pragya rathore | Sanghvi Institute of Management & Science, Indore (original) (raw)
Papers by pragya rathore
Journal of Pharmacy Research Volume 6, Issue 5, May 2013, Pages 543–550, Jun 15, 2013
Aim: The phenotypic and phylogenetic characterization of an alkalophilic bacterium producing two ... more Aim: The phenotypic and phylogenetic characterization of an alkalophilic bacterium producing two industrially important enzymes – alkaline protease and alkaline amylase, was performed. A Gram-positive, rod-shaped, spore-forming alkalophilic bacterium (2b) isolated from alkaline dairy soil of Indore region of Madhya Pradesh, was selected in this work.
Methods
The alkalophile was subjected to a taxonomic investigation, including standard bacteriological characterization and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Phylogenetic trees were constructed by different treeing algorithms: neighbour joining, maximum parsimony tree, maximum-likelihood and UPGMA method using MEGA5 software. The secondary structures of 16S rRNA gene sequence were predicted using GeneBee package and UNAFOLD, a Linux based software.
Results: Its overall biochemical, physiological and phylogenetic characteristics indicated that strain 2b is an alkaliphilic Bacillus belonging to the species agaradhaerens. The free energy of the secondary structure of rRNA was −171.7 and −265.13 kcal/mol respectively. The structure obtained with a Gibb's free energy, ΔG −265.13 kcal/mol by UNAFOLD seems to be more stable in the present study.
Conclusion: The taxonomic investigation identifies 2b as Bacillus agaradhaerens.
Interdisciplinary Sciences: Computational Life Sciences. 2014, Volume 6, Issue 4, pp 271-278, Dec 6, 2014
Probiotic microorganisms are those which exert a positive effect on the growth of the host, when ... more Probiotic microorganisms are those which exert a positive effect on the growth of the host, when administered as a dietary mixture in an adequate amount. They form the best alternative to the use of antibiotics for controlling enteric diseases in poultry farm animals, especially in the light of the gruesome problems of development of antibiotic resistance in enteric pathogens and the contamination of poultry products with antibiotics. 16S rDNA sequencing which has gained wide popularity amongst microbiologists for the molecular characterization and identification of newly discovered isolates provides accurate identification of isolates down to the level of sub-species (strain). It's most important advantage over the traditional biochemical characterization methods are that it can provide an accurate identification of strains with atypical phenotypic characters as well. The following work is an application of 16S rRNA gene sequencing approach to identify a novel, alkaline protease producing bacteria, from poultry farm waste. The sample was collected from a local poultry farm in the Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh, India. Subsequently the sample was serially diluted and the aliquots were incubated for a suitable time period following which the suspected colony was subjected to 16S rDNA sequencing. The results showed the isolate to be a novel, high alkaline protease producing bacteria, which was named Bacillus firmus isolate EMBS023, after characterization the sequence of isolate was deposited in GenBank with accession number JN990980.
Probiotic microorganisms are those which exert a positive effect on the growth of the host, when ... more Probiotic microorganisms are those which exert a positive effect on the growth of the host, when
administered as a dietary mixture in an adequate amount. They form the best alternative to the use of antibiotics
for controlling enteric diseases in poultry farm animals, especially in the light of the gruesome problems of development
of antibiotic resistance in enteric pathogens and the contamination of poultry products with antibiotics.
16S rDNA sequencing which has gained wide popularity amongst microbiologists for the molecular characterization
and identification of newly discovered isolates provides accurate identification of isolates down to the level
of sub-species (strain). It’s most important advantage over the traditional biochemical characterization methods
are that it can provide an accurate identification of strains with atypical phenotypic characters as well. The
following work is an application of 16S rRNA gene sequencing approach to identify a novel, alkaline protease
producing bacteria, from poultry farm waste. The sample was collected from a local poultry farm in the Guntur
district, Andhra Pradesh, India. Subsequently the sample was serially diluted and the aliquots were incubated for
a suitable time period following which the suspected colony was subjected to 16S rDNA sequencing. The results
showed the isolate to be a novel, high alkaline protease producing bacteria, which was named Bacillus firmus
isolate EMBS023, after characterization the sequence of isolate was deposited in GenBank with accession number
JN990980.
