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• Owing to their cutaneous, immunologic, and renal immaturity, newborns (especially premature neonates) are at increased risk of infection. • As a group of potentially life-threatening but often treatable diseases, infections must always be considered in a newborn with skin lesions. • Prompt diagnosis and initiation of therapy are crucial to prevent devastating long-term sequelae, particularly in instances of disseminated disease. • Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus species, Candida albicans, and herpes simplex virus are the most common causes of skin infections in the neonate.

The electro-polishing behavior of C- steel in ortho-phosphoric acid using the galvanostatic polarization and weight loss methods was ascertained. This was inspected via anode potential–limiting current relationship measurement and comparison in solution of regularly mounting concentrations (from 50 to 1800 ppm of methanolic Marjoram (Origanum majorana), Coriander Seeds (Coriandrum sativum), Chamomile (Matricariarecutita), and Guava leaves (Psidium guajava L)) and influence of temperature on the dissolution kinetic were investigated. Surface morphologies, roughness and reflection of investigated specimens were inspected with a scanning electron microscope (SEM), Profilometry, atomic force microscope and Vis-IR Spectroscopy. Addition of methanolic plant extract to electro-polishing solution results in a lower limiting current. This confirms the mass transport of dissolved species from the anode surface to the bulk of solution as the rate-determining step in the presence of plant extract in all concentrations investigated. Retardation percentage gained from mass loss measurement are comparable with those obtained from measurements of galvanostatic polarization. Results based on microscopy, surface profile measurement and spectroscopy indicate that, addition of methanolic plant extract, a discrete enhancement in the surface texture was observed. Addition of 500 ppm of marjoram (Origanum majorana), coriander (Coriandrum sativa), chamomile (Matricariarecutita) and guava leaves (Psidium guajava L), the degree of surface brightness and reflectance are increased to 64.9, 56.59, 27 and 24.5 respectively relative to electro-polishing electrolyte free solution 16. The roughness (Ra) decreased from 2.7 µm to 0.52 µm without addition of any material. Ra values are 0.28, 0.23, 0.21 and 0.17 μm in the presence of guava leaves (Psidium guajava L), chamomile (Matricariarecutita), coriander seeds (Coriandrum sativum) and marjoram (Origanum majorana). Surface morphology study confirmed that addition of plant extracts to C-steel dissolution bath enhance surface appearance and its texture quality to great extent.

In the present study, we develop a fractional Zika virus model with mutation, which causes new birth problems in infected pregnant women and further spread in society. As a consequence, we apply this notion to the fractional dynamics of the Zika virus. We also use fractional derivatives to gain a better understanding of biological processes and their crossover behavior. The model simulation is based on realColombia data. Mathematical modeling of an infectious disease helps out us in predicting the future spread. Recently, many mathematical models describe the dynamics of infectious disease based on classical integer-order and non-integer order models. Therefore, we study the dynamics of the Zika virus based on non-integer order derivatives for better understanding seen and deeper insight into several biological models. We also describe the different properties of the model like the positivity of the model solution, equilibrium points, and invariant property of the proposed model. The reproduction number is computed with the next-generation technique. The parameters are estimated from confirmed infected cases in Colombia for the year 2016 seems that the model is appropriate for this data set. Moreover, the sensitivity of R 0 on the parameters calculated by the direct differentiation approach. The local and global stability analysis at disease-free and endemic states are investigated. The numerical approach generalized predictor–corrector is implemented for the validation of theoretical results and analyzing the effects of sensitive factors that might be helpful in reducing the infection. From graphical results, it is observed that the fractional model gives more insight and a better understanding of disease dynamics. These findings assist us in controlling the virus through contact precautions and recommended therapy, as well as projecting its future spread.

The phylum Arthropoda comprises approximately 85% of all described animal species. The class Arachnida includes some invertebrates of great importance as they are either involved in the transmission of diseases or poses a risk of human envenomation. Spiders belonging to the genus Phoneutria sp., are the arachnids exhibiting medical importance. These animals were quarantined and maintained in captivity at the Biotério de Artrópodes of the Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil, for the production of the anti-arachnid serum. A total 509 feces samples from different Phoneutria nigriventer were analyzed, and 131 (25.73%) samples were found to be positive for flagellates and ciliates. All positive samples were subjected to DNA extraction and amplification of 18S gene. A total of 16 sequences were obtained and analyzed using BLAST. Sequences were identified as Colpoda steiini, one as Colpoda aspera, one to Colpoda sp., and one as “ciliated”. Four identified as Parabodo caudatus, two as Urostipulosphaera sp., one as Helkesimastix sp., and one as a Euglena-like. The presence of clinical signs was observed in 16 spiders. The intestinal protozoa that affect armed spiders were identified for the first time as an initial step for understanding the parasitic diseases in these organisms.

We report an unknown taxon of bot fly (Diptera: Oestridae: Oestrinae) in red river hogs (Potamochoerus porcus Linnaeus, 1758) in Cross River State, Nigeria. From direct observation and interviews with local hunters, we document that, remarkably, the parasite typically occurs within the intracranial supra-meningeal space – i.e., between the inner wall of the skull and the brain – but without causing visible inflammation or clinical signs. The parasite is most similar (up to 87.9%) to Rhinoestrus usbekistanicus based on cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 DNA sequencing but is sufficiently divergent phylogenetically to represent a new or previously un-sequenced taxon. Morphologically, the parasite shares some, but not all, features with R. nivarleti. Local cultural belief systems attribute aspects of red river hog behavior (e.g. intelligence, elusiveness) to the parasite, suggesting a prolonged presence in the red river hog population. The parasite's unusual anatomic location may be aberrant, or it may be a protective adaptation to life in red river hogs, which forage vigorously with their snouts.

