Biological Methods Research Articles

Electrocoagulation as a Remedial Approach for Phosphorus Removal from Onsite Wastewater: A Review

Onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTSs), although essential for managing domestic sewage in areas without centralized sewerage treatment plants, often release phosphorus (P) into the environment due to inadequate treatment. This unregulated P discharge exacerbates water quality degradation and jeopardizes aquatic habitats and human health. Among different treatment technologies, electrocoagulation (EC) demonstrates considerable potential for addressing this challenge by efficiently removing P from OWTSs and thus protecting water resources and ecological integrity. Through electrochemical reactions, EC destabilizes and aggregates P-bearing particles, facilitating their removal through precipitation. Compared to conventional treatment approaches, i.e., chemical and biological methods, EC offers several advantages, including high efficiency, minimal chemical usage, and adaptability to varying wastewater compositions. This review underscores the urgent need for mitigating P discharge from OWTSs and the efficacy of EC as a sustainable solution for P removal, offering insights into its mechanisms, reactor design considerations, important operational factors, performance, and potential applications in OWTSs as well as providing future research directions.

Root exudation of glyphosate in Eucalyptus urophylla S.T. Blake

Glyphosate stands out in the eucalyptus management, which makes it essential to know its behavior, its effects on the plant, and possible environmental impacts. This study aimed to identify and quantify the root exudation of glyphosate and aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) by Eucalyptus urophylla with chromatographic and biological methods. The five glyphosate doses were tested (0, 360, 720, 1080 and 1440 g a.e ha−1) on E. urophylla plants. The physiological and intoxication evaluations were performed after herbicide application. Water samples remaining from the pots were used for chemical quantification of root exudation of glyphosate and AMPA in high-performance liquid chromatography. Cucurbita pepo plants were used as bioindicators of glyphosate in the water remaining in the pots after applying herbicide. The increase in glyphosate doses promoted linear growth in E. urophylla intoxication and significantly reduced total dry mass and root production. E. urophylla plants had their photosynthetic, transpiratory, and stomatal conductance rates reduced as the herbicide doses increased. The AMPA root exudation was not detected, but it was possible to identify the presence of glyphosate by bioassay and chemical methods. Root exudation of glyphosate by eucalyptus can result in lesser herbicide action in plant control and cause contamination of deeper soil layers.

Cyanophage Engineering for Algal Blooms Control

Cyanobacteria represent a prevalent category of photosynthetic autotrophs capable of generating deleterious algal blooms, commonly known as cyanobacteria harmful algal blooms (cyanoHABs). These blooms often produce cyanotoxins, which pose risks to public health and ecosystems by contaminating surface waters and drinking water sources. Traditional treatment methods have limited effectiveness. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a new approach to effectively manage cyanoHABs. One promising approach is the use of cyanophages, which are viruses that specifically target cyanobacteria. Cyanophages serve as an effective biological control method for reducing cyanoHABs in aquatic systems. By engineering cyanophages, it is possible to develop a highly specific control strategy that minimally impacts non-target species and their propagation in the environment. This review explores the potential application of cyanophages as a strategy for controlling cyanoHABs. It includes the identification and isolation of broad-spectrum and novel cyanophages, with a specific focus on freshwater Microcystis cyanophages, highlighting their broad spectrum and high efficiency. Additionally, recent advancements in cyanophage engineering are discussed, including genome modification, functional gene identification, and the construction of artificial cyanophages. Furthermore, the current state of application is addressed. Cyanophage is a promising control strategy for effectively managing cyanoHABs in aquatic environments.

Comprehensive Assessment of Carbon Disulfide Exposure in Laboratories—Air and Biological Monitoring Approaches

Carbon disulfide (CS2) is a highly toxic and flammable solvent extensively used in chemical processes and laboratory analyses. This review examines both air and biological monitoring methods for assessing the exposure of laboratory workers to CS2. Emphasis is placed on the measurement of airborne CS2 concentrations and the monitoring of 2-thiothiazolidine-4-carboxylic acid (TTCA) in urine, a key biomarker of exposure. By analysing case studies and practical applications, the paper outlines the effectiveness and limitations of current monitoring techniques. Additionally, the review addresses key challenges such as CS2 volatility, dietary influence on biomarker levels, and the sufficiency of protective measures, including nitrile gloves. It also proposes best practices to mitigate exposure, such as improved ventilation, the use of polyvinyl alcohol gloves, and the substitution of CS2 with less hazardous solvents. This comprehensive review underscores the need for continuous vigilance in managing chemical exposure and offers insights into how laboratories can better protect their workers by integrating air and biological monitoring strategies.

