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Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and the antioxidant germanium (Ge) are promising tools for boosting bioactive compound synthesis and producing healthier foods. However, their combined effect remains unexplored. This study demonstrates the synergistic impact of AMF and Ge on the growth, metabolite accumulation, biological activities, and nutritional qualities of Spinacia oleracea L. (spinach), a globally significant leafy vegetable. Individually, Ge and AMF increased biomass by 68.1% and 22.7%, respectively, while their combined effect led to an 86.3% increase. AMF and Ge also improved proximate composition, with AMF–Ge interaction enhancing crude fiber and mineral content (p < 0.05). Interestingly, AMF enhanced photosynthesis-related parameters (e.g., total chlorophyll) in Ge treated plants, which in turn increased carbohydrate accumulation. This accumulation could provide a route for the biosynthesis of amino acids, organic acids, and fatty acids, as evidenced by increased essential amino acid and organic acid levels. Consistently, the activity of key enzymes involved in amino acids biosynthesis (e.g., glutamine synthase (GS), methionine biosynthase (MS), lysine biosynthase (LS)) showed significant increments. Furthermore, AMF improved fatty acid levels, particularly unsaturated fatty acids in Ge-treated plants compared to the control. In addition, increased phenylalanine provided a precursor for the production of antioxidants (e.g., phenols and flavonoids), through the action of the enzyme phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), resulting in improved antioxidant activity gains as indicated by FRAP, ABTS, and DPPH assays. This study is the first to show that Ge enhances the beneficial effect of AMF on spinach, improving growth and nutritional quality, with promising implications for agricultural practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) are considered a promising tool for triggering the synthesis of bioactive compounds in plants and to produce healthy foods. This study aimed to demonstrate the impact of PGPB on the growth, accumulation of primary and secondary metabolites, biological activities, and nutritional qualities of Eruca sativa (arugula), a key leafy vegetable worldwide. To this end, Jeotgalicoccus sp. (JW0823), was isolated and identified by using partial 16S rDNA-based identification and phylogenetic analysis. The findings revealed that JW0823 significantly boosted plant biomass production by about 45% (P<0.05) and enhanced pigment contents by 47.5% to 83.8%. JW0823-treated plants showed remarkable improvements in their proximate composition and vitamin contents, with vitamin E levels increasing by 161.5%. JW0823 induced the accumulation of bioactive metabolites including antioxidants, vitamins, unsaturated fatty acids, and essential amino acids, thereby improving the nutritional qualities of treated plants. An increase in the amounts of amino acids was recorded, with isoleucine showing the highest increase of 270.2%. This was accompanied by increased activity of the key enzymes involved in amino acid biosynthesis, including glutamine synthase, dihydrodipicolinate synthase, cystathionine γ-synthase, and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase enzymes. Consequently, the total antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of the inoculated plants were enhanced. Additionally, JW0823 improved antimicrobial activity against several pathogenic microorganisms. Overall, the JW0823 treatment is a highly promising method for enhancing the health-promoting properties and biological characteristics of E. sativa, making it a valuable tool for improving the quality of this important leafy vegetable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aflatoxicosis is one of the major issues for the public health. Control of aflatoxins is necessary to avoid the health hazards in human and animals. Present study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of Bacillus licheniformis as a novel feed additive for control of aflatoxicosis. A total of 40 rats were equally divided into the four groups. The first group (BD) was kept as control, treated with basal diet. In second group (AF), the rats were treated with aflatoxins (28 μg/kg BW). In the third group (AFBL) the rats were treated with aflatoxins (28 µg/g BW) and Bacillus licheniformis (1 × 108 cfu/mL). In the fourth group (BDBL) the rats were treated with only Bacillus licheniformis (1 × 108 cfu/mL). The parameters studied were, phagocytic response by carbon clearance assay system, lymphoproliferative response to PHA-P, antibody response to SRBCs, total antioxidant capacity and total oxidant status of the rats and interleukin concentrations, along with histopathology of organs. Results of this study confirmed the immunomodulation and antioxidant capacity of Bacillus licheniformis against 28 µg/kg BW of aflatoxins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tinea capitis (T. capitis), commonly known as scalp ringworm, is a fungal infection affecting the scalp and hair. Among the causative agents, Microsporum canis (M. canis) stands out, often transmitted from cats to humans (zoonotic disease). In this study, we investigated the efficacy of Carica papaya (C. papaya), fruit extract against dermatophytes, particularly M. canis, both in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, we aimed to identify the active compounds responsible for suppressing fungal growth and assess the toxicity of C. papaya on human cells. Methodology: It conducted in two parts. First, In Vitro Study include the preparation of C. papaya fruit extract using methanol