Seaweeds, or macroalgae, are recognized for their medicinal and edible properties and are commonly utilized in the pharmaceutical and food industries. This study aimed to investigate the phytochemical components, antioxidant properties, in vitro antidiabetic effects, and antibacterial activities of Stoechospermum polypodioides, a macroalga from the southern coast of India. The phenolic composition was quantified using the Folin-Ciocalteu assay, while the total flavonoid content was measured using the aluminium chloride method. Antioxidant activity was evaluated through DPPH radical and ABTS cation scavenging assays, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and ferric reducing ability. Inhibition assays for α-amylase and α-glucosidase were conducted to explore the antidiabetic potential. Antibacterial activity was tested against four bacterial pathogens. The phenolic content of the methanol extract of S. polypodioides was found to be 350 ± 10.14 mg GAE/g, and the flavonoid content was 206.8 ± 7.43 mg QE/g. The methanol extract demonstrated scavenging activity against DPPH and ABTS, with IC50 values of 29.22 µg/ml and 31.20 µg/ml, respectively. An effective reduction of Mo(VI) to Mo(V) was also noted, with an IC50 of 44.2 µg/ml. Additionally, the extract showed strong reducing ability, evidenced by an absorbance of 0.987 ± 0.012 at 700 nm at the highest concentration tested (1000 µg/ml). Furthermore, the methanol extract effectively inhibited α-amylase (IC50 = 21.6 µg/mL) and α-glucosidase (IC50 = 22.6 µg/mL). The S. polypodioides extract also exhibited significant antibacterial activity, particularly against Staphylococcus aureus. Based on these bioactivities, S. polypodioides may be considered a potential source of bioactive agents.
Palm dates (Phoenix dactylifera) are essential crops in hot, arid climates throughout Asia, particularly on the Arabian Peninsula and in Africa. They are valued for their stability as a food source and for their nutritional and medicinal benefits. Among the varieties produced in Saudi Arabia, Sukkari dates stand out, with the Al-Qassim region being a major producer. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the chemical composition and bioactive constituents of Sukkari dates collected from three Saudi cities located in different administrative regions: Riyadh (Riyadh Region), Onaizah (Al-Qassim Region), and Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah (Al-Madinah Region). The dates were collected at two ripening stages: Tamer and Rutab. To assess the nutritional composition and mineral profile, total carbohydrate content was measured using the phenol-sulfuric acid method, soluble protein was quantified using the Bradford assay, total carotenoids were measured spectrophotometrically, and vitamin C content was estimated by iodometric titration. Mineral and trace element contents were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The results revealed regional differences in sugar, protein, carotenoid, and vitamin C content. Al-Riyadh Rutab dates exhibited the highest sugar concentration (46.25 mg/g), while Onaizah Tamer (ONZT) had the lowest (17.25 mg/g). Additionally, soluble protein levels were highest in Al-Riyadh Tamer (0.29 mg/ml), which may be influenced by regional drought conditions. Carotenoid content peaked in ONZ Tamer (8.64 mg/100g) but decreased with maturation. Vitamin C levels were higher in the Rutab stages, with ONZ Rutab containing the highest concentration (0.9 mg%). Although these findings provide valuable insights into the composition of Sukkari dates, monitoring trace elements remains crucial for public health and environmental safety. Future research should include a broader range of date varieties and processing methods to gain a comprehensive understanding of their nutritional profiles and bioactive components. These findings lay the groundwork for exploring the environmental impacts on date composition and the health benefits of Sukkari dates in Saudi Arabia.
