Transmission of antibiotic resistance through organic amendments in arable land: A 3-year field study with pigeonpea-wheat cropping system.

The worldwide emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a substantial risk to human health and environmental stability. In agriculture, organic amendments (derived from organic sources such as manure, and plant residues) are beneficial in restoring soil properties and providing essential nutrients to crops but raise concerns about harboring antibiotic resistance, which emphasizes the need for vigilant monitoring and strategic interventions in their application. The current study assessed the impact of farming practices (organic and conventional) in a three-year field experiment with pigeonpea-wheat cropping system, focusing on the transmission of AMR using culture-dependent and -independent approaches, and soil nutrient content. Markers for antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) (aminoglycoside-aacA, ß-lactam-blaTEM, chloramphenicol-cmlA1, macrolide-ermB, sulfonamides-sul1, sul2, and tetracycline-tetO) and integrons (intl1 and intl2) were targeted using qPCR. Manure amendments, particularly FYM1, exhibited a higher abundance of copies of ARGs compared to the rhizospheric soil. Organic farming was associated with higher copies of intl2, sul1, blaTEM, and tetO genes, while conventional farming showed increased copies of sul2 and ermB genes in the rhizosphere. Significant positive correlations were observed among soil nutrient contents, ARGs, and MGEs. The notable prevalence of ARGs linked to manure amendments serves as a cautionary note, demanding responsible management practices.

Acorus calamus L. rhizome extract and its bioactive fraction exhibits antibacterial effect by modulating membrane permeability and fatty acid composition.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: India's ancient texts, the Charak Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, make reference to the traditional medicinal usage of Acorus calamus L. In India and China, it has long been used to cure stomach aches, cuts, diarrhea, and skin conditions. This ability of the rhizome is attributed to its antimicrobial properties. Research studies to date have shown its antimicrobial properties. However, scientific evidence on its mode of action is still lacking. AIM OF THE STUDY: Acorus calamus L. rhizome extract and its bioactive fraction exhibits antibacterial effect by modulating membrane permeability and fatty acid composition. MATERIAL AND METHOD: The secondary metabolites in the rhizome of A. calamus L. were extracted in hexane using Soxhlet apparatus. The ability of the extract to inhibit multidrug resistant bacterial isolates, namely Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were evaluated using checkerboard assay. Further, the extract was purified using thin layer chromatography, gravity column chromatography, and combiflash chromatography. Structure elucidation of the active compound was done using GC-MS, FT-IR, and UV-Vis spectral scan. The mode of action of the bioactive fraction was determined. Bacterial membrane damage was analyzed using SEM, membrane permeability was determined using SYBR green I and PI dye, leakage of cytoplasmic contents were analyzed using Bradford assay and Fehling's reagent. The ability to inhibit efflux pump of A. baumannii was determined using EtBr accumulation assay and ß-lactamase inhibition was analyzed using nitrocefin as substrate. Also, the biofilm inhibition of B. cereus was determined using crystal violet dye. Moreover, the effect of the bioactive fraction on the fatty acid profile of the bacterial membrane was determined by GC-FAME analysis using 37 component FAME mix as standard. RESULTS: Acorus calamus L. rhizome hexane extract (AC-R-H) demonstrated broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against all the isolates tested. AC-R-H extract also significantly reduced the MIC of ampicillin against all tested bacteria, indicating its bacterial resistance modulating properties. The assay guided purification determined Asarone as the major compound present in the bioactive fraction (S-III-BAF). S-III-BAF was found to reduce the MIC of ampicillin against Escherichia coli (100-25 mg/mL), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (15-3.25 mg/mL), Acinetobacter baumannii (12.5-1.56 mg/ml), and Bacillus cereus (10-1.25 mg/mL). Further, it recorded synergistic activity with ampicillin against B. cereus (FICI = 0.365), P. aeruginosa (FICI = 0.456), and A. baumannii (FICI = 0.245). The mode of action of S-III-BAF can be attributed to its ability to disturb the membrane integrity, enhance membrane permeability, reduce biofilm formation, and possibly alter the fatty acid composition of the bacterial cell membranes. CONCLUSION: The bioactive fraction of AC-R-H extract containing Asarone as the active compound showed antibacterial activity and synergistic interactions with ampicillin against the tested bacterial isolates. Such activity can be attributed to the modulation of fatty acids present in bacterial membranes, which enhances membrane permeability and causes membrane damage.

