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Securing good feed and sustaining production is one of the main pillars of the livestock production sector. However, this is difficult to achieve in many different environments or circumstances. The production of fodder in a hydroponic system allows for sustainable production throughout the year and provides many benefits to the animal. However, ways must be found to improve the quality of hydroponic fodder and extend its shelf life. In this study, hydroponic barley fodder was produced by mixing it with mung bean seeds at different mixing ratios. In addition, silage was prepared from the resulting fodder by mixing it with barley straw to reduce the high moisture. The results of this study showed that the proportions of the components of nutritional value in the produced fodder were increased, especially the proportion of proteins, when the percentage of mung beans in the mixture was increased. In addition, the preservation of hydroponic fodder using the silage method resulted in obtaining a higher percentage of dry matter compared to fresh fodder and increased the preservation time. This brings many advantages to farmers and livestock producers, as well as researchers in the field, to expand the scope of experiments to other fodder mixtures and the sustainable production of good fodder in hydroponic systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water salinity is a critical cause of the decrease in quality of fodder plants. The use of saline water as an alternative to fresh water requires the production of elite plant varieties that can tolerate excess amounts of sodium chloride. In this study, we evaluated six genotypes of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) used as sprout fodder for their tolerance to saline water conditions. The six genotypes were tested for their germination vigor, α-amylase activity, root system architecture (RSA) phenotyping, relative water content (RWC), chlorophyll content (ChC), reactive oxygen species accumulation (ROS), and total antioxidant capacity. Increasing the salt concentration caused a significant decrease in the germination time, α-amylase activity, germination percentage, ChC, and RWC of all the genotypes, but significant differences in the RSA and ChC were detected. In addition, the plasticity of these characteristics at the seedling stage increased their potential to select varieties that could produce high amounts of green fodder when fresh water alternatives are used. Strong and positive correlations were detected between the green carpet formed under the salt treatment and ChC at the seedling stage for a local genotype and G134. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In addition to its high nutritional value, alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) has several health benefits including antioxidant, neuroprotective, antimicrobial, antiulcer, hypocholesterolemic, hypolipidemic, and estrogenic effects. We aimed to assess the nutritional value and antioxidant capacity of alfalfa leaves at different times of the year in arid regions. Alfalfa was harvested in autumn, winter, spring, and summer and fresh yield and leaf:stem ratio were measured. Leaves were collected to determine their nutritional value and antioxidant capacity using two different extracts viz.: absolute ethanol or distilled water. Fresh yield and leaf:stem ratio were highest in spring (20 t ha-1 and 57.6%, respectively), followed equally by winter and autumn, and were lowest in summer (10.75 t ha-1 and 51.6%, respectively). The autumn cut had the highest crude protein (33.52%) and crude fat content (3.79%) and the lowest content of crude fiber (13.95%) and acid detergent fiber (16.55%), which are good indicators of suitability for human nourishment. However, leaves collected in autumn were characterized by lower digestibility values (86.2%) compared to the other cuts. Antioxidant capacity of leaves harvested in autumns and extracted with either ethanol or distilled water was examined in terms of total polyphenols, total flavonoids, DPPH scavenging capacity, and reducing power. Ethanol extract showed higher antioxidant capacity in terms of total phenol and total flavonoid contents (6.41 and 4.88 mg gallic acid equivalents g-1 DW, respectively). These results suggest that autumn is the most appropriate season to cut alfalfa leaves for human nutritional purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The populations living around Djebel Aissa National Park are dependent on the non-timber forest products (NTFPs) offered by the park. The objective of this study is to identify and improve knowledge of the different NTFPs used by the populations of Ain Sefra, Tiout, and Mekalis. In this context, structured questionnaires were carried out with 520 participants residing in the selected zones.The results obtained reveal that 33 plants belonging to 16 families and 29 genera are used in traditional medicine, 11 species distributed in 10 genera and 9 families are wild edibles and only one species is considered an artisanal species.In terms of medicinal plants, the Lamiaceae (16.67%), Asteraceae (11.11%) and Fabaceae (11.11%) families are the most represented. The leaves and aerial parts are the most used with respectively 42.42 and 36.36%. Decoction is the most frequent preparation method (66,67%). The oral form is the only frequent use method (100%). Rosmarinus officinalis L (FC = 100%), Artemisia herba-alba Asso (FC = 90.83%), Thymus algeriensis Boiss Et Reut (FC = 85%), Juniperus phoenicea L. (FC = 62.50%), Pistacia atlantica Desf (CF=46.67%) are the plants with highest frequency citation. The ethnobotanical use value (VUs) varies from 0.83% to 3.33%.For wild edibles, the leaves are the most consumed (54.55%). The consumption of the plant parts is done by steaming, eating fresh, and grinding. The relative level of village knowledge (Cr%) varies from 20 to 100%, the best-known wild edibles are Quercus ilex subsp. Ballota (Desf.) Samp, Ziziphus lotus (L.) Lam, Rosmarinus officinalis L, Ceratonia silliqua L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In order to manage important transformations affecting a steppe area, it is necessary to analyze the existing pastoral system by evaluating the sustainability of its subsystems of production. For this reason, in this study, a tool for the evaluation of the sustainability of livestock production in a steppe area was used to identify the most sustainable systems among the various ways that livestock are managed and produced. The study was conducted in the region ranked first in terms of sheep production. Using a grid for evaluating the sustainability of livestock systems in steppe regions, the impact of each system on the environment (environmental, economic, and social) was examined, and the results showed that the feed system was unbalanced, with high pressure on steppe rangelands. Nevertheless, multiple ways of improving these systems emerged from the analysis, such as encouraging the production of fodder and its association with livestock on new spatial, temporal, regional, and national levels. In order to manage important transformations affecting a steppe area, it is necessary to analyze the existing pastoral system by evaluating the sustainability of its subsystems of production. For this reason, in this study, a tool for the evaluation of the sustainability of livestock production in the steppe area was used in order to identify the most sustainable systems. The study was conducted using a survey of 87 livestock farmers (production units) in the region ranked first in terms of sheep production. Principal component analysis (PCA) enabled us to identify two production systems: (i) the pastoral production system, characterized by the mobility of livestock and its high dependence on concentrated feed; (ii) the agropastoral system, combining fodder and livestock production, which is sedentary and semi-extensive. Using a grid for evaluating the sustainability of livestock systems in steppe regions, the impact of each system on the environment (environmental, economic, and social) was examined, and the results showed that the feed system was unbalanced, with high pressure on steppe rangelands. Nevertheless, multiple ways of improving these systems emerged from the analysis, such as encouraging the production of fodder and its association with livestock, on new spatial, temporal, regional, and national levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Halophytes have been characterized as a potential resource for fiber, food, fodder, and bioactive compounds. Proximate composition, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant activity of five wild dominant halophytes (Arthrocnemummacrostachyum, Halocnemumstrobilaceum, Limoniastrummonopetalum, Limoniastrumpruinosum, and Tamarix nilotica) naturally growing along the Nile Delta coast were assessed. The soil supporting these halophytes was sandy to sand-silty, alkaline, with low organic carbon, and relatively high CaCO3. H. strobilaceum attained the highest moisture