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Bisphenol A (BPA) is an industrial toxicant that can potentially damage the liver. Tangeretin (TGN) is a natural flavonoid that displays various pharmacological activities. This experiment was carried out to evaluate the protective effects of TGN against BPA-induced hepatic impairment in the male albino rat. Twenty-four male albino rats were equally divided into four different groups: control, BPA (100mg/kg), BPA+ TGN (100mg/kg+50mg/kg) and TGN (50mg/kg). BPA exposure significantly decreased the activities of catalase (CAT), superoxidase dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), glutathione reductase (GSR), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and glutathione (GSH) content while substantially increasing the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) levels. A substantial increase in the levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) was also observed in BPA treated rats. Moreover, BPA significantly increased the inflammatory markers, including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Interleukin-1β (IL-1β)levels, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) activity, and histopathological damages. However, co-treatment with TGN efficiently minimized the BPA-induced biochemical, inflammatory, and histopathological impairments in rat liver. The present study shows that TNG has significant potential to avert BPA-induced liver damage to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Since the epidemic began in November 2019, no viable medicine against SARS-CoV-2 has been discovered. The typical medication discovery strategy requires several years of rigorous research and development as well as a significant financial commitment, which is not feasible in the face of the current epidemic. Through molecular docking and dynamic simulation studies, we used the FDA-approved drug mezonavir against the most important viral targets, including spike (S) glycoprotein, Transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2), RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), Main protease (Mpro), human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2), and furin. These targets are critical for viral replication and infection propagation because they play a key role in replication/transcription and host cell recognition. Molecular docking revealed that the antiviral medication mozenavir showed a stronger affinity for SARS-CoV-2 target proteins than reference medicines in this investigation. We discovered that mozenavir increases the complex's stability and validates the molecular docking findings using molecular dynamics modeling. Furin, a target protein of COVID-19, has a greater binding affinity (-12.04 kcal/mol) than other COVID-19 target proteins, forming different hydrogen bonds and polar and hydrophobic interactions, suggesting that it might be used as an antiviral treatment against SARS-CoV-2. Overall, the present in silico results will be valuable in identifying crucial targets for subsequent experimental investigations that might help combat COVID-19 by blocking the protease furin's proteolytic activity.

The cytotoxicity in freshwater fishes due to different industrial dyes in industrial effluents is a major worldwide issue. Hematoxylin dye has a wide range of uses in textile industries and laboratories. This study was aimed to evaluate the toxic effects of hematoxylin's sublethal effect in vitro in Cirrhinus mrigala. The fish was exposed to different grading concentrations of dye in the aquarium. Fish were sacrificed and dissected to remove the kidney after exposure to hematoxylin dye for specific time intervals. Nephrotoxicity and cytotoxicity induced by this dye were detected through histopathology by using the paraffin wax method. Immediate mortality of fish was noticed against the exposure to 0.08 g/L (LC50) concentration of dye, but at 0.008 mg/L and 0.018 mg/L, it showed tremendous tissue damage in the kidneys, significant reduction in fish growth. This dye induced many alterations in the kidney such as tubular degeneration, vacuolation, shrinkage of a glomerulus, reduced lumen, congestion in the kidney, glomerulonephritis, absence of Bowmen space, necrosis of the hematopoietic interstitial tissues, clogging of tubules, necrosis in the glomerulus and increased space between glomerulus and bowmen's capsule. Although this dye has a wide range of biological and industrial applications, a minute amount of hematoxylin released in effluents is quite toxic to aquatic fauna.

This study presents ethanol's fabrication by fermenting the golden trumpet flower (Allamanda schottii L) with the yeast strain Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The changes in different parameters during fermentation were studied and optimized while producing the ethanol and the end product was subjected to emission test study by blending petrol and ethanol. The Allamanda floral substrate contains 65% polysaccharides. The strain S. cerevisiae was obtained in the form of baker’s yeast from a domestic shop. For 100 ml of slurry, the highest bioethanol yield recorded was about 18.75 ml via optimization of different culture conditions, including a 1:8 ratio for slurry preparation, maintained under 35 ⁰C, 5.5 pH, 72 h. old inoculum with a quantity of 3.75 g 100 ml−1, fermented for120 h. The highest yield of bioethanol was acquired under the addition of urea. This technique & design is capable of industrial-scale fabrication of bioethanol by using A. schottii floral substrates. This research was conducted to fabricate ethanol by fermentation (A. schottii L) floral substrate with S. cerevisiae. The optimum physiochemical parameters required to obtain the highest yield of bioethanol from A. schottii flower by fermentation was studied. The immobilization strategy with a cheap agricultural substrate and magnetic nanoparticles were also studied. The engine performance and emission studies were done with different blends of petrol and bio-ethanol.

Pollution is severely threatening the wetland habitats. Heavy metals are one among of the major pollutants in wetland habitats. The cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), cobalt (Co), lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), nickel (Ni) and zinc (Zn), were assessed in the water, sediment, benthic species (polychaetes, mollusc and crustaceans), prawn and fishes. The assessment of heavy metals was done by using double-beam Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). The Hg, Cr and Co were greater in sediment, Ni and Cd were higher in polychaetes and molluscs respectively. However, the Cu and Pb greater in crabs and the Zinc was greater in fishes. The concentration of metals showed significant differences among the various sources examined (P 0.05). The inter-correlational analysis among the metals assessed from the various sources showed that the Cr and Pb not correlated among the eight metals examined. However, the Cu and Co were correlated with Hg (r = 0.307) and (r = 0.788) respectively. The nickel was correlated with Hg (r = 0.367), Cu (r = 0.362) and Co (r = 0.432). The Zinc was correlated with the Cd (r = 0.331) and Hg (r = 0.737). However, correlation of metals among the different sources shown that the metals of polychaetes correlated with sediment r = 0.637, the metals of crabs correlated with the sediment and polychaetes r = 0.630 and r = 842 respectively, the metals of molluscs was also correlated with sediment (r = 0.636), polychaetes (r = 0.889) and crabs (r = 0.894). In addition to that the metals of prawns was correlated with the polychaetes (r = 839), crabs (r = 0.628) and molluscs (r = 0.634). The metals of fishes correlated with polychaetes (r = 0.529), crabs (r = 0.710), molluscs (r = 0.493) and prawns (r = 0.593). Indeed the multiple regression model explained that the metals of sediments influence the accumulation of metals in biotic species such as polychaetes, molluscs, crustaceans, prawns and fishes with 84% (F = 21.079; p Pb > Ni > Cr > Zn > Co > Cu > Cd. The study found that the level of heavy metals at various sources in the sanctuary is showing considerable warning and the sanctuary is required intensive assessment on various aspects of pollution since the Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary is supporting several species of migratory and endangered shorebirds seasonally.

Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is a Potential nephrotoxin that causes severe and prolonged chemical toxicity. Investigations have been accomplished on numerous species of genus Artemisia, but the plant Artemisia brevifolia has hardly been used in this respect. The present study was considered to ascertain the effects of “Artemisia brevifolia plant extract” against CCl4 prompted nephrotoxicity in male albino rats. Forty-eight male albino rats were allocated into eight groups containing 6 rats in each. Group I was the control group. Group II was given dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) (1 ml/kg) orally. Group III was treated with dissolved CCl4 in olive oil (1 ml/kg). Group IV was given CCl4 + Silymarine. Group V and VI were administered with Artemisia brevifolia extract (150 and 300 mg/kg respectively) + CCl4. Group VII and VIII were provided with only 150 and 300 mg/kg extract of Artemisia brevifolia respectively. Results displayed that CCl4 administration significantly (p

Chronic diabetes extensively complicates the glucose metabolism to onset and progress the complication. Concurrently, several contemporary medicines, especially organo-metallic formulations, are emerging to treat hyperglycemia. The current study aims to emphasize the gold nanoparticles (GNPs) potential for glucose metabolism regulation in Streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetes. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was carried out to detect the mRNA expression of Glucose transporters 2 (GLUT2), Glucokinase (GK) and Glucose 6 Phosphatase (G-6-Pase). The study shows remarkable results such as the prognostic effect of GNPs in reinforcing the repression of enzyme complex G-6-Pase about 13.3-fold when compared to diabetes control. Also, molecular docking studies showed significant inhibition of G-6-Pase by the terpenoid ligands with alpha and beta amyrin from leaf extract of Couroupita guianensis. Thus the study explored the novel mechanism of G-6-Pase downregulated by GNPs intervention that majorly contributes to the regulation of circulatory glucose homeostasis during diabetes.

