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Background: Bifunctional ionic liquid [BIL] was found to be a highly effective catalyst for ether synthesis without any inorganic base or solvent. Using this protocol, different aryl substitutions were reacted with different phenols in good to excellent yields. The BIL is reusable without any loss in catalytic activity for nine consecutive cycles. The Williamson reaction is a convenient renovation in fine chemical synthesis since the ethers are important in both bulk and fine industrial chemicals preparation and academic applications. Method: The mixture of the phenol (1mmol), alcohol (1.2 mmol), and BIL ionic liquid (0.3 mol%) was added to a round-bottomed flask (100 mL) with continuous stirring for 1 hour. Objective: The aim of this study is to highlight the use of BIL to synthesize mixed ethers using substituted phenols and to study the reusability in the next cycle. Results: The products obtained were phenol and substituted phenols containing withdrawing substituents in respectable yields. However, the reactions involving substituted phenols containing electron-donating groups often afford the corresponding products in low yields. Conclusion: BIL is found to be an effective catalyst in the etherification of various unsymmetrical ethers under mild conditions. Bifunctional ionic liquid as a solvent and catalyst will show real rewards by providing a ‘green’ method with the safer procedure, less reaction time periods, mild conditions, easy separation, and ionic liquid recycle.

The failure mechanisms of Oxide-Oxide ceramic matrix composites AS-N610 were studied at both room temperature and high temperature using tensile and fatigue tests with and without lateral and laminar notches. The unnotched coupons had an average tensile strength of 423 MPa with elastic modulus of 97 GPa at room temperature showing a perfect elastic behaviour whereas the laminar notched samples shown similar strength of 425 MPa with elastic modulus (98 GPa) revealing pseudo-ductile behaviour. A reduction in tensile strength of the oxide ceramic matrix composites was observed at high temperatures. Thermal shock experiments revealed that the retained strength of the samples quenched from 1100 °C deteriorated by ∼10 % (395 ± 15 MPa). In all samples fracture origin was observed on the mid plane showing a higher degree of fiber pull-out, delamination and pseudo ductile behaviour. FEA confirmed higher stress concentration on the areas of failures.

Aims: A green route for the oxidation of alcohols to corresponding carbonyl compounds in room temperature ionic liquid ([CEMIM]BH4) was developed by using hydrogen peroxide as the oxygen source. In aqueous solution at room temperature, 0.2 mol% of ([CEMIM]BH4) showed excellent catalytic properties for selective oxidation of aromatic and aliphatic alcohols Background: One of the vital reactions in organic synthesis is the oxidation of alcohols to carbonyl compounds. In particular, the conversion of primary alcohols to aldehydes has received a variety of applications as they are used as intermediates in fine chemicals mostly for the perfume industry. Objective: In the present work, we have reported an effective green route for the selective oxidation of alcohols to the carbonyl compounds using peroxide in an ionic liquid 1-carboxyethyl-3-methyl-imidazolium tetrahydroborate ([CEMIM]BH4) Methods:: A mixture of alcohol (2 mmol), ([CEMIM]BH4) (0.2 mol%), H2O2 (2 mmol) were stirred thoroughly with the help of a magnetic stirrer for 10 min at ambient temperature Results: The catalytic activity of ([CEMIM]BH4) is very effective, which reflects its good solvating nature during the oxidation. Conclusion: In conclusion, the series of experiments described represents a useful method for the oxidation of primary and secondary alcohols to carbonyl compounds at room temperature. The catalyst can be easily prepared and is therefore extremely cost-effective. The rapid reaction times for the substrates mean a large number of materials may be screened in parallel over a short period of time.

The genus Ceratocystis contains several significant plant pathogens, causing wilt and canker disease on a wide range of plant species. There are >40 known species of Ceratocystis, some of which are becoming increasingly important in agricultural or natural ecosystems. The diagnostic procedures for most Ceratocystis species rely on time-consuming and labor-intensive culturing approaches. To provide more time-efficient and sensitive molecular diagnostic tools for Ceratocystis, a generic TaqMan real-time PCR assay was developed using the ITS gene. This novel two-probe TaqMan assay amplified DNA from all tested Ceratocystis species. Some nonspecific amplification of a few species from closely related genera was observed under certain conditions; however, these false-positive detections could be ruled out using the additional PCR primers developed for further sequence-based identification of the detected species. The assay was found to be highly sensitive, as it detected 0.2 pg/μl of Ceratocystis DNA in water as well as in host DNA matrix. Further validation with artificially inoculated fig stem tissue demonstrated that the assay was also able to effectively detect the pathogen in infected asymptomatic stem tissue. This newly developed real-time PCR assay has practical applications in biosecurity, conservation, and agriculture; it will enable the detection of Ceratocystis species directly from plant material to facilitate more sensitive screening of imported plant germplasm, and allow rapid tracking of pathogens in the case of disease outbreaks.

