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The 1975 Asilomar Conference established risk-appropriate, evidence-based regulations for biotechnology. The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety is a risk-inappropriate, precaution-based regulatory framework that is a significant barrier to biotechnological innovation. There is now a global scientific consensus on the safety of agricultural biotechnology products. Major agricultural biotechnology–producing countries have not adopted the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety. The lack of agricultural biotechnology innovation adoption in some countries raises the risks of food insecurity. Inappropriate and often politicized regulations in many countries have limited the global benefits of agricultural biotechnology. The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety (CPB) has proven to be one of the biggest barriers to biotechnological innovations, especially for food-insecure countries. The global movement of international agreements, such as the CPB, Convention on Biological Diversity, and Global Biodiversity Framework, contribute to the erosion of evidence-based regulation, enabling the development and spread of precaution-based regulatory frameworks. Despite 50 years of accumulated knowledge about the safety of genetic modification technology application since the Asilomar Conference, regulatory requirements are increasing, slowing innovation rates. This article discusses the importance of risk-appropriate regulation for innovation efficiency to avoid precaution-based regulation stifling innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Food Research & Development is the property of Food Research & Development Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Dengue is a serious arbovirus disease transmitted to humans by female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Controlling mosquitoes using synthetic insecticides or indoor sprayings generated serious environmental and health threats, which motivated researchers to develop novel low-risk pest control tools. This work demonstrates a facile low-temperature hydrothermal fabrication of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) and evaluates their mosquitocidal activity against Ae. aegypti. The optical properties, nanocrystalline nature, and monoclinic structure of CuONPs were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). CuONPs exhibited considerable bioactivity against Ae. aegypti in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. After 24 h, 100% mortality of first, second, and third instar larvae and adults was recorded at 20 µg/mL, whereas 40 µg/mL was enough to cause 100% mortality for all larvae and adults. Larval LC50 after 24 h ranged between 4.1 and 11.1 µg/mL and was 6.8 µg/mL against adults. CuONPs were slightly toxic to Eisenia fetida earthworms (LC50 = 2017.3 µg/L) and were safe toward Gambusia affinis, a larvivorous fish. The results provide evidence for the possibility of using CuONPs as an eco-friendly mosquitocidal tool after establishing their mammalian safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing global interest in edible insects as a sustainable protein source has positioned them as a promising solution to food security challenges. In Mexico, entomophagy is deeply embedded in cultural traditions, particularly in Oaxaca, where grasshoppers, leafcutter ants, and red agave worms form an integral part of the region's intangible heritage. This study conducted a bibliometric analysis of global research on edible insects (2009–2023) using Scopus and tools such as VOSviewer and Bibliometrix to analyze 218 publications. The analysis highlighted research trends, influential authors, and key themes, including nutrition, biosafety, and sustainability. To complement the bibliometric study, an exploratory analysis of edible insect commercialization in Oaxaca was conducted, focusing on virtual platforms and local markets. The findings reveal consistent global growth in edible insect research, with Mexico contributing six publications between 2020 and 2023. Despite advancements in safety standards and regulatory frameworks globally, Mexico still lacks formal sanitary controls and regulations for insect-based products. Nevertheless, its diverse commercialization efforts and rich cultural heritage, particularly in Oaxaca, showcase its potential to bridge tradition and innovation. This study highlights the urgent need for regulatory frameworks and research capacity to ensure safety, preserve cultural identity, and sustainably expand Mexico's edible insect market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Layers of Protection Analysis (LOPA) method is a semi-quantitative risk assessment tool that is used to determine the ability of safeguards to protect against unplanned hazardous scenarios. One possible outcome of a LOPA is that existing and proposed safeguards are deemed sufficient to reduce the risk associated with the hazardous scenario to a level that can be deemed as acceptable. Alternatively, the LOPA may also show that the safeguards are insufficient and therefore additional Safety Instrumented Function(s) (SIF) would be required to reduce risk to an acceptable level. In the latter case, the LOPA method will inform the end user as to the reliability requirements of the safety function in question. The LOPA method has been used extensively in the process industries (e.g., oil and gas) as a useful tool to manage and understand risk and to demonstrate if the facility is 'safe' to operate, but much less so in the biosafety sector. This paper describes the LOPA method and provides some practical examples of how it may be applied in microbiological high Containment Level (CL) facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The brown planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens) is a serious pest insect of rice. RNA interference technology for controlling N. lugens has good prospects based on its advantages, such as high species specificity, low potential for environmental pollution, and obvious effects. However, it is necessary to select suitable target genes and design species-specific dsRNA fragments for RNAi so that it can achieve effective pest control and avoid the risk to non-target organisms. In this study, we evaluated three different RNA interfering fragments targeting an autophagy-related gene Atg3 (dsNlAtg3-474×1, dsNlAtg3-138×3 and dsNlAtg3-47×10) of N. lugens and also assessed their effects on non-target species. The results showed that all three dsNlAtg3 fragments were effective against N. lugens. In addition, the effects of dsNlAtg3-47×10 (specifically designed against N. lugens) on another four organisms, including two natural enemies, Dolomedes sulfureus and Tytthus chinensis, were tested. The results showed that the fragment dsNlAtg3-47×10 had no significant effect on the survival or development of non-target organisms. Therefore, the fragment dsNlAtg3-47×10 has good potential to be developed as insecticide for controlling N. lugens. The brown planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens) is an insect pest of rice, which mainly feeds on the phloem sap of the leaf sheath. RNA interference (RNAi) has application prospects in pest control, but it is necessary to select target genes and design suitable dsRNA fragments for RNAi so that it can achieve effective pest control and avoid risks to non-target organisms. NlAtg3 is a key protein in the autophagy pathway of N. lugens. Three kinds of dsRNA fragments of the NlAtg3 gene (dsNlAtg3-474×1, dsNlAtg3-138×3 and dsNlAtg3-47×10) were designed to compare the RNAi efficiency and specificity against the target insect N. lugens and non-target organisms through microinjection. The results showed that the fragment dsNlAtg3-474×1 showed strong inhibitory effects on the survival of N. lugens, which resulted in the survival rate decreasing to zero on the fifth day, while the survival rate of a closely related species, Sogatella furcifera, dropped to 2.22%. In contrast, dsNlAtg3-47×10 specifically designed against N. lugens only showed slight or no inhibitory effects on S. furcifera and other non-target organisms such as Drosophila melanogaster, but still showed good lethal effects against N. lugens, with the survival rate dropping to 18.89% on the ninth day. In addition, after being fed N. lugens injected with dsNlAtg3-47×10 fragments, the survival rate of the natural enemies Dolomedes sulfureus and Tytthus chinensis did not show significant change, compared with those treated with the dsGFP control. Our results suggest that the NlAtg3 gene can serve as a potential target for controlling N. lugens. Moreover, by designing suitable RNAi fragments, it is possible to avoid harm to non-target organisms while effectively inhibiting the target insect N. lugens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Research on carbon nanomaterials in the biomedical field is booming, and related scientific research results are increasing year by year. However, visualization analysis of the annual number of publications, the research status of countries, institutions, authors, and research hotspots and trends in this field is relatively scarce. OBJECTIVE: To present the research status of carbon nanomaterials in biomedical field, reveal the main research subjects, explore the research hotspots and development trends, and provide a reference for the future development of this field. METHODS: The core data set of Web of Science was used as the literature source to search the relevant researches on carbon nanomaterials in the biomedical field from 2012 to 2023. The knowledge map was generated by using Citespace software with countries, institutions, authors, keywords, and co-citations as nodes and for visualization analysis. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) A total of 2 932 papers were included in this study. In the medical field, carbon nanomaterials had a large number of papers and a fast growth rate. The United States has a large number of papers; China is an emerging force in this field, although the number of papers is the largest, but the level of research and influence need to be improved. The Chinese Academy of Sciences is the largest cooperative network institution, which mainly targets domestic institutions and lacks cooperation with well-known foreign institutions. (2) Keyword analysis displays that the green synthesis method and application of displaying carbon points have been the focus of research, followed by the new method of combining carbon nanomaterials with cancer phototherapy and immunotherapy, the key direction of future research. (3) The dynamic development trend of co-citations suggests that tissue engineering is a hot research topic of carbon nanomaterials in the field of biomedicine, mainly including the research of carbon nanomaterials for the repair and regeneration of heart and nerve tissue and as a bio-ink additive for 3D and 4D bioprinting. (4) In the future, with the development of the biomedical field in the direction of precision and treatment, researchers should speed up the creation of carbon-based systems formed by the combination of scientific and effective carbon nanomaterials with science and technology, new polymers or organic molecules, and new therapeutic methods, so as to give full play to the maximum effect of carbon nanomaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to verify the effects of astaxanthin microcapsules on the growth, physiology, and nutritional value of Cyprinus carpio (C. carpio), and evaluate the feasibility and safety of microcapsule technology in aquaculture. In this experiment, natural and synthetic astaxanthin were encapsulated in microcapsules, with empty microcapsules used as a control, and C. carpio was fed these diets for 8 weeks. Growth, muscle quality, and the antioxidant system were then assessed. The results showed that (1) the weight gain rate (WGR), specific growth rate (SGR), and condition factor (K) in group A (natural astaxanthin) and group B (synthetic astaxanthin) were significantly higher than those in the control group, with no significant differences in viscerosomatic index (VSI) or hepatosomatic index (HSI) across the groups. (2) Astaxanthin supplementation enhanced the antioxidant activity in the hepatopancreas of C. carpio. Total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activity significantly increased, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels decreased, while no significant changes were observed in total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) or catalase (CAT) activity. The sod1 and gpx1a genes were significantly upregulated in group A. (3) Astaxanthin also improved muscle nutritional quality by significantly increasing crude protein content, reducing crude ash content, and enhancing water-holding capacity. Amino acid and fatty acid composition also showed improvement. Overall, this study suggests that natural astaxanthin may be superior to synthetic astaxanthin, and provides preliminary evidence that self-made astaxanthin microcapsules are safe for future aquaculture, offering a scientific basis for sustainable and eco-friendly aquaculture practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To seek out the targeting of Escherichia coli outer membrane vesicles (E. coli OMVs) in breast tumor-bearing mice and their biosafety in healthy mice. Ultrafiltration in conjunction with ultracentrifugation was utilized to concentrate E. coli OMVs, and characterize them. Subcutaneous breast tumors were induced in BALB/c mice to serve as an experimental model, and the biodistribution of E. coli OMVs in both tumor-bearing and healthy mice was monitored using an in vivo fluorescence imaging system. Utilizing frozen sections, the infiltration of E. coli OMVs in tumor tissues was appraised at the 24-hour post-injection. Healthy BALB/c mice were randomly divided into control group and vesicles group. Following the intravenous injection of E. coli OMVs, monitoring encompassed variations in body weight, blood routine indices, serum levels of AST, ALT, and BUN, organ indices (heart, liver, spleen, lung, and kidney), along with tissue histopathology over a 14-day period. The spherical E. coli OMVs had a diameter of (155.8 ± 3.1) nm and exhibited the expression of outer membrane proteins OmpA and OmpC. Upon assessment, it was evident that the E. coli OMVs persisted in the tumor tissues even 24 h post-injection. An evident decrease in the body weight of the vesicles group, distinct from the control group, was observed on the second day after injection (P < 0.001); in contrast, no considerable differences were noted at subsequent time points (P > 0.05). Following the injection, the vesicles group displayed notable reductions in WBC and PLT as relative to the control group (P < 0.0001) on the initial day, however, there were no noteworthy distinctions as opposed to the control group for other hematological indices; No notable variances in hematological indices between the two groups were observed on the seventh and fourteenth day (P > 0.05). Over the 14 days, no substantial differences were observed in the serum levels of BUN, AST, ALT, and organ indices within the vesicles group as opposed to the control group (P > 0.05). Furthermore, there were no obvious abnormal changes in tissue morphology. 0.5 mg/kg of E. coli OMVs can safely and effectively target 4T1 breast tumor in mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oral diseases with high prevalence worldwide are recognized as severe health problems. Probiotics are used to prevent oral diseases, including dental caries, oral malodor, periodontitis, and subgingival plaque. In this study, we aimed to confirm the antibacterial effect of probiotics on oral pathogens and to assess their characterization and safety as probiotics. Methods: The antibacterial effects of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus MG4706, Lacticaseibacillus paracasei MG4715, and Limosilactobacillus reuteri MG4722 on the growth biofilm formation of Streptococcus mutans, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, and Porphyromonas gingivalis were evaluated. We also investigated the production of antibacterial substances (H2O2 and reuterin) by these strains and their ability to adhere to oral epithelial cells. The safety of L. reuteri MG4722 was verified through whole-genome sequencing analysis and antibiotic susceptibility, lactate dehydrogenase activity, hemolytic activity, and bile acid hydrolase activity. The reuterin biosynthesis genes of L. reuteri MG4722 were identified using genomic analysis. Results: L. reuteri MG4722 significantly inhibited the growth of S. mutans, A. actinomycetemcomitans, and P. gingivalis and suppressed the biofilm formation by A. actinomycetemcomitans. In addition, it showed considerable adhesion ability to oral epithelial cells. L. reuteri MG4722 produced H2O2 and reuterin as antibacterial substances, as confirmed by the presence of genes encoding the antibacterial compounds reuterin, reuteran, and reutericyclin. L. reuteri MG4722 showed no hemolysis, bile salt hydrolase activity, antibiotic resistance or toxicity to HT-29 cells, and no antibiotic-resistance genes were identified. Conclusion: L. reuteri MG4722 demonstrated antibacterial effects on oral pathogens by producing antibacterial substances and adhering to oral epithelial cells. These results suggest that L. reuteri MG4722 could be an effective probiotic for oral health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio‐based 2,3‐butanediol (2,3‐BDO) production on a large scale depends on critical factors, such as culture medium, oxygen supply, pH and biosafety. In this study, three strategies for reducing culture medium costs were investigated: carbon/nitrogen (C/N) ratio; low‐cost nitrogen sources (crude yeast extract, brewer's yeast extract, corn steep liquor, urea, sodium nitrate, ammonium chloride, ammonium sulfate and dibasic ammonium phosphate); and microbial pH autoregulation. Batch fermentations were performed in a microaerobic environment using wild‐type and safe Paenibacillus peoriae NRRL BD 62. The yield and selectivity of 2,3‐BDO were used as control variables. A ratio between 2,3‐BDO production and glucose consumption (YP/S) of almost 80% and an optical purity of 87% levo‐2,3‐BDO, with no acetoin accumulation, were achieved in an NH4Cl‐based medium at C/N = 8.5 g/g and without external pH control, considering an initial glucose of 10 g/L. Based on Free on Board prices, a 63% savings in culture medium costs was achieved by replacing commercial yeast extract at pH 5. Validation assays with higher initial glucose concentrations showed a YP/S of 0.40 g/g and an optical levo‐/meso‐2,3‐BDO ratio of 1:0.8, with negligible acetoin accumulation. Therefore, the NH4Cl‐based medium at C/N = 8.5 g/g and without pH control was considered economically promising for high‐yield and high‐selectivity bio‐based 2,3‐BDO production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Hydrobiology / Shuisheng Shengwu Xuebao is the property of Editorial Department of Journal of Hydrobiology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Cotton Textile Technology is the property of Cotton Textile Technology Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Vaccination has saved millions of lives and is regarded as one of modern medicine’s most important successes. Effective vaccination programs should be based on risk assessment that considers demographic and occupational factors. When developing a vaccination program, it is essential to identify the target groups, including travelers, infants, high-risk workers, and those in critical roles such as farming and agriculture. In biosafety and biosecurity, vaccines are a key component of measures designed to protect laboratory personnel, the community, and the environment. Guidelines from global health organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are tailored to specific pathogens and depend on the type of work performed and the associated risk. These guidelines are continuously revised and updated to ensure the effectiveness of vaccination programs. Vaccines also play a role in One Health approaches that are focused on the interconnectedness of animals, humans, and the environment. Targeted vaccination strategies for both domestic animals and wildlife are necessary to maintain animal health, improve livestock productivity, and prevent the spread of zoonotic and foodborne diseases to humans. In this paper, we aimed to provide an overview regarding the crucial roles of vaccines in biosafety, biosecurity, and One Health approaches, as well as to highlight the importance of targeted and personalized strategies to improve the effectiveness of vaccination programs. Herein, we also discuss various vaccines aimed at specific target groups as recommended by global health organizations, with a particular emphasis on laboratory workers and the vaccines necessary to reduce laboratory-acquired infections. Finally, we discuss animal vaccines and targeted strategies for vaccinating domestic and wildlife populations.

