Influence of nano-silicon in antioxidants enzymes, ions absorption, and biochemical indicators of King Mandarin saplings leaves (Citrus nobilis) under salt stress

High salinity levels are particularly problematic in Iraq\u27s southern and central regions, limiting the growth and productivity of many fruit plants. One effective approach to enhance mandarins\u27 salt tolerance is the exogenous application of Nano-Silicon. The objective of the present research was to evaluate the performance of foliar applications by potassium silicate nanoparticles (K2SiO3NPs) in antioxidants’ enzymes, ions absorption, bio-chemical indicators of one-year-old for King Mandarin saplings grown in salt stress conditions. The experiment was conducted under controlled saline conditions and it included two factors. The first factor was three irrigation water salinity levels (0, 40 and 80 mM) using sodium chloride ( NaCl2 ) salt. The second factor was spraying with K2SiO3 NPs at three levels (0, 2 and 4ml L-1). A randomized complete block design (RCBD) was used to execute the factorial experiment. High level of NaCl (80 mM) had a negative effect on chlorophyll, carbohydrates, N, P, K , K/Na, Fe, Ca % and Mg  in leaves and increased the accumulation of Si, proline, Cl, Na, Catalase (CAT), Peroxidase (POD)  and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) in leaves, compared to the control.  K2SiO3NPs at 4 ml L-1 caused significant positive findings in ions absorption and biochemical indicators (chlorophyll, carbohydrates, N, P, K, K/Na, Fe, Ca, Mg  and Si) compared to control. K2SiO3NPs at 4 ml L-1  caused a positively decreased of proline , Cl, Na, CAT, POD and SOD, compared to control. The utility of the present experiment is to enhance the tolerance of King Mandarin seedlings to saline irrigation water by applying foliar K2SiO3 NPs.

Light microscopic characterization of camallanid nematode parasitizing Tor putitora (Hamilton, 1822) in Mahakali River, Nepal

Helminth parasites infect a wide variety of fish, with nematodes being widely distributed pathogens, especially in wild fish. The present study aimed to document the morphological characteristics of camallanid nematode infecting the golden mahseer (Tor putitora) fish in the Mahakali River along the Nepal-India border of Kanchanpur district, Nepal. Fish samples (n=157) were collected from Khalla and Bhujela areas in the river and nearby markets from March 2023 to February 2024. As revealed by light microscopy, the morphology of the present nematode species closely resembled the Asian freshwater fish nematode Camallanus cotti Fujita, 1927. Notable features included translucent red color in the fresh specimen, a pale yellow buccal capsule with longitudinal ridges and lateral valves, two amphids, eight cephalic papillae, two sclerotic plates, a basal ring separating the oesophagus from the buccal cavity, prongs of tridents extending beyond the basal ring, inconspicuous nerve ring in the muscular oesophagus, deirids at the beginning of glandular oesophagus, oesophagus with short anterior muscular and long posterior glandular portion, pre equatorial vulva and uterus confined in the posterior part of the body containing first stage larvae in gravid female, long tail and finely striated cuticle. The study, thus, confirmed that the camallanid nematode parasitizing freshwater fish golden mahseer is C. cotti.

A new strategy to evaluate emerging tumour-associated antigens as biomarkers of acute lymphocytic leukaemia development

Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) is the most common type of tumour in children aged from 1-14 years .Currently, diagnosis is made by bone marrow aspiration. For this reason, the present study aimed to find a new diagnostic method for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia based on the presence of specific biomarkers such as (α–enolase, P53, VDCI , and CIg) their ratios may reflect the tumor development status of patients. Eighty children with ALL were selected and compared with forty healthy children as control. The ages of ALL and normal cases ranged from 1 to 14 years. The serum levels of α–enolase, P53, VDAC1 and CIg were determined using ELISA method. The results showed a significant decrease in the levels of α–enolase, P53 and CIg in ALL patients (Mean ±SD 388.9062 ± 115.18294 pg/ml  , 76.9207 ± 10.23092 pg/ml and 6.2747 ± 3.49786 μg/ml respectively) compared to the control cases (Mean ±SD  596.7733 ± 217.34848 pg/ml  ,  118.0352 ± 44.49135 pg/ml  , 8.6873 ± 4.04248 μg/ml) respectively with p<0.05 , while VDAC1 showed not significant decreased. The study concluded that changes in the selected tumour antigens reflected the physiological changes in the tumour lymphocytes, which can be adopted as new indicators to follow the tumour development and response to chemotherapy.

