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The goal of the current study is to investigate the thermal degradation of palm fronds (PF), olive leaves (OL), and wheat straw (WS) through pyrolysis and calculate their kinetic data using TG-DTG and DTA approaches. The kinetic parameters were assessed using isoconversional techniques like the Ozawa-Flynn-Wall (OFW) and Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose (KAS) methods, as well as model-fitting techniques like the integral method, which employs various diffusion and reaction order models. Using kinetics data models, typical parameters for pyrolysis and thermodynamics were estimated. For PF, OL, and WS, the values of activation energy (E) from the integral method ranged between 8.82 and 167.13, 23.06 and 149.20, and 11.01 and 156.27, respectively, for diffusion models. On the other hand, the values of (E) ranged between 22.3 and 117.49, 51.69 and 92.88, and 23.48 and 125.97, respectively, for reaction-order models. The average activation energies (E) calculated by using PF, OL, and WS samples are 91.9, 69.1, and 65.2, respectively, for the OFW method and 87.5, 101.8, and 63.4, respectively, for the KAS method. The results demonstrated that the integral method provided values of (E) that were almost identical to those produced by the KAS and OFW methods. In the same range of (α), results showed that reaction order models yielded greater frequency factor values than diffusion models, demonstrating how simpler and quicker pyrolysis is. The values of ( Δ G av ) demonstrated the acceptability of these materials for pyrolysis, and for the OFW and KAS techniques, the sequence of the degradation process was OL > WS > PF. The calculated ( Δ G av ) showed that more heat energies are required for OL, PF, and WS to dissociate the reagent bonds, which agrees with the (E) values derived from the OFW model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lunar exploration has captivated significant attention in recent times through programs such as Artemis. To establish long-term sustenance on the moon, astronauts have to grow their food on-site. While a key substrate for plant production – lunar regolith can induce baneful effects, supplementation with organic amendments could alleviate this inherent toxicity and significantly improve plant growth. In the present study, we examined the suitability of cocopeat (CP) as an amendment to ISRO's lunar soil simulant (LSS), LSS-ISAC-1. We assessed the germination and seedling growth response of four crops—wheat, tomato, groundnut, and cotton to LSS and Cocopeat supplementation. As anticipated, all four crops grew very well on earth soil (ES) and CP per se compared to the LSS. However, due to acidic pH, low electric conductivity (EC), and severe nutrient deficiency in LSS, we observed significantly low germination, stunted seedling growth, and altered associated oxidative stress indicators. To mitigate these pernicious effects, LSS supplemented with varied CP proportions – 3.125, 6.25, 12.50, 25, 50, and 100 %. The resultant data revealed that LSS supplemented with 6.25 % CP in wheat and tomato; 3.125 % CP in groundnut, and 25 % CP in cotton significantly improved phenotypic and biochemical traits in seedlings. Collectively, this study suggests the utility of CP as a novel augmenting agent to boost ISRU strategy for crop growth in moon regolith. • ISRO's Lunar soil simulant , LSS-ISAC-1, significantly reduced germination and seedling growth. • Cocopeat alleviated the LSS-induced baneful effects on wheat, tomato, groundnut, and cotton crop seedlings. • Cocopeat can be a novel augmenting agent to boost ISRU strategy for crop growth in moon regolith. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To study the effects of hot air temperature and slice thickness on the drying characteristics, physicochemical properties and antioxidant components of Mulusasiatica Nakai slices. The Mulusasiatica Nakai slices with thickness of 3 mm and 5 mm were dried in the hot air temperature range of 60, 70, 80, 90 ℃. Five classical food thin layer drying models were used to nonlinear fit the experimental data, and the diffusion coefficient and activation energy were calculated. The color, hardness, rehydration properties and antioxidant components of the dried slices were analyzed. Results showed that, the drying time was obviously shortened with the increase of hot-air temperature and the decrease of slice thickness. In the experimental drying temperature range, the effective diffusion coefficient increased with the increase of temperature. The activation energies were 17.46 kJ/mol and 23.82 kJ/mol when the slice thickness was 3 and 5 mm, respectively. Fick diffusion model was used to describe the evaporation process of Mulusasiatica Nakai slices. Compared with other models, Page model could better fit the drying process of Mulusasiatica Nakai slices. When the slice thickness was 3 mm and the hot-air temperature was 90 ℃, the dried product was light yellow, with high rehydration performance and low hardness. In terms of antioxidant retention, heat lost about 50% of ascorbic acid, but only about 35% of total phenolics. In conclusion, the slice thickness could be selected to be 3mm, the hot air temperature 90 ℃ for drying, drying time 90 min, dried product color was light yellow, higher rehydration performance, lower hardness, and could better retain the antioxidant components in Mulusasiatica Nakai.