as the solvent, Phytochemical analysis of the plant extract including Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was conducted, Cytotoxicity assays were performed using HUH-7 cells, employing the MTT assay (1-(3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide), Antimicrobial activity against M. canis was evaluated, including: Zone of inhibition (ZI), Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), Minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC), M. canis cell alterations were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Second, In Vivo, Albino Wistar male rats were included. Results: The phytochemical analysis of the methanolic extract from papaya revealed several functional groups, including hydroxyl, ammonia, alkane, carbonate, and alcohol. Additionally, the GC-MS analysis identified 15 compounds, with xanthosine and decanoic acid being the predominant components. The methanolic extract of papaya fruits demonstrated potent antifungal activity: ZI = 37 mm, MIC = 1,000 µg/mL, MFC = 1900 µg/mL, MTT results indicated lower cytotoxicity of the fruit extract at concentrations of 20 µg/mL, 50 µg/mL, 100 µg/mL, 150 µg/mL, and 200 µg/mL, The IC50 revealed a significant decrease in cell viability with increasing extract concentration. Notably, papaya extract induced considerable alterations in the morphology of M. canis hyphae and spores. In animal tissue, improvements were observed among the group of rats which treated with Papaya extract. This study highlights the potential of C. papaya fruits as a natural antifungal agent, warranting further exploration for clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under salinity conditions, growth and productivity of grain crops decrease, leading to inhibition and limited absorption of water and elements necessary for plant growth, osmotic imbalance, ionic stress, and oxidative stress. Microorganisms in bio-fertilizers have several mechanisms to provide benefits to crop plants and reduce the harmful effect of salinity. They can be effective in dissolving phosphate, fixing nitrogen, promoting plant growth, and can have a combination of all these qualities. During two successful agricultural seasons, two field experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of bio-fertilizer applications, including phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB), nitrogen fixation bacteria and a mix of phosphate-solubilizing bacteria and nitrogen fixation bacteria with three rates, 50, 75 and 100% NPK, of the recommended dose of minimal fertilizer on agronomic traits, yield and nutrient uptake of barley (Hordeum vulgare) under saline condition in Village 13, Farafra Oasis, New Valley Governorate, Egypt. The results showed that the application of Microbein + 75% NPK recorded the highest values of plant height, spike length, number of spikes/m2, grain yield (Mg ha−1), straw yield (Mg ha−1), biological yield (Mg ha−1), protein content %, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K) uptakes in grain and straw (kg ha−1), available nitrogen (mg/kg soil), available phosphorus (mg/kg soil), total microbial count of soil, antioxidant activity of soil (AOA), dehydrogenase, nitrogen fixers, and PSB counts. The application of bio-fertilizers led to an increase in plant tolerance to salt stress, plant growth, grain yield, and straw yield, in addition to the application of the bio-fertilizers, which resulted in a 25% saving in the cost of mineral fertilizers used in barley production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The release of heavy metals into the environment as a result of industrial and agricultural activities represents one of the century's most significant issues. Cobalt is a hazardous metal that is employed in a variety of industries. In this study, response surface methodology (RSM) combined with Box–Behnken design (BBD) was utilized to optimize the Co(II) ion removal from synthetic wastewater by the brown macroalga Padina pavonica. The influence of three factors, namely algal inoculum size, pH, and initial metal concentration, was assessed in optimization studies. RSM proposed a second-order quadratic model with a p-value of <0.0001 and R2 of 0.984 for P. pavonica. According to the data related to RSM optimization, the maximum percentage of Co(II) removal of 84.3% was attained under the conditions of algal inoculum size of 5.98 g/L, pH of 6.73, and initial Co(II) concentration of 21.63 mg/L. The experimental data from the biosorption process were fitted well with the Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin isotherm models. The maximal Co(II) adsorption capacity was estimated using the Langmuir model to be 17.98 mg/g. Furthermore, the pseudo-second-order kinetic model was shown to have the best fit for Co biosorption by P. pavonica, showing that the mechanism of Co(II) biosorption was chemisorption controlled by surface biosorption and intra-particle diffusion. Thermodynamic parameters were also investigated to evaluate the Gibbs free energy for the Co(II) ion, which was positive, showing that the biosorption process is nonspontaneous and exothermic, and the cobalt biosorption rate decreases with increasing temperature. Algal biomass was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy. These analyses revealed the biosorbent's diverse functional groups and porous, rough appearance. Therefore, P. pavonica can be used to implement sustainable, eco-friendly, and acceptable solutions to water pollution problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, prostate cancer is among the most threatening and leading causes of death in men. This study, therefore, aimed to search for an ideal antitumor strategy