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The current study focused on enumerating the potential plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) from the rhizosphere of Arachis hypogaea L. Among the several colonies grown on an Ashby plate, only seven isolates (Ah1 to Ah7) had nitrogen-fixing potential. The Ah4 isolate showed higher potential for plant growth-promoting (PGP) activities than the other isolates. This isolate was recognized as Kosakonia sp. MGR1 through 16S rRNA sequencing with 99.7% similarity to nitrogen-fixing Kosakonia genus and 61% match with K. cowanii in phylogenetic tree analysis. Kosakonia sp. MGR1 had the potential to produce an excellent quantity (26.17 µg·mL−1) of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) in 6% tryptophan-enriched media than the other concentrations (2%, 4%, 8%, and 10%). Additionally, it contained remarkable phosphate-solubilizing efficiency of tricalcium phosphate (29.3 µg·mL−1) in 5 days of incubation. The growth conditions of Kosakonia sp. were optimized as 35 °C, pH 7.5, and 48 h of incubation with glucose. The isolate MGR1 produced 96.35 ± 3.45, 89.6 ± 5.61, and 99.21 ± 5.24 µg·mL−1 of IAA, nitrogen, and soluble phosphate, respectively. Furthermore, Kosakonia sp. MGR1 had the potential to enhance the growth and biomolecule contents of A. hypogaea L. The results concluded that Kosakonia had admirable PGP activities; hence, it showed a significant impact on the active growth and biomolecules of A. hypogaea L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Addition of 50 ppm and 100 ppm nanoparticles improved brake thermal efficiency, notably recording a 10.1 % increase at maximum load. • EGT increase upon nanoparticles inclusion, indicating a connection between nanoparticle concentration and combustion temperature. • Biodiesel blends exhibited a significant drop in CO emissions. • NOx levels showed no reduction across all engine loads. Ammonia is one of the promising alternatives towards the carbon free economy and highly known for its potential NOx reduction and efficiency improvement. This study investigated various performance and emissions characteristics of engines using different fuel blends such as C20, C20N50, C20N100, C20N50A, C20N100A. The blends are mixed with nanoparticles at the two different fashions of 50 ppm and 100 ppm. Added to above, the ammonia gas effects on the blends were also analyzed. In the entire study the flow rate of the ammonia maintained constant at the rate of 10 LPM. Test were conducted in the all blends across the wide range of engine loads varying at the intervals of 25 %. Inclusion of the nanoparticles enhances the brake thermal efficiency (BTE) by stimulating the combustion process. Increasing the nanoparticle concentration led to higher brake specific fuel consumption. C20 reported the highest BSFC value at 0.39 kg/kWh. C20N100 had the highest BTE values due to an increase in nanoparticle concentration, resulting in enhanced thermal efficiency. The addition of 50 ppm and 100 ppm nanoparticles to C20 biodiesel led to increase in BTE across varies engine load. Inclusion of the nanoparticles increased the exhaust gas temperature due to the enhanced combustion process. Regarding the emission, there is a massive reduction in the carbon monoxide, hydrocarbon emission, smoke opacity and nitrogen of oxides. Biodiesel increased the emission of NOx at wide range of engine loads. However, there is a slight reduction upon use of the nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Adaptive laboratory evolution and food waste upcycling was coupled to overcome the present bottleneck. • N. oceanica strain was improved under hyposalinity conditions to enhance lipids without affecting growth. • Evolved cells (ALE2) effectively consumed food waste hydrolysate and overproduced biomass. • Evolved cells exhibited tremendous oleaginicity and accumulated up to 45% lipids CDW using FWH. • ALE2 cells accumulated EPA up to 32% of total FAMEs. Disposal of food waste (FW) has become a significant problem that exacerbates the economy, environment and climate due to its rich nutrient content, thereby implying the necessity to upcycle FW by biotechnology means in a sustainable manner. Employing photosynthetic microalgae to FW upcycling hold great potential to simultaneously remediate the FW and to biosynthesize novel commodity metabolites. However, effective nutrient utilization of FW and metabolite overproduction by native algae is inadequate, and thus further development of strain and strategy is warranted to achieve a circular bioeconomy. Here, the marine Nannochloropsis oceanica was improved by adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) under low salt conditions for enhanced lipid and uncompromised growth features. Then, FW hydrolysate (FWH) was used as the carbon source to facilitate the mixotrophic cultivation of N. oceanica. Results showed that the biomass of scrutinized evolved cells (ALE70) resulted in enhanced biomass production of 830 mg/l using FWH. Interestingly, ALE70 strains accumulate lipids up to 49 % of total cell dry weight, which was 1.5-fold higher than the WT cells cultivated in FWH. Importantly, FAME analysis by GC–MS showed that FWH provision to the ALE70 strains resulted in notable fatty acid alteration, enriched explicitly with unsaturated fatty acid and EPA content was hiked by 32 % of FAME. Altogether, these findings demonstrated a potential duplex strategy by employing the evolved strains to upcycle the food waste for valuable metabolite biosynthesis effectively and also offer promising insights into algal-associated food waste valorization towards circular bioeconomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Cannabinoids (CB) exhibit anticancer effect via antiproliferation, autophagy and apoptosis. • CB inhibit carcinogenesis blocking invasion, angiogenesis and metastasis. • Nanoformulated CB enhances drug delivery, bioavailability, biocompatibility. • Antioxidant, antiglutamatergic, antiinflammatory effect of CB protect neuronal cells. Cannabinoids are the major chemical constituents of the plant Cannabis sativa L. and are known to exhibit a wide range of pharmacological effects viz., psychotropic, analgesic, anticancer, antiinflammatory, antidiabetic, anticonvulsive, antibacterial and antifungal etc. The use of cannabis, cannabinoids and their products is restricted in several countries due to the high risk of misuse. Recently, cannabinoids have regained the interest of the researchers due to their therapeutic applications. Ever since the discovery of the cannabinoids, most of the studies carried out on the evaluation of their biological activities were limited to only preclinical levels. The quality of the preclinical data still remains only low to moderate, thus, leaving behind an uncertainty in their use for therapeutic applications. Problems associated with the solubility, stability and bioavailability of the cannabinoid drugs are also a major concern in the quality of the study. Nanoparticle based drug delivery system could be a potential method to increase the reliability of the data. While considering the immense pharmacological properties of the cannabinoids, there is an urgency to perform intensive clinical trials and to know their mechanism of action in various disease conditions, evaluate their efficacy and safety, and register them as drug candidates. This review highlights the chemistry, types and biological activities of the cannabinoids such as THC, CBD and CBN in focus with their anticancer activity, neuroprotective effect and nanoformulating the cannabinoid drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Environmental concerning factors responsible for carbon dioxide emissions and depletion of petroleum based fuel are the driving factors for the search of alternative fuels like biodiesel. The growth of microalgal cells and their metabolic activity toward lipid production could be controlled by the nutrient factors employed in production media. The lipid accumulation ability of the microalgal strains could be influenced by the deprivation of vital chemicals like carbon, nitrogen, calcium and magnesium. In the