Abstract Background Oral diseases with high prevalence worldwide are recognized as severe health problems. Probiotics are used to prevent oral diseases, including dental caries, oral malodor, periodontitis, and subgingival plaque. In this study, we aimed to confirm the antibacterial effect of probiotics on oral pathogens and to assess their characterization and safety as probiotics. Methods The antibacterial effects of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus MG4706, Lacticaseibacillus paracasei MG4715, and Limosilactobacillus reuteri MG4722 on the growth biofilm formation of Streptococcus mutans, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, and Porphyromonas gingivalis were evaluated. We also investigated the production of antibacterial substances (H2O2 and reuterin) by these strains and their ability to adhere to oral epithelial cells. The safety of L. reuteri MG4722 was verified through whole-genome sequencing analysis and antibiotic susceptibility, lactate dehydrogenase activity, hemolytic activity, and bile acid hydrolase activity. The reuterin biosynthesis genes of L. reuteri MG4722 were identified using genomic analysis. Results L. reuteri MG4722 significantly inhibited the growth of S. mutans, A. actinomycetemcomitans, and P. gingivalis and suppressed the biofilm formation by A. actinomycetemcomitans. In addition, it showed considerable adhesion ability to oral epithelial cells. L. reuteri MG4722 produced H2O2 and reuterin as antibacterial substances, as confirmed by the presence of genes encoding the antibacterial compounds reuterin, reuteran, and reutericyclin. L. reuteri MG4722 showed no hemolysis, bile salt hydrolase activity, antibiotic resistance or toxicity to HT-29 cells, and no antibiotic-resistance genes were identified. Conclusion L. reuteri MG4722 demonstrated antibacterial effects on oral pathogens by producing antibacterial substances and adhering to oral epithelial cells. These results suggest that L. reuteri MG4722 could be an effective probiotic for oral health.

