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Comprehending the anaerobic nitrogen transformations, including denitrification, anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox), and anaerobic ammonium oxidation linked with iron reduction (Feammox) in soil, is essential for improving soil fertility and minimizing the environmental impacts of nitrogen loss. Despite this, research on anaerobic nitrogen transformations, particularly Feammox in paddy soil, is sparse. This study examined soil denitrification, anammox, and Feammox, along with their respective contributions to nitrogen loss in paddy soil at various depths, under different fertilization and irrigation treatments. It utilized 15N isotope labeling to investigate the limiting factors of these anaerobic nitrogen transformations and their interactions. The findings showed that denitrification rates ranged from 0.41 to 2.12 mg N kg−1 d−1, while anammox rates ranged from 0.062 to 0.394 mg N kg−1 d−1, contributing 84.3% to 88.1% and 11.8% to 15.7% of total soil nitrogen loss, respectively. Denitrification was identified as the predominant pathway for nitrogen loss across different soil depths. Fertilization and irrigation had more pronounced impacts on anaerobic nitrogen transformations than did soil depth, potentially affecting these processes through both abiotic and biotic pathways. This study identified significant correlations among the three types of anaerobic nitrogen transformations. These findings offer a theoretical foundation for optimizing nitrogen management strategies to mitigate losses in agricultural systems.

Abstract Background The Anopheles hyrcanus group is distributed throughout the Oriental and Palaearctic regions and can transmit diseases such as malaria, Japanese encephalitis virus, and filariasis. This investigation marks the inaugural comprehensive study to undertake a phylogenetic analysis of the constituents of this malaria vector group in the northeastern region of Iran, juxtaposed with documented occurrences from different areas within Iran and worldwide. Methods Mosquitoes were collected using various methods from nine different locations in Golestan province from April to December 2023. The collected mosquitoes were identified morphologically using valid taxonomic keys. DNA was isolated using the Sambio™ Kit. COI and ITS2 primers were designed using Oligo7 and GeneRunner. PCR and purification were performed with the Qiagen kit. Subsequently, sequencing was carried out at the Mehr Mam GENE Center using an Applied Biosystems 3730XL sequencer. The nucleotide sequences were then analyzed and aligned with GenBank data using BioEdit. Kimura 2-parameter was Utilized for base substitutions. DNA models were selected based on AIC and BIC criteria. Bayesian and Maximum Likelihood trees were constructed, along with a haplotype network. Molecular diversity statistics computed using DnaSP software. Results In this study, a total of 819 adult mosquitoes were collected. An. hyrcanus was the second most abundant species, predominantly found in Kalaleh and Turkman counties. The sequenced and edited COI and ITS2 sequences were deposited in GenBank under specific accession numbers. Phylogenetic analyses using ML, BI, and NJ methods confirmed a monophyletic lineage for An. hyrcanus with strong support. Molecular analysis of Iranian An. hyrcanus found 11 diverse haplotypes, with the COI gene displaying low diversity. The ITS2 gene revealed two clades - one associating with Iran, Europe, and Asia; the other originating from southwestern Iran. The haplotype network showed two main groups - one from southwest Iran and the other from north Iran. Iran exhibited six distinct haplotypes, while Turkey showcased the highest diversity. Conclusions An. hyrcanus in southwestern Iran exhibits a distinct haplogroup, suggesting possible subspecies differentiation. Additional studies are required to validate this phenomenon.

Abstract Acetamiprid (ACDP) is a widely used neonicotinoid insecticide that is popular for its efficacy in controlling fleas in domestic settings and for pets. Our study aims to offer a comprehensive examination of the toxicological impacts of ACDP and the prophylactic effects of cinnamon nanoemulsions (CMNEs) on the pathological, immunohistochemical, and hematological analyses induced by taking ACDP twice a ‎week for 28 days. Forty healthy rats were divided into four groups (n = 10) at random; the first group served as control rats; the second received CMNEs (2 mg/Kg body weight); the third group received acetamiprid (ACDP group; 21.7 mg/Kg body weight), and the fourth group was given both ACDP and CMNEs by oral gavage. Following the study period, tissue and blood samples were extracted and prepared for analysis. According to a GC-MS analysis, CMNEs had several bioactive ingredients that protected the liver from oxidative stress by upregulating antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents. Our findings demonstrated that whereas ACDP treatment considerably boosted white blood cells (WBCs) and lymphocytes, it significantly lowered body weight gain (BWG), red blood cells (RBCs), hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (HCT), and platelets (PLT). ACDP notably reduced antioxidant enzyme activities: superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT) and elevated hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde levels compared with other groups. ACDP remarkably raised alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate amino transaminase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels. Moreover, the histopathological and immunohistochemistry assays discovered a severe toxic effect on the liver and kidney following ACDP delivery. Furthermore, cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) + immunoexpression was enhanced after treatment with CMNEs. All of the parameters above were returned to nearly normal levels by the coadministration of CMNEs. The molecular docking of cinnamaldehyde with COX-2 also confirmed the protective potential of CMNEs against ACDP toxicity. Our findings highlighted that the coadministration of CMNEs along with ACDP diminished its toxicity by cutting down oxidative stress and enhancing antioxidant capacity, demonstrating the effectiveness of CMNEs in lessening ACDP toxicity.

