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Abstract Background Grey mould caused by Botrytis cinerea of cucumber immature fruits is the most epidemic fungal diseases causing significantly losses of fruits during development on cucumber plant in winter season. Material and methods Crude and nanoemulsions of clove, black seed, lemon and orange essential oils at (5000 ppm) and also different formulations of clove, black seed and lemon oils nanoemulsions as single or in combination were tested against mycelial linear growth of B. cinerea (MF996363) as well sclerotial formation and pathological activity on the development of germinated seeds of cucumber. Results Essential oils nanoemulsion formulation of clove + black seed (2:1) at 5000 ppm was the best formulation significantly reduced mycelia linear growth of B. cinerea by 61.0% followed by 28% formulation (1:1) and (1:2). In addition, nanoemulsions formulations of clove, black seed essential oils (2:1) were highly reduced the count of sclerotial formation of B. cinerea and completely (100%) suppress seed rot and seedling mortality of cucumber followed by nanoemulsion of clove only. Conclusions Foliar application of nanoemulsion formulation of clove + black seeds is promising than fungicides (Topsin M-70) in controlling grey mould on cucumber fruits caused by B. cinerea in plastic greenhouse with no phytotoxicity on cucumber plants.

Pesticides are widely used around the world to increase crop production. They also have negative impacts on animals, humans, and the ecosystem. This is the first report evaluating a novel pomegranate-extract-loaded clove-oil-based nanoemulsion (PELCN) and its potential for reducing oxidative stress and DNA damage, as well as its hepatoprotective effects against imidacloprid (IM) and chlorpyrifos (CPF) toxicity in male rats. The benchmark dose (BMD) approach was also used to study the dose–response toxicity of IM and CPF. IM and CPF were administered daily for 28 days at doses of 14, 28, and 54 mg/kg body weight (bw) of IM and 1, 2, and 4 mg/kg bw of CPF via drinking water. The PELCN was administered orally at a dose of 50 mg/kg bw/day of pomegranate extract, 500 mg/kg bw of the clove oil nanoemulsion, and IM or CPF at high doses in the drinking water. In male rats, IM and CPF caused a reduction in body weight gain and hepatotoxic effects as evidenced by increases in the liver enzymes AST, ALT, and ALP. They caused oxidative damage in the liver of male rats as indicated by the decreased liver activity of the GST, GPX, SOD, and CAT enzymes and decreased serum TAC. IM and CPF produced a significant dose-dependent increase in DNA damage in hepatocyte cells, resulting in moderate to severe liver damage with cells that are more inflammatory and have enlarged sinusoids and compacted nuclei. IM had a higher BMD than CPF for both body and liver weight, suggesting that CPF was more dose-dependently toxic than IM. Albumin was a highly sensitive liver biomarker for IM, while total protein was a biomarker for the CPF-treated rats. GPx was an extremely sensitive biomarker of oxidative stress in the IM treatment, while CAT and GPx were highly sensitive parameters in the CPF-treated rats. Therefore, at comparable doses, CPF has a higher potential to cause liver damage and oxidative stress than IM. The hepatotoxicity of IM and CPF can be mitigated by administering a nanoemulsion containing clove oil and pomegranate extract. The nanoemulsion acts as a protector against the oxidative stress caused by these insecticides, especially at high doses. The nanoemulsion based on clove oil increases the bioavailability and stability of the pomegranate extract, which has antioxidant properties.

The adverse effects of synthetic acaricides on humans, animals, non-target organisms and the ecosystem are serious problems. Thus, there is a new trend to use nanotechnology for developing new, natural, bio and safe acaricides for mite control in green-pest management. This is the first work for preparing a nanoformulation of rosemary essential oil (EO) and evaluating its effect against the two-spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae Koch. GC/MS analysis of rosemary EO showed that 1,8 cineole (31.45%), borneol (11.07%), α-pinene (10.91%), D-limonene (9.19%), L-linalool (8.86%), D-camphor (7.32%), γ-terpinene (3.92%), linalyl acetate (3.37%), α-terpineol (3.32%), and p-cymene (1.82%) were the major components. After 6 min of sonication, a nanoemulsion of rosemary EO was formulated with a droplet size of 139.9 nm. The balance between oil (lyophilic) and surfactant (hydrophilic) was correlated with the droplet size and the stability of the nanoemulsion. Spray application of rosemary nanoemulsion showed high acaricidal activity against immature and adult two-spotted spider mites T. urticae with LC50 723.71 and 865.68 μg · ml−1 and the toxicity increased by 54.15 and 52.69% for immature and adult mites, respectively. There were no toxic effects or mortality of rats treated with rosemary nanoemulsion. High acaricidal activity, stability, and safety of rosemary nanoemulsion make this nanoformulation a possible green and nano-acaricidal product. Further studies under field conditions are necessary to study the acaricidal efficiency of rosemary nanoemulsion against two-spotted spider mites and the toxic effect on predacious mites.

Fipronil (FPN) is a broad-spectrum N-phenylpyrazole insecticide and has been used in agriculture and public health since the mid-1990s. The present study was designed to investigate the adverse effects of sub-chronic exposure to the FPN on the liver and kidney of male rats at three concentrations 0.1, 1 and 10 mg/L in drinking water for 45 days. Serum aspartate aminotransferases (AST), alanine aminotransferases (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity and levels of uric acid, creatinine and total protein were significantly increased in FPN-treated rats. Oxidative stress biomarkers such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and glutathione reduced (GSH) were significantly decreased, while lipid peroxidation (LPO) was significantly increased in treating rats in a concentration dependent manner. FPN caused histopathological alterations in liver and kidney of male rats. From our results, it can be concluded that FPN induced lipid peroxidation, oxidative stress, liver, and kidney injury in rats. These pathophysiological changes in liver and kidney tissues could be due to the toxic effect of FPN that associated with a generation of free radicals.