Aedes mosquitoes are the most important group of vectors that transmit pathogens, including arboviruses, and cause human diseases such as dengue fever, yellow fever, Zika virus, and Chikungunya. Biosynthesis and the use of green silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) is a vital step to identify reliable and eco-friendly controls for these vectors. In this study, Aedes (Ae.) aegypti larvae (2nd and 3rd instar) were exposed to leaf extracts of Ricinus communis (Castor) and AgNPs synthesized from the extract to evaluate their larvicidal potential. Synthesized AgNPs were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (XRD). Ae. aegypti larvae were treated with different concentrations (50–250 ppm) of the leaf extract and synthesized AgNPs. There were five replicates per treatment, in addition to a positive (temephos) and negative control (dechlorinated water). Mortality was recorded after 12, 24, 36, and 48 h and the data were subjected to Probit analysis. The nanoparticles were more toxic (LC50 = 46.22 ppm and LC90 = 85.30 ppm) than the plant extract (106.24 and 175.73 ppm, respectively). The leaf extracts of Ricinus communis were subjected to HPLC analysis to identify their chemical constituents. This study suggests that plant extracts and synthesized nanoparticles are excellent alternatives to hazardous chemical pesticides used to control vector mosquitoes. This is a potentially useful technique that can reduce aquatic toxicity from insecticide use.

Bio-molecule assisted synthesis of nanoparticles using protein templates and the self-assembly of the bio-molecules together with small peptides, denatured protein, and DNA is a new advancement. Specific interactions with nanoparticles ultimately dictate the size and crystallinity of the nanomaterials and the formation of nanoparticles using protein for structural integrity. Here, we are using protein-based synthesis method for preparing highly crystalline ZnONPs. Crustin(Cr)-capped ZnONPs were synthesized and confirmed by Ultraviolet-vis spectroscopy (UV–Vis), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman, X-ray diffraction (XRD), High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), and Zeta potential analysis. UV–Vis spectrum revealed the preliminary confirmation of the Cr-ZnONPs. By using XRD patterns, confirmed the crystalline structure of Cr-ZnONPs. In addition, TEM analysis revealed that the particle size measurements are within the 50 nm range. Further, Cr-ZnONPs tested against different Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria at 50 µg/mL. The great potential of the antibacterial and biofilm control ability of Cr-ZnONPs at 50 µg/mL was observed. Moreover, the control of thrush infective fungal Candida albicans cells and eco-toxicological analysis of Cr-ZnONPs showed that no increase in toxicity up to 100 µg/L was observed in Ceriodaphnia cornuta. Overall, Cr-ZnONPs can be used for potential photocatalytic, antibacterial, antifungal and antibiofilm applications.

The investigations on the role of dietary micronutrient(s), such as selenium, has recently emerged as the fixate of researchers, notably in aquaculture. Our study aimed at investigation of the impact of dietary selenium on growth and digestive enzymes (DE) activity in juvenile tilapia. Three iso-nitrogenous diets with a sequential increase of selenium doses viz. 2 (T1), 4 (T2), and 8 (T3) mg/kg of fish feed, and selenium-deficient (T4) feed were dispensed in independent treatments. The juvenile fish growth and enzyme activities showed direct links to selenium dose. The T1 illustrated significantly higher (P

Bio-fabrication of metal nanocrystals can be achieved using eco-friendly and cost-effective routes with plants as reducing and capping mediators. A rapid and simple method for producing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using the plant Alstonia venenata (R. Br.) (Family: Apocynaceae) was investigated. The mosquito larvicidal potential and the effect of the A. venenata aqueous leaf extract and AgNPs on non-target fish and insects were evaluated. The AgNPs were studied using UV–Vis spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy, SEM, TEM, AFM, and XRD analysis. The larvicidal effectiveness on early third instar larvae was higher for the AgNPs than the plant extract; this was observed by testing on Anopheles stephensi (LC50 = 12.28 µg/mL), Aedes aegypti (LC50 = 13.49 µg/mL), and Culex quinquefasciatus (LC50 = 14.50 µg/mL). Furthermore, the plant extract and AgNPs were found to be safe for the environment-friendly Gambusia affinis fish, and Anisops bouvieri and Diplonychus indicus aquatic insects. This study confirmed that A. venenata is a potential bio-resource for the fabrication of nanocrystals as an effective mosquito control tool with negligible harmful on aquatic fish and insects in the environment.

Diabetes mellitus and hyperglycemia can lead to other health complications. The pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus can affect numerous tissues in the eye structure and cataracts are one of the major causes of visual impairment in diabetes mellitus patients. In this study, we aim to investigate the ability of D-limonene to inhibit aldose reductase hypoglycemic activity in lens organ culture and its anti-glycating properties in STZ-induced cataracts of rats with diabetes. D-limonene repressed aldose reductase in-vitro with IC50 ranges of ~13.9 ± 0.31 µg/mL in an uncompetitive manner. This compound also prevented hyperglycemic induced increases in aldose reductase activity, accumulation of sorbitol, altered crystalline proteins (α, β and γ), and opacification of the rat lens in ex-vivo lens organ culture. Supplementation of D-limonene in STZ-induced diabetic rats restored these changes and delayed the progression of cataracts. This study demonstrates that D-limonene is a pharmaceutically active component that inhibits rat-lens aldose reductase. Therefore, this study showed that D-limonene prevents advanced glycation end product formation contributing to the integrity of α-crystallin chaperone activity and delays cataract development. It has been concluded, D-limonene has a role in inhibiting aldose reductase activity and advanced glycation end products formation in vivo, and in delaying the development of diabetic cataracts. Further studies of D-limonene are needed to assess other complications in DM as they may provide additional evidence for establishing D-limonene as a potential pharmacological target therapy for diabetes mellitus complications. Keywords: D-limonene, Aldose reductase, α-Crystalline, Advanced glycation, End products, Cataracts

Bioengineered green approaches of metal nanomaterials plays an extensive role against current environmental affairs and clinical pathogens. In the current exploration, biomolecule loaded silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were engineered by microwave irradiation mode using the leaf extracts of Ludwigia octovalvis and characterized by Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. FTIR revealed feasible biomolecules available in capping and bioreduction of AgNPs. XRD result clearly pinpoints the crystallinity of the synthesized AgNPs. FESEM analysis taped that AgNPs were found to be polyhedrons in nature with average size 28–50 nm. The antimicrobial properties of AgNPs was investigated against different bacterial pathogens (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus vulgaris and Staphylococcus epidermidis). A potential anti-biofilm activity of phytocompounds loaded AgNPs against P. aeruginosa and S. epidermidis were recorded. As well, the enhanced decolouration action of AgNPs were detected against deadly pollutant dyes Alizarin red, Congo red, Methylene blue and Rhodamine b. The outcome undoubtedly indicated that the AgNPs may be considered as an successful nano based therapeutic drug for various diseases caused by pathogens and vigorous catalytic agent against toxic dyes.