part of commercializing microalgal based biodiesel, cost effective measures in oil extraction and downstream processes have to be considered. Huge varieties of microalgal cellular pretreatment methods are employed to enhance cellular disintegration so as to facilitate oil extraction by structural modification of carbohydrates present in cell wall. The diversified methods used for microalgal pretreatment encompass chemical, thermal, biological, mechanical or combinatorial approaches. Among all the pretreatment methods chemical methods are greatly advantageous while concerning the feasibility in energy and time consumption. Combinatorial approaches like thermochemical pretreatment or microwave assisted extraction methods are very successful in terms of feasible energy production under limited time consumption. Above all, genetic engineered microbes which could be able to withstand suitable pretreatment methods were developed. This present review tried to explore the activity of chemical parameters and also delineate the nutrient deprivation factors involving in the cellular metabolism of microalgal biomass for lipid production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cost is the crucial impediment in commercializing microalgal biodiesel. Therefore, cultivating microalgae in cost-effective nutrients reduces the upstream process cost remarkably. Thus, in this study, sugar cane bagasse hydrolysate (SBH) as a lucrative carbon supplement for Chlorococcum sp. and subsequent lipid extraction via an optimized solvent system for biodiesel production was investigated. Characterization of SBH revealed the presence of various monosaccharides and other sugar derivatives such as glucose, fructose, xylose, arabinose, etc. The maximum dry cell weight of 1.7 g/L was estimated in cultures grown in 10 mL SBH. Different solvents such as diethyl ether (DEE), chloroform (CHL), ethyl acetate (ETA), hexane (HEX), methanol (MET), ethanol (ETOH), acetone (ACE) and also combination of solvents (2:1 ratio) such as DEE: MET, CHL: MET, HEX: MET, HEX: ETOH was tested for lipid extraction efficacy. Among solvents used, 12.3% and 18.4% of lipids were extracted using CHL and CHL: MET, respectively, from 10 mL SBH amended cultures. However, the biodiesel yield was found to be similar at about 70.16 % in both SBH and no SBH-added cultures. The fatty acid profile of the biodiesel shows palmitic, oleic, linoleic, linolenic, and arachidonic acid as principal fatty acids. Further, the levels of SFAs, MUFAs, and PUFAs in 10 mL SBH-added cells were 24.67, 12.89, and 34.24%, respectively. Eventually, the fuel properties of Chlorococcum sp. biodiesel, satisfying international biodiesel standards, make the biodiesel a viable diesel substitute in the future. • Chlorococcum sp. was cultivated in sugar cane bagasse hydrolysate (SBH). • Several single and binary solvents was tested for lipid extraction efficacy in Chlorococcum sp. • The maximum DCW of 1.7 g/L and 18.7% lipid was noticed in 10 mL SBH-grown cells. • A 12.3 and 18.4% lipids was recovered by CHL and CHL:MET solvents, respectively. • SBH grown cells showed desirable fatty acids, and fuel properties as biodiesel standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• First investigation on Alkylphenol metabolite sources and levels in Vellore district of India. • Nonyl phenol ethoxylates were recorded upto 36 mg/kg with 85 % detection frequency. • Degradation of Nonylphenol ethoxylates shall end up in Nonylphenol with increased toxicity. • Environmental risk assessment of Nonyl phenol ethoxylates determined low to medium risk. Alkyl phenol polyethoxylates (APEOs) are a major group of high production volume chemicals, extensively used as nonionic surfactants in industrial, agricultural and domestic sectors. These surfactants and its respective metabolites are found to be persistent and toxic. Mainly, they act as endocrine disruptors by mimicking the natural hormones. India being a developing country, witnesses pollution due to various industries including tannery. In the present study, sediment samples were collected from the Vellore district of Tamil Nadu, India to investigate the occurrence of APEOs. The sediments were extracted by ultrasonication and analyzed in a liquid chromatography mass spectrometer. Octyl phenol ethoxylates (OPEOs) were not observed in any of the samples. Nonyl phenol ethoxylates (NPEOs) were detected in the range of ND – 36 mg/kg with 85 % detection frequency. The occurrence of NPEOs in sediment indicates its wide usage in tannery and its partitioning behavior in environment. The levels of NPEOs in the study were found to be unsafe according to the sediment guidelines of various studies. Since NPEOs were observed in sediment samples, possibilities of occurrence of their monomers and metabolites cannot be ruled out. Therefore, further studies are warranted for understanding the levels of monomers and metabolites in order to ascertain the environmental risks more appropriately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR) was operated for more than 120 days with fixed hydraulic retention time of 6 h at mesophilic temperature along with a periodic recovery phase towards hydrogen production and stimulated by the existence of 5-hydroxy methyl furfural concentration (5-HMF). Interestingly, CSTR mixed with a small amount of 5-HMF, range of 0.3–0.6 g/L showed at least 50% higher hydrogen production rate than control without 5-HMF. However, when 5-HMF concentration was higher than 0.6 g/L, the performance was significantly inhibited. The bacterial community shifted by 5-HMF from Clostridium -dominated to Lactobacillus -dominated population. Regardless of the remain 5-HMF concentration in CSTR, the microbial community and hydrogen producing performance were restored by stop mixing the 5-HMF from the feedstock. The high-rate hydrogen production of 20.0 ± 1.8 L H 2 /L/d was achieved in the presence of 5-HMF using the threshold information and recovery strategy. • Hybrid immobilized beads and periodical recovery phase stabilized the production. • Glucose showed the resistance on 5-HMF toxicity rather than galactose. • Certain 5-HMF concentrations enhanced the hydrogen production. • Peak HPR was 20.0 ± 1.8 L H 2 /L/d at 0.6 g/L 5-HMF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Synthesized Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO 2 NPs) by sol-gel method. • Immunomodulatory effects of TiO 2 NPs on THP-1, HMC-1 cell lines were studied. • The cell viability of THP-1 cells treated with TiO 2 NPs were observed by MTT assay. • Expressions of Pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines on THP-1 and HMC-1 cells using ELISA method. Nanoparticles (NPs) can interact with the immune system in several ways, which can either enhance or suppress the functions, depending on their characteristics and composition. Though widely used in different biomedical applications, not much is known about the immunomodulatory effects of NPs on human cell lines. In this work, the immunomodulatory effects of titanium dioxide (TiO 2) nanoparticles on human monocytic leukemia (THP-1) and human mast (HMC-1) cell lines were studied in a dose-dependent manner. TiO 2 NPs of different molar concentrations were synthesized by a simple sol-gel method and analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) technique, UV–vis spectroscopy, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and Zeta Potential. The cell viability of THP-1 cells treated with TiO 2 NPs was significantly reduced at higher doses as observed by MTT assay. The expressions of Pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines on THP-1 and HMC-1 cells using TiO 2 NPs were studied using ELISA method. The results suggested that the secretion of cytokines (IL-6 and IL-10) on human cell lines greatly depended on the concentration of TiO 2 NPs. Lower concentrations of TiO 2 NPs exhibited immunomodulatory effects by inducing inflammatory responses on the treated human cell lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Butanol is a potential alternative fuel for compensating the depletion of fossil based liquid fuels. Butanol can be easily mixed with either