradation of crude petroleum, factors affecting petroleum hydrocarbon bioremediation, and the environmental consequences, such as DNA and epigenetic mutations. We have also compared the economics of phytoremediation and restoration of polluted sites with conventional technology. Plants can remediate the environment through phytodegradation, phytostabilization, phytovolatilization, evapotranspiration, and phytoaccumulation. The microbial activities in the plant rhizosphere enhance the degradation and accumulation of the pollutants and modulate their bioavailability, thereby remediating the polluted areas and stabilizing the soil fertility.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_254567_4c21bb00823a84beda9ea0a477b6d5c8.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762320220901Anticancer Efficacy of Purified Extracellular L-asparaginase from Aspergillus niger and Yield Enhancement by Agro-industrial Wastes64165816968010.21608/ejbo.2021.69011.1657ENAsmaa S. YasseinBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, South Valley University, 83523 Qena, Egypt0000-0002-3809-5960Amany A. El-ShahirBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, South Valley University, 83523 Qena, EgyptJournal Article20210328L-ASPARAGINASE enzyme is important medically as an anticancer agent and in the food industry. The enzyme acts via degradation of l-asparagine and mitigation of acrylamide. This work screened 31 fungal isolates recovered from rhizosphere soil for l-asparaginase production using the plate dilution medthod. Twenty-four isolates (77.4%) were l-asparaginase producers. Aspergillus niger and A. quadrilineatus were the highest producers with enzyme activities were 9.808±0.18930 and 7.348±0.12328U/mL, respectively. Optimum conditions for enzyme production were 30°C for 72h, with pH 6 at 160rpm, and 0.1% of KH2PO4 in presence of 2% glucose and 1.5% sucrose as carbon source and 1% L-asparagine by A. niger and A. quadrilineatus, respectively. Ammonium sulfate precipitation, Sphedax G-200, and SDS-PAGE were performed for L- asparaginase purification and molecular weight determination. Enzyme from A. niger displayed a MW of 50.36kDa and a specific activity of 50.4U/mg. The MW of A. quadrilineatus enzyme was 27.8kDa with a specific activity 37.4U/mg. Purified l-asparaginase significantly inhibited the proliferation of HCT-116, HePG-2, and MCF-7cells with IC50 concentrations of 28.9, 36.1, and 82.6μg/mL, respectively. The enzyme did not exhibit antibacterial activity. Enhancement of l-asparaginase production using agro-industrial wastes produces a maximum of 23.548 ± 0.00000U/mL when A. niger is cultivated on a mixture of onion and pomegranate peel powders (50%: 50% w/w) and cultivation of A. quadrilineatus on pomegranate peel alone.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_169680_036dfab04d2a0eb2d25375769f631768.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762320220901Occurrence of Merismopedia minima in a Drinking Water Treatment Plant in Sohag City and Removal of Their Microcystins by Sediments65966923729410.21608/ejbo.2022.122445.1914ENAsmaa BakrBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, Sohag, EgyptJournal Article20220217CYANOBACTERIA in drinking water are a major problem that threatens humans, animals and plants, especially if they produce toxins.This study aimed to remove cyanobacterial species, especially Merismopedia mianima and their microcystins (MCs) during the treatment process of drinking water. Water samples were collected from raw water, after each process and from the final treated water including coagulation, sedimentation, filtration and disinfection as well as from the final treated during the study period (May–December 2019). In all of these samples, M. minima was detected with an average cell count of 80-2200 cells/ mL.This increase in algal count may be due to the warm season when the temperature was favorable for cyanobacterial growth (blooming). Results also showed that traditional treatment methods could remove some cyanobacterial species but are ineffective in for completely removing MCs produced by M. minima, which was isolated even from the final stage of drinking water treatment. Furthermore, MCs were determined by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis and the particulate MCs concentration of M. minima was found to record 500μg MCs/L (2.27pg/cell). Extracellularly released MCs were also not completely removed and remained at high concentrations of 0.74–1.47μg/L which exceeded the limit proposed by the World Health Organization (WHO= 1μg/L).The toxin concentration was mitigated to levels less than WHO limits when water sediments were used to remove MCs. Therefore, this study recommends using sediments to remove cyanobacteria and their cyanotoxins from water plants, which is an inexpensive method especially for the developing countries.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_237294_32cab1203fe6b3b9568b2f2d8d04ea42.