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The experiment was conducted at the Livestock Farm Complex, Veterinary College and Research Institute (VCRI), Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (TANUVAS), Orathanadu, Thanjavur, India to study the impact of Asparagus racemosus supplementation on milk yield and composition in Jersey crossbred cows during April–May, 2020 was studied. Twelve lactating crossbred cows were randomly assigned into two groups, as control and experiment. Experimental animals were given 200 mg kg-1 body weight of Asparagus racemosus root powder. The research carried out for the period of 30 days. The amount of milk produced was recorded daily. The composition of each animal’s milk was analysed on weekly basis. The overall mean milk yield 6.38±0.13, 7.73 ±0.17 L, mean fat percentage 3.88±0.07, 4.68±0.12, mean protein percentage 3.46±0.02, 3.64 ±0.03, mean lactose percentage 3.65±0.04, 3.74±0.04, and mean solid non-fat percentage 7.73±0.06, 8.09±0.06 were obtained for control and experimental group respectively. The mean milk yield, fat percentage, milk protein percentage, lactose percentage and Solid Not Fat percentage were highly significant (p

This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/) Water pollution by toxic dyes is an environmental problem that threatens human health. A green technology to solve this problem is the use of highly efficient photocatalysts under visible/solar light to degrade these organic molecules. However, develop affordable photocatalytic particles with high luminescence performance, enhanced stability, and low degradation is still a challenge. Here, it is reported the hydrothermal synthesis of an advanced and cost-effective nanocomposite based on a ceramic, cadmium sulphide, covered by silver nanoparticles (CdS/Ag), with outstanding photocatalytic efficiency for toxic dyes degradation under ultraviolet and direct solar light. The CdS/Ag nanocomposite completely degrade the Reactive Red 120 (RR 120), Acid Black 1 (AB 1) and Direct Blue 15 (DB 15) dyes in both light irradiations. Without scavenger, about 93% of degradation was observed at 75 min, remaining a high stability (more than 90%) after fourth degradation cycles.

Densities (ρ) and speeds of sound (u) data for the binary mixtures of benzyl alcohol (BA) with methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), diethyl ketone (DEK), methyl propyl ketone (MPK), and methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) have been investigated at four temperatures (T = 303.15, 308.15, 313.15 and 318.15 K) and pressure (P = 0.1 MPa) over the entire composition range. These data have been utilized to derive excess molar volume ( V m E ), excess isentropic compression ( K S E ) and excess speed of sound ( u E ) for all the systems. The experimentally determined values have been correlated by Redlich-Kister polynomial equation. Further, these results have been analysed by different theoretical treatment such as Prigogine–Flory–Patterson (PFP) theory, intermolecular free length theory and collision frequency theory. The different types of interaction between the component molecules could be addressed by the changes in positive and negative values of excess properties. The applications of present study can be used to build comprehensive theoretical models for designing various technological processes in chemical and biochemical industries.

Organic pollutants generated from different industrial sources cause soil and water pollutions, which creates an ecological imbalance. Metal oxide and carbon-based nanocomposites are extensively used to remediate industrial pollution. In this study, TiO2–Co3O4 and TiO2–Co3O4/graphene oxide nanocomposites were prepared and utilized to degrade the organic pollutants such as crystal violet, methylene blue and ofloxacin. The structural, optical and morphological properties of the nanocomposites were confirmed by XRD, FTIR, UV–Vis, FE-SEM, TEM and BET analysis. The XRD and SAED pattern of the nanocomposites confirms the formation of titanium dioxide-cobalt oxide with graphene oxide. The broadening of the hydroxyl group (3556 and 1638 cm−1) and metal oxide band was observed from the FTIR spectra after the incorporation of cobalt oxide and graphene oxide. The EDX spectra confirm the occurrence of Ti, Co, and O peaks in TiO2–Co3O4 (TC), whereas GO-TiO2–Co3O4 (GTC) nanocomposites reveal the occurrence of C, Ti, Co, and O. In the dark condition, the prepared catalyst shows less than 10% of organic pollutant removal. Under light irradiation, GTC catalysts completely degraded the MB, CV and OFX, whereas TC showed 62%, 54%, and 31%, respectively. The enhancement in the photocatalytic removal of organic molecules is due to the decreased particle size, surface area and bandgap of GTC. The photocatalytic behaviour of GTC is significantly higher than the TC, thus it concluded that GTC has the higher efficiency towards the removal of organic pollutants present in the aqueous medium.

Asparagus racemosus is an herb of Asparagus or Liliaceae family. It is commonly utilized in human and animal husbandry care management. Asparagus racemosus has powerful antioxidant anti-inflammatory uterine tonic antimicrobial, anti-cancer, and galactagogue properties. Shatavarin is a steroidal saponin found in Asparagus racemosus roots. In this experiment, roots of Asparagus racemosus were collected from Herbal Garden, Ethnos Veterinary Herbal Product Research and Development Centre, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Orathanadu, Thanjavur District, Tamil Nadu. Shatavarin IV was identified and quantified by a simple precise and reliable High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography technique.

