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The industrial revolution and indiscriminate usage of a wide spectrum of agrochemicals account for the dumping of heavy metals in the environment. In-situ/ex-situ physical, chemical, and bioremediation strategies with pros and cons have been adopted for recovering metal contaminated soils and water. Therefore, there is an urgent requirement for a cost-effective and environment-friendly technique to combat metal pollution. Biochar combined with earthworms and vermifiltration is a suitable emerging technique for the remediation of metal-polluted soils and water. The chemical substances (e.g., sodium hydroxide, zinc chloride, potassium hydroxide, and phosphoric acid) have been used to activate biochar, which also faces several shortcomings. Studies reveal that extracellular enzymes have been used to activate biochar which is produced by earthworms and microbes that can alter the surface of the biochar. The present review focuses on the global scenario of metal pollution and its remediation through biochar activation using earthworms. The earthworms and biochar can produce "vermibiochar" which is capable of reducing the metal ions from contaminated water and soils. The vermifiltration can be a suitable technology for metal removal from wastewater/effluent. Thus, the biochar has a trick of producing entirely new options at a time when vermifiltration and other technologies are least expected. Further attention to the biochar-assisted vermifiltration of different sources of wastewater is required to be explored for the large-scale utilization of the process.

Single crystals of tris thiourea potassium chloride have been grown by slow evaporation technique at room temperature. The grown crystals were characterized by XRD, TG-DTA, UV and FTIR. The presence of functional group is identified from the UV and FTIR spectra. The TG curve undergoes a two step weight loss on heating the compound from 0° to 1200 °C. The thermal stability are due to the bonding between the thiourea molecule and the potassium ions. The SHG efficiency increases due to the inclusion of potassium ions.

Seaweed (T1), sugarcane trash (T2), coir pith (T3) and vegetable waste (T4) with cowdung (1:1, w/w) were vermicomposted using Eudrilus eugeniae (50 days). The pH in vermicomposts showed a decrease while electrical conductivity showed increment. The organic matter content, organic carbon, lignin, cellulose, C/N and C/P ratios in vermicompost was significantly lower than compost. Total NPK contents of vermicompost were significantly elevated (P 0.05) with 12.04-63.75%, 19.05-31.58% and 22.47-42.55%, respectively. The significantly higher growth rate of 1.41 and 7.74 mg/worm/day was observed in T1 on 10th and 50th day respectively, with 23.91 initial C/N ratio; while it was 0.85 and 4.81 mg/worm/day in T4 with 69.81 initial C/N ratio. A similar pattern was reflected in cocoon production, hatchling success and hatchling number/cocoon. Results revealed that vermicompost quality, worm growth, and reproduction depend on C/N ratio. The study suggests that amendment materials like cowdung are necessary to reduce C/N ratio for effective vermicomposting.

Parmelia that belongs to the Parmeliaceae Family is a foliose lichen combined with one or two groups of fungi in Phylum Ascomycota or Basidiomycota and algae, which might be green algae or blue-green algae (cyanobacteria). It is generally called “Stone Flower,” “Charila,” “Pattharphool,” or “Shilaaapushpa” in India. Lichen can be generally found growing on walls, old trees and spread largely across India, especially in the mountain area. It is a source of edible organisms for people residing in some regions of Nepal and it is also cultivated in hillsides of Kashmir. It has been found that lichen contains a lot of distinctive chemical compounds such as evernic acid, lecanoric acid, lobaric acid, norstictic acid, physodic acid, and salazinic acid. Some species of this lichen are recommended traditionally for controlling diseases such as boils, bronchitis, inflammations, excessive salivation, toothache, vomiting, etc. It has also applied as an indicator for biomonitoring, astringent, carminative, demulcent, bitter, resolvent, emollient, laxative, sporofic, sedative, diuretic and considered for treating sores, bronchitis, excessive salivation, vomiting, tooth-ache, boils and inflammations. It has been utilized for preparing traditional food and acts as a bioindicator for air pollution and radiation. It shows antibacterial, antioxidant, antimycobacterial and antifungal activities, including haemolytic, anaesthetic, spasmolytic and antispasmodic and antitumour activities. It also has several unique phytoconstituents that could be in charge of different therapeutic activities, but the majority of them are still unexplored. The review mainly focuses on various facets, such as common names, synonyms, traditional uses, botanical descriptions, and pharmacological activities of seven species of Parmelia.

The steady increase in the world's population has intensified the need for crop productivity, but the majority of the agricultural practices are associated with adverse effects on the environment. Such undesired environmental outcomes may be mitigated by utilizing biological agents as part of farming practice. The present review article summarizes the analyses of the current status of global agriculture and soil scenarios; a description of the role of earthworms and their products as better biofertilizer; and suggestions for the rejuvenation of such technology despite significant lapses and gaps in research and extension programs. By maintaining a close collaboration with farmers, we have recognized a shift in their attitude and renewed optimism toward nature-based green technology. Based on these relations, it is inferred that the application of earthworm-mediated vermitechnology increases sustainable development by strengthening the underlying economic, social and ecological framework.

The physicochemical properties, in vitro disintegration, and dissolution times of empty vegetable capsule films prepared by the solvent casting method were compared with gelatin films. The morphological properties of the films, such as surface pH (6.2 ± 0.04–6.4 ± 0.05), appearance, OTR (Oxygen Transmission Rate), and thickness (within 70 mm) were also evaluated. The mechanical properties of the capsule films were determined. The Abelmoscus esculentus and Gracilaria corticata polysaccharide films blended at a ratio of 0.5/0.5 showed the highest tensile strength (TS) of 6.8 MPa and the optimum elongation of 23 %, which was higher than that of the gelatin (control) film (p ≤ 0.05). Barrier properties such as the oxygen permeation rate, particularly the A. esculentus film, could be tailored to meet specific requirements by coating the films with metallized PET, metallized CPP, EVOH, and AlO2, or SiO2.