content, ash, crude fiber, lipids, and total soluble sugars. L. monopetalum showed the highest content of crude protein (18.00%), while T. nilotica had the highest content of total carbohydrates. The studied halophytes can be ranked according to their nutritive value as follows: H.strobilaceum > L.monopetalum > A.macrostachyum > L.pruinosum > T. nilotica. A. macrostachyum attained the highest amount of Na+, K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+. A. macrostachyum showed a high content of phenolic compounds, while H.strobilaceum was rich in tannins and saponin contents. The MeOH extract of A. macrostachyum and H. strobilaceum exhibited substantial antioxidant activity. The present results showed that the studied halophytes could be considered as candidates for forage production or used as green eco-friendly natural resources for bioactive compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pea, member of the plant family Leguminosae, play a pivotal role in global food security as essential legumes. However, their production faces challenges stemming from the detrimental impacts of abiotic stressors, leading to a concerning decline in output. Salinity stress is one of the major factors that limiting the growth and productivity of pea. However, biochar amendment in soil has a potential role in alleviating the oxidative damage caused by salinity stress. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the potential role of biochar amendment in soil that may mitigate the adverse effect of salinity stress on pea. The treatments of this study were, (a) Pea varieties; (i) V1 = Meteor and V2 = Green Grass, Salinity Stress, (b) Control (0 mM) and (ii) Salinity (80 mM) (c) Biochar applications; (i) Control, (ii) 8 g/kg soil (56 g) and (iii) 16 g/kg soil (112 g). Salinity stress demonstrated a considerable reduction in morphological parameters as Shoot and root length decreased by (29% and 47%), fresh weight and dry weight of shoot and root by (85, 63%) and (49, 68%), as well as area of leaf reduced by (71%) among both varieties. Photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll a, b, and carotenoid contents decreased under 80 mM salinity up to (41, 63, 55 and 76%) in both varieties as compared to control. Exposure of pea plants to salinity stress increased the oxidative damage by enhancing hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde content by (79 and 89%), while amendment of biochar reduced their activities as, (56% and 59%) in both varieties. The activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and peroxidase (POD) were increased by biochar applications under salinity stress as, (49, 59, and 86%) as well as non-enzymatic antioxidants as, anthocyanin and flavonoids improved by (112 and 67%). Organic osmolytes such as total soluble proteins, sugars, and glycine betaine were increased up to (57, 83, and 140%) by biochar amendment. Among uptake of mineral ions, shoot and root Na+ uptake was greater (144 and 73%) in saline-stressed plants as compared to control, while shoot and root Ca2+ and K+ were greater up to (175, 119%) and (77, 146%) in biochar-treated plants. Overall findings revealed that 16 g/kg soil (112 g) biochar was found to be effective in reducing salinity toxicity by causing reduction in reactive oxygen species and root and shoot Na+ ions uptake and improving growth, physiological and anti-oxidative activities in pea plants (Fig. 1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salt stress causes deleterious impacts on the germination, growth, and productivity of various crop plants. Screening new cultivars regarding salt stress tolerance could enhance the growth and productivity of sorghum. In this regard, an experiment was conducted at the laboratory of the Department of Agronomy, Hajee Mohamad Danesh Science and Technology University (HSTU), Bangladesh, in October 2018 to find out salt tolerance based on seed germination and seedling growth traits. The experiment consisted of seven sorghum varieties, viz. Adan Gab, Karmici, Debuday, ESP/S01, Green Jambuplus, Jambo, and Elmi Jama, and three levels of salt stress, viz. 0, 100, and 200 mM NaClinduced salt stress, laid out completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications. The seeds of the seven sorghum varieties were placed in plastic trays (20 cm x 10 cm) on a sand bed irrigated with tap water (control) and NaCl (100 and 200 mM salinity levels) solutions. Data were collected on germination character and seedling growth at parameters. The collected data were analyzed statistically and means were adjudged by DMRT at 1 and 5% level of probability. The results of the experiment revealed that salinity stress significantly reduced the germination percentage (GP) and germination rate (GR) of sorghum in all sorghum varieties, and the variety Debuday showed the highest values of GP and GR, while Karmici showed the lowest values under 100 and 200 NaCl stress. Moreover, the root and shoot lengths, fresh weights, and dry weights gradually decreased with salinity levels, and the minimum reduction was recorded in Debuday, whereas the maximum reduction was in the Karmici variety. Higher Na and lower K accumulation of the Debuday genotype can be treated as salt tolerant. Contrary, the salt tolerance index (STI) based on the root and shoot dry weight in the Debuday variety exhibited the highest values, and the Karmici variety exhibited the minimum values under salt stresses. The inhibition of GP and GR, and lengths and biomass weight of root and shoot, were at the minimum level, while, on the contrary, the values declined superficially in the Karmici variety. Therefore, it can be concluded that the variety Debuday is indorsed as a salt-tolerant sorghum variety, and Karmici is a more susceptible one, based on the seed germination and seedling growth properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals (HMs) contamination, owing to their potential links to various chronic diseases, poses a global threat to agriculture, environment, and human health. Nickel (Ni) is an essential element however, at higher concentration, it is highly phytotoxic, and affects major plant functions. Beneficial roles of plant growth regulators (PGRs) and organic amendments in mitigating the adverse impacts of HM on plant growth has gained the attention of scientific community worldwide. Here, we performed a greenhouse study to investigate the effect of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA @ 10− 5 M) and compost (1% w/w) individually and in combination in sustaining cauliflower growth and yield under Ni stress. In our results, combined application proved significantly better than individual applications in alleviating the adverse effects of Ni on cauliflower as it increased various plant attributes such as plant height (49%), root length (76%), curd height and diameter (68 and 134%), leaf area (75%), transpiration rate (36%), stomatal conductance (104%), water use efficiency (143%), flavonoid and phenolic contents (212 and 133%), soluble sugars and protein contents (202 and 199%), SPAD value (78%), chlorophyll 'a and b' (219 and 208%), carotenoid (335%), and NPK uptake (191, 79 and 92%) as compared to the control. Co-application of IAA and compost reduced Ni-induced electrolyte leakage (64%) and improved the antioxidant activities, including APX (55%), CAT (30%), SOD (43%), POD (55%), while reducing MDA and H2O2 contents (77 and 52%) compared to the control. The combined application also reduced Ni uptake in roots, shoots, and curd by 51, 78 and 72% respectively along with an increased relative production index (78%) as compared to the control. Hence, synergistic application of IAA and compost can mitigate Ni induced adverse impacts on cauliflower growth by immobilizing it in the soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate variability affects the phenological, physiological, and morphological adaptability of Kiwifruit. Hence, five Kiwifruit varieties were evaluated under variable rainfed climatic conditions in Pothowar. Phenological data of all five varieties was observed at both study sites, including bud initiation, bud swelling, and bud burst. Goldflesh (GDF) and Green Flesh 1 (GF1) were observed to be late in bud burst and to have poor physio-morphological responses and plant survival rates. In contrast, Hayward (H), Bruno (B), and Greenflesh 2 (GF2) exhibited superior performance in terms of plant physiological and morphological traits (e.g., heat damage percentage, photosynthetic activity, shoot length, t runk diameter, d isease incidence percentage, and survival rate). Greenflesh 2 (GF2) plants at both study locations exhibited a lower percentage of heat damage (4.25 and 5.83) than Greenflesh 1 (6.2 and 9.87) and Goldflesh (6.11 and 8.83), respectively. Bruno had more photosynthetic activity (627.31 and 773.5 mol m-2 sec-1) than Goldflesh (330.49 and 343.71 mol m-2 sec-1) and Greenflesh 1 (346.96 and 354.25 mol m-2 sec-1, respectively). Hayward (112.56 and 183.44 cm) and Bruno (109.98 and 160.39 cm) had longer shoots compared to Greenflesh 1 (44.23 and 71.26 cm) and