Introduction: Photodynamic therapy is a promising method of tumors treatment using photosensitizers and light of a certain wavelength. PS modification improves and enhances the phototoxic effect with decreased dark cytotoxicity. Materials and Methods: We compared the photosensitizing effect of polyelectrolyte microcapsules with chlorin E6 (ClE6) and free ClE6 at equivalent concentrations on murine fibroblast culture L929 using in vitro tests. Microcapsules were prepared layer by layer, sequentially depositing oppositely charged polyelectrolytes onto spherical CaCO3 particles. Cellular uptake of capsules was assessed using confocal microscopy. MTT test was used for a study of cell viability, and the relative amount of ROS was determined by the fluorescent method. Results: Microcapsules with ClE6 (in all tested concentrations) after exposure to red light (660 nm) reduced cell viability from 20% to 5%, while these capsules did not have dark cytotoxicity. Free ClE6 at the same concentrations as in the capsules after irradiation reduced viability from 65% to 35%. The level of ROS in the group of cells with capsules was 2 times higher compared to the group with CLE6. Discussion: The most probable mechanism of toxicity increase is creation of a higher ROS concentration and effect localization in the area of microcapsule interaction with the cell membrane. ROS production activation may stem from capsules providing a higher local PS concentration in the cell or nearby than the drug’s free form. Conclusion: The inclusion of chlorin E6 in polymer capsules reduced dark toxicity and increased the photosensitizing effect compared to the free form of ClE6.

Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera) is a notable insect pest that invades major cereal crops, causing significant damage and loss. Resistances of 2nd instar larvae of two Egyptian field populations of S. frugiperda, collected from the Fayoum and Giza governments, were measured against eight insecticides, including traditional insecticides (profenofos and cypermethrin), bio-insecticides (emamectin benzoate, spinosad, and Bacillus thuringiensis), and insect growth regulators (IGRs) (lufenuron, diflubenzuron, and methoxyfenozide). In addition, the synergistic effects of three synergists (Piperonyl butoxide (PBO), diethyl maleate (DEM), and triphenyl phosphate (TPP) were assessed, and the activities of detoxification enzymes (acetylcholine esterase (AChE), cytochrome P-450 (CYP-450), carboxylesterase (CarE), and glutathione-s-transferase (GST) were also determined. Resistance surveillance revealed that the Fayoum field population showed moderate resistance to cypermethrin (RR = 5.75-fold), followed by spinosad (RR = 2.62-fold), and lufenuron (2.01-fold). On the other hand, the Giza population exhibited significant resistance to cypermethrin only (RR = 3.65-fold). Our results revealed that emamectin benzoate was the most effective insecticide, with an LC50 value of 0.003 mg/L for the Fayoum population and 0.001 mg/L for the Giza population, compared to the susceptible strain (0.005 mg/L). Among the biological insecticides, Bacillus thuringiensis was the least toxic insecticide of all the tested strains. Synergism assays indicated that DEM and TPP had the most synergistic effect on spinosad (SR = 8.00-fold for both), followed by PBO (SR = 5.71-fold) for the Fayoum population, compared with spinosad alone. The assay of detoxification enzymes showed that GST activity significantly (p < 0.05) increased in the two field strains compared to the susceptible strain. However, no significant changes were observed among the tested strains in CYP-450, CarE, or AChE. The findings of this study provide substantial insights into tracking and managing the development of insecticide resistance in S. frugiperda in Egypt.

This study utilizes Mentha piperita (MI) for the first time to investigate the uptake and translocation of chlorpyrifos (CPF; 10 µg g−1) from soil, introducing a new approach to improve the efficacy of this technique, which includes using biosurfactants (Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) at 107 CFU/mL to degrade CPF under greenhouse conditions. Moreover, antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (Prx), and oxidative stress due to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in MI roots and leaves were evaluated under CPF stress. Our results demonstrated that amending soil with MI and B. subtilis followed by P. aeruginosa significantly reduced CPF levels in the soil (p > 0.05) and enhanced CPF concentrations in MI roots and leaves after 1, 3, 7, 10, and 14 days of the experiment. Furthermore, CPF showed its longest half-life (t1/2) in soil contaminated solely with CPF, lasting 15.36 days. Conversely, its shortest half-life occurred in soil contaminated with CPF and treated with MI along with B. subtilis, lasting 4.65 days. Soil contaminated with CPF and treated with MI and P. aeruginosa showed a half-life of 7.98 days. The half-life (t1/2) of CPF-contaminated soil with MI alone was 11.41 days. A batch equilibrium technique showed that B. subtilis is better than P. aeruginosa for eliminating CPF from soil in In vitro experiments. Notably, CPF-polluted soil treated with coadministration of MI and the tested bacteria improved the activities of SOD and Prx and reduced H2O2 and MDA compared with CPF-polluted soil treated with MI alone. Our findings demonstrated that using B. subtilis and P. aeruginosa as biosurfactants to augment phytoremediation represents a commendable strategy for enhancing the remediation of CPF contamination in affected sites while reducing the existence of harmful pesticide remnants in crop plants.