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762320220901Biological Aspects and Proline Metabolism Genes Influenced by Polyethylene Glycol and Salicylic Acid in Two Wheat Cultivars67168523730010.21608/ejbo.2022.124280.1921ENNaglaa LoutfyDepartment of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, South Valley University, 83523 Qena, EgyptAhmed M. HassaneinCentral Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, 82524 Sohag, EgyptMasahiro InouheDepartment of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ehime University, Matsuyama 790‑8577, JapanJehan M. SalemCentral Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, 82524 Sohag, EgyptJournal Article20220227DROUGHT has become an important challenge in crop cultivation, so detection of drought-tolerant cultivars by screening existing genotypes is a valuable tool in the effort to attain food security worldwide. The drought stress tolerance of two wheat cultivars was determined through treatments with PEG (−0.4MPa) and SA (0.5mM). The resulting data on seed germination and seedling growth indicated that Misr-2 cultivar is more drought-tolerant than Gemaza-12. Under non-stress conditions, Misr-2 had higher pigment values, higher levels of soluble sugars (Glu, Fru, and Suc) and antioxidant enzyme activity (CAT, APX, POX and SOD), but lower proline values than those in Gemaza-12. Gemmaza-12 had higher expression of proline synthesizing gene (P5CS) but lower expression of proline-degrading genes (ProDH and P5CDH) than Misr-2. Under drought conditions, Gemaza-12 needed more osmoregulators and antioxidants than Misr-2 to minimize the negative effects of drought and associated oxidative stresses. Increase percentages of soluble sugars, proline content and antioxidation enzymes were higher in Gemaza-12 than in Misr-2. Under drought stress, stimulation of P5CS and retardation of ProDH and P5CDH were higher in Gemaza-12 than in Misr-2. Although treatment of stressed plants with SA stimulated P5CS gene in both cultivars, retardation of ProDH and P5CDH was more pronounced in Gemaza-12 than in Misr-2. Consequently, we conclude that seed germination and seedling growth could be used to compare drought tolerance of wheat cultivars and seed soaking in SA improves drought tolerance. Our results confirmed that an increase in proline production is one of the symptoms of drought stress in plants.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_237300_5029107360caf0e3435acc625146265d.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762320220901Effect of Biologically and Chemically Synthesized AgNPs on Multi-Drug Resistant (MDR) Dermatophyte Bacterial Isolates68770723905910.21608/ejbo.2022.120076.1905ENGehan A. IsmailDepartment of Botany, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt0000-0002-3996-0047Nanis G. AllamDepartment of Botany, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, EgyptReda M. GaafarDepartment of Botany, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, EgyptMarwa M. El-zanatyDepartment of Botany, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, EgyptPerihan S. AteyaDepartment of Botany, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, EgyptJournal Article20220227IN THIS study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized using biological and chemical methods. Trisodium citrate (TSC) was used as a reducing and stabilizing agent in the chemical method. While three seaweed aqueous extracts from Enteromorpha intestinalis, Sargassum vulgare, and Asparagopsis taxiformis and two cyanobacteria filtrates from Spirulina platensis, and Oscillatoria acuminata were utilized in the biological method. The production of the synthesized AgNPs was verified through UV-Vis spectroscopy analysis. Both of the synthesized AgNPs exhibited remarkable antibacterial activity against multidrug-resistant pathogenic bacterial isolates of Staphylococcus aureus (S1), Escherichia coli (E1), Klebsiella pneumoniae (K1), Staphylococcus epidermidis (S5), and Pseudomonas auroginosa (P1) when compared with sulfamethoxazole as the control. AgNPs biologically synthesized using S. vulgare aqueous extract exhibited the maximum antibacterial activity and were further characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis (FTIR), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). XRD revealed crystalline shape of AgNPs with a mean size of 28.93 and 29.31 nm for the chemically and biologically synthesized AgNPs, respectively; and Zeta potential was recorded at −50.3±10.4 and −52.1±10.8 mV, respectively. Moreover, the AgNPs (100 μg/mL) were safe for human fibroblast normal cell lines at 24h. Both types of AgNPs were loaded onto polylactic acid/ polyethylene glycol (PLA/PEG) films, and a significant antibacterial activity was observed against S1 and E1 after 3 and 6h of treatment. Thus, these results demonstrate the potential use of biologically synthesized AgNPs from seaweeds for wound infection treatments and therapeutic applications as a safe and economic alternative to chemical agents.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_239059_afba1af01a75a1bdf4f4db20694009c6.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762320220901Improvement of Germination, Phosphate Efficiency, Antioxidants, Metabolic Products, and Yield of Wheat Plants by Aspergillus niger and Penicillium chrysogenum70973823907210.21608/ejbo.2022.131514.1955ENMona F.A. DawoodBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, Assiut 71511, EgyptNemmat A. HusseinBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, Assiut 71511, EgyptMady A. IsmailBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, Assiut 71511, Egypt0000-0001-5611-390XArwa A.M. El-KhatibBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, New Valley University, Al-Kharja 72511, New Valley, EgyptMarwa M. RagaeyBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, New Valley University, Al-Kharja 72511, New Valley, Egypt0000-0001-5563-9803Journal Article20220406INCREASING the efficiency of phosphate fertilizer by biofertilizers is an interesting goal as a way to potentiate the phosphate-fertilizers.