The contribution of homestead pond fish culture to household food security and dietary diversity in central coast of a developing country

Fish farming in homestead ponds help alleviate poverty, provide animal source food, micronutrients, and indirect income and various jobs in developing nations. This study investigated the impact of homestead pond fish farming on dietary diversity (HDDS and MDD-W), food security (HFIAS and ELCSA), income, and women's engagement. A total of 185 households were selected randomly for data collection through well-structured questionnaire interviews in the central coast of Bangladesh. HDDS revealed significant dietary diversity (73.3%) among beneficiary farmers, surpassing controls and nearly doubling that of non-aquaculture farmers (41.1%). Additionally, this study found that 86.7% and 74.3% of women in beneficiary and homestead pond farmers exhibited high dietary diversity (MDD-W ≥ 5), whereas 48.6% of women in non-aquaculture farmers' households had low dietary diversity (MDD-W ≥ 5). Based on both ELCSA and HFIAS, higher prevalence of food security was observed among the beneficiary farmers that was about 60% and 63.3%, respectively compared with the control farmers. Most non-aquaculture farmers (62.9%) indicated their family consumed fish for one week before the research. More than half of the homestead pond culture (55.7%) and more than 90% of the beneficiary farmers, aquaculture farmers and non-aquaculture farmers had gross income (<$ 500). Pertaining to women's participation in homestead pond was positively correlated to productivity while male dominated tasks was negatively correlated with productivity. The results offer insights into how homestead pond fish farming can enhance food security by supplying direct animal protein, addressing protein and micronutrient deficiencies, and boosting income. The study emphasizes the urgent necessity for training and promoting homestead pond culture, increasing female participation, and advocating comprehensive support from governmental organizations (GOs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to optimize production, improve micronutrient adequacy, and guarantee household food security. Keywords: Fish farming, food security, dietary diversity, women's participation.

Risk Assessment and Sources Apportionment of Toxic Metals in Two Commonly Consumed Fishes from a Subtropical Estuarine Wetland System

The widespread occurrence of heavy metals in aquatic environments, resulting in their bioaccumulation within aquatic organisms like fish, presents potential hazards to human health. This study investigates the concentrations of five toxic heavy metals (Pb, Hg, Zn, Cu, and Cr) and their potential health implications in two economically important fish species (Otolithoides pama and Labeo bata) from a subtropical estuarine wetland system (Feni estuary, Bangladesh). Muscle and gill samples from 36 individual fish were analyzed using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF). The results revealed that the average quantities of heavy metals in both fishes' muscle followed the declining order of Zn (109.41-119.93 mg/kg) > Cu (45.52-65.43 mg/kg) > Hg (1.25-1.39 mg/kg) > Pb (0.68-1.12 mg/kg) > Cr (0.31-5.82 mg/kg). Furthermore, Zn was found to be present in the highest concentration within the gills of both species. While the levels of Cu, Zn, and Cr in the fish muscle were deemed acceptable for human consumption, the concentrations of Pb and Hg exceeded the permissible limits (>0.5 mg/kg) for human consumption. Different risk indices, including estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), hazard index (HI), and carcinogenic or target risk (TR), revealed mixed and varying degrees of potential threat to human health. According to the EDI values, individuals consuming these fish may face health risks as the levels of Zn, Cu, and Cr in the muscle are either very close to or exceed the maximum tolerable daily intake (MTDI) threshold. Nevertheless, the THQ and HI values suggested that both species remained suitable for human consumption, as indicated by THQ (<1) and HI (<1) values. Carcinogenic risk values for Pb, Cr, and Zn all remained within permissible limits, with TR values falling below the range of (10-6 to 10-4), except for Zn, which exceeded it (>10-4). The correlation matrix and multivariate principal component analysis (PCA) findings revealed that Pb and Cr primarily stemmed from natural geological backgrounds, whereas Zn, Cu, and Hg were attributed to human-induced sources such as agricultural chemicals, silver nanoparticles, antimicrobial substances, and metallic plating. Given the significance of fish as a crucial and nutritious element of a balanced diet, it is essential to maintain consistent monitoring and regulation of the levels and origins of heavy metals found within it.

Effect of dietary Lagnaria breviflora leaves extract on the growth performance, haematological, antioxidative and immune responses of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) juveniles

The effects of dietary Lagnaria breviflora leaves extract (LBLE) on the growth performance, feed utilisation and haematological parameters of juveniles African catfish, Clarias gariepinus (mean = 8.45 ± 0.6 g) raised in a flow water (mean temperature 26.7°C, mean pH 7.52, mean dissolved oxygen 6.05 mg/L) were assessed in this study. Diets (400 g/kg crude protein; 4631.5 kcal/kg gross energy) supplemented with LBLE at levels of 0 (control), 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 or 2.0 g/kg diet were served to fish in triplicates (each replicate has 20 fish) until they appeared satiated for 12 weeks. Then, they were challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila infection for further 2 weeks. Fish served dietary LBLE had considerable higher weight gain (64.76 g) and specific growth rate (765.5% g/day) than the fish group fed with the control diet with a reduced feed conversion ratio (1.45) (p < 0.05). Compared to fish fed with the control diet, the villi height (146.30 µm) and width (284.35 µm) of the intestines increased greatly in a dose (LBLE in diets) dependent order. Similarly, dietary LBLE increased (p < 0.05) the packed cell volume (46.11%) and haemoglobin (17.03 g/dL), whereas 1.5 g of LBLE increased the counts of white blood cells. Glutathione S-transferase (769.43 U/mg protein), glutathione peroxidase (84.14 U/mg protein) and superoxide dismutase (433.15 U/mg protein) activities were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in fish fed with diets supplemented with LBLE compared to the control one. Additionally, dietary LBLE increased phagocytic and lysozyme activities and protected C. gariepinus against bacterial infections where the lowest death was observed in the fish fed on the diet containing 1.5 g LBLE/kg feed. These findings showed that the fish fed with LBLE/kg diet improved their immune system, antioxidant and growth performance in addition to providing protection from A. hydrophila infection with the optimum dose of 1.80 g/kg diet.

Microplastic contamination in filter-feeding oyster Saccostrea cuccullata: Novel insights in a marine ecosystem

Microplastic (MP) pollution has become a pressing global concern. Oysters are well-known filter feeders who ingest food by filtering microscopic particles suspended in the surrounding water. Along with organic matter, filter-feeding also causes accidental ingestion of MP by oysters. Hence, the aim of the current investigation is to understand the MP contamination in filter-feeding oysters. A total of 500 specimens of oyster Saccostrea cuccullata collected from the intertidal zone of five sampling locations on the Gujarat coast, India. Specimens underwent analysis following established protocols. Each specimen was found to exhibit MP contamination, showing an abundance of 2.72 ± 1.98 MPs/g. A negative relationship was found between shell length and MP abundance. Predominantly, fibers were documented across all study sites. Black, blue, and red-colored MPs with 1-2 mm sizes were most dominant. MP polymer composition was identified as polyethylene terephthalate and polypropylene. Findings provide baseline information on levels of MPs contamination, which can be used to monitor future effects of MP pollution.

Toxicological assessment of dietary exposure of polyethylene microplastics on growth, nutrient digestibility, carcass and gut histology of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings

This study was conducted to ascertain the negative effects of dietary low-density polyethylene microplastics (LDPE-MPs) exposure on growth, nutrient digestibility, body composition and gut histology of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Six sunflower meal-based diets (protein 30.95%; fat 8.04%) were prepared; one was the control (0%) and five were incorporated with LDPE-MPs at levels of 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10% in sunflower meal-based diets. A total of eighteen experimental tanks, each with 15 fingerlings, were used in triplicates. Fish were fed at the rate of 5% biomass twice a day for 60 days. Results revealed that best values of growth, nutrient digestibility, body composition and gut histology were observed by control diet, while 10% exposure to LDPE-MPs significantly (P < 0.05) reduced weight gain (WG%, 85.04%), specific growth rate (SGR%, 0.68%), and increased FCR (3.92%). The findings showed that higher level of LDPE-MPs (10%) exposure in the diet of O. niloticus negatively affects nutrient digestibility. Furthermore, the results revealed that the higher concentration of LDPE-MPs (10%) had a detrimental impact on crude protein (11.92%) and crude fat (8.04%). A high number of histological lesions were seen in gut of fingerlings exposed to LDPE-MPs. Hence, LDPE-MPs potentially harm the aquatic health.