Background. Furanocoumarin-based drugs are used for photochemotherapy of various diseases. Sosnovsky’s hogweed can be an available source of furanocoumarins for the development of drugs.The aim of the study. To obtain stable emulsions containing furanocoumarins from Sosnowski’s hogweed and to evaluate their photocytotoxicity.Materials and methods. To obtain the emulsions, furanocoumarins were extracted with chloroform from the sap of the aerial part of the Sosnowski’s hogweed. The chloroform extract was clarified by silica gel gradient column chromatography. The extractive fraction containing furanocoumarins was analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet (UV) detection. An extract with a high content of 8-methoxypsoralen was used to prepare two types of emulsions. The extract was dissolved in peach oil and emulsified in water with tween-80 (emulsion No. 1) and in an aqueous glycerin solution with lecithin (emulsion No. 2).The emulsions were tested for dark and photo-induced toxicity for human lung fibroblasts. The dose of UV radiation for the photoactivation of furanocoumarins was 9 J/cm2. A solution of chlorine e6 was used as a comparison photosensitizer.Results. The obtained emulsions contained 1 mg/ml 8-methoxypsoralen. Both emulsions were homogeneous at macro- and microscopic visualization, remained stable when stored under various temperature conditions for 14 days. Emulsion No. 2 did not show dark toxicity and caused a statistically significant inhibition of cell viability under UV irradiation at a concentration of 12.5–31.3 µg/mL. Emulsion No. 1 had a toxic effect on cells regardless of UV irradiation due to the content of tween-80. According to fluorescent microscopy, the phototoxic effect of emulsion No. 2 was manifested mainly due to apoptosis, in contrast to the effect of chlorine e6, in which there were more pronounced signs of cell necrosis.Conclusion. The developed experimental emulsions of furanocoumarins from Sosnovski’s hogweed are an example of promising medicinal photosensitizers of plant origin for phototherapy of various dermatological and oncological diseases.

Bactrocera zonata (Saunders) (Diptera: Tephritidae) is an important insect pest of fruits in Egypt. The desire for fresh fruits free of insecticides drives the adoption of environmentally friendly biopesticides to manage pests. The current study sought to estimate the toxicity and biochemical alterations of 3rd larval instar of B. zonata affected by clove, neemazal T/S, garlic, ginger and orange oils compared with indoxacarb at LC50 under laboratory conditions. Results after 24 h of treatment indicated that neemazal T/S is more toxic than other tested oils compared with higher toxicity of indoxacarb with LC50 values of 86.09, 174.72, 4514.38, 7224.01, 9387.73 and 2590.2 μg/mL for indoxacarb, neemazal T/S, ginger, clove, garlic and orange oils, respectively. Moreover, after 24 h of treatment, the larval content of digestive enzymes drastically decreased. All compounds caused a remarkable reduction in protease (except clove oil), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), phenol oxidase enzyme, α-esterase (except indoxacarb and neemazal T/S) and β-esterase (except ginger oil and neemazal T/S) activity. Also, total carbohydrates, total lipids and total proteins take the same trend. All treatments at LC50 increased the activity of cytochrome p450 and glutathione-s-transferase against 3rd larval instar of B. zonata compared with control. Our findings recommended that the tested botanicals could be an effective substitute for conventional insecticides as well as their safety for human beings and beneficial organisms.

Background and Objectives: Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a common parasitic disease in tropical and subtropical areas. This disease has become endemic in some parts of Qom province in central Iran. This study aims to determine the epidemiological characteristics and endemicity of zoonotic CL in Qom, Iran. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, out of 45 villages located in CL endemic areas in central and Kahak districts of Qom province, 8 villages were randomly selected. At the end of each season, the households were visited and their demographic information and history of infection with CL were recorded using standard forms. Results: Out of 4228 people living in 8 disease endemic villages, 1920(45.41%) had skin lesions and a history of infection with CL. We also found 165 new cases with active lesions. The prevalence of zoonotic CL was 71.49 per 1000 persons. Among patients, 13.33% were under 7 years of age and 67.87% aged >15 years old. Therefore, zoonotic CL in the study area had a hypoendemic focus. Conclusion: The focus of zoonotic CL in Qom province is hypoendemic. Therefore, personal protection methods against sandfly bites such as the use of mosquito nets (especially insecticide-treated mosquito nets), the nets for doors and windows in residential areas, and the insect repellent compounds are recommended to control the disease in Qom.