The main objective of the present study is to determine lead toxicity on various sizes of zebra fish in soft and hard water. Lead toxicity analysis was carried out in the laboratory trials for four days at various concentrations for the determination of LC50 value. Zebra fish was grouped into various sizes (G1-G4) and treated with lead for 96 h. Lead induced toxicity and induced various behavioural changes in Zebra fish. In the case of G1 (1.5 ± 0.2 cm length) fish the LC50 values ranged from 27.2 ± 1.8 mg/L to 9.7 ± 1.3 mg/L. In G2 (2.0 ± 0.2 cm length) fish, the LC50 value was 37.01 ± 2.3 mg/L and it reduced as 32.03 ± 3.4 mg/L after 48 h. In G3 group (2.5 ± 0.2 cm length fish), LC50 value was 38.78 ± 2.4 mg/L after 24 h treatment and this value decreased as 33.18 ± 1.1 mg/L after 48 h. After 72 h, LC50 value was 27.2 ± 2.1 mg/L and this value decreased considerably after 96 h (18.3 ± 2.1 mg/L) in G4 (3.0 ± 0.2 cm length) fish. Further, G4 fish was treated with lead in hard water and LC50 value was analyzed. LC50 value was observed as 28.62 ± 2.7 mg/L in hard water and the same fish group (G4) showed 18.3 ± 2.1 mg/L after 96 h. Toxicity analysis revealed that lead is less toxic in hard water than in soft water. Keywords: Lead, Toxicity, Water hardness, Zebra fish

In this study, 104 bacteria were isolated from the gut of Penaeus indicus. The morphologically different bacterial isolates were screened for probiotic properties. The strain D5 showed potent activity against various bacteria. The isolated strain Bacillus subtilis showed 17 mm zone of inhibition against Bacillus sp., 19 mm against Pseudomonas sp., 22 mm against Vibrio sp., and 22 mm against Micrococcus sp. The bacterial growth and bacterocin production in relation with incubation time was evaluated. Bacteriocin production was found to be high at the stationary phase and reduced considerably after fifth day. Bacterial growth and bacterocin production was maximum at pH 7.0 and optimum between pH 6.0 and 8.0. Incubation temperature is one of the important factors which significantly influences on the growth and production of bacteriocin. Bacterial growth and bacterocin production (17 ± 2 mm) were maximum at 30 °C. Glucose stimulated growth and bacterocin production (21 ± 3 mm). Among the supplemented nitrogen sources, glycine positively influenced on growth and metabolite production. In this study, bacteriocin supplemented diet enhanced the growth than control shrimp Bacteriocin was administered at various doses ranged between 10 and 50 mg/100 gm level. Shrimp length was 3.3 ± 0.13 cm and shrimp weight was 9.7 ± 0.12 g in 100 mg. The present finding revealed enhanced growth at high bacteriocin concentration. At 2 × 102 CFU/100 g probiotics in feed, the juvenile shrimp attained 16.8 ± 0.11 g after 40 days. The weight gain was 16.8 ± 0.11 CFU/100 g at 10 × 102 CFU/100 g probiotic concentration. Keywords: Shrimp gut, Bacillus subtilis, Probiotics, Penaeus indicus, Feed conversion ratio

The study is to scrutinize andrographolides with Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) inhibitory potential, its molecular mechanism against streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic retinopathy (DR) in Wistar rats. Oxidative stress markers such as Kynurenine metabolites, retinal histopathological changes have been studied. Further, IDO gene expression and docking studies have been performed. Andrographolide treated rats have been reducing the level of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and protein carbonyls Kynurenine metabolites with an improvement in the level of GSH and expression of IDO as revealed by morphological changes in inner and outer nuclear layer of the retina. The current results of this study have been generated information about an activity of the andrographolide in the essential pocket of IDO. Our results explain, involving IDO and andrographolide would constitute an attempt to identify natural products with therapeutic value and further studies in this direction would be of immense significance in the administration of diabetes and its related problems. Keywords: Diabetes, Andrographolide, Oxidative stress, Metabolites, GSH

The present study was conducted to prepare cost effective and environment friendly zinc nanoparticles (Zn NPs) by using ZnSO4·7H2O and extract of sesame seeds. Zn NPs were characterized by using scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-Ray Diffraction and antibacterial potential was checked by using disc diffusion method. Solution colour turned yellow which ultimately confirmed the formation of Zn NPs and seed extract was used as a reducing agent. Crystalline size of the NPs was revealed by XRD spectra i.e. 9.07 nm. Functional groups were identified by the FTIR. SEM analysis given idea about the spherical shape of NPs. Antibacterial activity of the Zn NPs against different bacteria (S. pneumoniae, P. aeruginosa, E. coli and S. aureus) was measured by inhibition zone which ranged from 3.3 to 12.6 mm. Keywords: Zinc nanoparticles, Characterization, Antibacterial activity, FTIR, XRD

The issue of male sexual dysfunction arises due to numerous complications linked with sperm motility, imbalance of antioxidant enzymes and hormonal levels. Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is widely used as a standard toxin to induce chemical injury and toxicity. A lot of research has been performed on many species of the genus Nepeta in vitro and in vivo but the plant Nepeta paulsenii have been rarely used in this aspect. The current research was designed to explore the impacts of methanolic extract of the Nepeta paulsenii plant on CCl4 induced testicular impairment in male albino rats. Forty-eight rats were distributed equally into 8 groups; Control, Vehicle control, CCl4 treated (1 ml/kg), CCl4 + Silymarine treated, CCl4 + Nepeta paulsenii (200 mg/kg) treated, CCl4 + Nepeta paulsenii (400 mg/kg), Nepeta paulsenii (200 mg/kg) and Nepeta paulsenii (400 mg/kg) treated. Blood and testicles were obtained and analyzed. To check antioxidant enzymes, hormonal concentrations, daily sperm production (DSP), protein content and histopathology various analyses were performed. CCl4 exposure resulted in adverse morphological changes and significant (p

The study was implemented to actuate the qualitative and quantitative phyto constituents of Iresine herbstii extracts and its antiviral efficacy against avian ND virus. Among four tested solvents, the ethanolic extract of Iresine herbstii revealed the presence of highest quantity of all tested phytochemicals while petroleum ether extract showed the least. Folin-Ciocalteu method assessed the range of TPC extended from 81.01 ± 0.67 to 126.35 ± 0.45 µg GAE/mg. Acetonic extract showed the highest amount among all extracts and petroleum ether possessed the lower quantity. TFC ranged from 54.37 ± 0.45 to 88.12 ± 0.26 µg QE/mg followed by colorimetric method. From all extract ethanolic extract showed highest quantity and petroleum ether revealed the lower. HPLC analysis of ethanolic extract of I. herbstii confesses the presence six bioactive components by using the HP5-MS column. To check the antiviral potential of plants, different prepared treatments of plant extract and live virus were inoculated at 9 days old SPF embryonated chicken eggs. Results exposed that all plant extracts produce antiviral activity against NDV in ovo according to their potential and phytochemical profile. The highest survival rate was observed in the ethanolic extract at 400 µg/mL and acetonic extract at 300 µg/mL as it controls the NDV activity completely, evidence of absence of embryo death and HA titre. Dichloromethane and petroleum ether could not inhibit the virus completely. 600 µg/mL concentration was proved as toxic in all extracts except petroleum ether extract which showed a dose dependent pattern. Keywords: Iresine herbstii, Phytochemicals, Antiviral activity, In ovo, Newcastle disease virus