gas or petrol, at any percentage and used as a fuel. Clostridia are the main fermentative organisms used for the production of biobutanol. They are potentially known for their capacity to ferment different types of renewable biomass to butanol through the acetone-butanol-ethanol (ABE) fermentation pathway. This review deals with the mechanism of biobutanol production from biomass feedstocks and the issues and challenges involved in the production of biobutanol. The different types of anaerobic biobutanol production namely fed-batch fermentation, continuous fermentation, and two-stage continuous fermentation have been clearly enunciated. Further, different butanol recovery methods such as adsorption, gas stripping and pervaporation have also been discussed in this review. Certain issues affecting the biobutanol production such as sporulation and solventogenesis have been summarized. These types of problems could be overcome by metabolic engineering of Clostridia , which will enhance the resistance of the microorganisms towards high solvent concentrations and thereby increasing the solvent production. The genetic engineering approach is able to overcome the constraints with wild-type strain by understanding the process of solventogenesis in order to construct or modify the strains with improved downstream processing potential for economically advantageous biobutanol production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract An enhanced dark fermentative hydrogen production via the introduction of nanotechnology, utilizing inorganic/organic nanoparticles (NPs) in the membrane of the bioreactors has been renowned these days. Such a nanotechnology includes metal and metal oxides like copper, gold, palladium, silver, iron-iron oxide, nickel-nickel oxide, silica, titanium oxide and carbon nanoparticles (CNTs) respectively have been revealed a noteworthy development in the dark fermentative hydrogen productivity. The pure/mixed cultures can generate dark fermentative hydrogen from biowastes feedstocks with pure sugars derived NPs and the efficiencies in the productivity depends on the nature and concentration of which the NPs employed. In this review, the prospective responsibilities of the inorganic/organic NPs in the enrichment of dark fermentative hydrogen production have been considered for the utilization of the feedstocks like sugars and biowastes materials. Additionally, certain commercial applications in supportive of the integrative approach of inorganic/organic NPs in the case of dark fermentative hydrogen productivity have been discussed. Highlights • Addition of nanomaterials/particles improved the biohydrogen production. • Enhanced dark fermentative hydrogen production via inorganic/organic nanoparticles has been accounted. • Role of co-addition of inorganic nanoparticles in biohydrogen production explained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A rapid and ecofriendly fabrication of metal oxide nanoparticles using biogenic sources is the current trend being used to replace the toxic chemical method. The present study was carried out to synthesize magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgONPs) using the marine brown algae Sargassum wighitii as the reducing and capping agent. The as-prepared MgONPs were characterized by spectroscopic and microscopic analyses. UV–visible spectrum of the MgONPs showed a sharp absorption peak at 322 nm. X- ray diffraction analysis illustrated that the MgONPs were crystalline in nature with a face-centered cubic structure. Presence of magnesium and oxygen were further confirmed by EDX profile. FTIR analysis showed the presence of functional groups specific for sulfated polysaccharides, which might be responsible for the synthesis of MgONPs. Zeta potential and dynamic light scattering analysis illustrated that the MgONPs were highly stable at 19.8 mV with an average size of 68.06 nm. MgONPs showed potent antibacterial activity and antifungal activities against human pathogens. Photocatalytic activity of MgONPs was witnessed by the quick degradation of the organic dye methylene blue on exposure to both sunlight and UV irradiation. MgONPs showed significant cytotoxicity against the lung cancer cell lines A549 in a dose dependent manner with the IC 50 value of 37.5 ± 0.34 μg/ml. Safety evaluation using peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) illustrated the MgONPs to be non-toxic in nature. Overall, the results concluded that the MgONPs generated using marine algae have exhibited scope for multifaceted biological applications. Graphical Abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Facile green synthesis of MgONPs using aqueous extract of Sargassum wightii. • MgONPs showed significant antibacterial and antifungal activity against human pathogens. • MgONPs displayed high photocatalytic activity for dye degradation of methylene blue. • MgONPs exhibited potent anticancer effect against lung cancer cell lines A549 cells. • MgONPs induced ROS mediated apoptosis in A549 cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Design of experiment and artificial neural networks (ANN) have been effectively employed to predict the rate of uptake of Zn(II) ions onto defatted pongamia oil cake. Four independent variables such as, pH (2.0–7.0), initial concentration of Zn(II) ions (50–500 mg/L), temperature (30ºC-50 °C), and dosage of biosorbent (1.0–5.0 g/L) were used for the batch mode while the three independent variables viz. flowrate, initial concentration of Zn(II) ions and bed height were employed for the continuous mode. Second-order polynomial equations were then derived to predict the Zn(II) ion uptake rate. The optimum conditions for batch studies was found to be pH: 4.45, metal ion concentration: 462.48 mg/L, dosage: 2.88 g/L, temperature: 303 K and on the other hand the column studies flow rate: 5.59 mL/min, metal ion concentration: 499.3 mg/L and bed height: 14.82 cm. Under these optimal condition, the adsorption capacity was 80.66 mg/g and 66.29 mg/g for batch and column studies, respectively. The same data was fed to train a feed-forward multilayered perceptron, using MATLAB to develop the ANN based model. The predictive capabilities of the two methodologies were compared, by means of the absolute average deviation (AAD) (4.57%), model predictive error (MPE) (4.15%), root mean square error (RMSE) (3.19), standard error of prediction (SEP) (4.23) and correlation coefficient (R) (0.99) for ANN and for RSM AAD (16.27%), MPE (21,25%), RMSE (13.15%), SEP and R (0.96) by validation data. The findings suggested that compared to the prediction ability of RSM model, the properly trained ANN model has better prediction ability. In batch studies, equilibrium data was used to determine the isotherm constants and first and second order rate constants. In column, bed depth service time (BDST) and Thomas model was used to fit the obtained column data. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Predictive modeling of biosorption of Zn(II) ions on DPOC was studied. • ANN had better prediction capability than RSM for Zn(II) uptake rate on DPOC. • pH and temperature are significant factors for removal of Zn(II) in batch mode. • Metal ions concentration and bed height are significant factors in continuous mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pathogenic microbes are becoming a potential threat to human beings and environment. Owing to the biofilm forming ability, multidrug resistant pathogens have emerged, which has led to increased death and mortality rate. CuO is a transition metal oxide with high captivating property used for various technological applications such as superconductors, gas sensors, photocatalytic applications etc. CuO in the form of nanoparticles (NPs) is a potential candidate against microbial pathogens. Recently, the antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties of CuO have been tested against various pathogenic bacteria and fungi. In the present study, Fe doped CuO synthesized using sol-gel method was tested against pathogenic bacteria and fungus. The synthesized NPs were characterized using XRD, FTIR, SEM and EDAX analysis. The photocatalytic