Rational drug design targeting g-protein-coupled receptors: a structural biology perspective

G protein-coupled Receptors (G protein-coupled Receptors, GPCRs) play a key role in the transmission of extracellular signals and regulation of many biological processes, which makes these membrane proteins one of the most important classes of targets for pharmacological agents. The significant increase in the number of atomic structures of GPCRs recently has paved the way for Structure Based Drug Design (SBDD). SBDD uses information on the structure of the receptor-ligand complex to search for affinity and selective ligands without the need for high-throughput experimental ligand screening and allows a significant expansion of the chemical ligand search space. In our review we describe the process of GPCR structure obtaining by X-ray diffraction analysis and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) – an important step in rational drug design targeting GPCRs. Our main goal is to highlight to a wide range of specialists the current aspects and key features of experimental structural biology methods necessary for a detailed understanding of SBDD GPCRs.

Identification of Meloidogyne panyuensis (Nematoda: Meloidogynidae) infecting Orah (Citrus reticulata Blanco) and its impact on rhizosphere microbial dynamics: Guangxi, China

Root-knot nematode disease severely affects the yield and quality of the mandarin variety Citrus reticulata Blanco “Orah” in Guangxi, China. Nevertheless, the pathogen and the effects of this disease on microbial communities remain inadequately understood. This study identified the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne panyuensis in the rhizosphere of infected Orah using morphological and molecular biological methods. Soil chemical properties indicated that organic matter, total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), available phosphorus (AP), total potassium (TK), and available potassium (AK) were significantly higher in the rhizosphere soil of M. panyuensis-infected Orah than in that of healthy plants. The relative abundance of the bacteria Bacillus, Sphingomonas, and Burkholderia-Caballeronia-Paraburkholderia, as well as the fungi Lycoperdon, Fusarium, Neocosmospora, Talaromyces, and Tetragoniomyces, was elevated in the rhizosphere soil of M. panyuensis-infected plants. Furthermore, organic matter, TN, available nitrogen (AN), TP, AP, TK, and AK exhibited positive correlationswith these bacteria and fungi in the rhizosphere soil of M. panyuensis-infected Orah. Potential biocontrol strains, such as Burkholderia spp., were identified by comparing the differences in rhizosphere microbial composition between healthy Orah and M. panyuensis-infected Orah. Our findings provide a foundation for the early warning and prevention of root-knot nematode disease in Orah.

SMART DENGUE CONTROL

This research presents a novel approach to combating dengue by integrating Biological Control methods with Artificial Intelligence (AI). The objective of the study is to reduce the Aedes aegypti mosquito population and decrease dengue transmission through sustainable strategies. A comprehensive research methodology was used, involving extensive literature review, case studies, and data analysis to identify the main factors driving the high incidence of dengue in Brazil. The research applied AI tools to analyze epidemiological, meteorological, and environmental data, allowing for early outbreak predictions and targeted interventions. AI-enhanced surveillance systems were also employed to monitor mosquito populations and identify breeding sites more accurately. These strategies were combined with biological control methods, such as using natural predators and genetically modified mosquitoes, to manage mosquito populations effectively. The study demonstrate that the integration of AI and biological control can significantly improve the efficiency, accuracy, and sustainability of dengue control measures. The study concludes that this data-driven approach, when adapted to local contexts, can reduce reliance on chemical pesticides and offer a more resilient framework for long-term dengue management.