Pesticides are widely used around the world to increase crop production. They also have negative impacts on animals, humans, and the ecosystem. This is the first report evaluating a novel pomegranate-extract-loaded clove-oil-based nanoemulsion (PELCN) and its potential for reducing oxidative stress and DNA damage, as well as its hepatoprotective effects against imidacloprid (IM) and chlorpyrifos (CPF) toxicity in male rats. The benchmark dose (BMD) approach was also used to study the dose–response toxicity of IM and CPF. IM and CPF were administered daily for 28 days at doses of 14, 28, and 54 mg/kg body weight (bw) of IM and 1, 2, and 4 mg/kg bw of CPF via drinking water. The PELCN was administered orally at a dose of 50 mg/kg bw/day of pomegranate extract, 500 mg/kg bw of the clove oil nanoemulsion, and IM or CPF at high doses in the drinking water. In male rats, IM and CPF caused a reduction in body weight gain and hepatotoxic effects as evidenced by increases in the liver enzymes AST, ALT, and ALP. They caused oxidative damage in the liver of male rats as indicated by the decreased liver activity of the GST, GPX, SOD, and CAT enzymes and decreased serum TAC. IM and CPF produced a significant dose-dependent increase in DNA damage in hepatocyte cells, resulting in moderate to severe liver damage with cells that are more inflammatory and have enlarged sinusoids and compacted nuclei. IM had a higher BMD than CPF for both body and liver weight, suggesting that CPF was more dose-dependently toxic than IM. Albumin was a highly sensitive liver biomarker for IM, while total protein was a biomarker for the CPF-treated rats. GPx was an extremely sensitive biomarker of oxidative stress in the IM treatment, while CAT and GPx were highly sensitive parameters in the CPF-treated rats. Therefore, at comparable doses, CPF has a higher potential to cause liver damage and oxidative stress than IM. The hepatotoxicity of IM and CPF can be mitigated by administering a nanoemulsion containing clove oil and pomegranate extract. The nanoemulsion acts as a protector against the oxidative stress caused by these insecticides, especially at high doses. The nanoemulsion based on clove oil increases the bioavailability and stability of the pomegranate extract, which has antioxidant properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pendimethalin (PND) is a dinitroaniline herbicide widely used to control broadleaf and annual grasses. Although the acute oral toxicity of PND is >5 g/kg b.wt. in humans (LD50 for rats >5000 g/kg b.wt.), it has been classified as a possible human carcinogen. It is still used in agriculture so agricultural workers and their families, as well as consumers, can be exposed to this herbicide. The present study is the first report investigating the dose–response effect using the benchmark dose (BMD) and the adverse effects of exposure to PND at low dose via apoptosis responses linked to the expression of tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), FAS and BAX proteins; oxidative stress; and DNA and liver damage in female rats. The rats were exposed to PND via drinking water at doses equivalent to no‐observed‐adverse‐effect level (NOAEL = 100 mg/kg b.wt.), 200 and 400 mg/kg b.wt. for 28 days. PND caused the overexpression of TNF‐α, FAS and BAX; increased the levels of serum liver biomarkers; and increased oxidative stress in the liver and erythrocytes. Furthermore, it induced DNA and liver damage in a dose‐dependent manner. The BMD showed that serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and total antioxidant capacity (78.4 and 30.1 mg/kg b.wt./day, respectively), lipid peroxidation in liver tissue (30.9 mg/kg b.wt./day), catalase in erythrocytes (14.0 mg/kg b.wt./day) and FAS expression in liver tissue (6.89 mg/kg b.wt./day) were highly sensitive biomarkers of PND toxicity. Our findings suggest the generation of reactive oxygen species as a possible mechanism of PND‐induced gene overexpression of tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), FAS and BAX proteins, oxidative stress and DNA and liver damage in female rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A set of test systems/ endpoints for chlorpyrifos screening has been proposed in the present research. The set includes Myzus persicae, rats, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and several endpoints: aphids' mortality; mitotic index; chromosomal aberrations and micronuclei on rats; spot-test, clonal assay, induction of superoxide anions, Zimmermann's test, test of "visible" mutant colonies, CFGE on microalgae and yeast. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the reliability of the proposed by us set of test systems/ endpoints for chlorpyrifos toxicity screening. Chlorpyrifos (CPF) treatment was for 5 sec with concentrations in the range: 5 - 10000ppm on aphids; 25.6ppm on rats; for 30 min with 6.5 to 100ppm on Chlamydomonas reinhardtii and 100 - 10000ppm on Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Dose-dependent mortality of aphids was found. Further, a 2-fold reduction in the mitotic index, about 7-fold increase in chromosomal aberrations, and about 4-fold increase in the total number of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes were measured in rats. The LD50 values for aphids, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii and Saccharomyces cerevisiae were calculated - 31.5, 36.56 and 66.05 ppm, respectively. The mutagenic potential was expressed mainly of low size and pigment mutations in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, and reverse point mutations in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. A correlation between the recombinogenic and pro-oxidant activity of CPF in yeast was found. The cytotoxic, DNA damaging and mutagenic activity did not follow the dose response model in yeast. Based on our data, CPF possesses clastogenic effect on rats, and pro-oxidative, cytotoxic and recombinogenic effect on Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Aphids and Chlamydomonas reinhardtii are found to be the most susceptible to CPF. Experimental evidence supporting the suggestion that CPF damages photosynthetic pigments and chloroplasts DNA in algae. It could be concluded that the application of the proposed set of test systems/endpoints could provide concise information concerning the genotoxicity of chlorpyrifos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to assess the potential role of pneumatisation of the mastoid and its communicating air cells in the development