Eukaryotic topoisomerase I (TOP1) plays a crucial role in maintaining DNA structure by relieving torsional stress during essential cellular processes such as replication, transcription, and repair. In humans, TOP1 is a well-established target for anticancer therapies due to its vital functions. Similarly, plant TOP1 is essential for growth, chromatin organization, and stress responses. Arabidopsis thaliana has two Type IB TOP1 enzymes, with TOP1α being highly expressed in rapidly dividing cells and critical for development. While human TOP1 inhibitors, including topoisomerase poisons, have been found to inhibit plant TOP1, there is limited understanding of its structural details in plants. In silico analysis shows significant structural and functional similarities between plant and human topoisomerases, despite differences in their sequences. Functionally, the human TOP1 inhibitor irinotecan significantly reduces root elongation, lowers the mitotic index in root meristems, and suppresses callus proliferation in Arabidopsis seedlings. These findings indicate that rapidly dividing plant cells, especially those overexpressing TOP1α, are susceptible to these topoisomerase poisons. This study provides new insights into the interactions between plant topoisomerases and drugs and suggests A. thaliana as a cost-effective and genetically manageable model for preliminary screening of potential topoisomerase-targeting therapeutics. It also highlights the evolutionary conservation of drug-target interactions, supporting the development of plant-based platforms for discovering new anticancer compounds.
Pediatric diarrhea continues to pose a significant global health challenge, leading to considerable morbidity and mortality among children under the age of five, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Accurate microbiological analysis is crucial for identifying a range of causative agents, including bacterial, viral, parasitic, and, in some cases, fungal pathogens, which can co-infect tissues and contribute to varying degrees of disease severity. Although conventional diagnostic methods are available, they often suffer from prolonged turnaround times and inconsistent sensitivity. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of advanced molecular diagnostic techniques, specifically multiplex PCR, next-generation sequencing, and whole-genome sequencing, in enhancing pathogen detection and characterizing microbial profiles in cases of pediatric diarrhea. Our findings show that molecular methods significantly improved the detection rates of mixed infections compared to traditional diagnostics. They also allowed us to identify markers of antimicrobial resistance and patterns of microbiome dysbiosis associated with severe disease. Furthermore, the integration of metabolomic and proteomic data provided additional insights into the interactions between hosts and pathogens.
The agricultural sector is a significant contributor to state revenue. One crucial aspect that requires attention is the human resources of farmers, which play a vital role in the sustainability of agricultural businesses. This study analyses farmers' social capital, their business communication, and the performance of the ornamental plant business in Kendari City. Conducted in 2024, the research involved 30 ornamental plant farmers. Data collection was carried out through interviews using a questionnaire. In this study, the independent variables are social capital and business communication, while the dependent variable is the performance of the ornamental plant business. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed for analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the state of the research variables, whereas inferential statistics were used to examine their relationships. The inferential statistical analysis utilized the Structural Equation Modelling-Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS) method. The findings indicate that the social capital, business communication, and performance of the ornamental plant business in Kendari City all fall within a moderate range. Specifically, the study found that farmers' social capital has a significant positive effect on their business communication and on the performance of the ornamental plant business. Additionally, farmers' business communication positively affects the performance of the ornamental plant business in Kendari City. It is evident that both social capital and business communication among farmers, as well as the performance of the ornamental plant business, still require improvement. Enhancing farmers' social capital and business communication will improve performance in the ornamental plant business. Therefore, efforts should be made to strengthen ornamental plant farmers' social capital and business communication skills to improve their business outcomes.
Salmonella typhimurium, typically known for causing typhoid fever, has emerged as an effective agent in cancer therapy. Significant advancements in microbial biotechnology have demonstrated that disarmed strains of S. typhimurium possess considerable potential for targeting tumors, making them promising vehicles for anticancer treatment. Relevant peer-reviewed preclinical and clinical studies on genetically modified S. typhimurium for cancer therapy were identified through searches in PubMed, Embase, Medline, and Google Scholar using specific keywords. Non-relevant reviews, editorials, and non-experimental articles were excluded from this review. S. typhimurium tends to accumulate in tumor microenvironments, where it can induce processes such as apoptosis and necrosis to eliminate cancer cells. Research indicates that Salmonella can downregulate specific immunosuppressive molecules, such as IDO (Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase), while also enhancing the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This change transforms the tumor microenvironment from immunosuppressive to immunogenic. The ability of Salmonella to deliver selective therapeutic agents has been confirmed by clinical trials and supported by studies showing tumor regression in murine models. This review article will explore various aspects of disarmed S. typhimurium-mediated drug delivery, including strategies, mechanisms, prospects, and potential drawbacks.