Kinetics of manganese removal from groundwater via biological activated carbon fiber

Abstract The residual manganese concentration from groundwater treatment plants normally exceeds the limit of 0.1 mg L−1, which is the maximum permissible manganese content set by the Ministry of Health. A new biological activated carbon fiber technology is described in this paper, in which filtration columns filled with ACF and inoculated manganese oxidizing bacteria (Citrobacter sp. FM-2) were used in an attempt to effectively remove the Mn2+ in groundwater using a biological method. By researching the various factors that influence biological manganese removal, a new kinetics model of BACF filtering with multiple influencing factors that incorporates the key factors of the process, such as the temperature, pH and empty bed contact time (EBCT), was established, and the accuracy of the model was verified. The study further extends the research on biological manganese removal and provides a reference and basis for production practice to some extent.

From Tradition to Innovation: An In-Depth Review of Manganese Removal Techniques in Water Treatment

Contamination of water is currently one of the alarming issues all around the planet. Water that is contaminated with manganese (Mn) could potentially give rise to functional and aesthetic complications. Removal of manganese is critical and often has substantial implications for the layout of treatment trains. Precipitation, ion exchange, depth filtration, oxidation, adsorption, biosorption, and biological methods are the traditional chemical, physical, and biological processes for removing Mn (II) from contaminated water. All these treatment processes have some advantages and disadvantages and are based on which the implementation of any process varies. In recent years, the use of biofiltration to eliminate manganese (Mn) from water has grown owing to the progress made in molecular techniques for studying microorganisms found in biological Mn elimination systems. This study aims to contribute to the existing research on Mn occurrence and highlight the historical and current removal strategies used in drinking water treatment. The main objective is to assist future researchers in developing more efficient technologies and clarify the subject matter.

Deciphering the microbial communities in ticks of Inner Mongolia: ecological determinants and pathogen profiles

BackgroundTicks are vectors of numerous pathogens, with their bacterial composition, abundance, diversity, and interaction influencing both their growth and disease transmission efficiency. Despite the abundance of ticks in Inner Mongolia, China, comprehensive data on their microbial communities are lacking. This study aims to analyze the microbial communities within ticks from Inner Mongolia to inform innovative control strategies for interrupting pathogen transmission.MethodsTick samples were collected from animals and vegetation in multiple locations across Inner Mongolia and stored at − 80 °C. Ticks were identified using morphological keys and molecular biology methods. Full-length 16S rRNA gene sequencing was performed on collected samples. Bacterial community composition and diversity were mainly analyzed using bioinformatic tools such as QIIME, phyloseq, and DESeq2. Alpha diversity was assessed using Chao1, ACE, and Shannon indices, while beta diversity was evaluated using Bray-Curtis dissimilarity matrices. LEfSe analysis was applied to identify taxa associated with ecological and biological variables.ResultsA total of 5,048,137 high-quality read counts were obtained, forming an average of 789.3 OTUs per sample. Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Bacteroidetes were the most dominant phyla. Bacterial community composition varied significantly with geography, with Dermacentor nuttalli showing a higher abundance of Rickettsia in Xilingol League, while other regions had different dominant genera. The microbial community also differed based on the feeding status of ticks. Additionally, the microbiota of engorged ticks showed organ specificity. Pathogen detection efforts revealed the presence of nine pathogens across all three tick species. D. nuttalli was found to carry a significantly higher burden of pathogenic bacteria, making it the most potentially threatening tick species in Inner Mongolia.ConclusionsThe study highlights significant variations in tick microbiomes influenced by geographic location, feeding status, and tick species. It underscores the importance of enhancing tick and tick-borne disease surveillance in Inner Mongolia for early detection and control of emerging pathogens.Graphical

Analysis on pollutants removal and sludge characteristics of a novel two-phase anaerobic/aerobic/integrated deoxygenated and anoxic reactor associated with membrane process for treating pesticide wastewater