Organic amendments modulate the crop yield and rhizospheric bacterial community diversity: a 3-year field study with Cajanus cajan / Las enmiendas orgánicas modulan el rendimiento de los cultivos y la diversidad de la comunidad bacteriana rizosférica: un estudio de campo de 3 años con Cajanus cajan

Excessive use of chemicals to enhance soil nutrient status and crop yield has resulted in a decline in soil health. Organic farming promotes organic amendments, which help to balance the ecosystem. Understanding the dynamic patterns of belowground microbial populations is essential for developing sustainable agricultural systems. Therefore, the study was designed to evaluate the effect of different agri-practices on rhizospheric bacterial diversity and crop yield in an Indian agricultural system. A 3-year field experiment was set up in a randomized block design using Cajanus cajan as a model crop, comparing conventional farming with organic practice (with animal manure and bio-compost as amendments). Plant and rhizospheric soil samples were collected at the harvest stage for assessing various growth attributes, and for characterizing rhizospheric bacterial diversity. Enhanced crop productivity was seen in conventional farming, with a 2.2-fold increase in grain yield over control. However, over the 3 years, an overall positive impact was observed in the bio-compost-based organic amendment, in terms of bacterial abundance, over other treatments. At the harvest stage of the third cropping season, the bacterial diversity in the organic treatments showed little similarity to the initial bacterial community composition of the amendment applied, indicating stabilization along the growth cycles. The study emphasizes the significance of the choice of the amendment for ushering in agricultural sustainability.(AU)

Organic amendments modulate the crop yield and rhizospheric bacterial community diversity: a 3-year field study with Cajanus cajan.

Excessive use of chemicals to enhance soil nutrient status and crop yield has resulted in a decline in soil health. Organic farming promotes organic amendments, which help to balance the ecosystem. Understanding the dynamic patterns of belowground microbial populations is essential for developing sustainable agricultural systems. Therefore, the study was designed to evaluate the effect of different agri-practices on rhizospheric bacterial diversity and crop yield in an Indian agricultural system. A 3-year field experiment was set up in a randomized block design using Cajanus cajan as a model crop, comparing conventional farming with organic practice (with animal manure and bio-compost as amendments). Plant and rhizospheric soil samples were collected at the harvest stage for assessing various growth attributes, and for characterizing rhizospheric bacterial diversity. Enhanced crop productivity was seen in conventional farming, with a 2.2-fold increase in grain yield over control. However, over the 3 years, an overall positive impact was observed in the bio-compost-based organic amendment, in terms of bacterial abundance, over other treatments. At the harvest stage of the third cropping season, the bacterial diversity in the organic treatments showed little similarity to the initial bacterial community composition of the amendment applied, indicating stabilization along the growth cycles. The study emphasizes the significance of the choice of the amendment for ushering in agricultural sustainability.

Computational insights into the role of structurally diverse plant secondary metabolites as inhibitors against Imidazole Glycerol Phosphate Dehydratase of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) is one of the major causes of death worldwide and there is a pressing need for the development of novel drug leads. The Imidazole Glycerol Phosphate Dehydratase (IGPD) of Mtb is one of the key enzymes in the histidine biosynthesis pathway and has been recognized as the potentially underexploited drug target for anti-tuberculosis treatment. In the present study, 6063 structurally diverse plant secondary metabolites (PSM) were screened for their efficiency in inhibiting the catalytic activity of IGPD through molecular docking. The top 150 PSMs with the lowest binding energy represent the chemical classes, including Tannins (34%), Flavonoid Glycosides (14%), Terpene Glycosides (10%), Steroid Lactones (9.3%), Flavonoids (6.6%), Steroidal Glycosides (4.6%), etc. Bismahanine, Ashwagandhanolide, and Daurisoline form stable IGPD-inhibitor complexes with binding free energies of -291.3 ± 16.5, -279.0 ± 25.0, and -279.8 ± 17.6 KJ/mol, respectively, as determined by molecular dynamics simulations. These PSM demonstrated strong H-bond interactions with the amino acid residues Ile279, Arg281, and Lys276 in the catalytic region of IGPD, as revealed by structural snapshots. On the basis of our findings, these three PSM could be considered as possible leads against IGPD and should be explored in vitro and in vivo.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Imidazole Glycerol Phosphate Dehydratase (IGPD) is an unexplored drug target in tuberculosis therapy.Inhibitory potential of 6063 plant secondary metabolites (PSM) against IGPD enzyme was studied.Ensemble docking and structural-activity relationship studies ascertained the group of diverse molecules.MD simulations predicted Bismahanine and Ashwagandhanolide as possible inhibitors of IGPD.