of middle-ear barotrauma in aircrew members. Methods: Seventy-nine aircrew members (158 ears) underwent temporal computed tomography. All were assessed before flying by clinical examination and audiology evaluation, followed by post-flight examination to detect barotrauma. Results: Aircrew members' ears were divided into 3 groups based on barotrauma and temporal bone pneumatisation: 33 ears with barotrauma and temporal bone pneumatisation of 71 cm3 or greater (group A); 12 ears with barotrauma and temporal bone pneumatisation of 11.2 cm3 or lower (group B); and 113 ears with no barotrauma (group C). Mean pneumatisation volumes were 91.05 cm3, 5.45 cm3 and 28.01 cm3 in groups A, B and C, respectively. A direct relationship was observed between volume of temporal bone pneumatisation of 71 cm3 or greater and barotrauma grade. Conclusion: Pneumatisation volume of the mastoid and its communicating air cells that ranges from 11.3 cm3 to 70.4 cm3 serves as a reliable predictor of the avoidance of middle-ear barotrauma associated with flying in aircrew members who have normal resting middle-ear pressure and good Eustachian tube function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports a novel and efficient method for the synthesis of the first reported novel class of pyrazole thioglycosides 6a–h. These series of compounds were designed through the reaction of sodium 2-cyano-3-oxo-3-(4-substitutedphenylamino)prop-1-ene-1,1-bis(thiolate) salts 2 with hydrazine hydrate in ethanol at room temperature to give the corresponding sodium 5-amino-4-(substitutedphenylcarbamoyl)-1H-pyrazole-3-thiolates 3a–d. The latter compounds were treated with protected α-D-gluco- and galacto-pyranosyl bromides 4a,b in DMF at ambient temperature to give in a high yields the corresponding pyrazole thioglycosides 6a–h. Treatment of pyrazole salts 3a–d with hydrochloric acid at amobient temperature afforded the corresponding 3-mercaptopyrazole derivatives 5. The latter compounds were treated with peracetylated sugars 4 in sodium hydride in ethanol at ambient temperature to tolerate the S-glycosyl 6a–h compounds. Ammonolysis of the pyrazole thioglycosides 6a–h afforded the corresponding free thioglycosides 7a–h. The toxicity and antitumor activities of the synthesized compounds were studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adverse effects of synthetic acaricides on humans, animals, non-target organisms and the ecosystem are serious problems. Thus, there is a new trend to use nanotechnology for developing new, natural, bio and safe acaricides for mite control in green-pest management. This is the first work for preparing a nanoformulation of rosemary essential oil (EO) and evaluating its effect against the two-spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae Koch. GC/MS analysis of rosemary EO showed that 1,8 cineole (31.45%), borneol (11.07%), α-pinene (10.91%), D-limonene (9.19%), L-linalool (8.86%), D-camphor (7.32%), γ-terpinene (3.92%), linalyl acetate (3.37%), α-terpineol (3.32%), and p-cymene (1.82%) were the major components. After 6 min of sonication, a nanoemulsion of rosemary EO was formulated with a droplet size of 139.9 nm. The balance between oil (lyophilic) and surfactant (hydrophilic) was correlated with the droplet size and the stability of the nanoemulsion. Spray application of rosemary nanoemulsion showed high acaricidal activity against immature and adult two-spotted spider mites T. urticae with LC50 723.71 and 865.68 μg · ml-1 and the toxicity increased by 54.15 and 52.69% for immature and adult mites, respectively. There were no toxic effects or mortality of rats treated with rosemary nanoemulsion. High acaricidal activity, stability, and safety of rosemary nanoemulsion make this nanoformulation a possible green and nano-acaricidal product. Further studies under field conditions are necessary to study the acaricidal efficiency of rosemary nanoemulsion against two-spotted spider mites and the toxic effect on predacious mites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-term application and extensive use of synthetic insecticides have resulted in accumulating their residues in food, milk, water, and soil and cause adverse health effects to human and ecosystems. Therefore, application of natural insecticides in agriculture and public health sectors has been increased as alternative to synthetic insecticides. The question here is, are all natural insecticides safe. Therefore, the review presented here focuses on the safety of natural insecticides. Natural insecticides contain chemical, mineral, and biological materials and some products are available commercially, e.g., pyrethrum, neem, spinosad, rotenone, abamectin, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), garlic, cinnamon, pepper, and essential oil products. It can induce hepatotoxicity, renal toxicity, hematotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, neurotoxicity, and oxidative stress. It can induce mutagenicity, genotoxicity, and carcinogenicity in mammals. Some natural insecticides and active compounds from essential oils are classified in categories Ib (Highly hazardous) to U (unlikely toxic). Therefore, the selectivity and safety of natural insecticides not absolute and some natural compounds are toxic and induce adverse effects to experimental animals. In concussion, all natural insecticides are not safe and the term “natural” does not mean that compounds are safe. In this respect, the term “natural” is not synonymous with “organic” and not all-natural insecticide products are acceptable in organic farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green and nanoacaricides including essential oil (EO) nanoemulsions are important compounds to provide new, active, safe acaricides and lead to improvement of avoiding the risk of synthetic acaricides. This study was carried out for the first time on eriophyid mites to develop nanoemulsion of garlic essential oil by ultrasonic emulsification and evaluate its acaricidal activity against the two eriophyid olive mites Aceria oleae Nalepa and Tegolophus hassani (Keifer). Acute toxicity of nanoemulsion was also studied on male rats. Garlic EO was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and the major compounds were diallyl sulfide (8.6%), diallyl disulfide (28.36%), dimethyl tetrasulfide (15.26%), trisulfide,di-2-propenyl (10.41%), and tetrasulfide,di-2-propenyl (9.67%). Garlic oil nanoemulsion with droplet size 93.4 nm was formulated by ultrasonic emulsification for 35 min. Emulsification time and