Fabrication of biopolymeric sheets using cellulose extracted from water hyacinth and its application studies for reactive red dye removal

Driven by the imperative need for sustainable and biodegradable materials, this study focuses on two pivotal aspects: cellulose extraction and dye removal. The alarming repercussions of non-biodegradable food packaging materials on health and the environment necessitate the exploration of viable alternatives. Herein, we embark on creating easily degradable biopolymer substitutes, achieved through innovative crafting of a biodegradable cellulose sheet sourced from extracted cellulose. Concurrently, the significant environmental and health hazards posed by textile industry discharge of wastewater laden with persistent dyes demand innovative treatment strategies. This study extensively investigated four distinct methods of cellulose extraction from water hyacinth, a complex aquatic weed. The functional groups, crystallinity index, thermal stability, thermal effects, and morphology of the extracted cellulose were characterized by FTIR, XRD, TGA, DSC, and SEM. This exploration yielded a notable outcome, as the most promising yield (39.4 ± 0.02% w/w) emerged using 2% sodium chlorite and 2% glacial acetic acid as bleaching agents, surpassing other methods. Building on this foundational cellulose extraction process, the extracted fibers were transformed into highly biodegradable cellulose sheets, outlining conventional packaging materials. Moreover, these cellulose sheets exhibit exceptional efficacy in adsorbing reactive red dye, with the adsorption capacity of 71.43 mg/g by following pseudo-second kinetics. This study establishes an economically viable avenue for repurposing challenging aquatic weeds into commercially valuable biopolymers. The potential of these sheets for dye removal, coupled with their innate biodegradability, opens auspicious avenues for broader applications encompassing commercial wastewater treatment procedures.

Exploring the adsorption efficacy of Cassia fistula seed carbon for Cd (II) ion removal: Comparative study of isotherm models

The current study demonstrates the potential of Cassia fistula seed carbon (CFSC), a waste lignocellulosic biomass, to eliminate Cd (II) ion-from saturated liquid samples. The efficient removal of about 93.2% (w/v) of Cd (II) ions from 10 mg/L concentration was achieved within 80 min of treatment. The CFSC dosage of 100 mg/50 mL accounted as optimal for enhanced Cd (II) removal. Cd (II) adsorption onto CFSC was observed to be maximum at pH 6. The investigational trials were assessed with three isotherm models such Dubinin-Radushkevich, Freundlich, and Langmuir. The specifications obtained from this experimental study align well with the Langmuir isotherm model, which describes the maximal adsorption capacity of 68.02 mg/g. Cd (II) adsorption data from this study exhibited the R2 of 0.9 under pseudo-second-order. Maximum desorption (76.3% w/v) was obtained with 0.3 M HCL. This study revealed that thermally activated C. fistula seed carbon (CFSC) can be tuned to be lucrative adsorbent for Cd (II) elimination from water and waste-water.

Establishing proof of concept for utility of Trueprep®-extracted DNA in line-probe assay testing

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: With an increased demand for rapid, diagnostic tools for TB and drug resistance detection, Truenat® MTB-RIF assay has proven to be a rapid point of care molecular test. The present study aimed to establish a proof of concept of using Trueprep-extracted DNA for line-probe assay (LPA) testing.METHODS: A total of 150 sputum samples (MTB-positive at Truenat sites) were divided into two aliquots. One aliquot was used for DNA extraction using the Trueprep device and MTB testing. The second aliquot of the sample was subjected to GenoLyse® DNA extraction. DNA from both the Trueprep and GenoLyse methods was subjected to first-line (FL) and second-line (SL) LPA testing.RESULTS: Of 139 Trueprep-extracted DNA, respectively 135 (97%) and 105 (75%) had interpretable results by FL and SL-LPA testing. Of 128 GenoLyse-extracted DNA, all 128 (100%) had interpretable FL-LPA results and 114 (89%) had interpretable SL-LPA results.CONCLUSION: The results obtained in this study indicate that Trueprep-extracted DNA can be used in obtaining valid LPA results. However, the study needs to be conducted on a larger sample size before our recommendations can be used for policy-making decisions.

Optimization parameters for the production of dimer of epicatechin from an endophytic fungus Curvularia australiensis FC2AP using response surface methodology (RSM)

The search for natural therapeutic agents has intensified due to their potential to treat various diseases. Bioactive secondary metabolites from endophytes offer high therapeutic profiles and can be mass-produced after optimizing medium parameters and purification. This investigation aimed to maximize crude pigmented secondary metabolite (CPSM) production from Curvularia australiensis FC2AP by optimizing fermentation conditions statistically. The endophytic fungus produced a maximum yield of 8.81 UL/g from biomass using Sabouraud's Dextrose Broth. After screening essential factors, the Plackett-Burman design was used for factorial optimization, and the Box Behnken design was employed to investigate three significant factors. The final CPSM yield was 12.3 UL/g, approximately 4-fold higher than the preliminary growth medium. Chromatographic purification using a gradient solvent system resulted in six fractions, with the fourth fraction demonstrating the highest bioactivity profile. Structural characterization confirmed this fraction to be a dimer of epicatechin, which has anti-cancer properties, as confirmed through in vivo studies on Sprague Dawley rats. This is the first report of a epicatechin dimer produced from C. australiensis.

