The growing demand for electricity, driven by population growth and economic expansion, necessitates an efficient power distribution system and environmental sustainability. Smart Grids have emerged as a potential tool for enhancing the stability, reliability and sustainability of the grids. Machine learning models implemented in smart grids can predict consumer demand and improve smart grid performance. In this study, various machine learning models, including Logistic Regression, Support Vector Machines, Decision Trees, Random Forests, Gaussian Naïve Bayes, k-Nearest Neighbours, and Artificial Neural Networks, are used. The results of models with and without Principal Component Analysis integration are highlighted to predict the stability of smart grids. The metrics used in this study to evaluate model performance are accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, F1 score, and AUC-ROC. The results showed that machine learning models without principal component analysis performed better than those with principal component analysis on this dataset. The SVM-RBF kernel model with PCA achieved the highest accuracy of 80.39%, whereas the model without PCA achieved 98.15%. The results show that integrating PCA into ML models does not improve model performance; rather, it decreases accuracy, especially given the dataset’s size and the lower-dimensional feature space of the Smart Grid UCI dataset.
Coir pith, an abundant agro-industrial by-product of coconut processing, is increasingly explored as a sustainable alternative to peat-based substrates in soilless cultivation. However, its direct application is constrained by a high carbon-to-nitrogen (C: N) ratio, the complexity of lignocellulose, and potential phytotoxicity. Composting is commonly employed to improve its physicochemical properties and enhance its usability as a growing medium. The present study aimed to evaluate changes in chemical composition, elemental characteristics, and functional group properties of raw and composted coir pith using advanced analytical techniques. Composting was carried out for 30 days using a layered method with microbial inoculation (Pleurotus sajor-caju-based formulation) and urea supplementation. Results indicated a reduction in C:N ratio from 70.7:1 to 32.7:1 and a decrease in total organic carbon from 59.39% to 30.80%. Nutrient contents increased, with total nitrogen rising from 0.84% to 0.94%, phosphorus from 0.02% to 0.86%, and potassium from 1.84% to 1.96%. SEM analysis revealed structural degradation and altered pore architecture, while EDX showed a reduction in carbon (from 71% to 60%) and an increase in oxygen (from 25% to 32%). FTIR analysis indicated qualitative changes in functional groups associated with lignocellulosic components. These findings demonstrate that composting induces significant physicochemical and structural modifications in coir pith, suggesting its potential suitability as a soilless substrate. However, the contribution of external nitrogen inputs and the lack of plant-based validation highlight the need for further investigation.
Cucurbita spp. are highly susceptible to soil-borne fungal pathogens, which severely reduce crop productivity. This study investigated the biocontrol potential of indigenous rhizospheric bacteria as an eco-friendly alternative to chemical fungicides. Thirteen bacterial isolates obtained from the rhizosphere of pumpkin plants were screened for antagonistic activity against Rhizoctonia solani, Macrophomina phaseolina, and Diaporthe sclerotioides, which were isolated from infected cucurbit plants grown in fields in Mosul, Iraq. Considerable variability was observed among the isolates, with HL1, HL2 and HL3 exhibiting the most potent inhibitory effects (76.5%, 62.4% and 78.8%, respectively). Partial 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that HL1 was Exiguobacterium acetylicum HNH1, HL2 was Bacillus cereus HNH2, and HL3 was Priestia megaterium HNH3. These sequences were submitted to GenBank under the accession numbers PV842271.1, PV843113.1 and PV915980.1. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed their close relationship with reference strains. The cell-free supernatant (CFS) of E. acetylicum HNH1 exhibited potent antifungal activity, demonstrating maximum inhibition against R. solani at concentrations of 10-¹ and 10-², with an inhibition rate of 82.4%, and at 10-⁷, with an inhibition rate of 76.5%. GC–MS analysis revealed that the major secondary metabolite was urea, which may contribute to antifungal activity by inhibiting hyphal growth and spore germination.These findings suggest that rhizosphere-associated bacteria may serve as promising biocontrol agents; however, further validation and biosafety assessment are required before practical application.