Computational investigations on the potential role of hygrophorones as quorum sensing inhibitors against LasR protein of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a gram negative, rod shape bacterium that infects people with compromised immune systems, such as those suffering from AIDS, organ transplantation and cancer. This bacterium is responsible for diseases like cystic fibrosis, chronic lung infection, and ulcerative keratitis. It is diagnosed in most of the patients who were on prolonged ventilation with long term critical care stay. P. aeruginosa develops rapid antimicrobial resistance that is challenging for the treatment and eventually it causes high mortality rate. Thus, the search for potential novel inhibitors that can inhibit the pathogenic activity of P. aeruginosa is of utmost importance. In P. aeruginosa, an important protein, LasR that participates in the gene regulations and expressions has been proposed to be a suitable drug target. Here, we identify a set of hygrophorone molecules as effective inhibitors for this LasR protein based on molecular docking and simulations studies. At first, large number of hygrophorone series of small molecules were screened against the LasR protein and their binding affinities were assessed based on the docking scores. Top scored molecules were selected for calculating various pharmacophore properties, and finally, their potential in inhibiting the LasR protein was delineated by atomistic molecular dynamics simulations and molecular mechanics Poisson-Boltzmann surface area-based calculations. Both docking and simulations studies reveal that a subset of hygrophorone molecules have a good binding affinity for LasR protein and form stable LasR-inhibitor complexes. The present study illustrates that the hygrophorones can be effective inhibitors for the LasR protein and will spur further in vitro studies that would aid to the ongoing search for new antibiotics.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Molecular docking, dynamics simulation and pharmacokinetic studies of Cyperus articulatus essential oil metabolites as inhibitors of Staphylococcus aureus.

Cyperus articulatus has been extensively studied for its essential oil (EO), active components and antibacterial activities against a wide range of bacteria such as Bacillus megaterium, Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. However, knowledge of the biomolecular interaction of the individual EO metabolites responsible for its inhibition activities is lacking. The multi-drug-resistant bacteria S. aureus, which is of prime concern, has been reported to be inhibited by Cyperus articulatus rhizome EO. The present work analyzed the molecular interactions of the major Cyperus articulatus rhizome EO metabolites with the target enzyme TyrRS of S. aureus and studied the conformational dynamics and stability of the protein-ligand complexes. Molecular docking studies of selected EO metabolites such as mustakone, longifolenaldehyde, cyperotundone, α-copaene, ß-calacorene, α-calacorene and khusinol were conducted along with standard drug chloramphenicol for comparative analysis of their binding affinity with S. aureus TyrRS. The metabolites khusinol, mustakone, ß-calacorene and α-calacorene generated comparable docking scores (-6.4, -6.2, -6.1 and -6.2 kcal/mol, respectively) with that of the drug chloramphenicol (-6.3 kcal/mol). Most EO metabolites did not exhibit H-bonding with the S. aureus TyrRS residues and were stabilized through pi-interactions. The MD simulation study illustrated that compounds like mustakone could effectively bind to the receptors of S. aureus TyrRS with high stability and integrity. Pharmacokinetic, drug-like properties and toxicity analysis of the EO metabolites supported the candidature of mustakone and khusinol as pharmacologically important antibacterial drug ingredients. The study envisaged the structural framework of the EO metabolites for antibacterial drug design.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Melioration of Paddy Straw to produce cellulase-free xylanase and bioactives under Solid State Fermentation and deciphering its impact by Life Cycle Assessment.