Valorization of pineapple peel waste for fungal pigment production using Talaromyces albobiverticillius: Insights into antibacterial, antioxidant and textile dyeing properties

The present study explores natural pigments as sustainable alternatives to synthetic textile dyes. Due to their therapeutic applications and easy production, fungal pigments have gained attention. However, data on pigment production using solid-state fermentation and optimization is limited. Milk whey was used to grow Talaromyces sp., followed by an evaluation of pigment production in solid and liquid media. Pineapple peels were used as a cost-effective substrate for pigment production, and a one-factor-at-a-time approach was used to enhance pigment production. Pineapple peel-based media produced 0.523 ± 0.231 mg/g of pigment after eight days of incubation. The crude pigment had promising antibacterial and significant antioxidant properties. The extraction fungal pigment's possible use as an eco-friendly textile dye was assessed through fabric dyeing experiments with different mordants. This work contributes to the valorization of agricultural waste and provides insight into using fungal pigments as sustainable alternatives to synthetic textile dyes.

Optimized production of keratinolytic proteases from Bacillus tropicus LS27 and its application as a sustainable alternative for dehairing, destaining and metal recovery

The present study describes the isolation and characterization of Bacillus tropicus LS27 capable of keratinolytic protease production from Russell Market, Shivajinagar, Bangalore, Karnataka, with its diverse application. The ability of this strain to hydrolyze chicken feathers and skim milk was used to assess its keratinolytic and proteolytic properties. The strain identification was done using biochemical and molecular characterization using the 16S rRNA sequencing method. Further a sequential and systematic optimization of the factors affecting the keratinase production was done by initially sorting out the most influential factors (NaCl concentration, pH, inoculum level and incubation period in this study) through one factor at a time approach followed by central composite design based response surface methodology to enhance the keratinase production. Under optimized levels of NaCl (0.55 g/L), pH (7.35), inoculum level (5%) and incubation period (84 h), the keratinase production was enhanced from 41.62 U/mL to 401.67 ± 9.23 U/mL (9.65 fold increase) that corresponds to a feather degradation of 32.67 ± 1.36% was achieved. With regard to the cost effectiveness of application studies, the crude enzyme extracted from the optimized medium was tested for its potential dehairing, destaining and metal recovery properties. Complete dehairing was achieved within 48 h of treatment with crude enzyme without any visible damage to the collagen layer of goat skin. In destaining studies, combination of crude enzyme and detergent solution [1 mL detergent solution (5 mg/mL) and 1 mL crude enzyme] was found to be most effective in removing blood stains from cotton cloth. Silver recovery from used X-ray films was achieved within 6 min of treatment with crude enzyme maintained at 40 °C.

Evaluation of cadmium tolerance and remediated efficacy of wild and mutated Enterobacter species isolated from potassium nitrate (KNO₃) processing unit contaminated soil

The purpose of this study was to find the most cadmium (Cd²⁺) tolerant and remediated bacteria isolate from KNO₃ processing unit contaminated soil. One isolate out of 19 isolates possessed excellent Cd²⁺ tolerance than others, which was recognized as Enterobacter hormaechei SFC3 through molecular characterization (16S rRNA sequencing). The identified E. hormaechei SFC3 contained 55% and 45% of GC and AT content, respectively. The wild and acridine orange mutated E. hormaechei SFC3 exhibited excellent resistance to Cd²⁺ up to the concentration of 1500 μg mL^-1. Furthermore, the wild E. hormaechei SFC3 and mutated E. hormaechei SFC3 showed 82.47% and 90.21% of Cd²⁺ remediation on 6th days of treatment respectively. Similarly, the Cd²⁺ tolerant wild and mutated E. hormaechei SFC3 showed considerable resistance to all the tested antibiotics. The findings indicate that E. hormaechei SFC3 isolated from KNO₃ processing unit contaminated soil is a promising candidate for microbial remediation of Cd²⁺ contamination.

Unravelling the potential plant growth activity of halotolerant Bacillus licheniformis NJ04 isolated from soil and its possible use as a green bioinoculant on Solanum lycopersicum L

Immensely expanding world population and narrowing arable land for agriculture is a mighty concern faced by the planet at present. One of the major reasons for decline in arable lands is the increased soil salinity, making it unfavourable for crop cultivation. Utilisation of these saline land for agriculture is possible with suitable invention for improving the soil quality. Biofertizers manufactured out of Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria is one such innovation. In the present study, Bacillus licheniformis NJ04 strain was isolated and studied for its halotolerance and other effective plant growth promoting traits. The NJ04 strain was able to tolerate salt up to 10% and highlighted remarkable antifungal activity against common fungal phytopathogens. The preliminary seed germination test in Solanum lycopersicum seeds revealed a significant increase in root length (16.29 ± 0.91 cm) and shoot length (9.66 ± 0.11 cm) of treated plants as compared with the control plants and thereby shows its possible use as a green bioinoculant in agriculture and an ideal candidate to compete with salt stress.

