Search

An investigation was carried out into the structural performance of concrete columns reinforced with various shapes of glass-fibre-reinforced polymer bars and stainless steel stirrups under concentric loading at ultimate limit state. Six square-section columns were cast to investigate the effects of different reinforcement types. The results showed failure modes depended on reinforcement material, shape and stirrup spacing. Across all specimens, steel-reinforced columns had higher loading capacity and better ductile performance, followed by L-shape and then round polymer bars. Smaller spiral spacing increased confinement efficiency and ductility and provided sufficient restraint against longitudinal polymer bar buckling. Finite-element models were also calibrated, and the results were in close agreement with experimental measurements. Based on the calibrated models, numerical parameters were studied to understand further the behaviour of composite columns reinforced with glass-fibre-reinforced polymer.

The stratosphere is one of the constituents of thermal structure of the atmosphere. The maximum concentration of ozone is found at the stratospheric region where it is interacted by many species including chemical and physical processes. Atmosphere as a whole is an open system that is regarded as a non linear system and that seems to be complex. Therefore, a non-linear trend is plausible to explain phenomenon of ozone layer depletion (OLD). In this manuscript we have paid our attention in the analysis of the major portion of historic data on stratospheric O3based on ground-based measurements by the Dobson Spectrophotometer. In this communication we have estimated parameters for describing non-linearity in the process using polynomial trend functions and predicted values are calculated for the period from 1960 to 1999. Future values for ozone depths are computed till 2006 and compared with the minor portion of the data set.

In the present research work, a new series of N-(substituted-phenyl)-3-(4-phenyl-1-piperazinyl)propanamides were synthesized. The synthesis was initiated by the coupling of different aromatic amines with 3-bromopropanoyl chloride in aqueous basic medium, to synthesize different electrophiles with good yields. These electrophiles were further reacted with 1-phenylpiperazine to yield the desired compounds, N-(substituted-phenyl)-3-(4-phenyl-1-piperazinyl)propanamides as depicted in scheme 1. The structural confirmation of all the synthesized compounds was corroborated by IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, HMBC and CHN analysis data. The in vitro inhibitory potential of these propanamides was evaluated against alkaline phosphatase enzyme and it was explored that all these molecules exhibit potent inhibition relative to the standard used. The Kinetics mechanism analyzed by Lineweaver-Burk plots which exposed that N-(4-ethylphenyl)-3-(4-phenyl-1-piperazinyl)propanamide inhibited this enzyme competitively by forming an enzyme-inhibitor complex. Moreover, these compounds were studied for cytotoxic behaviour by hemolytic activity, whereby it was avowed that nearly all these propanamides disclosed low cytotoxicity. In addition, kinetic analysis were also carried out to understand the mode of inhibition for these compounds. The in silico investigation of these compounds was also in agreement with the in vitro results. So, it was envisaged that these derivatives might lead to further research gateways for obtaining better and safe as nontoxic medicinal scaffolds for dealing with the alkaline phasphatase related ailments such as bone diseases, diabetes, prostatic cancer and liver dysfunction.

Every year, tuberculosis affects the lungs of millions of people and rifampicin is the commonly used medicine for its treatment due to its antibiotic nature. The frequent use of rifampicin may lead to its increased concentration in the water resources. This research work is focused on the cloud point extraction (CPE) procedure for the preconcentration of rifampicin prior to its determination in water. The UV/vis spectrophotometric method was adapted for the measurement of rifampicin content after the phase separation. Triton-X 100 was used as the nonionic surfactant which contains hydrophilic polyethylene chain feasible for the extraction of analyte. Various analytical parameters that can affect the extraction efficacy were optimized to achieve linearity of the proposed method in the concentration range of 3.54–81.41 mgL–1. The Limit of detection and quantification were 1.261 and 4.212 mgL–1, respectively. The Preconcentration factor was 40 with relative standard deviation (%RSD) of 2.504%. The standard addition methodology was adopted for the validation of this procedure and effectively applied for the determination of rifampicin in real wastewater samples.

