Percentage Inhibition Research Articles

The Influence of Altitude on the Polyphenols Content and Antioxidant Capacity of Northern Moroccan 'Dellahia' Prickly Pear Juice

Moroccan cactus exhibits high genetic variability with several cultivars. The 'Dellahia' prickly pear variety, prevalent in northern Morocco and noted for its green pulp, is among the least valued cactus varieties, primarily consumed fresh. This study aimed to assess the impact of altitude on total phenolic acids and flavonoid content (TPC and TFC) and the antioxidant activity of 'Dellahia' prickly pear juice from northern Morocco. Significant differences in TPC ranged from 91.29 to 130.45 mg GAE/Kg of juice from the Mestassa and Wahran sites (at 119 m and 482 m altitude, respectively). TFC also varied slightly, from 18.8 to 19.1 mg RE/Kg of juice. Variations in antioxidant activity were evident in both DPPH• and ABTS+ assays, with DPPH• inhibition percentages ranging from 8.85% to 19.14% and ABTS+ inhibition from 41.07% to 54.35%. However, the influence of altitude on these parameters was inconclusive, as samples from higher altitudes did not consistently yield lower or higher values. Other factors such as soil composition, sunlight, and farming practices may influence these results.

Phytochemical screening and evaluation of antiradical and antimicrobial activities of Annona senegalensis and Detarium microcarpum leaves used in Benin to treat urinary infections

The challenge of resistance to synthetic antimicrobials necessitates new alternative solutions. Medicinal plants are rich in active compounds with various medicinal properties that can be used in treatment of urinary infections. This work aims to highlight the value of Annona senegalensis and Detarium microcarpum by evaluating phytochemical and antimicrobial potentials of their leaf extracts. Qualitative and quantitative analyses were carried out using color and precipitation reactions and spectrophotometric assays. The antiradical activity was evaluated using the DPPH test, and the antimicrobial activity was assessed by the agar diffusion method. Phytochemical screening showed that both plants contain anthraquinones, catechic tannins, coumarins, flavonoids, reducing compounds, sterols and terpenes. Hydroethanolic extract of Detarium microcarpum and A. senegalensis showed IC50 inhibition percentages of 0.20 mg/mL and 0.22 mg/mL respectively. Regarding antimicrobial activity, the hydroethanolic leaf extracts of D. microcarpum and A. senegalensis were found to be bactericidal and fungicidal against the tested bacteria and molds. This extract showed more pronounced antimicrobial activity than amoxicillin and ciprofloxacin, which are synthetic antimicrobials. Diversity of secondary metabolites and notable antimicrobial activity of D. microcarpum and A. senegalensis may justify their use in traditional medicine for treating urinary infections in Benin.

Sensitivity of soybean (Glycine max L.) pathogens Diaporthe aspalathi, D. caulivora, and D. longicolla to Difenoconazole and Fluopyram fungicides

Diseases of soybean (Glycine max L.) caused by species of Diaporthe have resulted in estimated yield losses totaling $248.2 million in the U.S. over the past 10 years. To effectively manage species of Diaporthe, it is important to use an integrated approach. In this study, we evaluated the in vitro sensitivity of isolates of the soybean pathogens Diaporthe aspalathi, D. caulivora, and D. longicolla from 18 U.S. states to difenoconazole (a demethylation inhibitor fungicide) and fluopyram (a succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor fungicide). The fungicides were incorporated into 2% water agar (WA) in petri dishes at various concentrations. A mycelial plug of each isolate (n=59 for difenoconazole and n=55 for fluopyram) obtained from a 7-day-old culture was placed at the center of the WA and incubated in the dark. After five days for D. caulivora and D. longicolla, and eight days for D. aspalathi, the colony diameter was measured, and the corresponding percent inhibition and effective concentration at which 50% mycelial growth was inhibited (EC50) were determined. Significant differences in EC50 values (P<0.0001) were observed among the isolates of D. aspalathi (0.227 µg/ml), D. caulivora (0.130 µg/ml), and D. longicolla (1.860 µg/ml) for difenoconazole. Similarly, for fluopyram, the EC50 values varied significantly (P<0.001) among the D. aspalathi (2.233 µg/ml), D. caulivora (1.610 µg/ml), and D. longicolla (0.347 µg/ml) isolates. This study established sensitivity profiles for difenoconazole and fluopyram fungicides for D. aspalathi, D. caulivora, and D. longicolla, and provides valuable information that may help in the development of Diaporthe disease management program.