<br />The present study includes the use of culture filtrate (CF) or conidial suspension (CS) of two isolated rhizospheric fungi (RF) in germination solution of wheat plants or pots filled with soils fertilized with superphosphate or rock phosphate.<br />The RF were morphologically and genetically identified as Penicillium chrysogenum (AUMC 14100) and Aspergillus niger (AUMC 14260) that were able to produce indole acetic acid (IAA) and solubilize phosphate. Applying CF or CS of the strains separately or in consortium enhanced the germination percentage and vigor index of wheat plants. For pot experiment, CF or CS initiate their positive effect on plant in two ways: a) enhancement of soil properties (increment of organic matter, reduction of pH, enrichment the soil with higher soluble phosphate, calcium, and magnesium); b) stimulation of growth, biochemical status, nutrients content, and the yield of wheat plants. The applied biofertilizers enhanced chlorophyll, primary metabolites, phenolics, ascorbic acid, and tocopherol contents. The application of CF and/or CS exerted no oxidative damage on wheat rather H2O2 or lipid peroxidation was reduced due to the activation of various antioxidant enzymes. Furthermore, the root and shoot tissues of treated wheat enriched with high contents of calcium, magnesium, and phosphate improve phosphate-related traits. All up-regulations under biofertilizers application reflected on high yield of wheat plants.<br />The study recommends application of CF side by side to P-fertilizers for up-scaling their efficiency and enhancing plant development.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_239072_8f8e36dc586f66ab08bd11c7bff1ce96.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762320220901Characterization of the Sheath Blight Complex of Fungi in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)73974524052110.21608/ejbo.2022.115576.1878ENAdiana NayogyaniFaculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Jl. Teknika Selatan, Sekip Utara, Yogyakarta, 55281, Indonesia0000-0001-7689-079XRina KasiamdariLaboratory of Plant Systematics, Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Jl. Teknika Selatan, Sekip Utara, Sinduadi, Mlati, Sleman, Special Region of Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia0000-0003-4125-1490Journal Article20220110RICE sheath blight is the most economically substantial rice disease worldwide that leads to significant grain yield and quality losses. Rhizoctonia solani is the causal agent of sheath blight. However, other fungal species are also associated with sheath blight and could aggravate the disease complex. This study investigated the fungi associated with the sheath blight complex of rice (Oryza sativa L.). Three isolates showed different morphological characteristics in terms of colony color, hyphal size, hyphal branching, and sclerotia formation and size. Identification by Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) sequence revealed their identities as R. solani AG1-IA, Chaetomium globosum, and Poitrasia circinans. C. globosum and P. circinans were associated with rice sheath blight. A phylogenetic tree differentiated R. solani AG1-IA from C. globosum and P. circinans and revealed other R. solani AG-4 and AG2-2IIIB subgroups and fungi that could cause the sheath rot of rice (Fusarium proliferatum, F. hainanense, F. sulawesianense, and Sarocladium oryzae).https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_240521_395a07612beae469f125955ab5334364.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762320220901GCMS Separation of the Bioactive Fraction Obtained from Aspergillus flavus Isolated from El-Qussair Marine Environments74776224221910.21608/ejbo.2022.122564.1916ENOm Kalthoum H. KhattabMicrobiology Department, Faculty of Science, Helwan University, Helwan, EgyptAmany Abo El-Nasr El-SafeyMicrobiology Department, Faculty of Science, Helwan University, Helwan, Egypt0000-0002-8954-0358Mahomud M. ElaasserRegional Center for Mycology and Biotechnology, Al Azhar University, Cairo, EgyptWesam S. BakryMicrobiology Department, Faculty of Science, Helwan University, Helwan, EgyptJournal Article20220218DUE TO THEIR diversity and chemo-diversity, marine fungi are renowned for producing structurally distinct secondary metabolites and are regarded as a viable source of novel treatments. This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of 26 fungal strains collected from the Mediterranean and Red Seas at Sharm el-sheikh, Marsa matrouh, Damietta, El-ain el-sobhy, and El-Qusair. Using the well diffusion method with ethyl acetate, petroleum ether, methanolic, and chloroformic extracts, the antibacterial activity of each fungal isolate against pathogenic microbes was assessed. Our research revealed that marine fungi, particularly those from El-Qusair, possess potent antibacterial properties. The IC50 values for the cytotoxic activity of natural products extracted with ethyl acetate and petroleum ether against human hepatocellular cancer cell lines (HepG2 cells), human colon carcinoma cell lines (HCT-116 cells), and human breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7 cells) were 62.13, 115.93, and 154.82g/mL, respectively. Using the DPPH free radical scavenging assay in triplicate and average values, the antioxidant activity of the active fraction was determined. Our findings revealed that the ethylacetate extract had the highest percent DPPH scavenging activity compared to petroleum ether extracts. Using GCMS, chromatographic separations of the active ethyl acetate extract were performed to determine the active principles responsible for the activities.