Deficiency of Vitamin D is very common in Pakistan, even among healthy asymptomatic individuals [1], [2]. Recent studies have shown that the risk of contracting COVID-19 was increased to two-fold, and consequent mortality to 4-fold if the person is Vitamin D deficient [3]. Health care workers including the nursing and administration staff are at a high risk of contracting SARS-CoV2 due to increased regular exposure in a health care setting [4]. Consequently, a convergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, the deficiency of Vitamin D, and the increased exposure can render the health care workers at an additional risk to COVID-19 infection. Our objective was to determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in healthy asymptomatic front-line health care workers and to analyze the change in serum level by loading oral dose of SunnyD STAT softgel capsules (200000 IU Vitamin D3). We followed single centered, cross-sectional, cohort study with subsequent randomized placebo-controlled design for supplementation and follow up. Serum level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) was the main outcome variable, with anthropometric data, nutritional intake, and lifestyle variables analyzed for potential association as risk factors for the outcome. Severe Vitamin D deficiency was found to be prevalent among front line health care workers in this urban hospital-based sample. Serum level of Vitamin D was found to be significantly associated with designation and presence of high blood pressure. The likelihood of increased serum Vitamin D levels was observed with increasing monthly income, higher designation, increasing age and supplementation intake. Mean increase in the serum 25(OH)D3 level after 2 doses of SunnyD STAT softgel capsule (200000 IU Vitamin D3) was 34.22 ng/ml. Public health interventions regarding Vitamin D supplementation and awareness are needed, especially amid COVID-19 pandemicDeficiency of Vitamin D is very common in Pakistan, even among healthy asymptomatic individuals [1], [2]. Recent studies have shown that the risk of contracting COVID-19 was increased to two-fold, and consequent mortality to 4-fold if the person is Vitamin D deficient [3]. Health care workers including the nursing and administration staff are at a high risk of contracting SARS-CoV2 due to increased regular exposure in a health care setting [4]. Consequently, a convergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, the deficiency of Vitamin D, and the increased exposure can render the health care workers at an additional risk to COVID-19 infection. Our objective was to determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in healthy asymptomatic front-line health care workers and to analyze the change in serum level by loading oral dose of SunnyD STAT softgel capsules (200000 IU Vitamin D3). We followed single centered, cross-sectional, cohort study with subsequent randomized placebo-controlled design for supplementation and follow up. Serum level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) was the main outcome variable, with anthropometric data, nutritional intake, and lifestyle variables analyzed for potential association as risk factors for the outcome. Severe Vitamin D deficiency was found to be prevalent among front line health care workers in this urban hospital-based sample. Serum level of Vitamin D was found to be significantly associated with designation and presence of high blood pressure. The likelihood of increased serum Vitamin D levels was observed with increasing monthly income, higher designation, increasing age and supplementation intake. Mean increase in the serum 25(OH)D3 level after 2 doses of SunnyD STAT softgel capsule (200000 IU Vitamin D3) was 34.22 ng/ml. Public health interventions regarding Vitamin D supplementation and awareness are needed, especially amid COVID-19 pandemic.

Armatans A (1) and B (2), new isoflavans, have been isolated from the EtOAc-soluble fraction of the MeOH extract of Colutea armata Hemsl. & Lace, along with sativan (3), 6-hydroxyisosativan (4), ferulic acid (5), and caffeic acid (6), isolated for the first time from this species. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic techniques including MS and 2D NMR spectroscopy. The new compounds 1 and 2 showed significant antimicrobial activity.

Due to the rapid increase in power conversion efficiency (PCE) of organic–inorganic perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and exceeding the PCE achieved in conventional single-junction silicon solar cells this technology has become the focus of research. The quality of perovskite film plays a vital role in developing the high performance PSCs and depends upon many factors, such as, composition of the perovskite, growth method, drying temperature, etc. In this work, hole transport material free (HTM-free) glass/FTO/c-TiO2/m-TiO2/m-ZrO2/Carbon electrode based PSCs are fabricated. Effect of prevoskite drying temperature on the photovoltaic performance and impedance spectra of these devices is studied by varying temperature from 50 to 70 °C. The photovoltaic and impedance spectra of the devices are observed to be highly dependent on the drying temperature. The best power conversion efficiency is obtained for drying temperature of 60 °C. These results show that determining the optimum drying temperature is crucial to ensure formation of perovskite crystals, highest surface coverage of perovskite, highest light harvesting and successful charge extraction from the fabricated devices in order to achieve highest performance.

A layer-by-layer titanium (IV) chloride treatment was applied on different layers of TiO2 in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The effects were analysed and compared with standard untreated devices. A significant increase in short-circuit current density (JSC) was observed by employing layer-by-layer TiCl4 treatment of TiO2 in DSSCs. This increase of JSC is attributed to the increased inter-particle connectivity and increase in TiO2 nanoparticle size, resulting in better electron transfer and a lower charge carrier recombination rate. The DSSC fabricated with layer-by-layer-treated TiO2 achieved power conversion efficiency of 8.3%, which is significantly higher than the 6.7% achieved for the DSSC fabricated without TiCl4 treatment. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was performed to assess the better performance of the device fabricated with TiCl4 treatment. Atomic force microscopy and surface roughness were studied to visualize and statistically determine the function of TiCl4 treatment on different layers of TiO2. Transient photocurrent and transient photovoltage measurements were also performed to gain insight into interfacial charge carrier recombination.

The failure of most reinforced concrete structures is due to inadequate seismic design and detailing, poor construction techniques and/or the use of low-strength concrete (LSC). Retrofitting such s...

