@article { ISI:000229553300007, title = {Larvicidal activity of acacia nilotica extracts and isolation of D-pinitol - a bioactive carbohydrate}, journal = {Chemistry \& Biodiversity}, volume = {2}, number = {5}, year = {2005}, month = {MAY}, pages = {684-688}, publisher = {VERLAG HELVETICA CHIMICA ACTA AG}, type = {Article}, address = {HOFWIESENSTRASSE 26, POSTFACH, CH-8042 ZURICH, SWITZERLAND}, abstract = {

A low-molecular-weight, sugar-like compound other than glucose, fructose, sucrose, or myo-inositol showing lipophilic nature was isolated from the EtOH extract of Acacia nilotica. The structure of the compound was determined by spectral methods. This alicyclic polyalcohol was found to be D-pinitol (- 3-O-methyl-D-chiro-inositol; 1). The configuration of the compound was confirmed by single-crystal X-ray analysis. The compound I is known from Soybean, Australian mangroves, Fagonia indica, A rachis hypogaea, etc., but we have isolated this compound for the first time from the aerial parts of A. nilotica. Very few references have been cited for compound I for its entomological activity, and there are no reports on mosquitoes. Therefore, the crude extracts of A. nilotica were tested for its biological activity against mosquito larvae. Acetone extract at 500-ppm concentration showed chronic toxicity against Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus IVth instar mosquito larvae. Such a biological activity has been observed for the first time for this plant. This study could be a stepping stone to a solution for destroying larval species as well as consumption of such a widely grown, problem weed, A. nilotica. This larvicidal agent, since it is derived from plant, is eco-friendly, cost effective, non-hazardous to nontarget organisms and would be safe unlike commercially available insecticides.

}, issn = {1612-1872}, doi = {10.1002/cbdv.200590044}, author = {Chaubal, Rohini and Pawar, P. V. and Hebbalkar, G. D. and Tungikar, V. B. and Puranik, Vedavati G. and Deshpande, V. H. and Deshpande, N. R.} } @article { ISI:000231426000052, title = {Layered inorganic-organic clay-like nanocomposites rearrange to form silsesquioxanes on acid treatment}, journal = {Journal Physical Chemistry B}, volume = {109}, number = {33}, year = {2005}, month = {AUG}, pages = {16034-16039}, publisher = {AMER CHEMICAL SOC}, type = {Article}, address = {1155 16TH ST, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20036 USA}, abstract = {

The formation of talc-like compounds by the condensation of organotrialkoxy silanes with magnesium hydroxide has been recently reported. These represent layered hybrid nanomaterials that have a layer thickness of around 1 nm, have organic moieties covalently linked to the layer surfaces, and are called {\textquoteleft}{\textquoteleft}organoclays.{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright} We show that such compounds are sensitive to acid treatment. When a phenylclay is treated with hydrochloric acid, magnesium leaches out, destroying the layered structure. The extent to which magnesium is leached out is a function of the time of the acid treatment and the concentration of the acid used. Magnesium leaches out rapidly when the concentration of acid used to treat the phenyl-clay is higher, and the extent of structural magnesium that is leached out is also higher for higher acid concentrations. Removal of the magnesium rearranges the structure of the phenyl-clay to form oligomeric phenylsilsesquioxanes. FTIR and NMR suggest that the silsesquioxanes formed by acid treatment of the phenyl-clay comprise a mixture of ladderlike and cagelike structures.

}, issn = {1520-6106}, doi = {10.1021/jp0526400}, author = {Kumaraswamy, Guruswamy and Deshmukh, Yogesh S. and Agrawal, Vikrant V. and Rajmohanan, P.} } @article { ISI:000232737900009, title = {Lignin-carbohydrate complexes from sugarcane bagasse: preparation, purification, and characterization}, journal = {Carbohydrate Polymers}, volume = {62}, number = {1}, year = {2005}, month = {OCT}, pages = {57-66}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCI LTD}, type = {Article}, address = {THE BOULEVARD, LANGFORD LANE, KIDLINGTON, OXFORD OX5 1GB, OXON, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

Lignin-carbohydrate complexes were isolated from sugarcane bagasse by a process, which yielded sulfur-free lignins. These could be made carbohydrate-free, if necessary, by treatment with xylanase enzyme. A study of the preparation, purification, and characterization of such lignin-carbohydrate complexes, comparison with commercial lignin samples (wood based as well as bagasse based) and some other lignin derivatives was made by using a variety of analytical tools such as FTIR, HPLC at three different UV-wavelengths, GPC, thermal analysis and elemental analysis. The use of such a diverse range of lignin-carbohydrate complex samples enabled us to predict the sensitivity of the various analytical techniques for characterization of complex polymers containing carbohydrate moieties. Evidence for lignin-carbohydrate complex was detectable by FTIR as well as HPLC studies. Thermal analysis studies showed the crucial effect of carbohydrate groups, the content of aliphatic chains, and the sulfur content of the lignins. Generalized structures of lignin-carbohydrate complexes obtained from various sources using different preparation methods and chemical modifications are presented. This will aid the applications development effort with advantageously using lignins containing low levels of carbohydrate moieties as reactive sites as well as biodegradability inducing sites. (C) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {biodegradability, hardwood lignins, lignin-carbohydrate complex, softwood lignins, Sugarcane bagasse, sulfur-free lignins, xylanase enzyme}, issn = {0144-8617}, doi = {10.1016/j.carbpol.2005.07.011}, author = {Singh, R. and Singh, S. and Trimukhe, K. D. and Pandare, K. V. and Bastawade, Kulbhushan B. and Gokhale, D. V. and Varma, Anjanikumar} } @article { ISI:000229454100009, title = {Lilliputian hardware platform for scientific applications}, journal = {International Journal of Software Engineering and Knowledge Engineering}, volume = {15}, number = {2}, year = {2005}, note = {1st International Embedded and Hybrid Systems Conference, Singapore, SINGAPORE, MAY 11-13, 2005}, month = {APR}, pages = {189-192}, publisher = {WORLD SCIENTIFIC PUBL CO PTE LTD}, type = {Article, Proceedings Paper}, address = {5 TOH TUCK LINK, SINGAPORE 596224, SINGAPORE}, abstract = {

Microcontroller plays an important role in gearing up scientific applications for measurements, data acquisition and controls. With the advent of technology in microcontrollers, a new era in the form of microconverter is available at the user{\textquoteright}s doorstep. Benefited by the excellent features of Analog Devices{\textquoteright} microconverter chip ADuC 842, an attempt has been made to develop a Lilliputian platform for scientific applications at National Chemical Laboratory (NCL), Pune. A real time system has been developed for measuring surface tension exerted by Langmuir films formed at air water interface. The films are compressed by smooth and precision barrier mechanism through DC motor in a controlled manner. (IC)-C-2 compatible EEPROM is provided on board for data storage and it can be communicated to a PC through RS232 link for further analysis. The other features provided are, In-circuit programming for firmware updating, keyboard functioning for special routine executions, (IC)-C-2 compatible RTC and battery backup. The software has been completely developed using assembly language programming. Intelligent Lilliputian platform designed using ADuC 842 chip and graphic LCD for real time plotting of surface pressure area isotherm of Langmuir films has been developed and tested successfully at NCL.

}, keywords = {Langmuir films, microconverter}, issn = {0218-1940}, doi = {10.1142/S0218194005002361}, author = {Iyer, Neelima and Khatavkar, Rupali and Joshi, Bhagyashree and Upadhye, V.} } @article { ISI:000231930500019, title = {Liquid-phase alkylation of phenol with long-chain olefins over WOx/ZrO2 solid acid catalysts}, journal = {Journal of Molecular Catalysis A-Chemical}, volume = {240}, number = {1-2}, year = {2005}, month = {OCT}, pages = {123-131}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV}, type = {Article}, address = {PO BOX 211, 1000 AE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS}, abstract = {

The liquid-phase alkylation of phenol with 1-dodecene was carried out over WOx/ZrO2 solid acid catalysts. The catalysts were prepared by wet impregnation method using zirconium oxyhydroxide and ammonium metatungstate. Catalysts with different WO3 loading (5-30 wt.\%) were prepared and calcined at 800 degrees C and catalyst with 15\% WO3 was calcined from 700-850 degrees C. All the catalysts were characterized by surface area, XRD, and FTIR. The catalyst with 15\% WO3 calcined at 800 degrees C (15 WZ-800) was found to be the most active in the reaction. The effect of temperature, molar ratio and catalyst weight on dodecene conversion and products selectivity was studied in detail. Under the optimized reaction conditions of 120 degrees C, phenol/1-dodecene molar ratio 2 and time 2 h, the catalyst 15 WZ-800 gave \> 99\% dodecene conversion with 90\% dodecylphenol selectivity. Comparison of the catalytic activity of 15 WZ-800 with sulfated zirconia calcined at 500 degrees C (SZ-500) and HP zeolite showed that activity of SZ-500 was lower than that of 15 WZ-800, while HP zeolite showed negligible activity. It is observed that the presence of water in the reaction mixture was detrimental to the catalytic activity of WOx/ZrO2. The catalyst 15 WZ-800 also found to be an efficient catalyst for alkylation of phenol with long-chain olefins like 1-octene and 1-decene. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {Alkylation, long-chain olefins, phenol, tungsten oxide, Zirconia}, issn = {1381-1169}, doi = {10.1016/j.molcata.2005.06.046}, author = {Sarish, S. and Devassy, Biju M. and Bohringer, Walter and Fletcher, Jack C. Q. and Halligudi, Shivaraj B.} } @article { ISI:000230701800011, title = {Low temperature complete combustion of dilute toluene and methyl ethyl ketone over Mn-doped ZrO2 (cubic) catalysts}, journal = {Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology}, volume = {80}, number = {8}, year = {2005}, month = {AUG}, pages = {934-938}, publisher = {JOHN WILEY \& SONS LTD}, type = {Article}, address = {THE ATRIUM, SOUTHERN GATE, CHICHESTER PO19 8SQ, W SUSSEX, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

Combustion of dilute toluene and methyl ethyl ketone over Mn-doped ZrO2 catalysts prepared using different precipitating agents, such as tetra-alkyl ammonium hydroxides and NH4OH, having Mn/Zr ratios from 0.05 to 0.67, and calcined at different temperatures has been thoroughly investigated. The Mn-doped ZrO2 catalyst shows high toluene or methyl ethyl ketone combustion activity, particularly when its ZrO2 is in cubic form, when its Mn/Zr ratio is close to 0.2, and when it is prepared using tetra-methyl ammonium hydroxide as a precipitating agent and calcined at 773 K. (c) 2005 Society of Chemical Industry.

}, keywords = {combustion of methyl ethyl ketone, combustion of toluene, Mn-doped ZrO2 catalyst}, issn = {0268-2575}, doi = {10.1002/jctb.1264}, author = {Choudhary, Vasant R. and Deshmukh, G. M. and Pataskar, S. G.} } @article { ISI:000232864800029, title = {Low temperature synthesis of MgTa2O6 powders}, journal = {Materials Letters}, volume = {59}, number = {29-30}, year = {2005}, month = {DEC}, pages = {3926-3928}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV}, address = {PO BOX 211, 1000 AE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS}, abstract = {

A combination of digestion and further low temperature calcination to crystallize the product is employed to prepare MgTa2O6 (MT) ceramics. Freshly prepared niobium hydroxide gel is mixed with magnesium hydroxide thoroughly and allowed to react at 100 degrees C under refluxing and stirring conditions for 6-12 h. The X-ray amorphous product so formed is heated at 550 degrees C to form crystalline MgTa2O6. This is the lowest temperature so far reported for the formation of MgTa2O6. For comparison, MT powders were also prepared by the traditional solid state method. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) investigations revealed that the average particle size is 40 nm for the low temperature calcined powders. (C) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {Ceramics, Electron microscopy, magnesium tantalate, Oxides, X-ray diffraction}, issn = {0167-577X}, doi = {10.1016/j.matlet.2005.07.035}, author = {Navale, SC and Samuel, V and Ravi, V} } @article { ISI:000228172600072, title = {Low-temperature complete combustion of a dilute mixture of methane and propane over transition-metal-doped ZrO2 catalysts: effect of the presence of propane on methane combustion}, journal = {Environmental Science and Technology}, volume = {39}, number = {7}, year = {2005}, month = {APR}, pages = {2364-2368}, publisher = {AMER CHEMICAL SOC}, address = {1155 16TH ST, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20036 USA}, abstract = {

Complete combustion of dilute methane alone or a dilute mixture of methane and propane over transition-metal (viz. Mn, Co, Cr, Fe, and Ni)-doped ZrO2 (cubic) catalysts at different temperatures (523-873 K) and a space velocity of 51 000 CM3 center dot g(-1)center dot h(-1) has been investigated for controlling methane and propane emissions from exhaust gases. The catalysts are compared for their catalytic ignition temperature and activity in the combustion of propane and methane in the presence of each other. The methane combustion activity of all the catalysts is strongly influenced by the presence of propane; it is decreased markedly. In the combustion of mixed methane and propane the Mn-doped ZrO2 and Cr-doped ZrO2 catalysts show the highest activity in the combustion of methane and propane, respectively; the Ni-doped ZrO2 shows the lowest activity in both cases. In the combustion of mixed methane and propane the propane combustion is enhanced but the methane combustion retarded when the Cr-doped ZrO2 and Mn-doped ZrO2 catalysts in a 1:1 ratio are used together in different ways (mixed or in layers).

