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The solid-state route, conducted at a temperature of 700 °C over a span of 8 h, resulted in the production of a single phase of BiVO 4 powder. Subsequently, the BiVO 4 powder was used as a tribocatalyst to facilitate the degradation of the methylene blue (MB) dye, Rhodomine B (RB), and tetracycline pollutant. The confirmation of phase formation was achieved by employing X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy techniques. The synthesised BiVO 4 powder was utilized as a tribocatalyst, where the maximum degradation for MB dye, RB dye, and tetracycline was observed to be ∼69 %, ∼74 %, and ∼49 in 24 h in a glass-PTFE interface system. The present work provides a systematic representation of the effect of speed (in rpm) in the tribocatalysis process. The findings derived from the scavenger test reveal that the mechanism of tribocatalysis in the degradation of MB dye is influenced by the presence of superoxide radicals (• O 2 −), which serve as the primary active species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the multiferroic perovskites, BiFeO 3 (BFO) shows better efficiency ∼8.1%. In the present work, we have simulated La-doped BFO (BLFO) based on four different perovskite solar cell (PSC) devices with and without electron transport layers (SnO 2 , ZnO, and TiO 2) via a computational approach. The present work is a theoretical advancement of previously presented experimental work and provides a proposal for the pathway for higher efficacy in the BLFO as absorber-based PSCs. After the best optimization of the results and found in the proximity of the experimental counterparts, we have further explored the devices concerning the variations in the thickness of absorber and ETLs, band-gap, and electron affinity of the absorber. It is observed that these variations make a high impact on the output parameters (open circuit voltage - V OC , short circuit current density - J SC , fill factor - FF, power conversion efficiency - PCE) of devices. After the comparative investigations of all the devices, it has been concluded that the TiO 2 ETL-based device shows better efficiency including the other photovoltaic parameters such as V OC = 1.23 V, J SC = 22.24 mA/cm2, %FF = 86.67, and %PCE = 23.87. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laser-graphitization offers a new approach to obtaining high-quality 3D graphene films simply and efficiently. Over the years this method was developed to include different carbonaceous precursors and irradiation parameters. Precarbonization is a step in the synthesis where the precursors are annealed at high temperatures under an inert atmosphere to increase the carbon content in the samples prior to the laser reaction. Some studies report this step while others do not, thus its necessity and beneficially have to be evaluated. In this study, we compare the laser products of as-prepared and precarbonized carbon nanodots (CNDs). The study investigates the samples from the initial synthesis step of microwave-assisted formation of CNDs, through separation of the CNDs by particle size, the precarbonization step conducted at different temperatures, to the final 3D graphene films products. By analyzing the chemical structure and graphitization level of the intermediates, we could realize the chemical characteristics responsible for successful laser-graphitization. We have found that precarbonization indeed leads to improved graphitic products, only to a certain extent. The best graphitization level is achieved when the CNDs were precarbonized to 300 °C obtaining I D /I G ratio = 0.44 as compared to 1.08 when as-prepared CNDs are used. On the other hand, when annealed to 400 °C the laser produces more defected graphene films (I D /I G ratio = 0.83). Moreover, both the surface chemistry and the core structure of the CNDs affect the final results. A careful examination of the surface chemistry reveals the coverage of oxygen- and nitrogen-containing functional groups required for the optimal thermochemical reaction. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Bilayer perovskite heterojunction TSCs. • Design and engineering of PSCs in the tandem architecture. • Comparative discussion on single junction and TSCs. • Novel opportunities and future directions. This featured letter comprehensively examines the rapidly evolving field of bilayer perovskite heterojunction tandem solar cells. Developing high-efficiency solar cell technologies has become paramount, with a growing emphasis on renewable energy sources. Bilayer perovskite tandem solar cells have arisen as a promising solution, capitalizing on the advantages of perovskite materials and tandem architecture. This featured letter begins by explaining the fundamental principles underlying bilayer perovskite solar cells, subsequently exploring the design and engineering of heterojunctions within the tandem architecture. It navigates through key advancements in materials synthesis, device fabrication, and optimization strategies, offering insights into the cutting-edge techniques and challenges faced in this growing field. Through a detailed analysis of the current state-of-the-art and prospects, this article provides an invaluable resource for researchers, scientists, and engineers dedicated to advancing the frontiers of solar cell technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioactive cobalt (II) macrocyclic complexes [Co(N 4 O 4 ML 1)Cl 2 ]-[Co(N 4 O 4 ML 3)Cl 2 ] have been synthesized by using the macrocyclic ligands [N 4 O 4 ML 1 ], [N 4 O 4 ML 2 ], and [N 4 O 4 ML 3 ] that have an N 4 O 4 core. These three macrocyclic ligands were all isolated in pure form, together with their complexes. Microanalytical investigations, FT-IR NMR, Mass, magnetic moments, electronic, PXRD, TGA, and EPR spectrum studies were used to analyse their structures. For these complexes, an octahedral geometry is proposed for the metal ion. By using molecular weights and conductivity measurements the monomeric and non-electrolytic nature has been confirmed. The Coats-Redfern and FWO methods are used to determine the thermodynamic characteristics of the ligands and their Co(II) complexes. The molecular modelling using the DFT technique displays the bond angle, bond lengths and quantum chemical properties. To determine their ability to prevent the growth of harmful fungus and bacteria, the ligands [N 4 O 4 ML 1 ]- [N 4 O 4 ML 3 ] and their complexes were tested in vitro against A. Niger, C. albicans and B. subtilis, S. aureus, E. coli and S. typhi fungal and bacterial organisms, respectively. By using DPPH free radical scavenger assays, the in vitro antioxidant capabilities of each compound were evaluated. The [Co(N 4 O 4 ML 3)Cl 2 ] antioxidative capabilities revealed significant radical scavenging power. The MTT assay was used to assess the toxicity of all the synthesised compounds under inquiry on MCF-7, HeLa, and A549 cancer cells. The findings revealed that the ligand and the compounds gave outstanding IC 50 values in the range of 9.07–36.25 (uM) at a concentration of 25 ppm. Among all the substances evaluated, [Co(N 4 O 4 ML 3)Cl 2 ] complex was discovered to be the most active and least cytotoxic. Additionally, docking investigations of the produced compounds were carried out in order to validate the biological outcomes. [Display omitted] • We have synthesized diaminonaphthalene-based macrocyclic complexes of Co(II). • Complexes were examined utilizing different analytical, and spectroscopic techniques. • A distorted octahedral geometry has been assigned for Co(II) complexes. • DFT and Molecular docking studies have been provided. • The investigated compounds (especially the Cobalt complexes) have good effects as antitumor, antimicrobial and antioxidant agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit crops are frequently subjected to biotic and abiotic stresses that can significantly reduce the absorption and translocation of essential elements, ultimately leading to a decrease in crop yield. It is imperative to grow fruits and vegetables in areas prone to drought, salinity, and extreme high, and low temperatures to meet the world's minimum nutrient demand. The use of integrated approaches, including supplementation of beneficial elements like silicon (Si), can enhance plant resilience under various stresses. Silicon is the second most abundant element on the earth crust, following oxygen, which plays a significant role in development and promote plant growth. Extensive efforts have been made to explore the advantages of Si supplementation in fruit crops. The application of Si to plants reinforces the cell wall, providing additional support through enhancing a mechanical and biochemical processes, thereby improving the stress tolerance capacity of crops. In this review, the molecular and physiological mechanisms that explain the beneficial effects of Si supplementation in horticultural crop species have been discussed. The review describes the role of Si and its transporters in mitigation of abiotic stress conditions in horticultural plants. • Silicon supplementation in fruit crops improves