EFFECT OF SIDA CORDIFOLIA LINN. LEAF AND ROOT ETHYL ACETATE EXTRACTS ON THE GROWTH AND PHYSIOLOGICAL RESPONSE OF PANICUM REPENS AND PANICUM MAXIMUM

Due to the incessant application of synthetic herbicides in the agricultural system coupled with a rapid increase in herbicide-resistant weed species across the globe, much attention has been focused on alternative weed management, including allelopathy, which is eco-friendly and reduces reliance on synthetic herbicides. The effect of Sida cordifolia root and leaf ethyl acetate extract was evaluated under field conditions to determine its effects on growth, physiological response, stomatal index and density, and biochemical activity on weed species (Panicum maximum, Panicum repens, and Andropogon gayanus), as well as its effects on soil micronutrients. S. cordifolia root and leaf were collected from the wild in Nigeria and prepared into powder, which was dissolved to obtain the following concentrations 10, 20, 40, 60, and 80%, and distilled water served as the control. The percentage inhibition seems to be correlated with different growth indices as proven by an increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) content, reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione transferase (GST), and peroxidase (POD). Physiological growth indices such as plant height, leaf area, number of leaves, dry weight, stomatal density, and stomatal index were inhibited in both weed species while biochemical parameters such as Chlorophyll a, b, total chlorophyll and chlorophyll stability index were slightly reduced, increase in MDA, GST, ROS and POD were also noticed. In general, Andropogon gayanus showed a high inhibition rate compared to tomato. It is therefore recommended that concentrations of the Sida cordifolia extracts be increased to have a robust effect on the physiological processes of the weed species.

The ANTIOXIDANT AND PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF METHANOL EXTRACT OF PHYLLANTHUS AMARUS

Phyllanthus amarus is a widely recognized plant that has been traditionally utilized to cure a variety of ailments. The current study explored the phytochemical and antioxidant characteristics of P. amarus methanol extract. Standard procedures were used to analyze: 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) percentage (%) inhibition, lipid peroxidation % inhibition, total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC). A higher quantity of the plant extract resulted in a greater inhibition of DPPH and lipid peroxidation percentage. The highest DPPH % inhibition (74.4%) and lipid peroxidation % inhibition (83.44%) were at 0.05 mg/ml while the lowest DPPH % inhibition (25.23%) and lipid peroxidation % inhibition (39.11%) was at 0.03 mg/ml (p < 0.05). The most prevalent compound was flavonoid, with a TFC of 460.22 µg/ml while the TPC was 7.428 µg/ml. Owing to its antioxidant and phytochemical qualities, P. amarus methanol extract may potentially find application in medicine.

The effect of soaking heat-polymerized acrylic resin denture base in avocado seed extract (Persea americana Mill.) on the inhibition of denture-plaque microorganisms biofilm growth

Background Heat polymerized acrylic (HPA) resins are known to have high porosity that contributes to increased surface roughness and microcrack formation in stress areas. This facilitates the attachment and growth of polymicrobial biofilms contributing to increased antimicrobial resistance. Many research had been carried out on avocado seeds, but no research that studies avocado seeds effect on denture-plaque microorganism biofilm on HPA resin has been found. Methods This study used 144 samples (n=144), namely HPA resin discs covered with mono-species and polymicrobial biofilms. The discs were soaked for 8 hours in the 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% avocado seed extract, positive control (alkaline peroxide), and negative control (aquadest). Each disc was shaken with a vortex mixer for 1 minute, and 100 μL was added into 96-well microplates with three times repetition and incubated for 24 hours. A microtiter plate biofilm formation assay was then conducted The inhibition values were determined from the percentage inhibition value formula which required absorption values from a microplate reader (595 nm). The research data were analyzed using a univariant test, and a one-way ANOVA test, accompanied by Welch ANOVA on non-homogenous data. Results In this research, it was found that the MBIC50 of avocado seed extract against the mono-species of C. albicans (5%), C. glabrata (5%), A. odontolyticus (15%), S. gordonii (15%), S. aureus (10%), while against polymicrobial was 20%. There was a significant effect of soaking HPA resin in avocado seed extract on the inhibition of mono-species and polymicrobial biofilms with a value of p<0.001 (p<0.05). Conclusion The MBIC50 of avocado seed extract in polymicrobial biofilm group was higher than that in the mono-species biofilm groups. Although alkaline peroxide showed higher inhibition value than that of the MBIC50 in polymicrobial biofilm group, 20% avocado seed extract was concluded effective as it inhibited >50% polymicrobial biofilm.