This paper explored the impact of prolonged lockdown caused by coronavirus disease (COVID)-19 pandemic on the academic aspects of veterinary students of India and its relationship with their socio-...

This study assessed the synergistic effect of Ni concentration and ultrasonic assisted process on the photocatalytic dye degradation efficiency towards methylene blue (MB) and reactive red 120 (RR120) and antibacterial activity against various bacteria of ZnO nanoparticles. XRD confirms the absence of any other impurity peaks in Nickel (Ni) doped ZnO nanoparticles, disclose that Ni doping influences the lattice structure of Zn. The obvious red-shift with the increase of Ni concentration results in decreased band gap and transmittance. SEM micrograph confirms the formation of hexagonal rod and sheet like nanostructures in the Ni doped ZnO nanoparticles by the ultrasonic assisted co-precipitation method. The Ni doped ZnO nanoparticles control the recombination of charge carriers and increase the photocatalytic degradation of MB and RR120. The antibacterial result revealed that 5% Ni substituted sample is effective as an antibacterial agent to prevent the bacterial contamination. 5% Ni doped ZnO nanoparticles synthesized by ultrasonic assisted coprecipitation method is an excellent candidate for removal of methylene blue and bacteria.

Lead (Pb) substituted ZnO nanoparticles were prepared using the ultrasonic-assisted co-precipitation method to enhance the degradation efficiency of reactive red 120 and zone of inhibition of pathogens. The structural, optical, and morphological properties of different concentrations of Pb substituted ZnO nanoparticles were characterized. The result confirmed the formation of Pb: ZnO from the structural, optical, and morphological characterization. The dynamic light scattering spectra show that prepared particles were in the range of 50-110 nm. Scanning electron microscopic image exhibited the formation of hexagonal and spindle-like particles with a size less than 100 nm for a 5% Pb substituted sample. The reflectance and bandgap energy of the Pb substituted ZnO nanoparticles decreased with increasing the Pb concentration. The photocatalytic dye degradation of 5% Pb substituted ZnO nanoparticles showed a higher degradation rate of reactive red 120, and it degraded within 120 min. The antibacterial activity of the 5% Pb substituted samples has higher zone of inhibition of 13 mm. The antibacterial, photocatalytic dye degradation, and antibacterial activity results confirmed that 5% Pb substituted ZnO nanoparticles will be the efficient photocatalyst for the degradation of reactive red 120 and commercial use.

The present experiment was aimed to detect osteopontin gene transcript from bull spermatozoa. Fresh semen samples from 12 Jersey cross breed bulls were collected using artificial vagina. The volume and concentration of the individual samples were recorded. The spermatozoa were separated from bull semen samples by swim up protocol using sperm TALP. The initial concentration of semen sample was checked immediately before proceeding for RNA isolation and normalization of initial concentration was done. So, initial amount of every sample was made equal. Total RNA from the bull spermatozoa were extracted by the RNeasy® Mini Kit, Qiagen as per manufacturer’s protocol. The purity and concentration of the samples were measured at A280/260 by using Nano Drop TM 1000 spectrophotometer. The first strand cDNA was synthesized from 1μg total RNA using M-Mu LV Reverse Transcriptase Revert Aid TM H minus first strand cDNA synthesis kit (Thermo Scientific) as per manufacturer’s protocol. PCR product of about 267 bp fragment length of OPN gene was confirmed by conventional PCR. The bulk PCR product of about 100μl was purified by Gen Elute™ PCR Clean-Up Kit Sigma-Aldrich as per manufacturer’s protocol. The concentration and purity of PCR product were 64ng/μl and 1.6 respectively. The cloning and expression of OPN gene was carried out by using TA cloning kit. The ligated product was then transformed into E. coli DH5α cells. The plate was incubated for overnight at 37 ˚C for selection of the colonies and stock cultures were maintained in LB media at -80˚ C. The clones which showed the amplification of 400 bp DNA fragment were considered as positive clone carrying desired insert. Plasmid isolation was done as per the protocol followed in Hi Yield TM Plasmid Mini Kit (RBC Cat. NO. YPD100) and the eluted DNA were stored at -20 ˚C. The concentration and purity of PCR purified product were 67ng/μl and 1.6 respectively. The eluted plasmid DNA was sequenced commercially (Amnion, Bangalore) using M13 primers. The cloned partial sequence of OPN gene isolated from bovine spermatozoa was submitted at DDBJ (Accession No. AB983656). On blast analysis using NCBI nucleotide blast (Online tool), 99 per cent identity was found with reported consensus sequences except single nucleotide variation in DNA sequence at 234th nucleotide. There was substitution of adenine instead of cytosine.

