Research Perspective on Biological Science Vol. 10

Severity Assessment of Dieback in Green Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens L.) within the Western Traras Mountains (Northwestern Algeria)

Nichane Mohamed — 2026-03-02

The Common Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens L.) is a tree representative of the Mediterranean flora, and is traditionally associated with cemeteries, symbolising mourning in the Mediterranean region. Dieback in forest trees is a complex phenomenon whose responsible factors can be diverse and not easily identifiable and prioritised, and they lead to general deterioration, which often ends with the death of the trees. The objective of this study is to characterize symptomatologically the decline of green cypress in the mountains of the Western Traras. The experimental approach prevails in the installation of the sampling units through all the tasks of Cyprès desperis in the region of Bab El Assa and Marsa Ben M'hidi. These sampling units number 25, with a surface area of 10 ares, or 450 stems sampled. The overall dieback index estimated at 2.6564 shows that the stands sampled are at the beginning of dieback. The results obtained show that 36% of the stands are at the beginning of dieback. 24% of the stands are declining, while 16% exhibit severe decline. Therefore, monitoring and precautions are necessary for maintaining the health of the Cypress tree.

Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Candida Infection in Post-menopausal Women: A Single-Centre Experience from the State of Odisha, India

Nayak Madhumita — 2026-03-02

Background: Vulvovaginal infection is a common medical problem in India, presenting with many clinical signs and symptoms. Due to changes in the vaginal microbiomes, post-menopausal women are susceptible to many vulvovaginal infections, including Candida. The reported prevalence of Candida infections in this population varies, and there is limited literature on associated risk factors in postmenopausal women in India.

Aim: This study was undertaken to investigate the prevalence as well as the association of risk factors for Candida infection in post-menopausal women.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in post-menopausal women attending the out-patient department (OPD) of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR), Burla, Odisha, India, from December 2016 to November 2018. Post-menopausal women presenting with abnormal vaginal discharge, itching and burning of genitalia, erythema, etc., were considered. Vaginal specimens from the posterior vaginal fornix were collected, and Candida albicans infection was investigated by using the Albi Quick^TM rapid test. Various data, including socio-demographic features, sanitation access, and clinical presentations, were analysed statistically for possible association with Candida infections.

Results: From 209 post-menopausal women included in this study, Candida infection was found in 9.09% of women. Candida infections were found to be significantly high in post-menopausal women who were married (P=0.001), who had no formal education (P=0.044) and who were staying with >5 persons in their home (P=0.017).

Conclusion: The occurrence of Candida infections, along with the significant association of various factors reported in this study, calls for routine vaginal swab analysis in every woman presenting with symptoms, as well as the need for proper awareness of women's hygiene practices.

Surgical Correction of Unilateral Cherry Eye in a Beagle Dog: A Case Report

K. Mohan Rao — 2026-03-02

Cherry eye is a disorder of the nictitating membrane, also called the third eyelid, present in the eyes of dogs. Several surgical techniques have been described for the management of cherry eye. Consequently, surgical repositioning of the prolapsed gland, rather than removal, is currently regarded as the gold standard for treatment. Among the various repositioning methods, Morgan’s Pocket Technique is widely preferred as it allows stable repositioning of the gland while preserving its physiological function. In this study, A 6 month-old Beagle dog was presented with a history of a swollen mass at the medial canthus of the right eye for 3 months. Clinical examination revealed a protruding reddish mass, congestion of conjunctival blood vessels, excessive lacrimation and frequent blinking of the affected eye. Based on the clinical history and ophthalmic examination, the condition was diagnosed as prolapse of the third eyelid gland. Surgical correction was done using Morgan’s Pocket Technique. Preservation of the third eyelid gland function, which has a role in tear production, was the main objective for this surgical approach. The dog showed complete recovery without postoperative complications during the follow-up period. Based on the outcome of this case, it is concluded that Morgan’s Pocket Technique is a safe and effective method for the surgical correction of cherry eye in dogs with excellent preservation of gland function and minimal risk of recurrence.