In photo catalysis, the transition metals are an emerging class of materials due to their activity and stability with ligands coordination. Such metal can be stabilized by the Schiff base ligands, preventing the leaching of the metal active centers during the catalytic process The present works describe the copper(II) and nickel(II) Schiff base complexes bearing hydroxyquinoline moiety that were synthesized, directly grafted onto amino linked MCM-41 materials. The synthesized materials (SQA, NSQA & CSQA) photocatalytic ability examined in the photooxidation of toxic organic pollutants such as fluorescein (FLU), crystal violet (CV), parathion methyl (PM), and 2,4,6-trichlorophenol (TCP). The stability and activity due to metal to ligand charge transfer may have a prominent role in the degradation of exodus toxins. The photooxidative characteristics of fluorescein, crystal violet, parathion methyl, and trichlorophenol are studied under UV light irradiation, and all show the Pseudo-first order kinetics in the presence of NSQA and CSQA hybrid catalysts. The hybrid composites CSQA, NSQA has good activity when compared with those of MCM-41 and SQA. Albeit, this phenomenon also depends on the LMCT and redox properties of the metals and electron-rich species of the porous matter. The NSQA and CSQA have more degradation performance when compared to porous silica and SQA. In the photocatalysis, the crystal violet removal percentages are 17%, 27%, 93% and 100% and 9%, 13%, 75% and 100% in case of fluorescein for the MCM-41, SQA, NSQA and CSQA respectively. The parathion methyl removal efficiency has 91%, 100%, 51% and 35%, whereas the removal percentage for the 2,4,6-trichlorophenol are 41%, 34%, 81% and 100% for MCM-41, SQA, NSQA and CSQA respectively. these model dyes are well fitted with Pseudo-first order kinetic models. Hence, the copper hybrids have 100% ability in the eco-friendly destruction of model organic pollutants. The photocatalysts reusability and stability were checked with the fresh catalysts.

While the technologies available today can generate high-quality water from wastewater, the majority of the wastewater treatment plants are not intended to eliminate emerging xenobiotic pollutants, pharmaceutical and personal care items. Most endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) and personal care products (PPCPs) are more arctic than most regulated pollutants, and several of them have acid or critical functional groups. Together with the trace occurrence, EDCs and PPCPs create specific challenges for removal and subsequent improvements of wastewater treatment plants. Various technologies have been investigated extensively because they are highly persistent which leads to bioaccumulation. Researchers are increasingly addressing the human health hazards of xenobiotics and their removal. The emphasis of this review was on the promising methods available, especially nanotechnology, for the treatment of xenobiotic compounds that are accidentally released into the setting. In terms of xenobiotic elimination, nanotechnology provides better treatment than chemical treatments and their degradation mechanisms are addressed.

Wet coffee pulping process generates organic pollutant rich wastewater, and causes serious threat to the local water bodies. Hence, the efficiency of Ricinus communis L. seed protein to remove colour, total dissolved solids (TDS) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) from the coffee cherry pulping wastewater (CCPWW) was studied. Treatment with 0.5 g optimum dosage of the seed protein reduced 80 % colour, 75 % total dissolved solids and 80 % chemical oxygen demand from the wastewater, along with a change in the pH from 3.7 to 5.2. Characterisation of the seed protein using sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and matrix assisted laser desorption ionization – time of flight assay confirmed a ricin glycoprotein band at 28 kDa. This ricin B chain lectin protein with 262 amino acid residues caused the coagulation activity in the wastewater, due to its cationic nature, sugar binding sites and hydrogen bonding forces between molecules. Fourier transformed infrared characterization of the seeds showed the presence of amide groups involved in pollutant removal. A positive linear correlation ‘r’ 0.9 proved the degree of association between the removal of total dissolved solids and chemical oxygen demand from CCPWW. Hence, the study suggested that the pollutants from wastewater could be removed using Ricinus communis L. seed lectin protein, as an alternative eco-friendly coagulant agent replacing synthetic coagulant chemicals.

Oxytetracycline (OCT) is a broad-spectrum antibiotic commonly used for broiler production to enhance growth and feeding efficacy. Concern has been expressed that the parent compounds of antibiotics such as OCT or their bioactive metabolites may be excreted through animal feces or urine with negative consequences for the environment when applied to agricultural lands. An integrated system involving a combination of thermophilic composting and vermicomposting using Eisenia fetida was investigated as a strategy for reducing the concentrations of oxytetracycline and its metabolites (4-epi-oxytetracycline [EOTC], α-apo-oxytetracycline [α-Apo-OTC] and β-apo-oxytetracycline [β-Apo-OTC]) in chicken manure. Treatments consisted of combinations of chicken manure and waste paper to produce waste mixtures with C: N ratios of 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 and 70 (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5 and T6, respectively). These were subjected to thermophilic composting for 20 days followed by vermicomposting with E. fetida for 7 weeks. The oxytetracycline concentration at the start of the experiment was in the range of 123.3–35.2 mg/kg, which reduced to 44–25.3 mg/kg after the thermophilic composting, and further reduced to 35.4–20.7 mg/kg at the end of the vermicomposting stage. The maximum overall percentage reduction of residual oxytetracycline in the final product was recorded in T3 (C:N ratio 40). The maximum percentage reduction of 84.3% was recorded in C: N ratio of 40 (T3) in which the metabolite degradation products were reduced to 3.1 mg/kg of 4-epi-oxytetracycline (EOTC), 3.9 mg/kg of α-apo-oxytetracycline (α-Apo-OTC) and 4 mg/kg of β-apo-oxytetracycline (β-Apo-OTC).

