Inventum Biologicum: An International Journal of Biological Research

Physicochemical Characteristics of Riverine Water and Sediments Association with Primary Productivity in Selected Sites of North Bihar, India

2026-11-06T17:24:03+00:00

Riverine sediment and water chemistry together influence nutrient availability and primary production, yet the spatial variability of these factors is not well understood for many small and seasonal rivers in the Indo-Gangetic plain. This research assessed certain physicochemical characteristics of bottom sediment and the water above it at three locations within the Saryu river system in north Bihar, exploring their relationship with gross primary productivity (GPP). Sediments were taken from the top 15 cm, processed, and analyzed for physicochemical properties, organic carbon, and micronutrients. GPP and net primary productivity (NPP) were measured using the light–dark bottle method, with dissolved oxygen estimated through the Winkler technique. At the three sites, sediment pH rose from 5.6-6.2 at Site 1 to 6.3-7.2 at Site 3, while mineralizable nitrogen increased from 56.24-63.32 to 124.3-156.22 mg kg-1, and available phosphorus rose from 25.13-31.24 to 48.21-53.62 mg kg^-1. The pH of the water column increased from 5.9-6.5 to 6.6-7.5, and dissolved nitrogen rose from 10.32-12.23 to 24.31-27.22 mg L^-1. GPP increased from 32.13-33.22 to 56.62-57.71 mg/cm^-3h^-1 across the sites. Pearson correlations from the original data indicated positive relationships between GPP and sediment pH (r=0.3241), mineralizable nitrogen (r=0.3180), available phosphorus (r=0.4164), and available potassium (r=0.2842), with stronger positive correlations for water-column nitrogen (r=0.5264) and potassium (r=0.5161). These findings suggest that nutrient availability and sediment-water interactions may lead to spatial variations in riverine primary production. This study offers a foundational framework for nutrient-sensitive river management, emphasizing the need for seasonally detailed monitoring and more robust statistical designs before recommending site-specific nutrient enrichment.

Pond Water depth influence upon growth performances, feed utilization and Survival of Population traits of Clarias batrachus (Linnaeus, 1758)

2026-11-06T17:18:57+00:00

The current research explored how varying water depths impact the growth, feed efficiency, and survival of Clarias batrachus (Linnaeus, 1758) larvae in earthen ponds located in Siwan district, Bihar. Three water-depth levels were tested: T1 (12 cm), T2 (16 cm), and T3 (20 cm) across two experimental ponds. The study assessed growth metrics such as length increase, weight increase, percentage weight increase, specific growth rate (SGR), feed conversion ratio (FCR), feed efficiency ratio (FER), protein efficiency ratio (PER), condition factor (K), and survival rate. Findings indicated that water depth had a significant impact on larval growth and survival. In the first pond, T1 resulted in the greatest length increase (19.80 mm), weight increase (101.12 mg), percentage weight increase (315.60%), SGR (4.74), PER (8.04), and survival rate (60.00%). Similarly, in the second pond, T1 achieved the highest length increase (26.40 mm), weight increase (134.64 mg), percentage weight increase (423.65%), SGR (6.32), PER (10.72), and survival rate (81.24%). Although initial data suggested a slightly higher average length at a 16 cm depth, overall growth and survival were better at a 12 cm depth. Positive correlations were observed in length–weight relationships across all treatments, and Fulton’s condition factor rose with larval growth and feeding activity. Statistical analysis showed significant differences (p<0.05) among treatments in terms of weight gain, feed utilization metrics, growth parameters, and survival. The results suggest that shallower water depth improves feeding efficiency, growth, and survival of C. batrachus larvae in pond culture. Thus, maintaining a water depth of around 12 cm during larval rearing is advised to enhance seed production and nursery management for this economically valuable catfish species.