Extensive application of pesticide in agricultural field affects the enzymatic activity of non-target animals, including fishes. In this study, the impact of sublethal concentration of fenvalerate on marker enzymes of freshwater Zebra fish was evaluated. Pesticide-induced stress can specifically affect non target fishes, through elevated level of reactive oxygen species which is responsible for biochemical, cell metabolism and physiological activities. The oxidative stress mediated by fenvalerate at sub lethal concentrations after 28 days of exposure of Zebra fish. Following 28 days of exposure of pesticide, catalase, superoxide dismutase, aspartate amino transferases, alanine amino transferase, alkaline phosphatase and acid phosphatase were assessed. Results revealed reduction of superoxide dismutase activity after 28 days of exposure in sub lethal concentration of fenvalerate in liver and gills. In liver, catalase activity was found to be less in fenvalerate exposed fish than control fish. In liver, increase of 75.75% aspartate amino transferase and 38% increase in alanine amino transferase in gills. SGPT activity was relatively higher than SGOT suggests more contribution of phyruvalate than oxaloacetate formation. Fenvalerate induced changes in acid phosphatase and alkaline phosphatase activity in the liver and gills of Zebra fish after four weeks of exposure. Fenvalerate induced expression of various stress proteins in gill, liver, followed by muscle. Some proteins lost its intensity due to fenvalerate toxicity. Result revealed that enzyme assays and SDS-PAGE analysis for protein subunits determination is relevant tool to monitor stress in freshwater ecosystem. The findings suggest that in monitoring fenvalerate toxicity programme, enzyme activities can be potent diagnostic tool for fenvalerate induced toxicity. Keywords: Pyrethroid, Fenvalerate, Fish, Toxicity, Metabolic enzymes, Stress

The aim of this study was to determine the level of contamination and genotoxic impact through micronucleus assay and histopathology in Wallago attu and Cirrhinus mrigala procured from the polluted site of the River Chenab at industrial and sewage waste disposal. The water sample was found viciously contaminated with heavy metals i.e. Ni, Cr, Mn, Co, Pb, Hg, Zn, Sn, Cu while all other physio-chemical variables crossed the suggested limits of WHO. The heavy metals load induced histopathological alterations were correlated to environmental degradation and the productivity of this biological system. W. attu and C. mrigala harvested from contaminated sites of the river indicated higher intensity of DNA damage through micronucleus induction and nuclear abnormalities with 5.46 ± 0.17, 1.23 ± 0.08 and 4.2 ± 0.11, 0.4 ± 0.04‰ respectively. Muscle sections of W. attu and C. mrigala harvested from the polluted section of river demonstrated the necrosis, degeneration of muscle fibers, intra-fibular edema and release of the blood into the tissues due to the bursting of blocked of the blood vessels. Dermal layers showed degeneration of the collagen bundles those were found loose or collapsed in some regions. Photomicrography also revealed vacuolar degeneration in muscle tissues and atrophy of muscle bundles. Intra fibular edema and splitting of muscle fibers were also seen along with bioaccumulation of toxicants. W. attu showed maximum incidence of alterations with highest histopathological alteration index related to environmental degradation. Control fish samples showed normal muscle tissues with normal equally spaced muscle bundles and myotomes. Keywords: Pollution, Xenobiotics, Fish, Micronucleus, Histopathology

Cisplatin (CP) is an active cytotoxic agent, which has been verified to be effective in multiple cancer regimen. In this study, potential antioxidant effects of casticin (CAS) were assessed against CP generated oxidative stress in rat liver. “Twenty-four male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into four experimental groups. Group-1 (control group) received only normal saline”. Group-2 was intraperitoneally injected with CP (10 mg/kg). Group-3 was orally provided by CAS (50 mg/kg) along with CP (10 mg/kg) injection at first day. Group-4 group was orally administered with CAS (50 mg/kg) throughout the experiment. The rats of group-1 indicated “increase in serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), while a significant decrease in the activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD)” was noticed, which revealed that CP generated oxidative stress in rat liver. Moreover, administration of CP increased the hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) concentration and level of “thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS)”, while reducing the % DNA head and head length in liver cell nuclei. CP disturbs the lobular structure of the liver and increased the sinusoidal dilation in rat liver. However, co-treatment with CAS successfully mitigated the CP generated DNA disruption, biochemical and pathological changes in rat liver. These findings revealed that an effective antioxidant, CAS, alleviated the CP generated hepatotoxicity and oxidative stress in rats. Keywords: Cisplatin, Oxidative stress, DNA damage, Liver damage, Antioxidant, Casticin

Cisplatin (CP) is one of the most effective chemotherapeutic drugs used to treat different tumors. Vitexin (VIT) is a natural flavonoid having various pharmacological activities along with its curative effects. The present research was planned to evaluate the therapeutic potential of VIT on cisplatin-induced renal damage in male albino rats. Twenty-four male albino rats were divided into four equal groups. These groups were treated with CP (10 mg/kg injection on the first day of trial) administered group, cotreated (CP; 10 mg/kg + VIT; 10 mg/kg) and only VIT (10 mg/kg orally till the end of the trial) treated group and a control. CP administration significantly decreased the activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), glutathione S-transferase (GST), glutathione (GSH), and glutathione reductase (GSR). The levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) were increased. CP-treatment significantly increased the levels of urea, creatinine, kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1), and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) while considerably reducing the creatinine clearance. The results demonstrated that CP significantly increased the inflammation markers, including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), Interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) activities and histopathological damages. However, co-treatment with VIT efficiently minimized the CP-induced biochemical, inflammatory, and histopathological impairments in rat kidneys. The study's outcomes indicated the significant curative efficacy of VIT to overcome CP-induced nephrotoxicity in male albino rats.

The present research was planned to analyze the toxic effects of thimerosal on rat liver. Mercury and mercury compounds are universally known toxicants for animals and humans. Thimerosal is widely used in the vaccines as a preservative which contains 49.6% mercury. Twenty-four adult male albino rats were distributed into four groups (n=6). The first group was considered as a control group. While, second, third and fourth groups were intoxicated with 0.5, 10 and 50 µg/kg thimerosal (i.m.) respectively. After 30 days, rats were slaughtered to analyze the liver tissues. The results of the experiment exposed that thimerosal instigated significant (p

Polypropylene microplastics are the primary pollutant in aquatic ecosystems and their toxicity assessment study remains limited. The proposed study focuses on acute exposure of polypropylene microplastic in Daphnia similis, which alters the biochemical parameter due to the accumulation of microplastics in the digestive tract. Moreover, the commercially available polypropylene bags have been converted into microplastic using xylene. FTIR results showed the absence of xylene residue in prepared microplastics particles and it was spherical shaped, size range (FE-SEM) from 11.86µm – 44.62µm. The outcome of the impact reveals that acute exposure to polypropylene microplastic in D. similis leads to immobilization. Further, the biochemical results showed that ingestion of microplastics increases reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. This leads to an increase in the antioxidant enzymes of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and a non-antioxidant enzyme of reduced glutathione (GSH) and also oxidative stress effects in lipid (lipid peroxidation - LPO), protein (Carbonyl protein - CP) gradually increases due to production of free radicals in D. similis. In addition, the neurotransmitter enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) level diminished. These results reflect that accumulation of polypropylene microplastic should exacerbate harmful pollutants on filter-feeding organisms.