Arid ecosystems are particularly vulnerable to climate change, which can alter the distribution patterns of endemic plant species adapted to extreme environmental conditions. But does the distribution of any endangered species depend only on bioclimatic variables? What can be other factors that lead to declare a plant as endangered? This study answers the questions using Tribulus rajasthanensis, an endemic desert plant species found in the arid landscapes of Rajasthan. It represents an important component of regional desert biodiversity. However, limited information is available regarding its potential response to future climatic changes. The present study aimed to assess the potential distribution of T. rajasthanensis under present and future climate scenarios using species distribution modeling. Habitat suitability modeling was conducted using the MaxEnt algorithm. Future projections were generated for two climate scenarios, SSP1-2.6 and SSP5-8.5, based on outputs from the global climatic model ACCESS-CM2. The results indicated that annual precipitation (BIO12) and minimum temperature of the coldest month (BIO6) were the primary drivers of species distribution. Model evaluation showed moderate AUC values (0.672 for SSP1-2.6 and 0.587 for SSP5-8.5) but high CBI values (0.882 and 0.859, respectively), indicating strong ecological reliability. Range shift analysis revealed a predominance of stable habitat (~23.4 km²) with limited habitat loss (~0.41 km²) and moderate gain (~2.32 km²) under both scenarios. Overall, the findings indicated that T. rajasthanensis is climatically resilient, and its endangered status may be driven more by non-climatic factors than by future climate change.
Phytochemicals in plant extract play a vital role in the synthesis of nanoparticles. Therefore, the biomolecules of Melissa officinalis extract behave as a reducing agents and stabilizing agents in the synthesis of the cuprous oxide nanoparticles (Cu2ONPs). The aim of this study was to determine the antibacterial effect of green synthesized Cu2ONPs against pathogenic bacterial strains and their effect upon breast cancer (MCF-7) cell line, prostate cancer (PC3) cell line relative to healthy human hepatic (WRL68) cell line. The obtained nanoparticles were characterized by applying ultraviolet-visible light (UV-Vis) spectrophotometry, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometry, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In this study the FTIR spectrum of green synthesized Cu2O NPs exhibits the Cu2–O stretching vibration at 623 cm-1. The XRD spectrum demonstrated the crystallographic nature of Cu2ONPs with an average size of 12±5 nm. The SEM and TEM images confirmed the presence of Cu2ONPs in a spherical shape in the range between 23 to 42 nm. The current results showed that Cu2ONPs own a bactericidal effect against Gram-negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA23), Escherichia coli (EC67), Enterobacter aerogenes (EA18)) and Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus (SA45), Enterococcus faecalis (EF92)). Moreover, the IC50 of Cu2ONPs against breast cancer MCF-7 cell lines, prostate cancer (PC3) cell lines, and healthy human hepatic (WRL68) cell lines were 50μg/ml, 185μg/ml, and 206 μg/ml, respectively. Comparing to PC3 cell line, the Cu2ONPs exhibit potent an anticancer effect especially against the MCF-7 cell line and show low toxicity toward WRL68 cell lines. This study opens new horizons for using copper oxide nanoparticles as a broad-spectrum disinfectant against bacteria, and as a promising candidate for breast cancer a after further modification.
The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of seed biopriming and organic nutrient sources on the storability and quality of resultant seeds in chilli cv. PKM1. Seeds were bioprimed with liquid Azospirillum at 15% for 6 hours and grown with different nutrient sources, including recommended dose of fertilizer, 100% vermicompost, and 100% poultry manure. Harvested seeds were evaluated for germination, root length, shoot length, vigour index, dry matter production, electrical conductivity, protein content, and microtome imaging under storage conditions. Seeds produced with 100% vermicompost exhibited superior performance, with germination up to 88%, compared to 86% in poultry manure treatment when stored in polythene bags. After six months of storage, these seeds recorded maximum root length (11.37 cm), shoot length (7.22 cm), dry matter production (0.214 g), and vigour index (1636). Improved membrane integrity and biochemical traits were also observed. The study demonstrates that biopriming with Azospirillum (15% for 6 h) combined with 100% vermicompost significantly enhances seed quality and longevity. This provides a cost-effective, sustainable strategy for improving storability and performance of chilli seeds.