BACKGROUND: Mn can participate in oxidation-reduction reactions in various organisms. For example, as a metal-assisted group in superoxide dismutase 2, Mn plays a role in helping to remove reactive oxygen species. Therefore, the development of novel anti-oxidative stress materials containing Mn has become a research focus in recent years. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the protective effect of Mn bioceramic powder material on oxidative stress damage to chondrocytes by reducing the reactive oxygen species pathway. METHODS: Bioceramic powders containing Mn were prepared by molten salt method. Primary mouse chondrocytes were isolated and cultured. Bioceramic powder containing 0, 0.15, and 0.30 mg/mL of Mn was added into H2O2 solution. The H2O2 clearance rate was detected after incubation without light. The passage 2 to passage 4 chondrocytes were co-cultured with complete media containing Mn-containing bioceramic powder with different mass concentrations (0, 0.15, and 0.30 mg/mL). Cell viability was detected by cell live/dead staining. The passage 2-4 chondrocytes (or cartilage tissue) were divided into four groups for intervention: Complete culture medium was added to the blank control group. The H2O2 group was added and cultured with complete medium containing H2O2. H2O2+low mass concentration Mn powder group was cultured by adding H2O2+0.15 mg /mL Mn-containing bioceramic powder. The complete medium containing H2O2+0.30 mg/mL Mn-containing bioceramic powder was added to the H2O2+high mass concentration Mn powder group. Viability of chondrocytes was detected by CCK-8 assay. Generation of reactive oxygen species of chondrocytes was detected by 2,7-dichlorofluorescein diacetate probe. Expression of chondrocyte-related factors was detected by qRT-PCR. The tissue structure and function of cartilage were detected by toluidine blue staining. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Both doses of Mn-containing bioceramic powders could significantly remove H2O2 in vitro, and they were concentration dependent. The results of cell live/death staining showed that 0.15 mg/mL bioceramic powder containing Mn had chondrocyte safety, and 0.30 mg/mL bioceramic powder containing Mn had chondrocytotoxicity. (2) The results of CCK-8 assay showed that the two mass concentrations of Mn-containing bioceramic powders could significantly reduce the inhibitory effect of H2O2 on chondrocyte viability, and inhibit the generation of reactive oxygen species induced by H2O2 in chondrocytes in a mass concentration dependent manner. Both kinds of Mn-containing bioceramic powders could reverse the H2O2- induced increase of mRNA expression of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs-5 and decrease of proteoglycan mRNA expression in chondrocytes. (3) Toluidine blue staining results showed that both concentrations of Mn-containing bioceramic powder could protect the integrity of cartilage tissue structure under oxidative stress, and 0.30 mg/mL of Mn-containing bioceramic powder could also reduce the functional damage of cartilage tissue. (4) The results indicate that the Mn-containing bioceramic powder can protect chondrocytes under oxidative stress by clearing reactive oxygen species, maintaining the extracellular matrix homeostasis. However, 0.30 mg/mL Mn-containing bioceramic powder has certain chondrocytotoxicity, so 0.15 mg/mL Mn-containing bioceramic powder is preferred for follow-up studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The greater wax moth, Galleria mellonella L., is a noxious pest in beekeeping, causing huge economic loss by weakening the colonies and reducing honey production. Present wax moth management techniques are ineffective, potentially leading to the loss of bee colonies. Utilization of Bacillus thuringiensis is emerging as a sustainable practice for managing G. mellonella. Hence, in the present study, five B. thuringiensis isolates were isolated from soil samples and a G. mellonella cadaver, and all the isolates were characterized for morphological and molecular characteristics. The in vitro bioassay studies showed strain NBAIR BtVGa2 isolated from G. mellonella cadaver is very effective against wax moth second instar larvae with a lower LC50 value of 5.40 μg/mL as compared to other B. thuringiensis strains. Biosafety studies showed NBAIR BtVGa2 is 97% safer for larvae and adults of honeybees since the strain does not consist of any hymenopteran-specific insecticidal genes. The plasmid sequencing of NBAIR BtVGa2 generated 891,714 paired-end reads with 34.13% GC content and a 0.89-Mbp genome size, along with 903 protein-coding genes with a single tRNA. The plasmid profiling of NBAIR BtVGa2 identified many insecticidal genes, viz., cry1Ac5, cry2Aa9, Zwa5A, Zwa5B, Zwa6, mpp46Ab1, and vpb4Ca1, in which mpp46Ab1 and vpb4Ca1 were novel genes with only 33.61 and 66.42% sequence similarity, respectively. The presence of these genes was validated by PCR amplification, and the structure of these insecticidal genes has also been predicted. Overall, the study identified a highly efficient strain of B. thuringiensis for the biological management of G. mellonella. The study also deciphered molecular mechanisms behind the efficiency of the NBAIR BtVGa2 strain. The study opened the path for the biological method of management of G. mellonella considering the safety of honeybees. Depicting molecular mechanism behind biocontrol potential of Bacillus thuringiensis strain NBAIR BtVGa2 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agri-biotech promotes genetically modified organisms (GMO) as solutions to achieve food security by increasing yields, reducing pesticide use through genetically introduced resistance to herbicides and as strategy for climate change mitigation and adaptation. After 30 years of biotechnological crops, these proposals have failed on their pledges, while the risk assessment, non-considered outcomes to the environment, biodiversity and health have been overlooked. New Plant-Breeding Technologies (NPBTs), with the capacity of inserting, deleting, or modifying DNA or RNA nucleotides in specific genetic regions have emerged in the last 15 years. The most prominent technique used to edit genomes is CRISPR-Cas. Its proponents argue that mutations introduced via genome editing pose no risk to the environment and/or human health; thus, these products should be exempted from any regulation, risk assessment, traceability and labeling, a push that would actually restrict the freedom to choose of farmers and consumers. Our work summarizes the outcomes reported in the scientific literature on the use of gene editing tools in food crops. We discuss perspectives for upgrading biosafety governance of these new GMO in order to promote the autonomy of farmers, away from positivist techno-scientific fixes that downplay the systemic crises in which industrial agriculture plays a major role [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Listeriosis is one of the most severe gastrointestinal diseases in the world. Listeria affect different groups of animals and birds. The pathogen has been detected in meat, milk, fish and fish products. The disease shows spring and autumn seasonality. It has been reliably established that Listeria monocytogenes is ubiquitous in the environment. Listeria monocytogenes is a facultative intracellular pathogen. Infection with Listeria monocytogenes causes an invasive disease in animals and humans, which is transmitted via the fecal-oral route from an animal to a human, from a mother to a fetus. The pathogenesis of Listeria infection has been well studied. The gastrointestinal tract is the site of the pathogenic Listeria species transit and spread. The infection incubation period is 20–30 days in animals and humans. The clinical course in different animal species, including birds, has a number of specific features. Listeria can cross the intestinal, placental and blood-brain barriers. The manifestations of listeriosis include encephalitis, meningitis, gastritis, meningoencephalitis, mastitis, abortions, endometritis, etc. Pathogenic Listeria species show hemolytic activity which non-pathogenic species (except Listeria seeligeri) lack. The review presents the up-to-date information on the classification of Listeria, the pathogenicity factors of Listeria monocytogenes as the major pathogen, the mechanisms of Listeria infection development in different animal species.

