Untreated Control Research Articles

Efficacy of Bacillus spp. Isolates for Application as Biofertilizer in Tomato (Solanum lycospersicum L.) Cultivation

Certain species of Bacillus are considered rhizobacteria that promote plant growth, inhibit the growth of plant pathogens and deleterious rhizospheric microorganisms. The aim of this study was to determine the stimulatory effect of Bacillus subtilis KBM1 and Bacillus venezensis KBM1 on the growth and disease reduction of tomato plants in Côte d'Ivoire. In this respect, three substrates consisting of soil only, sawdust only and a mixture of soil and sawdust were inoculated with the two bacteria, then left to ferment for twenty-four (24) hours. The biofertilizers obtained after fermentation were used to assess their effects on the development of potted tomatoes. Growth parameters, infection rate and mortality rate of tomato plants were measured regularly during 6 weeks of cultivation. A search for tomato pathogenic fungi was carried out to demonstrate the efficacy of Bacillus strains isolates on plant health. The results obtained showed that Bacillus subtilis KBM1 and Bacillus venezensis KBM1 had a positive impact on plant growth of tomato plants grown. Infection and mortality rates of 0% were observed for tomato plants grown on the three substrates inoculated with these two bacteria. No pathogenic fungi were isolated from the organs of tomato plants grown on the three substrates fermented with the bacteria. However, on untreated control plants, a variety of pathogenic fungi, namely Fusarium sp, Phytophtora sp, Cladosporium sp, Rhizoctonia sp, Colletotrichum sp, Penicillium sp, Rhizopus sp and Trichoderma sp were observed. However, the Bacillus subtilis KBM1 treatment stood out from Bacillus venezensis KBM1 with the best results for the growth parameters measured. In view of these results, these two bacteria could be used to produce an effective biofertilizer for tomato cultivation in Côte d'Ivoire.

Efficacy and Economic Viability of Organic Control Methods for Spotted-wing Drosophila in Day-neutral Strawberry Production in the Upper Midwest

Day-neutral strawberry (DNS) production is increasing in the Upper Midwest because of its extended harvest season and greater yield over June-bearing cultivars. However, the longer season increases fruit exposure to the invasive spotted-wing drosophila (Drosophila suzukii; SWD), which threatens the production of small fruits and berries, particularly in organic systems. Numerous pest management tactics have been developed for SWD in recent years; however, relatively few studies have investigated the impact of SWD on DNS. Organic DNS growers need information regarding which management strategy is most effective when compared directly. To address this knowledge gap, we established a 2-year controlled field experiment with organic DNS. We applied treatments that correspond with techniques that local growers reported using or that have shown promise for organic raspberries, including increased harvest frequency, botanical-based repellents, and weekly rotations of organic insecticides, which we compared with an untreated control. We hypothesized that noninsecticidal SWD management strategies would result in fewer SWD eggs per berry and a lower proportion of infested berries compared with those associated with an untreated control. We also hypothesized that noninsecticidal management strategies would be as effective and cost less than organic insecticide applications. We collected data regarding labor hours, direct costs, strawberry yield, and SWD infestation in experimental plots on certified organic land in Minnesota in 2022 and 2023. An average of 33% of strawberries contained SWD eggs. The experimental treatments showed inconsistent effectiveness for reducing infestation compared with that of the untreated control plots and had no effect on marketable plant yield over the 2-year period. Thus, the added labor expense of these pest control treatments yielded net returns that were 17% to 21% below the control. Labor-saving alternatives like exclusion netting or postharvest cold treatments, which reduce fruit pest exposure and egg viability without harming nontarget insects, may offer more cost-effective solutions for managing SWD in organic DNS.

Antimicrobial effects of a multimodal wound matrix against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in an in vitro and an in vivo porcine wound model.