Assessment of heterosis and combining ability for yield and oil traits in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) contributing to the revival of India\u27s cotton sector

Cotton is a major commercial crop with global importance, especially in the textile sector. Enhancing its yield and fibre quality through hybrid breeding is a key goal in crop improvement. This study was conducted during Kharif 2024 at Lovely Professional University, School of Agriculture, Genetics and Plant Breeding Research Farm in Phagwara, Punjab, to evaluate combining ability, gene action, and heterosis in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.).  A total of 24 F1 hybrids were developed using 10 cotton genotypes (6 lines and 4 testers) along with a standard check (G. Cot. Hy 18) in a line × tester design. Analysis of variance revealed significant variability in seed yield, boll weight, and fibre quality traits, indicating potential for improvement. Non-additive gene action was observed for seed yield, boll production, and fiber quality, whereas additive gene action was prominent for earliness traits like flowering and boll bursting. The lines 761H20 and GJHV-510, along with the tester Sanjay (CJ-73), were identified as effective general combiners for  seed yield, boll weight, and fiber quality. Among the hybrids, 761H20 × V-797, GJHV-503 × Guj. Cot.-15, and 761H20 × Deviraj stood out as the top performers, exhibiting strong performance, high SCA effects, and improved heterosis for yield and fiber traits. Additionally, the hybrid GJC-101 × V-797 showed excellent performance in boll production and weight. These hybrids have strong potential for commercial through heterosis breeding.. The variance ratio (σ²GCA/σ²SCA) being less than  one confirmed the predominance of non-additive gene action. This study provides insights for developing superior cotton hybrids.

Morphological and physico-chemical profiling of Sapota genotypes

Sapota (Manilkara zapota), a tropical evergreen fruit tree, holds substantial economic and nutritional importance in many regions, particularly in South and Southeast Asia. Its fruits are rich in sugars, vitamins, and minerals, making it a valuable addition to both local diets and commercial markets. The present study aimed to evaluate and characterize nineteen local Sapota germplasm conserved at the Germplasm Center of Patuakhali Science and Technology University (PSTU), Bangladesh. The assessment was carried out using key morphological features and physico-chemical attributes of the ripe Sapota fruits to identify superior genotypes for breeding and cultivation. Parameters such as fruit weight, dimensions, yield, total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity, pH, and vitamin C content were meticulously recorded. Among the evaluated genotypes, Germplasm-3 emerged as notable for its superior fruit weight (83.62 g), length (5.22 cm), and width (4.95 cm), indicating its potential for high consumer acceptance. Germplasm-7 excelled in productivity, bearing the highest number of fruits (110) and yield (8.17 kg/germplasm). In terms of fruit quality, Germplasm-9 exhibited the highest TSS (25.85%), indicating greater sweetness, while Germplasm-5 showed promising nutritional content with the highest vitamin C (17 mg/100g) and pH (6.67). The highest titratable acidity (0.23%) was shared by Germplasm-8, -9, and -15. These results provide critical insights into the variability among local Sapota germplasm, facilitating targeted selection for genetic improvement. Germplasm-3, -7, and -9, in particular, offer considerable promise for future breeding programs aimed at enhancing fruit quality, yield potential, and commercial value in Sapota cultivation systems.

