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In this investigation, the practicability of utilizing 3-aminopropyl triethoxysilane (3-APTES) crosslinked chitosan (Ch)/graphene oxide (GO) membranes were explored for adsorptive removal of anionic dyes from aqueous medium. Membranes were successfully fabricated through solution casting technique. Strong interactions amongst matrix (chitosan), 3-APTES, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and GO were confirmed by Infrared spectroscopy. Thermal stability of the chitosan was improved by adding graphene oxide and results were verified via thermogravimetric (TGA) analysis. Swelling and hydrolytic results confirmed that 2 %-Ch/PVP was a stable membrane while increasing the amount of 3-APTES in the chitosan nanocomposites membrane decreased its stability in aqueous medium. The adsorption characteristics of the membranes were evaluated by the adsorption of Congo red (CR) dye from aqueous medium. The adsorbent can remove 80% of CR from aqueous medium and follows second order kinetics. This study outlines the possibility of exploring green membranes which can be easily fit in various flow systems.

The generation and controlled or uncontrolled release of hydrocarbon-contaminated industrial wastewater effluents to water matrices are a major environmental concern. The contaminated water comes to surface in the form of stable emulsions, which sometimes require different techniques to mitigate or separate effectively. Both the crude emulsions and hydrocarbon-contaminated wastewater effluents contain suspended solids, oil/grease, organic matter, toxic elements, salts, and recalcitrant chemicals. Suitable treatment of crude oil emulsions has been one of the most important challenges due to the complex nature and the substantial amount of generated waste. Moreover, the recovery of oil from waste will help meet the increasing demand for oil and its derivatives. In this context, functional nanostructured materials with smart surfaces and switchable wettability properties have gained increasing attention because of their excellent performance in the separation of oil–water emulsions. Recent improvements in the design, composition, morphology, and fine-tuning of polymeric nanostructured materials have resulted in enhanced demulsification functionalities. Herein, we reviewed the environmental impacts of crude oil emulsions and hydrocarbon-contaminated wastewater effluents. Their effective treatments by smart polymeric nanostructured materials with wettability properties have been stated with suitable examples. The fundamental mechanisms underpinning the efficient separation of oil–water emulsions are discussed with suitable examples along with the future perspectives of smart materials.

Scaffold varied dihydropyrimidone derivatives 1–20 were evaluated for their selective urease inhibitory kinetics potential. Compounds 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 12 were found to be the most promising urease inhibitors and showed the inhibition (Ki values) within the range of 9.9 ± 0.5 to 18.3 ± 0.4 µM. Lineweaver–Burk plot, Dixon plot and their secondary replots confirm that all these molecules have followed competitive mode of inhibition. Docking arrangements (MOE) revealed that all the ligands bind in the active site and therefore compete with substrate urea. Molecular docking studies of all compounds have confirmed the binding interactions of various ligands with the amino acid residues as well as Ni atoms of active site. Furthermore, these compounds 1–20 were also tested for their cytotoxicity against human neutrophils and plants and were found to be non-toxic.

Aryl hydrazones bearing thiazolyl coumarin hybrids 1–32 were prepared by following 'one-pot' two-steps reaction scheme. Various arylaldehydes were reacted to thiosemicarbazide under acidic condition to form aryl thiosemicarbazone intermediates which in turn treated with 3-bromoacetyl coumarin under basic condition to afford thiazolyl coumarin hybrids 1–32. All hybrids were recognized by EI- and HREI-MS and 1H- and 13C-NMR spectroscopic techniques. Compounds 1–32 were screened for in vitro inhibitory activity against urease enzyme and displayed good to moderate inhibitory potential in the ranges of IC50 = 16.29 ± 1.1–256.30 ± 1.4 µM. Worth stating that compound 21 (IC50 = 16.29 ± 1.1 µM) was identified as more potent urease inhibitor than the standard acetohydroxamic acid (IC50 = 27.0 ± 0.5 µM). Derivatives 19 (IC50 = 77.67 ± 1.5 µM) and 30 (IC50 = 71.21 ± 1.6 µM) were found to be moderately active. Structure–activity relationship revealed that -F, -Cl, -OH, and -OMe groups and their respective positions on aryl ring are playing important role in urease enzyme inhibition. Molecular docking studies identified important interaction between the ligand (active hybrids) and urease active site.

Indole-3-acetamides (1–24) were synthesized via coupling of indole-3-acetic acid with various substituted anilines in the presence of coupling reagent 1,1-carbonyldiimidazole. The structures of synthetic molecules were elucidated through different spectroscopic techniques including electron ionization-mass spectroscopy (EI-MS), 1H-, 13C NMR, and high-resolution EI-MS (HREI-MS). These compounds were screened for their antihyperglycemic and antioxidant potentials. All compounds displayed good to moderate inhibition against α-amylase enzyme with IC50 values ranging between 1.09 ± 0.11 and 2.84 ± 0.1 μM compared to the standard acarbose (IC50 = 0.92 ± 0.4 μM). Compound 15 (IC50 = 1.09 ± 0.11 μM) was the most active compound of the series and exhibited good inhibition against α-amylase; in addition, this compound also exhibited good antioxidant potential with IC50 values of 0.35 ± 0.1 and 0.81 ± 0.25 μM in 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) assays, respectively. The binding interactions of synthetic molecules with the enzyme’s active site were confirmed via in silico studies. The current study had identified a number of lead molecules as potential antihyperglycemic and antioxidant agents.

Background: A number of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) including aspirin, indomethacin, ibuprofen, flufenamic acid, and phenylbutazone are being clinically used to treat inflammatory disorders. These NSAIDs are associated with serious side effects such as gastric ulceration, nephrotoxicity, and bleeding. Therefore, the identification of potent and safe therapy for inflammatory disorders is still of great interest to the medicinal chemist. Methods: A series of varyingly substituted benzoyl, acetyl, alkyl ester, and sulfonate ester substituted coumarins 1-64 were screened for the inhibition of ROS, generated from zymosan activated whole blood phagocytes, using luminol-enhanced chemiluminescence technique. Results: Among all tested compounds, 8 (IC50 = 65.0 ± 3.1 μM), 24 (IC50 = 41.8 ± 1.5 μM), 26 (IC50 = 10.6 ± 2.8 μM), 28 (IC50 = 20.9 ± 1.5 μM), and 41 (IC50 = 4.6 ± 0.3 μM) showed good anti- inflammatory potential as compared to standard antiinflammatory drug ibuprofen (IC50 = 54.3 ± 1.9 μM). Specifically, compounds 24, 26, 28, and 41 showed superior activity than standard antiinflammatory drug. Furthermore, compounds 12 (IC50 = 219.0 ± 1.4 μM), 14 (IC50 = 216.5 ± 6.2 μM), 16 (IC50 = 187.4 ± 2.2 μM), and 20 (IC50 = 196.2 ± 2.0 μM) showed moderate ROS inhibitory activity. Limited SAR study revealed that the hydroxy-substituted compound showed better ROS inhibition potential in case of 3-benzoyl and 3-ethylester coumarin derivatives. Whereas, chloro substitution was found to be important in case of 3-acetyl coumarin derivatives. Similarly, in case of sulfonate ester, chloro, and nitro groups especially at positions -4 and -3 of ring “R” played vital role in ROS inhibition. Furthermore, cytotoxicity of all active compounds was also checked on NIH-3T3 cell line. Compounds 12, 14, and 20 were found to be non-cytotoxic. Whereas, 8, 16, 24, 26, 28, and 41 were found to be very weak cytotoxic as compared to standard cycloheximide (IC50 = 0.13 ± 0.02 μM). Conclusion: Identified ROS inhibitors offer the possibility of additional modifications that could give rise to lead structures for further research in order to obtain more potent, and safer antiinflammatory agent.