With the increase in demand of flexible pavements, due to their various advantages over rigid pavements, there is a need to improve the aging properties of the bitumen in order to enhance its resistance against different types of distresses such as rutting, fatigue cracking. This research focus on the use of one polymeric additive Polyethylene (PE) and one non polymeric additive Sulphur (S) to enhance the aging resistance of asphalt. These modifiers are evaluated for their effect on the aging mechanism in comparison with the unmodified bitumen. Aging of the original and modified bitumen is realized by the Rolling Thin Film Oven (RTFO) and Pressure Aging Vessel (PAV). Physical properties of the aged and unaged asphalt binders are evaluated through empirical testing like penetration, ductility and softening point test. Optimum content of the modifiers is obtained by comparing the results of conventional properties before and after aging. Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) are performed to bring out the chemical and morphological changes in the modified binder. Rheological properties of modified asphalt are evaluated with the help of a Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR). Results indicate improvement in physical properties of the modified asphalt even after the aging. Penetration index increased which shows less temperature susceptibility of the modified binders. Carbonyl and sulfoxide index are used as aging indicators which shows reduction in case of modified samples. Decrease in the sulfoxide and carbonyl index indicates better oxidation resistance of the modified samples. Morphological analysis proves good compatibility of the modifiers with asphalt binders. DSR results indicate improved viscoelastic properties of the modified binders. Hence it can be concluded that Polyethylene and Sulphur are good options to improve the aging resistance of asphalt in terms of their cost effectiveness and environment friendly nature.

In the present study an effort has been made to optimize the in vitro regeneration protocol for Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of Brassica juncea, because of its importance as oilseed crops. The highest callus induction frequency of 87% was observed on MS (Murashige and Skoog, 1962) medium supplemented with 4 µM 6-benzyladenine (BA) after four weeks of culture period. Subculturing of organogenic calli in MS media with a similar hormonal composition resulted in shoot organogenesis after six weeks of culture cultivation. The highest shoot induction frequency (92%) was recorded on MS medium containing 4 µM BA in combination with 1 µM of α-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA). Further, well-developed roots were formed in MS media augmented with 6 µM of Indole acetic acid (IAA) in combination with 1 µM Kinetin (Kn). Cotyledon explants were exploited in vitro for the successful transformation of B. juncea. A binary vector comprised of the Euonymus alatus diacylglycerol acetyltransferase (EaDAcT) gene under the transcriptional control of a glycinin promoter and with a basta selection marker was introduced into A. tumefaciens strain GV3101 via electroporation. EaDAcT gene is responsible for unusual triacylglycerol’s production where the sn-3 position is esterified with acetate instead of the long-chain fatty acid found in the triacylglycerol’s. The highest regeneration frequency (100%) of transgenic shoots was observed on MS medium supplemented with 4 µM BA plus 1 µM NAA in the presence of 25 mg l−1 basta and 160 mg l−1 timintin. The efficiency of stable transformation was found to be approximately 7% in the transgenic plants. Moreover, the transformed regenerated shoots were confirmed by PCR analysis using EaDAcT gene-specific primers. Keywords: Brassica juncea, Callus, Agrobacterium tumefaciens, Transgenic plants, Biodiesel

Turpesteryl ester (1), a new steroid, has been isolated from the ethyl acetate-soluble subfraction of the methanolic extract of Ipomoea turpethum (L.) R.Br., along with stigmasterol, β-sitostenone, rosmarinic acid, and methyl rosmarinate, reported for the first time from this species. Their structures were elucidated with the help of spectroscopic techniques including 2D NMR. Compound 1 showed significant antibacterial activity against two Gram positive and three Gram negative bacterial strains.

The current research was intended to establish the impact of Silibinin nanoparticles (SB-APSP) produced by the antisolvent precipitation with a syringe pump (APSP). The in-vivo bioavailability and hepatoprotective activity of SB-APSP were evaluated in experimental animals. To determine the pharmacokinetic parameters, silibinin and its nanoparticles were given orally to rabbits at a dose of 50 mg/Kg body weight. Blood samples were drawn at different time intervals and were analyzed using HPLC. The bioavailability of un processed silibinin was lower as compared to silibinin nanoparticles (3.45 ± 0.07 and 23.76 ± 0.07 µg/mL respectively). The AUC and Cmax of SB-APSP were found to be 15.56 and 6.88 folds greater for nanoparticles when compared to silibinin. Hepatoprotective study in Male Sprague Dawley rats revealed that SB-APSP provide better recovery of the damaged liver cell induced by CCl4. Histopathology of the liver revealed that SB-APSP provide better protection to the liver cells from the damage induced by CCl4 and maintained the hepatic lobule histopathology more efficiently. It was concluded that the SB-APSP can more effectively protect the liver in experimental animals in a far better way compared to the un-processed Silibinin and could be used as an efficient hepatoprotective agent. Keywords: Silibinin, Pharmacokinetic parameters, Carbon tetrachloride, Hepatoprotective activity