Bacillus agaradhaerens strain nandi-niphanse5 16S rRNA gene sequencing a b s t r a c t Aim: The p... more Bacillus agaradhaerens strain nandi-niphanse5 16S rRNA gene sequencing a b s t r a c t Aim: The phenotypic and phylogenetic characterization of an alkalophilic bacterium producing two industrially important enzymes e alkaline protease and alkaline amylase, was performed. A Gram-positive, rod-shaped, spore-forming alkalophilic bacterium (2b) isolated from alkaline dairy soil of Indore region of Madhya Pradesh, was selected in this work.
Microorganisms play key role for saving the environment by degrading various chemical compounds w... more Microorganisms play key role for saving the environment by degrading various chemical compounds which are toxic in their native forms or may be modified either. Removal of such environment polluting compounds by microorganisms can be proved to be contemplatable. Because of their degradability, they are often found in the areas affected with such chemicals. And so the organisms can be isolated from the area. In the present study, we have focused for the degradation of the xenobiotic compounds and the organisms were isolated from the soil contaminated with oil by the enrichment technique using phenol as sole carbon and energy source, purified and checked for their ability to degrade phenol. The isolates were subjected to biochemical characterization at the genus level and according to Bergey's Manual of Determinative Bacteriology, the isolates characterized were Staphylococcus, Bacillus, Pseudomonas, Micrococcus, Streptococcus. Out of all the isolates, the third isolate Pseudomonas showed the best results for the phenol-degrading capability.
A Bacillus species identified as Bacillus cereus was isolated and characterized by enriching the ... more A Bacillus species identified as Bacillus cereus was isolated and characterized by enriching the basal culture medium with filter paper as substrate for cellulose degradation, the culture was found to possess cellulolytic activity, as demonstrated by degradation of carboxy methyl cellulose on cellulose congo red agar media. Also the Cellulose-degrading potential of the isolate was qualitatively estimated by calculating hydrolysis capacity (HC), that is, the ratio of diameter of clearing zone and colony. The enzyme assays for two enzymes, filter paper cellulase (FPC), and cellulase (endoglucanase), were examined by methods recommended by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC). Enzyme assay for cellulase activity on filter paper was found to be 0.33 IU/mL, while for endoglucanase assay maximum activity was determined to be 0.64 IU/mL. The temperature was maintained at 37ºC and pH at 7±0.2, as these were the optimal conditions of cellulose production. Enzyme production was slightly affected at temperatures <30º and> 40º C but was drastically affected at temperatures < 20º and > 45º C.
Chelators are long known to enhance the phosphate solubilizing efficiency in soil. Production of ... more Chelators are long known to enhance the phosphate solubilizing efficiency in soil. Production of organic acids is not the only mechanism of phosphate solubilization. As, soil is a good buffer medium, phosphate solubilization cannot occur only because of the production of acid and lowering of pH. Since the organic acids are known to bring about the solubilization of phosphorus either by lowering the pH or by chelating with calcium, the amount of phosphorus released can be considered to be largely due to the production of these acids. Thus apart from acidic environment the production of chelators like α -ketogluconic acid seems to play a major role in P solubilization from Tricalcium phosphate (TCP) and
Polyhydroxybutyrates (PHB) are bio-plastics that are produced by many microbial species under car... more Polyhydroxybutyrates (PHB) are bio-plastics that are produced by many microbial species under carbon rich and nutrient starvation conditions. Poly (ß-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) belongs to a family of microbial energy/carbon storage compounds collectively known as poly hydroxyalkanoates. The organisms producing PHBs have been isolated, identified and the conditions of maximum production optimized. The cheaper raw material for the mass production of PHB are constantly being studied and suggested to lower the production cost. Most of the commercial productions are at present more expensive than synthetic polymer production. Since biopolymers offer the dual advantage of being formed from renewable resources and in addition to it they are also completely biodegradable, the structure, properties and regulation of synthesis and degradation of PHB should be reviewed and the microbial production of copolymers of 3-hydroxybutyrate and 3hydroxyvalerate, with properties varying according to copolymer composition, must be considered.