Comparative phytochemical profiling and antioxidant activity of ethanol extracts of three parts of <i>Dracaena arborea</i> (Willd.) link

Dracaena arborea is a known boundary plant which grows in arid semi-desert areas and used by the indigenous people of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, for the management of edematous diseases that come with pain. The ethanol extracts of D. arborea were analyzed to study their secondary metabolites. Antioxidant effect was studied using 2,2–diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, ferric reducingantioxidant power (FRAP) assay and their total phenolic and flavonoid contents also determined. Result of phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids, cardiac glycosides, saponins and tannins in the studied parts of D. arborea except that, stem was devoid of flavonoids. Also, the result of DPPH assay revealed the percentage inhibition of 58% for the leaf extract, 33% for the stem extract and 17% for the root extract at 100 µg/mL when compared with the blank and the result was comparable to ascorbic acid with a percentage inhibition of 62%. For the FRAP assay, the leaf extract (0.445 nm) showed a better activity than the stem extract (0.399 nm) and root extract (0.427nm) when compared to ascorbic acid (0.913nm), a standard antioxidant agent at 100 µg/mL. Extracts revealed total flavonoid contents of 52 mgRTE/g for leaf extract while the stem and root had 5 mgRTE/g and 50mgRTE/g, respectively. This study supports the use of these parts of D. arborea for its folkloric applications in ethnomedicine.

Deciphering the Biocontrol Potential of Trichoderma asperellum (Tv1) Against Fusarium-Nematode Wilt Complex in Tomato.

The study assessed Trichoderma spp. as a biocontrol agent for managing wilt-nematode complex in tomato crops, aiming to mitigate yield losses. Fusarium sp. and Meloidogyne sp. were isolated from infected plant samples and confirmed molecularly and morphologically as Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici and Meloidogyne incognita. Four Trichoderma spp. procured from the Department of Plant Pathology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, India were identified molecularly as Trichoderma asperellum (Tv1), Trichoderma asperelloides (Tasd1), Trichoderma harzianum (Th1), and Trichoderma koningiopsis (Tk1) utilizing ITS and TEF1 primer pairs. Among them, Tv1 effectively inhibited the mycelial growth of pathogen isolates. Furthermore, crude metabolite of Tv1 exhibited similar effects. The mortality rate of M. incognita J2s ranged from 90.48% to 100% after 24-72 h of incubation and inhibition percentage of egg hatching reached 90.20%. The shoot length, root length, fresh weight, and dry weight of the tomato plants treated with Tv1 conidia were increased. In a pot experiment, Tv1 treatment reduced disease incidence by 64.57%, comparable to carbendazim treatment (82.32%). Tv1-treated plants had fewer root galls, egg masses, and J2s per 100 g of roots than the inoculated-untreated control plants. The root-knot index (RKI) was significantly lower in plants treated with carbafuran (1.98 ± 0.047) and Tv1 (3.06 ± 0.086) than in control (4.47 ± 0.109). The bio-control efficiency of Tv1 against M. incognita was 21.04%, and the nematodes' reproductive factor (RF) declined to 0.53 in Tv1 treatment group. Based on the findings above, it was established that Tv1 effectively controlled nematode populations and wilt disease when applied in soil.