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_242219_49f0409b431cf8232f25168ba04d48e9.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762320220901Physicochemical Characterization of Sargassum latifolium at Ras Sudr Shores - Red Sea Coast of Egypt76377624222810.21608/ejbo.2022.123635.1920ENSeham E. Abu AhmedBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Damietta University, Damietta, EgyptSeham E. Abu AhmedMohamed A. DeyabBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Damietta University, Damietta, EgyptMohamed A. DeyabNagwa I. HassanBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Damietta University, Damietta, EgyptMostafa M. El-SheekhBotany Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, EgyptnullJournal Article20220223SARGASSUM latifolium is an edible brown alga collected from the red seashore in Egypt during autumn. This research aimed to investigate the physicochemical properties and biogenic molecules of S. latifolium. The optimal physicochemical properties of red seawater were a moderate temperature (24°C), salinity (40.12%), hydrogen ion concentration (7.8), dissolved oxygen (7.37mg/L), a slightly alkaline pH, a slightly elevated biochemical oxygen demand (1.8mg/L), and an electrical conductivity of 53.67mmhos/cm. S. latifolium’s biochemical composition is rich in carbohydrates (45.52mg/g dry weight) and low in protein (6.38mg/g dry weight). S. latifolium contained 89.23% and 23.37% moisture and ash, respectively. The bioactive compounds in an aqueous crude extract of S. latifolium separated between 200 and 400nm, as shown by UV scan analyses. The FT-IR analysis of S. latifolium revealed numerous functional groups, including -OH, -NH, -CH, -COOH, CO, and C–C. The resulting aqueous extract of S. latifolium contained steroids, terpenoids, flavonoids, phenols, coumarins, and quinones.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_242228_73aab6612e968923e6eac792deb5545c.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762320220901A New Record for the Flora of Saudi Arabia: Portulaca foliosa Ker Gawl. (Portulacaceae)77778324224110.21608/ejbo.2022.118937.1898ENSami A. Al-RobaiDepartment of Biology, Faculty of Science, Albaha University, Albaha, Saudi Arabia0000000259255863Abdelazim A. AhmedDepartment of Biology, Faculty of Science, Albaha University, Albaha, Saudi Arabia Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, University of Khartoum, Sudan0000-0002-2193-633XHaidar A. MohamedDepartment of Biology, Faculty of Science, Albaha University, Albaha, Saudi Arabia Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research Institute, National Council for Research, Sudan0000-0002-1497-2412Fatima O. Al-zahraniDepartment of Biology, Faculty of Science, Albaha University, Albaha, Saudi Arabia0000-0002-2020-5930Maha A. KordofaniDepartment of Botany, Faculty of Science, University of Khartoum, Sudan0000-0003-1334-215XJournal Article20220202THIS STUDY presents the Portulaca foliosa Ker Gawl. as a new species in the flora of Saudi Arabia. The plant was found scattered in limited locations in Alabna escarpment, southwestern Saudi Arabia, growing in a rocky, humid habitat between 1400–1800 m.a.s.l. Five species belonging to the genus Portulaca were reported in Saudi Arabia, namely P. oleracea L., P. quadrifida L., P. grandiflora Hook., P. kermesina N.E.BR., and P. pilosa L. These species have similarities in their shoot and floral structures. However, the obtuse leaves, retuse petals, and the flower’s coluor are features that distinguish the new taxon from the other species. The newly recorded species is easily distinguishable from the other five Portulaca species through its small flower with bright yellow petals. To facilitate identification, distribution and habitat, detailed vegetative and floral descriptions, colour photographs, a map showing locality along with a new key for the genus Portulaca in the flora of Saudi Arabia are given.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_242241_d0e406af1649eea323f795983a50fd33.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762320220901Vegetative Anatomy as a Source of Taxonomic Characters in Rosaceae in Iraq78579624393210.21608/ejbo.2022.124005.1926ENEman M.A. Al-RubaieDepartment of Biology, College of Science, University of Basrah, Basrah, IraqWidad M.T. Al-AsadiDepartment of Ecology, College of Science, University of Basrah, Basrah, IraqWageeha M. EssaaDepartment of Horticulture and Land Scape, College of Agriculture, University of Basrah, Basrah, IraqJournal Article20220305ASPECTS of variations in the stem, leaf, and petiole anatomy of Crataegus monogyna Jacq., Malus domestica Borkh., Prunus armeniaca L., Prunus domestica L., Prunus avium (L.) L., Prunus persica (L.) Batsch, Prunus spinosa L., Pyrus communis L., and Rosa × damascena Herrm. (Rosaceae) have been recorded compared to fresh specimens. The present study disclosed that the anatomical characteristics of the leaf and stem are important in differentiating different species, such as leaf thickness, mesophyll, vascular bundle, and the upper and lower epidermis of the leaf. The only vascular bundle of the leaf mid vein is consistently kidney-shaped except in P. spinosa where it is circular. The petiole outline in the cross section, was between kidney and circular in all species. The data matrix was analyzed numerically using the PAST program. Species were divided into two groups based on cluster analysis and similarity percentage as species belonging to Prunus formed one group and R. damascena and P. persica were placed in another group. The current study indicates the taxonomic usefulness of the largely untapped source of anatomical attributes of Rosaceae.