Most frequently used biological method was improved anaerobic/anoxic/aerobic (A/A/O) process for treating actual pesticide wastewater presently. However, the effluent results were far away from what the national standard expects due to pesticide wastewater characteristics of high COD concentration, high total nitrogen (TN) concentration and high toxicity. In this study, a novel two-phase anaerobic/aerobic/integrated deoxygenated and anoxic reactor associated with membrane process (P1) were regarded as excellent candidates for the treatment of pesticide wastewater, compared the removal efficiency of pollutants with improved A/A/O process (P2) under different hydraulic retention times (HRTs). Effluent ethylene thiourea (ETU) concentration was reduced effectively by 67.1 % in P1. The average cyanide (CN−) effluent concentration in P1 and P2 was 0.40 mg/L and 6.67 mg/L, respectively. During the entire HRT change period, P1 significantly increased the biological oxygen demand (BOD5) removal efficiency by 12.98 %. The average effluent COD concentration of P1 was 36.41 mg/L, while that of P2 was 984.42 mg/L. In addition, TN removal efficiency of P1 exhibited distinct superiority. When HRT was 72 h, the average TN effluent concentration of P1 and P2 was 12.67 mg/L and 67.66 mg/L. The sludge performance indicators have been determined and results showed that the sludge viscosity of the membrane reactor in P1 had merely 32.6 % higher than that of the secondary sedimentation tank in P2, and the average vertical displacement of sludge settleability in P1 was 23.0 % slight lower than that of P2. The overall sludge performance proved that higher sludge concentration was allowed in P1. Moreover, experiment improved nitrite reductase (NIR) and nitrate reductase (NAR) in P1 were less susceptible to be suppressed by ETU and CN− increase compared with P2. Finally, the positive correlation relationship of sludge settleability with ETU and CN− has been identified successfully in P1.

State Pharmacopoeia of the Russian Federation Edition XV: Development Priorities

INTRODUCTION. Regular reviews of the current portfolio of general chapters and monographs are essential to ensure the well-balanced development of the State Pharmacopoeia of the Russian Federation (Ph. Rus.) in line with the priorities of the national healthcare system.AIM. This study aimed to identify the most promising areas for further Ph. Rus. development through an analysis of recent legislative changes in Russia and the current compendial portfolio.DISCUSSION. This article compares Ph. Rus. editions XIV and XV, analyses the key features and structure of edition XV, and reviews amendments to the regulations governing the Ph. Rus. publication. The current compendial portfolio is dominated by monographs on chemical active substances; it also includes a substantial number of monographs on herbal drugs and herbal drug preparations. Noteworthy, edition XV is the first Ph. Rus. edition to include a separate section dedicated to monographs on excipients necessary for the development of pharmacy compounding. Moreover, this article analyses the coverage of active substances that are used for the production of listed vital and essential medicines.CONCLUSIONS. The authors outlined the priority areas for the development of quality standardisation. The Ph. Rus. should continue developing monographs on active substances that are used for the manufacturing and compounding of listed vital and essential medicines. In addition, the coverage of herbal drugs should be expanded. The Ph. Rus. should develop monographs on excipients that are used for the manufacturing and compounding of medicinal products. Finally, the Ph. Rus. should complete the development of requirements for biological medicinal products and relevant test methods.