A significant outbreak of Bemisia tabaci populations has been documented in the cotton-growing regions of Côte d'Ivoire over the past two decades. This study aimed to characterize the spatial variability in infestation levels in relation to temperature and rainfall, to inform revisions to phytosanitary management strategies for this pest. We conducted 15 systematic pest assessments between the 30th and 128th days after crop emergence to quantify infestation intensity. Climatic variables, including temperature and precipitation, were integrated to create geospatial maps that illustrate variations in infestation patterns across the cotton belt. Statistical analyses revealed highly significant differences in infestation levels among localities (χ² = 2209.90; df = 42; p < 0.001). The period from 2012 to 2017 showed markedly increased whitefly pressure, averaging 78.63 insects per 30 plants, compared to 65 insects per 30 plants during 2003 to 2008. The proliferation pattern and spatial distribution of B. tabaci were strongly influenced by climatic conditions, particularly precipitation and temperature. The northeastern cotton-producing zone, characterized by low annual rainfall (less than 1,200 mm) and elevated mean temperatures (26.8°C to 28°C), emerged as a high-suitability area for the expansion of B. tabaci populations. Given the ongoing climate change, marked by decreasing rainfall and rising temperatures, we anticipate an increased risk of B. tabaci population growth. These findings provide essential baseline information for optimizing integrated pest management strategies to control B. tabaci in Côte d’Ivoire's cotton production systems.
Stunting, a common form of chronic undernutrition, is associated with impaired nutrient absorption and glucose transport. Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn. (roselle) contains bioactive flavonoids and anthocyanins that have the potential to regulate glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1). This study aimed to examine the effect of H. sabdariffa phytochemicals on GLUT1 regulation in the intestine, using the HT29 cell line as a model. An integrated approach combining in silico docking and in vitro validation was employed. Seven key phytochemicals were docked to GLUT1 using AutoDock Vina. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by MTT assay, and GLUT1 mRNA expression was analyzed by qPCR after treatment with sub-cytotoxic concentrations (≤ IC₅₀ = 17.2 µg/mL) for 24 and 48 hours. The results of the study revealed that among the isolated chemicals, Delphinidin-3-sambubioside and cyanidin-3-sambubioside showed the highest affinities (–10.3 and –9.8 kcal/mol, respectively). Treatment with H. sabdariffa resulted in a significant downregulation of GLUT1 expression to 0.68 ± 0.09-fold (p < 0.05) after 24 hours and 0.42 ± 0.07-fold (p < 0.01) after 48 hours. These findings indicate that H. sabdariffa phytochemicals have the potential to modulate intestinal glucose transport by suppressing GLUT1 expression. This research provides initial insights into the regulation of nutrient uptake through phytochemicals, which may be relevant to the mechanisms underlying stunting.
With more than 42% of the world's cocoa bean production, cocoa cultivation is of paramount economic importance for Côte d'Ivoire. However, black pod rot is caused by Phytophthora spp. leads to considerable reductions in local production. The excessive use of synthetic fungicides to control this disease has led to the development of pathogen resistance and poses risks to human health and the environment. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of two biological formulations based on the antagonistic fungus Trichoderma spp. spores and bioactive extracts against cocoa black pod rot development. The two Trichoderma sp. bioformulations were applied directly to detached pods under laboratory conditions (curative treatment) and to the cocoa trees' aerial parts under field conditions. Applications of these spore- and extract-based biofungicides significantly reduced blackrot development on cocoa pods. In the laboratory, cocoa pods treated with Trichoderma sp. spores after inoculation with Phytophthora palmivora showed no black rot symptoms. However, among the treatments with Trichoderma sp. bioactive extracts, only 50 mg/ml completely prevented symptom development caused by Phytophthora. In the field, the mean black pod rot reduction rates on cocoa pods were 68.68 and 38.81% for the spore and extract-based biofungicide treatments, respectively, compared with 61.10 % for the synthetic fungicide (Metalaxyl and Copper oxide).