Impact of feeding biochar sources in rohu (Labeo rohita): Evaluating the growth, nutrient absorption, carcass composition, haematology and mineral status

Biochar, an organic carbonaceous matter, is a unique feed additive that is now being used in aquaculture industry to formulate a cost-effective and eco-friendly diet. This experiment (in door) was conducted over course of 90 days to determine the most effective form of biochar, produced from various sources, for supplementation in Moringa oleifera seed meal-based diet. These sources were: farmyard manure biochar, parthenium biochar (PB), vegetable waste biochar, poultry waste biochar (PWB) and corncob waste biochar, added at 2 g/kg concentration to determine the effect of supplementation on the growth indices, nutrient absorption, carcass composition, haematology and mineral status of Labeo rohita (rohu) fingerlings. The research design consisted of six test diets with three replications (6 × 3) of each. Total of 270 fingerlings (6.30 ± 0.020 g) were fed at 5% body weight and 15 of them were kept in separate steel tanks. The results indicated that PWB was most effective in improving weight gain (285.58 ± 4.54%) and feed conversion ratio (1.060 ± 0.040) compared to control diet and other test diets. The same type of biochar (PWB) produced the best results for nutrient digestibility, that is, crude protein, crude fat and gross energy and carcass composition. In terms of haematology and mineral status, PWB showed the best results. In conclusion, it was found that PWB significantly enhanced (p < 0.05) L. rohita fingerling's growth, carcass composition, nutrient digestibility, haematological parameters (red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets and haemoglobin) and mineral composition (Ca, Na, P, Mg, Fe, Mn, Zn, K and Cu) whereas PB negatively affected all parameters. It is anticipated that the potential use of biochar will increase in aquaculture industry, as research on its incorporation in fish feeds is still limited.

ADME Study, Molecular Docking, Elucidating the Selectivities and the Mechanism of [4 + 2] Cycloaddition Reaction Between (E)-N ((dimethylamino)methylene)benzothioamide and (S)-3-acryloyl-4-phenyloxazolidin-2-one

The molecular electron density theory (MEDT) was employed to examine the [4 + 2] cycloaddition reaction between (E)-N-((dimethylamino)methylene)benzothioamide (1) and (S)-3-acryloyl-4-phenyloxazolidin-2-one (2) at the B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p) design level. Parr functions and energy studies clearly show that this reaction is regio- and stereoselective, in perfect agreement with experimental results. By evaluating the chemical mechanism in terms of bond evolution theory (BET) and electron localization function (ELF), which divulges a variety of variations in the electron density along the reaction path, a single-step mechanism with highly asynchronous transition states structures was revealed. Additionally, we conducted a docking study on compounds P1, P2, P3, and P4 in the SARS-CoV-2 main protease (6LU7) in comparison to Nirmatrelvir. Our findings provide confirmation that product P4 may serve as a potent antiviral drug.

Evaluation of growth, nutrient absorption, body composition and blood indices under dietary exposure of iron oxide nanoparticles in Common carp (Cyprinus carpio)

The bioavailability, small size and direct absorption in the blood, make nanoparticles (NPs) a remarkable feed additive in the aquaculture industry. Therefore, dietary iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe2 O3 -NPs) were used to examine their effects on growth, nutrient absorption, body composition and blood indices in Cyprinus carpio (Common carp) fingerlings. Healthy C. carpio fingerlings (n = 270) were fed with six canola meal based experimental diets (D1-control, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6) supplemented with 0, 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 mg/kg Fe2 O3 -NPs respectively. A total of 15 fingerlings (average initial weight 5.51 ± 0.04 g/fish) were kept in triplicates for 70 days. The results indicated that maximum growth performance, apparent digestibility coefficient, body composition and haematological parameters were observed in 40 mg/kg Fe2 O3 -NPs supplementation. All the experimental diets were significantly improved (p < 0.05) in all the above parameters than control diet. In the present research, the recommended dosage of Fe2 O3 -NPs as dietary supplement is 40 mg/kg for improving the growth, nutrient absorption, body composition and haematological indices in C. carpio fingerlings. Hence, this study demonstrates the potential of NPs to improve the health of fish.

Quantification, characterization and risk assessment of microplastics from five major estuaries along the northern Bay of Bengal coast

Microplastics (MPs) as hazardous contaminants has drawn the rapid attention of the general public due to their omnipresence and adverse impacts on ecosystems and human health. Despite this, understanding of MPs contamination levels in the estuarine ecosystems along the Bay of Bengal coast remains very limited. This research focused on the presence, spatial distribution, morpho-chemical characteristics and ecological implications of MPs in water and sediment from five key estuaries (Meghna, Karnaphuli, Matamuhuri, Bakkhali, and Naf rivers) within the Bengal delta. Out of the five estuaries, the Meghna exhibited the least amount of MPs in both surface water (150.00 ± 65.62 items/m3) and sediment (30.56 ± 9.34 items/kg). In contrast, the highest occurrence of MPs was recorded in Karnaphuli river water (350.00 ± 69.22 items/m3) and Matamuhuri river sediment (118.33 ± 26.81 items/kg). ANOVA indicated a statistically significant distinction (p < 0.01) among the examined estuaries. Most identified MPs were fibers and < 0.5 mm in size in both water and sediment samples. Transparent MPs were dominant in both water (42.28%) and sediment (45.22%). Besides violet, red, blue, pink and green colored MPs were also observed. Various polymer types, including PE, PP, PET, PS, Nylon, EVA, and ABS, were detected, with PE being the dominant one. Based on the polymer risk index (PHI), the estuaries were classified as hazard level V, signifying a severe level of MP contamination. However, the potential ecological hazardous index (PHI), potential ecological risk index (RI), and pollution load index (PLI) indicated moderate pollution levels. This study offers initial insights into the pollution caused by MPs in major estuaries of Bengal delta, which policymakers can utilize to implement suitable management strategies.

Minerals and fatty acid profile of small indigenous fish species from homestead ponds within a Sub-tropical coastal region

Malnutrition has emerged as a noticeable obstruction to the socio-economic advancement of rural areas along the coastal regions of Bangladesh. Small indigenous fish species (SIS) have the potential to alleviate the malnutrition issue because of having higher nutritional compositions. However, prior research has overlooked the detailed nutritional value of SIS originating from coastal regions. Consequently, the current investigation sought to analyze the mineral and fatty acid composition of twelve SIS obtained from coastal homestead ponds. The findings indicated that the mineral composition in SIS exhibited the following descending order: calcium (Ca) > phosphorus (P) > potassium (K) > magnesium (Mg) > iron (Fe) > zinc (Zn). Furthermore, when considering the overall mineral content in SIS, it ranked in the following decreasing order: A. testudineus, M. tengara, C. punctatus, N. nandus, P. sophore, C. fasciatus, A. mola, C. batrachus, H. fossilis, P. sarana, M. aculeatus, and O. pabda. The analysis of the fatty acid profile further revealed that SIS is a rich source of palmitic acid, linoleic acid, oleic acid, stearic acid, myristic acid, palmitoleic acid, and linolenic acid. The saturated fatty acid content of the SIS varied between 42.66 % and 63.37 %, and the highest content was found in A. mola whereas the lowest was in A. testudineus. On the other hand, the total monounsaturated fatty acid content of the SIS ranged from 26.49 % (A. mola) to 46.12 % (P. sarana), and the total PUFAs contents among the fish species ranged from 5.7 % (A. mola) to 16.54 % (H. fossilis). Therefore, SIS could be a key source of minerals and essential fatty acids for human well-being. This can help fulfill nutrient requirements and reduce malnutrition among coastal populations. It can be said that, if these fishes are introduced in the culture systems, it will be used for consumption as well as support the livelihood of coastal people.

Stimulatory effect of dietary alpha-lipoic acid on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, liver enzymes, immunity and protection of African catfish, Clarias gariepinus (B.), Edwardsiella tarda infection

Edwardsiella tarda is one of the most common causes of fish diseases that hinder aquaculture. Oxidative stress in farm animals can induce a number of pathological disorders, production and general animal welfare. The use of exogenous dietary nonenzymatic antioxidants such as alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) can stop a pro-oxidant state and thus appears to have the potential to modulate the immune system and protect fish from bacterial infection. Thus, this study investigates the stimulatory effect of dietary ALA on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, liver enzymes, immunity and protection of African catfish, Clarias gariepinus (B.), against an infection with E. tarda. Five isonitrogenous and isocaloric diets (400 g/kg of crude protein) containing ALA at doses of 0.0 (control), 500, 1000, 1500 or 2000 mg/kg diet were served to 300 juveniles of African catfish (mean weight = 8.2 ± 0.2 g) adequately thrice per day for 12 weeks. Thereafter, 0.1 mL of E. tarda (ATCC 15947; 1.0 × 108  CFU/mL) was intraperitoneally injected into 10 fish from each tank and was monitored for 14 days. The results showed that ALA-fortified diets significantly boosted the fish growth, feed consumption and utilization and feed conversion ratio but no did not affect fish survival rate. The highest final fish weight (g), weight growth (g) and weight gain (%) were all considerably higher in fish fed with ALA-fortified diets (p < 0.05), especially from 1000 to 200 mg/kg ALA than the control group. Also, an enhanced hemato-biochemical, antioxidant and immune indices were noticed in African catfish-fed ALA-enriched diets. In a dose-dependent order, the levels of haematological indices such Ht, Hb, RBCs, WBCs and platelets were markedly increased (p < 0.05). Additionally, fish fed with ALA-based diets showed substantial (p < 0.05) declines in aspartate and alanine aminotransferase values, with the lowest values being found in the 2000 mg/kg diet while control group had highest values. Further, African catfish fed the feed fortified with 2000 mg ALA/kg diet showed the highest levels of lysozyme, respiratory burst, proteases and esterase activities (p < 0.05). Following exposure of fish to E. tarda infection, a significant reduction in the mortality was obtained in African catfish fed with ALA-based diets, especially from 1500 to 2000 mg ALA/kg diet (3.3%); while fish fed with the control diet had highest mortality (86.7%). Therefore, diets supplemented with ALA evoked fish growth performance, antioxidants and nonspecific immunity of African catfish. Also, resistance of African catfish to E. Tarda infection were raised when fed ALA-fortified diets at optimum inclusion rate of 1300 mg ALA/kg diet.