}, issn = {0013-936X}, doi = {10.1021/es048748v}, author = {Choudhary, Vasant R. and Deshmukh, G. M. and Pataskar, S. G.} } @article { ISI:000230338900005, title = {Low-temperature synthesis of nanocrystalline powders of lithium ferrite by an autocombustion method using citric acid and glycine}, journal = {Materials Letters}, volume = {59}, number = {21}, year = {2005}, month = {SEP}, pages = {2630-2633}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV}, type = {Article}, address = {PO BOX 211, 1000 AE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS}, abstract = {

Nanocrystalline lithium ferrite is synthesized by an autocombustion method from the corresponding metal nitrates using citric acid as well as glycine as fuels. The ordered phase of lithium ferrite, in single phase form, with particle size of 32-36 nm and large coercivity, is obtained by this method at a low temperature of 200 degrees C. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {Combustion synthesis, LiFe5O8, lithium ferrite, low-temperature synthesis, Magnetic materials, Nanomaterials}, issn = {0167-577X}, doi = {10.1016/j.matlet.2005.04.005}, author = {Verma, S. and Karande, J. and Patidar, A. and Joy, Pattayil Alias} } @article { ISI:000239793100088, title = {La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 nanoparticles coated with fatty amine}, journal = {Applied Physics Letters}, volume = {89}, number = {2}, year = {2006}, month = {JUL}, pages = {Article No. 023107}, publisher = {AMER INST PHYSICS}, type = {Article}, address = {CIRCULATION \& FULFILLMENT DIV, 2 HUNTINGTON QUADRANGLE, STE 1 N O 1, MELVILLE, NY 11747-4501 USA}, abstract = {

We report on the synthesis of La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 (LSMO) nanoparticles having perovskite structure and particle size of the order of 30 rim. The process involves citrate-gel synthesis, size filtering, and; surface coating with a shell of octadecyl amine (ODA) using electrostatic interaction-assisted novel chemical route. Magnetic measurements show the Curie temperature of similar to 360 K establishing the desired stoichiometry and phase. Fourier transform infrared-studies bring out. that the amine group of ODA interacts with the LSMO surface. Refluidization yields uniform redispersion of the coated and dried powder. (c) 2006 American Institute of Physics.

}, issn = {0003-6951}, doi = {10.1063/1.2210080}, author = {Rajagopal, Rajashree and Mona, J. and Kale, Sangeeta N. and Bala, Tanushree and Pasricha, Rem and Poddar, P. and Sastry, M. and Bhagavatula L. V. Prasad and Kundaliya, Darshan C. and Ogale, S. B.} } @article { ISI:000237485300010, title = {Ligand-, copper-, and amine-free one-pot synthesis of 2-substituted indoles via Sonogashira coupling 5-endo-dig cyclization}, journal = {Tetrahedron}, volume = {62}, number = {21}, year = {2006}, month = {MAY}, pages = {5109-5115}, publisher = {PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD}, type = {Article}, address = {THE BOULEVARD, LANGFORD LANE, KIDLINGTON, OXFORD OX5 1GB, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

Results of the optimized conditions for the one-pot synthesis of 2-substituted indoles via palladium acetate catalyzed tandem Sonogashira coupling 5-endo-dig cyclization at room temperature under ultrasonic irradiation and standard stirred conditions are described. Electron-donating and electron-withdrawing groups present in both Coupling partners were well tolerated under these mild conditions. A copper-, ligand- and amine-free condition is an important feature of this protocol. Significant enhancement of reaction rates was observed for the reactions employing ultrasonic irradiation. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {5-endo-dig cyclization, Indole, synthesis, Ultrasound}, issn = {0040-4020}, doi = {10.1016/j.tet.2006.03.035}, author = {Palimkar, Sanjay S. and Kumar, P. Harish and Lahoti, Rajgopal J. and Srinivasan, Kumar V.} } @article { ISI:000239077500014, title = {Liquid phase alkylation of phenol with 1-octene over large pore zeolites}, journal = {Applied Catalysis A-General}, volume = {309}, number = {1}, year = {2006}, month = {JUL}, pages = {106-114}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV}, type = {Article}, address = {PO BOX 211, 1000 AE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS}, abstract = {

A comparative study is presented of the liquid phase alkylation of phenol with 1-octene over different zeolite catalysts: H-beta (BEA(15)), H-mordenite (MOR(11)) and H-USY (FAU(15)). A wide spectrum of monoalkylated products, identified as isomers of phenyl octyl ether (O-alkylate) and octyl phenol (C-alkylate), was formed in the reaction. The reaction was studied in detail over BEA(15), such studies included the influence of process variables such as temperature, reactant mole ratio, catalyst amount and alkali metal (K) poisoning on its performance in the alkylation reaction. A kinetic analysis of the reaction over BEA(15) was also carried out assuming a second order parallel reaction mechanism. The activity of the different catalysts for the reaction followed the order: BEA(15) \> FAU(15) \> MOR(11). The poisoning of BEA(15) with potassium resulted in a decrease in the catalyst activity concomitant with a decrease in the number of strong acid centres in the catalyst. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {1-octene, alkyl phenols, Alkylation, phenol, zeolites}, issn = {0926-860X}, doi = {10.1016/j.apcata.2006.04.041}, author = {Wagholikar, Smita and Mayadevi, S. and Sivasanker, S.} } @article {Rai, title = {Liquid phase oxidation of alkanes using Cu/Co-perchlorophthalocyanine immobilized MCM-41 under mild reaction conditions}, journal = {Applied Catalysis A-General}, volume = {297}, number = {2}, year = {2006}, month = {JAN}, pages = {220-230}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCI LTD}, type = {Article}, address = {THE BOULEVARD, LANGFORD LANE, KIDLINGTON, OXFORD OX5 1GB, OXON, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

{Amino-functionalized MCM-41 (NH2-MCM-41) was used to immobilize CU/CO-Cl16PC complex, i.e. Cu/Co-AM(PS) for liquid phase oxidation of alkanes under mild reaction conditions. Higher rates of reaction and better catalytic activity values were obtained for Cu/Co-AM(PS) as compared to Cu/Co-Cl16PC grafted on (i) amino-functionalized SiO2 [

}, keywords = {Ceramics, Electron microscopy, electronic materials, X-ray diffraction}, issn = {0272-8842}, doi = {10.1016/j.apcata.2005.09.012}, author = {Karandikar, Prashant R. and Chandwadkar, Asha J. and Agashe, M. and Ramgir, N. S. and Sivasanker, S.} } @article { ISI:000239869200024, title = {Low temperature hydrogenation of tetralin over supported rhodium catalysts in supercritical carbon dioxide solvent}, journal = {Applied Catalysis A-General}, volume = {310}, year = {2006}, month = {AUG}, pages = {194-198}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV}, type = {Article}, address = {PO BOX 211, 1000 AE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS}, abstract = {

Hydrogenation of tetralin was studied over supported rhodium catalysts in supercritical carbon dioxide solvent at 333 K. The results were compared with those in an organic solvent and under neat conditions. Higher cis-decalin yield was obtained in supercritical carbon dioxide solvent than under non-supercritical conditions. It was observed that higher hydrogen concentration at the surface in supercritical carbon dioxide solvent led to fast direct hydrogenation of tetralin to cis-decalin; the flipping of the intermediate, octalin, to give trans-decalin could be prevented. (C) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {cis-decalin, Hydrogen storage, Hydrogenation, Supercritical carbon dioxide, supported rhodium catalysts, tetralin}, issn = {0926-860X}, doi = {10.1016/j.apcata.2006.05.040}, author = {Hiyoshi, Norihito and Mine, Eiichi and Rode, Chandrashekhar V. and Sato, Osamu and Shirai, Masayuki} } @article { ISI:000235439900024, title = {Low temperature route to prepare LaMnO3}, journal = {Materials Letters}, volume = {60}, number = {9-10}, year = {2006}, month = {MAY}, pages = {1213-1214}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV}, type = {Article}, address = {PO BOX 211, 1000 AE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS}, abstract = {

A combination of digestion and further low temperature calcination to crystallize the product is employed to prepare LaMnO3(LM) ceramics. Freshly co-precipitated lanthanum and manganese hydroxides gel is allowed to react at 100 degrees C under refluxing and stirring conditions for 6-12 h. The X-ray amorphous product so formed is heated at 300 degrees C to form crystalline LM powders. This is the lowest temperature so far reported for the formation of LaMnO3. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) investigations revealed that the average particle size is 50 nm for the calcined powders. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {Chemical synthesis, LaMnO3, Precipitation, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction}, issn = {0167-577X}, doi = {10.1016/j.matlet.2005.11.002}, author = {Daundkar, A. and Kale, Sangeeta N. and Gokhale, Suresh P. and Ravi, V} } @article { ISI:000243268600010, title = {Lactic acid production from waste sugarcane bagasse derived cellulose}, journal = {Green Chemistry}, volume = {9}, number = {1}, year = {2007}, month = {JAN}, pages = {58-62}, publisher = {ROYAL SOC CHEMISTRY}, address = {THOMAS GRAHAM HOUSE, SCIENCE PARK, MILTON RD, CAMBRIDGE CB4 0WF, CAMBS, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

Production of L(+) lactic acid from sugarcane bagasse cellulose, one of the abundant biomass materials available in India, was studied. The bagasse was chemically treated to obtain a purified bagasse cellulose sample, which is much more amenable to cellulase enzyme attack than bagasse itself. This sample, at high concentration (10\%), was hydrolyzed by cellulase enzyme preparations (10 FPU g(-1) cellulose) derived from mutants generated in our own laboratory. We obtained maximum hydrolysis (72\%), yielding glucose and cellobiose as the main end products. Lactic acid was produced from this bagasse cellulose sample by simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) in a media containing a cellulase enzyme preparation derived from Penicillium janthinellum mutant EU1 and cellobiose utilizing Lactobacillus delbrueckii mutant Uc-3. A maximum lactic acid concentration of 67 g l(-1) was produced from a concentration of 80 g l(-1) of bagasse cellulose, the highest productivity and yield being 0.93 g l(-1) h(-1) and 0.83 g g(-1), respectively. The mutant Uc-3 was found to utilize high concentrations of cellobiose (50 g l(-1)) and convert it into lactic acid in a homo-fermentative way. Considering that bagasse is a waste material available in abundance, we propose to valorize this biomass to produce cellulose and then sugars, which can be fermented to products such as ethanol and lactic acid.

}, issn = {1463-9262}, doi = {10.1039/b605839f}, author = {Adsul, Mukund G. and Varma, Anjanikumar and Gokhale, Digambar V.} } @article {42751, title = {Large bite bisphosphite, 2,6-C5H3N{CH2OP(-OC10H6)}, journal = {Journal of Organometallic Chemistry}, volume = {692}, year = {2007}, month = {MAR}, pages = {1683{\textendash}1689}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Large bite bisphosphite ligand, 2,6-C5H3N{CH2OP({\textendash}OC10H6)(μ-S)(C10H6O{\textendash})}2\ (2), is obtained by reacting chlorophosphite, {-OC10H6(μ-S)C10H6O-}PCl (1) with 2,6-pyridinedimethanol in presence of triethylamine.Treatment of\ 2\ with aqueous solution of H2O2\ or elemental sulfur resulted in the formation of bis(oxide) or bis(sulfide) derivatives, 2,6-C5H3N{CH2OP(E)({\textendash}OC10H6)(μ-S)(C10H6O{\textendash})}2\ (3, E\ =\ O;\ 4, E\ =\ S) in quantitative yield.The 10-membered cationic chelate complex, [RuCl(η6-C10H142-2,6-C5H3N{CH2OP({\textendash}OC10H6)(μ-S)(C10H6O{\textendash})}2PP]Cl (5) is produced in the reaction between [Ru(p-cymene)(μ-Cl)(Cl)]2\ and bisphosphite\ 2, whereas the neutral chelate complex,\ cis-[Rh(CO)Cl{2,6-C5H3N{CH2OP({\textendash}OC10H6(μ-S)C10H6O{\textendash})}2}-κPP] (6) is isolated in the reaction of\ 2\ with 0.5 equiv.of [Rh(CO)2Cl]2.Compound\ 2\ on treatment with M(COD)Cl2\ (M\ =\ Pd, Pt) produce the chelate complexes, [MCl22-2,6-C5H3N{CH2OP({\textendash}OC10H6)(μ-S)(C10H6O{\textendash})}2}-κPP] (7, M\ =\ Pd;10, M\ =\ Pt).Similarly the reaction of bisphosphite\ 2\ with Pd(COD)MeCl affords\ cis-[PdMe(Cl)η2-2,6-C5H3N{CH2OP({\textendash}OC10H6)(μ-S)(C10H6O{\textendash})}2PP] (8).Treatment of\ 2\ with [Pd(η3- C3H5)Cl]2\ in the presence of AgClO4\ furnish the cationic complex, [Pd(η3-C3H52-2,6-C5H3N{CH2OP({\textendash}OC10H6)(μ-S)(C10H6O{\textendash})}2PP]ClO4\ (9). The binuclear complex, [Au2Cl2{2,6-C5H3N{CH2OP({\textendash}OC10H6)(μ-S)(C10H6O{\textendash})}2}-κPP] (11) is obtained in the reaction of compound\ 2\ with two equiv. of AuCl(SMe2), where the ligand exhibits bridged bidentate mode of coordination. All the complexes are characterized by the\ 1H NMR,\ 31P NMR, elemental analysis and mass spectroscopy data. The cationic ruthenium complex\ 5\ is proved to be an active catalyst for the hydrogenation of styrene and α-methyl styrene.