activity of the Fe doped CuO NPs was analysed using UV–Vis and fluorescent light spectroscopic analysis (FL). In vitro analysis was performed to analyze the antimicrobial and antibiofilm potentials of Fe doped CuO NPs against the pathogenic bacteria ( Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis ) and fungus ( Candida albicans ). Therefore, the present study is the first report showing both antibiofilm and antibacterial activities of Fe doped CuO NPs against bacterial and fungal pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Designing a ploy-generation system to produce various products is an effective method to improve the common power plant's performance. Hence, the current investigation proposes a green poly-generation system driven by geothermal and flue gas. The proposed scheme consists of an organic Rankine cycle, proton exchange membrane electrolyzer, saline water desalination unit, and Allam cycle to produce power, hydrogen, and freshwater. The produced oxygen in the electrolyzer feeds the Allam cycle to perform an oxyfuel process to achieve zero CO 2 emission. Per the 4E analysis, the system produces 27,720 kW net power, 931 kmol/h hydrogen, and 616.7 kmol/h freshwater. In this way, the energy and exergy efficiencies are obtained at about 16.87% and 51.65%. The total exergy destruction rate is estimated at about 78,926 kW, in which the organic Rankine cycle and its vapor generator have the highest portions among the different parts and equipment by about 69% and 18.87%. The sensitivity analysis indicates that by the CO 2 recycle ratio of 60%, the highest energy and exergy efficiencies reach 19.3% and 54.33%. Furthermore, the unit cost of hydrogen and electricity productions are 0.07$/kWh and 7.24 $/GJ, which is a considerable reduction compared to similar methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a simple, single-step process for preparing copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) using l -ascorbic acid as a reducing and capping agent along with the investigation of its photocatalytic dye degradation activity. Standard characterization techniques such as, ultraviolet visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering were employed to confirm the formation, crystallinity and morphology of the copper nanoparticles. CuNPs exhibited exceptional catalytic activity in the reductive degradation of three different dyes namely, methylene blue (91.53%), methyl red (73.89%) and Congo red (84.89%), respectively under optimal conditions. Thus, the efficient photocatalytic property along with economic feasibility and trivial toxicity assert the copper nanoparticles an alluring option for wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Doxorubicin (Dox) is a valuable anticancer drug for hematologic and solid tumors. Yet, it can cause multi-organ toxicities in various patients. Since toxicity evaluation is a major criterion to discuss for every experiment, the current mini-review focuses on the toxicity of Dox to multiple organs and suggests the most probable mechanism. Though several mechanisms have been suggested, the role of oxidative stress remains elusive among other mechanisms and remains the most probable mechanism for cardiotoxic effect of Dox. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of substrate concentration on fermentative hydrogen production from galactose at a fixed hydraulic retention time of 12 h were investigated in an immobilized continuously stirred tank reactor. Peak hydrogen production rate and hydrogen yield of 9.57 L/L-d and 1.10 mol/mol galactose added , respectively, were obtained at a feed substrate concentration of 30 g/L and an organic loading rate of 60 L/L-d. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis showed that the variations in the performance resulted primarily from metabolic alterations within the metabolism of the established microbial community rather than modifications in the population. The results obtained showed that optimal substrate concentration is essential for the efficient, continuous production of hydrogen from galactose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease is one of the most dreadful disorders of 21st century with no effective therapy till date, clinically characterized by loss of cognitive function. β-amyloid peptide (Aβ) is considered as the key pathogenic factor in AD, which on aggregation provokes oxidative stress mediated neuronal damage affecting activities of daily life such as learning and memory. Hence, the present study focuses on the exploration of neuroprotective potential of T. chebula and T. arjuna by evaluating its antioxidant, anticholinesterase and antiamyloidogenic activities. Results of antioxidant assays showed that methanolic extract of T. chebula fruit (TCF) and T. arjuna bark (TAB) exhibited highest reducing capacity, free radical scavenging activity and metal chelating potential. Furthermore, TCF and TAB also exhibited dual cholinergic effect by inhibiting both AChE (IC 50 value 81.26 ± 7.79 73.99 ± 2.11 μg/ml, respectively) and BuChE (IC 50 value 81.44 ± 1.23; 52.16 ± 3.94 μg/ml respectively). Total polyphenolic content of TCF and TAB was observed to be 479.25 ± 0.5, 597.25 ± 0.5 μg of Gallic acid Equivalent/mg of extract. Molecular docking studies on LC-MS fractions of TCF and TAB revealed 7-MG as target compound with good predicted activities and promising ADMET properties. Enzyme kinetic studies revealed that 7-MG exhibited competitive and partially noncompetitive mode of inhibition for AChE and BuChE. Results of Th-T fluorescence, confocal microscopic and FTIR analysis illustrated that 7-MG blocked nucleation step thereby preventing the aggregation of Aβ peptide and destabilizing the preformed mature fibrils. Over all the results conclude that 7-MG via its multi-targeting ability may be beneficial in the treatment of AD and related neurodegenerative disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is an abnormal condition leading to uncontrolled cell division which causes damage to the body tissues. Around 100 types of cancer are studied so far namely breast cancer, lung cancer, skin cancer, prostate cancer, colon cancer and lymphoma. Major cancer therapies include chemotherapy, surgery and radiations but their major drawbacks are non-specifically distributed antitumor agents, uneven delivery of drug concentration to the tumour and low monitoring. Nanoparticles (NPs) are the newly trending field of nanomedicine implied in cancer therapy. The structural characteristics of NPs makes them excellent mode for targeting and penetrating the abnormal cell growth caused by cancer. They can potentially enter the abnormal cells causing DNA damage and determine the defects in the genes. Apart from targeting cancer cells they also aid in drug delivery, imaging of abnormal cells, release and monitoring of therapeutic agents against cancer. The present review deals with the inorganic NPs mediated pharmacotherapy, potential strategies for developing drug delivery system, evaluate the merits and demerits of traditional chemotherapy and nanotherapy for significantly improving the treatment of cancers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the heavy metals, lead is one of the toxic metals which is being released into the environment through various anthropogenic sources and they are of serious threat to the ecosystem. Hence in this study, we have made efforts to utilize bacteria for the removal of lead. The lead resistant bacterial strain namely, Ralstonia solanacearum KTSMBNL 13 was isolated from heavy metal polluted electroplating industrial soil. Factors affecting the removal of lead namely, initial lead ion concentration, solution pH, temperature and contact time were investigated. Results showed that maximum removal of lead was attained (90%) at an initial pH value of 6.0, temperature of 35 °C and contact time of 26 h with an initial metal concentration of 100 mg L −1 . In order to identify the functional groups involved in the uptake of lead ions, FTIR, SEM–EDX, TEM and XRD analysis were carried out. Also the antibiotic sensitivity test for Ralstonia solanacearum KTSMBNL 13 was carried out and it