Acidified manure and nitrogen-enriched biochar showed short-term agronomic benefits on cotton-wheat cropping systems under alkaline arid field conditions

Application of organic residues such as farm manure and biochar in various agricultural environments have shown positive effects on soil carbon sequestration. However, there is a lack of consensus regarding the agronomical benefits of a single and small dose of biochar and farm manure in arid alkaline soils. Therefore, a field experiment with the given treatments (1) control (no amendment), (2) acidified manure (AM) at 300 kg ha-1, (3) nitrogen (N) enriched biochar (NeB) at 3 Mg ha-1, and (4) an equal combination of AM + NeB (150 kg ha-1 AM + 1.5 Mg ha-1 NeB)) was conducted in a typical cotton-wheat cropping system. A parallel laboratory incubation study with the same amendments was carried out to account for soil carbon dioxide emission (CO2). The N enrichment of biochar and its co-application with acidified manure increased soil mineral N (NO3- and NH4+) in the topsoil (0-15 cm), and increased total N uptake (25.92% to 69.91%) in cotton over control, thus reducing N losses and increased uptake over control. Compared to the control, co-application of AM + NeB significantly improved soil N and P bioavailability, leading to increased plant biomass N, P, and K (32%, 40%, 6%, respectively) uptake over control. The plant's physiological and growth improvements [chlorophyll (+ 28.2%), height (+ 47%), leaf area (+ 17%), number of bolls (+ 7%), and average boll weight (+ 8%)] increased the agronomic yield in the first-season crop cotton by 25%. However, no positive response was observed in the second season wheat crop. This field study improved our understanding that co-application of acidified manure and N-enriched biochar in small dose can be a strategy to achieve short-term agronomic benefits and carbon sequestration in the long run.

The Characterization and Study of Antibacterial, Free Radical Scavenging, and Anticancer Potential of Livistona chinensis-Mediated Silver Nanoparticles

In the present research, Livistona chinensis leaf extracts were utilized as reductants to bio-fabricate silver nanoparticles (LC-AgNPs) and this was followed by the evaluation of their antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer potential. Multiple parameters were optimized for the formation and fidelity of LC-AgNPs. The color shift of the reaction mixture from yellow to dark brown confirmed the LC-AgNPs formation. UV/VIS spectroscopy exhibited a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) band at 436 nm. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy spectrum depicted phytochemicals in the plant extract acting as bio-reducers for LC-AgNPs synthesis. The XRD pattern confirmed the presence of LC-AgNPs by showing peaks corresponding to 2θ angle at 8.24° (111), 38.16° (200), 44.20° (220), and 64.72° (311). Zetasizer analysis exhibited size distribution by intensity of LC-AgNPs with a mean value of 255.7 d. nm. Moreover, the zeta potential indicated that the AgNPs synthesized were stable. The irregular shape of LC-AgNPs with a mean average of 38.46 ± 0.26 nm was found by scanning electron microscopy. Furthermore, the antioxidant potential of LC-AgNPs was examined using a DPPH assay and was calculated to be higher in LC-AgNPs than in leaf extracts. The calculated IC50 values of the LC-AgNPs and plant extract are 85.01 ± 0.17 and 209.44 ± 0.24, respectively. The antibacterial activity of LC-AgNPs was investigated against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Bacillus subtilis as well as Staphylococcus aureus, and maximum potential was observed after 24 h against P. aeruginosa. Moreover, LC-AgNPs exhibited maximum anticancer potential against TPC1 cell lines compared to the plant extract. The findings suggested that LC-AgNPs could be used as antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer agents for the cure of free-radical-oriented bacterial and oncogenic diseases.

Microplastics in Different Tissues of a Commonly Consumed Fish, Scomberomorus guttatus, from a Large Subtropical Estuary: Accumulation, Characterization, and Contamination Assessment

Microplastics (MPs) ingestion by fish signifies a worldwide threat to human health but limited research has examined their existence within the consumable portions (muscle) of fish. Thus, this study was undertaken to unveil the prevalence, characterization, and contamination extent of MPs across various body tissues, including the muscle of the king mackerel (S. guttatus) from the lower Meghna estuary in Bangladesh-a pioneering investigation in this region. In our analysis, we identified a total of 487 MPs, with an average abundance of 48.7 ± 20.3 MPs/individual. These MPs were distributed across different tissues, with respective concentrations of 0.84 ± 0.45 items/g in the digestive tract, 2.56 ± 0.73 items/g in the gills, and 0.3 ± 1.72 items/g in the muscle tissue. The observed variations among these tissue types were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Moreover, a significant positive correlation indicated that fish with higher weight had higher MPs in their gills and DT (digestive tract). The majority were <0.5 mm in size (97.74%) and exhibited a fiber-like shape (97.74%), with a notable prevalence of transparent (25.87%) and a pink coloration (27.92%). Remarkably, the majority of MPs were discovered within the size range of <0.5-1 mm (100%), particularly in the muscle tissue, signifying a substantial transfer of MPs into the human diet. Besides, we discovered only three polymer types of microplastics which could be attributed to the extensive use of food packaging, plastic containers, wrapping plastics, residential garbage, and plastic pipes that end up in the aquatic environment via river discharges. The contamination factor (CF) values of fish muscle (5.75) and the digestive tract (5.50) indicated that these fish organs were considerably contaminated (3 < CF < 6) with MPs. The pollution index of MPs (PLI > 1) indicated a high contamination level for MPs pollution of S. guttatus in the lower Meghna River estuary.

Two-step method for rapid isolation of genomic DNA and validation of R81T insecticide resistance mutation in Myzus persicae

Isolation and amplification of nucleic acid (DNA) is considered a vital and potent instrument in molecular biological research. However, its functioning outside of a laboratory setting is difficult because of complex procedures that demand expert personnel and expensive equipment in addition to the fulfillment of several additional requirements. DNA isolation from minute insects is sometimes difficult, making diagnostic and genotyping procedures problematic. Thus, the current work offers a high-throughput, cost-effective, straightforward, and faster approach for isolating DNA from the aphid Myzus persicae. Intriguingly, two-step DNA extraction process yielded a high yield of extremely pure genomic DNA and required only 10 s to complete. PCR investigation aiming at amplifying the non-synonymous R81T region on the loop D site of the nAChR gene of M. persicae was subsequently utilized to successfully validate the recovered DNA. Moreover, the proposed method was compared in terms of yield and purity with conventionally used DNA isolation methods including, phenol:chloroform, salt out, and commercially available kits. In conclusion, this newly developed method would enable researchers to quickly process many biological samples used to analyze genetic diversity, mutant screening, and large spectrum diagnosis both in laboratory and field conditions.

Distribution, characterization and contamination risk assessment of microplastics in the sediment from the world's top sediment-laden estuary

Microplastics (MPs) have gained a serious attention as an emerging contaminant throughout the world because of their persistence and possible risks to aquatic ecosystems and human well-being. However, knowledge on MPs contamination from sub-tropical coastal systems is limited, and no study has been conducted on the MPs contamination in sediment from one of the highest sediment-laden estuaries, Meghna River, in the world. This is the first study to examine the quantity, morpho-chemical characteristics and contamination risk level of MPs from this large scale river. MPs were extracted from the sediment samples of 10 stations along the banks of the estuary by density separation, and then characterized using a stereomicroscope and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The incidence of MPs varied from 12.5 to 55 item/kg dry sediment with an average of 28.67 ± 10.80 item/kg. The majority (78.5%) of the MPs were under 0.5 mm in size, with fibers being the most (74.1%) prevalent MPs type. Polypropylene (PP) was found to be the predominant polymer (53.4%), followed by polyethylene (PE, 20%), polystyrene (PS, 13.3%), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC, 13.3%). The highest occurrence of PP indicted the MPs in the estuary might be originated from clothing and dying industries, fishing nets, food packages, and pulp industries. The sampling stations were contaminated with MPs as shown by the contamination factor (CF) values and pollutant load index (PLI), both of which were >1. This study exposed new insights on the status of MPs in the sediments of the Meghna River, laying the groundwork for future research. The findings will contribute to estimate the global share of MPs to the marine environment.