In this work, the Ag modified ZnS nanoparticles were synthesized via the hydrothermal method, and used for photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes. Various analytical techniques were utilized to characterize the prepared ZnS and Ag incorporated ZnS nanoparticles. The vibrational and structural properties of the prepared nanoparticles were analyzed by FT-IR and XRD, which confirm the modification of Ag in the ZnS. The broadening of the hydroxyl group after incorporation of Ag in ZnS was observed in the FT-IR spectra. The additional (111), (200), and (220) planes in XRD of Ag-ZnS belong to the silver. The increased absorbance in the entire visible region facilitates the ZnS/Ag photocatalytic performance under direct sunlight. ZnS/Ag nanoparticles showed excellent photocatalytic activity toward degradation of RR 120, DB 15, and AB 1. The ZnS/Ag catalyst efficiently degrades the RR 120 under sunlight with higher pseudo-first order kinetic k = 0.0179 min

The antioxidative and antidiabetic properties of Costus speciosus leaf extract assisted nanoparticles (CS–Pt modified TiO2) were compared with pristine TiO2 NPs along with standard ascorbic acid (AA). CS-Pt nanoparticles were synthesized through bioreduction process and supported on titanium dioxide semiconductor. Costus speciosus (CS) leaf extract was used as reducing and capping agent. Initially, CS-Pt nanoparticles synthesis was carried out with ethanolic extract of CS, later, two different wt% of CS-Pt supported TiO2 were prepared through sol-gel cum solvothermal process. The prepared materials have been characterized using different characterization techniques such as XRD, FT-IR, Raman, SEM, HR-TEM, EDS, DRS, PL and XPS measurements. CS-Pt-TiO2 nanocomposites showed well dispersion of Pt nanoparticles on TiO2 surface. The prepared materials have been effectively utilized for in-vitro antioxidant and in vitro antidiabetic activity. Moreover, the photocatlytic activity of the materials has been tested toward NBB degradation under visible light. CS-Pt NPs modified TiO2 composites show better activity when compared with pristine TiO2 in all cases.

The study was undertaken to evaluate the therapeutic effect of mustard oil incorporated diet in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type 1 diabetic rats. Dietary composition has shown to play a significant role in improving insulin sensitivity. Various authors have reported the hypoglycemic effect of mustard oil in experimentally induced diabetic rats. In the present study, reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was done to analyze the Glut 4 expression in STZ induced diabetic rats as it is a key player in glucose homeostasis. The effect of mustard oil on serum biochemical parameter and insulin levels was also studied. Twenty-four male Wistar rats were randomly divided into three different groups with each containing eight animals. The first, second and third groups were control, diabetic control and treatment group with mustard oil respectively. All the rats in respective groups were fed for 60 days with iso-caloric mash diet containing 8% lipid. Diabetes was induced by intra-peritoneal administration of STZ (40 mg/kg body weight). A highly significant reduction in blood glucose level, with an increase in insulin activity was observed in mustard oil-treated diabetic rats when compared to control group indicating anti-hyperglycemic activity of mustard oil. Mustard oil-treated diabetic rats showed increased expression of Glut 4 in muscle tissue when compared to diabetic control. A significant reduction in the levels of triacylglycerols, total cholesterol, VLDL and LDL and raised plasma HDL were noticed in mustard oil-treated diabetic rats when compared to diabetic control rats. Histopathological studies revealed a mild regeneration of β cells of pancreas in mustard oil-treated diabetic rats. The results from our investigation suggest that mustard oil elicits hypoglycemic effect by increased insulin activity and up-regulation of Glut 4 gene expression in muscle tissue of STZ-induced diabetic rats.

As an extension of our previous work, thermodynamic and acoustic properties of binary mixtures of benzyl alcohol with propyl amine, di-propyl amine, diiso-propyl amine and tri-propyl amine have been investigated by measuring density and speed of sound data at four temperatures (T = 303.15, 308.15, 313.15 and 318.15 K) and pressure (P = 0.1 MPa) over the entire composition range. These data have been utilized to calculate excess parameters like excess molar volume (VmE), excess isentropic compression (KSE ) and excess speed of sound (uE) for all the systems.All the excess parameters have been correlated by Redlich-Kister equation. Further, to analyse the experimental results theoretical treatment of the data has also been done by using Prigogine–Flory–Patterson (PFP) theory, intermolecular free length theory and collision frequency theory. Results were also supported by FTIR studies of equimolar binary liquid mixtures.