The interactions between earthworms and microorganisms activity has prompted several researchers to evaluate the potential of artificially inoculating vermicomposts with additional specific microbes, with the intention of enhancing the vermicomposting process. This study evaluated the potential of inoculating fly ash (F)-cow dung-paper waste (CP) mixture (F-CP) with a specialized microbial cocktail called Effective micro-organisms (EM) during vermicomposting using Eisenia fetida earthworms. Inoculation with EM alone did not result in significantly (P>0.05) different changes in C/N ratio and dissolved organic matter (DOC) compared to the control with no EM and E. fetida. A significant interaction between EM and E. fetida presence resulted in greater changes in C/N ratio and DOC, which were not statistically different from the E. fetida alone treatment. It was also noteworthy that the activity of s-Glucosidase was not influenced by the presence of EM, but was significantly influenced (P=0.0014) by the presence of E. fetida. However, the EM+E. fetida treatment resulted in a rate of weekly Olsen P release of 54.32mgkg(-1) which was 12.3%, 89.2% and 228.0% more that the E. fetida alone, EM alone and control treatments, respectively. Similarly, though higher in the E. fetida plus EM treatment, the phosphate solubilizing bacteria counts were not significantly different (P>0.05) from the E. fetida alone treatment. It is concluded that inoculation of F-CP composts with EM alone may not be beneficial, while combining EM with E. fetida results in faster compost maturity and significantly greater Olsen P release. It would be interesting to evaluate higher optimized rates of EM inoculation and fortifying EM cocktails with phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) on F-CP vermicompost degradation and phosphorus mineralization.

INTRODUCTION AIRWAY ASSESSMENT: The purpose of undertaking airway assessment is to diagnose the potential for difficult airway for: a. Optimal patient preparation b. Proper selection of equipment and technique, and c. Participation of personnel experienced in the difficult airway management. This usually leads to a successful airway management. On the other hand, determining that the airway is normal, avoids time consuming, invasive, and potentially more traumatic methods of securing the airway, from being adopted. The essential components of airway assessment are history taking, general examination of the patient and specific tests/indices to predict difficult airway. Previous anesthesia records may reveal a documented history of difficult airway. History of previous surgery, burns, trauma or tumor in and around the oral cavity, neck or cervical spine should be asked. A general examination of the patient should include recognition of anatomic factors that cause difficult laryngoscopy and intubation. This requires a disciplined, complete examination. The anesthesiologist must understand and identify pathologic and physiologic factors that may impair laryngoscopy and intubation. Carrying out assessment tests/indices of difficult airway should follow a general examination and if time permits, try to use more than one assessment method to increase the accuracy of airway assessment. DIFFICULT AIRWAY: Difficult airway clinical situation in which a conventionally trained anesthesiologist experiences difficulty with face mask ventilation of the upper airway, difficult tracheal intubation (or) both. ULTRASONAGRAM TO MEASURE THE PRETREACHEAL SOFT TISSUE THICKNESS: Patient shifted to ultrasongram room and measures the pretreacheal soft tissue thickness at three levels: 1. Vocal cords (Zone I), 2. Thyroid isthmus (Zone II), 3. Suprasternal notch (Zone III). NECK CIRCUMFERENCE: Measured in cm at the level of thyroid notch. BODY MASS INDEX: Body mass index is the body weight in kilograms over height in meters squared. AIM OF STUDY: The aim of the study is to analyse pretracheal soft tissue using ultrasonagram, body mass index and neck circumference in predicting intubation difficulties. METHODOLOGY: It was a prospective, double blinded study conducted in Department of Anaesthesiology, Madras Medical College-GGH. 200 adult patients satisfying inclusion criteria were enrolled in this study. Inclusion Criteria: 1. Elective adult surgical patient requiring general endotracheal anaesthesia. 2. Males and Females. 3. ASA Physical Status 1-2. 4. Age 18 years of age and older. 5. Who have given valid informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: The patients with following conditions are not included in this study. 1. Patients not satisfying inclusion criteria. 2. Patients requiring special techniques for intubation such as rapid sequence induction. 3. Patients intubated prior to surgery. 4. Patients with severe cardiovascular, hepatic or renal disease, mental illness. 5. Are unconscious or very severely ill. 6. Need for nasal intubation. Materials : 1. Macintosh laryngoscope - current standard Device. 2. High frequency (7.5mhz) Ultrasound machine. 3. Weighing machine calibrated to 1 Kg. 4. Measuring tape calibrated to 0.5 cm. 5. Goniometer. SUMMARY: This study was conducted in the Department of Anaesthesiology, Madras Medical College, Chennai-3. 200 patients were selected randomly and after taking history, airway assessment, anterior soft tissue thickness using ultrasound, Body mass index and neck circumference taken up for the study. After analysing the statistical data it is found that the anterior soft tissue thickness using ultrasound, Body mass index and neck circumference, significantly predicted the difficult intubation. CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that the anterior soft tissue thickness using ultrasound, Body mass index and Neck circumference, significantly predicted the difficult intubation and can be an important aid for the anaesthesiologist.

Bio-wastes from different agro-based industries are increasing at a rapid rate with the growing human population's demand for the products. The industries procure raw materials largely from agriculture, finish it with the required major product, and produce huge bio-wastes which are mostly disposed unscientifically. This creates serious environmental problems and loss of resources and nutrients. Traditional bio-wastes disposal possess several demerits which again return with negative impact over the eco-system. Anaerobic digestion, composting, co-composting, and vermicomposting are now-a-days given importance due to the improved and modified methods with enhanced transformation of bio-wastes into suitable soil amendments. The advanced and modified methods like biochar assisted composting and vermicomposting is highlighted with the updated knowledge in the field. Hence, the present study has been carried to compile the effective and efficient methods of utilizing industry generated bio-wastes for circularity between agriculture - industrial sectors to promote sustainability.

Vermitransformation of coir pith (CP) into enriched vermifertilizer has been achieved by amending a green-manure plant, Sesbania sesban (SS) for the first time, and cow dung (CD) in five different combinations: T1(1:0:1), T2(4:3:3), T3(5:3:2), T4(5:4:1) and T5(1:1:0). The substrates were 28 days precomposted with Pleurotus sajor-caju followed by 50 days vermicomposting with Eisenia fetida and Eudrilus eugeniae. Results showed a significant reduction in cellulose, lignin, organic carbon, C/N ratio, C/P ratio and an increase in plant nutrients compared to control. The fertilization index and efficiency of nutrient recovery rate were higher in SS and CD amended CP vermicompost, with a maximum in T2(4:3:3) for E. fetida and T3(5:3:2) for E. eugeniae. The activity of dehydrogenase, urease and cellulase, and phytotoxicity assays further revealed vermicompost stability. The study concludes that T2(4:3:3) and T3(5:3:2) combinations respectively for E. fetida and E. eugeniae is suitable for vermitransformation of CP into enriched vermicompost.