Seasonal variation, contamination and ecological risk assessment of heavy metals in sediments of coastal wetlands along the Bay of Bengal

Functioning of coastal wetland habitats is essential for the ecosystem integrity and sustainability of coastal development that enables human progress along transitional waterways. However, these habitats are continuously being affected by a variety of pollutants including metallic elements. In this study, seasonal variation, pollution status and ecological risks of heavy metals (Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, As, Cu, Zn and Pb) in surface sediment of the several types of coastal wetlands (estuaries, mudflats, sandy beaches, mangroves, and saltmarshes) were detected by using X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectrometry. The results showed that the mean concentration level of metals in the surficial sediment samples followed the order of Cu (84.06 ± 8.60 μg/g) > Zn (51.00 ± 8.97 μg/g) > Mn (38.25 ± 11.34 μg/g) > Cr (3.52 ± 0.91 μg/g) > Pb (0.27 ± 0.13 μg/g) > Co (0.24 ± 0.13 μg/g) > As (0.21 ± 0.12 μg/g) > Ni (0.16 ± 0.08 μg/g). In comparison to the pre-monsoon period, the post-monsoon season had higher concentrations of heavy metals while the overall accumulation level of metals in the wetlands exhibited a pattern of estuarine wetland (28.47 ± 31.35 μg/g) > mangrove (22.23 ± 30.79 μg/g) > mudflat (21.79 ± 29.71 μg/g) > sandy beach (21.47 ± 28.15 μg/g) > saltmarsh (21.28 ± 30.02 μg/g). Although, the pollution assessment indices e.g., contamination factor (CF), degree of contamination (CD), geoaccumulation index (Igeo) and pollution load index (PLI) showed minimal levels of contamination in the studied sites, enrichment factor (EF) suggested greater enrichment of the metals in the pre-monsoon season but with the lowest ecological risk (RI < 40) in both seasons. Cluster analysis, principal component analysis (PCA), and Pearson's correlation were performed to determine the sources of heavy metals in collected samples which specified that Pb, As, Co and Ni predominantly came from natural sources whereas Cu, Mn, Zn and Cr emerged from anthropogenic sources such as industrial effluents, domestic wastewater, fertilizer or pesticide consumption on farmland along the riverbank, vessel emissions, and the confluence of tributary rivers.

Potential Toxic Elements and Their Carcinogenic and Non-Carcinogenic Risk Assessment in Some Commercially Important Fish Species from a Ramsar Site

Potentially toxic elements (PTEs) such as Hg, As, and Pb have become concentrated in the aquatic ecosystem as a result of increased human activities. However, these substances frequently have synergistic or antagonistic effects on the human body or other animals. As a result, there are concerns world-wide that commercially available food products, especially fish, may be contaminated with hazardous elements. In this study, samples of four selected fishes, Gutum (Lepidocephalichthys guntea), Baim (Macrognathus pancalus), Baila (Glossogobius giuris), Meni (Nandus nandus) were analyzed from one of the largest freshwater wetlands (designed as a Ramsar Site) in South Asia to evaluate PTEs contamination status and human health risk assessment. The result demonstrated that the degree of contamination for six PTEs decreased in the following sequences for fish: Fe > Zn > Cu > Pb > As > Hg. The edible part of G. giuris had the maximum value for Hg (0.42 μg/g dw), while N. nandus predominantly accumulated As (<0.41 μg/g dw). The estimated daily intake (EDI) values ranged from 0.003 to 1.75, which was much lower than the recommended values. The hazard index (HI), THQ, total target hazard quotient (TTHQ) scores through consuming fish followed the decreasing order of Fe > Hg > Cu > Zn > Pb. The values for each index were less than 1, indicating that there were no substantial health risks for the consumers. The carcinogenic risks (CR) derived from the intake of Pb ranged from 4.92 × 10-8 to 4.14 × 10-8 for males and 5.45 × 10-8 to 4.59 × 10-8 for females, which also did not exceed the standard limit (1.00 × 10-6). This study demonstrated that, under the existing consumption rate, there was no potential health harm to consumers from consuming the studied fishes. This study offers a chance to regularly check PTEs in this environment, reducing the contamination of heavy metals.

Nitric Oxide and Strigolactone Alleviate Mercury-Induced Oxidative Stress in Lens culinaris L. by Modulating Glyoxalase and Antioxidant Defense System

Developmental activities have escalated mercury (Hg) content in the environment and caused food security problems. The present investigation describes mercury-incited stress in Lens culinaris (lentil) and its mitigation by supplementation of sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and strigolactone (GR24). Lentil exposure to Hg decreased root and shoot length, relative water content and biochemical variables. Exogenous application of SNP and GR24 alone or in combination enhanced all of the aforementioned growth parameters. Hg treatment increased electrolyte leakage and malondialdehyde content, but this significantly decreased with combined application (Hg + SNP + GR24). SNP and GR24 boosted mineral uptake and reduced Hg accumulation, thus minimizing the adverse impacts of Hg. An increase in mineral accretion was recorded in lentil roots and shoots in the presence of SNP and GR24, which might support the growth of lentil plants under Hg stress. Hg accumulation was decreased in lentil roots and shoots by supplementation of SNP and GR24. The methylglyoxal level was reduced in lentil plants with increase in glyoxalase enzymes. Antioxidant and glyoxylase enzyme activities were increased by the presence of SNP and GR24. Therefore, synergistic application of nitric oxide and strigolactone protected lentil plants against Hg-incited oxidative pressure by boosting antioxidant defense and the glyoxalase system, which assisted in biochemical processes regulation.

Bubalus bubalis Blood as Biological Tool to Track Impacts from Cobalt: Bioaccumulation and Health Risks Perspectives from a Water-Soil-Forage-Livestock Ecosystem

Cobalt (Co) bioaccumulation, contamination, and toxicity in the soil environment, plant growth, and cattles' health are becoming a severe matter that can cause unembellished consequences in environmental safety and human health. The present research was conducted for the assurance of cobalt (Co) amassing in three forage plant species (Zea mays, Sorghum bicolor, Trifolium alaxandrium), from four ecological sites, and sewage water and in buffaloes blood was investigated. The analysis of variance showed significant differences for Co concentration in the soil and sewage water collected from all ecological sites. Meanwhile, summer and winter seasons and forage ecotypes significantly influenced the quantity of Co. The forage pastures also vary significantly in the concentration of Co in the above-ground parts. The highest Co level was present in Trifolium alaxandrium at ecological site-5. Cobalt taken from wastewater had a higher concentration in Trifolium alaxandrium during the winter. The samples which are collected from site-V and site-IV have the maximum concentration of Co because these areas receive highly contaminated water for irrigation. Cobalt tends to be bioaccumulated in the food chain and can cause serious problems in humans and animals. Bioaccumulation of cobalt in collected samples could be accredited to anthropogenic activities. Pollution load index values for all samples fell in the range below 1. The health risk index indicated the probability of health damage caused by the ingestion of contaminated fodder. An increase of Co concentration in soil, fodder, and blood owing to wastewater irrigation to crops was indicated as an outcome of this investigation. The results indicate that the Co toxicity in forage crops is attributed to Co bioaccumulation, transfer, and pollution load in the soil-water-cattle triangle. Efforts should be extended to avoid contamination of the food chain via Co-rich sewage water. Other nonconventional water resources should be used for forage irrigation.

Antifungal potential of volatiles produced by Bacillus subtilis BS-01 against Alternaria solani in Solanum lycopersicum

Bacterial biocontrol agent/s (BCAs) against plant diseases are eco-friendly and sustainable options for profitable agricultural crop production. Specific beneficial strains of Bacillus subtilis are effective in controlling many fungal diseases including Alternaria blight caused by a notorious pathogen "Alternaria solani". In the present study, the biocontrol attributes of a newfangled strain of B. subtilis (BS-01) have been investigated and its bioactive compounds were also identified against A. solani. The volatile organic compounds (VOCs) produced by BS-01 in organic solvents viz., n-hexane, dichloromethane, and ethyl acetate were extracted and their antifungal efficacy has evaluated against A. solani. Also, the preventive and curative biocontrol method to reduce the fungal load of A. solani was estimated by both foliar and seed applications on infected tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) plants as determined by quantitative PCR assays. Growth chamber bioassay revealed that both foliar and seed application of BS-01 on tomato plants previously or subsequently infected by A. solani significantly reduced the pathogen load on inoculated tomato foliage. Results showed that antifungal bioassays with various concentrations (10-100 mg mL^-1) of extracted metabolites produced by BS-01 in ethyl acetate fraction showed the highest inhibition in fungal biomass (extracellular metabolites: 69-98% and intracellular metabolites: 48-85%) followed by n-hexane (extracellular metabolites: 63-88% and intracellular metabolites: 35-62%) and dichloromethane (extracellular metabolites: 41-74% and intracellular metabolites: 42-70%), respectively. The extracted volatile compounds of BS-01 were identified via GC-MS analysis and were found in great proportions in the organic fractions as major potent antifungal constituents including triphenylphosphine oxide; pyrrolo[1,2-a] pyrazine-1,4-dione, hexahydro-3-(2-methylpropyl); pyrrolo[1,2-a] pyrazine-1,4-dione, hexahydro-3-(phenylmethyl); n-hexadecanoic acid; n-tridecan-1-ol; octadecane; octadecanoic acid; eicosane and dodecyl acrylate. Separate or mixture of these bioactive VOCs had the potential to mitigate the tomato early blight disease severity in the field that would act as a sustainable plant protection strategy to generate profitable tomato production.

