Impact of Microplastics on Livestock: Sources, Exposure Pathways, and Physiological Consequences

Microplastic (MP) contamination has emerged as an escalating environmental hazard with profound implications for terrestrial ecosystems, particularly within livestock-based agricultural systems. The pervasive presence of MPs in soil, water, and feed resources poses significant risks to animal health, food safety, and agricultural sustainability. This review explores the increasing vulnerability of livestock animals to MP exposure, focusing on environmental sources, exposure pathways, and associated physiological impacts. Livestock are regularly exposed to MPs via polluted feed, forage, drinking water, and soils altered with sewage sludge. MP intake, retention, and systemic distribution are influenced by species-specific changes in digestive physiology, notably those between ruminants and monogastric animals. Once internalized, MPs may cause gastrointestinal damage, oxidative stress, immunological dysfunction, hepatic impairment, and possible reproductive harm. Furthermore, microplastics (MPs) act as vectors for hazardous co-contaminants, including heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants, thereby enhancing the risk of bioaccumulation in edible tissues and posing significant challenges to food safety. Chronic exposure to MPs may impair animal health, productivity, and reproductive function, providing greater problems to livestock sustainability, economic viability, and human health. This review highlights the critical need for interdisciplinary research that combines veterinary toxicology, environmental science, and food safety to understand MP toxicokinetic in cattle better and influence evidence-based risk reduction and regulatory regimes

Toxicological Impact Of Clove Oil (Eugenol) On Channa Punctatus: A Dose-Dependent Analysis Of Histopathological, Histomorphometric, And Biochemical Alterations

This study investigates the toxicological impact of clove oil (eugenol) on Channa punctatus, focusing on dose-dependent histopathological, histomorphometric, and biochemical alterations. Fish were exposed to varying concentrations of clove oil (0 mg/L, 5 mg/L, 15 mg/L, and 25 mg/L) for different durations (1 hour, 6 hours, 12 hours, and 24 hours). Histopathological analysis revealed dose- and time-dependent neuronal degeneration in the brain, epithelial thickening and lamellar damage in the gills, and inflammation in the suprabranchial cavity. Histomorphometric measurements confirmed these changes, with significant reductions in neuronal cell density, gill epithelial thickness, and suprabranchial cavity volume at higher concentrations. Biochemical assays showed increased HSP70 expression, elevated SOD activity, and decreased total protein content, indicating oxidative stress and cellular damage. The results highlight the neurotoxic and respiratory impairments caused by clove oil exposure, emphasizing the importance of controlling concentration and exposure duration to prevent potential harm in aquaculture practices

Spatial And Seasonal Variation In Population Dynamics Of Gram Pod Borer, Helicoverpa Armigera (Hübner) Infestations On Chickpea In Tropical Climatic Condition, India

Helicoverpa armigera, commonly known as the gram pod borer, is a major pest that poses a significant threat to chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) cultivation across India, especially in the Rabi season. This study was conducted during the 2023 to 2024 and 2024 to 2025 two consecutive Rabi seasons in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India, intending to map the temporal and spatial distribution of H. armigera infestations and examine their relationship with key weather variables. Weekly larval counts were recorded from the 5th to the 14th Standard Meteorological Week (SMW). The weather parameters, including temperature, relative humidity and rainfall, were documented and statistically analyzed. The results revealed that H. armigera larval activity began in the 5th SMW and peaked consistently in the 12th SMW during both years, coinciding with the flowering and pod-setting stages of the chickpea crop. Correlation analysis indicated a significant positive association between larval population and maximum and minimum temperatures (r = 0.624 to 0.716) as well as relative humidity (r = 0.750 to 0.873). Rainfall showed no significant influence on pest population dynamics, highlighting the dominance of thermal and humidity-related triggers in the Rabi season. These findings underscore the need for early pest surveillance and climate-informed pest management strategies. The study recommends initiating field monitoring from the 5th SMW and implementing timely interventions based on weather trends to minimize crop losses. The insights also support the development of region-specific pest forecasting models, which can empower farmers with early warning tools and improve the precision of integrated pest management (IPM) programs