Chronic non-healing wounds pose significant challenges due to an elevated inflammatory response caused in part by bacterial contamination (Physiol Rev. 2019;99:665). These wounds lead to billions being spent in the health care system worldwide (N Engl J Med. 2017;376:2367, Int J Pharm. 2014;463:119). We studied the in-vitro and in-vivo antimicrobial effects of a multimodal wound matrix (MWM) against two common wound pathogens, Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA USA300) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27312 (PA27312) (Int Wound J. 2019;16:634). The in-vitro study conducted was a zone of inhibition test with the two microbes at 104 Log CFU/mL inoculated on Tryptic soy agar with 5% sheep blood (TSAII) plates. Treatments used were MWM, Mupirocin (Positive control for MRSA), Silver Sulfadiazine (Positive Control for PA), Petrolatum and Sterile Saline (both serving as Negative Controls). Treatments were allowed to diffuse into the agar for 3 h and then were incubated for 24 h at 37°C. The in-vivo study utilized a deep dermal porcine wound model (22 × 22 × 3 mm) created on six animals. Three animals were inoculated with MRSA USA300 and the other three with PA27312 with each allowing a 72-h biofilm formation. After 72 h, baseline wounds were assessed for bacterial concentration and all remaining wounds were treated with either MWM alone, Silver Treatment or Untreated Control. Wounds were assessed on days 4, 8 and 12 after treatment application for microbiological analysis. In-vitro, MWM exhibited significant inhibition of MRSA USA300 and PA27312 growth when compared to negative controls (p ≤ 0.05). Likewise, in-vivo, the MWM-treated wounds exhibited a significant (p ≤ 0.05) bacterial reduction compared to all other treatment groups, especially on days 8 and 12 for both pathogens. MWM demonstrated promise in addressing colonized wounds with biofilms. Additional studies on MWM's benefits and comparisons with existing treatments are warranted to optimize wound care strategies (Adv Wound Care. 2021;10:281).

Assessment of Antimicrobial Therapy in Eradicating Chlamydia muridarum in Research Mice: Immune Status and Its Impact on Outcomes

Chlamydia muridarum (Cm) is a moderately prevalent, gram-negative, intracellular bacterium that affects laboratory mice, causing subclinical to severe disease, depending on the host’s immune status. The effectiveness of various antibiotic regimens aimed at eradicating Cm in both immunodeficient and immunocompetent laboratory mice was evaluated. NSG mice were cohoused with Cm-shedding BALB/cJ mice for 14 d to simulate natural exposure. Four groups of 8 infected NSG mice were treated for 7 d with either 0.08% sulfamethoxazole and 0.016% trimethoprim (TMS) in water, 0.0625% doxycycline in feed, 0.124%/0.025% TMS in feed, or 0.12% amoxicillin in feed. A control group was provided standard water and feed. The impact of treatment on gastrointestinal microbiota (GM) was investigated using next-generation shotgun sequencing on the last day of treatment. TMS and amoxicillin had negligible effects on GM, while doxycycline had the largest effect. All antibiotic-treated NSG mice exhibited clinical disease, including dehydration, hunched posture, greater than 20% weight loss, and dyspnea, leading to euthanasia 21 to 40 d posttreatment (32.6 ± 4.2 d; mean ± SD). Untreated controls were euthanized 14 to 33 d postexposure (23.75 ± 5.9 d). All mice were fecal PCR positive for Cm at euthanasia. Histologic evaluation revealed multifocal histiocytic and neutrophilic bronchointerstitial pneumonia and/or bronchiolitis featuring prominent intralesional chlamydial inclusion bodies in all mice. Subsequently, groups of 8 C57BL/6J, BALB/cJ, NOD.SCID, and NSG mice infected with Cm were treated with 0.124%/0.025% TMS in feed for 7 (BALB/cJ and C57BL/6J) or 21 d (NSG and NOD.SCID). All immunocompetent and NOD.SCID mice were negative for Cm by PCR 14 d posttreatment, remained clinically normal, and had no evidence of Cm infection at necropsy, and all NSG mice remained Cm positive and were euthanized. While these findings highlight the difficulties in eradicating Cm from highly immunodeficient mice, eradication of Cm from immunocompetent or moderately immunocompromised mice with antibiotics is feasible.

Conventional Versus Biorational Insecticides for Controlling Mustard Aphid and Their Effects on Beneficial Insects