The aim of this review is to provide a critical and comparative account of the total synthetic approaches toward histrionicotoxins, alkaloids isolated from skin extracts of Colombian poison arrow frog Dendrobates histrionicus. We have summarized the maneuvers in each paper by graphically detailing the synthesis and associated reaction niceties of only the key intermediates by different researchers. Fascinating structural feature of histrionicotoxins is "8-hydroxy-l-azaspiro[5.5]undecane core" with two side chains at C-2 and C-7 which differ in their length and nature of unsaturation. All synthetic approaches to histrionicotoxins aim at the construction of key intermediate "azaspiro[5.5]undecane ring" and installation of side chains at C-2 and C-7.

The current study describes the production of maize starch–fatty acid complexes through high speed homogenization, a novel field of research, without heat or any chemical treatment. The starch–fatty acid complexes were produced with three different fatty acids, i.e. stearic acid (T1), palmitic acid (T2) and lauric acid (T3). The complexes were analyzed through various techniques. The results reveal that the complexing index (CI), swelling power (SP) and solubility (S) for T1 were significantly higher compared to T2 and T3. In X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies, relatively lower crystalline (V-type pattern) structures were obtained for the samples T1–T3, where T2 showed the highest crystallinity amongst all. Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) spectra showed characteristic bands i.e., OH, C=O, C–O and long-chain CH2 functionalities thus confirming the overall incorporation of acids into glycoside moieties. The Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis showed sub-crystalline matrix structures with fewer or no spherulites indicating the overall incorporation of acids in starch. The samples showed relatively low thermal stability in the thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) in the range of 180 to 280 °C. These results suggest that high speed homogenization had the potential for the development of green and biocompatible maize starch–fatty acid complexes.

The synthesis of a new series of S-substituted acetamides derivatives of 5-[(2-amino-1,3-thiazol-4-yl)methyl]-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-thiol were synthesized and evaluated for enzyme inhibition study along with cytotoxic behavior. Ethyl 2-(2-amino-1,3-thiazol-4-yl)acetate was converted to corresponding acid hydrazide by hydrazine hydrate in ethanol. The reflux of acid hydrazide with carbon disulfide resulted to 5-[(2-amino-1,3-thiazol-4-yl)methyl]-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-thiol. Different electrophiles were synthesized by the reaction of respective anilines (one in each reaction) and 2-bromoacetylbromide in an aqueous medium. The targeted bi-heterocyclic compounds were synthesized by stirring nucleophilic 5-[(2-amino-1,3-thiazol-4-yl)methyl]-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-thiol with different acetamides electrophiles (one after another), in DMF using LiH as base and activator. The proposed structures of newly synthesized compounds were deduced by spectroscopic techniques such as 1H NMR, 13C NMR, EI MS and elemental analysis. These novel bi-heterocycles were tested for their anti-diabetic potential via the in vitro inhibition of $$\alpha $$ -glucosidase enzyme. The in silico study of these molecules was also coherent with their enzyme inhibition data. Furthermore, these molecules were analyzed for their cytotoxic behavior against brine shrimps. It was inferred from the results that most of them exhibited very potent inhibitory potential against the studied enzyme and can be utilized as valuable anti-diabetic agent.

Sulfonated polyimide (SPI) membranes are regarded as the potential alternative to Nafion as a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) for fuel cells. Herein, sulfonated copolyimide is synthesized through a direct polymerization method using 1,4,5,8-naphthalene tetra carboxylic dianhydride (NDTA), and sulfonated diamine 4,4′-diamino diphenyl-2,2′-disulfonic acid (BDSA). Sulfonated copolyimide is re-dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide for the fabrication of thin films. The nanocomposites of both 1.0 and 2.0% of the functionalized TiO2-reinforced (SPI/TiO2) are fabricated by blending and casting method. TiO2 nanoparticles are surface-functionalized using (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared FTIR), and Brunauer-Emmitt-Teller (BET) techniques are used to reveal the distinctive characteristics of the newly synthesized SPI/TiO2 nanocomposite membranes. The as-synthesized SPI/TiO2 membranes are used to investigate their physicochemical and electrochemical parameters, including water uptake, ion exchange capacity (IEC), swelling property, oxidation stability, and dimensional change stability. The SPI and SPI/TiO2 composite membranes exhibit an ion-exchange value of 1.412 to 1.286 mmol/g. The SPI/TiO2 composite membranes show excellent H2O stability at room temperature. Overall, the results indicate that the SPI/TiO2 membranes exhibit the potential as PEM for direct methanol fuel cell applications. These nanocomposite membranes are also applicable in clean energy production from environment-friendly sources.

Rice straw biogas residue contains high lignin content, so the decomposition of this material by natural compost is slow. This study investigated the effect of the combination of rice straw addition and microbial inoculation (Aspergillus niger CICIMF0410 and Phanerochaete chrysosporium AF96007) on the physiochemical properties of rice straw biogas residue in the composting process. Four composting treatment groups were designed: rice straw biogas residue (RR; T1), RR + rice straw (RS) (T2), RR + inoculants (T3), and RR + RS + inoculants (T4). The addition of rice straw significantly accelerated the initial temperature rise during composting, and microbial inoculation accelerated lignocellulose decomposition. After composting, the electrical conductivities of samples T1 to T4 were 1.22, 0.87, 0.99, and 0.82 DS ml−1, respectively. Compared with other treatment samples, T4 showed noticeably increased degradation rates of HC, CL, and ADL after decomposition. The total humic acid levels of samples T1 to T4 were 9.5, 12.7, 10.5, and 18.6%, with humification index values of 1.45, 1.80, 1.69, and 2.46, respectively, after maturation. After 12 weeks of composting, T4 showed the highest increase in total nitrogen (37.6%), phosphorus (33.6%), and potassium (29.8%) levels. Furthermore, compared with other treatment samples, T4 showed the best maturity indices, such as morphology, color, and odor. Rice straw addition and biological inoculation for biogas residue composting not only significantly decreases the time required for decomposition but also eliminates the toxicity risk for crops and improves the stability of the biogas residue fertilizer.