Ultrasound-assisted extraction of Nigella sativa L essential oil using green solvent and its encapsulation in albumin nanoparticles

The abundance of numerous bioactive compounds with a range of therapeutic benefits primarily distinguishes medicinal and aromatic plants. Nigella sativa (black cumin) is a medicinal plant species that has been well known for a variety of therapeutic uses. Health-conscious people, researchers, and the pharmaceutical industry are becoming more interested in black cumin, a highly valued nutraceutical herb with numerous health advantages.   The present study evaluated the impact of both traditional and advanced extraction techniques on the chemical composition and bioactive properties of essential oils extracted from Nigella sativa L.seeds. Hexane and petroleum ether were the solvents used for conventional extraction, while natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) were used for ultrasonic extraction. Ultrasonic extraction addresses the drawbacks of traditional solvent extraction.The hydrophobic properties of essential oils restrict their use in therapeutic settings. The essential oil extract encapsulated in albumin nanoparticles resolves this bottleneck. The results showed that NADES extraction enabled higher yields (37.1%) than essential oils obtained after Soxhlet extraction. Further, functional groups associated with the active ingredients with therapeutic activity were identified by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. Different chemical components with identified bioactivities were determined by the Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry chromatograms (GC-MS). The yield (85 %) and extract trapping (89 %) in albumin nanoparticles were determined. The findings demonstrated that the average size of albumin nanoparticles grew from 72 nm to 102 nm for two distinct drug-loading procedures. The findings of the Scanning electron microscope (SEM) supported the spherical shape of the nanoparticles.The study will help Nigella extract loaded albumin nanoparticles to incorporate essential oil (EO) in food formulations and pharmaceutical preparations.

Molecular Docking and ADME Analysis of the novel compound [(Z)-1a,5-dimethyl-9-methylene-8-oxo1a,2,3,6,6a,8,9,9a,10,10a-decahydro-11-oxa bicyclo(8.1.0) undeca-1(10),4-dieno(7,8-b) furan-10-yl acetate] isolated from Tanacetum dolicophyllum (Kitam.) Kitam

In contemporary drug design, molecular docking is essential for understanding drug-receptor interactions. The present study aimed to use molecular docking to determine the anticancer potential of the bioactive compound [(Z)-1a,5-dimethyl-9-methylene-8-oxo 1a,2,3,6,6a,8,9,9a,10,10a-decahydro-11-oxa-bicyclo (8.1.0) undeca-1(10),4-dieno(7,8-b) furan-10-yl acetate] isolated from Tanacetum dolicophyllum (Kitam.) Kitam. The outcome demonstrated that the molecule obtained from T. dolicophyllum binds with a stronger affinity and lower free energy than roflumilast (the control ligand), with 1XMU exhibiting a glide score of -6.379 Kcal/mol and -6.14 Kcal/mol, respectively. When the binding energy is negative, the ligand and target protein are well aligned, which may have therapeutic benefits in suppressing microbial activity. Additionally, as determined by in-silico Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, and Toxicity (ADMET) calculations, the synthesized compound validates the drug-likeness within the specified ranges: molecular weight between 150 and 500g/mol, Topological Surface Area (TPSA) polarity between 20 and 130 Å2, lipophilicity between -0.7 and +5.0, Log S not exceeding 6, flexibility not exceeding 9, and saturation not less than 0.25. An evaluation of docking score and ADME properties reveals that the synthesized compound exhibits notable characteristics, positioning it as a promising candidate for drug development. The compound showed adherence to these requirements, indicating favorable in-vivo drug penetration and absorption properties.

Use of essential oil for extended shelf life and maintained physico-chemical qualities of tomato cv. Arka Rakshak