Methyl Parathion effect on ALT, AST and LDH in Freshwater fish, Heteropneustes fossilis

2026-11-06T17:13:55+00:00

Heteropneustes fossilis, a freshwater fish, was subjected to sub-lethal doses (0.25, 0.5, and 1.0 mg L⁻¹) of the organophosphorus insecticide methyl parathion (MP) over periods of 15, 30, and 45 days. The activities of aspartate amino-transferase (AST) and alanine amino-transferase (ALT) increased in a concentration-dependent manner, signifying tissue damage and muscle impairment due to MP exposure. Likewise, the rise in LDH activity indicates increased lysosomal mobilization and cellular necrosis. These biochemical changes clearly show that methyl parathion has toxic effects even at sub-lethal levels, disrupting intermediary metabolism and causing significant physiological stress in the fish.

Population Density of Pangasius pangasius in Semi-Polluted and Polluted Ponds of North Bihar, India

2026-11-06T17:08:58+00:00

The present investigation was conducted to assess the population density of Pangasius pangasius in semi-polluted and polluted freshwater ponds of North Bihar. Fish population density was estimated through seasonal sampling conducted over one year in selected ponds representing two levels of pollution. Physico-chemical parameters such as water temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, free carbon dioxide, total alkalinity, biological oxygen demand (BOD), and nutrient concentrations were simultaneously analyzed. The results revealed significant variations in population density between semi-polluted and polluted ponds. The average density of P. pangasius was higher in semi-polluted ponds (124.6 ± 12.8 individuals ha⁻¹) compared with polluted ponds (78.3 ± 10.4 individuals ha⁻¹). Seasonal fluctuations indicated maximum density during post-monsoon and minimum density during summer. Dissolved oxygen exhibited a positive correlation with fish abundance, whereas BOD and nutrient loading showed negative correlations. Reduced population density in polluted ponds was attributed to deteriorated water quality, organic pollution, and habitat degradation. The study highlights the ecological sensitivity of P. pangasius populations to environmental stress and emphasizes the need for improved pond management and pollution control measures for sustainable fish production in North Bihar.

Histopathological Changes in Liver and Kidney of Clarias batrachus (Mangur) on Chlorpyrifos Exposure

2026-11-06T17:03:44+00:00

Aquatic organisms are inadvertently exposed to runoff water carrying pesticides and chemical fertilizers from agricultural land. Chlorpyrifos is one of the most commonly used organophosphate insecticides applied in agriculture for insect control. Effect of chlorpyrifos on kidney and liver in Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch) was studied after exposing the fish for short term-24h, 48h, 72h and 96h. Healthy adult fish were exposed to sub-lethal concentration 1.56mgL^-1(75% of 2.08mgL^-196h LC). Histopathological changes in liver and kidney were examined at given time intervals after sacrificing fishes and tissue fixation followed by histological examination of Haematoxylin and Eosin (H/E) stained sections of tissues under light microscope. Fishes exposed to chlorpyrifos exhibited histomorphological alterations in kidney and liver while fishes in control were normal with no observation of any damage in these organs. Liver cells in exposed fishes showed necrosis and vacuolization together with random observation of denucleated cells and eosinophilic material in the cytoplasm. In kidney necrotic lesions were observed with presence of pyknotic nuclei and dilation of renal-tubules. In this study it was observed that chlorpyrifos was highly toxic for the fish Heteropneustes fossilis and has profound adverse effect of one of the most vital organs, the liver and kidney.

Diversity of Insect Pests in Rice Crop Fields of Saran, Bihar

2026-11-06T16:58:41+00:00

In this study, various crop fields from randomly selected blocks in the Saran district of Bihar have examined to assess the prevalence of insect pests affecting paddy crops. Rice serves as a staple food for populations in India and the subcontinent, and it is typically grown in water-rich areas. Bihar ranks among India's leading rice-producing states. A portion of the cultivated rice or paddy crop is lost during pre-harvesting, harvesting, and post-harvesting stages. Various insect pests significantly contribute to the reduction in paddy crop productivity during the pre-harvesting phase. The population dynamics of these insect pests in paddy fields are influenced by the frequency of different pest species. While some pests are commonly found across northern India, others appear sporadically. Overall, their population parameters can fluctuate due to seasonal changes and the extensive use of pesticides and fertilizers, which alter the typical population dynamics of insect species in paddy fields.