}, doi = {10.1016/j.jorganchem.2006.12.037}, author = {Punji, Benudhar and Balakrishna, Maravanji S.} } @article { ISI:000246727900030, title = {Low density porous carrier based conceptual drug delivery system}, journal = {Microporous and Mesoporous Materials}, volume = {102}, number = {1-3}, year = {2007}, month = {MAY}, pages = {290-298}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV}, type = {Article}, address = {PO BOX 211, 1000 AE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS}, abstract = {

Chronotherapy, a new approach for treating pathological conditions, is based on circadian rhythm. Present work conceptualizes a specific technology, based on combining floating and pulsatile principles to develop drug delivery system, intended for chronotherapy in arthritis. This approach was achieved by using low density microporous polypropylene, Accurel MP 1000 (R), as a multiparticulate carrier along with drug of choice ibuprofen. Carrier amount and solvent volume was kept invariant in designing this simple system by adsorbing drug via melting or solvent evaporation using different carrier: drug ratios. In solvent evaporation, methanol (M) and dichloromethane (DCM) were used. Drug loaded multiparticulate system was subjected to various characterization and evaluation parameters showing influence of adsorption process. Drug release study was performed in acidic environment using pH 1.2 HCl IP medium for 6 h to mimic gastric condition for evaluating gastroretention followed by basic environment using appropriate medium as phosphate buffer pH 7.2 IP for 3 h resembling transit. The release pattern showed influence of drug adsorption methods characterized by ever changing pore geometry with total release ranges in acidic medium as 10.7-27.6\% and final release as 55.6-88.6\%. Present drug delivery system devoid of any additives/excipients influencing drug release show distinct behaviour from other approaches/technologies in chronotherapy by (a) observing desired low drug release (11\%) in acidic medium (b) overcoming the limitations of process variables caused by multiple formulation steps (c) reducing time consumption due to single step process (d) can be extended to controlled release also. (C) 2007 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {chronotherapy, floating pulsatile drug delivery, low density porous carrier, melt adsorption, solvent polarity}, issn = {1387-1811}, doi = {10.1016/j.micromeso.2007.01.001}, author = {Sher, Praveen and Ingavle, Ganesh C. and Ponrathnam, Surendra and Pawar, Atmaram P.} } @article { ISI:000244634100009, title = {Low density porous carrier - drug adsorption and release study by response surface methodology using different solvents}, journal = {International Journal of Pharmaceutics}, volume = {331}, number = {1}, year = {2007}, month = {FEB}, pages = {72-83}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV}, type = {Article}, address = {PO BOX 211, 1000 AE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS}, abstract = {

Low density porous carriers are widely used in the pharmaceutical applications. Response surface methodology, using 3 2 factorial design was used to study drug adsorption on and its release patterns from microporous polypropylene (Accurel MP 1000((R))) in the absence of additives. Ibuprofen, as model drug, was adsorbed on the polymer by solvent evaporation using two organic solvents methanol (M) and dichloromethane (DCM). The amount of carrier (100 mg) and its particle size range (250-350 mu m) were kept invariant while solvent volume (X-1) and drug amount (X-2) were taken as variables. Drug adsorption pattern depended on the type and amount of solvent used. DSC, XRD, FTIR and TGA, predict crystalline nature and physical form of adsorption. SEM showed the penetration and adsorption of the drug in and on the microporous polymer. Accurel NIP 1000((R)) had a pore volume of 1.992 g/cm(3) and surface area of 55.9855 m(2)/g as detected by mercury porosimetery. On drug adsorption, pore volume ranged from 0.413 to 1.198 g/cm(3) for methanol and 0.280-0.759 g/cm(3) for DCM. Similarly surface area was in the range 38.445-25.497 m(2)/g for methanol and 18.710-32.528 m(2)/g for DCM. The drug release was investigated in phosphate buffer pH 7.2. All batches showed excellent in vitro floating property. Drug release was partial with recovery to complete dependent on type and volume of solvent. R 2 values relating to bulk density, pore volume, surface area and drug release at 60, 120 and 180 min were estimated. Effect of solvent properties shows a positive influence on drug adsorption and release. Release profiles of some batches could be considered as gastroretentive drug delivery system. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {3(2) factorial design, carrier, microporous polymer, Response surface methodology, solvent evaporation}, issn = {0378-5173}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijpharm.2006.09.013}, author = {Sher, Praveen and Ingavle, Ganesh C. and Ponrathnam, Surendra and Pawar, Atmaram P.} } @article { ISI:000245760900020, title = {Low temperature route to prepare LaFeO3 and LaCoO3}, journal = {Materials Letters}, volume = {61}, number = {10}, year = {2007}, month = {APR}, pages = {2030-2032}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV}, type = {Article}, address = {PO BOX 211, 1000 AE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS}, abstract = {

A combination of digestion and further low temperature calcination to crystallize the product was employed to prepare LaFeO3 (LF) and LaCoO3 (LC) powders. Freshly co-precipitated lanthanum and ferric (or cobalt) hydroxide gels by sodium hydroxide were allowed to react at 100 degrees C under refluxing and stirring conditions for 4-6 h. These oven dried powders were heated at 450 degrees C to from crystalline LF (or LC) powders. The phase contents and lattice parameters were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Transmission electron microscope (TEM) investigations were carried out to examine the morphology and average particle size of these powders. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {Chemical synthesis, LaFeO3, Precipitation, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction}, issn = {0167-577X}, doi = {10.1016/j.matlet.2006.08.009}, author = {Jadhav, A. D. and Gaikwad, A. B. and Samuel, V. and Ravi, V.} } @article { ISI:000250178900006, title = {Low temperature synthesis and NOx sensing properties of nanostructured Al-doped ZnO}, journal = {Sensors and Actuators B-Chemical}, volume = {126}, number = {2}, year = {2007}, month = {OCT}, pages = {382-386}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCIENCE SA}, type = {Article}, address = {PO BOX 564, 1001 LAUSANNE, SWITZERLAND}, abstract = {

Although ZnO is studied intensively as a sensing material, there are limited reports available on aluminum-doped ZnO (AZO) as a NO, sensor. This paper reports selective NO, sensing characteristics of M-doped ZnO synthesized in the form of porous pellets sintered at 350 degrees C. The salient feature of our experimental results is that our sensor can detect small concentrations of NO, at lower operating temperature. It is also observed that as compared to gases such as SOx HCl, LPG, H2S, H-2, ammonia, alcohol and acetone it selectively detects NOx due to Al-doping. The amount of Al in ZnO during synthesis is varied between 1 and 10 wt\%. Our sensor senses NO, concentration as low as 20ppm at 100 degrees C with a \%response of 11 and a \%response of 740 at 300 degrees C for 1 wt\% Al. Of all the compositions with Al-doping, I wt\% is found to give best results. Sensing experiments carried out at 350 C, however. do not show any significant improvement in the gas sensing properties. The phase contents and lattice parameters were determined by XRD and the average particle size was obtained using Scherrer formula. A probable mechanism for sensing NO, involving oxygen ion adsorption and desorption on the surface of sensor has been suggested. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {aluminum doping, nanomaterial, NOx, Sensor, ZnO}, issn = {0925-4005}, doi = {10.1016/j.snb.2007.03.019}, author = {Navale, S. C. and Ravi, V. and Mulla, Imtiaz S. and Gosavi, S. W. and Kulkarni, S. K.} } @article { ISI:000252511300009, title = {Low temperature synthesis of magnetite and maghemite nanoparticles}, journal = {Journal of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology}, volume = {7}, number = {12}, year = {2007}, month = {DEC}, pages = {4294-4302}, publisher = {AMER SCIENTIFIC PUBLISHERS}, type = {Article}, address = {26650 THE OLD RD, STE 208, VALENCIA, CA 91381-0751 USA}, abstract = {

We report on the synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles below 100 degrees C by a simple chemical protocol. The uniqueness of the method lies in the use of Ferrous ammoniurn sulphate (in conjugation with FeCl3) which helps maintain the stability of Fe-2+ state in the reaction sequence thereby controlling the phase formation. Hexamine was added as the stabilizer. The nanoparticles synthesized at three different temperatures viz, 5 degrees, 27 degrees, and 95 degrees C are characterized by several techniques. Generally, when a mixture of Fe3+ and Fe2+ is added to sodium hydroxide, alpha-Fe2O3 (the anti-ferromagnetic phase) is formed after the dehydration process of the hydroxide. In our case however, the phases formed at all the three temperatures were found to be ferro (ferri) magnetic, implying modification of the formation chemistry due to the specifics of our method. The nanoparticles synthesized at the lowest temperature exhibit magnetite phase, while increase in growth temperature to 95 degrees C leads to the maghemite phase.

}, keywords = {low temperature synthesis, maghemite, magnetite, Nanoparticles}, issn = {1533-4880}, doi = {10.1166/jnn.2007.873}, author = {Bhagwat, Shrikant and Singh, Hema and Athawale, Anjali and Hannoyer, Beatrice and Jouen, Samuel and Lefez, Benoit and Kundaliya, Darshan and Pasricha, Renu and Kulkarni, Shailaja and Ogale, Satishchandra B.} } @article { ISI:000252474200009, title = {Low voltage varistor ceramics based on SnO2}, journal = {Bulletin of Materials Science}, volume = {30}, number = {6}, year = {2007}, month = {DEC}, pages = {583-586}, publisher = {SPRINGER}, type = {Article}, address = {233 SPRING STREET, NEW YORK, NY 10013 USA}, abstract = {

The nonlinear current (I)-voltage (V) characteristics of tin dioxide doped with either Nb2O5 and CoO or Sb2O3 and CoO show promising values of nonlinear coefficient (alpha) values (similar to 11) with low breakdown voltages (E-B, similar to 40 V mm(-1)). The pentavalent antimony or niobium acts as donor and increases the electronic conductivity. The crucial parameter for obtaining low breakdown voltage is the grain size, which depends upon sintering duration and temperature of these oxide ceramics.

}, keywords = {Chemical synthesis, electronic materials, Microstructure, tin oxide, X-ray diffraction}, issn = {0250-4707}, doi = {10.1007/s12034-007-0092-8}, author = {Dhage, S. R. and Ravi, V. and Yang, O. B.} } @article {42614, title = {Lubrication effects on the flow of wet granular materials}, journal = {Physical Review E}, volume = {76}, year = {2007}, month = {APR}, pages = {Article No. 031302}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

We investigate the dynamics of a partially saturated grain-liquid mixture with a rotating drum apparatus. The drum is partially filled with the mixture and then rotated about its horizontal axis. We focus on the continuous avalanching regime and measure the impact of the volume fraction and viscosity of the liquid on the dynamic surface angle. The inclination angle of the surface is observed to increase sharply to a peak and then decrease as a function of liquid volume fraction. The height of the peak is observed to increase with rotation rate. For higher liquid volume fractions, the inclination angle of the surface can decrease with viscosity before increasing. The viscosity where the minimum occurs decreases with the rotation rate of the drum. Limited measurements of the flow depth were made, and these were observed to show only fractional changes with volume fraction and rotation speeds. We show that the qualitative features of our observations can be understood by analyzing the effect of lubrication forces on the time scale over which particles come in contact.

}, doi = {10.1103/PhysRevE.76.031302}, author = {Xu, Qing and Orpe, Ashish V. and Kudrolli, Arshad} } @article { ISI:000254820000016, title = {La0.67Ce0.03Sr0.3MnO3-coupled microwave assisted ultra-fast synthesis of nanocrystalline cobalt oxide and Bismuth oxide}, journal = {Materials Letters}, volume = {62}, number = {10-11}, year = {2008}, month = {APR}, pages = {1511-1513}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV}, address = {PO BOX 211, 1000 AE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS}, abstract = {

Bismuth hydroxide and Cobalt hydroxide gels were freshly prepared by adding aqueous sodium hydroxide to their corresponding nitrates under basic conditions. Then they were oven dried at 373 K and found to be amorphous in X-ray diffraction (XRD) study. They crystallized into their respective oxides by microwave irradiation (2.45 GHz) in merely 2 min using La0.67Ce0.03Sr0.3MnO3 (LCSMO) as couplant in a microwave domestic oven (similar to 100 W). This is the lowest temperature treatment and synthesis time so far reported in the literature for the formation of these systems. Formation of nanocrystallites of Bi2O3 (10 nm) and Co3O4 (15 nm) has been confirmed by XRD. Normally these hydroxides produce oxides only on heating at temperature \>673 K or digesting them at 373 K for 4 - 6 hours as reported by us earlier. Microwave assisted heating proves to be a novel technology whose applications can be carefully harnessed due to its unique effects compared to the conventional heating, such as rapid volumetric heating, shortened reaction time and energy saving. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {Citrate gel method, Manganites, Microwave, Oxides}, issn = {0167-577X}, doi = {10.1016/j.matlet.2007.09.013}, author = {Rajagopal, Rajashree and Mona, J. and Joshi, Rakesh S. and Kale, Sangeeta N. and Pradhan, Sivararn and Gaikwad, A. B. and Ravi, V.} } @article { ISI:000260803700002, title = {Lacunary Keggin type polyoxotungstates in conjunction with a phase transfer catalyst: an effective catalyst system for epoxidation of alkenes with aqueous H2O2}, journal = {Journal of Molecular Catalysis A-Chemical}, volume = {294}, number = {1-2}, year = {2008}, month = {OCT}, pages = {8-13}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV}, address = {PO BOX 211, 1000 AE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS}, abstract = {

Na-9[SbW9O33] in conjunction with a phase transfer catalyst (methyl tricapryl ammonium chloride) is a highly efficient catalytic system for the selective epoxidation of alkenes with aqueous H2O2 as the oxidant. Importantly, the reactions can be carried out in the absence of any organic solvents. The alkene epoxidation reactions with both, a transition metal ion substituted polyoxotungstate as well as a transition metal ion free polyoxotungstate precursor indicates that the tungstate group is the active center for the oxidation reaction. It was also observed that the transition metal ion does not play any significant role in the reaction. IR studies support the formation of tungsten-peroxo species and also show that the catalyst is stable in the presence of phase transfer catalyst when aqueous H2O2 is used as an oxidant. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {alkenes, Aqueous H2O2, epoxidation, Na-9[SbW9O33], Phase transfer catalyst, polyoxometalates}, issn = {1381-1169}, doi = {10.1016/j.molcata.2008.07.003}, author = {Ingle, Rohit H. and Raj, N. K. Kala} } @article { ISI:000254425200040, title = {Linear assembly of hexadecanethiol coated gold nanoparticles}, journal = {Chemical Physics Letters}, volume = {454}, number = {4-6}, year = {2008}, month = {MAR}, pages = {345-349}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV}, address = {PO BOX 211, 1000 AE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS}, abstract = {

