https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/feed Latest articles from Science Vision journal. 2025-08-27T13:59:51+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/August2025/k1mQclxOl3Qq9I4aI1G3.pdf

The Brahmaputra valley was formed by stratified deposits of Palaeo-Proterozoic to Recent sediments that were drained from the Himalaya, Assam-Arakan, and Shillong-Mikir Hill ranges. The underlying hydrogeologic system was developed by alluvium (sand-silt-clay mixtures) layer. Several ancient kingdoms have thrived because of this hydrogeologic environment as a whole prior to the Ahom dynasty (1228-1826 AD). Ahoms were the final monarchs and they made a major impact on Assam’s history, particularly about pond building methods. This study has investigated tectonic and hydrogeological aspects of the major pond series in the Sivasagar District, Assam, using satellite imageries, subsurface lithologic distribution (panel or fence diagram from boreholes data), water table, and surface water variation. The regional groundwater flow is parallel to the east-west linearly aligned major ponds. The moat, or jamuna, that is built around these large ponds plays a vital part in preserving the water level. The sandy clay layer is found on top of the aquifer creating confined aquifers that have kept the water pressure constant, with the foothills having the maximum water pressure. Majority of ponds close to the foothill, therefore, do not need Jamuna surrounding them. The area is controlled by the splaying of the Jorhat Fault, the Naga Thrust zone, and local tectonic features. Conversely, the water from the Jamuna, paleo-channels, and channels has fed the large ponds in the valley. The water level has been sustained by the hydrogeologic environment as well as the link between the Jamuna and the ponds' effluent-affluent groundwater.]]>

2025-08-27T13:59:51+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/August2025/24w3RFMywmfdYVtrM13o.pdf

Bacillus paramycoides DW1 (hereafter B. paramycoides DW1), an isolate from dairy waste water is a gram-positive, rod-shaped, endo-spore forming bacterium. The aim of this study was to assess the ability of this bacterium to hydrolyze lactose, proteins, and lipids (major organic constituents of dairy waste water), and its potential to grow using lactose, glucose, and galactose as sources of carbon, and ability to utilize other complex carbohydrates. The results suggest that lactose is a good source of carbohydrate for B. paramycoides DW1 growth. Although the best growth of the bacterium was observed in the presence of 2% lactose, it was able to grow even at higher concentration of lactose (5%) usually encountered in dairy waste water, and could also utilize a variety of other carbohydrates, such as xylose, cellobiose, saccharose, trehalose, glucose, and galactose. Concomitant with its growth using lactose, B. paramycoides DW1 displayed lactose-hydrolyzing intracellular β-D-galactosidase activity irrespective of concentrations of lactose with the highest being at 2%. This activity was inhibited in bacterial cells grown in the presence of glucose and galactose and by a metal ion chelator ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) suggesting that the enzymatic reaction is catabolite repressible and requires metal ions for its activity. Further biochemical characterization revealed that a neutral pH (7.0) and mesophilic temperature (37°C) was optimum for β-D-galactosidase activity in B. paramycoides DW1. Additionally, the bacterium was also endowed with extracellular protease (caseinolytic) and lipase activities. Overall, the findings reveal that the potential to hydrolyze lactose, protein, and lipid probably enables B. paramycoides DW1 to grow and survive in nutritionally complex dairy waste water environment and implies that such a bacterium may be a significant contributor to reduction of organic pollutant load in dairy waste water.]]>

2025-08-27T13:49:11+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/August2025/XmFI7aFjXWA5W2SUAgKh.pdf

Chromolaena odorata (CO) is a commonly available weed in Mizoram, India, and has been used by traditional healers for a long time in treating wounds, cuts, and infections. However, due to the presence of morphologically similar-looking invasive weed species, there might be a high chance of misidentification, which might result in compromising its therapeutic safety and efficacy. The present study provides a comprehensive pharmacognostic profile of the CO leaf found in Mizoram, India via its detailed macroscopic and microscopic characteristics, along with physicochemical evaluation and phytoconstituent screenings. This study not only provides the evidence of its therapeutic claims but also provides the parameters for its quality control analysis.]]>

2025-08-27T13:42:46+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/August2025/de1KFjVY95l6vsx5xOr7.pdf

Enterococcus faecium PB1 is a gram-positive, round-shaped, commercially important (probiotic) lactic acid bacterium. The present study was aimed to evaluate the ability of this bacterium to utilize the complex disaccharide lactose as a source of carbon for growth, and its enzymatic potential to hydrolyze lactose, proteins, and lipids. The results revealed that E. faecium PB1 can grow in the presence of a range of lactose concentrations (1-5%) with optimum growth at 2%. As with lactose, the bacterium was able to grow well in the presence of simple sugars glucose and galactose and, utilize various other carbohydrates. E. faecium PB1 exhibited β-D-galactosidase activity (an intracellular lactose-hydrolyzing enzyme) at all the concentrations of lactose tested; the maximum being observed at 2%. A neutral to moderate alkaline pH range (7.0-8.5) and mesophilic temperature (37°C) was optimum for β-D-galactosidase activity in E. faecium PB1. Ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA, a metal ion chelator), glucose and galactose (the breakdown products of lactose) inhibited this activity. E. faecium PB1 also displayed extracellular protein-degrading protease activity in cells grown with lactose and galactose. Although no extracellular lipid-degrading lipase activity could be detected in cells grown with lactose, this activity was present in cells grown with glucose and galactose. Taken together, the ability of the probiotic bacterium E. faecium PB1 to grow at a range of lactose concentrations and its potential to hydrolyze lactose, proteins, and lipids may be suitably exploited for biological treatment of dairy waste waters rich in similar types of organic nutrients.]]>

2025-08-27T13:35:47+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/August2025/WK0UryzA7G1kILDIDhmu.pdf

Scrub typhus, a disease caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi, is transmitted by trombiculid mites (Leptotrombidium spp.) and is primarily reported in the Asia-Pacific region. These mites act as both vectors and reservoirs. Small mammals, especially rodents, are important in the disease cycle as hosts for infected mites. In Mizoram, Northeast India, traditional slash-and-burn agriculture (jhum cultivation) is a widespread practice and may influence disease patterns. This study analyzed scrub typhus data from 2018 to 2022 to assess the correlation between jhum cultivation and scrub typhus infections, focusing on infected farmers. Over five years, 9,799 farmers were diagnosed with scrub typhus, making up nearly 50% of all reported cases across seven occupational groups. The highest number of cases occurred in 2022 (3,045), followed by 2019 (2,716). Of the infected farmers, 25 (0.25%) succumbed to the disease. Seasonally, infections peaked during the monsoon (33.56%), followed by post-monsoon (26.19%), winter (21.57%), and summer (18.25%). The data suggest a strong link between the seasonal intensity of jhum cultivation and increased scrub typhus infections among farmers, indicating that traditional agricultural practices may contribute significantly to disease transmission in the region.]]>

2025-08-27T13:13:59+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/August2025/pm3ASmSSHcTyRJvrikWB.pdf

We report the first confirmed sightings of Pin-tailed Parrotfinch Erythrura prasine from Mizoram and India. Pin-tailed Parrotfinch belongs to the family Estrildidae. In India, this is the only sighting record and photographic record of this species. The sighting details and habitat are discussed in detail.]]>

2025-08-27T13:09:33+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/September2024/fTMZcgqTzHBLixI7ZYnT.pdf

The Geological Strength Index (GSI) system was developed using numerical analysis in response to the demand for accurate input data regarding the characteristics of rock masses for planning slopes, tunnels, or foundations in rocks. To acquire data and information regarding the mechanical behavior of the rock masses, field studies were conducted to analyze the stability of the slopes and the geological characteristics of the research area. The Slake Durability Test measures the resistance of rocks upon weathering that include clay. The study suggested that rock resistance decreased when exposed to a continuously wet and dry environment. The rate of disintegration increases due to changes in the environment, which causes physical and chemical weathering of rock. The Geological Strength Index is found to range between 42 and 54 based on the total observation results of the Structure Rating and Surface Condition Rating.]]>

2024-09-10T11:33:14+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/September2024/SCxHphVte6tWii3Blgpe.pdf

The present study aims to evaluate the nutritional properties and mineral content of wild edible mushrooms. The samples were collected during the monsoon season of 2020-2021 from three different sites in Aizawl District, Mizoram, India. The samples were cleaned to remove any debris and properly labelled. The specimens were identified using standard methods based on macroscopic and microscopic characteristics. Three samples were selected and oven-dried at 45–60 °C for three days in a hot air oven for their proximate analysis. The analysis revealed that the three species of wild edible mushrooms are high in protein (14.42–23.30 g/100g dry weight) and carbohydrates (54.84–58.71 g/100g dry weight), have a low-fat content, and contain significant amounts of essential minerals (5.53–7.19 g/100g dry weight). This study presents data on the nutritional properties and mineral composition of three widely consumed wild edible mushrooms that are commonly collected and consumed by the local people of Mizoram, India.]]>

2024-09-10T11:24:45+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/April2024/Zuoo2ahpN9UlNXlyHI2g.pdf

This study aims to highlight the quantitative analysis of Middle Tuirial watershed in Mizoram, India and its significance for soil loss risk. In addition to understanding landscape evolution and hydrological characteristics of the river basin, it is crucial to implement appropriate soil and water conservation practices, to reduce further soil erosion risk in the basin. Linear, areal and relief aspects of morphometric parameters were analyzed using a survey of India topographical maps, advanced land observing satellite (ALOS) phased array type L-band synthetic aperture radar (PALSAR) digital elevation model (DEM), and geographic information system (GIS). The study reveals a high drainage density of 5.22 km/km2 and stream frequency of 10.58 km2, which denotes the basin exhibits high surface run-off with low groundwater recharge. In addition, it has 0.6 form factor, 0.3 elongated ratio and 0.43 circularity ratio indicating a highly elongated shape of the basin. Furthermore, the hypsometric integral values of 0.48 with an s-curve show the basin has attained a mature stage of landscape evolution.]]>

2024-04-19T12:55:39+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/April2024/uAVA9AkXDXjSDBo3MMax.pdf

We report on colloidal Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) and Cu2-xAgxZnSnS4 (X=0.25) nanoparticles synthesis by sol-gel spin coating process and hot injection method. The colloidal nanoparticles were deposited on ITO substrates by using spin-coating techniques. The deposited thin films were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-visible spectrometer, FE-SEM, Raman spectroscopy and Keithley 2450 Source meter. XRD reveals that the crystal structure of CZTS is confirmed tetragonal structure with peak (112) and observed the changes to wurtzite peak (002) due to the presence of Ag. UV visible spectra show that the optical band gap of CZTS nanoparticles decreases from 2 eV to around 1.75 eV, and there is a significant improvement in absorption coefficient when the sample is prepared under a nitrogen atmosphere. FESEM captured the microstructure image of CZTS and Cu2-xAgxZnSnS4. Photoluminescence (PL) reveals the emission peaks and Raman spectra investigate the secondary phases present. XPS confirms the presence of each element and their oxidation state. Further, electrical properties are studied using the four-probe method at room temperature. CZTS offers optical and electrical properties, which allow it to be suitable for thin-film solar cell absorber layers, and Ag doping enhances its properties.]]>

2024-04-19T12:48:39+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2024/1vUjaUqvOlu71Qyn2aCd.pdf

Dacryodes edulis H. J. Lam is a common fruit in Nigeria used to eat roasted or boiled corn. It can also be eaten alone by softening with hot water, hot ash, or by roasting on low heat. It is called “ube” in the eastern part of Nigeria. D. edulis fruits are prone to infection by fungal pathogens in the field, in transit and during storage. Proper identification of these pathogens is important in disease prevention and control. This study was carried out to isolate and identify the fungal species associated with D. edulis fruits. Fruits were obtained from Rumokoro market, Rivers State, Nigeria in January 2020. Isolation of fungi was done by Potato Dextrose (PDA) method and identification was carried out by molecular method. Fungal DNA was extracted using the Zymo Fungal/Bacterial DNA Miniprep Kit. Polymerase chain reaction amplification of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region was carried out using the primer pair: ITS4 and ITS5. BLAST search was carried out on the National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database and the fungi were identified as: Rhizopus delemar, Aspergillus oryzae and A. welwitschiae. The Phylogenetic tree was constructed to show the evolutionary relationship among the isolates and other fungal species retrieved from GenBank. The sequences of the isolates have been deposited in GenBank under the accession numbers: ON965489, ON965490 and ON965491 for Rhizopus delemar, Aspergillus oryzae and A. welwitschiae respectively. The molecular method used in this study enabled the isolates to be identified at the species levels.]]>

2024-02-06T15:32:20+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2024/pXEPZrOEj0RAkWPTDF5w.pdf

Naga Hills, one of the seven sisters of NE India provides a unique opportunity to study Tertiary Geology. Three different morphotectonic belts of this geological terrain, i.e. Inner Fold Belt, Belt of Schuppen and the Naga Ophiolite Belts are home to the sediments of different times between Late Cretaceous to Recent. The focus of this study is situated in the Belt of Schuppen, the trust belt bounded by Naga thrust and Disang thrust. The age of the sediments of this belt is ranged from Oligocene to Recent. An economically important sedimentary unit the Tipam Group of rocks is well exposed in this belt. In this study, an approach has been made to understand the depositional environment and provenance characteristics of the Tipam Sandstone Formation of Tipam Group exposed in and around Kukidolong in Dimapur district. By the study of different facies parameters, the rocks of the study area have been divided into two lithofacies namely: Planar crossbedded medium-grained sandstone (MSp) and Trough cross-bedded mediumgrained sandstone facies (MSt). The facies characteristics and sedimentary structures observed in the area point towards a mid-channel- bar depositional system of a river as mighty as Brahmaputra. The heavy mineral assemblages found in this sandstone interpret a mixed provenance of igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks]]>

2024-02-02T14:21:10+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2024/KijvIvcrrMXuJmR5C95C.pdf

Mosquitoes are vectors capable of transmitting various life-threatening diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis, lymphatic filariasis, malaria, and so on. They are reared in the laboratories for conducting various studies such as vector biology, vector competence, mechanism of disease transmission, to check the efficiency and follow-up of various control methods, insecticide susceptibility, and vaccine trials. Moreover, mass rearing of mosquitoes is required for sterile insect technique (SIT) to control mosquitoes. Successful breeding of mosquitoes requires attention to detail and depends upon various factors such as quality and quantity of larval food, temperature, humidity, population size, mating, blood feeding, and egg laying. Culex quinquefasciatus is a vector of lymphatic filariasis (LF) and a cosmopolitan mosquito, abundant in tropical and subtropical regions. In this study, a simple and convenient rearing protocol for Culex quinquefasciatus has been discussed.]]>

2024-02-02T13:21:30+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/October2023/P12tCvSyD1r5C8rupQ3h.pdf

The traits of residual soils are dependent upon the environmental factors of climate, parent materials, topography and drainage, and time. The structures and designs of buildings are greatly affected by the properties of soils; such as plasticity, compressibility, or strength. A proper foundation soil is needed for the stability of engineering structures like dams, buildings, bridges, tunnels, towers, etc. one that is built into or on top of the soil. Changsari is situated on the north bank of the Brahmaputra River, Kamrup district of Assam. Based on the geotechnical investigations, the region comprises four different soil horizons; i.e. Horizon A, Upper Horizon B, Lower Horizon B and Horizon C, classified as Clay (or organic soil) with low plasticity, Silt with high plasticity, Silt with low plasticity, and Clay with low plasticity respectively. The cohesive strength (C) decreases with depth, and the grain sizes vary in each horizon. The results of the geotechnical investigations show that the geotechnical characteristics of the residual soils discovered in the three separate research areas follow a consistent pattern.]]>

2023-10-25T12:39:38+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/October2023/Nox2G5fJpoQa0F0iQBNj.pdf

Jhum cultivation commonly known as shifting cultivation is the main form of agricultural practice in Mizoram. This gradually causes changes in the physico-chemical properties of soil. The study of soil organic carbon on current jhum and jhum fallows intends to find out the impact of jhum cultivation on soil organic carbon in relation to the period of jhum fallows. Soil samples were collected in triplicates from four different sites seasonally i.e. thrice in a year. The study was conducted within Rawpuichhip, Mamit i.e., Current Jhum, J and Jhum Fallows (which is categorized into two sites; Short fallow, SF - 2 to 5 years and Long fallow, LF - more than 8 years) and undisturbed area (adjacent forest) during the year 2022. Soil samples were collected in triplicates from three different depths 0-10 cm, 10-20cm, and 20-30cm with the help of a soil corer. It was found from the study that Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) value ranges from 1.21±0.17 % - 2.38±0.10 %. The results indicate that among the study area, short fallow has the least amount of SOC while current Jhum and the undisturbed area tend to have higher concentrations of SOC]]>

2023-10-25T15:07:38+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/October2023/LZ1Fpou7f2HEVLtkmyuD.pdf

This study presents Russula purpureoverrucosa marking the first record of its presence in India. Additionally, we have identified other fourteen species from the family Russulaceae and their taxonomic descriptions were given. This study was constrained to a small area, however, it hints at the potential for the discovery of more Russulaceae in Mizoram. The findings suggest that the region may host a rich diversity of these fungi, and further research in broader areas could unveil additional Russulaceae in Mizoram.]]>

2023-10-25T12:34:09+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/August2023/b4TsCWqFz0e26F9aqq4z.pdf

Heavy mineral analysis is a valuable tool that helps to determine the source area of sediments and the transport history of sedimentary rock. The heavy mineral assemblage of Bhuban sandstones included non-opaque in the form of mainly zircon, rutile, tourmaline, apatite, staurolite, kyanite, garnet, epidote, augite and opaque minerals. The presence of zircon, tourmaline, rutile in the shape of euhedral to rounded and opaque minerals suggests the derivation of igneous rocks and metamorphic rock. The Bhuban sandstone is derived from mixed sources which includes high-grade metamorphic rocks as well as igneous and sedimentary sources with short to moderate distance of sediment transportation. The ZTR maturity index suggests that the sediment of Bhuban Formation is mineralogically immature in nature]]>

2023-08-08T21:15:43+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/August2023/jESpArvG7BDtGtjgyv7T.pdf

Asthma is a common chronic disease infecting the lower airway resulting in cough, chest constriction and wheezing. Treatment of asthma includes drugs such as salbutamol, levalbuterol, metaproterenol and terbutaline as these can cause relaxation of the muscles of the windpipe. One of the most common spices that is enriched with numerous medicinal properties is ginger, which is reported to have anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antiemetic, anticancer and anti-obesity properties. In this paper we analyse the pharmacokinetics, druglikeness and binding affinity of 6-dehydrogingerdione (6-DG) to β2-adrenergic receptor (ADRB2) using in silico approach. We observe that 6-DG fulfilled druglikeness tests and may be safe for human consumption and also exhibited a strong binding affinity to ADRB2 which is comparable to the standard asthma drug salbutamol. The amino acids involved in the interaction of 6-DG and salbutamol to ADRB2 differ only by one residue. We concluded that further in vitro and in vivo analyses are required to confirm the potential of 6-DG as an anti-asthmatic medication.]]>

2023-08-09T10:19:25+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/August2023/2RHVC5t651YfphFqE7z3.pdf

Stone Matrix Asphalt (SMA) was introduced to counter heavy traffic and loading due to its better rut resistance. This study aims to determine the effect of rock gradation on SMA, water susceptibility, tensile strength, and retained tensile strength. The methods adopted for testing include the physical properties of rock and bitumen, the Marshall Stability Test, and the Water Sensitivity Test. Coir fibre is used in SMA to prevent draining as an alternative to cellulose fibre. The study shows that coir fibres satisfy the drain-down requirement for both 13 mm and 19 mm gradations, respectively. Laminate sedimentary rock aggregate used in SMA is susceptible to water. A larger size of gradation has achieved higher retained tensile strength, mainly due to the lesser degradation that develops in bituminous concrete]]>

2023-08-08T21:10:00+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/April2023/Wgb7et8Z7fkS7YwxM2A8.pdf

The slope stability affected by wetting and drying of the soil is investigated in Zuangtui Local Council Area, Aizawl, and the study was performed by determining soil mechanical properties for two cycles of wetting and drying. Engineering properties of soil like liquid limit, plastic limit, plasticity index, liquidity index, consistency index, and shear strength are used for comparing the behaviour of soil. Samples were collected during the dry season from two locations (L1 and L2). The second sampling was done during the wet season after completing two wet-dry cycles. Slope stability analysis of the investigated area was carried out to compare the Factor of Safety in two complete cycles. Based on the analysis, the parameters of Atterberg’s limit except for the liquidity index decrease during the wet season after completing the cycle in both locations. Cohesion and angle of internal friction reduce in the wet season. The Factor of Safety is below unity in both locations during the wet season and above unity in the dry season.]]>

2023-04-27T16:28:07+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/April2023/jycAzGHnaGoeo09ooE42.pdf

The aqueous extract of the shoot tips of Acacia pennata showed a high enzyme inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase. However, the enzyme inhibiting phytocompound is not known. Identification of the antidiabetic phytocompound will be beneficial in designing drugs with higher efficacy to treat diabetes mellitus. We attempted to identify the compound using molecular docking simulation studies (MDSS). Among the 29 phytocompounds present in A. pennata, MDSS revealed that 23 phytocompounds outperformed the co-crystal inhibitor (CCI) of α -glucosidase (PDB ID: 5NN5) in terms of binding affinity. Among the 23 phytocompounds, (2R)-4’,7-dihydroxyflavan-(4aà8)-(2R,3S)-3,5,7-trihdyroxyflavan3”-O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside (compound 25) has the highest binding affinity (-9.2 kcal/mol). Analysis of the protein-ligand interactions revealed that compound 25 formed 5 conventional hydrogen bonds (ASP 282, TRP 481, ARG 600, ASP 616, HIS 674), 3 hydrophobic interactions (TRP 376, TRP 481, LEU 650), 3 electrostatic interactions (MET 519, ASP 616 (n=2)), and 1 carbon-hydrogen bond (ASP 518). The binding pose analysis further revealed that the docking protocol applied in the study was able to re-dock the CCI and dock compound 25 exactly at the active binding site where the CCI was originally positioned. Our in-silico study showed that compound 25 is the phytocompound of A. pennata that is responsible for potentially inhibiting the α-glucosidase enzyme. The structure of compound 25 may be modified to design more potent inhibitors of α-glucosidase.]]>

2023-04-27T16:30:30+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/April2023/Rggll0vRlIff5NEUBW91.pdf

Using spin-polarized density functional theory, magnetic induction by means of vacancy defect was studied on SiC monolayer. While pristine SiC monolayer is found to be a semiconductor with a direct band gap of 2.64eV, vacancy of both Si and C defect transforms it into metallic ferromagnetic material. Calculated magnetization density shows that Si vacancy results in a magnetic moment of while C vacancy results to a magnetic moment of . Observations reveals that magnetism mostly arises from the unpaired electrons that arise as a result of the removed Si/C atom and spin asymmetry arises mainly from the p-orbitals of Si/C as a result of vacancy. Our result shows that magnetism can be introduced in SiC monolayer effectively using vacancy defect and can further be altered depending on the type of defect]]>

2023-04-27T16:31:41+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/April2023/pmAdI555hxwATFzAj06i.pdf

Zuangtui is situated in the Eastern limbs of the Aizawl anticline. Human settlement in the study area is greatly affected by the ground movement that has been occurring since 1987. A geotechnical investigation was carried out using Slake Durability Test and Point Load Index Test in order to understand the weathering rate and strength of the rock. Out of 21 collected rock samples,16 samples show a durability range of 76 - 90%, and the other samples fall under the durability range of 90%-95%. Most of the samples showing lower durability are from disturbed areas. The lowest point load value is 1MPa shown by samples in a disturbed area and most of the point load strength of the rock in an unstable area is comparatively lower than in a stable area. From the study, it is considered that the durability and strength of the rock greatly contribute to triggering ground movement.]]>

2023-04-27T16:32:44+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/March2023/51DCxniwVMSXPK9gI2KH.pdf

Mathematics is regarded as the hardest subject in school education in Mizoram. Students always have a sense of fear and failure. Though many attempts were made by various Science Societies and the government of Mizoram to overcome this, the performance of the candidates for High School Leaving Certificate (HSLC) and Higher Secondary School Leaving Certificate (HSSLC) Examinations under Mizoram Board of School Education (MBSE) proved that it is still the subject performed worst compared to other subjects. It was also observed that the correlation coefficient of Mathematics is highest with science subjects in the HSLC Examination from 1978 to 2021, which is positive and also significant at 1% and 5% levels of significance indicating that if the score of science subject increases the score of mathematics subject will also be increased among the students. The highest regression coefficient was also observed in science with 0.530, which means that if the score in science increase by one mark, the mathematics score will be increased by 0.530 marks. From time series analysis from 1978 to 2021 using ARIMA, it was also observed that female candidates will have a higher pass percentage as compared to male candidates in the next five years i.e. 2022 to 2026; it will be very challenging for male candidates.]]>

2023-03-06T11:54:16+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/April2022/5jPVkarxrwO50fjdWiZ9.pdf

Depletion of oil reserves, increasing prices of petroleum products, and environmental concerns related to air pollution are the main driving forces for utilizing renewable energy resources to replace fossil fuels. Vegetable oils can be used to produce biodiesel. Biodiesel is obtained by transesterification of vegetable oil with alcohol using homogeneous or heterogeneous catalysts. Commercial homogeneous catalysts in the biodiesel production industry are facing challenges such as separation difficulties and severe corrosion which will lead to the increment of production and maintenance cost. Herein, this paper focuses on the comprehensive review of literature reported on the usage of heterogeneous catalyst used in biodiesel production. Compared to other commercial catalysts, the usage of heterogeneous catalyst possesses several advantages such as abundantly available, cheaper raw materials, reusable, non-toxic and biodegradable. Carbon material synthesized from biomass which acts as the efficient support for active sites due to its high porosity and surface area characteristic has been studied widely.]]>

2022-04-25T12:04:45+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com

The Barail Group (Oligocene) of Zote section, Champhai district, Mizoram has been studied, for the first time, on the basis of trace fossil. The study areas consist of different rocks like Sandstone, siltstone, shale and their admixture in various proportion. The present paper documents 14 ichnofossils such as Arenicolites isp., Gyrolithes lorcaensis, Helminthopsis abeli, H. hieroglyphica, H. tenuis, Laevicyclus mongraensis, Lanicodichna medulata, Palaeophycus sulcatus, P. heberti, Psilonichnus tubiformis, Skolithos linearis, S. verticalis, Teichichnus spiralis and Thalasinoides paradoxicus. The different ichnoassemblages present in Zote area correspond to the Psilonichnus, Skolithos and Cruziana facies. With the analysis of Ichnofacies and lithofacies, studied rock of Barail Group exposed in Zote area is interpreted as to have been deposited under fluctuating energy condition, sandy substrate to sublittoral zone of shallow marine environment.]]>

2022-01-25T23:10:59+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2022/p10TVcjLR11BEJBdubTC.pdf

Endoparasitic infections are usually regarded as detrimental to the host causing various diseases in humans and animals especially in tropical and sub-tropical countries. In recent years, the incidence of autoimmune and other inflammatory diseases increase in developed and industrial regions. The entry of any infectious disease is challenged by the body immune system through various branch of immunity among which T-helper branches of immunity (Th1 and Th2) play at the fore-front. However, the uncurbed imbalance of Th immune response where a surge in Th1 (IFNγ and TNFα) over Th2 response is implicated to cause various autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. In general, parasitic helminth infection is fought by the body as up-regulation of Th2 branch of immunity by secreting inflammatory cytokines (Interleukins like: IL-4, IL-5, IL-9 & IL-13) thereby executing antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). In recent years, exciting evidences revealed that the uncurbed Th1 surge is brought to balance by administration of parasite or parasite extracts thereby alleviating the clinical manifestation of autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. This paper describes works that have been carried out to control various autoimmune and inflammatory disorders using parasite or parasite extracts.]]>

2022-01-25T22:06:14+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/October2021/iI01cu4p0WHanzDuRfvr.pdf

Potable water quality and quantity is one of the most important topics of study in today’s world. More and more techniques for efficient use of water are required throughout the world, especially in developing countries like India. The present study was conducted to analyse the quality of potable water sources use by the citizens of Aizawl district in the state of Mizoram, India. Number of samples was collected from surrounding areas of Greater Aizawl in pre cleaned polyethylene bottles as recommended in the WHO standards and recommendations. Various physico-chemical properties (pH, turbidity, total hardness, chloride, free chlorine, iron, nitrate and total dissolved solids) were studied. The samples were analyzed in the field using handheld meters for pH, turbidity, total hardness and TDS and were then also analyzed in the laboratory to confirm the field results. The other chemical parameters were tested in the laboratory using standard and recommended techniques. The pH values ranged from 6.48 to 7.54. TDS values ranged from 30 to 430ppm. Total hardness ranged from 30 to 60 mg/l. Chloride content in the samples was found to be between the values of 15.5 to 80 ppm. Iron and nitrate were found only in trace quantities in all the samples. In surrounding areas of the city, proper development of perennial springs would serve as the main source of water supply to the local population. Some samples which contained higher concentrations of chloride could have been contaminated from sewage water or waste water leakage. Other than that, the quality of water was within the limits of WHO standards.]]>

2021-10-18T16:49:20+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/October2021/Et90LAavG7EVWqPkDUmr.pdf

Doping is known to be an efficient way of altering the properties of materials. We have studied the structural, electronic and magnetic properties of non-metallic element (B, C and N)-doped CdO monolayer based on spin-polarized density function theory within the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) as revised for solids by Perdew, Burke and Ernzerhof (PBE-sol). Substituting B, C and N in O site with one atom in CdO monolayer induces spin polarized localized states in the gap or near the valence band and exhibit local magnetic moments ~ 1 μΒ, ~ 2 μΒ and ~ 1 μΒ respectively. It is found that the magnetic states in these doped systems are associated with the difference between the electronegativity of the dopant and the anion in the host. Our study shows that non-metal doped CdO is a promising candidate for novel nano-materials for future applications.]]>

2021-10-18T16:48:00+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/October2021/anN96mfaN5aAQot6eEfQ.pdf

Scrub typhus is a disease caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi which is an obligate, intracellular gram-negative bacterium. It is endemic to a part of the world known as “tsutsugamushi triangle.” This extends from Japan, China, Taiwan, South Koria, Nepal, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Australian states of Queensland and Northern New South Wales. In India, it has been recognized for several years and the disease widely spread all over the country. The severity of scrub typhus disease has been reported to be strain dependent in humans. Orientia tsutsugamushi strains have been examined by various research tools. PCR amplification and sequencing of 56-kDa antigen gene is one of the most advanced tool in identifying O. tsutsugamushi strains and genotypes. In the present review, English-language literature for reports of Orientia tsutsugamushi genotype diversity and distribution in India was searched using PubMed and Google Scholar databases. The search terms scrub typhus or mite typhus or tropical typhus or tsutsugamushi disease or Orientia tsutsugamushi or Rickettsia tsutsugamushiwere used in combination with the term genotypes or strains or serotypes. The result of present review revealed limited Information related to genotype diversity and distribution in the country. Understanding a more detailed regional genetic diversity is required in region-specific vaccine development strategies andsero-diagnostics tools.]]>

2021-10-18T16:46:36+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/June2021/Cf49SAREMKRbRpJ8zFDV.pdf

Orchidaceae family includes some of the most important ornamental plants with medicinal purposes. It is one of the largest groups among the Angiosperms. Even though there are several studies on the medicinal purposes of orchidaceae, lesser is known about the phytochemical compound present in the different parts of the plant. Therefore, in this present review paper five genus from Orchidaceae family has been selected to highlight the important phytochemical compounds present in the orchid plant. The commonly found phytochemicals are alkaloid, flavanoid, phenol, terpenoid, steroid and saponin.]]>

2021-06-30T13:04:38+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/June2021/KhI85WDqPS7TXQC1m2Ij.pdf

The diversified geographic location along with climatic conditions has led to the enrichment of fauna species in India. Coleoptera (Gk. Coleos–sheath, ptera–wing) are the largest group of organisms at the order level and are comprised of beetles. They adapt to a wide range of environmental conditions and are widely distributed. The family Scarabaeidae which is included in the superfamily Scarabaeoidea is one of the largest families. They consist of about 27,800 species worldwide and are further divided into 16 subfamilies, 82 tribes and 94 sub-tribes. They are usually harmful or beneficial in nature with their size being large to small. The research on scarab beetles is necessary to understand their role as pest as well as their adaptation to different anthropogenic activities. Also, the diversified population of scarab beetles along with their similar characters makes it hard for researchers to identify them often leading to misidentification which is why a review is needed. This review summarizes the status, diversity and ecological status of scarab beetles in India.]]>

2021-06-30T13:03:22+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/June2021/tu7x7XNZ9NOg99w9Lte6.pdf

Many agricultural pests create problems for farmers leading to production loss. Since agriculture plays an important role in the economy of a nation, controlling and management of such pests is of great importance. Cutworms are notorious agricultural pests infesting a wide variety of crops leading to production loss. Cutworms are distributed worldwide and many species of cutworms have also been reported feeding on all kinds of crops. Agrotis ipsilon is one of the most common cutworm species prevailing in different continents. Understanding the biology and management of these pests will be of great use for farmers. In this article, brief information on cutworms; specifically A. ipsilon species is highlighted. A brief description of host, migration, control and management of A. ipsilon are also highlighted.]]>

2021-06-30T13:02:09+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/June2021/NSbFOTnBmmAqE9mzGWFr.pdf

Trace fossils provide us with indirect evidence of life in the past, such as the foot prints, tracks, burrows, borings and feces left behind by animals rather than the preserved remains of the body of the actual animal itself. These imprints give palaeontologies clues with evidence of the activities of ancient animals, something body fossils simply cannot do. The Middle Bhuban rocks of Bhuban Formation are well exposed in the study area comprising sandstone, siltstone, shales and their admixtures. The grey sandstone unit exposed at Pachhy Lokah, Siaha is marked by well-preserved trace fossils comprising a total of eleven ichnospecies belonging to seven ichnogenera have been identified, namely: Katbergia isp., Laevicyclus mongraensis, Ophiomorpha nodosa, Ophiomorpha borneensis, Palaeophycus alternatus, Palaeophycus heberti, Palaeophycus striatus, Phycodes curvipalmatum, Psilonichnus upsilon, Psilonichnus isp. and Skolithos verticalis. Thus, it can be inferred from the presence of ichnofossils, that the studied successions of Bhuban Formation, Surma Group of Mizoram were deposited under sandy shifting substrate and high energy conditions in foreshore to unconsolidated, poorly sorted soft substrate and low energy condition in shoreface/offshore zone of shallow marine environment with occasion storm events.]]>

2021-06-30T13:00:47+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/April2021/ezl5BqZzeYaYbjCQpncJ.pdf