Aegilops tauschii (Coss.) is a highly deleterious, rapidly proliferating weed within the wheat, and its DD genome composition exhibits adaptability toward diverse abiotic stresses and demonstrates heightened efficacy in nutrient utilization. Current study investigated different variegated impacts of distinct nitrogen concentrations with varied plant densities, scrutinizing the behavior of Ae. tauschii under various salinity and drought stress levels through multiple physiological, biochemical, and molecular pathways. Different physiological parameters attaining high growth with different plant density and different nitrogen availability levels increased Ae. tauschii dominancy. Conversely, under the duress of salinity and drought, Ae. tauschii showcased an enhanced performance through a comprehensive array of physiological and biochemical parameters, including catalase, peroxidase, malondialdehyde, and proline content. Notably, salinity-associated traits such as sodium, potassium, and the sodium-potassium ratio exhibited significant variations and demonstrated remarkable tolerance capabilities. In the domain of molecular pathways, the HKT and DREB genes have displayed a remarkable upregulation, showcasing a comparatively elevated expression profile in reaction to different levels of salinity and drought-induced stress. Without a doubt, this information will make a substantial contribution to the understanding of the fundamental behavioral tendencies and the efficiency of nutrient utilization in Ae. tauschii. Moreover, it will offer innovative viewpoints for integrated management, thereby enabling the enhancement of strategies for adept control and alleviation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Aegilops tauschii (Coss.) is a highly deleterious, rapidly proliferating weed within the wheat, and its DD genome composition exhibits adaptability toward diverse abiotic stresses and demonstrates heightened efficacy in nutrient utilization. Current study investigated different variegated impacts of distinct nitrogen concentrations with varied plant densities, scrutinizing the behavior of Ae. tauschii under various salinity and drought stress levels through multiple physiological, biochemical, and molecular pathways. Different physiological parameters attaining high growth with different plant density and different nitrogen availability levels increased Ae. tauschii dominancy. Conversely, under the duress of salinity and drought, Ae. tauschii showcased an enhanced performance through a comprehensive array of physiological and biochemical parameters, including catalase, peroxidase, malondialdehyde, and proline content. Notably, salinity-associated traits such as sodium, potassium, and the sodium-potassium ratio exhibited significant variations and demonstrated remarkable tolerance capabilities. In the domain of molecular pathways, the HKT and DREB genes have displayed a remarkable upregulation, showcasing a comparatively elevated expression profile in reaction to different levels of salinity and drought-induced stress. Without a doubt, this information will make a substantial contribution to the understanding of the fundamental behavioral tendencies and the efficiency of nutrient utilization in Ae. tauschii. Moreover, it will offer innovative viewpoints for integrated management, thereby enabling the enhancement of strategies for adept control and alleviation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to clarify the effect of CA (controlled atmosphere, 2–3% O2 + 3% CO2) and NO (nitric oxide, generated by 0.4 nM sodium nitroprusside), alone or combined (CA + NO), on the physio-chemical properties, enzyme activities and antioxidant capacities of chestnuts during storage at 0 °C for 180 d. Compared with control (CT), CA and CA+NO both improved the storage quality of the samples, but only CA resulted in more ethanol production. Moreover, these improvements were further enhanced and ethanol synthesis was inhibited by the addition of NO. A spectrometer was used to assess the production of phenolic content (TPC) and activities of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), superoxide dismutas (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) as influenced by CA or CA+NO treatments. Higher TPC, PAL, SOD, POD, CAT, and lower PPO were observed in CA alone, and more so in the combination with NO group. The increased antioxidant production and enhanced antioxidant activities contributed to scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reducing malondialdehyde (MDA). This study unveiled the correlations and differences between the effects of CA and CA+NO on storage quality, providing valuable insights into postharvest preservation and suggesting that the combination (CA+NO) was more beneficial for quality maintenance in chestnuts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Straw has poor palatability, a high degree of lignification, and difficulty in compression, which limits its feed application. Expansion technology can make the hard straw soft and improve the physical and chemical properties of the straw. At present, there is no comprehensive characterization and evaluation of the physical and chemical properties and feed utilization value of expanded straw, and there is a lack of research on the texture properties of straw itself. The texture properties have important effects on the compressibility of straw during silage, the palatability during feeding, and even the energy conversion efficiency during digestion, which have important guiding significance for the further utilization of straw. We combined mechanical and chemical methods to investigate the hardness, elasticity, chewiness, compressive properties, and structural changes of expanded straw and verified the effect of the changes in mechanical properties and chemical structure of expanded straw on improving digestibility by in vitro digestion. This result is of great significance for the further effective application of expanded straw as a feed resource. The hard texture and poor palatability of straw are important factors that hinder its application in feed. Expansion is a technology that can improve the utilization of biomass, but few studies have comprehensively revealed how to change physicochemical characteristics to improve nutritional value. In this study, mechanical and chemical methods were combined to study the texture properties, rheological properties, and physicochemical structures of straw, and its utilization value was evaluated by in vitro rumen digestion. Expansion caused hemicellulose degradation, cellulose separation, and lignin redistribution, resulting in a decrease in crystallinity. The hardness and chewiness of expanded straw were reduced by 55% to 66%, significantly improving palatability. The compressive stress could be reduced by 54–73%, and the relaxation elasticity was reduced by 5% when expanded straw was compressed. The compression deformation of expanded straw was doubled compared to feedstock, and the compacting degree was improved. Expanded straw significantly improved digestibility and gas production efficiency, which was due to the pore structure increasing the attachment of rumen microorganisms; besides that, the reduction of the internal structural force of the straw reduced energy consumption during digestion. The lignin content decreased by 10%, the hardness decreased further in secondary expansion, but the digestibility did not improve significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To compare the quality differences of Prunus mume from main producing areas of Sichuan Province, related basic physio-chemical properties, trace elements, total flavonoids, total phenols and organic acids contents were determined. Furthermore, the volatile flavor components of Prunus mume were analyzed by headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Additionally, principal component and cluster analysis were applied to compare and sort the 8 varieties of Prunus mume samples based on the quality data. The results revealed significant differences in the fruit quality of 8 cultivars of Prunus mume. Among them, the single fruit weight of Damei No.1, Pingwu Nangao and Mabian Dabaimei was more than 30 g, and the flesh rate was more than 90%, which belonged to the extremely large fruit in Prunus mume, the maximum protein content of Damei No.2 was 1.24 g/100 g FW, the sugar acid ratio of 8 varieties of Prunus mume was 0.25~0.58, the content of Fe in Dayi Daqingmei was the highest, which was 187.28 mg/kg DW. The five varieties of Prunus mume in Dachuan, Dayi and Mabian had higher content of Se, with an average content of 0.28 mg/kg DW. The contents of total flavonoids and total phenols in Dayi Yingsu were the highest, which were 84.53 and 36.03 mg/g DW, respectively, which were significantly higher than those of other varieties (P