© The Author(s) 2019. A person's lipid profile is influenced by genetic variants and alcohol consumption, but the contribution of interactions between these exposures has not been studied. We therefore incorporated gene-Alcohol interactions into a multiancestry genome-wide association study of levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides. We included 45 studies in stage 1 (genome-wide discovery) and 66 studies in stage 2 (focused follow-up), for a total of 394,584 individuals from 5 ancestry groups. Analyses covered the period July 2014-November 2017. Genetic main effects and interaction effects were jointly assessed by means of a 2- degrees-of-freedom (df) test, and a 1-df test was used to assess the interaction effects alone. Variants at 495 loci were at least suggestively associated (P < 1 × 10?6) with lipid levels in stage 1 and were evaluated in stage 2, followed by combined analyses of stage 1 and stage 2. In the combined analysis of stages 1 and 2, a total of 147 independent loci were associated with lipid levels at P < 5 × 10?8 using 2-df tests, of which 18 were novel. No genome-wide-significant associations were found testing the interaction effect alone. The novel loci included several genes (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 5 (PCSK5), vascular endothelial growth factor B (VEGFB), and apolipoprotein B mRNA editing enzyme, catalytic polypeptide 1 (APOBEC1) complementation factor (A1CF)) that have a putative role in lipid metabolism on the basis of existing evidence from cellular and experimental models. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute; American Heart Association Grant

The present study reports the synthesis of silver (Ag) decorated zinc oxide (ZnO) nanocomposite via green synthesis method by using Acacia arabica plant leaves extract as both reducing and capping agent. The results clearly indicate a uniform distribution of Ag nanoparticles (NPs) over ZnO surface. Various analytical and spectroscopic techniques were used for investigating the formation and morphology of as-synthesized Ag/ZnO nanocomposites. Emergence of SPR at 424 and 378 nm confirmed the synthesis of AgNPs and ZnO respectively. The confirmation of elemental composition and crystal structure of prepared nanomaterials (NMs) was carried out via EDX and XRD analysis. Results obtained from HRTEM and SEM analysis indicated small sized spherically shaped NMs. The as-synthesized was checked for its photocatalytic activity towards degradation of MB in the presence as well as absence of light irradiation. Results of degradation study revealed that Ag/ZnO exhibits remarkable photocatalytic activity in the presence of light whereby removing 90% of MB within 80 minutes. Moreover, the antibacterial activity of synthesized nanocomposite was examined in both visible light and dark conditions. The experiment showed that nanomaterial depicts enhanced antibacterial activity in light in comparison to dark. The results showed that the inhibition diameter of Ag/ZnO nanocomposite in light was found to be 18 (±0.2), 22 (±0.3) against E. coli and S. aureus respectively. The inhibition zone of the said nanomaterial against E. coli and S. aureus in dark was 11 (±0.3), 14 (±0.5) respectively. These results conclude that activity is delivered both in the presence of visible light and dark but efficiency of antibacterial activity is found to be more in visible light in comparison.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of nickel titanium rotary endodontic file immersion in hydrogen peroxide on cyclic fatigue resistance. METHODOLOGY: Twenty Six Protaper Universal (Dentsply Maillerfier) F1 files were randomly divided into two experimental groups. In Group I, Protaper universal variable taper F1 files were immersed in normal saline where as in Group II, the files were soaked in hydrogen peroxide (6% w/v) for 2 hours at 37°C. Cyclic fatigue of each file was checked by recording the number of rotations required to break a file in a 90°curve with a 5 mm radius. For statistical analysis of data, Two-way ANOVA was applied. A p value of

It is of great significance to explore a bifunctional catalyst that can produce both hydrogen and oxygen to accelerate the development of water-splitting technology. In this work, Co@CoO/NG was obtained via calcinating ZIF-67 and in-situ preparation process, which exhibited excellent performance (water oxidation AQE 10.22% at λ = 450 nm and oxygen production rate 543198 μmol g−1 h−1 and hydrogen production rate 330 μmol−1 g−1 h−1). A comprehensive analysis of SEM, XRD, TEM, UV–vis, EIS, and PL showed that Co@CoO/NG-7 prepared has a perfect skeleton and more crystal defects, which can provide more reactive sites. The core-shell structure Co@CoO has a synergistic effect with graphene, which is beneficial to the light absorption, separation of photo-generated charges. Meanwhile, cyclic experiments of water oxidation and water reduction showed that the catalyst exhibited high stability during the reaction process. This study has provided a universal strategy to design efficient bifunctional catalyst for water-splitting.