Three-dimensional (3-D) printing is the method of forming a three-dimensional element by layering materials. 3-D printing is commonly done with a variety of materials such as ceramics, polymers and metals. Researchers are working to develop biodegradable additives for 3-D printing to provide sustainable additives. Biodegradable polymeric substances are taken into consideration ability 3-D printing substances because of their abundant assets and beneficial properties. Further, due to their multi-functional characteristics, they are also seen as probable contenders to replace petroleum-based polymeric materials. However, some of their properties are inferior to conventional synthetic polymeric materials. Hence, it is investigated by surveying advanced bio-waste polymer as reinforcement materials with polylactic acid (PLA) filaments for the polymer matrix in 3D printable filaments. The mechanical and thermal properties of polylactic acid filaments (PLA) with various types of fillers were examined in this review work. This overview mainly provides support for young researchers engaged in 3D printing using bio-filled composite materials in the area of PLA processing.

A cost-effective and simple method has been developed for the preparation of flower-like hierarchical spheres of semiconductor oxide materials. Efficient self-assembly of BiVO4 flower-like hierarchical spheres was performed via a simple hydrothermal method, followed by calcination at 500 °C. X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies distinguished diffraction planes of the monoclinic BiVO4 phase, which was further confirmed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) analysis. The electronic and optical properties of BiVO4 were studied via X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and UV-visible spectroscopy. XPS analysis confirmed the binding energy relations and the formation of BiVO4, and also an increase in the Bi–O, V–O bond strengths in BiVO4. The remarkable efficiency of pseudocapacitor electrode materials depends on the consistent fabrication of nano architectures. The carbon-free BiVO4 electrodes showed a higher specific capacitance of 1203 F g−1 at 2 A g−1, without detectable degradation after 2000 cycles and a beneficial cycling stability was achieved because of the electrochemical activity of the distinctive porous hierarchical architecture. Our synthetic method suggests a simple procedure for the design and fabrication of bismuth vanadate hierarchical nano architectures, encouraging electrochemical energy storage. These nanocomposites could be utilized as anode materials in lithium-ion batteries.

Synthesis of chalcone by Claisen–Schmidt condensation using recyclable L- aspartic acid coupled with imidazolium-based ionic liquid as a green synthetic approach has been developed. Present work offers significant advantages, such as high yield, enhanced reaction speed even at room temperature, catalyst reusability, and the involvement of non-toxic reagents. Background: Chalcones belong to the flavonoid family and possess pharmacological and biological activities, including antibacterial, antifungal, immunosuppressive, and anti-nociceptive properties. Objective: Ionic liquids have emerged as powerful tools for molecular organic solvents. Their wide liquid range, easy recovery, and reusability make them a greener alternative to volatile organic solvents. Thus, in the present work, our objective was to employ them as dual catalysts and solvent systems for the synthesis of chalcone via the CS condensation. Methods: In a typical experiment, benzaldehyde (10 mmol), acetophenone (10 mmol), and 2.5 mol% (L-AAIL) ionic liquid were mixed in a 50 mL round-bottom flask. The reaction was proceeded quickly at room temperature with stirring, and the resulting mixture became a biphasic system with the precipitate at the bottom and the upper phase containing some unreacted substrate which was separated from the catalyst by filtration and decantation. The catalyst was extracted with CH2Cl2 and separated for the next cycle. Results: Claisen–Schmidt condensation accomplished with reasonable to good yields, ranging from 78 to 95% at room temperature in presence of the [L-AAIL], as compared to the traditional route at more than 100°C. Conclusion: [L-AAIL] is found a highly efficient and eco-friendly catalyst for the synthesis of chalcone derivatives at room temperature. [L-AAIL] as a solvent and catalyst will exhibit real advantages by providing a ‘green’ process with a safer operation. Furthermore, short reaction periods, mild reaction conditions, easier separation, and reusability of ionic liquid made this methodology valuable for synthetic organic chemists as well as industry.

Gastric cancer is a pathological condition induced by the bacteria Helicobacter pylori. Targeting the key virulence factors of H. pylori causing gastric cancer is a promising method for treating gastric cancer. Recently, research has been focused on analyzing the adrenergic, cholinergic, and anti-cancer properties of their venom proteins. Testing the anti-cancer activity of the lethal proteins in the venom of P. volitans provides a bioactive compound for cancer treatment. Still, it is also helpful to eliminate the ecological imbalance caused by these fish in the marine environment. This study focuses on an in silico approach using Z-dock to analyze the bioactive prospective of the venom proteins of P. volitans against the essential virulence proteins of H. pylori responsible for inducing cancer. Our in silico docking study using a computational model of the venom proteins and H. pylori proteins has displayed the possible interactions between these proteins. The results revealed that P. volitans hyaluronidase and PV toxin's venom proteins effectively interact with H. pylori proteins Cag A, Cag L, GGT, Cag D, and urease that may be promising proteins in cancer therapy.

Diabetes Mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood glucose level caused due to deficiency of insulin secretion or insulin action. The management of the blood glucose level is an important approach in the control of diabetes mellitus complications. There are many divergent therapeutic strategies in the management of Type II diabetes. The inhibition of carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzymes such as α-amylase and α-glucosidase can be used to lower postprandial blood glucose levels. The objective of the present study is to evaluate the inhibitory potential of Gymnemic acid in various concentrations on α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities. Gymnemic acid and voglibose show the IC50 value of 68.12 and 46.23 on alpha amylase and IC50 value of 65.77 and 36.67 on alpha glucosidase activity respectively. Insilico docking study between α-amylase and α-glucosidase with gymnemic acid and voglibose depict the similar amino acid binding sites that substantiate that gymnemic acid might be used as a natural and cost-effective alternative to the synthetic drug. This study throws light on the anti-diabetic action of phytomedicine, Gymnemic acid, a component of Gymnema sylvestre.