Multispecies cropping systems contribute to sustainable agriculture with multiple ecosystem services. Effects of intercropping of various crops with faba beans on growth and yield parameters and disease severity of root rot, damping off and broomrape were investigated. This study was implemented in the laboratory, greenhouse and field to investigate the effect of the intercropping systems (fenugreek + faba bean, lupine + faba bean, garlic + faba bean and sole faba bean). The intercropping systems were combined with the application of arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi (AMF) and yeast as bio-control agents, compared to chemical application of herbicides (Glyphosate) and fungicides (Rizolex-T50), to control rot root diseases and broomrape weeds, Orobanche spp., of faba bean plants in vivo and under the naturally infested field. In vitro, yeast and Rizolex-T50 significantly inhibited mycelial growth of root pathogenic fungi. Intercropping with garlic and/or application of Rizolex-T, significantly decreased the incidence and disease index of root rot and damping-off diseases, meanwhile increased percentage of survival plants. In vivo, intercropping with fenugreek and/or application of Glyphosate, significantly reduced the number/weight of spikes/plot of broomrapes. Intercropping with fenugreek combined with AMF application promoted crop growth and significantly increased yield components. The AMF enhanced seed yield/ha when applied to the intercropping of faba bean + fenugreek and faba bean + garlic, showing the highest seed yield/ha with 3.722 and 3.568 ton/ha, respectively. Intercropping of faba bean with garlic integrated with AMF revealed the highest values of LER, 2.45, and net return, 2341 US$/ha. Our results suggested that using faba bean–garlic intercrop along with AMF inoculation can reduce root rot disease, damping off and broomrapes, as well as enhance the profitability of Egyptian farmer and sustainable production.

Bio-fertilization is a sustainable agricultural practice that includes using bio-fertilizers to increase soil nutrient content resulting in higher productivity. Soil micro-flora has been exposed to improve soil fertility and increase biomass productivity and identified as a correct environmentally friendly bio-based fertilizer for pollution-free agricultural applies. The majority of cyanobacteria can fix nitrogen from the atmosphere and several species including Anabaena sp., Nostoc sp., and Oscillatoria angustissima is known to be effective cyanobacterial based bio fertilizers. Acutodesmus dimorphus, Spirulina platensis Chlorella vulgaris, Scenedesmus dimorphus, Anabaena azolla, and Nostoc sp. are some of the green microalgae and cyanobacteria species that have been successfully used as bio fertilizers to boost crop growth. Also, Chlorella vulgaris is one of the most commonly used microalgae in bio fertilizer studies. The addition of seaweed species that are Sargassum sp. and Gracilaria verrucosa leads to chemical changes as a soil fertility indicator on clay and sandy soils, and the addition of seaweed conditioner to soil can improve its organic content, return pH to normal, and reduce C/N ratio in both sandy and clay soil. This review provides an effective approach to increase soil fertility via environmentally friendly bio-based fertilizer using micro and macro algae. Instead of the usage of inorganic and organic fertilizers that have polluted impacts to soil as aggregation of heavy metals, in addition to there their human carcinogenic effects.

Organic acids and plant extracts, which have a nemacidal action and may be used instead of nematicides that pollute the environment, are one way for controlling the pepper root-knot nematode. We provide in this study for a first time a new strategy for management Meloidgyne incognita (Kofoid and White) by using organic acids and plant extract compared to nematicides on four peppers cultivars (Super amarr, Super mard, Super noura and Werta) under greenhouse conditions compared to nematicides. This study aimed to evaluate 0.1% of organic acids (humic and salicylic acid) and 0.1% of Linum usitatissimum extract on plant parameters of pepper varieties (Super amarr, Super mard, Super noura and Werta) and control of M. incognita under greenhouse conditions compared to four nematicides (Oxamyl 24% SL, Fosthiazates 75% EC, Ethoprophos N40% EC and Fenamiphos 40% EC). Our data obtained four nematicides were more effectiveness than other treatments in reduced galls and egg masses of M. incognita. Whilst, humic and salicylic acids have remarkably higher nematicidal activity than L. usitatissimum in all lines of pepper. Therefore, plant extract and organic acids may be used a best alternative of nematicides to control PPNs and caused the longitudinal growth of plant. Also, ultimately reduce environmental risk from nematicide pollution.