The binding behavior of anionic dyes, acid yellow 17 and acid blue 25, at an activated carbon?liquid interface has been investigated in organized media based on aqueous sodium dodecyl sulfate using differential electronic spectroscopy. The quantification of interactions occurring in the system was realized using a simple physical model, emphasizing the displacement of bound dyes from the carbon surface. The quantities of displaced dyes were comparable; however, acid blue 25 was relatively easily desorbed compared to acid yellow 17. These differences can be attributed to differences in the dye size and hydrophobicity. The model is valid for the premicellar region of the surfactant. The results throw light on some characteristics of solid?liquid interfaces.

A series of phenanthroimidazole (PI) derivatives (M1–M3): 2-phenyl-1H-phenanthro [9,10-d]imidazole (M1), 2-anthryl-1H-phenanthro[9,10-d]imidazole (M2), and 2-pyrenyl-1H-phenanthro[9,10-d]imidazole (M3) were synthesized and characterized using various spectroscopic techniques. The fluorescence quenching studies or sensing properties of the molecules M1–M3 with picric acid (PA) were studied. The molecules (M1–M3) exhibit strong fluorescence with a peak emission wavelength at 386, 486 and 456 nm. This emission gets quenched with the addition of PA. The mechanism of fluorescence quenching involves proton transfer from PA to M in the ground state, followed by the formation of a complex between the cation (M+) and picrate anion (PA−). The proton transfer breaks the conjugation inside the imidazole ring which in turn leads to loss of fluorescence. The proof of proton transfer was evident from the single X-ray crystal structure of the co-crystals (M1+–PA− and M3+–PA−) and their Hirshfeld surface analysis. Time-resolved fluorescence measurements reveal that quenching is static. The complex formation constant (Ks) and life-time for all the molecules are measured.

Nowadays the requirement for clean water in human population is growing day by day. The different factories and industries like pharmaceutical, textile, food processing, leather, printing and chemical industries are the major cause of water contamination by adding an organic dyes. The aim of present study is to synthesize the green nanoparticles for the purification waste water. The TiO 2 nanoparticles were prepared using crude extract of pharmaceutical important local plant Acacia nilotica. The synthesized TiO 2 nanoparticles were characterized using different analytical approaches. The TiO 2 nanoparticles initially were confirmed by color change and later by UV-spectroscopy. The Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR) were also performed. The size and shape of TiO 2 nanoparticles were assessed by using field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM). The Energy Dispersive X-ray spectrometric analysis (EDS) was performed to measure the elements concentrations. Dye removing potential of prepared TiO 2 nanoparticles were performed using methylene blue induced dye mixture. The result showed that the synthesized TiO 2 nanoparticles were round and spherical in shape ranging from 50-120nm with average of 60nm. EDS confirmed the TiO 2 presence in nanoparticles. The synthesized TiO 2 nanoparticles showed 75% dye removing capacity after 2 hours of exposure. In conclusion, our rapidly green synthesized TiO 2 nanoparticles were highly effective for removing dye from water, therefore these TiO 2 nanoparticles can be used as best source for waste water treatment with minimum cast for removing dyes from waste water

In this study, the physicochemical properties of walnut (Juglans regia L.) oils collected from different sites in Khyber PakhtoonKhwa (KPK), Pakistan were investigated. The obtained walnut oils showed variation in viscosity, surface tension, density, acid, saponification, and iodine values. The oil obtained from the Madyan (Sample E) showed the lowest density (0.981 g/cm3), surface tension (34.76×10-3 N/m), viscosity (15.0595 cp) saponification values 84.15 (mg KOH/g of oil) and acid value 3.5 (mg KOH per gram oil) amongst all. The physicochemical properties of all the oils were also compared to olive oil (standard) where sample E showed similarities in such properties compared to olive oil. Moreover, higher concentrations of oleic acid (41 %) and linoleic acid (9 %) were detected in the walnut oil of sample E in GC/MS analysis. The similarities of walnut oil obtained from Madyan to that of standard (olive oil) thus affirm it as best quality oil and suitable for food processing purposes. Resumen. En este estudio se investigaron las propiedades fisicoquímicas del aceite de nuez (Juglans regia L.) recolectado de diferentes sitios en Khyber PakhtoonKhwa (KPK), Pakistán. Los aceites de nuez obtenidos mostraron variación en los valores de viscosidad, tensión superficial, densidad, acidez, saponificación e índice de yodo. El aceite obtenido del Madyan (Muestra E) mostró la menor densidad (0.981 g/cm3), tensión superficial (34.76 × 10-3 N/m), viscosidad (15.0595 cp), valores de saponificación 84.15 (mg KOH/g de aceite) y valor ácido 3.5 (mg KOH por gramo de aceite) entre otros. Las propiedades fisicoquímicas de todos los aceites también se compararon con el aceite de oliva (estándar); la muestra E mostró similitudes en las diferentes propiedades en comparación con el aceite de oliva. Además, se determinaron concentraciones más elevadas de ácido oleico (41 %) y ácido linoleico (9 %) en el aceite de nuez de la muestra E mediante el análisis GC/MS. Las similitudes del aceite de nuez obtenido de Madyan con el estándar (aceite de oliva) lo afirman como aceite de mejor calidad y adecuado para el procesamiento de alimentos.

In this work, thermogravimetric analysis of sesame biomass samples was conducted in inert atmosphere at heating rate of 10 °C/min in the temperature range 30–1000 °C. Kinetic parameters were calculated applying the Coats-Redfern (CR) method. TG/DTG of sesame biomass showed that pyrolysis mainly occurred in the temperature range 205–412 °C. Therefore, the biomass was thermally decomposed in the same temperature range in the presence of cobalt oxide in an indigenously made salt bath furnace. The pyrolysis oil was collected and analyzed using GC-MS. The Physicochemical properties of the oil were determined, and the results have shown that sesame biomass can be utilized as fuel if the oil obtained from it is properly upgraded to make it equivalent to commercial fuel.

In this work, desilication reassembly post treatment process was applied in synthesis of mesoporous zeolite with stable phase composition and applied it in citronellal cyclisation reaction for the production of isopulegol. The desilication and temperature effects were further investigated on physical and chemical characteristics of zeolite and compared them with catalytic activity. The desilicated zeolite samples have been characterized with the help of N2-adsorption, XRD, ICP-OES, pyridine adsorption and FTIR techniques. Its performance was explored by controlling operative parameters. Experimental outcomes exhibited that desilication of zeolite would led to formation of mesopores inside the stable zeolite framework structures without substantial damage of their internal composition. These changes facilitate mass transfer and catalytic activity with an increase in surface area, mesoporosity, pore size, pore volume, acidity, and Lewis acid sites. Optimum desilication temperature (80 °C) was found as a best for an comprising extra active and selective mesoporous zeolite catalyst for citronellal cyclisation. Thus, this type of zeolite material has shown 100% conversion (e.g. complete conversion of citronellal reactants to the desired products), 95% isopulegol selectivity and highest reaction rate (0.11 min−1). This study exhibits the mesoporous zeolite (MZ-80 °C) as one of the most effective catalyst for citronellal cyclization reaction based on assessment of catalytic performance relative to other commonly available options.