was found that the isolate was sensitive to gentamicin, streptomycin and tobaramycin among the tested 12 antibiotics. From the outcome of the results, it has been demonstrated that Ralstonia solanacearum KTSMBNL 13 is a novel bacteria which can be used as an alternative and promising candidate and can be applied to remove lead from various metal contaminated sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microfouling is evolving at a fast rate causing augmented mortality rates and damage worldwide. Until now, several remedial measures have been exploited to overcome microfouling, amongst them nanoparticles play a superior role. Currently, green synthesized nanoparticles have been centered owing to its eco-friendly, cost effectively and non-toxic nature which has also increased its industrial applications (biomedicine, food and textile). In the present research Silver Nanoparticles (Ag NPs) synthesized using marine red algae Gelidium amansii . The synthesized Ag NPs were characterized using UV-Vis Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Further the antibacterial potentials of Ag NPs were evaluated against pathogenic Gram positive ( Staphylococcus aureus , Bacillus pumilus ) and Gram negative bacterial ( Escherichia coli , Pseudomonas aeruginosa , Vibrio parahaemolyticus , Aeromonas hydrophila ) pathogens. Our findings suggest that Ag NPs synthesized using a green approach effectively reduce the bacterial growth by eliciting a bactericidal activity against the Gram Negative and Gram Positive biofilm forming pathogens. Thereby, Ag NPs synthesized using G. amansii could reflect as potential anti micro-fouling coatings for various biomedical and environmental applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effect of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) on high-rate continuous fermentative H 2 production in a lab-scale fixed bed reactor (FBR) inoculated with mixed culture granules and fed with 15 g/L galactose at a hydraulic retention time of 6 h and at 37 °C. During the 83 days of operation, 5-HMF up to 2.4 g/L was spiked into the feedstock. The maximum hydrogen production performance of 26.6 L/L-d and 2.9 mol H 2 /mol galactose added were achieved at 5-HMF concentration of 0.6 g/L. 5-HMF concentration exceeding 0.9 g/L not only inhibited hydrogen production but also affected the biofilm structure and microbial community population. However, when 5-HMF was eliminated from the feedstock, the performance and microbial community population were rapidly recovered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the continuous biohydrogen production in a mesophilic fixed-bed reactor using anaerobic digester sludge as an inoculum. Hydraulic retention times (HRTs) were decreased stepwise from 12 to 1.5 h, while 15 g/L of glucose was used as the model substrate. The peak hydrogen production performance was found at 1.5 h HRT with the hydrogen yield (HY) of 2.3 mol H 2 /mol glucose added and the hydrogen production rate (HPR) of 78 L H 2 /L-d. Butyrate and acetate were the major soluble metabolic products released during the fermentation. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and scanning electron microscopy analyses implied that Clostridium butyricum was dominant in the mixed culture fermentation in all the examined HRTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors explored the inhibitory effect of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) on continuous hydrogen fermentation using a mixed microbial population. A lab-scale fixed bed reactor (FBR) with a 3.0-L working volume was fed with 15 g/L of glucose as sole carbon source at 6 h HRT, while the 5-HMF concentration in feedstock was increased stepwise from 1.2 to 2.7 g/L. 5-HMF gradually decreased hydrogen production. At 2.7 g 5-HMF/L, hydrogen yield, and hydrogen production rate were 0.86 ± 0.08 mol H 2 /mol glucose added and 7.4 L H 2 /L-d, respectively, which were 15% of the yield and production rate observed without 5-HMF. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis showed that 5-HMF changed the dominant bacteria from Clostridium sp. to Lactobacillus sp. Scanning electronic microscope (SEM) showed the biofilm structure of mixed culture was also damaged by 5-HMF. However, the inhibition was milder than that on batch fermentation reported earlier. Furthermore, the H 2 -producing performance, bacterial population, and granular morphology were partially recovered when 5-HMF was removed. The resistance to 5-HMF inhibition would result from the acclimation during continuous operation and attached growth microorganism by immobilization and entrapment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study is aimed to assess the role of glutathione S-transferase (GST) in antibiotic resistance among the bacteria isolated from the poultry litter and to identify the effect of GST to reduce the antimicrobial activity of antibiotics. Induction of various antibiotics to Staphylococcus , Streptococcus and Micrococcus sp. isolated from the poultry litter showed that the activity of GST was three to four folds higher than those of control. Analysis of the isozyme pattern of GST revealed that variation in the expression may be due to antibiotic resistance. The results concluded that GST might play an important role in the protection against the toxic effect of the antimicrobial agents which leads bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanomaterials are exerting a pull on deal with biological and pharmaceutical applications. Biomedical grade of zirconia reveals potential mechanical features of oxide ceramics. In this study, antimicrobial activity and anti-tooth decay applications of the synthesized NPs of ZrO 2 were determined. The as-prepared ZrO 2 NPs were characterized by UV–vis spectroscopy, FTIR and XRD, which determined the formation of ZrO 2 NPs and their crystalline nature. SEM analysis further revealed spherical shaped NPs and TEM analysis determined the size of the particles in the range of 15–21 nm, respectively. The antimicrobial activity of different concentrations of the synthesized ZrO 2 NPs was examined against gram positive bacteria ( Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus ), gram negative bacteria ( Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ), respectively. The synthesized ZrO 2 NPs displayed a better inhibitory action against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (inhibition zone size of 20 mm) at the concentration of 100 μg/ml compared to other bacteria due to the negatively charged P. aeruginosa cell wall readily attracting positively charged ZrO 2 NPs and thereby inhibiting microbial actions. Moreover, the concentration of ZrO 2 NPs was directly proportional to their inhibitory actions against the tested microorganisms. Finally, the preventive role of ZrO 2 NPs in a tooth decay pathway has been elucidated. Hence, it could be concluded that the as-prepared ZrO 2 NPs possess viable biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present focused on comparative study on synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using chemical method via alkaline precipitation method (ZnO(A) NPs) using NaOH and biogenic method using termite mound extract (ZnO(B) NPs). GC-MS analysis revealed that D-limonene present in termite mound extract might be responsible for the synthesis of ZnO(B) NPs. XRD patterns confirmed hexagonal crystalline structure of ZnO(A) and (B) NPs. Results of antibacterial activity illustrated that ZnO(B) NPs showed its potential against Pseudomonas aeruginosa , ESBL -1, ESBL -2 and EBSL -3. Antibiofilm studies revealed that ZnO(B) NPs exhibited optimum decline in MRSA biofilm formation than ZnO(A) NPs. In addition, ZnO(B) NPs showed potent cytotoxic effect against lung cancer cell lines A549 with IC 50 of 35.16 ± 0.10 μg/mL in comparison with ZnO(A) NPs (IC 50- 55.09 ± 0.30 μg/mL). Overall, the results revealed that biogenic synthesis of ZnO NPs ensures its biosafety level and enhanced biological activity when compared to chemical synthesis method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a desperate attempt to find organic alternatives to synthetic