In Vitro Assessment of Penicillium expansum Sensitivity to Difenoconazole

Penicillium expansum causes blue mold, a major post-harvest disease affecting apples. This disease is commonly managed using fungicides, including Difenoconazole (Dif), a demethylation inhibitor (DMI) approved for its control. This investigation aims to evaluate the baseline sensitivity of 100 P. expansum isolates to Difenoconazole. The isolates were collected from symptomatic apples in 34 storage warehouses across the Fes-Meknes and Draa-Tafilalet regions over three years (2020, 2021, and 2022). The study revealed an increase in the percentage of inhibition of mycelial growth and spore germination of P. expansum proportional to the increasing concentration of the fungicide. Moreover, the results indicate that 46 isolates were able to develop even at a concentration of 5 µg/mL of Dif (the suggested discriminatory dose), indicating reduced sensitivity to this fungicide. The analysis of the values of the effective concentration to inhibit 50% (EC50) of mycelial growth of P. expansum ranging from 0.027 to 1.673 µg/mL (mean: 0.263 µg/mL, variation factor: 62.507) and for spore germination from 0.0002 to 0.787 µg/mL (mean: 0.048 µg/mL, variation factor: 4113.835). The wide variation in EC50 values indicates significant variability in the isolates’ responses to Dif, likely due to diverse sampling in space and time. Our results showed that some P. expansum isolates could grow even at high concentrations of Dif, indicating limited efficacy of this treatment. The EC50 of five isolates exceeded 0.92 µg/mL, suggesting potential resistance. This study indicates reduced sensitivity and possible emergence of resistant strains. Notably, it is the first evaluation of P. expansum sensitivity to Dif in Morocco.

In vitro and computational investigation of antioxidant and anticancer properties of Streptomyces coeruleofuscus SCJ extract on MDA-MB-468 triple-negative breast cancer cells

This study aimed to explore the antioxidant potential of the ethyl acetate extract of Streptomyces coeruleofuscus SCJ strain, along with its inhibitory effects on the triple-negative human breast carcinoma cell line (MDA-MB-468). The ethyl acetate extract’s total phenolic and flavonoid contents were quantified, and its antioxidant activity was investigated using DPPH (1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl), ABTS (2,2’-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid), and FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power) assays. Furthermore, the cytotoxic effect of the organic extract from Streptomyces coeruleofuscus SCJ on MDA-MB-468 cancer cells was assessed via the crystal violet assay. In tandem, a thorough computational investigation was conducted to explore the pharmacokinetic properties of the identified components of the extract, utilizing the SwissADME and pKCSM web servers. Additionally, the molecular interactions between these components and Estrogen Receptor Beta, identified as a potential target, were probed through molecular docking studies. The results revealed that ethyl acetate extract of SCJ strain exhibited remarkable antioxidant activity, with 39.899 ± 1.56% and 35.798 ± 0.082% scavenging activities against DPPH and ABTS, respectively, at 1 mg/mL. The extract also displayed significant ferric reducing power, with a concentration of 1.087 ± 0.026 mg ascorbic acid equivalents per mg of dry extract. Furthermore, a strong positive correlation (p < 0.0001) between the antioxidant activity, the polyphenol and the flavonoid contents. Regarding anticancer activity, the SCJ strain extract demonstrated significant anticancer activity against TNBC MDA-MB-468 cancer cells, with an inhibition percentage of 62.76 ± 0.62%, 62.67 ± 0.93%, and 58.07 ± 4.82% at 25, 50, and 100 µg/mL of the extract, respectively. The HPLC-UV/vis analysis revealed nine phenolic compounds: gallic acid, sinapic acid, p-coumaric acid, cinnamic acid, trans-fereulic acid, syringic acid, chloroqenic acid, ellagic acid, epicatechin. Streptomyces coeruleofuscus SCJ showed promise for drug discovery, exhibiting antioxidant and anticancer effects.

Green synthesis, molecular docking and in vitro biological evaluation of novel hydrazones, pyrazoles, 1,2,4-triazoles and 1,3,4-oxadiazoles

Ultrasonic waves were used for synthesis of novel hydrazones, bishydrazones, pyrazoles, 1,2,4-triazole and 1,3,4-oxadiazole. The structural formulae of the synthesized compounds were elucidated in terms of elemental and spectroscopic analyses. All synthesized compounds were estimated by testing total antioxidant capacity, iron‐reducing power, the scavenging activity against ABTS and DPPH radicals in addition to testing anti‐diabetic, anti‐Alzheimer and anti‐arthritic activities. All compounds displayed good to potent bioactivity. Compounds 6, 10 exhibit the highest antioxidant and free radicals scavenging activities. Furthermore, compounds 6, 10 demonstrate the strongest inhibition of α‐amylase and α-glucosidase. Compound 12 exhibit strongest acetylcholinesterase inhibition among prepared compounds. However, compounds 18a,b, 19 show a significantly higher inhibition percentage for protein denaturation and proteinase. The most bioactive prepared compounds 6, 10 and 12 were investigated toward docking methodology against appropriate protein.