Begonia roxburghii is an annual dicot plant of the family Begoniaceae and is found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. They are monoecious (has both male and female organs) and they are generally self-pollinated. Its parts are variously used in traditional practice for different health benefits. The stem is a nutritious snack, the juice is antihaemorrhoid and antiinfectious agent. It is used for the treatment of bee sting, skin infection, dysentery, diarrhoea, gastric ulcer, oral infection, jaundice and diabetes mellitus. It is chemically rich in flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, tannins, saponins, reducing sugars, steroids, resins, carbohydrates and phenols. It is shown to have high antioxidant activity as well as antimicrobial activity. However, little is known about the actual bioactive components and their effects on various health conditions related to its medicinal applications. This plant, therefore, has a potential for medicinal value for a wide array of diseases and clinical conditions, and would be worth systematic chemical and pharmacological characterizations.]]>

2021-04-02T10:04:13+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/April2021/onvaatUtISPOJ1N6sNQn.pdf

Beetles are a group of insects that form the order Coleoptera, in the superorder Endopterygota. It is estimated that a quarter of all described species in the world belongs to this order. The family Elateridae or click beetles is the ninth-largest family under this order. Wireworms are the larval stage of this family and they play a role in the ecosystem as they are omnivorous and act as pests. There are over 800 species of elaterids recorded from the Indian Subcontinent under eight subfamilies. India is rich in floral and faunal diversity and insect diversity in particular constitute about 6% of all identified insects in the world with a large number being endemic species. But in contrast to its extreme species richness, there is comparatively very little knowledge about this family of beetles when compared to other families. And as such, there is still a lot of potential to study its ecology and diversity. It is also because of this same reason that review of the status of the elaterid family is being done as a prequel to the actual field study.]]>

2021-04-02T10:02:47+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/April2021/CXMqRKk15dWiAHlhJ34O.pdf

A four-parameter generalized Berthelot equation of state has been employed to determine the spinodal and the thermodynamic limit of superheat of liquid gold. It is established that gold obeys the two-parameter law of corresponding states. It is also established that the new parameters introduced in the attractive term of the equation of state are thermodynamic similarity parameters. It is shown that liquid gold can be superheated to a temperature 6719K. That is, liquid gold, under rapid heating, can be superheated to temperature 3476K above the boiling temperature without undergoing liquid-vapour phase transition. Above this temperature, liquid gold will undergo explosive boiling owing to homogeneous nucleation.]]>

2021-04-02T10:01:30+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/April2021/6JWoNtDHoQiPeiyCdSmW.pdf

Aquatic avifauna are an important bio-indicator of an ecosystem changes. Mizoram, one of the north-eastern states of India, lies in one of the richest biodiversity hotspots of the world. Along its water bodies, it is home to several species of resident birds, and is also a temporary home for migrating birds in different seasons. These resident and migratory avifauna form an important component of most wetland ecosystems, as they are vital components of the food webs. While only the Tamdil and Palak Lake are recognized as wetlands, there are several rivers and smaller water bodies around which aquatic avifauna exist. However, official records comprise of about 14 species of waterbirds belonging to 6 orders and 8 families. Of these, Anatidae, Charadriidae, Scolopacidae, Anhingidae, and Podicipedidae are represented by one species each, while the Ardeidae are represented by four species. Among the 14 species reported so far, two species of the Order Pelicaniformes, namely Anhinga melanogaster (Family Anhingidae) and Ardea insignis (Family Ardeidae) are highly endangered. However, detailed studies are wanting and, while there are sporadic reports of sightings on social media, there is a need for a more comprehensive study of the diversity and seasonal variations of aquatic avifauna around the different water bodies of the state of Mizoram.]]>

2021-04-02T10:05:55+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/April2021/VUF8W5xJFF8HfkSQPpVL.pdf

The cyprinid genus Garra includes small to medium-sized, benthic fish species that are usually found in fast-flowing rivers and streams. Fish of this genus have a modified lower lip forming a mental adhesive disc and horizontally placed pectoral and pelvic fins with a flat ventral profile. The genus Garra is vast and wide with each species exhibiting various differences at the morphological and molecular level. Reports on the exploration and investigation of the genus in Mizoram are few and those that are reported need certain validation and clarifications. Re-collection and elaborated review of this genus are obligatory. Therefore, meticulous analysis of these freshwater fish using morphological as well as molecular methods is required to validate previous findings. Furthermore, the review paper will shed a light on the diagnosis of the fish, status of research, and research prospects in Mizoram.]]>

2021-04-02T09:58:31+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/December2020/iARI8KbqlUZpR2F7CScZ.pdf

Medicinal plants are the source of therapeutic agents in traditional medicines. The present study investigated Mizo traditional medicinal plants commonly used and available at N. Mualcheng, a village in Mizoram, India. The most important plants in terms of usage and availability as 10 species belonging to 9 families, of which Asteraceae contributes two species (such as Blumea lanceolaria, Acmella sp.), while Fabaceae, Acanthaceae, Costaceae, Orobanchaceae, Proteaceae, Elaeagnaceae, Smilacaceae and Plantaginaceae contribute one species each such as Mimosa pudica, Thunbergia grandiflora, Chamaecostus cuspidatus, Aeginetia indica, Helicia robusta, Elaeagnus caudata, Smilax perfoliata and Plantago asiatica respectively. An important feature of these medicinal plants is that some of them are used for complex diseases including kidney problem, gastric ulcer and diabetes mellitus.]]>

2020-12-29T15:11:54+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/December2020/LrxwtUvf8ZKbj0WC0SzP.pdf

COVID-19 pandemic has created huge havoc in public health in India and across the world. One among the small states of India, Mizoram lies between Bangladesh and Myanmar compelling a transmission risk of various infectious diseases across the boundary. The responsibilities of the authority to establish a screening and diagnostic laboratory is crucial to identify the infectious etiological agents, control, prevent morbidity, mortality, and burden of the diseases. We aim to discuss the need for an infectious disease surveillance system, the importance and role of advanced diagnostic and research laboratory in Mizoram, learning from SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.]]>

2020-12-29T15:10:49+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/December2020/EO47FVu9SEefi7Qis154.pdf

A protozoan infection called malaria is caused by Plasmodium parasites. In 2018, it infected more than 228 million people and caused 405,000 fatalities. Worryingly, the present antimalarial drugs had developed drug resistance. Furthermore, they are associated with adverse effects and price issues. Amidst the gloomy scenario, drug discovery based on natural products had renewed the hope to overcome the burdens associated with the present antimalarial drugs. Auspiciously, medicinal plants had contributed significantly to the modern pharmacotherapy of malaria. Interestingly, Acacia pennata (L.) Willd. was also documented as a traditional antimalarial agent. However, there is still no scientific evidence regarding its antimalarial activity. Therefore, this article was aimed to study the phytochemical profile of A. pennata and explore their potential activity against malarial parasites. A. pennata contains different classes of bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, glycosides, terpenoids, phytosterols, and saponins whose antimalarial activities had been reported. Accordingly, the future scopes and challenges regarding the possible antimalarial activity for A. pennata are also discussed. To maximize the chances for finding a new antimalarial chemical entity from A. pennata, a schematic flow chart on the ethnopharmacology based drug discovery approach is also provided. Thus, this literary work may be used by researchers as a referential guide in the search for new antimalarial phytochemicals.]]>

2020-12-29T15:09:41+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/December2020/SarYXxQCVWVI7Y7j1vOk.pdf

The known van der Waals and Berthelot equations of state do-not precisely describe the thermodynamic properties of fluids. To improve its accuracy, the attractive term of the van der Waals equation of state has been modified in six different ways. These generalized equations of state have been employed to determine the spinodal (thermodynamic stability boundary) and the thermodynamic limit of superheat of liquid lead. The equations of state are rewritten in reduced form, from which follows the law of corresponding states. The appropriate modification of the attractive term of the equation of state yielding the value of thermodynamic limit of superheat agreeing with the experimental value for lead has been established. It has been established that liquid lead can be superheated, under rapid heating, up to a temperature 4565 K. That is, liquid lead can be superheated to 2544 K above the normal boiling temperature. At the thermodynamic limit of superheat, the volume of the liquid lead is 4.0095 × 10-5 m3 mol-1. This fact is to be taken into account when liquid lead is subjected to rapid heating.]]>

2020-12-29T15:08:31+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/November2021/RWWGBLbD86xphinOZj4k.pdf

With its importance in and influence to our lives, well-being and survival, science has never been more vulnerable to prejudices and scandals as a platform of all sorts of academic misconducts. Lessons are taught by some of the biggest unethical conducts in the recent past which had prompted more stringent ethical guidelines and publication procedures. The case of Yoshitaka Fujii as a scientist with the most number of publications retracted is unbelievable. The ability of Yoshihiro Sato to deceive the world leading journals and their referees is not the less astonishing. These cases show that individual or few publications with fabricated data is impervious to detection, but when a series of such faked results is available, it cannot dodge the function of reviewing eventually. The story of Hwang Woo-Suk will forever remain a quintessential pitfall of scientific corruption. The way the purported creation of human stem cell deceived one of the leading journals in the world will be a scientific monument. What could more exemplify breaching ethical standards in human experimentation at the highest level than by He Jiankui’s creation of gene-edited babies? These are the chronicles in the science hall of shame.]]>

2021-11-20T09:51:50+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/October2020/RB5522EPGUyY16nFc0Hs.pdf

We present a first record for three species of frogs, viz. Amolops indoburmanensis, Euphlictys kalisgraminensis and Polypedates braueri in India based on DNA barcoding data. We also discussed on the records of Amolops spp. in Mizoram and delisted all previous recorded species, viz. A. afghanus, A. kaulbacki and A. marmoratus from the amphibian fauna of Mizoram until further research confirmed their presence, since the data were not sufficient enough for the confirmation of their occurrence and are likely based on misidentification of A. indoburmanensis.]]>

2020-10-08T15:58:43+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/September2020/4LP1Ew3ccaoo175SCaoK.pdf

COVID-19 had ravaged the physical and mental health of millions of people globally. With more than 18 million infections and 0.7 million fatalities worldwide, the pandemic showed no signs of slowing down. Since the detection of the first COVID-19 case in Mizoram, there is still no scientific record of the incidence of the disease. Therefore, the aim of this report is to produce the first scientific documentation of COVID-19 in Mizoram. As on 6 August 2020, a total of 537 cases have been reported with a recovery rate of 53.63%. Voluntary services of local community to fully support the authority are unique and worth to mention. Many people, from layman to technically qualified persons, volunteered themselves to fight the spread of the disease in the state. No death is yet reported although the doubling rate of COVID-19 case was 14.66 days. Aizawl district recorded the highest case (61.08%) followed by Lunglei and Siaha districts. Weekly data analysis showed the outbreak occurred in the 11th week (second week of June) since the nationwide lockdown in March 2020. The incidence is higher in males than in females. The infected age group ranged from 28–43 years in males and 22–33 years in females. The youngest and oldest infected age was 1 and 64 respectively. There is still no community transmission although this could occurr at any moment. This report may possibly serve as a referential scientific literature to aid the retrospective and prospective studies of COVID-19 in Mizoram.]]>

2020-09-30T09:05:21+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/September2020/d4lUcEbdP84MvNXPG6ZZ.pdf

The advancement of medicine owes in large measure to a German engineer Ernst Ruska, whose invention of transmission electron microscope in 1931 won him the 1986 Nobel Prize in Physics, when it comes to infectious diseases. Encouraged by his physician brother Helmut Ruska to use the prototype instrument for the study of viruses, the course of virology was shifted to a different and unprecedented level. Virus could then be seen, identified and imaged. The University of Maryland happened to acquire an American model of transmission EM, the RCA EMU, using which the first structural study was done for the first known coronavirus (then was simply known as infectious bronchitis virus) in 1948. The virus was described as rounded bodies with filamentous projections. The magnification was not great and the resolution was poor. The study was followed by a series of studies using improved techniques and better EM spanning the next decade. An upgraded version RCA-EMU2A gave better images in 1957 and the virus was described as doughnut-like structure. Using Siemens Elmiskop, D.M. Berry and collaborators made the first high-resolution pictures in 1964. The thick envelope which gave doughnut-like appearance and filamentous projections reported before could be discerned as discrete pear-shaped projections called the spikes. These spikes form a corona-like halo around the virus, which were also seen in novel human viruses (B814 and 229E) that caused common colds. The discoverer of B814, David Tyrrell and his aid June Almeida, a magnificent electron microscopist, established that IBV, B814 and 229E were of the same kind of virus in 1967, which prompted to create the name coronavirus in 1968. This article further highlights the detail structural organisation of coronaviruses emanating from these pioneering research.]]>

2020-09-08T15:41:09+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/July2020/R5UVK0AhBbOi6MA79mD8.pdf

Callicarpa arborea and Hemigraphis alternata are two medicinal plants claimed to have antimicrobial property in Indian traditional medicine. The methanol extracts of the stem bark of C. arborea and the leaves of H. alternata were prepared and tested for antibacterial activity using disk diffusion method. Four Gram-negative bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Salmonella typhimurium; and two Gram-positive bacteria such as Micrococcus luteus and Bacillus subtilis were used. C. arborea extract was effective against all the bacteria tested, while H. alternata did not show any inhibitory activity. These findings suggest that C. arborea is a good source of antibacterial compound.]]>

2020-07-11T08:56:21+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/June2020/CdRWa6yDjEnJeQZxWVFe.pdf

Essential oils are volatile, complex products of plants as secondary metabolites and include terpenes and their oxygenated derivatives, such as alcohols, aldehydes, esters, ketones, phenols and oxides. In recent years, out of 3000 essential oils obtained from plant origin only 300 essential oils have gained extensive attention for applications in various fields. In this review, we discuss the major biological activities associated with EOs as antimicrobial, antispasmodic, antioxidant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anthelmintic, insecticidal, antiparasitic, and cytotoxic agents. Different routes for delivery of essential oil along with the problems associated with essential oils like high volatility, low stability, permeability, bioavailability, poor water solubility, susceptibility to oxidation, decomposition, photosensitization and skin irritation are also highlighted. Furthermore, strategies to solve the mentioned problems are suggested by different nanoencapsulating systems. These include polymer-based nanocarriers, lipid-based nanocarriers and molecular complexes. It is believed that nanoencapsulation of essential oils will improve their therapeutic activity and delivery.]]>

2020-06-30T13:06:43+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/August2020/XX3WuvJHSWfLJwRIT4Yi.pdf

Coronaviruses first appeared as chicken virus that cause respiratory disease. Historical reconsideration tells that coronavirus infection originated in the early 20th century. The first definitive account of the infection was given by Arthur Schalk and Merle Fawn in 1931 as a “new respiratory disease of baby chicks.” Leland Bushnell and Carl Brandly established virus as the causative agent in 1933 and was called infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), which eventually became the coronavirus type species. An apparently unrelated viral infection was discovered from laboratory mice in 1949 as JHM that caused encephalomyelitis and another in 1951 as mouse hepatitis virus (MHV). Study in the 1960s of viruses causing common colds in humans revealed unusual human viruses (designated B814 and 229E as the sample codes). Development of transmission electron microscopy enabled structural visualisation for the first around time ­and with startling revelation – IBV, MHV, B814 and 229E were fundamentally the same virus having characteristic halo around the spherical viral core, a reminisce of solar corona for which they get a new name, coronaviruses, in 1968. The available historical records are incomplete and sometimes inaccurately represented, and this article attempt to mend the flaws whilst giving a more detailed account.]]>

2020-08-30T09:28:33+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/June2020/8Z8EkQYx4R0eKmiBJanG.pdf

Alexander Fleming, a Scottish physician at the St. Mary’s Hospital, London, made two epoch-making discoveries, lysozyme and penicillin. But contrary to popular fables, the events were not that serendipitous. He was already an established microbiologist and it took him dogged labours to vindicate his discoveries. He simply had the right mind. Penicillin was especially a hard nut to crack upon which he toiled for half a year with his associates just enough to make a convincing conclusion on the antibacterial property. He in fact utterly failed in understanding what it actually was. As he himself unpretentiously stated: “I did not invent penicillin. Nature did that. I only discovered it by accident.” But that did not debar him for sharing the 1945 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine with Howard Florey and Ernst Boris Chain, who isolated the compound and worked out the medicinal applications. Strangely, Fleming’s biography has been presented in bits and pieces on the crucial elements of his discoveries, and usually contradictory. This chronicle is trying to mend the gaps and broken pieces in the historical records.]]>

2020-06-18T10:46:50+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/June2020/YSBC2Og54dhGS9A62RHU.pdf

Pre-defined analytical features of a plant are used as a reference to aid in accurate identification, proper standardization, and quality control. However, no systematic work on the leaves of A. pennata is available for reference to check its authenticity, purity, and quality. Therefore, the study was aimed to develop pharmacognostic parameters using standard guidelines. The work provides macroscopic, qualitative and quantitative microscopic, physicochemical parameters, chromatographic fingerprint profile, and in-vitro antioxidant activity of A. pennata. Preliminary phytochemical screening and thin-layer chromatography hints the presence of steroids and glycosides along with polyphenolic compounds viz. phenols and flavonoids. Quantification of polyphenolic phytoconstituents and assessment of in-vitro antioxidant activity of the methanolic extract was done. The current communication offers referential knowledge on the analytical and diagnostic features for accurate taxonomical identification, proper characterization and will also help in the establishment of a pharmacognostic monograph of A. pennata for effective quality control.]]>

2020-06-02T15:21:59+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/June2020/833AKEFshGykarem8dLH.pdf

Ulcerative colitis is one of the two major forms of inflammatory bowel disease which has unforeseeable clinical course, marked by a chronic inflammation of the colon and remission of the disease. The treatment of Ulcerative colitis is managed by the administration of anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive drugs that are ingested orally. However, the efficacy of the drug via oral route remains unclear as the release of drugs takes place in the upper gastrointestinal tract that allows inadequate amount of drug release to the colon thereby causing various adverse effects. Therefore, the advancement of disease targeted drug delivery strategies offers numerous gains over non-targeting by granting more effective therapy and diminishing the systemic adverse effect. In this review, we investigate and discuss various approaches that assist in targeting mechanism of the respective drugs to the colon for the hindrance and management of colonic ailments.]]>

2020-06-02T15:20:29+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2020/MP6c1UqjvcQ8zaEnYovT.pdf

The breeding behavior of Fejervarya multistriata was studied from the selected study sites in Mizoram for over three years between 2016 and 2019. In natural condition, breeding took place in group. The advertisement call of males consisted of a series of notes emitted at an interval of 0.1–0.4 s where the frequency spectra had a dominant band at 2670.1172 Hz and the band width ranges from 2497.8516–28422.3828 Hz. Morphometric measurements showed that females are larger than males with snout-vent length of 45.55 ± 1.54 mm vs 33.77 ± 1.03 mm, respectively. The clutch sizes ranges from 488 to 1035. We found that the calculated ‘t’ value 0.03 is less than the ‘p’ value, i.e. 1, therefore there is no correlation between SVL of females and clutch sizes.]]>

2020-02-26T08:08:47+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2020/vOtI4xqG3esky2h51BrT.pdf

The modern popular ideology is that plant-based products do not have adverse effects. Hence, people are fond of using herbal products of their choice to treat their own ailments or anyone else. As majority of the population are not aware of herbal toxicity concept, the use of formulated single or combined medicinal and/or nutritional plant extracts or isolated compounds to treat chronic diseases are increasingly popular due to the widespread concerns regarding the adverse effects of pharmaceutical drugs. Awareness from the scientific community to bring society to its senses regarding the safety issue of a herbal product is rare. Garcinia gummi-gutta (more popularly known by the synonym Garcinia cambogia in commercial preparations), belonging to the family of Clusiaceae (alt. Guttiferae) is a popularly consumed weight-loss nutraceutical. This review aims to highlight the possible adverse effects of G. cambogia. For the said purpose, 147 articles were collected from PubMed, Web of Science and Google scholar. Literature review revealed a plethora of beneficial actions. Investigational outcomes and clinical evidences hint the possible adverse effects likely to be linked with the use of G. cambogia. However, the use of G. cambogia as an anti-obesity agent is advisable as long as the therapeutic value outweighs the adverse effect.]]>

2020-02-20T16:23:58+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2020/wcwXJgeBXu0hYY1C4dYU.pdf

Birds are one of the best-known classes of living organisms, they are important bioindicators of an ecosystem. This study was undertaken to determine the diversity and abundance of birds in Reiek Biodiversity Spot, Mizoram, northeastern India. An intensive study was carried out by line transect method. A total of 117 species of birds belonging to 37 families and 10 orders were recorded and the Shannon-Wiener Diversity index was calculated (H'= 3.85). Family Muscicapidae dominated the area comprising of 16 species, followed by Timaliidae with 6 species. Among all the species recorded, Alcippe nipalensis has the highest relative abundance (13.35%), followed by Staphida castaniceps (Striated Yuhina) and Zosterops palpebrosus (Oriental White Eye) with 8.6007% and 6.03337% each. Family-wise relative abundance revealed that Pycnonotidae has the highest relative abundance (17.45%), followed by Sylviidae (15.91%) and Timaliidae (13.35%). The area supports a rich and diverse avian community, therefore, recommended better management of the entire landscape.]]>

2020-02-25T16:49:30+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/October2019/NvnuKJO6GII2ou7I234H.pdf

The objective of this study was to investigate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of the chloroform extract of Combretum punctatum var squamosum by in vitro models. Antioxidant activity was determined by 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity, reducing power and lipid peroxidation assays. The phenolic and flavonoid contents of the extract were also assessed. The extract at different concentrations showed significant percent inhibition of DPPH and lipid peroxidation and high reducing power when compared with the standard. The extract also showed a significantly high content of phenolics and flavonoids. Anti-inflammatory activity was studied by inhibition of albumin denaturation and human red blood cell (HRBC) membrane stabilization methods. The extract at different concentrations showed significant percent inhibition of albumin denaturation and percent inhibition of haemolysis when compared with the standard. Thus, the result indicates that the chloroform extract exhibited significant potential on anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.]]>

2019-10-18T19:52:07+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/October2019/G1z7eDyoG0xPyLlUIHqN.pdf

Ramhlun Sports Complex is situated at the eastern limb of Aizawl anticline, Mizoram. Landslide took place in August 2012 which badly affected 16 houses. Due to presence of tension cracks, 38 houses are vacated within a safe time, but dismantled and 10 buildings are collapsed in August 2013. This affected 195 persons of 41 families. A geological investigation was performed; representative soil samples are analyzed as Atterberg’s limits, CBR (California bearing ratio), OMC (optimum moisture content) and MDD (maximum dry density), respectively. Instrumentations and monitoring of the movement using crackmeter and tape extensometer also done for two years. The CBR and MDD values are too low as compared to the safety standards, while moisture content is too high. This may show that the movement and erosion rate may be high. The movement was relatively high when rainfall increases. It was observed that, the area is not suitable and unsafe for settlement; constructions of road/ pavement are not recommended.]]>

2019-10-18T19:54:09+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/October2019/qJILyQ6fsZcjU9zNpXEM.pdf

Leakage radiation that transmitted the protected X-ray tube housing was measured and compared with national and international safety standard. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no tube housing leakage measurement has been done so far in the present study area. The authors considered all the conventional diagnostic X-ray units in Mizoram, India. Ion chamber survey meter was used to measure leakage radiation and it was placed at 5 different positions (left, right, front, back, top) of the X-ray tube. Measurements were done at 1 m focus-to-detector distance by projecting X-ray tube vertically downward with collimator diaphragms closed completely. SPSS statistics for windows, version 17.0 (SPSS, Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) was used to derived mean, standard error of the mean etc. The tube housing leakage exposure rates ranged between 0.03 mRh-1 and 500 mR h-1; among the 5 positions, rate measured in the front direction has the highest mean at 41.61±8.63 mR h-1; whereas the top has the lowest 4.57±1.16 mRh-1. Tube housing radiation level ranged from 0.01 to 58 mR in one hour. Leakage radiation was minimum at the top position of the tube and maximum in the front direction. All the equipment were in compliance with national and international standard norms, the highest leakage radiation level was 50.43% of the safety limit.]]>

2019-10-18T19:49:44+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/October2019/bNPa64I82a4HM6yRVqFa.pdf

This study provides a first report of the various tree species prevailing in the tropical semi-evergreen forest within Mizoram Science Centre, Berawtlang, Aizawl in relation to their diversity; and also mentions traditional ethnomedicinal and economic uses of the species. A total number of 776 individual trees were assessed within the study site belonging to 74 different species representing 61 genera and 34 families. Among these, 55 tree species have been reported by previous workers to possess indigenous medicinal values. The most abundant tree species at the study site was found to be Callicarpa arborea (hnahkiah) of Verbenaceae comprising 14.30% of the total trees assessed, followed by Anogeissus acuminata (zairum) of Combretaceae with 12.62%, and Schima wallichii (khiang) of Theaceae with 10.56%. A concise list of the species recorded along with their ethnomedicinal and economic uses have been presented here. The prospect of in situ conservation of tree species is briefly highlighted.]]>

2019-10-18T19:46:47+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/July2019/QVQXxCvQzBGKXz4zrYXK.pdf

The effect of mechanical relaxation time in the elastic wave propagation in elastic materials with voids is investigated. The phase speed and the attenuation coefficients are obtained and observed the effect of mechanical relaxation time. The phenomenon of reflection of elastic waves due to the incident waves from a plane boundary of elastic materials with voids is studied. The amplitude and energy ratios of the reflected waves are obtained. Numerically these ratios, phase speeds and the corresponding attenuation coefficients are computed for a particular model and the effect of mechanical relaxation time is discussed.]]>

2019-07-01T21:15:10+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/July2019/vpY4vPyquFlpzAwEKXX7.pdf

The main objective of the present study is to find out the intensity of radiation attenuated by different types of patient entrance doors (PED) as well as control panel (CP) protective barriers in diagnostic X-ray installations. To measure the intensity of ionizing radiation, ion chamber survey meter was used; all measurements were performed in freeze mode. In setting maximum accelerating potential, minimum tube current and fixed exposure time, a water phantom was exposed through maximum field size. Radiation exposure rates were measured at CPs as well as PEDs with and without barriers. In chest mission, radiation rates with PED ranged from 0.3 µSv/h to 0.7 mSv/h and without PED 0.2 mSv/h to 1.2 mSv/h. At the same time, in couch mission, radiation rates measured behind PED ranged from 0.3 µSv/h to 2.2 mSv/h and 0.03 mSv/h to 2.25 mSv/h in front of PED. All institutions showed higher exposure rates without PED; all types of doors considerably attenuated radiation. Among different types of door, lead-lined door attenuated 99.53% in chest mission and 97.44% in couch mission. While plywood doors attenuated approximately 40% of the incident radiation, it is more or less similar as air does in every half meter away from the phantom. Radiation rates in chest missions with CP barriers ranged from 2 µSv/h to 0.38 mSv/h, while 0.4 mSv/h to 2.35 mSv/h without CP barriers. In couch missions, radiation rates measured with CP barriers varied from 4 µSv/h to 0.6 mSv/h whereas without CP barriers from 0.7 mSv/h to 5 mSv/h. There was a significant difference between radiation measured behind and in front of the CP barriers. Among them, the percentage of attenuation was high in lead and concrete barriers.]]>

2019-07-01T21:16:13+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/July2019/bFZaUhuSl5qj9aVIKlDv.pdf

Effect of controlled and uncontrolled fermentation temperature on the microbial load, biochemical changes and change in nutritive value of bekang-um was studied in an attempt to upgrade the traditional fermentation technology of soybean, Glycine max (L.) Merr. The sterile cooked beans were fermented using a low-cost wooden incubator developed previously, adjusted at a constant temperature (35°C) and also under direct sunlight for 4 days following the traditional method. The microbial load, biochemical changes and changes in nutritive values of both the beans fermented were compared under controlled and uncontrolled temperature. The result showed that the viable cell counts, pH, free amino acids, proteolytic activity and alpha amylase activity increased in both the fermenting conditions throughout the process while the reducing sugar increased in the first day and decreased gradually with fermentation in both conditions. There is also an increase in moisture, protein and calorific value, and a decrease in carbohydrate, fats and ash value in both conditions. Fermentation under controlled temperature gave the higher levels of alpha amylase and proteolytic activities, viable cell counts, pH, free amino acids and nutritive value. These results suggested that fermentation proceeds at higher rate under controlled temperature using low-cost incubator could be utilized for the commercial production of bekang-um as the fermentation time could be reduced from three days to two days in addition to its simpler technology.]]>

2019-07-04T08:44:45+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/July2019/mhQhzEPzDqaskyWsWdY0.pdf

The methanolic extract of C. affinis was evaluated for its in-vitro anti-inflammatory activity by bovine serum albumin denaturation method, egg albumin denaturation method and protease inhibition method at different concentrations. Diclofenac sodium was used as the reference drug. The extract exhibits anti-inflammatory activity in a concentration-dependent manner. In bovine serum albumin denaturation method, the extract at concentrations of 100, 200, 400, 600, 800, 1000 µg/ml showed 25.49, 28.43, 31.37, 37.25, 41.17, 48.03% inhibition respectively. In egg albumin denaturation method, the concentrations of 50, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 µg/ml showed 5.3, 9.89, 28.12, 32.8, 43.2, 52.8% inhibition respectively. In protease inhibition method the extract at concentration of 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 µg/ml showed 8.87, 19.32, 28.56, 43.96, 59.92% inhibition respectively. Therefore, from the results it can be concluded that the methanolic extract of C. affinis possesses anti-inflammatory activity.]]>

2019-07-01T21:18:21+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/July2019/yL6HlNbBPoq3i4aayjyv.pdf

Melocanna baccifera is a well-known native bamboo species of India belonging to the grass family Poaceae. A study on the presence of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) association with M. baccifera was conducted from a disturbed and undisturbed bamboo forest sites within Mizoram University, Mizoram, India. Soil from the rhizosphere region as well as physico-chemical properties of the soil were taken to study AMF diversity. The roots were observed for percentage colonization by AMF. It was found that undisturbed site had higher colonization percentage (56%) than the disturbed site (46%). The Shannon’s diversity index showed that undisturbed site (1.46) had more diversity than the disturbed site (1.59) while disturbed site showed lower index of dominance (3.34) which indicates higher shared dominance of AMF species than undisturbed site (4.66).]]>

2019-07-01T21:17:47+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/July2019/GQdjl5xvBybtlEJA4ovB.pdf

Tobacco is an important agricultural product that is consumed all over the world. More than 8000 chemicals are reported to be present in tobacco, and a large number of these chemicals are known carcinogens, and hence is known to be one of the most significant contributors to the development of cancer of different body parts. These chemicals have been reported to alter both the genetic and epigenetic constituents of cells. Such changes involve point mutation, deletion, insertion, recombination, transversion, transition, and chromosomal aberrations including aneuploidy and polyploidy. The chemical composition of different types of tobacco has been reported to be different. In this article, brief information about tobacco plants; history, types and popularity of tobacco; its chemical composition; relation to cancer and other diseases and its effects on the molecular, epigenetic and genetic compositions have been highlighted.]]>

2019-07-02T08:21:12+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/July2019/1Cq3jwvEgEb95briFpeS.pdf

Education is a process of development which includes three major activities, namely teaching, training and instruction. Environmental education is a process to promote the awareness and understanding of the environment, its relationship with man and his activities. It is also aimed at developing responsible actions necessary for preservation, conservation and improvement of the environment and its components. It has been introduced as a regular course in formal school education system in India following the directive of the Supreme Court of India. The present study aims at critically analyzing curriculum of environmental studies at primary, secondary and senior secondary level. The detailed analysis was done on the basis interactions with important stakeholders. In our study, we found that there is scarcity of qualified teachers to teach Environmental studies at each level. During interactions it was found that teachers have several environmental knowledge gaps and misconceptions about important environmental issues like about acid rain, ozone layer depletion and greenhouse effect. Our survey indicates that teachers hardly practice innovative methods to teach environment education. Most commonly used method is lecture. Field visits, practical, study tour and demonstrations are missing in many schools. It was also found that course content is not incremental; there is very often repetition of the topics. At college level, there is a need to focus more on environmental education and upgrade the course components. There should be both pre-service and in-service training for teachers to infuse emerging issues in course content. Such training should equip teachers for collecting and using relevant teaching materials to impart emerging issues. A few suggestions and recommendations are given based on critical analysis.]]>

2019-07-02T08:21:00+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/July2019/uICjV6YBTvI3A8MKvt47.pdf

Mizoram, one of the states in northeast India, is known for its rich bamboo resources. Mizoram has been unceasingly experiencing flowering of bamboo. Recently, a new species of bamboo, Bambusa mizorameana, was described from Mizoram. It is a less common species, and its distributions within the state are also very limited. Specimens were also collected from Manipur. There has been no previous report of its inflorescence. The sporadic flowering of the species in certain areas within the nearby forest of Aizawl city, observed since 2017 are reported in this paper.]]>

2019-07-02T08:22:24+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/July2019/exQ0tbETQhBswnUEQPt0.pdf

The Belt of Schuppen is an important tectonic element of the Assam-Arakan basin. It is a narrow belt of thrust slices in southeastern boundary of the Assam valley. The Naga Schuppen Belt, consisting of eight or more imbricated thrusts, occurs between the Naga and Disang thrusts. This present study encompasses an area of 4,720 sq km along the Assam-Nagaland border. The Dikhow River, which is a seventh order basin, originates from Naga Hills flowing through a total length of 240 km in the Assam valley and reaches the Brahmaputra. In this study, the morphotectonic analysis of the Dikhow River was carried out to understand the role of active tectonics of the Naga Hills in Nazira-Naginimora areas of Assam and Nagaland respectively. The parameters such as asymmetric factor (AF), transverse topographic symmetric factor (T), and stream length gradient index (SL) were computed. Absolute AF values shows asymmetric to highly asymmetrical shape of the basins (range III-IV) which is also supported by T values. Anomalous SL values were obtained wherein major lineament and tectonic features are present. This indicates that the study area is tectonically active. Further, in the Assam valley it has been observed in the bank stratigraphy of Dikhow River that the Quaternary sediments are deformed. This deformation of the soft older alluvium indicates that the area is undergoing deformation during post Pliocene time. This evidence demands the morphotectonic evaluation of the aforesaid area to demarcate the tectonic activeness of the region in post Pliocene times.]]>

2019-07-02T08:23:07+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/ShHMr3Fq0bF9JPDrvsMm.pdf