Beet armyworm, Spodoptera exigua (Hübner) is an agronomical important and most devastating polyphagous pest that damages a variety of crops around the globe including China. Quercetin is one of the abundant dietary flavonoids and the important defense allelochemicals in plants. Therefore, the changes in insect detoxification enzymes activities in response to plants allelochemicals may result increased the sensitivity to insecticides. In this study, we examined the induced effect of quercetin on larval tolerance to lambda-cyhalothrin in S. exigua. Application of cytochrome P450 inhibitor piperonyl butoxide (PBO) significantly synergized the lambda-cyhalothrin toxicity in quercetin-fed S. exigua larvae. Moreover, larval weight significantly reduced in quercetin, lambda-cyhalothrin, and quercetin + lambda-cyhalothrin treatment. Furthermore, our results showed that the P450 detoxification enzyme effectively increased in all treatments as compared to the control. Quantitative Real-time PCR analysis revealed that expression level of CYP6AE10 significantly upregulated in larvae treated with quercetin, lambda-cyhalothrin and quercetin + lambda-cyhalothrin in the midgut and fat body respectively. In addition, RNAi mediated knockdown of CYP6AE10 in S. exigua larvae significantly decreased the transcription level of target cytochrome P450 gene followed by the exposure with quercetin, lambda-cyhalothrin, and quercetin + lambda-cyhalothrin. Similarly, the knockdown of CYP6AE10 by the injection of dsRNA led to increased mortality after the treatment with respective chemicals. Overall, these data showed that P450s might possibly play an important role in the metabolic adaptation of S. exigua larvae to its host plant defense allelochemicals as well as insecticides. In conclusion, S. exigua can take benefit from its host plant’s secondary metabolites to elaborate its defense against synthetic insecticides. Keywords: The Beet armyworm, Quercetin, Lambda-cyhalothrin tolerance, Detoxification enzyme, Midgut P450 genes, RNA interference

Background: Molluscum contagiosum (MC) is a contagious cutaneous infection caused by MC virus, affecting mainly the pediatric population. It is characterized by flesh-colored umbilicated papules occurring on the skin surface. Potassium hydroxide (KOH) and salicylic acid plus lactic acid combination being keratolytic agents, are effective treatment options. The objective of the study was to compare the efficacy and safety of 10% KOH solution versus salicylic acid/ lactic acid combination in treating Molluscum contagiosum in pediatric population. Material and Methods: A total of 80 children (age range 1-13 years) with Molluscum contagiosum lesions were selected from the Dermatology Out-Patient Department, and were randomly allocated into two groups by lottery method. Group A was given topical 10% KOH solution and group B was given Salicylic plus Lactic acid preparations for topical application. Patients were followed after two weeks to see regression in size of the lesion, and development of any side-effects. Final visit was scheduled at 6 weeks. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS (version 16) with p value less than 0.05 considered as statistically significant. Results: Patients with MC (n = 80) were equally divided into group A (treated with 10% KOH) and group B (treated with combination of Salicylic acid and Lactic acid). After 6 weeks, complete remission from Molluscum contagiosum virus was seen in 29 (72.5%) patients of group A and 34 (85%) patients of group B. There were 12 (30%) patients in group A who developed local irritation and 4 (10%) developed local erythema after 6 weeks. None of the patients of group B had any such side effects. Conclusion: 10% KOH solution is as effective as the combination of Salicylic and Lactic acids for treatment of Molluscum contagiosum in pediatric population, however it is associated with side effects of local irritation and erythema.

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) binds to EGF activating tyrosine phosphorylation through receptor dimerization prompting uncontrolled multiplication. Domain organization, secondary structure combinations in motifs and interactome define such transitory changes responsible for the multi-functionality of human EGFR. We report the predicted phosphorylation sites on Ser, Thr and Tyr residues in addition to 74 auto-phosphorylation sites on Tyr in human EGFR. These data suggest a complex interplay between phosphorylation types for modification resulting in the modulation of human EGFR functionality. It is of further interest in future to thoroughly understand the associated data to clarify the various roles played by post translational modifications (PTM) in human EGFR.

Crz1p regulates Calcineurin, a serine-threonine-specific protein phosphatase, in Rhizoctonia solani. It has attracted consideration as a novel target of antifungal therapy based on studies in numerous pathogenic fungi, including, Cryptococcus neoformans, Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus. To investigate whether Calcineurin can be a useful target for the treatment of Crz1 protein in R. solani causing wet root rot in Chickpea. The work presented here reports the in-silico studies of Crz1 protein against natural compounds. This study Comprises of quantitative structure-toxicity relationship (QSTR) and quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR). All compounds showed high binding energy for Crz1 protein through molecular docking. Further, a pharmacokinetic study revealed that these compounds had minimal side effects. Biological activity spectrum prediction of these compounds showed potential antifungal properties by showing significant interaction with Crz1. Hence, these compounds can be used for the prevention and treatment of wet root rot in Chickpea.

Colucons A (1) and B (2), new prenylated flavanones, isolated from the EtOAc-soluble sub-fraction of the whole plant of Colutea armata Hemsl. & Lace along with four known compounds, namely, kenusanone J (3), hesperetin (4), tyrosol (5) and syringaldehyde (6), were reported for the first time from the species armata. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic techniques including 1H and 13C NMR (distortionless enhancement by polarization transfer), and 2D NMR experiments. Compounds 1–3 showed significant antifungal activity against Pseudallescheria boydii, Aspergillus niger, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Macrophomina phaseolina and Candida glabrata, while compound 4 showed moderate antifungal activity.

