A study was carried out at the ICAR- Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, SRRS, Dharwad, Karnataka, India, during the Kharif 2022-23. The aim was to standardize cutting schedules and determine the physiological maturity of Stylosanthes hamata to improve seed production. Flower phenology studies revealed that the baker method was effective for estimating pollen viability. It was noted that Stylosanthes exhibited protandry, with a total of 10 stamens, where the development of 5 long anthers preceded the remaining 5 short anthers by 1-2 days. The highest pollen viability was observed during the morning hours on the day of anthesis, reaching a maximum of 67.05%. The main flowering period for Stylosanthes was from September to December, with an additional minor blooming period observed during April-May. After anthesis, Stylosanthes flowers lasted for a maximum of 8-9 hours before wilting. The use of mulching significantly improved various of growth and flowering parameters, as well as seed yield and quality. At 60 days after sowing (DAS), initial plant height was similar for plots without mulch (M1) and those with mulch (M2) at around 30.85cm and 30.68cm respectively. However, by 90 DAS, plants in the M2 plots had significantly greater height (66.65cm) compared to those in M1. Similarly, various other parameters such as days to 50% flowering (88.35), number of branches (6.25), days to maturity (159.18), seed yield (771.98kg/ha), seed germination (35.65%), shoot length (7.30cm), root length (6.55cm), seedling vigor index (494.91), seeds on plant (5.83%), physical purity (82.33%), test weight (3.24g), and minimum seeds fallen on the ground (78.18%) were also significantly improved with mulching. These results were consistent across different stages of harvesting at 170-180 days after sowing, indicating physiological maturity. Therefore, for optimal growth, seed yield, and quality in Stylosanthes seeds, harvesting at 170-180 DAS with mulching is recommended.
The growing interest for eco-friendly nanomaterials has driven the search for cost-effective synthesis methods, with zirconium dioxide nanoparticles (ZrO2-NPs) gaining interest for their photocatalytic and antibacterial properties. The ambitions of this study are to synthesize ZrO2-NPs by the use of lichen extract and evaluate their performance in pollutant degradation and antimicrobial activity. The nanoparticles had been characterized by the use of UV-Vis spectroscopy, which confirms their formation with an absorption peak at 234 nm, at the same time as FTIR evaluation diagnosed functional groups responsible for stabilization. XRD evaluation discovered their crystalline nature, FESEM images showed their spherical morphology, and EDX spectroscopy verified their elemental composition. Photocatalytic experiments underneath sunlight proved efficient degradation of Malachite Green (84%) and Phenol Red (75.5%). Antibacterial studies confirmed good activity toward Staphylococcus aureus (18 mm zone of inhibition), while Escherichia coli exhibited low sensitivity (9 mm area of inhibition). These findings spotlight the capacity of green-synthesized ZrO2-NPs for wastewater treatment and antimicrobial programs.
Micronutrient deficiencies remain a global concern, necessitating innovative strategies to improve nutritional intake. Food fortification, particularly in dairy products, is a promising approach due to their widespread consumption and rich nutritional profile. While conventional fortification methods, such as direct nutrient addition, offer moderate success, advanced techniques have significantly improved nutrient stability and bioavailability. This review explores the nutritional significance of milk and dairy products, highlighting their historical evolution and role in dietary practices. Novel fortification approaches, including microencapsulation, nanoencapsulation, spray drying, freeze-drying, emulsification, and coacervation, ensure nutrient protection, controlled release, and preservation of sensory attributes. The integration of liposomal entrapment, protein-based carriers, and polymeric nanoparticles further enhances the stability and efficacy of fortified dairy products. Encapsulation technologies safeguard labile nutrients, extend shelf life, and provide sustained health benefits. By optimizing fortification techniques with a focus on industrial scalability and cost-effectiveness, this review provides insights into addressing current challenges and guiding future research to enhance the nutritional impact of dairy products in combating micronutrient deficiencies.
The extraction of bioactive compounds using green technology is a crucial topic for both research and industrys. This present investigation examines the effect of different solvents, i.e., water, ethanol (80%), and NADES (ChCl: lactic acid), during microwave-assisted extraction of bioactive compounds from nettle leaves. The RSM-BBD approach was employed with power (300, 450, and 600 W), time (10, 15, and 20 min), and sample-to-solvent ratio (1:10,1:15, and 1:20) in relation to the water, ethanol, and NADES extract's TPC (mg GAE/g), TFC (mg GAE/g), and DPPH (%IA). The optimum extraction conditions obtained were 300 W, 10 min, and 1:10 sample-to-solvent ratio for water, 300 W, 17 min, and 1:10 sample-to-solvent ratio for ethanol (80%), and 300 W, 10 min, and 1:13 sample-to-solvent ratio for NADES. Additionally, TPC (mg GAE/g), TFC (mg GAE/g), DPPH (%IA), ABTS (%), and FRAP (µM AA equivalent) of optimized extracts were compared. The antimicrobial potential of water, ethanol, and NADES extracts was also investigated against pathogenic bacteria, i.e., Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, and E. coli. Furthermore, the optimized extracts were analysed using U-HPLC, GC-MS, and LC-MS. The results highlight the suitability of microwave-assisted extraction of nettle leaf extract using NADES (ChCl: lactic acid) to obtain an extract with high antioxidant activity and good antimicrobial potential.