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_243932_debab48377e8a8b0e742e9d3179b2671.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762320220901Molecular Phylogenetics of Microbial Endophytes Endowed with Plant Growth-promoting Traits from Populus tomentosa79781024614910.21608/ejbo.2022.136243.1977ENAmira E. SehimBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science Benha University, Benha, Egypt National Engineering Laboratory for Tree Breeding, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry Beijing, China Key Laboratory of Genetics and Breeding in Forest Trees and Ornamental Plants, Ministry of Education, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry, Beijing, ChinaGhada E. DawwamBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science Benha University, Benha, Egypt National Engineering Laboratory for Tree Breeding, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry Beijing, China Key Laboratory of Genetics and Breeding in Forest Trees and Ornamental Plants, Ministry of Education, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry, Beijing, China0000-0002-2911-658XJournal Article20220427ENDOPHYTIC microorganisms are used as substitutes for chemical fertilizers and pesticides for increasing plant growth and productivity. In this study, we isolated 90 bacterial and 64 endophytic fungal isolates from the roots, stems, and leaves of different genotypes of Chinese white poplar (Populus tomentosa Carr.). The isolated endophytes were screened for the production of plant growth-promoting parameters, such as indole-3-acetic acid, siderophores, and inorganic phosphate solubilization. Furthermore, the endophytes were assessed for their activities of hydrolytic enzymes, such as amylase, cellulase, and pectinase. In vitro tests were conducted to visualize root colonization for the most potent isolates. Furthermore, 16S rRNA sequence analysis indicated that strains 24RB, 33RB, 59SB, 85LB, and 88LB displayed similarities to Enterobacter tabaci, Bacillus velezensis, Bacillus megaterium, Pantoea eucrina, and Bacillus aryabhattai ; these strains are deposited in GenBank under accession numbers MN540932.1, MN559965.1, MN540915.1, MN541091.1, and MN540958.1, respectively. Based on nucleotide sequencing from the internal transcribed spacer of rDNA, fungal isolate codes 17RF, 37RF, 46SF, 48SF, 52SF, and 63LF were identified as Lasiosphaeriaceae sp., Chaetomium globosum, Aspergillus niger, Peyronellaea sp., Talaromyces amestolkiae, and Alternaria sp. and deposited in GenBank with accession numbers MN541090.1, MN541117.1, MN540962.1, MN540968.1, MN540956.1, and MN541096.1, respectively. In conclusion, these strains have the potential to be commercialized for agricultural purposes.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_246149_4969b898a3edf063c298d5f4b490d14a.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762320220901Onopordum arenarium (Desf.) Pomel (Asteraceae), a Noteworthy Record from Egypt81181524925910.21608/ejbo.2022.135635.1973ENAhmed ElKordyBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, 82524, Sohag, Egypt0000-0002-9972-8856Ibrahim A. El-GarfBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt0000-0002-8464-1125Ahmed K. OsmanBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, South Valley University, Qena 83523, Egypt0000-0001-8818-8789Naglaa Y. AbdallahBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, 82524, Sohag, Egypt0000-0002-7629-6018Mohamed O. BadryBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, South Valley University, Qena 83523, Egypt0000-0002-9346-2831Journal Article20220424DURING the fieldwork in the Mediterranean coastal region in the north of Egypt, Onopordum arenarium (Desf.) Pomel was newly discovered. This exotic species is native to North Africa (Algeria, Libya, Morocco, and Tunisia). O. arenarium flowering specimens were gathered from the El-Salloum plateau and the Mediterranean coastal region in the Matrouh Governorate of Egypt, 60 km east of El-Salloum. The taxon was reported for the first time in Egypt, which makes a new addition and significant contribution to the flora of Egypt. The paper includes a taxonomic description, an updated nomenclature, a geographical distribution, occurrence in Egypt, field-colored photographs, a comparison with closely related species, and an updated dichotomous artificial key to the Onopordum species in Egypt.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_249259_08e740becd3883d247b88b4ab9da7554.