Mustard is one of the most important oilseed crops in Bangladesh. However, its production is severely constrained by aphid infestation. Farmers usually spray conventional insecticides to control aphids that negatively affect beneficial insects and environment. Thus, alternatives to conventional insecticides are required. We tested three biorational insecticides (Nimbicidine @ 1ml/L, Spinosad: Libsen 45SC @ 0.5 ml/L and Lufenuron: Hayron 5EC @ 0.5ml/L of water) against aphid infestation and assessed their effect on ladybird beetle and honey bee and compared these effects with two conventional insecticides (Diazinon: Sabion 60EC @ 2ml/L and Cypermethrin: Cypraplus 10EC @ 1ml/L of water) and with an untreated control. The study was conducted in a randomized complete block design with each treatment replicated thrice in the field of Department of Entomology, Bangladesh Agricultural University. Number of infested plants per plot, aphid per plant and per pod, number of ladybird beetle and honey bee per plot was counted and yield per plot was calculated. All tested insecticides reduced aphid infestation compared to untreated control indicating all of them were effective against aphid. However, Lufenuron and Nimbicidine was most effective to reduce plant infestation and number of aphids per plant and pod. Spinosad and Sabion were found fairly effective whereas Cypraplus was found to be least effective. Lufenuron and Nimbicidine did not reduce the number of ladybird beetle and honey bee visit per plot, however, Spinosad and conventional insecticides reduced their number. Lufenuron treated plots provided highest yield (1.35 t/ha) followed by Nimbicidine (1.15 t/ha), Spinosad (1.10 t/ha) and Sabion (1.00 t/ha) whereas Cypraplus treated plots provided lowest yield (0.9 t/ha). In terms of reducing aphid population thus plant infestation and increasing yield, all biorational insecticides performed better than conventional insecticides, however, concerning effect on ladybirds and honey bees, only Lufenuron and Nimbicidine can be recommended to farmers. J Bangladesh Agril Univ 22(3): 335-341, 2024

Study on the Microbial Mechanisms of Enhancing Agaricus bisporus Growth through Inoculation with Pseudomonas putida

Introducing Pseudomonas putida optimizes the microbial community within the casing layer, thereby enhancing Agaricus bisporus growth. Nevertheless, the underlying mechanisms governing microbial community succession within the casing layer following microbial agent introduction remained elusive. This study delineated the interplay among microbial populations in the casing layer across the growth cycle of A. bisporus, comparing cohorts treated with P. putida (AP) against untreated controls (CK). The inoculation with Pseudomonas promoted the growth of A. bisporus, shortened its growth cycle, and linearly enhanced the relative abundance of key bacterial genera integral to its growth, including Flavobacterium, Rhodoferax, Pseudarthrobacter, and Vogesella (adjusted R2=0.238-0.866). Importantly, a positive correlation was identified between the proliferation of these beneficial bacteria and positive community cohesion (adjusted R2=0.353-0.838). Additionally, analysis of the symbiotic network topology within the AP group indicated a more stable community following inoculation. The niche results (AP=11.7672±1.8938, CK=11.0481±3.1273, P<0.05) underscored the positive impact of Pseudomonas inoculation on ecosystem dynamics. Concentrations of essential nutrients for A. bisporus growth, notably readily available phosphorus (On day 17, the AP group was 78.8333±1.26623 mg/kg, while the CK group was 30.0333±0.98658 mg/kg) and readily available potassium (On day 17, the AP group was 2693.9±14.79561 mg/kg, while the CK group was 1646.9333±10.71276mg/kg), were significantly elevated in the AP group. These enhancements strongly correlated with the increased abundance of pivotal microbial populations. Our research provided insights into the application of microbial inoculants to enhance the production of edible fungi.

Investigating the Suitability of Mare's Milk-Derived Exosomes as Potential Drug Carriers.

Exosomes are cell-derived, membrane-surrounded particles that deliver bioactive molecules to various cells. Due to their small size, low immunogenicity, extended blood circulation, and involvement in cellular communication, they hold potential as effective drug carriers. Exosomes are present in various biological fluids, including mare's milk, a traditional drink in Central Asia. This study aims to compare exosome isolation methodologies and determine the stability of mare's milk-derived exosomes as potential therapeutic carriers. Three extraction methods-immunoprecipitation, size exclusion chromatography, and total exosome isolation-were compared in terms of exosome characteristics, purity, and content. The isolated exosomes were then loaded with quercetin, and their ability to increase its bioavailability was tested in vitro and in vivo. Total exosome isolation was identified as the most efficient method for producing high-quality exosomes. These exosomes were loaded with quercetin and compared to free quercetin and exosomes alone. Exosomes loaded with 80 µM quercetin significantly restored β-galactosidase activity and cellular viability in doxorubicin-treated cells, exhibiting similar potency to 160 µM free quercetin. In aged model animals, treatment with quercetin-loaded exosomes resulted in significantly less acute and subacute damage to the myocardium, kidneys, and liver compared to untreated control animals. This study provides a proof-of-concept that mare's milk-derived exosomes can be effectively absorbed by cells and animal tissues, supporting their potential use as drug carriers.