Micro-electromechanical system (MEMS)-based acoustic transducers are also known as microphones. The membrane materials on MEMS microphones are metal, polysilicon, silicon, and silicon nitride. The existing technology and materials used for the microphones involve expensive materials and complex process steps. This paper proposed a low-cost fabrication process and studies a MEMS acoustic transducer device using polyimide as a membrane on FR4 substrate (non-silicon substrate). The numerical simulation is carried out for the proposed device and considers the following parameters such as thickness of membrane, diameter of diaphragm cavity, resistor length and applied pressure. This device has four resistors which are linked in the method of Wheatstone bridge. The resistance change is observed due to membrane deformation when applying pressure, and output is measured on corresponding nodes. Based on the operating parameters studied the change in resistance, displacement, frequency response, sensitivity and operating bandwidth.

This paper presents the cure behavior and decomposition kinetics of epoxy resins incorporated with hydroxyl functionalized poly (ether ether ketone)s (PEEKTOH) and propargyl telechelic poly(ether ether ketone)s (PEEKPR). PEEKTOH and PEEKPR were blended with diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) resin. The unmodified DGEBA without any PEEK modifier was also processed and evaluated for comparison. 4, 4′diamino diphenylsulfone was used as the curing agent for the blends. Non-isothermal cure kinetics was derived by differential scanning calorimetry, and the kinetic parameters including activation energy, pre-exponential factor and rate constant were determined. The cure initiation temperature was significantly influenced by the composition of the blend. Neat epoxy system without any modifier showed a cure initiation temperature in the range of 130–150 °C for different heating rates studied. PEEKTOH and PEEKPR modified epoxies exhibited cure initiation in the range of 118 to 145 °C and 121–149 °C, respectively, for different heating rates. Activation energies, Ea, at various extents of curing conversion were derived by Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose (KAS) method. The highest average activation energy range was exhibited by EP-Neat in the range of 77–80 kJ mol−1, whereas the EP-PEEKTOH showed Ea in the range of 66–70 kJ mol−1. Cured systems were subjected to thermal decomposition by thermogravimetric analysis. The activation energy for different extents of decomposition was studied by KAS method. The PEEKPR blended epoxy exhibited the highest values of activation energy for the entire range of decomposition, whereas the PEEKTOH system exhibited the lowest values.

Research towards solid polymer electrolytes based on biopolymers has grown extensively over the past years due to its abundance in nature, non-toxicity, low cost, and biodegradability. When compared to standard biopolymers, electrochemical study on natural gums is very limited. Therefore, in the present work, polymer electrolytes based on gum tragacanth have been prepared and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), thermogravimetry, and transference number studies. The polymer-salt complex formation is confirmed using FTIR studies while XRD spectra reveal the amorphous nature of the polymer membranes. The highest conductivity of 9.161 × 10−3 S/cm was obtained for the film with 1 g of gum tragacanth and 0.5 g of ammonium thiocyanate. The Thermogravimetry study showed that the electrolyte is thermally stable. The transference number study confirmed that the main charge carriers are ions. The primary battery has been constructed using the prepared electrolyte, and the OCV was found to be 1.31 V.

In the proposed method, crude enzymes extracted from waste dry leaves of 15 different plants showing protease activity were used for removal of silver from exposed medical X-ray film by hydrolysis of gelatin. Optimum operating pH and temperature for crude protease extract was found to be 7 and 50 °C, respectively. The X-ray film before and after protease treatment was analysed using FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy) and EDS (Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy). The slurry obtained after smelting process analysed using EDS shows 99.8% of silver recovery. The result confirms that the enzyme extraction process recovers silver and PET (polyethylene terephthalate) in eco-friendly treatment methodology when compared to conventional chemical treatment process.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of agronomic biofortification with zinc on yield, nutritional quality, nutrient uptake and economics of babycorn under irrigated condition. The observations on yield viz., green cob yield, babycorn yield and green fodder yield and quality parameters (crude protein, total soluble sugars, starch and Zn content) were recorded at harvest stage. The nutrient uptake was analysed at different growth stages and economic indices viz., the total cost of cultivation, gross return, net return and benefit cost ratio were worked out for various zinc fertilization treatments. Increased green cob yield and babycorn yield was recorded higher in soil application of zinc sulphate @ 37.5 kg ha-1 along with a foliar spray of 1.0 % on 20 and 40 DAS. Quality parameters of babycorn viz., crude protein, total soluble sugars, starch and Zn content in corn were significantly increased with soil application of ZnSO4 @ 37.5 kg ha -1 along with a foliar spray of 0.5% at 20 and 40 DAS that recorded higher values of these quality characters. Plant nutrient uptake of N, K and Zn in babycorn was significantly increased with the application of ZnSO4 @ 37.5 kg ha -1 in soil with foliar spray of 0.5% at 20 and 40 DAS. Higher net monetary returns and B: C ratio were obtained with application of ZnSO4@ 37.5 kg ha -1in soil with foliar spray @ 0.5% on 20 and 40 DAS.