Optimistic influence of multi-metal tolerant Bacillus species on phytoremediation potential of Chrysopogon zizanioides on metal contaminated soil

The current study investigated the plant growth promoting (PGP) characteristics of multi-metal-tolerant Bacillus cereus and their positive effect on the physiology, biomolecule substance, and phytoremediation ability of Chrysopogon zizanioides in metal-contaminated soil. The test soil sample was detrimentally contaminated by metals including Cd (31 mg kg^-1), Zn (7696 mg kg^-1), Pb (326 mg kg^-1), Mn (2519 mg kg^-1) and Cr (302 mg kg^-1) that exceeded Indian standards. The multi-metal-tolerant B. cereus seemed to have superb PGP activities including fabrication of hydrogen cyanide, siderophore, Indole Acetic Acid, N₂ fixation, as well as P solubilisation. Such multi-metal-tolerant B. cereus attributes can dramatically reduce or decontaminate metals in contaminated soils, and their PGP attributes significantly improve plant growth in contaminated soils. Hence, without (study I) and with (study II) the blending of B. cereus, this strain vastly enhances the growth and phytoremediation potency of C. zizanioides on metal contaminated soil. The results revealed that the physiological data, biomolecule components, and phytoremediation efficiency of C. zizanioides (Cr: 7.74, Cd: 12.15, Zn: 16.72, Pb: 11.47, and Mn: 14.52 mg g^-1) seem to have been greatly effective in study II due to the metal solubilizing and PGP characteristics of B. cereus. This is a one-of-a-kind report on the effect of B. cereus's multi-metal tolerance and PGP characteristics on the development and phytoextraction effectiveness of C. zizanioides in metal-polluted soil.

Fabrication of near superhydrophobic Pt-TiO2 hybrid nanoflake composite as food sensor in food processing industry

The current finding reports on the development of highly ordered closely packed TiO₂ nanotube arrays on Ti substrate via two-step anodization process. The nanotubes developed by second anodization step (TNT2) were encapsulated with Pt nanoflakes using electro-deposition followed by hydrothermal treatment process. The FE-SEM, FTIR, XRD and contact angle measurement, respectively were done to find out the morphological, functional group, phase structural and wettability of the samples. The tube diameter and length were found to be 110-120 and 50-100 nm and 437 and 682, respectively for first (TNT1) and second anodization. The structural order of the TNT has enhanced in the second anodization process. Chronoamperometric results showed that the Pt-TNT2 exhibited enhanced and steady state electro-catalytic activity than Pt-TNT1. Pt-TNT2 nanoflake composite showed near SHP behaviour than the TNT without Pt. The food processing machinery developed using near SHP Pt-TNT2 could be cleaned easily due to its high non-wettability. Hence, Pt-TNT2 can be used for making food processing equipment.

Predicting rheumatoid arthritis from the biomarkers of clinical trials using improved harmony search optimization with adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease whose symptoms are hard to determine due to the overlapping indications of the condition with other illnesses such as dengue, malaria, etc. As the symptoms of RA disease are similar to inflammatory diseases, general physicians (GPs) find it difficult to detect the disease earlier. A computer aided framework is proposed in this study to assist and support the GPs to diagnose RA better. In this work Improved Harmony Search Optimization (IHSO) approach is proposed to select the significant feature subset of RA and Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) is used as a classification model. The performance of the proposed IHSO-ANFIS model is examined with metrics such as Balanced Accuracy (Bacc), Area under Curve (AUC), Sensitivity (Sen), Specificity (Spec), and Matthew’s Correlation Coefficient (MCC) using 10-Fold cross-validation. Additionally, the results of the IHSO-ANFIS are compared with HSO-ANFIS, ANFIS without any feature selection and standard bench mark datasets. IHSO-ANFIS attained 87.05% Bacc, 89.95% AUC and 0.6586 MCC on the RA dataset. From the results it is clear that IHSO-ANFIS could assist general physicians to diagnose RA earlier and pave the way for timely treatment.

Eco-friendly, green synthesized copper oxide nanoparticle (CuNPs) from an important medicinal plant Turnera subulata Sm. and its biological evaluation

In this report, the green fabrication of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuNPs) using Turnera subulata leaf extract and assessed for the antibacterial and photocatalytic activities. The synthesis of CuNPs was performed using the leaves of T. subulata (TS-CuNPs) and characterized using UV-visible spectrophotometry, Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Produced TS-CuNPs showing transmittance peaks approximately 707-878 cm^-1, with a spherical shape particle with an average size of 58.5 nm. As synthesized TS-CuNPs were used as a coating material in cotton fabrics and tested the efficacy against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial pathogens. TS-CuNPs inhibited the growth of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus on cotton fabrics. Antibiofilm activity of TS-CuNPs showed a 4-fold reduction in the biofilm formation of E. coli and S. aureus. Structural morphology of TS-CuNPs coated on cotton fabric analysis using SEM-EDX confirmed the attachment of TS-CuNPs and reduction in the bacterial attachment to the cotton fabrics. Thus, this study provides a potential strategy to improve the antibacterial property of cotton fabrics in textile production for medical, sportswear, and casual wear applications. Further, the photocatalytic activity against the tested dyes evident the potential in dye industry wastewater treatment. Hence, this work represents a simple, greener, and cost-effective route for in situ synthesis of CuNPs with the potential antibacterial and as a dye degradation agent for water remediation.

Investigation of photocatalytic performance of titania based hybrid nanocomposite structure for dilapidation of organic contaminants

This research paper attempt to provide the photocatalytic performance of nitrogen ion (N⁺) entrenched anodized Ti with hydroxyapatite hybrid nano-sctructure meant for dilapidation of organic contaminant from the environment. The N⁺ was entrenched at 70 keV with varying doses (1 × 10¹⁶, 5 × 10¹⁶, 1 × 10¹⁷ and 2.5 × 10¹⁷ N⁺/cm²) into anodized Ti surface. Functional groups, phase structure, topographic and morphologic characterizations of the synthesized hybrid nano-sctructure were analyzed using Infra Red Spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and Microscopic techniques, respectively. Wettability of the specimens was found out using contact angle measurements. The anodized Ti specimens without N⁺ have exhibited less surface energy than the specimens with N⁺. Porous shell gets smoothened after the entrenchment of N⁺. Compared to all the doses of nitrogen implantation, better performance was observed for 5 × 10¹⁶ N⁺/cm² dose. Moreover, the samples with N⁺ showed better charge transfer resistance indicating enhanced photocatalytic performance of N⁺ entrenched titania than other samples.