The removal of macro bio-molecules such as proteins, lipids and mucopolysaccharides from tannery hyper saline wastewater was exclusively investigated in this present investigation. The halophilic organisms such as Lysinibacillus fusiformis sp. and Providencia stuatrti sp. were screened and isolated for the production of mixed enzyme (proteolytic, lipolytic and amylolytic nature) which has the tendency to degrade the organics at saline medium (TDS > 6 % w/w). The animal fleshing (ANFL), one of the solid wastes generated in leather industry was used as substrate to produce mixed enzyme. The parameters such as incubation time, reaction temperature, pH, salinity and the substrate concentration were optimized for maximum enzyme production. The purified mixed enzyme produced from Lysinibacillus fusiformis sp. has protease activity, 180 U/mL; lipase activity, 1390 U/mL and amylase activity, 1340 U/mL respectively. The percentage degradation of proteins, lipids and mucopolysaccharides in MLCR were observed to be 85 %, 78 % and 83 % respectively for the treatment of soak liquor wastewater.

In the last few decades, an enormous number of industrial sectors have been developed particularly, leather industries. The leather industries consume a large quantity of freshwater and various chemical substances during the leather making process and eject different solid waste materials, hides, buffing dust materials, and wastewater sludge. Besides, leather industrial wastes contain a significant amount of hazardous substances like heavy metals (e.g. cadmium, chromium, lead, nickel, and cobalt), aluminum sulfate, and magnesium oxide. Insecure disposal of wastewater sludge creates serious environmental problems in soil and groundwater. This situation warrants the easiest way to rationalize such conflicts through urgent environment-friendly disposal technologies. The main objective of the present review is to highlight the remediation of leather industry wastewater sludge through eco-friendly vermiremediation employing earthworms. Additionally, earthworms and microorganisms can eliminate toxic chemical substances. The present review also addresses earthworm species employed in a polluted environment, factors (i.e., pH, humidity, and temperature) and amendment materials essential for the stimulation of earthworm activity. In the hope of moving past this state, the earthworms are used for in-situ and ex-situ remediation of leather waste materials. The present review points to the real significances of vermi-treated leather wastes as plant growth-promoting medium that is useful in the field of sustainable agriculture. Furthermore, the fastidiously gathered evidence proves that vermi-treatment would be a potential alternative strategy to our surroundings with improved agroecosystems.

In this present assessment, fabric dyeing wastewater was subjected to the characterization of physical-chemical parameters in terms of colour, TDS, COD and chloride. The indigenous bacterial strains were isolated from the effluent and identified as Bacillus velezensis, Chryseomicrobium imtechense, Planococcus maritimus and Sphingobacterium daejeonense by 16S rRNA gene sequencing method. The bioremediation competency of the strains was evaluated by conducting treatment process with monoculture and bacterial consortium. The consortia removed about 98%, 71.5%, 79%, 69.65% of colour, TDS, COD and chloride, respectively. Among the four isolates, monoculture of B. velezensis showed effective diminution of pollutants from the effluent than other strains. The bacterial degradation of pollutants was determined by GC–MS based on the disappearance of certain peaks after bioremediation. The results suggested that the bioremediation efficiency of bacterial strains can be utilized as an eco-friendly and inexpensive method for dyeing effluent treatment.

The efficiency of indigenous bacteria to remove colour, TDS and COD pollutants from coffee cherry pulping wastewater (CCPWW) in an acidic pH without any manipulation of the effluent was studied. For the removal of such pollutants, the CCPWW was subjected to treatment with four indigenous microbial test strains isolated from CCPWW and characterised using 16S rRNA molecular technique, namely Enterobacter ludwigii, Bacilllus cereus, Enterobacter aerogenes and Enterobacter cloacae. Among the individual microbial treatments, the Enterobacter cloacae bacterial strain removed higher amount of TDS (37.6%) and COD (40.1%). Treatment with the bacterial consortia removed about 40.9% TDS, 48.7% COD from CCPWW after 48 h. The correlation coefficient ‘r’ between TDS and COD removal for each individual treatment was 1, showed the positive linear relationship. The microbes had endured in the harsh–low pH environment of the effluent and effectively removed the pollutants without any addition of other nutrient support.

The present study reports the validation of cancer nanotherapy using proanthocyanidin (PAC). Nowadays, in vitro and in vivo deliveries of nanoparticle (NPs) drugs have been paid more attention, intensively. Moreover, the current chemotherapeutic drugs have few first rate drawbacks including lack of specificity and requirement of excessive drug doses. To overcome this problem of chemotherapy, the attainment of high drug loading in combination with degradable polymer nanoparticles (for instance,chitosan) is a trending research in cancer biology. Hence, in this study, the synthesized PAC-AgNPs were successfully crosslinked with chitosan nanoparticles (CS-PAC-AgNPs), which were found to be spherical or polygonal in shape with a median size of 70.68 nm and 52.16 nm as observed by FTIR, FESEM and TEM analysis; thus, being suitable for drug delivery. CS-PAC-AgNPs were taken up via endocytosis by cancer cells and enabled the release cytochrome-C from mitochondria, followed by dysregulation of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl2 family, inducing the apoptotic mediated activation of caspase 9 and 3. To identify the genotoxicity of the synthesized CS-PAC-AgNPs, the mortality, hatching rate, malformation and abnormalities of embryo/larvae of the vertebrate zebra fish model (Danio rerio) were observed in a dose-time-dependent manner. This improved cancer nanotherapy can thus be utilized as a novel nanocombination for inducing apoptosis in vitro and in vivo.