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762320220901Inhibition of The Growth and Toxicity of Cyanobacterium Chroococcus minutus Using Extremely Low Frequency Electromagnetic Fields81782425227810.21608/ejbo.2022.128307.1941ENZakaria A. MohamedBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, Sohag, EgyptAsmaa A. HosnyPhysics Department, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, Sohag, EgyptAsmaa A. BakrBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, Sohag, EgyptJournal Article20220423THE EFFECTS of extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMFs) on the growth and synthesis of microcystins (MCs) production of the harmful cyanobacterium Chroococcus minutus were examined by exposing cyanobacterial cells to various ELF-EMF frequencies (0.1–1Hz) for various exposure times (10–60min). C. minutus cultures exposed to ELF-EMF at a frequency of 0.5Hz for 40min had significantly fewer cells than the control. Under these conditions, intracellular and extracellular (MCs) and chlorophyll-a concentrations also decreased significantly. Within 48h, no extracellular MCs were detected in cultures exposed to ELF-EMF for 60min. This study offers an eco-friendly technique for removing harmful cyanobacterial toxins from water resources. By degrading extracellular MCs after cell lysis, ELF-EMF is non-destructive, non-reactive and safe for the environment. In addition, it prevents additional aquatic environmental pollution input.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_252278_fa1aa96a1473254450e28f2f6c076277.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762320220901Assessment of Oil and Seed Extracts of Moringa oleifera for Promising Anticandidal Activity in Autistic Children82583525228310.21608/ejbo.2022.61779.1624ENElzawawy NessmaBotany Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, EgyptMetwally A. MetwallyBotany Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, EgyptHegazy SamahBotany Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, EgyptJournal Article20210206MORINGA OLEIFERA (M. oleifera) is a plant with a high nutritional value and an impressive range of medicinal uses. Plants of the Moringaceae family contain a wide range of secondary metabolites with biological activities, with an essential role in the pharmaceutical industry. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report the anti-candidal, antioxidant properties and chemical constituents of M. oleifera oil and its seed extracts with its in vivo toxicological assessment as herbal medicine. The results showed that M. oleifera oil showed the highest antifungal activity against six strains of Candida species isolated from the stool samples of the autistic children, which included C. albicans, C. dulblinesis, C. glabarata, C. kefyr, C. krusei, and C. lusitania. The M. oleifera oil (1.0%) exhibited the highest growth rate reduction and antioxidant activity. The GC/MS of M. oleifera oil revealed 17 compounds with methyl ester, stigmasterol, tetraphenyl and vitamin E as significant components. Moreover, an in vivo toxicological assessment confirmed the safety of M. oleifera oil. Therefore, M. oleifera oil can serve to be a promising therapy for improving autistic gastrointestinal problems.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_252283_2710e5c5a5c15ef32c07e62f04c687da.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762320220901Unlocking the Ecological and Molecular Characterization of Agaricales from Temperate Forests of Pakistan83784925228410.21608/ejbo.2022.116224.1881ENMuhammad AliSustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore, Pakistan0000-0003-1347-9666Shinawar W. AliDepartment of Food Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore, PakistanFaiza SharifSustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore, PakistanSidra JavedDepartment of Environmental and Agricultural Sciences, University of Okara, Okara, PakistanMuhammad ShahzadSustainable Development Study Centre, Government College University, Lahore, PakistanAhmad A. ShahidCenter for Excellence in Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, PakistanJournal Article20220115MUSHROOMS are a valuable group of fungi essential for their consumption and play a vital role in the ecosystem. Their fruiting bodies possess a variety in their shape, color, and ornamentation; these features are the reason for their identification. This study was carried out in Kumrat Valley, Upper Dir District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, to explore the ignored native flora of Pakistan and examine their detailed characterization. Fifteen species of order Agaricales were collected and characterized during the survey and sample collection. The highest percentage frequency (100%) was calculated in the case of Inocybe rimosa and Hygrocybe conica, while the lowest frequency (25%) was for Amanita species and developed a detailed Arc GIS map of the sampling site. DNA was isolated and amplified on PCR by using ITS primers. PCR products were sequenced and submitted to NCBI for accession numbers. A phylogenetic relationship between the species of the same order was made using Mega X. Similar studies are not common in Pakistan. Therefore, examining biodiversity and the different varieties of native mushrooms in forested areas of Pakistan is recommended.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_252284_0a4665b08b4a3d38f3da8584ca0c3f65.