This study delves into the potential insecticidal properties of Nelumbo nucifera (Lotus) against the cutworm Spodoptera litura L., a significant agricultural pest. Analysis of the chemical profile of N. nucifera revealed that the peak area was highest for 6a-. beta. -Aporphine, 1,2-dimethoxy- (33.79%), followed by n-Hexadecanoic acid (21.14%). Notably, larval mortality was most pronounced at the peak dosage of N. nucifera (2.5 mg/L) on the second (96%), third (87%), and fourth (85%) instars. Additionally, sub-lethal dosages of N. nucifera (1.5 milligrams per liter) significantly hindered the growth of S. litura by extending the larval and pupal durations while also reducing fecundity and Oviposition rates in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, exposure to sub-lethal dosages of N. nucifera led to both inhibition and upregulation of major enzymes (esterases, CYP450 and GST). Severe damage as well as dysregulation of midgut tissues were observed in fourth instars of S. litura exposed to N. nucifera (2.5 milligrams per liter). Moreover, our results indicate that N. nucifera extracts pose no harm to soil earthworms and beneficial honey bees, as confirmed through in vitro assays and in silico predictions, respectively. Overall, these findings offer promising prospects for the development of new bio-based agents for targeting and managing the lepidopteran pest S. litura.

The continuous release of glucosinolates into the soil by Brassicaceae root exudation is a prerequisite to maintaining toxic levels of breakdown products such as isothiocyanates (ITCs). ITCs influence plant and microbial diversity in ecosystems, while fungi and Rhizobiaceae are particularly injured. Studies explaining the molecular mechanisms of the negative effects are presently limited. Therefore, we investigated the early effects of cyclic ITC goitrin on proteomes of the host and symbiotic Mesorhizobium loti in the nodules of Lotus japonicus and of free-living bacteria. In the nodules, many host proteins had a higher abundance, among them, peroxidases and pathogenesis-related PR-10 proteins functioning in the abscisic-acid-activated signaling pathway. In the microsymbiont, transporter proteins as a prominent group are enhanced; some proteins involved in N-fixation decreased. The proteomes give a report about the loss of immunity suppression resulting in the termination of symbiosis, which initiates nodule senescence. Free-living M. loti are severely damaged, indicated, i.a., by a decrease in transporter proteins, the assumed candidates for goitrin protein complex formation, and high proteolysis. The production of chicoric acid by the accompanying bacteria is inhibitory for M. loti but connected to goitrin elimination, as confirmed by mass spectrometric (MS) analysis. In summary, the nodulation process is severely affected by goitrin, causing nodule dysfunction and failed nodule development. N deficiency conditions leads to yellowish leaves and leaf abscission.

Lotus, an underutilised aquatic plant with strong fibres, shows potential as a raw material for biodegradable packaging. Against this backdrop, this study aimed to develop a biodegradable packaging material by harnessing Lotus fibre in conjunction with banana stems, pineapple leaves, and rice straw as reinforcing agents. Additionally, the influence of a tapioca starch binder was examined for comparative purposes. To further enhance the material's properties, a casein bio coating was applied. Analytical tests for mechanical properties, water barrier properties, functional groups, structure and microstructure, thermal properties and biodegradability were performed. The samples containing banana fibres (LB) showed the highest tensile strength (12.81 MPa) and bursting strength (7.09 KPa). The casein bio-coating enhanced all the mechanical properties while significantly improving the water resistance. The bio-coated samples showed contact angles within the range of 72.3-92.3 degrees, with the samples containing pineapple leaf fibres showing the maximum. Infrared spectra analysis confirmed robust interactions among the reinforcing agents while scanning micrographs confirmed the influence of the bio-coating. The thermogravimetric analysis revealed the coating to be slightly improving the thermal stability. The notable crystallinity index of LB samples substantiated their remarkable mechanical properties. A great deal of biodegradation was seen in 20 days of soil burial, which was expedited by the coating. The material was also able to be formed into carry bags without difficulty, thereby indicating the suitability of this material as a viable eco-friendly solution to plastic carry bags.