Trends in rifampicin and isoniazid resistance in patients with presumptive TB

BACKGROUND: Early diagnosis of drug-resistant TB (DR-TB) is crucial in preventing the spread of the disease in the community. Introduction of upfront decentralised drug susceptibility testing to district-level as part of universal drug susceptibility testing (UDST) policy increased the feasibility of rapid and early testing for drug resistance closer to the patient and has resulted in reduced circumstances for transmission. The introduction of the first-line line-probe assay (FL-LPA), GenoType^® MTBDRplus v2, has had an extensive impact on the management of multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) in India.MATERIALS and METHODS: Sputum samples of patients with presumptive TB and DR-TB from selected districts of Tamil Nadu received through National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP) were subjected to FL-LPA as per programme guidelines. In this study, we present trends in genotypic resistance to isoniazid (INH) and rifampicin (RIF) during the 4 years (2016-2019) among these patients. Band patterns were analysed as per the updated GLI (Global Laboratory Initiative) LPA interpretation and reporting guidelines.RESULTS: A total of 26,349 samples were received during the study period. Smear-positive samples (n = 20231) were directly subjected to FL-LPA; smear-negative samples were cultured in liquid media and M. tuberculosis-positive cultures were tested using FL-LPA. A total of 18,441 were MTB-positive on FL-LPA. INH monoresistance, RIF monoresistance and MDR-TB was observed in respectively 8.7%, 1.1% and 3.3% of the samples. There was a decreasing trend in all types of resistance observed particularly after 2017 (P < 0.001). MDR-TB showed a steady decrease from 5.6% to 1.8%. S531L (19.5%) and S315T (61.1%) were the most common mutations identified in the rpoB and katG genes, respectively. The percentage of inhA-c-15t promoter mutation, indicating low-level INH resistance, showed a consistent increase (P < 0.001).CONCLUSION: The impact of the UDST policy on the NTEP may have led to this decreasing trend in RIF and INH resistance observed in the study period. The increase in low-level INH resistance mutation inhA-c-15t may be associated with ethionamide/prothionamide resistance, and this should be taken into account when designing DR-TB regimen.

Extraction and isolation of lignin from ash tree (Fraxinus exselsior) with protic ionic liquids (PILs)

Protic ionic liquids (PILs) have been considered effective solvents for the selective separation and recovery of cellulose from lignocellulosic biomass. However, PILs can also be utilized for the extraction and conversion of lignin into fuels and value-added products. The objective of this work was to study the extraction of lignin from ash tree (Fraxinus exselsior) hardwood biomass using three different PILs-pyridinium acetate, pyridinium formate [Py][For], and pyrrolidinium acetate. Fiber analysis was used to determine the biochemical composition of the left-over biomass after lignin separation. FTIR and NMR were applied to determine the structure of dissolved lignin. Additionally, the regeneration potential and recyclability of PILs were assessed. Our results demonstrate that treatment with [Py][For] at 75 °C yields the highest percentage of lignin dissolution from biomass. This indicates that PILs could be used for Kraft lignin dissolution as well as separation of lignin from raw, milled biomass.

Bioprocesses for the recovery of bioenergy and value-added products from wastewater: A review

Wastewater and activated sludge present a major challenge worldwide. Wastewater generated from large and small-scale industries, laundries, human residential areas and other sources is emerging as a main problem in sanitation and maintenance of smart/green cities. During the last decade, different technologies and processes have been developed to recycle and purify the wastewater. Currently, identification and fundamental consideration of development of more advanced microbial-based technologies that enable wastewater treatment and simultaneous resource recovery to produce bioenergy, biofuels and other value-added compounds (organic acids, fatty acids, bioplastics, bio-pesticides, bio-surfactants and bio-flocculants etc.) became an emerging topic. In the last several decades, significant development of bioprocesses and techniques for the extraction and recovery of mentioned valuable molecules and compounds from wastewater, waste biomass or sludge has been made. This review presents different microbial-based process routes related to resource recovery and wastewater application for the production of value-added products and bioenergy. Current process limitations and insights for future research to promote more efficient and sustainable routes for this under-utilized and continually growing waste stream are also discussed.

Photocatalytic degradation of congo red dye using nickel-titanium dioxide nanoflakes synthesized by Mukia madrasapatna leaf extract

Semiconductor photocatalysts are efficient degraders of organic and inorganic waste water pollutants. Herein, we synthesized nickel-titanium dioxide (Ni-TiO₂) nanoflakes using Mukia maderaspatana leafs with the aim of analyzing their photocatalytic degradation potential. Morphological analyses revealed that the nanoflakes were highly agglomerated with an average size of 100 nm. Further, elemental analysis confirmed the presence of Ti, O, and Ni, whereas Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction established the presence of TiO₂ and NiO. We found that photocatalytic degradation of congo red under UV illumination increased with increasing incubation period, demonstrating that Ni-TiO₂ nanoflakes can be used as optimal photocatalysts for the degradation of dyes in waste water.

