Applied Chemical Engineering

Abstract Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is known as an energy source and is generated by mitochondria which is the powerhouse of the cell. The ATP supplies energy through the disassociation of the phosphate group by the cellular enzymes. The extracellular ATP in the extracellular environment acts as a signaling molecule and can act as an anti-inflammatory molecule, can promote cancer progression, and also can act as a pro-inflammatory molecule. The degradation of ATP is a major disadvantage by ectonucleotidases that attenuates the therapeutic property of ATP in the extracellular environment. We have formulated chitosan/alginate nanoparticles loaded with ATP for increasing their encapsulation efficiency and for sustained drug release. This encapsulation can avoid ATP degradation from ectonucleotidases. Nanoparticle characterization by DLS, FTIR, SEM, encapsulation efficiency, and cytotoxicity assay by XTT assay and Live-dead assay was monitored for the synthesized nano formulated ATP. Our results showed that the formulated ATP-loaded chitosan/alginate nanoparticle sized about 342 nm with the optimum encapsulation efficiency of about 92.03% with a sustained drug release profile. These nano formulated ATP could be used for calorie restriction conditions where ATP can be supplied as an extracellular source for bypassing oxidative phosphorylation, and we can circumvent the oxidant production during oxidative phosphorylation. The concept of avoiding oxidative stress by bypassing oxidative phosphorylation can open an avenue for healthy aging.

Abstract Due to polymorphism and complex crystal structure, compounds of the argyrodite family and phases based on them exhibit several interesting functional properties, such as thermoelectric, photoelectric, optical, as well as ionic conductivity for Cu+ and Ag+ cations. The paper presents the results of the study of phase equilibria in the Ag8SiSe6-Ag8SiTe6 system by DTA, XRD, and SEM methods. Refined data on the melting temperature (1278 K) and polymorphic transitions (315 K and 354 K) of the Ag8SiSe6 compound are presented. The crystallographic parameters of LT-Ag8SiSe6 (Cubic, F-43m, a = 1.0965 nm) and IT-Ag8SiSe6 (Cubic, P4232, a = 1.0891 nm) are also determined. It has been established that the investigated system is quasi-binary and its phase diagram is characterized by the formation of a continuous series of substitutional solid solutions between HT-Ag8SiSe6 and Ag8SiTe6. This process is accompanied by a strong decrease in the temperatures of polymorphic transformations of Ag8SiSe6, which leads to the stabilization of the ion-conducting cubic phase at room temperature in the >10 mol% Ag8SiTe6 compositions area. The crystal lattice parameters of the synthesized solid solutions are calculated by indexing the powder diffraction patterns. The stabilization of the high-temperature cubic phase at room temperature achieved by us presents new opportunities for the development of environmentally friendly thermoelectrics and ion-electronic conductors based on silicon argyrodites with desired composition and properties.

Abstract The call for greenhouse gas emission reduction as the result of global warming has been the main cause of the more rigorous emission legislation in the road transportation sector. In response to such requirements, car makers opt for the ‘down-sizing’ trend for engine displacement with the aim to increase brake thermal efficiency by increasing engine load (mean effective pressure). However, this leads to higher potential of engine knocking and elevated NOx emissions. This study investigates the effects of combustion phasing induced by water injection via the intake manifold of a naturally aspirated GDI engine at MBT ignition timing fuelled with E20. Water up to 30% of fuel mass is portinjected during high engine load and maximum NOx reduction of up to 82% could be achieved as the result of lower RoHR caused by vaporisation of water. Water injection prolonged the ignition delay and combustion duration (CA1090) without deterioration of combustion stability (%COV of IMEP). The optimisation of ignition timing based on MBT can improve CO emission compared to EGR systems. The proposed study demonstrates the possibility to achieve low nitrogen emissions without the need of precious metal-based catalysts.