Aiming towards zero waste management of Paddy straw (PS), the study offers a novel route for production of cellulase-free xylanase, using consortia of Trichoderma spp. under Solid State Fermentation (SSF) of PS valorized using nitrogen rich de-oiled neem cake (NC). Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) for enzyme production, performed using SimaPro software, depicted adverse impacts due to electricity consumption (92.84%) and use of ammonium sulphate salt (6.17%). Nonetheless, employing renewable energy and reducing salt consumption could help minimize these impacts. OHR-LCMS study of the partially purified enzyme revealed the presence of ß-xylanase and α-L-Arabinofuranosidase. Enzymatic saccharification of various substrates enhanced the release of reducing sugars (mg/g) from corn cob (137.54 ± 0.96), pine needle (41.43 ± 1), sugarcane bagasse (105.17 ± 0.7), and PS (76.66 ± 1.29), demonstrating its applicability in the biofuel domain. LC-MS, ICMPS, and EDX profiling of the residual spent unravelled the manifestation of bioactives, minerals, and silica, playing an essential role as biopesticide and biofertilizer.

Deciphering the role of Trichoderma sp. bioactives in combating the wilt causing cell wall degrading enzyme polygalacturonase produced by Fusarium oxysporum: An in-silico approach.

The cell wall degrading enzymes polygalacturonase (PG) secreted by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. radicis-lycopersici (FOL) is testified to trigger Fusarium crown and root rot disease in tomato crops; instigated due to the degradation of the pectin. Trichoderma sp. is documented as a potential biocontrol agent playing a pivotal role in plant health and disease management. An in-silico approach employing homology modelling, molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and MMPBSA was employed to assess the prospective role of bioactives produced by Trichoderma sp. in combating the PG2 enzyme. The studies revealed that amongst the wide range of bioactives screened, Trichodermamide B produced by T. harzianum and Viridin, Virone, and Trichosetin produced by T. virens emerged as the potential inhibitors of the PG2. Docking results revealed that the complexes possessed most stable energy for Trichodermamide B (-8.1 kcal/mol) followed by Viridin (-7.7 kcal/mol), Virone (-7.1 kcal/mol), and Trichosetin (-7 kcal/mol), respectively. Interaction studies of FOL with T. virens and T. harzianum reported an inhibition of 83.33% and 75.87%, respectively. The structural rigidity and stability of the docked complex was confirmed through MD simulations evaluated across multiple descriptors from the simulation trajectories. Further, MMPBSA analysis validated the results that binding of the enzyme to the screened ligands was spontaneous. The study unravels new insights on the versatile potential of Trichoderma sp. Bioactives as a prospective agent for the inhibition of cell-wall degrading enzymes secreted by phytopathogens. The proposed study can be implemented for design of bioformulations that serve the role of biopesticide, promising a sustainable alternate to chemical-based products.

Computational studies evidenced the potential of steroidal lactone to disrupt surface interaction of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and hACE2.

The critical event in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pathogenesis is recognition of host cells by the virus, which is facilitated by protein-protein interaction (PPI) of viral Spike-Receptor Binding Domain (S-RBD) and Human Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2-Receptor (hACE2-R). Thus, disrupting the interaction between S-RBD and hACE2-R is widely accepted as a primary strategy for managing COVID-19. The purpose of this study is to assess the ability of three steroidal lactones (SL) (4-Dehydrowithaferin A, Withaferin A, and Withalongolide A) derived from plants to disrupt the PPI of S-RBD and hACE2-R under two conditions (CON-I and CON-II) using in-silico methods. Under CON-I, 4-Dehydrowithaferin A destabilizing the interactions between S-RBD and hACE2-R, as indicated by an increase in binding energy (BE) from -1028.5 kJ/mol (control) to -896.12 kJ/mol 4-Dehydrowithaferin A exhibited a strong interaction with S-RBD GLY496 with a hydrogen bond occupancy (HBO) of 37.33%. Under CON-II, Withalongolide A was capable of disrupting all types of PPI, as evidenced by an increased BE from -913 kJ/mol (control) to -133.69 kJ/mol and an increased distance (>3.55 nm) between selected AAR combinations of S-RBD and hACE2-R. Withalongolide A formed a hydrogen bond with TYR453 (97%, HBO) of S-RBD, which is required for interaction with hACE2-R's HIS34. Our studies demonstrated that SL molecules have the potential to disrupt the S-RBD and hACE2-R interaction, thereby preventing SARS-CoV-2 from recognizing host cells. The SL molecules can be considered for additional in-vitro and in-vivo studies with this research evidence.