Response of Different Weed Management Practices on Yield, Quality and Nutrient Uptake of Kharif Drilled Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

2026-11-06T16:51:09+00:00

A field experiment was carried out at Jai Prakash University Chapra campus during the kharif season of 2024 to assess the effects of several weed management strategies on the production, quality, and nutritional absorption of kharif rice (Oryza sativa L.). The experiment employed a randomized block design featuring six treatments administered three times. The treatments included Bispyribac-Na (T1), Pendimethalin applied to the soil followed by Bispyribac-Na post-planting (T2), Pendimethalin in soil combined with Bispyribac-Na after planting (T3), three mechanical weedings with a rotavator at 20, 40, and 60 days after sowing (T4), a weed-free control achieved through hand weeding at 20, 40, and 60 days after sowing (DAS) (T5), and a weedy control (T6). The results demonstrated that the treatments comprising a weed-free control, pendimethalin applied to the soil with hand weeding, and pendimethalin in conjunction with bispyribac-Na post-planting yielded superior outcomes in this study. Manual weeding produced enhanced growth and yield attributes relative to the other treatments assessed. The weed-free treatment achieved the highest yields of grain and straw in rice cultivation.

Effects of Nut Consumption on Glycemic Control and Cardio metabolic Outcomes in Adults with Diabetes Mellitus

2026-10-30T13:03:03+00:00

Background: Dietary modification is an essential part of diabetes mellitus management, and nuts have garnered attention due to their favorable composition of unsaturated fatty acids, dietary fiber, plant protein, minerals, and bioactive compounds. However, evidence of their effects on glycemic control and broader cardiometabolic outcomes in people living with diabetes is heterogeneous.

Objective: To examine the effects of nut consumption on glycemic control and cardiometabolic outcomes in adults living with diabetes mellitus.

Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials was conducted according to the PRISMA 2020 statement. Electronic searches identified potentially eligible studies evaluating nut consumption in adults with diabetes mellitus. Included trials compared a nut dietary intervention to a control dietary intervention and reported at least one prespecified glycemic or cardiometabolic outcome. The primary outcomes were glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and fasting blood glucose. Secondary outcomes included postprandial glucose, lipid parameters, blood pressure, body weight, and body mass index. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 (RoB 2) tool. Where sufficient comparable data were available, pooled mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.

Results: A total of 3,214 records were identified, of which 42 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility. Twenty-seven RCTs were included in the quantitative synthesis. Eighteen RCTs evaluating HbA1c showed a significant reduction associated with nut consumption (MD −0.22%, 95% CI −0.35 to −0.09). Similarly, analysis of 21 RCTs showed a significant reduction in fasting blood glucose (MD −7.8 mg/dL, 95% CI −12.4 to −3.2). Nut consumption was also associated with reductions in total cholesterol (−9.5 mg/dL) and LDL cholesterol (−7.2 mg/dL), while no significant overall effect was observed for HDL cholesterol. Ten RCTs reporting blood pressure demonstrated a reduction in systolic blood pressure (MD −3.1 mmHg, 95% CI −5.6 to −0.6). No significant overall changes in body weight or BMI were observed. Subgroup findings suggested favorable glycemic effects with almonds, improvements in insulin sensitivity and endothelial measures with pistachios, and more consistent lipid benefits with walnuts. Risk-of-bias assessment identified 14 trials at low risk, 9 with some concerns, and 4 at high risk of bias.

Conclusions: Consumption of nuts was associated with modest improvements in glycemic control and selected cardiometabolic risk factors, particularly HbA1c, fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and systolic blood pressure, without a significant increase in body weight or BMI. Although the effects varied according to the type of nut consumed and study characteristics, consumption of nuts was associated with improved cardiometabolic risk profiles, including reduced body weight and BMI. Further adequately powered, longer-duration randomized trials using standardized nut doses and well-defined dietary comparators are required to examine the long-term clinical relevance of these effects.