Survey of Rice Sheath Blight Disease in Kuttanad and Effect of Biocontrol Agents and Fungicides against Rhizoctonia solani

Aims: Rice is an important crop cultivated worldwide, whose production is influenced by numerous factors like pest, disease, weather parameters. In India, diseases accounts for 35 per cent in yield reduction, with sheath blight being significant. This disease is notably prevalent in Kuttanad region of Kerala. This study involves a survey conducted in Kuttanad to assess the extent of the disease and in vitro management using biocontrol agents and fungicides. Study Design: Study was outlined in Completely Randomised Design (CRD) to evaluate the in vitro efficacy of bioagents. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani and M.S. Swaminathan Rice Research Station, Moncompu, between 2022 and 2023 Methodology: Survey was conducted in forty locations of Kuttanad in which the disease incidence was recorded and samples were collected. The isolates obtained were tested for pathogenicity by artificial inoculation on rice variety, Uma. Cultural characteristics of isolates were studied. The virulent culture obtained was further advanced for the in vitro studies with biocontrol agents and fungicides. The inhibition of fungal growth was also recorded. Results: Forty isolates of sheath blight pathogen (Rhizoctonia solani) were obtained. The virulent isolate among these was identified on the basis of number of days taken for symptom development by artificial inoculation and this was further advanced for the in vitro studies. Bacillus amyloliquefaciens was found to be more effective with an inhibition percentage of 68.64. Among the tested fungicides, Kresoxim methyl 40% + Hexaconazole 8% WG showed cent per cent growth inhibition of pathogen at 500 and 1000 ppm concentrations which was on par with Azoxystrobin 18.2% + Difenoconazole 11.4% SC at 1000 ppm. Conclusion: From this study, it can be concluded that, that these biocontrol agents and fungicides are very effective in the management of the pathogen and hence can be used for further field-level studies in management of the disease.

Allelopathic Effects of Vachellia nubica, Vachellia tortilis and Hyphaene compressa on Germination and Seedling Growth of Prosopis juliflora

Background: Prosopis juliflora (Sw.) DC is an invasive species negatively impacting plant ecology and livelihoods in introduced areas. Native tree species may produce allelochemicals that can inhibit growth of invasive species, resulting in a natural management technique. Aim: This study aimed to determine allelopathic effect of three native tree species (V. tortilis, V. nubica, and H. compressa) on seed germination and early seedling growth of P. juliflora to identify the tree species that can be used to suppress P. juliflora invasion as part of its management strategy. Methodology: Crude Leaf and root extracts of the native trees at 0%, 1%, 2.5%, 5%, and 10% concentrations were prepared. P. juliflora seeds were subjected to 24 crude extract treatments and a control in a completely randomized design in Petri dishes. The seeds were uniformly moistened with 10 ml extracts daily in a germination chamber for 14 days, and germination counts were done after every 2 days. Shoot and root length and wet weight were measured after 14 days. The data were subjected to three-way ANOVA and means separated by Tukey. Results: Prosopis seed coats treated with V. tortilis and V. nubica leaf extracts turned darkish before germination while germination of seeds in 10% leaf extracts of V. nubica aborted. Seed germination percentage in 10% leaf extracts of V. tortilis (30%) and V. nubica (23%) were the lowest compared to control (90%). P. juliflora seedlings under 5% V. nubica and 10% V. tortilis died before the experiment period. Depending on crude extract concentrations, percent inhibition on germination characteristics were; percent germination (21-74%), wet weight (6-49%), plumule length (10-47%), and radicle length (7-86%) of germinating P. juliflora. Conclusion: The native tree species studied have allelopathic effects on the germination of P. juliflora and thus can be promoted to suppress invasiveness of P. juliflora.