Ameliorative Effects Of Vortioxetine In 3-Npa Induced Huntington\u27s Disease

Huntington\u27s Disease (HD) is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disease caused by a mutation in the Huntingtin (HTT) gene. Clinically progressive motor dysfunction with cognitive decline, neuropsychiatric disorders like mood and behavioural abnormalities, and choreiform movements are its hallmarks. To lessen 3-nitropropionic acid (3-NPA)-induced HD-like pathology in a rodent model, this study sought to assess the neuroprotective pharmacological effects of vortioxetine, a primarily antidepressant drug that exhibits agonistic activity on the 5-HT1A receptor and antagonizes the serotonin transporter (SERT). The mitochondrial complex II inhibitor 3-NPA disrupts aerobic metabolism of cellular energy, induces oxidative stress, and causes neuronal damage like the pathophysiology of HD. To induce HD-like symptoms, 3-NPA (10 mg/kg intraperitoneally) was administered to male Wistar rats every other day for 28 days. Vortioxetine was subsequently administered orally at 5 and 10 mg/kg every day. Cognitive function was measured using the Morris Water Maze and Elevated Plus Maze, while the Rota rod test was used to measure motor coordination, and the Actophotometer was used to measure locomotor activity. Biochemical analyses measured striatal neurotransmitters, mitochondrial enzyme activity, and oxidative/nitrosative stress-related markers. Histopathological analysis of the cortex and hippocampal regions was performed to determine its impact on neuronal integrity. Vortioxetine treatment reduced oxidative stress, preserved the expression of mitochondrial electron transport complexes I, II, and IV, restored neurotransmitter equilibrium, and significantly ameliorated motor and cognitive deficits. Histopathology results showed a dose-dependent reduction in the evidence of neuronal degeneration, suggesting a neuroprotective effect. Thus, our findings suggest that Vortioxetine may exert its therapeutic effects in Huntington\u27s disease by improving mitochondrial function, reducing oxidative stress, and acting on the serotonin pathways. Thereby, vortioxetine, in addition to its known antidepressant properties, may emerge as possible treatment options in HD management. One might note limitations such as the need for validation in genetic HD models and long-term studies. Future studies should explore its therapeutic potential and molecular targets. The study emphasizes how Vortioxetine, including its role as a pharmacological agent, can be used for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, particularly in Huntington\u27s disease (HD), alleviating neuropsychiatric disorders. Additional clinical trials should determine the long-term safety and efficacy of vortioxetine for humans

The Impact of Plastics on Aquatic Food Webs and Reproductive Health in Freshwater Organisms

Plastic pollution has emerged as a significant environmental threat, particularly affectingaquatic ecosystems. While marine environments have been extensively studied, freshwatersystems such as rivers, lakes, and wetlands are increasingly impacted by plastic debris. Thisarticle examines the infiltration of plastics into freshwater ecosystems, their disruptionoffood webs, and adverse effects on the reproductive health of aquatic organisms. Acasestudy from a local pond in Telangana illustrates the real-world implications of plasticpollution. The findings underscore the urgent need for global strategies to mitigate plasticpollution and safeguard freshwater biodiversity

Effects of Human Urine on Growth and Yield Parameters of Tomato (Solanum Lycopersicum) In Sumbrungu in the Upper East Region of Ghana: Implications for Sustainable Agriculture