with high efficacy, low drug resistance, and no or few adverse effects. Resistomycin is a natural antibiotic derived from marine actinomycetes, and it possesses various biological activities. Prostate cancer cells (PC3) were treated with resistomycin (IC12.5: 0.65 or IC25: 1.3 µg/mL) or 5-fluorouracil (5-FU; IC25: 7 µg/mL) for 24 h. MTT assay and flow cytometry were utilized to assess cell viability and apoptosis. Oxidative stress, apoptotic-related markers, and cell cycle were also assessed. The results revealed that the IC50 of resistomycin and 5-FU on PC3 cells were 2.63 µg/mL and 14.44 µg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, treated cells with the high dose of resistomycin showed an increased number of apoptotic cells compared to those treated with the lower dose. Remarkable induction of reactive oxygen species generation and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage with high malondialdehyde (MDA), carbonyl protein (CP), and 8-hydroxyguanosine (8-OHdG) contents were observed in resistomycin-treated cells. In addition, marked declines in glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in PC3 cells subjected to resistomycin therapy were observed. Resistomycin triggered observable cell apoptosis by increasing Bax, caspase-3, and cytosolic cytochrome c levels and decreasing Bcl-2 levels. In addition, notable downregulation of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and cyclin D1 was observed in resistomycin-treated cancerous cells. According to this evaluation, the antitumor potential of resistomycin, in a concentration-dependent manner, in prostate cancer cells was achieved by triggering oxidative stress, mitochondrial apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest in cancer cells. In conclusion, our investigation suggests that resistomycin can be considered a starting point for developing new chemotherapeutic agents for human prostate cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The standard approaches used in the fields of cancer therapies, microbial infection mitigation, and agricultural improvement exhibit intrinsic limitations, especially in terms of their efficacy, precision, expenses, and environmental impacts. Biogenic nanoparticles, on the other hand, offer eco-friendly, multifunctional solutions in numerous disciplines. The present work highlights the crucial importance of biogenic SeNPs across various fields, emphasising their potential in the realms of agriculture, cancer treatment, and infection control. The inhibitory effect of SeNPs on MCF-7 breast adenocarcinoma cells, coupled with antibacterial activity against Proteus mirabilis and Klebsiella pneumoniae, underscores SeNPs' potential for cancer therapy and microbial control. In agriculture, the positive effect of SeNPs on the germination dynamics and seedling development of soybean, a crucial economic plant, reveals their potential for enhancing agricultural yield. SeNPs effectively controlling the cotton leafworm and inhibiting plant pathogenic fungi are underscored in sustainable agriculture, as they provide a bio-based strategy for managing pests and preventing plant diseases. The present study provides opportunities for further investigation, promoting the examination of strategies to enhance the utilisation of SeNPs in the fields of cancer treatment, agriculture, and infection management. Valuable directions encompass the refinement of the synthesis process to optimise characteristics, the investigation of supplementary biological effects, and the evaluation of long-term environmental implications. Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) have demonstrated significant potential in a variety of disciplines, making them an extremely desirable subject of research. This study investigated the anticancer and antibacterial properties of my-co-fabricated selenium SeNPs, as well as their effects on soybean (Glycine max L.) seeds, seedling growth, cotton leafworm (Spodoptera littoralis) combat, and plant pathogenic fungi inhibition. SeNPs showed anticancer activity with an IC50 value of 1.95 µg/mL against MCF-7 breast adenocarcinoma cells. The myco-synthesized SeNPs exhibited an antibacterial effect against Proteus mirabilis and Klebsiella pneumoniae at 20 mg/mL. The use of 1 µM SeNPs improved soybean seed germination (93%), germination energy (76.5%), germination rate (19.0), and mean germination time (4.3 days). At 0.5 and 1.0 µM SeNPs, the growth parameters of seedlings improved. SeNPs increased the 4th instar larval mortality of cotton leafworm compared to control, with a median lethal concentration of 23.08 mg/mL. They inhibited the growth of Fusarium oxysporum, Rhizoctonia solani, and Fusarium solani. These findings demonstrate that biogenic SeNPs represent a promising approach to achieving sustainable progress in the fields of agriculture, cancer therapy, and infection control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pollution of aquatic bodies by synthetic dyes is regarded as one of the most significant environmental issues, which has prompted greater research into effective and sustainable removal techniques. Even though there have been major efforts in the previous few decades, more study is still necessary to fully examine the long-term performance and usable applicability of adsorbents and different adsorption techniques for the removal of dye. In the present study, a brown marine macroalga Sargassum muticum was used as an effective and sustainable biosorbent for the crystal violet (CV) dye removal from aqueous solutions. The biosorbent was characterized by analysis of SEM, EDX, and FTIR. In order to evaluate the optimum conditions of CV biosorption, several parameters have