Cisplatin (CP) is a commonly used, powerful antineoplastic drug, having numerous side effects. Casticin (CAS) is considered as a free radical scavenger and a potent antioxidant. The present research was planned to assess the curative potential of CAS on CP persuaded renal injury in male albino rats. Twenty four male albino rats were distributed into four equal groups. Group-1 was considered as a control group. Animals of Group-2 were injected with 5mg/kg of CP intraperitoneally. Group-3 was co-treated with CAS (50mg/kg) orally and injection of CP (5mg/kg). Group-4 was treated with CAS (50mg/kg) orally throughout the experiment. CP administration substantially reduced the activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), glutathione S-transferase (GST), glutathione reductase (GSR), glutathione (GSH) content while increased thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) levels. Urea, urinary creatinine, urobilinogen, urinary proteins, kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1), and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) levels were substantially increased. In contrast, albumin and creatinine clearance was significantly reduced in CP treated group. The results demonstrated that CP significantly increased the inflammation indicators including nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), Interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) activity and histopathological damages. However, the administration of CAS displayed a palliative effect against CP-generated renal toxicity and recovered all parameters by bringing them to a normal level. These results revealed that the CAS is an effective compound having the curative potential to counter the CP-induced renal damage. Resumo A cisplatina (CP) é uma droga antineoplásica poderosa, comumente usada, com vários efeitos colaterais. Casticin (CAS) é considerado um eliminador de radicais livres e um potente antioxidante. A presente pesquisa foi planejada para avaliar o potencial curativo da CAS em lesão renal induzida por PC em ratos albinos machos. Vinte e quatro ratos albinos machos foram distribuídos em quatro grupos iguais. O Grupo 1 foi considerado grupo controle. Os animais do Grupo 2 foram injetados com 5 mg / kg de PB por via intraperitoneal. O Grupo 3 foi cotratado com CAS (50 mg / kg) por via oral e injeção de CP (5 mg / kg). O Grupo 4 foi tratado com CAS (50 mg / kg) por via oral durante todo o experimento. A administração de CP reduziu substancialmente as atividades de catalase (CAT), superóxido dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), glutationa S-transferase (GST), glutationa redutase (GSR), glutationa (GSH), enquanto aumentou as substâncias reativas ao ácido tiobarbitúrico (TBARS) e níveis de peróxido de hidrogênio (H2O2). Os níveis de ureia, creatinina urinária, urobilinogênio, proteínas urinárias, molécula 1 de lesão renal (KIM-1) e lipocalina associada à gelatinase de neutrófilos (NGAL) aumentaram substancialmente. Em contraste, a albumina e a depuração da creatinina foram significativamente reduzidas no grupo tratado com PC. Os resultados demonstraram que a CP aumentou significativamente os indicadores de inflamação, incluindo fator nuclear kappa-B (NF-κB), fator de necrose tumoral-α (TNF-α), interleucina-1β (IL-1β), interleucina-6 (IL-6) níveis e atividade da ciclooxigenase-2 (COX-2) e danos histopatológicos. No entanto, a administração de CAS apresentou um efeito paliativo contra a toxicidade renal gerada por CP e recuperou todos os parâmetros, trazendo-os a um nível normal. Estes resultados revelaram que o CAS é um composto eficaz com potencial curativo para combater o dano renal induzido por CP.

Highlights A novel hierarchical structure constructed by encapsulating cobalt sulfide nanowires within nitrogen-doped porous branched carbon nanotubes (NBNTs) is designed for lithium-ion batteries.The unique hierarchical Co9S8@NBNT electrode displayed a reversible specific capacity of 1310 mAh g−1 at a current density of 0.1 A g−1. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s40820-019-0259-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users., Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are considered new generation of large-scale energy-storage devices. However, LIBs suffer from a lack of desirable anode materials with excellent specific capacity and cycling stability. In this work, we design a novel hierarchical structure constructed by encapsulating cobalt sulfide nanowires within nitrogen-doped porous branched carbon nanotubes (NBNTs) for LIBs. The unique hierarchical Co9S8@NBNT electrode displayed a reversible specific capacity of 1310 mAh g−1 at a current density of 0.1 A g−1, and was able to maintain a stable reversible discharge capacity of 1109 mAh g−1 at a current density of 0.5 A g−1 with coulombic efficiency reaching almost 100% for 200 cycles. The excellent rate and cycling capabilities can be ascribed to the hierarchical porosity of the one-dimensional Co9S8@NBNT internetworks, the incorporation of nitrogen doping, and the carbon nanotube confinement of the active cobalt sulfide nanowires offering a proximate electron pathway for the isolated nanoparticles and shielding of the cobalt sulfide nanowires from pulverization over long cycling periods. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s40820-019-0259-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Introduction: Nanoparticles (NPs) have become very important owing to their various uses. In this research, an environmentally friendly biological technique was used to synthesize silver nanoparticles with Coriandrum sativum L. The objective of this research to use the source for the fabrication of silver NPs from C. sativum L., and to check the activity of the fabricated silver NPs was determined versus a couple of gram negative and a couple of gram positive bacteria in the presence of antibiotic viz. gentamicin to judge their impact. Methodology: A silver nitrate solution, which served as the reducing and capping agent, was mingled with coriander leaf extract. The solution’s temperature and pH were maintained at 75 °C and 8.6, respectively. The observed mean particle size (z-average) and polydispersity index were 390.2 nm and 0.452, respectively. The synthesized Ag NPs were characterized using different techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction, and Fourier transmission infrared (FTIR) analysis. The globular shape of the silver nanoparticles was depicted in SEM illustrations. Results: XRD data revealed the mean size of the particles was 11.9 nm. The FTIR analysis showed the existence of various functional groups, including CO and OH. When their antibacterial ability was tested, it was found that the fabricated Ag NPs inhibited Bacillus subtilis, Pasteurella multocida, Enterobacter aerogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus, with a greater effect against B. subtilis and P. multocida compared to E. aerogenes and S. aureus. Conclusion: It has been concluded small silver NPs benefited from a higher surface area ratio, as shown by the results of experiments where smaller particles had a better bactericidal proficiency than large silver-based NPs. Silver-based NPs infiltrate bacterial cells, as well as interfere with their exterior membrane. Silver ions also have the potential to interact with bacterial DNA, inhibiting the reproductive system of the cell. Keywords: Silver nanoparticles, Coriander leaf extract, Antimicrobial activity

This study was conducted to assess the effect of heavy metals (Cd, Hg, Cu, Mn, Zn, Pb, Cr, and Sn) on the fatty acid profiles of Catla catla, Labeo rohita, and Cirrhinus mrigala collected from two polluted sites in the Chenab River and Jhelum River (non-polluted site). The heavy-metal levels were determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The results showed that the levels of Cd, Hg, Cu, Mn, Zn, Pb, Cr, and Sn in the river water exceeded the permissible limits recommended by various international agencies. Some important fatty acids were not detected in the muscle samples of the fish species collected from the highly polluted site (HPS). Caprylic acid (C8:0) and lauric acid (C12:0) were undetectable in Catla catla and Cirrhinus mrigala. Palmitoleic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid were present in Catla catla alone, and they were not found in Labeo rohita and Cirrhinus mrigala harvested from a less polluted site (LPS). More saturated fatty acids and less fatty acids were detected in the muscle samples of Catla catla, Labeo rohita, and Cirrhinus mrigala collected from HPS than in those collected from LPS. The untreated discharge of domestic and industrial waste probably causes a reduction in the fatty acids in the biomass of microalgae and zoobenthos and, ultimately, adversely affects the upper links of the food chain in the river.

Carbon dioxide gas is the key element of the carbon cycle and a major source for photosynthesis, but for the past 150 years, the atmospheric CO2 has been increased drastically from 250 to 418 ppm due to the extreme utilization of fossil fuels. This accelerated release of CO2 acts as a major source for climatic change due to the greenhouse gas effect resulting in global warming and melting of polar ice caps, alteration in biogeochemical cycles, altered rainfall, ocean acidification, eutrophication of lakes, imbalance in the ecological communities and extinction of some species, effects on soil fertility, changes in the metabolism and at the molecular level. Reduce, reuse and recycle strategy can be applied to control elevated CO2 levels by preventing deforestation, using renewable energy as an alternative for fossil fuels and reusing the atmospheric CO2. Carbon capture and storage (CCS), Carbon capture and utilization (CCU) are the two technologies adapted to capture the atmospheric CO2, utilize it, and focus on permanent storage in the geological sites. Captured CO2 is used to produce many value added products such as polymers, biofuels, reactants etc. Plants and microorganisms act as a natural CO2 filter. Several biomolecules such as carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids are produced due to the biological carbon fixation process using photosynthesis. Six different photosynthetic pathways and some non-photosynthetic pathways to fix atmospheric CO2 have been reported in diverse species of plants and microbes such as bacteria, fungi, yeast, algae etc. Algae are the most potent microbe in CO2 utilization and biological carbon fixation compared to other microbes and used widely on a large industrial scale for biofuel production. Algal biofuel production using captured CO2 is the best productive method to recycle and reduce atmospheric CO2.