fertilizers, agricultural scientists are increasingly using biochar as a soil amendment. Using chemical fertilizers results in enormous financial burdens and chronic health problems for plants and soils. Global concerns have also increased over the prolonged consumption of foods grown with artificial fertilizers and growth promotors. This adversely affects the environment and the welfare of humans, animals, and other living organisms. This way, organic biofertilizers have established a sustainable farming system. In such a context, biochar is gaining much attention among scientists as it may improve the overall performance of plants; in particular, crops have been optimistically cultivated with the addition of various sources. Field experiments have been conducted with multiple plant-based biochars and animal manure-based biochar. Plants receive different essential nutrients from biochar due to their physicochemical properties. Despite extensive research on biochar's effects on plant growth, yield, and development, it is still unknown how biochar promotes such benefits. Plant performance is affected by many factors in response to biochar amendment, but biochar's effect on nutrient uptake is not widely investigated. We attempted this review by examining how biochar affects nutrient uptake in various crop plants based on its amendment, nutrient composition, and physicochemical and biological properties. A greater understanding and optimization of biochar-plant nutrient interactions will be possible due to this study. • Application of Biochar as a soil amendment is gaining global attention. • Biochar has a bulk source of variety of plant essential nutrients. • Biochar has excellent physicochemical and biological properties. • Biochar promotes nutrient absorption and enhances overall plant performance. • Biochar can reduce or replace the use of chemical fertilizers in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytosanitary concerns are part of today's agricultural environment. The use of chemicals to treat plant diseases is both a source of pollution and allows pathogens to become resistant. Additionally, it can improve the chemical, physical, and biological properties of soil. Therefore, the soil environment is more conducive to healthy plant growth. By improving the chemical, physical, and biological attributes of soil, biochar can enhance plant resistance. Agricultural success has been attributed to biochar's acidic pH, which promotes beneficial soil microorganisms and increases soil nutrients; it is also porous, which provides a home and protects soil microorganisms. By improving soil properties, biochar becomes even more effective at controlling pathogens. The article also discusses the benefits of biochar for managing pathogens in agricultural soils. In addition, we examine several research papers that discuss the use of biochar as a method of combating soil-related pathogens and plant diseases. Biochar can be used to combat soil-borne diseases and other conditions. • Biochar can also enhance plant health in addition to increasing crop yield. • Pyrolysis of biomass leads to the production of biochar. • Conversion of waste biomass using the physical, chemical, and biological technique for biochar production. • Biochar exhibits systemic response to bacteria, fungi, and virus infection. • Engineering biochar increases the efficacy of biochar against plant disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a desperate attempt to find organic alternatives to synthetic fertilizers, agricultural scientists are increasingly using biochar as a soil amendment. Using chemical fertilizers results in enormous financial burdens and chronic health problems for plants and soils. Global concerns have also increased over the prolonged consumption of foods grown with artificial fertilizers and growth promotors. This adversely affects the environment and the welfare of humans, animals, and other living organisms. This way, organic biofertilizers have established a sustainable farming system. In such a context, biochar is gaining much attention among scientists as it may improve the overall performance of plants; in particular, crops have been optimistically cultivated with the addition of various sources. Field experiments have been conducted with multiple plant-based biochars and animal manure-based biochar. Plants receive different essential nutrients from biochar due to their physicochemical properties. Despite extensive research on biochar's effects on plant growth, yield, and development, it is still unknown how biochar promotes such benefits. Plant performance is affected by many factors in response to biochar amendment, but biochar's effect on nutrient uptake is not widely investigated. We attempted this review by examining how biochar affects nutrient uptake in various crop plants based on its amendment, nutrient composition, and physicochemical and biological properties. A greater understanding and optimization of biochar-plant nutrient interactions will be possible due to this study. • Application of Biochar as a soil amendment is gaining global attention. • Biochar has a bulk source of variety of plant essential nutrients. • Biochar has excellent physicochemical and biological properties. • Biochar promotes nutrient absorption and enhances overall plant performance. • Biochar can reduce or replace the use of chemical fertilizers in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytosanitary concerns are part of today's agricultural environment. The use of chemicals to treat plant diseases is both a source of pollution and allows pathogens to become resistant. Additionally, it can improve the chemical, physical, and biological properties of soil. Therefore, the soil environment is more conducive to healthy plant growth. By improving the chemical, physical, and biological attributes of soil, biochar can enhance plant resistance. Agricultural success has been attributed to biochar's acidic pH, which promotes beneficial soil microorganisms and increases soil nutrients; it is also porous, which provides a home and protects soil microorganisms. By improving soil properties, biochar becomes even more effective at controlling pathogens. The article also discusses the benefits of biochar for managing pathogens in agricultural soils. In addition, we examine several research papers that discuss the use of biochar as a method of combating soil-related pathogens and plant diseases. Biochar can be used to combat soil-borne diseases and other conditions. • Biochar can also enhance plant health in addition to increasing crop yield. • Pyrolysis of biomass leads to the production of biochar. • Conversion of waste biomass using the physical, chemical, and biological technique for biochar production. • Biochar exhibits systemic response to bacteria, fungi, and virus infection. • Engineering biochar increases the efficacy of biochar against plant disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable biofuel production is necessary to meet the daunting challenge of "fueling" growing economies with a significantly reduced carbon footprint. Although its higher oxygen content often hinders the direct conversion of lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) into energy-dense biofuels, microbial biofuel production from LCB still has potential. The production of primary alcohols by acetone–butanol–ethanol (ABE) fermentation has been practiced for more than a century to attain near-theoretical maximum. However, ABE produced conventionally by native microorganisms is not equivalent to fossil fuel-based aviation fuels in terms of energy density, volatility, and cost-efficiency. Various strategies have been adapted for the microbial synthesis of advanced fuels from renewable feedstock with the advancements in genetic engineering. Yet, the presence of inhibitors and the inefficiency of microbes to utilize or transport the sugar mixtures from LCB often impede titer and yield. However, ABE mixtures can act as platform chemicals to synthesize high-value biofuels by biocatalytic or chemo-catalytic applications. Chemical catalysts, in particular, are used to produce higher alcohols ranging from 