oil and surfactant ratio correlated to the emulsion droplet size and stability. The formulated nanoemulsion showed high acaricidal activity against injurious eriophyid mites with LC50 298.225 and 309.634 μg/ml, respectively. No signs of nanoemulsion toxicity were noted in treating rats; thus, it may be considered non-toxic to mammals. Stability of garlic oil nanoemulsion, high acaricidal activity, and the absence of organic toxic solvents make the formulation that may be a possible acaricidal product. Results suggest the possibility of developing suitable natural nanoacaricide from garlic oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential therapeutic value of Moringa oleifera extract (MOE), due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects, has been reported previously. In this study, Hymenolepis nana antigen (HNA) in combination with MOE was used in immunization against H. nana infection. Adult worm and egg counts were taken, while histological changes in the intestine were observed. Mucosal mast (MMCs) and goblet cells (GCs) were stained with specific stains, while serum and intestinal IgA were assayed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Reduced glutathione (GSH) and lipid peroxidation (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, TBARS) were assayed. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used for detection of mRNA expression in ileum tissue. The results demonstrated an improvement in the architecture of intestinal villi, decreased inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOs) and TBARS, and increased GSH in HNA, MOE and MOE +HNA groups. In the same groups, an increase in GCs, mucin 2 (MUC2), interleukins (IL)-4, -5 and -9, and stem cell factor (SCF) versus a decrease in both interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and transforming growth factor (TGF-β) expression appeared. HNA and MOE +HNA increased serum and intestinal IgA, respectively. MOE decreased MMCs and achieved the highest reductions in both adult worms and eggs. In conclusion, MOE could achieve protection against H. nana infections through decreased TGF-β, IFN-γ and MMC counts versus increased GC counts, T-helper cell type 2 (Th2) cytokines and IgA level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hymenolepis nana is the most commonly known intestinal cestode infecting mainly human. This study aimed to investigate the potential effect of chitosan particles ( CSP) to enhance the immune system against H. nana infection. Determination of worm burden, egg output, histopathological changes, oxidative stress markers (lipid peroxidation and reduced glutathione), goblet ( GCs) and mucosal mast cells ( MMCs) counts in intestinal ileum was performed. In addition, levels of intestinal mRNA expression of interleukin ( IL)-4, IL-9, stem cell factor ( SCF), type I and II interferons ( IFN)- α/ γ, tumour necrosis factor ( TNF)- α, mucin 2 ( MUC2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase ( iNOs) were investigated using real-time PCR. The results indicated induced reductions in adult worm and egg counts in infected mice after CSP treatment. This was associated with improvement in tissue morphometric measurements and oxidative stress which were altered after infection. Expression levels of iNOs, IFN- α, IFN- γ, TNF- α and IL-9 were decreased by CSP. Conversely, expression levels of MUC2, IL-4 and SCF increased compared to infected untreated group. In addition, GCs and MMCs counts were normalized by CSP. In conclusion, this study could indicate the immunoprotective effect of CSP against H. nana infection. This was characterized with Th2 anti-inflammatory responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Nano-K maximized salt-stressed squash plant productivity and yield quality. • Nano-K catalyzed more antioxidant activities, attenuating damage of oxidative stress markers. • Nano-K efficiently improved photosynthesis and plant integrity under salt stress. • Nano-K efficiently restored the nutrients of salt-stressed squash plants. • Nano-K efficiently improved antioxidant enzymes and their gene expression in salt - stressed squash plants. To explore the reinforcing effects of nano-potassium fertilizer (nano-K) on growth, yield and quality, physio-biochemical responses, antioxidant defense systems, antioxidant gene expressions, and nutrients of salt-stressed squash plants, field experiments were performed using normal (EC = 2.34 dS m−1) and saline (EC = 9.38 dS m−1) soils during the 2021 and 2022 seasons. The traditional recommended K at full dose (TRK 100) or half dose (TRK 50) was used in both soils. Salinity and/or TRK 50 significantly decreased photosynthetic pigment contents (by 8.7−22.5%), photosynthetic efficiency (by 6.0−10.9%), relative water content (RWC by 5.0−5.1%), membrane stability index (MSI by 7.2−7.4%), nutrient contents (by 28.4−48.2%), K+/Na+ ratio (by 66.4−67.1%), which contributed to the decrease in growth (by 12.2−25.8%) and yield traits (by 4.2−28.5%), and fruit quality (by 8.5−19.7%) due to an increment of oxidative stress biomarker (O 2 •‒ by 32.4−52.9% and H 2 O 2 30.4−57.1%) levels, electrolyte leakage (EL by 23.3−24.5%), malondialdehyde (MDA by 71.4−77.6%), and Na+ (by 55.5−56.9%). Under stress in both soils, foliar-applied 0.50 g nano-K L−1 suppressed the levels of O 2 •‒, H 2 O 2 , MDA, EL, and Na+, while noticeably increased photosynthetic pigment contents, photosynthetic efficiency, RWC, MSI, nutrient contents, K+/Na+ ratio, which were positively reflected in growth and yield traits, and fruit quality due to increased osmoprotectant and low-molecular-weight antioxidant contents, antioxidant enzyme activities and enzymatic gene expressions. Therefore, our findings recommend using nano-K as an effective strategy to promote antioxidant and photosynthetic machineries, minimize oxidative stress biomarkers and Na+ levels, boost tolerance to salt stress, and improve squash yield and yield quality under salt stress. Shows the reinforcing effect of nano-K on the antioxidant defense system reflecting the increased yield and quality of salt-stressed squash plants [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the study was to assess the phytochemical and hepatoprotective activity of different extracts of dried herb of Cichorium intybus L. against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) intoxicated male albino rats. The hepatoprotective activity of different extracts at 500 mg/kg body weight was compared with carbon tetrachloride-treated animals. The animals were