An interesting formation of linear assembly of hexadecanethiol coated gold nanoparticles is demonstrated. The nanoparticles used were synthesized in an organic medium and then were subjected to digestive ripening to finally yield monodisperse nanoparticles. A simple drop casting on TEM grid lead to the results observed. Based on the thermo gravimetric analysis, it is hypothesized that inclusion of the particles in Au(I)-thiolate template is mainly responsible for the formation of linear assembly. (c) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

}, issn = {0009-2614}, doi = {10.1016/j.cplett.2008.02.053}, author = {Sidhaye, Deepti S. and Bhagavatula L. V. Prasad} } @article { ISI:000255130000001, title = {Lipase enzyme immobilization on synthetic beaded macroporous copolymers for kinetic resolution of chiral drugs intermediates}, journal = {Process Biochemistry}, volume = {43}, number = {4}, year = {2008}, month = {APR}, pages = {321-330}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCI LTD}, address = {THE BOULEVARD, LANGFORD LANE, KIDLINGTON, OXFORD OX5 1GB, OXON, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

Lipase isolated from Arthrobacter sp. (bacterial strain, MTCC No. 5125) at RRL Jammu, being used for various process development. Arthrobacter sp. lipase (ABL) now has been immobilized on synthetic polymers and reused many a times. In this investigation number of various synthetic macroporous alkylated glycidyl epoxy copolymers with varying hydrophobicity, pore volume and surface area were prepared and used for this study. Among all the polymers prepared and used only two epoxy polymers GMA-EGDM 75-20(I) and GMA-EGDM 75-30(I) with particle size in the range of 150-450 nm, epoxy groups 80 and 70\%, tertiary amino groups 20 and 30\% was found suitable for immobilization of lipase (ABL). Dibutyl amine (DBA) incorporation created an internal pore radii 20-50 nm and hydrophobic microenvironment in both the polymers for binding the enzyme, which led to improvement in stability and enatioselectivity in racemic resolution process especially by binding to one of the isomers. The optimal ABL binding capacity of polymer GMA-EGDM 75-20(I) was 60 units, 34 mg protein and GMA-EGDM 75-30(l) was 36 units, 21 mg protein/g polymer. The immobilized lipase matrices displayed enhanced pH, thermal, organic solvent and long-term storage stability. Both the immobilized enzyme matrices were tested firstly for the hydrolysis of triglycerides using tributyrin as substrate. After testing, both the matrices were reused for racemic resolution of ethyl-3-hydroxy-3-phenyl propanoate (fluoxetine intermediate, an antidepressant drug) and racemic chiral auxiliary, acetyl-1-phenyl ethanol (intermediate of many chiral drugs) for 15 cycles. These immobilized lipase matrices have shown very high stability on recycling, high-enantioselectivity, high conversion and faster recovery of product compare to free enzyme, therefore these matrices may find use in kinetic resolution process developments. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {1-phenyl ethanol and enantioselectivity, chiral resolution, enantiomeric excess (ee), ethyl-3-hydroxy-3-phenyl propanoate, Immobilization, Lipase}, issn = {1359-5113}, doi = {10.1016/j.procbio.2007.11.019}, author = {Bhushan, Indu and Parshad, Rajinder and Qazi, Gulam Nabi and Ingavle, Ganesh C. and Rajan, C. R. and Ponrathnam, Surendera and Gupta, Vijay Kumar} } @article { ISI:000254798300018, title = {Lipases catalyzed enantioselective hydrolysis of (R,S)-methyl 1,4-benzodioxan-2-carboxylate intermediate for (S)-doxazosin mesylate}, journal = {World Journal of Microbiology \& Biotechnology}, volume = {24}, number = {4}, year = {2008}, month = {APR}, pages = {577-579}, publisher = {SPRINGER}, address = {233 SPRING STREET, NEW YORK, NY 10013 USA}, abstract = {

(S)-1,4-benzodioxan-2-carboxylic acid-1 is used as starting compound for the production of the more effective (S) enantiomer of the drug doxazosin mesylate. The catalytic ability of some commercial lipases for preparations of (S) enantiomer of 1 from (+/-) methyl 1,4-benzodioxin-2-carboxylate-2 is reported. Lipases from bacterial sources were more successful in resolving the ester than those from the yeast lipases. About 85\% enantiomerically pure ester was achieved by lipase from alcaligenes sp.

}, keywords = {1, 4-benzodioxan-2-carboxylate, 4-benzodioxan-2-carboxylic acid, doxazosin, Enantioselectivity, Lipases}, issn = {0959-3993}, doi = {10.1007/s11274-007-9504-6}, author = {Varma, Rita and Kasture, Sangita M. and Nene, Sanjay and Kalkote, Uttam R.} } @article { ISI:000255706500009, title = {Liquid-phase synthesized mesoporous electrochemical supercapacitors of nickel hydroxide}, journal = {Electrochimica Acta}, volume = {53}, number = {15}, year = {2008}, month = {JUN}, pages = {5016-5021}, publisher = {PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD}, address = {THE BOULEVARD, LANGFORD LANE, KIDLINGTON, OXFORD OX5 1GB, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

Electrochemical supercapacitive (ES) properties of liquid-phase synthesized mesoporous (pore size distribution centered similar to 12 nm) and of 120 m(2)/g surface area nickel hydroxide film electrodes onto tin-doped indium oxide substrate are discussed. The amounts of inner and outer charges are calculated to investigate the contribution of mesoporous structure on charge storage where relatively higher contribution of inner charge infers good ion diffusion into matrix of nickel hydroxide. Effect of different electrolytes, electrolyte concentrations, deposit mass and scan rates on the current-voltage profile in terms of the shape and enclosed area is investigated. Specific capacitance of similar to 85 F/g at a constant current density of 0.03 A/g is obtained from the discharge curve. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {electrochemical supercapacitors, mesoporous structure, nickel hydroxide}, issn = {0013-4686}, doi = {10.1016/j.electacta.2008.01.100}, author = {Chang, Jinho and Park, Mira and Ham, Dukho and Ogale, S. B. and Mane, Rajaram S. and Han, Sung-Hwan} } @article { ISI:000254543000039, title = {Local electronic structure and magnetic properties of LaMn(0.5)Co(0.5)O(3) studied by x-ray absorption and magnetic circular dichroism spectroscopy}, journal = {Physical Review B}, volume = {77}, number = {12}, year = {2008}, month = {MAR}, pages = {125124}, publisher = {AMER PHYSICAL SOC}, address = {ONE PHYSICS ELLIPSE, COLLEGE PK, MD 20740-3844 USA}, abstract = {

We have studied the local electronic structure of LaMn(0.5)Co(0.5)O(3) using soft-x-ray absorption spectroscopy at the Co-L(3,2) and Mn-L(3,2) edges. We found a high-spin Co(2+)-Mn(4+) valence state for samples with the optimal Curie temperature. We discovered that samples with lower Curie temperatures contain low-spin nonmagnetic Co(3+) ions. Using soft-x-ray magnetic circular dichroism, we established that the Co(2+) and Mn(4+) ions are ferromagnetically aligned. We also revealed that the Co(2+) ions have a large orbital moment: morb/mspin approximate to 0.47. Together with model calculations, this suggests the presence of a large magnetocrystalline anisotropy in the material and predicts a nontrivial temperature dependence for the magnetic susceptibility.

}, issn = {1098-0121}, doi = {10.1103/PhysRevB.77.125124}, author = {Burnus, T. and Hu, Z. and Hsieh, H. H. and Joly, V. L. Joseph and Joy, Pattayil Alias and Haverkort, M. W. and Wu, Hua and Tanaka, A. and Lin, H. -J. and Chen, C. T. and Tjeng, L. H.} } @article { ISI:000257367100016, title = {Low temperature synthesis and characterization of BiNbO4 powders}, journal = {Materials Characterization}, volume = {59}, number = {8}, year = {2008}, month = {AUG}, pages = {1083-1087}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCIENCE INC}, address = {360 PARK AVE SOUTH, NEW YORK, NY 10010-1710 USA}, abstract = {

BiNbO4 powders, a potential microwave dielectric ceramic were prepared by both coprecipitation and solid state techniques. In the former method, an aqueous ammonium hydroxide was used to precipitate Bi3+ and Ta5+ cations as hydroxides simultaneously under basic conditions. It is observed that the co-precipitation produces BiNbO4 phase on heating at 600 degrees C, whereas complete phase formation occurs only at 800 degrees C in the case of solid state method. The phase contents and lattice parameters were studied by powder X-ray diffraction. The sequence of the reaction and phase evolution of BiNbO4 were also studied by the X-ray diffraction. The samples were characterized by the differential-thermal/thermo-gravimetric analyses and scanning electron microscopy techniques. (C) 2007 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {BiNbO4, Ceramics, Chemical synthesis, Electron microscopy, Oxides, X-ray diffraction}, issn = {1044-5803}, doi = {10.1016/j.matchar.2007.08.026}, author = {Radha, R. and Muthurajan, H. and Rao, N. Koteswara and Pradhan, Sivaram and Gupta, U. N. and Jha, Ratnesh Kumar and Mirji, S. A. and Ravi, V.} } @article { ISI:000261361900032, title = {Low temperature synthesis of nanocrystalline lithium ferrite by a modified citrate gel precursor method}, journal = {Materials Research Bulletin}, volume = {43}, number = {12}, year = {2008}, month = {DEC}, pages = {3447-3456}, publisher = {PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD}, address = {THE BOULEVARD, LANGFORD LANE, KIDLINGTON, OXFORD OX5 1GB, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

Single phase nanocrystalline lithium ferrite is synthesized by a modified citrate gel precursor technique. Ferrite nanoparticles of average size of 8 nm, obtained after calcination of the citrate gel Made by the usual method at 450 degrees C, show superparamagnetic behavior. However, small amounts of alpha-Fe(2)O(3) is formed as an impurity phase clue to the initial formation of some gamma-Fe(2)O(3) phase. Oil the other hand, when the pH of the mixed Solution is increased to 7 after the addition of ammonia Solution, a lower calcination temperature of 200 degrees C is sufficient for the formation of single phase lithium ferrite nanoparticles of size 30 nm. No impurity phases are detected when the nanocrystalline powders arc calcined at higher temperatures. The magnetic properties of the ferrite nanoparticles of different sizes obtained by calcining the powders at different temperatures are studied. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {Chemical synthesis, Magnetic materials, magnetic properties, Nanostructures, Oxides}, issn = {0025-5408}, doi = {10.1016/j.materresbull.2008.01.023}, author = {Verma, Seema and Joy, Pattayil Alias} } @article { ISI:000253106100026, title = {Low temperature synthesis of SrNb2O6 and SrTa2O6 using hydroxide precursor}, journal = {Materials Letters}, volume = {62}, number = {6-7}, year = {2008}, month = {MAR}, pages = {892-894}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV}, address = {PO BOX 211, 1000 AE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS}, abstract = {

SrNb2O6 (SN) or SrTA(2)O(6) (ST) compounds were prepared at low temperatures for the first time from hydroxide precursors. A simple procedure of mixing commercially purchased strontium hydroxide and niobium (or tantalum) hydroxide thoroughly together and heating at a low temperature (\<400 degrees C) produced SrNb2O6 (SN) or SrTa2O6 (ST) powders. This is the lowest temperature so far reported for the formation of these phases. These materials are potential candidates for ferroelectric and electro-optic applications. The reaction sequence and evolution of the phase formation were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. The average particle size and morphology of these powders were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {Chemical synthesis, Electron microscopy, electronic materials, X-ray diffraction}, issn = {0167-577X}, doi = {10.1016/j.matlet.2007.07.006}, author = {Muthurajan, H. and Kumar, H. H. and Koteswara Rao, N. and Pradhan, Sivaram and Jha, Ratnesh Kumar and Ravi, V.} } @article { ISI:000258195800007, title = {Low temperature synthesis of ZnSe nanoparticles}, journal = {Materials Letters}, volume = {62}, number = {23}, year = {2008}, month = {AUG}, pages = {3803-3805}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV}, address = {PO BOX 211, 1000 AE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS}, abstract = {

Synthesis of thioglycerol capped zinc selenide nanoparticles with a relatively narrow size distribution by a simple and inexpensive low temperature (similar to 80 degrees C) wet chemical method is reported here. Main advantage of this method is the use of non-toxic precursors. The size of the nanoparticles can be varied easily by changing the concentration of the capping agent. The extracted nanoparticles remain stable under normal atmospheric conditions and can be redispersed in suitable solvents. The sharp absorption features obtained in the UV-Visible absorption spectra reveal the formation of monodispersed ZnSe nanoparticles. The nanoparticles were characterized using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, UV-Visible absorption spectroscopy, photoluminescence and transmission electron microscopy. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {Luminescence, Nanomaterials, Semiconductor, X-ray techniques}, issn = {0167-577X}, doi = {10.1016/j.matlet.2008.04.082}, author = {Deshpande, Aparna and Singh, Shashi B. and Abyaneh, Majid Kazemian and Pasricha, Renu and Kulkarni, S. K.} } @article { ISI:000270759600015, title = {LC-UV and LC-MS evaluation of stress degradation behaviour of tenatoprazole}, journal = {Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis}, volume = {50}, number = {5}, year = {2009}, month = {DEC}, pages = {787-793}, publisher = {PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD}, address = {THE BOULEVARD, LANGFORD LANE, KIDLINGTON, OXFORD OX5 1GB, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

In the present study, comprehensive stress testing of tenatoprazole was carried out according to ICH guideline Q1A (R2). Tenatoprazole was subjected to stress conditions of hydrolysis, oxidation, photolysis and neutral decomposition. Additionally, the solid drug was subjected to 50 degrees C for 60 days in dry-bath, and to the combined effect of temperature and humidity at 40 degrees C/75\% RH. Extensive degradation was found to occur in acidic, neutral and oxidative conditions. Mild degradation was observed in basic conditions. The drug is relatively stable in the solid-state. The products formed under different stress conditions were investigated by LC and LC-MS. Successful separation of drug from degradation products formed under stress conditions was achieved on a Chemito ODS-3 column [C(18) (5 mu m, 250 mm x 4.6 mm, i.d.)] using methanol: 0.01 M acetate buffer pH 4.5 adjusted with glacial acetic acid (55:45) as the mobile phase at flow rate of 1 mL/min and the peak was detected using a UV detector set at 306 nm. The LC-MS m/z values and fragmentation patterns of degradation products formed under different stress conditions were studied and characterized through LC-MS fragmentation. Based on the results, degradation pathway for drug has been proposed. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {HPLC, Stability-indicating method, Stress studies, Tenatoprazole, Validation}, issn = {0731-7085}, doi = {10.1016/j.jpba.2009.06.026}, author = {Mahadik, Mahadeo V. and Bhusari, Vidhya K. and Kulkarni, Mahesh J. and Dhaneshwar, Sunil R.} } @article { ISI:000266263000034, title = {Liquid phase oxidation of p-cresol over cobalt saponite}, journal = {Topics in Catalysis}, volume = {52}, number = {6-7}, year = {2009}, month = {JUN}, pages = {784-788}, publisher = {SPRINGER/PLENUM PUBLISHERS}, address = {233 SPRING ST, NEW YORK, NY 10013 USA}, abstract = {

Liquid phase oxidation of p-cresol was carried out over a Co-saponite catalyst in a temperature and pressure range of 333-393 K and 20-827 kPa, respectively in n-propanol. Co-saponites with varying cobalt content (5-30\%) were prepared and screened among which 13\% Co-saponite gave the highest conversion of 92\% of p-cresol with 92\% selectivity to p-hydroxybenzaldehyde without formation of any non-oxidation products.