Assessment of Metal Contamination in Water of Freshwater Aquaculture Farms from a South Asian Tropical Coastal Area

Heavy metal accumulation in aquaculture farms has become a major problem due to the widespread use of artificial feed to enhance fish productivity. To estimate the contamination level and identify metal sources, we investigated the amounts of seven heavy metals (Cu, Zn, Pb, Cd, Cr, Ni, and Mn) in the surface water of commercial fresh water aquaculture farms in a south Asian tropical coastal area. Atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) was used to analyze 36 water samples from 12 commercial fish farms. The results demonstrated that the range of three heavy metals were detected in a decreasing order of Mn (0.0574−0.4100 mg.L−1) > Zn (0.0125−0.3250 mg.L−1) > Cu (0.0275−0.085 mg.L−1). In all samples, the remaining four heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Cr, and Ni) were below the detectable level (BDL). Except for Mn, the amounts of the metals examined were below WHO and USEPA guideline values. According to the findings, the levels were found to be safe for drinking, agriculture production, and aquaculture. There was no significant correlation (p > 0.05) between heavy metal concentrations and water quality parameters, indicating that pollution came from diverse sources and that no single factor was controlling their levels. Furthermore, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) revealed no significant differences in the mean metal values among the fish farms (p > 0.05). Multivariate analyses (CA and PCA) demonstrated the association and sources of metal in the study area. Although metal levels were not beyond the threshold limit, it is recommended that suitable measures and continuous monitoring should be undertaken to reduce heavy metal pollution in aquaculture farms and prevent water quality degradation.

Heavy Metal Accumulation and Phytoremediation Potentiality of Some Selected Mangrove Species from the World's Largest Mangrove Forest

Toxic metal pollution is a global issue, and the use of metal-accumulating plants to clean contaminated ecosystems is one of the most rapidly growing ecologically beneficial and cost-effective technologies. In this study, samples of sediment and three mangrove species (Excoecaria agallocha, Avicennia officinalis, Sonneratia apetala) were collected from the world’s largest mangrove forest (along the Northern Bay of Bengal Coast) with the aim of evaluating metal concentrations, contamination degrees, and phytoremediation potentiality of those plants. Overall, the heavy metals concentration in sediment ranged from Cu: 72.41−95.89 mg/kg; Zn: 51.28−71.20 mg/kg; Fe: 22,760−27,470 mg/kg; Mn: 80.37−116.37 mg/kg; Sr: 167.92−221.44 mg/kg. In mangrove plants, the mean concentrations were in the order of E. agallocha > A. officinalis > S. apetala. The mean (± SD) concentration of each metal in the plant tissue (root) was found following the descending order of Fe (737.37 ± 153.06) > Mn (151.13 ± 34.26) > Sr (20.98 ± 6.97) > Cu (16.12 ± 4.34) > Zn (11.3 ± 2.39) mg/kg, whereas, in the leaf part, the mean concentration (mg/kg) of each metal found in the order of Fe (598.75 ± 410.65) > Mn (297.27 ± 148.11) > Sr (21.40 ± 8.71) > Cu (14.25 ± 2.51) > Zn (12.56 ± 2.13). The contamination factor (CF) values for the studied metals were in the descending order of Cu > Sr > Zn > Fe > Mn. The values of Igeo (Geo-accumulation index) and CF showed that the area was unpolluted to moderately polluted by Zn, Fe, Mn, Cu and Sr. Enrichment factor (EF) values in both sampling stations portrayed moderate to minimum enrichment. Phytoremediation potentiality of the species was assessed by bio-concentration factor (BCF) and translocation factor (TF). BCF values showed less accumulation for most of the heavy metals (<1) except Mn which was highly accumulated in all mangrove plants. The translocation factor (TF) values depicted that most of the heavy metals were strongly accumulated in plant tissues (>1). However, the BCF value depicts that Mn was highly bioconcentrated in E. agallocha, but the translocation on leaves tissue were minimum, which reveals that E. agallocha is phytoextractor for Mn, and accumulated in root tissues. All the examined plants can be used as phytoextractors as they have bioconcentration factors <1 and translocation factors >1. However, A. officinalis is clearly more suitable for metal extraction than S. apetala and E. agallocha in terms of hyper-metabolizing capabilities.

Heavy Metals Accumulation in Tissues of Wild and Farmed Barramundi from the Northern Bay of Bengal Coast, and Its Estimated Human Health Risks

Globally, both natural water bodies and aquaculture systems are being severely contaminated by heavy metals due to rising anthropogenic activities. Fish living in aquatic environments can easily accumulate metals in their bodies, which can then be transferred to consumers and put them at risk. In this study, metal concentrations (Pb, Cd, Cr, As, Mn, Cu, Zn) in different organs (gill, liver, and muscle) of farmed and wild Barramundi (Lates calcarifer) fish from the northern Bay of Bengal were evaluated to quantify and compare contamination levels and related human health risk. Heavy metal concentrations were higher in liver tissues of farmed Barramundi than in wild Barramundi, with the following relative mean values in the liver, gills, and muscle: Zn > Cu > Pb > Mn > Cd > Cr > As; Zn > Cr > Cu > Pb > Mn > Cd > As; Zn > Pb > Cu > Cr > Mn > Cd > As; Zn > Pb > Cu > Cr > Mn > Cd > As; and Zn > Pb > Cu > Cr > Mn > Cd > As, respectively. The differences in heavy metal accumulation observed between farmed and wild fish were probably related to the differences in their environmental conditions and dietary element concentrations. However, ANOVA indicated that the variation of metals in wild and Barramundi was not statically significant. Pb concentrations in the liver tissue of farmed Barramundi exceeded the national and international threshold limits, whereas concentrations of other metals were within the limit. Among the examined organs in both fish species (wild and farmed), muscle had the lowest concentration compared to others, and liver was the target organ for Pb, Cu, and Cd accumulations. Metals such as Zn and Mn exhibited higher concentration in the gills. However, all the studied heavy metals were below the maximum permissible limits of national and international standards, but the mean concentrations of Pb and Cd values in the liver of farmed Barramundi exceeded all international and national guidelines. Based on the contamination factors (CF) and pollution indices (PLI and MPI), the degree of contamination in the fish organs was as follows: gills > liver > muscle. The major accumulation tissues for both farmed and wild fish were found to be the gills (MPI = 0.970) and the liver (MPI = 0.692). Based on the estimated daily intake (EDI), the fish samples examined in this study are safe for human consumption as within the recommended daily allowance (RDA) range established by various authorities. According to the Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) and Carcinogenic Risk (CR) calculations, though the Barramundi fishes depicted no potential hazard to humans, farmed fish posed a higher health risk than wild fish.

Are pufferfishes a viable source of nutritional value for human consumption-an investigation on recently commercialized marine pufferfishes (Tetraodontidae: Tetraodontiformes)

Estimation of the nutritional profile of edible fishes is essential, and thus, we have evaluated nutritional composition and amino and fatty acids profiling of recently commercialized marine pufferfishes from the coast of Mandapam in the Gulf of Mannar. Proximate analyses including assessment of ash, moisture, proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids in the muscles of five edible marine pufferfishes were carried out. Major fatty acids profile of five fish species disclosed the presence of saturated fatty acids (SFA, 6.22-16.78%), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs, 3.01-10.59%), and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs, 8.4-20.01%). The overall percentage of omega fatty acids ranged between ω3 and ω6 (5.63-14.01% and 2.77-6.1%), and the ratio of ω3/ω6 was 3.08-2.03% and ω6/ω3 was 0.32-0.49%. Moreover, n-3 PUFA was more than n-6 PUFA. In contrast, major amino acids in five fish species were glycine (4.77%), lysine (3.57%), methionine (2.91%), arginine (2.04%), and threonine (1.81%). The results obtained from this study can act as baseline data for evaluating the nutritional profiles of various fishes in the future. This is the first report of fatty and amino acids analysis on recently commercialized marine pufferfishes in the Gulf of Mannar region, and this finding may lead to new insights for further research.

Implications of Decreased Expression of miR-125a with Respect to Its Variant Allele in the Pathogenesis of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: A Study in a High Incidence Zone

Pregnancy is controlled by several types of genes and the regulation of their expression is tightly controlled by miRNAs. The present study was carried out to explore the association between miR-125a polymorphic sequence variation and its expression and recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) compared to full-term healthy controls. A total of 150 women that had experienced two or more RPLs and 180 healthy controls (two or more full-term pregnancies) were recruited, along with 50 product of conception (POC) samples from the corresponding RPL patients, and evaluated for miR-125a SNPs by the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method (PCR-RFLP), which was confirmed by high resolution melting (HRM)/DNA sequencing. Additionally, the expression of miR-125a was quantified with q−PCR in the maternal plasma of 40 corresponding RPL patients against healthy controls. The frequency of variant genotype CC was significantly higher in RPL cases (19.3%) than controls (10.5%), with an odds ratio of >2 (p = 0.025). The expression levels of miR-125a were markedly decreased in RPL cases compared to healthy controls (p < 0.05). Variant genotype CC was found significantly more often in RPL cases than controls (0.34 vs. 0.20; p < 0.05).In this study, miR-125a rs12976445 C/T revealed that the homozygous CC genotype and C allele were associated with the risk of RPL and significant expression indicates that miR-125a has an important role in RPL etiopathogenesis.