divided into five groups with six animals in each group. The first group represents control, the second group received carbon tetrachloride, the third received C. intybus, and the fourth group received C. intybus plus carbon tetrachloride. The fifth group received silymarin as hepato-slandered drug. There were significant changes in serum biochemical parameters such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bilirubin, albumin, total protein, and γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT) in carbon tetrachloride intoxicated rats, which were restored towards normal values in C. intybus-treated animals. Histopathological examination of liver tissues further substantiated these findings. In conclusion, of this investigation, the results ascertain that the herb extracts of C. intybus possess significant hepatoprotective activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Controlling vector borne disease insects control such as mosquitoes and reducing the use of synthetic insecticides is a major public health challenge. Green nanoinsecticides are suitable alternatives to synthetic insecticides, enabling effective and safer insect control. This study aimed to develop neem oil-based nanoemulsions using Tween 80 and/or gum arabic (GA) as a natural emulsifiers and to study their larvicidal, and adulticidal activity against Culex pipiens. The fatty acids in the oil were identified using gas chromatographs-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). We also studied the acute oral toxicity on male rats and its ecotoxicological effects using the Microtox® assay. We fabricated neem oil nanoemulsions with and without GA at different ratios and performed physicochemical, stability, and characterization studies. The results showed that the major fatty acids in neem oil were oleic acid (44.79%), linoleic acid (18.41%), palmitic acid (18%), and stearic acid (16.64%). We created two highly stable nanoemulsions, i.e., samples 2C and 6C with a droplet sizes of 87.4 and 146.7 nm by mixing neem oil, GA, and Tween 80 at a ratio of 1:0:1.5, and 1:1.5:0, respectively, followed by sonication for 10 min. The lethal concentration (LC 50) of neem oil, 2C and 6C were 9.36, 6.45, and 8.01 μg/ml for the Culex pipiens larvae and 21.7, 8.8 and 17.2 μg/ml for the adults. The toxicity time (T 50) was 40.7, 10.0, and 28.9 min for normal neem oil, samples 2C and 6C, respectively. The nanoemulsions altered the toxifying-detoxifying enzymes acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) in Culex pipiens larvae without showing any toxicity in the male rats or the Microtox assay. The neem oil nanoformulations with Tween 80 or GA were highly stable and effective against larval and adult Culex pipiens. GA is a natural-surfactant and hence, is excellent emulsifier alternative to synthetic surfactants. The nanoemulsions did not display any toxic and eco-toxic effects. Therefore, these nanoemulsions can be considered potential alternatives to synthetic insecticides for controlling vector-borne disease insects. • The neem oil-based nanoemulsions were formulated and the droplet sizes of the highly stable samples 2C and 6C were 87.4 and 146.7 nm, respectively. • These nanoformulations were highly stable and effective against the larvae and adult Culex pipiens mosquitoes. • As there are no toxic and eco-toxic effects of neem nanoemulsions, they can be potentially used as alternatives to synthetic insecticides to control vector-borne disease insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adverse effect of cypermethrin on the liver and kidney of weanling female rats and the protective effect of ethanolic extract of grape pomace were investigated in the present study. Weanling female rats were given cypermethrin oral at a dose of 25 mg kg−1 body weight for 28 consecutive days. An additional two Cyp-trated groups received extract at a dose of 100 and 200 mg kg−1 body weight, respectively, throughout the experimental duration. Three groups more served as extract and control groups. Administration of Cyp resulted in a significant increase in serum marker enzymes, for example, aminotransferases (AST and ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and increases the level of urea nitrogen and creatinine. In contrast, Cyp caused significant decrease in levels of total protein and albumin and caused histopathological alterations in liver and kidneys of female rats. Coadministration of the extract to Cyp-treated female rats restored most of these biochemical parameters to within normal levels especially at high dose of extract. However, extract administration to Cyp-treated rats resulted in overall improvement in liver and kidney damage. This study demonstrated the adverse biohistological effects of Cyp on the liver and kidney of weanling female rats. The grape pomace extract administration prevented the toxic effect of Cyp on the above serum parameters. The present study concludes that grape pomace extract has significant antioxidant and hepatorenal protective activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The liver is the most sensitive and main target organ of pesticide toxicity and damage, they play an essential role in metabolism and detoxification of pesticides. Due to these functions, hepatotoxicity continues to be among the main threats to public health, and they remain problems throughout the world. Therefore, the present study was designed to evaluate the antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of Cedrelopsis grevei leaves against cypermethrin (Cyp) induced oxidative stress and liver damage in male mice. Methods: The extracts were subjected to different analyses (phenolics, tannin, flavonoids, antioxidant activity and reducing power assays). For hepatoprotective evaluation, male mice were daily exposed to Cyp and/or C. grevei by gavages for 28 days. Hepatoprotective effects were demonstrated by significant alterations in serum liver dysfunction biomarker enzymes, liver lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzymes. Results: The antioxidant activity of C. grevei methanolic extract was the highest with an IC50 < 225 µg/ml by DPPH assay. The high dose of methanolic extract (300 mg/kg. b.wt.) was effective to attenuate the perturbations in the tested enzymes. Histopathological examination in the liver tissue of those mice, demonstrated that a co-administration of methanolic extract (150 & 300 mg/kg/day) showed marked improvement in its histological structure in comparison to Cyp-treated group alone and represented by nil to moderate degree in inflammatory cells. Conclusions: In view of the data of the present study, it can deduce that cypermethrin caused oxidative damage and liver dysfunction in male mice. C. grevei extract has protective effects on cypermethrin-induced lipid peroxidation, oxidative stress and liver damage. Results indicated that administration of C. grevei is useful, easy, and economical to protect humans against pesticide toxicity. The results presented here can be considered as the first information on the hepatoprotective and antioxidant properties of C. grevei extracts. In a future study, we will identify and investigate the components responsible for the hepatoprotective and antioxidant activities of C. grevei. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the genotoxic and cytotoxic potential of prallethrin in rat bone marrow cells and the protective effect of Origanum majorana L. essential oil (EO). Our results demonstrated that prallethrin at dose 64.0 mg/kg body weight (b.wt.) (1/10 LD50), has a clastogenic/genotoxic potential as shown by the high percentage of chromosomal aberration (CA) and micronucleus (MN) in the bone marrow cells of male rats, whereas the combined treatment of prallethrin and O. majorana EO resulted in the reduction of the CA (54.54%). The combined treatment also reduced the micronuclei formation significantly. In conclusion, prallethrin can be considered clastogenic/genotoxic and may carry a risk to human health. The study revealed the antigenotoxic and anticytotoxic potential of O. majorana EO against prallethrin-induced genotoxic and cytotoxic effects in rat bone marrow cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to evaluate the adverse effects of exposure to prallethrin on oxidant/antioxidant status and liver dysfunction biomarkers and the protective role of Origanum majorana essential oil (EO) in rat. Male rats were divided into 4 groups: (i) received only olive oil (ii) treated with 64.0 mg/kg body weight prallethrin (1/10 LD50) in olive oil via oral route daily for 28 days, (iii) treated with 64.0 mg/kg body weight prallethrin (1/10 LD50) and EO (160 μL/kg b.wt.) in olive oil and (iv) received EO (160 μL/kg b.wt.) in olive oil via oral route twice daily for 28 days. Prallethrin treatment caused decrease in body weight gain and increase in relative liver weight. There was a significant increase in the activity of serum marker enzymes, aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase. It caused increase in thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and reduction in the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione-S-transferase in liver. Consistent histological changes were found in the liver of prallethrin treatment. EO showed significant protection with the depletion of serum marker enzymes and replenishment of antioxidant status and brought all the values to near normal, indicating the protective effect of EO. We can conclude that prallethrin caused oxidative damage and liver injury in male rat and co-administration of EO attenuated the toxic effect of prallethrin. These results demonstrate that administration of EO may be useful, easy, and economical to protect human against pyrethroids toxic effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to shed light on the effect of exposure of lactating rat to chlorpyrifos (CPF). CPF was orally administered to lactating rats at 0.01 mg kg-1 b.wt. (acceptable daily intake, ADI), 1.00 mg kg-1 b.wt. (no observed adverse effects level, NOAEL) and 1.35 mg kg-1 b.wt. (1/100 LD 50) from postnatal day 1 (PN1) until day 20 (PN20) after delivery. Results indicated decreases in body weight and increases in relative liver and kidney weights of exposed dams. Significant damage to liver was observed via increased plasma levels of aminotransferases (aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT)) lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and γ-glutamyle transferase (γ-GT) in a dose-dependent manner. At two high doses of CPF (1.00 and 1.35 mg kg-1 b.wt.), the lactating mothers showed significant decrease in the activity of cholinesterase (ChE). Lipid peroxidation was significantly increased, while glutathione s-transferase (GST) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were significantly decreased compared to control. At high dose of CPF (1.35 mg kg-1 b.wt.), total protein and uric acid levels were significantly increased. CPF caused dose-related histopathological changes in liver and kidney of the CPF-treated dams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The protective effects of zinc on liver and kidney injury induced by chlorpyrifos (CPF) were investigated in rats. Male and female rats were orally administered CPF at a dose of 6.75mgkg−1 body weight for 28 consecutive days. An additional CPF group received zinc (227mgl−1) in drinking water throughout the experimental duration. Two groups more served as controls. Administration of CPF resulted in a significant increase in serum lipid peroxidation (LPO) level, while induced significant decreases in the activities of plasma superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and serum acetylcholinesterase (AChE) either in male or female rats. Similarly, a significant increase in the levels of various serum marker enzymes [e.g. aminotransferases (AST and ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT)] and increase the level of total protein, uric acid and creatinine. In contrast, co-administration of zinc to CPF-treated animals restored most of these biochemical parameters to within normal levels. In case of AChE, supplementation of zinc showed little alteration in the activity of this enzyme especially in male rats treated with CPF. CPF caused histopathological change in liver and kidneys of male and female rats. However, zinc administration to CPF-treated animals resulted in overall improvement in liver and kidneys damage, emphasizing its antioxidant role. In light of the available data, it can deduce that CPF-induced lipid peroxidation, oxidative stress, liver and kidneys damage in male and female rats, and conjunction supplementation of zinc has resulted in pronounced ameliorating effect. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Erythrocytes are a convenient model to understand the membrane oxidative damage induced by various xenobiotic pro-oxidants. This study was designed to investigate the possibility of methomyl (Lannate 90% SP), S-methyl N-(methylcarbamoyloxy) thioacetimidate, to induce oxidative stress response in rat erythrocytes in vitro. Erythrocytes were incubated for 4 hours at 37°C with different concentrations (0.0, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 mM) of methomyl. The results showed that methomyl decreased acetylcholinesterase (AChE), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) activities and increased level of lipid peroxidation (LPO) as well as the percentage of haemolysis. The response occurred in a concentration-dependent manner. The study suggested that methomyl has the capability to induce oxidative damage as evidenced by increasing LPO and perturbations in various antioxidant enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An effective pest management necessitates the use of insecticides throughout the entire season under a wide range of temperatures. Fipronil is a broad-spectrum insecticide that can be used indoors and outdoors throughout the year to control various pests. Using a leaf-dipping bioassay technique, the effect of different temperatures (range, 15°C–35 °C) on the toxicity of fipronil against the fourth instar larvae of Spodoptera littoralis (Boisd.) was assessed. The temperature coefficient was calculated, and the toxicity of fipronil showed a positive correlation with temperature within the range of 20 °C−25 °C (3.78-fold). Meanwhile, fipronil exhibited a negative correlation over the 15 °C−20 °C temperature range (−6.55-fold). The most intriguing finding was that when the temperature rose from 20 °C to 35 °C, the toxic effect of fipronil improved by 14.5-fold. The fourth instar larvae were treated with an estimated LC 50 value of each fipronil thermal condition (15 °C, 20 °C, 25 °C, and 35 °C), and the protein hemolymphs of the treated larvae were analyzed using sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The highly effective tested treatment, the 35 °C fipronil-maintained group (LC 50 of 2.79 ppm), and its control group displayed the lowest number of protein bands (seven bands). The effect of fipronil under the different thermal conditions on amylase, total lipids, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, acid phosphatase, and alkaline phosphatase of S. littoralis larvae was also evaluated. Treatments showed varied effects on the biochemical parameters measured. This study emphasizes the benefits of using fipronil under specific thermal conditions to achieve the highest efficiency in combating target pests with the fewest concentrations. • The toxicity of fipronil to Spodoptera littoralis increased 14.5-fold when the temperature was raised from 20 to 35 °C. • New protein bands appeared in the fipronil 20 °C treatment at the same time this treatment had the least toxic impact on S. littoralis. • Amylase Enzyme in S. littoralis is insensitive to fipronil treatment. • Fipronil has a negative effect on S. littoralis lipid metabolism and peroxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Male and female rats were orally administered chlorpyrifos at a dose of 6.75mgkg−1 body weight for 28 consecutive days. An additional chlorpyrifos group received zinc (227mgl−1) in drinking water throughout the experimental duration. Two groups more served as controls; one received water only and the other received zinc in drinking water. Administration of chlorpyrifos resulted in a significant increase in lipid peroxidation (LPO) level and significant decrease in the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione-s-transferase (GST), catalase (CAT) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in erythrocytes of male and female rats. In contrast, zinc-chlorpyrifos treatment showed insignificant differences (p ⩽0.05–0.01), compared to control results, regarding LPO, SOD, GST and CAT. In case of AChE, supplementation of zinc showed little alteration in the activity of this enzyme in the rats treated with chlorpyrifos. It can deduce that chlorpyrifos induced oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation in erythrocytes of male and female rats. The overall results reveal the pronounced ameliorating effect of zinc in chlorpyrifos-intoxicated rats and variation in the response of male and female animals regarding alteration in the level of some biochemical parameters and LPO. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Nanoemulsions of some natural oils i.e., clove, black seed, orange and lemon and their fungicidal activity against postharvest fruit rot of cucumber were prepared and studied. • Nanoformulations of clove and black seed essential oils (2:1) reduced mycelial linear growth, andcompletely inhibited (100%) conidia sporulation of fungal isolates. • Nanoformulation of clove and black seed essential oils (2:1) respectively is a promising safe alternative fungicide for application against postharvest rot of cucumber fruits management. There are growing concerns about the extensive use of synthetic fungicides worldwide due to their negative health effect on humans, ecosystem, and the development of fungal resistance. Therefore, developing new and safe eco-friendly antifungal agents such as plant-based oils is of major interest. This study was conducted for the first time to develop and evaluate the efficiency of eco-friendly nanoemulsions of some natural oils and evaluating of its efficiency against postharvest fruit rot of cucumber caused by the following fungal isolates: Galactomyces candidum (MF373433), Alternaria tenuissima (MF 373440) and Fusarium solani (MF373443). Nanoemulsions of clove, black seed, lemon, and orange oils were formulated by using ultrasound and subjected to physicochemical and stability studies. The efficiency of these nanoemulsions was evaluated against the postharvest fruit rot fungi of cucumber. The oils of promising nanoemulsions have been analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis (GC/MS). The acute toxicity study was conducted on rats and on the luminescence emitted of Vibrio fischeri bacteriausing Microtox®. The smaller droplet size of nanoemulsions was found after 10 min of sonication with an oil to Tween 80 ratio of 1:1 and 1:2 for clove and black seed oils, respectively. Nanoemulsion of black seed and clove oils from Egypt at 5000 ppm showed a significantly high reduction in the linear mycelial growth of fungal isolates. The mixture formula (2:1 v/v) of nanoemulsions of clove and black seed oils showed a significantly high reduction in linear mycelial growth, completely inhibited (100%) conidia sporulation of fungal isolates, and highly reduced the percentage of the rot of germinated seeds as well mortality of