With the inevitable rise in human population, resource recovery from waste stream is becoming important for a sustainable economy, conservation of the ecosystem as well as for reducing the dependence on the finite natural resources. In this regard, a bio-based circular economy considers organic wastes and residues as potential resources that can be utilized to supply chemicals, nutrients, and fuels needed by mankind. This review explored the role of aerobic and anaerobic digestion technologies for the advancement of a bio-based circular society. The developed routes within the anaerobic digestion domain, such as the production of biogas and other high-value chemicals (volatile fatty acids) were discussed. The potential to recover important nutrients, such as nitrogen through composting, was also addressed. An emphasis was made on the innovative models for improved economics and process performance, which include co-digestion of various organic solid wastes, recovery of multiple bio-products, and integrated bioprocesses.

Vermicomposting of pressmud with cow dung and nitrogenous green manures (Gliricidia sepium and Leucaena leucocephala) was carried out using Eudrilus eugeniae (50 days). The reduction in pH, total organic carbon, C/N ratio, water-soluble organic carbon (Cws)/Norg and C/P ratios, and a pronounced increase in NPK contents and microbial population in vermicompost were observed. An enhanced TKN of 3.80% and 3.45% was recorded in vermicomposts of pressmud + cow dung + L. leucocephala (2:1:1) and pressmud + cow dung + G. sepium (2:1:1) respectively. The C/N and Cws/Norg ratios in vermicompost ranged from 11.86 to 16.66 and 0.53 to 1.33, respectively. The activity of dehydrogenase, urease, acid and alkaline phosphatase declined towards the end, indicating the progression of vermicompost maturity. The pressmud and green manure substrates promoted more biomass of E. eugeniae, while cow dung with green manure combination favored reproduction. The amendment of cow dung and green manure plants to pressmud (2:1:1 ratio) results in nutrient-enriched vermicompost production.

The main aim of this work was to test various organic wastes, i.e. from a livestock farm, a cattle slaughterhouse and agricultural waste streams, for its ability to produce methane under thermophilic anaerobic digestion (AD) conditions. The stability of the digestion, potential biomethane production and biomethane production rate for each waste were assessed. The highest methane yield (110.83 mL CH4/g VSadded day) was found in the AD of crushed animal carcasses on day 4. The experimental results were analyzed using four kinetic models and it was observed that the Cone model described the biomethane yield as well as the methane production rate of each substrate. The results from this study showed the good potential of model organic wastes to produce biomethane.

Excessive nutrients and toxic gas emissions from animal manure management are of great global concern, with negative environmental and economic consequences worldwide. Due to biochar recalcitrance and sorption properties, this study investigated the effect of the biochar(BC) derived from bamboo, amendment on swine manure(SM) composting efficiency through physical, physio-chemical, gaseous emissions, microbiological, and phytotoxic analysis during the 56 day process of in-vessel composting. The treatments were set-up from different ratios of biochar to swine manure mixed with sawdust(SD)(i.e. SM + SD + 3%BC(T1), SM:SD + 5 %BC(T2) and SM:SD + 10 %BC (T3)), while treatment without biochar amendment was used as a control, SM:SD(C). The results showed that, compared to the control, biochar amended compost mixtures had significantly reduced (p ≤ 0.05) bulk density, organic matter(OM), C:N ratio, NH3 emission, pathogenic microorganisms, and phytotoxicity effect (Cress seed, Lepidium sativum Linn.). On the other hand, biochar amendment mixtures had increased total porosity, water holding capacity, rapid thermophilic temperature, and nitrate nitrogen. However, with the most prominent effects in terms of the nutrient quality and degradation rate of compost mixtures, the amendment of 10% biochar is recommended for swine manure management through the composting process.

The effectiveness of co-additives for improving livestock waste composting (reduction of air pollution and conservation of nutrients) was investigated. Biochar and Flue gas desulphurization gypsum (FGD gypsum) were used to supplement the composting of a mixture of slaughter waste, swine slurry, and sawdust. Different compositions of additives (0% or 5% each, 10% biochar or FGD gypsum) were tested in triplicate on the laboratory scale. In addition, the effects of two different aeration schemes (continuous and intermittent) were also investigated. Ammonia volatilization, physicochemical characteristics, and compost maturity indices were investigated. The results indicated that the use of the co-additive (Biochar and FGD gypsum) during composting of livestock waste led to a reduction of ammonia volatilization by 26–59% and to a 6.7–7.9-fold increase of nitrate accumulation. The total ammonia volatilization of intermittent aeration treatment was lower than that of continuous aeration using co-additives treatment. It was concluded that co-additives (biochar and FGD gypsum) might be utilized in livestock waste composting to reduce ammonia volatilization and improve nutrient conservation.

This study investigated the phytotoxicity effect of untreated and treated wastewater collected from two different configurations of domestic wastewater treatment plants in South Africa. The phytotoxicity effect on vegetable seed growth was studied in terms of germination index (GI), relative seed germination (RSG) and relative root elongation (RRE) using four commercial crop varieties, viz., tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum), radish (Raphanus sativus), carrot (Daucus carota) and onion (Allium cepa). According to phyototoxicity limits, 80% germination and above is regarded as non-toxic and less than 50% GI is regarded as highly toxic and not suitable for agricultural purposes. In our study, seeds were irrigated with concentrations of 25%, 50%, 75%, 100% of treated effluent (TE) and untreated effluent (UTE). The TE results were best with the highest GI (%) recorded as tomato, 177; carrot, 158.5; onion, 132; and lettuce, 124. The results of this study indicate that TE showed no phytotoxicty effects and recorded above 80% GI. The UTE irrigated crops reached a GI of only 50% and above which is clear evidence of the beneficial effect of waste water treatment. The overall results confirmed that treated wastewater has a beneficial effect on agricultural crops and can be used as a liquid fertilizer.

