Dr. Jayasree S | MERCY COLLEGE, PALAKKAD (original) (raw)

Papers by Dr. Jayasree S

International Journal of Research Publication and Reviews, 2023

Butterflies are the most fascinating group of insects to mankind and they are the good bio-indica... more Butterflies are the most fascinating group of insects to mankind and they are the good bio-indicators of the ecosystem and are very sensitive to changes in the environment. They play an important role in food chain and are valuable pollinators in the local environment. Present study focussed on the assessment of the butterfly diversity and its conservation priorities. A total of 132 species of butterflies belonging to five families was recorded. The family Nymphalidae was the most dominant with the highest number of species (47 species; 35.6%), followed by Pieridae (32 species; 24.24%), Papilionidae (31 species: 23.48%), Lycaenidae (19 species; 14.39%), Hesperiidae (3 species; 2.27%). Among 132 species, 20 species of butterflies which are protected under various schedules of Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Nymphalidae was the dominating family with a highest number of species. Kulappully was found to be the most diverse site with 23 species followed by Mankara with 18 species and Chungamannam(7) , the least species diverse site. Shannon-Wiener diversity index of 4.48 was found on calculating total butterfly diversity in Palakkad District considering 10 sites.The present study focussed to have a checklist of the butterfly population in 10 selected sites in Palakkad District which will later contribute for planning development programmes to conserve butterflies.

International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), 2023

Phylogenetic relatedness is a key diversity measure for the analysis and understanding of how spe... more Phylogenetic relatedness is a key diversity measure for the analysis and understanding of how species and communities evolve across time and space. A species level phylogenetic tree for spiders were constructed using retrieved COI sequences of 66 species of spiders belongs to 17 family identified from 10 agroecosystems of Palakkad. Phylogram of Araneidae family with 23 specieshave 4 clusters and 6 monophyletic taxa. In theNJ plot of Araneidae family (0.05), Phonognatha graeffei with divergence of 0.174 was found as an out-group species. Argiope keyserlingi was found as internal ancestor (0.075). Phylogenetic tree with 20 species of salticidae family carries 5 cluster with 8 monophyletic taxa. NJ plot of salticidae family at the rate 0.1, Phintella vittate (0.482) showed maximum divergence from the ancestor and seen as outgroup and Menemerus bivittatus (0.131) function as internal ancestor. Phylogram with 66 species of 17 family with available COI sequence showed 4clusters, the first cluster represents orb web spiders. Second cluster formed of species from Araneidae, Salticidae, Theraphosidae, Pholcidae, Oxyopidae, Desidae, Corinnidae family. Third cluster formed of Salticidae family and fourth cluster supports Thomisidae, Lycosidae, Cheiracanthiidae, Sparassidaefamily. NJ plot constructed with 66 species at 0.1 divergence rate in which Menemerus bivittatus (0.138) of Salticidae family was found as outgroup. Nephila pilipes (0.031) ofAraneidae family was found as internal ancestor from which all the spider species evolved. Evolutionary connection between species have no significance from which agroecosystemthe spiders were identified in this study.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF INNOVATIVE RESEARCH IN TECHNOLOGY, 2023

Order Coleoptera is the largest and most diverse order of class insects. Beetles constitute the m... more Order Coleoptera is the largest and most diverse order of class insects. Beetles constitute the major part of our biodiversity. Coleopteran diversity study was done in Koduvayur gramapanchayat (ward 11) of Palakkad District for a period of 5 months (October 2021 to February 2022) and phylogenetic analysis was performed based on the identified species in the study. During the study period 48 species belong 40 genera of 15 families were identified. Most of the Beetles are observed as terrestrial but some of them are aquatic in habit. The sizes of the observed beetles were ranged between about 3 mm to 6 cm. The highest species diversity obtained in this study belongs to the family scarabaeidae (38%) with 18 species of 14 genera. The second largest species in the study was family Chrysomelidae (21%). The evolutionary relationship between beetles has been analyzed using Clustal X. Based on the phylogenetic analysis, the family Dytiscidae showed lowest root distance (0.086110), hence only few changes had occurred in the genetic makeup with respect extant taxa and it can be the close relative of the common ancestor. Family Hydrophilidae represents recent taxon which shows the highest root distance (0.842630). Highest diversity shown family Scarabaeidae (0.12550) and melonidae(0.12570) belongs to same clade with almost same root distance. Scarabaeidae lies intermediate between Dytiscidae and Hydrophilidae with moderate evolution which indicate highly adapted species in this locality.