Aegilops tauschii (Coss.) is a highly deleterious, rapidly proliferating weed within the wheat, and its DD genome composition exhibits adaptability toward diverse abiotic stresses and demonstrates heightened efficacy in nutrient utilization. Current study investigated different variegated impacts of distinct nitrogen concentrations with varied plant densities, scrutinizing the behavior of Ae. tauschii under various salinity and drought stress levels through multiple physiological, biochemical, and molecular pathways. Different physiological parameters attaining high growth with different plant density and different nitrogen availability levels increased Ae. tauschii dominancy. Conversely, under the duress of salinity and drought, Ae. tauschii showcased an enhanced performance through a comprehensive array of physiological and biochemical parameters, including catalase, peroxidase, malondialdehyde, and proline content. Notably, salinity-associated traits such as sodium, potassium, and the sodium--potassium ratio exhibited significant variations and demonstrated remarkable tolerance capabilities. In the domain of molecular pathways, the HKT and DREB genes have displayed a remarkable upregulation, showcasing a comparatively elevated expression profile in reaction to different levels of salinity and drought-induced stress. Without a doubt, this information will make a substantial contribution to the understanding of the fundamental behavioral tendencies and the efficiency of nutrient utilization in Ae. tauschii. Moreover, it will offer innovative viewpoints for integrated management, thereby enabling the enhancement of strategies for adept control and alleviation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper presents a comparative analysis of the physio-chemical properties of milk from four different breeds of cows in Haryana, namely Sahiwal, Tharparkar, Red Sindhi, and Cross-breed. The study aimed to evaluate various parameters including fat content, solid not fat (SNF), total solids, protein content, density, lactose content, titratable acidity, freezing point, pH, and specific gravity. A total of 80 cows, 20 from each breed were selected for the study, and milk samples were collected twice a day, in the morning and evening. The analysis revealed significant differences among the four cow breeds in terms of their milk composition. The Sahiwal breed exhibited the highest fat content (4.71), while the Red Sindhi had the lowest (3.97). Similarly, variations were observed in SNF, total solids, proteins, density, lactose, titratable acidity, freezing point, pH, and specific gravity across the different breeds. The findings of this research contribute to a better understanding of the physio-chemical characteristics of milk from different cow breeds in Haryana. These results can assist in breed selection for improved milk production, processing, and product development. Furthermore, the data obtained can serve as a valuable resource for dairy industry stakeholders, regulatory bodies, and researchers in the field of dairy science and technology. Future studies could explore the relationship between physio-chemical properties and milk yield, as well as investigating the impact of these variations on the processing and quality of dairy products. Additionally, exploring the influence of environmental factors and management practices on milk composition could further enhance our understanding of the subject. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After extracting oil from Melia azedarach, Rice bran, and Water hyacinth, their physio-chemical properties are tested which are observed to fulfill the protocol of ASTM Standard for making bio-diesel from these three feedstocks. Melia azedarach, Rice bran, and Water hyacinth bioactive compounds were assayed for estimating the property of elemental analysis (CHNS) and proximate analysis. The percentage composition for nitrogen, carbon, hydrogen, and sulfur is found to be 2.309%, 45.531%, 6.574%, and 0.732% with retention time (minutes) of 0.858, 1.367, 4.367, and 10.583 respectively for Melia azedarach. The ultimate analysis of rice bran for nitrogen, carbon, hydrogen, and sulfur is found to be 20.027%, 49.892 %, 6.058%, and 1.452 % with retention time (minutes) 0.867, 1.375, 4.375, and 10.600 respectively. The ultimate analysis of Water hyacinth for nitrogen, carbon, hydrogen, and sulphur is found to be 2.033%, 36.680 %, 5.251%, and 0.077 % with retention time (minutes) 0.867, 1.375, 4.375, and 10.700 respectively. The Proximate analysis of moisture content is found to be in the range of 5.8-8.70 %, Ash content 5.4-54.10 %, and volatile content 23.85-64.38 % for all three types of feed-stocks. This research paper also compares C, H, N, and S composition and the physio-chemical properties of extracted oil for the production of biodiesel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to clarify the effect of CA (controlled atmosphere, 2–3% O2 + 3% CO2) and NO (nitric oxide, generated by 0.4 nM sodium nitroprusside), alone or combined (CA + NO), on the physio-chemical properties, enzyme activities and antioxidant capacities of chestnuts during storage at 0 °C for 180 d. Compared with control (CT), CA and CA+NO both improved the storage quality of the samples, but only CA resulted in more ethanol production. Moreover, these improvements were further enhanced and ethanol synthesis was inhibited by the addition of NO. A spectrometer was used to assess the production of phenolic content (TPC) and activities of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), superoxide dismutas (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) as influenced by CA or CA+NO treatments. Higher TPC, PAL, SOD, POD, CAT, and lower PPO were observed in CA alone, and more so in the combination with NO group. The increased antioxidant production and enhanced antioxidant activities contributed to scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reducing malondialdehyde (MDA). This study unveiled the correlations and differences between the effects of CA and CA+NO on storage quality, providing valuable insights into postharvest preservation and suggesting that the combination (CA+NO) was more beneficial for quality maintenance in chestnuts.

Aegilops tauschii (Coss.) is a highly deleterious, rapidly proliferating weed within the wheat, and its DD genome composition exhibits adaptability toward diverse abiotic stresses and demonstrates heightened efficacy in nutrient utilization. Current study investigated different variegated impacts of distinct nitrogen concentrations with varied plant densities, scrutinizing the behavior of Ae. tauschii under various salinity and drought stress levels through multiple physiological, biochemical, and molecular pathways. Different physiological parameters attaining high growth with different plant density and different nitrogen availability levels increased Ae. tauschii dominancy. Conversely, under the duress of salinity and drought, Ae. tauschii showcased an enhanced performance through a comprehensive array of physiological and biochemical parameters, including catalase, peroxidase, malondialdehyde, and proline content. Notably, salinity-associated traits such as sodium, potassium, and the sodium–potassium ratio exhibited significant variations and demonstrated remarkable tolerance capabilities. In the domain of molecular pathways, the HKT and DREB genes have displayed a remarkable upregulation, showcasing a comparatively elevated expression profile in reaction to different levels of salinity and drought-induced stress. Without a doubt, this information will make a substantial contribution to the understanding of the fundamental behavioral tendencies and the efficiency of nutrient utilization in Ae. tauschii. Moreover, it will offer innovative viewpoints for integrated management, thereby enabling the enhancement of strategies for adept control and alleviation.