stress tolerance and bolstering plant resilience. • Recent research has uncovered the intricate molecular and physiological mechanisms behind silicon's beneficial effects on fruit crops. • Integrating silicon supplementation with sustainable farming practices presents a promising strategy for boosting fruit crop productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chitin, recovered in huge amounts from coastal waste, may biocatalytically valorized for utilization in food and biotech sectors. Conventional chemical-based conversion makes use of significant volumes of hazardous acid and alkali. Alternatively, enzymes offer better process control and generation of homogeneous products. Process variables were derived to achieve augmented levels of chitinase (3.8809 Ul−1 h−1) productivity from a novel thermophilic fungal strain Thermomyces dupontii , ITCC 9104 following incubation (96 h, 45 °C). An acidic thermostable chitinase TdChiT having molecular mass of 60 kDa has been purified. Optimal TdChiT activity has been demonstrated at 70 °C and pH 5. Notably decreased activity over a broad range of temperature and pH was observed following deglycosylation. Half-life, activation energy, Gibbs free energy, enthalpy and entropy for denaturation of TdChiT at its optimum temperature were 197.40 min, 105.48 kJ mol−1, 100.59 kJ mol−1, 102.64 kJ mol−1 and 5.95 J mol−1 K−1. TdChiT has specificity towards colloidal chitin and (GlcNAc) 2 – 4. Metal ions viz. Mn2+, Ca2+ and Co2+ and nonionic surfactants notably enhanced chitinase activity. Thin layer chromatography analysis has revealed effective hydrolysis of colloidal chitin and (GlcNAc) 2 – 4. TdChiT may potentially be employed for design of better, eco-friendly and less resource-intensive industrial procedures for upcycling of crustacean waste into value-added organonitrogens. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We have synthesized amide-based macrocyclic complexes of Co(II). • The compounds were characterized by IR, Mass. UV–visible, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, TGA and XRD studies. • A distorted octahedral geometry has been assigned for Co(II) complexes. • DFT and molecular docking studies have been provided. • The positive findings of Antimicrobial, in vitro cytotoxic and antioxidant activity have been discussed. The novel cobalt (II) macrocyclic complexes [Co(N 4 O 4 MacL 1)Cl 2 ]-[Co(N 4 O 4 MacL 3)Cl 2 ] have been synthesized by using the macrocyclic ligands [N 4 O 4 MacL 1 ], [N 4 O 4 MacL 2 ] and [N 4 O 4 MacL 3 ] that have an N 4 O 4 core. To investigate Co(II), metal complexes [Co(N 4 O 4 MacL 1)Cl 2 ]-[Co(N 4 O 4 MacL 3)Cl 2 ] with new ligands, elemental analyses, infrared, magnetic measurements, UV–visible, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and XRD studies were utilised. According to the spectrum data, the ligands perform as a mononegative tetradentate. Based on magnetic and electronic spectrum data, an octahedral structure for Co(II) metal complexes has been postulated. The Coats-Redfern and FWO techniques are used to determine the thermodynamic characteristics of ligands and their complexes. The molecular modelling using the DFT technique displays bond angles, bond lengths, and quantum chemical factors. To determine their ability to prevent the growth of harmful fungus and bacteria, the ligands [N 4 O 4 MacL 1 ]- [N 4 O 4 MacL 3 ] and their complexes were tested in vitro against A. Niger, C. albicans and B. subtilis, S. aureus, E. coli and S. typhi fungal and bacterial organisms, respectively. By using DPPH free radical scavenger assays, the in vitro antioxidant capabilities of each compound were evaluated. The [Co(N 4 O 4 MacL 3)Cl 2 ] antioxidative capabilities revealed significant radical scavenging power. All of the compounds under research were examined for cytotoxicity using the MTT assay on MCF-7 and HepG-2 cells, and the findings revealed that [Co(N 4 O 4 MacL 2)Cl 2 ] show outstanding cytotoxic activity against HepG-2 with IC 50 17.94 ± 045 at a concentration of 25 ppm. Additionally, docking investigations of the produced compounds were carried out in order to validate the biological outcomes. Considerably, the current Co (II) complexes with their effective antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxicity activity would be probably appraised for further medicinal and pharmaceutical applications. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanocrystals can be produced as a dry powder for inhalation (DPIs) to deliver high doses of drug to the lungs, owing to their high payload and stability to the shear stress of aerosolization force. Furthermore, lipid-coated nanocrystals can be formulated to improve the drug accumulation and retention in lung. The present work involved the fabrication of paclitaxel nanocrystals using hydrophilic marine biopolymer fucoidan as a stabilizer. Thereafter, fabricated nanocrystals (FPNC) were surface-modified with phospholipid to give lipid-coated nanocrystals (Lipo-NCs). The nanocrystals were fabricated by antisolvent crystallization followed by the probe sonication. The lipid coating was achieved by thin film hydration followed ultrasonic dispersion technique. Prepared nanocrystals were lyophilized to obtain a dry powder of FPNC and Lipo-NCs, used later for physicochemical, microscopic, and spectroscopic characterization to confirm the successful formation of desired nanocrystals. In-vitro and in-vivo investigations were also conducted to determine the role of nanocrystal powder in pulmonary drug delivery. Lipo-NCs exhibited slower drug release, excellent flow properties, good aerosolization performance, higher drug distribution, and prolonged retention in the lungs compared to FPNC and pure PTX. Lipid-coated nanocrystals can be a novel formulation for the maximum localization of drugs in the lungs, thereby enhancing therapeutic effects and avoiding systemic side effects in lung cancer therapy. [Display omitted] • Sub-micron sized PTX loaded Lipo-NCs were prepared for pulmonary delivery. • The NCs exhibited improved dissolution due to ∼10-fold effective surface area. • Aerosolization performance revealed deep lung distribution capability of NCs. • Lipo-NCs showed superior lung accumulation with minimal systemic distribution. • Lipo-NCs is ideal for pulmonary delivery of PTX in localized lung cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum undergoes a complex life cycle in two hosts, mammalian and mosquito, where it is constantly subjected to environmental changes in nutrients. Epigenetic mechanisms govern transcriptional switches and are essential for parasite persistence and proliferation. Parasites infecting red blood cells are auxotrophic for several nutrients, and mounting evidence suggests that various metabolites act as direct substrates for epigenetic modifications, with their abundance directly relating to changes in parasite gene expression. Here, we review the latest understanding of metabolic changes that alter the histone code resulting in changes to transcriptional programmes in malaria parasites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For environmental sustainability and to achieve sustainable development goals (SDGs), drinking water treatment must be done at a reasonable cost with minimal environmental impact. Therefore, treating contaminated drinking water requires materials and approaches that are inexpensive, produced locally, and effortlessly. Hence, locally available materials and their derivatives, such as biochar (BC) and activated carbon (AC) were investigated thoroughly. Several researchers and their findings show that the application of locally accessible materials and their derivatives are capable of the adsorptive removal of organic and inorganic contaminants from drinking water. The application of locally available materials such as lignocellulosic materials/waste and its thermo-chemically derived products, including BC and AC were found effective in the treatment of contaminated drinking water. Thus, this review aims to thoroughly examine the latest developments in the use of locally accessible feedstocks for tailoring BC and AC, as well as their features and applications in the treatment of drinking water. We attempted to explain facts related to the potential mechanisms of BC and AC, such as complexation, co-precipitation, electrostatic interaction, and ion exchange to treat water, thereby achieving a risk-free remediation approach to polluted water. Additionally, this research offers guidance on creating efficient household treatment units based on the health risks associated with customized adsorbents and cost-benefit analyses. Lastly, this review work discusses the current obstacles for using locally accessible materials and their thermo-chemically produced by-products to purify drinking water, as well as the necessity for technological interventions. [Display omitted] • Local materials and its derivatives in treatment of water has been discussed. • Properties of BC and AC derived from locally available materials were elaborated. • Mechanism in removal of organic and inorganic pollutants were discussed. • Development of BC