A combinatorial approach to screen structurally diverse acetylcholinesterase inhibitory plant secondary metabolites targeting Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a form of Dementia known to diminish the brain's function by perturbating its structural and functional components. Though cholinesterase inhibitors are widely used to treat AD, they are limited by numbers and side effects. Hence, present study aims to identify structurally diverse Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory plant secondary metabolites (PSM) by employing high throughput screening and computational studies. AChE inhibitory activity was performed using 390 crude extracts from 63 plant parts belongs to 58 plants. The lowest IC50 value was recorded by acetone extract of Cyperus rotundus rhizome at 0.5 mg/ml, followed by methanol extract of Terminalia arjuna bark (0.95 mg/ml) and water extract Acacia catechu stem (0.95 mg/ml). A virtual library containing 487 PSM belongs to 18 plants found positive for AChE inhibition (IC50≤5 mg/ml) was prepared. Through ADMET analysis, 78 PSM fulfilling selected drug-likeness parameters were selected for further analysis. Molecular docking studies of selected PSM against AChE recorded a wide range of binding energy from -3.40 to -10.90 Kcal/mol. Further molecular dynamics simulation studies also recorded stabilized interactions of AChE-ligand complexes in the term of RMSD, RMSF, Rg, SASA, and hydrogen bond interaction. MMPBSA analysis revealed the binding energy of selected PSM ranging from -123.757 to -261.697 kJ/mol. Our study demonstrated the potential of 12 PSM (Sugiol, Margolone, 7-Hydroxy-3',4'-(Methylenedioxy) flavan, Beta-cyprone, Ethenone, Isomargolonone, Serpentine, Cryptolepine, Rotundone, Strictamin, Rotundenol and Nootkatone) as AChE inhibitors. Further in vitro and in vivo experimental evaluations with pure PSM could be beneficial for therapeutic uses.

Agro-industrial-residues as potting media: physicochemical and biological characters and their influence on plant growth.

Nursery cultivation is recognized globally as an intensive production system to support quality seedlings as well as to manage resources efficiently. Apart from other factors, potting media (PM) play a crucial role in determining the success of nursery cultivation. Worldwide, peat is the most commonly used substrate in PM because of its favorable physicochemical properties. However, due to ascending environmental and ecological concerns regarding the use of peat, a variety of new substrates have been used/tested by researchers/practitioners/growers as PM. Bark, coir pith, wood fiber, compost derived from various agro-residues, and vermicompost either alone or in combination are some of the commonly explored substrates and found to have the potential to replace peat to a greater extent. In lieu of availability, abundance, low cost, and no/low processing requirement, the use of agro-industrial residue (AIR) in the PM is the current trend. However, challenges associated with their adoption cannot be ignored. The present review is focused on providing collective information, scientific knowledge and detailed analysis of various AIR used in PM. The critical evidence-based review would help in developing a consistent approach for the identification, selection and characterization of a new renewable substrate. In addition, it would help in developing a rationale understanding of the practical and economic realities involved in the adoption of the same in PM. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13399-021-01998-6.

Bioformulation development via valorizing silica-rich spent mushroom substrate with Trichoderma asperellum for plant nutrient and disease management.