Research focused on the degradation of organic pollutants has seen considerable growth in recent years. The present investigations report a green chemistry route for the creation of ZnS nanoparticles (ZnS NPs) by employing the banana peel extract. X-ray diffraction analysis of the developed material established that the developed material has a cubic structure, while the FTIR spectrum of the fabricated ZnS NPs revealed the functional group present on the surface of the material exhibiting its suitability for the adsorption of the organic pollutant. SEM analysis of the material demonstrated the spherical particles with irregular morphology, and the average size of the material was estimated to be 52 nm. The fabricated ZnS NPs were utilized to capture the hazardous phenol and p-nitrophenol from wastewater. The influence of various process variables including the initial concentration of the pollutant, catalyst dose, pH, and contact time was examined to optimize the maximum efficiency of the photodegradation process. The optimum degradation of the p-nitrophenol and phenol was achieved to be 71
Microplastics (MPs) are a common long-lasting pollutant of aquatic ecosystems. Microalgae are primary producers of aquatic systems, and MP contamination could have a high impact on the aquatic food web. Therefore, the present study utilized polyethylene (PE) particles (0 to 150 mg/L) for investigating the half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) of Chlorella sorokiniana and also studied their impacts on growth rate, biomass, pigments and other biochemical components of the microalgae. After 96 h of incubation, PE of 100 mg/L resulted in the half-maximum inhibition (IC50). After reaching the stationary phase (14 d), harvesting was made for MP-exposed cultures to reveal a biomass production of 0.89 g/L, while it was 0.96 g/L for the control. A slight reduction in pigment and lipid contents was also observed, while the protein and carbohydrate contents were high in MP-exposed C. sorokiniana cells. Under the MP stress, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and phenolic levels were reduced, whereas flavonoid content increased. PE particles were characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy-Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) and Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) for their size, shape, chemical composition, and interaction with C. sorokiniana, followed by micro-Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy (µ-FT-IR) for the mapping of MP. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of how MP contamination can disrupt aquatic food webs, guiding future ecological assessments and pollution management strategies.
Nanocellulose, derived from cellulose, is a broadly abundant biopolymer which is gaining attention as a sustainable material, particularly in wastewater remediation. This article explores nanocellulose's precise properties, such as mechanical strength, biocompatibility, and large surface area, which make it an ideal substance for advanced environmental and commercial uses. Derived from plants, agricultural residues, and microorganisms, cellulose is converted into cellulose nanocrystals (CNC), bacterial nanocellulose (BNC), and cellulose nanofibrils (CNF), each with unique structures and properties. Nanocellulose-based membranes are fabricated by using different techniques, along with chemical and mechanical treatment, and show outstanding results in water remediation by adsorbing heavy metals, getting rid of natural pollutants, and degrading pharmaceutical residues. Economic viability is mentioned, which specialises in cost reduction and sustainability. Future studies aim to enhance the membrane's overall performance, expand applications, and expand sustainable manufacturing strategies, ensuring nanocellulose's role in addressing worldwide demanding situations.
The concept “As the food, so the mind” from ancient Indian scriptures highlights the deep connection between diet and mental well-being. It suggests that the quality and type of food influence one’s thoughts, emotions, and mental state. In Indian philosophy, foods are categorized into three types – Sattva (~pure), Rajas (~passion), and Tamas (~delusion) which also correspond to different personality types. This framework highlights how dietary habits impact health by influencing genes, proteins, and metabolism. Ayurveda introduces the concepts of Pathya (~wholesome practices) and Apathya (~unwholesome practices), relating to diet, lifestyle, and behaviours that either support or harm overall well-being. Following Pathya is essential for maintaining balance and preventing disease. The term "Nutri-Ayur," introduced by the authors, integrates Ayurvedic wisdom with modern nutrition and pharmaceutical science. It promotes a combinatorial approach to healing through the development of innovative products such as nutraceuticals, functional foods, medical foods, and herbal remedies. This approach underscores the importance of understanding the biological impact of nutrition on health and disease prevention.