Human–Leopard Conflict and Coexistence: A Case Study from Gir Somnath, Gujarat, India

Rahul B. Solanki — 2026-03-02

Globally, the escalation of human-wildlife conflict poses a severe threat to both biodiversity conservation and the livelihoods of rural communities. In the semi-arid landscapes of Western India, the proximity of human settlements to protected areas has created complex dynamics of co-existence and confrontation. This study assesses the diel and seasonal patterns of human-leopard (Panthera pardus fusca) conflict in the Gir Somnath district of Gujarat, utilising a comprehensive dataset spanning a decade (2014–2023). By integrating secondary records from the Gujarat Forest Department with primary field observations and community discussions, we identified critical spatio-temporal hotspots. Analysis reveals that regions like Gir Gadhada (29%) and Talala (18%) are particularly vulnerable due to their forest-fringe location. While winter saw a peak in 2023, the monsoon remains the most consistently hazardous season over the 10-year period. Chronobiological findings highlight a significant nocturnal bias, with most incidents occurring between 12:00 AM and 6:00 AM, a period when leopards frequently visit settlements or multiple-use zones in search of prey. The study advocates for a shift from traditional mitigation to adaptive conservation strategies, emphasising the importance of "relief" mechanisms and nocturnal vigilance to foster a balanced co-existence.

Phenotypic Variability and Stability of Okra Accessions Using Distinctness, Uniformity and Stability Descriptors

A. C. G. Mensah — 2026-03-02

Background: Okra is a vegetable of major nutritional and economic importance in tropical and subtropical regions. In Benin, its production remains limited by disease and pest pressure and the lack of high-performing varieties. Genetic improvement of okra is emerging as a strategic solution. Morphological characterisation based on qualitative traits of crops is a very crucial and essential first step in any crop improvement and breeding programme.

Study Aim: This study aims to assess agro-morphological traits of five varieties (TZSMN86, AVOK1501, AVOK1505, AVOK1502 and C101), as part of the requirements for their inclusion in the Beninese Catalogue of Plant Species and Varieties (CaBEV).

Methodology: Field trials were conducted using a Fisher Block design with five treatments and four replicates. Sowing was carried out on September 12, 2023, and April 19, 2024, for the first and second cycles, respectively. Qualitative and quantitative morphological data were collected from 20 plants per variety following the guidelines of the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV). The criteria of Distinctness, Uniformity and Stability (DUS) were assessed over two cycles of on-station trials. Agreement between qualitative parameter classifications across production seasons was assessed using Cohen's Kappa coefficient, while phenological and agro-morphological data were analysed using generalised linear and linear mixed-effect models, followed by Tukey's post hoc tests for mean comparisons, in R (v4.3.0) with variety and season as fixed factors and block as a random factor.

Results: Findings revealed that several qualitative traits were uniform, while significant differences (P < 0.05) were noted in leaf blade colour and fruit shape. Quantitative data indicate significant variability between genotypes across seasons. Total fruit yield (including both commercial and non-commercial fruits) did not show any significant difference between cycles (P = 1). Ascending hierarchical clustering (AHC) grouped the varieties into three distinct clusters. Accessions AVOK1502 and AVOK1505 also showed good stability across seasons.

Conclusion: These results provide a scientific basis for the approval and registration of high-performing okra varieties (TZSMN86, AVOK1501, AVOK1505, AVOK1502 and C101) in the national variety catalogue. Directed crosses between the best-performing accessions, such as AVOK1502 and AVOK1505, could be considered with the aim of creating new hybrid varieties with improved characteristics.

Stomatal Characteristics and Wood Anatomical Adaptations of Citrus reticulata and Citrus sinensis in the Semi-arid Environment of Mubi, in Northeastern Nigeria