A simple method has been needed to synthesize nanoparticles (NPs) to avoid environmental pollution, an alternative chemical and physical method. This current study deals with phytosynthesis of gold (Au) and platinum (Pt) metal doped with titanium oxide (TiO2) NPs using Enterolobium saman bark extract. This extract plays a vital role in reducing and stabilizing Au and Pt doped into the TiO2 NPs lattices. Phytosynthesized samples were characterized by XRD, SEM, ED-XRF, TEM, FTIR, Raman, and UV–vis-DRS analyses. The metal doping effect has decreased bandgap energy and particle size, whereas increased conductivity for TiO2/M-Au and TiO2/M-Pt NPs compared to pristine TiO2 NPs. Phytosynthesized NPs were fabricated for dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) and photocatalytic behaviour against methylene blue (MB) dye was studied. An obtained result demonstrates that TiO2/M-Au NPs have excellent feasibility for applying DSSC and photocatalytic application due to particle size, crystallite size, absorption ability, and bandgap energy. Besides, synthesized samples were measured with cyclic voltammetry and impedance spectroscopy found that the metal doping is drifted the dielectric and increases that the metal doping is drifted the dielectric increases electro-catalytic of the TiO2. Different concentrations of all NPs were tested against Escherichia coli MTCC 40 and S. aureus ATCC 6633 bacteria by a well-diffusion method. The 10 mg concentration of all NPs showed better antibacterial activity. However, we believe that the proposed simple phytosynthesized method provides an efficient way to overcome the chemical and physical methods.

Copper nanoparticles were synthesized using Manilkara zapota leaf extract. The synthesis of the nanoparticle was primarily visualized when the colour of the reaction mixture turned into reddish-brown. Biosynthesized nanoparticles were characterized by UV–vis, FT-IR, XRD, SEM and EDX. The UV spectra showed maximum absorption at 584 nm. FT-IR studies showed stretching frequency at 592.76 cm−1, which is the fingerprint region for Cu-O bond. The crystallinity of the synthesized copper nanoparticles (Mz–Cu NPs) was revealed through XRD analysis. The synthesized Mz–Cu NPs were spherical with an average size of 18.9–42.5 nm and it was shown by SEM analysis. EDX analysis displayed that the nano sample contains 58 % of copper. The antimicrobial property of the synthesized nanoparticles was evaluated against fungal plant pathogens Rhizoctonia solani (MTCC 12232), Sclerotium oryzae (MTCC 12230) and bacterial species, namely Bacillus subtilis (ATCC 23857), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923), Vibrio harveyi (ATCC 35084), Vibrio parahaemolyticus (ATCC 33845). In in-vitro haemolytic assay, the particle showed 5.73, 3.34, 0.5 % hemolysis at 100, 50, 25 μg/mL concentration respectively. In the antiproliferative assay, the IC50 values of MCF7 and Vero cells were found to be 53.89 and 883.69 μg/μl. The particle degraded Methyl violet, Malachite green and Coomassie brilliant blue by 92.2, 94.9 and 78.8 %, within 50, 40 and 60 min, respectively, through its photocatalytic activity.

Study aimed to evaluate the effect of replacing fish meal with different levels of full fat soybean meal (FFSBM) on growth and digestive enzyme activities in the stomach, Liver and intestine for Clarias gariepinus. Four diets (D1, D2, D3 and D4) were formulated with 0, 15, 20 and 20 g 100-1 protein + DL-methionine by alternating FFSBM with fish meal. The growth of C. gariepinus was found to be significantly decreased when FFSBM replacement increased. Final body weight was 89.69, 79.70, 70.82 and 68.29 g for fish fed on D1, D2, D3 and D4, respectively, with significant differences between treatments. Specific growth rate (SGR) ranged between 3.11 to 2.78%. Proteolytic activity was higher only with alkaline pHs, whereas only very low activity was shown with acidic. Results of liver showed approximately similar results at acid and alkaline. In contrast, higher proteolytic activity in the stomach was observed at acid pHs 3.0 and 4.0 μg tyrosine-1 minute-1 mg-1 protein) whereas lower values were observed at neutral pH 7.0 g tyrosine-1 minute-1 mg-1 protein for catfish fed on the experimental diets. Moreover, trypsin activity was higher for the stomach, followed by the intestine and liver. However, higher amount of amylase observed in the liver than intestine and stomach. Resumo Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito da substituição da farinha de peixe por diferentes níveis de farelo de soja integral (FSI) sobre o crescimento e atividades de enzimas digestivas no estômago, fígado e intestino de Clarias gariepinus. Quatro dietas (D1, D2, D3 e D4) foram formuladas com 0, 15, 20 e 20 g 100-1 proteína + DL-metionina, alternando FSI com farinha de peixe. O crescimento de C. gariepinus foi significativamente reduzido quando aumentou a substituição de farinha de peixe por FSI . O peso corporal final foi de 89,69, 79,70, 70,82 e 68,29 g para peixes alimentados com D1, D2, D3 e D4, respectivamente, com diferenças significativas entre os tratamentos. Taxa de crescimento específico (TCE) variou entre 3,11 a 2,78%. A atividade proteolítica foi maior apenas com pHs alcalinos, enquanto que atividades muito baixas foram somente mostradas com ácido. Os resultados no fígado mostraram valores aproximadamente semelhantes tanto em meio ácido quanto alcalino. Em contraste, observou-se maior atividade proteolítica no estômago em pH ácido (3,0 e 4,0 g de tirosina-1 minuto-1 mg-1 de proteína), ao passo que valores mais baixos foram observados em pH neutro (7,0 g de tirosina-1 minuto-1 mg-1 de proteína) para os bagres que se alimentaram com as dietas experimentais. Além disso, a atividade da tripsina foi maior para o estômago, seguida pelo intestino e pelo fígado. No entanto, observou-se maior quantidade de amilase no fígado,intestino e estômago.