Post-harvest physiological deterioration (PPD) is a significant challenge in the storage of cassava roots. The shelf life of cassava roots ranges from 24 to 72 hours, which reduces their economic value. PPD is characterized by blue/black to brown vascular streaking and the release of reactive oxygen species. Breeding efforts aimed at improving PPD resistance are hindered by limited information on the genetic diversity of different shelf-life types and cassava's natural heterozygosity. This study aimed to identify cassava varieties with delayed PPD. Twenty varieties were assessed and evaluated changes in metabolite content and gene expression during storage. Cassava varieties were planted at Kenyatta University's Plant Transformation Laboratory. After maturity, After maturity visual scoring and imaged based scoring to assess PPD at 0, 3, 5, 8, and 11 days post-harvest. Spectrophotometry was utilized to measure the levels of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, carotenoids, and anthocyanins in the stored roots. Additionally, expression of PPD related genes was monitored PAL, APX-2, APX-3, and AP using RT-PCR in both tolerant and susceptible varieties. The study's results demonstrated significant differences in PPD responses among the cultivars. Notably, the varieties NASE18 and KCA0013 exhibited a delayed onset of PPD symptoms, whereas TZ130 and Tajirika were more susceptible. Furthermore, the phenolic and flavonoid content were higher in KCA0013 and NASE18, while the carotenoid levels reached their peak in MM96/7151. Interestingly, the anthocyanin content significantly increased in the susceptible variety TZ130. The PPD-tolerant varieties showed elevated levels of PAL, AP, and APX-3 expression, while the expression of APX-2 was higher in the PPD-susceptible varieties. This study identifies promising cassava genotypes for breeding by highlighting the distinct biochemical and molecular profiles associated with PPD tolerance.
This study was conducted in the village of Tangode, where mechanical stabilization of sand dunes using the doumpalmrachis method was implemented. The main objective of this study is to assess the impact of these operations on the restoration of plant biodiversity and the production of fodder. The research methodology included phytosociological surveys, forest inventory, site productivity characterization, and carrying capacity estimation. Data processing enabled us to determine specific species contributions, diversity indices, Pielou's evenness index, biological and phytogeographical types, and dendrometric parameters. The results revealed 25 plant species across 22 genera and 13 families. The family Poaceae was the most represented, accounting for 63.48% of the specific contributions. The species richness was 15 and 23 species at the sites treated 1 and 7 years ago, respectively, compared to only 8 species at the control site. Among the available biological types, therophytes and microphanerophytes were the dominant categories. The most represented phytogeographical types were Guinea-Congolese, Soudano-Zambesian, and Saharo-Sindian species. The Shannon-Weaver diversity index was 2.84 for the site treated one year ago and 3.35 for the site treated seven years ago, while it was 2.21 for the control site. The equitability index indicates moderate stability on the site treated seven years ago. Average biomass production across the treated sites remained low, resulting in equally low annual carrying capacities. Dendrometric parameters were generally better on the site treated seven years ago. These results demonstrate that sand dune stabilization enables the restoration of plant biodiversity over time, which, in turn, supports the return of animal biodiversity.