Mohammad Saquib — 2026-03-02

Understanding how perennial fruit trees adjust their structural traits to water-limited environments is essential for sustainable cultivation in semi-arid regions. Among such traits, stomatal characteristics and wood anatomical features represent key components of plant adaptation, influencing gas exchange, transpiration, and hydraulic conductivity. This chapter explores the stomatal characteristics and wood anatomical adaptations of Citrus reticulata and Citrus sinensis growing under the semi-arid conditions of Mubi, northeastern Nigeria, and discusses how coordination between leaf and stem structures contributes to ecological adjustment. Leaf epidermal analyses were used to examine stomatal size, density, stomatal index, epidermal cell density, and Potential Conductance Index (PCI), while stem samples were assessed for vessel and fibre dimensions. The two species exhibited distinct anatomical patterns. Citrus reticulata showed comparatively higher stomatal dimensions and PCI, reflecting a greater potential for gas exchange, whereas Citrus sinensis displayed larger vessel elements, suggesting enhanced hydraulic capacity. These contrasting structural tendencies indicate different adaptive strategies in balancing carbon assimilation and water transport under semi-arid stress. By integrating stomatal and xylem traits, this chapter provides a broader perspective on anatomical plasticity in Citrus species and highlights the value of multi-organ trait analysis in understanding plant performance in drought-prone agroecosystems.

Marine Collagen Peptides: A Novel Therapeutic Avenue for Musculoskeletal Disorders

A. A. Zubair — 2026-03-02

Musculoskeletal diseases such as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and sarcopenia lead to an increasing global health burden. Marine collagen peptides (MCPs) are the most promising candidate for nutritional intervention and have significant advantages compared to their terrestrial counterparts in terms of bioavailability, immunogenicity, and sustainable exploitation using fish by-products. This chapter provides an overview of published scientific evidence on the efficacy and modes of action of M CPs for musculoskeletal health. Based on preclinical studies, done mostly in animal and in vitro models, marine collagen can prevent the progression of osteoarthritis, increase bone mineral density, and promote differentiation of osteoblasts. The underlying mechanisms were related to the suppression of pro-inflammatory and catabolic factors, such as matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and promotion of anabolic genes, collagen type II alpha 1 chain (COL2A1). Nevertheless, the clinical evidence is limited, and there is an urgent requirement for more large RCTs (randomised controlled trials) of long-term to confirm these preclinical findings for the human population. In addition, there are substantial voids related to dose-response effects, comparative effectiveness across marine sources, and sequence-specific bioactive peptide sequences. Standardisation of product quality, purity and contaminant screening is a key obstacle within the field to clinical translation and public confidence. This chapter includes a review of the literature, identifies key gaps in research, and provides recommendations to advance the science to fully realise the therapeutic potential of marine collagen peptides for musculoskeletal health.

Haemato-Biochemical Changes Following Ketamine Anaesthesia Combined with Diazepam, Butorphanol, and Xylazine in Buffalo Calves

Khichar Sangram Singh — 2026-03-02

Intravenous general anaesthesia in large ruminants is simple and easy to administer as it requires no sophisticated instruments like inhalation anaesthesia. General anaesthesia, such as ketamine, is an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist and induces a state called dissociative anaesthesia, producing profound analgesia without muscle relaxation. Surgical conditions like laparotomy, repair of diaphragmatic hernia, prepubic tendon rupture, thoraco pericardiotomy, repair of ventral hernia, etc., requiring general anaesthesia are frequently encountered in buffaloes. This study was designed to evaluate the effect on various haematological and biochemical parameters following administration of ketamine anaesthesia along with glycopyrrolate-diazepam, glycopyrrolate-butorphanol and glycopyrrolate-xylazine as preanaesthetics in 18 non-descript buffalo calves and were divided into three groups (A, B and C) with six animals in each. All the calves were administered glycopyrrolate @ 0.01 mg/ kg body weight through the intramuscular route prior to anaesthetic administration. Then the calves in all groups A, B and C were administered diazepam @ 0.5 mg/kg body weight, butorphanol @ 0.075 mg/kg body weight and xylazine @ 0.16 mg/kg body weight, respectively, through the intravenous route. Further, general anaesthesia was induced with ketamine @ 4 mg/kg body weight intravenously. Haematological parameters such as haemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), total erythrocyte count (TEC), total leucocyte count (TLC), differential leucocyte count (DLC) and biochemical parameters such as serum glucose, serum total protein, serum urea nitrogen and serum creatinine were estimated before sedation (0) and at 30, 60,120 min. and 6 hrs post ketamine anaesthesia. Statistical analysis was performed using Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Duncan’s Multiple range tests (DMRT). Haematological investigations indicated a non-significant (P>0.05) reduction in Hb, PCV, TEC, TLC, and DLC after ketamine anaesthesia across all groups. Hyperglycemia was observed in animals from all groups following ketamine anaesthesia. There was significant (P<0.05) increase in Serum Glucose (mg/dl) value in group A and C at 30 min and 60 min following diazepam-ketamine and xylazine-ketamine anaesthesia respectively, while in group B, there was non-significant (P>0.05) increase in Serum Glucose value at 15 min after butorphanol-ketamine anaesthesia Other biochemical indicators such as total serum protein, serum urea nitrogen, and serum creatinine levels exhibited non-significant (P>0.05) variations at different time points but stayed within the normal physiological limits. Thus, it can be concluded that the combinations of glycopyrrolate-diazepam-ketamine, glycopyrrolate-butorphanol-ketamine, and glycopyrrolate-xylazine-ketamine do not have any harmful effects on vital organs, and the changes stayed within physiological limits. Therefore, ketamine can be used safely and effectively as an induction agent in buffalo calves for general anaesthesia.