and AC based household treatment units were deliberated. • Economy of BC and AC based water treatment units were elaborated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whitefly-transmitted begomoviruses are among the major threats to the cultivation of Capsicum spp. (Family: Solanaceae) worldwide. Capsicum-infecting begomoviruses (CIBs) have a broad host range and are commonly found in mixed infections, which, in turn, fuels the emergence of better-adapted species through intraspecies and interspecies recombination. Virus-encoded proteins hijack host factors to breach the well-coordinated antiviral response of plants. Epigenetic modifications of histones associated with viral minichromosomes play a critical role in this molecular arms race. Moreover, the association of DNA satellites further enhances the virulence of CIBs as the subviral agents aid the helper viruses to circumvent plant antiviral defense and facilitate expansion of their host range and disease development. The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview on various aspects of CIBs such as their emergence, epidemiology, mechanism of pathogenesis, and the management protocols being employed for combating them. Begomoviruses are among the limiting factors for capsicum cultivation globally. Phylogenetic relatedness of begomoviruses is strongly correlated with geographic regions. Mixed infection is the driving force for the emergence of new species through intraspecies and interspecies recombination. It also promotes synergism, which results in the breakdown of resistance. Monopartite capsicum-infecting begomoviruses (CIBs) are commonly associated with satellites which contribute to leaf curl disease development and extend the host range of the helper virus. Multifunctional viral proteins readily hijack several host factors to breach the antiviral defense of the host. Epigenetic modifications of histones (ubiquitination, methylation) associated with the minichromosomal structure of CIBs play a critical role in this molecular arms race. Augmenting the genetic basis of resistance holds the key to controlling CIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interfacial solar steam generation is acknowledged as an extremely effective and environmentally friendly method of producing potable water. Nevertheless, significant challenges persist in the development of an evaporator capable of achieving heightened rates of evaporation, catalytic capabilities, resistance to bacterial proliferation, and effective light absorption across a broad spectrum. This article outlines the fabrication of a solar steam generator utilizing electrospinning technology and membrane evaporators constructed from α-Fe 2 O 3 /PAN (polyacrylonitrile) nanofibers. The integration of α-Fe 2 O 3 /PAN composite enhances both light absorption and heat generation. In sunlight, the maximum evaporation rate is 2.7 kg m−2 h−1, which is significantly more than the rate of today's cutting-edge solution-electrospun nanofiber-based evaporators. The electrospun mat has high catalytic activity and antibacterial properties, making it an important component in desalination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Comprehensive examination of organic molecular layer used in perovskite solar cells. • Investigation into fundamental principles guiding different organic molecular layers in PSCs for improving efficiency. • Challenges in synthesis and future outlook were discussed for organic layers. • Exploration of novel opportunities and future directions for advancement in the field. Stability in the perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is a major concern nowadays, and interfacial engineering is the key to achieving this most important issue. As per the interfacial engineering, the organic molecules may play a vital role in PSCs as we incorporate these as interfacial layers, mainly between perovskite absorber and hole transport layer. The latest reports confirm the usefulness of the organic–inorganic mixed halides perovskites-based PSCs over the purely inorganic or other PSCs with the organic hole transport layers such as spiro-OMeTAD. The focus of this featured letter is to discuss the effect of organic molecule layer on the interfacial engineering, stability and conversion efficiency of the PSC devices. Additionally, the efforts are dedicated to focusing on the importance of evolving new molecules to advance stability as well as the high photovoltaic output issues, including the commercialization issues, new opportunities, and future directions. These properties can be principally interesting for the interface engineering of PSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The non-toxic nature of natural polysaccharides and their biodegradability makes them the first choice of researchers. Various natural polysaccharides are available nowadays, like cellulose, starch, chitosan, gum acacia, guar gum etc. Among these, gum acacia is a common natural polysaccharide presently used in research and technology. It is highly biodegradable, pH stable and shows appropriate water solubility. It is used in research to synthesize hydrogels and hydrogel nanocomposites for various applications because of its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and excellent absorption properties. The major fields of applications include the stabilization of metal nanoparticles in the form of nanocomposites, wound dressing materials, delivery systems of various drugs and pharmaceutical agents, bioengineering, tissue engineering, purification of water, synthesis of antibacterial and antifungal composites for agricultural improvements, and many others. Due to the increasing problem of water pollution, the major focus is on research helping to reduce this problem. Gum acacia-based hydrogel and hydrogel composites were synthesized and tested for pollutant removal efficiency from wastewater by different researchers. The research on gum acacia hydrogel and their hydrogel composite applications for water purification, as well as their synthesis processes and properties, are summarized in this review article. [Display omitted] • Problem of water pollutants especially toxic metal ions and dyes • Gum acacia, its structural and functional properties • A detailed account of all gum acacia based hydrogel and hydrogel composite for use in wastewater treatment • Proposed mechanism underlying the adsorption process [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Random forest regression and linear regression analyses were employed to investigate the influence of fuel properties on combustion performance and emissions. • Relative importance and correlations of different fuel properties with NO x , CO 2 , and CO emissions are highlighted. • Viscosity appears to be the most influential property for CO emissions, while hydrogen content seems to be more significant for CO 2 emissions. • Regression analysis may be useful for fuel development and emission control strategies. The Pollutant emissions and limited fossil fuel resources attracted researchers toward alternative fuels. Therefore, the combustion of liquid biofuels (as an alternative fuel) is gaining importance in research for the power generation sector for gas turbine engines and internal combustion engines. The physical properties of these fuels play an important role in the combustion characteristics (in terms of flame characteristics, emission characteristics, and flame temperature profile characteristics), and their experimental testing is costly. Considering the importance of research and cost in the experiment, the analysis is carried out to develop a new model for evaluating post-combustion emission characteristics based on the physical properties of liquid fuels. Raw data is extracted from experimental investigations to establish the present analysis models. Experimental studies have been carried out to evaluate the properties of different fuels and their composition-wise effects on flame, temperature, and emission characteristics. Thereby, reliable combustion performance and low emission profiles (in terms of physical fuel properties) can be ensured for potential alternative fuels. The results of the analysis show that specific properties such as high viscosity, high density, and high aromatic content of the fuel have the potential to generate high CO. In contrast, a decrease in these properties promotes high CO 2 formation. In addition, low NO x emissions and low CO trends are unlikely to be achieved by simultaneously changing the value of fuel properties. The analysis shows that the low viscosity of the fuel induces low soot emission and flame length retardant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic wounds are prone to fungal infections, possess a significant challenge, and result in substantial mortality. Diabetic wounds infected with Candida strains are extremely common. It can create biofilm at the wound site, which can lead to antibiotic resistance. As a result, developing innovative dressing materials that combat fungal infections while also providing wound healing is a viable strategy to treat infected wounds and address