Yeasts associated with plant environments play a crucial role in ecological balance and biotechnology applications, given their ability to participate in nutrient cycling and the production of valuable compounds. However, the study of the local diversity of these yeasts in many plant environments remains limited and insufficient. This study was conducted to investigate the diversity of local yeast species associated with plant environments. Yeasts isolated from fruits, leaves, and soil are considered important biological resources due to their potential applications in agriculture and biotechnology. The current study aimed to isolate and molecularly characterize local yeasts from samples taken from the fruits, leaves, and soil of selected plants. Eight yeast isolates were obtained from the different plant samples. Molecular characterization was performed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting the ITS region. Amplification results showed a single DNA band of approximately 500 base pairs in all isolates. ITS region sequencing identified four yeast species: three isolates were identified as Meyerozyma guilliermondii, three as Saccharomyces cerevisiae, one as Pichia fermentans, and one as Rhodotorula mucilaginosa. All identified isolates have been officially deposited and registered in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database.These results highlight the significant diversity of yeast species associated with plant environments and provide an important foundation for the future use of these isolates in agricultural and biotechnology applications. This study is one of the few to document and register the molecular diversity of local yeasts isolated from plant environments in a global database, enhancing their potential for future research and application.
The rural economy in India mainly depends on agricultural productivity, which is now under great threat from climate change. The present study evaluates the variation in climatic conditions, crop yield responses, understanding of farmer’s perception and adaptive capacity along the nine agro-climatic zones (Western Plain Zone, Mid-Western Plain Zone, South-Western Semi-Arid Zone, Central Plain Zone, Bundelkhand Zone, North-Eastern Plain Zone, Eastern Plain Zone, Tarai and Bhabhar Zone, and Vindhyan Zone) of Uttar Pradesh, India. Data such as long-term climate data (1985–2024), agricultural statistics, geospatial analysis, and household survey data were evaluated to understand the spatial patterns of temperature and rainfall variability and their agricultural impacts. A consistent increase in temperature was observed across all agro-climatic zones, with strong warming in the western and semi-arid regions. Significant variation in rainfall patterns was observed with increased irregularity. Variation in rainfall was found as a major cause of yield loss (r = 0.972, p < 0.001). Approximately 5-7% loss in average crop yield was observed across climatic zone with substantial rainfall. However, significant loss in crop yields (~14%) was observed in western plain zone. It was observed that farmers' perceptions closely aligned with climatic variations, with over 85% of respondents reporting the impact of climate change. Approximately 44-67% of farmers reported a decline in crop yield despite crop adjustments, confirming the limits to autonomous adaptation. Further, socio-economic results showed a dominance of mall and marginal farmers, with education-driven livelihood diversification, livestock integration, and forest resource use enhancing adaptive capacity. The present study highlighted the need for zone-specific strategies to overcome challenges posed by changing climatic conditions.
This study achieved the genetic transformation of black henbane ( Hyoscyamus niger) plants through direct injection by the Root-inducing plasmid (pRi) isolated from Agrobacterium rhizogenes ATCC 15834. This method facilitated the transfered of Transfer-DNA(T-DNA) genes and integration into the plant cell genome. This study aimed to identify the Ri plasmid A. rhizogenes (strain ATCC 15834) at three concentrations and to produce genetically modified black henbane (H. niger) plants. Highest efficiency observed at a plasmid concentration with 1102.44 ng µl-¹ where stimulated hairy roots produced reached to 85.1% after 4 days. Electrophoresis of the amplified chromosomal deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) isolated from hairy roots species by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technology demonstrated its genetic transformation by the appearance of a single band for each typed of DNA with a molecular weight of 248 bp (base pair) that its identical to the molecular weight of the specific primer for the rol A gene. The results showed a significant response in callus induction at all concentrations used when planting its segments on Murashige and Skoog solid medium supplemented with 0.25 mg L-1 of Thidiazuron (TDZ) and 1 mg L-1 of Benzyladenine (BA). The hairy roots resulting from inculation at a concentration of 1102.44 ng µl -1 were the most effective in inducing callus, reaching a rate of 90% after 6 days. After the first subculture, green shoots merged that developed into genetically modified H. niger plants, each with stem heights ranging from approximately 5 to 8 cm.