Факторна структура підготовленості тхеквондистів 15-17 років

Purpose: to investigate the factor structure of preparedness of taekwondo players of 15-17 years old. Material and Methods. The following methods were used in the research: analysis of scientific and methodical literature, pedagogical testing, medical and biological methods, methods of mathematical statistics. Results: in the course of the research the factor structure of preparedness of taekwondoists of 15-17 years old by the general sample was studied and 9 orthogonal factors were separated in which the sum of loading variables ranges from 9,571 to 1,736, describing 84,804 % of the total variance. The contribution of the first factor, «morpho-functional», to the total variance is 22,788 % and consists of 10 indicators. The second factor accounts for 13,068 % of the total variance, which reflects the special high-speed abilities of taekwondo players of 15-17 years old in the structure of which 7 indicators are included. In the third factor, which accounts for 11,334 % of the total variance, 7 indicators were the main ones. The fourth orthogonal factor has a contribution of 9,259 % of the total variance, the highest correlation was found in 3 indicators. This factor is characterized as a manifestation of coordination abilities with a combination of high-speed endurance (coordination high-speed endurance). The most significant indexes of the fifth factor (6,868 %) are the power index on the left hand (r=0,529) and performance of a side kick with the left (r=0,682) and right (r=-0,569) foot with a deployment on 360° for 15 s. This factor determines the manifestation of strength and the performance of complex coordination kicks and is interpreted by us as «coordination strength». The structure of the sixth factor «Frequency of movements» with a total variance of 6,431 % includes 3 indicators. The seventh factor «ability to control movements» with a total variance of 5,720 % consists of 2 indicators with the highest correlation of lateral kicks with the left foot in the body for 15 s (r=-0,596) and fencing in motion before losing balance with the left foot (r=0,500). The eighth factor «keeping balance»has 2 indicators: fencing for 15 s in the upper level with the left foot (r=0,559) and tilt of a trunk forward from a sitting position (r=-0,514) with a contribution to the general variance of 5,203 %. This is due to the fact that when performing fencing for 15 s in the upper level with the left foot, the athlete stands on one leg and performs blows to the head with the other, to perform this technical technique, the taekwondo player needs a good display of flexibility. The ninth factor reflects reactivity of muscles of hands and has a contribution of 4,133 % of the general dispersion and is characterized by throwing a tennis ball on a distance (r=-0,519). Conclusions. The research has established a dependence between components of preparedness of taekwondo fighters of 15-17 years old, also the most significant factors which reflect morpho-functional indicators, a manifestation of special high-speed abilities, power, coordination and high-speed endurance have been established. With the help of factor analysis, 9 factors were separated, out of 42 considered indicators, the contribution of which is 22,788-4,133 % and is 84,804 % of the total variance. The largest contribution of 22,788 % to the total variance of the sample of taekwondoists of 15-17 years old has morphological and functional indicators.

Temporal dynamics of guava root-knot nematode under the effect of different management methods

Guava, Psidium guajava L., is one of the most produced fruit trees in tropical and subtropical regions but the presence of Meloidogyne enterelobii Yang & Eisenback (Order: Tylenchida, Family: Heteroderidae) in orchards reduces fruit productivity by up to 65%, justifying integrated management programs constantly searching for methods for its efficient and sustainable control. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the potential of chemical, biological, and resistance induction control methods to reduce the variables associated with M. enterelobii in guava orchards. This study was conducted in two areas with guava trees (cv. Paluma) naturally infested with M. enterelobii populations. Commercial doses of products based on Trichoderma harzianum (TRI), Ascophyllum nodosum+potassium hydroxide (EG), and fluensulfone (NI) were applied alone and in interactions in seven treatments+control. Soil and root samples from each treatment were collected monthly and the number of M. entorolobiieggs and individuals and normalized difference vegetation indices were quantified. Analyses conducted on R found that the joint use of TRI+EG reduced M. entorolobii by up to 50% at the soil level, further decreasing reproduction factors and that TRI obtained a 59% reduction at the soil level. Treatments with EG showed higher average productions. These results justify the importance of alternative methods and their possible association with chemicals to manage guava root-knot nematodes.

Sustainable Biological Production and Innovative Purification of the 1,3-Propanediol from Glycerol Fermentation Broth via Resin Adsorption

The study focuses on enhancing the production and purification of 1,3-Propanediol (1,3-PDO), a versatile compound used across various industries. Conventionally, 1,3-propanediol (1,3-PDO) has been derived from petroleum-based feedstocks through chemical processes, which pose significant cost and environmental concerns. This has prompted the exploration of sustainable biological production methods using microorganisms to ferment glycerol, the main by-product of palm oil transesterification in biodiesel production. However, downstream purification remains complex and inefficient. To address this, our study introduces a novel and economically viable purification strategy for 1,3-PDO derived from a semi-industrial fermentation broth. The purification process involves pre-treatment steps: centrifugation, flocculation with chitosan, decolorization with activated charcoal, and broth concentration via rotary evaporation. These steps resulted in a transparent broth with a minimal 6% loss of 1,3-PDO. Various resin types, including Sulfonated Styrene Divinylbenzene (S-SDVB) and Styrene Divinylbenzene (SDVB) ion exchange resins in different ionic forms in addition to silica gel resin, were evaluated for their effectiveness in separating 1,3-PDO in terms of recovery and purity. A key aspect of our study is the detailed investigation of the equilibrium adsorption characteristics of SDVB and S-SDVB resins, each with different ion forms. This analysis provides insights into how resin modifications affect the separation process, aiming for higher yields and purities of 1,3-PDO. The findings revealed that the Langmuir adsorption isotherm fits experimental data. Column chromatography experiments showed SDVB resins' deficiencies in separating 1,3-PDO from other components, while silica gel resin achieved a recovery rate exceeding 96% purity and approximately 80% overall recovery. Notably, the Ca2+ form of S-SDVB resin achieved high recovery (95-100%) and purity (91-93%) in both synthetic and real fermentation broths, addressing biodiesel challenges and proposing a solution for large-scale microbial 1,3-PDO production.