Network Pharmacology and Bioinformatics Approach Reveals the Multi-Target Pharmacological Mechanism of Fumaria indica in the Treatment of Liver Cancer

Liver cancer (LC), a frequently occurring cancer, has become the fourth leading cause of cancer mortality. The small number of reported data and diverse spectra of pathophysiological mechanisms of liver cancer make it a challenging task and a serious economic burden in health care management. Fumaria indica is a herbaceous annual plant used in various regions of Asia to treat a variety of ailments, including liver cancer. Several in vitro investigations have revealed the effectiveness of F. indica in the treatment of liver cancer; however, the exact molecular mechanism is still unrevealed. In this study, the network pharmacology technique was utilized to characterize the mechanism of F. indica on liver cancer. Furthermore, we analyzed the active ingredient-target-pathway network and uncovered that Fumaridine, Lastourvilline, N-feruloyl tyramine, and Cryptopine conclusively contributed to the development of liver cancer by affecting the MTOR, MAPK3, PIK3R1, and EGFR gene. Afterward, molecular docking was used to verify the effective activity of the active ingredients against the prospective targets. The results of molecular docking predicted that several key targets of liver cancer (along with MTOR, EGFR, MAPK3, and PIK3R1) bind stably with the corresponding active ingredient of F. indica. We concluded through network pharmacology methods that multiple biological processes and signaling pathways involved in F. indica exerted a preventing effect in the treatment of liver cancer. The molecular docking results also provide us with sound direction for further experiments. In the framework of this study, network pharmacology integrated with docking analysis revealed that F. indica exerted a promising preventive effect on liver cancer by acting on liver cancer-associated signaling pathways. This enables us to understand the biological mechanism of the anti liver cancer activity of F. indica.

Ecological and Human Health Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in Cultured Shrimp and Aquaculture Sludge

Shrimp is one of the major export products in South Asian countries and also an eminent source of nutrition for humans. Hence, any negative effect of this industry may affect not only the country’s economy but also human health. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to assess heavy metal contamination and associated human health risks in cultured shrimp (Penaeus monodon) and aquaculture sludge collected from three shrimp farms of the Cox’s Bazar district, Bangladesh. The results showed that among the eight metals studied, Pb (17.75 ± 1.5 mg/kg) and Cu (9.43 ± 2.8 mg/kg) levels in all shrimp samples were higher than the recommended limit, whereas the concentrations of Cd (0.09 ± 0.03 mg/kg), Mn (4.83 ± 2.2 mg/kg), As (0.04 ± 0.02 mg/kg), Hg (0.02 ± 0.006 mg/kg), Zn (18.89 ± 2.9 mg/kg) and Cr (0.69 ± 0.6 mg/kg) were within the permissible level. The concentrations of Mn (1043.37 ± 59.8 mg/kg), Cr (30.38 ± 2.1 mg/kg), Zn (74.72 ± 1.13 mg/kg) and Cu (31.14 ± 1.4 mg/kg) in the sludge of all farms were higher than the recommended limit, whereas the concentrations of Pb (20.23 ± 1.9 mg/kg), Cd (0.09 ± 0.2 mg/kg), As (0.44 ± 0.34 mg/kg) and Hg (0.08 ± 0.02 mg/kg) in all sludge samples were lower than the threshold limits. However, the estimated daily intake (EDI), targeted hazard quotient (THQ) and hazard index (HI) assessed for potential human health risk implications suggested that Pb and Cr may pose non-carcinogenic health effects, although carcinogenic risks (CR) values were acceptable for consumers. However, the pollution load index (PLI) of the studied area was below 1, which indicates low deterioration of the area. Geoaccumulation index (Igeo) and contamination factor (CF) analyses revealed that study area is unpolluted and sludge is enriched with metals in the following order: Mn > Zn > Cu > Cr > Cd > Hg > Pb > As.

Parasitic anomalies observed in snow trout due to anthropogenic stress in water bodies

There is interrelationship of the environmental conditions and fish health. Decrease or increase of pollution in aquatic ecosystem have direct impact on presence or absence of parasites. Fish living under optimum environmental, well-nourished conditions are more resistant to diseases than fish weakened by malnutrition caused by parasite infestation or due to deterioration of environmental conditions because ofpollution. Fish encounters common parasites in wild and in culture systems. Parasites attach to the host through suckers and hooks and make their way inside the host through different means, which include skin, through mouth along with food, by means of gills. The hosts were collected during Jan 2019 to Jan 2020 from river Veshaw. During this study it was observed that presence of parasites causes some changes in fish which can serve as indicators of deterioration in aquatic habitat. Clinical signs were noticed in fish hosts collected from sites which received waste due to anthropogenic activities. Parasitic anomalies in the host collected from polluted site was observed to include body deformaties, gastric distention, lesions in gut, increased mucus production, damage in gill filaments etc.

Genome-Wide Analysis of Cytochrome P450s of Alternaria Species: Evolutionary Origin, Family Expansion and Putative Functions

Cytochrome P450s are a group of monooxygenase enzymes involved in primary, secondary and xenobiotic metabolisms. They have a wide application in the agriculture sector where they could serve as a target for herbicides or fungicides, while they could function in the pharmaceutical industry as drugs or drugs structures or for bioconversions. Alternaria species are among the most commonly encountered fungal genera, with most of them living as saprophytes in different habitats, while others are parasites of plants and animals. This study was conducted to elucidate the diversity and abundance, evolutionary relationships and cellular localization of 372 cytochrome P450 in 13 Alternaria species. The 372 CYP proteins were phylogenetically clustered into ten clades. Forty (40) clans and seventy-one (71) cyp families were identified, of which eleven (11) families were found to appear in one species each. The majority of the CYP proteins were located in the endomembrane system. Polyketide synthase (PKS) gene cluster was the predominant secondary metabolic-related gene cluster in all the Alternaria species studied, except in A. porriof, where non-ribosomal peptide synthetase genes were dominant. This study reveals the expansion of cyps in these fungal genera, evident in the family and clan expansions, which is usually associated with the evolution of fungal characteristics, especially their lifestyle either as parasites or saprophytes, with the ability to metabolize a wide spectrum of substrates. This study can be used to understand the biology, physiology and toxigenic potentials of P450 in these fungal genera.

Assessment of renal and hepatic dysfunction by co-exposure to toxic metals (Cd, Pb) and fluoride in people living nearby an industrial zone

Togo's phosphate processing plant at Kpeme discharges waste, containing Cd, Pb, and fluoride, into the sea and on the soil. Heavy metals toxicity on kidneys and the liver has been studied. However, fluoride toxicity on these organs remains to be investigated. The present study deals with the variation in renal and hepatic functioning parameters due to fluoride, Cd and Pb. Totally, 350 volunteers were recruited from five different localities around this phosphate processing plant for sample collection. Cd and Pb contents in blood samples were determined by spectrophotometry and fluoride by the titanium chloride method. Biochemical parameters were measured using Biolab kits. The pollutant contents were elevated in polluted areas where ASAT, ALAT, creatinine, and urea increased, and total protein decreased. Correlation and multivariate tests showed that fluoride is related to the various pathologies mentioned. PCA revealed that phosphate processing in Togo is a source of renal and hepatic toxicity.

Au@Zr-based metal-organic framework composite as an immunosensing platform for determination of hepatitis B virus surface antigen

An ultrasensitive electrochemical immunosensor has been prepared using an immunofunctionalized zirconium (Zr)-based metal-organic framework (MOF) with gold (Au) decoration Au@UiO-66(NH₂) composite-coated glassy carbon electrode (GCE) for the determination of infectious hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). We fabricated GCE with specific composite via immune-functionalization using anti-HBsAg with Au nanoparticles embedded in UiO-66(NH₂). The electrochemical sensing performance of the immunofunctionalized Au@UiO-66(NH₂)/GCE with HBsAg was characterized by cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry. Under optimized conditions, there was a linear dynamic relationship in the buffer system between the electrical signal and HBsAg levels over the range 1.13 fg mL^-1-100 ng mL^-1 (R² = 0.999) with a detection limit of 1.13 fg mL^-1. The total analysis time was 15 min per sample. Further validations were performed with HBsAg-spiked human serum samples, and similar detection limits as in the buffer system were observed with reduced signal intensities at lower concentrations of HBsAg (1, 10, and 100 fg mL^-1) and minimal interference. The HBsAg electrochemical immunosensing assay had good selectivity and excellent reproducibility, thereby indicating its significant potential in the super-fast diagnosis of hepatitis B.

A review on the cleavage priming of the spike protein on coronavirus by angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 and furin

The widespread antigenic changes lead to the emergence of a new type of coronavirus (CoV) called as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-CoV-2 that is immunologically different from the previous circulating species. Angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE-2) is one of the most important receptors on the cell membrane of the host cells (HCs) which its interaction with spike protein (SP) with a furin-cleavage site results in the SARS-CoV-2 invasion. Hence, in this review, we presented an overview on the interaction of ACE-2 and furin with SP. As several kinds of CoVs, from various genera, have at their S1/S2 binding site a preserved site, we further surveyed the role of furin cleavage site (FCS) on the life cycle of the CoV. Furthermore, we discussed that the small molecular inhibitors can limit the interaction of ACE-2 and furin with SP and can be used as potential therapeutic platforms to combat the spreading CoV epidemic. Finally, some ongoing challenges and future prospects for the development of potential drugs to promote targeting specific activities of the CoV were reviewed. In conclusion, this review may pave the way for providing useful information about different compounds involved in improving the effectiveness of CoV vaccine or drugs with minimum toxicity against human health.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Nitric oxide donor, sodium nitroprusside, mitigates mercury toxicity in different cultivars of soybean

The present study reveals the effect of mercury (Hg) and sodium nitroprusside (SNP) on plant growth and metabolism in soybean cultivars (Pusa-24, Pusa-37and Pusa-40). Mercury stress decreased growth and biomass yield, and gas exchange attributes in all soybean cultivars. External supplementation of SNP mitigated Hg toxicity by improving growth and gas exchange parameters. Electrolyte leakage (EL) increased accompanied with elevated levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and H2O2 under Hg stress, however, they were found to be reduced in all cultivars upon the exogenous application of SNP. The activities of anti-oxidative enzymes, superoxide dismutase and catalase (SOD and CAT) and those enzymes involved in the ascorbate-glutathione pathway were impaired by Hg stress, but they were regulated by the application of SNP. Accumulation of Hg and NO in the shoots and roots were also regulated by the application of NO. Although, all three cultivars were affected by Hg stress, Pusa-37 was relatively less affected. Mercury stress affected the growth and development of different soybean cultivars, but Pusa-37 being tolerant was less affected. Pusa-37 was found to be more responsive to SNP than Pusa-24, Pusa-40 under Hg toxicity. The external supplementation of SNP could be a sustainable approach to economically utilize Hg affected soils.