The chemical composition of essential oil (EO) isolated from dried fruits or seeds of four spices were evaluated by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis. EO extraction was performed by hydrodistillation method. The results revealed that yields of EO were 0.6%, 4.5%, 1.5%, and 0.8% in coriander, cumin, fennel and Indian mustard, respectively. The GC/MS analysis shown a total of 11, 14, 09 and 13 constituents in the EO isolated from coriander, cumin, fennel and Indian mustard correspondingly. Among the selected four spices, coriander EO had three major constituents linalool (54.23%), cinnamaldehyde (17.01%) and α-pinene (6.12%), while cumin EO showed five major constituents that were 1,4-p-menthadien-7-al, (31.48%), p-cumic aldehyde (26.65%), γ-terpinene (11.79%) and β-pinene (14.46%). Fennel EO had predominantly anethole (69.01%), followed by estragole (12.72%), fenchone (10.02%) and limonene (5.24%). The EO of mustard seeds registered higher concentration of 3-butenyl isothiocyanate (84.36%) and allyl-isothiocyanate (8.52%). The results presented in this paper would be useful for future investigations that could lead to the identification of the health benefits of EO from spices.

Several quality attributes of wax apple cider vinegar (WACV) were determined every 30 days for six months at ambient temperature. Acetic acid fermentation significantly increased the acetic acid content in WACV. The light-ness and yellowness gradually decreased, whereas redness increased during storage. Density, viscosity, and pH of WACV continuously retarded, and total acidity, volatile acidity, electrical conductivity, and total nitrogen content increased during storage. Phenolic and flavonoid contents and antioxidant potentials of WACV were affected by storage. Various amino acids and volatile compounds were observed in WACV during storage. Throughout the storage period, the microbial growth in WACV was considerably low.

This study demonstrates a facile ultrasonication-assisted synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) decorated ultrathin graphitic carbon nitride nanosheets (g-C3N4) composite as an efficient electrocatalyst material. The as-prepared g-C3N4/AuNPs composite material's structural morphology was characterized using an X-ray diffractometer, field-emission scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The prepared nanomaterial was applied to fabricate g-C3N4/AuNPs composite modified screen-printed carbon electrode (SPE) sensor for the sensitive electrochemical detection of caffeic acid (CA) in various food samples. The electrocatalytic properties and interfacial electron movement behavior of the g-C3N4/AuNPs/SPE was examined using electrochemical techniques, including cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry, differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Under the optimized experimental conditions, g-C3N4/AuNPs/SPE exhibited rapid response and sensitive detection of CA in both amperometric and voltammetric techniques. Excellent linear ranges and detection limits were achieved between the CA's concentration ranging from 0.5 to 155 nM for DPV with the detection limit (LOD) of 0.1 nM and 2.5–1025 nM CA for amperometric technique with LOD of 0.5 nM. The g-C3N4/AuNPs/SPE sensor was successfully applied to quantify the amount of CA in various food samples, and the obtained results were promising over conventional and recently reported methods. Thus, the developed sensor can be applied in routine food quality control and food analysis laboratories for quick and sensitive quantification of CA in foods.

Hydrogeochemical analysis was carried out to assess the suitability of groundwater for drinking, domestic, agriculture and industrial purposes in Sivagangai district, which is economically backward district of Tamil Nadu, India. Seventy ground water samples were collected during pre and postmonsoon season in the year 2017 from all over the district and analyzed for hydrogen ion activity, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, total hardness, Ca, Mg, Na, K, Cl, CO3, HCO3, SO4, total nitrate, and F. All the analytical results are compared with the corresponding guideline values of drinking water standards and the results show that groundwater in most part of the study area is potable except for a few locations in both seasons. The groundwater geochemistry is mostly controlled by rock water interaction and evaporation processes in both seasons as revealed from the Gibbs plot. The irrigation water quality parameters such as SAR, Na% and RSC results show that some of the groundwater samples are fit for agriculture. It is ascertained through hydrogeochemical analysis that the quality of groundwater is appropriate for drinking, domestic use, agriculture as well as industrial purpose and it can be utilized for industrial development to improve the socioeconomic status of the study area.

Today with the help of advancement in the biotechnological processes, researchers are concentrating more on economical and versatile ways to recover value-added products from natural resources such as waste waters. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is known to produce a broad range of secondary metabolites during its active growth phase. In this study, P aeruginosa was densely isolated from the waste dumping zone of the highly polluted Cooum River (CR), Tamil Nadu, India. The strain was identified through biochemical analysis and molecular characterization by 16S rRNA sequencing and named as JAAKPA. Enzyme profiling of the strain revealed that it had potential lipase and protease activities. Antibacterial and antifungal activities of the strain against ten clinical pathogens were tested. A significant antibacterial activity against Gram-positive strains such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Bacillus subtilis, and moderate antifungal activity against Candida albicans, were observed. The culture supernatant of JAAKPA was subjected to thin-layer chromatography and column chromatography to extract and purify the antimicrobial compound (Phenazine). The purified compound was further subjected to gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) studies. The results revealed phenazine to be the major secondary metabolite responsible for the antimicrobial activities.