Butea monosperma, commonly called the Flame of the Forest, is a leguminous plant of significant ecological, medicinal, and socio-economic value, found across tropical and subtropical Asia. Despite its importance in traditional medicine and rural economies, large-scale propagation is limited by poor seed viability, dormancy, and low success rates with conventional vegetative methods. The present investigation was undertaken to develop a reliable and efficient in vitro micropropagation protocol for B. monosperma based on axillary shoot proliferation, by analyzing the effects of various cytokinins and their combinations with auxins on nodal explants. After eight weeks of culture, 2.5 µM 6-benzyladenine (BA) yielded the highest shoot induction rate (83.33%) with an average of 12.44 ± 0.43 shoots and a shoot length of 4.00 ± 0.17 cm. Meta topolin was the second most effective. An enhanced shoot multiplication response was observed when BA (2.5 µM) was combined with NAA (0.5 µM), resulting in up to 20.89 ± 0.58 shoots per explant and 94.44% shoot proliferation response. Rooting frequency was highest in IBA-treated cultures (94.44%), with improved root number and quality observed in half-strength MS medium supplemented with 0.5-1.0 µM IBA. Acclimatization studies showed a maximum survival of 80.83 ± 2.40% in Soilrite™, indicating its suitability for ex vitro establishment. This optimized micropropagation system demonstrates high proliferation potential and provides a reliable method for conservation, large-scale propagation, and sustainable use of B. monosperma. The results hold significant implications for medicinal applications and species restoration.
Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are important components of the fish gastrointestinal microbiota and are widely explored as potential probiotics in aquaculture. The present study aimed to perform qualitative and semi-quantitative phenotypic characterization of LAB previously identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing from the gastrointestinal tracts of two freshwater catfish species, Clarias magur and Heteropneustes fossilis, collected from Assam, Northeast India. Fourteen LAB isolates (eight from C. magur and six from H. fossilis) were subjected to cultural, morphological, physiological, and biochemical analyses. All isolates formed small, circular, smooth, and convex colonies on MRS agar with predominantly creamy white pigmentation. Microscopic analysis confirmed Gram-positive, non-motile cells, with rod-shaped morphology in Lactobacillus and Limosilactobacillus and coccoid forms in Enterococcus species. Semi-quantitative growth assessment showed that several isolates could grow at both 10 °C and 42 °C, indicating physiological tolerance. Biochemical tests revealed uniform catalase and indole negativity, methyl red positivity, and consistent fermentation of lactose, D-fructose, and maltose. Species identification was based exclusively on 16S rRNA gene sequencing, while phenotypic and biochemical tests were used only for confirmation of LAB characteristics. The most frequently identified isolates were Lactobacillus reuteri, Limosilactobacillus reuteri, and Enterococcus spp. The observed phenotypic similarity reflects conserved LAB traits rather than host-specific adaptation. The study provides baseline phenotypic confirmation of genetically identified LAB and a foundation for future functional and safety evaluation for aquaculture applications.