This present study aimed to determine the efficacy of supplementing layer diets with vitamin A (0, 8,000 and 16,000 IU/kg diet) and vitamin E (0, 250 and 500 mg/kg diet) either individually or in combination on egg production and quality, and blood hematology and chemistry of birds reared under summer conditions. A total of 135 Bovans Brown laying hens were distributed to 9 treatment groups with 5 replicates of 3 hens/pen in a 3 × 3 factorial design. A significant improvement in feed conversion ratio (FCR) was observed as supplementary vitamin A or E increased (P ≤ 0.01). Hens fed diets supplemented with 16,000 IU vitamin A plus 500 mg vitamin E/kg diet had the best FCR among all groups. Egg quality traits were not significantly affected by the interaction of vitamin A and vitamin E levels. There was a significant increase in monocytes (P ≤ 0.01) and a decrease in basophils counts (P ≤ 0.05) in response to vitamin E. Significant decreases were observed in packed cell volume (PCV), thyroxine (T4), alanine transferase (ALT), albumin, total cholesterol and total lipids ( (P ≤ 0.05 or P ≤ 0.01) P ≤ 0.01) , and increases were observed in serum concentrations of globulin (P ≤ 0.05) and calcium (P ≤ 0.01) due to vitamin A. The combination of 0 IU vitamin A and 500 mg vitamin E/kg diet had the highest values of PCV (40.09%) and hemoglobin (Hb) (10.33 mg/100 mL) among all groups. Vitamin E raised serum values of total protein, total cholesterol and total lipids (P ≤ 0.05 or P ≤ 0.01). Feed intake, FCR, PCV, Hb, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, T4, ALT and total protein were significantly affected by the interaction of vitamins A and E (P ≤ 0.05 or P ≤ 0.01). The interaction of vitamins A and E was only significant with respect to serum total protein (P ≤ 0.05). It can be concluded that layer diets supplemented with vitamins A and E had good results in alleviating the harmful impacts of high ambient temperature. The combination of 16,000 IU vitamin A and 500 mg vitamin E per kilogram diet is preferable for obtaining better production of laying hens reared under hot summer conditions. Keywords: Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Layer, Egg quality, Blood hematology, Serum metabolites

Current study is based on the sequential conversion of indolyl butanoic acid (1) into ethyl indolyl butanoate (2), indolyl butanohydrazide (3), and 1,3,4-oxadiazole-2-thiol analogs (4) by adopting chemical transformations. In a parallel series of reactions, 2-bromo-N-phenyl/arylacetamides (7a-l) were synthesized by reacting different amines derivatives (5a-l) with 2-bromoacetyl bromide (6) to serve as electrophile. Then, the synthesized electrophiles (7a-l) were treated with nucleophilic 1,3,4-oxadiazole-2-thiol analog (4) to afford a range of N-substituted derivatives (8a-l). The structural confirmation of all the synthetic compounds was carried out by IR, 1H-, 13C NMR, EI-MS, and CHN analysis data. All synthesized molecules (8a-l) were tested for their antidiabetic potential via inhibition of the α-glucosidase enzyme followed by their in silico study. Their cytotoxicity profile was also ascertained via hemolytic activity and all of them possessed very low cytotoxicity. Compounds 8h and 8l were found most active having IC50 values 9.46 ± 0.03 µM and 9.37 ± 0.03 µM, respectively. However, all other molecules also exhibited good to moderate inhibition potential with IC50 values between 12.68 ± 0.04–37.82 ± 0.07, compared to standard acarbose (IC50 = 37.38 ± 0.12 µM), hence can be used as lead molecules for further research in order to get better antidiabetic agents.

Novel derivatives of flurbiprofen 1–18 including flurbiprofen hydrazide 1, substituted aroyl hydrazides 2–9, 2-mercapto oxadiazole derivative 10, phenacyl substituted 2-mercapto oxadiazole derivatives 11–15, and benzyl substituted 2-mercapto oxadiazole derivatives 16–18 were synthesized and characterized by EI-MS, 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopic techniques. All derivatives 1–18 were screened for α-amylase inhibitory activity and demonstrated a varying degree of potential ranging from IC50 = 1.04 ± 0.3 to 2.41 ± 0.09 µM as compared to the standard acarbose (IC50 = 0.9 ± 0.04 µM). Out of eighteen compounds, derivatives 2 (IC50 = 1.69 ± 0.1 µM), 3 (IC50 = 1.04 ± 0.3 µM), 9 (IC50 = 1.25 ± 1.05 µM), and 13 (IC50 = 1.6 ± 0.18 µM) found to be excellent inhibitors while rest of the compounds demonstrated comparable inhibition potential. A limited structure-activity relationship (SAR) was established by looking at the varying structural features of the library. In addition to that, in silico study was conducted to understand the binding interactions of the compounds (ligands) with the active site of α-amylase enzyme.

Cotesia flavipes Cameron is an important larval parasitoid exploited for the control of the spotted stem borer, Chilo partellus (Swinhoe). Several studies have evaluated the toxic effects of insecticides on C. partellus, however, little is known about non-target effects of insecticides on this parasitoid, when used to control C. partellus. This laboratory study evaluated the lethal and sublethal effects of twelve insecticides on C. flavipes. Residual toxicity tests showed that organophosphates (chlorpyrifos, triazophos and profenofos) exhibited highest contact toxicity to C. flavipes adults with a LC50 range from 0.63 to 1.05 mg a.i/l, while neonicotinoids (nitenpyram, acetamiprid and imidacloprid) were less toxic to C. flavipes with a LC50 range from 1.27 to 139.48 mg a.i/l. Sugar-insecticide feeding bioassays showed that organophosphates, pyrethroids (cypermethrin, bifenthrin and lambda-cyhalothrin) and carbamates (thiodicarb, carbaryl and methomyl) were highly toxic to C. flavipes adults and caused 100% mortality at 48 h of exposure, while imidacloprid caused 66% mortality at 48 h of exposure. Risk quotient analysis showed that among all tested insecticides, imidacloprid and acetamiprid were less toxic to C. flavipes adults with a risk quotient value of 0.88 and 1.6, respectively. Furthermore, exposure of immature C. flavipes through their host bodies significantly decreased the parasitism rate at their F1 and F2 generations. Risk quotient analysis of insecticides indicated that imidacloprid and acetamiprid were the least toxic to C. flavipes. This study provides important information that will be used in incorporating the most suitable insecticides in integrated pest management programs with reduced negative impacts on non-target beneficial arthropods.