Health risk assessment and bioaccumulation of metals in brown and red seaweeds collected from a tropical marine biosphere reserve

In the present study, we have assessed the degree of contamination of heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn) in ten species of red and brown seaweeds, the seasonal variations in the concentration of metals, and the health risk due to the seaweeds. Overall metal concentrations for red and brown seaweeds followed the order Pb > Zn > Cu > Cd and Pb > Cu > Zn > Cd, respectively. Cd and Pb levels were found to be elevated in both the red and brown seaweeds. Multivariate statistical analysis revealed that the sources of Cd and Pb are mainly anthropogenic. Despite the high concentrations of the non-essential metals (Cd and Pb) in the seaweeds, the health risk assessment revealed that they have a lower hazard index. Hence, consumption of edible red and brown seaweeds from the Tuticorin coast may not pose health hazards in humans for the time being.

Envenomation and the bite rate by venomous snakes in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia over the period (2015-2018)

Snakebite being medical emergency and known cause for increased mortality needs assessment and treatment on high-priority bases, even in patients of snakebite who appear fine initially. The current retrospective study presents the snake bites in Saudi Arabia from 2015 to 2018 reported by General Administration of Statistics and Information, Ministry of Health, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The data presented in the current study, was extracted, analyzed, and reported after getting ethical approval from institutional committee. Totally, 14,679 cases of snakebites were reported during the four-year study period, with a higher prevalence in males (80%) in their productive age. Most patients were within the age group between 25 and 44 followed by 44 to 64 years. The majority of snakebite affected inhabitants were reported from farms of the rural areas, commonly during night hours of spring and summer seasons when snakes are very active. Only 36 (0.24%) patients out of 14,679 were reported dead and 14,643 (99.63%) were discharged after the treatment. Awareness among the general public should be encouraged and early diagnosis and usage of proper snake antivenoms could be life-saving. The delay in appropriate treatment can lead to significant morbidity and mortality.

Aspergillus awamori positively impacts the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, antioxidative activity and immune responses of growing rabbits

In this study, we explored the effects of dietary administration of Aspergillus awamori on the growth, intestinal histomorphology, immune parameters and antioxidant enzyme activity of growing rabbits. The rabbits of 5 weeks of age (body weight, 855 ± 5.53 g) were allotted into four groups (12 rabbits per group) and fed four experimental diets enriched with A. awamori at 0, 50, 100 and 150 mg per kg diet for 8 weeks. After the feeding trial, an equal number of male APRI rabbits (3 months old; 4 groups, 5 rabbits per group) were housed in metabolism cages and fed the test diets for 14 days for the digestibility trial. All A. awamori-enriched diets induced a significant increase in the average body weight and weight gain of rabbits and significantly decreased the feed conversion ratio. In rabbits fed with A. awamori at 100 or 150 mg per kg diet, protein, lipid and fibber digestibility coefficients significantly increased compared with the control group. Intestinal villi measurements (length and thickness) were also enhanced in all rabbits fed with A. awamori. Adding A. awamori as a food supplement generally did not affect rabbit haematology and blood biochemistry values; however, at 150 mg per kg diet, it significantly increased the levels of haemoglobin and total protein, as well as red blood cell count. Furthermore, all enriched diets significantly increased rabbits' phagocytic activity and their phagocytic index. Rabbits fed with A. awamori also showed decreased malondialdehyde but increased catalase activity. In conclusion, A. awamori administered as feed supplement at 100-150 mg per kg of growing rabbits' diet enhances their growth, intestinal health and nutrient digestibility, and it raises the levels of their immune and antioxidative responses.

Honeybee nutrition and pollen substitutes: A review

Like other invertebrates, honey bees too are poikilothermic animals; they cannot regulate their body temperature and they have to undergo a period of inactivation when atmospheric temperature is un-tolerable. During this period, their nutritional requirements and metabolic activities are minimized due to highly restricted foraging activities. The egg-laying by queen and rearing of unsealed and sealed brood are decreased, however their extent is governed by the quantum of stored food available. The problems of deleterious influence of adverse weather conditions and non-availability of bee flora all round the year, in a particular locality, have been realized by the researchers/beekeepers and migration concept has been developed to solve this problem. But again, migration itself is not an easy task. The provision of artificial feeding as an alternate of migration. Scientists all over the world have formulated different artificial food recepies for bees on the basis of nutrient composition of honey and pollen, acceptability, palatability, digestibility and affordability of ingredients. This may help to maintain all colony parameters enough to derive maximum advantage of forthcoming floral rich season. However, a standard balanced diet for commercial beekeeping that is accepted worldwide is still awaited.

Oxidative stress, hemato-immunological, and intestinal morphometry changes induced by ochratoxin A in APRI rabbits and the protective role of probiotics

This work studied the protective effects of Aspergillus awamori against ochratoxin A (OTA)-induced toxicity in APRI maternal line rabbits. A total number of 48 APRI line weanling rabbits (5 weeks) were divided into 4 groups (12 rabbits each) and fed the basal diet, 30 ppb/kg diet of OTA, 1 g/kg diet of A. awamori, and a mixture of OTA and A. awamori for 8 weeks. OTA reduced the final body weight and weight gain as well as the intestinal villi length and thickness, whereas increased the feed intake and feed conversion ratio. Rabbits fed diets with OTA showed significantly reduced crude protein, lipids, and fibers apparent digestibility coefficients (P < 0.05). The red blood cells and hemoglobin were significantly decreased in the OTA group comparing with the other groups (P < 0.05). The blood total protein and albumin displayed significantly lower levels by OTA than the other groups. In contrast, glucose, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), urea, and creatinine levels were significantly increased by OTA (P < 0.05). Phagocytic activity (PA) and phagocytic index (PI) showed significantly (P < 0.05) decreased levels in OTA-contaminated group, while rabbits fed A. awamori significantly showed the highest PA and PI levels (P < 0.05). Dietary A. awamori kept the levels of PA and PI in rabbits fed OTA significantly higher than those fed without A. awamori (P < 0.05) and not significantly different from the control group (P > 0.05). Catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) displayed significantly lower levels in the OTA group, while malondialdehyde (MDA) was significantly higher than the other groups (P < 0.05). Rabbits fed OTA-contaminated diets displayed significantly lower CAT and SOD and higher MDA than rabbits fed OTA combined with A. awamori (P < 0.05). Our results indicated that dietary A. awamori ameliorated the damage in APRI rabbits fed OTA through alleviation of oxidative stress and immunity.

The effect of mannanoligosaccharide on the growth performance, histopathology, and the expression of immune and antioxidative related genes in Nile tilapia reared under chlorpyrifos ambient toxicity

The role of mannanoligosaccharide (MOS) in reducing the adverse effects of chlorpyrifos (CPF) toxicity in tilapia was evaluated in the present study. Fish were allotted into four groups and fed the basal diet or MOS and exposed to CPF (control, CPF, MOS, and MOS/CPF) for 30 days. Fish fed MOS revealed higher growth and survival rates and lower FCR than CPF-intoxicated fish (P < 0.05). The Hb, PCV, RBCs, and WBCs variables were lowered by CPF toxicity and increased by MOS (P < 0.05). The values of total protein (sTP), albumin (ALB), globulin (GLB), lysozyme (LZM), and phagocytic activities (PA) decreased whereas, ALP, ALT, AST, urea, bilirubin (BIL), and creatinine (CR) were increased by CPF toxicity. However, dietary MOS increased the sTP, ALB, GLB, LZM, and PA and decreased the ALP, ALT, AST, BIL, and CR. The PA and phagocytic index displayed higher levels by MOS feeding than the other groups (P < 0.05). The lowest mRNA level of GPX1 (cellular GPX) gene was observed in fish of the CPF group, while the highest level was shown in the MOS/CPF group (P < 0.05). Fish in the control and CPF groups displayed downregulated CAT whereas the expression of GPX and CAT genes was higher in fish of the MOS/CPF group than fish in the MOS group (P < 0.05). MOS upregulated the expression of HSP70 gene with CPF toxicity. Fish of the CPF and MOS/CPF groups displayed upregulated CASP3, IFN-γ, and IL-8 genes. Fish of the CPF group exhibited the lowest IL-1β, while fish of the MOS/CPF group showed upregulated IL-1β. The intoxication with CPF induced histopathological inflammations in the gills, intestine, and liver tissues, while dietary MOS protected against inflammation. In summary, dietary MOS is recommended as an immunostimulant to counteract the inflammatory impacts of waterborne CPF toxicity in Nile tilapia.