Tanneries produce enormous quantities of solid waste including animal fleshing (ANFL) which is a major solid waste generated during pre-tanning operations of leather processing and needs to be disposed of in a safe and environmentally sound way. The aim of this study was to evaluate how the combination of earthworms and microorganisms could enhance the biodegradation of fermented tannery waste mixed with cow dung and leaf litter over a period of 25 days. In our previous study we focused on enzyme activity in fermented waste degradation while this current study revealed the significant role of microbial diversity and population in the Eudrilus eugeniae gut and in vermicompost manure. The maximum microbial population in both studies was recorded on day 21 of the vermicomposting process. Results in this study showed that substantial changes were observed with solid state ferment (SSF) > submerged state ferment (SmF) > control mixtures ( p 3 ], kinetin) were detected in all treatment vermicompost products. The germination index showed that the vermicomposts from all treatments had no phytotoxic effect on carrot seed ( Daucus carota ). The overall results confirmed that the microorganisms role were dominant in the vermicomposting process and that it is possible to produce rich manure from fermented tannery waste mixtures.

The study investigated the effect of different initial moisture (IM) content (55, 60, 65, and 70%) of composting mixtures (swine manure and sawdust) for the production of nutrient rich manure, and the recovery of ammonia through a condensation process using a vertical cylindrical in-vessel composter for 56days. The composting resulted in a significant reduction in C:N ratio and electrical conductivity (EC), with a slight increase in pH in all products. The NH3 were emitted notably, and at the same time the NO3--N concentration gradually increased with the reduction of NH4+-N in the composting mixtures. The overall results confirmed, the 65% IM showed the maximum nutritional yield, maturity and non-phytotoxic effects (Lycopersicon esculentum L.), with the results of ideal compost product in the following order of IM: 65%>60%>70%>55%. Finally, the recovered condensed ammonia contained considerable ammonium nitrogen concentrations and could be used as fertilizer.

The study investigated the effect of in-vessel composting process on Hanwoo manure in two different South Korea regions (Pyeongchang and Goechang) with sawdust using vertical cylindrical in-vessel bioreactor for 42days. The stability and quality of Hanwoo manure in both regions were improved and confirmed through the positive changes in physico-chemical and phytotoxic properties using different commercial seed crops. The pH and electrical conductivity (EC, ds/m) of composted manure in both regions were slightly increased. At the same time, carbon:nitrogen (C:N) ratio and ammonium nitrogen:nitrate nitrogen (NH4+-N:NO3--N) ratio decreased to 13.4-16.1 and 0.36-0.37, respectively. The germination index (GI, %) index was recorded in the range of 67.6-120.9%, which was greater than 50%, indicating phytotoxin-free compost. Although, composted manure values in Goechang region were better in significant parameters, overall results confirmed that the composting process could lead to complete maturation of the composted product in both regions.

Role of Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans culture in bioacidification and dewaterability of anaerobically digested sewage sludge (ADS) was investigated. A. ferrooxidans culture grown in 9K medium along with Fe(2+) produced iron flocculant containing, secondary iron minerals and biopolymeric substances as confirmed by FT-IR, XRD, and SEM-EDX. Bioacidification of ADS was performed using 10% (v/v) A. ferrooxidans culture, isolated cells and cell-free culture filtrate; and dewaterability was assessed using the capillary suction time (CST) and specific resistance to filtration (SRF). Isolated bacterial cells significantly (P0.05) reduced the sludge dewaterability when supplemented with Fe(2+) while the whole culture and cell-free filtrate rapidly acidified the sludge without Fe(2+) and showed significant reduction of CST (71.3-73.5%) and SRF (84-88%). Results clearly indicated that the culture and filtrate of the A. ferrooxidans facilitated rapid sludge dewaterability while the cells supplemented with Fe(2+) also enhanced dewaterability but required 2-4 days.

Seaweeds are found abundance in most seashores. They contain relatively high lipid contents and are exhibiting medicinal properties. The present work focused on the use of seaweed species Ulva linza, U. tubulosa, U. fasciata, U. rigida, and U. reticulate to synthesize Mn2ZnO4 composite nanoparticles. The later was utilized for biodiesel production and its antibacterial potential was also assessed. Heterogeneous mixed metal oxides are suitable catalysts for biodiesel production due to ease of separation, reusability and environmental friendliness. The employment of multi-resistant organisms (MROS) is of major importance in modern medicines. Thus there is an extreme need for potential antibacterial alternatives such as metal oxides. Mn2ZnO4 nanoparticles were synthesized by using a co-precipitation method. The crystalline behavior and morphological characterizations were carried out through XRD, FE-SEM, Raman Spectra and FT-IR respectively. The particle size was found to be 42 nm. Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) produced from Ulva species was analyzed by gas chromatography and physical parameters were also determined. The yields were as follows: U. linza 72.3%, U. tubulosa 72%, U. fasciata 70.6%, U. rigida 70.4%, and U. reticulate 71.5%. The antibacterial potential of synthesized Mn2ZnO4 nanoparticles after transesterification, showed strong antibacterial activity against both gram positive and gram negative bacteria and were found to be comparable to commercially available antibiotics. To assess their antibacterial efficiency, the minimum inhibition concentration was measured. The used catalysts exhibit high efficient catalytic activity on degrading methylene blue under UV irradiation.