the issue of antibiotic resistance. Present work proposed anti-infective dressing material for the treatment of fungal strains Candida-infected diabetic foot ulcer (DFU). The nanofiber was fabricated using polyvinyl Alcohol/chitosan as hydrogel base and co-loaded with silver nanoparticles (AgNP) and luliconazole-nanoparticles (LZNP) nanoparticles, prepared using PLGA. Fabricated nanofibers had pH close to target area and exhibited hydrophilic surface suitable for adhesion to wound area. The nanofibers showed strong antifungal and antibiofilm properties against different strains of Candida; mainly C. albicans, C. auris, C. krusei, C. parapsilosis and C. tropicalis. Nanofibers exhibited excellent water retention potential and water vapour transmission rate. The nanofibers had sufficient payload capacity towards AgNP and LZNP, and provided controlled release of payload, which was also confirmed by in-vivo imaging. In-vitro studies confirmed the biocompatibility and enhanced proliferation of Human keratinocytes cells (HaCaT). In-vivo studies showed accelerated wound closure by providing ant-infective action, supporting cellular proliferation and improving blood flow, all collectively contributing in expedited wound healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multi-drone cooperative transport has been extensively studied in literature. However, few issues are still required to be addressed to make such systems technologically sound. One such issue is that of control of such systems when the center of gravity of the object being transported is unknown and/or varies with time. Few examples in which the center of gravity is either offset (does not coincide with the geometric center of the object) or moves continuously with time include package delivery, pesticide spraying, and aerial car. This paper presents a decentralized adaptive control approach for a multi-drone cooperative transport system where the center of gravity of the system is offset and/or moving. This paper proposes a fuzzy logic based force-torque feedback controller along with two novel adaptive control laws to estimate the payload's center of gravity and/or its velocity. Simulation results validate the effectiveness of the proposed control technique as compared other methods in literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Auxin response factors (ARFs) are plant-specific transcription factors that bind explicitly to Auxin Response Elements and mediate downstream expression of auxin responsive genes involved at various stages of plant growth and development. This study identified 52 ARF genes located within the wheat genome. Based on phylogenetic analysis, the identified ARF proteins of wheat were classified into four classes (class I, II, III and IV). Synteny analysis revealed the orthologous relation with other monocots. The maximum numbers of predicted ARF genes were mapped on wheat chromosome 3B Ten conserved motifs of ARF was determined on all the identified sequences. Based on amino acid composition of the middle region of the ARF proteins, nine ARF proteins were transcription activators and the remaining were transcription repressors. The ARF genes of wheat contained 1–17 introns and deduced proteins of the genes having similar pattern of intron-exon distribution clustered within the same clade in the phylogenetic tree. TaARF1, TaARF4, TaARF7, TaARF34, TaARF39 were predicted to be targeted by the stress responsive miRNA Tae-miRNA160. The identified proteins were mostly localized within the nucleus and had sequence specific DNA binding activity. They were annotated in regulation of expression of early auxin responsive genes in auxin signaling pathway. Thirty-one TaARF proteins interacted and exhibited co-expressed regulation with other TaARF and Aux/IAA proteins. Increased expression of TaARF1 and TaARF23 at 120 h post inoculation (hpi) and 72 hpi in resistant and susceptible isolines respectively, specifies their roles in providing better resistance to the plant during leaf-rust infection. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Leptospira interrogans serovar Copenhageni, the CRISPR-Cas I-B locus possesses a CRISPR array between the two independent cas -operons. Using the reverse transcription-PCR and the in vitro endoribonuclease assay with Cas6 of Leptospira (LinCas6), we account that the CRISPR is transcriptionally active and is conventionally processed. The LinCas6 specifically excises at one site within the synthetic cognate repeat RNA or the repeats of precursor-CRISPR RNA (pre-crRNA) in the sense direction. In contrast, the antisense repeat RNA is cleaved at multiple sites. LinCas6 functions as a single turnover endoribonuclease on its repeat RNA substrate, where substitution of one of predicted active site residues (His38) resulted in reduced activity. This study highlights the comprehensive understanding of the Leptospira CRISPR array transcription and its processing by LinCas6 that is central to RNA-mediated CRISPR-Cas I-B adaptive immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the multiferroic ceramics Bi 0.80 La 0.10 Ca 0.10 Fe 1-x Mn x O 3 (0.0 ≤x ≤ 0.12) are synthesized via conventional solid-state reaction route and their structural, Raman spectroscopy and magnetic properties are explored. Rietveld analysis carried out for all samples, revealed that the system exhibits c oe xistence of mainly two crystalline phases with symmetries R3c and Pbnm throughout the whole composition range. The presence of two structural phases is further supported by Raman spectroscopy analysis. The magnetic parameters, that is, magnetization, remanency, coercivity and squareness ratio are found to be enhanced by the Mn incorporation into Bi 0.80 La 0.10 Ca 0.10 FeO 3. This is basically due to the structural modification, breaking of the incommensurate spin structure and inter-grain magnetostatic interaction in the Bi 0.80 La 0.10 Ca 0.10 Fe 1-x Mn x O 3 ceramic samples. The exchange bias effect (~734 Oe) is observed for the Mn doped sample only with 6 at. %. Such high value may be extremely useful for technological applications including magnetoresistive read heads and sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiferroic BiFeO 3 -NiO (BFO-NiO) nanocomposites have been synthesized using sol-gel route and investigated via. the first principle DFT calculations, multiferroic-magnetoelectric response, and extremely low-temperature magnetic analysis. Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns along with Rietveld refinement data confirmed the phase purity viz. rhombohedral distorted perovskite BiFeO 3 - rock salt type NiO crystal structure and composite formation. Temperature dependent magnetic measurements confirmed the enhancement in the magnetism and the exchange bias effect due to the antiferromagnetic (AFM) and ferromagnetic (FM) exchange coupling interactions. Zero field cooled (ZFC) and field cooled (FC) magnetic results demonstrate the observation of typical superparamagnetic (SP) behavior for all the samples at room temperature whereas at low temperature a transition is reported from SP to quantum superparamagnetic (QSP) state through quantum tunneling of magnetic moment for all samples. Maximum polarization of 5.7μC/cm2 is observed for BFO-20% NiO composition. The noticeable change in the ferroelectric P vs E loops in the presence of external magnetic field confirm the evidence of multiferroic and magnetoelectric coupling behavior in the BFO-NiO nanocomposites. The DFT calculations have been done using WIEN2k software and found in well agreement with the reported experimental results. Further, the suitable temperature dependent magnetic squareness, evidence of considerable magnetoelectric coupling, exchange bias effect and SP nature make the BFO-NiO nanocomposites considerable suitable for various device applications such as information storage, magnetic random access memory, targeted drug delivery, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), bio-sensing and tailoring other photocatalytic applications. [Display omitted] • Experiment and first principal DFT study of multiferroic-NiO nanocomposites. • Rietveld refinement data confirmed the phase purity. • Confirmation of exchange bias effect, super-paramagnetic behavior. • Ferroelectric and magnetic measurements confirm evidence of multiferroic and magnetoelectric coupling. • Magnetic squareness indicates information storage application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A simple metal-free strategy for the synthesis of phenols. • An azopyrazole-linked Schiff base as organocatalyst. • Use of the green solvent system for the synthesis. A simple metal-free strategy for the synthesis of phenols from aryl and hetero aryl-boronic acids using arylazopyrazole linked o -hydroxyl Schiff base has been illustrated. These sustainable ipso -hydroxylations have very short reaction times, using aqueous H 2 O 2 as the oxidant in aqueous-alcoholic medium. The current protocol has been demonstrated to be effective with a variety of electron-rich and electron-deficient aromatic substrates and provides access to a wide range of phenols. This is the first time that