Metallo‐Surfactant Complex‐Assisted Biomimetic Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles: Exploring Relativistic Effects in Catalytic and Sensing Applications

AbstractA biological reduction method for silver nanoparticles was employed using Cassia alata extract from plant leaves, which functions as a reducing agent and the metallo‐surfactant [Co(dqn)2(C12H27N)2]3+ (dqn = dipyrido[3,2‐f:2′,3′‐h]‐quinoxaline; C12H27N)2 = dodecylamine) acting as both stabilizing and capping agent. The ratio of Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) formation was adjusted to be equal to the amount of AgNO3, along with variations in the amount of plant leaf extract, the metallo‐surfactant, pH, surrounding temperature, and the length of interaction periods. High‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis (EDAX) were used to confirm the formation of AgNPs. The infrared results indicate the presence of hydroxyl, amine, and carboxylate groups in the extract plays a crucial role in the reduction process. Additionally, the metallo‐surfactant acts as a capping agent for the silver nanoparticles, preventing agglomeration. By adjusting the acidity of the solution and the quantity of the additive metallo‐surface active agent utilized, the size of AgNPs can be precisely regulated. The relativistic effects observed in this metallo‐surfactant‐assisted silver nanoparticle demonstrate excellent reduction capabilities for nitro compounds, effective dye degradation, and mercury sensing applications.

Mass spectrometry-based metabolomics reveals metabolism of molnupiravir may lead to metabolic disorders and hepatotoxicity.

Molnupiravir (MO) is a pyrimidine nucleoside anti-SARS-CoV-2 drug. MO treatment could cause mild liver injury. However, the underlying mechanism of MO-induced liver injury and the metabolic pathway of MO in vivo are unclear. In this study, metabolomics analysis and molecular biology methods were used to explore these issues. Through metabolomics analysis, it was found that the homeostasis of pyrimidine, purine, lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), and amino acids in mice was destroyed after MO treatment. A total of 80 changed metabolites were detected. Among these changed metabolites, 4-ethylphenyl sulfate, dihydrouracil, and LPC 20:0 was related to the elevation of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), interleukin-6 (IL6), and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB). The levels of 4-ethylphenyl sulfate, dihydrouracil, and LPC 20:0 in plasma were positively correlated with their levels in the liver, suggesting that these metabolites were associated with MO-induced liver injury. MO treatment could increase NHC and cytidine levels, activate cytidine deaminase (CDA), and increase LPC levels. CDA and LPC could increase the mRNA expression level of toll-like receptor (TLR). The current study indicated that the elevation of hepatic TLR may be an important reason for MO leading to the liver injury.

Forecasting Western Corn Rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte) Density and Non-Chemical Control of Larvae: A Practical Review