Goldflesh (62.49 and 111.16 cm). Bruno (1.02 and 1.6 cm) and Hayward (0.93 and 1.56 cm) had a significantly larger trunk diameter than Greenflesh 1 (0.74 and 1.3 cm) and Goldflesh (0.78 and 1.3 cm), respectively. Hayward, Bruno, and Greenflesh 2 were significantly more resistant to disease incidence (0.27, 0.15, and 0.41) and plant survival was high (80%, 78%, and 79%) in all three varieties at both locations. Bruno and Greenflesh 2 proved to be the most productive varieties under variable climate conditions; thus, their material can be used to develop future Kiwifruit ideotypes in rainfed regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water scarcity has greatly increased the need for research into alternative irrigation methods. Irrigation with treated wastewater (TW) is considered an important alternative in terms of reducing our dependence upon groundwater and freshwater. In this study, we examined the effects of irrigation with TW on the nutrient contents of two alfalfa cultivars and compared them with the nutrient contents of plants irrigated with well water (WW). The two cultivars (Alhassawy—a local cultivar and CUV101) were cultivated from 2013 to 2015 and sampled twice. For both cultivars and in both sampling periods, irrigation with TW significantly affected the macronutrient and micronutrient contents of alfalfa tissues. Plants irrigated with TW had higher K and Ca contents, but lower N, P, and Mg contents. No significant variation in S content was noted between plants irrigated with WW and TW. Furthermore, cultivar and cutting time had significant effects on nutrient contents, and these variables interacted with the effect of the water type used for irrigation. However, before TW can be regularly used in irrigation processes, further long-term studies are needed that consider the variations in water treatment efficiency and differences between cultivated sites in addition to the crop being irrigated with TW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of the methanolic extract of Opuntia ficus indica L. in small animal (rats and mice model). The current treatment for febrile conditions often involves the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can have adverse effects, particularly gastrointestinal ulcers. Therefore, there is a growing need to explore natural alternatives with fewer side effects. The study utilized various experimental models to assess the effects of the extract. The results demonstrated a significant analgesic effect of the extract, as evidenced by a reduction in pain induced by acetic acid and hot plate tests. Additionally, the extract exhibited anti-inflammatory effects, as indicated by a decrease in carrageenan-induced paw edema and dextran-induced inflammation. To gain insights into the chemical composition of the extract, HPLC analysis was conducted. The analysis successfully identified and quantified 20 compounds, including luteolin, galangin, catechin, thymol, methylated quercetin, quercetin, rutin, acacetin, hesperidin, apigenin, kaempferol, pinocembrin, chrysin, gallic acid, caffeic acid, ascorbic acid, ferulic acid, m-coumaric acid, rosmarinic acid, and trans-cinnamic acid.The findings suggest that Opuntia ficus indica L. extract holds promise as an effective and reasonably priced natural remedy for pain and inflammation in rats and mice model. The comprehensive chemical composition analysis provided valuable insights into the presence of various bioactive compounds, which may contribute to the observed therapeutic effects. Further research and exploration of the extract's mechanisms of action are warranted to fully understand its potential in small animal healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The species belonging to the genus Pistacia possess ecological, economic, and medicinal value. They show a very high ecological plasticity. This research is a contribution to the study of the intraspecific diversity and variability of 10 populations of Pistacia lentiscus in different bioclimates. Nine locations in Algeria and one site in France have been selected in order to understand the strategies developed by this species under extreme conditions, including altitude and aridity, and to identify the adaptive processes that can be observed based on the morphological and ultrastructural features of the leaf. As a result of this research, we have collected a large quantity of important information on morphological and microphytodermal leaf variability for the ten studied populations. The statistical analyses showed a very important difference in the studied characteristics between these populations. It has been demonstrated that environmental factors also have a significant impact on the heterogeneity of most measured leaf features. Moreover, the observations with the scanning electron microscope (SEM) enabled us to highlight new characteristics of the studied species, such as the glandular trichomes on the leaflets and embedded stomata in the epidermis. These criteria could supplement the existing morphological characteristics used in the systematic classification of the Pistacia genus. Overall, the studied species have shown xeromorphy features, which give them the opportunity to be used in desertification mitigation programs, due to their ability to withstand conditions of extreme aridity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, we used the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) and Geographical Information System (GIS) to predict the annual rate of soil loss in the District Chakwal of Pakistan. The parameters of the RUSLE model were estimated using remote sensing data, and the erosion probability zones were determined using GIS. The estimated length slope ( L S), crop management ( C), rainfall erosivity ( R), soil erodibility ( K), and support practice ( P) range from 0–68,227, 0–66.61%, 0–0.58, 495.99–648.68 M J / m m. t. h a − 1. y e a r − 1 , 0.15–0.25 M J / m m. t. h a − 1. y e a r − 1 , and 1 respectively. The results indicate that the estimated total annual potential soil loss of approximately 4,67,064.25 t. h a − 1. y e a r − 1 is comparable with the measured sediment loss of 11,631 t. h a − 1. y e a r − 1 during the water year 2020. The predicted soil erosion rate due to an increase in agricultural area is approximately 164,249.31 t. h a − 1. y e a r − 1 . In this study, we also used Landsat imagery to rapidly achieve actual land use classification. Meanwhile, 38.13% of the region was threatened by very high soil erosion, where the quantity of soil erosion ranged from 365487.35 t. h a − 1. y e a r − 1 . Integrating GIS and remote sensing with the RUSLE model helped researchers achieve their final objectives. Land-use planners and decision-makers use the result's spatial distribution of soil erosion in District Chakwal for conservation and management planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We used the Cellular Automata Markov (CA-Markov) integrated technique to study land use and land cover (LULC) changes in the Cholistan and Thal deserts in Punjab, Pakistan. We plotted the distribution of the LULC throughout the desert terrain for the years 1990, 2006 and 2022. The Random Forest methodology was utilized to classify the data obtained from Landsat 5 (TM), Landsat 7 (ETM+) and Landsat 8 (OLI/TIRS), as well as ancillary data. The LULC maps generated using this method have an overall accuracy of more than 87%. CA-Markov was utilized to forecast changes in land usage in 2022, and changes were projected for 2038 by extending the patterns seen in 2022. A CA-Markov-Chain was developed for simulating long-term landscape changes at 16-year time steps from 2022 to 2038. Analysis of urban sprawl was carried out by using the Random Forest (RF). Through the CA-Markov Chain analysis, we can expect that high density and low-density residential areas will grow from 8.12 to 12.26 km2 and from 18.10 to 28.45 km2 in 2022 and 2038, as inferred from the changes occurred from 1990 to 2022. The LULC projected for 2038 showed that there would be increased urbanization of the terrain, with probable development in the croplands westward and northward, as well as growth in residential centers. The findings can potentially assist management operations geared towards the conservation of wildlife and the eco-system in the region. This study can also be a reference for other studies that try to project changes in arid are as undergoing land-use changes comparable to those in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of low-cost, efficient and sustainable technology is considered to be of paramount for the efficient degradation of toxic pollutants. The research in this report constructs an S-scheme heterojunction CoO/ZnFe2O4 nanocomposite (NCs) with outstanding photocatalytic performance on methylene blue (MB) dye degradation under visible light illumination. Several techniques were used for nanoparticles (NPs) and NCs to determine their morphological, structural, and optical properties. The CoO/ZnFe2O4 NCs (88.5%) exhibited excellent photocatalytic activity compared to the pristine CoO (66.8%) and ZnFe2O4 (64.3%). The total organic carbon (TOC) analysis confirmed that the MB dye was completely mineralised by the as-prepared NCs. From the results of the GC-MS/MS analysis, a possible intermediate formation and degradation pathway was identified. The h+ and ˙OH are the free radicals which primarily dominate the photocatalytic process. A recyclability study performed on the CoO/ZnFe2O4 NCs revealed that it was an extremely stable catalyst, even after six cycles, without substantial decreases in its degradation activity. The intermediate toxicity was predicted using ECOSAR software and the results confirmed the non-toxicity of the end product formed during the degradation of the MB dye. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a magnetic Fe3O4–CeO2 nano-heterojunction was fabricated on an organic matrix cetyl trimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) using a sonochemical method. The resulting nanocomposites (NCs) were used for the synergetic removal of tetracycline by adsorption and photocatalysis and their antimicrobial applications were also investigated. The average diameter and zeta potential of the NCs were 46 ± 2 nm and −33.24 ± 1.34 mV, respectively. The presence of the CTAB matrix was verified by FTIR analysis. The adsorption of tetracycline on the NCs was well fitted to the Langmuir model. The maximal adsorption was noted at pH 5. The photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline (25 mg L−1) by the NCs (10 mg L−1) reached 96.6% in 3 h under visible-light irradiation. The photocatalysis mechanism followed the S-scheme by retaining the photo-excited e−/h+ pairs with strong redox potential. The particles exhibited excellent antibiofilm and antibacterial activities. There was increased ROS generation and lipid peroxidation in the bacterial species upon exposure to the NCs. The bacterial antioxidant defense systems were disturbed upon exposure to the NCs. Therefore, the as-prepared Fe3O4–CeO2-CTAB NCs could be used as a promising candidate in wastewater treatment for disinfection applications and the adsorptive/photocatalytic removal of pharmaceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, ternary CoCr2O4–Bi2WO4–NiS2 nanocomposite (CCO–BWO–NS NC), a semiconductor photocatalyst, was prepared for the effective mineralization of doxycycline and photocatalytic removal of Cr(VI). Here, the modification of BiO–WO4–BiO (BWO) as a sandwich structure caused higher lattice oxygen vacancies. The decoration of NiS2 (NS) on CCO–BWO enhanced the photocatalytic activity of the NC under visible-light irradiation. The photocatalytic degradation efficiency of doxycycline (doxy) and removal of Cr(VI) by the CCO–BWO–NS NC was found to be 99.8% and 94.7%, respectively. The subsurface and solid solution-type defect engineering was determined by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Density function theory (DFT) calculations enabled the band structure and defect mechanism of the CCO–BWO–NS NC to be determined. Further, the photocatalytic efficiency was studied by varying the pH in the degradation of doxy and removal of Cr(VI). The total organic carbon (TOC) reduction after doxy photodegradation was found to be 98.6%. In addition, the genotoxicity of the CCO–BWO–NS NC was determined and the results showed that the CCO–BWO–NS NC had a comparatively lower genotoxicity and mitotic index, and no micronuclei were observed. Thus, the prepared CCO–BWO–NS NC was found be an excellent photocatalyst for the effective removal of doxy and Cr(VI). The study suggests that the CCO–BWO–NS NC could be an excellent photocatalyst for environmental water treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water accessibility is necessary for agricultural and socioeconomic development in the area. One of the best solutions to the water crisis in the Kohat region is to build rainwater harvesting structures (RWH) to collect water from local watersheds for artificial groundwater recharge. Our main objective was to identify suitable RWH locations in the study area. However, the optimum site selection for RWH in regional areas is crucial. In such a case, geospatial techniques have revealed decisive in optimum site selection for RWH structures. In the current study, we have used GIS-based models like the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Weight of Evidence (WOE) to identify suitable sites for rainwater harvesting. Seven influential parameters, i.e., LULC, rainfall, drainage density, slope, lineament density, soil, and lithology, were considered, reclassified, and assigned ranks according to literature for analysis to produce potential site maps for RWH structures. The findings of the current study indicate that, based on the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), 44% (1320 km2) of the study area is classified as highly suitable for rainwater harvesting, while 40% (1200 km2) is considered moderately appropriate, and 16% (470 km2) is deemed unsuitable. In contrast, when utilizing the Weight of Evidence (WOE) approach, the high suitability class encompasses 32% (956.8 km2) of the area, the moderate suitability class covers 43% (1285.7 km2), and the low suitability class accounts for 25% (748 km2) of the study area. The outcome of the current study aims to contribute and assist the planner, manager, and officials in finding sites for RWH structures to overcome the water table, irrigation demand, and agricultural issues in the study area. • To build rainwater harvesting structures (RWH) in the Kohat region. • Two GIS based models Analytical Hierarchy Process and Weight of Evidence were used. • The results revealed that 16% (470 km2) using AHP and WOE 32% (956.8 km2). • The current study aims to contribute and assist the planner, manager in finding sites for RWH structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quality of cut flowers is always associated to vase life at the consumer. In previous studies, novel preservative postharvest treatments have been tested to prolong vase life and commercial quality. The aim of this work was to study the potential use of borage (Borago officinalis L.) leaf extract as natural vase life enhancer for cut gladiolus flowers. Borage leaf extracts (BE) applied as 1 %, 2 %, 3 % and 4 % (v/v) in vase solutions extended the vase life from 6.2 to 13 d. We recorded a concentration of BE at 3 % significantly improved the number of open flowers, the floret diameter, the relative fresh weight, chlorophyll and carotenoid content. BE showed antioxidant properties, as they decreased oxidative stress and reduced the lipid peroxidation as demonstrated by the malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) concentrations and membrane stability index (MSI). Postharvest treatment with BE boosted proline content in cut gladiolus, indicating a reaction that was associated with the alleviation of water stress. BE application improved total soluble proteins, sugars and phenols in the florets resulting in prolong of the vase life. Bacterial count was reduced in BE treated vase solutions depicting less proliferation of bacteria at stem ends and hence reduced stem blockage. The best postharvest performance was obtained by the BE at 3 %. The promising results of current experiments, may be suggested as potential postharvest treatment to prolong the vase life of sword lily. • Borage extract as biostimulant improved the vase life of gladiolus cut flower. • Borage extract improved water relations and biochemical aspects • Microbial load was reduced in vase solution added with biostimulant. • Borage extract is appropriate approach to extend vase life of cut flowers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current investigation examines the effectiveness of various approaches in predicting the soil texture class (clay, silt, and sand contents) of the Rawalpindi district, Punjab province, Pakistan. The employed techniques included artificial neural networks (ANNs), kriging, co-kriging, and inverse distance weighting (IDW). A total of 44 soil specimens from depths of 10–15 cm were gathered, and then the hydrometer method was adopted to measure their texture. The map of soil grain sets was formulated in the ArcGIS environment, utilizing distinct interpolation approaches. The MATLAB software was used to evaluate soil texture. The gradient fraction, latitude and longitude, elevation, and soil texture fragments of points were proposed to an ANN. Several statistical values, such as correlation coefficient (R), geometric mean error ratios (GMER), and root mean square error (RMSE), were utilized to evaluate the precision of the intended techniques. In assessing grain size and spatial dissemination of clay, silt, and sand, the effectiveness and precision of ANN were superior compared to kriging, co-kriging, and inverse distance weighting. Still, less than a 50% correlation was observed using the ANN. In this examination, the IDW had inferior precision compared to the other approaches. The results demonstrated that the practices produced acceptable results and can be used for future research. Soil texture is