Degradation of organic dyes and their byproducts by heterogeneous photocatalysts is an essential process, as these dyes can be potentially discharged in wastewater and threaten aquatic and xerophyte life. Therefore, their complete mineralization into nontoxic components (water and salt) is necessary through the process of heterogeneous photocatalysis. In this study, Zr/CrO2 (Zirconium-doped chromium IV oxide) nanocomposite-based photocatalysts with different compositions (1, 3, 5, 7 &amp, 9 wt.%) were prepared by an environmentally friendly, solid-state reaction at room temperature. The as-prepared samples were calcined under air at 450 &deg, C in a furnace for a specific period of time. The synthesis of Zr/CrO2 photocatalysts was confirmed by various techniques, including XRD, SEM, EDX, FT-IR, UV-Vis, and BET. The photocatalytic properties of all samples were tested towards the degradation of methylene blue and methyl orange organic dyes under UV light. The results revealed a concentration-dependent photocatalytic activity of photocatalysts, which increased the amount of dopant (up to 5 wt.%). However, the degradation efficiency of the catalysts decreased upon further increasing the amount of dopant due to the recombination of holes and photoexcited electrons.

In the current studies, crude and subsequent fractions of Aconitum violaceum aerial parts were screened for their toxicity, antimicrobial effects as well as antioxidant potential. Phytochemically, the plant is enriched in alkaloids alongside anthraquinones (present in ethyl acetate fraction (AV3) and saponins (detected in chloroform fraction (AV2). In Brine shrimp lethality assay, AV3 was the most potent (59 %) in killing Artemia naupili larvae at a dose of 1000 µg/mL. AV3 exhibited strongest antimicrobial effect against the bacteria E. coli (80 %) and S. flexneri (76 %) as well as against the tested fungi, A. niger (86 %) respectively. However, chloroform fraction (AV2) was the most effective (almost 90 %) antifungal against A. niger and C. albicans. Overall, strong antioxidant activity was observed for AV3 with IC50 values of 120.04 ± 0.4 µg/mL (65.4 ± 0.01 standard) in DPPH and 125.1 ± 0.3 µg/mL (2.0 ± 0.03 standard) in ABTS free radical assays. AV3 showed promising inhibition against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) 70 ± 0.8 % and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) 57 ± 0.2 % at dose of 100 µg/mL thus confirming a potent invitro cholinesterase inhibitory effect. The overall results indicated strong biological potential of ethyl acetate fraction obtained form A. violaceum and a possible new therapeutic source could be formulated from its pure isolates. Resumen. En este estudio, se analizaron debido a su toxicidad, las fracciones crudas y posteriores de las partes aereas de Aconitum violaceum, sus efectos antimicrobianos y potencial antioxidante. Fitoquimicamente, la planta esta enriquecida en alcaloides junto con antraquinonas (presentes en la fraccion de acetato de etilo (AV3) y saponinas (detectadas en la fraccion de cloroformo (AV2). En el ensayo de letalidad del camaron en salmuera, AV3 fue el mas potente (59%) para matar las larvas de Artemia naupili a una dosis de 1000 μg / ml. AV3 mostro el efecto antimicrobiano mas fuerte contra las bacterias E. coli (80 %) y S. flexneri (76 %), asi como contra los hongos probados, A. niger (86 %) respectivamente. Sin embargo, la fraccion de cloroformo (AV2) fue el antifungico mas eficaz (casi el 90%) contra A. niger y C. albicans. En general, se observo una fuerte actividad antioxidante para AV3 con valores de CI50 de 120.04 ± 0.4 μg / ml (65.4 ± 0,01 estandar) en DPPH y 125.1 ± 0.3 μg / mL (2.0 ± 0.03 estandar) en ensayos de radicales libres ABTS. AV3 mostro una inhibicion prometedora contra la acetilcolinesterasa (AChE) 70 ± 0.8 % y la butirilcolinesterasa (BChE) 57 ± 0.2 % a una dosis de 100 μg / mL confirmando asi un potente efecto inhibidor de la colinesterasa in vitro. Todos los resultados indicaron un fuerte potencial biologico de la fraccion de acetato de etilo obtenida de A. violaceum y se podria formular una posible nueva fuente terapeutica a partir de sus aislados puros.

Adsorbents are attracting growing interest due to their potential applications in various research areas like the sorption of toxic dyes from aqueous environments. This paper describes the sorptive removal of malachite green (MG) on activated charcoal (AC) from the aqueous solutions. Various sorption parameters such as adsorption capacity, the influence of pH, equilibration time, and initial dye concentration were systematically investigated. Experimental results that the maximum uptake of the dye onto the sorbent was 27 ​mg/g and the equilibrium was reached in about 45 ​min. The MG uptake by AC is strongly favored in an acidic environment. An abrupt decrease in adsorption was seen for pH values greater than 5. Different adsorption isotherms including Langmuir, Freundlich, and Dubinin-Radushkevich (D-R) were tested to validate the sorption data. The kinetics reveals that the adsorption of MG on AC was a second-order kinetic process. The intraparticle diffusion rate, Kid, was 1.82 ​mmol ​g−1 min−1/2. Thermodynamic studies showed that the adsorption of MC on AC was exothermic and spontaneous. In short, powder activated charcoal can be used as a potential adsorbent for the removal of various effluents particularly dyes drained into the water systems.

Adsorption of Basic blue and Acid blue from aqueous solution onto powder activated charcoal (PAC) has been investigated. The effect of adsorbent dosage, contact time, temperature, and pH was evaluated. Adsorption data obtained at different temperatures revealed irreversible adsorption that decreased with the increase in temperature. It was also noted that adsorption of acid blue on activated charcoal decreases with an increase in the pH while that of increases with pH in case of basic blue. The adsorption isotherms at different temperatures were found to be of L-type. Adsorption data were fitted to Freundlich and Langmuir isotherms, and various adsorption parameters have been calculated. The thermodynamic parameters, such as ΔG, ΔH, and ΔS, were also computed. Both Basic blue and Acid blue are found to be chemisorbed on activated charcoal. The kinetic modeling of the adsorption process for removal of the resorcinol was evaluated. Precisely, the pseudo-second-order kinetic model was followed more closely compared to the pseudo-first-order model. Results showed that the maximum adsorption capacity was 151.3 mg ​g−1 for a dye concentration of basic blue (1.5 ​ppm) and acid blue (2.5 ​ppm) using an adsorbent dosage of 10 mg at 55 ​°C. In conclusion, the powder activated charcoal may display a high potential for the treatment of dye-containing wastewater.