The main objective of this research is to reduce diesel engine emission when operated with animal fat (waste chicken skin) biodiesel by using a Cu–ZSM5-coated catalytic converter in the exhaust. By this, the usage of diesel will be reduced and also costly catalysts that were employed in the catalytic convertor can be eliminated. The reduction in the emissions such as hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), and oxides of nitrogen (NOX) when the engine is fitted with a laboratory-made Cu–ZSM5-coated catalytic convertor was superior to the commercially available catalytic convertor. At 4.3 kW brake power, the emissions values of HC, CO, and NOX recorded for CSO40 blend in the engine fixed with laboratory-made Cu–ZSM5-coated catalytic convertor was found to be 9.8%, 5.2%, and 11.23% lesser than the commercially available catalytic convertor. Around 34.91% of smoke emissions were reduced for the 40% of Chicken skin biodiesel in the diesel which indicates that the smoke formation reduced with the addition of biodiesel blends in diesel for all engine loads.

Synthesized polystyrene (PSt) with a molecular weight of 2100 g/mol, hexamethylene diisocyanate (HMDI), 6-hexylamino benzamide (6B), and N1-(6-aminohexyl)-N4-(6-benzoylaminohexyl)terephthalamide (6T6B) are used to make a copolymer of thermoplastic elastomers. The prepared polymers’ inherent viscosity results (0.4–1.1 dL/g) support the polymer’s high mass. The presence of a monodentate urea group in the polymer chain is confirmed by FT-IR tests. The temperature dependence of FT-IR confirms that the synthesized copolymer has a space length dependent reversible crystallinity. Data from differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) also shows that the hard segment crystallization is strong and reversible in nature. The XRD results show that the polymer is semi-crystalline. The TGA analysis confirmed that the synthesized copolymers are thermally stable up to 290°C. The presence of hydrogen bonds in polymer chains is thermally reversible. The polymer’s solvent resistivity is excellent due to its high crystallinity.

Biodiesel obtained from low-cost non-edible oils is the most promising alternative fuel for conventional diesel fuel. In this current work, Prunus domestica kernel oil was used as a feedstock for synthesizing methyl ester. The FFA value of the kernel oil was examined by employing the isopropyl alcohol technique and found to be 11.63 mg KOH/g. Hence, oil was processed with a two-step transesterification process using acid (H2SO4) and base (NaOH) catalyst reaction to convert into biodiesel. To obtain maximum yield and high-quality biodiesel, an optimization technique was employed. In this technique, the process parameters such as experimental duration, reaction temperature, NaOH concentration, and methanol to oil ratio were optimized based on Taguchi technique. The investigations revealed that 150 min, 60°C, 8:1 ratio, and 1 wt% NaOH were optimal process parameters obtained with a reaction efficiency of 97.86%. The experimental analysis considered that the methanol to oil ratio was happened to be the most substantial entity using ANOVA. The biodiesel Prunus domestica methyl ester produced matched and fulfilled the standards EN14214.

BACKGROUND: To develop and validate a simple and consistent reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method for the estimation of Levonorgestrel (LNG) drug from silicone based intrauterine device. METHODS: Sample solution was prepared using tetrahydrofuran (THF) as solvent for the drug extraction, and RP-HPLC analysis was performed using Luna C18 analytical column (150 × 4.6 mm, 5 μm, 100 Å – Phenomenex), with a mobile phase consisting of a mixture of acetonitrile and water (50:50, v/v) at a flow rate of 1.0 ml/min and injection volume of 20 μl. Detection was carried out at 241 nm in PDA detector, with a total run time of 15 min. The method was validated in accordance with ICH guidelines. Method applicability was tested for optimizing formulation using quality-by-design approach, to check the stability and content uniformity of levonorgestrel-silicone mixture (core blend), and quantifying the amount of LNG from commercially available silicone based formulation. RESULTS: The retention time for LNG drug was obtained at 8.5 min (± 0.3 min). A linear relationship was observed over the concentration range of 2.6–15.6 μg/ml with the correlation coefficient (r) value 0.9999. The method was found to be precise within the acceptable limit (RSD

The radiolytic stability of aqueous solutions containing two different bis-1,2,4-triazines was studied under static gamma irradiation. Sulphophenyl derivatives of bis-1,2,4- triazinyl pyridine (SO3-Ph-BTP) and bis-1,2,4-triazinylbipyridine (SO3-Ph-BTBP) were dissolved in 0.1 M and 1 M HNO3 solutions and the impact of gamma irradiation was assessed by the measurement of distribution ratios of Am(III) and Eu(III) using irradiated samples. The results were compared for two different organic solvents containing N,N,N’,N’-tetraoctyldiglycolamide (TODGA) or N,N-didodecyl-N’,N’-dioctyldiglycolamide (D3DODGA). The separation efficiency of all the systems remained unchanged when the absorbed dose was 100 kGy, and gradually decreased at 200 kGy and 500 kGy. The radiolytic degradation was more apparent for SO3-Ph-BTBP in comparison to SO3-Ph-BTP at higher acidity. The degradation of sulphonate groups in the molecules was evidenced in ATR-FTIR spectral studies.