An effort in contributing to the reduction of fossil resource dependence along with utilization of lignocellulosic wastes, will be a beneficial approach in biofuel production. These approaches will aid in sustainable waste management and will contribute to economic feasibility. This study probed the exploitation of abundant, non-edible lignocellulosic wastes such as sugarcane bagasse and rice husk as a low-cost carbon source for the cultivation of oleaginous yeast isolates and lipid accumulation, respectively. The hydrolysis of the lignocellulose was explored by steam explosion alone to reduce the inflation of toxic compounds like hydroxy methyl furfural (HMF), furfural, and acetic acid. This optimization study investigated the effects of carbon sources (sugarcane bagasse hydrolysate, rice husk hydrolysate, and commercial glucose), nitrogen sources, and pH on biodiesel production using central composite design (CCD), and achieved a full factorial design. All the three variables were found to have a positive influence on biodiesel production. Greater biomass production was achieved by SY2 (Pichia kudriavzevii) with a value of −8.37 ± 0.067 g/L when sugarcane bagasse hydrolysate was used. Maximum lipid content of 37.99 ± 0.003% was attained by the strain G5 (Meyerozyma guilliermondii) upon using sugarcane bagasse hydrolysate in the production medium and higher lipid accumulation of 2.39 ± 0.003 g/L was attained by SY2 (Pichia kudriavzevii) upon using rice husk hydrolysate. Analysis of the kinematic properties of FAME (Fatty Acid Methyl Esters) was obtained using Biodiesel analyzer V1.1. software, and affirmed the values similar to the biodiesel standard values (EN 14214, ASTM, IS 15607). The kinematic studies used to figure out the quality of the biodiesel, revealed that FAME produced by SY2 (Pichia kudriavzevii) strain showed greater oxidation stability (37.17 h) and better kinematic viscosity (1.3084). These properties ensured that SY2 (Pichia kudriavzevii) strain was appropriate in producing exceptional quality biodiesel. Hence, the present investigation tried to prove the competency of the yeast isolates in sustainable biodiesel production by engaging agronomic wastes.

The generation of energy through anaerobic digestion using animal manures is being promoted as an environmentally sustainable method of managing animal wastes. However, sustainability of biogas production is reliant on the sustainable utilization of the digestates that emanate from the process. Our study evaluated the effects of the biogas digestates on crop phytotoxicity and their fertilizer potential as a nutrient solution in hydroponic tomato production. Biogas digestates diluted up to 40% (v/v) resulted in significantly (P < 0.05) the lowest relative seed germination (RSG) in all vegetables evaluated in our study. The highest RSG was observed in the 10% biogas digestates, which was higher than the control treatment. For the crop growth study, relative to the control,the treatments with 20%, 40% and 60% mineral fertilizer substitution resulted in 39.4%; 22.8% and 8.7% significantly (P < 0.05) lower chlorophyll content, respectively. On average, the treatments with biogas slurry, though substituted with mineral fertilizers, resulted in a 275% lower fresh fruit yield compared to the control treatment. However, with biogas digestates, the sugar content in the tomato fruits significantly increased, whilst the heavy metal content was below that recommended limit when irrigation water is used. The results of our study demonstrated that cow based digestates are not a suitable nutrient media for hydroponic tomato production. Moreover, even with mineral fertilizer supplementation, only the control treatment containing only mineral hydroponic fertilizer resulted in positive growth and yield in tomatoes., Agricultural science; Chlorophyll content; Crop phytotoxicity; Heavy metals; Fruit yield

Animal fleshing (ANFL) is the predominant proteinaceous solid waste generated during processing of leather and it is confronting disposal problems. The aim of this study was to assess the potential of epigeic earthworm Eudrilus eugeniae to utilize and transform the fermented ANFL in the solid state (SSF) and submerged state (SmF) into a value added product along a low residence period (25 days). A total of six treatment units containing different waste mixture compositions were established. Fifty healthy and non-clitellated earthworms were introduced in three different treatment containers: control, SSF, and SmF (+worm). Another set of treatment mixtures (control, SSF, SmF) was established without earthworms (-worm) to compare the results. The products were characterized for physico-chemical, enzymatic analysis and seedling growth parameters to compare the differences in the process with and without earthworms. The changes observed in the analytical parameters were in the following order: SSFSmFcontrol mixtures (p 0.05). The vermicompost showed a significant reduction in heavy metals, total organic carbon and an increase in total Kjeldhal nitrogen as compared to the product untreated by earthworms. The maximum enzymatic activities were observed after 21 days of vermicomposting. The relative seed germination of vermicompost extracts were in the order of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum)green gram (Vigna radiata)cucumber (Cucumis sativus)bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.) and showed no phytotoxicity effects. The results indicated that the combination of both ANFL hydrolysis through fermentation and vermicomposting is a good alternative to the management of this kind of waste.

Animal fleshing (ANFL) is generated as a solid waste from the tannery industries. The present study involved the use of hydrolyzed animal fleshing (HANFL) as a source of fertilizer for tomato plants (Lycopersicon esculentum L.). The treatment involved four different strengths of HANFL: 25% (T1), 50% (T2), 75% (T3), 100% (T4), and recommended dose of NPK fertilizers (T5) with tap water serving as the control (C). Chlorophyll, carotenoid, and protein contents of leaves were estimated on 30, 60, and 90 d after transplantation. The application of HANFL has enhanced plant growth, yield and altered the overall biochemistry in proportion to the HANFL concentrations. The fruit quality of T4 treated plants was better in terms of protein, carbohydrate, and vitamins content than those of the other treatments. Hence, it was inferred that 100% HANFL boosted both growth and yield better than the other concentrations besides NPK fertilizer.

Substantial progress has been made in algal technologies in past few decades. Initially, microalgae drew the attention of the scientific community as a renewable source of biofuels due to its high productivity over a short period of time and potential of significant lipid accumulation. As of now, a technological upsurge has elaborated its scope in phycoremediation of both organic and inorganic pollutants. The dual role of microalgae—i.e., phycoremediation coupled with energy production—is well established, however, commercially, algal biofuel production is not yet sustainable due to high energy inputs. Efforts are being made to make the algal biofuel economy through modification in the cultivation conditions, harvesting, and extraction of value added products. Recent studies have demonstrated algal biomass production with various types of wastewater and industrial effluents. Similarly, the recent advent of eco-friendly harvesting technologies—such as low-cost green coagulants, electrochemical harvesting, etc.—are energy efficient and economical. Contemporary improvement in efficient lipid extraction from biomass will make algal biodiesel economical. The absolute extraction of all the value added products from algal biomass, either whole cell or lipid extracted biomass, in a complete biorefinery approach will be more economical and eco-friendly.