In the present investigation, density and speed of sound have been reported for binary liquid mixtures of tetrahydrofuran with benzyl alcohol and 4-methoxybenzyl alcohol over the entire composition range at T = 303.15, 308.15 and 313.15 K. From the experimental data, excess molar volume (VmE), excess isentropic compressibility (κsE), excess molar isentropic compressibility (κs,mE), and excess speed of sound (uE) of liquid mixtures have been calculated. The excess partial molar volume,Vˉm,1E, Vˉm,2E, excess partial molar isentropic compressibility, Kˉs,m,1EKˉs,m,2E, over the whole composition range together with partial molar volume,Vˉm,10, Vˉm,20, partial molar isentropic compressibility Kˉs,m,10,Kˉs,m,20, excess partial molar volume,Vˉm,10E, Vˉm,20E, and excess partial molar isentropic compressibility, Kˉs,m,10E,Kˉs,m,20E at infinite dilution have also been calculated. All excess properties have been correlated using Redlich–Kister smoothing polynomial equation.

In this paper, the densities and speeds of sound were measured for five binary mixtures of 1, 2-dichlorobenzene (1, 2-DCB) with methylacetate (MA), ethylacetate (EA), propylacetate (PA), butylacetate (BA) and amylacetate (AA) over the entire composition range at different temperatures T = (303.15–318.15) K and 0.1 MPa atmospheric pressure. The thermodynamic properties, namely, isentropic compressibilities κ S , intermolecular free lengths ( L f ) , specific acoustic impedance (Z), excess molar volume ( V m E ) , excess isentropic compressibility ( κ S E ) , excess inter molecular free length ( L f E ) , excess acoustic impedance (ZE) and excess speeds of sound ( u E ) were calculated to understand the nature of the interactions present in the binary mixtures. Further, the partial properties have also been computed to understand the structural effects of the molecules. The excess properties were correlated with polynomial equations. Furthermore, the measured data were also analyzed with FTIR spectroscopy to support the thermodynamic findings.

Initially, sphere shaped SiO2 was explored by adopting simple sol-gel method without any template. Later, the sphere like SiO2 was modified with cadmium sulfide (CdS) semiconductor and porphyrins. The formation of composites (CdS/SiO2-porphyrins) brought out by diverse characterization techniques that include XRD, Raman, FT-IR, FE-SEM, EDS, DRS and PL measurements. The photocatalytic activity of CdS/SiO2 was slightly influenced by porphyrins such as meso-tetra-phenyl-porphyrin (TPP) and 5,10,15,20-meso-tetra-(para-amino)-phenyl-porphyrin (TPAPP). The mechanism which has been proposed for Reactive Red 120 (RR 120) degradation by CdS/SiO2- porphyrins under sunlight.

Densities (ρ) and speed of sound (u) values have been measured for the binary mixtures of ethyl acrylate with propylamine, dipropylamine, diisopropylamine and tripropylamine at four temperatures (T = 303.15, 308.15, 313.15 and 318.15 K) and at atmospheric pressure over the entire composition range. Further, the measured data has been utilized to compute excess molar volume (VmE) and excess isentropic compressibility (κSE) for all the systems under the same experimental conditions. Expansion of our study has been done by calculating other thermodynamic parameters such as excess intermolecular free length (LfE) and excess speed of sound (uE). These calculated excess parameters have been correlated by Redlich-Kister equation. The experimental results have also been analysed by using Prigogine–Flory–Patterson (PFP) theory, intermolecular free length theory and collision frequency theory. To elucidate the presence of intermolecular interactions and structural effects the work has been augmented by FTIR studies also.

For a visible light active photocatalyst, the band alignment of coupled semiconductors is a key step. In here, we present a semiconductor heterostructure obtained between TiO2 and BiOI. Gelatin assisted g-TiO2/BiOI nanocomposites were prepared in a two step synthetic method. Tetrabutylammonium iodide (TBAI) was used as the iodide source for BiOI. The prepared materials have been characterized by XRD, FE-SEM, DRS and PL measurements. FE-SEM measurements confirmed the presence of sphere like TiO2 particles embedded on the BiOI plates. BiOI loading increases the absorbance of g-TiO2 into the entire visible region, and make these composites more photoactive under visible light. PL measurements confirm the suppression of electron-hole recombination in g-TiO2/BiOI samples. The prepared materials were used for the azo dye Acid Black 1 (AB 1) degradation under visible light, and it was found that BiOI loading effectively enhances the degradation ability of the TiO2. The degradation mechanism was proposed based on the energy levels of TiO2 and BiOI. The reusability of the g-TiO2/BiOI was studied.

Densities (ρ) and speeds of sound () were measured for the binary mixtures formed by ethyl lactate with n-propylamine, diisopropylamine, dipropylamine and tripropylamine mixtures at temperatures (3...

The measurements of experimental densities (ρ) and speeds of sound (u) of binary mixtures of 1, 2, 4-trichlorobenzene (1,2,4-TCB) with alkyl acetates namely methyl acetate, ethyl acetate, propyl acetate, butyl acetate and pentyl acetate have been done over the entire composition range at four different temperatures (T = 303.15, 308.15, 313.15 and 318.15 K) and pressure (P = 0.1 MPa). The intermolecular interactions present in these mixtures were briefly explained through the calculated excess molar volume ( V m E ), excess isentropic compressibility ( κ S E ) and excess speeds of sound ( u E ). The ideal and excess parameters were correlated with Redlich-Kister polynomial equation. Different theoretical models such as PFP theory, CFT and FLT have been used to analyze the experimental results of V m E and u values respectively. The strength of intermolecular interactions between the component molecules have been confirmed using the excess properties and the results were further analyzed with FT-IR spectroscopic technique.