Bilateral occipital lobe infarct neglect deficit (BLIND) syndrome

Cortical blindness is characterized by loss of vision due to dysfunction of the visual cortices, most commonly secondary to bilateral ischemic infarcts of the occipital lobe. Other causes include surgery such as aortic valve replacement, laryngeal surgery, craniotomy, cerebral angiography, head trauma, and partial seizures. Visual anosognosia is a distinct feature of cortical blindness, wherein patients claim they can see and confabulate visual perceptions, despite loss of sight. We herewith present a rare phenomenon known as Anton Syndrome, an eponym named after the Austrian neurologist and psychiatrist, Gabriel Anton (1858-1933). There are a limited number of cases of Anton's Syndrome in the literature, with only 28 case reports published from 1965-2016. Although he was bestowed a neurologic eponym, Anton was an advocate of eugenics and racial hygiene. He publicly advocated for 'superior breeding' and 'selection' in order to 'build a brave and noble race.' We therefore propose replacing the eponym with Bilateral Occipital Lobe Infarct Neglect Deficit (BLIND) Syndrome, with intention of raising awareness of this unique presentation as well as of the widespread interest in eugenics in the early 1900s amongst physicians, notably Gabriel Anton.

Eggshells biowaste for hydroxyapatite green synthesis using extract piper betel leaf - Evaluation of antibacterial and antibiofilm activity

The present research work reports the biosynthesis of hydroxyapatite (HAp) from eggshells and green synthesis of HAp from eggshells with incorporation of Piper betel leaf extract (PBL-HAp) using microwave conversion method. Although there are several works on synthesis of HAp from eggshells and other calcium and phosphorus rich substrates, the incorporation of herbal extract with HAp to promote antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity is less explored and reported. This research work highlights a simple and cost-effective method for development of antimicrobial biomaterials by combining the concepts of waste management, biomaterial science, and herbal medicine. In the present study, characterization of synthesized HAp was applied by X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (¹H NMR) spectroscopy, and morphological analysis using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The characterization results indicated that the prepared HAp and PBL-HAp were pure b-type carbonated HAp. The PBL-HAp was checked for its antibacterial activity using the well diffusion method and biofilm inhibitory activity by crystal violet assay against some common pathogens. The antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus aureus and biofilm inhibitory activities against Escherichia coli, Vibrio harveyi, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus of Piper betel leaf extract coated HAp (PBL-HAp) were showed to be significant and offered a promising role for the development of potent dental biomaterials.

Bi-model cationic dye adsorption by native and surface-modified Trichoderma asperellum BPL MBT1 biomass: From fermentation waste to value-added biosorbent

In this study, we aimed to assess the possible reusability of native and surface-modified waste biomass of a novel ascomycetes fungi Trichoderma asperellum BPL MBT1 for the adsorption of triphenylmethane dyes. Spent biomass obtained from fermentation medium has been applied in the uptake of model cationic dyes viz., crystal violet and malachite green. Optimization of experimental parameters by batch mode studies revealed that dye adsorption is influenced by medium pH time, initial concentration of dyes, and adsorbent dosage. It was observed that pH 10 was optimum for cationic dye adsorption. Further, the adsorption process obeyed the bi-model (Langmuir-Freundlich model) isotherm and adhered to pseudo-second-order kinetics. The involvement of ion exchange as the dominant mechanism of dye adsorption was indicated by the mean free energy obtained from Dubinin-Radushkevich isotherm. Cellular morphology and the involved functional groups were studied by scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy that revealed the presence of carbon and oxygen containing groups on the surface. Maximum desorption efficiency was achieved using a 0.1 M solution of HCl and the stability of the biosorbent was confirmed through reusability analysis. Our results confirm the applicability of both native and surface-modified T. asperellum BPL MBT1 biomass as a potential biosorbent for the sustainable wastewater treatment and safe dye disposal.

Relative abundance of lipid types among Chlorella sp. and Scenedesmus sp. and ameliorating homogeneous acid catalytic conditions using central composite design (CCD) for maximizing fatty acid methyl ester yield

The present study has tested the biodiesel potential of two hyper lipid producing strains Chlorella sp. and Scenedesmus sp. in terms of biomass yield, quantity and quality of lipid and fatty acid composition. Biomass yield of Chlorella sp. and Scenedesmus sp. was 1.26 and 1.33 g/L, respectively on day 18 and 20. The lipid content and lipid productivity of Chlorella sp. and Scenedesmus sp. was estimated to be 21.3, 26.5% and 12.33, 14.74 mg/L/d, respectively. Notably, relative abundance of lipid types in both the strains revealed >60% neutral lipids followed by glycolipids and phospholipids in minimal level. Central composite design based optimization revealed 69 and 65.4% FAME yield from Chlorella sp. and Scenedesmus sp. at 3% sulphuric acid and 65 °C reaction temperature. Eventually, higher levels of saturated fatty acids (~45%) and monounsaturated fatty acids (~34%) and make Scenedesmus sp. a promising parent material for workable biodiesel production.