The COVID-19 pandemic has not only posed an unprecedented health crisis but has also escalated into a critical geo-political and political issue worldwide. This paper analyzes the origins of SARS-CoV-2, examining zoonotic drift patterns and the controversial role of gain-of-function (GoF) research. The zoonotic spillover hypothesis, emphasizing the virus’s natural emergence, and the lab-origin hypothesis, exploring its potential laboratory escape, are critically evaluated. Understanding the virus’s origins is crucial for strengthening global health policies, biosafety regulations, and pandemic preparedness. The pandemic’s global socio-political implications highlight the urgency for international cooperation and transparency to mitigate future health and security challenges.

Abstract Background Staphylococcus aureus is a leading cause of death, especially among the elderly. This bacterium produces several surface membrane proteins, with staphylococcal protein A (SpA) being particularly important. Despite its prevalence, there are no targeted treatments available for geriatric patients. In homeopathy, Rhus toxicodendron (RT) is frequently used in various dilutions-Mother Tincture (MT), 6CH, 30CH, and 200CH- for conditions like skin infections, soft tissue disorders, and joint ailments. Methods In this study, we evaluated the effects of Rhus toxicodendron (RT) at different concentrations on Staphylococcus aureus through bacterial plate cultures and compared the outcomes with Nano-RT. Notably, Nano-RT MT is not commercially available. This research is the first to showcase both the efficacy and biosafety of the innovative nano-ZnO RT MT homeopathic formulation. Results This study examined the inhibitory effects of Rhus toxicodendron in its Mother Tincture (MT) form and in 6CH, 30CH, and 200CH dilutions against Staphylococcus aureus. Nano-ZnO was synthesized from Rhus toxicodendron MT and combined to create Nano-MT. Both Rhus Tox MT and Nano-RT MT demonstrated significant inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus within 24 h of application. Conclusions Rhus Tox MT and Nano-RT MT present promising new options for treating Staphylococcus aureus infections in elderly patients. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated that Nano-RT MT is completely biologically safe in mice.