3-carbon to 20-carbon fuels from the ABE fermentation mixture. This article reviews the recent trends in the production of higher biofuels from ABE mixtures using biological and chemical catalysts. Focus is placed on genomic and metabolic engineering strategies implemented to upgrade microbes for higher biofuel production via the fermentation of renewable feedstocks. This paper also summarizes the advancements in the chemical conversion route of an ABE fermentation mixture into higher biofuels. Finally, the review provides insights into future research toward commercializing renewable and sustainable higher biofuels and chemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research was performed to evaluate the silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) fabricating potential of aqueous shoot extract of Aristolochia bracteolata and also assess the free radicals scavenging potential of synthesized AgNPs. The results obtained from this study showed that the aqueous shoot extract of A. bracteolata has the potential to synthesize the AgNPs and it was initially confirmed by color change in the reaction blend as yellow to dark brownish. Subsequently, a clear absorbance peak was found at 425 nm in UV–visible spectrum analysis. The functional groups involved in the capping and stabilization of AgNPs were confirmed by Fourier Transform-Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis and recorded about 10 sharp peaks 3688, 3401, 2980, 2370, 1948, 1642, 1480, 1280, 782, and 628 cm−1. The Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) observations revealed that the predominant shape of the AgNPs was spherical and size ranged from 41.43 to 60.51 nm. Interestingly, the green fabricated AgNPs showed significant free radicals scavenging activity and were confirmed with ferric reducing assay, 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH), H 2 O 2 radicals, and 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radicals scavenging activity. Thus, after a few in-vivo antioxidant studies, Aristolochia bracteolata -mediated AgNPs can be considered as an antioxidant agent. • The shoot extract of Aristolochia bracteolata has the potential to synthesize AgNPs. • Synthesized AgNPs were spherical in shape and size ranging from 41.43 to 60.51 nm. • The first report on AgNPs synthesized from A. bracteolata aqueous shoot extract. • AgNPs mediated by A. bracteolata demonstrated excellent antioxidant activity. • On antioxidant assays, the IC 50 of AgNPs ranged from 54.64 to 78.00 g mL−1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc oxide reduced into nanosized exhibits antibacterial activity due to the interaction of ZnO with the cell surface and inside of the bacteria making them adaptive candidate for antibacterial activity. ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) synthesized using plant extract and their biomolecules makes them a safer, non-toxic and bactericidal solution against pathogenic bacteria. Till date, only few research articles are published on analysing the antibiofilm and anti-virulence activity of ZnO NPs synthesized using Ruellia tuberosa extract. Based on these literature survey, the present study was focused on synthesizing ZnO NPs using Ruellia tuberosa and efficacy to inhibit biofilm formation and virulence factor of Serratia marcescens. ZnO NPs at the concentration of 100 μg/mL showed highest antibacterial activity by reducing S. marcescens growth upto 4-fold (0.25 OD 600nm) in comparison to untreated bacteria (1.8 OD 600nm). ZnO NPs also showed 50% of inhibition of biofilm formation 25 μg/mL concentration. Microscopic analysis revealed the phenotypical change in the biofilm matrix formation after treating with >25 μg/mL of ZnO NPs. Prodigiosin, a quorum sensing regulated factor of S. marcescens was also inhibited >70% at 100 μg/mL concentration of ZnO NPs. Therefore, the present study shows the efficacy of green fabricated ZnO NPs to inhibit the growth, biofilm, and virulence factor of S. marcescens. • Green Synthesis of ZnO NPs using Ruellia tuberosa against Serratia marcescens. • ZnO NPs inhibited the biofilm of Serratia marcescens. • Microscopic analysis of biofilm showed disruption using ZnO NPs. • Prodigiosin of Serratia marcescens was inhibited at the lower concentration of ZnO NPs. • ZnO NPs exhibited anti-biofilm and anti-quorum sensing activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perovskite solar cells (PVSCs) convert solar energy into electrical energy. Current study employs fabrication of PVSCs using calcium titanate (CaTiO 3) prepared by co-precipitation of TiO 2 nanoparticle (NP) and CaCO 3 NP with later synthesized from mollusc shell. Furthermore, frustules of diatom, Nitzschia palea were used to prepare silica doped CaTiO 3 (Si-CaTiO 3) nanocomposite. CaTiO 3 NP and Si-CaTiO 3 nanocomposites film were made on fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO) glass plate using spin coater separately for two different kinds of PVSCs tested at different intensities of light. The perovskite materials were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy. Thickness of the film was measured by profilometer. The maximum power density (PD max) of CaTiO 3 made PVSCs was 0.235 mW/m2 under white LED light and 0.041 mW/m2 in broad spectrum light. Whereas, PD max of PVSCs with Si-CaTiO 3 was higher about 0.0083 mW/m2 in broad spectrum light and was 0.0039 mW/m2 in white LED light. This is due to the fact that CaTiO 3 allowed blue and red light in broad spectrum to pass through it without being absorbed compared to white LED light which gets reflected. On the offset, in PVSC made of Si-CaTiO 3 since diatoms frustules are made up of nanoporous architecture it increases the overall porosity of PVSC making them potentially more efficient in broad spectrum of light compared to white LED light. [Display omitted] • Perovskite nanomaterials from mollusc shells and TiO 2 NP to form CaTiO 3 NP. • CaTiO 3 NP forms complex nanocomposites with diatom Si frustules as Si-CaTiO 3. • Organic perovskites CaTiO 3 NP and Si-CaTiO 3 tested at different wavelength s of light. • PD max of perovskites with Si-CaTiO 3 was higher in broad spectrum light compared to one having only CaTiO 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing threat of pathogenic microbes has increased the rate of morbidity and mortality among the human population. Centres for Disease Control has announced that the world is entering the post antibiotic era, which will increase the death rate by bacterial infections instead of cancer and other fatal diseases. Nonetheless, the emergence of multidrug resistant strains of bacteria has led to finding novel strategies to prevent bacterial growth on abiotic and biotic surfaces. Therefore, nanomaterials are growing as a potential strategy to replace conventional antimicrobial therapy. In recent times, bacterial pathogens have been known to colonize on medical devices, implants, tooth filings, lenses, fabrics, metallic and non-metallic surfaces. Important significance organic and inorganic nanomaterials include silver (Ag), copper (Cu), zinc oxide (ZnO) and gold (Au), titanium (Ti), selenium (Se), iron (Fe) as well as polymer materials have been highlighted as potential coating materials for preventing the growth and attachment of bacteria. Nanoparticles (NPs) have a large surface area to volume ratio and generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) leading to the damage of the bacterial cell walls. The present review has focused on the important role of nanoparticles as a coating material to create antibacterial surfaces for a prolonged time and efficiency. [Display omitted] • Bacterial colonization causing biofilm formation is the major cause of mortality and morbidity. • Biofilm forming bacteria colonizes on medical devices and equipment. • Nanoparticles (NPs) are efficient strategy to prevent and inhibits bacterial attachments. • Metallic NPs directly targets the biofilm forming bacterial pathogens. • Non-metallic NPs are used as carriers for drug delivery to prevent contamination on biomedical devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Chlorella vulgaris is a reliable