Recent developments in the diagnosis and treatment of extrapulmonary non-tuberculous mycobacterial diseases

Diseases due to pathogenic mycobacteria cause significant health and economic impact on humans worldwide. Although mycobacterial diseases primarily affect the lungs, the involvement of extrapulmonary organs has also gained ground, particularly among individuals with co-existing medical conditions. Besides Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex organisms, non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are also known to cause pulmonary and extrapulmonary diseases. Primary and disseminated extrapulmonary mycobacterial infections affect the brain, eye, mouth, tongue, lymph nodes of the neck, spine, bones, muscles, skin, pleura, pericardium, gastro-intestinal, peritoneum and genito-urinary system. The clinical presentation of extrapulmonary mycobacterial diseases, including systemic symptoms, of M. tuberculosis-infected cases and NTM-infected cases is similar. Moreover, extrapulmonary mycobacterial diseases are complicated by the involvement of diverse bacterial species as aetiological agents. Culture and molecular techniques are used to differentiate NTM from Mycobacterium tuberculosis and to classify sub-species of the pathogens. As sub-speciation and drug susceptibility profiling are critical factors in treating extrapulmonary NTM diseases, there are often significant delays in initiating treatment and customising the therapeutic regimen. Here, we summarise the clinical symptoms of NTM diseases in various extrapulmonary organs, and discuss the recent trends in diagnosing and treating these diseases. We also highlight the complications associated with the management of extrapulmonary NTM disease.

Ultrasound-assisted synthesis of mixed calcium magnesium oxide (CaMgO2) nanoflakes for photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue

In the present study, mixed calcium magnesium oxide (CaMgO₂) nanoflakes were synthesized using an ultrasound-assisted co-precipitation method. The physicochemical, structural and functional properties and elemental composition of the nanoflakes had been characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV-VIS spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Raman spectroscopy. Moreover, the photocatalytic actions of the nanoflakes were evaluated by the removal rates of methylene blue (MB) and p-nitrophenol (4-NP) under UV irradiation at room temperature. SEM-EDS studies revealed that the nanoflakes consisted of mixed oxide such as magnesium oxide (MgO) and calcium oxide (CaO) particles. The size of the nanoflakes was found to be in the range of 10-30 nm and the average size was 25 nm as confirmed by HR-TEM analysis. XRD revealed that the standard crystal size was calculated to be 25 nm. The synthesized nanoflakes had a strong photocatalytic activity for methylene blue (MB) and p-nitrophenol (4-NP) degradation in the presence of H₂O₂ under UV light irradiation within 60 min and 30 min, respectively. Hence, the present study proposes that the CaMgO₂ nanoflakes can be employed for the removal of dyes from wastewater.

Application of molecular techniques in biohydrogen production as a clean fuel

Considering the future energy demand and pollution to the environment, biohydrogen, a biofuel, produced from biological sources have garnered increased attention. The present review emphasis the various techniques and methods employed to enumerate the microbial community and enhancement of hydrogen production by dark fermentation. Notably, molecular techniques such as terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T-RFLP), quantitative real-time PCR (q-PCR), fluorescent in-situ hybridization (FISH), denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE), ribosomal intergenic spacer analysis (RISA), and next generation sequencing (NGS) have been extensively discussed on identifying the microbial population in hydrogen production. Further, challenges and merits of the molecular techniques have been elaborated.

Cell density, Lipidomic profile, and fatty acid characterization as selection criteria in bioprospecting of microalgae and cyanobacterium for biodiesel production

Selection of indigenous and potential algal strain with high lipid content is paramount challenge in the avenues of microalgal biodiesel production. Particularly, hyper lipid producing algae with maximal triacyglycerols (TAGs) content and preferable fatty acid composition is of interest for sustainable biodiesel. Hence, the present study on comparative assessment of Chlorella vulgaris, Scenedesmus sp. and Synechococcus sp. was done in terms of cell density, lipid, TAGs and fatty acid. Higher biomass yield was obtained in Chlorella vulgaris (0.54 gL^-1) on 13th day while maximal lipid content of 36% was observed in Scenedesmus sp. followed by Chlorella vulgaris (33%). Lipidomic analysis revealed higher non-polar lipids inChlorella vulgaris (57%) and Scenedesmus sp. (54%), whereas in Synechococcus sp. 69% polar lipids were present. In fatty acid profile, C24:0 (22.11%) was predominant in Chlorella vulgaris, while C20:0 (31.72%) and C18:2 (22.26%) was prevalent in Scenedesmus sp. and Synechococcus sp. respectively.

Core/shell nanoparticles: Synthesis, investigation of antimicrobial potential and photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine B

Bacterial pathogenicity is becoming a major cause of morbidity and mortality around the globe. Researchers are tirelessly finding solutions to cure or prevent infections caused by bacterial pathogens. Nanotechnology is a fast-growing area of research, effectively influencing and preventing bacterial growth. Nanoparticles (NPs) of silver, copper and gold are being used to kill bacterial pathogens in the past years but the toxicity of NPs at higher concentrations remains a major problem. Therefore, in the present study, Co₃O₄@ZrO₂ (CoZ) core/shell NPs were synthesized using a simple sol-gel method. The synthesized NPs were characterized using different analytical techniques revealing the absorption bands at 456 and 277 nm with crystalline size of ~600 nm core/shell. The functional groups and oxidation states were characterized using FTIR analysis. Further bactericidal properties of core/shell of Co₃O₄@ZrO₂ NPs were tested against Gram negative (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and Gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subitilis) pathogens. The core/shell CoZ NPs showed maximum growth inhibitions against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa. At the highest concentration of 200 μg/mL, the maximum zone of inhibition was observed. The synthesized CoZ NPs was also subjected to photocatalytic degradation of rhodamine B in 180 min under visible light irradiation. The present study could be an innovative and efficient research for both biomedical and wastewater treatment applications.