The monohydrate 1:2 organic salt of 2-Amino-5-bromo-6-methyl-4-pyrimidinol (ABMP), also known as 5-Bromo-6-methylisocytosine, with 2,3-pyrazinedicarboxylic acid (PDCA) has been synthesized by slow evaporation technique. The hydrated salt has been characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD) and observed to crystallize in the orthorhombic space group P212121. The infrared absorption spectroscopic technique combined with density functional theory (DFT) simulations have been employed to analyse the vibrational modes of the synthesized organic salt. Further, the FTIR spectra confirm that the salt formation from their unique spectroscopic feature as compared to its constituent molecules, PDCA and ABMP. The estimation of the optical band gap and maximum absorption wavelength of the hydrated organic salt have been performed using UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy. Degradation profile, as well as associated DTA peaks of the synthesized organic salt, have been critically analyzed by thermal gravimetric-differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA). Moreover, the Hirshfeld surface and associated fingerprint plot studies have been characterized the non-covalent interaction and their relative proportions to the present organic salt. The remaining important molecular properties like the frontier molecular orbital, nonlinear optical properties (NLO) and molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) map have also been studied for the above organic salt.

Cyclohexanone monooxygenase (CHMO), a member of the Baeyer-Villiger monooxygenase family, is a versatile biocatalyst that efficiently catalyzes the conversion of cyclic ketones to lactones. In this study, an Acidovorax-derived CHMO gene was expressed in Pseudomonas taiwanensis VLB120. Upon purification, the enzyme was characterized in vitro and shown to feature a broad substrate spectrum and up to 100% conversion in 6 h. Further, we determined and compared the cyclohexanone conversion kinetics for different CHMO-biocatalyst formats, i.e., isolated enzyme, suspended whole cells, and biofilms, the latter two based on recombinant CHMO-containing P. taiwanensis VLB120. Biofilms showed less favorable values for K (9.3-fold higher) and k (4.8-fold lower) compared to corresponding K and k values of isolated CHMO, but a favorable K for cyclohexanone (5.3-fold higher). The unfavorable K and k values are related to mass transfer- and possibly heterogeneity issues and deserve further investigation and engineering, in order to exploit the high potential of biofilms regarding process stability. Suspended cells showed an only 1.8-fold higher K, but 1.3- and 4.2-fold higher k and K values than isolated CHMO. This together with the efficient NADPH regeneration via glucose metabolism makes this format highly promising from a kinetics perspective.

In this research work, facile, economical and eco-benign experimental procedure were adopted to synthesize Au/MgO nanocomposite with the help of Tagetes minuta leaves extract. Phytochemicals present in the leaves of Tagetes minuta were acting as reducing and stabilizing agents to avoid aggregation of nanomaterials during the preparation of Au/MgO nanocomposite. The biologically synthesized nanocomposite were systematically characterized by UV–vis spectroscopy, Scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared microscopy (FTIR), High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and elemental mapping. UV–visible spectrum confirmed the presence of MgO and Au due to the presence of two SPR peaks at 315 nm and 528 nm, respectively. Moreover, the Au/MgO nanocomposite exhibited superior photocatalytic, antibacterial, hemolytic, and antioxidant activities. Photocatalytic performance tests of Au/MgO nanocomposite were- appraised by the rapid degradation of the methylene blue (MB) under UV light illumination. More importantly, after four successive cycles of MB degradation, the photocatalytic efficacy remained unchanged, which ensures the stability of the Au/MgO nanocomposite. Furthermore, the antibacterial tests showed that the advanced nanocomposite inhibited the growth of Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, and Staphylococcus aureus with zones of inhibition 18 (±0.3), 21 (±0.5), and 19 (±0.4) mm, respectively. The cytotoxicity study revealed that Au/MgO nanocomposite is nontoxic to ordinary healthy RBCs. Interestingly, the Au/MgO nanocomposite also possesses an excellent antioxidant activity, whereby effectively scavenging 82% stable and harmful DPPH. Overall, the present study concludes that eco-benign Au/MgO nanocomposite has excellent potential for the remediation of bacterial pathogens and degradation of MB.

This protocol describes how to extract DNA with modified salting out method. This protocol is part of the Bark Beetle Mycobiome (BBM) Research Coordination Network. For more information on the BBM international network: Hulcr J, Barnes I, De Beer ZW, Duong TA, Gazis R, Johnson AJ, Jusino MA, Kasson MT, Li Y, Lynch S, Mayers C, Musvuugwa T, Roets F, Seltmann KC, Six D, Vanderpool D, & Villari C. 2020. Bark beetle mycobiome: collaboratively defined research priorities on a widespread insect-fungus symbiosis. Symbiosis 81: 101–113 https://doi.org/10.1007/s13199-020-00686-9.