Comprehending the anaerobic nitrogen transformations, including denitrification, anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox), and anaerobic ammonium oxidation linked with iron reduction (Feammox) in soil, is essential for improving soil fertility and minimizing the environmental impacts of nitrogen loss. Despite this, research on anaerobic nitrogen transformations, particularly Feammox in paddy soil, is sparse. This study examined soil denitrification, anammox, and Feammox, along with their respective contributions to nitrogen loss in paddy soil at various depths, under different fertilization and irrigation treatments. It utilized 15N isotope labeling to investigate the limiting factors of these anaerobic nitrogen transformations and their interactions. The findings showed that denitrification rates ranged from 0.41 to 2.12 mg N kg−1 d−1, while anammox rates ranged from 0.062 to 0.394 mg N kg−1 d−1, contributing 84.3% to 88.1% and 11.8% to 15.7% of total soil nitrogen loss, respectively. Denitrification was identified as the predominant pathway for nitrogen loss across different soil depths. Fertilization and irrigation had more pronounced impacts on anaerobic nitrogen transformations than did soil depth, potentially affecting these processes through both abiotic and biotic pathways. This study identified significant correlations among the three types of anaerobic nitrogen transformations. These findings offer a theoretical foundation for optimizing nitrogen management strategies to mitigate losses in agricultural systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda, represents a major threat to cereal crops. Therefore, this study aimed to detect the resistance of the second-instar larvae of S. frugiperda in two Egyptian field strains to eight insecticides. The results showed that emamectin benzoate, had the highest toxicity against the susceptible and the two field populations of S. frugiperda larvae followed by spinosad > lufenuron > diflubenzuron > cypermethrin > profenfos > methoxyfenozide > Bacillus thuringiensis. Additionally, resistance to cypermethrin followed by spinosad and lufenuron was observed in Fayoum field population. Thus, the combined use of synergists with cypermethrin, spinosad, and lufenuron showed synergistic effects against S. frugiperda larvae. This study underscores the need for pest management strategies based on regional resistance profiles and biochemical characteristics. Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera) is a notable insect pest that invades major cereal crops, causing significant damage and loss. Resistances of 2nd instar larvae of two Egyptian field populations of S. frugiperda, collected from the Fayoum and Giza governments, were measured against eight insecticides, including traditional insecticides (profenofos and cypermethrin), bio-insecticides (emamectin benzoate, spinosad, and Bacillus thuringiensis), and insect growth regulators (IGRs) (lufenuron, diflubenzuron, and methoxyfenozide). In addition, the synergistic effects of three synergists (Piperonyl butoxide (PBO), diethyl maleate (DEM), and triphenyl phosphate (TPP) were assessed, and the activities of detoxification enzymes (acetylcholine esterase (AChE), cytochrome P-450 (CYP-450), carboxylesterase (CarE), and glutathione-s-transferase (GST) were also determined. Resistance surveillance revealed that the Fayoum field population showed moderate resistance to cypermethrin (RR = 5.75-fold), followed by spinosad (RR = 2.62-fold), and lufenuron (2.01-fold). On the other hand, the Giza population exhibited significant resistance to cypermethrin only (RR = 3.65-fold). Our results revealed that emamectin benzoate was the most effective insecticide, with an LC50 value of 0.003 mg/L for the Fayoum population and 0.001 mg/L for the Giza population, compared to the susceptible strain (0.005 mg/L). Among the biological insecticides, Bacillus thuringiensis was the least toxic insecticide of all the tested strains. Synergism assays indicated that DEM and TPP had the most synergistic effect on spinosad (SR = 8.00-fold for both), followed by PBO (SR = 5.71-fold) for the Fayoum population, compared with spinosad alone. The assay of detoxification enzymes showed that GST activity significantly (p < 0.05) increased in the two field strains compared to the susceptible strain. However, no significant changes were observed among the tested strains in CYP-450, CarE, or AChE. The findings of this study provide substantial insights into tracking and managing the development of insecticide resistance in S. frugiperda in Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insects are faced with numerous toxins (xenobiotics) as they go through life, some produced naturally by plants (sometimes called allelochemicals) and some produced by humans (insecticides) [...]

Abstract Background Compatibility of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) with insecticides is a crucial mainstay of integrated pest management (IPM) programs. This study was designed to evaluate the joint action of EPN species and insecticides when employed to deter 3rd and 4th larval instars of cabbage white butterfly, Pieris rapae L. (Lepidoptera: Pieridae) under laboratory conditions. EPNs [Steinernema carpocapsae (All strain), S. feltiae (Filipjev), Heterorhabditis bacteriophora (HP88), and H. bacteriophora (Ar-4)], at concentrations of 50, 100, and 125 IJs/larva, were tested with 3 insecticides (lambda-cyhalothrin, emamectin benzoate, and indoxacarb) at LC25 and LC50 values. Additionally, expression profiles of 2 detoxification genes (CYP6AE120 and PrGSTs1) when the 4th instar larvae were treated by H. bacteriophora (HP88) and lambda-cyhalothrin were examined. Results Data indicated that statistically significant mortality of 2 larval instars of P. rapae was observed in vitro among EPN species and pesticide concentrations. At concentration of 50 IJs/larva, LT50 values were 2.385 and 3.92 days for S. carpocapsae (All strain) and H. bacteriophora(Ar-4), respectively, on 3rd instar larvae; also, these values were 3.506 and 3.107 days for S. feltiae and H. bacteriophora (Ar-4), respectively, on 4th instar larvae Lambda-cyhalothrin was the most toxic insecticide, followed by emamectin benzoate and indoxacarb at LC25 and LC50, respectively. An additive effect was observed between EPN species with LC25 and LC50 of the tested insecticides, except for lambda-cyhalothrin at LC50 with H. bacteriophora (Ar-4), and indoxacarb, with all EPNs showing antagonistic effects on mortality of 3rd instar larvae after 3 days post-treatment. The interaction between the tested pesticides at LC25 and LC50 and EPN species, showed an additive effect, excluding lambda-cyhalothrin at LC25 with S. carpocapsae (All strain) and LC25 of indoxacarb with H. bacteriophora (Ar-4), which showed potentiation effects. The interaction of S. feltiae (Filipjev) with tested insecticides at LC50 exhibited an antagonistic effect on the mortality of 4th instar P. rapae larvae after 3 days post-treatment. The expression of both CYP6AE120 and PrGSTs1 was significantly up-regulated with lambda-cyhalothrin, followed by H. bacteriophora (HP88) compared to control. Conclusions The findings suggested that combining EPNs and the pesticide concentrations can be a practical strategy for managing P. rapae and could pave the way to using new control technologies in protecting organic farm vegetables from lepidopteran pests.