been examined as a function of contact time, algal dose, initial concentration of CV, and pH. The maximum CV removal was obtained at 60 min contact time, 10 g/L algal dosage, 30 mg/L initial concentration of CV, and pH 6. The isothermal models of Langmuir, Freundlich, Dubinin-Radushkevich, and Temkin are best explained the equilibrium data obtained. At the optimum conditions, the maximum biosorption capacity of the algal biomass achieved from the Langmuir model was 39.1 mg/g. The kinetic adsorption models were also better explained using the pseudo-second-order and Elovich model, and the effect of the boundary layer was indicated using the intraparticle diffusion model as well as the chemisorption-controlled biosorption process. Thermodynamically, the process of CV biosorption was shown to be random, spontaneous, and endothermic. Furthermore, the proposed mechanism of CV dye biosorption onto algal biomass is regulated by hydrogen bond formation, electrostatic interaction, and ion exchange. These findings revealed that the biomass of S. muticum is a sustainable and promising material for the biosorption of water pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity is a widespread abiotic stress that devastatingly impacts wheat growth and restricts its productivity worldwide. The present study is aimed at elucidating biochemical, physiological, anatomical, gene expression analysis, and agronomic responses of three diverse wheat genotypes to different salinity levels. A salinity treatment of 5000 and 7000 ppm gradually reduced photosynthetic pigments, anatomical root and leaf measurements and agronomic traits of all evaluated wheat genotypes (Ismailia line, Misr 1, and Misr 3). In addition, increasing salinity levels substantially decreased all anatomical root and leaf measurements except sclerenchyma tissue upper and lower vascular bundle thickness compared with unstressed plants. However, proline content in stressed plants was stimulated by increasing salinity levels in all evaluated wheat genotypes. Moreover, Na+ ions content and antioxidant enzyme activities in stressed leaves increased the high level of salinity in all genotypes. The evaluated wheat genotypes demonstrated substantial variations in all studied characters. The Ismailia line exhibited the uppermost performance in photosynthetic pigments under both salinity levels. Additionally, the Ismailia line was superior in the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase activity (CAT), peroxidase (POX), and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) enzymes followed by Misr 1. Moreover, the Ismailia line recorded the maximum anatomical root and leaf measurements under salinity stress, which enhanced its tolerance to salinity stress. The Ismailia line and Misr 3 presented high up-regulation of H+ATPase, NHX2 HAK, and HKT genes in the root and leaf under both salinity levels. The positive physiological, anatomical, and molecular responses of the Ismailia line under salinity stress were reflected on agronomic performance and exhibited superior values of all evaluated agronomic traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Astaxanthin is a xanthophyll carotenoid possessing impressive nutraceutical, antioxidant, and bioactive merits. Traditionally, astaxanthin is extracted from crustacean wastes via solvent extraction methods. However, the rigid structure of shells that comprise complex proteins and chitin challenges the extraction process. This investigation addressed an efficient microbial-assisted method to facilitate astaxanthin recovery from crab exoskeleton waste utilizing chitinolytic and proteolytic microorganisms. Herein, we evaluated the effect of pretreatment of the exoskeleton waste with a newly isolated probiotic strain, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens CPFD8, showing remarkable protease and chitinase activity and a proteolytic Saccharomyces cerevisiae 006-001 before solvent extraction, using acetone/hexane, on astaxanthin recovery. Furthermore, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of the recovered astaxanthin were inspected. Results revealed that both strains boosted the astaxanthin yield from the crab (Callinectes sapidus) exoskeleton compared with solvent extraction using acetone/hexane. Under optimum conditions, astaxanthin yield was 217 and 91 µg/g crab exoskeleton in samples treated with B. amyloliquefaciens CPFD8 and S. cerevisiae 006-001, respectively. Interestingly, pretreatment of crab exoskeleton waste with B. amyloliquefaciens CPFD8 yielded more than 6-fold astaxanthin compared with the solvent extraction method that yielded just 35 µg/g. This increase could be attributed to the proteolytic activity of B. amyloliquefaciens CPFD8 that rendered deproteinized shell chitin accessible to chitinase, facilitating the penetration of solvents and the recovery of astaxanthin. The recovered astaxanthin exhibited excellent antioxidant activity in scavenging DPPH or ABTS free radicals with IC50 values of 50.93 and 17.56 µg/mL, respectively. In addition, the recovered astaxanthin showed a remarkable anti-inflammatory impact on LPS-induced murine macrophage RAW264.7 cells and significantly inhibited the production of nitric oxide, TNF-α, and IL-6 compared with the untreated control. These findings suggest the potential use of the developed microbial-assisted method utilizing chitinolytic and proteolytic B. amyloliquefaciens CPFD8 to maximize the recovery of bioactive astaxanthin from crab (C. sapidus) exoskeleton waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To prevent the rapidly increasing prevalence of bacterial resistance, it is crucial to discover new antibacterial agents. The emergence of Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC)-producing Enterobacteriaceae has been associated with a higher mortality rate in gulf union countries and worldwide. Compared to physical and chemical approaches, green zinc oxide nanoparticle (ZnO-NP) synthesis is thought to be significantly safer and more ecofriendly. The present study used molecular dynamics (MD) to examine how ZnO-NPs interact with porin protein (GLO21), a target of β-lactam antibiotics, and then tested this interaction in vitro by determining the zone of inhibition (IZ), minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), as well as the alteration of KPC's cell surface. The nanoparticles produced were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, zetasizer, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In silico investigation was conducted using a variety of computational techniques, including Autodock Vina for protein and ligand docking and Desmond for MD simulation. The candidate ligands that interact with the GLO21 protein were biosynthesized ZnO-NPs, meropenem, imipenem, and cefepime. Analysis of MD revealed that the ZnO-NPs had the highest log P value (−9.1 kcal/mol), which indicates higher permeability through the bacterial surface, followed by cefepime (−7.9 kcal/mol), meropenem (−7.5 kcal/mol), and imipenem (−6.4 kcal/mol). All tested compounds and ZnO-NPs possess similar binding sites of porin proteins. An MD simulation study showed a stable system for ZnO-NPs and cefepime, as confirmed by RMSD and RMSF values during 100 ns trajectories. The test compounds were further inspected for their intersection with porin in terms of hydrophobic, hydrogen, and ionic levels. In addition, the stability of these bonds were measured by observing the protein–ligand contact within 100 ns trajectories. ZnO-NPs showed promising results for fighting KPC, represented in MIC (0.2 mg/mL), MBC (0.5 mg/mL), and ZI (24 mm diameter). To draw the conclusion that ZnO-NP is a potent antibacterial agent and in order to identify potent antibacterial drugs that do not harm human cells, further in vivo studies are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Daphnia magna and freshwater snails are used as delicate bioindicators of contaminated aquatic habitats. Due to their distinctive characteristics, selenium oxide nanoparticles (SeONPs) have received interest regarding their possible implications on aquatic environments. The current study attempted to investigate the probable mechanisms of fungal-mediated selenium nanoparticles' ecotoxicological effects on freshwater Biomphalaria alexandrina snails and Daphnia magna. SeONPs revealed a toxicological impact on D. magna, with a half-lethal concentration (LC50) of 1.62 mg/L after 24 h and 1.08 mg/L after 48 h. Survival, fecundity, and reproductive rate were decreased in B. alexandrina snails exposed to SeONPs. Furthermore, the aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels were markedly elevated, while albumin and total protein levels decreased. Histopathological damage in the hermaphrodite and digestive glands was detected by light, electron microscopy, and immunohistochemistry studies. The molecular docking study revealed interactions of selenium oxide with the ALT and AST. In conclusion, B. alexandrina snails and D. magna could be employed as bioindicators of selenium nanomaterial pollution in aquatic ecosystems. This study emphasizes the possible ecological effects of releasing SeONPs into aquatic habitats, which could serve as motivation for regulatory organizations to monitor and control the use and disposal of SeONPs in industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal oxide nanoparticles have attained notable recognition due to their interesting physicochemical properties. Although these nanoparticles can be synthesized using a variety of approaches, the biological method involving plant extracts is preferred since it provides a simple, uncomplicated, ecologically friendly, efficient, rapid, and economical way for synthesis. In this study, the Azadirachta indica leaf extract was used as a reducing agent, and a green process was used to synthesize tin(ferrous: nickel)dioxide (Sn(Fe : Ni)O2) nanoparticles. The synthesized nanoparticles were subjected to characterization by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy analysis, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and photoluminescence (PL) measurement. Furthermore, Sn(Fe : Ni)O2 nanoparticles were analyzed for their antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms including Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacterial strains. XRD patterns revealed that Sn(Fe : Ni)O2 nanoparticles exhibited a tetragonal structure. The hydrodynamic diameter of the nanoparticles was 143 nm, as confirmed by the DLS spectrum. The FESEM image showed the spherical form of the synthesized nanoparticles. Chemical composites and mapping analyses were performed through the EDAX spectrum. The Sn–O–Sn and Sn–O stretching bands were 615 cm−1 and 550 cm−1 in the FTIR spectrum, respectively. Various surface defects of the synthesized Sn(Fe : Ni)O2 nanoparticles were identified by photoluminescence spectra. Compared to traditional antibiotics like amoxicillin, the inhibition zone revealed that Sn(Fe : Ni)O2 nanoparticles displayed remarkable antibacterial activity against all tested organisms, indicating the valuable potential of nanoparticles in the healthcare industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biopolymer levan has sparked a lot of interest in commercial production and various industrial applications. In this study, a bacterial isolate with promising levan-producing ability was isolated from