The structure of Raillietina echinobothrida, the gastrointestinal tapeworm of the domestic fowl, Gallus domesticus, was studied using light and scanning electron microscopy. There are already reports on the fine structure of the parasite; however, due to the choice of procedure, many of the resultant information are inadequate, contradicting, and occasionally, erroneous. A slightly modified technique in the microscopic preparations employed in the present study such as the use of formaldehyde as a fixative and tetramethylsilane prior to air drying for SEM, and successive treatments with xylene and clove oil during histological processing provided far more superior methods, and definitely, better results. Unlike in other studies, the scolex was unambiguously a round, distended and bulbous anterior end of the body. The suckers were protruding oval structures, while the apical rostellum was distinctly an invaginated, depressed and hollow structure. The central spaces of both the suckers and rostellum were covered with smooth tegument, made up of ciliary microtriches. The microtriches on the proglottids were arranged in smooth cascades, all directed toward the posterior, and giving the topography of the tegument a uniform velvety appearance. The body cavity was mostly occupied by uteri containing fertilized eggs in a gravid proglottid; and by testes, ovaries, and vitellarium dispersed among the parenchyma in a mature proglottid. The parenchyma notably filled up the remaining pseudocoel of the body. The distinctive characteristics of R. echinobothrida were established to be the double layered rostellum of pick mattock-shaped hooks, a thick short neck and a single egg in each egg capsule.]]>

2019-02-09T09:39:12+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/yK3p7ed6kiTSWkYnfUFP.pdf

The Mizo tribes of north east India developed and practiced different types of fishing methods since time immemorial. Some methods can be considered as traditional as well as non-traditional since they are well known in some other parts of the country with some variation. This paper described fifteen traditional fishing methods. The study reveals that the people of Mizoram used locally available materials and apply indigenous ideas and skills (indigenous technical knowledge, ITK) for fishing. Various fishing techniques depend on various behavioural pattern and microhabitat type of fishes. Thirteen species of plants and plant products are used for fishing.]]>

2019-02-09T09:35:23+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/Me6SUMl8jDlm2r9gn1mL.pdf

Mathieu potential have been used for the photoemission calculations from surfaces of ferromagnetic material, Fe (iron), and semiconductor, PbSe (lead selenide). This approach gives a qualitative characterization of surface state photoemission by considering only the surface contribution from the existing bulk-band structure calculations. In this paper, we present the calculations of photocurrent from Fe and PbSe by using the Mathieu potential which defines the crystal potential. The derived initial wave function was used and variation of photocurrent only by those contribution from the surface region defined was calculated. Photocurrent was calculated for values of z0 = -2 a.u. and z0 = -8 a.u. As the width of the surface is 10 a.u. in both the cases, z0 = -2 a.u. is near the surface-vacuum interface and z0 = -8 a.u. is towards the surface-bulk interface. We found that at low photon energy range, the metal and the semiconductor under study showed similar trend in the behaviour of photocurrent at a region nearer to edge of the surface.]]>

2019-02-09T09:33:30+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/G81tZOWUq89pudYhELWO.pdf

The development of indigenously isolated entomopathogenic nematodes as biological control agents was investigated. The study involved three nematode species (Heterorhabditis indica, Steinernema thermophilum and S. glaseri) and their pathogenicity against larvae of cabbage butterfly, Pieris brassicae, under laboratory conditions. Nematodes of different concentrations (0, 10, 25, 50, 75, and 100 IJs/larva in 0.5 ml of distilled water) were applied against the insect pest using Petri dish assay. Progeny production of IJs was determined by the number of IJs produced per larva/pupa (within 20 days), following their exposure to IJs of EPN species at different concentrations. The data were analyzed statistically and the significance of the difference was determined by one way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and student’s t-test. LC50 and LT50 values were determined and estimated. Among the three species S. thermophilum caused larval mortality at 24 HAI (hours after inoculation) at 50 IJs/larva. However, at 48 HAI in addition to S. thermophilum, H. indica also revealed 100% mortality at 100 IJs/larva. In case of S. glaseri no mortality was observed at 24 HAI. The study thus concluded that both on the basis of mortality and LC50 value (30.2 IJs/larva at 48 HAI) S. thermophilum emerged as the most potent species. The progeny production by larvae of P. brassicae was noted to be highest only in case of H. indica. The production increased along the concentrations till the highest concentration for both H. indica and S. thermophilum but declined from 50 IJs/larva onwards in case of S. glaseri.]]>

2019-02-09T09:30:52+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/PmX4dl8G18LhESDfMzhp.pdf

Zinc (Zn) is one of the trace minerals which is required for huge range of bodily functions. Since last two decades, Zn as micronutrient is being used indiscriminately in agricultural and husbandry practices and also in baby foods and multivitamin supplements since Zn is non-toxic and promotes body weight in the consumers. Thus, the concentration of Zn in some vegetables and animals food products and other dietary food items has been increased. So far, the effects of long term Zn overload in the body have not been reviewed. Consumption of excess Zn in diet for longer period of time may contribute obesity and related diseases in adolescence, copper (Cu)-deficiency related abnormalities in the adults and pregnant women. Excess Zn in diet makes diabetic patients more vulnerable due to increase in glycosylated haemoglobin level in the blood. The various aspects about harmful effect of excess Zn in diet is given in this communication.]]>

2019-02-09T09:30:08+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/bJGCognnFpYS6aiwPsPc.pdf

Conference 2009 and annual report]]>

2019-02-09T09:25:57+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/Uz7mFwuGZk7LIAigyGm0.pdf

Death is such an indispensable fact of life. It is not the ultimate tragedy in itself, but rather a paramount triumph of life. What would be the meaning of living without dying? To live perpetually without having to kick the bucket makes no biological sense at all. Yet death is the most unwelcomed encounter for every organism. It has been known from experience that music brings pleasure to life in humans. It has been further scientifically demonstrated that music is clinically beneficial to those inflicted with diseases, even terminally ill patients. However, on the bleak side of it, gifted musicians are at greater risk of mortality than non-musicians. A wealth of scientific data posits that committed musicians have relatively low life expectancy. A variety of causes have been attributed, of which aggressive life style and reckless behaviors appear to be the dominant factor. If you want to live fast and die young, become a rock star, statistics says.]]>

2019-02-09T09:24:56+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/GTnzzIf84vwY3i4YKU00.pdf

Why the research journals, magazines, newspapers even literate and illiterate society talk about nanoscience and nanotechnology? Why every addresses of our former President of India, A.P.J. Kalam had advised to the scientific community to promote nanoscience and nanotechnology in our country? Why huge packages were announced in the past years to promote nanoscience and nanocenters in India? Developed and developing countries had already opened new courses, departments and nanocenters especially for nanoscience. Why the peoples are so interested and eager in this field of science? A brief account on the development of nanoscience and nanotechnology is reported in this article.]]>

2019-02-09T09:24:14+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/5JHoyVjds9O0nKTOkk1j.pdf

To verify the different sounds of animals along the rivers and their tributaries in Mizoram, a study was conducted. Particularly a strange sound which is never identified. Tlâwng, Durlui, Herhse and Tuitun were explored using acoustic encounter surveys (AES). Ous study revealed that the strange sound was produced by a frog, Leptobrachium smithi. The call of the male is a good indicator of the mating season. Its tadpoles were collected and studied, and compared with specimens in Thailand.]]>

2019-02-09T09:23:28+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/bb9QFcEtppotaQwBIgaf.pdf

Diabetes mellitus is a disease having a characteristic symptom of high level of sugars in the blood (hyperglycemia), perceptible through the urine due to failure of metabolism, and thus, the name. Controversy exists about whether increased oxidative stress is merely associative rather than casual in diabetes mellitus. Several mechanisms may cause oxidative insult in diabetes mellitus, although their exact contributions are not entirely clear. Accumulating evidences point towards many interrelated mechanisms that increase the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species or decrease antioxidant protection in diabetic patients. Therefore, their role in diabetes mellitus needs critical examination. This review aims to summarize the role of oxidative stress in diabetes mellitus.]]>

2019-02-09T09:16:55+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/D4D1yPHE4mxKD5r1QTN4.pdf

The United Nations Organisation (UNO) following a global scheme laid out by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) has declared the year 2009 as the International year of Astronomy to commemorate and celebrate the important occasion just 400 years back, when Galileo invented the first astronomical telescope in 1609 and instantly turned it around to heavens. The year is intended to be a global celebration of astronomy and its contributions to society and culture, stimulating worldwide interest not only in astronomy but science in general, with a particular slant towards young people. Galileo’s astronomical discoveries and investigations into the Copernican theory have led to a lasting legacy which includes the categorisation of the four large moons of Jupiter discovered by Galileo as the Galilean moons. It was an important milestone in the field of astronomy and of science in general. Till that discovery, science was mostly theoretical and speculative. It was the beginning of a new era of science, that of acquiring knowledge through observation and experimentation. In this article, we shall try to explore, in brief, the important achievements in the field of astronomy during last 50 years.]]>

2019-02-09T09:15:51+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/unL7RTVanmHGejLVviqi.pdf

he glory crumbled when Galileo di Vincenzo Bonaiuti de’ Galilei invented, or rather improved, a telescope in 1609, precisely 400 years ago, based on the technique of Hans Lippershey, who invented the first telescope in 1608. It ultimately turned into the ‘fruit of the tree of knowledge’ in astronomy, eventually leading to his discovery of many novel features of the universe, and to all his adversities, his denunciation. It was when toying with his telescope that he soon discovered four large moons revolving around Jupiter, implying all heavenly bodies need not necessarily move around us.]]>

2019-02-09T09:13:58+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/SnZH4CZcyC6oB76KuUQT.pdf

The 13th MIPOGRASS General Conference was successfully held on 20 August 2010 (Friday) at I&PR Auditorium, Aizawl. New leaders for 2010-2012 were elected under the guidance of MJA. Dr. Lalnundanga, Associate Professor & Dy. Director of Academic staff College, Mizoram University, presented his paper on the topic "Impact of Climate Change on Biodiversity". Certificate of Appreciation were handed over to one member Dr. Liansanga Pachuau for his Ph.D. award and Dr. Lalramliana, Dr. H. Lalthanzara, H.T. Lalremsanga and Saipari Sailo for their description of new species.]]>

2019-02-09T09:08:30+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/luz5WTHXwa54F71CZ2Mt.pdf

Study of Grass species diversity was conducted under humid and tropical climatic condition in Mizoram University Campus, western part of Aizawl, Mizoram, India. A total of 22 species under 19 genera of 2 families of grass were collected and identified. The study area falls under the tropical semi-evergreen forest and was divided into two experimental sites on the basis of disturbance gradients; disturbed site harboured 22 species, 19 genera and 2 families whereas in undisturbed site 4 species, 3 genera and 2 families were observed. Taxonomically, Poaceae was the dominant family in the study area. The most dominant grass species with highest Important Value Index (IVI) in disturbed site and undisturbed site were Imperata cylindrica (Linn.) Reuschel and Ichnanthus vicinus (Bail.) Merr., respectively.]]>

2019-02-09T09:06:41+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/lVNih4vqXAn0AxOgp5oz.pdf

In the present study, the entomopathogenic nematodes were recorded from 89 samples (5.37%) out of 1656 samples collected from 20 sites representing ecologically diverse types of habitats in Meghalaya, India. Out of 89 positive samples, the frequency of occurrence of Steinernema spp. was found to be more (73.03%) than Heterorhabditis sp. (26.97%). All the EPN positive samples were from the forest soils except the one isolated from banana plantations near teak forest in Jorabat. No entomopathogenic nematodes were isolated from dryland, jhumland (burned and cultivated land) and wet land (water-saturated soil). Steinernema spp. were mostly isolated from sandy loam soils while Heterorhabditis sp., was isolated from red loamy soil. The isolates were identified as Heterorhabditis indica, Steinernema thermophilum and S. glaseri using morphometric analysis and scanning electron microscopic studies.]]>

2019-02-09T09:06:21+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/fsDYESuqGrGEojpgxh6r.pdf

Israel and the Gaza Strip shares the southern Mediterranean coastal aquifer with Israel. Long-term overexploitation in the Gaza Strip has resulted in a decreasing water table, accompanied by the degradation of its water quality. Due to high levels of salinity, most of the ground water is not suitable for both domestic and agricultural consumptions. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the chemical and microbiological qualities of the drinking water in Gaza Strip. The rapid rate of population growth in the Gaza Strip and dependence upon ground water as a single water source presents a serious challenge to future development. Data were collected from the Palestinian Ministry of Health on the concentration of total dissolved solids  (TDS), chloride (Cl-) and nitrate (NO3-) in drinking water wells, and contamination of total and faecal coliforms in water wells and distribution networks. From the collected data on chemical water analysis, we obtained that the average concentration of TDS (1687 mg/l), Cl- (577 mg/l) and NO3- (131 mg/l) were higher than that of the World Health Organization (WHO) standard, i.e., 1000, 250 and 50 mg/l, respectively. Upon microbiological water analyses, total and faecal coliform contamination percentages were found to exceed that of the WHO standard, i.e., <5% for total coliform and free (0%) for faecal coliform for all water wells and networks distribution system, and  the level of contamination in water networks were higher than that in wells. The chemical and microbiological qualities of drinking water thus deteriorated in Gaza Strip, and water demand is increasing rapidly due to rapid population growth and absence of alternative water resources. This may result in adverse human health impacts.]]>

2019-02-09T09:05:03+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/s2dY4eEGfymfE5EdE6ok.pdf

Climate change and biodiversity have been major dominant issues since the latter part of the twentieth century at the international level. The rich variety of life on earth has always had to deal with a changing climate. A major influence on evolutionary changes that had produced plant and animal species of today is the result of adaptation that different life forms showed to climate change. This is a usual pattern that the survival of ecosystems and their function are perfectly compatible with the variation in the climate.]]>

2019-02-09T08:56:42+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/ITx1fQfS8Nc2Ut82aeq2.pdf

A new species of catfish was recently identified from some major rivers of Mizoram. Heok Hee Ng and Lalramliana named the new catfish Pseudolaguvia virgulata, after its distinctively striped colour pattern (virgulata = “striped” in Latin). ]]>

2019-02-09T08:55:22+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/Pe2s4hISZ3ZbZz9dgT4B.pdf

Radon level was studied in Aizawl district using solid state nuclear track device (SSNTD). SSNTD consists of plastic cylinder, called ‘dosimeter’, which detect alpha particles waves (nuclear track) emitted from radon. This nuclear track was read with park counter. seasonal variation throughout the year was recorded. Other than tobacco smoking, radon is established to be a major carcinogen of the lung cancer. Aizawl district has the highest incidence (in percentage) of lung cancer in India. This study may show the role of radon in the development of cancer in Aizawl district.]]>

2019-02-09T08:54:03+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/WIPDndTB2P3a81E2WaLN.pdf

Yano studied semi-symmetric connexion on a Riemannian manifold (Mn,g) and Thompson introduced 2-recurrent Riemannian manifold. The author here studied the nature of the 2-recurrent Riemannian manifold that admits a semi-symmetric connexion and it is found that such a manifold (Mn,g) is M-Projectively 2-recurrent.]]>

2019-02-09T08:46:34+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/qQ41IiGpWhg3cimtlCwc.pdf

The paper describes a technique to determine the density of states (DOS) and band structures results of W and Nb by using FP-LAPW method in the framework of density functional theory (DFT), within generalized gradient approximation (GGA). We have calculated the optimized lattice constants of both W and Nb and used them to find the DOS and band structures. Our study indicates that DOS of W and Nb are similar in character. The DOS of Nb at the Fermi level is quite large as compared to W. These are indicative of good conductivity. The contribution to DOS and band structures is due to d state electrons of W and Nb. Our study indicates that W and Nb are metallic in character.]]>

2019-02-09T08:44:55+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/Iqg9wuCGn7W5R3riLiJT.pdf

Rattan forms one of the major biotic components in tropical and sub-tropical forest ecosystem. Contributions made by the researchers on the distribution, taxonomy and uses of rattan species in the world with special reference to India are reviewed here.]]>

2019-02-09T08:44:12+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/1rYgykLI33KwQzAW2kxs.pdf

Ascaridia galli Schrank is by far the most notorious nematode parasite of birds including poultry fowls in terms of prevalence and pathogenicity. In spite of its immense impact on poultry industry and wildlife management, information on its detail morphological and anatomical structures is scanty. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the extreme anterior cephalic region is a triangular mouth consisting of three prominent lips. Each lip is lined with fine teeth on the internal rim, and externally studded with eye-like sensory papillae. The body cuticle constituted series of striations called annulations. Annuli are transverse concentric rings and were divided further into parallel subannuli. Female had a simple straight tail with a ventrally located anal opening. The male posterior was curved and pointed, and relatively elaborate having a precloacal sucker in addition to the anus. These posterior openings were surrounded on both sides by a row of minute protrusions called caudal papillae and the lateral caudal alae. The precloacal sucker was surrounded by a sclerotized ring. Light microscopy showed that the cuticle was multilayered and continuous with the hypodermis, which in turn was supported with a thick musculature composed of fibrillar contractile and granular noncontractile protoplasmic portions. The body space, pseudocoel, contained digestive tract and reproductive organs such as testis, vas deferens and seminal vesicle in male, and ovaries, oviducts and uteri in female. The seminal vesicle housed spermatozoa, and the uteri, fertilized eggs. The eggs were elliptical, covered with chitinous shell that enclosed the embryo.]]>

2019-02-09T08:37:08+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/Xt4vEIKQLBDjMy6cw0jA.pdf

We visited Phâwngpui National Park in November 2009. We studied the animal specimens. We found 19 arthropod species, 5 annelids, 1 amphibian, 3 reptiles, 26 birds and 6 mammals. The national park need further care and protection by the inhabitants.]]>

2019-02-09T08:10:18+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/J67ImJCZOBHkfmIWMR3D.pdf

A simple model of photofield emission calculation is discussed. A spatially dependent vector potential is used to evaluate the matrix element for calculating the photofield emission current density. We have presented a model in which Projection Operator method of group theory has been applied to deduce initial state wave function Ψi for a particular surface state pertaining to a particular point group. The model will also take into account the bulk and the surface state bands of different symmetry and also considers the effect of variation of vector potential. We have considered the point Δ2' for which the point group is C4v which corresponds to the surface states. By introducing the atomic orbital Φ (z), the final form of initial state wavefunction is calculated.]]>

2019-02-09T08:07:17+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/xilT3V97vcEj8S3toNCd.pdf

The heavy mineral assemblages present in the Tertiary rocks of Teidukhan anticline, Kolasib district, Mizoram, India, were identified and the ZTR and statistical parameter of zircon were analysed. The results obtained were utilized to work out the provenance of the rocks. From the data of the study area it can be concluded that the source rock of the sediment were complex in nature that included igneous rock and pegmatite to high rank metamorphic rocks and reworked sediment supply.]]>

2019-02-09T08:04:28+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/igDtXLc9pD5Lw4jfDDC6.pdf

Forests are valuable natural resource system and have tremendous influence on the environmental conditions and human welfare. A dense forest cover reduces soil erosion, regulates stream flow and heat budget of the area, maintains atmospheric humidity and soil moisture, and provides shelter to a diverse variety of flora and fauna. The most important cause of forest depletion and biodiversity loss in tropical and subtropical regions is shifting cultivation and logging for timber-based industries. Substantial reduction in forest cover is also caused by fuel wood extraction. Mizoram has an extensive forest cover of about 19,563 sq km, which accounts for about 92.8% of the total geographical area during early 1990’s, but has been significantly reduced in the past decade. The rich forest flora and the vegetation diversity of the state, at present, have been under critical conditions of alteration and depletion. The need and suggestions for conserving and regenerating the forests are discussed in this paper.]]>

2019-02-09T08:02:04+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/Bg5bMb5kuojbvAJZ9F6C.pdf

This is a demon-haunted world, doomsday is imminent [ever heard of 2012 millennialism, or the movie 2010?], aliens are invading us, UFOs abound, Christ’s ‘thousand years reign’ is impending, Satan is about to be unleashed, hell breaks loose, the branded number of the beast ‘666’ [rather 616?] is already in our midst unbeknownst erstwhile, eternal judgment is nigh, and signs of tsunami, earthquakes, volcanoes and floods prevail. In short, the END is coming.]]>

2019-02-09T08:01:50+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/kOhamTWN7sWsm7dEc9gK.pdf

Preliminary survey on the diversity and distribution of pheasants (Phasianidae: Galliformes) was conducted for 20 months (May 2010 - December 2011) in the state of Mizoram, northeast India. Field survey at important protected areas and collection of secondary information’s indicated that six species of pheasants are present in Mizoram (i.e. 11.8% of the world pheasant species). They are Green Peafowl (Pavo muticus Linnaeus, Mizo - Ârawn), Hume’s Pheasant (Syrmaticus humiae Hume, Mizo - Vavu), Blyth’s Tragopan (Tragopan blythii Jerdon, Mizo - Vangâ), Red Junglefowl (Gallus gallus Linnaeus, Mizo - Ramâr), Kalij Pheasant (Lophura leucomelananos Latham, Mizo - Vahrit) and Grey Peacock Pheasant (Polyplectron bicalcaratum Linnaeus, Mizo - Varihaw). There is only one endangered species i.e. P. muticus, while the vulnerable species T. blythii is recorded at two protected areas. S. humiae is a near threatened species; population of this species is thinly distributed in eastern side of Mizoram along/near the Myanmar border. The three lower risk categories of pheasants (G. gallus, L. leucomelanos and P. bicalcaratum) are resident species, found in most parts of the state. L. leucomelanos is the most common species, found in all 11 protected areas followed by the G. gallus and P. bicalcaratum, both of them are found in 9 protected areas. T. blythii and S. humiae are concentrated within protected areas of high altitude eastern side of the state.]]>

2019-02-08T09:10:21+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/vxayrl3MDPlCzDOIkpxc.pdf

Soil testing plays a very important role in diagnosing the physical, chemical and biological properties of the soils by providing the conditions of available nutrients which indicates the fertility and productivity of the soils. It also helps in assessing the capability and suitability of land for agriculture and allied activities and quantifies the soil constraints. Excessive use of fertilizers especially nitrogenous and phosphatic fertilizers leads to environmental pollution such as eutrophication and nitrate toxicity of ground water. Therefore, soil testing provides sound information for recommendation of fertilizers and correct amount of chemical fertilizers to be integrated with organic amendments for improving the soil health and quality in order to increase the productivity per unit area.]]>

2019-02-08T09:09:15+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/XTBliamlqjO1iaUtwsyo.pdf

The effects of aqueous leaf extracts of Tectona grandis L. and Mikania micrantha L. on germination and growth of Zea mays L. (maize) and Oryza sativa L. (paddy) were investigated during 2009-2010. The extracts suppressed the germination of paddy to an extent of 10-30% under high extract concentration and 40-50% suppression in maize under similar concentration. The growth of root and shoot of both the test crops also got suppressed under high extract concentration. Similar was also the case with M. micrantha where germination of paddy was suppressed to an extent of 10-35% and 45-65% suppression in maize under high extract concentrations. There is a slight decrease in 10% concentration in case of both the test crops. As the concentration increased from 30-100% the aqueous leaf extract of M. micrantha has detrimental effect on the root and shoot growth of both the test crops.]]>

2019-02-08T09:08:15+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/17x6Nvc6388azNvL2xEY.pdf

Anthurium is cultivated in Mizoram state, India since the year 2002, with approximately 300 families presently engaged in the cultivation. The scenario of cultivation and production of Anthurium in Mizoram and nutrient management in Anthurium cultivation to increase its growth and productivity is discussed in this paper. Recognizing the potential for increasing Anthurium production in view of ideal climatic conditions and other resources, more investment is needed to boost the production in Mizoram. The technological inputs in the cultivation and processing need to be upgraded and modernized on more scientific lines. Market development and market promotion along with research and development need to be strengthened.]]>

2019-02-08T09:07:05+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/yRDqI8GJxFe70upu5QBJ.pdf

Tlawng River is a major source of potable water in Aizawl District of Mizoram. Rapid increase in population and developmental activities increase pollutants in river water. The present study aims to assess the water quality of Tlawng River running near Aizawl city, Mizoram. The findings revealed that sulphate ranged from 1.1-6.9 mgL-1 , phosphate-P from 0-0.028 mgL-1 and nitrate-N from 0.02-0.32 mgL-1 . From the present observation, the water quality of Tlawng River is found to be of good quality. The values are within the prescribed limits laid down by various scientific agencies, however, there is an ample scope of treatment of water before supply, to remove much pollutants present in the water. The statistical analysis indicates significance and validity of results.]]>

2019-02-08T09:06:12+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/rkArCM2wXlgVmvz6KpV6.pdf

Distal-less (Dll) protein is the first genetic signal for limb formation to occur in the developing zygote in insects. The function seems to be different across various organisms, like the Dll in butterflies are not only involved in limb formation but also take part in eyespot and wing pattern formation. Hence, the study of the sequence variation of the Dll protein of different insects might help us in better understanding of its evolutionary divergence and in turn its function in different insects. The sequence of Dll protein were retrieved from the NCBI database and was used to study its relationships among other insects species using MEGA 4.0 and analysis of the physicochemical properties was done using a computational tool called PROT-PROP. The Dll protein in the insects showed variations (31-94% identity) in their sequences when BLAST was performed, but the homeobox domain exhibiting helix-turn-helix (HTH) was found to be conserved. Presence of motifs with identical amino acid sequence and presence of regions with poly-amino acids might be the reason for the differences in the role of Dll in different insects. In the phylogenetic tree, insects belonging to the same order were found to cluster together and exhibit genetic relatedness.]]>

2019-02-08T09:04:45+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/FOq5pyFatAKQAY1svy9s.pdf

In the present paper, some geometrical properties of projective curvature tensor, conformal curvature tensor and m-projective curvature tensor in Para-Sasakian manifold are studied.]]>

2019-02-08T09:03:34+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/sg9cXjOiig2LzN2JQ1f7.pdf

The behavior of ZnS:Mn,Cu,Cl phosphor by the effect of pressure was studied on the thermoluminescence (TL). Two prominent peaks were visible, increasing pressure the prominent peaks were also shifting to the higher temperature. Kinetic parameters of the glow curves were determined by computerized glow curve deconvolution (CGCD) technique. The order of kinetics (b) was found to be independent of pressure. All the peaks can be fitted with b=1.5. Computerised glow curve deconvolution (CGCG) method was used to determine the activation energy (E) order of kinetics (b) and frequency factor (s) of the different peaks present in the phosphor.]]>

2019-02-08T09:02:55+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/eoPXyDAlq0OI9TwIdK0A.pdf

Bacillus thuringiensis is a ubiquitous, gram-positive and spore-forming bacterium. During sporulation, it produces intracellular crystal (cry) proteins, which are toxic to insects. The genetic diversity of B. thuringiensis strains shows regional differences. Thus, each habitat may contain novel strains with new insecticide. The aim of this study was to isolate B. thuringiensis strains from different environments of Mizoram, India, and to identify the cry gene content of the isolates using PCR. The universal primers specific to cry1, cry2, cry3, cry4 and cry9 genes were used to detect the type of cry gene carried by each environmental isolate. Altogether, a total of 42 cry genes were detected out of which 12 were cry1, 5 were cry2, 3 were cry3, 18 were cry4 and 22 were cry9 out of 45 selected strains.]]>

2019-02-08T08:59:57+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/z2Kq12bdflAfRuSKfoft.pdf

The morphological characters of Cirrochroa aoris (Large Yeoman) and C. tyche (Common Yeoman) are very similar making identification confusing and difficult. The genomic DNA of the two species was subjected to RAPD-PCR analysis with six decamer oligonucleotides, i.e. MA5, MA6, MA8, OPB12, OPT4 and OPT5. All of them produced discrete bands of various lengths revealing genetic variations as well as similarities between the two species. A total of 50 RAPD bands were generated with 45 polymorphic bands. The percentage polymorphism was 90.58% and all the similarity coefficients between the species were less than 0.2. Results showed a high genetic variation between the two cryptic species. Some species specific bands were obtained with these primers which can be considered as diagnostic bands. All the primers also produced species specific bands.]]>

2019-02-08T08:58:52+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/bPs3b5IPqbC9XJ8aI7yJ.pdf

Anopheles barbirostris is the major vector of Timor filaria, and A. jamesii is of Bancroftian filaria in Srilanka, and is a suspected vector of malaria as it can support the sporogenic cycle of Plasmodium vivax. Deltamethrin screening revealed that A. jamesii was susceptible to deltamethrin (LC50 = 0.0025 ppm; LT50 = 11.38 min), while A. barbirostris was resistant (LC50 = 3.802 ppm; LT50 = 20.28 min). Genomic DNA isolated from the two species were used for characterisation of the insecticide resistance and susceptibility using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RAPD-PCR). 15 random primers produced 59 bands in A. barbirostris and 31 bands in A. jamesii. Out of these, 58 bands were polymorphic between the two species. The genetic distance calculated using FREE TREE software indicated 0.91549 (Nei and Li method) and 0.83824 (Jaccard method). The matrices for dissimilarity (1.358) and similarity (0.150) between the two species calculated using NTSYSpc 2.2 showed polymorphism of 88.9 %. Genetic variance between A. barbirostris and A. jamesi is probably the reason for the former to be resistant, while the latter is susceptible to deltamethrin.]]>

2019-02-08T08:58:01+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/xi0JYJNQjwDr41CroRLr.pdf

The random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) assay was used to assess the level of DNA damage in various exposed and unexposed Culex quinquefasciatus larvae to acetone and chloroform extracts of Curcuma longa and Melia azedarach at different concentrations (6.25, 12.5 and 25 ppm). This is the first report of an analysis of genomic alterations in plant extracts-treated mosquito larvae using RAPD-PCR fingerprinting. In comparison to the control larvae, larvae treated with the plant extracts caused greater changes in the RAPD patterns. DNA strand breakage was more in the larvae of C. quinquefasciatus.]]>

2019-02-08T08:56:48+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/tqlZeT6W9mhzUk8uZQxA.pdf

To assess the distribution and evolutionary conservation of distinct prokaryotic repetitive elements, consensus oligonucleotides were processed in polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification with genomic DNA from different Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) strains from different parts of Mizoram, India. Oligonucleotides matching enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC) sequences were synthesized and tested as opposing PCR primers and produced clearly resolvable bands by gel electrophoresis, which provided unambiguous DNA fingerprints of the different Bt strains. After analysing with NTYSYS, DARwin and POWERMARKER, a dendogram was constructed, which revealed that the Bt strains were divided into three main clusters. Widespread distribution of the repetitive DNA elements enabled rapid identification of these Bt strains.]]>

2019-02-08T08:55:59+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/MuTBSoAxqkiAdbkKKOAb.pdf

The genomic DNA of six species of butterflies (Junonia atlites, J. iphita, J. hierta, J. orithiya J. lemonias and J. almanac), family Nymphalidae, sub-family Nymphalinae, were used for RAPD-PCR analysis using 15 random primers to study the genetic similarity and diversity. A total of 437 bands were scored, of which 357 were polymorphic and the average percent polymorphism was 82.70%. Dendogram constructed using the UPGMA of NTSYS spc2.2 software divided the Junonia species into two clades. There is a difference in the branching pattern between the morphological and molecular data, which signifies the need for using molecular tools for taxonomic classification as well as in understanding the evolutionary relationship.]]>

2019-02-08T08:55:00+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/0XgaoUXbgubWgvxU7pMP.pdf

Bioinformatics implements the use of biology, computational mathematics, computer science and information technology. Through the combination of these methods, scientists are able to store and compare the information from all kinds of species and how they evolve. The complex and voluminous data of biodiversity can be digitalised for easy accession, analysis and interpretation. It makes easy survey, documentation and measurement of biodiversity data. The data bases, management and their applications in general as well as in relation to biodiversity and conservation are discussed.]]>

2019-02-08T08:53:24+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/aPFH6nHcXUQRMoYOsaBI.pdf

Design your PCR primers to be 18-30 oligonucleotides in length. The longer end of this range allows higher specificity and gives you space to add restriction enzyme sites to the primer end for cloning. Make sure the melting temperatures (Tm) of the primers used are not more than 5°C different from each other. You can calculate Tm with this formula: Tm = 4(G + C) + 2(A + T)°C. Aim for a Tm between 52 and 58°C for each primer over the region of hybridization. Use an annealing temperature (Ta) of 3-5°C lower than the Tm. The GC content of each primer should be in the range of 40-60% for optimum PCR efficiency. Try to have uniform distribution of G and C nucleotides, as clusters of G’s or C’s can cause non-specific priming. Avoid long runs of the same nucleotide. Check that primers are not self-complementary or complementary to the other primer in the reaction mixture, as this will encourage formation of hairpins and primer dimers and will compete with the template for the use of primer and reagent. If you can, make the 3′end terminate in C or A, as the 3′is the end which extends and neither the C nor A nucleotide wobbles. This will increase the specificity. You can avoid mispriming by making the 3′end slightly AT rich. Use the right software. Using the right software is a great way to automate these steps and minimize errors, especially when you have to design primers for many sequences.]]>

2019-02-08T08:52:44+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/EhvLNVl8OrhwvQQjLk6I.pdf

In the last decade, the random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) technique based on the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has been one of the most commonly used molecular techniques to develop DNA markers. RAPD is a modification of the PCR in which a single, short and arbitrary oligonucleotide primer, able to anneal and prime at multiple locations throughout the genome, can produce a spectrum of amplification products that are characteristics of the template DNA. RAPD markers have found a wide range of applications in gene mapping, population genetics, molecular evolutionary genetics, and plant and animal breeding. This is mainly due to the speed, cost and efficiency of the technique to generate large numbers of markers in a short period compared with previous methods. Therefore, RAPD technique can be performed in a moderate laboratory for most of its applications. It also has the advantage that no prior knowledge of the genome under research is necessary.]]>

2019-02-08T08:50:13+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/Ku4aesKIwvW1K27sF6KT.pdf

The protein sequence of aspartate aminotransferase of pig was retrieved from the Swiss-Prot database. The appropriate template for homology modeling was determined using Blastp. 3D structures were determined by homology modeling softwares such as Swiss Model and EsyPred3D which passed quality test by ProQ software and set for further analysis. The pockets determined by CASTp server for the predicted structures showed a significant difference in the pocket area and volume, which were due to structural deviation between the residues 30-40 found in the 3d-ss software. Both the structures were analyzed using ProFunc tool which showed different functions as they had different structures and active sites. Thus the structure plays a vital role in determining its function.]]>

2019-02-08T08:50:07+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/XhxS9sk0Y2svlilwZVAk.pdf

In the research article “Love wave at a layer medium bounded by irregular boundary surfaces” in Journal of Vibration and Control, Vol. 17(5), 789-795, five figures, from Figure 2 to 6, need to be corrected, as follows:]]>

2019-02-08T08:45:54+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/OPQxHxL08FZsNn7GkkVY.pdf

Radon (222Rn), being a radioactive gas has its parent nucleus originated from 238U. From 238U there is a series of 14 decays to form a stable nucleus of 206Pb. The equilibrium factor in its simple term may be defined as ratio of the amount of progeny nucleus to that of a parent nucleus. Measurement of Equilibrium Factor (F-factor) for radon has been carried out in 24 dwellings in Aizawl City, which were specifically selected according to the site location and materials used for construction of the dwellings. In measuring F-factor for radon we have made use of absorber-mounted nuclear track detectors (LR-115) which selectively register the tracks due to alpha emissions from 214Po which is the 222Rn progeny species. This detector is termed as DRPS (direct radon progeny sensor). DRPS is used for estimating the Equilibrium Equivalent Radon Concentration (EERC). The concentration of 222Rn is measured by using Solid State Nuclear Track Detector (LR-115) mounted in a BARC type twin cup dosimeter. The F-factor for radon is then calculated using the measured EERC and measured concentrations of radon. Our measurement shows the F-factor for radon in Aizawl city is 0.3, which is close to the worldwide value (0.4) for indoor conditions.]]>