International Journal of Innovative Research in Science, Engineering and Technology (IJIRSET), 2023

Spiders are diverse and ubiquitous invertebrate predators in terrestrial ecosystems. Spiders are ... more Spiders are diverse and ubiquitous invertebrate predators in terrestrial ecosystems. Spiders are considered the major agent for controlling insect communities in agricultural ecosystems because of their high abundance and insectivorous foraging habit. A Pioneer study was conducted to reveal the spider diversity in Sreekrishnapuram agroecosystems of Palakkad district, Kerala and their phylogenetic analysis. The major objective of this study was to evaluate the current status of spider diversity in this study area. A total of 30 species of spiders belonging to 27 genera of 11 families were identified and studied during the study period. Salticidae is the dominant family from which 8 species are recorded. Phylogenetic analysis was based on DNA sequences of mitochondrial Cytochrome C Oxidase subunit 1 (CO1). This analysis reveals Salticidae family has the least root distance,0.070030 which shows much resemblance to the ancestor. Lycocidae is the most diverged Family with root distance 0. 208430.The average root distance is 0.122313 and the variation is0.013395. The vast majority of similarities and differences among species are due to phylogeny. Jumping spiders (Salticidae) all have huge anterior median eyes because they are relatively closely related, and wolf spider (Lycosidae) eyes exhibit their characteristic eye pattern for the same reason. Phylogeny explains more biological pattern than any other scientific theory and therefore classifications based on phylogeny will be maximally predictive. The diversity of Salticidae with 8 species and Pholcus phalangioides abundance shows its adaptation in the present agroecosystem .

Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (JETIR), 2022

Dermatoglyphics is the art and science of the study of surface markings and patterns of ridges on... more Dermatoglyphics is the art and science of the study of surface markings and patterns of ridges on the skin of the fingers, palm, toes and soles. Dermatoglyphics patterns are unique for a given individual and it depends on the genetic makeup of an individual, hence can be used as a tool for investigations into disease conditions with a suspected genetic basis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the dermatoglyphic features and the specific variations which were to be used as diagnostic tools for an economic and early detection of diabetes, hypertension and hypercholesterolemia conditions.The present study was conducted on 200 patients each (50) with confirmed diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus (DM), Hypertension (HBP) and Hypercholesterolemia (HCL) and combination cases of DM, HBP and HCL who visited as outpatient in the Welcare hospital Palakkad near Mercy College. 50 subjects were taken as controls and it was seen that they do not suffer from any relevant disease and are not on any relevant medication randomly selected from the population of Palakkad region. Hypertensive (HBP) patients of this study group exhibited highest TFRC values in female (146±16.4), highest a-b ridge count in males(31.52±4.3) and highest atd angle (67.8±9.2) than control and other affected population. Ulnar loop (3.56) pattern was dominant in DM patients' but whorl pattern in HBP (2.32) and HCL (2.1) patients. The patients with DM, HBP & HCL ulnar loop dominates (2. 37) but almost same whorl pattern was noticed and no radial loop. No significant variation was found in the PII Value between male and female controls as well as in DM, HBP patients. This study helped us to find out an association of palmar and digital dermatoglyphic parameters between diabetes, hypertension and hypercholesterolemia patients in comparison with controls. The study proves that there occurs pattern change in affected population. The existence of such relation might be important in the screening program for prevention of diseases like Diabetes, hypertension and hypercholesterolemia and cardiac complications arise due to this condition.

Spider diversity (Arachnida: Araneae) in selected ten mixed agroecosystems of Palakkad District, Kerala, India, 2023

Spiders are successful natural enemies of pests occurring throughout the different strata of an a... more Spiders are successful natural enemies of pests occurring throughout the different strata of an agroecosystem. The study of their functional responses can provide information related to the potential effectiveness of different species and guilds on reducing a pest population. The present paper deals with a study of diversity and distribution of spiders from 10 agro-ecosystems (Pathiripala,

Lipases are versatile biocatalysts that are used extensively in detergent and pharmaceutical form... more Lipases are versatile biocatalysts that are used extensively in detergent and pharmaceutical formulations. Their superior value arises from specificity and efficacy as compared to chemical catalysts. In this study we have isolated a bacterial strain Staphylococcus saprophyticus (WCS1C2) that showed high lipase production of 140 units / ml from windrow compost bed. The culture parameters were optimized with altered conditions like temperature, pH, incubation time, substrate specificity and metalions. The lipidic substrates tested were coconut oil, olive oiland trybutyrin. The optimized conditions where maximum lipaseof 644 units/ml producedwere found to be with pH 6.0, incubation temperature at 27 0 C and incubation period of 120 hrs.The carbon, nitrogen and metal ion source to be optimal for the production of lipase was found to be with olive oil; peptone + yeast extract combination and sodium chloride 1% respectively. Under optimized conditions, lipase production by Staphylococcus saprophyticus increased by 5 fold compared to unoptimized conditions.