Furazolidone reduces the pathogenesis of Trueperella pyogenes and Pseudomonas aeruginosa co-infection in a mouse model

The prevalence of abscess disease significantly limits the population expansion of captive forest musk deer, which is an endangered species protected by the legislation of China. Our prior work had demonstrated that Trueperella pyogenes and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are two important microorganisms in causing the abscess disease of forest musk deer, and furazolidone could inhibit the growth and virulence of the pathogens in vitro. In this study, the in vivo protection activity of furazolidone was evaluated by using mouse models chronically infected with T. pyogenes and P. aeruginosa. The results showed that furazolidone treatment significantly increased the survival rates of mice in the co-infection group, all the mice survived at 14 days post-infection. The damage degree of the lung tissues caused by bacterial infection was ameliorated by the treatment of furazolidone from 7 to 14 days post-infection, which also reduced the residual bacterial burden in the lungs. Compared to the untreated control group, the expression levels of genes activated by the quorum-sensing system of P. aeruginosa and the core virulence regulatory genes of T. pyogenes were significantly suppressed by furazolidone. In addition, the results of transcriptomic analyses showed that 270 DEGs were identified in the co-infection group. This finding further revealed that the immune responses of mice could be enhanced by the treatment of furazolidone, and this might also contribute to the clearance of bacteria from the lungs. Therefore, this study clearly reveals the protection activity of furazolidone against P. aeruginosa and T. pyogenes infection, and thus provides a promising candidate in the treatment of abscess disease.

A new nano approach to prevent tumor growth in the local treatment of glioblastoma: Temozolomide and rutin-loaded hybrid layered composite nanofiber

Total resection of glioblastoma (GB) tumors is nearly impossible, and systemic administration of temozolomide (TMZ) is often inadequate. This study presents a hybrid layered composite nanofiber mesh (LHN) designed for localized treatment in GB tumor bed. The LHN, consisting of polyvinyl alcohol and core-shell polylactic acid layers, was loaded with TMZ and rutin. In vitro analysis revealed that LHN™Z and LHNrutin decelerated epithelial-mesenchymal transition and growth of stem-like cells, while the combination, LHN™Z+rutin, significantly reduced sphere size compared to untreated and LHN™Z-treated cells (P < 0.0001). In an orthotopic C6-induced GB rat model, LHN™Z+rutin therapy demonstrated a more pronounced tumor-reducing effect than LHN™Z alone. Tumor volume, assessed by magnetic resonance imaging, was significantly reduced in LHN™Z+rutin-treated rats compared to untreated controls. Structural changes in tumor mitochondria, reduced membrane potential, and decreased PARP expression indicated the activation of apoptotic pathways in tumor cells, which was further confirmed by a reduction in PHH3, indicating decreased mitotic activity of tumor cells. Additionally, the local application of LHNs in the GB model mitigated aggressive tumor features without causing local tissue inflammation or adverse systemic effects. This was evidenced by a decrease in the angiogenesis marker CD31, the absence of inflammation or necrosis in H&E staining of the cerebellum, increased production of IFN-γ, decreased levels of interleukin (IL)-4 in splenic T cells, and lower serum AST levels. Our findings collectively indicate that LHN™Z+rutin is a promising biocompatible model for the local treatment of GB.

GDNF and cAMP significantly enhance in vitro blood-brain barrier integrity in a humanized tricellular transwell model

Blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a crucial membrane safeguarding neural tissue by controlling the molecular exchange between blood and the brain. However, assessing BBB permeability presents challenges for central nervous system (CNS) drug development. In vitro studies of BBB-permeable agents before animal testing are essential to mitigate failures. Improved in vitro models are needed to mimic physiologically relevant BBB integrity. Here, we established an in vitro human-derived triculture BBB model, coculturing hCMEC/D3 with primary astrocytes and pericytes in a transwell format. This study found that the triculture BBB model exhibited significantly higher paracellular tightness (TEER 147.6 ± 6.5 Ω × cm2) than its monoculture counterpart (106.3 ± 1.0 Ω × cm2). Additionally, BBB permeability in the triculture model was significantly lower. While GDNF and cAMP have been shown to promote BBB integrity in monoculture models, their effect in our model was previously unreported. Our study demonstrates that both GDNF and cAMP increased TEER values (around 200 Ω × cm2 for each; 237.6 ± 17.7 Ω × cm2 for co-treatment) compared to untreated control, and decreased BBB permeability, mediated by increased claudin-5 expression. In summary, this humanized triculture BBB model, enhanced by GDNF and cAMP, offers an alternative for exploring in vitro drug penetration into the human brain.