Plastic waste has become a pervasive and global threat to every ecosystem, and the continuous surge in plastic production has triggered the need for sustainable alternatives. This study focuses on harnessing a hundred percent biodegradable composite sheets with a natural crosslinker, which can be used in several end applications like seedling trays, gardening pots, sampling trays, one-time plates, ear and nasal swabs, etc. The proposed composite is manufactured with all-natural ingredients and zero harmful chemicals. The waste Kibisu silk or filature silk fibre (Bombyx mori) is used here as the fibre reinforcement, and wheat gluten (WG) is used as the matrix material. For plasticising and crosslinking the WG, castor oil and fresh lemon extract (Citrus limon) are used. In addition, pellets of sodium hydroxide are also added as a dispersion agent for WG. All the significant constituents used here are industrial waste or abundantly available in nature. The properties obtained from the characterisation processes indicate that natural crosslinker adds better physio-chemical properties in the developed samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Biochar soil amendments are attracting attention as one strategy to improve soil microbially ecological environment and regulate the soil nitrogen cycle. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of biochar application on agricultural soil improvement, nitrogen (N) mineralization and nitrification. The experiment was carried out on a typical farmland containing black soil and saline-alkaline soil in Northeast China. Four treatments were undertaken, including the control-treated black soil farmland (CS), the biochar-treated black soil farmland (BCS), the control-treated saline-alkali soil farmland (SAS), and the biochar-treated saline-alkaline soil farmland (BSAS). Basic physical and chemical properties, enzyme activity, and the contents of ammonium-nitrogen (NH4+-N) and nitrate-nitrogen (NO3--N) in the soil were subsequently determined. The co-occurrence networks of bacterial communities of the biochar and control treatment groups were constructed based on high-throughput sequencing data of the 16S rRNA genes. The results showed that the BCS and BSAS treatments significantly increased the contents of soil organic matter, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and available phosphorus. The application of biochar significantly increased the NH4+-N contents in the black soil and saline-alkaline soil by 81.78 and 80.08 %, respectively, while significantly reducing the soil NH4+-N/NO3--N content, which promoted the transformation of NH4+-N into NO3--N. Subsequently, the released NH4+-N was transformed into NO3--N through nitrification. After the biochar application, the NO3--N contents in the black and saline-alkaline soils could be fixed. The biochar application significantly increased the abundance of gdh, AOA-amoA, AOB-amoA, nirK, nirS, nosZ, and nifH genes, with no significant difference in the abundance of napA genes being found among different treatments. Microbes playing a key role in the co-occurrence network were Proteobateria, Acidobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, and Chloroflexi. As compared with the CS and SAS treatments, under the BCS+BSAS treatment, the connectors, module hubs, connectedness, and clustering coefficient showed larger parameters, and the networks were more complex. The application of biochar gradually increased the nodes, edges, and average degree of the bacterial co-occurrence network, thus indicating that the interaction between microbial groups in the black and saline-alkaline soils post biochar application may be important in the biogeochemical cycle process in farmland soil.

The hard texture and poor palatability of straw are important factors that hinder its application in feed. Expansion is a technology that can improve the utilization of biomass, but few studies have comprehensively revealed how to change physicochemical characteristics to improve nutritional value. In this study, mechanical and chemical methods were combined to study the texture properties, rheological properties, and physicochemical structures of straw, and its utilization value was evaluated by in vitro rumen digestion. Expansion caused hemicellulose degradation, cellulose separation, and lignin redistribution, resulting in a decrease in crystallinity. The hardness and chewiness of expanded straw were reduced by 55% to 66%, significantly improving palatability. The compressive stress could be reduced by 54–73%, and the relaxation elasticity was reduced by 5% when expanded straw was compressed. The compression deformation of expanded straw was doubled compared to feedstock, and the compacting degree was improved. Expanded straw significantly improved digestibility and gas production efficiency, which was due to the pore structure increasing the attachment of rumen microorganisms; besides that, the reduction of the internal structural force of the straw reduced energy consumption during digestion. The lignin content decreased by 10%, the hardness decreased further in secondary expansion, but the digestibility did not improve significantly.