Biological control using rhizosphere bacteria, Pseudomonas spp. and Serratia spp. is a prospective alternative technique to overcome plant parasitic nematodes infection. So, the current study was conducted in vitro on five egg-masses, 100 free eggs and 100 infective juveniles (IJs) of Meloidogyne incognita as well as greenhouse treatments on Luffa aegyptiaca L. to evaluate the nematicidal potential of six strains belong to Pseudomonas spp. and Serratia spp. as compared to oxamyl.Results showed that the inhibitory effect and juvenile mortality varied according to bacteria species, strains and exposure time. All the tested bacteria significantly (P ≤ 0.05) inhibited egg hatching and increased juvenile mortality in vitro. After 3 days of treatment, Pseudomonas spp. were more effective against eggs (48.31to 55.15%) and IJs (20.98 to 25.30%) than Serratia spp. (44.55 to 49.75% with eggs) and (19.06 to 21.61% with IJs), respectively. In the pot experiment, Luffa aegyptiaca L. treated with Serratia spp. and Pseudomonas spp. displayed significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05) levels of growth (as indicated by root length, fresh roots weight and fresh shoots weight) compared to control plants and significantly (P ≤ 0.05) suppressed galling (number of galls) and reproduction (as indicated by number of egg-masses on roots and number of eggs and juveniles in pot soil). Meanwhile, among the treated plants, Serratia spp. and Pseudomonas spp. gave the best results in shoot weight of pots infected by eggs of M. incognita than those infected with IJs as compared with positive control. While, oxamyl treatment gave the best results in pots infected by eggs and IJs.The lowest galling (gall index), number of eggs and juveniles in soil was observed in the treatment with mixture of Serratia spp. and Pseudomonas spp. as well as, enhanced growth of sponge gourd more than application each of them alone. Pots treated with oxamyl overwhelmed those treated with mixture of Serratia spp. and Pseudomonas spp.

Extensive use of abamectin (ABM) as an anthelmintic in veterinary systems adversely affects the health and welfare of animals and humans. Zinc nanoparticles (ZnNPs) have therapeutic benefits and ameliorate the effect of environmental pollutants. In this study, we assessed the ameliorative effect of ZnNPs against the sub-lethal toxicity of ABM in rats. Forty healthy rats were randomly selected into four groups (n = 10); the control received normal saline and test rats were treated orally twice weekly with ABM (1 mg/kg bwt), ZnNPs (10 mg/kg bwt) and ABM + ZnNPs for 28 days. Upon completion of the study period, blood and tissue samples were collected and prepared for hematological, biochemical, pathological, and immunohistochemical analysis. Our results showed that ABM treatment significantly decreased body weight gain (BWG), red blood cells (RBCs), hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (HC), and platelet (PLT); while it significantly increased white blood cells (WBCs) and lymphocytes. ABM also significantly decreased antioxidant enzyme activities: superoxide dismuthase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT) and increased hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde levels compared with other groups. ABM significantly raised alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate amino transaminase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels, which was restored by co-administration of ZnNPs. Moreover, ZnNPs ameliorated ABM-mediated negative histopathological changes in the liver and kidney tissues, exhibiting a significant protective effect. Cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) + immuno-expression were reduced after pretreatment with ZnNPs. These findings suggested that co-administration of ZnNPs with ABM mitigated its toxicity by combating oxidative stress and boosting antioxidant capacity, indicating the efficacy of ZnNPs in attenuating ABM toxicity.

Insect glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) serve critical roles in insecticides and other forms of xenobiotic chemical detoxification. The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith), is a major agricultural pest in several countries, especially Egypt. This is the first study to identify and characterize GST genes in S. frugiperda under insecticidal stress. The present work evaluated the toxicity of emamectin benzoate (EBZ) and chlorantraniliprole (CHP) against the third-instar larvae of S. frugiperda using the leaf disk method. The LC50 values of EBZ and CHP were 0.029 and 1.250 mg/L after 24 h of exposure. Moreover, we identified 31 GST genes, including 28 cytosolic and 3 microsomal SfGSTs from a transcriptome analysis and the genome data of S. frugiperda. Depending on the phylogenetic analysis, sfGSTs were divided into six classes (delta, epsilon, omega, sigma, theta, and microsomal). Furthermore, we investigated the mRNA levels of 28 GST genes using qRT-PCR under EBZ and CHP stress in the third-instar larvae of S. frugiperda. Interestingly, SfGSTe10 and SfGSTe13 stood out with the highest expression after the EBZ and CHP treatments. Finally, a molecular docking model was constructed between EBZ and CHP using the most upregulated genes (SfGSTe10 and SfGSTe13) and the least upregulated genes (SfGSTs1 and SfGSTe2) of S. frugiperda larvae. The molecular docking study showed EBZ and CHP have a high binding affinity with SfGSTe10, with docking energy values of −24.41 and −26.72 kcal/mol, respectively, and sfGSTe13, with docking energy values of −26.85 and −26.78 kcal/mol, respectively. Our findings are important for understanding the role of GSTs in S. frugiperda regarding detoxification processes for EBZ and CHP.