Haemonchus contortus is arguably one of the most economically important and ubiquitous parasites of livestock globally and commonly involved in cases of anthelmintic resistance. Here, we performed reciprocal genetic crosses using susceptible (MHco3(ISE)) and multiple anthelmintic resistant (MHco18(UGA2004)) H. contortus isolates. Resultant admixed populations were designated MHco3/18 or MHco18/3, where the lead isolate reflects the origin of the females. Three independent filial generations were generated for each cross, which were subjected to bioassays, molecular approaches and population genetic analyses to investigate the phenotypic and genotypic inheritance of benzimidazole (BZ) resistance at each stage. A panel of microsatellite markers confirmed the success of the genetic cross as markers from both parents were seen in the F1 crosses. Egg hatch tests revealed a stark difference between the two F1 crosses with ED50 estimates for MHco18/3 being 9 times greater than those for MHco3/18. Resistance factors based on ED50 estimates ranged from 6 to 57 fold in the filial progeny compared to MHco3(ISE) parents. Molecular analysis of the F167Y and F200Y SNP markers associated with BZ resistance were analysed by pyrosequencing and MiSeq deep amplicon sequencing, which showed that MHco3/18.F1 and MHco18/3.F1 both had similar frequencies of the F200Y resistant allele (45.3% and 44.3%, respectively), whereas for F167Y, MHco18/3.F1 had a two-fold greater frequency of the resistant-allele compared to MHco3/18.F1 (18.2% and 8.8%, respectively). Comparison between pyrosequencing and MiSeq amplicon sequencing revealed that the allele frequencies derived from both methods were concordant at codon 200 (rc = 0.97), but were less comparable for codon 167 (rc = 0.55). The use of controlled reciprocal genetic crosses have revealed a potential difference in BZ resistance phenotype dependent on whether the resistant allele is paternally or maternally inherited. These findings provide new insight and prompt further investigation into the inheritance of BZ resistance in H. contortus., Graphical abstract Image 1, Highlights • Reciprocal cross used to investigate benzimidazole (BZ) resistance. • Phenotypic and genotypic tools combined for analysis. • Inheritance of BZ resistance influenced by maternal &/or cytoplasmic mechanisms. • Double homozygous resistant genotypes at F167Y and F200Y detected on β−tubulin gene.

Human actions led to the worldwide decline of marine mammal populations in the 18th–19th centuries. Global adoption of protective legislation during the 20th century has recently allowed many marine mammal populations to recover. This positive trend is particularly true of pinnipeds (e.g., seals and sea lions), whose recovering populations are increasingly in conflict with fisheries. Fisheries organisations have called for managed culls of sea lion populations to reduce competition for target fish species as well as damage to catch and fishing gear through operational interactions. However, despite widespread perceptions that sea lion populations are generally increasing, to-date, culls have often been considered or implemented without quantitative evidence of their impacts on seal lion population viability. This knowledge gap is particularly concerning given the expected increase in extreme climate conditions, such as extreme El Niño events, which together with culls could push sea lion populations in some parts of the world into the extinction vortex. Here, I develop stochastic matrix population models of the South American sea lion (Otaria flavescens) parameterised through a combination of species-specific field data and phylogenetic imputation using data from related species in the COMADRE animal matrix database. Using these models, I project the impact of (1) three cull scenarios with different intensity and temporal frequency targeting adult females, (2) extreme El Niño events whose frequency is modelled using a Markovian transition matrix, and (3) the interaction of culls and extreme climate events on population dynamics. I focus on the Chilean population of O. flavescens, where recent increases in sea lion numbers have triggered widespread conflict with small-scale fisheries, and where sea lion populations will increasingly be affected by extreme El Niño conditions. I find that sea lion populations decline below minimum viable population sizes within 16–28 years under all scenarios involving culls and extreme climate events. This research explicitly incorporates parameter uncertainty into population projections—in so doing, it illustrates the need for future research to collect stage-specific, annual population data to reduce uncertainty regarding marine mammal vital rates.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) was identified in the early 1980s. It belongs to a group of retroviruses called lentiviruses (genus Lentivirus). Lentiviruses cause life-long chronic infections of a variety of animals. They are very host specific, often infect cells of the immune system and have the ability to productively infect nondividing cells. HIVs are very closely related to the simian immunodeficiency viruses (SIVs) that infect a number of species of nonhuman primate. The two types of HIV, HIV-1, and HIV-2 are most closely related to SIV chimpanzee and SIV sooty mangabey, respectively. HIV-1 is the more widely distributed. In 2012 the World Health Organization estimated over 35 million HIV-1 infections worldwide. This chapter discusses HIV cell and host tropism, functions of structural, regulatory, and auxiliary proteins and provides a general overview of pathogenesis, vaccine development, and treatments.

Caliciviruses are small, unenveloped positive-strand RNA viruses. The name calicivirus is derived from the Latin word “calyx” meaning cup or goblet describing the cup-shaped depressions on the capsid surface. Replication is cytoplasmic and RNA synthesis is primed with a virally encoded protein, VPg. Genome-length RNA serves as the mRNA for synthesis of a precursor polyprotein. A subgenomic mRNA, also linked to VPg, encodes one or two structural proteins. (There is some diversity in protein expression strategies.) In contrast to picornaviruses, caliciviruses do not have an IRES. Instead, cap-independent translation requires interactions of VPg with translation initiation factors. Caliciviruses have been isolated from humans, cattle, pigs, cats, chickens, reptiles, dolphins, and amphibians. As a group they have been difficult to study because many, including human noroviruses, are difficult to grow in cultured cells. Feline calicivirus and murine noroviruses are often used as surrogates for human noroviruses. Human noroviruses can cause large outbreaks of acute gastroenteritis and norovirus pathogenesis can only be studied by infecting adult human volunteers with bacterial-free fecal material. Noroviruses are easily transmitted (fecal–oral) and are extremely stable in the environment.