}, keywords = {Co-saponite, Liquid phase oxidation, p-Cresol, p-Hydroxybenzaldehyde, XPS}, issn = {1022-5528}, doi = {10.1007/s11244-009-9199-z}, author = {Kshirsagar, Vikas S. and Garade, Ajit C. and Patil, Kashinath R. and Shirai, Masayuki and Rode, Chandrashekhar V.} } @article { ISI:000270593200035, title = {Lombardo{\textquoteright}s reagent}, journal = {Synlett}, number = {15}, year = {2009}, month = {SEP}, pages = {2545-2546}, publisher = {GEORG THIEME VERLAG KG}, address = {RUDIGERSTR 14, D-70469 STUTTGART, GERMANY}, issn = {0936-5214}, doi = {10.1055/s-0029-1217801}, author = {Chand, Hemender R.} } @article {42748, title = {Large-bite bisphosphite, 1,3-C6H4{OPOC10H6(μ-S)C10H6O}2: synthesis, copper(I), and gold(I) complexes}, journal = {Journal of Organometallic Chemistry}, volume = {695}, year = {2010}, month = {NOV}, pages = {981{\textendash}986}, abstract = {

Large-bite bisphosphite ligand 1,3-C6H4{OPOC10H6(μ-S)C10H6O}2 (3), is obtained by reacting chlorophosphonite {OC10H6(μ-S)C10H6O}PCl (2) with resorcinol in the presence of triethylamine. Treatment of 3 with CuCl in 1:1 molar ratio produces a 1D-coordination polymer [CuCl{({\textendash}OC10H6(μ-S)C10H6O{\textendash})P({\textendash}OC6H4O{\textendash})P({\textendash}OC10H6(μ-S)C10H6O{\textendash})}-κP,κP]$\infty$ (4) in good yield. Similar reaction of 3 with two equivalents of AuCl(SMe2) affords a dinuclear complex, [Au2Cl2{({\textendash}OC10H6(μ-S)C10H6O{\textendash})P({\textendash}OC6H4O{\textendash})P({\textendash}OC10H6(μ-S)C10H6O{\textendash})}-κP,κP] (5). Single crystal X-ray structures of the ligand 3 and the complexes 4 and 5 are reported. The gold complex 5 shows dimeric structure supported by strong Au{\textperiodcentered}{\textperiodcentered}{\textperiodcentered}Au aurophilic interactions.

}, author = {Balakrishna, Maravanji S. and Kumar, Pawan and Punji, Benudhar and Mague, Joel T.} } @article { ISI:000288651100012, title = {Lipase of aspergillus niger NCIM 1207: a potential biocatalyst for synthesis of isoamyl acetate}, journal = {Indian Journal of Microbiology}, volume = {50}, number = {4}, year = {2010}, month = {OCT}, pages = {432-437}, publisher = {SPRINGER}, address = {233 SPRING ST, NEW YORK, NY 10013 USA}, abstract = {

Commercial lipase preparations and mycelium bound lipase from Aspergillus niger NCIM 1207 were used for esterification of acetic acid with isoamyl alcohol to obtain isoamyl acetate. The esterification reaction was carried out at 30 degrees C in n-hexane with shaking at 120 rpm. Initial reaction rates, conversion efficiency and isoamyl acetate concentration obtained using Novozyme 435 were the highest. Mycelium bound lipase of A. niger NCIM 1207 produced maximal isoamyl acetate formation at an alcohol/acid ratio of 1.6. Acetic acid at higher concentrations than required for the critical alcohol/acid ratio lower than 1.3 and higher than 1.6 resulted in decreased yields of isoamyl acetate probably owing to lowering of micro-aqueous environmental pH around the enzyme leading to inhibition of enzyme activity. Mycelium bound A. niger lipase produced 80 g/l of isoamyl acetate within 96 h even though extremely less amount of enzyme activity was used for esterification. The presence of sodium sulphate during esterification reaction at higher substrate concentration resulted in increased conversion efficiency when we used mycelium bound enzyme preparations of A. niger NCIM 1207. This could be due to removal of excess water released during esterification reaction by sodium sulphate. High ester concentration (286.5 g/l) and conversion (73.5\%) were obtained within 24 h using Novozyme 435 under these conditions.

}, keywords = {Aspergillus niger NCIM 1207, Fusel oil, Isoamyl acetate formation, Mycelium bound lipase, Novozyme 435}, issn = {0046-8991}, doi = {10.1007/s12088-011-0087-4}, author = {Mhetras, Nutan and Patil, Sonal and Gokhale, Digambar V.} } @article { ISI:000281683900009, title = {Liquid-liquid extraction and recovery of gallium(III) from acid media with 2-octylaminopyridine in chloroform: analysis of bauxite ore}, journal = {Journal of the Serbian Chemical Society}, volume = {75}, number = {8}, year = {2010}, month = {Apr}, pages = {1099-1113}, publisher = {SERBIAN CHEMICAL SOC}, address = {KARNEGIJEVA 4, 11 120 BELGRADE, SERBIA}, abstract = {

The liquid liquid extraction of gallium(III) from hydrochloric acid solution using 2-octylaminopyridine (2-OAP) in chloroform was investigated. The extraction of gallium(III) from 6.0-9.0 mol dm(-3) hydrochloric acid was found to be quantitative using 0.033 mol dm-3 2-OAP in chloroform. The effect of the reagent concentration and other parameters on the extraction of gallium(111) was also studied. The stoichiometry of the extracted species of gallium(In) was determined based on the slope analysis method. The extraction reaction proceeded via the anion exchange mechanism from hydrochloric acid and the extracted species was [RR{\textquoteright}NH(2)(+)GaCl(4)(-)](org). The extraction of gallium(III) was performed in the presence of various ions to ascertain the tolerance limit to individual ions. The temperature dependence of the extraction equilibrium constants was examined to estimate the apparent thermodynamic functions (Delta H, Delta S and Delta G) for the extraction reaction. Gallium(III) was successfully separated from commonly associated metal ions, such as Zn(II), Pb(II), Cd(II), Hg(II), Bi(III), Al(III), Se(IV), Sb(III), Sn(IV), In(III), TI(I) and TI(III). However, gallium(III) was separated from Fe(III) from weak organic acid media. The procedure was also extended to the determination of gallium(III) in bauxite ore by the standard addition method.

}, keywords = {2-OAP, gallium(III), liquid-liquid extraction, recovery of gallium from bauxite}, issn = {0352-5139}, doi = {10.2298/JSC090630072M}, author = {Mahamuni, Sandip V. and Wadgaonkar, Prakash P. and Anuse, Mansing A.} } @article { ISI:000274773900028, title = {Long-range synthon aufbau modules (LSAM) in crystal structures: systematic changes in C6H6-nFn (0 <= n <= 6) fluorobenzenes}, journal = {Crystengcomm}, volume = {12}, number = {3}, year = {2010}, month = {OCT}, pages = {817-833}, publisher = {ROYAL SOC CHEMISTRY}, address = {THOMAS GRAHAM HOUSE, SCIENCE PARK, MILTON RD, CAMBRIDGE CB4 0WF, CAMBS, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

We discuss the assembly of a three-dimensional molecular crystal in terms of short-range supramolecular synthons that spontaneously organize themselves according to Aufbau principles into long-range geometries characteristic of the molecules themselves. For this purpose we have examined the systematic changes in the known crystal structures of a family of fluorobenzenes, C6H6-nFn, where 0 \<= n \<= 6. Crystal assembly is initiated by forming long-range synthon Aufbau modules (LSAM) that carry the imprint of the synthons. For example, when 1 \<= n \<= 5 the short-range synthons use H center dot center dot center dot F interactions to form the LSAMs. In the n = 0 and n = 6 compounds, the synthons are H center dot center dot center dot C and F center dot center dot center dot C interactions, respectively. The LSAMs are usually one-dimensional. In this study we show that these 1D LSAMs assemble into 2D quasi-hexagonal close-packed layers. The 3D crystal structure is obtained from the various kinds of close-packing known for these 2D layers. The final stages of this 1D -\> 2D -\> 3D assembly seem to be more influenced by the packing of LSAMs than by any other factor. In these final stages, there may not be so much influence exerted by the stronger short-range synthons. We discuss the evolution of these fluorobenzene crystal structures in terms of putative LSAMs and the purely geometric relationships between the n and (6 - n) compounds that can thus be expected. Such particle-hole pairs show structural similarities. Our discussion is quantified by the interpretation of intermolecular distances in terms of atomic sizes and with qualitative predictions of magnetic model systems.

}, issn = {1466-8033}, doi = {10.1039/b910915c}, author = {Ganguly, P. and Desiraju, Gautam R.} } @article { ISI:000294237100001, title = {Lanthanum and zinc incorporated hydrotalcites as solid base catalysts for biodiesel and biolubricants production}, journal = {Indian Journal of Chemistry Section A-Inorganic Bio-Inorganic Physical Theoretical \& Analytical Chemistry}, volume = {50}, number = {8}, year = {2011}, month = {AUG}, pages = {1017-1025}, publisher = {NATL INST SCIENCE COMMUNICATION-NISCAIR}, address = {DR K S KRISHNAN MARG, PUSA CAMPUS, NEW DELHI 110 012, INDIA}, abstract = {

Mg-Al hydrotalcites doped with varying amounts of lanthanum and zinc ions (10 30 mol \%) have been prepared by co-precipitation method and used, after calcination at 873 K, as solid base catalysts for transesterification of soybean oil with methanol (producing biodiesel) and n-octanol (producing biolubricants). The catalyst with 20 mol \% of lanthanum shows the highest transesterification activity (soybean oil conversion = 100 \% and biodiesel yield = 95 \%) at 423 K in 4 h. Catalytic activity varies in proportion with the basicity of the catalysts.

}, keywords = {Biodiesel, Biolubricants, catalysis, Doped hydrotalcites, Hydrotalcites, Lanthanum, Solid base catalysts, transesterification, Vegetable oils, zinc}, issn = {0376-4710}, author = {Rahul, R. and Satyarthi, Jitendra K. and Srinivas, D.} } @article { ISI:000292962900073, title = {Ligand dynamics controlled reverse spin cross over in bis pyrazolyl pyridine based Fe(II) complex cation with metallodithiolato anions with an example of a ferromagnetic 2:1 cocrystal of mixed Ni(III)/Ni(II) oxidation states}, journal = {Inorganica Chimica Acta}, volume = {374}, number = {1, SI}, year = {2011}, month = {AUG}, pages = {586-600}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCIENCE SA}, address = {PO BOX 564, 1001 LAUSANNE, SWITZERLAND}, abstract = {

We report here the crystal and molecular structures of three compounds [FeL(2)] [Ni(mnt)(2)] (1), [FeL(2)](2) [Ni(mnt)(2)](3)center dot 2H(2)O (2) and [FeL(2)] [Cu(mnt)(2)]center dot 2CH(3)CN (3) where L = 2,6-bis(3,5-dimethylpyrazol-1-ylmethyl) pyridine and mnt = maleonitriledithiolate, and their detailed spectroscopic and magnetic properties using variable temperature Mssbauer, EPR, susceptibility studies, along with room temperature electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA) studies. The observed temperature dependant high spin/low spin (HS/LS) ratios of [FeL(2)](2+) cations in these lattices, exhibiting {\textquoteleft}reverse spin cross-over{\textquoteright} measured unequivocally by Mssbauer, have been interpreted as resulting from differing amount of {\textquoteleft}void space{\textquoteright} in the lattice, a measure of the ease of lattice dynamics originating from ligand L. Differential scanning calorimetric data points this HS/LS transition to order-disorder type of second order phase transitions. While trying to test this lattice dynamics controlled property of [FeL(2)](2+) cations an unusual behavior of cocrystallization of two planar complex anions of the same type in two different oxidation states, viz. [Ni(mnt)(2)](2) and [Ni(mnt)(2)] , was observed in [FeL(2)](2+) [Ni(mnt(2))](3), supported by crystallography, ESCA chemical shifts of Ni 2p(3/2) and EPR. The susceptibility data in combination with ESCA chemical shifts of S 2p(3/2) and Ni 2p(3/2) on all the compounds reveal the importance of charge transfer between the two counter ions. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {Iron complexes, Magnetism, Reverse-spin crossover, X-ray crystal structures}, issn = {0020-1693}, doi = {10.1016/j.ica.2011.02.081}, author = {Manoharan, Periakaruppan T. and Sambandam, Balaji and Amsarani, Ramamoorthy and Varghese, Babu and Gopinath, Chinnakonda S. and Nomura, Kiyoshi} } @article { ISI:000294374900007, title = {Liquid phase oxidation of p-vanillyl alcohol over synthetic Co-saponite catalyst}, journal = {Applied Clay Science}, volume = {53}, number = {2, SI}, year = {2011}, month = {AUG}, pages = {157-163}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV}, address = {PO BOX 211, 1000 AE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS}, abstract = {