The significance of a range legume Stylosanthes spp. is long established in grassland ecosystems. However, its potential for the nutritional security of livestock remains underexploited. A better understanding of floral behavior will assist in its improvement through improved hybridization techniques, seed production and breeding schemes. Only limited studies have been conducted on the floral biology of Stylosanthes spp. The current study focused on floral morphology, anthesis, longevity and pollen viability of four Stylosanthes spp. viz., S. hamata, S. seabrana, S. viscosa and S. scabra. The anthesis time varied among the Stylosanthes species studied here and the maximum anthesis occurred during Indian Standard Time (IST) from 8.00 AM to 10.00 AM. The flower longevity of Stylosanthes spp., lasted for a day after the anthesis. All the species were found to be protandrous, as pollen dehiscence occurred 1 to 2 hours before anthesis. The time of the highest pollen viability (85.08 +/- 2.16%) coincided with stigma receptivity. After two hours of anthesis, higher receptivity and maximum activity of stigma was observed in S. hamata compared to other Stylosanthes species. Furthermore, S. scabra showed the maximum pollen count while estimating a number of pollen per anther and flower.
The utilisation of a recently developed green approach for synthesising iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe2O3NPs) is highly promising, given its low toxicity and environmentally benevolent attributes. In this investigation, Fe2O3 NPs were produced through the utilisation of ferric chloride hexahydrate, incorporating Permelia perleta ;(lichen) extract under standard atmospheric conditions. The development of Fe2O3 NPs was verified through a systematic characterization process by employing UV FTIR, XRD, and FE SEM studies. The average crystallite size of the developed sample was found to be 20 nm determined by using Debye - Scherrer equation. The efficacy of the developed Fe2O3 NPs as a photocatalyst in eliminating acridine orange was evaluated, highlighting key factors such as catalyst dosage, initial dye concentration, and pH. Augmenting the quantity of Fe2O3 NPs amplified the decolourisation of the dyes, reaching a peak of 70% dye degradation at pH 2 after 2 h with a catalyst dose of 0.9 g/L. The most pronounced effect was observed against Bacillus subtilis (22 mm), whereas the least impact was noted for Pseudomonas aeruginosa (14 mm). Furthermore, the developed nanoparticles underwent antioxidant activity analysis, revealing that 1 gm of nanoparticles possesses antioxidant activity equivalent to 4.22 mg of ascorbic acid.
The present study provides an environmentally benevolent synthesis of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs). Morphological characteristics of the fabricated nanoparticles were assessed by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and UV-Spectroscopy. The XRD pattern of the synthesized nanoparticles showed that the nanoparticles had a tetragonal crystalline structure with a particle size of 20–40 nm. The photocatalytic efficacy of the developed nanomaterials was investigated in relation to indigo carmine, bromothymol blue, and rhodamine b dye. The presence of a photocatalyst leads to an improved performance, causing a decline in dye concentration with increasing irradiation time. The highest dye degradation of about 95 % was observed against indigo carmine dye. The green synthesized TiO2 NPs exhibited a significant zone of inhibition (23 mm) in antibacterial activity against Bacillus at the concentration of 70 mg/mL. The developed nanoparticles demonstrate 81.29 % DPPH radical scavenging activity at the concentration of 60 μg/mL.
Two plants species Aloe vera and Adhatoda vasica belongs to family Liliaceae (Asphodelaceae) and Acanthaceae respectively. Present study was carried out to establishment of systematics protocol for ascetic, in-vitro regeneration of these plants using different concentration of phytohormones specifically cytokinin and auxin. The experimental result indicates percentages of regeneration was maximum in MS (Murashige and Skoog) medium with combination of 3mg/l BAP and 0.75mg/l NAA in Aloe barbadensis for direct shoot induction and 4mg/l BAP with 1mg/l NAA for indirect shoot regeneration, while in Adhatoda vasica highest percentage of shoot induction observed in 1 mg/l BAP and 0.2mg/l NAA. MS medium with combination of 1mg/l IBA was found to be best for the root induction in both the plant species.
This study reports a green-mediated fabrication of NiO nanoparticles (NiO NPs) using Parmelia Perlata lichen extract as a sustainable source. The Physical, chemical, optical, and morphological behavior of the fabricated NiO NPs were analyzed by employing diverse analytical profiles like XRD, FTIR, UV, and SEM. FTIR spectrum demonstrates the involvement of various phytochemicals in the bio-fabrication of NiO NPs. Furthermore, the appearance of a band at 668 cm(-1) indicates the successful formation of NiO NPs. The observations of the SEM analysis depicted that the average particle size was in the range of 40-50 nm. The result of the antibacterial study indicates that the NiO NPs significantly reduce the growth of Staphylococcus aureus (19 mm). The result of the photocatalytic research illustrated that the bio-fabricated NiO NPs exhibited superior photocatalytic activity in the degradation of acridine orange dye achieving 84 % degradation efficiency.