Abstract The selective hydrogen production from methanol on the graphitic-like gallium nitride (GaN) and carbon doped gallium nitride (C–GaN) nanosheets has been challenged using the density functional theory (DFT) method. In this work, we report that GaN and C-doped GaN can catalyze the direct producing hydrogen (H 2 ) of methanol (CH 3 OH) through Langmuir adsorption. The changes of charge density have shown a more important charge transfer for C-doped GaN compared to GaN which act both as the electron acceptor while CH 3 OH molecules in water act as the stronger electron donors through adsorption on the GaN and C-doped GaN surfaces. The adsorption of CH 3 OH molecules on the GaN and C-doped GaN surfaces represented spin polarization in the GaN and C-doped GaN which can be employed as thee magnetic sensors for running the reaction of H 2 producing. The partial electron density states based on “PDOS” graphs have explained that the CH 3 OH states in both of GaN and C-doped GaN nanosheets, respectively, have more conduction bands between −5 eV to −10 eV. The simulated distribution functions of CH 3 O@GaN and CH 3 O@C–GaN complexes exhibits that the bond lengths of O–Ga in CH 3 O–GaN complex is 1.99 Å and O–C in CH 3 O–C–GaN complex is 1.43 Å. Besides, the plot for electric potential versus atomic charge has been shown around carbon doping of the GaN which presents the electron accepting characteristics of this element via the electron donor of oxygen atom of hydroxyl group in CH 3 OH with linear relation coefficient of R 2 = 0.9948. GaN and C–GaN nanosheets seem to have enough efficiency for adsorption CH 3 OH molecules through charge transfer from oxygen to the gallium and carbon elements due to intra-atomic and interatomic interactions.

Abstract The pyridine ring is present in numerous significant plant compounds. It is used as a therapeutic to boost the solubility and bioavailability of less soluble chemicals since it is a polar and ionizable aromatic molecule. Chemical compounds derived from pyridine are highly sought-after in the pharmaceutical industry. An essential synthesis strategy in the search for novel medications is the fusion of the pyridine nucleus. Due to the compounds’ powerful therapeutic characteristics, medicinal chemists have long been fascinated by the chemistry of pyridine and its derivatives, which inspires them to look for and make novel compounds with biological utility. There are significant ramifications for medical chemistry in the adaptability of pyridine and its derivatives as reactants and starting materials for structural changes. Pesticides and agricultural chemicals that heavily rely on pyridine derivatives include insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides; However, this page focuses on their medical applications. Pyridine derivatives are frequently used in the textile industry to create dyes. We present the most recent findings from 2010 onward, highlighting the growing significance of pyridine scaffolds in medicinal chemistry and the development of new drugs. Even though there are a lot of studies on pyridine derivatives, this chapter only has compounds with a clear pharmacophore.

Abstract Microplastic pollution has emerged as a significant environmental concern, with potential direct and indirect impacts on ecosystems. Microplastics are pervasive, found in water, food, and even the air we breathe. While their influence on human health is still unclear, microplastics are known to possess endocrine-disrupting properties and can accumulate persistent organic pollutants. Accurate measurement and categorization of microplastics are crucial to understanding their prevalence and impact on contamination. Fortunately, there are several methods available, such as visual analysis, fluorescence techniques, vibrational spectroscopy, and electron microscopy, that offer optimal accuracy in detecting and quantifying microplastics. The increasing presence of microplastics in the food chain has prompted global research efforts to assess potential risks to human health. However, despite ongoing advancements, challenges remain in standardizing analytical procedures and developing methods capable of detecting microplastics as small as nanometers. Visual classification-based methods, though limited in detecting smaller microplastics, show promise for improvement through integration with advanced technologies. This study primarily focuses on microplastic sampling strategies, detection methods, and their respective advantages and disadvantages, shedding light on the advancements and challenges in the field.

Abstract Imidazole and phenyl rings are fused at positions 4 and 5 to form the benzimidazole structure. The benzimidazole mono- and disubstituted derivatives are extremely intriguing heterocyclic chemical compounds. They can be synthesized using a straightforward condensation method between o-phenylenediamine and a carbonyl compound under various conditions as well as a nucleophilic substitution reaction. The catalytical effects of benzimidazole derivatives, which include oxidation of olefins, oxidation of alcohol, etc, play a significant role in the catalysis. This review describes various synthetic routes for synthesizing functionalized benzimidazole derivatives and catalytic application of benzimidazole Schiff base metal complexes and benzimidazole amide.

Abstract The main deliberation of this review paper is on metallic catalysts, including Cu-based catalysts, with distinct formulations and compositions, utilized for steam reforming of methanol (SRM). The review critically examines the performance of these catalysts, considering the active components, supports, promoters, and their interactions. Additionally, the review identifies and elucidates the various kinds of reaction mechanisms and routes involved in SRM. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into the progress of well-organized and effective catalysts for SRM. To achieve high yields of H 2 , it is crucial to conduct a fundamental study of the role of copper as a component in both mono and multimetallic systems, as well as the nature of support. These factors are essential to understand the catalytic mechanisms involved in the steam reforming of methanol and to develop effective strategies for optimizing hydrogen production. Therefore, a thorough investigation of copper-based catalysts and their interaction with the support material is essential for the development of highly efficient steam reforming processes.