Effect of cobalt loading on porosity of synthetic Co-saponite catalysts and on the air oxidation of p-vanillyl alcohol was studied by varying Co content in the range of 5\% to 30\% using in situ precipitation method. The pore size increased from 1.29 to 3.69 nm indicating a transition from micro to meso porosity, with increase in Co loading from 5\% to 30\%. The distribution ratio of Co(3)O(4)/CoO phases as estimated from TPR studies, also increased from 0.84 to 1.67 with increase in Co loading from 5\% to 13\% and remained almost constant (1.7) with further increase in Co loading up to 30\%. The highest activity (conversion 55\%) and selectivity of 99\% to p-vanillin obtained for 13\% Co-saponite in p-vanillyl alcohol oxidation was due to the highest distribution ratios of Co(3)O(4)/CoO phases. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {Co-saponite, Cobalt oxide phase ratio, p-Vanillin, p-Vanillyl alcohol oxidation, Porosity transition, Temperature programmed reduction}, issn = {0169-1317}, doi = {10.1016/j.clay.2010.10.026}, author = {Garade, Ajit C. and Biradar, Narayan S. and Joshi, S. M. and Kshirsagar, V. S. and Jha, Ratnesh Kumar and Rode, Chandrashekhar V.} } @article { ISI:000298210100002, title = {Lithium tetrafluoroborate catalyzed highly efficient inter- and intramolecular aza-Michael addition with aromatic amines}, journal = {Comptes Rendus Chimie}, volume = {14}, number = {12}, year = {2011}, month = {DEC}, pages = {1059-1064}, publisher = {ELSEVIER FRANCE-EDITIONS SCIENTIFIQUES MEDICALES ELSEVIER}, address = {23 RUE LINOIS, 75724 PARIS, FRANCE}, abstract = {

Lithium tetrafluoroborate has been demonstrated for the first time to be an efficient catalyst in intermolecular aza-Michael addition aromatic amines to electron deficient alkenes. Suitability of the same catalyst in intramolecular aza-Michael addition leading 2-aryl-2,3-dihydroquinolin-4(1H) ones has also been described. (C) 2011 Published by Elsevier Masson SAS on behalf of Academie des sciences.

}, keywords = {2-aryl-2, 3-dihydroquinolin-(4H)-1-ones, Anilines, Lithium tetrafluoroborate, Michael addition}, issn = {1631-0748}, doi = {10.1016/j.crci.2011.09.006}, author = {Lad, Uday P. and Kulkarni, M. A. and Desai, Uday V. and Wadgaonkar, P. P.} } @article { ISI:000292518500008, title = {Long-lived monsoon depressions of 2006 and their linkage with the Indian ocean Dipole}, journal = {International Journal of Climatology}, volume = {31}, number = {9}, year = {2011}, month = {JUL}, pages = {1334-1352}, publisher = {WILEY-BLACKWELL}, address = {COMMERCE PLACE, 350 MAIN ST, MALDEN 02148, MA USA}, abstract = {

A highlight of the 2006 boreal summer monsoon season was the enhanced activity of long-lived monsoon depressions and low-pressure systems (LPS) over the Indian region. Another important phenomenon during this period was the evolution of a positive Indian Ocean Dipole (PIOD) event. Although previous studies have investigated the impact of PIOD on the large-scale monsoon response, their influence on monsoon LPS activity is not well understood. Based on detailed diagnostic analyses of monsoon LPS during 2006, as well as those associated with other PIOD events during 1958-2007, the present work addresses two specific issues concerning the roles of (a) PIOD-induced large-scale circulation changes and (b) internal feedbacks between latent heating and dynamics, in sustaining the monsoon LPS activity. The results show that PIOD conditions generally favour increased propensity of long-lived (\>5 days) LPS with long westward tracks extending into northwest India. The average contribution of long-lived monsoon LPS to the total is found to be approximately 12\% higher during PIOD episodes as compared to non-PIOD. The PIOD events showed two important large-scale elements conducive for enhancement of LPS activity: (a) strengthening of cross-equatorial moisture transport from south-eastern tropical Indian Ocean into the Bay of Bengal and (b) enrichment of barotropic instability of monsoon flow. Estimates of latent-heating profiles from TRMM-satellite products during the 2006 LPS showed heating in the mesoscale updrafts above 600 hPa with maximum approximately 400 hPa; while cooling prevailed in lower levels. Stratiform precipitation covered approximately 70-85\% of rain area during the prolonged LPS; and the large-scale monsoon Hadley-type circulation was found to be intensified with strong mid-level inflows entering the stratiform rain region. The overall findings suggest that the PIOD-induced background circulation together with internal feedbacks between mesoscale convective systems and large-scale circulation can effectively enhance the longevity of monsoon LPS. These results should serve as important inputs for numerical weather forecasting of extreme rainfall events associated with the regional monsoon phenomenon. Copyright (C) 2010 Royal Meteorological Society

}, keywords = {Indian ocean dipole, life period, monsoon depressions}, issn = {0899-8418}, doi = {10.1002/joc.2156}, author = {Krishnan, R. and Ayantika, D. C. and Kumar, Vinay and Pokhrel, Samir} } @article { ISI:000289763700026, title = {Low temperature pH dependent synthesis of flower-like ZnO nanostructures with enhanced photocatalytic activity}, journal = {Materials Research Bulletin}, volume = {46}, number = {5}, year = {2011}, month = {MAY}, pages = {771-778}, publisher = {PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD}, address = {THE BOULEVARD, LANGFORD LANE, KIDLINGTON, OXFORD OX5 1GB, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

In the present study we have synthesized flower-like ZnO nanostructures comprising of nanobelts of 20 nm width by template and surfactant free low-temperature (4 degrees C) aqueous solution route. The ZnO nanostructures exhibit flower-like morphology, having crystalline hexagonal wurtzite structure with (001) orientation. The flowers with size between 600 and 700 nm consist of ZnO units having crystallite size of similar to 40 nm. Chemical and structural characterization reveals a significant role of precursor: ligand molar ratio, pH, and temperature in the formation of single-step flower-like ZnO at low temperature. Plausible growth mechanism for the formation of flower-like structure has been discussed in detail. Photoluminescence studies confirm formation of ZnO with the defects in crystal structure. The flower-like ZnO nanostructures exhibit enhanced photochemical degradation of methylene blue (MB) with the increased concentration of ligand, indicating attribution of structural features in the photocatalytic properties. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {Catalytic properties, Defects, Nanostructures, Optical properties, Semiconductor}, issn = {0025-5408}, doi = {10.1016/j.materresbull.2010.11.007}, author = {Vaishampayan, Mukta V. and Mulla, Imtiaz S. and Joshi, Satyawati S.} } @article { ISI:000285408700002, title = {Low thermal emissive surface properties of ZnO/polyimide composites prepared by pulsed laser deposition}, journal = {Applied Surface Science}, volume = {257}, number = {6}, year = {2011}, month = {JAN}, pages = {1824-1828}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV}, address = {PO BOX 211, 1000 AE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS}, abstract = {

We report the low thermal-emissive surface properties of composites of ZnO-polyimide. The composites were synthesized by depositing ZnO on polyimide surface by pulsed laser deposition technique. ZnO target was ablated at different incident energy densities and the substrate (polyimide) was held at elevated temperature. This facilitated the c-axis oriented growth of ZnO, which was inferred from the X-ray diffraction analysis. The composites consisted of multilayers having different electrical resistivities. The values of which are also estimated from Hagen-Rubens relation. The reduced infrared emissivities of the composite films, as compared to polyimide, were correlated to the increased carrier concentration and reduced surface resistivity estimated from the Hall measurements. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {pulsed laser deposition, Thermal emissivity, Thin films, Zinc oxide}, issn = {0169-4332}, doi = {10.1016/j.apsusc.2010.08.083}, author = {Babrekar, Harshada A. and Jejurikar, S. M. and Jog, Jyoti Prakash and Adhi, K. P. and Bhoraskar, S. V.} } @article { ISI:000309589000026, title = {L. K. Doraiswamy (1927-2012)}, journal = {Current Science}, volume = {103}, number = {5}, year = {2012}, month = {SEP}, pages = {571-572}, publisher = {INDIAN ACAD SCIENCES}, address = {C V RAMAN AVENUE, SADASHIVANAGAR, P B \#8005, BANGALORE 560 080, INDIA}, issn = {0011-3891}, author = {Kulkarni, B. D.} } @article { ISI:000307479100016, title = {Lamellar melting, not crystal motion, results in softening of polyoxymethylene on heating}, journal = {Macromolecules}, volume = {45}, number = {15}, year = {2012}, month = {AUG}, pages = {5967-5978}, publisher = {AMER CHEMICAL SOC}, address = {1155 16TH ST, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20036 USA}, abstract = {

We probe temperature-dependent changes in the semicrystalline microstructure of polyoxymethylene using a combination of modulated DSC, SAXS, and solid-state NMR to characterize macroscopic behavior, lamellar-level structure, and molecular environments, respectively, and correlate these with the change in mechanical properties probed using DMA and AFM. Two model samples are investigated: a melt crystallized sample prepared by injection molding and a sample obtained by crystallization from dilute solution. Our investigations reveal that, for both samples, there is an increase in crystalline motions and in the amorphous content on heating. DMA and AFM measurements reveal that the modulus of the molded sample decreases on heating to about 100 degrees C; however, there is a significant difference in behavior of the solution crystals, where we observe no significant decrease in stiffness (from AFM measurements). Thus, in contrast to previous reports, we demonstrate that the decrease in modulus on heating polyoxymethylene does not correlate with chain motions in the crystalline regions. We use SAXS to probe the semicrystalline morphology for the samples on heating and show that, for the molded sample, there is a distribution of lamellar thickness at room temperature and that the thin lamellae in this distribution melt on heating. In contrast to the behavior of the melt crystallized samples, the solution crystals exhibit no change in the lamellar stacking on heating to 150 degrees C. We also demonstrate that, on heating, the amorphous regions in the solution crystals always appear to have restricted mobility while there are mobile and low mobility amorphous regions in the molded samples. Our results suggest that, contrary to conventional belief, the decrease in modulus on heating polyoxymethylene arises not from motions in the crystalline lamellae but primarily from melting of thin lamellae.

}, issn = {0024-9297}, doi = {10.1021/ma3004423}, author = {Kumaraswamy, Guruswamy and Surve, Nikita S. and Mathew, Renny and Rana, Abhimanyu and Jha, Saroj K. and Bulakh, Neelima N. and Nisal, Anuya and Ajithkumar, Thalasseril G. and Rajamohanan, P. R. and Ratnagiri, Ram} } @article { ISI:000308519200010, title = {Larvicidal potential of mimusops elengi against aedes aegypti (L) and Culex quinquefasciatus (Say)}, journal = {Journal of Vector Borne Diseases}, volume = {49}, number = {2}, year = {2012}, month = {JUN}, pages = {111-113}, publisher = {MALARIA RESEARCH CENTRE, INDIAN COUNCIL MEDICAL RESEARCH-ICMR}, address = {22 SHAM NATH MARG, DELHI, 00000, INDIA}, keywords = {Aedes aegypti, Culex quinquefasciatus, larvicidal activity, Mimusops elengi}, issn = {0972-9062}, author = {Ruikar, Anjali D. and Pawar, Pushpa V. and Sen, Avalokiteswar and Phalgune, Usha D. and Puranik, Vedavati G. and Deshpande, Nirmala R.} } @article { ISI:000310940500009, title = {Laser synthesized super-hydrophobic conducting carbon with broccoli-type morphology as a counter-electrode for dye sensitized solar cells}, journal = {Nanoscale}, volume = {4}, number = {21}, year = {2012}, month = {NOV}, pages = {6730-6734}, publisher = {ROYAL SOC CHEMISTRY}, address = {THOMAS GRAHAM HOUSE, SCIENCE PARK, MILTON RD, CAMBRIDGE CB4 0WF, CAMBS, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

A laser photochemical process is introduced to realize superhydrophobic conducting carbon coatings with broccoli-type hierarchical morphology for use as a metal-free counter electrode in a dye sensitized solar cell. The process involves pulsed excimer laser irradiation of a thin layer of liquid haloaromatic organic solvent o-dichlorobenzene (DCB). The coating reflects a carbon nanoparticle-self assembled and process-controlled morphology that yields solar to electric power conversion efficiency of 5.1\% as opposed to 6.2\% obtained with the conventional Pt-based electrode.