Multifunctional microorganisms with various plant growth-promoting abilities are highly desirable for the development of microbial formulations. This study examined eighteen rhizospheric isolates for their plant growth-promoting features, extracellular enzyme production, and eco-physiological properties in vitro. The isolates exhibited a range of plant growth-promoting traits. The most commonly observed characteristic was ammonia production (n=18), followed by phosphate solubilization and organic acid production (n=17). Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and siderophore production were noted in sixteen isolates. Seventeen isolates tested positive for lipase, fifteen for amylase, and fourteen for cellulose. These strains also demonstrated significant tolerance to salinity and heavy metals, exceeding globally accepted thresholds for polluted soils. Three isolates, namely Aspergillus niger, Trichoderma harzianum, and Penicillium commune, showed multiple plant growth-promoting abilities and were selected for further testing on Psophocarpus tetragonolobus and Oryza sativa. Among the selected three microorganisms, T. harzianum exhibited the highest germination rates, with 95% in P. tetragonolobus and 98.33% in O. sativa. Significant increases (p<0.05) in biomass, plant height, and root length were also recorded on the application of this microorganism. Furthermore, A. niger produced the most significant biomass increase in both crops. Inoculation with these fungal isolates significantly enhanced (p<0.05) seed germination and seedling growth. These strains demonstrate strong potential for development as bio-inoculants, providing a promising approach for sustainable agriculture.
In Senegal, agriculture is the primary source of employment, engaging nearly 70% of the active population. However, the sector faces challenges, such as high post-harvest losses and the degradation of natural resources, which hinder its performance. To promote sustainable development and enhance food and nutritional security, it is essential to encourage the cultivation of neglected and underutilized species with high nutritional value. This study aimed to assess the agromorphological characteristics of various tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L.) provenances grown under Senegalese environmental conditions. The plant material consisted of mature, dry tubers from ten ecotypes originating from Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Benin, and Senegal. The experiments were conducted in a net house over a period of four months, during which various morphological growth parameters were assessed every 15 days. After the growth period, the plants were harvested, and different agronomic traits were recorded. The findings revealed significant agromorphological variability among the different tiger nut provenances. All measured traits, including plant height, chlorophyll content, tiller number, and shoot and root dry biomass, as well as tuber number, weight, size, and shape, showed considerable differences. For instance, ecotypes 2MALI and 1NIGE had the highest and lowest tuber dry weights, respectively, at 63.75g and 7.02g. Principal component analysis further highlighted strong correlations between certain parameters, such as the number of tillers and tubers. Cluster analysis categorized the C. esculentus provenances into three groups based on phenotypic similarity: Group I (1BENI, 2BENI, 2NIGE), Group II (1NIGE), and Group III (1BURK, 1MALI, 2SENE, 2BURK, 2MALI, 1SENE). These results indicate a considerable level of agromorphological variability among tiger nut provenances, providing a valuable foundation for scaling up the cultivation of this neglected and underutilized crop in Senegal.
Forward head posture (FHP) is an abnormal cervical curvature related to muscular imbalances between the agonist and antagonist muscle groups in the shoulders. This condition can lead to pain and a decreased quality of life. FHP has become increasingly common among undergraduate students; however, research on effective interventions is limited and varies in methodology. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of scapular stabilization exercises on FHP in young adults. A randomized experimental study was conducted using a single-subject design (AB design) with 34 young adult participants selected through convenience sampling. Participants were randomly assigned to either an intervention group or a control group. The intervention group received a 4-week program of scapular retraction exercises, including five exercises and ergonomic advice. In contrast, the control group received only ergonomic advice. The craniovertebral angle (CVA) was measured before treatment, at the 2-week mark, and after the 4-week treatment period to assess changes in head posture. Results indicated a significant improvement in CVA within the intervention group at both the 2nd and 4th weeks, demonstrating a positive effect of scapular retraction exercises on FHP. Between-group analysis also revealed a significant difference in CVA at the 4th week in favor of the intervention group. No significant differences were observed based on gender or BMI. In conclusion, the study found that a 4-week scapular stabilization exercise program effectively improved FHP among young adults. This simple and practical intervention provides a valuable protocol for physiotherapy strategies focused on postural correction.