a soil sample obtained from Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University in Saudi Arabia. The isolate has been identified and submitted to GenBank as Bacillus subtilis MZ292983.1. The bacterial levan polymer was extracted using ethyl alcohol (75%) and CaCl2 (1%) and then characterized using several approaches, such as Fourier transform infrared spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance. The IR spectrum of the levan polymer showed characteristic peaks confirming characteristics of polysaccharides, including a broad stretching peak of OH around 3417 cm−1 and aliphatic CH stretching was observed as two peaks at 2943, and 2885 cm−1. In addition, the FTIR spectrum featured an absorption at 2121 cm−1, indicating the fingerprint of the β-glycosidic bond. Based on 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy analysis, six unexchanged proton signals related to fructose as a forming monomer of levan were observed. Evaluation of levan's antibacterial effect against two pathogenic bacteria, S. aureus (ATCC 33592) and E. coli (ATCC 25922), showed inhibition zones of 1 cm and 0.8 cm in diameter, respectively, with MICs of more than 256 μg mL−1 for both strains. Moreover, the antibiofilm property of the levan polymer was assessed and the results showed that the inhibition rate was positively proportional to the levan concentration, as the inhibition percentages were 50%, 29.4%, 29.4%, 26.5%, and 14.7% at concentrations of 2, 1, 0.5, 0.25, and 0.125 mg mL−1, respectively. Levan showed a significant role in burn healing properties since it accelerated the process of healing burn-induced areas in rats when compared with those either treated with normal saline or treated with the cream base only. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Frozen yogurt is known as ice cream with some properties of yogurt. Frozen yogurts are a rich source of sucrose levels between 15% and 28% of total ingredients. Consumers suffering from lactose intolerance and metabolic syndrome are looking for sugar-free products. The current study investigates the sugar replacements by using sweeteners (stevia, sucralose and sorbitol) on physicochemical, microbiological, microstructural and sensory characteristics of probiotic-frozen yogurt. Four different treatments of probiotic-frozen yogurts were studied (control probiotic-frozen yogurt with sucrose (F1), probiotic-frozen yogurt with stevia (F2), probiotic-frozen yogurt with sucralose (F3) and probiotic-frozen yogurt with sorbitol (F4)). The chemical properties were not significantly present p > 0.05) during storage in all treatments. In the F1 treatment, sucrose value was higher (14.87%) and not detected in the F2, F3 and F4 treatments. The highest values of overrun, hardness and viscosity (p < 0.05) were detected in the F2, F3 and F3 samples, but the lowest value was detected in the F1 treatment. Total Str. thermophilus and Lb. delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus counts were gradually decreased (p < 0.05) during storage periods. At 1 day, the Bifidobacteria counts ranged from 7.56 to 7.60 log10 CFU g−1 in all groups and gradually decreased during storage, but these bacterial counts remained viable (>6.00 log10 CFU g−1) during storage periods up to 60 d. During storage periods, the highest scores of total acceptability were detected in the F3, F4 and F2 treatments. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs of all probiotic-frozen yogurt treatments illustrated that the microstructures showed a difference with a fine network, size pores and structure between the frozen yogurt with sweeteners (F2, F3 and F3) and control frozen yogurt (F1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schistosomiasis is a tropical disease with socioeconomic problems. The goal of this study was to determine the influence of myco-synthesized nano-selenium (SeNPs) as a molluscicide on Biomphlaria alexandrina snails, with the goal of reducing disease spread via non-toxic routes. In this study, Penicillium chrysogenum culture filtrate metabolites were used as a reductant for selenium ions to form nano-selenium. The SeNPs were characterized via UV-Vis spectrophotometer, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Myco-synthesized SeNPs had a significant molluscicidal effect on B. alexandrina snails after 96 h of exposure at a concentration of 5.96 mg/L. SeNPs also had miracidicidal and cercaricidal properties against S. mansoni. Some alterations were observed in the hemocytes of snails exposed to SeNPs, including the formation of pseudopodia and an increasing number of granules. Furthermore, lipid peroxide, nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione s-transferase (GST) increased significantly in a dose-dependent manner, while superoxide dismutase (SOD) decreased. The comet assay revealed that myco-synthesized SeNPs could cause breaks in the DNA levels. In silico study revealed that SeNPs had promising antioxidant properties. In conclusion, myco-synthesized SeNPs have the potential to be used as molluscicides and larvicides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cDNa sequence of Bestrophin‐1 (BEST‐1) was identified from a previously constructed transcriptome data set of freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii (Mr). Basal and temporal gene expression analysis of MrBEST‐1 showed its antimicrobial immune effectiveness during viral and bacterial infections. The protein sequence encoded by cDNA of MrBEST‐1 was examined and a short antimicrobial molecule, named WP17 was identified using a bioinformatics tool. Further, the antibacterial ability of the identified WP17 peptide was evaluated against a number of bacterial