The present study deals with the comparison of immunological and biochemical parameters in the ha... more The present study deals with the comparison of immunological and biochemical parameters in the haemolymph of Indian white shrimp Fenneropenaeus indicus collected from mud bank forming area of (chavakkad) and natural habitat (Kozhikkode). Higher Total hemocyte count (THC) of 63.7 X10 6 cells /mm 3 was obtained with Chavakkad sample in contrast to Kozhikode 61.9 X10 5 cells millions/mm 3. Higher phenoloxidase (PO) activity was found in Chavakkad samples (0.029 units/min) but less in kozhikkode sample (0.011units/min). The PO activity of F. indicus showed highest titre value (0.180) in plasma, with increased concentration of laminarin. Haemagglutination activity against bacterial cells was found to be strong in the plasma of Chavakkad samples (0.0625) in comparison with Chavakkad samples (0.0123). F. indicus plasma of Chavakkad samples showed the strongest agglutination titre against human erythrocytes A, B, O and AB (48, 32, 25, 28) than supernatant and pellet. Antimicrobial production assay of Chavakkad sample showed maximum zone of clearance of 10mm with Bacillus and 12 mm with Pseudomonas whereas Kozhikode samples showed only 5 mm clearance with Bacillus and 1mm clearance with Psedomonas. The protein concentration of Chavakkad and Kozhikode samples were 1129.75µg/ml and 471.5µg/ml respectively. Samples collected from Chavakkad showed maximum glucose concentration of 2757.5µg/ml and less glucose in Kozhikode sample (680 µg/ml). Results evidently reveal that the samples of shrimp haemolymph from non-stressful habitats viz. mud bank formation areas show enhancement in immunological response and biochemical parameters both quantitatively and qualitatively. Studies on the haemolymph provide clear indications about the physiological state and general health of the shrimp which is the most important factor in any aquaculture practice.

16S rDNA sequencing has played a pivotal role in the accurate identification of bacterial isolate... more 16S rDNA sequencing has played a pivotal role in the accurate identification of bacterial isolates and the discovery of novel lipase producing bacteria from windrow compost for industrial applications. Two best lipase producing strains isolated from windrow compost were characterized by morphological, physicochemical characteristics and 16s rDNA sequencing. The genomic DNA extracted from WCS 1 C 2 and WCS 3 C 2 from the windrow compost were purified separately and used them as templates for the amplification of 16S rDNA gene sequences using Eppendorf thermal cycler. These 16S rDNA amplicaons were purified and subjected to automated DNA sequencing on ABI 3730xl genetic analyzer. The subsequent forward and reverse sequences of the 16S rDNA genes were aligned to obtain the consensus sequences that were analyzed with BLASTn using NCBI GenBank database. The multiple alignment analysis of the ten best chosen bacterial strain sequences with the respective WCS 1 C 2 and WCS 3 C 2 sequence was performed using Clustal X and the results were processed to make the phylogenetic tree using Treeview and NJ Plot. 16S rDNA sequence data revealed that the strain WCS 1 C 2 had highest homology (99%) with Staphylococcus saprophytics and strain WCS 3 C 2 showed highest homology (91%) with Pseudomonas otitidis. The result of the present study indicated scope for utilizing lipase producing bacteria for further enhanced production of lipase, purification, characterization and various industrial applications.

Zika virus disease (Zika) is a disease caused by the Zika virus, which is spread to people primar... more Zika virus disease (Zika) is a disease caused by the Zika virus, which is spread to people primarily through the bite of
an infected Aedes species mosquito. Zika virus is a flavivirus, in the family Flaviviridae, distributed throughout much of
Africa and Asia. The most common symptoms of Zika are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). The illness
is usually mild with symptoms lasting for several days to a week after being bitten by an infected mosquito. However,
Zika virus infection during pregnancy can cause a serious birth defect called microcephaly, as well as other severe fetal
brain defects. Once a person has been infected, he or she is likely to be protected from future infections. Zika virus is
transmitted to people primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito (A. aegypti and A. albopictus). No
vaccine exists to prevent Zika virus disease (Zika).Treatment is focused on relieving the symptoms. Prevention and control
relies on reducing the breeding of Aedes mosquitoes and minimizing contact between mosquito vectors and people
by using barriers (such as repellents, insect screens), reducing water-filled habitats supporting mosquito larvae in and close
to dwellings, and reducing the adult mosquito populations around at-risk communities. Zika is commanding attention
because of an alarming connection between the virus and microcephaly, a neurological disorder that results in babies
being born with abnormally small heads. It causes severe developmental issues and sometimes death.