The waste released into the environment contaminates the soil and these contaminants are from man... more The waste released into the environment contaminates the soil and these contaminants are from many industries including petroleum, oil refineries, pharmaceuticals, etc. Out of all, the toxicity of phenol has been widely accepted and their ruinous effects towards human and environment is greatly concerned. Indigenous microorganisms from the xenobiotic polluted soil are excellent tools for the bioremediation of such contaminated soils. Samples were collected from the contaminated soil and the organisms were isolated on the mineral salt medium with no carbon source except phenol. The potential of these isolates was tested for the degradation of phenol and the Pseudomonas species demonstrated the maximum capacity to degrade the phenols. The study was undertaken to observe the effects of in situ isolates on xenobiotic compounds like phenol and to know their effectiveness for bioremediation of such contaminated soils.
Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) has been in limelight among agriculturists for their ... more Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) has been in limelight among agriculturists for their benefits on crop. Several scientists have followed multidisciplinary approaches to enhance the effectiveness of PGPR. Variety of mechanisms are involved which help in increasing the plant growth and productivity. These mechanisms include nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, siderophore production, production of plant growth hormones, Volatile organic compound production, exhibiting antifungal activity, beneficial synergistic effects etc. Lack of understanding of mechanisms involved in the effects of PGPR has often given inconsistent results in the terms of crop yield. In this review we will discuss the examples of organisms used as PGPR, their mechanisms and modern approaches that can be applied before commercializing the PGPR.
Phosphate is an essential nutrient for the growth of plants and is supplemented to crops in the f... more Phosphate is an essential nutrient for the growth of plants and is supplemented to crops in the form of chemical fertilizers. In past decade tremendous studies on phosphate solubilizing organisms has been carried out. These organisms help in solubilizing the fixed phosphorus in soil and render it available to plants. The growth and efficiency of these organisms in turn is affected by the type of carbon sources. In the present study on Citrobacter freundii, efforts have been made to identify the role of various carbon sources in phosphate solubilization. Appropriate carbonaceous substrates exert a positive effect on phosphate solubilization. These phosphate solubilizing microorganisms are heterotrophs and solubilize insoluble phosphate by secreting organic acids. Therefore, the role of carbon sources is of utmost significance.
Indian agriculture is mainly dependent on the extensive use of chemical fertilizers to raise crop... more Indian agriculture is mainly dependent on the extensive use of chemical fertilizers to raise crop yield. Since 70 to 90 % of the supplemented super phosphate is not available for crops as a result of mineralization the requirements for this fertilizer are high. Hence there is need to increase the effectiveness of low grade Indian phosphate rocks. Phosphatic biofertilizers offer a viable alternative as these organisms can be inoculated directly along with the low grade rock phosphate and applied to soils. In the present study an attempt has been made to isolate phosphate solubilizing bacteria from soil, study their phosphate solubilizing activity and their utility as biofertilizer. The organism, Citrobacter freundii, has been screened from the local soil samples of Malwa region and was selected for the further studies as it shows efficacious solubilization of phosphates and being indigenous it is well adapted to the environment where it can be used as a biofertilizer.
Rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere soil samples from the agricultural fields of Indore and surroundi... more Rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere soil samples from the agricultural fields of Indore and surrounding areas were collected for the isolation of phosphate solubilizing microorganisms. Soil samples which had been treated with herbicides, were also collected. Soils treated with herbicides like Pendimethalin, Triflusalin, Imaza 13, Squadron were screened for phosphate solubilizers. These soils contained very few bacterial species which could solubilize Phosphate. These species belonged mainly to the genus Bacillus and Pseudomonas. Among the fungal isolates from these soils were species of Aspergillus and Penicillium. The number of phosphate solubilizers in these treated soils was less as compared to untreated soils. However, Triflusalin treated soil had moderate number of phosphate solubilizers. Out of the 17 isolates 2 bacterial and 3 fungal cultures showing comparatively more solubilization ability during screening on Pikovskaya's agar and Pikovskaya's broth containing TCP were selected for their characterization
Phosphorus (P) is one of the essential elements for all biological entities and an adequate suppl... more Phosphorus (P) is one of the essential elements for all biological entities and an adequate supply of P in the early stages of plant growth is important for the proper growth and development of plants. Many microbes having phosphate solubilizing ability have been used as the soil inoculants to improve the uptake of phosphorus by plants. The use of pesticides is becoming very common in agriculture as plant protection measures. A potential inoculant organism must be tested thoroughly in lab under the conditions that will be experienced by the farmers. The major concern regarding the use of pesticides is that their use may adversely affect non -target soil microflora and fauna. Phosphate solubilizing micro-organisms which are useful soil inhabiting microflora and of importance to soil fertility may be affected by some insecticides and herbicides. The isolate, Citrobacter freundii, used in present study is an efficient phosphate solubilizer and its effect on plants in presence as well as in absence of select pesticides was studied.