Humans and other animals have a complex set of protective responses to virus infections. In their basic features they are similar to immune responses to other pathogens. First-line defenses against viral infection are physical barriers such as skin. Innate responses to viral infections are rapid responses that depend on the recognition of pathogenic-associated molecular patterns shared among groups of viruses. For example, the long double-stranded RNA molecules that form during RNA virus replication. Innate responses depend on the activation of signaling pathways. In the case of viruses, these trigger the products of a large set of antiviral molecules. Interferons (IFNs) are key antiviral cytokines. They are produced by an infected cell and are released to activate antiviral responses in uninfected cells. The genes that are activated by IFNs are the so-called IFN-stimulated genes. The protein products of these genes are often inactive until activated by virus infection. The truly ancient interactions between cells and viruses are illustrated by the so-called intrinsic immune responses. These are innate responses to very specific viruses. The study of intrinsic responses reveals the continuous, long-term process of virus-host coevolution. Adaptive immune responses recognize specific pathogens. They are slower to develop, but have an important “memory” component. Adaptive responses include antibodies that inhibit (neutralize) viruses as well as cell-based responses that recognize and kill infected cells. Effective vaccines trigger protective, long-lasting adaptive responses. With the myriad of antiviral responses available to organisms, it is surprising that viruses exist! However they do, because they have evolved responses to our responses! They have even subverted antiviral responses to aid in their replication. The interactions between host and virus are multilayered and complex. The end result is often a situation where virus replication is limited but eliminated.

Members of the family Rhabdoviridae have unsegmented, negative-strand RNA genomes. Rod- or bullet-shaped virions are enveloped with helical nucleocapsids. There are well over 100 named rhabdoviruses isolated from hosts as diverse as insects, vertebrate animals, and plants. The overall replication strategy of the rhabdoviruses is similar to that of other families in the order Mononegavirales. Rabies virus (RABV), a member of the genus Lyssavirus, is an ancient and much feared pathogen. The name rabies comes from the Latin rabidus meaning raving, furious, or mad, a name that accurately describes many animals suffering from this invariably fatal neurologic infection. Suspected RABV exposures (i.e., bites) call for the administration of antirabies immune globulin and postexposure vaccination. Postexposure vaccination is effective due to the long incubation period as RABV travel up axons to the CNS.

Intracellular bacteria use multiple strategies to enter and persist in host cells. In doing so they must survive a plethora of host defense strategies that straddle innate and adaptive immune mechanisms. Intriguingly, it is the combination of intracellular infection and deployment of host immunity that define some of the most notorious bacterial-borne diseases known to humans, namely typhoid, tuberculosis and leprosy. Despite this, improvements in our understanding of the molecular processes involved on the side of both bacteria and host are new concepts in microbiology, immunology, molecular biology and ultimately, clinical medicine. New therapeutic approaches emanating from these insights should aid us in defying the continuing threat of increasing antibiotic resistance that is rendering many long-relied upon drugs ineffective.

The family Arteriviridae is one of four families in the order Nidovirales. Arteriviruses are enveloped, plus-strand RNA viruses with genomes of 12.7–15.7 kb. The overall genome organization and gene expression strategy of the arteriviruses is highly similar to the coronaviruses. Notably they use a discontinuous transcription strategy for synthesis of subgenomic mRNAs. There are no recognized human pathogens among the arteriviruses. Members of the family include equine arteritis virus and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus, the latter an economically important pathogen of pigs.

Members of the families Circoviridae and Anelloviridae are unenveloped and have single-stranded circular DNA genomes. Both have capsids with T =1 icosahedral symmetry although they morphologically distinct. Circovirus genomes are ~1700–3800 nt. They encode a single capsid (C) protein and a replication-associated protein that is believed to facilitate rolling circle replication of the genome. Anelloviruses are variable in genome size (2000–4000 nt) and sequence. They code for 3–4 proteins. The capsid is assembled from 60 copies of the capsid protein, VP1. VP2 is a phosphatase and VP3 (also called apoptin) induces apoptosis only in cancer cells. Viruses of both families replicate in the nucleus of mitotically active cells, as they are highly dependent on host cell proteins to replicate their DNA genomes. While a few circoviruses are associated with disease, many viruses in both families have been identified through metagenomic-sequencing studies and in general appear to be highly ubiquitous, nonpathogenic agents.

The family Filoviridae includes the genera Ebolavirus, Marburgvirus, and Cuevavirus. Ebola virus and Marburg virus can cause severe, often lethal, hemorrhagic fever in humans. Filoviruses (member of the order Mononegavirales) are enveloped viruses with unsegmented, negative-strand RNA genomes. They are notable for their bizarre filamentous shapes with virions that range in length from 800 to 1200 nm. As many filoviruses have the potential to cause severe disease, and there are no licensed vaccines, their study is restricted to high security, high containment laboratories. Filoviruses can infect many different cell types including fibroblasts, epithelial cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, and endothelial cells. Infection is cytopathic resulting in formation of necrotic lesions in affected organs. Severe infections appear to be caused by the ability of filoviruses to overwhelm innate immune responses to produce large quantities of virus in symptomatic individuals. Viral hemorrhagic fever is a common outcome and is probably caused by a combination of factors that include liver damage, coagulopathies, leaky blood vessels and high levels of proinflammatory mediators. A historic outbreak of human EBOV infection occurred in West Africa from 2013 to 2016. It was eventually brought under control, but not before causing over 28,000 infections with 11,325 deaths.

The name arenavirus comes from the Latin arenosus (sandy). Ribosomes are packaged within arenavirus virions and these are responsible for the “sandy” appearance of the particles. Arenavirus virions are enveloped with helical nucleocapsids and are pleomorphic, ranging in size from 100 to 130 nm in diameter. Structural proteins include a nucleocapsid protein (N), a matrix-like protein (Z), and two glycoproteins derived from a single precursor. Arenaviruses are segmented RNA viruses that replicate using an overall strategy common to negative-strand RNA viruses. However, both genome segments (large (L) and small (S)) are ambisense in their coding strategy. Rodents are natural hosts of many arenaviruses though some can infect humans through contact with infected rodents or inhalation of infectious urine or feces.