Photodegradation technique is also being employed with naturally available solar energy for treating toxic pollutants to protect environment. In order to achieve the effective degradation of pollutants, the photo-induced charge separation should be in suitable levels. The stability of the catalyst plays an important role in photodegradation. To achieve the above two concepts successfully, the Ag-TiO2 @Pd/C nanocomposites were fabricated by adding different percentages of Pd/C with respect to Ag-TiO2. The formation of the nanocomposites has been exclusively described by different characterization techniques. The prepared nanocomposites have been effectively tested with Reactive Red 120 (RR 120) under direct solar & UV-A light and their performances were explored. In this work, the test parameters such as photocatalyst reusability test and different dye pH have been discussed. Further, the catalyst degraded the antibiotic ofloxacin (OFL), which is being used for the treatment of a number of bacterial infections and the degradation mechanism is proposed below. GC-MS analysis was performed, based on the retention time, molecular ion peaks and intermediates were analyzed and proposed suitable degradation pathways for RR 120 and ofloxacin drug mineralization by Ag-TiO2 @Pd/C nanocomposite. In addition, the anti-microbial activity of synthesized nanocomposites was investigated against twenty pathogens such as Gram-positive Cocci (GBC) (2), Gram-positive Bacilli (GPB) (1), Gram negative Bacilli (GNB) (15) and fungal (2).

Although SiO 2 falls in the category of insulator, we used 70% SiO 2 and 30% of ZnO mixture for photocatalytic application. SiO 2 ZnO was prepared by a simple solid dispersion method, before making a mixture of oxides; SiO 2 and ZnO were prepared by a sol-gel and physical grinding methods, respectively. The prepared SiO 2 ZnO was chemically modified with 5,10,15,20- meso -tetra-( para -amino)-phenyl-porphyrin (TPAPP) and used for the degradation of an azo dye naphthol blue black (NBB) under direct sunlight as well as visible light. Before making a TPAPP/SiO 2 ZnO composite, the surface modification of SiO 2 ZnO was carried out with glycidoxypropyltrimethoxy silane (GPTMS) which acts as a coupling agent. The TPAPP modified SiO 2 ZnO was characterized by FT-IR, XRD, SEM, FE-SEM with elemental mapping, EDS and DRS measurements. A mechanism was proposed for NBB degradation by TPAPP/SiO 2 ZnO under sun light. The catalyst was found to be reusable.

The current work reports the photocatalytic and antibacterial performance of tin (Sn) doped zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles synthesized via ultrasonic aided co-precipitation technique. The increase of Sn concentration decreased the lattice parameter and increased the crystallite size without changing the ZnO structure. The hexagonal shaped particles and sheets obtained for 3% and 5% Sn substituted ZnO, respectively. The increase of dopant concentration reduced the reflectance and optical band gap energy of Sn doped ZnO. The vibrational band present at 1443 cm−1 confirmed the successful bond formation of Sn–O–Zn. The 5% Sn doped ZnO nanoparticles exhibited greater dye elimination rate of methylene blue compared to 3% Sn. The antibacterial activity of Sn doped ZnO showed the higher zone of inhibition about 14 mm against different pathogens. The 5% Sn doped ZnO photocatalyst improve the transfer rate of photo excite carrier and decrease the rate of recombination which greatly influence on the photocatalytic and antibacterial performance.

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the effect of insulin loaded poly(ethylene glycol) capped poly(lactic-co-glycolic)acid nanoparticles (ISPPLG NPs) by subcutaneous administration in diabetic rats. A series of biodegradable low molecular weight PLGA [90/10 (PLG2) and 80/20 (PLG4)] copolymers were synthesized by melt polycondensation and their ISPPLG NPs were synthesized by water-oil-water (W/O/W) emulsion solvent evaporation method. The PLGA copolymers and their nanoparticles were characterized. The maximum encapsulation efficiency of ISPPLG4 NPs is 66% and the diameter of the nanoparticles is about 140nm. The in-vivo studies of ISPPLG NPs carried out in diabetic rats by subcutaneous administration show considerable reduction in serum glucose level along with partial restoration of tissue defense systems. Histopathological studies reveal that ISPPLG NPs could restore the damages caused by oxidants during hyperglycaemia. The subcutaneous administration of ISPPLG4 NPs is thus an effective method of reducing hyperglycaemia associated complications.