Solar Ultraviolet Radiation, Stratospheric Ozone Dynamics, and Photocarcinogenesis in Australia

2026-10-30T12:55:05+00:00

Background: Solar ultraviolet (UVR) radiation is the prime etiological environmental agent for most UV-related cutaneous malignancies. Australia is exposed to exceptionally high ambient levels of UVR. The ongoing international control of ozone-depleting substances has started the repair of the stratospheric ozone layer but the reduction in ozone-depletion-related risk cannot offset Australia's high UV exposure.

Objective: This narrative review aims to examine the interactions between stratospheric ozone dynamics, solar UVR exposure, molecular mechanisms of injury, clinical manifestations, contemporary diagnosis and treatment, and population-level prevention strategies.

Methods: A narrative literature review. Publications from January 2000 to June 2025 were prioritized. Landmark publications predating 2000 were included. A search strategy included the key concepts of solar ultraviolet radiation, ultraviolet-A and ultraviolet-B, stratospheric ozone, photocarcinogenesis, melanoma, various forms of keratinocyte, and actinic keratosis. Priority was given to systematic reviews, meta-analysis, randomized trials, cohort studies, experimental studies, and reports from international and Australian health agencies.

Results: UV-B radiation is associated with direct formation of DNA photolesions. UV-A is a significant contributor to oxidative stress through reactive oxygen species. Failure of DNA repair mechanisms, genomic instability, impaired immunity and mutations in TP53, BRAF, NRAS, NF1, and TERT are implicated in the development of actinic keratoses, keratinocyte carcinomas and melanoma. Chronic UV exposure produces a continuum from sunburn and photoaging to premalignant lesions and invasive malignancy. Improvements in photoprotection, dermoscopy and digital surveillance, molecular characterization, targeted therapy and immune checkpoint inhibition improve diagnosis and management. However, prevention remains at the forefront as a substantial proportion of UV-associated skin disease is preventable.

Conclusion: Australia is a unique natural laboratory, where atmospheric science, UV photobiology, molecular carcinogenesis, dermatology, and public health intersect. Enhancement of the stratospheric ozone layer is an important environmental health achievement, but should not be interpreted as a reduction in the immediate need for UV protection. Population-level photoprotection, occupational interventions, early detection, risk-based surveillance, and the inclusion of digital and molecular technologies are needed to reduce the ongoing burden of UV-associated skin disease.

Prevalence, Associated Factors and Ethnomedicinal Plant Use for Hair Fall Management among Adults

2026-10-22T17:21:18+00:00

Hair loss is a common concern affecting individuals across different age groups and may arise from a combination of genetic, physiological, nutritional, lifestyle, environmental, and psychological factors. Medicinal plants have traditionally been used for hair and scalp care in various Indian systems of medicine, although scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness remains variable. The present study aimed to assess the prevalence and characteristics of hair fall, identify commonly reported demographic, medical, dietary, lifestyle, hair-care, and environmental factors, and document the use of ethnomedicinal plants for hair-fall management among 200 participants in Chhatarpur District, Madhya Pradesh, India. A community-based descriptive survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire. Information was collected on demographic characteristics, duration and pattern of hair loss, family history, selected medical conditions, dietary and lifestyle practices, hair-care habits, environmental exposures, and the use of medicinal plants. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the findings as frequencies and percentages. Among the 200 participants, 172 (86.0%) reported hair fall, with 39.5% of affected participants reporting symptoms for more than one year. Diffuse hair loss was the most frequently reported pattern (51.2%). A positive family history was reported by 58.0% of participants, while frequent or persistent stress was reported by 56.0%. Environmental exposure was also common, with 68.0% reporting exposure to pollution and 54.5% reporting the use of hard water. Medicinal plants were used by 64.5% of participants for hair-fall management. Among plant users, 71.3% perceived improvement following their use. Commonly reported plants included Aloe vera, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, Eclipta prostrata, Azadirachta indica, Phyllanthus emblica, Trigonella foenum-graecum, and Murraya koenigii. The findings indicate a high self-reported burden of hair fall and substantial community use of ethnomedicinal plants in Chhatarpur District, highlighting the need for further standardized phytochemical, pharmacological, and clinical investigations to evaluate their safety and therapeutic potential.