Lipolytic enzymes are currently attracting significant attention because of their biotechnologica... more Lipolytic enzymes are currently attracting significant attention because of their biotechnological potential. Most of the lipases used in industry are microbial enzymes, of both fungal and bacterial origin. Windrow composting is a controlled,self-heating, aerobic degradation of organic materials by mesophilic and thermophilic microorganisms. The present study deals with isolation of lipase producing bacteria from windrow compost. The samples were collected from compost heap at an interval of 10 days and screened for lipase producing bacterial
fauna in Tributyrin agar medium after serial dilution. A clear zone of hydrolysis indicated enzyme production. Out of 73 bacterial colonies screened, 24 lipase producing bacterial strains were isolated by checking the production of zone
clearance in the tributyrin agar medium. Based on the morphological and biochemical characteristics 24 bacterial strains were identified up to species levels with the help of ABIS online analysis tool. The best lipase producers Staphylococcus (WCS1C2) and Pseudomonas (WCS3C2) genus were further
characterized by 16s rDNA sequencing and identified as Staphylococcus saprophytics and Pseudomonas otidis. These bacterial strains can be used for theproduction of lipase enzyme for industrial applications.

Bioremediation of petroleum contaminated soil by amending vermicompost with earthworms were compa... more Bioremediation of petroleum contaminated soil by amending vermicompost with earthworms were compared with cowdung on the growth and biochemical parameters of ladys finger, Hibiscus esculentus. Seed germination, growth of plants, flowering and yield of vegetable plant lady’s finger, H. esculentus revealed that the onset of flowering and fruiting was earlier with fleshy fruits in pots with vermicompost+Earthworm+ petrol (S4) than that of petrol concentrated soil (S6-S9).Maximum height of 32.1cm was observed in S4 (Soil+vermicompost+ Petrolsoil), much difference was not met with S2 (soil +vermicompost). The lowest height in plant growth was recorded in sample 6, petrol concentration. The seedling perished after 20 days. The total protein content, amino acids and carbohydrates was found to be maximum in S4 (petrol soil + Earthworm+ vermicompost). Available EC (µs/cm), Phospherous% and Potassium % were significantly higher in S4 sample than any other combination, might be the reason for high yield of ladys finger. Petrol Soil+ vermicompost treatment exhibited significant increase in all the parameters compared to normal control and Soil+cow dung combination. Pure control soil and different concentrations of petrol combinations were acidic whereas vermicompost and cowdung soil mixtures are slightly alkaline. EC (µs/cm) was higher in petrol soil + vermicompost. Available Nitrogen (TOC) (%), TOM (%), Phosphorus (%) and Potassium (%) showed significance increase when mixed with vermicompost and cowdung compared to petrol soil concentrations. An Electropherogram and chromatogram pattern strengthens the fact that the free aminoacid and proteins were protected in the S4 treatment than Petrol concentrations. Amending petrol contaminated soil with vermicompost with earthworms altered the soil characteristics, which helps in bioremediation of recalcitrant hydrocarbons and suits the growth of plants where as the crude combinations are not supporting plant growth. This pilot study under Indian condition is an eye-opener to the farmers to utilize the petrol/diesel contaminated soil for agricultural practice provided it should be amended with vermicompost for sustainable agriculture.

A natural agglutinin in the hemolymph of the marine prawn Penaeus indicus was isolated by gel fil... more A natural agglutinin in the hemolymph of the marine prawn Penaeus indicus was isolated by gel filtration chromatography, purified using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and
characterized. Prawn agglutinin has a native molecular mass of 181 kDa and consists of two monomeric units (97 and 84 kDa), maintains some agglutinating activity over a wide pH range (7–9), and is inactivated at 85° C. The agglutinin was denatured upon mixing with trichloroacetic acid, phenol, chloroform, and 45% ammonium sulfate. It was also sensitive ..

Antibacterial activity of Fenneropenaeus indicus hemolymph was mediated by Agglutinin (Ag), a pro... more Antibacterial activity of Fenneropenaeus indicus hemolymph was mediated by Agglutinin (Ag), a protein of molecular weight 181 kDa with two subunits 97 kDa and 84 kDa. Agglutinin was purified by gel filtration chromatography, PAGE, and SDS-PAGE, and polyclonal antibodies (anti-Ag) were raised in rabbits. In a double immunodiffusion test, single precipitin lines were found between the center well containing immune serum and
surrounding wells containing purified Ag and crude hemolymph. The IgG fraction was ...

Biological properties of a natural agglutinin in the hemolymph of Penaeus indicus were establishe... more Biological properties of a natural agglutinin in the hemolymph of Penaeus indicus were established. Agglutination was observed against different strains of bacteria and
erythrocytes and strong agglutination against a Vibrio sp. isolated from a diseased prawn gut (titer 256). Minimum concentration of agglutinin required for agglutination was 0.8 μg/ml. The agglutination reaction was affected by various sugars and ions. Agglutination and cross-linking process were inhibited by simple sugars like xylose, raffinose and trehalose, but ...