This document is a corrigendum for an article titled "Investigating the dynamic responses of Aegilops tauschii Coss. to salinity, drought, and nitrogen stress: a comprehensive study of competitive growth and biochemical and molecular pathways." The corrigendum corrects an error in the author list, where author Rashida Hameed was erroneously excluded as the corresponding author. The corrected author list is provided, and it is stated that this error does not change the scientific conclusions of the article. The document also includes information about the publication date, DOI, and copyright information. [Extracted from the article]

Summary: The preparation of soap from extracted date seed oil along with anti-microbial activities, Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), and physio-chemical properties comprise the areas examined by the methodology implemented in this research. Ascertaining the fatty acid content in such date seed oil embodies the research objective of this investigation. Color Criteria should be within the range of 2.8 to 13.5 (red-yellow),acid value 1.42 Mg KOH/g oil, flash point 245C°, a refractive index of 1.468, a Kinetic viscosity of 20cp, and a density of 0.9188g cm-3 comprised the physical assessment of the date oil. On the other hand, a peroxide value of 7.4 mg of peroxide/kg oil, a saponification value of 0.279 mg g-1, an acid value of 2.67, and an iodine value of 74.31 gm I2/100 gm fat comprised the chemical assessment. GC-MS was utilized to ascertain the quantity of fatty acid content in the date seed oil. Oleic acid (Omega-9) and Linoleic acid (Omega-6) comprised the unsaturated fatty acid content in such oils producing values of 38.25% and 2.33% respectively, where the percentage represents the total fatty acid components. Palmitic acid and lauric acid encapsulated the saturated fatty acid content producing values of 0.42% a nd 35.76%, respectively. The elemental constituents found in the date oil include calcium (29 ppm), magnesium (0.359 ppm), iron (1.27 ppm), and sodium (70 ppm). The date seed oil shown demonstrated anti-bacterial activity high effect 30mm against Escherichia coli (Gram negative) and moderated effect 20mm against Staphylococcus aureus, (Gram positive) respectively compared to standard drug, Cephradine. Which may be due to bioactive compounds including plant-derived phenolic molecules (589mg/100g). In this way, the date seed oil had moderate inhibitory effect 40mm against Candida albicansa and low inhibitory effect 20mm against Aspergillus flavus. which may be increases with the increase of the compound concentration compared with standard antifungal agent Nizoarm. While the date oil extract showed good properties in soap in terms of viscosity, Hardness, color and moderate solubility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, chemists seem more fascinated with exploiting less hazardous green solvent ionic liquids for countering the detrimental consequence of organic solvents on the environment. Ordinarily, ionic liquids having salt-like structures comprise cations and anions. Ionic liquids alleviate various enzyme-catalyzed reactions having excellent yields, increasing capacities and functions, enhancing recyclability, increasing stability, recovery, and cost-effectiveness, and these are cardinal elements for applications in industry. Furthermore, growing nanotechnology, polymer, electrochemistry, environmental chemistry, pharmaceutical medicinal chemistry or pharmaceutical chemistry, and biochemistry in the area of ionic liquids have been flourished among investigators. Ionic liquids-supported materials and techniques are excellent for efficient and sustainable procedures. Because of their assignment as designer solvents, through which the physiochemical dimensions of an Ionic liquid can be adjusted for better functioning for peculiar applications. The review delivers the gradual improvement, growth or development, or progress and prospects of ionic liquids and their physicochemical properties as well as examples of applications in a unified fashion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Irrigation and nitrogen (N) fertilization rates are widely used to increase crop growth and yield and promote the sustainable production of the maize crop. However, our understanding of irrigation and N fertilization in the soil microenvironment is still evolving, and further research on soil bacterial communities under maize crop with irrigation and N management in subtropical regions of China is needed. Therefore, we evaluated the responses of two irrigation levels (low and high irrigation water with 60 and 80% field capacity, respectively) and five N fertilization rates [i.e., control (N0), N200 (200 kg N ha−1), N250 (250 kg N ha−1), N300 (300 kg N ha−1), and N350 (350 kg N ha−1)] on soil bacterial communities, richness, and diversity. We found that both irrigation and N fertilization significantly affected bacterial richness, diversity index, and number of sequences. Low irrigation with N300 treatment has significantly higher soil enzymes activities, soil nutrient content, and bacterial alpha and beta diversity than high irrigation. In addition, the Proteobacteria, Actinobacteriota, Chloroflexi, and Firmicutes were the dominant bacterial phyla under both irrigation regimes. The acidic phosphates, acidic invertase, β-glucosidase, catalase, cellulase, and urease were positively correlated with the Shannon index under both low and high irrigation. Therefore, low irrigation improves soil nutrient utilization by boosting soil enzyme activity, directly affecting soil bacterial communities. It was concluded that greater soil nutrients, enzyme activities with higher bacterial diversity are the main indicators of soil reactivity to low irrigation water and N300 for maintaining soil fertility and soil microbial community balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrafine particles (UFPs) with an aerodynamic diameter of <0.1 µm are emerging as the most dominant and abundant particulate matter. Human exposure to these particles has increased dramatically, especially in the indoor environment as most of the population spend 80 to 90% time in the indoor environment. Due to the small size, it is believed that these particles will impose more dangerous and aggressive health impacts. However, knowledge of UFPs is still lacking as most of the previous studies focused on PM10 and PM2.5. The current article aims to provide a critical overview of UFPs sources, composition, physicochemical properties, potential exposure route, toxicity mechanisms, and health impacts to identify the research gaps and future research directions and perspectives. It is commonly observed that inhalation is the dominant route of exposure. Inhaled ultra-fine particles can penetrate deep into the respiratory track, resulting in adverse health impacts, ranging from normal transient of respiratory problems to cardiovascular and respiratory mortality and morbidity, lung cancer, brain disease, mutagenic and carcinogenic impacts. Due to the large surface area, these particles can transport a variety of toxins causing tissue and cell injury, leading to enhanced oxidative stress and inflammation. In order to overcome the environmental burden and health consequences attributed to ultrafine particles, proper air quality guidelines should be introduced and it is suggested that future research should focus on the relationship between health symptoms and UFPs physicochemical properties, especially the mechanics of chemical transformation in human body, their biological behavior, and toxicological effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field survey was conducted to assess some physio-chemical properties of eroded soils of District Mansehra. Composite