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) surveillance for influenza A virus (IAV) in the United States is conducted using a National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN) real-time reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR). Samples showing the presence of IAV are confirmed and characterized at the national reference laboratory. During the H5N1 HPAI outbreak in 2022, our laboratory reported the detection of IAV in a PA commercial chicken flock using rRT-PCR targeting the matrix gene, which was negative for the H5/H7 subtypes. IAV was not detected by additional sampling of the birds the following day with rRT-PCR. The virus detected was characterized as a human seasonal H3N2 with whole-genome sequencing (WGS). Further investigation revealed that the collector who visited the farm was diagnosed with an IAV infection. This case report emphasizes the importance of farm biosafety and biosecurity, of conducting regular reviews of worker safety protocols, and of advanced molecular techniques like WGS for viral characterization and epidemiology.

Abstract Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) have the potential to be utilized in a multitude of fields, including biomedicine. Consequently, the potential health risks associated with their use must be carefully considered. Most biosafety evaluations of IONPs have focused on examining the impact of the material’s distinctive physicochemical attributes. However, the specific attributes of individual cells are frequently disregarded, particularly under the oxidative stress conditions. This may result in an underestimation of potential risk and impede the clinical translation of IONPs. The present study thus sought to evaluate the potential cytotoxicity and underlying mechanisms of IONPs in a pathological state characterized by mild oxidative stress. A cell model of mild oxidative stress was initially established in vitro. Subsequently, a series of indicators, including cell viability, live/dead ratio, mitochondrial membrane potential, and oxidative damage, were measured to assess the cytotoxicity of IONPs. Finally, a series of ferroptosis regulators were used to elucidate the involvement of ferroptosis. Preincubation with IONPs resulted in a significant reduction in cellular viability, morphological degeneration, elevated numbers of dead cells, impaired mitochondrial function, and increased oxidative damage under mild oxidative stress conditions in vitro. The cytotoxic effects of IONPs under mild oxidative stress are largely dependent on ROS and iron ions and are strongly associated with ferroptosis, which is based on the effects of ferroptosis regulators. The present in vitro study indicated that IONPs are toxic to cells under mild oxidative stress, which is linked to ferroptosis.

The Kingdom of Eswatini is a Party to the Convention on Biological Diversity and to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety. As Party, Eswatini has domesticated these agreements by passing the Biosafety Act, of 2012 to provide for the safe handling, transfer, and use of living modified organisms (LMOs) in the country. The Act regulates living modified organisms to be used for confined field trials, commercial release, import, export, and transit, and for food, feed, and processing. Guidance is provided for prospective applicants before any application is made to the Competent Authority. This framework also provides for the regulation of emerging technologies such as synthetic biology and genome editing. The regulatory framework for living modified organisms aims to provide an enabling environment for the precautionary use of modern biotechnology and its products in the country in order to safeguard biological diversity and human health.

The problem of biological safety is extremely relevant today for all countries of the world because of the real and potential threats caused by biological agents that are dangerous to public health and the environment. Modern microorganisms are becoming increasingly aggressive towards humans, as clearly demonstrated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has affected all aspects of people's lives and exposed the vulnerability of the healthcare system. According to the Decree of the President of the Russian Federation «On the Fundamentals of the State policy of the Russian Federation in the field of chemical and biological safety for the period up to 2025 and beyond» and the Federal Law «On Biological Safety in the Russian Federation», the main objectives of state policy are to reduce the risks of negative effects of biological factors on the population and the environment. Antimicrobial resistance, the emergence of new infections and the overcoming of interspecific barriers by microorganisms are of particular concern. Infectious disease agents with epidemic potential, such as Ebola, Zika, Marburg, Lassa, MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV viruses, continue to pose a high threat. To counteract new biological threats, Russia has created a scientific concept of future biosafety, focusing on the development of genomic epidemiological surveillance, digital transformation and mobile technologies. Effective management of epidemic processes requires constant monitoring of genetic changes in infectious agents and prompt response to new threats, which allows the VGARus platform created in Russia to monitor virus mutations. Thus, genomic epidemiological surveillance is becoming a key element of ensuring biological safety and scientific and technological development in Russia.

The purpose of the study was to analyse in depth the role of agrolandscapes in ensuring environmental safety and to investigate their impact on the environment, with a special emphasis on aspects of biodiversity, soil protection, and water management. The study covered a wide range of activities, including the collection and systematisation of scientific materials, a comparative analysis of different management approaches, and the development of a theoretical model of environmental safety that allows assessing the effectiveness of existing practices. The main results of the study indicated that agrolandscapes characterised by a high level of integration of natural elements and agricultural components can provide a significantly higher level of biodiversity compared to less integrated counterparts. In particular, forest and forest-steppe agrolandscapes have proven to be the most effective in conserving species, which is critical for maintaining ecological balance. However, steppe and dry steppe landscapes require urgent and comprehensive measures to improve the state of biodiversity, as their ecological sustainability is under threat. Thus, the results of the study emphasised the need to introduce innovative approaches to agrolandscape management that can contribute to the conservation of natural resources and improve environmental safety. The developed theoretical model revealed that the most sustainable agrolandscapes are those where natural ecosystems are harmoniously combined with agricultural land. The results confirmed the hypothesis that effective management of agrolandscapes contributes to improving environmental safety and reducing negative environmental impacts, in particular, by controlling erosion and managing water resources. The conclusions emphasised the need to implement agroforestry, support environmental approaches in policies and a system of monitoring the state of agrolandscapes for the sustainable development of agricultural regions, which would facilitate adaptation to the challenges of climate change