International Journal of Research Publication and Reviews, 2023

Butterflies are the most fascinating group of insects to mankind and they are the good bio-indica... more Butterflies are the most fascinating group of insects to mankind and they are the good bio-indicators of the ecosystem and are very sensitive to changes in the environment. They play an important role in food chain and are valuable pollinators in the local environment. Present study focussed on the assessment of the butterfly diversity and its conservation priorities. A total of 132 species of butterflies belonging to five families was recorded. The family Nymphalidae was the most dominant with the highest number of species (47 species; 35.6%), followed by Pieridae (32 species; 24.24%), Papilionidae (31 species: 23.48%), Lycaenidae (19 species; 14.39%), Hesperiidae (3 species; 2.27%). Among 132 species, 20 species of butterflies which are protected under various schedules of Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Nymphalidae was the dominating family with a highest number of species. Kulappully was found to be the most diverse site with 23 species followed by Mankara with 18 species and Chungamannam(7) , the least species diverse site. Shannon-Wiener diversity index of 4.48 was found on calculating total butterfly diversity in Palakkad District considering 10 sites.The present study focussed to have a checklist of the butterfly population in 10 selected sites in Palakkad District which will later contribute for planning development programmes to conserve butterflies.

International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), 2023

Phylogenetic relatedness is a key diversity measure for the analysis and understanding of how spe... more Phylogenetic relatedness is a key diversity measure for the analysis and understanding of how species and communities evolve across time and space. A species level phylogenetic tree for spiders were constructed using retrieved COI sequences of 66 species of spiders belongs to 17 family identified from 10 agroecosystems of Palakkad. Phylogram of Araneidae family with 23 specieshave 4 clusters and 6 monophyletic taxa. In theNJ plot of Araneidae family (0.05), Phonognatha graeffei with divergence of 0.174 was found as an out-group species. Argiope keyserlingi was found as internal ancestor (0.075). Phylogenetic tree with 20 species of salticidae family carries 5 cluster with 8 monophyletic taxa. NJ plot of salticidae family at the rate 0.1, Phintella vittate (0.482) showed maximum divergence from the ancestor and seen as outgroup and Menemerus bivittatus (0.131) function as internal ancestor. Phylogram with 66 species of 17 family with available COI sequence showed 4clusters, the first cluster represents orb web spiders. Second cluster formed of species from Araneidae, Salticidae, Theraphosidae, Pholcidae, Oxyopidae, Desidae, Corinnidae family. Third cluster formed of Salticidae family and fourth cluster supports Thomisidae, Lycosidae, Cheiracanthiidae, Sparassidaefamily. NJ plot constructed with 66 species at 0.1 divergence rate in which Menemerus bivittatus (0.138) of Salticidae family was found as outgroup. Nephila pilipes (0.031) ofAraneidae family was found as internal ancestor from which all the spider species evolved. Evolutionary connection between species have no significance from which agroecosystemthe spiders were identified in this study.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF INNOVATIVE RESEARCH IN TECHNOLOGY, 2023

Order Coleoptera is the largest and most diverse order of class insects. Beetles constitute the m... more Order Coleoptera is the largest and most diverse order of class insects. Beetles constitute the major part of our biodiversity. Coleopteran diversity study was done in Koduvayur gramapanchayat (ward 11) of Palakkad District for a period of 5 months (October 2021 to February 2022) and phylogenetic analysis was performed based on the identified species in the study. During the study period 48 species belong 40 genera of 15 families were identified. Most of the Beetles are observed as terrestrial but some of them are aquatic in habit. The sizes of the observed beetles were ranged between about 3 mm to 6 cm. The highest species diversity obtained in this study belongs to the family scarabaeidae (38%) with 18 species of 14 genera. The second largest species in the study was family Chrysomelidae (21%). The evolutionary relationship between beetles has been analyzed using Clustal X. Based on the phylogenetic analysis, the family Dytiscidae showed lowest root distance (0.086110), hence only few changes had occurred in the genetic makeup with respect extant taxa and it can be the close relative of the common ancestor. Family Hydrophilidae represents recent taxon which shows the highest root distance (0.842630). Highest diversity shown family Scarabaeidae (0.12550) and melonidae(0.12570) belongs to same clade with almost same root distance. Scarabaeidae lies intermediate between Dytiscidae and Hydrophilidae with moderate evolution which indicate highly adapted species in this locality.