The western corn rootworm (WCR) (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte; Chrysomelidae) is one of the most significant maize pests in Europe, with farmers spending a substantial amount (approximately 140 EUR) on its control. In the context of climate change, WCRs could pose an even greater threat to EU maize production, particularly as the European Union continues to withdraw an increasing number of effective yet environmentally harmful active agents. Biological control methods have now emerged to the forefront in creating sustainable agriculture. In this review, we carried out an extensive literature analysis on methods for forecasting WCRs and evaluated the practical applicability of the latest non-chemical control methods targeting its larvae. Effective forecasting is essential for successful pest management, enabling informed planning and the selection of the most suitable control methods. Several traditional predicting techniques remain in use today, but recent advancements have introduced modern electronic forecasting units combined with sensor-equipped pheromone and colour traps, as well as thermal sum calculations. Research has demonstrated that crop rotation is one of the most effective methods for controlling WCR larvae. Biological agents, such as entomopathogenic fungi (Beauveria bossiana and Mettarrhyzum anasoplia), entomopathogenic nematodes (Heterorhabditis bacteriophora), and botanical insecticides such as azadirachtin can significantly reduce larval populations and root damage, thereby maintaining infestation levels below the economic threshold. Genetically modified maize plants that produce specific toxins, along with conventional breeding efforts to increase root system regeneration, are also promising tools for the sustainable management of this pest. This review summarizes the solutions for prediction of western corn rootworm infestations and non-chemical control of its larvae. Accurate forecasting methods provide a clear picture of infestation levels in a given area, enabling precisely targeted control measures. In all cases, the control should be directed primarily against the larvae, thereby reducing root damage and reducing the size of the emerging imago population. This review demonstrates that biological control methods targeting larvae can be as effective as pesticides, supporting sustainable pest management.

Bio Nanoparticles as Antimicrobial Agents

One such novel technology is nanotechnology, which has been revolutionized in health care, textile, materials, information and communication technology, and energy sectors too. There are many ways depicted in various literatures to synthesize silver nanoparticles. These include physical, chemical, and biological methods. The physical and chemical methods are numerous in number, and many of these methods are expensive or use toxic substances which are major factors that make them “not so favored” methods of synthesis. An alternate, feasible method to synthesize silver nanoparticles is to employ biological methods of using microbes and plants. Biotechnology has considered a safe agricultural tool to enhance crop protection, subsequently to produce more agricultural products, improve food process, nutritional value, and better flavor. Side by side it has detrimental ecological consequences such as spreading genetically engineered genes to indigenous plants, elevated toxicity, which may transmit through food chain, disrupting nature’s system of pest control, developing new weeds or virus strains, biodiversity loss, and insecticidal resistance (Goswami et al., 2010). Hence, it is necessary to bring forth new innovative technology/methods to overcome the above mentioned problems. The potential application of biogenic nanoparticles as antimicrobial agents will be also reviewed. The mechanism of action of nanoparticles as bactericidal and antifungal agents will be highlighted in this chapter.

Detoxification and benefits on acute heart failure in mice- of fuziline using glycyrrhetinic acid: an integrated biochemical analysis

IntroductionAconiti Lateralis Radix Praeparata (lateral roots of Aconitum carmichaelii Debeaux, Fuzi), is commonly used to treat various cardiovascular diseases, particularly heart failure. However, its strong cardiotoxicity limits its clinical applicability. Glycyrrhizae radix et rhizoma, (the root of Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch., Gancao), is known to synergistically increase the cardiotonic effects of Fuzi and alleviate the myocardial injury caused by Fuzi to some extent. However, the detailed mechanism via which the combination of Fuzi and Gancao reduces toxicity and increases or preserves the efficacy of Fuzi requires further investigation.MethodsOxidative stress injury models in H9C2 cells and mice with acute heart failure were established to evaluate the optimal synergistic protective concentration of Fuziline and Glycyrrhetinic acid (GA). A GA probe was then synthesized and used for target fishing using chemical and biological methods. Finally, the target and its function were verified using fluorescence co-localization, Western blotting, protein interaction analysis, molecular docking, and calcium ion imaging.ResultsThe best pharmacodynamic potential was achieved with a 1:1 or 2:1 ratio of Fuziline and GA concentrations. At these ratios, they regulated the protein levels of the downstream players of the Ca2+ signaling pathway via MDH2 and CALR, thereby balancing Ca2+ homeostasis in the myocardial tissue and mitigating the effects of heart failure.ConclusionThis study aimed to investigate the compatibility of Fuziline and GA, the active metabolites of a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) pair, in exerting their cardiac effects, identify the direct biological targets and verify the mechanism of compatibility.