The impact of menthol essential oil against inflammation, immunosuppression, and histopathological alterations induced by chlorpyrifos in Nile tilapia

Chlorpyrifos (CPF) is one of the predominant water pollutants associated with inflammation and immunodepression in aquatic animals. In this study, menthol oil (MNT) impacted the immunity, antioxidative, and anti-inflammatory responses against CPF toxicity in Nile tilapia. Fish fed two diets with or without MNT and placed in four groups (control, CPF, MNT, and CPF/MNT). After 30 days, fish fed MNT displayed higher growth performance and lower FCR than CPF-intoxicated fish without feeding MNT (P < 0.05). The survival rate of fish was reduced in the CPF group without MNT feeding (P < 0.05). Blood Hb, PCV, RBCs, and WBCs were decreased in fish by CPF toxicity, while the highest Hb, PCV, RBCs, and WBCs were observed in fish fed MNT followed by those fed the control without CPF toxicity (P < 0.05). Fish fed MNT had the highest total protein, albumin, and globulin, as well as the lowest urea, bilirubin, and creatinine after 15 and 30 days. However, fish under CPF toxicity had the most inferior total protein, albumin, and globulin, as well as the highest urea, bilirubin, and creatinine among the groups (P < 0.05). The enzyme activities of ALP and ALT displayed low levels by MNT with or without CPF exposure than fish fed without MNT with or without CPF exposure after 15 and 30 days (P < 0.05). The lysozyme and phagocytic activities displayed reduced levels by CPF without MNT feeding after 15 and 30 days, while increased activities were noticed by MNT feeding without CPF toxicity followed by fish fed MNT with CPF toxicity (P < 0.05). The transcription of CAT and GPX genes displayed upregulated levels in tilapia fed MNT and exposed to CPF (P < 0.05). Also, CPF toxicity increased the transcription of the IFN-γ gene but decreased the IL-8 and IL-1β genes. The transcription of HSP70 displayed lower levels (P < 0.05) by CPF without supplementing MNT than fish fed MNT and exposed to CPF. Histopathological analysis revealed that inflammation existed in the liver, gills, and intestine of tilapia due to CPF toxicity while MNT protected tissues from inflammation. To conclude, MNT activated the immunity, antioxidative, and anti-inflammatory responses of Nile tilapia under CPF toxicity.

Exploring the Interaction of Cobalt Oxide Nanoparticles with Albumin, Leukemia Cancer Cells and Pathogenic Bacteria by Multispectroscopic, Docking, Cellular and Antibacterial Approaches

Aim

The interaction of NPs with biological systems may reveal useful details about their pharmacodynamic, anticancer and antibacterial effects.

Methods

Herein, the interaction of as-synthesized Co₃O₄ NPs with HSA was explored by different kinds of fluorescence and CD spectroscopic methods, as well as molecular docking studies. Also, the anticancer effect of Co₃O₄ NPs against leukemia K562 cells was investigated by MTT, LDH, caspase, real-time PCR, ROS, cell cycle, and apoptosis assays. Afterwards, the antibacterial effects of Co₃O₄ NPs against three pathogenic bacteria were disclosed by antibacterial assays.

Results

Different characterization methods such as TEM, DLS, zeta potential and XRD studies proved that fabricated Co₃O₄ NPs by sol-gel method have a diameter of around 50 nm, hydrodynamic radius of 177 nm with a charge distribution of −33.04 mV and a well-defined crystalline phase. Intrinsic, extrinsic, and synchronous fluorescence as well as CD studies, respectively, showed that the HSA undergoes some fluorescence quenching, minor conformational changes, microenvironmental changes as well as no structural changes in the secondary structure, after interaction with Co₃O₄ NPs. Molecular docking results also verified that the spherical clusters with a dimension of 1.5 nm exhibit the most binding energy with HSA molecules. Anticancer assays demonstrated that Co₃O₄ NPs can selectively lead to the reduction of K562 cell viability through the cell membrane damage, activation of caspase-9, -8 and -3, elevation of Bax/Bcl-2 mRNA ratio, ROS production, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis. Finally, antibacterial assays disclosed that Co₃O₄ NPs can stimulate a promising antibacterial effect against pathogenic bacteria.

Conclusion

In general, these observations can provide useful information for the early stages of nanomaterial applications in therapeutic platforms.

Olive Cake Meal and Bacillus licheniformis Impacted the Growth Performance, Muscle Fatty Acid Content, and Health Status of Broiler Chickens

Olive cake meal (OCM) is characterized by its high nutritional value and is used as an alternative source of protein and fats in poultry diets. However, due to the high percentage of fiber in OCM, beneficial bacteria cells are used to improve the digestion rates. Therefore, the influence of OCM and Bacillus licheniformis (BL) on the growth, nutrient utilization, blood chemistry, and muscle fatty acid profile of broilers was exclusively examined in this study. Three hundred and sixty birds were randomly divided into six experimental groups (6 replicates/10 birds each): Control, OCM (2%), OCM (4%), BL, OCM (2%)/BL, and OCM (4%)/BL groups. Although feed intake was not meaningfully influenced by dietary treatments, weight gain was enhanced and feed conversion ratio was reduced (p < 0.05). The abdominal fat was lowered in broilers fed OCM (2%), OCM (4%), OCM (2%)/BL, and OCM (4%)/BL diets without a difference to those fed BL only (p < 0.05). Interestingly, blood total protein, albumin, Newcastle disease (ND) titer, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol were significantly increased, while total cholesterol was decreased by the mixture of OCM and BL (p < 0.05). Muscle oleic and linoleic acids, as well as vitamin E, increased significantly in broilers fed both OCM (4%) and BL, while linolenic acid increased in all groups except those fed BL and control diets (p < 0.05). Liver malondialdehyde (MDA) was decreased by feeding BL or both OCM at 2% or 4% and BL (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the inclusion of BL to OCM diets resulted in improved fat utilization and, accordingly, enhanced growth, nutrient utilization, and antioxidative response in broilers. Based on the obtained results, it is recommended to use BL to improve the nutritional value of OCM and to increase the feed utilization of OCM by broilers.

Defense involvement of piscidin from striped murrel Channa striatus and its peptides CsRG12 and CsLC11 involvement in an antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity

In this study, we have evaluated bioinformatics characterization and antimicrobial role of two piscidin (Pi) peptide identified from the established transcriptome of striped murrel Channa striatus (Cs). The identified CsPi cDNA contains 256 nucleotides encode a protein with 70 amino acids in length which has two antimicrobial peptides and named CsRG12 and CsLC11. The gene expression analysis with various immune stimulants indicated an induced expression pattern of CsPi. Antibiogram showed that CsRG12 and CsLC11 was active against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 33592, a major multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacterial pathogen and Bacillus cereus ATCC 2106. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and antibiofilm assays were conducted to observe the activity of pathogenic bacteria with these derived antimicrobial peptides. Flow cytometry analysis noticed that the CsRG12 and CsLC11 disrupt the membrane formation of S. aureus and B. cereus, which was further assured by scanning electron microscopic (SEM) images that bleb formation leads to disruption around the bacterial membrane. Overall, it is reported that CsPi is involved in innate immunity as the gene expression plays a remarkable role in up and down regulation during infection. In addition, the involvement of peptides in antibiofilm formation and bacterial membrane disruption support its immune character. This study leads to a possibility for the development of therapeutics in aquaculture biotechnology.

Intracellular oxidative damage due to antibiotics on gut bacteria reduced by glutathione oxidoreductase-derived antioxidant molecule GM15

The human gut consists of > 1000 different bacterial species for the smooth functioning of the gut. In normal conditions, the antioxidant system present in cells minimize the effects of reactive oxygen species. Upon exposure to antibiotics, there is a rise in ROS level which induces oxidative stress to the cells, ultimately killing the cells. Two broad-spectrum antibiotics, streptomycin and gentamicin at a concentration of 50 µM and 25 µM, were treated with Bacillus subtilis SRMIST201901 (MN726522) and B. cereus SRMIST201902 (MN726923); the treatment reduced the cell counts. Considering the bacterial defense property which relies on the antioxidant mechanism, in this study, we have reported an antioxidant peptide (GM15) derived from glutathione oxidoreductase of spirulina (or called cyanobacteria) Arthrospira platensis (Ap) which reduced the intracellular oxidative stress. Cellular ROS detection was confirmed by fluorescent-associated cell sorting (FACS) using the DCFDA dye. Resazurin dye test also confirmed the activity of peptide on the growth of the Bacillus sp. Based on the results obtained, it was concluded that there was a significant (P < 0.05) reduction in the intracellular oxidative stress on treating with GM15 peptide. Overall, the study indicates the influence of antioxidant peptide on the intracellular oxidative stress, leading to the development of an antioxidant drug from glutathione oxidoreductase of A. platensis against oxidative-related stresses.