International Journal of Innovative Research in Science, Engineering and Technology (IJIRSET), 2023

Spiders are diverse and ubiquitous invertebrate predators in terrestrial ecosystems. Spiders are ... more Spiders are diverse and ubiquitous invertebrate predators in terrestrial ecosystems. Spiders are considered the major agent for controlling insect communities in agricultural ecosystems because of their high abundance and insectivorous foraging habit. A Pioneer study was conducted to reveal the spider diversity in Sreekrishnapuram agroecosystems of Palakkad district, Kerala and their phylogenetic analysis. The major objective of this study was to evaluate the current status of spider diversity in this study area. A total of 30 species of spiders belonging to 27 genera of 11 families were identified and studied during the study period. Salticidae is the dominant family from which 8 species are recorded. Phylogenetic analysis was based on DNA sequences of mitochondrial Cytochrome C Oxidase subunit 1 (CO1). This analysis reveals Salticidae family has the least root distance,0.070030 which shows much resemblance to the ancestor. Lycocidae is the most diverged Family with root distance 0. 208430.The average root distance is 0.122313 and the variation is0.013395. The vast majority of similarities and differences among species are due to phylogeny. Jumping spiders (Salticidae) all have huge anterior median eyes because they are relatively closely related, and wolf spider (Lycosidae) eyes exhibit their characteristic eye pattern for the same reason. Phylogeny explains more biological pattern than any other scientific theory and therefore classifications based on phylogeny will be maximally predictive. The diversity of Salticidae with 8 species and Pholcus phalangioides abundance shows its adaptation in the present agroecosystem .

Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (JETIR), 2022

Dermatoglyphics is the art and science of the study of surface markings and patterns of ridges on... more Dermatoglyphics is the art and science of the study of surface markings and patterns of ridges on the skin of the fingers, palm, toes and soles. Dermatoglyphics patterns are unique for a given individual and it depends on the genetic makeup of an individual, hence can be used as a tool for investigations into disease conditions with a suspected genetic basis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the dermatoglyphic features and the specific variations which were to be used as diagnostic tools for an economic and early detection of diabetes, hypertension and hypercholesterolemia conditions.The present study was conducted on 200 patients each (50) with confirmed diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus (DM), Hypertension (HBP) and Hypercholesterolemia (HCL) and combination cases of DM, HBP and HCL who visited as outpatient in the Welcare hospital Palakkad near Mercy College. 50 subjects were taken as controls and it was seen that they do not suffer from any relevant disease and are not on any relevant medication randomly selected from the population of Palakkad region. Hypertensive (HBP) patients of this study group exhibited highest TFRC values in female (146±16.4), highest a-b ridge count in males(31.52±4.3) and highest atd angle (67.8±9.2) than control and other affected population. Ulnar loop (3.56) pattern was dominant in DM patients' but whorl pattern in HBP (2.32) and HCL (2.1) patients. The patients with DM, HBP & HCL ulnar loop dominates (2. 37) but almost same whorl pattern was noticed and no radial loop. No significant variation was found in the PII Value between male and female controls as well as in DM, HBP patients. This study helped us to find out an association of palmar and digital dermatoglyphic parameters between diabetes, hypertension and hypercholesterolemia patients in comparison with controls. The study proves that there occurs pattern change in affected population. The existence of such relation might be important in the screening program for prevention of diseases like Diabetes, hypertension and hypercholesterolemia and cardiac complications arise due to this condition.

Spider diversity (Arachnida: Araneae) in selected ten mixed agroecosystems of Palakkad District, Kerala, India, 2023

Spiders are successful natural enemies of pests occurring throughout the different strata of an a... more Spiders are successful natural enemies of pests occurring throughout the different strata of an agroecosystem. The study of their functional responses can provide information related to the potential effectiveness of different species and guilds on reducing a pest population. The present paper deals with a study of diversity and distribution of spiders from 10 agro-ecosystems (Pathiripala,

Lipases are versatile biocatalysts that are used extensively in detergent and pharmaceutical form... more Lipases are versatile biocatalysts that are used extensively in detergent and pharmaceutical formulations. Their superior value arises from specificity and efficacy as compared to chemical catalysts. In this study we have isolated a bacterial strain Staphylococcus saprophyticus (WCS1C2) that showed high lipase production of 140 units / ml from windrow compost bed. The culture parameters were optimized with altered conditions like temperature, pH, incubation time, substrate specificity and metalions. The lipidic substrates tested were coconut oil, olive oiland trybutyrin. The optimized conditions where maximum lipaseof 644 units/ml producedwere found to be with pH 6.0, incubation temperature at 27 0 C and incubation period of 120 hrs.The carbon, nitrogen and metal ion source to be optimal for the production of lipase was found to be with olive oil; peptone + yeast extract combination and sodium chloride 1% respectively. Under optimized conditions, lipase production by Staphylococcus saprophyticus increased by 5 fold compared to unoptimized conditions.