2019-02-08T08:44:18+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/pAgd01SV2onkaGifXZEX.pdf

We present here a model calculation of photoassisted field emission current (PFEC) from tungsten. Transfer Hamiltonian method was used for calculating the transition probability. Matrix element for the transition probability was calculated by using the wavefunctions which are deduced by applying the Kronig-Penney potential model.]]>

2019-02-08T08:43:21+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/wLgecyI65bDbojuWxD0X.pdf

Small scale agroforestry systems in north-east India are unique in terms of the complex biodiversity of both the agricultural produce and the adjoining biotic components, and thus, are excellent models for sustainable production system. The structure and biotic composition of the systems offer inbuilt sustainability and potential for reduced dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Maintenance and potential role of natural enemy complex in various compartments of such systems are discussed in the light of land use practices and holding size.]]>

2019-02-08T08:42:10+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/hO2dvJDzzu27IlLnUXZv.pdf

Metapelites form a dominant component of the Precambrian basement complex in the Sonapahar area of Shillong Plateau, north-east India. In this paper, a new data on the major, minor and trace element compositions of these metapelites, an important member of the Precambrian basement rocks found in the Shillong plateau is reported. Petro-chemical data on these rocks were used to reproduce the nature and composition of their protolith. The mineral assemblages and petrographical observations indicated that metapelites of the study area were metamorphosed up to amphibolite to granulite facies metamorphism. Chemically, metapelites are characterized by relatively high Al2O3 (11.35-19.91 wt%), enrichments in MgO, FeO, MnO and TiO2; depletions in Na2O and especially CaO; low concentrations of Sc, Cr, Co, Ni, and Sr; high concentrations of Y, Nb, Zr, Hf, Ta, Th, U, and REE (rare earth elements) with prominent negative Eu-anomalies. Results indicated that these rocks were redeposited and metamorphosed products of Precambrian weathering crusts. The protolith of the metapelites was produced by erosion products of acid rocks, which were which are emplaced in volcanic arc environment.]]>

2019-02-08T08:41:19+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/02L3jKYdeqCVojkjVvQm.pdf

The present study was conducted with an aim to assess water quality of Tlawng river, a major source of potable water in Aizawl district of Mizoram, for a period of two years, i.e. from February 2007 to January 2009. The data analysed were compared with WHO (2004) and BIS-10500 standards. The average DO content ranged from 5.83 to 6.83 mgL-1 where the lowest DO level shows below permissible limit; BOD from 0.48 to 0.84 mgL-1 which indicates a low organic content in the water; total hardness from 48.75 to 102.71 mgL-1 CaCO3; calcium hardness from 29.14 to 56.14 mgL-1 CaCO3; magnesium hardness from 19.66 to 46.57 mgL-1 CaCO3 and fluoride content from 0.38 to 1.08 mgL-1 where some of the water samples shows below permissible limit. The DO content was negatively correlated with other parameters studied.]]>

2019-02-08T08:40:33+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/4gOP0DlOueyI1kAloVHv.pdf

Vector control is primordial and very essential means for controlling transmission of filariasis, malaria, Japanese encephalitis and dengue in human society. Over the last few decades, there is growing realization that alternate methods to synthetic chemical control needs to be studied and perfected. Several control strategies have been adopted to control diseases transmitted by mosquitoes. Mosquito control programs worldwide have been evaluating the feasibility to implement biological control strategies by using Bacillus sphaericus (Bs). A comprehensive review cum research data is presented here to assess the potentiality of Bs in mosquito control operation. The major advantages of Bs are reduced application cost, safety to environment, human beings, animals and other non-target organisms. This paper explores the importance of Bs bacterial toxin in controlling vector mosquitoes.]]>

2019-02-08T08:39:16+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/IGe9ztw1nE20e1M33spH.pdf

There are people who openly suspect me, at least in an affable fashion, of having an undue obsession for evolution. But I do not claim, nay pretend, to possess an ounce of intelligible knowledge on the subject. Far from it. Being fanatical of anything is, I learn, the greatest stumbling block to the development of science. As the inimitable Carl Sagan once remarked, we should keep our mind open, but not too wide that our brains fall off.]]>

2019-02-08T08:37:14+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/Otf4z1oLzbP6mI2Z2RS0.pdf

Every morning on my way to office, I had to drive through the whole Aizawl city from Mission Veng to Chaltlang. I could not help looking at the registration numbers of cars in front or of those parked on the roadsides, such as, for example, MZ 01 D 2143, MZ 01 E 8379, MZ 01 F 5617, etc. All car numbers are four digit whole numbers. As a man of mathematics, I often add up the digits in my mind, noting the various sums of the digit numbers viz. 10, 27, 19 (for the above 3 car numbers). A thought came to me that the lowest possible sum for a 4-digit number would be 1 corresponding to which all possible registration numbers that can be allotted are 4 (four), viz. 0001, 0010, 0100 and 1000. It is also clear that for a given alphabet, all possible car registration numbers that can be allotted would be 9999 altogether, viz. MZ 01 F 0001 ... F 9999. The next car after F 9999 will have to be allotted G 0001 and so on.]]>

2019-02-08T08:34:54+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/WS7bu3QDbhzShEjPE0xD.pdf

Sandstones from the Upper Bhuban formation were measured for major oxides by X- Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry (XRF) in order to investigate palaeo-weathering, geochemical classification, and tectonic setting of the basin. The Muthi sandstone was found to have moderate to high content of SiO2 ranging from 64.54 to 76.66 wt% with an average value of 71.73 wt%. The Al2O3% content was high ranging between 10.78 to 18.19 wt% and 14.93 wt% (average). The high value of Al2O3 could be due to alteration of K-feldspar. Geochemically, the sandstone could be classified as arkose, litharenite and wacke. The sandstones were depleted in CaO (0.57) and enriched in Al2O3, Fe2O3 and Na2O. The value of chemical index alteration (CIA) in the Muthi sandstone was high 72.25 to 85.46 an average value of 79.45 indicating high intensity of chemical weathering in the source areas. The average CIA value (79.45) was above than that (50) of the upper continental crust. The geochemical parameters suggest an active continental margin for the upper Bhuban sandstones.]]>

2019-02-08T08:33:49+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/orFq30SZovrJCNIkgpjK.pdf

The present study represents the unique features of male homosexuality in forms and context, and determines whether this behaviour is sexually motivated or sociosexual in function in captive stump-tailed monkeys, Macaca arctoides. Ten incidents of homosexual encounters between α- and β-male were observed. No reciprocal mounting was observed. Every episode of homosexual encounters was initiated immediately after the heterosexual encounter between the β-male and receptive females. The main copulatory event was anal intromission followed by ejaculation outside the mountee’s body and eating of semen by both the actors. The average number of pelvic thrust was 20. Duration of pelvic thrust and copulation were 12.3 and 54.7 sec, respectively. The α-male never copulated with any of the estrous female and there was no homosexual encounter observed between α-male and γ-male, except for brief mounts. Three lines of evidences indicated that the homosexual encounters between α- and β-male were sexual behaviour, not sociosexual ones. Firstly, mountings were observed only during the mating season. Secondly, these unique mountings did not serve any sociosexual roles and did not mimic generalized pattern of social affiliation. Finally the form of homosexual encounters was same as that of heterosexual encounters. More females in the population and occurrence of male-male homosexual encounter only during the mating season did not support the concept of intraspecific sexual differences in homosexuality.]]>

2019-02-08T08:33:05+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/KoMFzhqhAhwCvgaqHYws.pdf

The main source of potable water in the township of Saiha is through the supply maintained by the Public Health Engineering (PHE) Department, Govt. of Mizoram. This supply is done without any proper treatment and is more or less limited especially during the non-monsoon seasons. For domestic use, the people have to depend on alternate resource systems viz. tuikhur (i.e. water seepages accumulated in artificially fabricated small pits), hand pumps and rainwater harvesting (on local level into large tanks). The water samples from different tuikhur were analyzed in the year 2007 (post monsoon) for various physico-chemical parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solid (TDS), turbidity, phenolphthalein alkalinity, total alkalinity, total hardness, total chloride, iron and fluoride and total coliform (MPN) for bacteriological characteristics in order to obtain the current status of potable water quality in the city. The results are suggestive of the fact that the quality of tuikhur water used for domestic purposes is by and large within the acceptable limit.]]>

2019-02-08T08:31:34+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/8t1BzGiCKHi2h3Fd5UiE.pdf

The Chhotanagpur Granite Gneiss Complex (CGGC) exhibits various geological signatures that attract many geologist and researchers for detail investigation. The present paper focused on the petrography and geochemistry of augen gneiss exposed in the southeast of Dumka, Jharkhand. As in other areas of the CGGC, augen gneiss was the main rock exposure. They were coarse-grained and light colored rocks exhibiting well gneissic characteristics. The rock was mainly composed of quartz, feldspar, hornblende, pyroxene, biotite, garnet and other opaque minerals. It was also rich in alumina and potash contents. There was also a pronounced negative Eu anomaly which suggested that both K-feldspar and plagioclase were not removed in the differentiation sequence. As the whole CGGC experienced different orogenic activities, the studied rocks also showed various deformation effects. The augen gneiss was found to be originated from granite to granodioritic igneous parentage of calc-alkaline composition in the tectonic setting within plate granite.]]>

2019-02-08T08:31:09+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/L2yEnYSu8j6euGkACq8z.pdf

The growth and yield of maize under three multipurpose trees (Alnus nepalensis, Gmelina arborea and Melia azedarach) subjected to application of varying intensities of different mulches was evaluated during a 3-year period (2004-2006). Maize performed considerably well under Alnus nepslensis than under other trees and sole crop. Among the mulches, subabul leaf mulch brought increased yield (10 to 36%) in maize compared to sole crop and this increase was directly proportional to dose of mulch.]]>

2019-02-08T08:09:01+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/UHVsj62Goxsarp3IJvzh.pdf

Tamassy and Binh introduced weakly symmetric Riemannian manifolds. The properties of weakly symmetric and weakly Ricci symmetric Riemannian manifolds are studied by some authors. In this paper, the conformally flat weakly Ricci symmetric manifolds is considered. In this case the Ricci tensor of Riemannian manifold is a quadratic Killing tensor, and some properties of this manifold are obtained. In conclusion, it is found that the energy momentum tensor of this space in a perfect fluid is a quasi-Einstein tensor and also a Codazzi tensor.]]>

2019-02-08T08:07:54+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/FTEpbkFlGxePhqzBbrPi.pdf

Lady Gaga sings in her new hit single, Born This Way, “No matter gay, straight or bi, lesbian, transgendered life. I am on the right track ... I was born to survive.” Is not it gross, perverse, and irreverent? Do not, I repeat, do not sing this song if you happen to be in Malaysia. You could straight away be fined $16,000, with a bonus of public detestation. But that would be a blessing compared to the consequences in Nazis’ Death Camps in 1940s—you would be exterminated there.]]>

2019-02-08T08:06:57+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/74pCnu14whcBciBg2jik.pdf

In the present study, a double sampling regression type estimator representing a class of estimators is proposed. The bias and mean square error (MSE) of the proposed estimator is obtained. A more generalized class of double sampling regression type estimator utilizing the auxiliary information available at first phase in the form of mean and variance of the auxiliary variable is also proposed. The bias and MSE of the proposed class were obtained for this class. The concluding remarks show that the proposed classes of estimators are better than that of double sampling estimator based on earlier proposition. An empirical study is included for illustration.]]>

2019-02-08T08:06:48+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/t2biQblsAeSOIwHj3c8s.pdf

Radon, thoron and their progenies as a natural radiation hazards to human health is well known. These gases are present in the environment and their level of concentration depends upon geographical and geological conditions, meteorological factors, etc. The indoor radon/thoron concentration is also influenced by building materials, ventilating system and soil gas diffusion. Measurement of radon/thoron concentration in Mizoram is reported in this paper covering three districts, namely Aizawl, Kolasib and Champhai. In this study, we used solid-state nuclear track detectors to obtain the time integrated concentration levels of indoor radon/thoron. The study was conducted by measuring the cumulative exposure for a period of about 90 days each in 149 houses during rainy season (May-August). Houses were selected on the basis of geological characteristics of the area and the construction types in order to determine variation of concentrations of radon and thoron due to these factors. Among the three districts, Champhai District had the highest radon/thoron concentrations, while Kolasib District had the maximum thoron concentration. Among the different types of houses, concrete building had the average maximum concentration of radon followed by Assam type building with G.I. Sheet walls while the contribution due to asbestos walls of Assam type building was found to be lowest.]]>

2019-02-08T08:02:44+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/wQfesj1Wu01qSMOmMoAJ.pdf

According to the latest list of threatened birds of India based on BirdLife International(UK) list of 2010, India is known to have 14 species of critically endangered birds, 17 endangered species, 56 vulnerable species, 3 species of data deficient and 66 near threatened species. A thorough study from the existing literatures reveals that Mizoram is having 18 species of birds (11.53% of India threatened birds) .]]>

2019-02-08T08:00:30+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/52fiiRktmBk27kdoGYFy.pdf

The effect of inorganic fertilizer (NPK) on earthworm population was studied for two years (2002-2004) under different plantations at Sakawrtuichhun (SKT) and Pachhunga University College (PUC) agroforestry sites in Mizoram, north-eastern state of India. Five species of earthworms, viz. Drawida sp., Metaphire houletti (Perrier), Perionyx excavatus (Perrier), Perionyx macintoshi (Stephenson) and Eutyphoeus mizoramensis (Julka et al.) under three families were identified in the study sites. Detailed study was carried out under different soil strata and on different age group of earthworms in plantations like maize+Leucena leucocephala (ML) and pine apple+citrus+Leucena leucocephala (PCL). Doses of inorganic fertilizer treatment were given as per state agriculture department recommendation. Earthworms were collected from five random sampling sites at monthly intervals by hand sorting method in each replicate. The most versatile species was found to be Drawida species. An epigeic species, P. excavatus showed significant population variation between NPK treatment and control in both study sites. The one-way ANOVA showed positive impacts of NPK fertilizer treatment on earthworm population. Four species of earthworms excluding the anecic E. mizoramensis showed a significant variation between the two treatments in PCL plantations of PUC. The uppermost stratum (0-10 cm) seemed to be the most affected by fertilizer treatment among the three strata. The Juvenile and immature worms were found to be most influenced by NPK application. The impact of NPK application on earthworm population was greater in PCL plantation compared to ML plantation.]]>

2019-02-08T07:58:18+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/6yDtPEzakG4Ya163FFpy.pdf

Scientists believe that nearly 15 billion (15 x 109) years ago the universe originated in a huge explosion, called the ‘Big Bang’. At the time of big bang, the size of the universe was just like a point and all matter, energy, forces were condensed into this point of zero volume and infinite density. Thus the big bang is the creation of everything - all space, energy, force, radiation and even time. The concept of time has no meaning before big bang. In this article, we shall try to explain how a star is born from the giant molecular clouds of hydrogen and helium. Then how a star is evolved and what is the ultimate fate of it. The end products of a star may be a white dwarf or a neutron star. But for a massive star, ultimately it may end up to a black hole by ongoing gravitational collapse.]]>

2019-02-08T07:56:34+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/eqhrFuMCLQejvWpkA2h5.pdf

A theoretical study of electronic and optical properties of PbTe using the full-potential augmented plane waves (FP-LAPW) within density-functional theory (DFT) was presented as implemented in WIEN2k code. We adopted the dipole approximation in our optical calculations. The dielectric function was calculated in the momentum representation, which requires matrix elements of the momentum p between occupied and unoccupied states. We identified the microscopic origin of the main features in the optical spectra and find the factors responsible for most of the optical absorption in this system.]]>

2019-02-08T07:55:45+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/HfMxchnFzPIl7Q0VQNoU.pdf

Glyptothorax indicus, a sisorid catfish, is reported from Mizoram, India, giving a brief description and morphometric characters. Additional characters other than reported in the original description, such as irregular black spot on the posterior region particularly on the caudal peduncle region, and also on the caudal fin are reported. This study provides additional information on the distribution of this species in India, and is first report from Mizoram.]]>

2019-02-08T07:54:53+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/503bSSWzCjWUPkNqJoR8.pdf

We present here the results of the calculations of photofield emission current. Free electron potential model was used to describe crystal potential to derive wave functions. Transfer Hamiltonian method was applied for calculation of the transition probability. Photofield emission current is calculated from tungsten. Variation of photofield emission current is explained from the result.]]>

2019-02-08T07:53:35+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/9uqWeERwqDyHjyBdHpKK.pdf

Considering the importance of natural products in cancer therapy, a preliminary investigation on some anticancer medicinal plants of north-eastern states of India was conducted in murine tumor model. Nine different plants such as Ageratum conizoides Linn. (Asteraceae), Blumea lanceolaria Linn. (Asteraceae), Dillenia pentagyna Roxb. (Dilleniaceae), Potentilla fulgens Wall. (Rosaceae), Taxus baccata Linn. (Taxaceae), Mirabilis jalapa Linn. (Nyctaginaceae), Xanthium strumarium Linn. (Asteraceae), Dillenia indica Linn. (Dilleniaceae) and Gynura conyza Cass. (Compositae) were studied. Out of these, the ethanol extract of D. Pentagyna showed the most potent antitumor activity, i.e. % ILS ~ 55% and % ILS ~ 48% at a dose of 50 and 100 mg/kg/day, respectively; followed by aqueous extract of P. fulgens showing % ILS ~ 37% at a dose of 50 mg/kg/day. Out of different fraction extracts of D. pentagyna and P. fulgens, better antitumor activity was observed with chloroform extract of D. pentagyna (% ILS ~ 89%) and hexane fraction of P. fulgens (% ILS ~ 37%) at a dose of 50 mg/kg/day. A significantly higher antitumor activity of D. pentagyna and P. fulgens seems to be due to the presence of alkaloids and flavonoids. Further detailed studies on its toxicity as well as isolation and structural elucidation of biologically active principle(s) are required.]]>

2019-02-08T07:52:18+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/0DCNKuWlaIaWuQK1Qzws.pdf

The prevalence of resistance to broad-spectrum anthelmintics among veterinary helminths has dramatically increased and has evolved from a scientific curiosity into a serious crisis facing small ruminant production in many countries. It also poses a veritable threat to other livestock and human helmiths. Both the molecular mechanisms of action and mechanisms of resistance of anthelmintics are poorly understood. Benzimidazoles bind to nematode β-tubulin, preventing microtubule aggregation and leading to paralysis and death. Levamisole acts through nicotinic acetylcholine receptor of the parasite muscle, causing membrane depolarization and contraction resulting in paralysis. Macrocyclic lactones modulate L-glutamate-gated chloride channels present on the pharynx and somatic muscle membrane of the parasites, thereby paralyzing them. Modes of action of schistosomicides and fasciolicides remain incompletely defined. A number of helminths have developed multiple resistance making their control difficult or almost impossible. As chemotherapy remains the mainstay of helminth control, ways of preserving the efficacy of the anthelmintics must be sought. Complete grasp of the molecular events and the underlying Darwinian selection in the parasites is the ultimate challenge if the persistent dilemma is ever to be alleviated, and that goal is yet an unforeseeable vista.]]>

2019-02-08T07:51:02+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/y2vcZZEhzLIP4ERLPfBO.pdf

This paper deals with three basic aspects: 1) basics of protein structure in relation to physico-chemical characterization, protein stability, importance of disulfide bond and their structure; 2) basic principles involved in polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) and SDS-PAGE and the rationale behind the use of disc electrophoresis; and 3) detailed protocol involved in SDS-PAGE in terms of reagent preparation, sample preparation and loading, staining and destaining, calculation of relative mobility and pairwise comparisons between species.]]>

2019-02-07T19:46:26+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/F0JeXhN54fF9GIRb1on7.pdf

The present paper deals with the study of the geometrical properties of some almost contact metric manifolds such as generalized almost contact metric normal manifold and nearly M-manifolds. Almost contact manifolds play an important role in differential geometry. The author has proved that a generalized almost contact metric normal manifold admits nearly M-manifold.]]>

2019-02-07T19:44:30+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/SfwTo06kCVORzCHpSBB8.pdf

The present investigation deals with the analysis of important water quality parameters (pH, DO, and BOD) of Tuirial river (in vicinity of the Tuirial Hydel Project) in Mizoram have been analysed for a period of two years, i.e. from January 2008 to December 2009. The findings revealed that pH of water ranged from 7.19 at Site 2 during winter season of 2009 to 7.95 at Site 3 during rainy season of 2009; DO content of water ranged from 6.2 mgL-1 at Site 4 during rainy season of 2008 to 8.1 mgL-1 at Site 1 during winter season of 2008; BOD content of water ranged from 0.2 mgL-1 at Site 1 during winter season of 2008 to 1.2 mgL-1 at Site 4 during rainy season of 2008. The results indicate that all values are within the prescribed limit of water quality standard laid down by various scientific agencies like B.I.S, U.S.P.H and W.H.O. Successive increase in BOD content of water from Site 1 to Site 4 (upstream to downstream) showed cumulative effect of sewage discharge and marked increase in values at Site 3 and 4 may be due to discharge of sewage containing more organic matter.]]>

2019-02-07T19:43:37+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/wSwuxw0HE7C54sI0KjpR.pdf

A survey of two district of north bank of the mighty Brahmaputra drainage system conducted among the Mishing community to record the traditional fishing gears used in wetland fishing. Among the recorded 32 gears the most common are Kawai Langi (gill nets), Tongi Jal (lift nets), Jakai, Borchalani, Juluki (bamboo traps) and Danari Barashi (fishing line). The community has adapted two distinct fish preservation technique namely ‘Perup hukati’ (dried and smoked small fish) and Numsing hukati (powder of dried and smoked fish).]]>

2019-02-07T19:42:19+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/Z4lcZIfaeKoWGIKiheP4.pdf

Mizoram is endowed with bountiful natural resources, of which bamboo is the prominent and most abundant of the forest resources. With about 32% of the total geographical area of the state occupied by bamboo, this valuable and important resource has a peculiar lifecycle where it flowers and dies after every 48 years. Such being the case, bamboo flowering has a huge impact not only on the vegetative composition but also the socio-economic condition of the state. The spatial distribution and progression of the bamboo flowering in Mizoram was monitored and studied for a period of 5 years (2005 to 2009) using satellite remote sensing and geographic information system (GIS) techniques, involving applications of vegetative index models. The cumulative progression in flowering pattern shows successive increase in flowering areas which recorded a maximum of 73.83% out of the total bamboo forest, at the end of the study period. The present study also gives a comparative analysis of the district-wise spatial distribution of bamboo flowering that may serve as a useful data for preparation of schemes to mitigate the impacts of bamboo flowering in future.]]>

2019-02-07T19:42:17+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/oe3KVXBBKNLJSKtvni3z.pdf

Mizo Post Graduate Science Society (MIPOGRASS) hi June 10, 1995 khan NEHU, Shillong-ah din a ni a, Registration No. chu S.R. 42/96/MZ-RFZ of 1996 a ni. Mizoram in Science lamah hma a sawn theih nan sorkarah rawtna chi hrang hrang leh thurawnte pein theihtâwp a chhuah ve ṭhin a, tûnah hian a hlawhtlinna tam tak kan hmu mêk zêl a ni. Kum 2011-2012 chhûnga MIPOGRASS hmalakna leh hnathawh tlângpui report hetiang hi a ni.]]>

2019-02-07T19:22:26+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/G5STFnDqSyqNi1QaTQBy.pdf

The history and applications of π (pi) and φ (phi) are discussed.]]>

2019-02-07T19:20:30+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/RPOEvMcBkjr4dLXgZs9m.pdf

The numbers of elastic constants in the anisotropic medium has been investigated through the Cartesian co-ordinate plane symmetry. We have observed different types of anisotropic medium have different number of elastic constants. These constants are related with the properties of the medium.]]>

2019-02-07T19:19:08+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/n1rIrUx4OuDGaaYHiHN6.pdf

Important mathematical tools/techniques for appraisal of business projects under certainty, risk and uncertainty conditions are discussed in this paper, including certainty equivalent method, risked adjusted discount rate method, expected monetary value (EMV) method, expected opportunity loss (EOL) method, criterion of optimism, criterion of pessimism and criterion of realism. Under Certainty equivalent and risked adjusted discount rate methods net present value (NPV) of the project/investment project is find out to enable the decision maker or the project manager whether to continue or reject or select the best among the alternatives. In cases of the business decision making under risk or probabilistic decision situations EMV and EOL are suitably used. In the absence of knowledge about the probability of any state of nature (future) occurring, the decision maker must base his decision only on the actual conditional pay off values. In such situations criterion of optimism, criterion of pessimism and criterion of realism as Hurwicz criterion are usefully applied.]]>

2019-02-07T19:17:57+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/s2MSOqRvdfujk09xid5A.pdf

This paper is a discussion on a brief introduction to the density functional theory (DFT). The formalism and the approximations made for easy computation has been mentioned along with the two theorems of Hohenberg and Kohn on which the density functional theory is based. In the end, the Kohn-Sham equation which turned density functional theory into a practical tool to obtain the ground state density has been explained along with the LAPW method.]]>

2019-02-07T19:15:04+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/05FR6EWDgWFHfH2kePY8.pdf

Alcohols are well-known for the formation of clusters due to hydrogen bonds. When a second molecular species such as acetone is added to an alcohol system, the hydrogen bonds are broken leading to a destruction of the molecular clusters. In this paper we report the findings of surface tension study over the entire concentration region of acetone and six alcohol systems over the entire concentration range. The alcohols chosen were methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, butanol, hexanol and octanol. Surface tension was measured using the pendent drop method. Our study showed a specific molecular interaction near the 1:1 concentration of lower alcohols and acetone whereas the higher alcohols did not exhibit the same.]]>

2019-02-07T19:15:00+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/1z0hmlwJS90Yvfe3bOrA.pdf

Radon concentration in dwellings in Mamit town area has been observed for about two years from May 2009 to February 2011. Seasonal variations of these radon concentration levels were observed for a year and after which landslide took place in a part of Mamit town and indoor radon concentration levels were also measured in landslide affected area. Pre- and post-landslide radon data are compiled and compared. For this, indoor radon concentration measurement, a time integrated method was employed by using a solid state nuclear track detector (SSNTD) type (LR-115films) kept in a twin cup dosimeter. It was found that the radon concentration level during pre-landslide was more than that of the post-landslide level. This behaviour is similar to the changes of concentrations in soil-gas radon which is associated with the earthquake activities as observed in Garhwal Himalayas. The radon content in the soil gas measured using RAD7 even after the landslide phenomena was found to be not so high.]]>

2019-02-07T19:12:57+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/ufjjQAHEMM8xW3oe3cO9.pdf

The intraformational conglomeratic bands and brown silty-sandstones of the Upper Bhuban unit, Bhuban Formation of western Aizawl, India, have yielded 44 species of bivalves belonging to 26 genera and 17 families. Out of these 44 species, seven species, namely Barbatia sp., Arcopsis sp., Cyclocardia sp., Clinocardium sp., Cultellus sp., Gari (Psammobia) kingi (Noetling), and Corbula (Corbula) mekranica Vredenburg are reported and illustrated for the first time from the Bhuban Formation of Mizoram. The first-five species listed above, however, could not be identified at the specific level for want of better- preserved materials and more detail information. A close study of these fossil assemblages reveals that, the Upper Bhuban unit of Bhuban Formation of western Aizawl has a geological age ranging from Aquitanian to Burdigalian, i.e. Lower Miocene age (20 to 23 million years).]]>

2019-02-07T19:08:00+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/NLFfUH95kXaAfLcWEVy4.pdf

A study was carried out on the intercropping of nitrogen-fixing tree species (NFTs) with maize and rice on hill slopes of Mizoram. Three species of nitrogen fixing trees, namely Flemingia microphylla Willd. Merr. (family Fabaceae), Leucaenia leucocephala Lam. de Wit (family Fabaceae) and Tephrosia candida Roxb. DC. (family Fabaceae) were planted as hedgerows. The different nitrogen-fixing tree species introduced as hedgerows were found to increase the yield of the test crops, conserve soil nutrients, and improve efficiency of the system. The present study reveals that NFTs can be successfully intercropped with agriculture crops such as rice and maize in the hill slopes of Mizoram, India.]]>

2019-02-07T19:07:06+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/1Dy093l8gR4R3zCbwrPW.pdf

We have studied the equilibrium lattice constants and energy band structures of NbC and NbN using the full-potential linearized augmented-plane-wave (FP-LAPW) method within the framework of the density functional theory (DFT). The calculation has been performed by using the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) for the exchange and correlation potential. Computations have been performed using the WIEN2k codes. The result obtained is reasonable and compares well with the experimental data and other calculations.]]>

2019-02-07T19:06:00+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/UVrKrJZMmUhDh7fYVTLc.pdf

The structural properties of Co2YGe, a Heusler alloy have been evaluated by first principles density functional theory through total energy calculations at 0 K by the full potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) method as implemented in WIEN2K code. The calculated results were compared with the previously reported results. Generalized gradient approximation (GGA) was used to study the structural properties of Co2YGe. The calculated values of lattice parameters were in qualitative agreement with the previously reported results.]]>

2019-02-07T19:05:30+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/GqSs6foDyjqma4IAxzse.pdf

The intraformational conglomeratic bands and brown silty-sandstones of the Upper Bhuban unit, Bhuban Formation of western Aizawl, India, have yielded 44 species of bivalves belonging to 26 genera and 17 families. Out of these 44 species, seven species, namely Barbatia sp., Arcopsis sp., Cyclocardia sp., Clinocardium sp., Cultellus sp., Gari (Psammobia) kingi (Noetling), and Corbula (Corbula) mekranica Vredenburg are reported and illustrated for the first time from the Bhuban Formation of Mizoram. The first-five species listed above, however, could not be identified at the specific level for want of better- preserved materials and more detail information. A close study of these fossil assemblages reveals that, the Upper Bhuban unit of Bhuban Formation of western Aizawl has a geological age ranging from Aquitanian to Burdigalian, i.e. Lower Miocene age (20 to 23 million years).]]>

2019-02-07T19:04:23+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/LELEaqVzPqIxluRxPuWz.pdf

A formal academic writing is primarily primed with two basic ingredients: organization and language. The rest is merely the spice and seasoning. Science has become a gigantic body of knowledge – ever growing – and a scientist is compelled to get his/her findings published. A myriad of scientific papers are churned out every moment so that science professionals are confronted with a staggering array of new information. Thus, it is vitally critical that writing such invaluable material is done in a clear, concise, and accurate manner. Preparing the manuscript in a systematic fashion is the beginning of good scientific literature. It reflects the overall attribute, suitability and impression on the intended readers. As it happens inevitably, a considerable number of manuscripts are being turned down on account not of the standard of the data per se, but ignorance on the way it is presented; they are predestined doom from the start, branded rubbish and straight into waste bin. Although the formats and styles vary from time to time and place to place, the eloquent, succinct, and logical style does not. Therefore, I try to explain, to the best of my ability, I confess which is not much, in this paper the general strategy of constructing a proper scientific literature.]]>

2019-02-07T19:08:55+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/fNYar0rMDRv3xQPUuS0V.pdf

Mizoram is located in the region considered as the origin of edible bananas and plantains. Various wild and edible banana and plantains are found in the state that have to be characterized systematically. Fourteen (14) varieties of banana were collected in Mizoram and characterized using morphological parameters. 10 varieties were identified under Musa paradisiaca, 1 under M. acuminata and 1 under M. balbisiana. In addition, 2 other varieties were identified as Ensete glaucum and M. ornata respectively. Based on the morphological scores, the genome groups of 12 varieties belonging to Eumusa section were established under AB, AAB, ABB, AAA, BB and ABBB groups. The findings of this study will provide useful information on the status of the banana genetic resources of Mizoram and formulation of their conservation strategies.]]>

2019-02-07T18:57:49+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/P9lN7BPn2eZzERBKLXXw.pdf

A thick succession of sedimentary rocks belonging to Tipam Group is well exposed all along the road cut sections near Buhchang village, Kolasib district, Mizoram. The heavy mineral suite of the Tipam sediments depicts a cosmopolitan nature. It comprises dominantly of non-opaque variety that includes zircon, tourmaline, rutile, staurolite, kyanite, sillimanite, apatite, epidote, garnet and hornblende. Iron oxide such as magnetite and heamatite constitute the bulk opaque variety. The Tipam sandstone has a complex provenance comprising of high grade metamorphic source as well as igneous and sedimentary sources. Further, it can be suggested that the high grade metamorphic source predominates over the other two sources with a relatively short transportation.]]>

2019-02-07T18:56:54+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/pWzbhpF0OpPNVW6S5krj.pdf

De, Shaikh and Sengupta introduced the notion of LP-Sasakian manifolds with coefficient α which generalized the notion of LP-Sasakian manifolds. Recently, Ikawa and his coauthors studied Sasakian manifolds with Lorentzian metric and obtained several results in this manifold. The object of the paper is to steady pseudo flat LP-Sasakian manifolds with coefficient α.]]>

2019-02-07T18:55:40+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/X0n8im2hzsH1QWkpqgEu.pdf

Several models have been used for the photoemission calculations from surfaces of magnetic solids like Fe, Ni, Co, Cr and W. We have used the Mathieu potential model which gives a qualitative characteristic of surface state photoemission by considering only the surface contribution from the existing bulk-band structure calculations.]]>

2019-02-07T18:54:34+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/xpBiF4qTKs9Rnq3ordR8.pdf

Extraction of the root bark of Hiptage benghalensis was done with Soxhlet apparatus using methanol by hot continuous extraction for 35 hrs. The extract was concentrated and dried using rotary vacuum evaporator and the extracts were used for testing the phytochemical content. The preliminary phytochemical group test revealed the presence of alkaloids, tannins and reducing sugars.]]>

2019-02-07T18:53:03+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/ipyvx7kKpWALRicHXRqF.pdf

In Mizoram, slightly west of Aizawl, lies a magnificent ridge known as Reiek Tlang. In a state where, according to the Environment and Forest Department, 87.42% is covered with forest, the ridge is uncharacteristic. It hosts splendid meadow-like vegetation in an otherwise rugged, mountainous region. The thin soil on the ridge-top, a nutrient rich silt loam, forms a skin that envelopes the bedrock and provides sustenance for the tall grass as well as for other vegetation. The absence of tall trees enables one to view the steep cliffs to the east that overlook thick forest while a gentle rolling valley to the north is also in clear sight. As a result, Reiek Tlang is frequented by visitors from all over Mizoram and beyond. Its close proximity to the state’s capital, Aizawl also makes it a popular destination. Unfortunately, its lure is also degrading its beauty as vehicles plying on this slope are thinning the soil and removing the skin off the ridge.]]>