Thimerosal is an organomercurial compound, which is used in the preparation of intramuscular immunoglobulin, antivenoms, tattoo inks, skin test antigens, nasal products, ophthalmic drops, and vaccines as a preservative. In most of animal species and humans, the kidney is one of the main sites for mercurial compounds deposition and target organs for toxicity. So, the current research was intended to assess the thimerosal induced nephrotoxicity in male rats. Twenty-four adult male albino rats were categorized into four groups. The first group was a control group. Rats of Group-II, Group-III, and Group-IV were administered with 0.5µg/kg, 10µg/kg, and 50µg/kg of thimerosal once a day, respectively. Thimerosal administration significantly decreased the activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione (GSH), and protein content while increased the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) levels dose-dependently. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, urobilinogen, urinary proteins, kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1), and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) levels were substantially increased. In contrast, urinary albumin and creatinine clearance was reduced dose-dependently in thimerosal treated groups. The results demonstrated that thimerosal significantly increased the inflammation indicators including nuclear factor kappaB (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), Interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) activities, DNA and histopathological damages dose-dependently. So, the present findings ascertained that thimerosal exerted nephrotoxicity in male albino rats. Resumo O timerosal é um composto organomercurial, utilizado na preparação de imunoglobulina intramuscular, antivenenos, tintas de tatuagem, antígenos de teste cutâneo, produtos nasais, gotas oftálmicas e vacinas como conservante. Na maioria das espécies animais e nos humanos, o rim é um dos principais locais de deposição de compostos de mercúrio e órgãos-alvo de toxicidade. Assim, a presente pesquisa teve como objetivo avaliar a nefrotoxicidade induzida pelo timerosal em ratos machos. Vinte e quatro ratos albinos machos adultos foram categorizados em quatro grupos. O primeiro grupo era um grupo de controle. Ratos do Grupo II, Grupo III e Grupo IV receberam 0,5µg / kg, 10µg / kg e 50µg / kg de timerosal uma vez ao dia, respectivamente. A administração de timerosal diminuiu significativamente as atividades de catalase (CAT), superóxido dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), glutationa redutase (GR), glutationa (GSH) e conteúdo de proteína, enquanto aumentou as substâncias reativas ao ácido tiobarbitúrico (TBARS) e peróxido de hidrogênio (H2O2) níveis dependentes da dose. Os níveis de nitrogênio ureico no sangue (BUN), creatinina, urobilinogênio, proteínas urinárias, molécula de lesão renal-1 (KIM-1) e lipocalina associada à gelatinase de neutrófilos (NGAL) aumentaram substancialmente. Em contraste, a albumina urinária e a depuração da creatinina foram reduzidas de forma dependente da dose nos grupos tratados com timerosal. Os resultados demonstraram que o timerosal aumentou significativamente os indicadores de inflamação, incluindo fator nuclear kappaB (NF-κB), fator de necrose tumoral-α (TNF-α), interleucina-1β (IL-1β), níveis de interleucina-6 (IL-6) e atividades da ciclooxigenase-2 (COX-2), DNA e danos histopatológicos dependentes da dose. Portanto, os presentes achados verificaram que o timerosal exerceu nefrotoxicidade em ratos albinos machos.

This study explored the effects of natural growth promoters (phytogenic feed additives and organic acids) on animal performance, carcass characteristics, blood parameters, gut microflora composition, and microbe–host interactions in broiler chickens over a 42-day feeding period. Two-hundred-fifty-day-old chicks were randomly assigned to one of five treatments: (i) control diets (CON); (ii) control diets + 40 g/tons antibiotic growth promoter (AB); (iii) control diets + 3 kg/tons organic acids (ORG); (iv) control diets + 3 kg/tons phytogenic feed additives (PHY); (v) control diets + 3 kg/tons organic acids + phytogenic feed additive combination (COM). A non-significant differences (p > 0.05) were observed in broiler performance among treatments at 21 days of age; however, a gradually increasing body weight gain and reduced feed conversion ratio were observed at 42 days in treatments versus control group. Biochemical indices were non-significant (p > 0.05) except for decreased cholesterol (p

This research aimed to evaluate the curative impact of nobiletin (NOB) on paraquat (PQ) induced mitochondrial impairment in rats' hepatic tissues. Twenty-four male rats were divided into control, PQ, PQ + NOB, and NOB treated groups. The alanine aminotransferase levels, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase were increased in the experimental animals after exposure with PQ. A significant decrease in the level of catalase, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, and reactive oxygen species were recorded in rats exposed to PQ. The mitochondrial TCA cycle enzyme activities, including isocitrate-dehydrogenase, succinate-dehydrogenase, alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase, and malate-dehydrogenase, were reduced in PQ exposed rats. The activities of mitochondrial enzymes including NADH dehydrogenase, coenzyme Q-cytochrome reductase, succinic-coenzyme Q and cytochrome c-oxidase were significantly decreased after the PQ-exposure. PQ administration also reduced the mitochondrial membrane potential. However, the administration of mitochondria with NOB can decrease the toxic effect of the PQ in isolated mitochondria. NOB treatment potentially reduced the damaging effects of the PQ in the mitochondria isolated from hepatic tissues. Thus, the current study revealed that the NOB could attenuate PQ-induced mitochondrial damage in rats' hepatic tissues.

A novel enzyme-free photoelectrochemical (PEC) immunoassay was developed for the ultrasensitive detection of prostate specific antigen (PSA) based on the DNA-mediated nanoscale zirconium-porphyrin MOFs (NMOFs). By virtue of the intrinsic coordination between unsaturated zirconium sites of the NMOFs frameworks and phosphonate groups, the 5'-phosphorylared ss-DNA-tagged antibody (Ab-DNA) conjugate with a consecutive stretch of guanines as a spacer could be loaded on the NMOFs easily, obtaining a novel type of Ab-DNA-functionalized NMOFs complex. Additionally, as a photocathode PEC active nanomaterial, NMOFs exhibited a significant enhanced photocurrent response with the presence of dopamine under oxygen-containing aqueous media at -0.3 V (vs Ag/AgCl). Furthermore, with the aid of the electrochemical grafting of polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimers functionalized interface, the novel type of Ab-DNA-NMOFs further served as a PEC signal nanoprobe for the ultrasensitive PSA immunoassay. Under optimal conditions, the corresponding immunosensor possessed a wide calibration range of 1 pg mL

This investigation is aimed to study an impact of habitat degradation on proximate composition and amino acid (AAs) profile of Catla catla, Labeo rohita and Cirrhinus mrigala collected from polluted, non-polluted area (upstream) and a commercial fish farm. The amino acid profile was estimated by the amino acid analyzer. C. catla collected from the polluted environment had highest lipid, protein and ash contents (12.04 ± 0.01, 13.45 ± 0.01 and 0.93 ± 0.03%, respectively). The high protein content (14.73 ± 0.01 and 14.12 ± 0. 01%) was recorded in C. catla procured from non-polluted (upstream) wild habitat of River Chenab and controlled commercial fish farm. Farmed fish species showed comparatively higher moisture contents followed by upstream and polluted area fishes. C. mrigala showed significant differences in amino acid and proximate composition collected from a polluted site of the river Chenab. C. catla collected from non-polluted site of the river showed an excellent nutrient profile, followed by L. rohita (wild and farmed) and C. mrigala (polluted area), respectively. All fishes from the polluted areas of the River Chenab indicated a significant decrease in the concentration of some AAs when compared to farmed and wild (upstream) major carps. Omitting of some important AAs was also observed in the meat of fish harvested from polluted habitat of this river. C. mrigala and L. rohita exhibited a significant increase in the concentration of some of non-essential amino acids such as cysteine in their meat. The results indicated that wild fish (upstream) and farmed fish species had highest protein contents and amino acid profile and hence appeared to be the best for human consumption. The proximate composition and AAs profiles of fish harvested from the polluted area of the river clearly indicated that efforts shall be made for the restoration of habitat to continue the requirement of high quality fish meat at a low cost to the human population. Keywords: Habitat, Polluted, Non-polluted fish, Commercial, Amino acids

Owing to white meat production Labeo rohita have vast economic importance, but its population has been reduced drastically in River Chenab due to pollution. Atomic absorption spectrophotometry showed a merciless toxicity level of Cd, Cu, Mn, Zn, Pb, Cr, Sn and Hg. Comet assay results indicated significant (p