The present investigation was performed to valorize paddy straw (PS) based silica (Si) rich Spent Mushroom Substrate (SMS) of Pleurotus ostreatus for Plant Nutrient and Disease Management in wilt (caused by F. oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici) susceptible tomato plant F1 Hybrid King 180. Raw PS and SMS generated by P. ostreatus cultivated on PS only, and PS amended with 5% soybean cake (SC) were bio-fortified with Trichoderma asperellum (TA). SMS (PS+ 5% SC) was found supporting the growth of T. asperellum to an extent of 12.37 × 1013 conidia/g substrate. GC-MS analysis of SMS detected several bioactive metabolites like Palmitic acid, Oleic acid, Methyl linoleate, Stigmasterol, etc., known for plant health management. Bioformulations were developed employing Press Mud (PM) and Talcum Powder (TP) as carrier materials. Among the different bioformulations tested in pots study; SMS (PS+ 5% SC) SiTAPM, collectively named as TF-I, provided improved levels of morpho-biochemical and nutritional parameters, i.e., Plant Biomass (2.27 folds), Root Volume (1.75 folds), Chlorophyll (2.66 folds), Carotenoids (2.42 folds), Number of Fruits (1.76 folds), Fruit Biomass (2.02 folds), Total Soluble Sugars (2.32 folds), Total Soluble Proteins (1.70 folds), and nutraceutical parameters as Lycopene (1.42 folds), ß-carotene (2.65 folds) and Ascorbic Acid (1.54 folds), along with significant (p < 0.05) reduction in the Disease Severity Index (84.34%-21.23%), over the pathogen affected plant taken as control. The fruits and leaves garnered under TF-I displayed Total Polyphenol Content (TPC) of 74.5 and 126.9 mg g-1 gallic acid, respectively, with 83.73% DPPH and 72.25% FRAP activity, indicating the elicitation of antioxidant properties in tomato fruits. EDS analyses showed 21.53% Si in SMS, and plant mapping investigation indicated a substantial accumulation of Si, which is well conceded to promote growth, disease resistance, and antioxidant parameters. The study also endorsed the use of PM over TP, as TF-I recorded an acceptable conidial count (2.22 × 108 cfu/g) towards the end of six months storage period over other bioformulations. Overall, the study envisages the development and application of innovative methodology (TF-I), offering an eco-friendly alternative for producing quality crops and a sustainable solution to waste management, thus delivering a holistic contribution towards the circular economy.

In vivo AFB1 detoxification by Lactobacillus fermentum LC5/a with chlorophyll and immunopotentiating activity in albino mice.

The potential Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) binding Lactobacillus fermentum (LC5/a) was used for in vivo AFB1 binding and detoxification in presence of chlorophyll (CL) in male Swiss albino mice. Mice were randomly divided into seven groups. The control groups (CL, AFB1 and LC5/a) received chlorophyll (250 µg/kg b.w), AFB1 (100 µg/kg b.w) and LC5/a (1 × 108 CFU) for 21 days. The treatment group (AFB1+LC5/a) received 100 µl of lyophilized bacterial suspension (1 × 108 CFU) 2 h before the AFB1 dosage (100µg/kg b.w). The chlorophyll mice group (CL + AFB1) was given single oral dose of CL (250 µg/kg b.w) before AFB1 dosage and last mice group received the combination of CL + LC5/a before the AFB1 dosage over a period of 21 days. Ballooning of cytoplasm and necrosis in liver was evident in histopathological examination of AFB1 mice group, while, marked improvement and nearly normal histology were seen in LC5/a and CL treated mice group. The levels of AST, ALT, GST, and SOD were increased in AFB1 mice group compared to LC5/a and CL treated mice group. Elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, TNF-α, IL-12, IL-6 (324, 506, 117.25 pg/ml) were observed in AFB1 treated mice serum compared to LC5/a and CL treated mice (249.54, 322.01 and 82.35 pg/ml). Thus, Lactobacillus fermentum LC5/a has certainly sequestered AFB1 from gastrointestinal tract besides regulating the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Utilization and re-use of solid and liquid waste generated from the natural indigo dye production process - A zero waste approach.

The main aim of this work is focused towards possible reuse of both solid and liquid waste generated from the natural indigo dye production process. The solid waste (C/N:15.01) was utilized to produce stable compost with possible re-use in Indigofera cultivation. Among seven compost combinations (C1-C7) using jeevamrutha (JA) and cow-dung (CD) as inoculum, C4 with 8% JA showed higher biomass degradation (51%) and plant growth potential (GI > 125%). Whereas the undiluted liquid waste was treated using algal consortia, bacteria, and indigenous microbial population, achieved a maximum removal of 90% ammonia, 82% nitrate, and 88% phosphorus for its re-use in the dye production process. Hence, incorporation of suitable waste management strategies in natural indigo dye production could help to achieve a zero waste sustainable process.

Convergent evolution in bacteria from multiple origins under antibiotic and heavy metal stress, and endophytic conditions of host plant.