The present investigation reports the environmentally benign, cost-effective approach to the fabrication of valuable ZnO NPs. In this green synthesis approach, the isolated extract of the lichen (permelia perleta) plays a pivotal role. A prominent absorption peak is displayed at 320 nm in the recorded UV spectra of the created nanomaterials. XRD analysis of the fabricated nanostructure expressed that the particle size was esteemed to be 30 nm. The SEM micrograph of the developed nanostructure depicted that most of them have spherical shape. Photocatalytic investigation result demonstrates that newly developed nanostructure photocatalyst removes both dye from the water sample effectively under UV light (310 nm) irradiation. The developed ZnO NPs removed acridine orange and eriochrome black-T with the efficiency of 87.8 and 82.3
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a frequent and virulent microbiological species that causes hospital-acquired illness, wound infection, and wound healing mechanism impairment. P. aeruginosa exhibits antibiotic resistance, placing it in the category of antibiotic-resistant bacteria for which alternate inhibitory drugs are urgently needed. In light of the antibacterial efficacy of green tea and the repurposing of antibiotics to overcome antibiotic resistance, the current study emphasizes the effectiveness of green tea epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)–encapsulated metal-based nanocomposite hydrogel and examines its inhibitory potential in combination with selected antibiotic against P. aeruginosa. In silico investigation was done to identify a potential novel antibacterial compound against PvdF protein, which aids in siderophore-pyoverdin biosynthesis in P. aeruginosa. Further, the candidate with the most significant molecular interaction with PvdF protein was evaluated for synergistic antibacterial effect in combination with the EGCG nanocomposite hydrogel using in vitro studies. EGCG-encapsulated silver nanoparticles (EGCG-AgNPs) were prepared using the chemical reduction method. The size and zeta potential of nanoparticles were estimated using a particle size analyzer and were depicted to be 185.1 nm and − 20.6 mV respectively. The EGCG-AgNPs were characterized by a UV-Vis spectrophotometer, and the absorbance was recorded in the range of 296 to 275 nm. The FTIR spectroscopy revealed peaks near 3972.30 cm−1, 3187.40 cm−1, and 726.31 cm−1 attributed to OH, –CH, and CO functional groups and contributing to the antibacterial efficacy of EGCG-AgNPs. SEM-EDX analysis depicted that the synthesized EGCG-AgNPs were crystalline and quasi-spherical in shape with a size range of 180–200 nm. Furthermore, the hydrogel of nanocomposite was prepared using flex seed gum, and its physical characterization was performed. The EGCG-AgNPs hydrogel was assessed for its synergistic antibacterial potential against P. aeruginosa, using the broth microdilution method and FIC (fractional inhibitory concentration) assay, indicating the synergistic inhibitory effect from 98.81 ± 0.14 to 72.80 ± 0.15
Potentially useful MgO NPs were synthesized via rapid eco-friendly one-pot microwave-assisted green techniques using Taxus wallichiana leaf extract. The development, morphology, and other physicochemical properties of nanoparticles were further analyzed by UV visible spectrometer, FTIR, XRD, SEM, and EDX analysis. The developed nanoparticles were uniformly distributed having particle sizes less than 30 nm. The XRD and SEM analysis of the developed nanoparticles reveals that it is crystalline having almost spherical. Phenol red and rhodamine B are used as potential organic pollutants for the evaluation of the photocatalytic activity of the developed nanoparticles. For the screening of the antibacterial efficiency of the biogenic nanoparticles, five different bacterial pathogens were used. The nanoparticles exhibited significant antibacterial potential against the Bacillus spp., Klebsiella pneumonia , and Staphylococcus aureus with a zone of inhibition 23 mm, 20 mm, and 21 mm. The nanoparticles also show moderate antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas spp. with the zone of inhibition 14 mm and 16 mm. Furthermore, the antioxidant potential of the developed nanoparticles was investigated by using a DPPH radical scavenging assay. The present research showed that the developed nanoparticles were the potential low-cost and effective photocatalyst in the treatment of wastewater and also act as potential antibacterial and antioxidants. The use of Taxus wallichiana leaf extract in the fabrication of MgO nanoparticles was the first time reported in the present research work.