The impacts of invasive fish species on recipient communities are mostly considered a threat to the biodiversity of freshwater systems. A characteristic of introduced species turning invasive is their higher tolerance to environmental stressors. To understand if non-native fishes in Pallikaranai wetland, Tamil Nadu, India, are more tolerant to anthropogenic pressures in the Wetland, we assessed the variation in Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon contamination between introduced and native fish species. Mean levels of Naphthalene, fluorene, phenanthrene, anthracene, pyrene, and total PAH in samples of introduced species were higher than native species, while High Molecular weight PAH and carcinogenic PAH4 were higher in native fish species. The data was also analysed to assess if co-variates (organs, seasons, and sex) affected PAH accumulation patterns in non-native species. It was observed that only organs, sex, and year contributed significantly.

This study involves the case of polymer–metal contact, where deformation and strain behavior play a significant role. In present work, a section of polymer gear is mated against steel gear, and the friction behaviors for different groups of polymer materials of PA 6G, PA 6G Mg, POM-C, PETP/PTFE, PA 66 GF 30 and Bakelite were experimentally studied. From the results obtained, all the materials coefficient of friction decreased significantly at the pitch point. This was attributed to the pure rolling at the pitch point and tangential traction, which was the dominant mechanism for resistance to motion. An unstable friction characteristic from flank tooth to the pitch point was evident in the low load conditions.

In this study, alginate reinforced reduced graphene oxide@hydroxyapatite (rGO@HAP-Alg) hybrids have been fabricated via co-precipitation technique. The developed adsorbent was effectively utilized for the removal of Reactive Blue 4 (RB4), Indigo Carmine (IC) and Acid Blue 158 (AB158) azo dyes from aqueous solution, and found to have the adsorption efficiency of 45.56, 47.16 and 48.26 mg/g, respectively. The thermodynamic parameters demonstrated the endothermic and spontaneous nature of the adsorption process. The adsorption system was pH-dependent and showed maximum dye removal at pH 6–7, which was indicative of the electrostatic interactions, surface complexation and the hydrogen bonding mechanisms involved between the adsorbate and adsorbent during the adsorption process. Furthermore, the renewability studies demonstrated the reusability and stability of rGO@HAP-Alg hybrids up to five successive cycles. This study delivers a promising strategy for removing dye molecules and extends the potential application of rGO@HAP-Alg hybrids to treat practical dye contaminated water/wastewater.

Laser texturing has been carried out on the surface of the silicone nano‐micro composites to achieve super hydrophobic properties, and water droplet‐initiated Corona discharge studies were carried out. The Corona inception voltage (CIV) exhibits considerable enhancement with increase in the nano filler content under DC voltage compared with AC voltage. The corona inception voltage is high with the textured surface and is found to have direct correlation with contact angle of the composite specimen. The Corona inception voltage was measured using Ultra‐high frequency (UHF) and fluorescent fibre techniques. It is observed that the fluorescent fibre technique is more sensitive in identifying discharges. Frequency domain analysis of UHF signal shows a dominant frequency at 1 GHz and for fluorescent signal, the spectral content is in the range of DC to 10 MHz. The rise time and pulse width of the UHF signal increases with the increase in the nano filler in composite material. The energy content of UHF/fluorescent signal due to discharges shows similar trend with its increase in energy with variation in its magnitude of the signal formed. The pulse width of fluorescent signal formed due to water droplet‐initiated discharges under AC and DC voltage is almost the same, and with the textured specimen it is quite low than the non‐textured material.

Pretreatment of dairy manure can disrupt the lignocellulosic structure and produce higher levels of soluble sugars, which can be effectively utilized by anaerobic microbes to produce methane (CH4)....

Chondrosarcoma is a cartilaginous tumor of mesenchymal origin. The histology and grade of the tumor determine the chances of relapse and survival. These tumors usually respond poorly to chemo-radiotherapy in cases of non-resectable and recurrent disease. (18)F-FDG PET/CT has been used in evaluation of recurrence. However, these tumors show only mild to moderate FDG avidity due to their lower mitotic activity and large acellular matrix. These tumors are known to have a high degree of angiogenesis, especially in those of higher grade. We present a case of a 53-year-old man with grade II chondrosarcoma of the left femur showing only mild avidity on (18)F-FDG PET/CT but showing moderate to intense tracer avidity on (68)Ga-DOTA-RGD(2) PET/CT. This may enable the use of angiogenesis-targeted positron and beta-emitting radiopharmaceuticals as a potentially new theranostic alternative treatment in cases of refractory metastatic chondrosarcoma.

Background: Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) is an attractive target for antidiabetic drug discovery owing to its pivotal role as a negative regulator of insulin and leptin signaling. Objective: The objective of this research is to design, synthesize, and evaluate some acetamidobenzoic acid derivatives as a novel class of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B inhibitors with therapeutic potential for Type II diabetes. Methods: 3-(2-(Benzo[d]thiazol-2-ylthio)acetamido)benzoic acid derivatives 4(a-j) were synthesized and characterized by employing spectral studies. All the synthesized compounds were screened for in vitro PTP1B inhibitory activity and the most potent compound in the series was also evaluated for in vivo anti-hyperglycemic activity using STZ induced diabetic Wistar rat model. Molecular docking studies were also performed with the most potent analog using FlexX docking algorithm to delineate its binding mode to the active site of the PTP1B. Results: Among all the synthesized compounds, 3-(2-(benzo[d]thiazol-2-ylthio)acetamido)-4- methylbenzoic acid (4f) displayed good PTP1B inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 11.17 μM. The compound also exhibited good anti hyperglycemic efficacy in streptozotocin induced diabetic Wistar rats. Docking studies with 4f revealed that the compound bound in the catalytic and second aryl binding site of the PTP1B. Conclusion: Overall, compound 4f with good in vitro PTP1B inhibitory potency and in vivo antihyperglycemic efficacy would be a valuable lead molecule for the development of acetamidobenzoic acid based PTP1B inhibitors with antidiabetic potential.