among the most central variables that can manipulate agriculture plans. The prepared maps exhibiting the soil texture groups are imperative for crop yield and pastoral scheduling. • To predict the soil texture class comparing the performance of ANN, kriging, co-kriging and IDW. • The soil samples were collected from Rawalpindi District of Punjab province, Pakistan. • The results showed that the performance of ANN was better than the other methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Sprouted barley has recently been used in animal feed, but studies on its nutritional and digestibility values for growing lambs are very limited, especially when compared with traditional forages. However, the aim of the current research is to determine the practical level and nutritional properties of sprouted barley as a replacement for the traditional feed for growing lambs by ascertaining its efficacy of performance, nutritional value, digestibility, and fermentation characteristics in vivo and in vitro. The current research helps both workers and researchers to determine the level and the most effective way to utilize sprouted barley as an alternative strategy to traditional feeding systems. In conclusion, sprouted barley with traditional feed improves digestibility and fermentation characteristics. Further studies are needed to increase nutrient requirements for optimal lamb growth performance. The main objective of this study was to investigate the effects of freshly sprouted barley on the growth of lambs, in addition to its nutritional value and digestibility. In addition, sprouted barley digestibility and rumen fermentation were studied in vitro on a dry matter (DM) basis. A total of 45 three-month-old Awassi lambs were randomly assigned to five treatments of sprouted barley (0, 25, 50, 75, 100%) diets. Bodyweight, weight gain, feed intake and feed efficiency were recorded every two weeks. Nutrient analyses were performed on feed, faecal, and urine samples. DM and non-fibrous carbohydrates were measured. Digestibility of DM, organic matter (OM), and neutral detergent fiber (NDF), as well as gas production, pH value, ammonia-N, and volatile fatty acids (VFAs), were determined in vitro using continuous culture. The results showed that final bodyweight was lower (p < 0.05), while feed intake and the feed-to-gain ratio were increased (p < 0.05) in sprouted barley treatments. Nutrient analysis indicators of sprouted barley treatments (25 to100%) were lower (p < 0.05) for DM, crude protein, acid detergent fiber, lignin and ash, and higher for total digestible nutrients, NDF, fat, phosphorus, zinc, copper, and net energy than the traditional diet. In the in vivo study, the digestibility of nutrients in sprouted barley treatments was improved (p < 0.05), while the diet (sprouted barley 100%) had the lowest digestibility of DM, OM, and NDF compared with the other treatments in the in vitro study. In conclusion, the addition of sprouted barley improved digestibility, and fermentation characteristics, while having a negative effect on growth. Further studies are recommended for optimal growth performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The western Himalayan region is susceptible to minor climate changes because of its fragile ecology, which might threaten the valley's prestigious ecosystems and socio-economic components. The Himalayas's local climate and weather are vulnerable to and interlinked with world-scale climatic changes since the region's hydrology is predominantly dominated by snow and glaciers. The Himalayas, notably the Jammu and Kashmir region in the western Himalayas, has clearly shown distinct and robust evidence of climate change. This study used observed data to examine the climatic variability and trends of change in precipitation and temperature for the Kashmir valley between 1980 and 2020. Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Kokernag, Qazigund, Kupwara, and Srinagar (Shalimar) meteorological stations in the Kashmir valley were studied in detail for long- and short-term as well as localized fluctuations in temperature and precipitation. The annual temperature and precipitation fluctuations were calculated using Sen's slope approach, and the sloping trend was determined using linear regression. The research showed statistically insignificant growing trends in maximum and minimum temperatures throughout the Kashmir valley. The average annual temperature in the Kashmir valley increased by 1.55 °C during the last 41 years (from 1980 to 2020), with a higher rise in maximum and minimum temperature by 2.00 and 1.10 °C, respectively. However, precipitation showed a non-significant decreasing trend concerning time series analysis over 1980 to 2020 in Kashmir valley. Results of annual average maximum temperature at all the stations revealed that Pahalgam (2.2 °C), Kokernag (1.8 °C), and Kupwara (1.8 °C) displayed a steep upsurge and statistically significant trends; however, annual average minimum temperature followed an increasing trend from 1980 to 2020 at all the stations except Shalimar. However, non-significant declining trends in precipitation were recorded at all the locations in Kashmir valley. This changing pattern of temperature and precipitation could have significant environmental consequences, affecting the western Himalayan region's food security and ecological sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Callosobruchus maculatus (Fab.) (C. maculatus) is one of the major pests of legume seeds in storage causing significant damage, leading to food insecurity and low income for farmers. This work was planned to develop eco-friendly agents from essential oils of Artemisia herba alba Asso. (AEO), Maticaria Recutita L. (MEO), and Dittrichia Viscosa L. (DEO) to control C. maculatus. To achieve this goal, essential oils (EOs) were extracted by hydro-distillation using Clevenger apparatus before being characterized by GC-MS. EOs were used for testing purposes using three different tests, namely, inhalation toxicity, contact toxicity, and repellency tests. GC-MS analysis of EOs showed the presence of 16 potentially active compounds in AEO and 38 in MEO, whilst 15 compounds were identified in DEO. AEO was higher in thujone (57.6%) and chrysanthenone (11.8%). Santolina alcohol (40.7%) and germacrene D (8.9%) were the major compounds identified in MEO, whereas isocostic acid (72.3%) was the chief compound of DEO. The obtained findings showed that the studied EOs showed considerable insecticidal activity against C. maculatus with a lethal dose (LC50) of 3.78, 8.86, and 14.34 μL/1 liter of air by AEO, MEO, and DEO, respectively. At 1 μL/1 liter of air, the oviposition reduction rate was 90.02%, 70.65%, and 48.23% by AEO, MEO, and DEO, respectively, whereas the emergence reduction rate was 87.32%, 60.08%, and 32.24% by AEO, MEO, and DEO, respectively. With increasing doses up to 20 μL/L, the reduction of individual emergence reached 98.8% by AEO of 24 h after treatment. AEO, MEO, and DEO showed significant repellent effects against adults of C. maculatus with repulsion percentages of 60.83%, 50.83%, and 72.5%, respectively. The outcome of this work suggests that the essential oils of the studied plants, particularly Artemisia herba alba Asso. oils, can constitute a natural and environmentally friendly alternative to develop new bioinsecticides for the control of C. maculatus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temperature is a key factor influencing plant growth and productivity; however, temperature fluctuations can cause detrimental effects on crop growth. This study aimed to assess the effect of seed priming on Camelina sativa L. under heat stress. Experimental treatments were comprised of; seed priming including, no-priming, hydropriming (distilled water priming), and osmopriming (thiourea applications at 500 ppm), heat stress (control = 20 °C and heat stress = 32 °C), and camelina varieties (7126 and 8046). Heat stress hammered crop growth as relative water content and photosynthetic rate were reduced by 35.9% and 49.05% in 7126, respectively, and 25.6% and 41.2% in 8046 as compared with control-no thiourea applied. However, osmopriming with thiourea improved the root and shoot length, and biomass production compared to control–no application under heat stress, with more improvement in variety 8046 as compared with 7126. Moreover, the maximum values of gas exchange and water relations were recorded at thiourea priming and no stress as compared with no-priming under heat stress that helped to improve seed yield by 12% in 7126 and 15% in 8046, respectively. Among the varieties, camelina variety 8046 showed better performance than 7126 by producing higher seed yield especially when subjected to thiourea priming. In conclusion, thiourea seed priming helped the plants to mitigate the adverse effects of heat stress by upregulating plant physiological attributes that lead to maintain camelina seed yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In traditional row and strip cowpea-sorghum intercropping systems, cowpea forage yield reduces