Synthetic dyes discharged from textile industries create significant environmental challenges due to their long-lasting nature, toxicity, and resistance to biological degradation. Among these dyes, Malachite Green is widely recognized for its hazardous effects on aquatic organisms and potential carcinogenic risks, highlighting the need for efficient and sustainable removal technologies. The present study aims to develop and evaluate a novel bio-based nanocomposite adsorbent derived from Manila Tamarind shells functionalized with copper nanoparticles for the efficient removal of Malachite Green dye from aqueous solutions. Copper nanoparticle-impregnated Manila Tamarind shell adsorbent was synthesized and applied in batch adsorption experiments. To optimize the process, Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with a Central Composite Design (CCD) was applied, involving 29 experimental trials covering factorial, axial, and center points. The influence of key operational variables, solution pH, temperature, initial dye concentration, and adsorbent dosage on dye removal efficiency was systematically investigated. The optimized conditions were identified at an initial dye concentration of 10 mg L-¹, adsorbent dosage of 0.7 g L-¹, pH 8, and temperature of 318 K, resulting in a maximum predicted dye removal efficiency of 80.73%. Statistical analysis confirmed the adequacy and reliability of the developed quadratic model with a high coefficient of determination (R² = 0.9787) and significant model probability (p < 0.0001). The developed Manila Tamarind shell copper nanocomposite exhibits excellent adsorption performance and represents a low-cost, eco-friendly, and sustainable adsorbent. The fitted RSM model equation is: Dye Removal % = 95.88 – 3.53A + 0.9269B + 1.45C + 1.11D – 1.05AB – 0.3746AC – 0.4166AD + 0.7485BC – 0.3541BD – 0.2454CD – 8.18A² – 5.64B² – 6.09C² – 4.24D²
The toxicity of chronic lead exposure is caused by oxidative stress (OS), inflammation, and apoptosis. The effects of lead acetate (PbAc) and the chelator meso-2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) on OS biomarkers, inflammatory cytokines, apoptotic activity, and the distribution of lead in liver and kidney tissues in Wistar rats were the subject of the present study. The administration PbAc at a dosage of 10 mg/kg per day for a duration of 28 days had a substantial impact on lipid peroxidation, as evidenced by increased concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) and alterations in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. There was a 3.1-3.5-fold increase in pro-inflammatory markers (TNF- 06, CRP) and a 5.2-fold elevation in renal caspase-3 activity, which is an indication of an increase in apoptosis. The amount of lead in kidneys (34.21 μg/g) was greater compared with liver (28.76 μg/g). The DMSA treatment (30 mg/kg/day 5 days) lowered the lead levels by 64-66 percent, reduced the MDA by 56 percent, and lowered the inflammatory cytokines by 42-48 percent. Nevertheless, the amount of residual lead (9.8712.45 μg/g) and the presence of mild renal dysfunction were observed through the increased creatinine (0.68 vs. 0.42 mg/dL). These results demonstrate that DMSA is a useful treatment of lead poisoning, but the lack of full recovery implies that long-term chelation treatment and other interventions are necessary to mitigate long-term oxidative stress and inflammation.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen frequently associated with hospital-acquired infections, particularly in burn and wound cases, and its pathogenicity is strongly linked to biofilm formation and virulence factors such as phenazine. The present study aimed to isolate and identify P. aeruginosa from clinical specimens and to investigate the association between biofilm formation, the pelB gene, and phenazine production.A total of 150 clinical isolates were collected from burn and wound samples from hospitals in Al-Hilla, Babylon, Iraq. Bacterial identification was performed using selective culture media and biochemical tests, and was confirmed by the Vitek-2 Compact system. Biofilm formation was assessed phenotypically using the microtiter plate method. Molecular identification included detection of the PA-SS species-specific marker and the pelB gene. Phenazine was extracted using the chloroform method and identified by High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC(.Among 150 isolates, the prevalence of P. aeruginosa in the examined clinical samples was 33.33% (50/150), with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 25.8% to 40.9%. Among these, 15 isolates harbored the pelB gene and exhibited variable biofilm-forming abilities, with 66.6% classified as strong biofilm producers and 33.4% as weak producers. Phenazine production was qualitatively detected in all biofilm-forming isolates, while quantitative HPLC characterization was performed on a representative clinical isolate. Phenazine production was observed among biofilm-forming isolates and was associated with biofilm formation.This study highlights a strong correlation among biofilm formation, the presence of the pelB gene, and phenazine production in clinical P. aeruginosa isolates, providing valuable insights into pathogenic mechanisms and improving infection control strategies.