There are considerable evidences that support the specific role of phosphate solubilization in th... more There are considerable evidences that support the specific role of phosphate solubilization in the enhancement of plant growth by phosphate solubilizing microorganisms. In this regard we had isolated a bacterial stain which could solubilize phosphate to a considerable level, hence we selected the organism and subjected it to further studies involving different parameters. The effects of different conditions on phosphate solubilization by Citrobacter freundii from local soils of Indore were studied. The optimum concentration of phosphorus for maximum % solubilization was found to be 50 mg% for tricalcium phosphate (TCP). Studies on effect of temperature and shake and static conditions revealed that the organism gives maximum solubilization of phosphorus at 28°C ± 2°C and under static condition of incubation. Maximum solubilization of phosphorus was reported between pH ranges 7-8.
The present paper deals with investigation of common causes of infertility in human beings. Among... more The present paper deals with investigation of common causes of infertility in human beings. Among the 1000 cases studied at Asian Institute of Infertility Management and Shefali Jain Test Tube Baby Centre during the period of Oct 2010 to Oct 2011, varied outcomes were experienced. Among the infertility cases it is very clear that maximum infertility is due to female factors (30.2%). Infertility in females was due to ovulation problem and most infertility cases were seen in age group of 35 to 40. Male factors also contributed substantially (19.5%) to infertility. Causes of infertility in males is due to absence of sperm in semen (azoospermia), low count of sperm, motility problem and most infertility cases were seen in age group of 35 to 40. However, in majority of infertility cases (37%) the cause of infertility remain unexplained. All the 1000 cases were classified according to their occupations in to 06 groups. Maximum cases were reported from the group I i.e. academicians, advocates, accountants, bank workers. Farmers stood next in the infertility series. The rest of the groups are at average risk of infertility.
Journal of Pharmacy Research Volume 6, Issue 5, May 2013, Pages 543–550, Jun 15, 2013
Aim: The phenotypic and phylogenetic characterization of an alkalophilic bacterium producing two ... more Aim: The phenotypic and phylogenetic characterization of an alkalophilic bacterium producing two industrially important enzymes – alkaline protease and alkaline amylase, was performed. A Gram-positive, rod-shaped, spore-forming alkalophilic bacterium (2b) isolated from alkaline dairy soil of Indore region of Madhya Pradesh, was selected in this work.
Methods
The alkalophile was subjected to a taxonomic investigation, including standard bacteriological characterization and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Phylogenetic trees were constructed by different treeing algorithms: neighbour joining, maximum parsimony tree, maximum-likelihood and UPGMA method using MEGA5 software. The secondary structures of 16S rRNA gene sequence were predicted using GeneBee package and UNAFOLD, a Linux based software.
Results: Its overall biochemical, physiological and phylogenetic characteristics indicated that strain 2b is an alkaliphilic Bacillus belonging to the species agaradhaerens. The free energy of the secondary structure of rRNA was −171.7 and −265.13 kcal/mol respectively. The structure obtained with a Gibb's free energy, ΔG −265.13 kcal/mol by UNAFOLD seems to be more stable in the present study.
Conclusion: The taxonomic investigation identifies 2b as Bacillus agaradhaerens.