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762320220901Statistical Optimization of Fermentation Conditions by Plackett–Burman Methodology for a New Extracellular Cholesterol Oxidase-Producing Bacillus cytotoxicus Strain85186425229110.21608/ejbo.2022.137135.1991ENGhada A. YoussefBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21431, EgyptWaleed El-MaghrabyBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21431, EgyptSamy El-AassarBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21431, Egypt.Journal Article20220507CHOLESTEROL oxidase (CHO) is an oxidoreductase flavoenzyme with significant biotechnological applications. Recently, microbial CHO has received a great attention for their wide applications in medicinal field. The objective of the present work details the screening of extracellular cholesterol oxidase (CHO) producing microorganisms. Cholesterol oxidase producing bacteria were isolated from various local soil samples and some dairy products. Twelve isolates were tested for cholesterol oxidase activity using the well diffusion agar method to assess their ability to decompose cholesterol. One isolate was finally selected based on the highest productivity of cholesterol oxidase and high degree of cholesterol decomposition. The selected isolate was characterized using morphological, physical and biochemical techniques. The isolated bacterium was identified as Bacillus cytotoxicus strain and confirmed molecularly using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and deposited in GenBank with accession number KY367576. Classical (one-variable-at-a-time) and statistical method (Plackett–Burman design) were used to optimize growth medium to enhance the production of CHO from Bacillus cytotoxicus. The statistical optimized medium exhibited 2.63-fold increase in enzyme activity (2.31U/mL) and 2.57-fold increase in cholesterol decomposition (88.9%) in comparison with the un-optimized basal medium. The results revealed that Bacillus cytotoxicus has great potential for cholesterol degradation and produced significant levels of extracellular CHO in an optimized medium.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_252291_544591b538711971ed2f39889ea71755.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762320220901Screening of Antifungal Activity of Bioactive Chemical Constituents in Some Brown Marine Macroalgae from the Red Sea, Egypt86587825229510.21608/ejbo.2022.141379.2008ENMostafa M. EL-SheekhBotany Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, EgyptHamdy R. GalalBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, South Valley University, Qena 83523, EgyptAmal SH.H. MousaBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, South Valley University, Qena 83523, EgyptAbla FarghlBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, South Valley University, Qena 83523, EgyptJournal Article20220528SOME mycological strains have been reported to be resistant to commonly used drugs. As a result, the development of new and important antifungal drugs has become a global endeavor. This study investigated the antifungal activity of three brown marine macroalgae, Sargassum cinereum, Padina boergesenii, and Cystoseira myrica against three fungal dermatophytes, namely Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, and Candida tropicalis and two nondermatophytic, Fusarium oxysporum and Alternaria alternata using the disc diffusion assay. Algal extraction was performed using three organic solvents (acetone, ethanol, and methanol). The results showed that the seaweed extracts exhibited different patterns of antifungal activities. The ethanolic extract of Sargassum cinereum was the most active as compared to other organic extracts. The maximum antifungal activity of the S. cinereum ethanolic extract was 21.3 ± 0.32 and 18.8 ± 0.16mm against F. oxysporum and C. glabrata, respectively, followed by the methanolic extract of C. myrica (16.5 ± 0.21mm) against F. oxysporum, and ethanolic extract of P. boergesenii (16.3 ± 0.16mm) against C. glabrata. The minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of the algal extracts for inhibiting the tested fungi were in a range of 8.5–70μg/mL. The ethanolic extract of S. cinereum had the lowest MIC value (8.5 ± 0.12μg/mL) against F. oxysporum. The gas chromatography–mass spectrometry of the ethanolic extracts revealed the presence of chemical constituents that could have significant antifungal effects in the brown marine macroalgae. The main constituents were the hexadecanoic acid methyl ester (palmitic acid); 3,7-dimethylocta-2,6-dienal; and octadecanoic acid methyl ester.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_252295_dfd5c7f5253a98643b065bc43a95451b.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762320220901Phytoplankton and Bacterial Dynamics Related to the Physicochemical Characteristics of Manzala Lake Water, Egypt87989925260610.21608/ejbo.2022.145176.2019ENAbeer M.A. MahmoudNational Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries (NIOF), Cairo, Egypt0000-0003-0628-0915Nasser S. FlefilNational Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries (NIOF), Cairo, Egypt0000-0002-7495-3950Seliem M. El SayedNational Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries (NIOF), Cairo, Egypt0000-0003-0440-6510Usama M. TahounNational Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries (NIOF), Cairo, Egypt0000-0002-5676-9148Mohamed E. GoherNational Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries (NIOF), Cairo, Egypt0000-0001-9377-2429Journal Article20220616MANZALA Lake, the largest Egyptian northern lake, suffers from continuous deterioration as it receives huge amounts of different wastes. This study evaluated the abiotic and biotic conditions of the lake water (e.g., physicochemical variables, bacterial communities, and phytoplankton structures and their biochemical contents) from 11 sites along the lake in winter and summer 2020. The results revealed that the increase in phytoplankton densities and chlorophyll (a) in winter combined with increased nutrient contents. The highest concentrations of the biochemical contents of phytoplankton and the highest enumerations of bacterial indicators were recorded during summer. The sites close to the inlets of drains recorded a complete depletion of oxygen and a high ammonia content. The highest phytoplankton standing crop was recorded in the middle sector of the lake. Despite the efforts of the Egyptian government to rehabilitate Manzala Lake since 2017, the results showed an increase in pollution levels at various sites and the continued deterioration of the lake’s ecological status. These results confirm the importance of increasing the efforts to restore the environmental health status of the lake, primarily by treating wastewater before it is discharged into the lake.