}, issn = {2040-3364}, doi = {10.1039/c2nr32082g}, author = {Gokhale, Rohan and Agarkar, Shruti A. and Debgupta, Joyashish and Shinde, Deodatta and Lefez, Benoit and Banerjee, Abhik and Jog, Jyoti Prakash and More, Mahendra A. and Hannoyer, Beatrice and Ogale, Satishchandra B.} } @article { ISI:000304155900025, title = {Latex-mediated synthesis of ZnS nanoparticles: green synthesis approach}, journal = {Journal of Nanoparticle Research}, volume = {14}, number = {5}, year = {2012}, month = {MAY}, pages = {865}, publisher = {SPRINGER}, address = {VAN GODEWIJCKSTRAAT 30, 3311 GZ DORDRECHT, NETHERLANDS}, abstract = {

A low-cost, green synthesis of ZnS nanoparticles is reported using 0.3 \% latex solution prepared from Jatropha curcas L. ZnS nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray diffraction, selected area electron diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive analysis of X-rays, UV-vis optical absorption and photoluminescence techniques. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy was performed to find the role of cyclic peptides namely curcacycline A (an octapeptide), curcacycline B (a nonapeptide) and curcain (an enzyme) as a possible reducing and stabilizing agents present in the latex of J. curcas L. The average size of ZnS nanoparticles was found to be 10 nm. Latex of J. curcas L. itself acts as a source of sulphide (S-2) ions that are donated to Zn ions under present experimental conditions. Source of sulphide (S-2) ions is still unclear, but we speculate that cysteine or thiol residues present in enzyme curcain may be donating these sulphide (S-2) ions.

}, keywords = {green synthesis, Latex, ZnS nanoparticles}, issn = {1388-0764}, doi = {10.1007/s11051-012-0865-x}, author = {Hudlikar, Manish and Joglekar, Shriram and Dhaygude, Mayur and Kodam, Kisan M.} } @article { ISI:000301965000034, title = {Ligand free, highly efficient synthesis of diaryl ether over copper fluorapatite as heterogeneous reusable catalyst}, journal = {Tetrahedron Letters}, volume = {53}, number = {14}, year = {2012}, month = {APR}, pages = {1826-1829}, publisher = {PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD}, address = {THE BOULEVARD, LANGFORD LANE, KIDLINGTON, OXFORD OX5 1GB, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

A novel ligand-free, highly efficient, and an inexpensive method has been developed by using ecofriendly, heterogeneous reusable copper fluorapatite (CuFAP) catalyst for the synthesis of diaryl ethers from the cross coupling reaction of the various substituted aryl halides (fluoride, chloride, bromide, and iodide) with the potassium salts of various substituted phenols in the presence of N-methyl 2-pyrrolidone (NMP) as a solvent at 120 degrees C. The protocol obtained the corresponding cross coupling products in good to excellent yield. The CuFAP catalyst was recovered by simple filtration from the reaction mixture and reused several times without the loss of catalytic activity. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {Arylhalide, Copper fluorapatite, Diaryl ethers, phenol, Ullmann coupling}, issn = {0040-4039}, doi = {10.1016/j.tetlet.2012.01.124}, author = {Mulla, Shafeek Abdul Rashid and Inamdar, Suleman M. and Pathan, Mohsinkhan Y. and Chavan, Santosh S.} } @article { ISI:000309787500006, title = {Ligand promoted and controlled palladium-catalyzed intramolecular Heck reaction of homoallyl alcohols: a facile synthesis of cyclopentaannulated quinolines}, journal = {Tetrahedron}, volume = {68}, number = {45}, year = {2012}, month = {NOV}, pages = {9206-9210}, publisher = {PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD}, address = {THE BOULEVARD, LANGFORD LANE, KIDLINGTON, OXFORD OX5 1GB, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

Bidentate phosphine ligands in palladium-catalyzed intramolecular Heck reactions of 2-chloroquinolin-3-yl-(1-homoallyl)alcohols are described to afford facile synthesis of 3-methylene-2,3-dihydro-1H-cy-clopenta[b]quinolines in improved yields. We further observed using bulky aromatic phosphine ligand in Pd-catalyzed intermolecular Heck coupling reaction at olefinic centers with iodobenzene also favored exclusively Heck products in excellent yield. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {Heck cyclization, Homoallyl alcohol, Ligand promoted, Palladium-catalyzed, Quinoline}, issn = {0040-4020}, doi = {10.1016/j.tet.2012.08.088}, author = {Singh, Radhey M. and Chandra, Atish and Sharma, Neha and Singh, Bhawana and Kumar, Ritush} } @article { ISI:000311111300007, title = {Lipase-mediated hydrolysis of flax seed oil for selective enrichment of alpha-linolenic acid}, journal = {European Journal of Lipid Science and Technology}, volume = {114}, number = {11}, year = {2012}, month = {NOV}, pages = {1246-1253}, publisher = {WILEY-BLACKWELL}, address = {111 RIVER ST, HOBOKEN 07030-5774, NJ USA}, abstract = {

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are important ingredients of human diet because of their prominent role in the function of human brain, eye and kidney. alpha-Linolenic acid (ALA), a C18, n-3 PUFA is a precursor of long chain PUFA in humans. Commercial lipases of Candida rugosa, Pseudomonas cepacea, Pseudomonas fluorescens, and Rhizomucor miehei were used for hydrolysis of flax seed oil. Reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography followed by gas chromatography showed that the purified oil contained 12 triacylglycerols (TAGs) with differences in fatty acid compositions. Flax seed oil TAGs contained alpha-linolenic acid (50\%) as a major fatty acid while palmitic, oleic, linoleic made up rest of the portion. Among the four commercial lipases C. rugosa has preference for ALA, and that ALA was enriched in free fatty acids. C. rugosa lipase mediated hydrolysis of the TAGs resulted in a fatty acid mixture that was enriched in alpha-linolenic to about 72\% yield that could be further enriched to 80\% yield by selective removal of saturated fatty acids by urea complexation. Such purified ALA can be used for preparation of ALA-enriched glycerides. Practical applications: This methodology allows purifying ALA from fatty acid mixture obtained from flax seed oil by urea complexation.

}, keywords = {a-Linolenic acid, Flax seed oil, Lipases, PUFA, Urea complexation}, issn = {1438-7697}, doi = {10.1002/ejlt.201100384}, author = {Rupani, Banin and Kodam, Kisan M. and Gadre, Ramchandra V. and Najafpour, Ghasem D.} } @article { ISI:000300458300075, title = {Low plasma albumin levels are associated with increased plasma protein glycation and HbA1c in diabetes}, journal = {Journal of Proteome Research}, volume = {11}, number = {2}, year = {2012}, month = {FEB}, pages = {1391-1396}, publisher = {AMER CHEMICAL SOC}, address = {1155 16TH ST, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20036 USA}, abstract = {

Albumin is one of the most abundant plasma proteins and is heavily glycated in diabetes. In this study, we have addressed whether variation in the albumin levels influence glycation of plasma proteins and HbA1c. The study was performed in three systems: (1) streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice plasma, (2) diabetic clinical plasma, and (3) in vitro glycated plasma. Diabetic mice and clinical plasma samples were categorized as diabetic high albumin plasma (DHAP) and diabetic low albumin plasma (DLAP) on the basis of their albumin levels. For the in vitro experiment, two albumin levels, high albumin plasma (HAP) and low albumin plasma (LAP), were created by differential depletion of plasma albumin. Protein glycation was studied by using a combination of two-dimensional electrophoresis (2DE), Western blotting, and LC-MSE. In both mice and clinical experiments, an increased plasma protein glycation was observed in DLAP than in DHAP. Additionally, plasma albumin levels were negatively correlated with HbA1c. The in vitro experiment with differential depletion of albumin mechanistically showed that the low albumin levels are associated with increased plasma protein glycation and that albumin competes for glycation with other plasma proteins.

}, keywords = {advanced glycation end products (AGEs), Albumin, glucose, post translational modification}, issn = {1535-3893}, doi = {10.1021/pr201030m}, author = {Bhonsle, Hemangi S. and Korwar, Arvind M. and Kote, Sachin S. and Golegaonkar, Sandeep B. and Chougale, Ashok D. and Shaik, Mahemud L. and Dhande, Nitin L. and Giri, Ashok P. and Shelgikar, Kishore M. and Boppana, Ramanamurthy and Kulkarni, Mahesh J.} } @article { ISI:000307606000023, title = {Low-molecular-mass aspartic protease inhibitor from a novel penicillium sp.: implications in combating fungal infections}, journal = {Microbiology-SGM}, volume = {158}, number = {7}, year = {2012}, month = {JUL}, pages = {1897-1907}, publisher = {SOC GENERAL MICROBIOLOGY}, address = {MARLBOROUGH HOUSE, BASINGSTOKE RD, SPENCERS WOODS, READING RG7 1AG, BERKS, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

A low-molecular-mass aspartic protease inhibitor was isolated from a novel Penicillium sp. The inhibitor was purified to homogeneity, as shown by reversed-phase HPLC and SDS-PAGE. The M-r of the inhibitor was 1585 and the amino acid composition showed the presence of D, D, D, E, A, K, L, Y, H, I and W residues. The steady-state kinetic interactions of Aspergillus saitoi aspartic protease with the inhibitor revealed the reversible, competitive, time-dependent tight-binding nature of the inhibitor, with IC50 and K-i values of 1.8 and 0.85 mu M, respectively. Fluorescence spectroscopy and circular dichroism analysis showed that inactivation of the enzyme was due to binding of the inhibitor to the active site. The inhibitor was found to inhibit mycelial growth and spore germination of Aspergillus fumigatus and Aspergillus niger in vitro with MIC values of 1.65 and 0.30 mu g ml(-1), respectively. This study will potentially open the way towards the development of a tight-binding peptidic inhibitor against fungal aspartic proteases to combat human fungal infections.

}, issn = {1350-0872}, doi = {10.1099/mic.0.058511-0}, author = {Menon, Vishnu and Rao, Mala} } @article { ISI:000323509900012, title = {Lagrange multiplier approach for excited state properties through intermediate hamiltonian formulation of fock space multireference coupled-cluster theory}, journal = {Journal of Chemical Physics}, volume = {139}, number = {7}, year = {2013}, month = {AUG}, pages = {074108}, publisher = {AMER INST PHYSICS}, address = {CIRCULATION \& FULFILLMENT DIV, 2 HUNTINGTON QUADRANGLE, STE 1 N O 1, MELVILLE, NY 11747-4501 USA}, abstract = {

In this paper, we present a formulation based on Lagrange multiplier approach for efficient evaluation of excited state energy derivatives in Fock space coupled cluster theory within the intermediate Hamiltonian framework. The formulation is applied to derive the explicit generic expressions up to second order energy derivatives for [1, 1] sector of Fock space with singles and doubles approximation. Its advantage, efficiency, and interconnection in comparison to the Lagrange multiplier approach in traditional formulation of Fock space, which is built on the concept of Bloch equation based effective Hamiltonian, has been discussed. Computational strategy for their implementation has also been discussed in some detail. (C) 2013 AIP Publishing LLC.

}, issn = {0021-9606}, doi = {10.1063/1.4817943}, author = {Gupta, Jitendra and Vaval, Nayana and Pal, Sourav} } @article { ISI:000328437300022, title = {Large centimeter-sized macroporous ferritin gels as versatile nanoreactors}, journal = {Chemistry of Materials}, volume = {25}, number = {23}, year = {2013}, month = {DEC}, pages = {4813-4819}, publisher = {AMER CHEMICAL SOC}, address = {1155 16TH ST, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20036 USA}, abstract = {

Organized assemblies of bionanoparticles such as ferritin provides templates that can be exploited for nanotechnological applications. Organization of ferritin into well-defined three-dimensional assemblies is challenging and has attracted considerable attention recently. We have synthesized, for the first time, large (centimeter-sized) self-standing macroporous scaffold monoliths from ferritin bionanoparticles, using dynamic templating of surfactant H-1 domains. These scaffolds comprise three-dimensionally connected strands of ferritin, organized as a porous gel with porosity similar to 55 mu m. The iron oxide inside the ferritin scaffold can be easily replaced with catalytically active monodisperse zerovalent transition metal nanoparticles using a very simple protocol. Since the ferritin is cross-linked in the scaffold, it is significantly robust with enhanced thermal stability and better tolerance toward several organic solvents in Comparison to the native ferritin bionanoparticle. In addition, the scaffold macropores facilitate substrate and reagent transport and hence the monoliths containing active Pd or iron oxide nanoparticles inside apo-ferritin bionanoparticles were used as a recyclable heterogeneous catalyst for the oxidation of 2,3,6-trimethyl phenol to 2,3,6-trimethyl-1,4-benzoquinone (precursor for Vitamin E synthesis) and for Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reaction in both aqueous and organic solvents. The protein shell around the nanoparticles protects them from agglomeration, a phenomenon that otherwise plagues nanoparticles-based catalysis. The presence of macropores allow the ferritin scaffold to act as catalytic monolith for continuous flow reactions having rapid reaction rates, while offering a low pressure drop. Finally, the Pd@apo-ferritin scaffold was immobilized inside a steel cartridge and used for the continuous flow hydrogenation of alkenes to their corresponding alkanes for 15 cycles without any loss of activity.

}, keywords = {catalysis, continuous flow, ferritin, gel, macroporous materials, Self-assembly}, issn = {0897-4756}, doi = {10.1021/cm403240j}, author = {Kumari, Sushma and Kulkarni, Amol and Kumaraswamy, Guruswamy and Sen Gupta, Sayam} } @article { ISI:000327090400009, title = {Lavandula gibsoni and plectranthus mollis essential oils: chemical analysis and insect control activities against aedes aegypti, anopheles sfttephensi and culex quinquefasciatus}, journal = {Journal of Pest Science}, volume = {86}, number = {4}, year = {2013}, month = {DEC}, pages = {713-718}, publisher = {SPRINGER HEIDELBERG}, address = {TIERGARTENSTRASSE 17, D-69121 HEIDELBERG, GERMANY}, abstract = {

Essential oils and acetone extracts from Lavandula gibsoni and Plectranthus mollis, family Lamiaceae, were investigated for their mosquito larvicidal activity against 4th instar larvae of Aedes aegypti, Anopheles stephensi and Culex quinquefasciatus. LC50 values against these three species were 48.3, 62.8 and 54.7 mg/L for L. gibsoni essential oil and 118.5, 137.2 and 128.1 mg/L, respectively, for its acetone extract, while LC50 values for P. mollis essential oil were 25.4, 33.5 and 29.5 mg/L and 195.0, 213.8 and 209.0 mg/L, respectively, for its acetone extract. Repellence of the essential oils was assessed against A. aegypti adults. L. gibsoni essential oil provided 100 \% protection for more than 7 h at a concentration of 2.0 mg/cm(2). Under the same conditions, the standard repellent N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide, at 0.25 mg/cm(2), provided 100 \% protection for more than 8 h, while P. mollis essential oil was only weakly repellent. The major components from both essential oils were identified based on GC-MS analysis and linear retention indices. Our results demonstrated promising larvicidal activities of both essential oils against these mosquito species. L. gibsoni essential oil also showed promising repellent activity.