soil samples with 0-20 cm depth were collected from 10 sampling plots. They were assessed for soil pH(1:5), EC(1:5), soil organic matter (OM), AB-DTPA extractable P, AB-DTPA extractable K, bulk density, lime, and saturation. The results showed that soil pH in the areas under investigation was almost alkaline, ranging from 7.1 to 7.8. The EC values ranged from 2.2 to 2.9 dS m-1 showing that the area under study had no sign of salinity. Soils having EC less than 0.7 dS m-1 may be applied for good crop yield. The data on OM showed that the soils under investigation were insufficient in OM contents. The OM contents in these soils ranged from 0.59 to 0.92 %. Results regarding the P content range from 3.4 to 4.45 mg kg-1, suggesting that some soils are adequate in P contents, but most soils are deficient. This study suggests the supplemental P application as fertilizer for profitable crop production. Furthermore, the addition of various organic fertilizers will improve the soil properties and fertility status of the soils. The soils in the area were also evaluated for K contents that range from 73.45 to 78.71 mg kg-1, lime status ranging from 2.56 to 3.99 mg kg -1, which is slightly calcareous, bulk density content ranging from 1.23 to 1.38 mg kg-1, saturation level occurred between 32.4 to 40.1 mg kg-1. It was established that micronutrients for integrated nutrient management and fertilizer application would be required in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Irrigation and nitrogen (N) fertilization rates are widely used to increase crop growth and yield and promote the sustainable production of the maize crop. However, our understanding of irrigation and N fertilization in the soil microenvironment is still evolving, and further research on soil bacterial communities under maize crop with irrigation and N management in subtropical regions of China is needed. Therefore, we evaluated the responses of two irrigation levels (low and high irrigation water with 60 and 80% field capacity, respectively) and five N fertilization rates [i.e., control (N0), N200 (200 kg N ha−1), N250 (250 kg N ha−1), N300 (300 kg N ha−1), and N350 (350 kg N ha−1)] on soil bacterial communities, richness, and diversity. We found that both irrigation and N fertilization significantly affected bacterial richness, diversity index, and number of sequences. Low irrigation with N300 treatment has significantly higher soil enzymes activities, soil nutrient content, and bacterial alpha and beta diversity than high irrigation. In addition, the Proteobacteria, Actinobacteriota, Chloroflexi, and Firmicutes were the dominant bacterial phyla under both irrigation regimes. The acidic phosphates, acidic invertase, β-glucosidase, catalase, cellulase, and urease were positively correlated with the Shannon index under both low and high irrigation. Therefore, low irrigation improves soil nutrient utilization by boosting soil enzyme activity, directly affecting soil bacterial communities. It was concluded that greater soil nutrients, enzyme activities with higher bacterial diversity are the main indicators of soil reactivity to low irrigation water and N300 for maintaining soil fertility and soil microbial community balance.

Ni substituted lanthanum manganite of LaMn1−XNiXO3 (x = 0.2, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7) of a single phase perovskite structure was synthesised through sol-gel technique. The effect of Ni substitution by varying Ni and Mn amount ratios over LaMn1−XNiXO3 materials were studied. The physio-chemical characteristics like crystallinity were confirmed by XRD, surface area by BET analysis, metallic surface area by CO chemisorption. The optimal level of Ni substitution increases surface area, pores volume and metallic surface area, which leads highly stability. The oxygen vacancies and rapid migration of lattice oxygen from the bulk toward the surface was observed over LaMn0.4Ni0.6O3 compared to other perovskite materials. The LaMn0.4Ni0.6O3 perovskite materials show high surface area, metallic area with absorbed oxygen due to threshold Ni and Mn ratio leads the perfect synergic balance.

Customs laboratories are typically exposed to a large range of products requiring screening for tariff classification and for regulatory control purposes. Often this can be novel products coming to the marketplace for the first time. One emerging area of significance is innovative products and equipment arising from applications of nanotechnology. From a commercial prospective, some of these products may have tariffs, regulatory policy requirements, quotas or other trade barriers in place now, or potentially they may have in the future. Internationally there is growing concern that some nanomaterials have potential human, animal and environmental health risks. An important role of the Customs Laboratories European Network (CLEN) is to provide a scientific support service to customs administrations to control the distribution of potentially dangerous or controlled products within the European customs territory. Customs laboratories are generally equipped with a broad range of equipment; however, it is important that these laboratories keep pace with advancing measurement technologies, methodologies and international protocols to facilitate trade, to continue to protect the consumers and to implement relevant regulatory controls. It is crucial that customs laboratories are maintained at the very edge of scientific development with suitable techniques for screening and for characterisation of ‘nano’ products. This review will focus on this emerging technology to introduce the science of nano characterisation, and it will provide some relevant international recommendations towards characterisation of these novel materials. An overview of some of the more prominent European regulatory policies and member state registration/inventory requirements relating to nanotechnology controls is provided along with some practical considerations for characterisation and measurement of nanomaterials.

Dental cement residues exacerbate peri-implant tissue irritation and peri-implantitis. The present study aims to evaluate the cytotoxicity, physiochemical, optical, and rheological properties of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) impregnated glass ionomer cement (GIC). Surface passivated fluorescent CQDs were synthesized using citric acid via thermal decomposition and blended with GIC. Characterization studies and rheological measurements were made to evaluate their performance. 3D-printed dental implant models cemented with GIC and GIC-CQD were compared to analyze excess cement residues. MTT assay was performed with human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) and statistically analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey's test. CQDs with a particle dimension of ∼2 nm were synthesized. The amorphous property of GIC-CQD was confirmed through XRD. The fluorescence properties of GIC-CQD showed three times higher emission intensity than conventional GIC. GIC-CQD attained maturation with a setting time extended by 64 s than GIC. Cement residue of size 2 mm was detected with a UV light excitation at a distance between 5 to 10 cm. Biocompatibility at 0.125 mg ml -1 dilution concentrations of GIC-CQD showed viability greater than 80% to hDPSCs. For the first time, we report that CQDs-impregnated GIC is a unique and cost-effective strategy for in-situ detection of excess cement rapidly using a hand-held device. A novel in-situ rapid detection method enables the dentist to identify residual cement of size less than 2 mm during the implantation. Therefore, GIC-CQD would replace conventional GIC and help in the prevention of peri-implant diseases., (© 2024 IOP Publishing Ltd.)