Green chemistry is a modern area of research which covers synthesis of nanomaterials through useful, environmentally, economically friendly techniques and their use in different fields. The synthesis involves the formation of bimetallic nanomaterials to enhance their synergistic relationship and achieve special modulated properties. That's why bimetallic nanomaterials are extremely important and gaining interest among researchers in the field of medicinal chemistry for the treatment of various diseases. In this particular study, bimetallic nanoparticles synthesis was done by reduction procedure using leaf extract of Olea cuspidata. The phytochemicals in leaf extract act as stabilizing and capping agent in reduction of precursor's salts. The characterization of green synthesized Ag@MgO nanocomposite was done through several analytical techniques such as ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning electron microscope (SEM), High resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) and Zeta potential. To explore the biological potential of synthesized nanocomposite, antibacterial activities against gram negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria and gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus) has been evaluated. The photocatalytic activity in contrary to methylene blue (MB) decomposition was seen efficiently. Moreover, the antioxidant nature of green synthesized Ag@MgO nanocomposite was analyzed by destabilizing and scavenging maximum percentage (93 %) of dangerous and harmful 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical. The best and surprising results provided the information for the presence of essential and vital components in Olea Cuspidata in the form of organic acids (Citrus Acid) aids in stabilizing the entire structure with enhanced properties. Up to the best of our knowledge, the facts and results obtained regarding the structure of Ag@MgO nanocomposite clearly illustrates the uniqueness of green chemistry and also its role in future developing multifunctional nanoparticles in the field of nanobiotechnology.

Objective: We evaluated the effectiveness of magnesium sulphate treatment for the management and outcome of TBI. Material and Methods: The prospective cases (n = 112) of TBI were included from Department of Neurosurgery, Shaikh Zayed Hospital, Lahore. Patients were split into two groups. Magnesium sulphate treatment group (n = 56) and placebo group (n = 56). Detailed history of patients was taken along with comprehensive examinations with CT scans.56 TBI patients were given standard treatment plus magnesium sulphate and remaining 56 patients received just standard treatment. Results: Mean age of the magnesium supplement therapy group was 36.83 ± 13.45 years while in the placebo group was 33.64 ± 12.88 years). Majority 28 (67.9%) were male in the magnesium sulphate group while 37 (66.1%) were in the placebo group. Mean duration passed between hospital presentation and traumatic brain injury was 4.98 ± 2.32 hours in the magnesium sulphate group while it was 5.05 ± 2.48 in the placebo group. Mean Glasgow outcome score was 3.57 ± 1.33 in the magnesium sulphate group while 2.78 ± 1.23 in the placebo group and this difference was statistically significant. Conclusion: There is significant improvement in GOS after magnesium sulphate therapy in patients with traumatic brain injury versus placebo group as noted in the results.

Novel adsorbent Ni–Co–S/SDS (nickel cobalt sulfide/sodium dodecyl sulfate) nanocomposites have been synthesized by a simple and eco-friendly approach using water as a solvent at low temperature. The prepared nanocomposites structure and morphology were studied by powder XRD, SEM, TEM, XPS, FT-IR, TGA, and also the surface area and surface charge of the adsorbents were measured by BET and ζ-potential. These nanocomposites showed an excellent adsorption property for both cationic {crystal violet (CV), rhodamine B (RhB), methylene blue (MB), Nile blue A (NB)}, anionic {methyl orange (MO) and Congo red (CR)} organic dyes and Cr(VI) metal ions. They exhibited maximum adsorption capacity 3598.23 mg g–1 for CR, 3284.08 mg g–1 for MO, 4417.79 mg g–1 for NB, 3598.23 mg g–1 for CV, 1451.64 mg g–1 for MB, 773.47 mg g–1 for RhB and 583.67 mg g–1 for Cr(VI) ions respectively, which are higher adsorption capacities than reported and exhibited an efficient adsorption property for both cationic and anionic dyes. Furtherm...

In this work, principles and techniques of green chemistry were implemented which exploit environmentally and economically friendly methods using an accessible and non-toxic medium, that is water and ascorbic acid (Vit.C), which leads to the synthesis of silver/ copper oxide (Ag/CuO) nanocomposite. Vit.C was used to furnish the synthesis of excellent and controlled crystalline silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), copper oxide (CuO) and Ag/CuO nanocomposite. Moreover, the structures of all the synthesized nanomaterials were confirmed by wide range of characterization techniques which include UV–vis spectroscopy, FTIR, X-ray diffraction and Electron Diffraction Spectroscopy. However external and internal morphology of newly synthesized nanomaterials were examined by using Scanning Electron Microscopy and High resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy, respectively. The prepared nanomaterials were evaluated for catalytic decomposition of methyl orange (MO) in dark, visible light and UV light. The results showed that 20 %, 50 % and 90 % degradation of MO in 40 min was observed in dark, visible light and UV light, respectively. To further explore the biological potential of synthesized Ag/CuO nanocomposite, we also evaluated it for an inactivation of bacteria where Escherichia coli has 17(±0.5 mm) and Staphylococcus aureus has 20 (±0.6 mm) zone of inhibition in light. The results showed that reactive oxygen species (ROS) were produced in the presence of light and Ag/CuO. These ROS are the main source of inactivation of bacteria. The prepared nanomaterial has also good efficiency against DPPH stabilization. Further study is required to investigate the hidden applications of the as synthesized nanomaterials.