Abstract Objective This study aims to investigate the biocompatibility and pharmacokinetic characteristics of polyvinyl pyrrolidone-modified selenium nanoparticles (PVP-Se NPs). Understanding the biosafety of PVP-Se NPs is crucial due to their potential applications in mitigating oxidative stress-related diseases and improving drug delivery systems. Methods Selenium nanoparticles were prepared using a sodium selenite solution, followed by PVP modification. Particle size analysis was conducted using dynamic light scattering (DLS), and particle morphology was observed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Different concentrations of PVP-Se NPs were intraperitoneally injected into SD rats, and the survival rate was observed. Liver and kidney tissues, urine, feces, and blood samples were collected at the highest safe dose, and the concentration of selenium ions was measured. Results The average particle size of PVP-Se NPs was 278.4 ± 124.8 nm, exhibiting a semi-spherical shape. The maximum safe dose of PVP-Se NPs for intraperitoneal injection in rats was approximately 320 µg/kg. At this dose, the content of PVP-Se NPs significantly increased in the liver and kidney tissues from day 1 to day 3, in urine and feces during the first 8 h, and in blood during the first 2 h, followed by a gradual decrease. Conclusion When administered at a safe dose, PVP-Se NPs do not damage liver and kidney tissues and can be eliminated from the body through liver and kidney metabolism without accumulation.

Abstract The study aims to improve the antimicrobial and remineralization-promoting properties of mouthwash by synthesizing novel Ag/ZnO/Oyster Shells nanocomposites and evaluating their anti-caries properties and biosafety in vitro and in vivo, so as to reduce the incidence of caries. The antimicrobial properties of the synthesized Ag/ZnO/Oyster Shell nanocomposites were examined by bacterial inhibition zone, minimum inhibitory concentration, minimum bactericidal concentration, fluorescence staining and scanning electron microscopy. The potential of the materials to promote remineralization of demineralized enamel was detected by scanning electron microscopy, surface microhardness and depth of hard tissue defects, and laser confocal electron microscopy analysis. The synthesized materials were then incorporated into mouthwash, and their effects on antimicrobial properties, remineralization-promoting properties were evaluated. Furthermore, an oral mucosal contact model was established to assess local irritation and systemic effects. The results showed that the novel Ag/ZnO/Oyster Shell nanocomposites possessed strong antimicrobial activity, remineralization-promoting ability and good biosafety, and the mouthwash containing Ag/ZnO/Oyster Shell possessed strong antimicrobial performance and remineralization-promoting ability, and showed no obvious abnormalities in local mucosal tissues, blood indices, and histopathology of the liver and kidneys in the oral exposure model of the SD rats. These findings indicate that Ag/ZnO/Oyster shell incorporated into mouthwash has strong antimicrobial activity, good remineralization-promoting properties and good biosafety in vivo. It is therefore expected to be used in clinical applications.

The community service aims to introduce the application of biosafety and biosecurity and provide the ability to recognize livestock diseases simply with the participatory rural appraisal (PRA) method in reducing the transmission of livestock diseases in East Lombok Regency. The implementation methods of the activities include a survey of the service location to identify problems, socialization of the program activity to the target community, education about biosecurity and biosafety, and an introduction to simple livestock disease detection based on community participation with PRA, then continued with training on applying simple biosecurity and biosafety and simple livestock disease detection methods with PRA proportional piling and matrix scoring methods. The data of PRA proportional piling and matrix scoring based on disease symptom data will be mapped and ranked using descriptive analysis. The results of this community service were obtained from members of The Pade Angen II Livestock Group could use personal protective equipment (PPE) correctly by 80%. The detection of disease based on symptoms using the proportional piling and matrix scoring methods obtained repeat breeding events with symptoms of repeated mating of 21%, helminthiasis with symptoms of worms of 14%, itching of 4%, diarrhea of 4%, and scabies with symptoms of itching of 8%. Foot and mouth disease was also still found with symptoms of wounds on the feet and salivation of 11%, miscarriage of 4% and fever of 1%, coccidiosis with symptoms of bloody diarrhea of 10%, colibacillosis with symptoms of diarrhea of 6%, bloat with symptoms of bloating of 3% and fever of 1%.