an azoyrazole linked Schiff base has been used to increase the nucleophilicity of H 2 O 2 , in oxidative hydroxylation reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurately predicting and validating the power output of commercial solar PV power plants, remains an important research topic despite numerous studies already conducted. The precision and reliability of power prediction depends on the accuracy of the solar cell parameter values used in the model. A novel analytical technique has been developed in this study for PV power prediction, which employs one and two diode models with 3, 5, and 7 parameters. This new model only requires the manufacturer sheet data and has been validated through indoor and outdoor experiments. The performance of an experimental PV system is evaluated using the proposed solar cell models under varying irradiance and temperature levels. Additionally, the predicted output solar power was experimentally validated under real outdoor conditions in India with higher accuracy. The 7-parameter solar cell model is found to be the most accurate with the least RMSE of 0.02, followed by the 5 and 3-parameter models with RMSEs of 0.04 and 0.07, respectively. Compared to previous methods, the present new model predicts PV power with higher accuracy and lower percentage error. Finally, the study also identifies follow-up photovoltaic research areas. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Six new Organotellurium(IV) complexes of Thiophene based Schiff base were prepared. • The ligand and tellurium (IV) complexes were characterized by elemental analyses SEM, molar conductance and various spectral approach (FT-IR, UV–Vis, Mass, 1H NMR, 13C NMR). • DFT calculations were used for determining optimized geometry of all the complexes and their quantum mechanical parameters. • Protein-ligand interactions were analyzed through molecular docking study with receptor proteins of E. Coli , S. Aureus , C. Albicans. • Studies depicts that these complexes possess better antimicrobial and antibacterial properties as compared to the Schiff base ligand. Keeping in view, the widespread of contagious diseases, we have prepared an important class of organotellurium(IV) complexes to cure these ailments, comprising condensation reaction between 5-methyl-2-thiophene carboxaldehyde and p -aminophenol resulting in the synthesis of 5-methyl-2-thiophene carboxaldehyde p -aminophenol (5MTCPAP) Schiff base, which on further reactions with organotellurium(IV) chlorides (R 2 TeCl 3 and RTeCl 2) leads to 6 new hexacoordinated complexes similar to RTeCl 3.5MTCPAP and R 2 TeCl 2.5MTCPAP. These complexes were distinguished by numerous experimental and spectral approaches like FT-IR, Mass spectrometry, Powder XRD, DFT calculations, Molar conductance, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, TGA. These spectroscopic data, evidently proves that Schiff base ligand act as bidentate NS chelating agent. def2-SVP and def2-T2VPP is used for optimization and calculation of quantum mechanical parameters of geometries of 5MTCPAP and its Te(IV) complexes. According to the result of spectral studies, complexes tend to have distorted octahedral geometry. Computational studies and pharmacological activities were investigated for ligand and its tellurium(IV) complexes. The molecular docking of complexes executed on the field of action of E. coli (3 t88), S. aureus (4dxd), C. albicans (5fsa) illustrates assuring interactions and recommends decent biological response. DPPH assay was carried out to study the antioxidant study of Schiff base and complexes, taking ascorbic acid as standard. In-vitro pharmacological analysis (antimicrobial as well as antioxidant) designates that the Schiff base ligands upon complexation, exhibits improved biological effectiveness. In-silico ADMET studies were involved to examine therapeutic characteristics of 5MTCPAP and its organotellurium (IV) complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research article reports a novel off–the-shelf floating memristor circuit based on MOS transistor. The proposed memristor circuit comprises one NMOS, one PMOS and a constant current source. The designed circuit utilized intrinsic parasitic capacitance instead of conventional metal plate capacitor. Pinch hysteresis curve of the designed memristor is maintained for range of frequencies from 380 kHz to 1 GHz. Parameters of the proposed circuit may be tuned by varying the bias current of current source. Performance of the proposed circuit is verified by SPICE simulator using 0.18 µm CMOS technology parameter. In addition, Process corner variation, temperature variation, supply voltage variation and variation in size of transistor are investigated to justify the robustness of the designed circuit. Total power consumption of the designed memristor is 4 µW. Chip area of the proposed circuit is 336.55 µm2. Moreover, applications of the proposed circuit are well described with memristor based Schmitt Trigger circuit and Wien Bridge oscillator circuit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of a tiny amount of polymers (a few parts per million) in a fluid dramatically reduces turbulent drag. For this reason, polymer additives have been proposed to be used in flood remediation: in an open channel at a fixed flow rate, the decrease in friction due to polymer addition is expected to lead to a decrease in water height in the channel. However, in a recent field experiment, a counterintuitive transient increase in water height has been observed downstream of polymer injection, with the amplitude and duration of the height increases being the largest far downstream of the injection point. We numerically investigate the effect of polymer additives on the water height in a long channel using the shallow water equations augmented with an evolution equation for polymer concentration that incorporates turbulent dispersion and polymer degradation, as well as a friction coefficient that decreases with increasing polymer concentration. The model predicts the existence of a region originating at the polymer injection point and propagating downstream at the fluid velocity in which the height overshoots before decreasing. This region spreads and grows in amplitude with a downstream position, consistent with experimental observations. We elucidate the mechanism of this unexpected rise in water height in the channel and illustrate it with a simple model. The reduction in friction due to polymer injection leads to fluid acceleration. Therefore, the fast-moving fluid upstream runs into slow-moving fluid downstream, leading to the transient "piling up" of the fluid just downstream of the region of polymer-laden fluid, and hence to the emergence of the height overshoot. We also suggest a technique to mitigate the water rise, as this is detrimental to practical applications. • Polymer additives may aid in mitigating flooding by increasing drainage capacity. • Polymer injection in an open channel exhibits a transient water height overshoot. • Modified shallow water equations capture all the aspects of water height dynamics. • The interplay between fluid inertia and drag reduction induces height overshoot. • Along with the mechanism of overshoot, we describe techniques to mitigate it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • High entropy based material can boost the materials science with unusual properties. • Selective doping at A or/and B site can design the new class of materials. • New opportunities towards high entropy based materials are also focussed. The concept of high-entropy materials appeared first in 2004 when Y. Wu et al. made the first-ever high-entropy nitride films. With continuation in 2015, high-entropy ceramics were introduced by C.M. Rost. et al. for the very first time. High entropy ceramics (HECs) are novel materials having five or more than five cations or anions. The basic idea behind HECs is to induce high configurational entropy, which show unique properties. The compositional and structural diversity of HECs, along with having a bandgap, makes them potential candidates for a wide range of applications. Such diversity (in crystal and electronic structure) opens a new door for tuning the properties through band structure engineering. Recently, HECs have achieved much attention among scientists due to the unique combination of different properties offered by these materials resulting from the high degree of disorder and complexity at the atomic level. In this featured article, we critically review some recent advancements that may find use in a wide range of technological applications and the future scope of such a fascinating emerging and fast-growing field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radiation induced natural convection has been extensively researched due to its rife presence in numerous natural flows. Recently, it has seen renewed and resurged interests in context of understanding the photo-thermal energy conversion and its redistribution in direct absorption solar collectors (DASCs). The present work serves to further this objective; in particular, convection induced by direct interaction