strains, in which the peptide showed potential bactericidal activity against Micrococcus luteus (MTCC 6164), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 9144), Escherichia coli (ATCC 9637), Klebsiella pneumonia (CI 7376) and Bacillus subtilis (ATCC 6051). Based on the results, further assays focused on M. luteus MTCC 6164. The mode of action of MrWP17 on M. luteus MTCC 6164 was analyzed using FACS and FESEM. Toxicity analysis suggested that WP17 impaired the viability of cells in murine melanoma cells (B16F10); however, no cytotoxicity was observed against kidney embryonic cells (HEK293), even at higher concentrations. Similarly, the gene expression analysis of WP17 peptide treated murine cells elicited an extrinsic apoptotic pathway. In the present study, we have demonstrated the involvement of MrBEST‐1 in immune mechanisms through its short peptide molecule that has potential antimicrobial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eco-friendly alternatives to unsafe conventional pesticides against disease vectors are currently needed. Host vaccination using an insect gut antigen is a feasible approach. Thus, the present study aimed to examine the effect of ingestion of antibodies from hamsters, raised via immunization of hamsters with a partially purified midgut lectin of Aedes aegypti, in a blood meal of this disease vector on the different biological parameters (mortality percentage, number of eggs/female (fecundity), longevity, egg incubation period, larval duration and larval weight). The biological parameters of the parental (P), first (F1) and second (F2) filial generations of Ae. aegypti adult females fed for 48 h on immunized hamsters were compared with those of the controls at each generation separately, and among the different generations. Mortality percentage, egg incubation period and larval duration were significantly higher than those of the controls at each generation tested. In contrast, fecundity, longevity and larval weight were significantly lower than those of the controls at each generation tested. The greatest change in all the biological parameters tested was observed in the F2 generation. The results obtained provide preliminary evidence for the potential of anti-mosquito antibodies to disrupt the development of mosquito vectors. Future studies using monoclonal antibodies as well as cytotoxicity will be evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytochemicals and bioactive compounds in medicinal plants significantly benefit human health and well-being. Cardamom essential oil (CEO) exhibits potential as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial and anticancer agent. A modified Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion technique was used to test cardamom essential oil's antimicrobial activity and identify the inhibition zone. Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538) and Bacillus cereus (ATCC6629) are two examples of Gram-positive bacteria against which the essential oil was evaluated for antibacterial activity. Gram-negative microorganisms such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853), Escherichia coli (ATCC25922), and yeast Candida albicans were also evaluated for antimicrobial activity. The essential oil was assessed further against human liver (HEPG-2) and breast (MCF7) cell lines for anticancer properties. The findings suggest that, compared to the control, cardamom essential oil exhibits a significant zone of inhibition against all types of microbes except Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Additionally, for anti-cancer actions, the IC50 values were 42.3 µg/ml for MCF7 and 54 µg/ml for HEPG-2 cell lines, while IC90 results for MCF7 were 68.9 µg/ml and for HEPG-2 cell line were 80.7 µg/ml. The essential oil was developed in functional coating to preserve the postharvest mango fruit for 60 days at cold storage. The treated fruit showed reduced weight loss (10%), with a relative reduction of 78% compared to the control, chilling injury incidence (2.5%) at day 45, and rind pitting (3%) at day 30 compared to the control. This therapeutic plant may yield novel compounds for broad-spectrum antimicrobial and anticancer medicines and be transformed into economical and secure standardized herbal products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Bismuth salicylate was found to inhibit the growth of a range of bacteria and yeast, “Candida albicans”. In general the growth of bacteria did not result in increase in bismuth solubilisation, in contrast, bismuth solubilisation increased following the growth of C. albicans. A significant increase in the biomass (dry weight) of Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus oryzae occurred in vitro when these fungi were grown in the presence of bismuth salicylate. Biomass increase occurred over a range of bismuth compound additions, which in the case of A. oryzae was associated with increase in the solubilisation of the insoluble bismuth compounds. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Environmental and occupational exposure to heavy metals, including cadmium (Cd), is associated with extremely adverse impacts to living systems. Antioxidant agents are suggested to eliminate Cd intoxication. In this paper, we investigated the potential neuroprotective effect of protocatechuic acid (PCA) against Cd-induced neuronal damage in rats. Adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into control, PCA (100 mg/kg)-treated, CdCl 2 (6.5 mg/kg)-treated, and PCA and Cd treatment groups. Pre-treatment with PCA significantly reduced Cd concentrations and increased cortical acetylcholinesterase activity and brain derived neurotrophic factor. Additionally, PCA also prevented CdCl 2 -induced oxidative stress in the cortical tissue by preventing lipid peroxidation and the formation of nitric oxide (NO), and significantly enhancing antioxidant enzymes. Molecularly, PCA significantly up-regulated the antioxidant gene expression (Sod2 , Cat , Gpx1 , and Gsr) that was down-regulated by Cd. It should be noted that this effect was achieved by targeting the nuclear-related factor 2 (Nfe2l2) mRNA expression. PCA also prevented the Cd-induced inflammation by reducing the pro-inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β. Moreover, PCA supplementation relieved the Cd-induced neuronal death by increasing Bcl-2 and decreasing Bax and Cas-3 levels in the cortical tissue. The improvement of the cortical tissue histopathology by PCA confirmed the biochemical and molecular data. Collectively, our findings indicate that PCA can counteract Cd-induced cortical toxicity by enhancing the antioxidant defense system and suppressing inflammation and apoptosis. Unlabelled Image • Cadmium causes apoptosis, inflammation and oxidative stress in cortical tissue. • Protocatechuic acid inhibits Cd-induced neurotoxicity in rats. • Protocatechuic acid enhances Nrf2 signaling pathway. • Protocatechuic acid has antiinflammatory and antiapoptotic activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenolic compounds bisphenol A (BPA) and 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) are the prime water contaminants. As reported, these compounds are some of the highly hazardous ones to the human and living species. In this study, T-ZnO-rGO-PEI composite was synthesized employing hydrothermal method and the obtained composite samples were systematically characterized by FTIR, XPS, FE-SEM and HR-TEM studies. The FTIR, XPS analysis confirmed the successful surface modification of T-ZnO-rGO-PEI composite. The FE-SEM morphology confirmed the formation of ZnO (arm length about 2.5 μm) tetrapod structured in synthesized T-ZnO-rGO-PEI composite. The thickness of formed ZnO arm (0.44 μm) was increased after the polymer coating which confirmed the successful surface modification by PEI polymer. The HR-TEM images confirm the uniform coating of PEI polymer on T-ZnO-rGO surface. The catalytic activity and adsorption capacity of the synthesized T-ZnO-rGO-PEI composite was successfully explored using 4-nitrophenol and bisphenol-A as model pollutants.T-ZnO-rGO-PEI composite and found that 4-NP reduction reaction was completed within 10 min with the rate of 0.224 min−1. The BPA adsorption over T-ZnO-rGO-PEI exhibited high adsorption rate of 0.0210 min−1. In addition, the detailed 4-NP reduction and BPA adsorption mechanism was demonstrated. Hence the synthesized T-ZnO-rGO-PEI composite is a promising catalyst for the removal of micropollutants in aqueous medium. Image 1 • T-ZnO-rGO-PEI system were synthesized through hydrothermal combined calcination process. • T-ZnO-rGO-PEI catalyst was employed for the micropollutants removal in aqueous medium. • T-ZnO-rGO-PEI catalyst completes the reduction of 4-NP with the rate of 0.224 min−1. • T-ZnO-rGO-PEI catalyst exhibits the bisphenol A adsorption with the rate of 0.0210 min−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because of the abundance of transition metals, their enhanced electrochemical/chemical efficiency on par with the benchmark catalysts, long-term stability, etc., the expansion of transition metal/metal oxide-based electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution, urea oxidation reactions and 4-nitrophenol reduction becomes indispensable. In particular, the abundant availability along with improved electrochemical performance is crucial for fuel cell applications when it comes to large scale commercialization. In this work, we report the synthesis of a trimetallic metal-organic framework based on Ni, Co and Zn using BTC as a linker and the preparation of its metal oxide - carbon composites at different temperatures, 600, 700 and 800 °C (TM-MOF-600, TM-MOF-700, and TM-MOF-800) by carbonization under an inert atmosphere. The PXRD pattern of TM-MOF complemented well with the simulated XRD patterns of Co–Ni-BTC MOF as well as Zn-BTC MOF, whereas the PXRD pattern of the carbonized samples indicated the presence of three types of metal oxides i.e., CoO, NiO, and ZnO. TEM indicated spherical morphology of TM-MOF, upon calcination, an irregular agglomeration occurred and the average particle size was found to be 60–110 nm. The as-prepared TM-MOF and its carbon composites were tested for their electrocatalytic as well as catalytic activities towards oxygen evolution, urea oxidation and 4-nitrophenol reduction reactions. Electrochemical results indicate the better performance of TM-MOF-800 in both OER and UOR reactions with an onset potential of 1.66 V (OER) and 1.37 V (UOR) at a current density of 10 mA cm−2. The long-term stability of these catalysts under alkaline conditions indicates excellent stability. Besides, the urea electrolyzed products were analyzed by gas chromatography to get clear insights on the formed products. Catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol in the presence of excess NaBH 4 showed excellent conversion to 4-amino phenol in short duration. Image 1 • Trimetallic MOF consisting Ni, Co, Zn metal ions and BTC linker was successfully synthesized. • The TM-MOF were characterized by Raman, PXRD, FESEM, TEM and XPS. • The catalyst was studied for nitrophenol reduction and urea oxidation reaction. • TM-MOF-800 showed lower onset potential and tafel slope is 1.37 V and 137 mV dec−1. • TM-MOF-800 demonstrated the faster conversion of NP to AP and Urea to CO 2 , N 2 , H 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]