cucumber developed seedlings. Nanoemulsion formulation of clove and black seed (2:1) at concentration 2.0 % as soaking treatment of cucumber fruits before artificial infestation by inocula of fungal pathogens caused completely (100%) suppress postharvest fruit rot of cucumber. Both clove and black seed oils nanoemulsions and their combination showed no signs of toxicity or mortality in rats and no toxic effects on the luminescence emitted of Vibrio fischeri bacteria using Microtox® assay. Therefore, it can be concluded that the nanoformulation of clove and black seed oils at the ratio of 2:1 is a promising green and safe alternative to synthetic fungicide for application against postharvest rot of cucumber fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: The present study was conducted to evaluate the adverse effect of exposure to Diazinon (DIA) and Paracetamol (PARA) and their combination on male rats. Methods: Rats were orally administered PARA at a dose of 66.66 mg a.i. kg−1 body weight (maximum administration dose) and DIA at a dose 12.50 mg a.i. kg−1 b.wt. (1/100 LD50) for 28 consecutive days. Results: Significantly, decreased of body weights were observed in all treated groups, while significant increase in relative liver weight were recorded in DIA and DIA+PARA-treated groups compared to control rats. Liver dysfunction enzymes (e.g., aspartate aminotransferase, AST; alanine aminotransferase, ALT; alkaline phosphatase, ALP and lactate dehydrogenase, LDH) and Lipid Peroxidation Level (LPO) were increased in DIA, PARA and DIA+PARA-treated groups. Treatment of DIA and DIA+PARA caused significant decrease in the activity of serum Cholinesterase (ChE). PARA, DIA and PARA+DIA treatments caused histopathological changes and decreases in DNA content in liver cells of rats. The severities of such observations were more pronounced in their combined exposure. Conclusions: We can conclude that both paracetamol at maximum administration dose and diazinon caused biochemical and histopathological alteration in the liver of male rats. The severities of such observations were more pronounced in their combined exposure. The data throw light on the problem of simultaneous exposure to OPIs and commonly used drugs especially among agriculture sector workers in developing countries, where the handling of drugs (e.g., PARA) is mainly without medical prescription. Further studies, applied to pregnant women, newborns and childhood may be of great significance. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This study was conducted to evaluate the herbicidal activity of some plant extracts against three selected weeds (Amaranthus retroflexus, Cichorium intybus and Echinochloa crus-galli.) and also to be compared with the herbicide atrazine (gesaprim®, 80% WP). The plant extracts included: Allium cepa (Onion) lamina, Allium sativum (Garlic) lamina, Cichorium intybus (Chicory) (whole plant), Citrus aurantium (Sour orange) peel, Conyza aegyptiaca (Fleabane) (whole plant), Oryza sativa (Rice) straw, Triticum aestivum (Wheat) straw, and Zea mays (Corn) straw. Three sets of laboratory experiments were conducted. First, the plant species were water extracted and bioassayed using radish as a bioindicator plant. Then these plants were tested against the chosen weeds in six different concentrations (1%, 4%, 7%, 10%, 15%, and 20% w/v). Finally, weeds were subjected to the herbicide atrazine in four concentrations (3.75%, 1.875%, 0.9375%, and 0.46875% w/v). The results showed that the majority of screened plants inhibited germination of radish seeds in a percentage ca 40% or more. The concentration 25% of the recommended dose of atrazine (0.9375% w/v) was the most effective against germination of all target weeds. The herbicide atrazine was found to be more potent than all the tested plant extracts against all target weeds. As for the effect on Amaranthus retroflexus and Cichorium intybus, extracts of Citrus aurantium peel and Cichorium intybus, respectively were considered more promising since atrazine exceeded their potency with only 0.6 times. It was noticed also that the relative potency of atrazine and Oryza sativa extract (against Cichorium intybus) were nearly the same (1.1 time). Most the tested plant extracts were very weak as compared with atrazine against Echinochloa crus-galli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Mentha spicata nanoemulsion with droplet size 97.8 nm was formulated. • Nanoemulsion had high larvicidal activity against Culex pipiens and Musca domestica. • The efficacy increased by 71.46 % and 52.0 % against Culex pipiens and Musca domestica. • Nanoemulsion is considered ecofriendly and safe to mammals. • It can be used as a possible product to control Culex pipiens , and Musca domestica. The extensive use of synthetic insecticides to control vector-borne diseases has caused increased insect resistance, adverse health effects on humans and the ecosystem. Currently, a new nanotechnology strategy is being considered to develop new green-nano-friendly insecticides. This is the first study for the formulation of Mentha spicata essential oil (EO) nanoemulsion and its application against Culex pipiens , and housefly, Musca domestica. Acute oral toxicity of nano and normal emulsions was studied on rats. The results of gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy (GC–MS) analysis showed that the total identified compounds 95.18 % comprised 28 compounds. These included 1,8-Cineole (19.55 %), menthol (14.4 %), 1-p-menthen-8-yl acetate (6.42 %), 4-terpineol (6.28 %), α-terpineol (5.38 %), α-pinene (5.26 %), β-pinene (4.72 %),p-cymene (3.52 %) and delta 3-carene (3.09 %) as the major components. Nanoemulsion with droplet size 97.8 nm was obtained by ultrasonic emulsification for 10 min at ratio 1:1 (v/v) of mint EO and Tween 80. Emulsification conditions and nanoemulsion droplet size are correlated. Mint nanoemulsion showed a high larvicidal activity against C. pipiens (LC 50 , 43.57 μg/mL) and M. domestica (LC 50 , 65.13 μg/mL) compared with normal oil and lambda-cyhalothrin insecticide. Nanoformulation increased efficiency by 71.46 % and 52.0 % against C. pipiens and M. domestica , respectively. Nanoformulation had no toxic effects on the treated rats. Mint nanoemulsion is solvent-free, soluble in water, effective, safe, and eco-friendly. Therefore, it can be used to control C. pipiens , and M. domestica larvae as it is or by developing new capsules with controlled-release as a possible product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]