The present study deals with the comparison of immunological and biochemical parameters in the ha... more The present study deals with the comparison of immunological and biochemical parameters in the haemolymph of Indian white shrimp Fenneropenaeus indicus collected from mud bank forming area of (chavakkad) and natural habitat (Kozhikkode). Higher Total hemocyte count (THC) of 63.7 X10 6 cells /mm 3 was obtained with Chavakkad sample in contrast to Kozhikode 61.9 X10 5 cells millions/mm 3. Higher phenoloxidase (PO) activity was found in Chavakkad samples (0.029 units/min) but less in kozhikkode sample (0.011units/min). The PO activity of F. indicus showed highest titre value (0.180) in plasma, with increased concentration of laminarin. Haemagglutination activity against bacterial cells was found to be strong in the plasma of Chavakkad samples (0.0625) in comparison with Chavakkad samples (0.0123). F. indicus plasma of Chavakkad samples showed the strongest agglutination titre against human erythrocytes A, B, O and AB (48, 32, 25, 28) than supernatant and pellet. Antimicrobial production assay of Chavakkad sample showed maximum zone of clearance of 10mm with Bacillus and 12 mm with Pseudomonas whereas Kozhikode samples showed only 5 mm clearance with Bacillus and 1mm clearance with Psedomonas. The protein concentration of Chavakkad and Kozhikode samples were 1129.75µg/ml and 471.5µg/ml respectively. Samples collected from Chavakkad showed maximum glucose concentration of 2757.5µg/ml and less glucose in Kozhikode sample (680 µg/ml). Results evidently reveal that the samples of shrimp haemolymph from non-stressful habitats viz. mud bank formation areas show enhancement in immunological response and biochemical parameters both quantitatively and qualitatively. Studies on the haemolymph provide clear indications about the physiological state and general health of the shrimp which is the most important factor in any aquaculture practice.

16S rDNA sequencing has played a pivotal role in the accurate identification of bacterial isolate... more 16S rDNA sequencing has played a pivotal role in the accurate identification of bacterial isolates and the discovery of novel lipase producing bacteria from windrow compost for industrial applications. Two best lipase producing strains isolated from windrow compost were characterized by morphological, physicochemical characteristics and 16s rDNA sequencing. The genomic DNA extracted from WCS 1 C 2 and WCS 3 C 2 from the windrow compost were purified separately and used them as templates for the amplification of 16S rDNA gene sequences using Eppendorf thermal cycler. These 16S rDNA amplicaons were purified and subjected to automated DNA sequencing on ABI 3730xl genetic analyzer. The subsequent forward and reverse sequences of the 16S rDNA genes were aligned to obtain the consensus sequences that were analyzed with BLASTn using NCBI GenBank database. The multiple alignment analysis of the ten best chosen bacterial strain sequences with the respective WCS 1 C 2 and WCS 3 C 2 sequence was performed using Clustal X and the results were processed to make the phylogenetic tree using Treeview and NJ Plot. 16S rDNA sequence data revealed that the strain WCS 1 C 2 had highest homology (99%) with Staphylococcus saprophytics and strain WCS 3 C 2 showed highest homology (91%) with Pseudomonas otitidis. The result of the present study indicated scope for utilizing lipase producing bacteria for further enhanced production of lipase, purification, characterization and various industrial applications.

Zika virus disease (Zika) is a disease caused by the Zika virus, which is spread to people primar... more Zika virus disease (Zika) is a disease caused by the Zika virus, which is spread to people primarily through the bite of
an infected Aedes species mosquito. Zika virus is a flavivirus, in the family Flaviviridae, distributed throughout much of
Africa and Asia. The most common symptoms of Zika are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). The illness
is usually mild with symptoms lasting for several days to a week after being bitten by an infected mosquito. However,
Zika virus infection during pregnancy can cause a serious birth defect called microcephaly, as well as other severe fetal
brain defects. Once a person has been infected, he or she is likely to be protected from future infections. Zika virus is
transmitted to people primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito (A. aegypti and A. albopictus). No
vaccine exists to prevent Zika virus disease (Zika).Treatment is focused on relieving the symptoms. Prevention and control
relies on reducing the breeding of Aedes mosquitoes and minimizing contact between mosquito vectors and people
by using barriers (such as repellents, insect screens), reducing water-filled habitats supporting mosquito larvae in and close
to dwellings, and reducing the adult mosquito populations around at-risk communities. Zika is commanding attention
because of an alarming connection between the virus and microcephaly, a neurological disorder that results in babies
being born with abnormally small heads. It causes severe developmental issues and sometimes death.