Histopathological Assessment of Intestinal Morphology in Japanese Quails Following Essential Oil Supplementation

Abhishek Tiwari — 2026-03-02

Among livestock sub-sectors, the poultry industry is the most organised and scientifically advanced, and has emerged as the fastest-growing segment of Indian agriculture. Essential oils, derived from herbs and medicinal plants, have gained considerable attention as potential alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters due to their antimicrobial, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and digestive stimulant properties. Despite the documented benefits of essential oils in broilers, limited information is available on their effects on growth performance and nutrient utilisation in Japanese quails under Indian conditions. The present study evaluated the effect of dietary supplementation of cinnamon and peppermint essential oils on intestinal histomorphology in Japanese quails. Two hundred day-old chicks were randomly assigned to five dietary treatments: basal diet (control), cinnamon oil (500 ppm), peppermint oil (500 ppm), a combination of both oils (250 ppm each), and a higher-level combination (500 ppm each) for 35 days. Jejunal samples were collected at the end of the trial for histological examination. Villus height, crypt depth, and villus height to crypt depth ratio were significantly (p<0.05) influenced by essential oil supplementation. Treated groups showed increased villus height and improved villus–crypt ratio compared to control, indicating enhanced intestinal structural development. The combined supplementation, particularly at higher inclusion levels, produced superior morphometric responses. These findings suggest that cinnamon and peppermint essential oils beneficially modulate intestinal architecture in Japanese quails.

Marine Biopolymers in Advanced Wound Care: Mechanisms and Clinical Applications

A. A. Zubair — 2026-03-02

Wound healing is a complex physiological process that can be disrupted by pathological conditions, causing chronic wounds when they represent a significant burden on health systems. Marine-based biopolymers, particularly chitosan and alginate, have attracted attention as wound care biomaterials due to their properties, such as being biocompatible and biodegradable with intrinsic bioactivities. Nutritional interventions are also predominantly carried out to promote the wound-healing process, and this chapter provides a detailed panorama on the clinical uses of chitosan and alginate, which are already utilised in wound healing amidst nutritional interventions as observed. The present study describes mechanisms of action along with haemostatic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and regenerative effects. The chapter summarises the experimental and clinical evidence, including randomised controlled trials, showing that chitosan-based dressings are effective in promoting healing of chronic ulcers such as diabetic foot ulcers. Instead, with clinical experience, alginate dressings used in high-exudate wounds are shown as beneficial; yet, systematic reviews revealed that this type of dressing did not promote healing rates better than other alternative modern dressings. It also addresses the synergetic effects of a composite dressing that consists of chitosan and alginate, as they demonstrate superior mechanical and therapeutic features in preclinical models. Oral chitosan and alginate are nutritional supplements that are generally believed to promote wound healing (although this is speculative without clear clinical evidence). Future studies could enable the development of “smart” dressings, and larger, more definitive clinical trials are required to realise the true potential of these marine-derived biomaterials in advanced wound care.