In this review an-overview is presented to study the effects of condensation, skimming and physio-chemical quality of buffalo milk. Skimming process had significant influences on chemical and sensory qualities of milk. Previous researchers discussed the remarkable changes in the physical and physiochemical characteristics of condensed milk i.e. moisture, ash content and acidity, specific gravity of skimmed milk as compared to the whole milk. It has been also concluded from the different studies that the physical properties like, exterior, colour, flavour and body texture of milk were comparatively reduced by condensation and skimming and the density of skimmed milk appeared thinner and products achieved the variable score in different above mentioned physio-chemical properties. This review will discuss the effects of condensation and skimming on whole milk and their byproducts and their physical and physiochemical properties in comparative aspects skimming and condensation whole milk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silkworm pupal oil was extracted using different solvents from spent dried pupal powder by soxhlet and column extraction methods. The oil content from spent silkworm pupae was maximum recovered from mulberry silkworm pupae (25.90 g/100 g) with hexane solvent in the column extraction method. The better physio-chemical properties viz., density (0.943 g/mL), specific gravity (0.991 g/mL), saponification value (235.147 g KOH/ g oil), iodine value (131.653 g I/ 100 g) and free fatty acids (5.057 %) were observed in the eri silkworm pupal oil, whereas, maximum acid number (1.966 mg KOH/g oil) and peroxide value of (2.44 ppm) was noticed in mulberry silkworm pupal oil. Hence, mulberry silkworm pupae were effectively used for oil extraction by column extraction method using hexane, and these physio-chemical properties of pupal oil were achieved the desired level for utilizing the silkworm pupae oil as commercial utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to determine the yield of wild spinach seed oil obtained by continuous extraction methods using Soxhlet apparatus for 10.5 hours in n-hexane solvent, the physio-chemical properties, and the composition of wild spinach seed oil using the Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) method. Refinement of wild spinach seed oil was done by degumming and neutralization. The yield of wild spinach seed oil extraction before refinement was 4.36 ± 0.29% (w/w) while after refinement was 0.68 ± 0.033% (w/w). Physio-chemical properties of wild spinach seed oil after refinement was as follows: water content 0.37%; peroxide value 9.5 meq/kg; acid value of 0.53 mg KOH/g oil; saponification value 208.9 mg KOH/g oil. The results of GC-MS analysis showed that the wild spinach seeds were composed of 5 main components: dodecanoic acid (0.28%); tetradecanoic acid (0.08%); palmitic acid (1.31%); squalene (94.9%); and linoleic acid (3.34%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Landfill and open dumping of solid waste are the two major disposal methods adopted in developing countries like India. The entire Municipal Solid Waste management system includes generation, collection and safe disposal carried out by the respective local bodies. In this study, Pallavaram dumpsite, which is situated on the Thoraipakkam radial road was selected due to its proximity and possible threat to the nearby locality, which includes lakes on either side. This study was undertaken to evaluate the physio-chemical properties of leachate and subsurface water samples collected from 10 locations during Pre-Monsoon and Post-Monsoon periods. It includes the analysis of substantial heavy metal concentrations such as lead, arsenic, chromium, zinc and iron using Inductive Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (ICPMS) and other physio-chemical properties as per Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). The results of subsurface water analysis revealed that the parameters such as TDS, total hardness, sulphates, chloride, chromium and arsenic were 2103 mg/L, 2136 mg/L, 611 mg/L, 6746 mg/L, 0.82 mg/L and 0.035 mg/L respectively. It was found to be maximum during both the monsoons and the values exceed the permissible limit as mentioned in BIS. It also showed significant variations in the pre and post - monsoon periods. This has a diverse impact on the subsurface water quality, which contributes to health issues rendering it unsuitable for consumption and household activities. Hence, appropriate remedial measures must be taken to avoid further contamination.

In this study, the impact of postharvest treatments with calcium chloride (CaCl2) in-combination with postharvest coating treatments with plant natural substance arabic gum or cactus mucilage on the quality and storage life of tomato fruits during cold storage (10 ± 1 °C, RH 85% ± 3) was evaluated. Results of dipping tomato fruits in 6% CaCl2 for 10 minutes combined with postharvest coating treatments with either 10% Arabic gum or 50% cactus mucilage for 3 minutes showed significant (p<0.05) higher value of fruit firmness, titratable acidity, reduce the percentage of weight loss and percent of decayed fruits. Treated fruits took longer to change color from pink to red compared with non-treated fruits. This study showed that dipping tomato fruits in 6% CaCl2, or coating with different natural substances alone or in combination with CaCl2, enhances tomato fruits' physical and chemical properties. Moreover, preserving tomato fruits can be preserved for a longer time compared with control fruits and maintain the overall fruit quality [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to develop a model for describing the relationship between the fluoride (F) content in drinking water and foodstuffs, and the urinary F level in residents, of different age groups, residing in low and high F exposure areas in Mitauli block, Lakhimpur (Kheri) district of Uttar Pradesh, India. The rural population at the study sites used groundwater for drinking and irrigation purposes without any quality test. The source of the F contamination in the groundwater was natural as no large industries were located in the study area which contained only a few agro-based industries. The F concentration was measured in the groundwater from 73 sites in Khanta, Khudania, Murai-tajpur, Salahpur, and Usari villages and in the urine of 548 residents. The range of the F concentration in the drinking water in Khanta, Khudania, Murai-tajpur, Salahpur, and Usari villages was 1.0-2.3, 0.5-1.4, 0.9-1.5, 1.8-2.8, and 2.7-4.3 mg L-1, respectively. The urinary F level in the 548 villagers was found to vary in different age groups. The highest urinary F concentration (4.73 mg L-1) was found in younger males, aged 20-40 yr, with the next highest group (3.72 mg L-1) being older females, aged 60-70 yr. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of DC and AC electric fields application on the growth of ryegrass under uranium stress and the physio-chemical properties of soil were studied. The results showed that during the development of ryegrass, the difference on plant height was significant with applying the electric field among the treatment groups in the early stage (P<0.05), but after 3 weeks, the difference was not significant. The application of alternating current electric field (AC) promoted the plant height of ryegrass compared with other treatment groups, but it was not conducive to the accumulation of biomass. The application of direct current electric field (DC) was conducive to the accumulation of the chlorophyll content. Compared and analyzed the chlorophyll fluorescence performance values PIABSand PICS, it was concluded that the applied electric field had a bit of stress effect on the growth of ryegrass on a certain degree, though the difference was not significant. The physio-chemical properties of rhizosphere soil were determined and the results showed that the pH values were significantly different (P<0.05) in each treatment group, indicating that the addition of uranium or the application of an electric field could cause the soil pH to drop to varying degrees. The soil moisture contents were significantly different among the P, the PUA and the PUD treatments (P< 0.05), indicating that the application of uranium and electric fields to the soil planted with ryegrass could accelerate the soil water consumption. Meanwhile, the application of AC was conducive to the absorption and utilization of ryegrass to the available phosphorus in the rhizosphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hard texture and poor palatability of straw are important factors that hinder its application in feed. Expansion is a technology that can improve the utilization of biomass, but few studies have comprehensively revealed how to change physicochemical characteristics to improve nutritional value. In this study, mechanical and chemical methods were combined to study the texture properties, rheological properties, and physicochemical structures of straw, and its utilization value was evaluated by in vitro rumen digestion. Expansion caused hemicellulose degradation, cellulose separation, and lignin redistribution, resulting in a decrease in crystallinity. The hardness and chewiness of expanded straw were reduced by 55% to 66%, significantly improving palatability. The compressive stress could be reduced by 54-73%, and the relaxation elasticity was reduced by 5% when expanded straw was compressed. The compression deformation of expanded straw was doubled compared to feedstock, and the compacting degree was improved. Expanded straw significantly improved digestibility and gas production efficiency, which was due to the pore structure increasing the attachment of rumen microorganisms; besides that, the reduction of the internal structural force of the straw reduced energy consumption during digestion. The lignin content decreased by 10%, the hardness decreased further in secondary expansion, but the digestibility did not improve significantly.

Abstract From the tannery effluent and oil contaminated soil different microbe were isolated and screened for high lipid content. Among all the isolates fungal strain SF2 showed high lipid content was selected and identified as Aspergillus niger. It was found that the fungi produced about 44.02% of lipid. The fatty acid composition was identified by gas chromatography. The physicochemical property of the extracted lipid was analysed. Magnetic nanoparticle was prepared and the lipase enzyme was immobilised on to the magnetic nanoparticle. Characterization of magnetic nanoparticle and enzyme immobilised magnetic nanoparticle was carried out. Esterase activity of both free enzyme and immobilised enzyme was analysed at different parameters in which immobilised enzyme showed better stability. The immobilised enzyme can be stored for 60 days without any loss in activity. Biodiesel was produced using the lipase immobilised on the magnetic nanoparticle. The optimum parameters for the fatty acid methyl ester production were investigated in terms of both physical and chemical parameters and the biodiesel yield under optimised reaction condition was 84%. The reusable stability of the catalyst was performed and it was found that the immobilised biocatalyst can be used for 5 cycles. The physio-chemical properties of the biodiesel was analysed and it was found to be within the limit specified by American society of testing materials standards. This work was firstly studied on the conversion of Aspergillus lipid into biodiesel by using lipase immobilised magnetic nanoparticle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of ultrasound technology in water treatment has gained great popularity in recent years owing to its benign environmental effects. The evaluation of this technology for water treatment purposes has mostly been conducted using synthetic water samples. This study however investigated the use of ultrasound for treating natural water with organic carbon predominantly derived from terrestrial sources. Ultrasound treatments were applied in continuous and pulsed modes with a range of On: Off ratios (R) and power intensity of 21.5 W/cm² for 4 min. Physio-chemical and spectroscopic measurements were applied to determine the effect of ultrasound treatments on the concentration and structure of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in the treated water. Post-hoc statistical analysis at a significance level of 0.05 showed that the performance of pulsed ultrasound treatments at least at one of pulse settings was better than that of continuous treatment. Overall, it was found that ultrasound treatments decreased DOC in the treated water and altered its nature to become more reactive towards oxidation and electrochemical reactions. Energy and cost analysis for DOC removal have also been conducted and results showed that applying the appropriate pulse settings can reduce the cost of the treatment by more than a half. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: With the increasing clinical use of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (nano-TiO2), a better understanding of their safety in the human use is critical. The present study aims to review the potential application of nano-TiO2 as targeted cancer therapy based on their toxicity risk which highly dependent on their physio-chemical properties. Methods: This review was performed based on PRISMA-P protocol that begin with literature searching on the selected databases; PubMed, Springer Link, Science Direct and general search engine; Google Scholar from 2013 to 2018. Studies retrieved by the pre-determined keywords (titanium dioxide nanoparticles, toxicity, genotoxicity, cytotoxicity, targeted cancer therapy) that assessed toxicity risk of nano-TiO2 in cancer therapeutics were included. Results: The search retrieved 252 articles. Assessment of eligibility by application of inclusion criteria yielded 14 articles. Nano-TiO2 induced cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in dose and time-dependent manner killing the cancerous cells. All studies used primary particles size < 100 nm with mean of 39.38 and standard deviation of 30.47 which is lower than the mean denoting diameter distribution from selected studies are concentrated from the mean. Conclusion: This review suggest that TiO2 nanoparticles can be considered as an ideal candidate for drug-delivery vehicle for targeted cancer therapy by specifically tailored their physio-chemical properties of this nanoparticles according to desired target site and functions to ensure its optimal efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]