The Structure, Electron density and HOMO-LUMO analysis of TTF molecule was carefully evaluated by ab initio (HF) and density functional theory (B3LYP) calculations. The optimized (HF/6-311G** and B3LYP/6-311G**, B3LYP/auf-cc-PVDZ) geometric parameters are in excellent agreement with the similar type experimental data.\ For both levels of calculation, the low charge accumulation have C\(-\)S and C\(\equiv\)N bonds, at the bond critical point, which gives that the bond charges are highly depleted compared with all other bonds in the molecule. Further, AIM theory shows the difference of charge distribution in all bonds. The molecular conductivity (HOMO-LUMO gap) properties are solely related to the ESP of the entire system. The ionization potential gives the very good information of conductivity. These observations give an insight on this kind of super conducting material, which are useful to design navel electronic devices.

Antioxidant status determines the susceptibility of tissues to the oxidative stress associated with diabetes and its complications; hence in the present study antioxidant status was explored in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats treated with vanadium in the form of vanadium pentoxide nanoparticles. Vanadium pentoxide and vanadium pentoxide nanoparticles at the dose rate of 5mg/kg were administered orally in STZ (50mg/Kg) induced diabetic rats for 30 days and glimepiride (reference drug) was administered orally at the dose rate of 800 ìg/kg body weight. Vanadium pentoxide nanoparticles significantly reduced the blood glucose levels than the diabetic control and other treatment group of rats. On exploration of antioxidant status in liver, kidney and pancreas tissues, vanadium in the form of vanadium pentoxide nanoparticles outperformed the vanadium pentoxide by increasing the activities of the enzymes catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, and the concentration of reduced glutathione and by decreasing the lipid peroxide levels. The present study also showed that the restoration of antioxidant status by vanadium pentoxide nanoparticles is comparable with that of the reference drug. It can be concluded that vanadium pentoxide nanoparticles, due to its superior control over hyperglycemia and antioxidant properties, outperformed the vanadium pentoxide treatment in enhancing the antioxidant status in diabetic rats.

The distinct nanocrystalline CS-ZnX (X = O or S) were achieved through Costus speciosus Koen leaf extract assisted precipitation cum hydrothermal method. The formation of the materials was confirmed by different characterization techniques such as XRD, FT-IR, Raman, FE-SEM, EDS, HR-TEM, DRS, and PL measurements. The photocatalytic activity of the prepared materials was tested on the decolourization of Reactive Red 120 dye (RR 120) aqueous solution. The photocatalytic activity was further confirmed by Acid Black 1 (AB 1) dye degradation. The dye photocatalytic process was investigated by considering the influence of test parameters such as catalyst concentration and initial dye pH. Moreover, complete decolourization of 50 ppm of RR 120 solution was achieved within 180 min at pH 5. Both catalysts were found to be reusable. The photocatalytic degradation of RR 120 by CS-ZnX (X = O or S) were confirmed GC–MS analysis, and suitable degradation pathways were proposed based on molecular ion and fragmentation peak values. The probable degradation mechanism was proposed and discussed.

Densities and speed of sound have been reported for the binary mixtures containing benzyl amine and cyclic ethers (1,3-dioxolane, 1,4-dioxane, THF, 2-MTHF) at three different temperatures (T = 303.15 K, 308.15 K and 313.15 K) and at atmospheric pressure. The experimental data of densities and speed of sound has been further utilised to calculate excess molar volume ( V m E ) and excess molar isentropic compression ( K S . m E ). The excess properties have been fitted to Redlich–Kister equation. Further, theoretical results have also been discussed by using Prigogine–Flory–Patterson (PFP) theory, Intermolecular free length theory (FLT) and collision frequency theory (CFT). FTIR studies have also been added to justify the results.

Densities (ρ) and speed of sound (u) have been reported for the binary mixtures containing 1, 3- dichlorobenzene (1, 3-DCB) with methyl acetate, ethyl acetate, propyl acetate, butyl acetate and pentyl acetate at four different temperatures (T = 303.15, 308.15, 313.15 and 318.15 K) and at atmospheric pressure. The experimental data of densities and speeds of sound has been further utilized to calculate excess molar volume ( V m E ) and excess isentropic compressibility ( κ S E ) the excess properties have been fitted to Redlich-Kister equation. Further, V m E results have also been discussed by using Prigogine–Flory–Patterson (PFP). The experimental speeds of sound data in the present investigated mixtures were compared with various theoretical models like collision factor theory (CFT) and free length theory (FLT) to check their relative merits of pure component properties. Moreover, the experimental excess functions were correlated in terms of FTIR spectral analysis.