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_252606_3e2dec6f830848a56693671144adab19.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762320220901Impact of Funneliformis mosseae Inoculation on the Growth and Productivity of Gladiolus grandiflorus L. under Different Types and Rates of Organic Manures Fertilization90191623029310.21608/ejbo.2022.69776.1659ENMohamed A.I. MansourDepartment of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Arish University, Al-Arish 45511, Egypt0000-0001-6840-5686Hany M.S. HassanPlant Production Department, Faculty of Environmental Agricultural Sciences, Arish University, 45511, EgyptMohamed A.I. AbdelKaderHorticulture Department, Faculty of Environmental Agriculture, Zagazig University, 44523, EgyptJournal Article20210414GLADIOLUS grandiflorus L. cv. White Prosperity corms were cultivated on field experiments during the two consecutive seasons of 2018/2019 and 2019/2020 at the Experimental Farm, Faculty of Environmental Agricultural Sciences, Arish University, Egypt to study the influence of Funneliformis mosseae (with and without inoculation) under different organic manures types: Chicken manure (ChM) and Farmyard manure (FYM) and rates (0.0, 10 and 20m3/feddan) on G. grandiflorus L. cv. White Prosperity on the vegetative growth and productivity. The obtained results showed that chicken manure addition at 20m3 fed -1 significantly increased gladiolus vegetative growth, flowering characters and reduced days to spike emergence and days to first floret opening during the two seasons. This treatment enhanced corm values and productivity with improvement of chemical constituent values during the two seasons. F. mosseae inoculation significantly increased all vegetative growth, flowering characters (except that of days to spike emergence and days to first floret opening), corms productivity and chemical constituents during both seasons. The interaction between F. mosseae and ChM or FYM significantly increased the formation and percentage of F. mosseae spore density, root colonization and structure (hyphae, vesicles and arbuscules) compared with control treatment. F. mosseae structures significantly increased by adding ChM at two rates (10 or 20m3 fed-1) which gave the highest values at flowering stage compared with after 30 days and harvesting stage in the two seasons.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_230293_828a7793165663a936a85eeddcd3286a.pdfNational Information and Documentation Center (NIDOC), Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)Egyptian Journal of Botany0375-923762320220901Biochemical and Molecular Markers Differentiate Ficus Species from Four Locations in Saudi Arabia91793424337510.21608/ejbo.2022.108098.1846ENShawkat M. AhmedBiology Department, Faculty of Science, Taif University, Saudi Arabia ) Biological and Geological Sciences Department, Faculty of Education, Ain Shams University, Cairo, EgyptYassin M. Al-SodanyBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt0000-0002-8417-9129May LabeebSeadaAssistant lecturer, Faculty of science (Department of Botany and Microbiology), kafrelsheikh UniversityAziza S. El-KholyBotany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt0000-000-6378-0452Journal Article20211221HEREIN, the biochemical and molecular genetic variability among some Ficus species collected from four locations (Shafa, Baha, Hawia, and Hada) in Saudi Arabia were studied using protein, isozyme profiles, and random amplified polymorphic DNA from PCR (RAPD) analysis. Results revealed significant variations among Ficus species. A significant level of polymorphism (96.5%) was recorded at the protein level. For all isozymes, high polymorphism, between 67% and 100%, was detected. The dendrogram, generated using pooled data from SDS-PAGE and isozyme studies, divided species into a main cluster including all accessions except a single species, F. ingens (Shafa), found in another cluster forming a separate operational taxonomic unit (OTU). The main cluster was subdivided into subclusters reflecting the high variability among Ficus species or accessions collected from various locations. The RAPD-PCR fingerprints for four Ficus species were created using five primers. Among the 35 RAPD bands detected, 18 were polymorphic and 17 unique bands. The dendrogram resulting from unweighted pair group method with arithmetic average analysis clustered the four species into one primary cluster except Ficus ingens that agreed with the previous dendrogram. SDS-PAGE, isozymes, and RAPD-PCR techniques helped revealing geographical effects on the genetic diversity of Ficus species. The preliminary information here generated can be used for taxonomical grouping, breeding, genetic improvement, local germplasm conservation, and management of Saudi fig genetic resources.https://ejbo.journals.ekb.eg/article_243375_8972d7f4eeff8019e83e3abaa60f4804.pdf