Canine dermatoses are commonly observed and are often caused by bacterial infections. One of the most prevalent pathogens responsible for various skin infections is Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). Strains of Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), which carry the mecA gene, pose a significant challenge due to their reduced sensitivity to standard antibiotics. The widespread use of antibiotics for animal development and treatment has made resistant S. aureus a major global health concern that impacts humans as well. In this study, clinical samples (skin swabs) were collected from dogs that had dermatoses. Skin samples from affected dogs were cultured to isolate bacterial colonies. The presence of the mecA and nuc genes was identified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). An antibiotic sensitivity test was conducted to determine the resistance patterns of the isolated bacteria. Out of the 733 dogs screened for dermatoses, 107 were diagnosed with the condition, and 65 tested positive for bacteria. Among those, 41 had various bacterial infections, 6 were identified as MRSA, and 18 were S. aureus. These findings will provide valuable insights into the prevalence of MRSA in canine skin disorders and enhance our understanding of antimicrobial resistance within the field of veterinary medicine. Results of the study revealed the presence of the nuc and mecA genes in bacterial isolates obtained from cases of canine dermatoses. This information is crucial for guiding appropriate antimicrobial treatments, implementing effective infection control measures, and assessing the risk of resistant strains spreading zoonotically, all of which contribute to a “One Health” approach.
Leaf characteristics are vital indicators of photosynthetic capacity; however, their response to planting density and climate in Neolamarckia cadamba is not well understood. A field experiment was conducted to investigate leaf size and specific leaf area "SLA" (the ratio of leaf area to leaf dry mass) in N. cadamba cultivated under both dry and wet conditions in a monoculture system. The aim was to assess the role of leaf trait plasticity in the species' adaptation to varied climatic conditions and planting densities. Four planting densities (1 × 1 m, 2 × 1 m, 2 × 2 m, and 3 × 3 m) were arranged in a randomized design over an area of 3 hectares, divided into two main plots (dry and wet plots). Results indicated that the highest SLA occurred at planting densities of 2 × 1 m and 3 × 3 m in both wet and dry conditions. Leaf area was found to be inversely proportional to mean air temperature (MAT) and monthly sunshine duration (SuH) but positively correlated with monthly precipitation (MAP) and monthly mean relative humidity (Hu) across all densities. In dry plot areas, SLA showed a positive correlation with all planting densities. In wet plot areas, SLA at 1 × 1 m and 2 × 1 m densities exhibited a positive correlation with all four climatic parameters. These findings underscore the significant role of precipitation in driving variations in leaf size, highlighting the importance of adjusting planting densities according to local climatic conditions to optimize growth and resource efficiency in this economically important species.
Curry leaf, a popular aromatic and medicinal plant native to India, has significant commercial value. However, our understanding of its genetic variability, particularly about traits important for agriculture and economics, remains limited. This study aimed to assess the level of genetic divergence and the relationships between various traits related to fresh leaf yield among 151 diverse germplasm accessions maintained in ex-situ conditions. The germplasm was evaluated over two consecutive years (2023 and 2024) using a blocked augmented design, and the data were subjected to thorough statistical analysis. The results revealed substantial genetic diversity across all traits among the tested accessions. The genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation were very high for ten-leaf weight, fifty-leaflet weight, and fresh-leaf yield. Furthermore, all traits except for internode length on the rachis exhibited very high heritability along with a high genetic advance, indicating strong additive genetic control and the potential for improvement through selection. Correlation analysis showed a significant positive association between fresh leaf yield and most traits, except leaflet number per leaf. Hierarchical clustering grouped the 151 accessions into four main clusters. Cluster C was the largest, comprising 64 accessions, followed by Cluster D with 45 accessions and Cluster A with 39 accessions. Cluster B was the smallest, containing only three accessions: IC652422, IC652456, and IC652523. Notably, Cluster B exhibited the highest mean values for all traits, indicating the superior genetic potential of these accessions for developing high-yielding curry leaf cultivars. The findings from this investigation provide valuable insights for developing effective breeding strategies to improve curry leaves, enhancing yield and quality.