This chapter addresses several key aspects of rearing procedures for predatory bugs. The value of natural, factitious, and artificial foods for the major species used in biological control is reviewed. Whereas several types of factitious foods are routinely used in the production of heteropteran predators, the adoption of artificial diets in mass production systems has remained negligible. Special attention is given to the implications of zoophytophagy for the production of predatory bugs. The use of plants and plant materials as sources of water and supplementary nutrients, and as living and oviposition substrates, is discussed, as well as the potential of alternative substrates. The impacts of crowding, cannibalism, and the presence of microorganisms on the performance of rearing systems are also addressed. Although important gaps in our ability to produce heteropteran predators are identified, equally important is that production will clearly benefit from new technologies that are rapidly expanding our knowledge of genetics and of developmental and reproductive biology.

Sleep is affected by multiple environmental factors, but specific industrial and biologic toxins produce changes in the sleep–wake functions of humans. Mercury poisoning, trypanosomiasis, and endotoxins are examples that can alter sleep. 1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine produces a parkinsonian syndrome with significant sleep effects. Alcohol also affects sleep, especially altering hypoxic and hypercapnic drive, and increasing upper airway resistance. Lastly, cannabis tends to induce sleep, but a cannabis withdrawal syndrome has been described in which sleep worsens.

Reovirus genomes are segmented, double-stranded RNA. Virions contain from 9 to 12 linear segments. Virions are unenveloped and capsids are constructed from two or three discrete protein layers. Upon entry into the cell, the outer capsid layer(s) disassemble but genome segments remain within the innermost core. Each genome segment is associated with a molecule of RdRp and newly synthesized mRNAs are released through pores in the core particle. Members of the genus Rotavirus are major human and animal pathogens. In humans, most severe disease (life-threatening diarrhea) is seen among children 3 months to 2 years of age. Transmission is fecal oral and feces contain up to 1010 infectious units per gram. Virions are highly contagious and are very stable in the environment. Members of the genus Orthoreovirus are seldom associated with disease. They are ubiquitous and serve as good indicators of fecal contamination. Orbiviruses are transmitted by insects. Among the animal diseases caused by orbiviruses are bluetongue, epizootic hemorrhagic disease, and African horse sickness.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is highly infectious and is transmitted by blood and body fluids. It is estimated that over 200 million persons worldwide have chronic HBV infection, putting them at increased risk for developing cirrhosis of the liver and hepatocellular carcinoma. The course of HBV infection is highly dependent on the age of infected individual. Among adults, ~90% will clear the infection within 6 months but ~10% will develop lifelong chronic infection. The clinical outcome is reversed among infants with most becoming chronic carriers. HBV is a member of the Hepadnaviridae, a family of small, enveloped viruses with icosahedral capsids. Hepadnavirus genomes are relaxed circles of partially double-stranded DNA, synthesized by reverse transcription during virion assembly in the infected cell. Hepadnavirus replication is largely restricted to differentiated hepatocytes and infection is noncytopathic.

Yeast cells, fundamental in the brewery and bakery industry and present in human nutrition for thousands of years, from an attractive and novel encapsulation matrix. The structure of the yeast cells, which includes the thick and mechanically strong cell wall and the lipid plasma membrane, allows the encapsulation of both hydrophobic and hydrophilic active ingredients and provides high loading capacity. Yeast encapsulation mainly involves whole cells or cell walls of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, although Candida utilis, Kluyveromyces fragilis, Torulopsis lipofera, Endomyces vernalis, and oleaginous yeast (Cryptococcus curvatus) have also been used for encapsulation. The encapsulation process is simple and cost-effective and the yeast capsules prepared provide particular thermo-stability during heat processes, which is extremely beneficial for volatile compounds. Yeast encapsulation is also profitable for stabilization of the active compounds against light or oxygen damage, for along-lasting flavor release, and for targeted oral delivery.

Publisher Summary The release of easily decomposable root exudates leads to higher microbial density and activity in the rhizosphere compared to bulk soil, and this high density of microorganisms, in turn, attracts predators such as nematodes and protozoa. This chapter focuses on the colonization of the roots by microorganisms and discusses how these microorganisms can both enhance and reduce nutrient availability to plants. As the root grows through the soil, the new root surface just behind the meristematic tissue is colonized by microorganisms that are attracted to the root surface. Root exudates released in the zone immediately behind the root tip and in the distal elongation zone stimulate microbial growth and attract more soil microorganisms to the root surface. Mycorrhiza is the most widespread association between microorganisms and higher plants, and for plants, mycorrhizal associations are either mutualistic, neutral or parasitic. The two major mycorrhizal groups based on differential morphology and physiology are endomycorrhiza and ectomycorrhiza. There are several types of endomycorrhiza, the best known being arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM), ericoid and orchid mycorrhiza. Root colonization by mycorrhizal fungi is initiated either from soil-borne propagules (spores, colonized root residues) or from neighboring roots of the same or different plants and plant species. The most distinct effect of AM on plant growth is the improved supply of nutrients of low mobility in the soil solution, particularly P. Some ericoid and ECM fungi release proteinases and thereby provide the host plant with an access to complex organic sources of N such as proteins. Mycorrhizal colonization can also induce systemic resistance, that is, even roots not colonized by the fungus become resistant to pathogen attack.

The intermittent aeration of the middle ear seeds its mucosa with saliva aerosols and selects for a distinct community of commensals adapted to the otic microenvironment. We gained insights into the selective forces that enrich for specific groups of oral migrants in the middle ear mucosa by investigating the phylogeny and physiology of 19 strains enriched (Streptococcus) or transiently present (Staphylococcus, Neisseria and actinobacterial Micrococcus and Corynebacterium) in otic secretions. Phylogenetic analyses of full length 16S rRNA sequences resolved close relationships between the streptococcal strains and oral commensals as well as between the transient migrants and known nasal and oral species. Physiological functions that facilitate mucosal colonization (swarming motility, surfactant production) and nutrition (mucin and protein degradation) were widespread in all the otic cultivars, as was the ability of most of the isolates to grow both aerobically and anaerobically. However, streptococci stood out for their enhanced biofilm-forming abilities under oxic and anoxic conditions and for their efficient fermentation of mucosal substrates into lactate, a key metabolic intermediate in the otic trophic webs. Additionally, the otic streptococci inhibited the growth of common otopathogens, an antagonistic interaction that could exclude competitors and protect the middle ear mucosa from infections by transient pathobionts. These adaptive traits allow streptococcal migrants to colonize the otic mucosa and grow microcolonies with syntrophic anaerobic partners, establishing trophic webs with other commensals similar to those formed by the oral ancestors in buccal biofilms.ImportanceThe identification of a diverse microbiome in otic secretions from healthy young adults challenged the entrenched dogma of middle ear sterility and underscored previously unknown roles for oral commensals in the seeding of otic biofilms. By comparing the physiology of novel lineages of streptococci and transient (peri)oral species isolated from otic secretions, we identified adaptive behaviors that allow specific oral streptococcal species to successfully colonize the mucosa of the middle ear. We also describe antagonistic properties of the otic streptococci that help them outcompete transient nasal and oral migrants, including known otopathogens. This knowledge is important to predictively understand the functionality of the otic communities, their interactions with the host mucosa and the outcome of infections.

Rhus javanica (Anacardiaceae) containing abundant glucopyranosidal constituents, is traditionally used to treat gastric and duodenal ulcer, dysentery, and diarrhea. Rumex hastatus (Polygonaceae) widely distributed in Pakistan, has traditional importance in treating wound healing, jaundice, rheumatism, and skin diseases. Callistemon viminalis (Myrtaceae), a rich source of essential oils, saponins, triterpenoids, phloroglucinols, and flavonoids is used in industries, perfumes, nutrition, and cosmetics. Taking the importance of the subject plants, this study is designed to synthesize silver nanoparticles via aqueous extracts of R. javanica (RJAgNPs), R. hastatus (RHAgNPs), and C. viminalis (CVAgNPs). Synthesis, surface, and sizes of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were confirmed using spectroscopic techniques including ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis), Fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). AgNPs were produced in ratios 1:15, 1:16, and 1:9 and inferred via appearance of a sharp surface plasmon resonance (SPR) absorption peak (400–435 nm), which represented well-defined, stable, and spherical AgNPs. From SEM analysis, the sizes of RJAgNPs, RHAgNPs, and CVAgNPs were found to be 67 nm, 61 nm, and 55 nm, respectively. The synthesized AgNPs exhibited potential free radical scavenging, antibacterial, and catalytic properties in degradation of dyes including Congo red, methylene blue, methyl orange, rhodamine B, ortho and para-nitrophenols, and several food colours. Hence, the subject AgNPs in the current study might display promising role in drug development and remediation of environmental/industrial effluents.

Continual application of synthetic insecticides for mosquito larvae control has resulted in sever problems as build-up of mosquito resistance beside to negative impacts on human health and environment. Discovering new and affordable bio-insecticidal agents with high efficiency, cost effective and target specific become a crucial need. The current study assessed the larvicidal activity of eight methanolic algal extracts belong to three different algal divisions against the 3rd larval instar of Culex pipiens L. (Diptera: Culicidae). Comparative studies showed that four species of red and green algal extracts exhibited good larvicidal activity. Galaxaura elongata and Jania rubens (Rhodophyta), Codium tomentosum and Ulva intestinales (Chlorophyta) showed higher larvicidal potencies than Padina boryana, Dictyota dichotoma, and Sargassum dentifolium (Phaeophyta) and Gelidium latifolium (Rhodophyta). The maximum level of toxicity was achieved by exposure to G. elongata extract with LC50 (31.13 ppm), followed by C. tomentosum (69.85 ppm) then J. rubens (84.82 ppm) and U. intestinalis (97.54 ppm) while the lowest toxicity exhibited by G. latifolium (297.38 ppm) at 72h post- treatment. The application of LC50 values of G. elongate, J. rubens, C. tomentosum, and U. intestinalis extracts affected the activities of antioxidant enzymes viz. superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase as oxidative stress markers. An increase of antioxidant enzymes activities was recorded. Therefore, a significant elimination of free radicals, causing toxic effects. Overall, this study casts light on the insecticidal activity of some algal extracts, suggesting the possibility of application of these bio- agents as novel and cost- effective larvicides.

Tecoma stans (L.) Juss. Ex Kunth is widely used in folk medicine. In ethnomedicine, it is applied as a cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, antiarthritic, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial. The aqueous extract is considered antidiabetic, and is used as a traditional remedy in Mexico. More than 120 chemical constituents have been identified in its leaves, barks, and roots. However, less is known about the phytochemical properties of T. stans flower extracts. The herbal plant Nervilia concolor (Blume) Schltr. is native to Vietnam, and is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat diseases such as bronchitis, stomatitis, acute pneumonia, and laryngitis. Only two previous reports have addressed the chemical content of this plant. Bouea macrophylla Griff., commonly known as marian plum or plum mango, is a tropical plant that is used to treat a range of illnesses. Phytochemical analysis of B. macrophylla suggests the presence of volatile components and flavonoids. However, existing data have been obtained from screening without isolation. As part of our ongoing search for alpha-glucosidase inhibitors from Vietnamese medicinal plants, we conducted bioactive-guided isolation of the whole plant N. concolor, the flowers of T. stans, and the leaves of B. macrophylla. We isolated and structurally elucidated five known compounds from T. stans: ursolic acid (TS1), 3-oxours-12-en-28-oic acid (TS2), chrysoeriol (TS3), ferulic acid (TS4), and tecomine (TS5). Three known compounds were isolated from Nervilia concolor: astragalin (NC1), isoquercitrin (NC2), and caffeic acid (NC3). From B. macrophylla, betullinic acid (BM1), methyl gallate (BM2), and 3-O-galloyl gallic acid methyl ester (BM3) were isolated. All compounds showed promising alpha-glucosidase inhibition, with IC50 values ranging from 1.4 to 143.3 µM. The kinetics of enzyme inhibition showed BM3 to be a competitive-type inhibitor. An in silico molecular docking model confirmed that compounds NC1, NC2, and BM3 were potential inhibitors of the α-glucosidase enzyme. Molecular dynamics simulations were carried out with compound BM3 demonstrating the best docking model during simulation up to 100 ns to explore the stability of the complex ligand–protein.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia thrives with great plant diversity, including rare plants of the family Asphodelaceae that have multiple benefits and are still being studied. Aloe shadensis is one of these plants that must be preserved and documented in its natural environment. The most appropriate molecular approach currently approved for documentation is the sequencing of some genomic markers. The current study is the first to use genomic markers to record this rare plant. In this study, the plastid genes matK (Maturase K), rbcL (Ribulose-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase large subunit), and the nuclear region ITS (Internal transcribed spacer) were used to reveal their efficiency in identifying the plant under study. This study is the first to deal with this plant and document it using these genetic markers. The study showed a promising result concerning identifying the sequence of the matK gene and ITS region, while the rbcL gene did not give a good indicator through the used primers. The obtained sequences of the matK gene and the ITS region were determined through two different sets of primers in each case then deposited in GenBank. The evolutionary relatedness of Aloe shadensis was established with the different species of Aloe. The study showed that the closest species is Aloe vera with a similarity of more than 99 %. The study concludes with the possibility of using these genes to correctly identify, distinguish and document the species of Aloe shadensis.

The plant faces different pedological and climatic challenges that influence its growth and enhancement. While, plant-microbes interactions throught the rhizosphere offer several privileges to this hotspot in the service of plant, by attracting multi-beneficial mutualistic and symbiotic microorganisms as plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB), archaea, mycorrhizal fungi, endophytic fungi, and others…). Currently, numerous investigations showed the beneficial effects of these microbes on growth and plant health. Indeed, rhizospheric microorganisms offer to host plants the essential assimilable nutrients, stimulate the growth and development of host plants, and induce antibiotics production. They also attributed to host plants numerous phenotypes involved in the increase the resistance to abiotic and biotic stresses. The investigations and the studies on the rhizosphere can offer a way to find a biological and sustainable solution to confront these environmental problems. Therefore, the interactions between microbes and plants may lead to interesting biotechnological applications on plant improvement and the adaptation in different climates to obtain a biological sustainable agricultures without the use of chemical fertilizers.

In this study, three concentrations (250, 500, and 1000 ppm) of abamectin 2% suspension concentration (SC) were used as cucumber seeds treatment. The seeds were treated with abamectin to reduce nematodes reproduction and their ability to penetrate the roots, then seed germination and plant growth were observed. All the concentrations didn’t negatively affect seeds germination wherever the germination percent reached 80% at the concentration (1000 ppm) after 20 days of sowing. The effect of abamectin on root-knot nematode was studied by recording numbers of nematodes in 100 g/soil, numbers of the galls, egg mass on the root, and the nematode reproduction factor. All concentrations significantly affected the nematode reproduction parameters compared to control. Abamectin at (500 ppm) was the most effective concentration on reducing nematodes parameters, i.e., 26.57, 38.83, 47.40 %, and 3.15 for the above-mentioned parameters, respectively at the end of experimint. No significant difference between 500 ppm and 1000 ppm. We recommended using the abamectin in (500 ppm) concentration as a seed application to control Meloidogyne incognita in cucumber plants under greenhouse conditions to reduce its environmental toxic effect.

Crustacean waste is one of the most severe issues, posing significant environmental and health risks. This study aims to improve managing marine waste by isolating chitosan from Procambarus clarkii by devising a new methodology, incorporating technical steps, e.g., washing, decolorization and deacetylation under a reflexive condenser and dialysis purification. A comparison was made between the prepared P. clarkii chitosan and four types of shrimp chitosans: commercial, high, low, and nano. The obtained chitosan has a low molecular weight and viscosity compared to the commercial shrimp chitosan used in various applications. P. clarkii chitosan was prepared in high quality from a cheap source, as its color and quality were better than those of the commercial shrimp chitosan. The new methodology has successfully extracted chitosan from P. clarkii in a good quality and high purity, achieving 89% deacetylation, high solubility, high purity, and medium molecular weight. Analysis of the different chitosan samples with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), atomic force microscopy, Raman spectrum referred indicated high similarity between the chitosan different types, regardless of its source. The 3D image of P. clarkii showed the distance between the highest and most profound points of extracted chitosan is 728.94 nm, revealing homogeneous, smooth surfaces, apparently free of pores and cracks. FTIR and Raman spectrum of P. clarkii indicated various functional groups, e.g., alcohol, amines, amides, and phenols. These active groups are responsible for about 60% of the antioxidant activity of that product. Evaluating the quality traits indicated the excellence of the chitosan prepared from P. clarkii, especially in color, viscosity, and antioxidant activity, nominating it for different food applications.

An assessment of 27 mutant tomato lines from four countries (Germany, USA, Russia, Bulgaria) was carried out for resistance to five Alternaria alternata strains under conditions of the South of Russia. Five strains of the A. alternata fungus were isolated from naturally infected plants selected in five agroclimatic zones of Krasnodar Krai: Central - strain 1, Western - strain 6, North - strain 11, South Foothill - strain 12, Chernomorskaya - strain 13. The assessment was carried out in the field during 2018–2020, in a greenhouse and under the laboratory conditions three times for each studied strain. In the field, the plants were treated every year with a spore suspension of A. alternata strain 1. Mutant lines obtained from the United States: 868, 663, 533, 544 and 898 showed the greatest resistance to Alternaria in 2018–2020, the lesion of which averaged 4.5–8.0% over three years. 13 mutant lines: 17, 40, 688, 722 (Germany), 311, 394, 418, 542, 728, 743, 917 (USA), 322 (Russia), 159 (Bulgaria) showed average resistance with the development of the disease 10.2–24.9% over three years of the research. Mutant lines 743, 663, 868, 544 obtained from the USA possessed relatively high resistance to all the studied strains under greenhouse conditions; moreover, no signs of damage with strains 1 and 11 were observed on Mo 868, signs of damage by strain 11 of A. alternata were not observed on Mo 743. Under laboratory conditions, mutant lines 663, 743, 868, obtained from the United States, were most resistant. Mo 663 showed resistance to strains 1, 13; line 743 - to strains 11, 12; line 868 - to strains 1, 11. There was a predominantly positive correlation between the results of field, greenhouse and laboratory assessments, which indicates a strong connection between them and the possibility of using these methods to assess the resistance of tomato samples to Alternaria independently of each other.