Tomatoes, one of the popular solanaceous vegetables, used to face high spoilage and low shelf life in ambient storage. Essential oils with proven antimicrobial properties were thus used in the present study to evaluate the impact on fruit decay, shelf life and physico-chemical qualities under ambient conditions (Temperature: 22±30C; Relative Humidity: 80±5%). The study was conducted during 2021-22 with greenhouse-grown mature green tomatoes cv. Arka Rakshak at Post Graduate Research Laboratory, Department of Horticulture, Aromatic and Medicinal Plants, Mizoram University, Aizawl, India, to evaluate the utility of different essential oils (0.5% v/v) as Basil (Ocimum basilicum), Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), Peppermint (Mentha piperita), Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus), Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus), Thyme (Thymus vulgaris), Lavendar (Lavandula angustifolia) and Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) emulsified with coconut oil. Results manifested that surface coating with Basil oil had reduced the weight loss percentage (4.83%) significantly and maintained better firmness of fruit (23.91 N/cm2), Total Soluble Solids (TSS): acid ratio (17.86) and delayed accumulation of colour pigment-like carotenoids (14.26 µg g-1) and lycopene (21.78 µg g-1). Fruit under this treatment had high ascorbic acid content (21.38 mg 100g-1) with better retention of total phenolics (0.31 mg g-1) and higher antioxidant activity at 12 days after storage (DAS). Besides, fruits under this treatment had minimum fruit decay (10%) against control (45%). Application of Basil oil had a better-extended shelf life (18.85 days) than the control (13.75 days). Therefore, it may be concluded that postharvest use of basil oil was effective in extending shelf life while maintaining physico-chemical qualities in stored tomatoes under room conditions.

Feeding and growth pattern of rice moth Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton) on different diets

Food is a decisive factor affecting the insects\u27 biological parameters and physiological functions, including the rice moth Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton). Seeds\u27 physical and biochemical properties influence the insect\u27s feeding behaviour and the decisions it makes during its development. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between the diet and the growth of the rice moth. Four different seeds: rice (Oryza sativa L.), wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), maize (Zea mays L.) and groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) were used in the experiments as diets for C. cephalonica larvae to investigate their properties’ impact on the biological parameters (durations and dimensions of egg, larval instars, pupa and adults, weights of the full-grown larva, pupa and adults, and female fecundity) of the insect. The results confirmed that seeds\u27 physical and biochemical properties significantly affect the rice moth\u27s fitness. Groundnut and maize seeds were superior in almost all the parameters studied, followed by wheat to a lesser degree, while rice came last. The total life cycle was 106.66, 81.37, 76.63 and 68.64 days for rice, wheat, groundnut and maize, respectively. The eggs took between 5.03 to 5.59 days to hatch. Total larval period ranged between 48.62 days in groundnut and 82.83 days in rice. Similarly, pupal period was maximum in rice (10.4 days) and minimum in groundnut (7.4 days). Male longevity was insignificant among treatments, ranging between 8.2 to 10.48 days, while female longevity ranged from 5.44 to 6.82 days. So, the present study could conclude that groundnut and maize were the most suitable hosts for rice moth growth.

Preparation of a new liquid dosage from Vitamin D3 by using pospholipid conjugate

Vitamin D3 has poor solubility in water, leading to a low dissolution profile, which presents significant biopharmaceutical challenges. To overcome these issues, liposome-conjugation techniques have been researched in recent years. Liposomes can enhance the solubility, stability, and bioavailability of vitamin D3, improving its therapeutic effectiveness. The study aimed to prepare and evaluate the particles for vitamin D3 conjugated with phospholipids, focusing on optimizing their formulation, assessing stability, and enhancing bioavailability. Vitamin D3 conjugated with phospholipids was prepared using the solvent evaporation method in a 1:1 ratio. The conjugation greatly improved the physical properties of the vitamin D3 in its conjugation and dispersion in a significant way; then the conjugate was characterized by using x-ray diffraction (XRD), fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), optical microscope (Op.M)toconfirm the formation of a complex between vitamin D3 and phospholipids. The polydispersity index and zeta potential of the prepared vitamin D3-phosphatidylcholine conjugate were measured as 74.96 and −56.93 mV, respectively, confirming its colloidal stability. These values indicated uniform particle size distribution and strong electrostatic repulsion, preventing aggregation. Additionally, the solubility in water was studied and compared with pure vitamin D3, demonstrating improved solubility characteristics of the conjugate. This work suggests using liposomal formulations of vitamin D3-phosphatidylcholine conjugates as an alternative to conventional vitamin D3 tablets. These formulations can potentially enhance drug absorption and bioavailability, allowing for dose reduction and minimizing side effects. Additionally, improved bioavailability may lead to better patient compliance and therapeutic outcomes, offering a more efficient approach to vitamin D3 supplementation.