source for biodiesel production. • C. vulgaris is higher productivity, high lipid and fatty acid content for biodiesel production. • GC–MS was used to obtain the suitable profile of fatty acid for biodiesel production. • Transesterification of microalgae oil by CaO nanocatalyst results in biodiesel production. • CaO nanocatalyst enhance the reaction of microalgae oil to methyl ester. Current research deals with the effective, economic and ecofriendly conversion of algal oil into biodiesel using Calcium oxide (CaO) nanocatalyast. CaO nanoparticles were used as an alkaline catalyst for the transesterification of the indigenous green alga, Chlorella vulgaris oil into biodiesel. The catalyst was subjected to different calcination temperatures and their effect on complete transesterification of algal oil at different concentrations was also studied. The characteristics of the nanocatalyst were investigated using UV–Vis spectrophotometer, Fourier-Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), powder X-ray Diffractometer (XRD) and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) equipped with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). It was found that various parameters such as reaction time, temperature and catalyst amount influences the fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) yield. The ideal conditions for transesterification process were optimized as a methanol to oil molar ratio of 9:0.6, a reaction period of 4 h, a catalyst loading at 4% and a reaction temperature of 80 °C. Gas chromatographic analysis revealed a fatty acid profile highly suitable for biodiesel production. A catalyst concentration of 3 mg.L-1 of CaO synthesized at 400 °C was found to be ideal for the transesterification process. These approaches could make massive impact on the large scale biodiesel production minimizing the hefty capital costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to their rapid growth rates, high lipid productivity, and ability to synthesize value-added products, microalgae are considered as the potential biofuel feedstocks. However, among the several bottlenecks that are hindering the commercialization of microalgal biofuel synthesis, the issue of high water consumption is the least explored. This analysis, therefore, examines the factors that decide water use for the production of microalgae biofuel. Microalgae biodiesel water footprint varies from 3.5 to 3726 kg of water per kg of biodiesel. The study further investigates the cause for large variability in the estimation of the water footprint for microalgae fuel. Various strategies, including the reuse of harvested water, the use of high density cultivation that could be adopted for low water consumption in microalgal biofuel production are discussed. Specifically, the review identified a reciprocal relationship between biomass productivity and water footprint. On the basis of which the review emphasizes the significance of high density cultivation, which can be inexpensive and feasible relative to other water-saving techniques. With the setback of water scarcity due to the rapid industrialization in developing countries, the implementation of the cultivation system with a focus on minimizing the water consumption is inevitable for a successful large scale microalgal biofuel production. Unlabelled Image • Water footprint of microalgal biofuel production is lesser than popular fuel crops. • Reciprocal relation exists between biomass productivity and water footprint. • Strategies such as recycling and high cell density significantly reduce water footprint. • Surface and biofilm cultivation can consume low water as well as economic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Low viscous algal oil was produced by Scenedesmus species, using Ni catalyst and Ni(II)–Schiff base chelate promoter. • Algal oil-diesel blends offer notable fuel characteristics. • Green gas emissions were reduced for all the tested blends, except (NO) x. • Blends exhibit notable in vitro antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. • Scenedesmus species derived biodiesel possesses effective anticorrosive activities. We herein report the extraction of biodiesel (S 1 B and S 2 B) from a two dissimilar Scenedesmus species namely Scenedesmus obliquus (S 1) and Scenedesmus dimorphus (S 2) by means of transesterification reaction of lipid moieties, using absolute alcohol and Ni/ H 2 as medium with the presence of Ni(II)–Schiff base compound as promoter to yield biodiesel. The feature of extracted micro algal lipids was investigated via ultimate, analytical along with spectral studies. The engine characteristics with the biodiesel-diesel blends (S 1 B10, S 1 B20 & S 1 B50 and S 2 B10, S 2 B20 & S 2 B50) demonstrate that there is a slight increase in specific fuel consumption with low brake power. Additionally, decrease in the emissions of GHGs was observed with all the diesel blends, except for NO x. In addition, the blends show distinguished in vitro antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. The thermal behavior and corrosion inhibition of the biodiesel samples were analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Sustainable biodiesel production from waste cooking oil in India investigated. • Pretreatment of waste cooking oil by bubble washing reduces acid value by 50%. • RSM integrated with desirability function approach exhibits best local solution. • Biodiesel yield exceeded 90% under optimal reaction conditions. • The energy needed for chemical transformation is calculated as 57.82 kJ/mol. In India, the biodiesel industry is promising and growing at a rapid rate. Several attempts have been made using non edible feedstock to develop the commercial and sustainable biodiesel industry. In this perspective, this study has aimed to optimize four main factors; catalyst quantity, methanol: waste cooking oil molar ratio, mixing intensity and reaction time, which would influence the conversion of waste cooking oil to biodiesel. Response surface methodology integrated with desirability function approach was used to determine the best operative conditions. The optimal reaction parameters for maximum biodiesel yield (90 ± 0.25%) were identified as 0.6%w/w catalyst loading, 10.6:1 methanol to waste cooking ratio, 559 rpm mixing intensity and 63 min reaction time. The study of reaction kinetics revealed that the experimental data followed the first order reaction kinetics and the energy required to activate the molecules to undergo chemical transformation was calculated as 57.82 kJ/mol. The important thermodynamic parameters such as enthalpy (ΔH), entropy (ΔS), and the Gibbs free energy (ΔG) were estimated to assess the characteristics of the transesterification process. The values of the thermodynamic parameters were found to be ΔH = 55.09 kJ/mol, ΔS = −0.103 kJ/mol K and ΔG = 89.90 kJ/mol, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Need of biofuel in lieu of fossil fuel has been justified. • Evolution of biofuel policies in Brazil and Russia were described. • Bioethanol and biodiesel policy of India, China and South Africa were addressed. • Blending mandate and Legal challenges of biofuel in BRICS were presented. Biofuels share a meagre fraction in the total fuel consumption, and their usage is speculated to upsurge steadily in the years to come. One of the key drivers for the development of biofuel production industries and simultaneous dilution of biofuels in the energy market is the country's policy. Hence, this critical review focuses on the evolution of biofuel policies in the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) nations and successful implementation of the policies by the respective countries. In detail, this paper provides legal framework and policies prompted the expansion of biofuel research and industries across the BRICS nations. It extensively presents key laws, blending targets, current regulation, national action plan, government support mechanism (subsidies), output targets, and major hurdles and scope in biofuel policies of BRICS nations for efficient penetration of biofuel to the energy market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]