The cyto-nephrotoxicity in fishes induced by dyes is a global issue. Fluorescein dye has a wide range of applications in industry and biological laboratories. In vivo experiment was planned to assess the sublethal effects of Fluorescein dye, Eosin Y, and Eosin B in Labeo rohita. This freshwater fish was exposed to increasing concentrations (0.0011, 0.0023, and 0.0047 mg/L) of both dyes in the aquarium for definite time intervals. A dye-free trial was set as a control. Fish was anesthetized and dissected by cutting on the ventral side to remove a kidney. Cyto-nephrotoxicity was detected through histopathology. The fish's significant mortality was observed when exposed to 0.0023 mg/L (LC50) and 0.0047 mg/L concentration of Eosin Y dye. These trial groups showed many kidney tissues alterations such as glomerular, tubular epithelial cell's degeneration, a reduced lumen of tubules, vacuolation, absence of bowmen's space, necrosis, glomerulonephritis with increased per tubular space, shrinking of the glomerulus, congestion, clogging, and degeneration of tubules. Eosin B showed less mortality and tissue damage, including glomerular contraction and increased space between glomerulus and capsule. ANOVA showed a highly significant reduction in weight gain of fish at different treatments levels of Eosin Y, but less or none in the case of Eosin B. Increase in fish weight was found to be 66.3 ± 0.38 g when exposed to Eosin Y at 0.0047 mg/L, but it was 69.05 ± 0.63 g when exposed to Eosin B while it was almost identical 69.2 ± 0.23 g for both dye-free trial groups. The pair-wise comparison showed that exposure of the Eosin Y at treatment level 0.0047 mg/L was found to be highly toxic for the kidneys of Labeo rohita. Although both classes of dye are cytotoxic at small concentrations, Eosin Y is acute cyto-nephrotoxic and was found to be involved in growth retardation. To prevent society from fatal consequences, usage of dyes having acute toxicity must be banned or switched to alternates having no effects.

The heavy metal ions originating from the various point and nonpoint sources seriously threatening the lotic ecosystem by posing severe health crises to the aquatic organisms of higher trophic levels. The freshwater turtles with delicate body structure and devoid of any hardcovers are prone to higher heavy metal bioaccumulation risks. The present study was conducted to determine heavy metals bioaccumulation in three soft-shelled and hard-shelled freshwater turtle species in Pakistan. We collected the water samples and cadaver turtle bodies at both sites and transported them to the laboratory for heavy metal content evaluation. The skeletal muscles (1 g) and water samples (100 ml) were processed by acid digestion and prepared metals analyses by AAS. The results indicated that the mean concentrations of Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn) and Cadmium (Cd) were significantly lower, while Nickel (Ni), Cobalt (Co), Lead (Pb) and Chromium (Cr) were significantly higher at both sites compared with world health organization (WHO, 2004) standards. Muscles of softshell turtle (Lissemys punctata) showed the maximum bioaccumulation of targeted metals than other two species of hard-shell turtles i.e. Cu (7.61 ± 1.88), Zn (49.17 ± 4.11), Ni (2.77 ± 0.41), Cd (0.21 ± 0.02), Co (3.31 ± 0.43), Pb (4.70 ± 0.62) and Cr (6.09 ± 0.39). The mean concentrations of Cu, Ni, Pb, and Cr were maximum in water and turtle species muscles collected from Trimmu Barrage. In conclusion, the heavy metal loads in water and bioaccumulation patterns in the skeletal muscles of freshwater turtle species illustrated species and location-based variations with overall similar pattern corroborations among the sequence of heavy presence levels.

This study was conducted to assess water pollution by examining DNA fragmentation in selected fish organs (kidney, liver, gills, and muscle tissue) from Wallago attu, Sperata sarwari, Vulgaris vulgaris, and Labeo rohita collected from a known polluted section of the Chenab River, Pakistan, and from a control site. The fish were caught using a gill net and were assigned to three different weight groups (W1, W2, and W3) to study the degree of variation in DNA fragmentation in relation to body weight. In fish from the polluted site, DNA fragmentation was higher in kidney, liver, gills, and muscles, compared to the control. No significant DNA fragmentation was observed in fish collected from the control site. Highly significant (P < 0.01) relationship between body weight and DNA fragmentation was found in the organs of fish procured at the contaminated site. DNA fragmentation in body organs was found to be affected by the concentrations of lead, copper, nickel, and cadmium in W. attu, S. sarwari, L. rohita, and V. vulgarus harvested from Chenab River. DNA fragmentation in different freshwater fish species is therefore a reliable biomarker of water pollution. Resumo Este estudo foi conduzido para avaliar a poluição da água examinando a fragmentação do DNA em órgãos de peixes selecionados (rim, fígado, brânquias e tecido muscular) de Wallago attu, Sperata sarwari, Vulgaris vulgaris e Labeo rohita coletados de uma conhecida área poluída do rio Chenab, Paquistão e de um local de controle. Os peixes foram capturados usando uma rede branquial e foram divididos em três grupos de pesos diferentes (W1, W2 e W3) para estudar o grau de variação na fragmentação do DNA em relação ao peso corporal. Nos peixes do local poluído, a fragmentação do DNA foi maior nos rins, fígado, brânquias e músculos, em comparação ao controle. Não foi observada fragmentação significativa do DNA em peixes coletados no local de controle. Relação altamente significativa (P

In the present study, a simple and a selective colorimetric method for pheromone detection to diagnose estrus in cattle was established based on the l-tyrosine functionalized silver nanoparticles (l-TyrAgNPs). The synthesized silver nanoparticles was spotted by color change (colorless to pale yellow) due to surface plasmon resonance (SPR). In order to confirm, Ag nanoparticles was characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and zeta potential, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and UV- Vis spectrophotometer. It was found that the pre-colored Ag colloids could be turned from yellow to reddish-brown by the addition of the sex pheromones such as acetic acid or propionic acid, which may have potential application in the colorimetric sensor. The augmented optical nature of nanoparticles furnishes a suitable base to develop a colorimetric sensor for bovine sex pheromones detection. In addition, the computational analyses are critically required to validate residual interactions of bovine odorant-binding protein (OBP) with pheromones. The method was successfully applied to the detection of acetic acid or propionic acid using a biological molecule l-Tyr AgNPs. These results clearly indicate that the biosynthesis of l-Tyr AgNPs can be used as a promising colorimetric sensor for accurate time of estrus prediction in bovine.

Recent trends in anticancer therapy is to use therapeutic agents which not only kill the cancer cell, but are less toxic to surrounding normal cells/tissue. One approach is to cut the nutrient supply to growing tumor cells, by blocking the formation of new blood vessels around the tumor. As the phytochemicals and botanical crude extracts have proven their efficacy as natural antiangiogenic agents with minimum toxicities, there is need to explore varieties of medicinal plants for novel antiangiogenic compounds.Rumex vesicarius L. (Humeidh), is an annual herbal plant with proven medicinal values. The antiangiogenic potential, and developmental toxicity of humeidh in experimental animal models has never been studied before. The crude extracts were prepared from the roots, stems, leaves and flowers of Rumex vesicarius L. in methanol, chloroform, ethyl acetate and n-hexane. The developmental toxicity screening in zebrafish embryos, has revealed that Rumex vesicarius was not toxic to zebrafish embryos. The chloroform stem extract showed significant level of antiangiogenic activity in zebrafish angiogenic assay on a dose dependent manner. Thirty five (35) bioactive compounds were identified by gas chromatography mass spectrophotometry (GC–MS) analysis in the stem extract of Rumex vesicarius. Propanoic acid, 2-[(trimethylsilyl)oxy]-, trimethylsilyl ester, Butane, 1,2,3-tris(trimethylsiloxy), and Butanedioic acid, bis(trimethylsilyl) ester were identified as major compound present in the stem of R. vasicarius.The anticancer activity of roots, stem, leaves and flowers crude extract was evaluated in human breast cancer (MCF7), human colon carcinoma (Lovo, and Caco-2), human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cell lines. Most of the crude extracts did not show significant level of cytotoxicity in tested cancer cells line, except, chloroform extract of stem which exhibited strong anticancer activity in all tested cancer cells with IC50 values in micro molar range.Based on these results, it is recommended that formulation prepared from R. vesicarius can further be tested in clinical trials in order to explore its therapeutic potential as an effective and safe natural anticancer product. Keywords: Rumex vasicarius L., Angiogenesis, Phytochemical screening, Developmental toxicity, Zebrafish embryos