Abstract Infrared spectroscopy it is becoming more and more useful in the field of biomedical research. Infrared spectroscopy has been used more and more to characterize biological matrixes, providing a simple way to obtain diagnostic and observational information from easily acquired samples. These tests are performed in order to monitor the changes, and in this way to characterize the biological matrix, with the aim of detecting the first signs that can diagnose a disease. Vibrational spectroscopy analysis of biological fluids has become more and more popular recently. Notably, the development of infrared spectroscopic screening of blood products, particularly blood serum and saliva, for illness diagnosis has attracted economic attention. This review examines some applications of the infrared spectroscopy method that was employed to examine human serum in order to detect disease at an early stage, published between 2017 and 2022.

Abstract The call for greenhouse gas emission reduction as the result of global warming has been the main cause of the more rigorous emission legislation in the road transportation sector. In response to such requirements, car makers opt for the ‘down-sizing’ trend for engine displacement with the aim to increase brake thermal efficiency by increasing engine load (mean effective pressure). However, this leads to higher potential of engine knocking and elevated NOx emissions. This study investigates the effects of combustion phasing induced by water injection via the intake manifold of a naturally aspirated GDI engine at MBT ignition timing fuelled with E20. Water up to 30% of fuel mass is portinjected during high engine load and maximum NOx reduction of up to 82% could be achieved as the result of lower RoHR caused by vaporisation of water. Water injection prolonged the ignition delay and combustion duration (CA1090) without deterioration of combustion stability (%COV of IMEP). The optimisation of ignition timing based on MBT can improve CO emission compared to EGR systems. The proposed study demonstrates the possibility to achieve low nitrogen emissions without the need of precious metal-based catalysts.

Abstract This analysis of contemporary findings aims to enhance our understanding of lipoprotein biology within the lymphatic system and its relevance to human health and disease. It delves into the complex interrelationship between lipoproteins and the lymphatic system, encompassing their diverse classes and pivotal roles in the absorption and transport of drugs, vitamins, and xenobiotics. Lipoproteins consist of a hydrophobic core comprising non-polar lipids and a hydrophilic membrane composed of phospholipids, free cholesterol, and apolipoproteins. The lymphatic system collaborates with lipoproteins in the absorption and transport of dietary lipids. Simultaneously, it plays a vital role in the regulation of body fluid levels and acts as a formidable defense mechanism against infections. Lipoprotein classes encompass chylomicrons, chylomicron remnants, very low-density lipoproteins, intermediate density lipoproteins, low-density lipoproteins, high-density lipoproteins, and lipoprotein (a). Understanding the intricate relationship between lipoproteins and the lymphatic system holds immense implications for comprehending the underlying pathological processes of various diseases such as atherosclerosis, diabetes and obesity among others. By shedding light on the interplay between lipoproteins and the lymphatic system, this report underscores the significance of conducting research that contributes to the advancement of our knowledge in this field. Ultimately, such research paves the way for potential therapeutic interventions and novel strategies to address numerous disorders.

Abstract Currently, developing nations around the world rely heavily on the use of biomass and fossil fuels for cooking, lighting, and warmth due to a lack of access to clean fuels and constant electricity supply. Unfortunately, the use of these materials has the side effect of emitting of harmful pollutants into the air. Constant exposure to some of these emissions has led to the death of millions of people around the world, with women and children disproportionately affected due to greater amounts of time spent indoors. The work focused on indoor air pollution from lightning sources in developing countries and the negative impacts of cases of ill-health and mortality. The techniques adopted for the research comprised extensive and intensive review of literature on lightning sources. Resources used encompassed internet materials, current reports and recent publications by researchers of note. The findings show that there are associated pollutants, the prevention and the latest technologies for control the pollutants. It was concluded that the dearth of research in lighting sources as sources of indoor air pollution is needed to be addressed by researchers. Also, policy implications to improve electricity deficits should be embarked upon by governments to discourage the use of fossils and biomass for lighting indoors.