Herein, three different types of zinc ferrite (ZnFe2O4) magnetic nanoparticles as photocatalysts were synthesized from iron and zinc sulfate using a co-precipitation method. Tri ethylene glycol (TEG) was utilized as a capping/stabilizing agent in the presence of ammonium hydroxide. The as-prepared nanoparticles were annealed at 400 °C for 4 h followed by acid etching with HCl (for 15 min in I M solution). The thermally treated magnetic nanostructure was subjected to surface modification by treating with 3-aminopropyl (triethoxysilane) 3-(APTES) at 60 °C for 2 h. Various characterization techniques including Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), and X-rays diffraction (XRD) were carried out to examine the structural properties of the pristine and functionalized nanocrystals. XRD pattern assessed the crystalline and nano size of the ZnFe2O4 recording particle sizes of 13.5, 23.3, and 106.5 nm for functionalized, annealed, and pristine ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles, respectively. FTIR spectral analysis corroborated the modifications and functionalization of the samples. BET analysis revealed a surface area of 0.6719 (functionalized), 45.21 (annealed), and 155.38 (pristine nanoparticles). The photocatalytic activity of the prepared nanostructures was investigated for Eriochrome Black T (EBT) dye under the unfiltered sunlight. At optimal reaction parameters, the photocatalytic rates of EBT dye for functionalized, annealed, and blank NP’s were 92, 91, and 83%, respectively. Kinetic models demonstrate that the degradation processes followed pseudo-first-order kinetics. The energies of the band gap in the acidic and basic media, as determined from the Tauc plot, were 2.47 and 2.7 eV, respectively. Taken together, the results showed that newly fabricated nanostructures are considered as promising photocatalysts in degrading organic pollutants for a sustainable environment.

Highly efficient and effective treatments of hazardous dye-based color effluents are a major problem in the industrial sector. In this research, the cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) catalyst was produced and used for the degradation of Congo red (CR) as a model dye from aqueous solution. For a said purpose, cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) nanostructures with photocatalytic degradation potential were engineered via co-precipitation method using Fe2(SO4)3, CoO2, and triethylene glycol (as a stabilizing agent). As prepared, CoFe2O4 nanostructures were further surface-functionalized with 3-APTES and tested for CR degradation. The prepared CoFe2O4 nanostructures were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infra-red (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Brunauer-Emmitt-Teller (BET) analysis. UV-visible absorption was used to measure the optical band gap of prepared CoFe2O4 nanostructures through Tauc plots. The as-prepared CoFe2O4 nanostructure bandgap was found to be 2.71 EV while using an acidic medium. The degradation rates of CR dye for bs-CoFe2O4, as-CoFe2O4, and fs-CoFe2O4 nanostructures at pH 9 were 84, 87, and 92%, respectively. Furthermore, the influences of various process parameters, i.e., the effect of catalyst dose, contact time, dye dose/concentration, pH effect, and effect of different acids, were checked for the prepared three types of nanostructures, i.e., bs-CoFe2O4, as-CoFe2O4, and fs-CoFe2O4. The kinetics models properly explained that the reaction of degradation following pseudo-first-order kinetics.

In the title compound, C21H15N2 +·C7H5O2 −, 2-phenyl-1H-phenanthro[9,10-d]imidazole and benzoic acid form an ion pair complex. The system is consolidated by hydrogen bonds along with π–π interactions and N—H...π interactions between the constituent units. For a better understanding of the crystal structure and intermolecular interactions, a Hirshfeld surface analysis was performed.

Ustilaginoidea virens is an important fungus that causes rice false smut disease. This disease significantly reduces both grain yield and quality. Various methods have been developed for the detection of U. virens but most of these methods need sophisticated equipment such as a thermal cycler. Here, we present a loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay for the specific detection of U. virens. This assay used a specific region of the UvG-β1 gene (212-bp region) to design six LAMP primers. The LAMP assay was optimized by the combination of rapidity, simplicity, and high sensitivity for the detection of about 1 pg of target genomic DNA in the reaction whereas, with polymerase chain reaction (PCR), there was no amplification of DNA with concentrations less than 1 ng. Among the genomic DNA of 22 fungus species and two strains of U. virens, only the tube containing the DNA of U. virens changed to yellowish green with SYBR Green I. The color change was indicative of DNA amplification. No DNA was amplified from either the other 22 fungus species or the negative control. Moreover, 20 spikelets and 22 rice seed samples were used for the detection of rice false smut via LAMP. The results were comparable with conventional PCR. We conclude that gene UvG-β1 coupled with LAMP assay, can be used for the detection and identification of U. virens gene via LAMP.

This study is focused on the identification of thiazole-based inhibitors for the $$\alpha $$ -glucosidase enzyme. For that purpose, (E)-2-(2-(arylmethylene)hydrazinyl)-4-arylthiazole derivatives were synthesized in two steps and characterized by various spectroscopic techniques. All derivatives and intermediates were evaluated for their in vitro $$\alpha $$ -glucosidase inhibitory activity. Thiosemicarbazones 20 and 35, and cyclized thiazole derivatives 2, 5–11, 13, 15, 21–24, 27–31, and 36–37 showed significant inhibitory potential in the range of $$\hbox {IC}_{50}=6.2\pm 0.19$$ – $$43.6\pm 0.23~\upmu \hbox {M}$$ as compared to standard acarbose ( $$\hbox {IC}_{50}=37.7\pm 0.19~\upmu \hbox {M}$$ ). A molecular modeling study was carried out to understand the binding interactions of compounds with the active site of enzyme.

Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi is an extensively used medicinal herb for the treatment of hypertension in traditional Chinese medicine. Baicalin, is an important flavonoid in Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi extracts, which exhibits therapeutic effects on anti-hypertension, but its underlying mechanisms remain to be further explored. Therefore, we investigated the effects and molecular mechanisms of Baicalin on anti-hypertension. In vivo studies revealed that Baicalin treatment significantly attenuated the elevation in blood pressure, the pulse propagation and thickening of the abdominal aortic wall in C57BL/6 mice infused with Angiotensin II (Ang II). Moreover, RNA-sequencing and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses identified 537 differentially expressed transcripts and multiple enriched signaling pathways (including vascular smooth muscle contraction and calcium signaling pathway). Consistently, we found that Baicalin pretreatment significantly alleviated the Ang II induced constriction of abdominal aortic ring, while promoted NE pre-contracted vasodilation of abdominal aortic ring at least partly dependent on L-type calcium channel. In addition, Ang II stimulation significantly increased cell viability and PCNA expression, while were attenuated after Baicalin treatment. Moreover, Baicalin pretreatment attenuated Ang II-induced intracellular Ca2+ release, Angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) expression and activation of MLCK/p-MLC pathway in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). The present work further addressed the pharmacological and mechanistic insights on anti-hypertension of Baicalin, which may help better understand the therapeutic effect of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi on anti-hypertension.

The highly robust, effective, and sustainable remediation of hydrocarbon-contaminated wastewater matrices, which is mainly generated from petroleum and related petrochemical industries, is of supreme interest. Owing to the notable presence of suspended solids, oil, and grease, organic matter, highly toxic elements, high salts, and recalcitrant chemicals, crude oil emulsions, and hydrocarbon-contaminated wastewater are considered a potential threat to the environments, animals, plants, and humans. To effectively tackle this challenging issue, magnetic hybrid materials assembled at nano- and micro-scale with unique structural, chemical, and functional entities are considered robust candidates for demulsification purposes. The current research era on magnetic materials has superwettability, leading to an effective system of superwettability, which is vibrant and promising. The wettability of magnetic and magnetic hybrid materials explaining the theme of superhydrophobicity and superhydrophilicity under the liquid. Herein, we reviewed the applications of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) as effective demulsifiers. The demulsifier wettability, dose, pH, salinity, and surface morphology of compelling, magnetic nanoparticles are the main hidden factors in effective demulsifiers. There is a comprehensive discussion on the reuse and recyclability of MNPs after oil, water separation. Furthermore, the main challenges, coupled with the magnetic nanoparticles in the effective separation of emulsions, are intensified in detail. This review will compare the current literature and the utilization of MNPs for the demulsification of oil and water emulsions. This is envisioned that the MNPs would be critical in the petroleum and petrochemical industry to effectively eliminate water from a crude oil emulsion.