Non-monetary inputs in agriculture, such as the date of sowing has a significant impact on growth and development of chickpea. Rice-fallow chickpea sowing may be delayed for several reasons; hence, need proper sowing-window standardisation. Therefore, A field experiment carried out during Rabi, 2022-23 at Agricultural College, Jagtial, Telangana with six dates of sowing in chickpea i.e., 1st November (D1), 15th November (D2), 1st December (D3), 15th December (D4), 1st January (D5) and 15th January (D6) in main plots and three varieties i.e., JG-14 (V1), NBeG-3 (V2) and NBeG-47 (V3) in sub plots of split plot design. Outcomes of the experiment revealed that chickpea crop sown at D1 was found to be economical with highest seed yield (22.65 q/ha), gross returns (118478 Rs/ha), net returns (90128 Rs/ha) and B:C ratio (4.1), which is on par with D2 sown crop and lowest with D6 sowing. While V2 variety yielded the highest (18.98 q/ha), gross returns (99283 Rs/ha), net returns (70933 Rs/ha), and B:C ratio (3.4), which is on par with V1, and lowest with V3. Sowing time efficiency was highest in D1 (136%) and lowest in D6 (33%). Correlation analysis among crop yield and weather parameters also revealed that delayed sowing increases heat stress during the growth period and has a negative impact on biomass and yield.
Contamination of the environment by organophosphorus pesticides poses a significant threat to the aquatic ecosystem since fish are the main victims. Chronic exposure, especially at low levels, has adverse effects on physiological functions, threatening both ecological balance and food security. This study was intended to assess the effects of sublethal doses of profenofos on biochemical and neurotoxic enzyme biomarkers in fingerlings of Labeo rohita. Healthy fingerlings were exposed to lethal (96 h LC50) 1.25 µg/L and sublethal (1/10 of 96 h LC₅₀, 0.125 µg/L) for 1, 4, and 10 days. Enzyme activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), succinate dehydrogenase (SDH), malate dehydrogenase (MDH), acid phosphatase (ACP), alanine transaminase (ALAT), aspartate aminotransferase (AAT), and acetyl cholinesterase (AChE) was determined in brain, gill, liver, kidney, and muscle tissues via colorimetric methods. Results showed prominent enzymatic changes in a time bound manner. An increase in LDH activity indicated an elevated rate of anaerobic metabolism, with decreases in SDH and MDH activities. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity was substantially inhibited in brain tissue during prolonged profenofos exposure, indicating significant neurotoxic effects. The activities of acyl phosphates showed a variation of 67%. Transaminase enzymes showed biphasic activity, with an initial elevation (ALAT +45% on day 1) followed by depletion (–59% on day 10). The results clearly indicated hepatic and neurotoxic effects of profenofos in L. rohita. The approach used in the study can be adopted to determine the suitability of these biomarkers for monitoring chronic pesticide exposure.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is considered the most significant Pseudomonas species because of its ability to invade tissues and form biofilms, which are encoded by virulence genes such as the Pseudomonas surfactant layer (psID) and the Alginate operon (algD), and its resistance patterns against Common antibiotics. In this study P. aeruginosa was isolated from burns, urinary tract infections and hospital environmental sources in Mosul Province during the period (February, 2025 to May, 2025) and identified by utilizing Application Programming Interface (API) 20, the conventional Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technique is conducted for genotype and virulence gene identification, 173 swab samples were taken including 55 swabs from burn patients, 85 samples from urinary tract infected patients and 33 swab from operation rooms (Surgical operative beds, surgical instruments, tables, sink, walls and floor. 68 out of 173 (39%) samples identified as P. aeruginosa by API 20. Antibiotic susceptibility testing with 9 different antibiotics revealed that 9/30 (30%) were resistant to at least one antibiotic. According to 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid (rRNA) gene PCR amplification for the investigation of psID and algD virulence genes, both are present in 25/30 isolates (83.3%). The study results confirm that most of the isolated P.aeruginosa strains possessed virulence genes (psID) and (algD) indicating their virulence. The present results might provide guidance on prescribing appropriate antibiotics.