Enhanced cancer therapy with pH-dependent and aptamer functionalized doxorubicin loaded polymeric (poly D, L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles

Aptamer based drug delivery systems are gaining the importance in anticancer therapy due to their targeted drug delivery efficiency without harming the normal cells. The present work formulated the pH-dependent aptamer functionalized polymer-based drug delivery system against human lung cancer. The prepared aptamer functionalized doxorubicin (DOX) loaded poly (D, L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), poly (N-vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) nanoparticles (APT-DOX-PLGA-PVP NPs) were spherical in shape with an average size of 87.168 nm. The crystallography and presence of the PLGA (poly (D, L-lactic-co-glycolic acid)) and DOX (doxorubicin) in APT-DOX-PLGA-PVP NPs were indicated by the X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and ¹H and ¹³C nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer (NMR). The pH-dependent aptamer AS1411 based drug release triggered the cancer cell death was evidenced by cytotoxicity assay, flow cytometry, and fluorescent microscopic imaging. In addition, the cellular uptake of the DOX was determined and the apoptosis-related signaling pathway in the A549 cells was studied by Western blot analysis. Further, the in vivo study revealed that mice treated with APT-DOX-PLGA-PVP NPs were significantly recovered from cancer as evident by mice weight and tumor size followed by the histopathological study. It was reported that the APT-DOX-PLGA-PVP NPs induced the apoptosis through the activation of the apoptosis-related proteins. Hence, the present study revealed that the APT-DOX-PLGA-PVP NPs improved the therapeutic efficiency through the nucleolin receptor endocytosis targeted drug release.

Enhanced bioconversion of hemicellulosic biomass by microbial consortium for biobutanol production with bioaugmentation strategy

As a renewable and sustainable source for next-generation biofuel production, lignocellulosic biomass can be effectively utilized in environmentally friendly manner. In this study, a stable, xylan-utilizing, anaerobic microbial consortium MC1 enriched from mangrove sediments was established, and it was taxonomically identified that the genera Ruminococcus and Clostridium from this community played a crucial role in the substrate utilization. In addition, a butanol-producing Clostridium sp. strain WST was introduced via the bioaugmentation process, which resulted in the conversion of xylan to biobutanol up to 10.8 g/L, significantly improving the butanol yield up to 0.54 g/g by 98-fold. When this system was further applied to other xylan-rich biomass, 1.09 g/L of butanol could be achieved from 20 g/L of corn cob. These results provide another new method to efficiently convert xylan, the main hemicellulose from lignocellulosic biomass into biofuels through a low-cost and eco-friendly manner.

Chitosan nanopolymers: An overview of drug delivery against cancer

Cancer is becoming a major reason for death troll worldwide due to the difficulty in finding an efficient, cost effective and target specific method of treatment or diagnosis. The variety of cancer therapy used in the present scenario have painful side effects, low effectiveness and high cost, which are some major drawbacks of the available therapies. Apart from the conventional cancer therapy, nanotechnology has grown extremely towards treating cancer. Nanotechnology is a promising area of science focusing on developing target specific drug delivery system for carrying small or large active molecules to diagnose and treat cancer cells. In the field of nanoscience, Chitosan nanopolymers (ChNPs) are been emerging as a potential carrier due to their biodegradability and biocompatibility. The easy modification and versatility in administration route of ChNPs has attracted attention of researchers towards loading chemicals, proteins and gene drugs for target specific therapy of cancer cells. Therefore, the present review deals with the growing concern towards cancer therapy, introduction of ChNPs, mode of action and other strategies employed by researchers till date towards cancer treatment and diagnosis ChNPs.

Inclusion of dietary β-mannanase improves performance and ileal digestibility and reduces ileal digesta viscosity of broilers fed corn-soybean meal based diet

This study was aimed to evaluate the influence of dietary β-mannanase inclusion on growth performance, apparent ileal digestibility, digesta viscosity, blood metabolites and excreta noxious gas emissions in broilers fed corn-soybean meal based diet. A total of 600 conventional healthy 1-d-old ROSS 308 broilers with body weight 45 ± 0.50 g (mean ± SD) were randomly assigned to 4 dietary treatments with 10 replicates cages, with 15 broilers in each and fed basal diet supplemented to corn-SBM based diets with 0, 2400, 4800, and 7200 MNU β-mannanase/kg for 35 d feeding trial period. Significant results were observed on improved average daily gain and reduced feed conversion ratio during trial period and also reduced ileal digesta viscosity and improved apparent ileal digestibility of dry matter, nitrogen and energy. However, no significant effects were found on blood urea nitrogen and creatinine, excreta noxious gas emissions. In conclusion, the inclusion of dietary β-mannanase had potential to improve daily gain and feed efficiency and apparent ileal digestibility while decreasing digesta viscosity of broiler.