Synthesis and characterization of aluminum oxide nanoparticles (Al2O3‐NPs) and analysis of their antimicrobial efficacy against selected pathogenic microbes

AbstractThis present paper assesses the chemical synthesis of aluminum oxide nanoparticles (Al2O3‐NPs) using a modified sol–gel process. Aluminum nitrate and citric acid were heated to 180 °C until a gel was produced. After that, the dehydrated amorphous gel was sintered at 800 °C for 2 h. The formation of nano‐sized α‐Al2O3 particles was investigated using several characterized methodologies, encompassing Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic light scattering, and X‐ray fluorescence (XRF). Then, the antibacterial and antifungal activity of synthesized nanoscale Al2O3 particles against pathogens like Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Trichophyton rubrum has been investigated. The successful synthesis of alumina nanoparticles has been validated by several analytical techniques. Nanoparticles of Al2O3‐NPs with a rhombohedral structure and an average crystallite size of 26 nm were revealed by XRD research. Their zeta potential was −8.65 mV, and their size distribution measured 68.6 nm in diameter. The elemental composition of sample was identified with the use of XRF, which indicates that the Al2O3‐NPs powder is quite pure. Furthermore, the antimicrobial experiment showed that the Al2O3‐NPs exhibited the greatest antibacterial efficacy, S. aureus, E. Coli, and T. rubrum exhibited significant inhibition zones with diameters of 13, and 15 mm, and a high inhibition percentage of 70% when exposed to 100 mg/mL of Al2O3 nanoparticles.

In vitro antimicrobial activity of non-traditional therapies for infectious endometritis in mares.

Endometritis is the leading cause of subfertility in horses, and it is a clinical problem where historically antibiotics have not always been used with prudent justification. Because of this, alternative therapies to treat endometritis are necessary for the rational use of antibiotics. To assess the in vitro antimicrobial activity of non-traditional therapies commonly used in clinical practice against microorganisms causing infectious endometritis in mares. In vitro experiments. A microdilution technique was performed to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of 50%, 90% and 100% of microorganisms and the percentage of inhibition (PI) of each therapy against each microorganism (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida sp.). The MIC 50% and 90% were determined using non-linear regression, while MIC 100% was assessed using the resazurin dye technique. The serial PI was evaluated for each therapy using a spectrophotometer. All the therapies demonstrated a PI higher than positive controls for all microorganisms (p < 0.05); however, the only therapies that presented MIC 100 values were hydrogen peroxide and platelet-rich and -poor plasma. In vivo, safety and treatment efficacy were not tested. Hydrogen peroxide and platelet-rich and -poor plasma might be alternatives to traditional therapies for endometritis to support a reduction in antibiotic use.

Effect of yeast probiotics in lactation and yeast cell wall prebiotic and Bacillus subtilis probiotic in nursery on lifetime growth performance, immune response, and carcass characteristics.

Twenty-eight mixed-parity sows (Line 241; DNA) and their offspring were used to evaluate live yeast supplementation during lactation with or without a pre/probiotic combination during the nursery period on lactation performance, lifetime growth performance, and immune response. On day 110 of gestation, sows were allotted to a lactation diet with or without a live yeast probiotic (0.10% Actisaf Sc 47 HR+; Phileo by Lesaffre, Milwaukee, WI). At weaning, their offspring (350 pigs; initially 6.1 ± 0.02kg) were randomly assigned in a 2 × 2 factorial with main effects of sow treatment and nursery treatment consisting of a control diet or a diet with a yeast cell wall prebiotic and Bacillus subtilis probiotic (0.10% YB; Phileo by Lesaffre, Milwaukee, WI) fed for 42 d followed by common diets fed until marketing. Two nursery pens were combined into 1 finishing pen, such that there were 5 and 10 pigs per pen with 17 or 18 and 8 or 9 replications per treatment during the nursery and finishing periods, respectively. There were no significant effects of yeast supplementation on lactation performance (P ≥ 0.079). There was a sow × nursery diet interaction (P = 0.024) on nursery ADG. Pigs from yeast-fed sows had increased ADG when fed control nursery diets compared to pigs from control sows fed the control nursery diet with pigs fed pre/probiotic nursery diets intermediate, regardless of sow diet. Pigs from yeast-fed sows tended (P = 0.067) to have greater final body weight (BW) (day 165). A subset of pigs was sampled throughout their lifetime to determine serum porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) and Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae antibody sample-to-positive (S/P) ratios and percentage inhibition of Lawsonia intracellularis. There was a tendency for a PCV2 S/P ratio sow diet × day interaction (P = 0.097) where progeny from yeast-fed sows had higher PCV2 S/P ratios at 101 d of age compared to control sow progeny (P = 0.046). There was a PCV2 S/P ratio nursery diet × day interaction (P = 0.036) where pigs fed a pre/probiotic combination had reduced S/P ratios at 66, 78, and 162 d of age (P ≤ 0.022); however, at 22 d of age pigs fed a pre/probiotic combination tended to have an increased S/P ratio (P = 0.051). In conclusion, the effects of combining a yeast probiotic in lactation diets and a pre/probiotic in nursery diets were not additive. However, feeding a live yeast probiotic during lactation resulted in tendencies (P ≤ 0.10) for increased progeny final BW and hot carcass weight.