Capture and Protection of Environmental DNA in a Metal‐Organic Framework

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is released by organisms into their surroundings, enabling non‐invasive species detection and biodiversity assessments without the need for direct observation. However, collection poses challenges due to the generally low abundance of eDNA and the presence of degradation agents, including enzymes, UV radiation, and microorganisms, rendering samples unstable. Active filtration, which is frequently used to capture eDNA in water, can be time‐consuming and cumbersome in field conditions. Herein, a filter‐free one‐pot procedure for capturing eDNA with the metal‐organic framework (MOF), zeolitic imidazolate framework 8 (ZIF‐8), is examined. The method is evaluated on 15 mL water samples from diverse sources (aquarium, river, and sea). ZIF‐8 forms in all with high capture efficiency (&gt;98%) using spiked salmon DNA to represent eDNA. The DNA is resistant to degradation by endonucleases and UV light. In addition, it remains stable over time as a species‐specific salmon quantitative polymerase chain reaction detected genomic DNA in all samples captured with the MOF to a maximum of 28 days at 37 °C while the untreated control samples were below the assay detection limit by day 6. These results highlight the efficacy of ZIF‐8 capture in overcoming challenges associated with the preservation of eDNA obtained from aquatic environments.

Biological Control of Anthracnose in Capsicum annuum Using Inoculants in Hydroponics: A Mechanistic Review

The Colletotrichum species that causes anthracnose poses a significant threat to the growth of Capsicum annuum, or ringer pepper, resulting in significant yield losses. Conventional produced control systems can give rise to ecological and economic difficulties, necessitating the need for alternative, workable solutions. This study explores the feasibility and parts of natural inoculants in controlling anthracnose ailment in Capsicum annuum filled in chipped away at hydroponics structures. As organic inoculants, we utilized a wide variety of useful microorganisms, such as Trichoderma harzianum, Bacillus subtilis, and mycorrhizal parasites. At various stages of the Capsicum annuum plant's development, these inoculants were incorporated into the supplement arrangements for tank farming. Anthracnose was observed and compared to untreated controls and synthetically treated plants in terms of its severity. Plants treated with natural inoculants show a significant reduction in sickness rate and severity, as shown by our findings. In fact, Trichoderma harzianum outperformed Bacillus subtilis and mycorrhizal parasites in terms of biocontrol productivity. Through a series of biochemical and sub-atomic tests, the fundamental instruments were examined. Natural inoculants, according to important discoveries, increase the plant's intrinsic safe reaction by causing fundamental obstruction. This is affirmed by the upregulation of pathogenesis-related (PR) characteristics and extended activity of shield impetuses like peroxidase (Unit), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), and phenylalanine antacid lyase (Amigo). In addition, the inoculants improved root development and supplement absorption, enhancing overall establish health and resistance to microorganisms. This study demonstrates that natural inoculants can be a reasonable and effective method for controlling anthracnose in Capsicum annuum grown in improved tank farms. In accordance with the goals of a potential agribusiness, incorporating these biocontrol specialists into aquafarming frameworks can increase crop productivity and reduce the use of compound pesticides.

Knockout of histone deacetylase 8 gene in breast cancer cells may alter the expression pattern of the signaling molecules

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer diagnosed in the world and it is also the main leading cause of cancer deaths in women. Change in epigenetic mechanisms promotes BC initiation and progression. Histone deacetylase 8 (HDAC8) was found to act as a potential oncogene in different malignancies. For better understanding of the HDAC8 function in BC development, we investigated the effect of HDAC8 deletion on the expression of genes involved in signaling pathways. In this study, CRISPR technology was used to knockout the HDAC8 gene in MDA-MB-468, MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cell lines. For this purpose, two gRNAs were designed and cloned into the PX459 vector. The gRNA-containing vectors were transfected into the BC cell lines and then the effect of this deletion on the expression of genes involved in signaling pathway was determined using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Analysis of qRT-PCR results showed a reduction in the expression of studied genes in BC cell lines after deletion of the HDAC8 gene compared to untreated controls. Although this decline was not significant for FGF2 and FGFR1 genes, however the mTOR, IGF1R, INSR, VEGFA and VEGFR2 genes showed statistically significant reduction in the studied BC cell lines. In addition, the down-regulation of PDGFC and PDGFRA genes were only significant in the TNBC cell lines. Overall, our study showed that HDAC8 can exert its oncogenic effects by altering the expression level of molecules involved in some signaling pathways, and inhibiting HDAC8 can revert these effects.