The focus of this work is to study the convergent evolution in bacteria from multiple origins under antibiotic and heavy metal stress, and endophytic conditions of host plant cultivated on the Yamuna river bank. Forty-one endophytic bacteria (EB) were isolated from green leafy vegetables (GLV's) and were found to be resistant to a wide range of antibiotics (AB) and heavy metals (HM) tested. Further, they showed susceptibility to Quinolones group of antibiotics, and the HM, Cadmium, Chromium, and Mercury. Twenty-seven percent of these bacteria endowed with Class I integron. The probability of co-existence of HM resistance with ß­lactams was higher, whereas quinolones group of AB recorded lesser values. These EB owned a wide array of beneficial traits, through which they improved the plant health under HM and salt stress conditions. Bacterial identity revealed the association of both plant beneficial and human pathogenic bacteria as an endophyte with GLV's. Principal component analysis showed a pattern of convergent evolution irrespective of their origin. In conclusion, under the selection pressure of AB and HM, the susceptible EB population may reduce with time and the resistant native/introduced bacteria might survive. The vertical and horizontal gene transfer between introduced and native bacteria is the crucial factor in enhancing their fitness along with the host plant to survive under abiotic stress conditions.

Characterization of Novel Lactobacillus fermentum from Curd Samples of Indigenous Cows from Malnad Region, Karnataka, for their Aflatoxin B1 Binding and Probiotic Properties.

Thirty-four isolates of Lactobacillus spp. (LAB) from 34 curd samples were evaluated for their aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) binding and probiotic properties. Upon characterization, four LAB isolates (LC3/a, LC4/c, LC/5a, and LM13/b) were found to be effective in removing AFB1 from culture media with a capacity of above 75%. Staining reaction, biochemical tests, pattern of sugar utilization, and 16s rRNA gene sequence analysis revealed the identity of all the four isolates as L. fermentum. All of them could tolerate acidic pH, salt, and bile, which promise the use of these probiotic bacterial isolates for human applications. These isolates showed poor hydrophobicity and higher auto-aggregation properties. All L. fermentum isolates were found susceptible to gentamycin, chloramphenicol, cefoperazone, ampicillin, and resistant to ciprofloxacin and vancomycin. Results of hemolytic and DNase activity indicated their nonpathogenic nature. Though all L. fermentum isolates found inhibiting the growth of Salmonella ebony, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, maximum inhibition was obtained with isolate LC5/a. Kinetic studies revealed that all four bacteria required a minimum of 2 h to reach stationary phase of AFB1 binding. AFB1 binding ability varied from 66 to 85.2% among these four isolates. Bile (0.4%) was significant (P ≤ 0.05) in reducing the AFB1 binding property of isolates LC3/a, LC4/c, and LM13/b, while increased AFB1 binding ability was recorded at acidic pH (2.0). AFB1 binding properties of isolate LC5/a were found least affected by acidic pH and bile. The findings of our study revealed the higher efficiency of L. fermentum isolate LC5/a in reducing the bioavailability of AFB1 in gut, and additionally, it improves the consumers' health by its various probiotic characters. These beneficial characters, L. fermentum isolates, promise them to use as probiotic formulations alone or in combinations with other beneficial probiotic-bacterial isolates.

Multiple Nutritional Deficiencies in Cerebral Palsy Compounding Physical and Functional Impairments.