Apoptotic Effect of Simpor Leaf Extract (Dillenia suffruticosa) from Belitung on Colorectal Cancer Cells WiDr

Colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer worldwide. The side effects and resistance of existing chemotherapy drugs are the background for various studies looking for potential plant extracts as new anticancer agents. This study aims to determine the cytotoxic activity of simpor leaf extract from Belitung and its effect on apoptosis of WiDr colorectal cancer cells. The compound content in simpor leaf extract was analyzed using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The cytotoxic activity of simpor leaf extract at different concentrations (25, 50 and 100 ppm) was determined by the MTT test and apoptosis induction by Annexin V/PI flow cytometry analysis. Based on the GC-MS chromatogram results, 13 different compounds were detected. Analysis of the relationship between extract concentration and the percentage of WiDr cell inhibition showed that an extract concentration of 100 ppm was the concentration with the highest percentage of inhibition (20.12 % ± 4.99) compared to concentrations of 50 ppm (13.95 % ± 2.32) and 25 ppm (15.90 % ± 1.38) with an inhibitory concentration value (IC50) of simpor leaf extract of 10.45 ppm. Induction of WiDr cell apoptosis by the extract was influenced by the concentration of simpor leaf extract, which was increase in the percentage of apoptotic cells from 16 % at a concentration of 25 ppm to 70.5 % at a concentration of 100 ppm. The results of this study show that simpor leaf extract from Belitung is able to induce apoptosis in WiDr colorectal cancer cells. HIGHLIGHTS Colorectal cancer treatment faces challenges such as drug resistance and side effects, leading to research on plant-based anticancer agents like simpor leaf extract from Belitung. Simpor leaf extract demonstrated cytotoxic effects on WiDr colorectal cancer cells, achieving an inhibition rate of 20.12 % at a concentration of 100 ppm and an IC50 value of 10.45 ppm. This study shows that simpor leaf extract can induce apoptosis in WiDr colorectal cancer cells, with the percentage of apoptotic cells increasing from 16 % at 25 ppm to 70.5 % at 100 ppm. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Functionalized polyaniline nanofibrils on lamellar structured zirconium for effective bone mineralization

The surface physiology of certain implant material has the ability to promote implant–cell signalling process through which a stable environment is formed. The formation of this favourable environment hastens the process of biomineralization and regeneration. In this context, Zirconium (Zr) when treated with alkali undergoes a surface modification which results in the development of a lamellar structured Zirconium (ATZ). Further, encapsulation of polyaniline (PAni) on ATZ was achieved through the electropolymerization technique which results in an effective and homogeneous electrodeposition of PAni nanofibrils on ATZ surface. A high resolution scanning electron microscope analysis (HR-SEM), phase analysis and functional group analysis were carried out confirming the semi-crystalline PAni nanofibrils braided on the ATZ surface. Potentiodynamic polarization studies of the coated sample exhibited higher Ecorr (−0.060 V) and lower icorr (0.007 µA/cm2) values signifying its better corrosion resistance behaviour in higher potentials coupled with lower electrochemical activity in the SBF medium. The porosity of PAni/ATZ nanofibril was 0.007 % and it provides an effective platform for implant-tissue attachment. The In-vitro biomineralization studies proved the bioactivity of PAni/ATZ which forms well-matured HAp spherules over the surface. Further, hemocompatibility studies of PAni/ATZ expressed a hemolytic rate of ∼0.39 % which denotes it’s biocompatible and non-hemolytic behaviour with the blood cells. Further, the coated sample on gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria causes demise of bacterial cell wall and exhibits higher inhibition percentage. In addition, a standard MTT assay of PAni/ATZ provides an effective support in maintaining cell viability and aids in proliferation of MG-63 cells. Thus, the results demonstrate that the nanoscale surface architecture of PAni/ATZ could serve as a potential and conducive environment for bone-implant interaction on the implant material for better osseointegration.