Antibacterial efficacy of carnosic acid as an intracanal medicament against Enterococcus faecalis: Quantitative polymerase chain reaction study

Abstract Aim: The aim of this study was to quantitatively assess the antibacterial effectiveness of carnosic acid, propolis, and calcium hydroxide when used as intracanal medications against Enterococcus faecalis. Methodology: Forty-six human mandibular single-rooted premolar root lengths were standardized to 12 mm after decoronation. Cleaning and shaping were performed. The specimens were placed in Eppendorf Tubes and autoclaved. E. faecalis was inoculated into the canals and incubated for 21 days. The teeth were categorized into four groups: I - carnosic acid, II - propolis, III - calcium hydroxide, and IV - nonmedicated group. The medicaments were applied to the root canals and incubated for 14 days. The DNA extraction of E. faecalis was obtained from dentinal shavings harvested at 400-μm depth and a real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed. Statistical Analysis: Data were analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis test and Dunn’s intergroup comparison test in SPSS software. Results: E. faecalis present were 4.14, 6.98, 3.80, and 56.84 mean copies/μl in groups I, III, III, and IV, respectively. A significant difference in antibacterial efficacy was observed between medicated and untreated control groups. However, no statistically significant differences were observed among the groups treated with different medicaments. Conclusion: Carnosic acid has promising antibacterial activity against E. faecalis when used as an intracanal medicament.

Long-term exposure of human U87 glioblastoma cells to polyethylene microplastics: Investigating the potential cancer progression

Precancerous cells are present in all human bodies. Various environmental triggers can promote the development of cancer. Microplastics, an emerging concern, may potentially act as one such trigger, contributing to cancer initiation or progression. Studies have confirmed the presence of microplastics within the human body. This raises concerns about their potential toxicity and health risks. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the impact of polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs) within the size range of 37–75 microns on glioblastoma cancer cells. Initially, we assessed the short-term effects of six different concentrations of PE-MPs (20 mg/mL, 10 mg/mL, 5 mg/mL, 2.5 mg/mL, 1.25 mg/mL, and 0.62 mg/mL) on the U87 glioblastoma cell line. The results demonstrated that PE-MPs exposure led to an increase in cell proliferation compared to the untreated control group. Based on these findings, we decided to further explore the long-term effects of PE-MPs on U87 cancer cells. To evaluate the long-term effects, U87 glioblastoma cells were continuously exposed to 0.005 g of PE-MPs over an extended period of 26 days. Chronic exposure to PE-MPs significantly increased the proliferative and migratory capacities of U87 cells compared to the unexposed control group. Furthermore, continuous PE-MPs exposure altered the behavior and morphological characteristics of U87 cells. These cells exhibited a propensity to aggregate and form colonies within the culture flask. The formation of spheroid structures was also observed in the PE-MPs-exposed cell population. The results of this research indicate that polyethylene microplastics can promote the progression of glioblastoma cancer.

Tick control prevents carcass condemnations in lambs caused by Anaplasma ovis.

Ovine anaplasmosis is causing relevant economic losses in Spain due to icteric carcass condemnation in lambs. Anaplasma ovis infection occurs through grazing sheep that transfer ticks to their offspring. This study compared the efficacy of deltamethrin and cypermethrin pour-on treatments for tick control. A total of 250 PCR A. ovis-positive ewes and their offspring were divided into 5 groups. Group A (50 ewes/50 lambs) was kept as an untreated control group. In groups B (50/50) and C (45/93), the lambs were treated with deltamethrin pour-on and cypermethrin pour-on, respectively, one week after birth. In groups D (50/75) and E (51/68), the ewes were treated with cypermethrin pour-on and deltamethrin pour-on one week before the estimated parturition. External parasite assessment and A. ovis PCR were conducted before treatment and at 21 and 42 days post-treatment. Ewes were checked weekly for tick-detection until weaning. Lamb carcasses were examined at the slaughterhouse. Riphicephalus sanguineus sensu lato ticks were found in ewes throughout the study, with only one tick found in a control group lamb. Three lambs tested positive for A. ovis during the trial, with one condemnation at the abattoir due to jaundice. However, no significant differences were observed between treatment groups. Overall, a significant decrease in infected animals and condemned carcasses was observed compared to previous years, suggesting that deltamethrin and cypermethrin prevent A. ovis transmission from dams to lambs. Further studies are needed to confirm synthetic pyrethroids' effectiveness in controlling tick infestation and averting A. ovis transmission to lambs.

