REVIEW ARTICLE | April 9, 2024
The Latest Studies for the Manufacture of Nanoparticles in Iraq during the Last Ten Years Ago
Marwa Amin Al-Rawi, Ghuffran Muhammed Hassan, Hayfaa Mahmood Fahad
Page no 79-87 |
DOI: 10.36348/sjls.2024.v09i04.001
Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have gained immense consideration recently as a result of their exceptional properties and diverse interference in a variety of fields. The AgNPs synthesis involves various and biological, chemical, and physical methods, each offering distinct compensations in terms of size control, stability, and reproducibility. Physical methods, such as irradiation, result in monodisperse nanoparticles with excellent control over size and shape. Chemical techniques, like reduction with reducing agents or chemical precursors, offer scalability and control over nanoparticle size. Moreover, green synthesis methods employing plant extracts, fungi, and bacteria have emerged as eco-friendly alternatives, reducing the reliance on hazardous chemicals. Characterization of AgNPs is necessary to understand their characteristics and potential applications fully. Techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-Vis spectroscopy, light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), dynamic are commonly used to identified anf characterized the nanoparticles. The applications of AgNPs span across several sectors. In the biomedical field, AgNPs exhibit potent antimicrobial properties against a broad spectrum of pathogens, making them promising candidates for wound dressings, antibacterial coatings, and drug delivery systems. Additionally, their use in cancer therapy has shown potential for targeted drug delivery and localized hyperthermia treatment. However, despite their numerous applications, challenges remain in terms of toxicity and environmental impact. Research efforts are ongoing to address these concerns and develop safer nanomaterials. This review article concludes that silver nanoparticles represent a fascinating class of nanomaterials with immense potential in various fields. Continued research and development in the synthesis, characterization, and application of AgNPs will undoubtedly lead to new and exciting advancements in science and technology.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | April 20, 2024
Antimicrobial and Antiplasmodial Activities of Endophytic Fungi Associated with Psidium guajava
Nonye T, Ujam, Cyril C. Adonu, Ibeabuchi J. Ali, Ndidiamaka H. Okorie, Gerald W. Ugodi, Romanus C. Omeh, Victor U. Chigozie, Obiora C. Ugwu, Malachy C. Ugwu, Festus B.C. Okoye
Page no 88-96 |
DOI: 10.36348/sjls.2024.v09i04.002
Infections due to antimicrobial-resistant microorganisms have become widespread in recent years. Thus, searching for novel antimicrobial agents to combat such pathogens has become crucial. The current study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial, antiplasmodial, and immunomodulatory activities of the extracts of endophytic fungi isolated from Psidium guajava. Isolation, identification, fermentation, and extraction of the secondary metabolites of the fungal endophytes were carried out following standard procedures. The extracts were subjected to High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Diode Array Detector (HPLC-DAD) analysis to detect their bioactive components. The Antimicrobial activity and Minimum Inhibitory Concentration of the fungal extracts were evaluated against pure cultures of Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi, and Klebsiella pneumonia using Agar well diffusion and Agar dilution method respectively. The acute toxicity study (LD50) was carried out using Lorke’s method. The extracts were tested in vivo in mice for antiplasmodial activity against Plasmodium berghei and in vitro against Plasmodium falciparum using Peter and Reyley's curative test method and WHO standardized micro-test system with modification respectively. The immunomodulatory activity of the extracts was evaluated by cyclophosphamide-induced myelosuppression (hematological parameters). Active extracts were further subjected to Delayed-Type Hypersensitivity Response (DTHR) and Haemagglutination Inhibition Assay using Sheep Red Blood Cells as antigens. The result showed Alternaria sp. (PGL1, PGL2, PGL3), from P. guajava. The HPLC-DAD analysis revealed the presence of bioactive compounds previously reported to have antimicrobial, antiplasmodial, and immunomodulatory properties. The fungal extracts exhibited varying degrees of antimicrobial activity. The LD50 of the fungi extracts was>5000 mg/kg in mice. The extracts at 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight in mice showed varying degrees of antiplasmodial activity. Growth of P. berghei was significantly (p<0.001) inhibited, curative effect ranges from 59.09 – 100%. Schizont maturation of P. falciparum isolates was inhibited and the highest level of inhibition was observed at 1 mg/ml (p<0.05). The fungal extracts reversed the effect of cyclophosphamide-induced reduction in total white blood cell counts and % neutrophil. This study showed that the tested plant harbors species of endophytic fungi that contain numerous secondary metabolites. The endophytic fungi showed prophylactic, immunostimulatory, and antiplasmodial activities, which can be exploited to develop antimicrobial, antiplasmodial, and immunomodulatory agents.