Medical-grade honey has superior antibacterial properties against common bacterial isolates in wound cultures of dogs and cats in comparison to non-medical-grade honey types.

To compare the antibacterial activities of different types of honey against common bacterial isolates cultured from wounds of dogs and cats. 4 types of honey were used including a medical-grade manuka honey, a non-medical-grade manuka honey, a locally sourced non-medical-grade honey (non-MGH), and a commercially sourced non-MGH. Bacterial isolates were obtained from clinical wound cultures of dogs and cats including Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The macro-broth dilution method was used to analyze the MIC and minimum bactericidal concentration. The percentage of growth inhibition was assessed for different types of honey at different concentrations using a generalized linear regression model. Medical-grade honey exhibited the lowest minimum bactericidal concentration against S pseudintermedius, E faecalis, and P aeruginosa, alongside the lowest MIC at 90% with statistically significant higher bacterial growth inhibition in medium and low concentrations. Non-medical-grade manuka honey had a similar bactericidal activity against S pseudintermedius and P aeruginosa compared to locally and commercially sourced non-MGH. In this in vitro study, MGH exhibited superior antibacterial activity against all bacterial isolates compared to other types of honey. Medical-grade honey displayed the greatest antibacterial activity against common wound pathogens and could be considered over other types of honey for wound management in cats and dogs. Locally and commercially sourced non-MGH appears to have a comparative efficacy against certain bacteria compared to non-medical-grade manuka honey and is more cost effective. Further in vivo studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Assessment of Trichoderma Species Isolated From Volcanic Soil of a Durian Field in Sisaket Province, Thailand for Plant Growth Promotion and Biocontrol Potential

Trichoderma species are ubiquitous saprophytic fungi commonly found in soil, with potential as fungal biocontrol agents for plant disease control and growth promotion. This research aimed to assess the attributes of Trichoderma sp. as plant growth promoters, focusing on nitrogen fixation, siderophore production, plant nutrient solubilization and indole-3-acetic acid production. Out of 19 isolates tested, 6 (T05, T19, T25, T27, T28 and T33) showed superior plant growth promotion abilities. These isolates were further evaluated for their capacity to enhance the germination of Khao Dawk Mali 105 rice seeds. Seeds were soaked in a suspension of conidia at a concentration of 1×1012 conidia/mL, and germination rates were measured. The germination rate ranged between 77.67 - 86.67 %, statistically significantly higher than the control rate of 33.33 %. Among the isolates, T05 exhibited the highest promotion of plant growth, evidenced by root length (7.27 cm), shoot length (8.50 cm), fresh weight (0.54 g) and dry weight (0.27 g), all significantly different from the control. Additionally, the potential of isolates to inhibit the fungal pathogen Colletotrichum sp. MN-3 was assessed using a dual culture method, with T35 showing the highest inhibition percentage (60.90 %). Morphological classification and nucleotide sequencing of the ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 region of rDNA gene identified the isolates as T. harzianum, T. reesei, T. asperellum and T. longibrachiatum. These findings underscore the effectiveness of Trichoderma sp. in promoting plant growth and suppressing plant pathogenic fungi. HIGHLIGHTSSix Trichoderma isolates (T05, T19, T25, T27, T28 and T33) exhibited superior plant growth promotion abilities. These isolates significantly enhanced germination rates of Khao Dawk Mali 105 rice seeds compared to the method. Among the isolates, T05 showed the greatest promotion of plant growth, as evidenced by root length, shoot length, fresh weight and dry weight. Trichoderma isolates demonstrated potential for inhibiting the fungal pathogen Colletotrichum sp. MN-3. Morphological classification divided the Trichoderma sp. into 4 groups, and species identification through nucleotide sequencing revealed T. harzianum, T. reesei, T. asperellum and T. longibrachiatum. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT