The inhibitory effect of Cannabis Sativa L. and Morus nigra L. against lipid peroxidation in goat liver and brain homogenates

The present study was aimed to evaluate the antioxidant potential and inhibitory effect ofCannabis sativa and Morus nigra against lipid peroxidation in goat brain and liver homogenates. The formation of free radicals, highly reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) is a normal metabolic process for cellular signaling and countering the antigens. However, they may cause serious damage if they produced at amplified tolls. In addition, metabolic disorders also serve as sources of these reactive species. Although the issue can be addressed through supplements and other phytochemicals. In this study, two plant species were evaluated for their biological potential by employing a spectrum of antioxidant assays. The antioxidant activity was performed by lipid peroxidation assay. The water extract prepared from leaves of Cannabis sativa and Morus nigra showed significant (P<0.05) inhibition as compared to control i.e., 522.6±0.06 and 659.97±0.03 µg/mL against iron-induced lipid peroxidation in goat brain homogenate while the inhibitions were 273.54±0.04 and 309.18±0.05 µg/mL against nitroprusside induced lipid peroxidation of the brain. The iron and nitroprusside induced lipid peroxidation was also significantly inhibited by leaf extracts of Cannabis sativa and Morus nigra in liver homogenates such as 230.63±0.52 and 326.91±0.01 µg/mL (iron-induced) while 300.47±0.07 and 300.47±0.07 µg/mL (nitroprusside induced), respectively. The extracts of Cannabis sativa extract showed promising activity (96.04±0.060%) against DPPH radicals while Morus nigra showed a moderate activity (34.11±0.120%). The results suggest that different accessions ofCannabis sativa and Morus nigra are a potential source of antioxidants and have a therapeutic effect against disease induced by oxidative stress and hence can be used for novel drug discovery and development.

Environmental emission, fate and transformation of microplastics in biotic and abiotic compartments: Global status, recent advances and future perspectives

The intensive use and wide-ranging application of plastic- and plastic-derived products have resulted in alarming levels of plastic pollution in different environmental compartments worldwide. As a result of various biogeochemical mechanisms, this plastic litter is converted into small, ubiquitous and persistent fragments called microplastics (<5 mm), which are of significant and increasing concern to the scientific community. Microplastics have spread across the globe and now exist in virtually all environmental compartments (the soil, atmosphere, and water). Although these compartments are often considered to be independent environments, in reality, they are very closely linked. Ample research has been done on microplastics, but there are still questions and knowledge gaps regarding the emission, occurrence, distribution, detection, environmental fate and transport of MPs in different environmental compartments. The current article is intended to provide a systematic overview of MP emissions, pollution conditions, sampling and analytical approaches, transport, fates and transformation mechanisms in different environmental compartments. It also identifies research gaps and future research directions and perspectives.

Formation of nitrogen functionalities in biochar materials and their role in the mitigation of hazardous emerging organic pollutants from wastewater

Emerging organic pollutants (EOPs) are serious environmental concerns known for their prominent adverse and hazardous ecological effects, and persistence in nature. Their detrimental impacts have inspired researchers to develop the strategic tools that reduce and overcome the challenges caused by EOPs' rising concentration. As such, biochar becomes as a promising class of biomass-derived functional materials that can be used as low-cost and environmentally-friendly emerging catalysts to remove EOPs. Herein, in-depth synthetic strategies and formation mechanisms of biochar-based nitrogen functionalities during thermochemical conversion are presented. Most prominently, the factors affecting N-surface functionalities in biochar are discussed, emphasizing the most effective N-doping approach, including intrinsic N-doping from biomass feedstock and extrinsic N-doping from exogenous sources. Moreover, biochar-assisted EOPs removal in line with interactions of nitrogen functionalities and contaminants are discussed. The possible reaction mechanisms, i.e., radical and non-radical degradation, physical adsorption, Lewis acid-base interaction, and chemisorption, driven by N-functionalities, are addressed. The unresolved challenges of the potential applications of biochar-mediated functionalities for EOPs removal are emphasized and the outlooks of future research directions are proposed at the end.

Elaborating the Iodine/Polyiodide Equilibrium Effects in Nanoporous Carbon-based Battery Electrode via Extreme Mass Asymmetry in Hybrid Cells

This article discusses the conversion of electrodeposited iodine to polyiodides within the nanopores of carbon electrodes that affect the performance of iodide electrolyte-based electrochemical cells. Here, carbon electrodes have been polarized in aqueous sodium iodide electrolyte to store charge in the form of solid iodine via highly reversible reaction (2I-⇌I2+2e-). The stored iodine within the pores interacts with free iodide ions present in the bulk electrolyte via comproportionation reactions leading to polyiodide (I3 - and I5 -) formations. By tuning the mass asymmetry of carbon electrodes in hybrid cells and using the in-situ Raman spectroscopy on positive battery electrode, we show the influence of iodine/polyiodides equilibrium shifts on the self-discharge and voltage rebounds during open circuit conditions. This study provides insights into the charging mechanisms of carbon electrodes for iodine-based hybrid supercapacitors and battery systems.

Interactive assessment of lignite and bamboo-biochar for geochemical speciation, modulation and uptake of Cu and other heavy metals in the copper mine tailing

This study was designed to examine the combined effect of bamboo-biochar (BC) and water-washed lignite (LGT) at copper mine tailings (CuMT) sites on the concentration of Cu and other metals in pore water (PW), their bioavailability, and change in geochemical speciation. Rapeseed (first cropping-season) and wheat (second cropping-season) were grown for 40-days each and the influence of applied-amendments on both cropping seasons was observed and compared. A significant increase in pH, water holding capacity (WHC), and soil organic carbon (SOC) was observed after the applied amendments in second cropping-seasons. The BC-LGT significantly reduced the concentration of Cu in PW after second cropping seasons; however, the concentration of Pb and Zn were increased with the individual application of biochar and LGT, respectively. BC-LGT and BC-2% significantly reduced the bioavailability of Cu and other HMs in both cropping seasons. The treated-CuMT was subjected to spectroscopic investigation through X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). The results showed that Cu sorption mainly involved the coordination with hydroxyl and carboxyl functional groups, as well as the co-precipitation or complexation on mineral surfaces, which vary with the applied amendment and bulk amount of Mg, Mn, and Fe released during sorption-process. The co-application of BC-LGT exerted significant effectiveness in immobilizing Cu and other HMs in CuMT. The outcomes of the study indicated that co-application of BC-LGT is an efficacious combination of organic and inorganic materials for Cu adsorption which may provide some new information for the sustainable remediation of copper mine tailing.

Decisive role of vacuum-assisted carbonization in valorization of lignin-enriched (Juglans regia-shell) biowaste

Bioenergy is considered a sustainable substitute to fossil-fuel resources and the development of a prudent combination of renewable and innovative conversion technologies are essential for the valorization and effective conversion of biowaste to value-added commodities. Here, a negative pressure-induced carbonization process was proposed for the valorization of lignin-enriched biowaste precursor to bio-oil and environmental materials (biochar) at various temperatures. The high heating values (HHV) of the as-prepared biochars from the lignin enriched precursor under negative pressure (low-medium vacuum) were within 25.9-31.5 MJ/kg, which matched satisfactorily to the commercial charcoal. Whereas, the bio-oils produced from the lignin enriched precursor under vacuum conditions was a blend of complex aromatic and straight-chain hydro-carbons, including aldehyde, ketone, phenol, and furans, exhibiting ability as potential heating-oil with HHV within 21.2-28.2 MJ/kg. Moreover, the biochars produced under vacuum environments at higher temperature showed greater stability (22.5-35.9%) than those produced under N₂ atmosphere.

Biochar-mediated transformation of titanium dioxide nanoparticles concerning TiO2NPs-biochar interactions, plant traits and tissue accumulation to cell translocation

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂NPs) application in variety of commercial products would likely release these NPs into the environment. The interaction of TiO₂NPs with terrestrial plants upon uptake can disturb plants functional traits and can also transfer to the food chain members. In this study, we investigated the impact of TiO₂NPs on wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) plants functional traits, primary macronutrients assimilation, and change in the profile of bio-macromolecule. Moreover, the mechanism of biochar-TiO₂NPs interaction, immobilization, and tissue accumulation to cell translocation of NPs in plants was also explored. The results indicated that the contents of Ti in wheat tissues was reduced about 3-fold and the Ti transfer rate (per day) was reduced about 2 fold at the 1000 mg L^-1 exposure level of TiO₂NPs in biochar amended exposure medium. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) with elemental mapping confirmed that Ti concentrated in plant tissues in nano-form. The interactive effect of TiO₂NPs + biochar amendment on photosynthesis related and gas exchange traits was observed at relatively low TiO₂NPs exposure level (200 mg L^-1), which induced the positive impact on wheat plants proliferation. TiO₂NPs alone exposure to wheat also modified the plant's bio-macromolecules profile with the reduction in the assimilation of primary macronutrients, which could affect the food crop nutritional value and quality. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) chemical analysis of biochar + TiO₂NPs showed an additional peak, which indicated the binding interaction of NPs with biochar. Moreover, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed that the biochar carboxyl group is the main functionality involved in the bonding process with TiO₂NPs. These findings will help for a mechanistic understanding of the role of biochar in the reduction of NPs bioavailability to primary producers of the terrestrial environment.

A comprehensive review of biogeochemical distribution and fractionation of lead isotopes for source tracing in distinct interactive environmental compartments

Lead (Pb) is a non-essential and extremely noxious metallic-element whose biogeochemical cycle has been influenced predominantly by increasing human activities to a great extent. The introduction and enrichment of this ubiquitous contaminant in the terrestrial-environment has a long history and getting more attention due to its adverse health effects to living organisms even at very low exposure levels. Its lethal-effects can vary widely depending on the atmospheric-depositions, fates and distribution of Pb isotopes (i.e., ²⁰⁴Pb, ²⁰⁶Pb, ²⁰⁷Pb &²⁰⁸Pb) in the terrestrial-environment. Thus, it is essential to understand the depositional behavior and transformation mechanism of Pb and the factors affecting Pb isotopes composition in the terrestrial-compartments. Owing to the persistence nature of Pb-isotopic fractions, regardless of ongoing biogeochemical-processes taking place in soils and in other interlinked terrestrial-compartments of the biosphere makes Pb isotope ratios (Pb-IRs) more recognizable as a powerful and an efficient-tool for tracing the source(s) and helped uncover pertinent migration and transformation processes. This review discusses the ongoing developments in tracing migration pathway and distribution of lead in various terrestrial-compartments and investigates the processes regulating the Pb isotope geochemistry taking into account the source identification of lead, its transformation among miscellaneous terrestrial-compartments and detoxification mechanism in soil-plant system. Additionally, this compendium reveals that Pb-pools in various terrestrial-compartments differ in Pb isotopic fractionations. In order to improve understanding of partition behaviors and biogeochemical pathways of Pb isotope in the terrestrial environment, future works should involve investigation of changes in Pb isotopic compositions during weathering processes and atmospheric-biological sub-cycles.

Biochar-induced immobilization and transformation of silver-nanoparticles affect growth, intracellular-radicles generation and nutrients assimilation by reducing oxidative stress in maize

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are used in a wide range of consumer products inevitably releases in massive quantities in the natural environment, posing a potential thread to ecosystem-safety and plant health. Here, the impact of AgNPs (100-1000 mg L^-1) without and with biochar (@2 % w/v) amendment on maize plants was assessed in hydroponics exposure medium. AgNPs exposure to plants induced dose-dependent phytotoxicity by suppressing plant growth, disturbing photosynthesis and gas exchange traits and alteration in macro- and micronutrients assimilation. At the same time, AgNPs with addition of biochar alleviated the phyto-toxic effects of AgNPs through approximately 4-8 times reduction in uptake and tissue accumulation of Ag. Moreover, activities of antioxidant enzymes in AgNPs + biochar treated plants indicated the lower oxidative stress. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy confirmed that superoxide (O₂^-) radical was the dominant reactive oxygen species. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopic (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic (XPS) results revealed that biochar surface carboxyl and sulfur functional groups were involved in complexation process with NPs, which inhibited the oxidative dissolution and release of Ag⁺ ions besides of biochar space shield effect. Thus, the interaction of biochar with AgNPs immobilizes these NPs and can effectively reduce their bioavailability in the environmental matrix.

Transformation pathways and fate of engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) in distinct interactive environmental compartments: A review

The ever increasing production and use of nano-enabled commercial products release the massive amount of engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) in the environment. An increasing number of recent studies have shown the toxic effects of ENPs on different organisms, raising concerns over the nano-pollutants behavior and fate in the various environmental compartments. After the release of ENPs in the environment, ENPs interact with various components of the environment and undergoes dynamic transformation processes. This review focus on ENPs transformations in the various environmental compartments. The transformation processes of ENPs are interrelated to multiple environmental aspects. Physical, chemical and biological processes such as the homo- or hetero-agglomeration, dissolution/sedimentation, adsorption, oxidation, reduction, sulfidation, photochemically and biologically mediated reactions mainly occur in the environment consequently changes the mobility and bioavailability of ENPs. Physico-chemical characteristics of ENPs (particle size, surface area, zeta potential/surface charge, colloidal stability, and core-shell composition) and environmental conditions (pH, ionic strength, organic and inorganic colloids, temperature, etc.) are the most important parameters which regulated the ENPs environmental transformations. Meanwhile, in the environment, organisms encountered multiple transformed ENPs rather than the pristine nanomaterials due to their interactions with various environmental materials and other pollutants. Thus it is the utmost importance to study the behavior of transformed ENPs to understand their environmental fate, bioavailability, and mode of toxicity.

Synergistic effects of biochar and processed fly ash on bioavailability, transformation and accumulation of heavy metals by maize (Zea mays L.) in coal-mining contaminated soil

In the paper, hydrothermally (HT) treated, sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄), and hydrochloric acid (HCl) washed fly ashes (FA) were used to examine the applied effects with and without biochar (BC) on the bioavailability of heavy metals (HMs) and growth of maize (Zea mays L.) plants in coal-mining contaminated soil. Addition of BC in combination with these processed fly ashes (PFA) significantly increased the soil pH, EC, and soil organic carbon (SOC). Individual application of BC and PFA increased the available contents of Mg, Mn, and Fe, while the combination of BC and PFA significantly decreased the bioavailability of HMs in soil compared to control. The BC + HT-FA and BC + H₂SO₄-FA were most efficient treatments followed by BC + HCl-FA in promoting plant growth parameters (i.e., fresh and dry biomass, root and shoot lengths), reduction in the uptake of HMs and increase in the uptake of macronutrients. The results established that the combined application of BC and PFA synergistically increased HMs immobilization and maize biomass yields. The lowest transfer rate (TR), bioconcentration factor (BCF), and translocation factor (TF) for Cr, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb were detected in BC + HT-FA, followed by BC + H₂SO₄-FA and BC + HCl-FA treatments after 60 days of maize crop harvesting. It could be suggested that using BC along with PFA as a soil stabilizer may be a promising source to immobilize HMs in a coal-mining contaminated soil.

Biochar-assisted transformation of engineered-cerium oxide nanoparticles: Effect on wheat growth, photosynthetic traits and cerium accumulation

The extensive use of nano-fabricated products in daily life is releasing a large volume of engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) in the environment having unknown consequences. Meanwhile, little efforts have been paid to immobilize and prevent the entry of these emerging contaminants in the food chain through plant uptake. Herein, we investigated the biochar role in cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO₂NPs) bioaccumulation and subsequent translocation in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) as well as impact on growth, photosynthesis and gas-exchange related physiological parameters. Results indicated that CeO₂NPs up to 500 mg L^-1 level promoted the plant growth by triggering photosynthesis, transpiration and stomatal conductance. Higher NPs concentration (2000 mg CeO₂NPs L^-1) has negatively affected the plant growth and photosynthesis related processes. Conversely, biochar amendment with CeO₂NPs considerably reduced (~9 folds) the plants accumulated contents of Ce even at 2000 mg L^-1 exposure level of CeO₂NPs through surface complexation process and alleviated the phyto-toxic effects of NPs on plant growth. XPS and FTIR analysis confirmed the role of biochar-mediated carboxylate and hydroxyl groups bonding with CeO₂NPs. These findings provides an inside mechanistic understanding about biochar interaction with nano-pollutants to inhibit their bioavailability to plant body.

Effects of biochar on uptake, acquisition and translocation of silver nanoparticles in rice (Oryza sativa L.) in relation to growth, photosynthetic traits and nutrients displacement

Rapid development in nanotechnology and incorporation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in wide range of consumer products causing the considerable release of these NPs in the environment, leading concerns for ecosystem safety and plant health. In this study, rice (Oryza sativa) was exposed to AgNPs (0, 100, 200, 500 and 1000 mg L^-1) in biochar amended (2 %w/v) and un-amended systems. Exposure of plants to AgNPs alone reduced the root and shoot length, biomass production, chlorophyll contents, photosynthesis related physiological parameters as well as macro-and micronutrients in a dose dependent manner. However, in case of biochar amendment, physiological parameters i.e., net photosynthesis rate, maximum photosynthesis rate, CO₂ assimilation, dark respiration and stomatal conductance reduced only 16, 6, 7, 3 and 8%, respectively under AgNPs exposure at 1000 mg L^-1 dose. Meanwhile, biochar at all exposure level of AgNPs decreased the bioaccumulation of Ag in rice root and shoot tissues, thus alleviated the phyto-toxic effects of NPs on plant growth. Moreover, results showed that biochar reduced the bioavailability of AgNPs by surface complexation, suppressing dissolution and release of toxic Ag⁺ ions in the growth medium. The presence of biochar at least decreased 2-fold tissue contents of Ag even at highest AgNPs (1000 mg L^-1) concentration. These finding suggested that biochar derived from waste biomass resources can be used effectively to prevent the bioaccumulation and subsequent trophic level transfer of emerging Ag nano-pollutant in the environment.

A systematic review on global pollution status of particulate matter-associated potential toxic elements and health perspectives in urban environment

Airborne particulate matter (PM) that is a heterogeneous mixture of particles with a variety of chemical components and physical features acts as a potential risk to human health. The ability to pose health risk depends upon the size, concentration and chemical composition of the suspended particles. Potential toxic elements (PTEs) associated with PM have multiple sources of origin, and each source has the ability to generate multiple particulate PTEs. In urban areas, automobile, industrial emissions, construction and demolition activities are the major anthropogenic sources of pollution. Fine particles associated with PTEs have the ability to penetrate deep into respiratory system resulting in an increasing range of adverse health effects, at ever-lower concentrations. In-depth investigation of PTEs content and mode of occurrence in PM is important from both environmental and pathological point of view. Considering this air pollution risk, several studies had addressed the issues related to these pollutants in road and street dust, indicating high pollution level than the air quality guidelines. Observed from the literature, particulate PTEs pollution can lead to respiratory symptoms, cardiovascular problems, lungs cancer, reduced lungs function, asthma and severe case mortality. Due to the important role of PM and associated PTEs, detailed knowledge of their impacts on human health is of key importance.

A comprehensive review on environmental transformation of selenium: recent advances and research perspectives

Selenium (Se) is an important micronutrient and essential trace element for both humans and animals, which exist in the environment ubiquitously. Selenium deficiency is an important issue worldwide, with various reported cases of its deficiency. Low selenium contents in some specific terrestrial environments have resulted in its deficiency in humans. However, high levels of selenium in the geochemical environment may have harmful influences and can cause a severe toxicity to living things. Due to its extremely narrow deficiency and toxicity limits, selenium is becoming a serious matter of discussion for the scientists who deals with selenium-related environmental and health issues. Based on available relevant literature, this review provides a comprehensive data about Se sources, levels, production and factors affecting selenium bioavailability/speciation in soil, characteristics of Se, biogeochemical cycling, deficiency and toxicity, and its environmental transformation to know the Se distribution in the environment. Further research should focus on thoroughly understanding the concentration, speciation, Se cycling in the environment and food chain to effectively utilize Se resources, remediate Se deficiency/toxicity, and evaluate the Se states and eco-effects on human health.

One-step synthesis of N-doped metal/biochar composite using NH3-ambiance pyrolysis for efficient degradation and mineralization of Methylene Blue

A series of new biochar-supported composite based on the combination of biochar and metallic nanoparticles (NPs) were produced through single-step pyrolysis of FeCl₃-Ti(OBu)₄ laden agar biomass under NH₃ environment. The physiochemical properties of composites were characterized thoroughly. It has found that heating temperature and N-doping through NH₃-ambiance pyrolysis significantly influence the visible-light sensitivity and bandgap energy of composites. The catalytic activities of composites were measured by degradation of Methylene Blue (MB) in the presence or absence of H₂O₂ and visible-light irradiation. Our best catalyst (N-TiO₂-Fe₃O₄-biochar) exhibits rapid and high MB removal competency (99.99%) via synergism of adsorption, photodegradation, and Fenton-like reaction. Continuous production of O₂^- and OH radicles performs MB degradation and mineralization, confirmed by scavenging experiments and degradation product analysis. The local trap state Ti³⁺, Fe₃O₄, and N-carbon of the catalyst acted as active sites. It has suggested that the Ti³⁺ and N-doped dense carbon layer improve charge separation and shuttle that prolonged photo-Fenton like reaction. Moreover, the catalyst is highly stable, collectible, and recyclable up to 5 cycles with high MB degradation efficiency. This work provides a new insight into the synthesis of highly visible-light sensitized biochar-supported photocatalyst through NH₃-ambiance pyrolysis of NPs-laden biomass.

Biomonitoring and health risks assessment of trace elements in various age- and gender-groups exposed to road dust in habitable urban-industrial areas of Hefei, China

The current study investigates the concentration of eleven trace elements in biomaterials including hair (85) and nails (85) along with seventy five (75) road dust samples collected from a healthy population of habitable urban-industrial areas of Hefei, China. The samples were acid digested and analyzed using ICP-MS for trace elements content. The mean concentration of Elements followed descending order of Zn > Mg > Fe > Cr > Al > Sn > Sr > Ti > Cu > As > Cd and Mg > Zn > Fe > Cr > Al > Sn > Ti > Cu > Sr > As > Cd in hair and nails, respectively. Overall, the concentration of elements was found to be high in female subject as compared to male. The concentration of trace elements in hair and nail exceeded the maximum permissible limits in most cases. The corresponding mean values from dust samples were fairly high as compared to background values of trace elements. Middle age groups (21-30 years and 31-40 years) were observed to be the most vulnerable there-by posing a high health risk, as the concentration of trace elements was significantly high in these groups except for Al, which was detected high in age < 20 in case of both male and female. A significantly high correlation was found between trace elements in biomaterials and those detected in dust samples. In hair samples, a significantly positive correlation was noticed for As with Mg, Zn, Sn and Fe, Sn/Mg and Mg/Ti. In the case of nails, a significant correlation was observed for elements like Al, Mg, Zn, Cr, and Cu. The Cluster and principal component analysis revealed industrial and vehicular emissions as main sources for trace elements exposure in humans.

Finding Novel Anti-carcinomas Compounds by Targeting SFRP4 Through Molecular Modeling, Docking and Dynamic Simulation Studies

BACKGROUND

Secreted Frizzled-Related Protein 4 (SFRP4) is a glycoprotein that acts as a competitor of both canonical and non-canonical Wnt pathways. SFRP4 is mostly expressed in ovary and plays a significant role as a target molecule to cure ovarian carcinoma.

OBJECTIVE

Multiple chemical agonists are being used to cure ovary melanoma. We are interested in theoretically analyzing the compounds through computational approaches for their potential inhibitory effects against SFRP4.

METHODS

Compounds were sketched in Chemsketch drawing tool and minimized through chimera tool. Because the crystal structure of SFRP4 is not available in Protein Data Bank, homology modeling approach was used to predict Three-Dimensional (3D) crystal structure of SFRP4. Moreover, multiple computational approaches such as molecular docking and Molecular Dynamic (MD) simulations along with various online tools were employed to screen the best inhibitor against ovary melanoma.

RESULTS

The docking results showed that 1d and 1e compounds revealed significant binding energy values (-9.10 and -9.00 kcal/mol, respectively) compared with the standard drugs such as cis-platin and docetaxel (-3.30, -10.80 kcal/mol), respectively. Moreover, MD simulation results showed that 1d has little fluctuations throughout the simulation period as depicted by the root mean square deviation and root mean square fluctuation graphs.

CONCLUSION

The present in-silico study provides a deeper insight into the structural attributes of 1d compound and its overall molecular interactions against SFRP4 and gives a hypothetical gateway to use this compound as a potential inhibitor against ovarian carcinoma.

Simultaneous functionalization and magnetization of biochar via NH3 ambiance pyrolysis for efficient removal of Cr (VI)

Enhancing biochar adsorption capabilities and recollection ability is essential for efficient biochar application. In this study, Nitrogen-doped magnetic biochar was prepared via one-step heating of FeCl₃-laden agar biomass under NH₃ environment. Synthesized magnetic biochar ABF-N₈₀₀ shows a maximum Cr (VI) adsorption capacity up to 142.86 mg g^-1, outperforming that of magnetic biochar and many other previously reported materials. Moreover, a significant increase of magnetic properties obtained by NH₃ ambiance pyrolysis enables easy separation of the adsorbent from the solution after treated with Cr (VI). The physiochemical properties of composites characterized by SEM, EDS, XRD, XPS, VSM, BET surface and pore, Elemental content, and FTIR analysis. The NH₃ ambiance pyrolysis confirmed as an efficient process for surface modification, increased magnetic properties and activated N-functional groups. The Langmuir isotherm model and pseudo-second-order model are applicable for describing adsorption behavior. The thermodynamic study shows that the adsorption was spontaneous and endothermic. The present results warrant the application of simultaneous functionalized and magnetized biochar for Cr (VI) contaminated wastewater treatment.

Temperature Dependent Characteristics of Activated Carbons from Walnut Shells for Improved Supercapacitor Performance

Activated carbons (ACs) have been prepared from chemical treatment of walnut shells (WS) precursor at various temperatures (400‒800 °C) by using phosphoric acid (H3PO4) as activating agent. Influence of activation temperature on the porosity development and capacitive properties of resulting carbons was investigated. Thermal post-treatment of carbons previously activated at moderate temperature, e.g. 400 °C allowed further structural and porosity modification. Then, these carbons were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, electrochemical techniques and low temperature nitrogen adsorption exhibiting high BET specific surface area of approximately 2100 m2 g-1 and a total pore volume up to 1.3 cm3 g-1. Carbon material obtained through activation by H3PO4 at 400 °C and post-treated at 800 °C was used to make electrodes which were implemented to realize AC/AC capacitor using 1 mol L-1 Li2SO4. The electrochemical capacitor demonstrated high capacitance of 123 F g-1 per mass of one electrode, reduced cell resistance and stable capacitance for 5000 galvanostatic charge/discharge cycles at 1.0 A g-1.

Developmental selenium exposure and health risk in daily foodstuffs: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Selenium (Se) is a trace mineral and an essential nutrient of vital importance to human health in trace amounts. It acts as an antioxidant in both humans and animals, immunomodulator and also involved in the control of specific endocrine pathways. The aim of this work is to provide a brief knowledge on selenium content in daily used various foodstuffs, nutritional requirement and its various health consequences. In general, fruits and vegetables contain low content of selenium, with some exceptions. Selenium level in meat, eggs, poultry and seafood is usually high. For most countries, cereals, legumes, and derivatives are the major donors to the dietary selenium intake. Low level of selenium has been related with higher mortality risk, dysfunction of an immune system, and mental failure. Selenium supplementation or higher selenium content has antiviral outcomes and is necessary for effective reproduction of male and female, also decreases the threat of chronic disease (autoimmune thyroid). Generally, some advantages of higher content of selenium have been shown in various potential studies regarding lung, colorectal, prostate and bladder cancers risk, nevertheless results depicted from different trials have been diverse, which perhaps indicates the evidence that supplementation will merely grant advantage if the intakes of a nutrient is deficient. In conclusion, the over-all people should be advised against the usage of Se supplements for prevention of cardiovascular, hepatopathies, or cancer diseases, as advantages of Se supplements are still ambiguous, and their haphazard usage could result in an increased Se toxicity risk. The associations among Se intake/status and health, or disease risk, are complicated and need exposition to notify medical practice, to improve dietary recommendations, and to develop adequate communal health guidelines.

Comparative effects of biochar-nanosheets and conventional organic-amendments on health risks abatement of potentially toxic elements via consumption of wheat grown on industrially contaminated-soil

Potentially toxic elements (PTEs) discharge to the soil environment through increased anthropogenic activities is a global threat. These PTEs can have harmful and chronic-persistent health effects on exposed populations through food consumption grown on contaminated soils. Efforts to investigate the transformation mechanism and accumulation behavior of PTEs in soil-plant system and their adverse health-effects have focused extensively in previous studies. However, limited studies address biochar nanosheets (BCNs) as a potential soil amendment to reduced humans health risks through dietary intake of food-crop grown on PTE-contaminated soil. Here, we showed how BCNs cutback health hazards of PTEs through impacts on bioavailability and phytoaccumulation of PTEs, and their daily intake via consumption of wheat. When BCNs amendment was compared with both conventional organic amendments (COAs) and control, it significantly (P ≤ 0.05) reduced bioavailability and uptake of PTEs by wheat plants. Based on risk assessment results, the hazard indices (HIs) for PTEs in all treatments were <1, however, BCNs addition significantly (P ≤ 0.05) reduced risk level, when compared to control. Furthermore, the cancer risks for Cd, Cr and Ni over a lifetime of exposure were higher in all treatments than the tolerable limit (1.00E-4 to 1.00E-6), however BCNs addition significantly suppressed cancer risk compared to control. Conclusively, our results suggest that BCNs can be used as soil amendment to reduce potential risks of PTEs through consumption of food grown in PTE-contaminated soils.

Enhanced removal of hexavalent chromium from aqueous media using a highly stable and magnetically separable rosin-biochar-coated TiO2@C nanocomposite

Recently, nanosized metal-oxides have been extensively investigated for their ability to remove metal ions from aqueous media. However, the activity and capacity of these nanosized metal-oxides for removing metal ions decrease owing to their agglomeration in aqueous media. Herein, we synthesized a highly stable and magnetically separable rosin-biochar-coated (RBC) TiO₂@C nanocomposite through a facile and environment-friendly wet chemical coating process, followed by a one-step heating route (pyrolysis) for efficient removal of Cr(vi) from aqueous solution. An array of techniques, namely, TEM, HRTEM, TEM-EDS, XRD, FTIR, VSM, BET and TGA, were used to characterize the prepared nanocomposite. The pyrolysis of rosin into biochar and the fabrication of Fe onto the RBC-TiO₂@C nanocomposite were confirmed by FTIR and XRD examination, respectively. Moreover, TEM and HRTEM images and elemental mapping using TEM-EDS showed good dispersion of iron and carbon on the surface of the RBC-TiO₂@C nanocomposite. Sorption of Cr(vi) ions on the surface of the RBC-TiO₂@C nanocomposite was very fast and efficient, having a removal efficiency of ∼95% within the 1^st minute of reaction. Furthermore, thermodynamic analysis showed negative values of Gibb's free energy at all five temperatures, indicating that the adsorption of Cr(vi) ions on the RBC-TiO₂@C nanocomposite was favorable and spontaneous. Conclusively, our results indicate that the RBC-TiO₂@C nanocomposite can be used for efficient removal of Cr(vi) from aqueous media due to its novel synthesis and extraordinary adsorption efficacy during a short time period.

A biochar-coated RBC-TiO₂@C nanocomposite was synthesized using a wet chemical coating followed by a one-step heating route (pyrolysis) for the efficient removal of Cr(vi).

Combustion characteristics and retention-emission of selenium during co-firing of torrefied biomass and its blends with high ash coal

The combustion characteristics, kinetic analysis and selenium retention-emission behavior during co-combustion of high ash coal (HAC) with pine wood (PW) biomass and torrefied pine wood (TPW) were investigated through a combination of thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and laboratory-based circulating fluidized bed combustion experiment. Improved ignition behavior and thermal reactivity of HAC were observed through the addition of a suitable proportion of biomass and torrefied. During combustion of blends, higher values of relative enrichment factors in fly ash revealed the maximum content of condensing volatile selenium on fly ash particles, and depleted level in bottom ash. Selenium emission in blends decreased by the increasing ratio of both PW and TPW. Higher reductions in the total Se volatilization were found for HAC/TPW than individual HAC sample, recommending that TPW have the best potential of selenium retention. The interaction amongst selenium and fly ash particles may cause the retention of selenium.

Evaluating the health risks of potentially toxic elements through wheat consumption in multi-industrial metropolis of Faisalabad, Pakistan

Potentially toxic elements (PTEs) pollution is the fastest growing concern around the entire globe especially in developing countries. Rapid industrialization and urbanization are the dominant sources of anthropogenic soil-food chain contamination with PTEs. The intent of current study was to investigate the interactive levels of Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn in soil and their accumulation in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) samples collected from 96 sites including industrial, urban, and peri-urban areas of a leading multi-industrialized center (Faisalabad) of Pakistan. According to results obtained from present study, non-carcinogenic (HQ) and life-time carcinogenic risks (CR) of the PTEs to the local inhabitants were estimated following the risk assessment modals proposed by the US-EPA. With respect to estimated HQ for chronic non-carcinogenic risk of Mn, Ni, and Pb, higher potential hazards were observed as compared to Cu, Fe, and Zn. Meanwhile, the carcinogenic risk of Ni marginally exceeded the limit described by US-EPA for adults. Overall, the health risks of PTEs with the consumption of wheat were lower than the limits described by US-EPA except for Ni. However, continuous consumption of this PTEs contaminated food may result the potential buildup of poisonousness and various disorders in humans. Therefore, long-term monitoring and gastrointestinal bio-accessibility studies are requisite for the safety of humans under such conditions.

Pollution characteristics and human health risks of potentially (eco)toxic elements (PTEs) in road dust from metropolitan area of Hefei, China

This study aims to investigate the pollution characteristics of road dust and their associated health risks of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) to humans using array-based risk assessment models described by United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) in a metropolitan area of Hefei, China. Geoaccumulation index (I_geo) was used to describe pollution characteristics of roadside dust in urban, periurban and industrial areas. Results indicate that industrial roadside dust was contaminated with Fe, Ni, Cu, Ti, V, Pb, Ba, Sb, Cr, Sn, Pb, As and Ga showing I_geo value (log₂ (x)) between I_geo class 3 to 4. In other hand, urban roadside dust contamination with Cu, Zn, Sb and Ga ranged between I_geo classes 2 to 3 and with As and Pb ranged between I_geo classes 4 to 5. Furthermore, health risk assessment revealed negligible non-cancerous health hazard in all sites including urban, periurban and industrial areas. The hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard Index (HI) values for all exposure routes (ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact) were <1 except for chromium with HI value of 1.06E+00 in industrial areas. Moreover, the most prominent exposure route was ingestion (HQ_ing) and the non-carcinogenic health risks were found to be high in case of children compared to the adults. The cancer risk from As, Co, Cr, Ni, and Pb was found to be in safe levels as the RI (carcinogenic risks) values were below the limits for carcinogens (1.00E-6 to 1.00E-4).

Device-associated infections in a paediatric intensive care unit in Pakistan

This study assessed the effect of implementation of active infection control and surveillance on the occurrence of device-associated infections (DAIs) in a paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) from 2012 to 2015. There were 1378 patients, equating to 4632 patient-days, on the PICU, and 29 DAI episodes, giving an incidence rate of 2.1% and an incidence density rate of 6.26 per 1000 patient-days. The rates of central-line-associated bloodstream infections, ventilator-associated pneumonia and catheter-related urinary tract infections were 7/1000 central-line-days, 1.17/1000 ventilator-days and 0.24/1000 urinary-catheter-days, respectively. Despite the overall low rate of DAIs in the PICU, there was a relatively high rate of central-line-associated bloodstream infections.

Closed loop auto control system software for Miniature Neutron Source Reactors (MNSRs)

A closed loop auto control system has been developed and implemented at the Pakistan Research Reactor-2 (PARR-2). For interfacing of the site signals with a computer, a data acquisition card was employed. The system utilizes nine signals and, on their basis, carries out continuous on-line analysis, maintaining safe operation. On-line reactivity measurement is included in this software. Also, it generates control signals for keeping the reactor at the desired power level in auto-mode round-the-clock without human intervention. In case of abnormal conditions for either power or temperature or radiation level, alarms are initiated and if their levels reach beyond prescribed safe operation regime, automatic shutdown sequence is initiated. The control system has been thoroughly tested for various postulated scenarios. The test results have been in good agreement with the expected response.