REVIEW ARTICLE | April 23, 2024
Navigating Synergies: A Comprehensive Review of Agroforestry System and Agronomy Crops
Muhammad Awais Arshad, Sana Rouf, Rana Nadeem Abbas, Zainab Shahbaz, Kainat Aleem, Hafsah Shahbaz, Rida Pervaiz, Amna Sarwar, Haseeb ur Rehman
Page no 97-113 |
DOI: 10.36348/sjls.2024.v09i04.003
Agroforestry, the integration of trees with agricultural or livestock systems, holds significant promise for sustainable land management and addressing various environmental challenges. This comprehensive review explores the multifaceted benefits and challenges associated with agroforestry systems, focusing on their interactions with agronomy crops. We delve into the ecological, socio-economic, and climate-related dimensions of agroforestry, highlighting its potential to enhance productivity, conserve resources, and mitigate climate change impacts. The review begins by examining the historical context and conceptual foundations of agroforestry, elucidating its diverse array of products and services. Through case studies and empirical research, we explore the ecological benefits of integrating trees with crop production, emphasizing improvements in soil fertility, water quality, and biodiversity conservation. Furthermore, we discuss the role of agroforestry in climate change adaptation and mitigation, including its capacity for carbon sequestration, soil restoration, and resilience-building in the face of extreme weather events. A critical analysis of agroforestry's implications for agronomy crops reveals both opportunities and challenges. While agroforestry systems have shown potential to enhance crop yields, improve soil health, and diversify income sources, they also present complexities related to competition for resources and management practices. Insights from studies conducted in various agro-ecological contexts provide valuable guidance for optimizing the design and implementation of agroforestry systems to maximize their benefits for agronomy crops. This review underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange in advancing agroforestry research and practice. By integrating principles from agronomy, ecology, economics, and forestry, we can develop innovative strategies to harness the full potential of agroforestry for sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation.
REVIEW ARTICLE | April 23, 2024
Herbicide Strategies for Weed Control in Rice Cultivation: Current Practices and Future Directions
Rida Pervaiz, Rania Baloch, Muhammad Awais Arshad, Rana Nadeem Abbas, Nimra Shahzad, Muhammad Hamid, Zahra Batool, Muhammad Salman Maqbool, Adeel Masih, Abdul Salam, Mohammad Munir Akbar
Page no 114-129 |
DOI: 10.36348/sjls.2024.v09i04.004
Rice, as a staple food for more than half of the world's population, plays a crucial role in global food security. However, weed competition poses a significant challenge to rice cultivation, affecting yield and quality. To address this challenge, rice farmers have increasingly turned to chemical herbicides as a cost-effective alternative to labor-intensive manual weeding. This review paper explores the current practices and future directions in herbicide strategies for weed control in rice cultivation, with a specific focus on diverse approaches adopted in various agro-ecological regions, particularly in Pakistan. The paper begins by highlighting the importance of rice cultivation in global agriculture and the economic significance of the crop, emphasizing the need for effective weed management to ensure sustainable production. It discusses the impact of labor shortages and rising labor costs on weed control practices, driving the adoption of chemical herbicides, especially in direct-seeded rice cultivation. Additionally, the review underscores the importance of integrated weed management systems, which combine cultural practices, targeted herbicide applications, and legislative measures to optimize crop productivity while minimizing environmental impact. Furthermore, the paper evaluates the efficacy of different herbicides and their timing of application in managing weeds and maximizing rice yield. It synthesizes findings from recent studies to provide insights into the effectiveness of pre-emergence and post-emergence herbicides, as well as their impact on weed-crop competition and overall crop health. By analyzing the strengths and limitations of existing herbicide strategies, the review identifies opportunities for innovation and improvement in weed management practices. Overall, this review paper offers a comprehensive overview of herbicide strategies for weed control in rice cultivation, highlighting the need for sustainable and integrated approaches to address weed challenges while ensuring food security and environmental sustainability in rice-producing regions.