Lead is a persistent environmental toxicant known to induce severe hepatic damage primarily through oxidative stress, mitochondrial impairment, and inflammatory responses. Eugenol, a naturally occurring phenolic compound, has emerged as a promising bioactive agent due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Its potential to protect against toxin-induced hepatic injury, particularly through modulation of mitochondrial function and inflammatory pathways, remains of considerable interest. The present study evaluated the hepatoprotective efficacy of eugenol against lead-induced hepatic toxicity in male Wistar rats. Animals were divided into four groups: control, eugenol (5 mg/kg), lead (30 mg/kg), and eugenol + lead co-treatment. Mitochondrial enzyme activities, semi-quantitative gene expression of inflammatory mediators, and ultrastructural changes were assessed. Eugenol administration significantly mitigated lead-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, as evidenced by a 47%, 31%, and 30% restoration of complex I, II, and IV activities, respectively. Furthermore, eugenol attenuated the transcriptional upregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-12) and altered NF-κB transcription, suggesting its potential anti-inflammatory effects. Ultrastructural analysis demonstrated preservation of mitochondrial integrity and reduced nuclear chromatin condensation in hepatocytes following eugenol co-treatment. These findings highlight eugenol's capacity to modulate mitochondrial function and inflammatory gene expression, thereby conferring protection against hepatic injury. The study underscores the therapeutic potential of eugenol as a natural agent for mitigating toxin-induced liver damage and supports its further exploration as a hepatoprotective strategy.
Plant-derived bioactive compounds are increasingly explored as safer and effective alternatives to synthetic drugs. This study evaluated the antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic properties of different solvent extracts (methanol, acetone, chloroform, aqueous, and petroleum ether) from the leaves and bark of Firmiana colorata (Roxb.) R.Br. Phytochemical screening revealed alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, tannins, glycosides, terpenoids, and saponins, with methanol extracts showing the highest total phenolic (249.02±4.31 mg GAE/g leaf; 231.34±4.89 mg GAE/g bark) and flavonoid (194.65±3.42 mg RE/g leaf; 214.32±3.94 mg RE/g bark) contents. GC–MS analysis identified major compounds such as Hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester and 2-Furanone, 3,4-dihydroxytetrahydro. Methanolic extracts exhibited strong antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (25.3 ± 0.57 mm) and Streptococcus mutans (24.3 ± 0.57 mm). Potent antioxidant activity was observed with DPPH IC50 values of 28.63 µg/mL (bark) and 155.74 µg/mL (leaf), while FRAP assays confirmed high reducing power. The bark methanol extract showed notable anti-inflammatory potential (IC50 = 171.31 ± 6.7 µg/mL) and the methanolic bark extract showed lower IC50 values and comparatively higher cytotoxic activity against HCT-116 cells (IC50 = 136.3 µg/ mL). These results demonstrate that F. colorata possesses strong antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic activities, validating its traditional medicinal uses and highlighting its potential as a source of plant-based therapeutic agents.
N and P are important macronutrients for growth, photosynthesis and crop biomass production, but there is a lack of studies on their combined effects on crop growth at early growth stages under controlled environments. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of ammonium sulfate (N) and triple superphosphate (P), applied individually and in combination, on growth and physiological attributes of tomato, Solanum lycopersicum plants. A completely randomized design (CRD) was used with four levels of N (0, 0.180, 0.200, and 0.250 kg ha-¹) and four levels of P (0, 0.120, 0.150, and 0.200 kg ha-¹), resulting in 16 treatments. Measurements were conducted 52 days after sowing and included relative water content (RWC), fresh biomass, and photosynthetic pigments. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and means were compared by Duncan’s test (P ≤ 0.05). Roots of plants treated with 0.200 kg N ha-¹ showed the highest fresh weight (7.281 g) compared to the control (3.209 g). The maximum leaf RWC (≈ 98%) was observed at 0.250 kg N ha-¹. Optimal shoot growth was recorded at 0.150–0.200 kg P ha-¹. The combined treatment (0.200 N × 0.150 P kg ha-¹) resulted in the highest biomass and chlorophyll a content, indicating a strong synergistic interaction. The present study clearly revealed a synergistic interaction between nitrogen and phosphorus fertilization. These results demonstrate that early-stage nutrient management using combined N and P application improves physiological growth responses of tomato under greenhouse conditions and provides a practical reference for optimizing fertilization strategies.