The exploration of advanced water treatment technologies e.g. heterogeneous photocatalysis is the most promising way to address organic pollution issues. Semiconductors based bimetallic photocatalysis with wide bandgap, have displayed splendid degradation performance in the UV light region, but their extension to the visible light/near infra-red region is still a matter of great concern. CuO, Co(OH)2, CoO and Co(OH)2/CuO nanocomposites were synthesized via simple co-precipitation method and further practiced for Rhodamine B (RhB) decomposition by introducing per-sulfate (PS) as a sacrificial agent. Results revealed that Co(OH)2/CuO catalyst had shown robust catalytic activity for RhB photodegradation (degradation time 8 min, k = 0.864 min−1) under light illumination, significantly less (12–60 times) than the other reported bimetallic catalysts. Catalyst also have verified excellent performance for a broader pH range (5–9) with excellent stability. Main reactive species responsible for the photocatalytic reaction were sulfate (SO4•−) and superoxide (O2•) radicals, duly verified by ESR and by using radical scavengers. With outstanding recycling abilities, this is probably the fewer successful attempt for RhB decolorization and can be highly favorable for effluent treatment by using the synergic effect of absorption and photodegradation.

This manuscript proposed a synthesis strategy for simultaneously constructing defect structure and mixed valence coordinated unsaturated sites (CUS) in Cu-BTC (BTC=1,3,5-trihydroxybenzene) framework. Different defective linkers with increasing pKa value were used to regulate the defect concentration and Cu1+/Cu2+ CUS content. The pKa value of defective linkers was proved to be inversely proportional to the defect concentration and Cu1+/Cu2+ CUS content. Compared with pure Cu-BTC, the defective Cu-BTC samples have obviously improved specific surface area, light absorption, bandgap, and charge carrier separation rate. All of these advantages make defective variants become an excellent bifunctional overall water splitting catalyst with O2 and H2 generation rates of 3942 μmol·g-1·h-1 and 15107 μmol·g-1·h-1, respectively. Although the defective linkers with small pKa value can create more defects, excessive defects in framework will lead to the parent structure collapse, and can also serve as recombination centers to reduce the photocatalytic activity of materials.

Progression in nanotechnology enormously influence on the synthesis of highly proficient photo materials, which can be used for a number of applications in diverse fields. Herein, a novel heterostructured Ag2S-ZnO/GO nanocomposite was fabricated via a simple sol-gel/ultrasound method and was used to study photocatalytic degradation of organic dye solution under UV/visible light irradiation. The physicochemical characteristics of prepared nanocomposite signify that it exhibits remarkable morphology, high surface area and homogenized particle distribution. The average crystallite size of ZnO, Ag2S-ZnO and Ag2S-ZnO/GO was calculated to be 21.2, 24.5 and 26.4 nm, respectively. Prepared nanocomposite are found to be exceptionally efficient for photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange (MO) as compared to other materials. The photodegradation of MO was achieved up to 98.1% under UV and 66.8% under visible light irradiation within 50 min. However, the characteristic features of graphene including storage and transferring of electrons and establishment of heterojunction between Ag2S and ZnO are responsible for enhanced efficiency towards separation of photoinduced electron/hole pairs as well as increased charge transferring due to lowering of bandgap. More importantly, the Ag2S-ZnO/GO nanocomposite displays superior antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant activities. The further investigations of antibacterial and antifungal properties of as-synthesized nanocomposite revealed that by adding Ag2S-ZnO/GO to bacterial and fungal media, a clear zone of inhibition for both bacteria and fungi medium was observed. It can be concluded from the results that Ag2S-ZnO/GO nanocomposite having remarkable structure reliability are excellent candidate for both photocatalytic and biomedical applications. Moreover, the possible degradation mechanism of photocatalyst was also predicted.

The proton transfer (PT) complex of 2-amino-4-hydroxy-6-methylpyrimidine (AHMP) with salicylic acid (SA) has been synthesized and their crystal has been grown by slow evaporation technique. Further, the crystal has been investigated by single crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD). The complex crystallizes in the orthorhombic centrosymmetric space group Pbca. The vibrational spectra of PT complex and its constituents have been analysed in the solid phase. UV–Vis and 1HNMR spectra of PT complex and its constituents (SA and AHMP have been studied in solution phase. Thermal stability of PT complex has been examined by thermal gravimetric and differential thermal analysis (TG/DTA). The intermolecular interactions and their contribution to the crystal formation have been analysed with the help of 3D Hirshfeld surface and 2D fingerprint plot. The theoretical calculations of the PT complex have been carried out using DFT/TD-DFT methods to support the experimental results as well as to explore various molecular properties such as frontier molecular orbitals, natural atomic charges, chemical reactivity and molecular electrostatic potential mapping (MEP).