Potentiality of Formulated Pseudomonas Fluorescens and Bacillus Subtilis for the Management of Sheath Blight Disease of Rice Under Field Condition

Rice production is severely affected by sheath blight disease in Bangladesh which is caused by a fungus Rhizoctonia solani that is still merely managed by synthetic chemical fungicides. In this study, different isolates of Pseudomonas fluorescens and Bacillus subtilis were evaluated to assess their inhibitory effects against R. solani both in- vitro and field condition following dual culture method in order to formulate technique for the management of sheath blight of rice. Among all the isolates, P. fluorescens (Pf- 7 and Pf- 8) and B. subtilis (Bs-17 and Bs-21) showed the highest in –vitro mycelial growth suppression of the pathogen. Based on the in-vitro mycelial growth suppression performance, fourteen treatments combinations, either single or in consortia of antagonistic bacteria in talc-based formulations were applied by root dipping. All the formulated bacterial isolates showed significant reduction in disease and severity compared to untreated control and chemical fungicide. At 90 DAT, both the disease incidence and severity were found lowest in T11 (31.67 % and 37.33 % respectively) where the seedlings were treated for 24 hours with consortium of Pf-7 + Pf- 8 formulated in talc followed by in T12 (32.00 % and 38.00 %) where the seedlings were treated for 24 hours with consortium of Bs-17 + Bs-21 formulated in talc respectively. Vegetative and yield parameters were also significantly increased in both T11 and T12. The highest yield as well as Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) were found in T11 (2.50 kg/ m2 and 2.20) followed by T12 (2.49 kg/m2 and 2.18). Thus, the consortia of bacterial isolates (Pseudomonas fluorescens and Bacillus subtilis) with seedling dipping time for 24 hour represents a promising alternative to chemical fungicides for the management of sheath blight of rice in field condition. J Bangladesh Agril Univ 22(3): 342-351, 2024

Fulvic and Salicylic Acids Improve Morpho-Physio-Biochemical Attributes, Yield and Fruit Quality of Two Mango Cultivars Exposed to Dual Salinity and Heat Stress Conditions

Abstract Purpose The present research’s main objective was to explore the potential stimulative effect of fulvic acid (FA) as a soil conditioner and salicylic acid (SA) as foliar spraying on morpho-physio-biochemical attributes, fruit yield, and quality of ‘Sediek’ and ‘Ewais’ mango cultivars (cvs.) grown under saline calcareous soil and heat stress conditions Methods Eight treatments, namely, 200 (FA200) and 400 (FA400) g FA tree−1 as a soil addition, 200 (SA200) or 400 (SA400) mg SA L−1 as foliar spraying, and their bilateral combinations (e.g., FA200 + SA200, FA200 + SA400, FA400 + SA200, and FA400 + SA400) compared to untreated control on morpho-physio-biochemical attributes, yield, and fruit quality of ‘Sediek’ and ‘Ewais’ mango cvs. grown under saline calcareous soil and heat stress conditions were assessed. These treatments were carried out using a split-plot arrangement in a randomized complete block design replicated three times during the 2022 and 2023 seasons. Results Cultivar Sediek had higher SPAD value, leaf proline and phenolic content, leaf area, fruit weight, yield and vitamin C than Ewais which had higher tree water status and shoot length. Saline calcareous and heat-stressed mango trees without FA or/and SA treatment had a significant decline in their water status, photosynthetic traits, biochemical responses that adversely affected growth and yield and fruit quality. However, soil FA addition and foliar SA spraying alone or in combination at any application level attenuated the negative effects of saline calcareous and heat-stress conditions via enhancing the morpho-physio-biochemical attributes, positively reflecting in tree growth, yield, and fruit quality. FA treatment alone improved tree water status (membrane stability index; MSI and relative water content; RWC), photosynthetic traits (SPAD value and maximum photochemical efficiency; Fv/Fm), leaf area, fruit weight, fruit yield, and fruit vitamin C (fruit vit.C), while SA treatment alone enhanced leaf proline and phenolic content, shoot length, and fruit total soluble solids (fruit TSS) compared to the non-FA or SA-treated control. Moreover, co-application of FA400 and SA400 effectively alleviated the harmful impacts of dual stress of heat and salinity on mango trees by improving MSI, RWC, SPAD value, Fv/Fm, proline and phenolic content, fruit weight, fruit yield, fruit TSS, fruit vit.C by 19.7, 26.1, 46.7, 18.7, 101.7, 390.7, 42.7, 6.8, 22.6, 69.6% (averages of the two seasons), respectively, compared to the non-FA or SA-treated trees. Conclusion It is recommended to add 400 g FA tree−1 to soil integrated with 400 mg SA L−1 foliar spraying four times at 30-day intervals for improving water status and photosynthetic traits, proline and phenolic accumulation, thereby growth, yield, and fruit quality of mango trees exposed to dual stress of heat and salinity under arid conditions.