2019-02-07T18:52:15+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/YznhTSrPPTMKrKnbSOUB.pdf

Pardon me. I look as if I am making tangible grading of scientists. Au contraire it’s just a revelation of my ignorance. Read on. To resume from our last stop of the editorial, the genre pervades, as I read Krauss’ new book (opening quote). I cannot help but wonder why this other woman is so obscure, nay, hidden from the league of extraordinary science celebrities. Of course if you think that Big Bang is a cheap ideology of some zealots, or just so story at best. There is absolutely nothing to be excited about. But then general opinion would be divided on the subject and you would certainly end up with a minority.]]>

2019-02-07T18:50:25+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/6B9k0NmcaxjKp8q7VFBM.pdf

Saiha town slumping area was triggered by cloud burst on the 16th and 17th May, 1995. Prominent transverse cracks were observed from the month of October, 2010 at the rupture surface of subsidence localities such as New Colony-I, New Colony-III, College Veng and Council Veng, Saiha. About 310 houses were affected. This could be due to high rate of percolation of rain water which developed pore pressure and weakening connection between the top and bottom layer, thus, reduced shear strength or resisting force. A continuous movement was observed till 2013, and maybe unsafe localities if not mitigate at the correct time. The present paper deals with geological field investigations as well as recommendation in terms of preventive and remedial measures.]]>

2019-02-06T22:01:59+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/5GiqdU9tE18eAppKG3y3.pdf

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is one of the most serious public health problems in the world, which greatly affects the socio-economic growth. Mathematical models can serve as tools for understanding the epidemiology of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and AIDS. In this paper, we consider a mathematical model having three compartments. Uninfected and infected states are proposed and analysed. It is found that the uninfected state is locally stable when the reproduction number R0 < 1 and the infected state is locally stable when R0 ≥ 1 and globally stable when R0 > 1. The model is analysed with and without delay. Numerical simulations are carried out to illustrate the results.]]>

2019-02-06T22:00:39+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/GEnNlrxnkuU65A3BDQ7W.pdf

Deterioration of air quality, which is an alteration of atmospheric chemistry by pollutants from natural and anthropogenic sources is of major global environmental concerns today. The sources of deterioration of air quality in Mizoram is mainly due to shifting cultivation or slash and burn agriculture or jhum burning, one of the main form of agriculture and livelihood of the villagers. Large amounts of air pollutants are emitted during prescribed forest fires (jhum burning). Unlike wildfires, prescribed fires are intentionally ignited in order to maintain ecosystem health and minimize adverse impacts of long-term fire suppression while protecting property. However, jhum burning has resulted in many forms of pollution, directly and indirectly hampering the natural environment .The need to understand the effect of jhum burning and the consequences not only on soil, but on air and human health is important.]]>

2019-02-06T21:59:23+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/jwpmYBiOFaAsjE3tmvLP.pdf

We present a study of the effect of the spin–orbit interaction on the band structures in III-V binary semiconductor compounds like GaAs, GaP, GaSb, etc. Our calculations were performed using a self-consistent, full-potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) method as implemented in Wien2k code. We found that the inclusion of spin-orbit interaction affects on the band structures, and the splitting of degenerate valence band occurs on high symmetry G-point. We obtained the results on the band structures without and with the inclusion of spin-orbit interaction and compare the results. We also measured the value of the splitting energy and found that our results are similar to the calculated value of earlier results.]]>

2019-02-06T21:58:13+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/LHvdb2LcRZDZaQJm8jP8.pdf

In Mizoram, there is a practice of an alternative system of propagation of messages called torchlight Morse code communication. It is an indigenous technology, by improvising the existing W/T based on Morse code communication into Mizo language. Morse code encodes the Roman alphabet, the Arabic numerals and a small set of punctuation and procedural signals as standardized sequences of short and long "dots" and "dashes", or "dits" and "dahs". In the Mizo method, hand-held portable torchlight was used to transmit Morse code by light signal and the receiver could easily interpret the message using the same code. This mode of communication augured well in the folded belt of Mizoram trending in N-S direction and most of the villages/town exists on the top of the hillocks. Most of the village built signal tower in the elevated places and any person who was well versed in the system was on duty by rotation to received, reply and forwarded the message. This practice, which was banned and became dormant when Mizoram was declared as a Disturbed Area according to Armed Forces (Assam & Manipur) Acts, 1958 in 1966, is now revived by Disaster Management Centre, Administrative Training Institute, Mizoram in collaboration with Mizo Signal Corps by training NGOs and Mizoram Police Radio Organization personnel. With its advantages and limitations, it may also be applicable in other part of India, especially in other hilly, vulnerable and inaccessible area.]]>

2019-02-06T21:57:26+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/JI5P2kZspyv0toGGNGtt.pdf

Urolithiasis is a condition in which stones are formed in the urinary tract and considered to be one of the most common urological disorders, longstanding medical illnesses and common public health problems. People in many parts of the world including north eastern states of India are now suffering from the stone diseases. Urinary stone is formed usually due to deposition of calcium, phosphates and oxalates which are a major health hazards. It has been reported that urolithiasis as a multifactorial recurrent disease, distributed worldwide in urban, rural, non-industrial and industrial regions with different chemical composition of analyzed stones in context to various risk factors. Besides diet, genetic factors are also reported to contribute in pathogenesis of urolithiasis. Better understanding of the various aspects of this disease including causative agents may provide an insight of this disorder to the researcher and common people in order to contain this disease. The epidemiology and various etiologic factors of urolithiasis are highlighted in this communication.]]>

2019-02-06T21:56:16+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/F5FyfJv99d0HmmUkw6cb.pdf

In the present study inter- and intra-population species of Lepadella patella were investigated. For this purpose 110 individual of geographical populations of these rotifers were collected from different parts of Arak county, and for each habitat five ecological factors such as longitude, latitude, elevation, temperature and pH were examined. The ANOVA test and also one-sample t-test showed significant difference for morphological characters. In inter- and intra-population section, 10 individual were selected randomly from each populations, then seven quantitative morphological characters were examined, the individuals were separated from other in the PCA plot and UPGMA tree. Significant correlations negative/positive were found between some of morphological characters with studied ecological factors of habitat, in addition variations in morphological characters were seen between population and they were separated in PCA plot and also UPGMA tree. Ecological factors were different between habitat, therefore in this study, we concluded that variation temperature was most effective among all the ecological factors, on diversification of populations.]]>

2019-02-06T21:54:58+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/Y2HRS8S0bcUMxFovJAIg.pdf

Assessment of noise pollution was carried out in Aizawl city of Mizoram during August 2009 to July 2011. Different levels of noise were recorded from industrial zones, commercial zones, residential zones and silence zones by using Sound Level Meter 2031/A. Of all the four zones, residential zones and silence zones were found to exceed the standard prescribed by the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000. Among the commercial zones New Market and Zangena Petrol Pump exceed the standard level. And all the study sites under industrial zones were within the standard level. Detailed information is presented in the paper.]]>

2019-02-06T21:53:41+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/zj85MiUH3g7V2sfZqbdb.pdf

Petroleum ether, chloroform and methanol extracts of Ageratina adenophora leaves were screened for assessing bioactive phytochemical constituents. The preliminary phytochemical screening using the standard phytochemical tests detected the presence of alkaloids, steroids, flavonoids, reducing sugars, tannins, saponins, terpenoids, anthraquinones, cardiac glycosides and phenols in different solvent extracts. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents along with total antioxidant capacity of the polar methanolic extract of A. adenophora leaves were evaluated to explore the reliable and potential sources of novel natural antioxidants. The methanol extract leaves revealed a total phenolic content of 30.0 mg gallic acid equivalent/g and 510.0 mg quercetin equivalent/g. The total antioxidant capacity ranges from 16.98 to 94.87% of standard ascorbic acid at concentrations ranging from 0.05 to 1 mg/ml of the plant extract in methanol.]]>

2019-02-06T21:52:47+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/Pt1nCKsqz1nXxe8p63Uv.pdf

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2019-02-06T21:48:29+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/CJ3PIQkxxxEJfpvRJlsO.pdf

The technique of plant tissue culture has been well accepted and applied in the mass propagation of planting materials in various crops and plants. In India numerous micropropagation units are producing millions of plantlets catering the needs for the increasing demand of quality planting materials. The advantages of this technique lie in the production of plantlets that are disease free and genetically identical to the elite mother plants. Application of plant tissue culture technique is the only viable means for the large scale production of banana planting materials which is not possible through conventional propagation. The article discusses the strategies of the mass production of commercially important banana in Mizoram using plant tissue culture techniques.]]>

2019-02-06T21:46:59+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/THVPGbI1IW5y0ysD486f.pdf

The problem of phase velocity of plane waves in monoclinic anisotropic medium was investigated. The phase velocity of Quasi-nature elastic waves was obtained analytically and numerically for a particular model. It was observed that the phase velocity of elastic waves is functions of the angle of propagation, elastic constants and density of the medium. These phase velocities were computed numerically for a particular model.]]>

2019-02-06T21:46:15+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/8XyhnmZbcDeSkAV8jawr.pdf

Scientific inputs and analysis of land and water resources are important units for effective land use programmes to optimize the use of available resources. The success of these plans relies on the careful assessment of qualitative and quantitative information derived from the analyses. Geospatial planning has emerged as an effective and reliable platform to assist in this process of developmental planning even at the grassroot level. In this context, the present study incorporates remote sensing and GIS techniques to map the natural resources and to formulate viable land and water resource management plans for improved land use system which will be more sustainable and productive. The study was done in the southern part of Mizoram, i.e. Saiha district wherein an integrated approach of land use planning had been derived that encompassed every aspect of land, water and socio-economic component of the district. Integration of these components in a GIS system helped in formulation of different suitable land use scenarios with economic and biophysical benefits. The result of this study presents maps with constructive options for land and water resource developments in the study area. This information will be very useful for decision makers to plan according to the schemes and resources available at hand.]]>

2019-02-06T21:45:31+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/YMMmbLcw5IuoA8w4o00v.pdf

The roosting site of the frugivorous bat, Rousettus leschenaulti of the Ṭawi Wildlife Sanctuary was surveyed and the population was determined. The abiotic parameters such as temperature, relative humidity, light intensity, roosting area, the structural details of roosting site, etc. as well as the biotic parameters such as the composition of age and sex, roosting pattern, seasonal variation in the roosting behaviour, etc. were determined. The roosting site, RS was occupied by a colony of over 1215 individuals. The variation in light intensity (0.2–0.8 lux), temperature (28 ± 0.2oC) and relative humidity (94 ± 1%) was least in this roosting site because of the closed and insulated nature of the roost. This is a specious and dark roosting site. These bats roosted in four types of clusters namely mixed-sex adults, mixed-sex sub-adults, pregnant females with lactating mothers, and the mixed-sex old individuals. The formation of clusters was based on the sex, age and reproductive status of individuals. The sex-bias favoured females.]]>

2019-02-06T21:44:22+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/fFcAFtTGjYuljKVak0YR.pdf

The geochemical properties of shale were studied in the Assam-Arakan basin covering a portion of the Tirap district of Arunachal Pradesh. Here the dominant rock type is light to dark grey shale belonging to the Disang Group of Eocene age. The northeast-southwest trending shale of Disang Group exposed in Tisa river and Deomali-Longding road section showing distinct fissility parallel to the bedding plane. Grey to dark grey and fine-grained sandstone, which is either massive or thin bedded, occurs interbedded with shale. The Rock-Eval analysis of shale samples from the outcrops shows high Tmax values and lower TOC and S2 values. Thus, it transpires that source-rating of studied shale, is found to be poor and also its source proclivity is towards gas. Further, shale of Disang Group is found to contain over-matured organic matters, represented by Kerogen Type-III and Type-IV.]]>

2019-02-06T21:43:30+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/YHPaHKqJXUUMO3NWpOB5.pdf

TL phosphor based on Ba1−x CaxSO4:Eu (1 at %) (0 < x < 1) was prepared using the chemical co-precipitation technique. XRD shows orthorhombic structure. It was found that the TL sensitivity of the material changes on varying the concentration of Ca and maximum sensitivity is found for Ba0.98Ca0.01SO4:Eu.01. Moreover, the phosphor had constant glow curve shape over a dose range of 100-1000Gy. The dose response is linear/sub-linear over the dose range 100-500 Gy, above which TL sensitivity saturates.]]>

2019-02-06T21:42:41+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/ADoFfScwcb6Iq2gYEUZe.pdf

Reconnaissance on spatial distribution of pheasants in eight districts of Mizoram was done during September 2012 to March 2013. The study shows that six species inhabit the study areas. Red Junglefowl (Gallus gallus) and Kalij Pheasants (Lophura Leucomelanos lathami) are most versatile in distribution and are present in all sites (n=235). Grey Peacock Pheasant (Polyplectron bicalcaratum) is recorded in 103 sites and is more abundant in middle and eastern parts of the state. Mrs. Hume’s Pheasant (Syrmaticus humiae) is recorded at 10 sites and Blyth’s Tragopan (Tragopan blythii) at 4 sites, both in eastern higher elevation ranges. A lone record of Green Peafowl (Pavo muticus) is from Tarpho village, Lunglei district, near Myanmar boundary. Comparison of the present data with previous records and possible sites for endangered pheasants has been discussed.]]>

2019-02-06T21:39:30+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/FZCDnRu6MPu6MyIMDL1n.pdf

The study was made on assessment of the soil quality of Kolasib, Agriculture district of Mizoram. 20 soils samples were selected from various localities of the study out of 200 samples and were found to have their pH fall under five classes of soil acidity. Total acidity in the soils was estimated by following standard method based on the technique of by Sokolov and Soroken. The soil samples were found to be acidic and exhibited increased concentration of Al+3 with the decrease of pH. Upon the different forms of acidity detected in Kolasib, soils can be arranged in decreasing manner as – total acidity > non- exchangeable acidity > active acidity.]]>

2019-02-06T21:38:20+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/ebNx7Sj7I7DNmTlC5f9C.pdf

The spawning density and morphometric characteristics of the Asian horseshoe crab Tachypleus gigas (Müller) found along the Balasore coast of Bay of Bengal was studied during 2008-2011. The spawning population was generally higher during March and July and were significantly higher (2-sample t-tests, all p ≥ 0.1) between the new moon and full moon. The relationship between various body parts of T. gigas revealed an increase in total length proportion to the of the prosomal (carapace) length. Similar relation was also observed with the carapace width with the advancement of total length. Telson length to the total length relationship also indicated a proportional increase. The body weight to total length relationship was also linear. The relationship between carapace width (dorsal prosomal breadth) with the body weight and total length with the body weight of the gravid females though showed a linear relationship but the r values were very weak. But there was a strong relationship between the body weights of the gravid female with that of the amount of the eggs present in the body.]]>

2019-02-06T21:37:12+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/h5eelC1KdUBBUPcZtXPy.pdf

Lengteng Wildlife Sanctuary (23°44’20”N - 23°52’15”N and 93°13’40”E - 93°17’50”E) is the third largest among the six (6) wildlife sanctuaries of Mizoram; situated in the eastern part of Mizoram adjacent to Murlen National Park. Due to various types of topography there is a diversified climatic condition in this sanctuary and this supports a variety of semi evergreen trees, bamboo, wild bananas; hence a rich biodiversity. Bats play major role in food chain between plants and carnivores as well as habitat specific that help in seed dispersal, and also is considered as pest. The present investigation conducted from August 2012 to April 2013 was undertaken to study the bat diversity and prepare the checklist at Lengteng Wildlife Sanctuary of Champhai District of Mizoram. Nine (9) bat species under eight (8) genera of four (4) families were identified from study area. Insectivorous bat, Rhinolophus hipposideros, which was identified in this sanctuary, was for the first time recorded in Mizoram. Mist-nets and hoop-nets were used for the trapping of the bats and roosting sites were surveyed with the help of binoculars. Trapped bats were photographed by digital camera and video camera for documentation. Dead bats found in the study area were preserved in the laboratory by using 10% formaldehyde solution after identification.]]>

2019-02-06T21:35:41+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/eHhIo6qJqkEUvgaPAZ51.pdf

A study was done on the air quality of the Tuirial municipal dumping site in Aizawl, Mizoram, India. The air quality for suspended particulate matter (SPM), respirable suspended particulate matter (RSPM), NO2 and SO2 was analysed for a period of one year during 2011-2012. The study was undertaken under the aegis of MIPOGRASS (Mizo Post Graduate Science Society) and the Directorate of Science and Technology, Government of Mizoram. The SPM and RSPM concentrations were to a great extent above the permissible limit of the the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) throughout the study period. The highest SPM mean concentration was on April 2012 at 789.64 (SD ± 1172.73) µg/m3 and highest RSPM on November 2011 at 1345.99 (SD ±1 08.29) µg/m3. The mean concentration of NO2 also showed above permissible limits for four months with highest on March 2012 at 43.62 (SD ± 8.19) µg/m3. The SO2 showed highest concentration at 1.95 (SD ± 0.57) µg/m3 which was within the permissible limit throughout the study period.]]>

2019-02-06T21:34:55+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/Zv9XovmW5tfVlRVoVQIg.pdf

The early morning landslide (at 2:45 a.m. local time) of 15 May 2013 shocked the city of Aizawl, India. An abrupt rockslide forced a series of building collapse at Laipuitlang all the way down to Ramhlun Venglai area, which have been very high landslide prone regions of Aizawl. The disastrous landslide covered an area of 1025 sq m and an estimated volume of about 8 Mm3. From the massive wreck, 17 corpses were exhumed, 8 persons were rescued alive, from the collapse of 15 houses. The area has a history is violent and dangerous geologic events during the last century. The ultimate collateral damage could have been due to a combination of the soft and high porous rock bedding, the steep slope, heavy rainfall, thunderstorm, anthropic destruction of the rock bed and overweight constructions. This brief report presents a summary of our observations pertinent to the landslide activities based on our field investigations. This report particularly focuses on the geological implications related to the landslide development, and identification of the landslide mechanism and its triggering factors.]]>

2019-02-06T21:33:58+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/RqFa4aeeXnzqGAihgC64.pdf

During antidermatophytic investigations of the plant secondary metabolites of some common ethnomedicinal plants, the essential oil of Curcuma longa Linn (family Zingiberaceae) was found to be the strongest toxicant against the pathogenic fungi Trichophyton mentagrophytes and T. rubrum, dermatophytes causing ringworm infection in human beings. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the oil was recorded at 1.9 mg/ml against T. mentagrophytes and 2.1 mg/ml against T. rubrum. However, it was fungicidal at 2.4 mg/ml against T. mentagrophytes and 2.5 mg/ml against T. rubrum respectively. The effective concentration contains heavy doses of inoculums (25 discs of 5 mm each.). The minimum killing time (MKT) of the oil was 45 sec against T. mentagrophytes and 30 sec against T. rubrum, while it’s MFCs required 7.00 hrs against T. mentagrophytes and 5.30 hrs against T. rubrum. The efficacy was thermo stable up to 80°C and for 36 months of storage, the maximum unit taken into consideration. Moreover, the oil did not exhibit any adverse effect on human skin up to 5% conc. Further detail in vivo investigations as well as clinical trial are required with the formulation(s) of the oil to fully develop an alternative to the synthetics.]]>

2019-02-06T21:32:47+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/sPvOxVkZxcsedat09HoI.pdf

An experiment was carried out to study the production potential and economic feasibility of intercropping lemon and vegetable crops. The productivity of the intercropping systems was found to differ significantly. The highest gross return was obtained from the lemon + French bean intercropping system and the lowest gross return was obtained from sole lemon for two years in a row. The highest benefit - cost ratio was recorded in lemon + French bean intercropped (3.94), followed by T7 (3.70) and T4 (3.54). From the present investigation, it was apparent that the lemon + French bean intercropping system was found to be the best from the view point of equivalent yield and economics.]]>

2019-02-06T21:30:34+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/pXjkICmY7aoEY0Msjmek.pdf

Mizoram is designated as high malaria endemic area by the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) in India. The status, diversity and the number of vectors and potential vectors within Mizoram are poorly studied. This study identified 16 Anopheles species, out of which 12 are potential vectors of malaria in undivided Aizawl district of Mizoram. There are 4 species identified form the sub-genus Anopheles and 12 species from the sub genus Cellia. The result also indicates that Champhai district have the lowest anopheline diversity and Mamit district the highest. The role of each vector and potential vectors of malaria has to be further investigated.]]>

2019-02-06T21:27:40+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/fqMPs251svFAy23XlaN5.pdf

Landslide has been one of the major geo-environmental problems in the hilly regions such as Mizoram. It is the most frequent and disruptive natural hazard to which Serchhip town is exposed. Owing to its frequent occurrence, loss of human lives and properties due to landslide are quite common amongst the residents. Although, landslides occur naturally, most of its causes can be attributed to unplanned activities on sites that are susceptible to its occurrence. Such areas are commonly found within the urban complexes where increasing population growth has necessitated the expansion of various infrastructural amenities and constructions are done without proper consideration of site safety and feasibility. Considering the present scenario, this study has been taken up to investigate the landslide hazard zonation (LHZ) of Serchhip town using high resolution satellite data. Various thematic layers, namely, slope morphometry, geological structures like faults and lineaments, lithology, geomorphology and land use/land cover were generated using remote sensing data and geographic information system (GIS). The weightage rating system based on relative importance of various causative factors is used on the different classes of thematic layers. The classes were assigned the corresponding rating value as attribute information in the GIS environment. Each class within a thematic layer was assigned an ordinal rating from 0 to 10. Summation of these attribute value were then multiplied by the corresponding weights to yield the different zones of landslide hazard. A landslide hazard zonation map was prepared showing five different zones which can assist in decision making during the pre-disaster management processes and the development of mitigation strategies.]]>

2019-02-06T21:26:03+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/TfOj1OrHC0Htf4sKbM3r.pdf

The present study is an attempt to document the traditional practice and knowledge of medicines/naturopathy among the Mizo ethnic group of Lunglei district, Mizoram. A total of 82 medicinal plant species belonging to 42 families and 76 genera, as well as 17 animal species was documented along with their parts used, methods of preparation and types of ailments treated. The present study revealed that there is a positive relationship between age and traditional knowledge and practice; while a negative relationship between educational level and traditional knowledge and practice was observed. Ethno-medicinal knowledge and practices of the Mizo and the medicinal plant species are under serious threat due to various factors. Therefore, urgent attention towards their conservation and sustainable utilization is needed.]]>

2019-02-06T21:26:02+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/MOkq8iMCyGI5zetWpGsO.pdf

Photoemission calculations in the case of semiconductors like gallium arsenide (GaAs) and silicon (Si) using a spatially dependent vector potential is presented here. The logarthmic dielectric model of Gurung and Thapa is used for the calculation of vector potential. The vector potential thus developed is used for the calculation of photocurrent for which Kronig-Penney potential has been used to define the crystal potential from which the initial state wave-function for the surface state is derived.]]>

2019-02-06T21:23:31+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/GnykRytnBlPPPBEHD5f0.pdf

DNA methylation is an epigenetic phenomenon whereby a methyl (-CH3) group is added to cytosine. There are two basic types of methylation: hypomethylation in which the level of DNA methylation is greatly reduced, and hypermethylation in which there is an increased level. A methyl group is added and removed by DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) and DNA demethylases respectively. The methyl group is transferred from a universal methyl donor S-adenosyl methionine. DNA hypermethylation in the promoter element can repress gene expression and therefore is crucial for a wide range of cellular activities such as genome stability and protection, imprinting, X-chromosome inactivation, paramutation, tissue specific gene regulation, carcinogenesis and aging. Global DNA hypomethylation has been known to play significant role in carcinogenesis. Studies in the field of DNA methylation have yielded promising potential disease biomarkers in terms of therapeutic functions. It has been concluded that the possible utilization of the degree of DNA methylation of specific genes as biomarkers for the prognosis and diagnosis of diseases is a matter which demands consideration for researchers all over the world. Canonical information on DNA methylation is highlighted in this review.]]>

2019-02-06T21:22:33+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/jN1GShzWbHnTqJL99hFr.pdf

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2019-02-06T17:40:22+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/kAnOETiP0PVdHm59x3nS.pdf

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2019-02-06T17:33:36+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/kGajSqWZswlFo2nC7sEr.pdf

This article celebrates the theme “Fostering Scientific Temper” of the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India. It emphasizes the need for breaking unscientific approaches to understanding nature and events in our lives, particularly stressing on those of the Mizo people. The linger belief that leaf insects and stick insects spontaneously transform from plants, that house lizards are venomous, that animal intestines are good for diabetes mellitus, and that malaria is spread through water. The indigenous notion that crocodiles are the male species, and gharials are the females, that two edible snails are males and females, porcupines can shoot their spines, and that the rough-skinned toads are leprous. This paper is an attempt to provide the scientific rationales of these apparent myths.]]>

2019-02-06T17:31:09+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/Aa9BXddQZuwdzMjdktfy.pdf

Mizoram predominantly comprises of Surma Group of rocks which also cover the whole area of the Aizawl city. Sandstones exposed along Durtlang road section in the northern part of the Aizawl city are composed mainly of quartz, mica group of minerals like biotite and muscovite, lithic fragments and feldspar group of minerals like plagioclases, microcline and orthoclase, and other minor detrital components. The classification and provenance studies of sandstones are basically done on the basis of three important major detrital minerals like quartz, feldspar and lithic fragments. On the basis of these three components, the sandstones exposed along Durtlang road section were classified into litharenite and sublitharenite. The sources of the sediments were determined to be of igneous and metamorphic terrains, probably of Himalayan orogen and the Indo-Burmese collision zones.]]>

2019-02-06T17:30:08+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/COgs7D9zkpbEAQa8Ugw4.pdf

Molecular phylogenetic relationships among members of the odonate genus Orthetrum (Odonata: Anisoptera: Libellulidae) were examined using 403 bp of mitochondrial COI. The support for monophyly of the Orthetrum was found in some studies with unresolved complexity. The O. sabina, O. serapia and O. trincaria formed a seperate and distinct group from the morphological analysis. We analysed the COI sequences of 22 species of Orthetrum using MEGA6. The p-distance between the members and the rate of transitional and transversional substitution was generated. The analysis indicated that the Orthetrum are monophyletic and O. sabina and O. trinacria formed a disticnt and a seperate group.]]>

2019-02-06T17:28:58+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/DcT0ZQhbxiSaZ4WYVSo2.pdf

Phytochemical screening was performed on leaves and flower extracts of Ipomoea cairica obtained from Aizawl, Mizoram. To analyse the bioactive compounds, Pet. ether, CHCl3 and CH3OH extracts of the selected plants were tested by following standard procedures. The results demonstrated the presence of alkaloids, sterols, flavonoids, reducing sugars, tannins, saponins, terpenoids, anthraquinones, glycosides and phenols. These results were compared with literature values. Indications from the results depicted usefulness of the plant parts in the treatment of some common diseases.]]>

2019-02-06T17:27:22+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/EIv7Uee2yf4p8LI9i091.pdf

This article discusses the biology and physics of electrical system of living body that controls all body functions. Electrochemical potentials in the nerve cells are the source of billions of electrical signals, which propagate from all parts of body to the brain via neurotransmitters in the living body whose measurements allow obtaining useful clinical information. The propagation of electrical pulses in the living body is like transmission of pulses in a cable. The living cell membrane offers resistance and capacitance that form a complex net of electrical circuit. The ratio of space constant between cells to the time constant of neural resistance and capacitance define the speed of nerve impulses from one cell to other cell.]]>

2019-02-06T17:25:11+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/6uZdRfOstAGHb86PizJD.pdf

Polypleurum wallichii is an aquatic plant found in East- Khasi Hill District of Meghalaya, in the Northeast India. The endophyte was successfully cultured using Tryptone-yeast medium. Holdfast as well as thallus showed Gram-negative bacterium resembling the bacterioids of Rhizobium, (designated as Polypleurum type-I) similar to nodules from Glycine max and other tropical legumes. The plant body of Polypleurum has poor vasculature and lack intercellular space, hence, no formation of distinct nodules. The observations indicate that the plant is a nitrogen fixing non-legume, and the endophyte bacterium is member of Rhizobium.]]>

2019-02-06T17:25:09+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/PfE6Zw0BpCbXL0FLFrWV.pdf

In this study, the in vitro antioxidant activity of the methanolic extracts of leaves and flowers of Ipomoea cairica and leaves of Ageratina adenophora were determined by spectrophotometric method. Antioxidant activity of extracts were expressed as percentage of DPPH radicals inhibition and IC50 values (μg/ml). Values in percentage ranged from 2.70 % for 0.0005 mg/ml concentration of I. cairica leaves to 93.24% for 0.05 mg/ml concentration of I.cairica flowers. The largest capacity to neutralize DPPH radicals was found for methanolic extract of I.cairica flowers which neutralized 50% of free radicals at the concentration of 1.00 μg/ml. I. cairica can be regarded as promising candidates for natural plant sources of antioxidants with high value.]]>

2019-02-06T17:36:54+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/c66IohWJcSTgMGFg79tG.pdf

In P. wallichii, the flowers are cleistogamous, enclosed by a thin membranous spathe. The two anthers are borne on a forked filament placed adjoining to the stigmatic lobes. Ontogenetically the two anthers developed separately; because of intercalary growth, it becomes bifid. The archesporial cell comprises of uniseriate rows of cells, the anther wall consists of a very thin epidermis, unilayered endothecium with fibrous thickenings and the tapetum with uni- and binucleate cells. The anther wall development is reduced type, middle layers are absent. The connective tissues also acquire fibrous thickenings. Cytokinesis of microspore mother cell is successive type within a distinct callose wall. Pollen grains are dispersed in dyads with minute and dense granular exine.]]>

2019-02-06T17:21:33+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/calL4K7tEYZWWN9oWdWo.pdf

ELIZ is an instant messenger for android platform mobile. This mobile application is developed for sending and receiving text messages from one mobile to another mobile having the android platform. The application will enable sending/receiving text message services from one client to the other via Google Cloud Server. This application is a simple and easy text messenger with freely available resources and hence messaging do not cost anything. Unlike other available application it will not use the phone number as ID for registering the app account, instead it uses the Gmail ID and password as its login ID for registering to the app account. This paper explains the development phases of the instant messenger and its scopes. ELIZ- the developed instant messenger is named after the first author.]]>

2019-02-06T17:19:50+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/0LsjniBR1AKD4i5bclca.pdf

The spectroscopic properties of Ho3+ in SiO2-TiO2 were investigated using optical absorption and fluorescence studies. The intensities of the electric dipole transitions of Ho3+ in the SiO2-TiO2 doped glasses were calculated from the absorption spectra in the visible region. From the experimental values of the oscillator strengths and calculated matrix elements, the Judd-Ofelt intensity parameters were calculated by least square analysis. The fluorescence spectral distribution of Ho3+ has been recorded using 370nm excitation source. The emission bands observed near blue and green regions were assigned as 5G5, 5G6→5I8, 5F3→5I8 and 5F4, 5S2 →5I8 radiative transitions.]]>

2019-02-06T17:19:24+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/oaKC2lzyi5YRRtwnMNAf.pdf

A regional seismicity map for Surma valley and the adjoining region, covering the area bounded by longitudes 90-95°E and latitude 22-26°N was prepared covering the period between 1969-2009 over the generalized tectonic map of the region. The best estimation ofhypocentral parameters form the prime input for the estimation of travel time of P- and S- waves of any region. The Riznichenko diagrams clearly show the change in shape of the travel time versus distance with increasing focal depth, indicative of both a geometrical effect and an increasing P-wave velocity. The Wadati diagrams show systematic decrease in ts/tp, suggesting that the velocity for shear waves increases faster than that for the compressional waves in the upper levels of the crust.]]>

2019-02-06T17:16:14+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/6GWZ5GCUm9ipD3xJUpDw.pdf

A theoretical study of electronic and optical properties of zinc blende structure of BeS is presented by applying the full-potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) method within density-functional theory (DFT) as implemented in WIEN2k code. Our results are in agreement with previous theoretical and experimental studies on this important semiconductor compound. For the optical calculations, the dipole approximation is used. The imaginary part of dielectric function is calculated in momentum representation, which requires matrix elements of the momentum p between occupied and unoccupied states. The microscopic origin of the main features in the optical spectra is identified and also the factors responsible for most of the optical absorption.]]>

2019-02-06T17:39:26+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/eayXIoI88qeychwDo6mP.pdf

In this paper, we present a mathematical model of diabetes mellitus, which is a metabolic disease concerned with the regulation process of glucose in the body by the pancreatic insulin. This paper considers the disappearance of glucose due to insulin action (insulin-dependent) as well as the disappearance of glucose due to tissue uptake such as the brain and nerve cells (insulin-independent) and rise in glucose level due to infusion through meal intake, oral glucose intake, continuous nutrition absorption and constant infusion. The linear and non-linear cases are considered and the model is analyzed using Lyapunov’s method. Conditions for local as well as global stability are obtained. Numerical simulations are carried out and graphs are also generated to indicate the role of insulin in the regulation process of glucose in the human body.]]>

2019-02-06T17:12:39+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/gtCk2rqoqHO8BOIxxsww.pdf

The area in and around Aizawl City is dominated by Middle and Upper Bhuban rock formations. Geologically and petrologically the area has not been so far explored therefore the present study was initiated. The study area is composed of sandstone and shale belonging to Middle and Upper Bhuban formation and lies in between 92°60’ E longitude and 23°58’ N latitude. Rock samples collected from different sections in the study area were analyzed to study the mineralogical compositions of the rocks and determination of the multi-elemental distribution using high precision X- ray fluorescence analysis. The study shows that the area is dominated by different rock units such as sandstone, shale, siltstone and shaly sandstones belonging to middle and upper Bhuban formation. Petrological studies reveal that sandstone is greywacke exhibiting argillaceous matrix mainly siliceous, ferruginous and calcareous (due to presence of fossils) and rock fragments. The oxide and silica weight percentage observed from the geochemical analysis indicate Na2O, K2O and MgO have the maximum variation in the study area. The trace elements Sc, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, Pb, Th, Rb, U, Sr, Y, Zr, Nb, Ba, Cr, V in parts per million (ppm) show a different variation in sandstone, shale and siltstone. Ba is having maximum value >500 ppm followed by Zr in sandstone whereas Cr is maximum in shale. Prominent feature is a persistently higher amount of uranium (~4 ppm) in the rocks of Middle Bhuban rocks in contrast to the average abundance in sandstone i.e. 2 ppm.]]>

2019-02-06T17:11:47+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/YGxR7caCfRqbeeVeTIgH.pdf

A study was carried out to establish the relationship between Parkia speciosa (local name Ṭah-lim) and nectar-feeding bat, Cynopterus sphinx with respect to pollination, and effects on fruit production. Eight flowering trees of P. speciosa from Lengteng Wildlife Sanctuary were selected for experimentation. During the flowering season of stink bean from August to November, 2013 visual observations were made twice a week during the night at 18:00 to 05:00 h. C. sphinx visits the capitulum and collects the nectar by landing on the capitulum. Duration of nectar collection by bat is around one second, and then visited the next flower to collect nectar simultaneously. To ascertain the pollination by bats, we captured the bats using mist nets. The yellow cream colour pollen was attached on their facial, neck region, abdomen and wings. This reveals that this bat provides a vital reciprocal service to P. speciosa flowers in terms of pollination. The present study also revealed that seasonality and availability of flowers influenced the frequency of bats. Also compared the average number of fruit production between frequently and randomly visit of P. speciosa trees by bats and observed that frequently visited trees by bats produced more fruits than randomly visited trees (P > 0.05).]]>

2019-02-06T17:10:07+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/9rVJJj27jPT0jgLtG5Jr.pdf

This paper examines and compares different types of artificial neural networks for recognition of Mizo script. The Mizo script and English script are very similar in nature but special characters – Â, â, Ê, ê, Î, î, Ô, ô, Û, û, Ṭ, and ṭ – are incorporated in Mizo scripts which are not available in English script. In this experiment, an attempt was made to recognize Mizo script including capital letter, small letter, numerals, and special characters. The approach involves processing input images, conversion of image characters into binary matrix, analyzing and mapping the binary matrix, training and testing with a set of desired Mizo characters using different types of neural networks such as back propagation algorithm, radial basis function, learning vector quantization, and recurrent neural network. The results are compared with each other and suggest the best artificial neural networks algorithm for use in the recognition of Mizo script.]]>

2019-02-06T17:09:23+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/sqOBBPSl82KzA45GTNJO.pdf

There has been a vehement battle (but not bloody brutal) debate on the honorific inference of the most prestigious award in science in India. It is merely a disagreement on trivial conception of whether the award is well known and popularised among the general public. The arguments are strictly based on personal biases. But I won the day–or so I think!]]>

2019-02-06T17:07:13+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/j49Pr6e1g7SnZYBnmiEj.pdf

The terminator technology is a genetically engineered suicide mechanism that can be triggered off by specific external stimuli. The preferred trigger is antibiotic tetracycline, which is applied to seeds. As a result of which the seeds of the next generation will self-destruct by auto-poisoning. The main version of the terminator includes a set of three novel genes inserted into one plant. However, there is another version, which divides two or three genes on to two plants that are later to be cross-pollinated. The ultimate outcome is a dead seed in the following generation. Many consider terminator technology a problem due to the fact that the top 10 largest seed companies globally control half the world’s commercial seed market. Therefore, if terminator technology is commercialized, corporations will most likely try to incorporate this technology into all of their seeds. This would secure a much stronger monopoly on the seed market compared to patents because this technology would ensure that it is impossible for farmers to re-use their once harvested seeds.]]>

2019-02-06T17:02:34+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/oyx1UcHrfjTZzfMmKNvg.pdf

Soil carbon is an important aspect of soil fertility and represents a major reservoir of terrestrial carbon pool globally. The amount of soil carbon was estimated in bamboo forests of five administrative districts which account for more than 80% of the bamboo growing areas of Mizoram. The soil carbon pool of the study area ranged from 51.914 Mg ha-1 to 84.2352 Mg ha-1. Maximum soil carbon pool, 84.2352 Mg ha-1 was recorded in Mamit district and minimum in Serchhip district (51.914 Mg ha-1). The major differences in soil carbon pool in different districts of Mizoram may be attributed to the local habitat quality and climatic conditions.]]>

2019-02-06T17:01:32+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/8VqY1u8ZRyo5TF26fHj9.pdf

The present study was conducted during March to September 2013 at Palak Dil, the largest lake in Mizoram, which is located between 92°52’-92°55’E longitude and 22°10’-22°13’N latitude in the remote part of Mara Autonomous District Council in the southern part of Mizoram near the border of Indo-Burma hotspots region. The Palak Dil is a nationally recognized natural lake and the catchment area is approximately 18.5 sq km and the total water body is around 1.5 sq km only. The water quality, viz. temperature, pH, total dissolved solids, electrical conductivity, acidity, alkalinity, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand, carbon dioxide, total hardness, chloride, nitrate, phosphate and iron were analyzed and found that all the parameters are within the standard limits given by various scientific agencies, but the water is not pure as expected. This can be accrued to the developmental works that were undergoing around the lake. Study on biodiversity was carried out by field enumeration, collection and identification of the flora and fauna. It was observed that the ecosystem in which birds and animals living there is gradually degrading due to anthropogenic activity and developmental works.]]>

2019-02-06T17:00:18+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/QbAVjkUd9nuDtrNg64rP.pdf

Three varieties of commonly used mulberry leaves (V1, Local, S1635) were fed to the Bombyx mori larvae [Bivoltine double hybrid – (AP71 x AP9)(AP72 x AP8)] and their influence on the larval weight, filament length and larval protein content was studied under natural conditions in Mizoram. The mean weight of larvae, pupae, cocoon and shell as well as cocoon shell ratio and larval protein content of B. mori were increased when fed with S1635. In addition, the filament length produced by this silkworm in response to S1635 showed significant increase with respect to the other two varieties. Positive correlation was observed in filament length against protein content. The overall performance of B. mori in terms of growth and economic parameters was significantly improved with S1635 and this variety has the potential to enhance the commercial qualities of silk. Therefore, it is suggested to be used in sericulture for higher yield of silk.]]>

2019-02-06T17:03:53+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/xdtEzqeROIWcvCauunUj.pdf

Extensive survey for ornamental fishes of Sonkosh River was conducted from April, 2012 to March, 2013. The River Sonkosh is located in the western part of Kokrajhar District of Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) area, a tributary of the Brahmaputra River in north-west bank. During the survey period, a total of 49 ornamental fish species were identified belonging to 34 genera, 18 families and 6 orders. Cyprinidae family represented the maximum number of species (18) followed by the family Channidae (5), Cobitidae (4), Siluridae (3), Amblycipitidae (3), Balitoridae, Nandidae, Badidae and Belontiidae (2 species each) and Notopteridae, Schilbeidae, Olyridae, Chacidae, Mastacembelidae, Chandidae, Osphronemidae, Gobiidae and Tetraodontidae (1 species each). The study shows that 1 species belongs to endangered category, 3 species near threatened, 1 species vulnerable, 32 species least concern, 3 species data deficient and 6 species not evaluated according to IUCN status, 2013.]]>

2019-02-06T16:58:01+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/mwIJetfiG8iyiHzuOkP0.pdf

Shales from the Upper Bhuban formation in the Muthi, Aizawl district, was analysed for major, trace and rare earth elements. These elements are competent alternative for determining lithological composition, geochemical classification, provenance and tectonic setting of the basin. It shows high content of SiO2 varies from 62.85 wt% to 73.22 wt% and a small variation in Al2O3 (14.22–19.61 wt%). The average of K2O/Al2O3 ratio vary from 0.15 to 0.22 with the average value of 0.18 which are close to the upper limit of the clay mineral range indicated that the illite is the dominant clay mineral in these shales. The value of chemical index alteration in the Muthi shale is high (75.10 to 81.77) indicating high intensity of chemical weathering in the source areas. The Muthi shales are classified as litharenite. Th/Sc, Th/Co, Th/Cr, Cr/Th, and La/Sc ratios of shales from this study are compared with those of sediments derived from felsic and basic rocks (fine fraction) as well as to upper continental crust (UCC) and PAAS values. This comparison suggested that these ratios are within the range of felsic rocks. Furthermore, it shows slightly LREE enriched and flat HREE patterns with negative Eu anomalies 0.65 (average). The (Gd/Yb)N ratio 2.47 (average) of Muthi shale is higher than 2 which suggested that these shales were derived from the large HREE depleted source rocks.]]>

2019-02-06T16:55:53+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/wN8D2GGGxkEQo8RVb9FF.pdf

Shakespeare, yes, a close relation of mine, being of member of the same family Hominidae. For that matter you are too. I find it quite amusing that when some writers mention someone of the same surname to theirs, but not directly related in a family tree, as ‘no relation’. Biologically speaking we are all closely related (99.99% genetic similarity). Chimpanzees are our first cousins, and bacteria a bit distant. Calling someone ‘no relation’ is a bit harsh and somewhat a denial of the universal tree of life.]]>

2019-02-06T16:54:54+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/t0qQkv1JqNIZ74jPrRAR.pdf

The history of medicine teaches us that understanding the principle and natural origin of diseases is key to their effective management. Ancient Greek and Roman physicians abandoned supernatural interventions, as previously believed to be the sources of diseases, and instead expounded a theory of natural cause called miasma. Malaria (the very word meaning ‘bad air’) is the archetype, and is the most vicious of them all, then and thereafter, in the entire history of humankind. The search for its origin and transmission was as old as the miasma theory itself. Some rays of light dawned during the Italian the Renaissance from Girolamo Fracastoro in the form of contagion theory, but its true nature was as enigmatic as ever. The Pandora’s box of dilemmas was closed only on the closing of the 19th century CE. Yielding no medical enlightenment after a good two millennia, the miasma theory was confronted by the fledgling germ theory, and finally subjugated by the mosquito-malaria theory. The epoch-making discoveries came from two army physicians, Alphonse Laveran in Africa, who discovered the malarial parasite, and Ronald Ross in India, who discovered the mode of transmission. The saga is classic in the annals of science where theories are tested and falsified, and the one with the most credible and durable evidence survives, in spite of the odds and authoritative hostilities.]]>

2019-02-06T16:53:02+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/sNI68QMsX1uVCrfKuHFA.pdf

Zoologists do not lack a sense of humour. There are discreet and indiscreet evidences.]]>

2019-02-06T16:49:27+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/rE88q3wBXLqenLrzrkCF.pdf

Photocurrents were calculated using initial state wavefunction obtained by solving one dimensional Schrödinger equation in terms of Greens function where the crystal potential is defined by Kronig-Penny δ-potential. Also a spatially dependent vector potential is used. This model is applied to the case of metals W and Be.]]>

2019-02-06T16:46:53+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/CxsxgdOowNIjKrhPnGHJ.pdf

The effects of copper on the growth, photosynthetic pigments, and antioxidants of the cyanobacterium Nostoc muscorum were studied. Growth behavior under different concentrations of Cu showed strong inhibition with growth rate of 50% reduced at 2.5 µM after 96 h of treatment. There were total inhibitions at 7.5 µM and 10 µM concentrations. Photosynthetic pigments such as chlorophyll-a, phycocyanin and carotenoid contents decreased at the same extent after 96 h of Cu treatment and the inhibition was highest on phycocyanin content. Protein content was inhibited at the same pattern with photosynthetic pigments. Cu-induced lipid peroxidation was concentration and time dependent. Treatment with 10 µM Cu for 2 h resulted in 4.9 folds increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) level in comparison with the control. Similarly, 3.8 folds increased was observed after 5 h treatment with LC50 metal (2.5 µM Cu), compared to the control. The activities of antioxidative enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and glutathione reductase (GR) were strongly increased following the increase of Cu concentrations- they reached 159%, 202%, 172% and 179% above the control, respectively.]]>

2019-02-06T16:40:46+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/UsXlrpg91bkeQ29mWFNR.pdf

In order to understand the water quality of Tamdil, its physico-chemical parameters were analyzed for a period of one year, i.e. from October 2013 to September 2014. For detailed investigation, water quality attributes namely, water temperature(12.5°C-26.3°C), pH (6.6-7.4), turbidity (0.22 -10.4 NTU), acidity (3.2-13 mg/L), total alkalinity (32-107.2 mg/L), total hardness (26.8-50.4 mg/L), nitrate-N (0.02-0.82 mg/L), phosphate-P (0.02-0.53 mg/L), dissolved oxygen (4.4 -7.36 mg/L) and biological oxygen demand (0.029-1.2mg/L) were studied. The results reveal that there is a significant seasonal variation in physico-chemical attribute and the data in all parameters are within the prescribed limit of water quality standard laid down by various scientific agencies.]]>

2019-02-06T16:27:59+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/ncN8LYuIkKYoHcjzcgBP.pdf

A comparative study of theoretical and experimental electronic properties and linear optical dielectric function of zinc blende structure of aluminium pnictides is presented by applying the full-potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) method within density-functional theory (DFT) as implemented in WIEN2k code. Results are presented for the band structures, for the density of states, and for the real and imaginary parts of the linear dielectric functions for photon energies up to 10 eV. The results are compared with other existing calculations and experimental data and agreement was found.]]>

2019-02-06T16:25:15+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/oSlWCdcKtkNFjs250iKe.pdf

Looking at the annals of humans, one can infer that some of the greatest thoughts and discoveries were often derided when first brought to public, resulting in the delay of the employment of many innovative contraptions and some even led to the lost of thousands of lives. The reasons for the dismissal of such pragmatic data can be vast. Some great thoughts might already be lost because of the existence of restrains. In this article, brief biographies of two great scientists are highlighted as examples to illuminate our point. Our point being the importance of free thinking, appropriate reasoning and even radical ideology, and the possible future of science from such singular mind. It has been concluded that we should not belittle others’ idea because what we believe is true can be far from right. Instead, we should encourage others to think beyond the box so that such seemingly ridiculous notions,]]>

2019-02-06T16:23:05+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/KC2L7IsyZCaldZ34Z78F.pdf

An efficient and practical method for the conversion of alcohols to their corresponding carboxylic acids and ketones via a ruthenium chloride-catalyzed oxidation process has been developed. The reaction proceeded under mild reaction condition using environmentally friendly oxone as a co-oxidant. Various alcohols were examined to provide the desired products in good yields.]]>

2019-02-06T16:43:21+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/aaBBp8amPJ0JyRiW1JVE.pdf

Documentation is the basic method of preserving indigenous traditional knowledge. Indigenous knowledge is passed down through generations and is in reality a necessary means of understanding many aspects of science. The indigenous techniques of food processing by the Mizo residing in a landlocked state - Mizoram, in northeast India has not been recorded systematically. This article describes some of the most familiar techniques of Mizo traditional food processing techniques; however, minor differences have been observed among different parts within the state. It was amazing to observe that the Mizos utilize the available resources such as fire or sun for food preservation and developed their own way of innovative scientific methods for food processing. It has been recommended that a study on the nutritive values of the Mizo traditionally processed foods would be very significant to see the impact of such processing on the health of the Mizo community.]]>

2019-02-06T14:14:20+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/GZ8iiTULno5cOAZ2mXVf.pdf

An abrupt rockslide on 11 May 2013 (Saturday 3:24 a.m. IST) forced a series of building collapse at Laipuitlang locality, Aizawl, Mizram, all the way down to Ramhlun Venglai locality covering an area of about 1025 sq m, which have been very high landslide prone regions of Aizawl. The tragedy caused 17 casualties, injuring 8 persons from the collapse of 15 houses. The colossal damage could have been due to a combination of the soft and high porous rock bedding, the steep slope, heavy rainfall, thunderstorm, anthropogenic destruction of the rock bed and overweight constructions. The study brings out some issues and concerned arising from the incident and management of the situation from the angle of disaster management.]]>

2019-02-06T14:13:21+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/L8vhOpJvA8SEO7KzXf3F.pdf

Artesunate is a prescription drug in the treatment of severe malaria due to Plasmodium falciparum. It has surpassed all other antimalarial drugs in terms of efficacy and safety. Serendipitous experiments in the 1980s began to unveil its true and broad-spectrum medical potential. It has been successfully shown to be highly effective antiviral, antitrematodal, antischistosomal, and anticancer molecule. Although the anthelmintic activity is now established beyond doubt, it has never been tested on parasitic tapeworms (cestodes) and roundworms (nematodes). We treated the cestode Raillietina tetragona and the nematode Ascaridia galli with different doses, ranging from 0.7, 1.5, 3, 6 to 12 mg ml-1. The cestodes were highly susceptible to the various doses of the drug. But the nematodes were not at all responsive. The findings suggest that artesunate is a good candidate in the treatment of cestode infections.]]>

2019-02-06T14:10:53+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/SBO2xon0PlkLiuMDEYOd.pdf

Knowledge on lizards, particularly the suborder Saurian, and their conservation aspects is very poor. An attempt was made to collect information on these small and lesser known animals so that an appropriate strategy can be formulated for their conservation. Inventorization study on Saurian fauna was conducted at Dampa Tiger Reserve, Mamit district, Mizoram, India, during the period of February 2011 to October 2014. 22 species of lizards were recorded and they can be classified into 5 families and 12 genera. Two species cannot be identified to the species level.]]>

2019-02-06T14:09:18+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/fNd8GlONJE8kS6T5XyEB.pdf

River Sonkosh enters India at Jamduar (longitude of 89°51'39.4'' E and latitude of 26°43'59.8'' N), Kokrajhar district of Assam. It extends up to the Feshimari-Jaldhuaghat at a longitude of 89°47'26''E and latitude of 26°22'39''N. Cold water fish assemblages of Sonkosh river was investigated at three upstream stations from April, 2013 to March, 2014. During study period, 65 species of fishes belonging to 6 major orders and 18 families were recorded. The most number of species belongs to family Cyprinidae (29) and followed by Sisoridae (7), Nemacheilidae (6), Cobitidae (4), Channidae (3), Psilorhynchidae (2), Olyridae (2), Badidae (2), Anguillidae (1), Amblycipitidae (1), Bagridae (1), Siluridae (1), Schilbeidae (1), Eresthistidae(1), Belonidae (1), Mastacembelidae (1), Nandidae (1) and Tetradontidae (1). Diversity indices like Shannon-Wiener index (H), Simpson dominance index (D), Simpson index of diversity (1-D), Buzas and Gibson’s evenness (E) and Margalef’s index (d) were analyzed by using PAST Software (version 2.19).]]>

2019-02-06T14:08:24+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/MAhcHGaHrTPxEuVfaO7k.pdf

The long-wavelength-limit partial structure factors, Sxy(0), have been determined for liquid silver-indium (Ag-In) alloys using square well potential as perturbation over Percus-Yevick (PY) hard sphere reference system. Obtained Sxy(0) at various compositions of In have been employed to calculate isothermal compressibility and chemical ordering in the alloys. Further, homo-coordination and hetero-coordination in Ag-In alloys have been studied at microscopic level in terms of mutual and intrinsic diffusion coefficients]]>

2019-02-06T14:06:41+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/MQY5LMR6rIh50OtfHmxD.pdf

The facts are in, and they are not what one might expect them to be. I would not dare belittle (though definitely not a fan) the use of social networks, particularly Facebook. The story of Facebook alone is an Oscar-worthy work (proved me right, The Social Network won the 83rd Academy Awards for Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Original Score, and Best Film Editing). It is true that it is a good way to keep connected with friends and families around the globe. But its merits appear to be outweighed its demerits. It serves as an effective method for personal abuses, bullying, deceit, and all sorts of misdemeanour. (I personally a young couple who are now divorced for half a decade sole on the ground of misused Facebook.) Some reposts say that there are over 80 million fake accounts–enough to establish to a strong nation. Take it this way, there are only 15 countries having more than 80 million population, those fake users are more than Germans and the rest of other nations. One can have a nation of imaginary friends!]]>

2019-02-06T14:16:31+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/x6XQz7mFdpymOweweI22.pdf

This paper deals with the bird community of Lengteng Wildlife Sanctuary in eastern Mizoram recorded during two years of survey. A total of 126 species of birds belonging to 35 families were recorded by line transect method. The family Timaliidae top the list with 19 species followed by Sylviidae with 10 species and Turdidae with 9 species. The findings include rare and vulnerable Blyth’s Tragopan, 4 near threatened species, viz. Mrs Hume’s pheasant, great hornbill, brown hornbill and the white-cheeked hill partridge. A rare green-tailed sunbird of the sub-species A. nipalensis victoriae is also recorded during the study. Based on our observation, out of 126 species recorded, 8 species are considered as rare and 22 species being considered occasional with 2 species as winter visitor. It was observed that bird community survey could serve as an important tool for assessing its role as ecological indicator of an area. The comparison of avian diversity of Phawngpui National Park, Murlen National Park and Dampa Tiger Reserve with our result and the habitat of rare birds in the study area are discussed.]]>

2019-02-06T14:01:28+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/AiSDqQAgoi2f0hntiQlR.pdf

We present here the electronic structure calculations of d-band metals like W and Cr using a self-consistent, full-potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) method. We performed a scalar relativistic calculation without spin-orbit interaction (NSOI) and a fully relativistic with spin-orbit interaction (SOI) included in a second-variational treatment. We found close agreement between our calculations and the experimental results. The calculated Fermi energy for SOI and NSOI are same and almost equal to the experimental value. We found that the effect of spin-orbit interaction (relativistic effect) increases with the atomic number.]]>

2019-02-06T14:00:29+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/3qt4UTwuRQkwzQ7t7xfa.pdf

This paper is an analysis of the properties of the M−projective curvature tensor in Sasakian, Einstein Sasakian and η−Einstein Sasakian manifolds.]]>

2019-02-06T13:59:18+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/leUOSVTqW6yCuCHUKXlA.pdf

The present article deals with the study of phase velocities of elastic waves in the medium of swelling porous. The medium consist of mixtures of solid, fluid and gas. Based on Eringen's linear theory of swelling porous, it is found that the existence of three longitudinal waves and two transverse waves, propagating with distinct velocities which are attenuated. Discussions of the particular cases are presented. Numerical and analytical calculations of phase velocities and attenuation are depicted graphically.]]>

2019-02-06T13:58:04+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/WtIejS56BQqtkU5YmFmQ.pdf

Cancer is a disease that affects the livelihood of humankind for ages. Dietary habit and lifestyle have been attributed to the development of many forms of cancer including gastric cancer. The state of Mizoram located in the northeastern India has been recorded to be a cancer prone area. Most Mizo people indulge in the use of smoke and smokeless tobacco and betel chewing. A study in this high cancer incidence zone is necessary to determine the actual cause of the disease. In this study, we evaluate the influence of tobacco use and betel consumption on gastric cancer. We conclude that individuals with a family history of cancer who consumed betel, smoke and smokeless tobacco have a higher risk of gastric cancer. We also found an association between increased risk of gastric cancer and consumption of betel or sahdah alone and betel with sahdah.]]>

2019-02-06T13:56:57+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/4RXcNZExXU6Aq254l9t0.pdf

Electrolytic production of hydrogen from water is gradually gaining its importance among the other conventional process of hydrogen production in the context of renewable energy source utilization and environmentally clean technology. The present work study hydrogen gas production in a form called Brown’s gas or HHO gas by alkaline water electrolysis with KOH as electrolyte in an 11 plate common-ducted HHO dry cell. The variation of HHO gas flow at different concentrations of electrolyte was investigated. During electrolysis the temperature of the electrolytic solution is also found to increase gradually with time due to overvoltages, which further effects the current, electrical and gas production rate. The effects of temperature on the HHO gas production rate and energy efficiency of electrolysis process are discussed.]]>

2019-02-06T13:55:26+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/lXUprhHUJYo41S7sWAgL.pdf

The present study investigated how the maternal dominance status influences the mother-infant relationship and the interaction of females other than the mother with the group infants in captive stump-tailed macaques (Macaca arctoides). Nine infants were born into the group; observations were made on these infants during their first six months of life using all occurrences sampling. Eleven measures of mother-infant interaction were used for analyses: total time in contact, on nipple contact, off nipple contact, total time off contact, less than 3 feet away (touching distance), more than 3 feet away (beyond touching distance), total contact broken, leaves by mother, leaves by infant, approach by mother, approach by infant. Although the general course of development of the mother-infant relationship was similar in all mother-infant pairs, there were marked differences in regulation of mother-infant contact based on the maternal dominance status. Infants of more dominant females tend to be more secure and have greater freedom of movement within the group. High-ranking stump-tailed macaque mothers carried their offspring less than lower-ranking females. Infants born to dominant female were found to receive significantly more care contact than the infants of sub-ordinate female. The present study strongly indicated that maternal dominance status was a factor that shaped the nature of stump-tailed infants with group members.]]>

2019-02-06T13:54:00+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/F9hz2hDm2L94wqxS53ZO.pdf

Roads are the major means of transportation and communication. They play significant role in the development of the community or society. Major import and export of goods, general transportation and communication services within a community or between communities take place mostly through roads. The efficiency of such function is hugely dependent on the condition and quality of the road. With this view, the Mizoram state government made an effort towards the construction of roads from Buangpui to Lunglei. This study is directed towards the impact of roads and road construction on the socio-economic status of a community directly within the project site. Pre-construction and post-construction conditions of the community were studied and analyzed through collection of various parameters. The study revealed that the construction of roads not only improves the livelihood of the community but also increases the number of educational institutions and health centers as well. More people are also engaged in certain jobs such as carpentry and handloom as they can now easily import and export their goods due to better road condition.]]>

2019-02-06T13:51:03+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/ujBdN7fcoB7q2775mEaV.pdf

The study, for the first time, reports the occurrence of the genus Neonoemacheilus from rivers of Mizoram, namely Langkaih and Tlawng rivers,. The study provides descriptions of N. assamensis giving additional characters other than outlined in the original description, such as, number of unbranched dorsal and anal fin rays; intestine arrangement and numbers of vertebrae.]]>

2019-02-06T13:50:01+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/WeMmKsHtkahzxOh39xmj.pdf

Actinomycetes are antibiotic producing gram positive bacteria widely distributed in nature including fresh water habitat. The study of fresh water actinomycetes especially from river is still in infancy and has been less explored. In this study, 20 Streptomyces sp. were isolated from Tuichang river and were screened for their antimicrobial potential. Antibiotic sensitivity pattern of the isolates against standard antibiotics was also observed. Eight isolates (n=8; 40%) showed significant antibacterial activity against at least two tested bacterial pathogens, while six isolates (n=6; 30%) showed antifungal potential against at least two tested fungal phytopathogens. All the isolates showed resistance to penicillin G and ampicillin. Of all the isolates screened, BPSWAC23 and BPSWAC24 inhibited all the tested fungal and bacterial pathogens and showed resistance to 50% of the antibiotics. BPSWAC23 and BPSWAC24 were identified by using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and found to be Streptomyces sp. Streptomyces parvus respectively. Further, biosynthetic genes coding for polyketide synthase (PKS II) and nonribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS) were also detected in these two isolates which indicates a good candidate for the discovery of novel antibiotics.]]>

2019-02-06T13:48:45+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/IQZjYorHaJ23nJFO6ipU.pdf

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of nitrogen and phosphorus on the growth and total chlorophyll content of a freshwater microalgae Scenedesmus sp. Growth behavior under modified Chu-10 medium without nitrogen source showed strong inhibition with growth rate reduced to 72.84% after 96 hour of treatment. There was about 10.24% inhibition of growth when the algae were cultured in a modified Chu-10 medium without phosphorus source. The photosynthetic pigment such as total chlorophyll content decreased at the same extent after 96 hour of culture in modified Chu-10 medium without the nitrogen source but not decreases in the medium without phosphorus source and the inhibition was highest in the medium without the nitrogen source.]]>

2019-02-06T13:47:22+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/ykgYZpHNzyUBsMfEsvM5.pdf

The fresh water microalga, Stigeoclonium sp., was examined for its eligibility as a biodiesel feedstock. The lipid content and growth performances were studied under normal culture conditions and abiotic stress conditions of nutrient deficiency, hypersalinity and pH stress using Chu-10 medium. Total lipid content was found to be 12.58% dry weight under nutrient replete condition which was enhanced by about 14% dry weight under nitrogen deficiency and by about 6% dry weight under phosphorus deficiency. Growth performances observed under different pH and salinity regimes concluded the ability of the organism to survive in varying environmental conditions. The observations suggest the suitability of Stigeoclonium as a viable source of biodiesel production.]]>

2019-02-06T13:46:27+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/jroymKsH3VBujwSCFAd2.pdf

Water is one of the most important natural resources highly crucial for our day-to-day life. The main sources of water are surface water and ground water. Erratic and irregular availability of surface water leads to exploration and utilization of ground water for irrigation, industrial and domestic purposes. Therefore, the quality of ground water is equally important as its quantity. The present study utilizes geographical information system (GIS) technique to map the spatial variability of ground water quality. Ground water samples were collected from 188 point sources randomly distributed in Aizawl district, Mizoram. The major water quality parameters namely pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids, total hardness, iron, chloride, nitrate and fluoride have been estimated for all the sampling locations. The spatial variation maps of these ground water quality parameters were generated and utilize as thematic layers. These thematic layers were given ranks based on their relative importance. Different classes within each thematic layer were assigned weightages in numerical rating from 1 to 3 as attribute values in GIS environment. Summation of these attributes values and the corresponding rank values of the thematic layers were utilize to generate the final ground water quality map. This final map shows the different classes of ground water quality within the district which can be utilize to provide a guideline for the suitability of ground water uses.]]>

2019-02-06T13:45:14+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/Lwt2VH83EPdFXltwCOlg.pdf

Seasonal variation in the diet of the fugivorous bat, Rousettus leschenaulti of the Lengteng Wildlife Sanctuary was studied from January 2013 to December 2013. The diet of the frugivorous bats, R. leschenaulti was evaluated by four methods: analysis of the discarded plant parts like fruits, flowers, leaves, seeds and bolus; analysis of pollens attached to the body of bats; the field observation on feeding behaviour of bats, and the analysis of faecal matter to identify the undigested seeds. These bats consumed the fruits of 34 plant species, leaves of 6 plant species and, flowers, nectars, and pollens of 5 plant species. They consumed fruits exclusively from May to September, but during the remaining months, they supplemented their diet with other plant parts. Leaves, flowers, nectars and pollens were consumed during seven months, i.e., from January to April, and October to December, when the fruit resources were depleted or not available in sufficient quantity in the sanctuary.]]>

2019-02-06T13:43:48+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/dEVLBejrwkLiLhyiwshh.pdf

This study aimed to assess the effect of extracts of Lyngbya strain, MZUCC066, prepared in different solvents (methanol-100%, ethanol:water-3:7 and dichloromethane:isopropanol-1:1) against six microorganisms that comprise three chlorophycean algae (Chlorella vulgaris, Scenedesmus quadricauda and Selenastrum capricornatum), one cyanobacterian alga (Anabaena variabilis), and two bacterial strains (Bacillus subtilis, ATCC11774 and Bacillus pumilus, ATCC14884). Among the algal test organisms, the highest inhibition was found in S. quadricauda (70%) by dichloromethane:isopropanol extract of Lyngbya followed by A. variabilis (41%) by the same extract. When tested on bacterial test organisms, the highest inhibition zone diameter of 15.67 mm was found in B. subtilis by dichloromethane:isopropanol extract and followed by 14 mm in B. pumilus by the same extract at 100 µl concentration. Minimum inhibitory concentrations of each extract on all the organisms were varied. The present study suggests that Lyngbya has specific bioactivities against different groups of microorganisms.]]>

2019-02-06T13:42:41+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/zkzjEo9g3Y9EBDXZqpZr.pdf

Specimens of Sinomicrurus macclellandi macclellandi, a deadly venomous Elapid snake collected from various parts of Mizoram were studied on their morphology and meristic features. The observation revealed that there are three different varieties in this subspecies on the basis of morphology and meristic parameters. Variations in colouration patterns, scalations and body proportion are described in this paper. Our specimens are compared with different varieties mentioned in the existing literatures. It was found that difference in body size and length are observed among this complex subspecies. It is suggested that to reveal this unknown hitherto, a detailed comparative study on molecular basis of these varieties allocated to the same subspecies in this region should be conducted with larger samples.]]>

2019-02-06T13:39:08+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/sEDCDaFW7wxjcCOezGYX.pdf

Green mature fruits of tomato were harvested in the morning and subjected to treatments on the same day by dipping in maleic hydrazide of different concentrations such as control (T0), 100 ppm (T1), 200 ppm (T2), 300 ppm (T3) and 400 ppm (T4) respectively. The fruits were stored in ambient condition for one month, and physical observations such as fruit weight, colour and fruit firmness were taken at 3-day interval, whereas chemical observations such as total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity, reducing sugar and non-reducing sugar contents were analysed at 5 days interval and lycopene contents estimated at the end of the experiment. Loss of fruit weight, colour change and reduced firmness was observed in all the fruits, but the fruits with 400ppm maleic hydrazide treatment showed best retention of colour as well as fruit firmness up to the end of the experiment.]]>

2019-02-06T13:37:54+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/MPHfc8kHOJinUJiOSipJ.pdf

Clean air and green world are the requirements of today. Transportation powered by conventional fossil fuels is the largest single source of air pollution. To improve the air quality by reducing of vehicle exhaust emission levels, oxygenates has been added to petrol since 1990 as per Clean Air Act Amendments. The present report is an analysis of petrol for the presence of oxygenates using FTIR-ATR technique in the mid-IR region. Petrol samples for analysis were collected from different filling stations within Aizawl city. Out of 9 samples tested including extra-premium (XP) grade, only one sample is found to contain oxygenate, namely, methyl tertiary-butyl ether (MTBE). The presence of the oxygenate in petrol can be identified from its distinct IR absorption bands at 1203, 1085 and 852 cm-1 due to the C-C and C-O vibrational modes of the molecule. IR mode assignment of the fuel in the 650-3750 cm-1 is also discussed and presented.]]>

2019-02-06T13:36:53+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/683KkCZGk8ZQZvcqlrSN.pdf

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a leading cause of viral encephalitis in Asia. Mizoram does not have record of JE till now, however, mortality due to ‘viral encephalitis’ among 7 to 20 aged groups during pre-monsoon and post- monsoon season has been recorded. Pathologic studies of fatal human encephalitis caused many common findings. The clinical syndrome may include many neurological effects and many other similarities in the clinical presentations. Such neurologic disease may manifest as subtle changes resulting in an initial misdiagnosis. Several serological methods have been developed for investigation and diagnosis of the disease. However, reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) based methodologies have resulted in increased sensitivity for the detection of JEV viruses in clinical samples, and offers rapid and sensitive method.]]>

2019-02-06T13:35:32+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/lxkoQbpAD5OB02KFjkSb.pdf

Manipur, a northeastern state in India, harbours a rich diversity of both wild and cultivated bananas. The banana cultivars collected from all the districts were carried out for their taxonomic identification and genome group classification. A total of 27 cultivars were collected in the present study. Of all the cultivars, Musa balbisiana clone was represented by 3 cultivars; 8 cultivars were identified under M. acuminata clones. Majority of the cultivars (16) were identified as Musa species, hybrid of M. balbisiana and M. acuminata. Among these cultivars, 3 cultivars were classified under BB genome while 3 cultivars were classified under the AA genome group. The ABB genome group was represented by 13 cultivars. 5 non-seeded cultivars were classified under AAA genome group and the AAB group was also represented by 3 sweet smelling cultivars. The dendrogram constructed based on the 15 morphological characters showed the clustering of cultivars into 3 major groups, at a distance coefficient ranging from 0.60 to 0.50, corresponding to genome groups of the cultivars. The present findings provide the status of existing banana genetic resources from Manipur which could be utilized in improvement and conservation programs.]]>

2019-02-06T13:34:15+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/KExMl19UWMwoGKFu80br.pdf

Cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (CYPs) represent a large group and diverse family of enzymes involved in the myriad of biological processes in humans. In the present study, a total of 57 protein sequences of human CYPs retrieved from UniprotKB have been characterized for various physiochemical properties, homology search, motif and super family search and phylogenetic relationship. Physicochemical analysis showed that the isoelectric point values and GRAVY index ranged from 5.84 to 9.47 and 0.018 to -0.367, respectively. Many proteins (50 members, 87.8%) were in basic form, while few (7 members, 12.2%) were of acidic nature. Moreover, GRAVY index revealed that only CYP26C1 as hydrophobic while all others as hydrophilic. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that P450 proteins basically fall into two main clades and are divided into five subgroups. Motif analysis with MEME indicated presence, absence and even shuffling of motifs within clades. Clustering using the maximum likelihood analysis was also in accordance with P450s central roles in drug and xenobiotic metabolism as well as steroid hormone synthesis, fat-soluble vitamin metabolism, and the conversion of polyunsaturated fatty acids to biologically active molecules. Motif conservation within clusters showed the evolutionary pressure for maintenance of the structural and functional organization between different groups of protein. These results will help in the context of understanding the characteristics of the cytochrome P450 monooxygenase isoforms.]]>

2019-02-06T13:33:02+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/fXIJsjcg4F3sxqfSEsMb.pdf

Bhuban succession of Surma Group (early to middle Miocene) is well exposed in Zuangtui section of Aizawl district of Mizoram and comprises ~40 m thick sequence of alternating sandstone, siltstone and shale and their admixtures in various proportion. Highly bioturbated rocks of this section show behaviorally diverse groups of trace fossils. A total of 17 ichnospecies have been identified from this section. These are Cochlichnus anguineus, Diplopodichnus biformis, Funalichnus bhubani, Gordia marina, Palaeophycus striatus, P. tubularis, Planolites beverleyensis, Planolites isp., Psilonichnus upsilon, Psilonichnus isp., Rhizocorallium isp. Type A, Rhizocorallium isp. Type B, Skolithos isp., Teredolites clavatus, T. longissimus, Thalassinoides horizontalis and T. suevicus. These trace fossils represent the record of Skolithos, Cruziana and Teredolites ichnofacies and at places the mixed Skolithos-Cruziana ichnofacies. Teredolites infested log-grounds and the other ichnological evidences indicates that the rocks of Bhuban Formation exposed in Zuangtui area, Aizawl district of Mizoram were deposited under near shore high energy conditions.]]>

2019-02-06T13:31:54+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/uAZ3MJouD6EqIvU8buyr.pdf

The energy budget of the larvae of Antheraea mylitta Drury living in host plant Ziziphus jujuba Gaertn was prepared in winter. In the fifth instar the rate of food energy consumption, absorption, body growth, silk gland growth and respiration increased when compared to other instars. The amount of consumption, absorption, body tissue growth and silk gland growth during fifth instar was 81%, 82%, 82%, 97% respectively of the total amount used in the entire larval period. The fifth instar female larvae showed significantly higher overall efficiencies than male larvae. There was a gradual increase in amount of energy stored per mg dry body weight from first to fifth instar. The absorption and growth efficiency was lowest in second instar. Hence, it is the most vulnerable instar needing more care during rearing. Highest all-round efficiency was observed in fifth instar larva. Therefore, optimum care should be given to fifth instar larva during feeding and rearing in order to maximize silk productivity.]]>

2019-02-06T13:30:29+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/r8PEZff5BVqghnCUBGht.pdf

Mrs Hume’s Pheasant Syrmaticus humiae (Hume, 1881) is a globally near-threatened pheasant species. It is sparsely distributed in eastern part of Mizoram, northeast India. The factors that influenced the habitat selection of S. humiae in the tropical montane forest are studied during January 2013 to March 2015. Based on preliminary survey a possible site of occurrence of the species was identified in the community reserved forest (CRF) adjacent to Lengteng Wildlife Sanctuary (LWS), near Myanmar border. Line transects were laid on two separate sites to determine the habitat use by the species. Physical variables were recorded on each transect sampling site. Only eight sightings are recorded at the Pine dominated area having good ground cover of tall grasses. The data analysis by principal component analysis (PCA) and stepwise logistic regressions analysis showed that litter cover and temperature plays a significant role (p<0.05) in the habitat selection by S. humiae. The possible reasons for this relationship are discussed and compared with other records.]]>

2019-02-06T13:26:52+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/aX6O1fIVEGOApb2fcux0.pdf

Ethidium bromide is a celebrity stain, and a very tainted one, in molecular biology. Its stigmatisation as a toxic, carcinogenic and mutagenic chemical has stirred an uncalled-for but what seems like a calculated hysteria among researchers. This has merely actuated what can be described as a necessary advertising war. The so-called safer alternatives are not overwhelmingly superior or entirely safe. For example, SYBR Green is, by evidence, more mutagenic. They may be regarded as optional, but at a higher financial cost. If anyone feels safer with extravagance, then the optional stains are an obvious choice. EtBr had been the principal drug for the mass treatment of cattle trypanosomiasis since the early 1950s, and no cancer has been reported among cattle. There are researchers who has handled the chemical throughout their career for decades, and none had made any complaint whatsoever. There is no medical record of molecular biologists taking cancer therapy because of EtBr. Milk producers are using it in large quantities. To the further extreme, people have actually drunk it without any apparent adverse effect. This is a lesson to learn that this is a case of bad meme and people have put an undue stain to this useful stain.]]>

2019-02-06T13:25:33+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/Qqzr9WRH7oWA55dcup5h.pdf

Ethidium bromide is a household name in biology, and is arguably the most popular stain in molecular research. It was discovered as a consequence of the growth spurt in chemical synthesis towards the very end of 19th century and in the first half of the 20th century. The precursor compound phenanthridine aroused its potential as a drug, basically because of its quinoline ring, which is interestingly the basis of the medicinal properties of important drugs, such as quinine, known at the time. A medical breakthrough was made in 1938 when some derivatives of phenanthridine were experimented to effectively kill Trypanosoma congolense and T. vivax, the protozoan parasites causing trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness) in cattle. In 1946, the most effective compound was identified, and with slight chemical modification, it was mass produced as a trypanocidal drug, dimidium bromide, or trypadine. It was the principal veterinary drug in Africa until another chemical modification in 1952 yielded a more potent and less toxic compound, the now-famed ethidium bromide. Manufactured by Boots Pure Drug Co., Ltd. as homidium (Ethidium®), it served as the drug of choice in cattle trypanosomiasis for three decades. Its pharmacological property lies on its ability to intercalate between base pairs in the nucleic acids. It was a serendipitous moment when Piet Borst and Cees Aaij, dismayed at their broken ultracentrifuge, began to use the compound for staining DNA in gel electrophoresis. And the rest, as they say, is history.]]>

2019-02-06T13:24:46+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/5zSIcwT0zgGkr1EOisju.pdf

The study investigates the effect of temperature on the infectivity of two entomopathogenic nematodes, viz. Steinernema sp. and Heterorhabditis indica, locally isolated from Mizoram, northeastern India, using last instar larvae of greater wax moth, Galleria mellonella, as an insect host. Two hundred infective juveniles/larva of wax moth were exposed to different temperatures, viz. 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35°C. It is observed that temperature play a significant role in infectivity of the two nematodes. No establishment of IJs were observed at 10°C, in addition 15°C in H. indica, and 35°C. Steinernema sp. appeared to be best adapted to temperatures between 15 and 30°C with an optimum temperature range of 25-30°C, whereas H. indica appeared to be adapted to temperatures between 20 and 30°C with an optimum temperature of 30°C.]]>

2019-02-06T13:23:50+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/5SKlspusOqMMrqkv8GXV.pdf

Radon gas is found in the environment, indoor and outdoor and its parent element being traced back to U238. Study of indoor radon inhalation dose have been carried out in Aizawl City, Mizoram, India in 24 dwellings, which were specifically selected according to the site location of the dwellings. Solid-state nuclear track detectors (SSNTD) have been used to obtain the time integrated concentration levels of indoor radon. DRPS (direct radon progeny sensor), which selectively register the tracks due to alpha emissions from 214Po from the deposited atoms of 222Rn progeny species is used for estimating the equilibrium equivalent radon concentration (EERC). The equilibrium factor (F-factor) for radon is then calculated using the measured EERC and concentrations of radon. The equilibrium factor may be defined as ratio of the amount of progeny nucleus to that of a parent nucleus. Inhalation dose has been obtained from the measured F-factor and concentrations of indoor radon. The data obtained in the present work has been analyzed to obtain the significant inhalation dose of indoor radon. From these observations it has been found that the annual inhalation dose of indoor radon in the study area is 624.89 mSv/y, which is low in comparison to the global average.]]>

2019-02-06T13:22:37+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/nwZvdpDbDXykdrAADvHk.pdf

Thermochemical studies of metal compounds of ‘s’ and ‘f’ block elements and those of organometallic compounds are of immense importance because not only they furnish invaluable information regarding analysis and characterization of the compound thermodynamically but also give vital information regarding ‘specific enthalpy’ and ‘enthalpy density’. Thus viability and analysis of input and output of energy is of prime concern before any process or reaction or for that matter if any engine or industry is being set up because after all it is the process or reaction which takes place inside the engine. As the globe is gradually but certainly moving away from fossil fuel or carbon-based energy production as it immensely pollutes the environment due to evolution of greenhouse gases into the environment and contribute towards global warming, it is but necessary to evaluate the impact assessment of the pollutants on the environment before any engine or industry is being developed or installed. It is in this perspective that the thermochemical studies of metal compounds of ‘s’ ‘p’ ‘d’ and ‘f’ block elements and those of organometallic compounds become extremely important as it clearly identifies and defines the products as well as absorption and evolution of energy involved therein.]]>

2019-02-06T13:21:27+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/uIIZXY9ynQ9VWIg1bJPk.pdf

Mizoram is entirely covered by sedimentary successions of variable sand-silt-shale ratio. The predominating bed comprises of Surma Group of rocks, and Bhuban Formation being the dominating strata. The present study area of eastern anticlinal limbs of the Aizawl city are made up of thick succession of Bhuban Formation of Surma Group dipping towards east with strike of approximately N-S direction. The present research aims to find out the nature of provenance and the environment of deposition of the sediments on the bases of petrography of the sandstones and heavy minerals present. The petrography indicate presence of quartz, lithic fragments, feldspar, micas, opaque minerals bind together by siliceous, ferruginous and carbonate cements. The heavy minerals comprises of garnet, augite, zircon, rutile, staurolite, sillimanite, kyanite, hypersthene, hornblende, chlorite, tourmaline and apatite. It is found that the sediments of sandstones are derived most probably from the Himalayan Orogenic fold belt and the Indo-Burmese Collision Zones, and the sediments bein]]>

2019-02-06T13:20:36+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/DYX5hIaflj4jxJ6tcZlZ.pdf

Review of V.S. Lalrinawma (2015). Science and Religion. Lakshi Publishers & Distributors, New Delhi, India. Volume 1 (pages 1–426), Volume 2 (pages 427–1024), Volume 3 (pages 1025–1548). ISBN 987-93-82120-62-9]]>

2019-02-06T13:17:06+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/IYK3FyAsWMQEHgzura3g.pdf

Arsenic is a naturally occurring element found primarily in rocks, soil, water, and plants in the Indian sub-continent. Natural events, such as infiltration to water, dissolution of minerals from clay, and erosion of rocks, can release arsenic into water. Arsenic is usually found in inorganic forms in water, the most predominant form being arsenate [As (V)], with arsenite [As (III)] under some conditions. In organism, it bonds with carbon and hydrogen, forming organic arsenic. The contamination of groundwater by arsenic in Chawngte, Mizoram, India is likely to happen due to its sharing of a common land border with Bangladesh. Groundwater and rainwater are the most important supplementary sources of drinking water in region. Hence, residents of Chawngte are relying on tuikhurs (spring) and other natural sources. It has been observed that several number of tube wells, tuikhurs and hand pumps, exist in any cluster or community. Generally, not all tube wells and hand pumps in an area are affected by arsenic. Therefore, the immediate challenge is to find out the unaffected ones in the affected areas and commence routine monitoring in order to stop using the currently affected tube wells as soon as arsenic is detected. The physico-chemical parameters like pH, EC, TDS, total hardness, total chlorides, iron and free chlorine are well within the acceptable limits for drinking water. Arsenic and turbidity are slightly higher than the acceptable limits but still within the permissible limit of 0.05 mg/l and 5 NTU respectively.]]>

2019-02-06T13:15:39+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/2kS2VuVOgtjuP7JCYwi3.pdf

cigarette filter during smoking, while it gets settled during the manufacture of tuibur. The particulate phase of tobacco smoke contains mainly relatively non-polar organic substances that are described as semivolatile and non-volatile constituents. Identification of toxic and carcinogenic compounds present in smokeless tobacco products such as tuibur is a preliminary step in assessing adverse effects associated with its consumption. Characterization of the molecular vibrational frequencies of various semivolatile and non-volatile chemical components associated with the tar phase of tuibur was performed using FTIR spectroscopy to ascertain these organic components.]]>

2019-02-06T13:14:25+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/Dgr6gB6VLXgDqkKOOjoD.pdf

Intensive jhum cultivation is the biggest ecological threat due to its associated problems such as biodiversity loss, deforestation, soil erosion and the gradual reduction of land productivity in Mizoram. The intrinsic practice of jhum cultivation still dominated the farming system in Mizoram to a large margin. Four levels of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium soil fertilizer application in local maize variety was conducted in 2 years, 3 years and 5 years jhum cycles. Strong significant (P<0.05) response to fertilizer application occurred in the growth and yield performance of maize. Different period of jhum cycles also had significant (P<0.05) effect in growth and yield with highest productivity in longest jhum cycle. Taking account of the poor soil nutrient content and the acidic soil in Mizoram, application of urea at lower rate under longer jhum cycle may be adopted.]]>

2019-02-06T13:13:19+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/zGNNUXaTta2oVBdvrjio.pdf

It is estimated that the use consumption of tobacco in diverse forms leading to is one of the important causative factors of avoidable yet ever increasing cancer death burden globally every year, with a majority occurring in Asia. Owing to the considerable difference in the patterns of usage of various categories of smokeless tobacco products (STP), it is possible that a broad range of toxicant content exposure among STP users. Habitual consumption of tuibur, a peculiar form of tobacco smoke infused saturated aqueous solution is presumed as one of the “safe” nicotine delivery medium. When commercially Commercially available tuibur sample was collected and subjected to the vibrational spectral study, it has revealed the molecular vibrational frequencies corresponding to various functional groups of different chemical constituents present in tuibur.]]>

2019-02-06T13:12:04+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/dmVpjB5dNJHFAsE5qB1C.pdf

The study deals with the prevalence of helminth parasites in Mastacembelus armatus, a spiny eel, collected from the rivers of Mizoram. The study gives the first overview on the helminth community infecting M. armatus in the rivers of Mizoram and reveals the presence of nematode, cestode and trematode. The cestodes recovered belongs to the genus Senga sp. and Bothriocephalus sp. whereas the nematode belong to the genus Spinitectus sp., Neocamallanus sp., Capillaria sp. and Eustrongylides sp. and the trematode Clinostomum sp. Nematode was found to be the most predominant parasitic group followed by cestode and the trematode respectively. The Tuikum and Tuirial rivers flowing near the garbage dumping ground show the maximum diversity with all the three group of parasites present. Among the helminth parasite recovered the nematode Capillaria sp. and the trematode Clinostomum sp. are both considered potential zoonoses.]]>

2019-02-06T13:07:15+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/ESSDK0k8ogcMfxCxQ8YB.pdf

Shifting cultivation is one of the main forms of crop husbandry in the hilly northeast India and is known to change the physico-chemical properties of soil. Data of soil organic carbon (SOC) in relation to shifting cultivation is not available in Mizoram. The study was conducted in an experimental plot of 1-acre area in the natural forest at Khawrihnim village located about 50 km south-west of Aizawl, Mizoram. Five random soil samples each were collected from shifting cultivation (experimental EXPTL) and natural forest (control CTRL) sites at monthly intervals between 2013 and 2015 at three different soil strata (i.e. 0-10 cm, 10-20 cm and 20-30 cm). SOC was estimated in percent by rapid dichromate oxidation method. Shifting cultivation has positive significant effect on SOC content. Compare to pre- and post-Jhum cultivation, the Two-Way ANOVA indicates significant increased of SOC (p<0.05) in the jhum cultivation year, which may be due to burning effect and the weeding practice that coincides with the onset of monsoon rains. The onset of monsoon after the burning of slashed vegetation and the first weeding accelerate the decomposition rate and soil microbial activity. The average of SOC in the surface layer increased from first year to third year by 1.34%. However, significant decreased of SOC content with increased in soil depth (p<0.001) was also recorded in both EXPTL and CTRL sites.]]>

2019-02-06T13:06:01+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/5dnBUMQP9VRbmA3K3XFo.pdf

In recent years, asymmetric organocatalysis has emerged as powerful tools for the synthesis of a variety of chiral molecules. Ready availability of the catalysts, low toxicity, simple operational procedures and mild reaction conditions associated with organocatalysis makes it an attractive method to synthesise diverse complex structures. Here, a short review on the development and applications of chiral organocatalysts for asymmetric Michael addition reactions has been described.]]>

2019-02-06T13:04:51+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/lRDwHWYWLoyk9reGuTKW.pdf

According to the National Cancer Registry Programme, Mizoram has the highest cancer incidence among the states of India. Lung cancer has been found to be very common among the Mizos and its etiology has never been scientifically analyzed in this high cancer incidence population. A hospital based case-control study was conducted during March, 2014 to February, 2016. The study involved 106 histologically confirmed lung cancer patients and 212 matched cancer-free subjects acting as controls, all with the same ethnic background, i.e. Mizo. Among the cases, the risk of lung cancer was significantly elevated among ex-smokers (OR, 4.69; 95% CI, 2.36-9.32), but not among current smokers. Higher risks were seen for zozial smokers (OR, 2.51; 95% CI, 1.28-4.92). The increased risk was apparent among subjects who had smoked for ≥40 years. Exposure to environmental smoke at home and workplace were significantly associated with an increased risk of lung cancer. Higher risk was also observed for previous diagnosis of asthma (OR, 4.62; 95% CI, 1.75-12.23). Lower consumption of alcohol related with decreased risk of lung cancer (OR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.37-2.05). Tobacco smoking was found to be the primary factor for developing lung cancer. Certain occupations like the transport industry, farming, carpentry or automobile works were found to increase the risk of lung cancer. Prior affliction with tuberculosis might also have the potential to increase the risk. However, low and moderate consumption of alcohol leads to decrease risk of lung cancer.]]>

2019-02-06T13:03:40+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/6XebDTWyveMZmlbYYVh0.pdf

We studied litter decomposition and nutrient release patterns in different components of two nitrogen (N) fixing shrub species, (Flemingia macrophylla and Tephrosia candida) planted on sloping agriculture land technology (SALT) farm in 2002 and 2010. The two sites were 10 yrs old and 2 yrs old farms at the beginning of this study, i.e. July 2012. Sites were within the same permanent agriculture farm having similar climatic conditions. We collected different litter components (leaves green and senesced, wood and roots fine and coarse) of two species having different ages. Known amount (7 g) of all litter components were enclosed in nylon net mesh bags and placed in their respective habitats for decomposition and these samples were retrieved periodically to assess the rate of change of mass and nutrient. Our results suggest that the mean relative decomposition rates of different litter were maximum in the rainy season and minimum in the summer season for both sites and species. Among the litter components, fine roots (<2 mm) of both species showed higher rates of organic matter decomposition and rates of nutrient release to the soil. The rate of release of organic matter and nutrient was slightly greater in F. macrophylla than the T. candida. Annually, these species added significant amount of organic matter and nutrients to the soil that supported considerably higher production compared to shifting cultivation sites on sustained basis.]]>

2019-02-06T13:02:01+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/KhudH2iONumP9lmIrCLB.pdf

Nicotine, not a carcinogen per se, is one of the most addictive substances known. Tobacco smoke contains a vast number of chemicals with important biological effects in disease processes. Tobacco use is a global epidemic and the adverse health conditions including cardio-vascular diseases, atherosclerosis, and cancer are the manifestations of sustained tobacco consumption. Cancer is a major public health burden in both developed and developing countries. Tuibur, considered as ‘smokeless’ tobacco product in Mizoram, is presumed as one of the “safe” nicotine delivery media. In this mini-review, few tobacco-specific carcinogens detected in tuibur solution and their potential effects on biological systems are discussed.]]>

2019-02-06T13:00:26+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/6Y9XxlLb5oYPBM3SwwfY.pdf

Species of the genus Acmella are perennial plants and are well known as traditional medicines and as vegetables in tropical regions. Of these, A. oleracea (L.) R.K. Jansen is the most widely used, and is cultivated as an ornamental plant and as a crop. In traditional medicine, it is used for the treatment of haemorrhage, helminthiasis, gingivitis, laceration, malaria, oral and gastric ulcer and infections, dysentery, urinary calculi, and inflammations. Biochemical tests of the methanol indicated presence of important bioactive compounds, such as phytosterols, and tannins. Assessment of the free radical scavenging activity showed that it has concentration-dependent antioxidant activity similar to that of the standard butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of the plant extract was 13.773 mg/ml, while it was 28.098 mg/ml for BHT. The total antioxidant activity was 85 mg/ml calculated against the standard ascorbic acid. The total phenol content was estimated using Folin-Ciocalteu-gallic acid reaction, and was determined to be 1.38 GAE mg/g. Using the aluminum chloride-quercetin assay, the total flavonoid content was calculated to be 28.7 QE mg/g. Keywords: A. oleracea, antioxidant activity, total phenol, total flavonoid.]]>

2019-02-06T12:56:28+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/D61I1Et19uvMQ3dU5h8Y.pdf

Living organism requires certain metals for their growth and metabolism and evolved an appropriate uptake mechanism for metals. However, it is particularly difficult to establish mutual relationship when soil is continuously contaminated with various heavy metals. Phosphatase enzyme significantly accelerates the release of inorganic P from organic compounds and returns it to the soil. Therefore, the study of Phosphatase enzyme that releases P from organic compounds by dephosphorylation of phosphor-ester or phosphoanhydride bond in an organic matter is an important tool in initiating biofertilizer for specific crops. The present study indicated that the availability of metal such as Zinc in its inorganic form can act as an inhibitory factor for the growth and activity of bacteria such as Pseudomonas flourescens and the biomass of P. flourescens decrease with increase ZnCl2 concentration. It can be concluded that ZnCl2 acts as an inhibitor to the growth of P. flourescens and also the presence of ZnCl2 in the growth medium decreases the phosphatase enzyme activity of the bacteria, which reveal that metals can also affect the activity of the microbes. Keywords: Biofertilizers, enzymes, microbial ecosystems, phosphatase, Pseudomonas fluorescens, ZnCl2.]]>

2019-02-06T12:54:48+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/cmwDUHXDjFIuBobPuh7Z.pdf

Development of plants is closely related with both the soil quality and the community of soil microorganisms, therefore plants are influenced by heavy metals directly transferring from the soil and indirectly via heavy metal impact on the microorganisms. Copper and Zinc are essential micronutrient, but above certain threshold concentration are toxic to both microbes and humans. Many heavy metals had been used to study the effects on several types of fungi. In this experiment, two heavy metals viz. ZnCl2 and CuSO4 of different concentrations (0.25 mM, 0.5 mM, 1 mM, 2.5 mM and 5 mM) were used to study their effect on selected fungi. The result from this experiment reveals that ZnCl2 and CuSO4 have negative effect on Trichoderma sp. in their growth rate and reduce the production of spores with the increasing concentration of the heavy metals. In the present study, CuSO4 showed greater inhibitory effect on the growth of Trichoderma sp. than the concentration of ZnCl2. Keywords: Heavy metals, hydrocarbons, mycoparasitism, Trichoderma.]]>

2019-02-06T12:52:50+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/hhxmLoj4e1tz8Ez58EfZ.pdf

The breeding behaviour and the advertisement calls of the giant tree frog, Rhacophorus maximus was studied during the breeding season in Mizoram University Campus, Aizawl, Mizoram. At the first shower of the onset of monsoon, advertisement calls of male attract females to breeding areas and announce other males that a given territory is occupied. The aim of this study was to provide the detailed information on the breeding behaviour and analysis of advertisement calls of Rhacophorus maximus. Advertisement calls were emitted in series with variable call intervals. The morphometric measurement of the amplecting pairs were recorded and females are found to be larger than males. Key words: Breeding behaviour, advertisement calls, Rhacophorus maximus, Mizoram.]]>

2019-02-06T12:51:04+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/February2019/GTgaGmhXcGU0tgYT0vlx.pdf

Soil health plays as an important role for food security and sustainable agriculture. Besides, soil organic carbon which acts as a store house for plant nutrients, balancing of nutrients and proper soil physical condition is needed to maintain a healthy soil. With the launched of soil health card scheme, many farmers will be benefited by understanding the soil condition and the amount of nutrients to be applied which will increase food productivity. However, to meet the food requirement of the state and realizing the role played by soil for sustainable production. Several challenges lie ahead where more research and developments have to be emphasized. This includes site specific nutrient management, proper integration of nutrient including organic and inorganic, better utilization of nitrogen fixers and re structuring soil testing laboratories. Key words: Soil health, food productivity, site specific, nutrients, soil test.]]>

2019-02-06T12:49:04+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/pRJZtTpyx0hKSNM00uW0.pdf

The present study was carried out on the diversity of fish under the genus Garra from the Kaladan River and its tributaries of Mizoram, northeast India. The study reported the occurrence of seven species viz. Garra flavatra, G. cf. koladynensis, G. cf. matensis, G. nigricolis, G. rakhinica, G. manipurensis and G. khawbungi. Key to Garra species from Kaladan River drainage of Mizoram and their brief descriptions are given.]]>

2019-01-27T18:02:58+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/6Ei7s9eRfHCzPnURQsqj.pdf

Cogon grass, Imperata cylindrica (L.) Räuschel, was studied for its flavonoid and phenol contents. A series of extracts of the underground (rhizome-root) parts was prepared by hot extraction using solvents of different polarities such as chloroform, methanol, and petroleum ether. The total flavonoid content of the plant extracts was determined based on the reaction with aluminum chloride, sodium nitrite, and sodium hydroxide. Quercetin was used as a standard reference. Chloroform extract showed highest content of flavonoids with 30.88 mg QE/g dry wt., followed by petroleum ether extract which was 22.05 mg mg QE/g dry wt., and methanol extract has the least value with 7.35 mg QE/g dry wt. The total phenolic content of the plant was estimated based on the reaction of Folin-Ciocalteu reagent using gallic acid as the standard reference. Again, the chloroform extract had the highest content with 7.54 mg GAE/g dry wt., while methanol extract contained 5.03 mg GAE/g dry wt., and petroleum ether extract contained 3.63 mg mg GAE/g dry wt. Our study shows that I. cylindrica is a good source of antioxidants.]]>

2019-01-27T18:00:54+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/SI8Y6T8ooSY6vsIWZTz5.pdf

Ginger soft rot disease caused by fungal pathogens have become one of the most serious problems causing reduced production around the world. It has also caused a major problem among farmers of Mizoram state in India resulting in a huge decline in rhizome yield. However, the exact causative agents of this disease have not been identified in the state. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to isolate and characterized the causative agents of ginger soft rot disease from the diseased plants collected from five different villages of Aizawl district, Mizoram. Isolated fungi were cultured and morphological and molecular identification were done using internal transcribed spacer of rDNA. Fusarium oxysporum, F. solani and Plectosphaerella cucumerina were identified in ginger samples from five villages. Fusarium spp. were the most common and seem to be the major causative agents. It is suggested that further investigation is required to explore the diversity of ginger soft rot pathogenic fungi in the whole state which could be helpful in introducing effective and eco-friendly disease management programme.]]>

2019-01-27T17:59:14+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/ZGCu0Q9hYXZfUf5taPYb.pdf

The objective of this study was to determine the phytoconstituents present in successive extracts and the antidepressant activity of methanolic extract of the spadix of Colocasia affinis. The preliminary phytochemical investigation indicated the presence of fats and fixed oils, steroids and triterpenoids in petroleum ether extract, steroids and triterpenoids in chloroform extract, flavonoids and tannins in methanol extract and carbohydrates in the aqueous extract. An in vivo test for antidepressant activity was performed on the methanolic extract of the plant at two different doses using force swim test and tail suspension test on an experimental animal model (rat). Imipramine was used as a standard drug for the study. The methanolic extract at 200 and 400 mg/kg, produced significant reduction (p<0.001) in the immobility period when compared with that of control group animals in both the tests. Thus, the result indicates that the methanolic extract exhibited significantly good antidepressant activity. Further investigation may be needed to understand the actual mechanism of action.]]>

2019-01-27T17:57:01+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/Od1Ch0ruE2R0VJRdWx2c.pdf

Jeffrey C. Hall, Michael Rosbash and Michael W. Young are selected to receive the 2017 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 2017 “for their discoveries of molecular mechanisms controlling the circadian rhythm”. They discovered clock genes and their protein-products that control the circadian rhythm in the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster. Starting with their work on the major clock gene period (per) in the 1980s, they subsequently discovered novel genes such as Clock, cry, cycle, dbt, pdp1, per, tim, vri, and their mutations that affect the fruit fly daily behaviours. With the proteins these genes produce, their discoveries have established the understanding of a complex molecular network of clock genes and proteins. This comprehensive knowledge further enrich our perception of circadian rhythm in other animals, including us. Behind this knowledge is the foundation of understanding of many disease and health-related issues concerned with our genetics, hormones, and behaviour. Their discoveries are befitting of the Nobel Prize, but it is a bit of an irony that the pioneer discovers have already died and will forever be denied of their deservedly fame. The epoch-making discovery of per gene was in fact by Seymour Benzer and his student Ronald J. Konopka discovered in 1971. Konopka especially continued as one of the leading scientists, in many of the later discoveries. But life and luck for Nobel fame ran out for them.]]>

2019-01-26T11:54:46+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/iLR4VsKJQAKvwGbaQGLW.pdf

Gram-negative bacteria belonging to the order Rickettsiales such as Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, Neorickettsia, Rickettsia, and Orientia are the causative agents of infectious diseases collectively known as rickettsioses. Of the different rickettsial diseases, spotted fever and scrub typhus have ravaged India for the past couple of centuries. Specifically called the Indian tick typhus, spotted fever was discovered in India in the latter half of the 19th century. After several decades of dormancy, the disease re-emerged in several parts of India. Scrub typhus, originally discovered in Japan, has been recognised to be endemic to a so-called Tsutsugamushi Triangle, extending from Russian Far East and Korea in the north to northern Australia in the south and Afghanistan in the west, but the geographical description has now been breached. Not only in India, scrub typhus has emerged as the leading infectious disease in all endemic areas. Almost all Indian states have records of recurrent outbreaks. Infection can be of dire consequences, as multi-organ dysfunction and neurological disorder (meningocephalitis) are the common complications. This article discusses the historical background and scientific reports of rickettsioses in India.]]>

2019-01-26T11:47:10+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/BtN9eiRqEvgBO0LYoXzm.pdf

Planktonic sampling was carried out at Serlui ‘B’ dam, Mizoram, northeast India from July 2016 to April 2017. The present study reported the occurrence of 6 groups of phytoplankton belonging to 27 genera and 16 orders and 4 groups of zooplanktons belonging to 12 genera 7 orders. The phytoplankton group consisted of Cyanophyceae, Bacillariophyceae, Ulvophyceae, Zygnematophyceae, Chlorophyceae and Xanthophyceae. Cyanophyceae were the predominant component of phytoplankton in Serlui ‘B’ dam during all seasons in terms of numerical abundance and account for 64% of the total phytoplankton. The zooplankton groups consisted of Maxillopoda, Tubulinea, Eurotatoria and Branchiopoda. Of these, the class Maxillopoda was the predominant component of zooplankton in Serlui ‘B’ dam during all season in terms of numerical abundance and account for 73% of the total zooplankton encountered from the study site. This study provides preliminary report of planktons of Serlui ‘B’ dam.]]>

2019-01-26T11:45:28+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/Q8UgwqUDS9YlGULY0yRY.pdf

Mining causes massive damage to landscape and biological components of an ecosystem. Due to extensive and unmanaged coal mining in the southern part of Nokrek Biosphere Reserve of Meghalaya, the area has been turned into degraded land since nutrient deficient sandy spoils are hostile for the growth and regeneration of plant communities. Soil is sandy to sandy loam and red, brown to dark brown in colour. The physico-chemical properties of the soil were greatly affected due to coal mining. There is an increased acidity i.e. from 6.00 in the undisturbed forest (control site) to 3.50 in the coal mine spoil since abandoned mine spoil discharge acidic water that are enriched with iron and other metals and metalloids. Apart from this, soil nutrients are greatly depleted. The core zone soils are rich in organic matter and nutrients whereas coalmine spoils show sign of degradation especially in the nutrient content.]]>

2019-01-26T11:42:12+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/vwlO5BZI5455mX4cFSEb.pdf

The members of Podostemaceae, commonly called river-weeds, are with very peculiar vegetative form; revealing many unique morphological, anatomical and ecological characters from other angiosperms. They undergo an annual cycle of colonization, establishment of a canopy of mature plant, and dies back when the water level drops. The annual pattern is dictated by high and low water periods. Physico-chemical analysis showed that the largest population of the species occupied an area of full sunlight. Water samples from the two study sites viz. Janiaw and Umtienger localities, both from East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, India, showing high pH indicated less human activities of different kind. It is also determined that the species inhabits clean rivers, thus, they serve as an indicator of clean water. They occur primarily in low nutrient condition. Further, it was also observed that dissolved oxygen is the most essential factor for successful establishment of these plants, rather than other nutrients and pH. Toxic discharge of effluents from industries and agrochemical residues are serious threat to podostemads that has unique ecological requirement.]]>

2019-01-26T11:40:10+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/DGDzrFQs2kLdU9WccGll.pdf

The present experiment was carried out to standardize suitable drying techniques for hybrid tea rose variety ‘Valencia”. Two types of desiccants viz., silica gel and boric acid were used as embedding materials for drying, and the flowers were dried in hot air oven with different temperature and time combinations such as 40°C for 24 hours and 48 hours, 45°C for 24 hours and 48 hours, 50°C for 24 hours and 48 hours, 55°C for 24 hours and 48 hours, 60°C for 24 hours and 48 hours. Different observations were taken such as fresh and dry weight of flowers and hence moisture loss percentage calculated, petal diameter before and after drying were taken and hence petal shrinkage was determined. Sensory evaluations such as flower colour, shape, texture and overall acceptability was also determined. Results show that maximum moisture loss percentage (86.44%) was obtained in flowers embedded with silica gel and dried at 60°C for 48 hours; largest difference between petal diameter of fresh and dry flowers, and also maximum petal shrinkage of 14.27% occurred in those embedded with silica gel and dried at 60°C for 48 hours, whereas best score in sensory evaluations in terms of flower colour, flower shape, flower texture and overall acceptability were obtained with rose flowers embedded in silica gel and drying at 50°C for 48 hours.]]>

2019-01-26T11:37:59+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/A2QK2wGky1TybdfmT38P.pdf

Population growth in Aizawl city has caused urban areas to expand into landslide-prone areas. These areas comprised of Bhuban Formation rocks of Surma Group and have geological features that frequently generate ground instabilities. The present study integrated with morphotectonic analysis, geotectonic characterization, role of litho-units including their sedimentological aspects and analyses of precipitation time series reveals that the southern part of Aizawl city is tectonically active and lithologically vulnerable towards landslide disaster. Greater surface slope and similar bed attitude enhance the risk of failure. The massive sandstone overlies upon weak clay surfaces that are regularly lubricated by high down pour. Even moderate rainfall can trigger the landslides. The clay layers can mobilize the geological litho-sequences as a combined result of the tropical humid climate and observed weak slope stability conditions. A catastrophic landslide had killed more than 80 people and many other sliding events have been recorded in adjacent areas. Therefore, this study presents tectonic and geologic conditions which can help to predict future slides.]]>

2019-01-26T11:35:05+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/BfjNYbyl5FErFbyGzL7D.pdf

Sundried and smoked vegetables constitute major parts of the Mizo cuisine. Heavy metals and pesticides can be present in vegetables and cause many diseases including cancer. The objective of this study is to determine the concentration of heavy metal and pesticide residues in commonly consumed sundried and smoked vegetables from Aizawl market. Since cancer is prevailing at a high rate in Mizoram, it also aims to study whether there is any link between cancer and these vegetables. The concentrations of heavy metals were analyzed using atomic absorption spectroscopy and pesticide residues levels were analyzed using gas chromatography. This study reveals that the levels of heavy metals tested were within the permissible limits in all the vegetable samples, except for cadmium. Since cadmium exceeds the permissible limit, it can pose health risk for the consumers. The pesticide residues found in the tested samples were all within permissible limits. However, the amount and duration of consumption need to be considered as this can be a predisposing factor for cancer and other diseases.]]>

2019-01-26T11:28:11+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/33RDFUunhFww4E0ZjVgJ.pdf

Sugars are low-molecular-weight carbohydrates which consist of polyhydroxyl and carbonyl (aldehyde or ketone) functional groups. Different types of compounds derived from sugars have been used extensively as powerful and effective catalysts for asymmetric synthesis. They are readily available at a reasonable price, easily prepared, no metal contamination and are inert towards moisture and air. They are highly functionalized and have well defined stereogenic centres. Most of them are employed as chiral ligands in metal based asymmetric catalysis and are used for various asymmetric transformations. Different compounds derived from sugars have also been used recently as organocatalysts for asymmetric synthesis. The present article provides some of the organocatalysts used for asymmetric synthesis.]]>

2019-01-26T11:25:31+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/vWIE0uGT2Gw4WQeedHEB.pdf

Twenty-seven (27) species of edible mushrooms growing in both soil and wood have been described here from Mizoram, India. All the species were identified based on their morphological, both macro- and microscopic characteristics. The study was carried out during July 2013 to October 2016. Wood inhabiting fungi viz. Schizophyllum commune (pasi), Lentinula lateritia (pa pal), Auricularia auricular-judae (Pu Vana beng), Lentinus tigrinus (pa hnahkhar), L. polychrous (pa chang/pa puanveng) and soil growing fungi viz., Lactifluus corrugis (pa uithin), Lactarius piperatus (pa lengvar), Macrolepiota dolichaula (pa se-ek), Russula subfragiliformis (pa lengsen), Termotomyces heimii (pa sawntlung), Volvariella taylorii (changel pa) are the edible species known to the local community. Other edible species yet unknown to the local community in Mizoram are also recorded viz., Cantharellus cibarius, Craterellus cornucopioides, Lycoperdon perlatum, Macrolepiota procera, Ramariopsis kunzei, Russula aurora, R. compacta, R. cyanoxantha, Lentinula edodes, Lentinus sajor-caju, Pleurotus ostreatus, P. djamor, Tremella fuciformis, T. mesenterica, Laetiporus suphureus and Fistulina hepatica.]]>

2019-01-26T11:23:00+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/hdAJHQlU2kZXpi6h3cQ8.pdf

The present study focused on the physico-chemical characterization of potable water from hand pump (groundwater) and sub-surface (tuikhur) water in Siaha, Mizoram, during pre-monsoon season of 2017. pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), turbidity, total alkalinity (TA), total hardness (TH), iron (Fe), magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), nitrate (NO3), sulphate (SO4) and chloride (Cl) and their mean values obtained were 7.1, 67.72 mg/L, 103 mg/L, 1.8 NTU, 43.9 mg/L, 45 mg/L, 0.30 mg/L, 6.24 mg/L, 7.21 mg/L, 0.23 mg/L, 3.27 mg/L and 9.51 mg/L respectively. The results revealed that all these water samples were well within permissible limits established by World Health Organization (WHO), and Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). Hence, they are suitable for drinking purposes. However, Iron contents at few sites are found exceeding the permissible value of 0.3 mg/L.]]>

2019-01-26T10:13:59+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/rN9EHepVQVRY7SQ8Ddh4.pdf

Bambusa tulda Roxb. is a semi-deciduous caespitose bamboo endemic to Indo-Burma. It is known as ‘rawṭhing’ in Mizoram, India, and its mass gregarious flowering is called ṭhingtâm. ‘Ṭhingtâm’ has a cycle of about 45-50 years. The first ṭhingtâm, recorded in the region was in 1880, which was preceded by mautâm (gregarious flowering of Melocanna baccifera) in 1862; i.e., the ṭhingtâm phenomenon occurred ~20 years after the Mautâm. The last ṭhingtâm was recorded in 1981. However, there has been a localised ṭhingtâm at Zawlnuam, a village at the northwestern Mizoram. The first flowering was recorded in 2015. This unusual phenomenon needs to be investigated.]]>

2019-01-26T10:11:51+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/UXKlwMEbDxZnsA2dtf4Y.pdf

Specimens of a rare rhacophorid frog of the genus Theloderma were collected from Hmuifang, Mizoram, India. Based on their morphology and molecular analysis (16S rRNA), the specimens were identified as Theloderma moloch, a rare species previously recorded only from the Himalayan foothills of India and China. The present record significantly extends the known range of the species and is a first record for the state of Mizoram and Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot. The uncorrected p-distance between the specimen from Mizoram, NE India and the specimen from Arunachal Pradesh, India (KU169993) and Tibet, China (KU243081) are 0.0% and 1.2% respectively.]]>

2019-01-26T10:09:40+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/apBaLISJklBz1Hc3jecN.pdf

Tertiary sediments are thickly deposited in most part of the northeast India attaining a maximum thickness of ±7 km sedimentary succession. Surma basin located in the eastern proximity of India is also characterized by a thick sedimentary column which can be considered as the northeastern extension of Greater Bengal basin. This basin was initiated due to the mutual collision between Indian and Burmese Plate. Due to this collision, the bed rocks have undergone folding which are oriented N-S trending hill ranges. The basin was also cut by a number of parallel to sub-parallel transverse faults and thrusts. The litho association is consisting of sandstone, siltstone, shale and their various proportions. The present study focused on the provenance of the sediments, tectonic settings of the basin and various paleoclimatic conditions prevailing during the time of deposition by using petrography, granulometric and heavy mineral analysis of representative rock samples which were collected from various parts of Aizawl district of Mizoram belonging to the Upper Bhuban Formation. Based on the various proxies it was confirmed that the sediments were primarily derived from surrounding orogens and deposited in a shallow marine basin under the influence of fluvial-deltaic conditions which were basically sourced from felsic provenance. The sediments were moderately weathered under semi-humid to humid climatic condition before they deposited into Surma basin. Sandstones samples are litharenite and wacke type which were deposited in an active continental margin to recycled orogen settings.]]>

2019-01-26T10:06:04+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/YreqpZF1AaxxP82mzn89.pdf

The process of interaction between ions of a solute and the molecules of the solvent through relatively weak covalent bonds is called solvation. It involves evening out a concentration gradient and evenly distributing the solute molecules within the solvent. Hydration is a special case of solvation when the solvent molecules are water. Solvation energy, generally, is the energy released when ions in crystal lattices associate with molecules in a solvent, however it can be positive or negative, depending upon the combined effects of lattice and hydration energies in case of aqueous-ionic solid dissolution. Uranous chloride or uranium tetrachloride (UCl4) is a green crystalline solid which sublimes in vacuum at 500°C/10-3 mm. It is a Lewis acid and hence dissolves in solvents which can act as non-protic Lewis bases. Although dissolution of uranium tetrachloride crystals in water is an exothermic process yielding a green solution which is fairly stable in the cold, yet is hydrolyzed to a considerable extent to furnish an acidic reaction. Solvation enthalpies of quadrivalent uranium system have been scantly reported. The present communication deals with the calculation of enthalpy of solution of uranium tetrachloride in aqueous-non-aqueous solvent mixtures, particularly in 10 and 20 weight (wt) % methyl alcohol-water and ethyl alcohol-water systems at 25°C calorimetrically and thereby estimating the solvation enthalpy of UCl4 in the said media.]]>

2019-01-26T10:02:49+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/tKjmB6qkKC6PLXlS6Rdy.pdf

A comprehensive systematic list of wild mammals of the state of Mizoram, northeast India, has been collated from historical records, primary and secondary information by incorporating reliable data after personal interview with elderly prominent hunters. A total of 126 species of wild mammals belonging to 32 families under 11 orders, including 8 primate species, 14 herbivores with angulates, among carnivores - 3 ursids, 2 canids, 8 felids, 19 lesser carnivores; and 5 fossoreal, 9 arboreal, 22 rodents, 35 chiropterans and 1 aquatic mammal are listed. Bats (Chiroptera) formed the largest group (28%) with 35 species under 7 families followed by carnivores (25%) with 32 species and rodents (24%) with 30 species. Furthermore, Cetacea, Proboscidae, Scandentia and Pholidota orders were represented by a single species each. The rats and mice family Muridae formed the biggest family with 16 species followed by the vesper bats family Vespertilionidae with 14 species. The list contains three critically endangered species including two locally extinct species, eight endangered species including two locally extinct species, 18 vulnerable species including one locally extinct species and 8 near-threatened species, i.e. a total of 37 threatened species. The list also provides the vernacular name, common English name and scientific name of each species, local status, IUCN (2016-3) threatened category, WPA schedule and CITES appendix were given. Five species were considered as locally extinct; habitat destruction and poaching being the major cause, and therefore, immediate conservative measures are suggested.]]>

2019-01-26T09:19:21+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/EAHnUBIzkgUdhmyZRG9a.pdf

Three flukes, Schistosoma haematobium (urinary blood fluke), Clonorchis sinensis (Chinese liver fluke), and Opisthorchis viverrini (Southeast Asian liver fluke) are, by official decree, Group 1 (fully proven) human carcinogens. Thus, they comprise a group of preventable carcinogens. But considering the situation of prevailing infection, from the lifestyle and food habits of people in the endemic regions, it is unlikely that they are eradicated in the near future. S. haematobium is transmitted by snails and infection is acquired from snail-infested water. C. sinensis and O. viverrini are both transmitted from eating fish. As medically important flukes, it is crucial to understand their biology, and this is an attempt to explain that in the light of the history of their discovery. Further, this is written with a hope that several facts, often erroneously presented in scientific literature, about these flukes are rectified.]]>

2019-01-26T09:17:07+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/XrEKdofuh5CAhj9PPRhx.pdf

Cancer is multifaceted and multifarious disease. The diversity of cancer is complicated by so many types of carcinogens. Remarkably, helminth parasites are among the first well-established cancer agents. It started with the celebrated discovery of a roundworm Gongylonema neoplasticum (more famously, but wrongly, as Spiroptera carcinoma) by Johannes Fibiger, only to show that Nobel Prize selection can be a fallible operation. After almost a century of scepticism, it is now conceded that helminths, other than G. neoplasticum, are truly carcinogenic. For the first time in history, the International Agency for Research on Cancer finally proclaimed in 2009 that three flukes, Schistosoma haematobium (urinary blood fluke), Clonorchis sinensis (Chinese liver fluke), and Opisthorchis viverrini (Southeast Asian liver fluke) are Group 1, i.e. fully proven, carcinogens. The first is the leading cause of bladder cancer, while the latter two are of that of the bile duct (cholangiocarcinoma). This is the story of how they came to be.]]>

2019-01-26T09:14:26+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/EEgCThudt6m7QitIcsIM.pdf

Natural products have played an exceptionally important role in health care and prevention of diseases for thousands of years and are one of the greatest sources of medicine. Mizoram is a home to a rich variety of flora and fauna however; very less systematic survey and documentation were carried out to date. The plant diversity of Mizoram is not adequately studied as compared to other states of north east India. Dillenia pentagyna Roxb., known as kaihzawl in Mizo and dog teak in English, is one of the endangered plants that is yet to be explore. The Mizo communities use the decoction of D. pentagyna bark to treat different stomach ailments, inflammation and diabetes. In this perspective, the methanolic extract of the bark of D. pentagyna was evaluated for its anti-inflammatory properties. The extract showed the presence of flavanoids, triterpenoids, steroids, phenolics, saponins, fixed oils and others exerting varied pharmacological activities. The methanolic extract of this plant was found to contain active constituents such as betulinic acid and β-sitosterol which are found to actively interact with the inflammatory mediators and suppressed the inflammation when evaluated for its in vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory activity. The present study suggests that the methanolic extract of D. pentagyna bark showed significant anti-inflammatory activity. This study also support the folkloric used of the plant in diseases related to inflammatory condition.]]>

2019-01-26T09:11:35+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/imLczCrEhgsKEYVMXo8O.pdf

Outbreaks of dengue disease have been reported from many parts of India including northeastern States. There were reports of dengue disease outbreaks from Moreh town in Manipur during 2007-2008 and from Pasighat in Arunachal Pradesh during 2012 from northeast India. The first outbreak of dengue-like fever in Mizoram was reported on 30th August from Tuikual North ‘C’ Mual, Aizawl, followed by consecutive outbreaks at 10 localities between August and December 2016 within Aizawl city. In these localities, epidemiological and entomological studies were conducted to identify the disease and its vector. Blood serums were collected from the patients for the serological confirmation and Aedes mosquitoes (adults and larvae) were collected for vector identification and confirmation. There were 580 (NS1=384, IgM=196) patients confirmed with the disease from 11 localities in Aizawl and Ae. aegypti were identified as a potential vector species. There was no predilection towards sexes and all age group are affected with a median age 30. Parameters of entomological study revealed high density of vector mosquito in the study areas. Public health actions pertaining to the prevention and control of the disease were implemented. As dengue is included among the notifiable diseases in India, government authorities should strengthen manpower, case management and laboratory support, and regularly organizing interactive co-ordination meetings at all levels to sensitize public through IEC and awareness programmes as well as source reduction of Aedes mosquito breeding.]]>

2019-01-26T09:08:47+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/7HeSzAbbYUr3lGUOsicy.pdf

Shifting agriculture has been regarded as the cause of degradation to most types of natural resources in the Eastern Himalayas. Attempts have been made by certain agencies to abolish the system or find alternatives but failed. Physical barriers arising from rugged topography along with the socio-economic conditions are the major hindrances for improved agricultural systems. Discussions on problems related to shifting agriculture and natural resources conservations have been made based on literature review and researches conducted in the region. Rainfall and vegetative cover being the major determinants of erosion intensity in the region, hydrological engineering model for on-farm soil conservation practices has been developed to control runoff, enhance rainfall interception and retain soil moisture and organic matter. Measures for on-site soil conservation include the use of locally available resources with the application of simple technology and economically inexpensive for the ignorant and poor marginal farmers.]]>

2019-01-26T09:06:32+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/dvwnUEwwmROeDNYt4hTb.pdf

Cancer is a disease of antiquity. The Ancient Greeks were familiar with onkos (from which we have the term oncology)—tumour of all sorts. Hippocrates coined karkinos and karkinoma, our source of the words cancer and carcinoma. Of a plethora of carcinogens, parasitic worms (helminths) constitute a considerable health concern. Three trematodes, Clonorchis sinensis, Opisthorchis viverrini, and Schistosoma haematobium are now officially classified carcinogens. But the discovery of helminths as cancer-causing agents took wrong turns and marks an inglorious chapter in the history of science. The carcinogenicity of worms, vindicating Rudolf Virchow’s reiztheorie (irritation theory) of cancer origin, was glorified in the scientific forefront by Johannes Fibiger in the 1910s. Discovery of a new nematode, which he proudly named Spiroptera carcinoma, and his subsequent demonstration that the parasite could induce stomach cancer in rats, earned Fibiger a retrospective Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1926, and a lasting fame. But not in an appealing way. His achievement did not withstand the test of time. S. carcinoma was annulled as an invalid taxon in zoology—supplanted by Gongylonema neoplasticum—and eventually was branded as a non-carcinogenic agent.]]>

2019-01-25T14:21:12+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/5QDiYfvGrS8uRDdytrMM.pdf

The breeding biology of tree frog, Polypedates teraiensis was studied during the breeding season at Mizoram University Campus. It was found that sound production by male during the breeding season was primarily a reproductive function and advertisement calls attract females to the breeding areas and announce other males that a given territory is occupied. The aim of this study was to provide the detailed information on the breeding behaviour and the advertisement calls of Polypedates teraiensis. The morphometric measurements of the amplecting pairs (males and females) for sexual dimorphism along with clutch sizes were also studied.]]>

2019-01-25T14:20:14+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/djHySrPomuioSl5pi8Bz.pdf

The use of tobacco and its products are known to cause many illnesses including cancer. A smokeless tobacco locally manufactured called tuibur (tobacco brew) has been consumed by the Mizos from a very long time. In this experiment we aim to determine the cytotoxicity of tuibur by an in vitro study on tuibur-treated human peripheral blood lymphocytes. We have found that 24 h treatment of human lymphocytes with two grades of commercial tuibur and nicotine showed a concentration dependent decrease in cell viability. We, therefore, concluded that as the in vitro use of tuibur has an adverse effect on cell survival, its consumption might have potential side effects on the health of the users.]]>

2019-01-25T14:18:56+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/OifCDsDAflZ4KcMEfb9Q.pdf

Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica), a popular vegetable crop, has one of the most exacting climatic and cultural requirements, which limit its commercial production to a few favored locations. A field experiment was conducted at Mizoram University, Tanhril, Mizoram during winter of 2013/2014 to find out the effect of time of sowing on plant performance and yield of broccoli. Six sowing time was done viz. 17 October (T1), 24 October (T2), 31 October (T3), 7 November (T4), 14 November (T5) and 21 November (T6) with plant spacing of 45cm x 45cm. Yield and yield contributing characters were significantly influenced by the planting time. Highest average weight of marketable curd per plant (199.20 g) was obtained from T2, whereas lowest average weight obtained from T6 (75 g). The influence of planting time also showed significant difference on the calculated yield (tonnes per hectare) of broccoli, in which T2 showed highest marketable yield of 9.83 t/ha.]]>

2019-01-25T14:17:47+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/9V7OTYBBtNC09gJ5l6iE.pdf

A thin linear belt of Permian Lower Gondwana rocks occur in the Eastern Himalayas from Arunachal Pradesh to Sikkim. The Lower Gondwana Group of rocks consists of shale, siltstone, sandstone, carbonaceous shale and coaly matter and is sandwiched between Miri Group and Siwalik Group of rocks. Heavy mineral composition of sandstones is extensively used in the provenance studies as they are the surviving remnants of the rather abundant but unstable mafic components of the source rock. The sandstones of Lower Gondwana Group bear the heavy mineral assemblage of chlorite, biotite, zircon, ilmenite, epidote, garnet, amphibole, chloritoid, brown tourmaline, magnetite, staurolite, rutile, and opaques which is indicative of a provenance of metamorphic rocks with input of igneous rocks. Provenance sensitive mineral index ratios were also calculated to see the variation in the ratio of two or more stable minerals with the same characteristics.]]>

2019-01-25T14:14:01+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/ISvqyRUScBR14FVtnuzT.pdf

Life and death is a natural phenomenon. Human have longed to be immortals and this is reflected in the beliefs of most, if not all, religions. In this article, brief overview of some of the immortal biological systems, both at the cellular and organismal levels are highlighted. Assumptions of the author on immortality and the probable future of human evolution are also discussed.]]>

2019-01-25T14:11:59+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/DZC909aqBHadKzV6aBah.pdf

Jawaharlal Nehru was most instrumental in instilling scientific temper at the birth of modern India. In contrast, as Bharatiya Janata Party came into power in 2014, their top-down governance is explicitly trying to promote Vedic science. The Prime Minister boasted off of genetics in Mahabharata, and plastic surgery in the Vedas. The origin of Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle form the Vedas is the pride of the Home Minister. The Minister of Science and Technology contended that the Vedas contain better theory than E = mc2. There is increased veneration of cattle. A large-scale promotion of bovine urine and dung as medicine, called cowpathy or, as they embrace it, panchagavya is on the rise. To that effect, gold was discovered in the urine of Gir cows, but really to no effect. Their cows breathe in and out oxygen, and peafowl are confirmed celibates. The Minister of State for Human Resources Development ridiculed evolutionary biology proclaiming that Darwin’s theory is scientifically flawed. We, the people of India, deserve better wisdom. As Nehru would have put it, “a baseless dogma or a hopeless aspiration” of this sort will never elate India, or any nation for that matter, to scientific progression, not to say economic and social developments.]]>

2019-01-25T11:33:59+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/l94BRDT1Xc8LLF8RWnNY.pdf

We report the clutch size, egg morphometry and timing of oviposition in two snakes, Oligodon albocinctus and Hebius xenura based on specimens from Mizoram, northeast India.]]>

2019-01-25T11:34:15+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/g2MLzeSszwiUUf8CUWQq.pdf

Ca1-x-ySO4:Eux,Dyy (0 < x < 0.04, 0 < y < 0.04) phosphors were prepared and characterized by XRD. The samples were well crystalline and exhibit orthorhombic structure. The phosphor Ca0.99SO4:Eu0.005Dy0.005 was found having highest TL intensity. The phosphor was annealed at different temperatures. All the TL glow curves have one prominent peak at 420K. TL intensity for this peak was found decreasing when the phosphor was annealed at a particular temperature for different durations.]]>

2019-01-25T11:34:52+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/VcsOf4moYdm9y69E4Px0.pdf

Biomass assessment of the macrophytic plant species were carried out at Poiroupat lake located in Imphal East district of Manipur. The present study reveals the presence of 30 aquatic macrophytes. The recorded aquatic macrophytes of the lake have been classified into four categories, viz. submerged (10%), rooted with floating leaves (16.7%), free floating (20%) and emergent (53.3%). In all the study sites, Ceratophyllum demersum recorded the maximum total biomass with values ranging from 24.52 (Site I) to 241.45 gm–2 (Site III). This was followed by Alternanthera philoxeroides with values ranging from 25.74 (Site II) to 139.77 gm–2 (Site II). This was successively followed by Utricularia flexuosa (14.12 to 110.45 gm–2), Ludwigia adscendens (14.09 to 89.32 gm–2), Nymphaea stellata (29.66 to 84.32 gm–2), Nelumbo nucifera (15.03 to 67.41 gm–2), Hydrilla verticillata (16.09 to 67.00 gm–2), Hygroryza aristata (30.95 to 62.52 gm–2), Ipomoea aquatica (4.54 to 58.31 gm–2), Nymphoides indicum (4.41 to 47.95 gm–2). Eichhornia crassipes recorded peak value of 26.54 gm–2. During the entire study period, the total biomass of all species (combined) ranged from 130.07 to 512.28 gm–2. The maximum biomass values were recorded during rainy season.]]>

2019-01-25T11:35:21+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/Tu2KIEIaE1yTFs9qtWN3.pdf

A study was conducted to enumerate the ethno-medicinal plants in Rongram block of West Garo Hills District, Meghalaya. The study was based on the primary survey and data collected through questionnaires, focus-group discussions and semi-structured interviews prepared for the purpose by approaching the local traditional healers (oja) as well as villagers. The study revealed that a total of 18 medicinal plants belonging to 18 genera and 16 families were documented. Information on local names, scientific names, family, plant parts used and traditional usage of these plants were also reported. Among the documented medicinal plant species, trees were most frequently used followed by herbs, shrubs and climbers. The study also revealed that leaves were most commonly used in the treatment followed by the bark.]]>

2019-01-25T11:35:49+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/w2SpbW08OrFCpnJPbSjb.pdf

In this study, two-occasion successive sampling for ratio-to-regression estimator was used to determine the current estimate of the population mean using only the matched part and one auxiliary variable, which is available on both the occasions. The data used were based on the total number of female workers in villages in Mizoram with the total number of literate female in villages in Mizoram as an auxiliary variables. The data were gotten from Census of India 2001 and 2011. The optimum mean square error of the combined ratio-to-regression and ratio estimator has been compared with (i) the optimum mean square error of the chain-type ratio estimator (ii) mean per unit estimator and (iii) combined estimator when no auxiliary information is used at any occasion. This result showed that the combined ratio-to-regression and ratio estimator is more efficient than the other three existing estimators.]]>

2019-01-25T13:10:20+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/z5gnNW1OHyqN6NCXyaMl.pdf

For sustainability in agricultural productions, familiarity of soil quality and manual improvement to create the best possible growing environment for plants are extremely important. In this study the quality of soil of a paddy field in North Vanlaiphai was investigated with respect to the change in seasons throughout the year. A total of five (5) soil samples were selected from various places of the paddy field, and soil fertility indicators such as pH, total soil nitrogen (N), available phosphorus (Pav), exchangeable potassium (Kex), soil organic carbon (SOC), soil organic matter (SOM) and soil enzymes viz. dehydrogenase, phosphatase and urease were analyzed using standard protocols. All the parameters except available phosphorus and exchangeable potassium were found to be highest during rainy season whereas lowest in summer.]]>

2019-01-25T13:09:45+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/qWVPPyGN4pDtcEHyONhl.pdf

The study was performed to investigate the quantity of cholesterol level in the commonly consumed fats and oils in Mizoram, and further assessed, whether or not it is of risk to coronary heart diseases (CHD). Samples collected include mustard oil (Vimal), butter (Amul), dalda (Vanaspati), ghee (Amul and Vanaspati), refined oil (Best Choice, Dhara, Nutrela, and Gokul), coconut oil (Parachute), olive oil and palm oil. Performing the experiment gives a result where palm oil was found to contain highest level i.e. 804.5 mg/L and coconut oil (Parachute) has the lowest i.e. 179 mg/L. Daily requirements of cholesterol is estimated to be approximately 300 mg per day and thus showing the tested samples to be safe for human consumptions but however limit use of edible oils is recommended for safety measures for high risk individual.]]>

2019-01-25T13:09:01+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/soO1kyskOkbyYNO2mjtc.pdf

Indoor radon and thoron concentrations have been measured using solid state nuclear track detector (LR-115 type-ІІ) based twin cup dosimeter with single and double entry deployed side by side. The measurements have been carried out in 50 dwellings of 8 different villages/towns situated in Saiha and Lawngtlai districts, Mizoram. Dwellings were selected primarily from the gamma level measured using Micro-R survey meter and the construction type of the building. The average concentrations of radon and thoron were found to be 75.76 Bq/m3 and 96.50 Bq/m3 for single entry dosimeter and 63.47 Bq/m3 and 19.79 Bq/m3 for double entry dosimeter. The single entry dosimeter was found to give more reliable observations than that of double entry in terms of trends of seasonal data and also on the theory behind the manufacturing qualities.]]>

2019-01-25T13:07:56+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/xcbOH5D8YyPQuDtdbzx2.pdf

Scrub typhus is one the most important re-emerging infectious disease, and perhaps, the most important bacterial disease. Caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi, it is transmitted through the bite of mites belonging to the genus Leptotrombidium, in which the bacteria are obligate parasites. Though the mites are natural ectoparasites of rodents and other animals, in which there is no disease, opportunistic infection to humans gives rise to a serious disease. Known to Japanese physicians as tsutsugamushi (insect disease), human infection is caused by the larvae of trombiculid mites, the fact established by Mataro Nagayo and co-workers established in 1917. The pathogen was discovered by Naosuke Hayashi in 1920. In Mizoram, the disease has been rampant since 2011. This paper summarises available data on the prevalence of the infection in different districts base on collective information from various sources. Records between 2012 and 2018 show that over a thousand people had been infected and 35 people had died of the disease.]]>

2019-01-25T13:07:17+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/Pgn3Mfo980m0NfwGB3xo.pdf

Cogon grass Imperata cylindrica is a perennial grass belonging to the family Poaceae, and the rhizome-root portion of which is used for the treatment of bacterial infections, ringworms and other skin infections. Among the Mizo people they are directly consumed or juiced for the treatment of intestinal infection. Its chemical and biological properties are poorly documented. In this study, a methanol extract of the rhizome-root was prepared by hot extraction in a Soxhlet apparatus. Standard chemical tests were conducted. The presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates including reducing sugars, phytosterols, tannins, saponins and proteins were confirmed as the major bio-compounds. Free radical-scavenging activities were also determined. The plant extract indicated concentration-dependent scavenging activity on DPPH with an inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 2.14 µg/ml. H2O2 was similarly scavenged, in which the IC50 was 2.221 µg/ml. Our results suggest that I. cylindrica has important medicinal values.]]>

2019-01-25T13:37:12+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/EesQ63f3vaizVgiLuOPN.pdf

Macaranga denticulata (Blume) Müll.Arg. (family Euphorbiaceae) is an evergreen tree and a common pioneer species in moist open and secondary forest. It is commonly known as Kharpa in Mizoram. Traditionally, the species of Macaranga are used in the treatment of swelling, cuts, sores, boils and bruises. Preliminary phytochemical screening and evaluation of in vitro antioxidant activity were carried out on the methanolic extract obtained from the bark of M. denticulata. The presence of alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, saponins, steroids and triterpenoids was indicated by the tests conducted. The in vitro antioxidant activity was evaluated using 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity, reducing power and hydrogen peroxide radical scavenging activity. Ascorbic acid and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) were used as reference standards. The methanolic extract of the plant shows a strong antioxidant activity comparable to that of the reference standards.]]>

2019-01-25T13:35:48+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/f1w2WcrjqhytgEiqESAc.pdf

Nanopillars-TiO2 thin films was obtained on a borosilicate glass substrate with (S1) and without (S2) polyethylene glycol as template. The photocatalytic behaviour of S1 and S2 thin films was assessed inthe degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye from aqueous solution under batch reactor operations. The thin films were characterized by the SEM, XRD, FTIR and AFM analytical methods. BET specific surface area and pore sizes were also obtained. The XRD data confirmed that the TiO2 particles are in its anatase mineral phase. The SEM and AFM images indicated the catalyst is composed with nanosized pillars of TiO2, evenly distributed on the surface of the substrate. The BET specific surface area and pore sizes of S1 and S2 catalyst were found to be 5.217 and 1.420 m2/g and 7.77 and 4.16 nm respectively. The photocatalytic degradation of MB was well studied at wide range of physico-chemical parameters. The effect of solution pH (pH 4.0 to 10.0) and MB initial concentration (1.0 to 10.0 mg/L) was extensively studied and the effect of several interfering ions, i.e., cadmium nitrate, copper sulfate, zinc chloride, sodium chloride, sodium nitrate, sodium nitrite, glycine, oxalic acid and EDTA in the photocatalytic degradation of MB was demonstrated. The maximum percent removal of MB was observed at pH 8.0 beyond which it started decreasing and a low initial concentration of the pollutant highly favoured the photocatalytic degradation using thin films and the presence of several interfering ions diminished the photocatalytic activity of thin films to some extent. The overall photocatalytic activity was in the order: S2 > S1 > UV. The photocatalytic degradation of MB was followed the pseudo-first-order rate kinetics. The mineralization of MB was studied with total organic carbon measurement using the TOC (total organic carbon) analysis.]]>

2019-01-25T13:36:24+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/twxXtOqRMv5NFwJdGwAC.pdf

Oligochaeta is a class of segmented worms under the phylum Annelida that are characterised by the presence of tiny setae in each body segment. Earthworms are the main members, consisting of approximately 6200 species. Their ecological importance is well known as they are the major soil macro-fauna; Aristotle had named them as “the intestines of soil”. Classification of earthworms is a controversial issue since the introduction of modern taxonomical system on earthworm by Michaelsen in 1921. This is mainly because conventional identification using morphological and anatomical characters are complicated and confusing. The key diagnostic features such as the position and structure of the reproductive organs, clitellum and the associated tubercular pubertatis are not always reliable, particularly in different developmental stages, especially when the available specimens are the juveniles. DNA barcoding has offered a potential solution, even at the levels of identifying the juveniles or cocoons. Several genes including mitochondrial cytochrome-c oxidase I, 16S, 18S and 28S ribosomal RNAs, and protein-coding histone H3 genes have been introduced in the taxonomy and phylogeny of earthworm. It is anticipated that DNA barcoding will help conflicting taxonomy and further exploration of species diversity in India.]]>

2019-01-29T11:43:48+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/oeIeXVtDGa7Ac8kNGSZp.pdf

In this paper, we study some curvature problems of Ricci solitons in α-Kenmotsu manifold. It is shown that a symmetric parallel second order-covariant tensor in a α-Kenmotsu manifold is a constant multiple of the metric tensor. Using this result, it is shown that if (Lvg + 2S) is parallel where V is a given vector field, then the structure (g, V, λ) yield a Ricci soliton. Further, by virtue of this result, Ricci solitons for n-dimentional α-Kenmotsu manifolds are obtained. In the last section, we discuss Ricci soliton for 3-dimentional α-Kenmotsu manifolds.]]>

2019-01-25T11:37:02+00:00 https://sciencevision.lailendemo.com/storage/journal-articles/January2019/3DwfZHYwAgSMehiJQXat.pdf

In this paper we report the first confirmed sighting of chestnut-flanked white-eye Zosterops erythropleurus (Swinhoe, 1863) from Mizoram and first photographic report from India. chestnut-flanked white-eye belongs to the family Zosteropidae and is a resident of Cambodia, China, Hongkong, Korea, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Laos, Myanmar, Russia, Thailand and Vietnam. In the Indian Sub-continent this is the only sighting report for this species and details of sightings and habitat are discussed.]]>

2019-01-25T13:11:03+00:00