of the fluid and radiation (irradiated from side) has been critically and comprehensively investigated. In addition to DASCs, the present study has significant applications in various other fields such as nuclear power plants, building design, and laser fusion. A detailed mechanistic theoretical modeling framework has been developed to quantify the impact of various fluid properties and incident flux parameters; viz., Rayleigh number (102 to 108 in the laminar regime), Prandtl number (0.01–1000), optical thickness (0.1–100), convective heat loss from the transmitting wall (controlled in the simulation by varying the modified Biot number, Bi* from 0 to 5), aspect ratio (0.1–10). Furthermore, in addition to magnitude of the incident flux, its distribution (i.e., whether uniform or linearly varying) has also been dealt with. Another distinguishing aspect of the study is the use of the "heatlines" to visualize the flow of energy as it occurs during convection caused due to volumetric heating. Detailed analysis reveals that, while a conduction dominated regime is apparent at Ra ≤ 102, a transition regime occurs at 103 ≤ Ra ≤ 104, and convection is the domineering mechanism when Ra > 104. At higher Rayleigh numbers, the pattern of heatlines begins to resemble that of the streamlines. Nature of the flux distribution at the side wall (along the depth direction) significantly impacts the temperature distribution. Furthermore, there exits an optimum value of optical thickness (for a given Rayleigh number), which ensures minimum heat loss and maximum useful energy gain. Overall, through the present work, we have been able to decipher key design and operational parameters (and quantify their impacts) which dictate the momentum and heat transport in side-irradiated volumetrically heated cavities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Ester functionalized imidazolium geminis have been synthesized. • These imidazolium surfactants have lower cmc values compared to conventional cationic surfactants. • These geminis demonstrate remarkable thermal stability, which decreases as spacer length increases. • Display Non-cytotoxicity on C6 Glioma cell. Ester-functionalized gemini imidazolium amphiphiles appended with different spacers have been developed. The desired structures were confirmed using mass spectroscopy and NMR techniques. With the help of tensiometry, conductometry, and spectrofluorometry, the investigated amphiphiles have been characterized for a variety of physical properties including Gibbs free energy of adsorption (ΔG0 ads), C 20 (surfactant concentration required to reduce the surface tension of the solvent by 20 mN•m−1), maximum surface excess (Ʈ max), critical micelle concentration (cmc), Gibbs free energy of the micellization (ΔG0 mic) and A min (minimum surface area/molecule). Dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurements were taken to examine aggregate size distribution and zeta potential. Thermal decomposition temperature of investigated amphiphiles was determined from thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) analysis. By using the MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay, the toxicity of examined amphiphiles towards the C6 glioma cell line was assessed. The physicochemical study of these surfactants revealed that varying spacer length considerably affects the properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nerve agents are among the most dangerous chemical known to the human being. On account of an incident by utilizing nerve agents, the fabrication of a cost-effective and ready-to-use device for the convenient identification of nerve agents is needed. Herein, we developed a easy-to-use, portable sensor kit based on NiCr 2 O 4 artificial nanozyme mimic to quantify diethyl-chloro-phosphate (DCP). The synthesized NiCr 2 O 4 artificial nanozyme showed good oxidase and peroxidase-like catalytic activity for the conversion of colorless tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) to bluish-green oxTMB. It is recognized that the presence of DCP can assist the oxidation of TMB due to the easy binding of DCP with the amine group of TMB and enhance the catalytic process. Therefore, this mechanism is utilized to fabricate a colorimetric sensor kit for naked-eye quantification of DCP, which gives yellowish color after interaction with oxTMB. Furthermore, the practicability of a portable sensor kit was performed for the quantification of DCP in soil and water samples, and results showed a detection limit of 15.4 nM (3σ method). Thus, the proposed portable sensor kit's naked eye detection paves the way for an affordable and practical platform for the easy-to-use, reliable, and quick colorimetric quantification of DCP for environment monitoring. [Display omitted] • NiCr2O4 nanozymes was synthesized utilizing hydrothermal method, which possesses enhanced peroxidase mimetics activity. • NiCr2O4 nanozymes was utilized as a colorimetric quantification method to selectively detect nerve agent mimic. • Easy to utilized and cost-effective paper based Portable Sensor Kit has been fabricated for on-site monitoring of DCP. • Portable Sensor Kit has shown fast response (<1 min) towards DCP with LOD of 15.4 nm in environment sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Four different receiver design configurations considered for modeling. • Model accounts for coupled transport phenomena among the constituent elements. • Volumetric absorption has 45–51% higher efficiency relative to surface absorption. • Optimal range of operating and design parameters delineated for solar thermal systems. Last decade has seen tremendous progress in the development of nanoparticle dispersion based volumetrically absorbing solar thermal systems. However, for these systems to compete with their surface absorption counterparts, it is imperative to reach an optimum receiver design. Optimization in turn necessitates accurate modeling of highly coupled transport phenomena involved in these systems. The present work represents a significant step ahead in this direction, wherein, a comprehensive and mechanistic theoretical framework is developed which is robust enough to account for coupled transport phenomena and orders of magnitude of operating parameters for a host of receiver design configurations. Moreover, equivalent surface absorption based systems are also modeled to provide a comparison between volumetric and surface absorption processes under similar operating conditions. Finally, the present work serves to define optimal performance domains of these solar thermal systems, particularly in the laminar flow regime (100 < Re < 1600) and over a wide range of solar concentration ratios (5–100) and inlet fluid temperatures (293 K–593 K). Performance characteristics reveal that particularly at high solar concentration ratios, volumetric absorption-based receivers could have 45%–51% higher thermal efficiencies compared to their surface absorption-based counterparts. Further, this could translate into a significant increase (by 15%–18%) in overall energy conversion efficiency of concentrated solar power plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• State of bypass diode governs temperature distribution in shaded PV module. • Developed electro-thermal PSPICE model to estimate temperature distribution. • Thermal shade impact factor has been derived to estimate temperature distribution. • Under narrow shading, high cell temperature observed due to bypass diode activation. Partial shading of photovoltaic (PV) system is commonly observed in the outdoor field conditions. The non-uniform illumination causes mismatch in the electrical output between the cells, which results in a non-uniform temperature distribution that can have an instantaneous effect on power and long term effect on reliability. The objective of present work is to study the temperature distribution in a partially shaded PV module under the inactive and active state of bypass diode. In this work, an electro-thermal PSPICE model has been developed to estimate temperature distribution in a shaded PV module. The temperature distribution in shaded module is analyzed in terms of number of shaded cells and their shaded area. An experimental setup has been designed to validate the developed model. To analyze the impact of different shading conditions in outdoor, thermal shade impact factor has been derived in the present study. The thermal shade impact factor can be used to estimate temperature gradient and its distribution in a shaded PV module, when the state of bypass diode changes from inactive to active. The results show that shading conditions that have thermal shade impact factor less than −1 will result in amplification of temperature gradient, when the state of bypass diode changes from inactive to active. This will lead to a manifold increase in the temperature of shaded cell. On the other hand, shading conditions which have thermal shade impact factor greater than −1 exhibit higher temperature gradient when bypass diode is inactive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive study was conducted to analyze the