Despite being the most common cause of secondary hypertension, prevalence of primary aldosteronism (PA) among patients with young-onset hypertension (YH - age of hypertension onset40 years) remains poorly studied.We assessed the prevalence of PA in patients with YH referred for evaluation of secondary hypertension.In this prospective, cross-sectional study, 202 patients with YH, visiting endocrine and cardiology clinics of All India Institute of Medical Sciences, India, were evaluated.Primary aldosteronism was screened by measuring plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC) and direct renin concentration (DRC) and calculating aldosterone-to-renin ratio (ARR), followed by confirmatory saline infusion test (SIT) according to Endocrine Society Guideline. Those confirmed with post-SIT PAC5 ng/dl underwent adrenal computed tomography (CT), followed by adrenal venous sampling (AVS).Of 202 YH patients, 38 (18.8%) screened positive, and PA was confirmed in 36 (17.8%). The mean age was 43.9 ± 10.9 years, and median duration of hypertension was 10.5 (3.5-18) years. The prevalence of PA increased with grade of hypertension (8.1% in grade 1 to 37.1% in grade 3), number of antihypertensive medications (2.5% in those taking ≤1 to 50% in those taking ≥4 medications) and severity of hypokalaemia (0% in potassium5 to 85.7% in potassium3.5 mmol/L). The prevalence of PA by age of hypertension onset was highest in age group 30-39 years (31.3%).There is a high prevalence and a long delay in diagnosis of PA among patients with YH, and YH should be considered as a separate high-risk category in PA screening algorithm.

One dimensional (1D) metal organic framework (MOF) micro/nanostructural arrays are highly promising candidates for their potential applications in energy related areas. These exceptional behaviors ...

Aim and Objectives: The focus of the present work is to synthesize ZnO/C composite using dextrose as carbon source by combustion method and study the comparative evaluation on one-pot synthesis of β-acetamido- β-(phenyl) propiophenone over ZnO nanoparticles and ZnO/C composite catalyst. Materials and Methods: The ZnO nanoparticles has been synthesized by sol-gel method using zinc nitrate and NaOH and ZnO/Carbon composites by combustion method using zinc nitrate and dextrose as carbon source. The resulting gel was placed in a preheated muffle furnace at 400oC. The solution boils and ignites with a flame. On cooling highly amorphous powder of ZnO/Carbon composite is obtained. Results: The XRD patterns reveal the hexagonal phase with Wurtzite structure and the nanocrystalline nature of the catalysts. The SEM image of ZnO/C composite showed that it contains spherical particles with an average size of 41 nm. The average particle size of the composite was around 60nm by DLS method. The catalytic activity of the ZnO/Carbon composites has been analyzed by one-pot four-component condensation of benzaldehyde, acetophenone, acetyl chloride and acetonitrile. The feed molar ratio of 1:1 (Bz:AP) and catalyst loading of 30 mol% is found to be the optimal condition for β-acetamido ketone conversion over ZnO/carbon composite. Conclusion: The substantial catalytic activity of the synthesized ZnO/C composite materials was tested by one-pot four-component condensation of benzaldehyde (Bz), acetophenone (AP), acetyl chloride (AC) and acetonitrile (AN) which showed a high β-acetamido ketone conversion under the optimized reaction conditions. It has also been found that the catalyst is very stable and reusable.

Zinc-solubilizing bacteria (ZSB) are potential and ideal substitutes for Zn supplement. Currently, limited reports are available on the bacteria displaying capability to transform insoluble forms of zinc (Zn) to an available form. Therefore, attempts were made to identify and characterize Zn-solubilizing strains from chickpea rhizosphere for growth promotion and Zn biofortification. Sixty-one bacteria isolated from rhizosphere of chickpea from different parts of Indo-Gangetic plains (IGP) of India were screened for Zn-solubilizing capabilities by cultivating on BTG medium supplemented with ZnO, Zn3(PO4)2, and ZnCO3. Two potential ZSB (BT3 and CT8) were chosen based on their zinc solubilization index and zinc solubilization efficiency and later identified by 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. In vitro assays were performed to determine their plant growth-promoting attributes. PCR assay was performed to confirm the presence of zinc uptake regulator (zur) gene in potential strains. Pot experiments were carried out to evaluate the effect of two potential ZSB (BT3 and CT8) on growth promotion and Zn biofortification in chickpea. Atomic absorption spectroscopy was employed to determine the Zn content in the plants. Out of twenty-four ZSB, only two strains (BT3 and CT8) were able to solubilize all the three Zn sources. Isolate, BT3 released maximum concentration of Zn from ZnCO3 (150.2 ± 1.1 mg l−1), while CT8 released maximum from ZnO (130.2 ± 1.2 mg l−1) and Zn3(PO4)2 (116.5 ± 1.2 mg l−1), respectively. The pH of medium was strongly acidic which ranged from 5.2 to 3.9, and the organic acid analysis revealed hexanoic acid, pentanoic acid, and mandelic acids as prime organic acids produced by isolates. The presence of zur genes indicated the involvement of zur-mediated molecular mechanisms in these strains. These isolates also showed plant growth-promoting traits such as production of indole acetic acid (IAA), ammonia, siderophores, and phosphate solubilization. The 16S rRNA sequence analysis revealed that both the isolates had close similarity with Bacillus altitudinis. Inoculation of isolates BT3 and CT8 improved the growth parameters of chickpea and increased the plant’s Zn uptake by 3.9–6.0%. B. altitudinis strains (BT3 and CT8) show excellent capabilities to solubilize insoluble Zn compounds like oxides, phosphates, and carbonates of Zn, making them valuable source for improving Zn uptake and growth of chickpea.