INTRODUCTION: Cerebral palsy (CP) refers to a spectrum of disorders causing physical and intellectual morbidity. Macro and micro nutrient deficiencies often contribute to the subnormal physical and mental capabilities of them. OBJECTIVES: To assess the growth, nutritional status, physical and functional ability and quality of life in cerebral palsy children and to determine any relation with their gross motor and functional capabilities. METHOD: The study was conducted at a Tertiary Care Centre, with the participants in the age group 1-16 years. A pretested evaluation tool was prepared which included Anthropometric measurements, tests for hemoglobin and Vitamin D estimation, evidence of micronutrient deficiencies, Dietary patterns, Epidemiological factors, Functional assessment using GMFM (Gross Motor Function Measure ) and FIM (Functional Independent Measurement) scales and Quality of life (QOL) assessment. The data was statistically analyzed. RESULTS: Out of the 41 children, 30 had quadriplegia, 3 had hemiplegia and 8 had spastic diplegia. 34 (82.9%) were severely underweight, 35 (85.4%) had severe stunting and 38 (92.7%) had severe wasting. Micronutrient deficiencies were noted like vitamin B complex deficiency in 37 (90.2%), vitamin A deficiency in 31 (75.6%), low vitamin D levels in 27 (65.9%) and insufficient levels in 9 (22%), severe anemia in 5 (12.2%) and moderate anemia in 26 (63.4%). The gross motor and functional scores were suboptimum in the majority of patients and the care givers had significant impairment in the quality of life. CONCLUSION: Majority of children with cerebral palsy had multiple nutritional deficiencies, gross motor and functional disabilities. QOL of the children and their care givers were suboptimum. A comprehensive package that address dietary intake, correction of micronutrient deficiencies especially anemia and vitamin D deficiency, physical and emotional support is recommended for the wellbeing of the affected children.

Delftia tsuruhatensis WGR-UOM-BT1, a novel rhizobacterium with PGPR properties from Rauwolfia serpentina (L.) Benth. ex Kurz also suppresses fungal phytopathogens by producing a new antibiotic-AMTM.

UNLABELLED: The bacterial strain designated as WGR-UOM-BT1 isolated from rhizosphere of Rauwolfia serpentina exhibited broad-spectrum antifungal activity and also improved early plant growth. Based on morphological, biochemical and 16S rRNA gene sequence analyses, the strain BT1 was identified as Delftia tsuruhatensis (KF727978). Under in vitro conditions, the strain BT1 suppressed the growth of wide range of fungal phytopathogens. Purified antimicrobial metabolite from the strain BT1 was identified as nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compound, 'amino(5-(4-methoxyphenyl)-2-methyl-2-(thiophen-2-yl)-2,3-dihydrofuran-3-yl)methanol' (AMTM), with molecular mass of 340•40 and molecular formula of C17 H19 NO3 S. The strain BT1 was positive for rhizosphere colonization (tomato), IAA production, 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC) deaminase activity and phosphate solubilization. Under laboratory and greenhouse conditions, the strain BT1 promoted plant growth and suppressed foliar and root fungal pathogens of tomato. Therefore, antimicrobial and disease protection properties of strain BT1 could serve as an effective biological control candidate against devastating fungal pathogens of vegetable plants. Besides, the production of IAA, P solubilization and ACC deaminase activity enhance its potential as a biofertilizer and may stabilize the plant performance under fluctuating environmental conditions. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: In this study, we reported that Delftia tsuruhatensis WGR-UOM-BT1 strain has the plant growth promotion activities such as rhizosphere colonization (tomato), IAA production, 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC) deaminase activity and phosphate solubilization. This bacterial strain was found producing an antimicrobial nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compound identified as 'amino(5-(4-methoxyphenyl)-2-methyl-2-(thiophen-2-yl)-2,3-dihydrofuran-3-yl)methanol' [C17 H19 NO3 S] (AMTM), which is new to the bacterial world.

Analysis of genetic and aflatoxin diversity among Aspergillus flavus isolates collected from sorghum seeds.

Thirty-four Aspergillus flavus isolates were recovered from sorghum seeds sampled across five states in India. Our study included (1) species confirmation through PCR assay, (2) quantification of total aflatoxin concentrations by the indirect competitive-ELISA (ic-ELISA) method, and (3) analysis of molecular diversity among the A. flavus isolates using ß-tubulin, ITS, and ISSR markers. Among the isolates studied, 28 were found to be positive for the production of aflatoxins. ITS and ß-tubulin phylogenetic analysis segregated the A. flavus sample population into two major groups or clades with little to no subdivision based on geography. In contrast, ISSR analysis also separated the A. flavus isolates into two main clusters, showing a distance of 0.0-0.5, with one cluster exhibiting a high level of diversity though no geographic or chemotype subdivision could be observed. The majority of sampled A. flavus isolates were highly toxigenic, and also highly diversified in terms of toxin-producing potential in-vitro. Genetic diversity among the sorghum isolates of A. flavus further warrants the development of appropriate farming management practices as well as improved aflatoxin detection measures in India.