significantly due to intense competition and dominance of sorghum in acquiring growth resources. This field study evaluated novel mixed strip intercropping systems of forage cowpea and sorghum having different number of crops rows arranged under different spatial arrangements. Cowpea was intercropped with sorghum in 8, 12 and 16 rows strips with row-row spacing of 30, 45 and 60 cm. In each strip, equal number of rows of cowpea and sorghum were maintained. Factorial arrangement of randomized complete block design with three replicates was used to execute the field trials during summer seasons of 2013 and 2014. Strips having 12 rows and 60 cm rowrow spacing positively affected all agronomic variables of cowpea which led to maximum forage yield (22.2 and 23.7 t ha-1 during 2013 and 2014 respectively) and dry matter biomass (6.63 and 6.94 t ha-1 during 2013 and 2014 respectively). In contrast, 8-rows strips having line spacing of 30 cm outperformed other intercropping systems by yielding the maximum herbage yield and dry matter biomass of sorghum. The intercropping system comprising of 12-rows strips with 60 cm row-row spacing remained superior in recording the maximum crude protein, fats and total ash along with the minimum fiber content of cowpea. In addition, this intercropping system under rest of spatial arrangements also remained unmatched, while 16-rows strips under all planting geometries remained inferior to other intercropping systems. Thus, cowpea intercropping with sorghum in 12-rows strips having 60 cm spacing offers biologically viable solution to improve biomass and forage quality of cowpea in intercropping with sorghum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rainwater harvesting (RWH) is an essential technique for enhancing agricultural development, particularly in regions facing water scarcity or unreliable rainfall patterns. Water shortage, however, is one of the key causes of low crop production especially in mountainous regions like the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province where most rainwater is lost by runoff. Therefore, rainwater harvesting could be a suitable to make better use of runoff and increase crop production. The study focuses on selecting suitable rainwater harvesting sites in District Karak to enhance agriculture by utilizing multi-influence factor (MIF) and fuzzy overlay techniques. We considered seven factors, i.e., land use land cover (LULC), slope, geology, soil, rainfall, lineament, drainage density, to create a ranking system to understand its application in site selection analysis. The results were combined into one overlay process to produce a rainwater harvesting suitability map. The weighted overlay analysis of the MIF model results reveals that 167.96 km2 area has a very high potential for rainwater harvesting, 874.17 km2 has a high potential, 1182.92 km2 has a moderate and 354.50 km2 has a poor potential for rainwater harvesting. The fuzzy overlay analysis revealed that 257.53 km2 has a very high potential for rainwater harvesting, 896.56 km2 area is classified as high, 1018.30 km2 moderate, and 407.7 km2 has poor potential for rainwater harvesting. The findings of this research work will help the policymakers and decision-makers construct various rainwater harvesting structures in the study area to overcome the water shortage problems. • Selecting suitable rainwater harvesting (RWH) sites in District Karak. • MIF and fuzzy models were applied to identify the RWH. • Seven conditioning factors were applied with MIF and Fuzzy models. • MIF and Fuzzy models show 176.96 km2 and 257.53 km2 as RWH high potential zones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthesis of some new thiazolyl 2‐pyrazolin‐5‐one analogues was succeeded through the reaction of 3‐methyl‐1‐thiocarbamoyl‐2‐pyrazolin‐5‐one with different α‐halogenated derivatives via different routes. The physical and spectral analysis techniques were performed to demonstrate the proper structures of all incorporated analogues. The synthesized derivatives were investigated as cytotoxic agents against some important cell lines, in which the results displayed persuasive activities relative to the results of antibiotic standards. In addition, the antioxidant activity of the synthesized analogues was evaluated using ABTS•+ method. The preps analogues displayed respectable results as antioxidant agents, especially derivatives 14 a‐c and 11 a‐c due to the existence of thiadiazolyl and bis‐thaizolyl arms for pyrazoline ring, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An effective and economical preparation of bis‐(2‐thiazolyl)amine analogues was achieved by the reaction of 3‐(5‐arylazothiazol‐2‐yl)thioureas with various halogenated carbonyl reagents (namely; chloroacetic acid, diethyl bromomalonate, chloroacetone and phenacyl bromide). The physical and spectral analyses were performed to demonstrate the correct configurations of all incorporated analogues. It is clear that most of synthesized bis‐(2‐thiazolyl)amine derivatives revealed good biological efficacy, including anticancer, antibacterial and antioxidant. The synthesized bis‐(2‐thiazolyl)amine derivatives were investigated as cytotoxic agents against four different cell lines, in which the results revealed potent efficacies of the synthesized derivatives relative to the results of antibiotic standards. In addition, the antioxidant efficacy of all analogues was determined using ABTS•+ "2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulphonic acid" method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • L-cys-Ag NPs was sensitive and selective probe for the detection of paracetamol and cadmium. • L-cys-Ag NPs was synthesized by chemical reduction method. • L-cys-Ag NPs can be used in the logic gate on the multicolour detection of cadmium and paracetamol. • L-cys-Ag NPs can be used as an effective tool for the detection of paracetamol in blood. • The limit detection limit of paracetamol and cadmium by NPs was 1.2 nM and 2.82 nM. L-cystine (L-cys) functionalized plasmonic silver nanomaterial (Ag NPs) was fabricated toward the selective and sensitive detection of paracetamol and cadmium. The prepared L-cys-Ag nanoparticles (NPs) were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD) and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses. SEM imaging show that Ag NPs was decorated on the surface of L-cysteine 3D cubic nanosheet. L-cys-Ag NPs showed selective and sensitive detection towards paracetamol and cadmium. The interference study confirms that the presence of other metal ions didn't inhibit the detection of cadmium by L-cys-Ag NPs. The limit of detection of paracetamol and cadmium by L-cys-Ag NPs was calculated to be 1.2 and 2.82 nM respectively. In addition, the real sample detection of paracetamol on blood serum and urine, and cadmium on STP were performed and the recovery percentage was above 97%. Further, the real sample analysis was performed in tap and drinking water and the recovery percentage was more than 98%. The analytic logic gate on the multicolour detection of cadmium and paracetamol was performed for the semi-quantitative monitoring of paracetamol and cadmium by L-cys-Ag NPs. The developed L-cys-Ag NPs were found to be an effective tool for the monitoring of cadmium in environmental water bodies and paracetamol in blood and urine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In account of environmental remediation, an ideal photocatalyst was fabricated for the effective treatment of water systems. Herein, dual heterojunctions framed CuWO 4 /Bi 2 WO 6 /MnS nanocomposite (NCs) was synthesized via simple co-precipitation method followed by ultra-sonicated assisted route. The prepared NCs were investigated its photocatalytic degradation performance using para -chlorophenol (4-CP) and reduction of chromium VI (Cr (VI)) under visible light irradiation. The photocatalyst were characterized by various analytical techniques including XRD, HR-TEM, XPS, UV–vis DRS, FE-SEM, EIS, PL, ESR, Raman and N 2 adsorption and desorption studies. The excellent photodegradation of 4-CP was observed within 180 min by the NCs. Similarly, the Cr (VI) reduction was about 97% within 140 min. The effect of pH and influence of different dosage of NCs and 4-CP on the photodegradation efficiency was investigated. The reusability and stability of the NCs was examined over 6 consecutive runs where the XRD and XPS confirm the structural stability of the prepared NCs. The scavenging experiment were carried out to elucidate the mechanism and the active species involved were O2−• and OH• radicals. The TOC analysis affirmed the complete mineralization of the prepared NCs. The ecotoxicity analysis was carried out to determine the toxicity effect of intermediates using ECOSAR software and the end product toxicity was also evaluated against E. coli and S. epidermis. The end product toxicity study also confirmed that the degraded product was less toxic compared to parent compound. Further, the genotoxicity study was done to understand the environmental impact using allium cepa and results confirms that