The role of interleukins in vitiligo: a systematic review

Vitiligo is a disorder of the skin that causes depigmentation and asymptomatic macules whose exact cause is still unclear. Although its aetiology is not fully elucidated, the main theory of its pathomechanism is that it is associated with the autoimmune process. There is few summarized information about the role of inflammatory mediators, as interleukins, in vitiligo, so our aim was to present a systematic review of the role of interleukins in vitiligo, focusing on interleukins. In this review, we included all studies assessing interleukin levels in vitiligo patients conducted up to June 2017. Quality assessment of these studies was performed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). The interleukins mainly involved were IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10 and IL-17. The studies highlight the crucial role of IL-17 in the onset and progression of the disease, and its synergistic action with IL-2, IL-6 and IL-33. Dysregulated levels of the interleukins were also correlated with the stage of disease, the affected skin surface area, and indicated as the main factor for lymphocyte infiltration found in depigmented regions. These findings illustrate the growing need for new therapies targeting vitiligo and further research into the role of interleukins as an area of particular interest.

High-efficient production of biobutanol by a novel Clostridium sp. strain WST with uncontrolled pH strategy

A novel Clostridium sp. strain WST isolated from mangrove sediments demonstrated its unique characteristics of producing high titer of biobutanol from low concentration of substrates via anaerobic fermentation. The strain is able to convert glucose and galactose to high amount of biobutanol up to 16.62 and 12.11 g/L, respectively, and the yields of 0.54 and 0.55 g/g were determined to be much higher than those from the previous reports on Clostridial batch fermentation. Moreover, the inherent strong regulatory system of strain WST also prompts itself to perform the fermentation process without any requirement of pH control. In addition to tolerance of high butanol concentration and negligible production of by-products (e.g., ethanol or acids), this strain has immense potential for the sustainable industry-scale production of biobutanol.

Lycra splinting garments for adults with intellectual disabilities who fall due to gait or balance issues: a feasibility study

BACKGROUND

Adults with intellectual disabilities (IDs) experience high rates of falls and have high rates of gait or balance issues which contribute to falls. Lycra splinting garments (LSGs) have potential to improve gait or balance, but they have never before been tested with adults with IDs who fall due to gait or balance issues. The aim of this study was to test in adults with IDs, the feasibility of using LSGs to improve movement and function and reduce falls, whilst also exploring usability and likely compliance.

METHOD

A convenience sample of nine adults with IDs wore tailored LSGs over a 6-week assessment period. Laboratory-based foot clearance, balance, and gait measures were collected pre- and post-LSG-wear. Falls charts and questionnaires on usability and likely compliance were also completed.

RESULTS

Seven participants experienced a reduction in falls during their six weeks of LSG wear; most notably in the group of five participants who wore lycra splinting socks, compared with only two in the group of four who wore lycra splinting shorts or leggings only.

CONCLUSION

Lycra splinting socks are likely to bring about positive outcomes for adults with IDs who fall due to gait/balance issues on an individual case by case basis over time, but further research is required to test this hypothesis under randomised controlled trial conditions. Potential benefits of more intrusive LSGs are outweighed by reported problems with usability and compliance.

An efficient copper catalyzed 3D mesoporous aluminosilicate for the synthesis of dibenzodiazonines in the Ullmann cross-coupling reaction

CuO distribution in the aluminosilicate framework and acidic sites play a multifunctional role in the reaction. 13H-Dibenzo[1,4]diazonine has been synthesized by using a 6 wt% CuO/Al-KIT-6 catalyst using ethanol as solvent.

Genomic comparison of Clostridium species with the potential of utilizing red algal biomass for biobutanol production

BACKGROUND

Sustainable biofuels, which are widely considered as an attractive alternative to fossil fuels, can be generated by utilizing various biomass from the environment. Marine biomass, such as red algal biomass, is regarded as one potential renewable substrate source for biofuels conversion due to its abundance of fermentable sugars (e.g., galactose). Previous studies focused on the enhancement of biofuels production from different Clostridium species; however, there has been limited investigation into their metabolic pathways, especially on the conversion of biofuels from galactose, via whole genomic comparison and evolutionary analysis.

RESULTS

Two galactose-utilizing Clostridial strains were examined and identified as Clostridium acetobutylicum strain WA and C. beijerinckii strain WB. Via the genomic sequencing of both strains, the comparison of the whole genome together with the relevant protein prediction of 33 other Clostridium species was established to reveal a clear genome profile based upon various genomic features. Among them, five representative strains, including C. beijerinckii NCIMB14988, C. diolis DSM 15410, C. pasteurianum BC1, strain WA and WB, were further discussed to demonstrate the main differences among their respective metabolic pathways, especially in their carbohydrate metabolism. The metabolic pathways involved in the generation of biofuels and other potential products (e.g., riboflavin) were also reconstructed based on the utilization of marine biomass. Finally, a batch fermentation process was performed to verify the fermentative products from strains WA and WB using 60 g/L of galactose, which is the main hydrolysate from algal biomass. It was observed that strain WA and WB could produce up to 16.98 and 12.47 g/L of biobutanol, together with 21,560 and 10,140 mL/L biohydrogen, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The determination of the production of various biofuels by both strains WA and WB and their genomic comparisons with other typical Clostridium species on the analysis of various metabolic pathways was presented. Through the identification of their metabolic pathways, which are involved in the conversion of galactose into various potential products, such as biobutanol, the obtained results extend the current insight into the potential capability of utilizing marine red algal biomass and provide a systematic investigation into the relationship between this genus and the generation of sustainable bioenergy.

Polyoxometalate Based Organic-Inorganice Nanocomposites

The organic-inorganic nanocomposites were synthesized by sol-gel techniques. The constructed film renders photochromism, which can be tuned by choosing suitable polyoxometalates (POM). The molybdenum POMs show better photochromism than the tungsten POMs, which is well correlated with the first reduction potentials and band gap of the POM.