Introduction: environmental security, is a necessary condition for the health and continuity of human life on earth and due to the vital, widespread and inevitable dependence of humans on the environment, if the environmental security is taken away and it is removed from the possibility of healthy living, as a result of the goal or the means of placing the environment, following environmental terrorism, with various methods such as polluting the natural and man-made environment with dangerous substances, extensive and irreparable damage is caused to human life and health And often, the most obvious effects of damage to the safety and health of the environment appear in the form of epidemics, and on the other hand, the cross-border effects of such actions and the possibility of transferring the said effects from through the flow of air or water or the carriers of disease agents to countries and regions beyond the place of the accident, and the possibility of spreading some of these effects on the life and health of future generations, reveals the seriousness of the danger of environmental terrorism, hence, The purpose of this thesis is to explain the vital necessity of legal, technical and specialized contrast, against environmental terrorism in the form of an efficient criminal policy with international interaction, with emphasizing the extent and irreparability of the effects caused by environmental terrorism, and the necessity and importance of preventive measures.Materials and Methods: In terms of the goal, the current research will cause expansion the legal theories and doctrine and complete the previous theories with the fundamental method of the research results, and also with the practical approach, effective practical solutions to deal with environmental terrorism will be presented, and on the other hand, the materials and information used in the research, They are collected with the library method and after collecting and categorizing the materials and information, with the descriptive-analytical method, the findings and the collected materials are analyzed logically and legally and they are used as the basis of citation to strengthen the approach of the researcher in the relevant subject.Results: In a comprehensive and efficient criminal policy to contrast against environmental terrorism, in addition to criminalizing this criminal phenomenon along with the real conceptology and in addition to recognizing its specific elements, it is expected that with the necessary criminal measures, specialized measures will be taken to identify and criminalize behaviors that it has a preliminary aspect to dangerous crimes, and it is possible that environmental terrorism is also committed through them, and therefore, in order to prevent this criminal phenomenon, criminalize such behaviors in the form of obstruction crimes seems necessary.Discussion: In Iran's criminal system, environmental terrorism has not been considered as an independent criminal behavior, with specific elements and specific conditions, However, due to the inherent of the behaviors related to environmental terrorism, this type of terrorism is inherently reprehensible, and as a rule, it can be included in various legal elements in the criminal laws, and on the other hand, due to the analogy of some elements of this criminal phenomenon with the destruction of the earth, According to jurisprudence, significant examples of environmental terrorism behaviors can be considered as examples of corruption in the land subject to Article 286 of the Islamic Penal Code (approved in 2012). However, in the set of regulations in various fields, some deterrent criminal contrivances are visible in the form of obstruction crimes, which are effective in the process of preventing environmental terrorism and play an effective role in the effectiveness of the criminal policy of counteraction.

Biosafety hazards can trigger a host immune response after infection, invasion, or contact with the host. Whether infection with a microorganism results in disease or biosafety concerns depends to a large extent on the immune status of the population. Therefore, it is essential to investigate the immunological characteristics of the host and the mechanisms of biological threats and agents to protect the host more effectively. Emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, such as the current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, have raised concerns regarding both biosafety and immunology worldwide. Interdisciplinary studies involved in biosafety and immunology are relevant in many fields, including the development of vaccines and other immune interventions such as monoclonal antibodies and T-cells, herd immunity (or population-level barrier immunity), immunopathology, and multispecies immunity, i.e., animals and even plants. Meanwhile, advances in immunological science and technology are occurring rapidly, resulting in important research achievements that may contribute to the recognition of emerging biosafety hazards, as well as early warning, prevention, and defense systems. This review provides an overview of the interdisciplinary field of biosafety and immunology. Close collaboration and innovative application of immunology in the field of biosafety is becoming essential for human health.

Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) have the potential to be utilized in a multitude of fields, including biomedicine. Consequently, the potential health risks associated with their use must be carefully considered. Most biosafety evaluations of IONPs have focused on examining the impact of the material's distinctive physicochemical attributes. However, the specific attributes of individual cells are frequently disregarded, particularly under the oxidative stress conditions. This may result in an underestimation of potential risk and impede the clinical translation of IONPs. The present study thus sought to evaluate the potential cytotoxicity and underlying mechanisms of IONPs in a pathological state characterized by mild oxidative stress. A cell model of mild oxidative stress was initially established in vitro. Subsequently, a series of indicators, including cell viability, live/dead ratio, mitochondrial membrane potential, and oxidative damage, were measured to assess the cytotoxicity of IONPs. Finally, a series of ferroptosis regulators were used to elucidate the involvement of ferroptosis. Preincubation with IONPs resulted in a significant reduction in cellular viability, morphological degeneration, elevated numbers of dead cells, impaired mitochondrial function, and increased oxidative damage under mild oxidative stress conditions in vitro. The cytotoxic effects of IONPs under mild oxidative stress are largely dependent on ROS and iron ions and are strongly associated with ferroptosis, which is based on the effects of ferroptosis regulators. The present in vitro study indicated that IONPs are toxic to cells under mild oxidative stress, which is linked to ferroptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sclerotinia sclerotiorum is one of the fungi that cause plant diseases. It damages plants by secreting large amounts of oxalic acid and cell wall-degrading enzymes. To meet this challenge, we designed a new pH/enzyme dual-responsive nanopesticide Pro@ZnO@Pectin (PZP). This nanopesticide uses zinc oxide (ZnO) as a carrier of prochloraz (Pro) and is encapsulated with pectin. When encountering oxalic acid released by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, the acidic environment promotes the decomposition of ZnO; at the same time, the pectinase produced by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum can also decompose the outer pectin layer of PZP, thereby promoting the effective release of the active ingredient. Experimental data showed that PZP was able to achieve an efficient release rate of 57.25% and 68.46% when pectinase was added or under acidic conditions, respectively. In addition, in vitro tests showed that the antifungal effect of PZP was comparable to that of the commercial Pro (Pro SC) on the market, and its efficacy was 1.40 times and 1.32 times that of the Pro original drug (Pro TC), respectively. Crucially, the application of PZP significantly alleviated the detrimental impacts of Pro on wheat development. Soil wetting experiments have proved that PZP primarily remained in the soil, thereby decreasing its likelihood of contaminating water sources and reducing potential risks to non-target organisms. Moreover, PZP improved the foliar wettability of Pro, lowering the contact angle to 75.06°. Residue analyses indicated that PZP did not elevate prochloraz residue levels in tomato fruits compared to conventional applications, indicating that the nanopesticide formulation does not lead to excessive pesticide buildup. In summary, the nanopesticide PZP shows great promise for effectively managing Sclerotinia sclerotiorum while minimizing environmental impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]