Temporal variability of microplastics in shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei), feed, water and sediments of coastal and inland culture ponds.

Aquaculture, particularly shrimp farming, is crucial for global food security. However, the increasing presence of microplastics (MPs) in marine environments, shrimp feeds, and atmospheric particles has made MP contamination in shrimp tissues inevitable. This study systematically investigates the abundance, characteristics, and temporal trends (from 15th to the 120th day of culture) of MPs contamination in Litopenaeus vannamei, along with associated feed, water, and sediment across 12 shrimp ponds of two major shrimp-producing regions of India.

Molecular Characterization and Pathogenicity of Causing Red Rot on Sugarcane in Southern Florida.

Red rot disease reduces sugarcane yield and impacts the sugar quality, posing an important threat to the sugarcane industry in Florida. Although , the causal agent of red rot in Florida, was first reported in 1984 based on morphology, molecular and pathological data have remained limited, highlighting the critical need for comprehensive characterization. Thirteen isolates were obtained from three local sugarcane varieties in Belle Glade, Florida.

Evaluating the reinforcing potential of steam-exploded chitin nanocrystals in chitosan-based biodegradable nanocomposite films for food packaging applications.

Chitosan-based films, despite being biodegradable and edible, often lack the necessary requisite properties such as mechanical strength, water resistance, and thermal stability, which are critical for effective food packaging. To address these limitations, incorporating reinforcing nanofiller materials offers a promising solution. This study utilizes steam-exploded chitin nanocrystals (ChNCs) to reinforce chitosan nanocomposite films through a solution-casting technique.

f. sp. Race 4 Threatening Celery Production in South Florida.

Fusarium wilt, caused by f. sp. (), is a vascular disease affecting celery.

Effect of diet on the evolution of gut commensal bacteria.

The gut microbiota, comprising trillions of diverse microorganisms inhabiting the intestines of animals, forms a complex and indispensable ecosystem with profound implications for the host's well-being. Its functions include contributing to developing the host's immune response, aiding in nutrient digestion, synthesizing essential compounds, acting as a barrier against pathogen invasion, and influencing the development or regression of various pathologies. The dietary habits of the host directly impact this intricate community of gut microbes.