Chronic mitral valve insufficiency (CMVI) is the most common acquired heart disease in dogs. In heart failure, the cellular oxygenation and metabolism are affected, which leads to the production of free radicals. Free radicals damage DNA, lipid and protein molecules in cells. In the present experiment, blood samples were collected from CMVI dogs with heart failure and were compared with the results obtained from healthy dogs. A significant increase in the levels of xanthine oxidase, AST, LDH and CK and decrease in the activity of catalase were noticed in CMVI dogs when compared to healthy dogs, which revealed overall cardiac and skeletal muscle damage in CMVI dogs. Results of biochemical parameters revealed an increase in urea level and decrease in sodium, potassium, and calcium levels in CMVI dogs as compared to control dogs, all of which indicate cardiac damage in dogs. Study on hematological parameters revealed a significant decrease in Hb, PCV, RBC and platelet counts and an increase in total WBC counts and percentage of neutrophils, decrease in percentage of the lymphocyte and monocyte in CMVI dogs than control. These results indicate secondary phenomenon to heart failure. The present research data indicates the usefulness of these biomarkers in the diagnosis and prognosis of CMVI with heart failure in dogs.

Densities and speeds of sound have been reported for the binary mixtures containing benzyl amine with methyl acetate, ethyl acetate, propyl acetate, butyl acetate and amyl acetate at different temperatures (T = 303.15–313.15 K) and at atmospheric pressure. The experimental data were used to compute the isentropic compressibility ( κ S ), intermolecular free lengths ( L f ), excess molar volume ( V m E ), excess isentropic compressibility ( κ S E ), excess inter molecular free lengths ( L f E ) and excess speeds of sound ( u E ). The positive and negative results of these parameters give an overall idea of existence of different types of intermolecular interactions present in the mixtures. The excess properties have been fitted to Redlich-Kister equation. Further, theoretical results have also been discussed by using Prigogine–Flory–Patterson (PFP) theory, Intermolecular free length theory (FLT) and collision frequency theory (CFT). FTIR studies has also been added to confirm the experimental findings of the investigated mixtures.

In this paper, we reported the densities (ρ) and speeds of sound (u) for the binary mixtures containing furfural (FA) and alkyl esters (methyl acetate (MA), ethyl acetate (EA), propyl acetate (PA), butyl acetate (BA) and amyl acetate (AA) at four temperatures (T = 303.15, 308.15, 313.15 and 318.15 K) and at atmospheric pressure. These experimental results have been further used to calculate excess molar volume ( V m E ) and excess molar isentropic compressibility ( K S E ), excess intermolecular free length ( L f E ) and excess acoustic impedance (uE) have also been calculated to support the experimental results. The excess properties have been fitted to Redlich-Kister equation. Further, theoretical results have also been discussed by using Prigogine–Flory–Patterson (PFP) theory, Intermolecular free length theory and collision frequency theory. From the interpretation of excess properties, the existence of specific interactions and interactions due to formation of hydrogen bonding between the unlike molecules has been revealed.

The aim of the study was to identify urinary biomarker for early detection of renal dysfunction in dogs. Paired blood and urine samples were analysed from dogs classified on the basis of International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) staging system. Serum biochemistry revealed a highly significant increase in blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels in dogs with kidney disease. Urinalysis also revealed a highly significant increase in the level of urinary protein and urinary protein creatinine (UPC) ratio in dogs with kidney disease. A highly significant decrease in urinary creatinine and specific gravity level was also present in all groups of dogs with kidney disease. The SDS-PAGE of urinary proteins obtained from dogs with renal failure revealed the presence of low molecular weight (LMW) proteins of 14.7 KDa. This protein was identified as cystatin C protein by Immunoblotting using anti-cystatin C antibody and it has been suggested as biomarker for the diagnosis of renal disease.

Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic condition affecting human and animal species. The present study was taken up with the objective to test an animal product, emu oil against inflammatory bowel disease and to evaluate its activity in comparison to aloe vera (plant product) alone and in combination with emu oil. Experiment was performed in six groups containing 6 rats each. Rats were pre-treated for five consecutive days with sulfasalazine [100 mg/kg], aloe vera [400 mg/kg], emu oil [10 ml/kg] and the combination of aloe vera and emu oil to groups III, IV, V and VI respectively. The condition was induced using two consecutive subcutaneous injection of indomethacin [10 mg/kg] on day 4 and 5 in all groups except group I (control). Rats were sacrificed on day 8 and samples were collected for further analysis. Macroscopic lesions include ulceration [pin point to linear], perforation and necrotic epithelium in caecum. Microscopically, there was ulceration [loss of epithelium] and increased cellular infiltration. Emu oil was analysed through Gas chromatography–Mass spectrometry for fatty acid profiling and was found to contain mixture of unsaturated and saturated fatty acids. This was evident through the analysis of inflammatory and oxidative stress parameters of group V when compared to groups III and IV. However, the combination of aloe vera and emu oil showed better activity than all other groups. Hence it was concluded that emu oil might be attempted to treat the inflammatory conditions of gastro-intestinal tract as a part of alternative medicine.