Purpose: With implications for sustainable agricultural practices, this study sought to determine how human urine, applied as fertilizer, affected the growth and production parameters of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) in Sumbrungu, Ghana. Design/Methodology/Approach: Three different urine dilutions (1:3, 1:5, and 1:10 with water) plus a control group (no urine) made up the Completely Randomized Design (CRD) utilized in the experiment. Until they bore fruits, tomato seedlings were raised in poly bags and given weekly treatments. Growth parameter measurements were made every two weeks, and soil samples were also collected. Findings: The effects of urine fertilization on tomato output, blooming time, and growth were substantial. The plants with the highest average number of leaves (91.33), largest leaf area (6.77 mm²), thickest stems (1.00 mm), and most fruits (6.67) were produced by the 1:3 dilutions, whilst the tallest plants (60.67 cm) were created by the 1:5 dilutions. Nonetheless, the 1:3 treatments had a higher frequency of fruit decaying. Six weeks after transplanting, the 1:3 treatments were the first to flower, followed by the 1:5 treatments after seven weeks. No flowering was seen in the control group. Research Limitation/Implication: The research was restricted to one growth season and one place. In order to optimize dilution ratios for various soil types, evaluate long-term effects on soil health, and address potential issues regarding pollutants in human urine, more research is required. Practical Implication: The results imply that human urine can be a useful fertilizer for tomato farming in Ghana when it is appropriately diluted. It seems that the ideal dilution ratios fall between 1:3 and 1:5, striking a balance between promoting fruit quality and growth. Social Implication: This study advances sustainable farming methods in underdeveloped nations by maybe providing an affordable substitute for chemical fertilizers. For widespread adoption, however, implementation may encounter logistical issues and cultural impediments that must be resolved. Originality: The significance of this study rests in its ability to guide Ghana and comparable regions towards more sustainable farming methods, so promoting food security, resource conservation, and economic development in ways that are both locally and globally relevant

Impact of Water Quality on Fish Growth: A Study on Catla catla, Labeo rohita, and Cirrhinus mrigala in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana

Water quality influences the fish\u27s growth, which is vital in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, to some extent in other places where fishes like Catla catla, Labeo rohita, Cirrhinus mrigala, etc., are raised. The review analyzes the effects of temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, ammonia, and turbidity on the growth performance of these species in the region. Information obtained on various aquaculture farms within the two states shows that variability in water quality is rather large and that it impacts on growth, health, and yield of the fish. The results of the study support the fact that water condition is a critical factor in maintaining and enhancing profitable aquaculture and provide specific guidelines for water quality control to enhance the production of aquaculture farms. Furthermore, the article discusses local factors such as irregularities in monitoring and poor farmer information and underlines the presence of a requirement to apply interventions to boost water quality management locally

Histopathological and Biochemical Changes in Fish Liver Under Environmental Stress: A Case Study of Labeo rohita

This study investigates the histopathological and biochemical changes in the liver of Labeo rohita (Rohu) under environmental stress, with a particular focus on the effects of oxidative stress. The liver, being a central organ in detoxification and metabolic processes, is highly susceptible to environmental changes such as pollution, temperature fluctuations, and low oxygen levels. In this study, we assess the histopathological alterations in liver tissues and measure key biochemical markers, including superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, to determine the extent of oxidative stress. The findings highlight significant liver damage and alterations in antioxidant enzyme activity in response to environmental stressors, suggesting a close relationship between oxidative damage and liver function in fish. The results of this study provide valuable insights into the physiological adaptations of Labeo rohita to environmental changes and underscore the potential of liver biomarkers for monitoring fishhealth in polluted aquatic environments

"Distribution And Dynamics of Pelagic Fish Along the Karnataka Coast: Insights from INCOIS Potential Fishing Zone (PFZ) Advisories"

The use of satellite technology to retrieve Potential Fishing Zone (PFZ) data has revolutionized the fishing industry by providing real-time information to fishermen. By leveraging advanced technologies such as satellite remote sensing and data analytics, PFZs are identified based on oceanographic parameters like sea surface temperature (SST) and chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) concentrations. These PFZs highlight areas where fish are most abundant, allowing fishermen to optimize their efforts and focus on regions with higher fish concentrations. This targeted approach minimizes overfishing in less productive areas, promoting sustainable fishing practices. By integrating cutting-edge technologies and data analytics, this system not only enhances the fishing process but also contributes to environmental conservation by reducing the ecological impact of fishing activities

Impact Climate Change On Biodiversity- A Case Study On Quails

The average surface temperature is predicted to rise 0.5 to 6˚C by the year 2100. When Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica), a source of protein for many, are subjected to heat stress, their blood acid-base equilibrium and ability to regulate electrolytes may change.   Climate change adversely affects food security because of its undesirable consequences on agricultural crops as well as on livestock (Shukla et al., 2019). Further, temperature is adjudged to be the most important environmental determinant amongst all bioclimatic variables usually evoking stress