Herein, Nafion/sulfonated polyimide (SPI-x) composite membranes have been fabricated using different ratios of Nafion and SPI. The SPI was synthesized using 1, 4, 5, 8-Napthalenetetracarboxylic dianhydride (NTDA) via a one-step high-temperature imidization method in an inert atmosphere. The incorporation of SPI membrane with ion exchange capacity (IEC) of about 1.0 mmol−1 in Nafion showed improvement in physicochemical properties, such as IECs, hydrolytic/oxidative stability, water uptake, and dimensional changes (3.61). Nafion/SPI-x composite membranes showed good proton exchange nature i.e. proton conductivity and thermal stability. Scanning electron micrographs (SEM) reveals that the Nafion/SPI-x nanocomposites membranes display well defined micro-phase separation morphology based on SPI content in the composites. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) confirmed the presence of important functional groups in synthesized membranes. The protons present in membranes were studied by nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy, carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance (13C NMR) spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) investigated the nature of polymer material. The thermal stability of the synthesized membranes was found up to be 500–550 °C by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), a clear indication of good thermal stability of synthesized membranes. Among all Nafion/SPI composites with 60 and 80 wt.% of SPI show good morphology for membranes because of cross-linking between Nafion and SPI. In conclusion, the findings revealed that Nafion/SPI-x membrane could be used as a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) for direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) applications.

Five heteroleptic, cyclometalated (C $$^{\wedge }$$ N) Iridium(III) complexes of acetylacetone (acac) and 1-phenyl-isoquinoline (piq) derivatives, Ir(acac)(piq) $$_{2}$$ , Ir(acac)(2,4-difluoro-piq) $$_{2}$$ , Ir(acac)(4-trifluoromethyl-piq) $$_{2}$$ , Ir(acac)(4-N,N-dimethyl-piq) $$_{2}$$ , Ir(acac)(4-acetyl-piq) $$_{2}$$ , were synthesized and characterized. The ( $$\text {C}^{{\wedge }}\text {N})_{2}$$ Ir(acac) complexes in toluene showed phosphorescence ( $$\uplambda _{\max }= 598$$ nm to 658 nm) with quantum yields (0.1 to 0.32) and microsecond lifetimes (0.43 to 1.9 $$\upmu $$ s). The complexes were non-luminescent in thin films due to self-quenching but luminescent when lightly doped (5%) in a host organic material, 4,4 $$^\prime $$ -Bis(N-carbazolyl)-1,1 $$^\prime $$ -biphenyl (CBP). The HOMO levels determined using cyclic voltammetric oxidation potentials were in the range −5.48 to −5.80 eV. Electroluminescence properties and performance of the Ir complexes doped in CBP (active layer) were studied in a multilayer (ITO/F4TCNQ/TPD/doped CBP/BCP/LiF/Al) organic light emitting device (OLED). The electroluminescense (EL) spectra of the device matched with the phosphorescent spectra of the Ir complexes. The turn-on voltage at $$\sim $$ 4.5 V, maximum brightness of 7600 cd/ $$\hbox {m}^{2}$$ and current efficiency of $$\sim $$ 7.0 cd/A at a brightness of $$\sim $$ 100 cd/ $$\hbox {m}^{2}$$ indicate that these are promising OLED materials. Synopsis. Heteroleptic, cyclometalated (C $$^{\wedge }$$ N) Iridium(III) complexes of acetylacetone (acac) and 1-phenyl-isoquinoline were synthesized and their photophysical, electrochemical and electroluminescence properties were studied. The OLED of Ir complex as emitting material showed turn-on voltage at $$\sim $$ 4.5 V, maximum brightness of 7600 cd/ $$\hbox {m}^{2}$$ and current efficiency of $$\sim $$ 7.0 cd/A at a brightness of $$\sim $$ 100 cd/ $$\hbox {m}^{2}$$ .

The present investigation deals with synthesis of new acid dyes from 4-amino-1-(4-sulfophenyl)-3-methyl-5-pyrazolone and phenol derivatives and their metal complexes (Cu (II) and Fe (II)). The phenol derivatives include 4-chlorophenol, 4-nitrophenol, 4-hydroxybenzene sulfonic acid, 2-nitrophenol-4-sulfonic acid, resorcinol and bisphenol A and bisphenol S. The newly synthesized dyes were applied to crust leather to assess their dyeing properties. The fastness properties of unmetallized dyes were less as compared to metal complexes due to the strong interaction of metals with leather protein. The structures of these dyes were also confirmed by UV, FTIR and NMR studies.

Flavonoids are natural compounds derived from fruits, vegetables and medicinal plants. These compounds have been reported to possess various biological actions including anti-inflammatory, antioxid...

In the last few decades, surfactants and electrolyte interaction has gained considerable attention of researchers due to their industrial and domestic applications. In this work, the effects of electrolyte (NaCl) on the critical micelle concentration (CMC) of the cationic surfactant cetyltrymethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) at different temperatures were investigated through different techniques such as conductometry, surface tensiometer and viscosimeter. The results showed that the values of CMC of CTAB decreased with the increase in temperature as well as with the addition of NaCl. The value of CMC for pure CTAB was calculated 0.98M at 303K, which was observed to decrease as temperature increased and got value of 0.95M at 318K. Moreover the addition of electrolyte NaCl into the surfactant lead to lowering of the CMC and obtained value of 0.90M at 3M of NaCl, indicating significant electrostatic interactions between surfactant and electrolyte. Moreover the degree of ionization(α) calculated for pure cationic surfactant CTAB was 0.219, which tends to increase with the addition of electrolyte, while that of counter ion binding values (β) was observed to decrease from 0.780 to 0.201. Furthermore, the conductivity of charged micelle of surfactant and free ions of electrolyte contributed to electric conductivity of aqueous micellar solution of surfactant. The results can be helpful to develop better understanding about interaction between electrolyte and surfactant.

The aim of the research work was to synthesize different biologically active carbamate derivatives bearing 2-furoyl-1-piperazine and having modest toxicity. The synthesis was completed in multiple steps. The structural confirmation of all the synthesized compounds was carried out by EI-MS, IR and 1 H-NMR spectral data. The enzyme inhibition and antibacterial potential of the synthesized compounds was evaluated. Moreover, the cytotoxicity of the compounds was also checked to find their utility as possible therapeutic agents. All the compounds were active against acetylcholinesterase enzyme especially 12 and 14 showed very good inhibitory potential relative to Eserine, a reference standard. Almost all the compounds showed good activities against the both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains.