This study presents the design and evaluation of a plant-based bio-battery, specifically a plant microbial fuel cell (plant-MFC), utilizing peppermint plants and monitored by an open-source electronic system. The goal was to develop a sustainable, low-cost bioenergy solution by integrating plant-MFCs into clay pots and equipping them with an Arduino-based monitoring system. This system features an OLED display, capacitive soil moisture sensors, and data logging capabilities via a microSD card. Four plant-MFCs were constructed and tested over 30 days. Voltage and soil moisture data were recorded every 10 minutes, and polarization experiments were conducted to assess power output. The results demonstrated consistent open-circuit voltages averaging 1.1 V, with peaks reaching 1.2 V. The maximum power densities achieved were 645.91 mW/m³, indicating the effectiveness of the design. The system's performance highlights the importance of soil moisture and plant health in maximizing energy generation. Its open-source nature allows for easy replication and modification, making it suitable for educational purposes and encouraging collaboration within scientific and maker communities. This interdisciplinary approach, which merges biology, electronics, and renewable energy, demonstrates the potential of plant-MFCs for off-grid power generation, environmental monitoring, and science education. The findings contribute to ongoing efforts to develop accessible and sustainable bioelectrochemical energy technologies.
The agricultural sector is a major contributor to environmental pollution, including greenhouse gas emissions. Banana cultivation also significantly impacts these conditions due to the intensive use of commercial fertilizers. These fertilizers not only disrupt ecosystems and pollute water sources but also underscore the urgent need for sustainable alternatives. This research evaluated the potential of a biomass mixture comprised of the microalga Chlorella vulgaris and the cyanobacterium Spirulina sp. as a biofertilizer and biostimulant for Musa AAA Cavendish var. Valery seedlings grown under greenhouse conditions. The biomass was produced using cost-effective, large-scale methods and subsequently harvested, dried, and characterized for its physicochemical properties, which revealed a high organic matter content. Eight comparative treatments were applied as dry soil amendments at varying concentrations and were evaluated against a commercial fertilizer. During the study, various morphological traits of plants, pigment content, and soil properties were measured both before and after treatment. The results showed that biomass applications at 2 g/kg and 4 g/kg (T3 and T4) matched or surpassed the effectiveness of the commercial fertilizer in promoting pseudostem length, dry weight, leaf area, chlorophyll concentration, photosynthetic efficiency, nitrogen uptake, and CO₂ assimilation for banana growth and yield. Additionally, the microalgal biomass improved soil quality by increasing organic matter and the availability of essential micronutrients. These findings suggest that microalgal biomass can effectively replace chemical fertilizers, fostering a more sustainable banana cultivation system with a reduced carbon footprint. The study’s results recommend a phased application strategy: using T3 during the vegetative stage to stimulate early growth and T4 during the reproductive stage to support fruit development. This approach may optimize nutrient uptake and enhance overall crop productivity in an environmentally friendly manner.
Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a severe chronic disease primarily caused by oxidative stress and the accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). This study aims to evaluate the preventive effects of an ethanolic extract of Uncaria sp. on renal oxidative stress in rats with streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes. This study employed a post-test-only control group design, comprising five experimental groups: a negative control, a positive control (glibenclamide), and three treatment groups that received Uncaria sp. extract at dosages of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg body weight (BW), respectively. The extract was administered orally over 14 days. In this study, blood glucose levels and renal biomarkers of oxidative stress, including methylglyoxal, advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs), and carbonyl proteins, were analyzed. The results indicated that Uncaria sp. significantly reduced blood glucose levels in all treatment groups, with the 400 mg/kg BW dose producing effects comparable to glibenclamide. Furthermore, renal levels of methylglyoxal, AOPPs, and carbonyl proteins significantly decreased, suggesting that the extract possesses antioxidant and anti-glycation properties. The bioactive compounds in the extract, particularly flavonoids and alkaloids, are likely responsible for these beneficial effects. This study supports the potential of Uncaria sp. as both a nephroprotective and antidiabetic agent. The extract's multifaceted biochemical activity may provide a promising alternative or complementary approach to conventional therapies aimed at minimizing complications associated with diabetes, such as diabetic nephropathy.