Interdisciplinary Sciences: Computational Life Sciences. 2014, Volume 6, Issue 4, pp 271-278, Dec 6, 2014
Probiotic microorganisms are those which exert a positive effect on the growth of the host, when ... more Probiotic microorganisms are those which exert a positive effect on the growth of the host, when administered as a dietary mixture in an adequate amount. They form the best alternative to the use of antibiotics for controlling enteric diseases in poultry farm animals, especially in the light of the gruesome problems of development of antibiotic resistance in enteric pathogens and the contamination of poultry products with antibiotics. 16S rDNA sequencing which has gained wide popularity amongst microbiologists for the molecular characterization and identification of newly discovered isolates provides accurate identification of isolates down to the level of sub-species (strain). It's most important advantage over the traditional biochemical characterization methods are that it can provide an accurate identification of strains with atypical phenotypic characters as well. The following work is an application of 16S rRNA gene sequencing approach to identify a novel, alkaline protease producing bacteria, from poultry farm waste. The sample was collected from a local poultry farm in the Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh, India. Subsequently the sample was serially diluted and the aliquots were incubated for a suitable time period following which the suspected colony was subjected to 16S rDNA sequencing. The results showed the isolate to be a novel, high alkaline protease producing bacteria, which was named Bacillus firmus isolate EMBS023, after characterization the sequence of isolate was deposited in GenBank with accession number JN990980.
Probiotic microorganisms are those which exert a positive effect on the growth of the host, when ... more Probiotic microorganisms are those which exert a positive effect on the growth of the host, when
administered as a dietary mixture in an adequate amount. They form the best alternative to the use of antibiotics
for controlling enteric diseases in poultry farm animals, especially in the light of the gruesome problems of development
of antibiotic resistance in enteric pathogens and the contamination of poultry products with antibiotics.
16S rDNA sequencing which has gained wide popularity amongst microbiologists for the molecular characterization
and identification of newly discovered isolates provides accurate identification of isolates down to the level
of sub-species (strain). It’s most important advantage over the traditional biochemical characterization methods
are that it can provide an accurate identification of strains with atypical phenotypic characters as well. The
following work is an application of 16S rRNA gene sequencing approach to identify a novel, alkaline protease
producing bacteria, from poultry farm waste. The sample was collected from a local poultry farm in the Guntur
district, Andhra Pradesh, India. Subsequently the sample was serially diluted and the aliquots were incubated for
a suitable time period following which the suspected colony was subjected to 16S rDNA sequencing. The results
showed the isolate to be a novel, high alkaline protease producing bacteria, which was named Bacillus firmus
isolate EMBS023, after characterization the sequence of isolate was deposited in GenBank with accession number
JN990980.
Bacillus agaradhaerens strain nandi-niphanse5 16S rRNA gene sequencing a b s t r a c t Aim: The p... more Bacillus agaradhaerens strain nandi-niphanse5 16S rRNA gene sequencing a b s t r a c t Aim: The phenotypic and phylogenetic characterization of an alkalophilic bacterium producing two industrially important enzymes e alkaline protease and alkaline amylase, was performed. A Gram-positive, rod-shaped, spore-forming alkalophilic bacterium (2b) isolated from alkaline dairy soil of Indore region of Madhya Pradesh, was selected in this work.
Microorganisms play key role for saving the environment by degrading various chemical compounds w... more Microorganisms play key role for saving the environment by degrading various chemical compounds which are toxic in their native forms or may be modified either. Removal of such environment polluting compounds by microorganisms can be proved to be contemplatable. Because of their degradability, they are often found in the areas affected with such chemicals. And so the organisms can be isolated from the area. In the present study, we have focused for the degradation of the xenobiotic compounds and the organisms were isolated from the soil contaminated with oil by the enrichment technique using phenol as sole carbon and energy source, purified and checked for their ability to degrade phenol. The isolates were subjected to biochemical characterization at the genus level and according to Bergey's Manual of Determinative Bacteriology, the isolates characterized were Staphylococcus, Bacillus, Pseudomonas, Micrococcus, Streptococcus. Out of all the isolates, the third isolate Pseudomonas showed the best results for the phenol-degrading capability.
A Bacillus species identified as Bacillus cereus was isolated and characterized by enriching the ... more A Bacillus species identified as Bacillus cereus was isolated and characterized by enriching the basal culture medium with filter paper as substrate for cellulose degradation, the culture was found to possess cellulolytic activity, as demonstrated by degradation of carboxy methyl cellulose on cellulose congo red agar media. Also the Cellulose-degrading potential of the isolate was qualitatively estimated by calculating hydrolysis capacity (HC), that is, the ratio of diameter of clearing zone and colony. The enzyme assays for two enzymes, filter paper cellulase (FPC), and cellulase (endoglucanase), were examined by methods recommended by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC). Enzyme assay for cellulase activity on filter paper was found to be 0.33 IU/mL, while for endoglucanase assay maximum activity was determined to be 0.64 IU/mL. The temperature was maintained at 37ºC and pH at 7±0.2, as these were the optimal conditions of cellulose production. Enzyme production was slightly affected at temperatures <30º and> 40º C but was drastically affected at temperatures < 20º and > 45º C.