Influence of Aloe Vera Gel on Germination and Early Growth of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) Seedlings in the Nursery

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) nursery production often relies heavily on chemical inputs to ensure vigorous seedling growth, which may have environmental and economic drawbacks. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Aloe vera gel as a natural alternative to chemical treatments for improving germination and early seedling growth of Cobra 26 tomato seeds. The study used a factorial block design to compare the effects of seed treatments (Aloe vera gel coating, mancozeb, and untreated control) and substrate types (unfertilised topsoil, NPK-fertilised topsoil, and Aloe vera gel mixed with topsoil) on seed germination and seedling growth over three nursery cycles. Seeds coated with Aloe vera gel demonstrated the highest germination rate (90.53%) and fastest germination time (3 days), outperforming both mancozeb-treated and control seeds in germination kinetics. Growth parameters such as seedling height and leaf number were significantly influenced by substrate type (p&lt;0.03), with no notable differences between NPK and Aloe vera-treated substrates. The study suggests that Aloe vera gel, both as a seed coating and soil additive, offers a promising, eco-friendly alternative to chemical treatments, enhancing seed germination and early seedling growth in tomatoes

Optimization of Ultrasonication for Chlorella sp. Growth: Impacts on Biomass Productivity and Nutrient Utilization

Aims: This study aimed to investigate the effect of ultrasonic treatment of different durations on Chlorella sp. culture to analyze biomass concentration, biomass productivity and chlorophyll and macronutrients, such as nitrate and phosphate, which were added to the Chlorella sp. culture. Study Design: This investigation sought to optimize the duration of exposure of live microalgal culture to ultrasonic treatment to estimate economically significant biomass and pigments. Microalgal biomass has potential applications in biofuels, pharmaceuticals, and nutraceuticals, and is highly sought after by industry. Consequently, it is imperative to optimize this process for large-scale production. Chlorophyll pigment is not only crucial in the photosynthesis process but also serves as a high-value component in the food, cosmetic, and health industries. Furthermore, utilizing the optimized duration of ultrasonication treatment, residual nitrate and phosphate in the medium were analyzed, providing key insights into the nutrient consumption of Chlorella sp. under ultrasonication stress. Place and Duration of Study: The present investigation was conducted over 36 days to estimate the effect of ultrasonication on biomass, chlorophyll, nitrate and phosphorus concentration in Chlorella culture at the laboratory of Synthetic Ecology and Environment Biotechnology, Department of Environmental Science, School of Earth Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Bandarsindri, Ajmer. Methodology: In this study, the effects of ultrasonication on biomass and chlorophyll content were evaluated by treating Chlorella sp. cultures for 5, 10, and 15 min in addition to an untreated control group. Based on these results, an optimized ultrasonication duration of 5 min was selected for further analysis. During this phase, the nitrate and phosphorus contents in the culture medium were measured to investigate the influence of ultrasonication on these nutrient levels. All treatments were conducted in triplicate to ensure reproducibility of the results, with the mean and standard deviation calculated as measures of statistical reliability. The use of mean and standard deviation in triplicate tests ensure that the results are consistent and reproducible, hence providing a measure of statistical dependability. Results: The biomass concentration and biomass productivity concentration increased from 29.9 ± 0.00240 mg/L (control) to 66.8 ± 0.01485 mg/L, 1.275 ± 0.5033 (control) to 3.71 ± 0.4163 mg/L/day respectively. The highest total chlorophyll concentration was observed in the exponential phase (9 days of culture) which was 3.7772 ± 0.0500. There was a decrease in the concentrations of nitrate and phosphate throughout the culture period, with a total nitrate consumption of 38.5% and total phosphate consumption of 24%. Conclusion: Chlorophyll and biomass concentrations were maximized after 5 min of ultrasonic treatment, but declined with longer exposure. Nutrient analysis revealed a significant decrease in nitrate and phosphate concentrations over time, consistent with nutrient uptake by the growing cells and the subsequent accumulation of metabolites.