Abstract Background Acceptable alternative eco-friendly tools in the present study were tested to control the root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita, on greenhouse-cultivated vegetables. The nematicidal effect of rhizobacteria (Pseudomonas and Serratia), egg parasitic fungus (Purpureocillium lilacinum), abamectin (Streptomyces avermitilis), and 3 botanicals (colocynth, Citrullus colocynthis; moringa, Moringa oleifera; marigold, Tagetes erecta L.) singly or in combination was tested against M. incognita, in comparison with emamectin benzoate. Results In vitro treatments revealed that egg hatching and juvenile mortality were influenced by the type of bioagents, plant species of botanicals, and exposure time. All the tested bioagents and botanicals displayed nematicidal potential via their ovicidal and larvicidal action on egg hatching and J2 mortality of M. incognita. Three and 5 days post-treatment, abamectin and emamectin benzoate were more effective than P. lilacinum, Serratia and Pseudomonas, and C. colocynthis in inhibiting egg hatching: 96.31 and 94.88%; 95.79 and 94.05%; 94.11 and 94.46%; 85.54 and 87.28%; 88.87 and 84.30%, respectively. On the other hand, after 10 days, P. lilacinum gave the highest inhibition percentage (99.00%), followed by abamectin (89.25%). However, the difference was insignificant compared with the inhibition percentage of rhizobacteria, Serratia and Pseudomonas (88.69%; p ≤ 0.05). Moreover, juvenile mortality was 100.0, 96.80, and 91.60% after 10 days of treatment, respectively. However, botanicals showed a lower effect on egg hatching and juvenile mortality. Under greenhouse conditions, potential antagonism towards M. incognita by application the mixture of biocontrol agents and botanicals was more effective in controlling M. incognita than single treatments. Conclusions The combination of abamectin and/or emamectin benzoate with P. lilacinum and rhizobacteria was the most effective against M. incognita, followed by rhizobacteria and P. lilacinum, not only in decreasing galls and reproduction of M. incognita but also in increasing plant growth of tomato parameters than the control. The application of various bioagents including abamectin might be a potential antagonism strategy against phytonematodes in protected agricultural areas.

The extensive use of wide-ranging insecticides in agricultural activities may develop resistance in insects. The dipping technique was utilized for examining changes in detoxifying enzyme levels in Spodoptera littoralis L. induced by cypermethrin (CYP) and spinosad (SPD) with and without a combination of three enzyme inhibitors: triphenyl phosphate (TPP), diethyl maleate (DEM), and piperonyl butoxide (PBO), at 70 μg/mL. PBO, DEM, and TPP showed 50% mortality against larvae at 236.2, 324.5, and 245.8 μg/mL, respectively. The LC50 value of CYP on S. littoralis larvae reduced from 2.86 μg/mL to 1.58, 2.26, and 1.96 μg/mL, while the LC50 value of SPD declined from 3.27 μg/mL to 2.34, 2.56, and 2.53, with the addition of PBO, DEM, and TPP, respectively, 24 h after treatment. Moreover, the activity of carboxylesterase (CarE), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and cytochrome P450 monooxygenase (Cyp 450) was significantly inhibited (p < 0.05) by TPP, DEM, PBO plus CYP, and SPD in S. littoralis larvae in comparison with tested insecticides alone. These findings suggested that three enzyme inhibitors play a major role in increasing the toxicity of CYP and SPD in S. littoralis and will provide insight into how to overcome insecticide resistance in insects.

This study utilizes Mentha piperita (MI) for the first time to investigate the uptake and translocation of chlorpyrifos (CPF; 10 µg g−1) from soil, introducing a new approach to improve the efficacy of this technique, which includes using biosurfactants (Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) at 107 CFU/mL to degrade CPF under greenhouse conditions. Moreover, antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (Prx), and oxidative stress due to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in MI roots and leaves were evaluated under CPF stress. Our results demonstrated that amending soil with MI and B. subtilis followed by P. aeruginosa significantly reduced CPF levels in the soil (p > 0.05) and enhanced CPF concentrations in MI roots and leaves after 1, 3, 7, 10, and 14 days of the experiment. Furthermore, CPF showed its longest half-life (t1/2) in soil contaminated solely with CPF, lasting 15.36 days. Conversely, its shortest half-life occurred in soil contaminated with CPF and treated with MI along with B. subtilis, lasting 4.65 days. Soil contaminated with CPF and treated with MI and P. aeruginosa showed a half-life of 7.98 days. The half-life (t1/2) of CPF-contaminated soil with MI alone was 11.41 days. A batch equilibrium technique showed that B. subtilis is better than P. aeruginosa for eliminating CPF from soil in In vitro experiments. Notably, CPF-polluted soil treated with coadministration of MI and the tested bacteria improved the activities of SOD and Prx and reduced H2O2 and MDA compared with CPF-polluted soil treated with MI alone. Our findings demonstrated that using B. subtilis and P. aeruginosa as biosurfactants to augment phytoremediation represents a commendable strategy for enhancing the remediation of CPF contamination in affected sites while reducing the existence of harmful pesticide remnants in crop plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis (ZCL) is a neglected tropical disease worldwide, especially the Middle East. Although previous works attempt to model the ZCL spread using various environmental factors, the interactions between vectors (Phlebotomus papatasi), reservoir hosts, humans, and the environment can affect its spread. Considering all of these aspects is not a trivial task. Methods An agent-based model (ABM) is a relatively new approach that provides a framework for analyzing the heterogeneity of the interactions, along with biological and environmental factors in such complex systems. The objective of this research is to design and develop an ABM that uses Geospatial Information System (GIS) capabilities, biological behaviors of vectors and reservoir hosts, and an improved Susceptible-Exposed-Infected-Recovered (SEIR) epidemic model to explore the spread of ZCL. Various scenarios were implemented to analyze the future ZCL spreads in different parts of Maraveh Tappeh County, in the northeast region of Golestan Province in northeastern Iran, with alternative socio-ecological conditions. Results The results confirmed that the spread of the disease arises principally in the desert, low altitude areas, and riverside population centers. The outcomes also showed that the restricting movement of humans reduces the severity of the transmission. Moreover, the spread of ZCL has a particular temporal pattern, since the most prevalent cases occurred in the fall. The evaluation test also showed the similarity between the results and the reported spatiotemporal trends. Conclusions This study demonstrates the capability and efficiency of ABM to model and predict the spread of ZCL. The results of the presented approach can be considered as a guide for public health management and controlling the vector population .

Background and objective: zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis (ZCL) is one of the most important health problems in Golestan Province, northeastern Iran. Several studies have investigated various aspects of the disease in this province. Herein, we provide a detailed review of the results of all studies related to leishmaniasis to give a reliable insight into the state of the disease in this province. Methods: The search for articles was performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science without language restriction until the beginning of 2019. Articles in Persian were retrieved from the Magiran, Scientific Information Database, and IranMedex. Overall, 41 articles were subjected to content analysis under the different themes. Results: Counties of Gonbad-e-Kavus and Maraveh Tappeh are endemic areas of ZCL with an incidence rate 99.4-379.1 in 100000 population and has mesoendemic situation in these counties. Leishmania major is the dominant (99.1%) agent of leishmaniasis. Among 18 sandflies species detected in the province, Phlebotomus papatasi was the main vector of the disease with a mean infection rate of 9.2%. Peak of sandflies activity was recorded in the mid-July and mid-September. Rhombomys opimus and Meriones libycus were the main reservoirs of this disease with a mean infection rate of 25.3 and 31.8%. The density of sandflies and wild rodents were highest in the endemic areas for ZCL. Conclusion: In Golestan Province, ZCL has been in a hypoendemic situation and in some areas in a mesoendemic situation and has increased significantly in recent years, so it is recommended to investigate the reasons for this increase.

Background: Malaria resurgence has occurred in the northern half parts of Iran. Factors such as the continual move­ment of local people from problematic malaria foci in southeastern Iran toward the Caspian Littoral and wide use of pesticides in the agriculture sector were led to establish the diseases in the prone area. There are no new data on the re­sistance status of main malaria vectors in the Caspian Littoral, and this study was aimed at renewal data on conventional insecticides. Methods: The field strain of adult Anopheles superpictus and Anopheles maculipennis were collected using the hand catch method and transferred to the laboratory. The susceptibility tests were carried out against DDT 4%, Malathion 5%, Permethrin 0.75%, Deltamethrin 0.05%, and Lambda-cyhalothrin 0.05%, followed by the WHO’s procedure. Results: The primary malaria vector in Caspian Littoral is An. maculipennis, which still resistance to DDT and mortali­ty rate, LT50 and LT90 of female mosquitoes were 75.0%, 54.2, minutes and 111.3 minutes. The under ’verification re­quired’ status of An. maculipennis was also revealed to Lambda-cyhalothrin based on recent WHO’s criteria. The ma­laria vector An. superpictus is also considered the second malaria vectors in the west parts of the studied area, which shown to be susceptible to all insecticides tested. Conclusion: DDT resistance is persisted in An. maculipennis despite stopping residual spraying with DDT since 1978 in the Caspian Littoral, but the occurrence of pyrethroid under ’verification required’ status is a progressive threat to the possible development of cross-resistance in the future.