Seasonal and Site-Specific Variation in Plant Tolerance to Air Pollution: An APTI and API Assessment

2026-10-16T18:54:26+00:00

Urban vegetation serves as an important natural barrier against atmospheric pollution by capturing, absorbing and filtering airborne contaminants, thereby improving air quality. The Air Pollution Tolerance Index (APTI), which is derived from key biochemical parameters of plants, is widely used to evaluate their tolerance to polluted conditions. In the present investigation, seasonal and site-specific variations in biochemical parameters and APTI were assessed in six common tree species: Ficus benghalensis, Syzygium cumini, Azadirachta indica, Ficus religiosa, Saraca asoca and Psidium guajava, growing across five distinct urban sites (Control, Residential, Commercial, Traffic and Industrial areas) in Rohtak during winter and summer seasons. Biochemical parameters including leaf extract pH, relative water content, total chlorophyll content and ascorbic acid concentration were analysed and subsequently used to compute APTI values. Considerable variation was observed among species, sites and seasons in all measured biochemical attributes and APTI values. Differences among sampling sites indicated that APTI values did not always decline with increasing pollution intensity, suggesting that certain species may sustain or strengthen their physiological defence mechanisms under prolonged environmental stress. Variations in biochemical parameters collectively influenced the pollution tolerance capacity of the studied species. In addition, the Anticipated Performance Index (API), which integrates APTI with biological, ecological and socioeconomic attributes, was applied to assess the suitability of species for urban plantation and green-belt development. The study highlights that plant tolerance is not static but is governed by species characteristics, environmental conditions and seasonal climatic changes. The combined application of biochemical indicators, APTI and API provides a robust framework for identifying pollution-tolerant species and supports informed decision-making for urban greening, environmental management and biomonitoring programs.

Translational Value of Preclinical Models for Studying Diabetes Mellitus and Associated Complications

2026-11-03T15:17:47+00:00

Diabetes is Regarded as a rapidly escalating global health crisis; diabetes mellitus represents a prevalent and complex metabolic ailment. This condition is defined by hyperglycemia, where blood plasma contains excessive glucose levels due to failures in insulin production, its biological function, or a combination of both deficiencies. Throughout history, researchers have relied heavily on animal subjects to investigate the underlying mechanisms of the disease, pinpoint therapeutic targets, and evaluate the efficacy of novel drugs and in vivo procedures. The current article examines the laboratory models utilized to study diabetes and its secondary medical issues. Specifically, we provide a concise overview of how alloxan and streptozotocin are used for chemical induction, alongside their roles in simulating type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, we emphasize various experimental frameworks involving diverse animal species.

Targeting Microglial Immunometabolism in Neuroinflammation: Molecular Mechanisms and Emerging Nanotherapeutic Strategies

2026-10-31T14:24:08+00:00

Brain resident immune cells (microglia) have critical functions in neuro-homeostasis and inflammation. In many neurodegenerative diseases, neuroinflammation is a common pathological process that occurs as a result of the persistent activation of microglia by stimuli. Microglia were once thought to be either "pro" or "anti" inflammatory, but more recently, it has been recognized that immunometabolism is also important in the phenotypical determination of microglia, and metabolic reprogramming is a key factor in resting microglial homeostasis and the transition into a neuro-inflammatory cell state. One of the key parameters that affect the metabolic profile of microglia is oxidative signaling. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) that were previously believed to be side products of metabolism that are toxic is now recognized as important signaling molecules that can impact gene expression and activate innate immune responses. A mitochondrial dysfunction, characterized by dysfunctional metabolism, ROS generation and dynamics, in turn, exacerbates neuro-inflammation and causes microglial homeostasis destabilization. Redox regulation and mitochondrial function are important in the disease process of neuro-inflammation. Therapeutic strategies based on nanotechnology with properties directly interacting with these synergic mechanisms can be used for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Nanotechnology nanocarrier systems can be used to deliver targeted therapeutics and antioxidant nanomaterials as well as mitochondria targeted drugs across the blood brain barrier. However, the diversity of microglia and the safety of nanomaterials are issues that have to be taken care of. In translational research, unifying models and combining more targeted strategies for clinical application are the new promising in this field.