The Ag 2 S loaded ZnO (Ag 2 S–ZnO) was successfully synthesized by precipitation of zinc oxalate and Ag 2 S and calcination of the mixed precipitate at 400 °C for 12 h. The catalyst was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), high resolution scanning electron microscope (HR-SEM) images, energy dispersive spectra (EDS), diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS), photoluminescence spectra (PL), cyclic voltammetry (CV), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and BET surface area measurements. XPS reveals that all the Ag in the catalyst are present in the form of Ag + before irradiation. The photocatalytic activity of Ag 2 S–ZnO was investigated for the degradation of Acid Black 1 (AB 1) in aqueous solution using solar light. Ag 2 S–ZnO is found to be more efficient than commercial ZnO, prepared ZnO, TiO 2 –P25 and TiO 2 (Merck) at pH 9 for the mineralization of AB 1. The effects of operational parameters such as the amount of photocatalyst, dye concentration, initial pH on photo mineralization of AB 1 have been analyzed. The mineralization of AB 1 has been confirmed by COD measurements. The catalyst is found to be reusable.

Densities ρ and speeds of sound u, of binary mixtures formed by N,N-dimethylaniline (DMA) or N,N-diethylaniline (DEA) with diisopropyl ether (DIPE) or oxolane have been measured over the entire range of composition at a temperature of (303.15, 313.15 and 323.15 K) and atmospheric pressure. The ρ and u values were used to calculate isentropic compressibilities κS, Rao's molar sound functions R, intermolecular free lengths Lf, specific acoustic impedances Z, excess molar volumes V m E , excess isentropic compressibilities κ S E , excess intermolecular free lengths L f E and excess specific acoustic impedances ZE. The results have been used to investigate molecular interactions and structural effects in these mixtures. The speeds of sound in present mixtures have been estimated using several empirical and theoretical models to determine their relative predicting ability in terms of pure component properties.

Densities ρ and speeds of sound u, of binary mixtures formed by 2-chloroaniline or 3-chloroaniline with diisopropyl ether or oxolane have been measured over the entire range of composition at a temperature of (303.15, 313.15 and 323.15 K) and atmospheric pressure. The ρ and u values were used to calculate isentropic compressibilities κS, Rao's molar sound functions R, intermolecular free lengths Lf, specific acoustic impedances Z, excess molar volumes V m E , excess isentropic compressibilities κ S E , excess intermolecular free lengths L f E and excess specific acoustic impedances ZE. The results have been used to investigate molecular interactions and structural effects in these mixtures. The speed of sound in present mixtures has been estimated using several empirical and theoretical models to determine their relative predicting ability in terms of pure component properties.

Densities, ρ, and speeds of sound, u, of binary mixtures formed by aniline or N-methylaniline or N-ethylaniline with diisopropyl ether (DIPE) have been measured over the entire range of composition at a temperature of (303.15, 313.15, and 323.15) K and atmospheric pressure. The ρ and u values were used to calculate isentropic compressibilities, κS, excess molar volumes, VmE, and excess isentropic compressibilities κSE. The results have been used to investigate molecular interactions and structural effects in these mixtures. The speed of sound u in present mixtures has been estimated using several theoretical models to determine their relative predicting ability in terms of pure component properties. The ERAS model is applied to study VmE for DIPE−aniline and oxolane−aniline mixtures at (303.15, 313.15, and 323.15) K. The ERAS model represents qualitatively very large negative VmE data.

Speeds of sound u, isentropic compressibilities κS, Rao's molar sound functions R, intermolecular free lengths Lf, specific acoustic impedances Z, excess molar volumes V m E , excess isentropic compressibilities κ S E , excess intermolecular free lengths L f E and excess specific acoustic impedances ZE, of three binary mixtures of oxolane (tetrahydrofuran) with aniline, N-methylaniline and N-ethylaniline have been reported over the entire range of composition at 303.15, 313.15 and 323.15 K. The excess values have been fitted to Redlich–Kister polynomial equation. The results have been analyzed in terms of molecular interactions between oxolane and anilines. The speeds of sound in present binary mixtures have been estimated from various empirical and theoretical models.

The study was conducted to study the effect of age viz., young (6–9 months) and adult (2 years) on physico-chemical characteristics, proximate composition, amino acid, fatty acid and cholesterol content of Kodiadu goat meat. The Longissimus dorsi muscle was collected from these animals and the physico-chemical characteristics viz., pH, water holding capacity, instrumental colour, muscle fibre diameter, myofibrillar fragmentation index and nutritional composition viz., proximate composition, amino acid, fatty acid and cholesterol content of two different age groups were studied. The results obtained in this study indicated that the meat of young goat had higher water holding capacity, Lightness (L*), moisture, threonine, glutamic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, ecosapentaenoic acid, docosohexanoic acid, total poly unsaturated fatty acids and total P/S than adult. Based on the quality and nutritional composition it was concluded that meat of young animal (6–9 months) had superior meat quality than the meat of adult animals.