there are no causes of cytotoxicity & genotoxicity by the prepared NCs. Therefore, the prepared NCs can be economical, efficient with excellent photocatalytic performance and environment friendly. [Display omitted] • CuWO 4 /Bi 2 WO 6 /MnS NCs was synthesized via simple co-precipitation and ultra-sonication assisted method. • The excellent photodegradation of p -chlorophenol was observed within 180 min. • The NCs exhibited good photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI) within 140 min. • The end product toxicity was evaluated against E. coli and S. epidermis. • The phytotoxicity study was performed using Allium cepa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable wastewater treatment is crucial to remediate the water pollutants through the development of highly efficient, low-cost and separation free photocatalyst. The aim of this study is to construct a novel CoNiO 2 –BiFeO 3 –NiS ternary nanocomposite (NCs) for the efficient degradation of organic pollutants by utilising visible light. The NCs was characterized by various physiochemical techniques, including HR-TEM, SEM, XPS, FT-IR, ESR, EIS, PL, UV–visible DRS, and N 2 adsorption and desorption analysis. The photocatalyst exhibits extraordinary degradation efficiency towards MO (99.8%) and RhB (97.8%). The intermediates were determined using GC-MS analysis and the degradation pathway was elucidated. The complete mineralization was further confirmed by TOC analysis. The CoNiO 2 –BiFeO 3 –NiS ternary NCs have shown excellent photostability, structural stability and reusability even after six cycles and it is confirmed by XRD and XPS analysis. The kinetic study reveals that the photodegradation of the dyes follows first order reaction. The influence of different pH, dye concentrations and NCs dosages were investigated. The intermediate toxicity was predicted by computational stimulation using ECOSAR software. The NCs shows promising potential for ecological safety which demonstrates its practical application in the treatment of waste water pollutants in large scale. • A novel CoNiO 2 –BiFeO 3 –NiS ternary nanocomposite (NCs) shows excellent photocatalytic performance. • The synthesized CoNiO 2 –BiFeO 3 –NiS ternary nanocomposite were successfully characterized. • The NCs showed an excellent Z-scheme photocatalytic degradation. • The NCs demonstrated MO (100%) and RhB (96.7%) dye degradation. • The NCs displayed tremendous stability for six photocatalytic cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of an efficient and robust photocatalyst is of great importance for the effective treatment of toxic pollutants. In this study, novel Ag 3 PO 4 microspheres were decorated on the nanorod embedded flower-like BiOBr designed for the effective photodegradation of methyl orange (MO) and malachite green (MG) dyes. The synthesized particle was characterized to understand the structural and morphological features using HR-TEM, XRD, SEM, PL, ESR, FT-IR, XPS, EIS and N 2 adsorption and desorption. The degradation rate constants for MG (0.0132 min−1) were 3.47 and 3.14 times greater than BiOBr and Ag 3 PO 4. Similarly, the rate constants for MO degradation (0.0151 min−1) are 3.87 and 3.97 times greater than BiOBr and Ag 3 PO 4. The effect of initial MG and MO dye concentration, reaction pH, nanocomposite (NC) concentration was investigated. The NC exhibited excellent visible light photodegradation of 99.8% for MO and 93.4% for MG dyes at 180 min and 200 min respectively. A S-scheme heterojunction were proposed as the possible mechanism for the photodegradation of the dyes. The prepared photocatalyst exhibits excellent structural stability and reusability. The toxicity of the intermediates were predicted by the ecotoxicity analysis using ECOSAR software where the end products were less toxic than parent MG and MO. The degradation pathway were elucidated to predict the possible intermediates and to confirm the complete mineralization of the compound using GC-MS analysis. The proposed study can be implemented for practical application for the degradation of organic pollutants present in the water bodies. • Ag 3 PO 4 microspheres were decorated on the flower-like BiOBr. • BiOBr/30%Ag 3 PO 4 exhibited superior photodegradation of MO and MG dyes. • BiOBr/Ag 3 PO 4 shown excellent stability and recyclable properties. • Heterojunction of semiconductor accelerated separation of photoelectron-hole pairs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study focused on the photocatalytic degradation of 5-Flurouracil (FU), carvedilol (Car), para -chlorophenol (PCP) and methimazole (Met) under visible light irradiation by MnWO 4 /Ag 2 WO 4 (MWO/AWO) nanohybrid. Here, MWO/AWO nanohybrid was characterized by XRD, TEM, EDS, XPS, ESR, EIS, BET and DRS. The band gap energy of the MWO/AWO nanohybrid was found to be 2.75 eV, which enables effective photocatalytic activity of nanohybrid under visible light. The photocatalytic degradation of various PhACs such as Fu, Car, PCP and Met was found to be 98.8, 100, 98 and 98.1% respectively. The degradation efficiency of the MWO/AWO nanohybrid on various PhACs was higher than the pure MWO and AWO nanoparticle. The effective formation of OH• and •O 2 by MWO/AWO nanohybrid played an important role in degradation of PhACs and it was determined by radical scavenging experiment. Further, the intermediates formed during the photocatalytic process were analyzed by GC-MS/MS to elucidate the photodegradation pathway and the results reveal the complete mineralization of the PhACs. The toxicity of the degraded product was performed against on Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli where it shows that the nanohybrid possesses high relative growth inhibition than AWO and MWO nanoparticles. In addition, the genotoxicity of the nanohybrid against Allium cepa was performed and it exhibited lower toxicity. The synthesized nanohybrid proves to be an excellent photocatalyst with good stability, reusability, eco-friendly, and cost-effective material for implementation in practical applications. [Display omitted] • MnWO 4 /Ag 2 WO 4 nanohybrid was synthesized by sono-chemical coprecipitation method. • Nanohybrid showed outstanding visible-light photocatalytic activity. • MnWO 4 /Ag 2 WO 4 nanohybrid demonstrates good photostability and reusability. • The.•O2 and OH• was responsible for the photodegradation of PhACs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis of CeO 2 /MnFe 2 O 4 NCs has been carried out by ultrasonication-assisted co-precipitation method. Transmission electron microscopic (TEM) analysis confirmed the embedment of MnFe 2 O 4 over CeO 2 with clear lattice fringes. Energy dispersive analysis (EDAX) and elemental mapping confirm the existence of elements including Ce, Mn, Fe, and O. The XRD patterns of the NCs indicated the effective construction of crystalline CeO 2 /MnFe 2 O 4 NCs with the co-existence of CeO 2 and MnFe 2 O 4 in desired molar ratio. The degradation rate constant of CeO 2 /MnFe 2 O 4 NCs-1:1 under visible light illumination was estimated to be 0.0108 min−1, which was 2.2 and 2.8 times greater than CeO 2 and MnFe 2 O 4 respectively. Here, the study provides a clear insight into the photocatalytic mechanism of the p-n type NCs, which exhibited efficient charge transfer and improved mobility. The scavenging assay and ESR analysis have explicated the major role of •OH radicals as the dominant reactive oxygen species on the photocatalytic degradation of MB dye. The photocatalytic efficiency of CeO 2 /MnFe 2 O 4 NCs-1:1 for MB dye degradation was found to be 86%. The results expressed almost similar degradation efficiency till the 6th cycle and the structural integrity of the NCs was found to be intact even after the photodegradation. Additionally, a predictive degradation pathway for MB was elucidated by Fukui function-based DFT analysis. The anti-microbial activity of the prepared samples was investigated against S. aureus and E. coli. Hence, the fabricated CeO 2 /MnFe 2 O 4 NCs-1:1 was concluded with the obtained results and it has been observed to be a potential candidate as an efficient photocatalyst for the elimination of toxic organic pollutants. [Display omitted] • CeO 2 /MnFe 2 O 4 NCs was synthesized by sono-chemical coprecipitation method. • The CeO 2 /MnFe 2 O 4 NCs showed outstanding visible-light photocatalytic activity. • The NCs demonstrates good photostability and reusability. • The hydroxyl radical was responsible for the enhance photocatalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work describes the synthesis of Ag decorated CoO nanocomposites (NCs) supported on chitosan (CS-Ag/CoO NCs) for simple, low cost and rapid colorimetric detection of L -cysteine, and for the photocatalytic reduction of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) ion. The NCs was characterized thoroughly by using UV–vis spectrophotometer, fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDAX), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The NCs displayed high specificity, sensitivity and selectivity towards the L -cysteine detection and quantification from aqueous samples. The limit of detection of the prepared probe was 4.67 nM. The particle size of CS-Ag/CoO NCs was found to be 8.52 ± 0.13 nm. The CS-Ag/CoO NCs interaction with L -cysteine, interestingly causes the aggregation of NCs with increase in particle size to 956 ± 0.23 nm. The color change was observed from yellow to color less. An excellent linear correlation exists between the absorbance vs logarithmic concentration of L -cysteine (10 nM- 1 mM). Here, 250 mg/L of NCs reduced 100 mg/L of Cr(VI) to Cr(III) within 180 min. The kinetic data suggested that the NCs exhibited greater photocatalytic reduction efficiency than CoO and Ag/CoO. The paper-based test strips were developed and applied for the rapid colorimetric assay for the onsite monitoring of L -cysteine from real samples. The study demonstrated a specific detection of L -cysteine irrespective of the source of samples using CS-Ag/CoO NCs. Hence, the prepared NCs can be used as a colorimetric probe and provides a practical application for photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI). The NCs also exhibitted excellent antimicrobial activity. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural yields are under constant jeopardy as climate change and abiotic pressures spread worldwide. Using rhizospheric microbes as biostimulants/biofertilizers is one of the best ways to improve agro-agriculture in the face of these things. The purpose of this experiment was to investigate whether a native arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi inoculum (AMF-complex) might improve caper (Capparis spinosa) seedlings' nutritional status, their morphological/growth performance and photosynthetic efficiency under water-deficit stress (WDS). Thus, caper plantlets inoculated with or without an AMF complex (+AMF and −AMF, respectively) were grown under three gradually increasing WDS regimes, i.e., 75, 50 and 25% of field capacity (FC). Overall, measurements of morphological traits, biomass production and nutrient uptake (particularly P, K+, Mg2+, Fe2+ and Zn2+) showed that mycorrhizal fungi inoculation increased these variables significantly, notably in moderate and severe WDS conditions. The increased WDS levels reduced the photochemical efficiency indices (Fv/Fm and Fv/Fo) in −AMF plants, while AMF-complex application significantly augmented these parameters. Furthermore, the photosynthetic pigments content was substantially higher in +AMF seedlings than −AMF controls at all the WDS levels. Favorably, at 25% FC, AMF-colonized plants produce approximately twice as many carotenoids as non-colonized ones. In conclusion, AMF inoculation seems to be a powerful eco-engineering strategy for improving the caper seedling growth rate and drought tolerance in harsh environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study was conducted to investigate antifungal and insecticidal activities of essential oil extracted from the Moroccan Withania frutescens L. (EOW), and their chemical composition was profiled. To achieve this goal, EOW was extracted by the hydro-distillation method and their phytochemical constituents were characterized by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analyses (GC-MS). Insecticidal activity was evaluated by use of four tests: contact toxicity, inhalation toxicity, and repellent tests. Antifungal activity was evaluated on Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Ciceris (F. oxysporum) using different concentrations of EOW. GC/MS analysis revealed that EOW was rich in carvacrol (31.87%), thymol (30.08%), and camphor (9.13%). At a 1-µL/L dose, EOW exhibited mortality rates of 23.13 ± 1.07% and 24.41 ± 1.21% against Callosobruchus maculatus (C.maculatus) by inhalation and contact, respectively. Notably, EOW dose of 20 μL/L caused significant mortality rates of 95.1 ± 3.5% and 76.69 ± 1.71% by inhalation and contact, respectively. EOW exhibited an inhibitory effect on mycelial growth against the tested fungi F. oxysporum of 100% and 93.5 ± 1.1% for the 9 and 4.5 mg/mL doses, respectively. The reduced mycelial growth rate for F. oxysporum was recorded to be 0.3 ± 0.1 and 0.6 ± 0.1 mm/h for the EOW doses of 2.25 and 4.5 mg/mL, respectively. The outcome of the present work showed that EOW has a promising antifungal and insecticidal activity, and it can therefore be employed as a natural alternative insecticidal and mycocidal agent to replace the chemically-synthesized ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium (Cd) stress is a serious environmental hazard that has devastating impacts on plant growth and productivity. Moreover, the entrance of Cd into the human food chain by eating Cd-contaminated food also poses serious health issues. Organic amendments (OA) possess an excellent potential to reduce the adverse impacts of Cd stress. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the potential of different OA in improving the mash beans growth and yield grown under Cd-contaminated soil. The soil was spiked with different concentrations of Cd (0, 10 and 20 mg/kg) and subjected to different OA, i.e., control, cow manure (5%), sugarcane press mud (5%) and a combination of cow manure (2.5%) and sugarcane press mud (2.5%). Results indicated that Cd stress induced a significant reduction in growth and yield traits, leaf water status, photosynthetic pigments, protein accumulation and anti-oxidant activities. However, the application of OA appreciably reduced the Cd-induced toxic effects and caused a significant increase in growth and yield. The application of 5% sugarcane press mud remained the top performer and it increased the mash bean growth and yield through improved photosynthetic pigments, leaf water status (56%) and reduced Cd uptake (18%), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production (38.52%), electrolyte leakage (EL) (42.13%) malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation (55.88%) and increased accumulation of soluble protein (60.15%) and free amino acids (54%) through improved activities of anti-oxidant enzymes. Therefore, these findings suggested that the application of sugarcane press mud enhanced the growth and yield through reduced Cd accumulation, enhanced photosynthetic pigments, leaf water status, protein and amino accumulation and reduced H2O2, EL and MDA accumulation through a stronger anti-oxidant defense system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfur (S) is an essential element for all forms of life. It is involved in numerous essential processes because S is considered as the primary source of one of the essential amino acids, methionine, which plays an important role in biological events. For the control and regulation of sulfate in a metabolic network through fluxomics, a non-invasive tool is highly desirable that opens the door to monitor the level of the sulfate in real time and space in living cells without fractionation of the cells or tissue. Here, we engineered a FRET (fluorescence resonance energy transfer) based sensor for sulfate, which is genetically-encoded and named as FLIP-SP (Fluorescent indicator protein for sulfate). The FLIP-SP can measure the level of the sulfate in live cells. This sensor was constructed by the fusion of fluorescent proteins at the N- and C-terminus of sulfate binding protein (sbp). The FLIP-SP is highly specific to sulfate, and showed pH stability. Real-time monitoring of the level of sulfate in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells showed sensor bio-compatibility with living cells. We expect that this sulfate sensor offers a valuable strategy in the understanding of the regulation of the flux of sulfate in the metabolic network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Facile development of chromogenic biosensor for determination of urea. • Cellulose nanowhiskers were loaded with a spectroscopic probe and urease enzyme. • Detection limit was in the concentration range 50−1100 ppm. • Response time of about 5–10 min. • Color shift from light yellow to pink was monitored upon detection of urea. Colorimetric nanocomposite film sensor was fabricated by incorporating TCFH spectroscopic probe into cellulose nanowhiskers (CNW)/Urease enzyme matrix. CNW-TCFH can be used as disposable molecular biosensor in which CNW is the probe carrier comprising high surface area-to-volume ratio, urease is the catalyst and TCFH is the molecular probe. Tricyanofuran-hydrazone (TCFH) spectroscopic probe was prepared. UV–vis absorption spectra demonstrated solvatochromic behavior and a reversible color change of the tricyanofuran-hydrazone probe solution in acetone under acid/base conditions. CNW were reinforced with sodium alginate biopolymer to introduce biocomposite film. This CNW-TCFH film biosensor responds through visible color shift from light yellow to pink when exposed to urea in aqueous media. The morphology properties of CNW and CNW-TCFH films were examined by different tools. The photophysical properties of the prepared TCFH probe, including solvatochromism and pH sensory, were also studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]