Chelators are long known to enhance the phosphate solubilizing efficiency in soil. Production of ... more Chelators are long known to enhance the phosphate solubilizing efficiency in soil. Production of organic acids is not the only mechanism of phosphate solubilization. As, soil is a good buffer medium, phosphate solubilization cannot occur only because of the production of acid and lowering of pH. Since the organic acids are known to bring about the solubilization of phosphorus either by lowering the pH or by chelating with calcium, the amount of phosphorus released can be considered to be largely due to the production of these acids. Thus apart from acidic environment the production of chelators like α -ketogluconic acid seems to play a major role in P solubilization from Tricalcium phosphate (TCP) and
Polyhydroxybutyrates (PHB) are bio-plastics that are produced by many microbial species under car... more Polyhydroxybutyrates (PHB) are bio-plastics that are produced by many microbial species under carbon rich and nutrient starvation conditions. Poly (ß-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) belongs to a family of microbial energy/carbon storage compounds collectively known as poly hydroxyalkanoates. The organisms producing PHBs have been isolated, identified and the conditions of maximum production optimized. The cheaper raw material for the mass production of PHB are constantly being studied and suggested to lower the production cost. Most of the commercial productions are at present more expensive than synthetic polymer production. Since biopolymers offer the dual advantage of being formed from renewable resources and in addition to it they are also completely biodegradable, the structure, properties and regulation of synthesis and degradation of PHB should be reviewed and the microbial production of copolymers of 3-hydroxybutyrate and 3hydroxyvalerate, with properties varying according to copolymer composition, must be considered.
The waste released into the environment contaminates the soil and these contaminants are from man... more The waste released into the environment contaminates the soil and these contaminants are from many industries including petroleum, oil refineries, pharmaceuticals, etc. Out of all, the toxicity of phenol has been widely accepted and their ruinous effects towards human and environment is greatly concerned. Indigenous microorganisms from the xenobiotic polluted soil are excellent tools for the bioremediation of such contaminated soils. Samples were collected from the contaminated soil and the organisms were isolated on the mineral salt medium with no carbon source except phenol. The potential of these isolates was tested for the degradation of phenol and the Pseudomonas species demonstrated the maximum capacity to degrade the phenols. The study was undertaken to observe the effects of in situ isolates on xenobiotic compounds like phenol and to know their effectiveness for bioremediation of such contaminated soils.
Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) has been in limelight among agriculturists for their ... more Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) has been in limelight among agriculturists for their benefits on crop. Several scientists have followed multidisciplinary approaches to enhance the effectiveness of PGPR. Variety of mechanisms are involved which help in increasing the plant growth and productivity. These mechanisms include nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, siderophore production, production of plant growth hormones, Volatile organic compound production, exhibiting antifungal activity, beneficial synergistic effects etc. Lack of understanding of mechanisms involved in the effects of PGPR has often given inconsistent results in the terms of crop yield. In this review we will discuss the examples of organisms used as PGPR, their mechanisms and modern approaches that can be applied before commercializing the PGPR.
Phosphate is an essential nutrient for the growth of plants and is supplemented to crops in the f... more Phosphate is an essential nutrient for the growth of plants and is supplemented to crops in the form of chemical fertilizers. In past decade tremendous studies on phosphate solubilizing organisms has been carried out. These organisms help in solubilizing the fixed phosphorus in soil and render it available to plants. The growth and efficiency of these organisms in turn is affected by the type of carbon sources. In the present study on Citrobacter freundii, efforts have been made to identify the role of various carbon sources in phosphate solubilization. Appropriate carbonaceous substrates exert a positive effect on phosphate solubilization. These phosphate solubilizing microorganisms are heterotrophs and solubilize insoluble phosphate by secreting organic acids. Therefore, the role of carbon sources is of utmost significance.