structural, dielectric, impedance spectroscopy and conductivity of Bi 0.95 Gd 0.05 FeO 3 –BaTiO 3 (BGF-BT) solid solutions, synthesized via. solid state reaction route. BGF-BT solid solutions show pseudo-cubic structure corroborated by X-ray diffraction patterns and Rietveld analysis. Scanning electron microscopy morphology confirmed that the average grain size decreases with an increase in BT content into BGF. A further insight into the valence chemical states was provided by the core and survey scan of binding energy using the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The spin-orbit interaction energy in BGF-0.3BT for Fe2p and Bi4f was estimated at 13.3 eV and 5.3 eV respectively. The decrease in oxygen vacancies on incorporation of BT into BGF is also verified after analyzing O 1s core spectra. Raman Spectroscopy also confirmed the chemical bonding and structure of BGF-BT solid solution samples. Maximum magnetization of 1.4047 emu/g was observed for BGF-0.1BT as validated from magnetization hysteresis loops and ferroelectric P vs. E loop measurement confirms the ferroelectric nature of the BGF-BT samples. Analysis of dielectric properties at fixed frequencies confirmed the evidence of magnetoelectric coupling through the broad dielectric anomaly near the reported magnetic transition temperature in BGF-BT samples. The dielectric and impedance spectroscopy studies also confirmed the non-Debye type relaxation phenomenon in the BGF-BT samples. Conductivity measurements followed Jonscher's power law whose experimental fitting determined the pre-factor (A) i.e., polarizability strength and frequency exponent (n). Low activation energy values, 0.187 eV, 0.108 eV and 0.131 eV for BGF-0.1BT, BGF-0.2BT and BGF-0.3BT solid solutions, respectively were observed, show the indication of mobility of defects present in lattice and associated with the hopping conduction mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Modafinil overuse may pose adverse metabolic repercussions. • Modafinil initiated hyperglycaemia and dyslipidaemia in rats. • It attenuated oxidative stress and cholinergic hypoactivity in the brain of rats. • Modafinil enhanced short-term memory but has no effect on long-term memory. • Sympathetic overstimulation is implicated in influence of modafinil in rats. Modafinil is approved for narcolepsy and achieved high success in off-label indications in memory-related disorders. However, chronic indiscriminate use of modafinil imposes several health hazards like hyperglycaemia, obesity and metabolic syndrome, owing to impairment of sleep-wake cycle, circadian-rhythm, and neurotransmission. The present protocol elucidates the effects of modafinil per se and diabetic complications apropos. Modafinil (100 and 200 mg/kg) was administered in rats from day 5–26. To induce type-2 diabetes, streptozotocin (STZ) was given on day 1, and blood glucose assessed on day 5. CPP (combination propranolol and phentolamine) was administered to antagonize sympathetic activity. After evaluation of cognitive functions, serum lipid profile, and biomarkers of oxidative stress and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity were assessed. Subacute dosing of modafinil significantly elevated blood glucose levels, albeit considerably less than diabetic group, and attenuated brain oxidative stress and AChE activity. Modafinil caused significant dyslipidaemia, increased body weight, whereas modestly altered abdominal circumference (AC) and thoracic circumference (TC) in rats. Significant hyperglycaemia, derangement of serum lipid-profile, brain lipid peroxidation, cholinergic hypofunction, and decrease in body weight and AC TC was noted in diabetic rats. Modafinil (100 mg/kg) significantly potentiated the hyperglycaemia and dyslipidaemia, however, attenuated oxidative stress and AChE activity in diabetic rats. Modafinil increased short-term (working) memory but not long-term spatial memory in normal and diabetic rats. CPP infusion attenuated these effects of modafinil. Subacute dosing of modafinil differentially modulates long-term and short-term memory subtypes, and also predisposes towards metabolic derangements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective valorization of nutrient rich wastes for the fertilizer application is a promising method towards sustainable development. Nutrient rich wastes were mainly researched for production of biochar straight (single nutrient) fertilizer through slow pyrolysis. Appropriate waste feedstocks and cleaner thermal processing need to be explored for value addition. In present study, potassium (K) containing banana peduncle and phosphorus (P) rich effluent sludge (chemical fertilizer industry) wastes co-utilized for development of biochar complex fertilizer. Different thermal treatments viz slow pyrolysis (700 °C) and thermal plasma processing (1200–1500 °C) were trialed for production of biochars with desired characteristics. Plasma processing produced biochar with higher total P (8.53 – 11.81 %) and K (17.13 – 21.9 %) than slow pyrolysis (P-4.2 % and K-11.5 %). In contrast, slow pyrolysis resulted higher biochar yield (42 %) and total carbon content (34.1 %) than in plasma (28 – 34 % and 10.9 – 21.8 %). Bio-available phosphorus of effluent sludge (600 mg/kg) enhanced to 4500 – 6000 and 5600 mg/kg in plasma and slow pyrolysis biochars. XRD analysis indicates the presence of P as hydroxyapatite in sludge and biochars. The K was dominantly present as kalicinite (KHCO 3) in slow pyrolysis and fairchildite [K 2 Ca (CO 3) 2 ] specifically in plasma biochar. Biochars contained lesser total (0.18 –1.55 %) and leachable (0.014 – 0.034 %) fluoride than effluent sludge i.e. 3.45 and 0.076 %. These results demonstrate utilization potential of aforementioned wastes and thermal processes for the production of K and P enriched biochar complex fertilizer. Its application will be suitable for non-food crops and degraded soil reclamation due to toxic constituents. Image 1 • Production of P and K containing biochar complex fertilizer by thermal treatment. • P was present as hydroxyapatite mineral in both slow pyrolysis and plasma biochar. • Bio-available P fraction was substantially higher in biochar than sludge. • K containing Kalicinite and Fairchildite minerals formed in biochars. • Fluoride content in biochar was lower than effluent sludge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chitinaceous biomaterials received great attention towards producing functional transformed products and biofuel. Chitin biorefinery is an emerging concept that can utilise different components present in crustacean shell biomass and their intermediate byproducts, escalating value of derivatives from the biomass feedstock. It can also assist in maximising the energy potential of organic wastes while addressing waste management and greenhouse gas emissions issues. Limited literature is available on the chitin biorefinery concept aiming towards concerted translation of chitinous residual resources into bioactives and bioenergy in the circular economy realm. Chitin could efficiently be converted into chitosan, oligomers, and glucosamine by employing two-stage conversion process consisted of pretreatment and enzyme hydrolysis. The review provides detailed knowledge on the development of chitin biorefinery, recent advances of chitin-transformed products, and their applications. The study will also provide an insight into the systematic development of various production approaches viz. traditional chemical, enzymatic, green chemicals and chemoenzymatic for the generation of different transformed products. The article also presented detailed review on the progress made and prospects of the research in the bioenergy generation from chitinous biomass and the market status of the chitin biorefinery. Moreover, a range of acetylated and deacetylated products of the chitin biorefinery in terms of properties, production, applications, and prospects have been reviewed, which would be beneficial in a better understanding of the chitin-derived value-added products. Further, the less studied aspect of the chitin biorefinery, i.e., bioenergy, has also been discussed to determine chitin's efficiency in competing with lignocellulose. [Display omitted] • Chitin biomass-based biorefinery for renewable energy and chemicals production. • Sustainable translation of chitin biomass into bioactives and bioenergy. • Avenues for yield enhancement and application of bioactives. • Endowment of biorefinery would help in attainment of sustainable development goals 7, 12, 14. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Petrochemicals are the primary feedstocks for the manufacture of plastics. • The plastic wastes can be retrieved back to value added petrochemicals. • Plastic-based petrochemicals include crude oil, gases, hydrogen and aromatic char. • Plastic conversion technologies include thermochemical, catalytic and chemolysis. • Environmental impacts and economic of the processes need further evaluation. Plastic production and its unplanned management and disposal, has been shown to pollute terrestrial, aquatic, and atmospheric environments. Petroleum-derived plastics do not decompose and tend to persist in the surrounding environment for longer time. Plastics can be ingested and accumulate into the tissues of both terrestrial and aquatic animals, which can impede their growth and development. Petrochemicals are the primary feedstocks for the manufacture of plastics. The plastic wastes can be retrieved back for conversion to value added petrochemicals including aromatic char, hydrogen, synthesis gas, and bio-crude oil using various technologies including thermochemical, catalytic conversion and chemolysis. This review focusses on technologies, opportunities, challenges and outlooks of retrieving back plastic wastes for conversion to value added petrochemicals. The review also explores both the technical and management approaches for conversion of plastic wastes to petrochemicals in regard to commercial feasibility, and economic and environmental sustainability. Further, this review work provides a detailed discussion on opportunities and challenges associated with recent thermochemical and catalytic conversion technologies adopted for retrieving plastic waste to fuels and chemicals. The review also recommends prospects for future research to improve the processes and cost-efficiency of promising technologies for conversion of plastic wastes to petrochemicals. It is envisioned that this review would overcomes the knowledge gaps on conversion technologies and further contribute in emerging sustainable approaches for exploiting plastic wastes for value-added products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The outcome of incorporation of lead in fluorite structured thoria in terms of structure and electrical properties have been discussed. Samples with stoichiometries Th 1- x Pb x O 2-δ (x = 0.00 to 0.70) have been synthesized by a solution combustion route and characterized extensively. The maximum solubility limit of lead in fluorite structured thoria was deduced to be 50 mol % from powder X-ray diffraction and Raman spectral measurements. The micro strain of the fluorite lattice increased with the introduction of lead. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis of Th 0·50 Pb 0·50 O 2-δ showed the existence of lead in both +2 and + 4 oxidation states. The ratio between the intensities of peaks located at 548 cm−1 and T 2g mode (I 548 /I T2g) was found to increase with increase in lead content in the samples and quantified utilizing grain size and half width half maxima. The defect concentrations in these samples have been estimated in the range 1017-1020 cm−3. The direct band gap values shifted from the insulating regime (for thoria) to semiconducting regime (3.4–2 eV) for lead substituted samples. From the frequency dependent conductivity plots of Th 1- x Pb x O 2-δ samples over temperature range (323–773 K), highest conductivity of 1.62 × 10−6 Scm−1 was obtained for Th 0·50 Pb 0·50 O 2-δ at 773 K. From the impedance measurements of lead substituted thoria under flowing oxygen (1 atm), thermal motion of oxygen ion vacancies was found responsible for the observed conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The performance analysis of utility-scale canal-top PV system has been carried out. • Experimental results show the low performance of PV module on the water surface. • High degradation rate has been found in the present 10 MWp canal-top PV system. • Shunt resistance degradation of PV module has been observed on the water surface. • Evaporation reduction by PV cover on the water surface is found to be 29.1%. The canal-top PV systems have different environmental conditions than the land-based system which may affect its performance and degradation rate. The performance and reliability of PV modules on the canal and reservoir are critical for ensuring the long lifetime, improvement and economic viability of the canal-top PV systems. The long-term performance analysis of the canal-top PV systems and their comparison with conventional land-based PV systems is not reported widely. The objective of the present study is to assess the suitability of PV systems on the canals for their large scale installations and reliable operation. In order to understand the long-term performance behavior of the PV systems on the canals, the performance and degradation analysis of world's first commercial multicrystalline silicon (Multi-Si) based 10 MWp canal-top PV system installed in the Indian state of Gujarat has been carried out for their initial 2 years 8 months operation. An experimental setup was fabricated to compare the performance of canal-top PV systems with the conventional land-based PV systems and measurements were carried out in the outdoor conditions for six months in the outdoor laboratory of Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, India. To achieve a better understanding of the performance and degradation of PV modules, a single-diode PV model was developed to characterize the PV modules. Furthermore, the evaporation loss reduction by canal-top PV systems has not been reported widely and has been experimentally quantified under this study. The annual average performance ratio and degradation rate of 10 MWp canal-top PV system are found to be 77.85% and 1.93 ± 0.28%/year, respectively. Experimental comparison of water tank-based PV module and land-based PV module shows that the average performance ratio of Multi-Si module on the water surface is about 1.5% lower compared to land-based Multi-Si module which is contrary to the general perception of higher power production by the Multi-Si PV systems on the canals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract A copper(II) complex has been synthesized and the molecular structure of the complex reveals a distorted square pyramidal based geometry in Cu(II) atom confirmed by X-ray crystallography technique. Complex has a superior ability towards DNA and proteins. This complex exhibit a significant IC 50 value (79.05 μM), and efficiently kill the cancer cell. Highlights • The complex adopt a distorted square pyramidal geometry with CuN 2 O 2 Cl chromophore. • Complex quench the intensity of both proteins via a static quenching mode. • The complex intercalate into the base pairs of DNA via intercalative binding mode. • The copper(II) complex showed a potential cytotoxicity with IC 50 value 79.05 μM. Abstract A copper(II) complex with the first antibacterial quinolone drug nalidixic acid (=nal) has been synthesized and characterized in the presence of N-donor heterocyclic ligand 2,2′-bipyridyl (=bpy). The molecular structure of the complex reveals a distorted square pyramidal based geometry in Cu(II) atom which is confirmed by the X-ray crystallography technique. Study of the antibacterial activity showed that the complex exhibited promising antibacterial activity against both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The binding affinity of the complex towards calf thymus DNA (CT DNA) has been investigated by electronic absorption, circular dichroism and fluorescence spectroscopy techniques. The binding results revealed an intercalation binding mode of the complex with CT DNA. This complex has a superior ability to quench the intrinsic fluorescence of both HSA and BSA proteins via a static quenching mode and it has been observed at two different temperatures (30 and 40 °C). Molecular docking analysis reveals that the interaction of the complex with proteins was stabilized by hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interaction. Furthermore, the complex was subjected to cytotoxicity tests against human breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7) and showed potential cytotoxicity with IC 50 value of 79.05 μM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The stability issue is very critical for organic hybrid perovskite CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 to be used in solar cell applications; whereas CsPbI 3 is reported to be more stable than that of CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3. In the present work, we attempt to substitute Cs+ in the organic hybrid perovskite CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 matrix to form Cs x (CH 3 NH 3) 1-x PbI 3 with 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.4 in ambient conditions i.e., at room temperature and in air via solid state reaction route. The structural studies reveal presence of both CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 (tetragonal, I 4/ mcm) and CsPbI 3 (orthorhombic, Pnma) phases for x > 0. It is appearing that partial solid solution formation has occurred up to x = 0.2 but for x > 0.2, the composite formation dominates. The optical band gap is slightly increased by ∼0.02 eV with substitution. These compounds keep the basic feature of parent CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 along with stability of CsPbI 3. Highlights • Composite formation of Cs x (CH 3 NH 3) (1-x) PbI 3 processed via cold sintering method. • Composite formation is studied using structural and optical properties. • Further, this composite formation has also been verified thermodynamically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]