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | April 30, 2024
A Comparative Physical Parameters of Sri Kurmanadha Temple Pond and Sri Maninageswara Temple Pond, Srikakulam District, Andhra Pradesh, India
Setu Madhava Rao, D, G. M. Narasimha Rao
Page no 130-138 |
DOI: 10.36348/sjls.2024.v09i04.005
Data collected on certain physical parameters of Sri Kurmanadha, Srikurmam and Sri Maninageswar, Kallepalli, Temple Ponds, Srikakulam District, Andhra Pradesh from May 2014 to April 2016. The seasonal variations in water quality were recorded on monthly basis for a period of two years and correlation studies were also conducted among different physical parameters of both temple ponds. Water samples were analyzed for Physical Parameters like air temperature (28.250 C, 27.40 C), water temperature (240C, 24.350 C), transparency (32.1cm., 20.35cm.), EC (621μs/cm., 513.5μs/cm.), TSS (27mg/l., 35.5mg/l.) TDS (367mg/l., 298mg/l), pH (7.35, 7.5), DO (6.75mg/l, 6.5mg/l), COD (10.63mg/l, 10.36mg/l), BOD (3.31mg/l., 2.86mg/l.) total alkalinity (132.5mg/l., 128.5mg/l.), total hardness (80mg/l., 87.5mg/l.). Inter relationship between physical parameters (Pearson’s Correlation matrix) was also recorded. In this observation temperature showed strong positive correlation with COD (r=0.91, r=0.88), BOD (r=0.96, r=0.89), and negative correlation with DO (r=-0.84, r=-0.97). EC showed significant positive correlation with TDS (r=0.85, 0.89), and negative correlation with DO (r= -0.82, r=-0..84), TDS showed positive correlation with pH (r=0.77, r=0.72), and total hardness (r=0.81, 0.78), pH showed positive correlation with COD (r=0.77, r=0.84), total alkalinity (r=0.94, r=0.86), total hardness (r=0.81, r=0.84), and negative correlation with DO (r= -0.87, r=-0.77), Dissolved Oxygen showed negative correlation with COD (r= -0.88, r=-0.93), BOD (r= -0.95, r=-0.93). Chemical Oxygen Demand showed positive correlation with BOD (r= 0.92, r=0.91) and total alkalinity (r= 0.75, r=0.79). Biological Oxygen Demand showed positive correlation with total alkalinity (r= 0.74, r=0.63). Total Alkalinity showed positive correlation with total hardness (r= 0.90, r=0.87). These observations could useful in the water quality monitoring and regulation in order to enhance the quality of water with better sustainable management of Sri Kurmanadha, Srikurmam and Srimaninageswar, Kallepalli, Temple Ponds.
REVIEW ARTICLE | April 30, 2024
Prospects and Challenges of Heavy Metal Pollution Mitigation in the Bay of Bengal by Phytoremediation
Ethneen Mostafa, Sadia Farzana Dina, Dr. Mohammad Nazir Hossain
Page no 139-148 |
DOI: 10.36348/sjls.2024.v09i04.006
Heavy metal pollution, a grave concern due to its toxicity and longevity, has reached alarming levels in some coastal areas of the Bay of Bengal. Originating from shipbreaking industries, untreated industrial wastages, agricultural residues, and anthropological sources, this pollution has become a major environmental threat. It can enter the food chain and accumulate in the human body, posing a significant risk to human health. Due to the advancement of science, many sophisticated techniques have been developed in recent years to detect heavy metals in the environment. At the same time, some techniques have also been developed to remove heavy metals from the marine environment. However, the efficacy of these techniques has some doubt. Amidst this crisis, Phytoremediation, a plant-based method, offers a beacon of hope. This review delves into the dire consequences of heavy metal pollution in seawater, human health toxicity, and the crucial role of phytoremediation in mitigating this crisis.