Indian agriculture is mainly dependent on the extensive use of chemical fertilizers to raise crop... more Indian agriculture is mainly dependent on the extensive use of chemical fertilizers to raise crop yield. Since 70 to 90 % of the supplemented super phosphate is not available for crops as a result of mineralization the requirements for this fertilizer are high. Hence there is need to increase the effectiveness of low grade Indian phosphate rocks. Phosphatic biofertilizers offer a viable alternative as these organisms can be inoculated directly along with the low grade rock phosphate and applied to soils. In the present study an attempt has been made to isolate phosphate solubilizing bacteria from soil, study their phosphate solubilizing activity and their utility as biofertilizer. The organism, Citrobacter freundii, has been screened from the local soil samples of Malwa region and was selected for the further studies as it shows efficacious solubilization of phosphates and being indigenous it is well adapted to the environment where it can be used as a biofertilizer.
Rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere soil samples from the agricultural fields of Indore and surroundi... more Rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere soil samples from the agricultural fields of Indore and surrounding areas were collected for the isolation of phosphate solubilizing microorganisms. Soil samples which had been treated with herbicides, were also collected. Soils treated with herbicides like Pendimethalin, Triflusalin, Imaza 13, Squadron were screened for phosphate solubilizers. These soils contained very few bacterial species which could solubilize Phosphate. These species belonged mainly to the genus Bacillus and Pseudomonas. Among the fungal isolates from these soils were species of Aspergillus and Penicillium. The number of phosphate solubilizers in these treated soils was less as compared to untreated soils. However, Triflusalin treated soil had moderate number of phosphate solubilizers. Out of the 17 isolates 2 bacterial and 3 fungal cultures showing comparatively more solubilization ability during screening on Pikovskaya's agar and Pikovskaya's broth containing TCP were selected for their characterization
Phosphorus (P) is one of the essential elements for all biological entities and an adequate suppl... more Phosphorus (P) is one of the essential elements for all biological entities and an adequate supply of P in the early stages of plant growth is important for the proper growth and development of plants. Many microbes having phosphate solubilizing ability have been used as the soil inoculants to improve the uptake of phosphorus by plants. The use of pesticides is becoming very common in agriculture as plant protection measures. A potential inoculant organism must be tested thoroughly in lab under the conditions that will be experienced by the farmers. The major concern regarding the use of pesticides is that their use may adversely affect non -target soil microflora and fauna. Phosphate solubilizing micro-organisms which are useful soil inhabiting microflora and of importance to soil fertility may be affected by some insecticides and herbicides. The isolate, Citrobacter freundii, used in present study is an efficient phosphate solubilizer and its effect on plants in presence as well as in absence of select pesticides was studied.
There are considerable evidences that support the specific role of phosphate solubilization in th... more There are considerable evidences that support the specific role of phosphate solubilization in the enhancement of plant growth by phosphate solubilizing microorganisms. In this regard we had isolated a bacterial stain which could solubilize phosphate to a considerable level, hence we selected the organism and subjected it to further studies involving different parameters. The effects of different conditions on phosphate solubilization by Citrobacter freundii from local soils of Indore were studied. The optimum concentration of phosphorus for maximum % solubilization was found to be 50 mg% for tricalcium phosphate (TCP). Studies on effect of temperature and shake and static conditions revealed that the organism gives maximum solubilization of phosphorus at 28°C ± 2°C and under static condition of incubation. Maximum solubilization of phosphorus was reported between pH ranges 7-8.
The present paper deals with investigation of common causes of infertility in human beings. Among... more The present paper deals with investigation of common causes of infertility in human beings. Among the 1000 cases studied at Asian Institute of Infertility Management and Shefali Jain Test Tube Baby Centre during the period of Oct 2010 to Oct 2011, varied outcomes were experienced. Among the infertility cases it is very clear that maximum infertility is due to female factors (30.2%). Infertility in females was due to ovulation problem and most infertility cases were seen in age group of 35 to 40. Male factors also contributed substantially (19.5%) to infertility. Causes of infertility in males is due to absence of sperm in semen (azoospermia), low count of sperm, motility problem and most infertility cases were seen in age group of 35 to 40. However, in majority of infertility cases (37%) the cause of infertility remain unexplained. All the 1000 cases were classified according to their occupations in to 06 groups. Maximum cases were reported from the group I i.e. academicians, advocates, accountants, bank workers. Farmers stood next in the infertility series. The rest of the groups are at average risk of infertility.