Recent advancements in "phyco-nanobionics" have sparked considerable interest in the ability of microalgae to synthesize high-value natural bioactive compounds such as carotenoid pigments, which have been highlighted as an emergent and vital bioactive compound from both industrial and scientific perspectives. Such bioactive compounds are often synthesized by either altering the biogenetic processes existing in living microorganisms or using synthetic techniques derived from petroleum-based chemical sources. A bio-hybrid light-driven cell factory system was established herein by using harmful macroalgal bloom extract (HMBE) and efficient light-harvesting silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) to synthesize HMBE-AgNPs and integrating the synthesized HMBE-AgNPs in various concentrations (1, 2.5, 5 and 10 ppm) into the microalgae C. sorokiniana UUIND6 to improve the overall solar-to-chemical conversion efficiency in carotenoid pigment synthesis in microalgae. The current study findings found high biocompatibility of 5 ppm HMBE-AgNP concentration that can serve as a built-in photo-sensitizer and significantly improve ROS levels in microalgae (6.75 ± 0.25 μmol H2O2 g-1), thus elevating total photosynthesis resulting in a two-fold increase in carotenoids (457.5 ± 2.5 μg mL-1) over the native microalgae without compromising biomass yield. NMR spectroscopy was additionally applied to acquire a better understanding of pure carotenoids derived from microalgae, which indicated similar peaks in both spectra when compared to β-carotene. Thus, this well-planned bio-hybrid system offers a potential option for the cost-effective and long-term supply of these natural carotenoid bio-products.
There is a great concern among the researcher to remove the problem of the persistent organic pollutants in wastewater. Pharmaceutical agrochemical and personal care products are generally considered Persistent organic pollutants. Therefore, it is a matter of concern to develop new techniques how to remove these pollutants safely at low cost. This study mainly focuses on the commonly used antiviral drug didanosine and one most commonly used dye rose bengal. In this study, an organic dye rose bengal and TiO2 nanoparticles have been used in combination with UV light to achieve the photodegradation of selected pharmaceutical products and the dye was also degraded by using TiO2 Nanoparticles. The formation of three oxidation products was detected by using a very popular separation technique thin layer and column chromatography. The isolated photoproduct was characterized by using advanced characterization techniques like FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy), UV Spectroscopy, and Proton and 13C NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy). The role of singlet oxygen as an active species in this reaction was confirmed by using D2O as a reaction medium. The role of singlet oxygen in this photochemical reaction was also established by the addition of sodium azide. The TiO2 nanophotocatalyst efficiently degrade the didanosine and rose bengal in the presence of the UV light. In the TiO2-induced photocatalytic degradation of didanosine and dyes, the hydroxyl and superoxide radical anion play a prominent role. The finding of this manuscript is very useful to develop an efficient low-cost method for the treatment of wastewater contaminated by antiviral drugs, similar pharmaceutical products and dyes. This study was also very helpful to establish a plausible mechanism behind the phototoxicity of the didanosine.
Environmental photocatalysis of wastewater is an important application of TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs). This paper reports the microwave-assisted green synthesis of TiO2 NPs using the isolated extract of Permelia perleta lichen. Development of TiO2 NPs was confirmed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy. The acquired TiO2 NPs were utilized as a nano photocatalyst in the degradation of acridine orange and phenol red dyes as model organic pollutants. The degradation efficiency of the developed TiO2 NPs was evaluated using a UV–Vis spectrophotometer. We found that the acquired TiO2 NPs had an average particle size of 30–40 nm, and the nanoparticles were somewhat agglomerated and are nonuniform in shape. The developed nano photocatalyst degraded the selected dyes efficiently, and the degradation efficiency was much better when the test sample was irradiated with UV light with a wavelength of 310 nm.
Bio-fabrication of nanoparticles is one of the most suitable substitutes for the conventional chemical synthesis of nanoparticles. The present study aimed to synthesize one of the most efficient inorganic metal oxide nanoparticles using the leaf extract of the Taxus Wallichiana plant. The structural properties of the developed nanoparticles were analyzed using the spectroscopic profile of UV–Vis, EDX, FTIR, and XRD analyses. The bioactive components that play crucial roles in the stabilization of nanoparticles were identified using FTIR analysis. XRD analysis of the developed nanoparticles indicating that the average particle size of the nanoparticles was found to be 25–30 nm. Based on the SEM images, it was established that the developed nanoparticles have a granular shape. The potential application of developed nanoparticles in biological perspectives antibacterial and antioxidant potential were evaluated. The developed nanoparticles show significant antibacterial activity against K. pneumonia with a zone of inhibition (19 mm). It also shows significant antioxidant activity in the range of 43.56