Industrial use of heavy metals and dyes critically depends on the effective handling of industrial effluents. Effective remediation of industrial effluents using various adsorbent materials has thus become critical. In this paper, we study two-dimensional MXenes as an adsorbent for removing Cr(VI) and methyl orange (MO) in waters. The physico-chemical performance of MXenes was studied using X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Brunauer−Emmett−Teller, scanning electron microscopy, high resolution-transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy techniques. The adsorption system, including influence of contact time, pH of solutions, co-ions, and desorption experiments were performed for effective Cr(VI) and MO removal. The Cr(VI) and MO removal rate of the MXenes was very fast, and the kinetic system was driven by pseudo-second-order kinetics. The sorption isotherm closely well-tailored with the Langmuir isotherm, and the maximum removal efficiencies were 104 and 94.8 mg/g for Cr(VI) and MO, respectively. The MXenes was successfully regenerated by 0.1 M NaOH aqueous solution and can be repeatedly recycled. The uptake of Cr(VI) and MO by the MXenes was mainly due to chemical adsorption, namely electrostatic adsorption, complexation, surface interactions, and ion exchange mechanisms. This investigation demonstrates the selectivity and feasibility of the MXenes as a real adsorbent for eliminating Cr(VI) and MO from the aqueous environment.

OBJECTIVE: This study tested the long-term efficacy of two synthetic scaffolds for osteochondral defects and compare the outcomes with that of an established technique that uses monolayer cultured chondrocytes in a rabbit model. METHODS: Articular cartilage defect was created in both knees of 18 rabbits and divided into three groups of six in each. The defects in first group receiving cells loaded on Scaffold A (polyvinyl alcohol–polycaprolactone semi-interpenetrating polymer network (Monophasic, PVA–PCL semi-IPN), the second on Scaffold B (biphasic, PVA–PCL incorporated with bioglass as the lower layer), and the third group received chondrocytes alone. One animal from each group was sacrificed at 2 months and the rest at 1 year. O’Driscoll’s score measured the quality of cartilage repair. RESULTS: The histological outcome had good scores (22, 20, and 19) for all three groups at 2 months. At 1-year follow-up, the chondrocyte alone group had the best scores (mean 20.0 ± 1.4), while the group treated by PVA–PCL semi-IPN scaffolds fared better (mean 15 ± 4.2) than the group that received biphasic scaffolds (mean 11.8 ± 5.9). In all three groups, defects treated without cells scored less than the transplant. CONCLUSION: These results indicate that while these scaffolds with chondrocytes perform well initially, their late outcome is disappointing. We propose that for all scaffold-based tissue repairs, a long-term evaluation should be mandatory. The slow degrading scaffolds need further modifications to improve the milieu for long-term growth of chondrocytes and their hyaline phenotype for the better incorporation of tissue-engineered constructs.

Nano lubricants are widely used from heavy machinery to compact equipment to enhance their reliability. The research towards developing eco-friendly and biodegradable lubricants using natural oils has attracted the lubrication industries worldwide in recognizing the sustainable agrarian initiatives towards developing innovative green technologies. An attempt was made to investigate the use of vegetable oil-based nano lubricants prepared by dispersing molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanoparticles with the raw castor and olive oils, without adding surfactants or property modifiers. The prepared nano lubricants were tested for lubrication performance using a pin-on-disc tribometer, with EN31 as disc material and aluminum Al2024 as pin material. The wear study results are compared with the commercially available mineral oil, SAE20W40 multigrade engine oil. The castor and olive oil-based nano lubricants exhibited good thermal conductivity, higher flash point, and fire point, with better heat-carrying capacity comparatively with SAE20W40 engine oil. The study reported a 43% and 37% reduction in wear for a continuous sliding of 5 min, with castor and olive oil-based nano lubricants respectively compared with dry lubrication. Also, 56% and 51% improvement in thermal conductivity was observed for castor and olive oil reinforced with 0.7 wt% of MoS2 nanoparticles respectively, compared with SAE20W40 engine oil. The study revealed the possibility of using vegetable oil-based nanofluids as functional lubricants, which has better replacement potential with synthetic or petroleum-based mineral oils for tribological applications.