Microalgae represent promising sources of bioactive compounds for pharmaceutical and industrial applications. The emergence of antibiotic resistant bacteria leads to the need to explore new cost-effective, safe, and potent bioactive compounds from the microalgae. This study aimed to investigate the potential of local microalgae for their antimicrobial properties and bioactive compounds. Three local microalgae namely Chlorella sorokiniana (UKM2), Chlorella sp. UKM8, and Scenedesmus sp. UKM9 biomass methanol extracts (ME) were prepared and tested against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Chlorella sp. UKM8-ME showed the highest antibacterial activity. UKM8-ME minimum inhibitory concentrations were in the range of 0.312 to 6.25 mg/mL. Cytotoxicity evaluation using MTT assay showed that the microalgae methanolic extracts did not exhibit cytotoxicity against Vero-cells. The UKM8-ME was mainly containing 28 compounds from the Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis. Major compounds of UKM8-ME included phenol (18.5%), hexadecanoic acid (18.25%), phytol (14.43%), 9,12-octadecadienoic acid (13.69%), and bicyclo[3.1.1]heptane (7.23%), which have been previously described to possess antimicrobial activity. Hence, Chlorella sp. (UKM8) methanol extracts showed promising antibacterial activity. More comprehensive studies are required to purify these antimicrobial compounds and develop our understanding on their mechanism in UKM8-ME to unleash their specific potential.

The field experiment was conducted during Kharif season of 2020 at Agronomy farm of Faculty of Agriculture, Wadura, SKUAST-K to study the influence of age of seedling and sources of nutrients on phenology, yield and agrometeorological indices for sweet corn. The experiment included two factors viz. age of seedlings (12, 22 and 32 days old seedling) and sources of nutrients (control, RDF, 50 percent RDF + FYM @ 12 t ha−1, 50 percent RDF + vermi-compost @ 4 t ha−1 and 50 percent RDF + poultry manure @ 2 t ha−1) tested in RCBD with three replications. Transplanting 12 days old seedlings required maximum number of days to attain different phenological stages, thereby accumulated maximum heat units followed by 22 days old seedlings. While as transplanting 22 days old seedling recorded significantly highest HUE, HTUE, PTUE and HyTUE and consequently resulted in the highest green cob and biological yield compared to other ages of seedlings. Among various sources of nutrients, application of 50 per cent RDF + poultry manure @ 2 t ha−1 took maximum number of days to attain various phenophases thereby accumulated maximum heat units and registered highest HUE, HTUE, PTUE and HyTUE followed by application of 100 per cent RDF.

Purpose Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infection is an important issue after lung transplantation. However, a large-scale epidemiological study on this issue in Korea is lacking. We aimed to evaluate the epidemiology of NTM infection after lung transplant surgery in Korea. Methods Between October 2012 and December 2018, we retrospectively evaluated lung transplant recipients in a referral hospital in South Korea. A total of 215 recipients were enrolled. The median age at transplantation was 56 years (range, 17–75), and 62% were men. Bronchoscopy was performed according to the surveillance protocol and clinical indications. A diagnosis of NTM infection was defined as a positive NTM culture from a bronchial washing, bronchoalveolar lavage sample, or two separate sputum samples. We determined NTM pulmonary disease (NTM-PD) according to the American Thoracic Society/Infectious Disease Society of America 2007 guidelines. The Kaplan–Meier method and log-rank test were used for conditional survival analysis in patients with follow-up of ≥12 months. Results Fourteen patients (6.5%) were diagnosed with NTM infection at a median of 11.8 months (range, 0.3–51.4) after transplantation. Nine patients (4.2%) were diagnosed with NTM-PD, and the incidence rate was 1980/100,000 person-years. Mycobacterium abscessus was the most common species causing NTM-PD (66%), followed by M. avium complex (33%). The presence of NTM infection did not influence all-cause mortality among those who underwent follow-up for ≥12 months (N = 133, log-rank P = 0.816). Conclusion The incidence of NTM-PD was considerably high among lung-transplant recipients. M. abscessus was the most common causative species of NTM-PD after lung transplantation.

Xanthones C-glycosides are plants secondary metabolites with diverse biological activities. Among the C-glycoside xanthones, the mangiferin (MF) is of widespread occurrence in plants while isomangiferin (IsoMF) is not very common. For the present study mangiferin (MF) and isomangiferin (IsoMF) were isolated from Dryopteris ramosa. The antibacterial potential of MF and IsoMF was evaluated by using agar well diffusion method while cytotoxic properties of MF and IsoMF were assessed by brine shrimp lethality test (BSLT). The antibacterial potential of MF and IsoMF increases in dose dependent manner. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) indicated strong antibacterial potential of MF against Salmonella setubal (125 µg/mL) and Bacillus subtilis (125 µg/mL) while MF showed weak antibacterial potential against Escherichia coli (500 µg/mL). On the other hand the IsoMF showed better antibacterial potential against all the tested strain including Escherichia coli (MIC = 250 µg/mL). The MF and IsoMF showed poor cytotoxicity towards Brine shrimp nauplii as indicated by their LD50 (969.77 ± 0.67 and 768.92 ± 0.81 µg/mL respectively). The present study has highlighted the antibacterial potential of MF and IsoMF. Further evaluation of these two isomeric compounds may prove to be the future remedies for various bacterial infections and other human ailments.

Background The emergence of resistance to commonly used antibiotics by human infections occurred mostly due to their overuse, that prompted individuals to pursue novel and innovative treatments. The phytochemical characteristics, antibacterial activity, and cytotoxicity of MCF7 cells were evaluated in two Pleurotus spp. mycelial extracts in this work. Methods Pleurotus djamor and Pleurotus florida mycelial extracts from pure cultures were tested for antibacterial activity by a well-diffusion assay and antimicrobial activity against mold fungi was evaluated for biomass inhibition. Mycelial extracts were obtained from dichloromethane extracts and their biophysical characteristics are analyzed by UV–vis spectrum and FTIR analysis. By spraying detection reagents onto TLC plates, the chemicals in dichloromethane extraction of chosen mushroom fungus mycelia were identified. Using the MTT test, the cytotoxic effect of dichloromethane extracts of selected mushroom fungi was evaluated on MCF7 Cell lines. Results Mycelial extracts of P. djamor and P. florida exhibited significant antimicrobial effect on the bacterial and fungal pathogens tested. Dichloromethane mycelial extracts were obtained using soxhlet extraction which response positive for various phytochemical analysis. Detection of metabolites in thin layer chromatography using spray reagents documented one of few first accounts on flavonoids, anthroquinone and terpenoid compounds in P. djamor and P. florida. P. djamor and P. florida had dose-dependent antiproliferative activity against MCF7 cells, with an inhibitory impact of 55.72% and 64.47% percent at 125 μg/mL, respectively. Conclusion The study has reported the identification with the potent biological activity of some of the key bioactive components present in DCM extracts from the mycelia of P. djamor and P. florida.

The acute toxicity of household detergent (Ariel) on blood parameters and histology of Oreochromis niloticus was investigated using static bioassay for 96 h. Linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) is an anionic surfactant widely used in detergents and cleaners, both in industrial and household applications. LAS contaminating aquatic ecosystems as a potential toxic pollutant, was investigated in the present study for acute toxicity. The fish samples were divided into six groups, including 20 fish in each group. Normal feed was given to control group without detergents treatment. Hematological parameters (RBC count, Hb, Ht and platelets) were significantly declined, while WBC count showed a highly significant increase. Compared with the control group, significant elevation of serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) was recorded in fish treated with different concentrations of detergent. Catalase (CAT), Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities and Reduced Glutathione (GSH) concentration showed a highly significant reduction. Total proteins showed significant decrease, while total lipids, cholesterol and triglycerides significantly increased. The mean lethal concentration (LC50) for 96 h of Ariel was at concentration 10 mg/L. Relative percentage of detergent residues in fish muscles was increased with higher detergent concentrations. In conclusion, exposure to detergents resulted in great alterations in the histological structure of liver and gills.

Background Ralstonia pickettii is an opportunistic waterborne microbe which can survive in many kinds of solutions. Contamination of these solutions may result as outbreaks, which can be mortal for immuncompromised patients. Herein we report an outbreak of R. pickettii related to contaminated saline infusion in our center. Methods This study was conducted in Ankara Pediatric City Hospital. An outbreak occured in Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Unit between August 28, 2019 and September 13, 2019. When the outbreak occured, infection control team began an investigation. Environmental samples were collected in order to find the source of the outbreak. Results A total of 11 patients with catheter related blood stream infection caused by R. pickettii who were diagnosed with leukemia were affected. None of the patients infected with R. pickettii died during the outbreak. A total of seventy environmental samples were cultured with the purpose of finding the source of outbreak. R. pickettii grew in normal saline solution culture and all isolates had the same clone of R. pickettii. The outbreak lasted two weeks and was controlled by stopping the usage and sending back the saline solutions belonging to the same manufacturing batch. Conclusions We reported an outbreak of R. pickettii BSIs in highly immunocompromised patients due to contaminated intravascular solution, which was rapidly controlled by infection control measures. Vigilant surveillance by hospital infection control teams and prompt investigation to identify the source of nosocomial infections are crucial to stop an outbreak.

The current works report the bio-efficacy of Pimenta dioica leaf derived silver nanoparticles (Pd@AgNPs) and leaf extract obtained trough different solvents against the larvae of malaria, filarial and dengue vectors. Synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) was done by adding 10 ml of P. dioica leaf extract into 90 ml of 1 mM silver nitrate solution, a slow colour change was observed depicting the formation of AgNPs. Further, Pd@AgNPs was confirmed through Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy which exhibited characteristic absorption peak at 422 nm wavelength. X-ray diffraction and selected area electron diffraction analysis confirmed monodispersed and crystalline nature of Pd@AgNPs with 32 nm an average size. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy showed the most of Pd@AgNPs were spherical and triangular in shape and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy revealed silver elemental nature of nanoparticles. Zeta potential of Pd@AgNPs is highly negative which confirmed its stable nature. Pd@AgNPs showed prominent absorption peaks at 1015, 1047, 1243, 1634, 2347, 2373, 2697 and 3840 cm−1 which are corresponding to following compounds polysaccharides, carboxylic acids, water, alcohols, esters, ethers, amines, amides and phenol, respectively as reported by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis revealed 39 and 70 compounds, respectively, which might be contributed for bio-reduction, capping, stabilization and larvicidal behavior of AgNPs. A comparable lethality (LC50 and LC90) was observed in case of Pd@AgNPs over leaf extract alone. The potential larvicidal activity of Pd@AgNPs was observed against the larvae of Aedes aegypti,(LC50, 2.605; LC90, 5.084 ppm) Anopheles stephensi (LC50, 3.269; LC90, 7.790 ppm) and Culex quinquefasciatus (LC50, 5.373; LC90, 14.738 ppm without affecting non-targeted organism, Mesocyclops thermocyclopoides after 72 hr of exposure. This study entails green chemistry behind synthesis of AgNPs which offers effective technique for mosquito control and other therapeutic applications.