Lipolytic enzymes are currently attracting significant attention because of their biotechnologica... more Lipolytic enzymes are currently attracting significant attention because of their biotechnological potential. Most of the lipases used in industry are microbial enzymes, of both fungal and bacterial origin. Windrow composting is a controlled,self-heating, aerobic degradation of organic materials by mesophilic and thermophilic microorganisms. The present study deals with isolation of lipase producing bacteria from windrow compost. The samples were collected from compost heap at an interval of 10 days and screened for lipase producing bacterial
fauna in Tributyrin agar medium after serial dilution. A clear zone of hydrolysis indicated enzyme production. Out of 73 bacterial colonies screened, 24 lipase producing bacterial strains were isolated by checking the production of zone
clearance in the tributyrin agar medium. Based on the morphological and biochemical characteristics 24 bacterial strains were identified up to species levels with the help of ABIS online analysis tool. The best lipase producers Staphylococcus (WCS1C2) and Pseudomonas (WCS3C2) genus were further
characterized by 16s rDNA sequencing and identified as Staphylococcus saprophytics and Pseudomonas otidis. These bacterial strains can be used for theproduction of lipase enzyme for industrial applications.

Bioremediation of petroleum contaminated soil by amending vermicompost with earthworms were compa... more Bioremediation of petroleum contaminated soil by amending vermicompost with earthworms were compared with cowdung on the growth and biochemical parameters of ladys finger, Hibiscus esculentus. Seed germination, growth of plants, flowering and yield of vegetable plant lady’s finger, H. esculentus revealed that the onset of flowering and fruiting was earlier with fleshy fruits in pots with vermicompost+Earthworm+ petrol (S4) than that of petrol concentrated soil (S6-S9).Maximum height of 32.1cm was observed in S4 (Soil+vermicompost+ Petrolsoil), much difference was not met with S2 (soil +vermicompost). The lowest height in plant growth was recorded in sample 6, petrol concentration. The seedling perished after 20 days. The total protein content, amino acids and carbohydrates was found to be maximum in S4 (petrol soil + Earthworm+ vermicompost). Available EC (µs/cm), Phospherous% and Potassium % were significantly higher in S4 sample than any other combination, might be the reason for high yield of ladys finger. Petrol Soil+ vermicompost treatment exhibited significant increase in all the parameters compared to normal control and Soil+cow dung combination. Pure control soil and different concentrations of petrol combinations were acidic whereas vermicompost and cowdung soil mixtures are slightly alkaline. EC (µs/cm) was higher in petrol soil + vermicompost. Available Nitrogen (TOC) (%), TOM (%), Phosphorus (%) and Potassium (%) showed significance increase when mixed with vermicompost and cowdung compared to petrol soil concentrations. An Electropherogram and chromatogram pattern strengthens the fact that the free aminoacid and proteins were protected in the S4 treatment than Petrol concentrations. Amending petrol contaminated soil with vermicompost with earthworms altered the soil characteristics, which helps in bioremediation of recalcitrant hydrocarbons and suits the growth of plants where as the crude combinations are not supporting plant growth. This pilot study under Indian condition is an eye-opener to the farmers to utilize the petrol/diesel contaminated soil for agricultural practice provided it should be amended with vermicompost for sustainable agriculture.

A natural agglutinin in the hemolymph of the marine prawn Penaeus indicus was isolated by gel fil... more A natural agglutinin in the hemolymph of the marine prawn Penaeus indicus was isolated by gel filtration chromatography, purified using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and
characterized. Prawn agglutinin has a native molecular mass of 181 kDa and consists of two monomeric units (97 and 84 kDa), maintains some agglutinating activity over a wide pH range (7–9), and is inactivated at 85° C. The agglutinin was denatured upon mixing with trichloroacetic acid, phenol, chloroform, and 45% ammonium sulfate. It was also sensitive ..

Antibacterial activity of Fenneropenaeus indicus hemolymph was mediated by Agglutinin (Ag), a pro... more Antibacterial activity of Fenneropenaeus indicus hemolymph was mediated by Agglutinin (Ag), a protein of molecular weight 181 kDa with two subunits 97 kDa and 84 kDa. Agglutinin was purified by gel filtration chromatography, PAGE, and SDS-PAGE, and polyclonal antibodies (anti-Ag) were raised in rabbits. In a double immunodiffusion test, single precipitin lines were found between the center well containing immune serum and
surrounding wells containing purified Ag and crude hemolymph. The IgG fraction was ...

Biological properties of a natural agglutinin in the hemolymph of Penaeus indicus were establishe... more Biological properties of a natural agglutinin in the hemolymph of Penaeus indicus were established. Agglutination was observed against different strains of bacteria and
erythrocytes and strong agglutination against a Vibrio sp. isolated from a diseased prawn gut (titer 256). Minimum concentration of agglutinin required for agglutination was 0.8 μg/ml. The agglutination reaction was affected by various sugars and ions. Agglutination and cross-linking process were inhibited by simple sugars like xylose, raffinose and trehalose, but ...