The present study evaluated the phytotoxicity effect of goat manure (GM) collected from six different regions in South Korea, namely, Chupungnyeong (T1), Hoengseong (T2), Goesan (T3), Sancheong (T4), Jangsu (T5) and Namwon (T6). Phytotoxicity was assessed by means of the analysis of germination index (GI), relative seed germination (RSG), relative root elongation (RRE) and vigor index (VI) using five commercial crop varieties, namely, sesame (Sesamum indicum L.), chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum indicum L.), carrot (Daucus carota), radish (Raphanus sativus) and cabbage (Brassica rapa). Physico-chemical parameter values were recorded at appreciable levels in all GM extracts. The effect of seedling growth was significantly different (p ≤ .05) due to the variability of nutrient content and phytotoxic effect of the extracts on the different crop seeds. Of the extracts, Goesan (T3) and Sancheong (T4) recorded the best results in the range of GI (%) (54.1-128.8) and VI (930.7-1044) and GI (%) (70.1-167.3) and VI (609.2-3034), respectively, and also showed no inhibitory effect in any of the crop seeds. Overall results also revealed that radish crops showed excellent and non-phytotoxic results in all manure extracts compared to the other crops.

Single crystal of tris thiourea chromium(III) sulphate was grown by slow evaporation technique at 303 K. The structural properties of the grown crystals were characterized by FTIR spectroscopy, UV spectroscopy and powder X-ray diffraction analysis. FTIR and UV spectra provide information about the presence of functional groups. Thermal analysis confirms that the crystal is thermally stable up to 163.48 °C. The TG curve presented a two-step mass loss on heating the compound at 0–1,200 °C.

Single crystal of bisthiourea iron(II) sulphate was grown by slow evaporation technique at 303 K. The structural properties of the grown crystals were characterized by FTIR spectroscopy, UV spectroscopy and powder X-ray diffraction. FTIR and UV spectra provide information about the presence of functional groups. Thermal analysis confirms the crystal is thermally stable up to 167.02 °C.

Animal fleshing (ANFL) is the main solid waste generated during manufacturing leather, which should be disposed friendly to the environment. The effect of epigeic earthworm Eudrilus eugeniae (with and without addition) to transform fermented ANFL in solid state (SSF) and submerged state (SmF) mixed with cow dung and leaf litter into value added product was studied in a vermibioreactor at low residence period (25 days). The products were characterised for pH and C:N ratio and the results were declined at the end of the treatment process with significant reduction in earthworm processed product. The maturity and the chemical changes of the final products were determined using spectroscopic analysis as UV–Visible Spectroscopy in which worm products (vermicompost) reached >5; this indicated that they were well humified. The FT-IR analyses results confirmed the complete mineralisation of polypeptides, polysaccharides, aliphatic methyl groups and lignin, and formation of a deep nitrate band in worm product compared to without worm processed product. Thermogravimetry (TG) and differential scanning calorimetry analyses were carried out in the initial mixture and final products to identify the mass loss and quantitative and qualitative information regarding physical and chemical changes occurred during composting process. The overall results indicated that the maturity of vermicompost (with worms) was in the order SSF > SmF > control. The results indicate that the combination of both fermentation and bacterial/vermicomposting (without worms/with worms) reduced the overall time required for production of well humified organic manure especially with worms.

The growth and characterization of a new non-linear organometallic crystal, potassium thiourea thiocyanide (PTT) is reported. The growth of single crystals was accomplished by the slow evaporation solution growth method. The grown crystals were characterized by XRD, TG–DTA, UV, and FTIR spectral analyses. PTT has good optical transmission in the entire visible region which is an essential requirement for a non-linear crystal. TG curve of PTT undergoes complete decomposition between 176 and 1,000 °C in three steps with corresponding three DTA peaks. The high thermal stability of organometallic crystals are due to strong bonding existing between the conjugation layers of thiourea molecule and the potassium ions.

The induction period of various proportion of urea–thiourea zinc chloride crystal in water has been measured experimentally using the visual observation method. The induction period, which is inversely proportional to the nucleation rate, has been used to estimate the interfacial tension between the urea–thiourea zinc chloride and water; hence, the nucleation parameters like critical radius (r*), number of molecules in the radius (r*) and Gibbs free energy change for the formation of a critical nucleus (∆G*) have been calculated.

This is the first report on the heterogeneous oxidation of dissolved organics in wastewater with little consumption of Fenton’s reagent and without sludge production. The salt-laden wastewater discharged from leather industry has poor biodegradability due to the presence of high total dissolved solids. This wastewater is evaporated in solar evaporation pans. The evaporated residue faces disposal problem due to high concentration of organic and inorganic salts. The present study demonstrates the preparation, characterization and application of mesoporous activated carbon matrix along with Fenton’s reagent for the removal of dissolved organics in wastewater. Free electron-rich mesoporous activated carbon matrices (MAC700, MAC800 and MAC900) were prepared and characterized for surface area, C, H, N, ash content, free electron density and energy gap value. Results show that heterogeneous catalytic oxidation of dissolved organics in the wastewater decreased biochemical oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, total organic carbon and dissolved protein, respectively, by 74, 69, 61 and 80% at optimum pH (3.5), H2O2 (7.5 mmol/l), FeSO4.7H2O (0.3 mmol/l) and MAC800 (10 g/l).

Thiourea Urea Zinc (II) Chloride (TUZC), a new semiorganic non-linear optical material has been synthesized. The solubility studies have been carried out at room temperature. Single crystals of different proportions of TUZC have been grown by slow evaporation of saturated aqueous solution at room temperature. The FTIR and UV spectral bands have been compared with urea, thiourea and bis Thiourea Zinc Chloride (BTZC). The TG curve showed a two steps mass loss on heating the compound between 30 and 800 °C corresponding to two exothermic DTA peaks at 181–183 and 250–252 oC.

A single crystal of cinnamic acid–urea was grown by slow evaporation of methanol solution at room temperature. In this research, many analytical methods such as FTIR, second harmonic generation, NMR, and TG–DTA were used. The presence of title compound in the crystal lattice has been qualitatively determined by FTIR analysis. Thermal stability of the grown crystals was evaluated by TG-DTA. Incorporation of urea increases the thermal stability insuring the suitability of material for possible non-linear optical application up to 180 °C.