Chicken skin and its fat are sources of solid waste that are usually not utilized and add solid pollution. This research work deals with the production of useful biodiesel from utilizing the waste chicken (fat and its skins). Waste chicken fat and its skins (sourced from local shops of Hyderabad, Sindh, Pakistan) were extracted and trans-estrification was made. The product of trans-estrification was fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) commonly known as biodiesel. Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) was used as catalyst and glycerol was obtained as a by-product. The FAME produced was tested for six parameters namely calorific value, cloud point, pour point, flash point, density and viscosity when compared to ASTM E2515-11 standard values. The results of this experiment showed that the calorific value, cloud point, pour point, flash point, density and viscosity values of FAME produced from chicken skin and its fat were close to that of petroleum derived diesel.

Background: Sulfonated polyimides (SPIs) are considered as the promising alternatives to Nafion as membrane materials for the polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM). They generally exhibit high ionic conductivity, good mechanical properties, excellent thermal and chemical stabilities. The six-membered ring, naphthalenic anhydride-based SPIs, not only exhibit superior chemical and thermo-oxidative stabilities but are also more resistant to hydrolysis than their five-membered phthalic anhydride-based SPIs. The composites based on napthalenic polyimides are also significantly stable in high temperature environment and show better stability to hydrolysis. Incorporation of inorganic fillers into organic polymers has gained tremendous attention and these new materials are called organic-inorganic hybrids. Few patents related to the synthesis and performance PEM materials have been reviewed and cited. Keeping in view the importance of sulfonated polyimide based nanocomposites as potential membrane materials for PEM in fuel cell, we have synthesized SPIs clay based nanocomposite as potential membrane material. The objective of this work was to synthesize clay based SPIs thin films which could be used as membrane materials in PEM fuel cell for energy applications. Methods/Experimental: At the first step the nanometric sheets of vermiculite clay prepared via sonication was surface modified by grafting 3-APTES. Then the SPI was synthesized via one-step high temperature direct imidization method, which serve as a matrix material. The organo modified VMT was dispersed via sonication in the SPI matrix. Four different sets of organic-inorganic nanocomposite membranes thin films, having VMT contents in the range of 1 to 7 wt. were prepared by casting, curing and acidification route. Results: The synthesis of SPIs clay based thin films were carried out at three different steps and fully characterized. The synthesis of SPIs and SPIs clay based thin films were analyzed via different analytical techniques. The XRD analysis tells the successful dispersion of clay in SPI matrix. Different physiochemical tests were conducted for the analysis of these membranes such as water uptake, hydrolytic stability, ion exchange capacity (IEC), dimensional changes and oxidative stability, to check their suitability as membrane materials for PEM. The proton conductivity of these membranes were measured via impedance spectroscopy which discloses three different active regions responsible for proton conduction. The activation energies of the membranes were higher at lower temperature and reaches to 8.2 kJ/mol at higher temperature (90°C). Conclusion: The synthesis of sulfonated polyimide/clay (SPI/clay) based organic-inorganic nanocomposite membranes were achieved successfully. The membrane display good hydrolytic, thermal and oxidative stability at elevated temperature. The proton conductivity of the membrane display an increase together with the frequency but decreases with temperature. Therefore some more efforts are required to achieve high degree of functionalization of both organic and inorganic components, for the �future� PEMs to avoid deterioration and to get improved performance. © 2016 Bentham Science Publishers.

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of therapeutic and high doses of florfenicol on kidney and liver functional indicators in goat species. Materials and Methods: Six mature, healthy goats (combine breed and sex) with average weight 25 kg were selected for this study. The therapeutic (20 mg/kg b.w.) and high doses (40 and 60 mg) of florfenicol were administered for 3 days with 24 h interval. Blood samples were collected at 0, 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 h following the each administered dose. Results: The results showed that the therapeutic dose of florfenicol produced nonsignificant effect on serum urea, creatinine, total protein (TP), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) and bilirubin on all timings, and increased (p

In this study, the Maillard reaction (MR) of glucose was applied to improve the physicochemical and functional properties of walnut protein isolate (WNPI). The MR products (MRPs) were prepared with glucose at 0 h (MRP0), 1 h (MRP1), 2 h (MRP2) and 3 h (MRP3) heating at 95 °C. The Infra-Red spectrum showed reduction of amide and S–H functionalities in MRPs with complete intermixing of glucose in MRP3. Scanning electron microscopy indicated changes in the morphology of MRP3 which also exhibited promising antioxidant effect. Significant decrease (P

In present, we have performed the Michaelis–Menten kinetics studies of urease inhibitors (6a–o), having basic skeleton of acetamide hybrids of N-substituted 1,3,4-oxadiazoles and piperidines. From the Lineweaver-Burk plot, Dixon plot and their secondary replots, it has been confirmed that all the compounds have inhibited the enzyme competitively with Ki values of in range from 3.11 ± 0.2 to 5.20 ± 0.7 μM. Compound 6a was found to have lowest Ki among the series, while compounds 6d, 6e, 6gand 6i were found subsequently the excellent Ki values after 6a. Molecular docking has supported their types of inhibitions and structure activity-relationship. Most frequently, the nitro group oxygen atoms were found in contact with nickel ions of the active site. Moreover, all the compounds were subjected to toxicity tests and were found nontoxic against human neutrophils and plants, respectively.

Considering the growing environmental concern, there is a dire need to understand the persistence of hydrocarbon-based toxic substances, both in pristine and mix forms, in different matrices. Most of these toxic substances pose hazardous threats directly or indirectly to entire living ecosystems. In this context, the uncontrolled or accidental leakage of petrochemicals and/or trace residues from the oilfields or refinery units are considered a rich source of emerging contaminants with a notable potential to damage the water matrices. Thus, effective treatment with standardized measures is of supreme interest to address the environmental pollution, at large, and water insecurity, in particular. Robust remediation measures should be taken to mitigate or at least lower the environmentally related adverse impacts and human-health related threatening concerns of hydrocarbon-based toxic substances. Several of in practice conventional treatments had been old-fashioned, insufficient, and expensive. Herein, we reviewed metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) based innovative approaches to tackle hydrocarbon-based petroleum source contamination. Metal ion or clusters incorporated in organic ligands leads to the formation of one, two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) hierarchy materials so-called “MOFs”. Besides, the bond flexibility between inorganic (metal) and organic polymers) units, intricate synthesis of MOFs with requisite functionalities for oil/water separation. The selection of accurate metal and organic components for the integration of chemically and thermally stable MOF crystals with high porosity is essential, especially to explain oil/water separation applications. This review spotlights to understand the hierarchical assemblies and structural geometries of MOFs, followed by applications in the separation of oil/water mixtures for a safer environment.