}, keywords = {Essential oil, Lavandula gibsoni, Mosquito larvicidal activity, Mosquito repellent, Plectranthus mollis}, issn = {1612-4758}, doi = {10.1007/s10340-013-0502-1}, author = {Kulkarni, Roshan R. and Pawar, Pushpa V. and Joseph, Mary P. and Akulwad, Ambadas K. and Sen, Avalokiteswar and Joshi, Swati P.} } @article { ISI:000318577600145, title = {Liquefied petroleum gas sensing performance of cerium doped copper ferrite}, journal = {Ceramics International}, volume = {39}, number = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {JUL}, pages = {5901-5907}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCI LTD}, address = {THE BOULEVARD, LANGFORD LANE, KIDLINGTON, OXFORD OX5 1GB, OXON, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

Undoped and cerium (Ce) doped nanocrystalline copper ferrite (CuFe2O4) materials were synthesized via the molten-salt (M-S) method. Effects of Ce doping on the structural, morphological and gas sensing properties of the CuFe2O4 ferrite have been investigated. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed the formation of spinel CuFe2O4. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) investigations showed that the synthesized ferrite is made up of very fine spherical nanoparticles. Moreover, the gas sensing properties of sintered samples were studied towards different reducing gases such as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), acetone, ethanol and ammonia. The sample with 4\% cerium doped CuFe2O4 (Ce4) showed the maximum gas sensitivity (86\%) towards LPG with fast response time of 5 s and good recovery time of 68 s. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd and Techna Group S.r.l. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {Ferrite, Gas sensor, Molten-salt method, TEM}, issn = {0272-8842}, doi = {10.1016/j.ceramint.2013.01.010}, author = {Khandekar, M. S. and Tarwal, N. L. and Patil, J. Y. and Shaikh, F. I. and Mulla, Imtiaz S. and Suryavanshi, S. S.} } @article { ISI:000313913300036, title = {Low-pressure synthesis and characterization of hydrogen-filled ice ic}, journal = {Angewandte Chemie-International Edition}, volume = {52}, number = {5}, year = {2013}, month = {DEC}, pages = {1531-1534}, publisher = {WILEY-V C H VERLAG GMBH}, address = {BOSCHSTRASSE 12, D-69469 WEINHEIM, GERMANY}, keywords = {Clathrates, cubic ice, hydrates, Hydrogen}, issn = {1433-7851}, doi = {10.1002/anie.201208367}, author = {Kumar, Rajnish and Klug, Dennis D. and Ratcliffe, Christopher I. and Tulk, Christopher A. and Ripmeester, John A.} } @article { ISI:000330204700002, title = {Large amplitude oscillatory shear induces crystal chain orientation in velocity gradient direction}, journal = {ACS Macro Letters}, volume = {3}, number = {1}, year = {2014}, month = {JAN}, pages = {6-9}, publisher = {AMER CHEMICAL SOC}, address = {1155 16TH ST, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20036 USA}, abstract = {

Imposition of large amplitude oscillatory shear (LAOS) on crystallizing polymer melts results in lamellar orientation in the shear gradient direction, in contrast to the flow-orientation observed for steady shear. LAOS enhances the formation of plate-like nuclei and orients their normals in the gradient direction. An Arrhenius temperature dependence (with activation energy approximate to 226 kJ/mol) characterizes the relaxation of crystal orientation with annealing.

}, issn = {2161-1653}, doi = {10.1021/mz4005716}, author = {Sreenivas, K. and Kumaraswamy, Guruswamy} } @article { ISI:000332188100018, title = {Large increase in the energy product of Fe3Se4 by Fe-site doping}, journal = {Journal of Physical Chemistry C}, volume = {118}, number = {8}, year = {2014}, month = {FEB}, pages = {4016-4022}, publisher = {AMER CHEMICAL SOC}, address = {1155 16TH ST, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20036 USA}, abstract = {

Fe3Se4 possesses a large coercivity at room temperature. At lower temperature, a coercivity value up to 40 kOe has been achieved. However, due to a relatively lower saturation magnetization value, the energy product of this material is not suitable for its use as rare-earth-free hard magnetic material. Although the anisotropy and magnetic structure of Fe3Se4 have been topics of research, there is no attempt to increase the energy product. Here, we report the synthesis of Fe3-xMnxSe4 (x = 0.01-0.2) nanorods. As required for practical applications, after doping, the Curie temperature remains unchanged; however, at optimum (x = 0.03) doping of manganese ions, the magnetization of the host matrix increases significantly from 4.84 to 7.54 emu/g. The corresponding energy product value was found to be increased by more than 130\%. At low temperature (10 K) the energy product shows almost a 2 order of magnitude increase (similar to 0.12 MG Oe), which makes it valuable for many low temperature applications. This improvement is a vital step for its use in some of the household applications where a large volume and relatively lower energy product are needed.

}, issn = {1932-7447}, doi = {10.1021/jp411956q}, author = {Sen Bishwas, Mousumi and Das, Raja and Poddar, Pankaj} } @article { ISI:000337521700013, title = {Large magnetocaloric effect, moment, and coercivity enhancement after coating Ni nanoparticles with Ag}, journal = {ChemPhysChem}, volume = {15}, number = {8}, year = {2014}, month = {JUN}, pages = {1619-1623}, publisher = {WILEY-V C H VERLAG GMBH}, address = {BOSCHSTRASSE 12, D-69469 WEINHEIM, GERMANY}, abstract = {

We observe a large magnetocaloric effect in monodisperse Ni and NicoreAgshell nanoparticles in the superparamagnetic region. The organically passivated Ni nanospheres show a large magnetic entropy change of 0.9 J kg(-1)K for a 3 T magnetic field change. In comparison to the surfactant-coated Ni nanoparticles, the NicoreAgshell nanoparticles show an enhanced coercivity, magnetization, and magnetocaloric effect (1.3 kgK for a 3 T magnetic field change). The coercivity at 10 K increases from 360 Oe for Ni nanoparticles to nearly 610 Oe for NicoreAgshell particles. This large enhancement is attributed to the enhanced inter-particle interaction, which is mediated by the metallic shell, over the relatively weaker dipolar interaction in the surfactant-coated Ni nanoparticles, and to modification of the surface spin structure.

}, keywords = {anisotropy, core-shell, magnetic properties, Nanoparticles, superparamagnetic}, issn = {1439-4235}, doi = {10.1002/cphc.201300886}, author = {Srinath, Sanyadanam and Poddar, Pankaj and Das, Raja and Sidhaye, Deepti and Bhagavatula L. V. Prasad and Gass, James and Srikanth, Hariharan} } @article {46404, title = {Large scale synthesis of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) from waste biomass and their use as an efficient and selective photoluminescence on-off-on probe for Ag+ ions}, journal = {Nanoscale}, volume = {6}, year = {2014}, month = {MAR}, pages = {11664-11670}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) are synthesized from bio-waste and are further modified to produce amine-terminated GQDs (Am-GQDs) which have higher dispersibility and photoluminescence intensity than those of GQDs. A strong fluorescence quenching of Am-GQDs (switch-off) is observed for a number of metal ions, but only for the Ag+ ions is the original fluorescence regenerated (switch-on) upon addition of L-cysteine.

}, issn = {2040-3364}, doi = {10.1039/c4nr02494j}, author = {Suryawanshi, Anil and Biswal, Mandakini and Mhamane, Dattakumar and Gokhale, Rohan and Patil, Shankar and Guin, Debanjan and Ogale, Satishchandra} } @article { ISI:000343988200032, title = {Layer-separated distribution of nitrogen doped graphene by wrapping on carbon nitride tetrapods for enhanced oxygen reduction reactions in acidic medium}, journal = {Chemical Communications}, volume = {50}, number = {89}, year = {2014}, month = {SEP}, pages = {13769-13772}, publisher = {ROYAL SOC CHEMISTRY}, address = {THOMAS GRAHAM HOUSE, SCIENCE PARK, MILTON RD, CAMBRIDGE CB4 0WF, CAMBS, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

Layer-separated 3D nitrogen doped graphene (NG) with an accessible interstitial surface and modulated activity characteristics for oxygen reduction in acidic medium could be prepared by wrapping NG sheets on in situ generated carbon nitride (CNx) tetrapods.

}, issn = {1359-7345}, doi = {10.1039/c4cc06180b}, author = {Unni, SreeKuttan M. and Illathvalappil, Rajith and Gangadharan, Pranav K. and Bhange, Siddheshwar N. and Kurungot, Sreekumar} } @article { ISI:000330603800038, title = {Leucaena sp recombinant cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase: purification and physicochemical characterization}, journal = {International Journal of Biological Macromolecules}, volume = {63}, year = {2014}, month = {FEB}, pages = {254-260}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV}, address = {PO BOX 211, 1000 AE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS}, abstract = {

Cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase is a broad substrate specificity enzyme catalyzing the final step in monolignol biosynthesis, leading to lignin formation in plants. Here, we report characterization of a recombinant CAD homologue (LICAD2) isolated from Leucaena leucocephala. LICAD2 is 80 kDa homodimer associated with non-covalent interactions, having substrate preference toward sinapaldehyde with K-cat/K-m of 11.6 x 10(6) (M-1 s(-1)), and a possible involvement of histidine at the active site. The enzyme remains stable up to 40 C, with the deactivation rate constant (K-d*) and half-life (t(1/2)) of 0.002 and 5 h, respectively. LICAD2 showed optimal activity at pH 6.5 and 9 for reduction and oxidation reactions, respectively, and was stable between pH 7 and 9, with the deactivation rate constant (K-d*) and half-life (t(1/2)) of 7.5 x 10(-4) and 15 h, respectively. It is a Zn-metalloenzyme with 4 Zn2+ per dimer, however, was inhibited in presence of externally supplemented Zn2+ ions. The enzyme was resistant to osmolytes, reducing agents and non-ionic detergents. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {Cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD), Metalloenzyme, Substrate specificity}, issn = {0141-8130}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2013.09.005}, author = {Patel, Parth and Gupta, Neha and Gaikwad, Sushama M. and Agrawal, Dinesh C. and Khan, Bashir Mohammad} } @article { ISI:000329337000031, title = {Ligand-free one-step synthesis of {001} faceted semiconducting BiOCl single crystals and their photocatalytic activity}, journal = {Crystal Growth \& Design}, volume = {14}, number = {1}, year = {2014}, month = {JAN}, pages = {236-239}, publisher = {AMER CHEMICAL SOC}, address = {1155 16TH ST, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20036 USA}, abstract = {

Herein, we report one-step ligand-free hydrothermal synthesis of predominantly {001}-faceted micron-sized single crystals of bismuth oxychloride (BiOCl). The structural chlorine is obtained by in situ generation of chloride ions. From Raman spectra, we could resolve the E-g transition. Photocatalytic activity of as-synthesized crystals showed 78\% degradation of RhB dye under a xenon source after 120 min of exposure.

}, issn = {1528-7483}, doi = {10.1021/cg4014366}, author = {Biswas, Anupam and Das, Raja and Dey, Chandan and Banerjee, Rahul and Poddar, Panka} } @article { ISI:000330799900051, title = {Lignocellulose processing: a current challenge}, journal = {RSC Advances}, volume = {4}, number = {16}, year = {2014}, month = {JAN}, pages = {8271-8277}, publisher = {ROYAL SOC CHEMISTRY}, address = {THOMAS GRAHAM HOUSE, SCIENCE PARK, MILTON RD, CAMBRIDGE CB4 0WF, CAMBS, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

Lignocellulosic biomass, of which inedible crops are a renewable source, is expected to become one of the key renewable energy resources in the near future, to deal with global warming and the depletion of conventional fossil fuel resources. It also holds the key to supplying society{\textquoteright}s basic needs for the sustainable production of chemicals and fuels without impacting the human food supply. Despite this, the production of 2nd generation biofuels and chemicals has not yet been commercialized. Therefore, the challenges involved in the production of lignocellulosic biomass derived fuels and chemicals must be addressed. The search for economic pretreatment methods has been recognized as one of the main hurdles for the processing of biomass to biofuels and chemicals. The conversion of all biomass components, lignin in particular, would greatly contribute to the economic viability of biomass based processes for 2nd generation biofuels and chemicals. The highly organized crystalline structure of cellulose presents an obstacle to its hydrolysis. Hydrolysis of lignocellulose carbohydrates into fermentable sugars requires a number of different biomass degrading enzymes such as cellulases and hemicellulases. Still, a number of technical and scientific issues within pretreatment and hydrolysis remain to be solved. Depending on the raw material and pretreatment technology, the enzyme mixtures must be designed to degrade biomass carbohydrates. Rapid advances in enzyme, microbial and plant engineering would provide the necessary breakthroughs for the successful commercialization of biomass derived fuels and chemicals.

}, issn = {2046-2069}, doi = {10.1039/c3ra46112b}, author = {Singhvi, Mamata S. and Chaudhari, Shivani and Gokhale, Digambar V.} } @article { ISI:000343974100034, title = {Linearly polarized emission from self-assembled microstructures of mesogenic polythiophenes}, journal = {Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics}, volume = {16}, number = {43}, year = {2014}, month = {SEP}, pages = {23809-23818}, publisher = {ROYAL SOC CHEMISTRY}, address = {THOMAS GRAHAM HOUSE, SCIENCE PARK, MILTON RD, CAMBRIDGE CB4 0WF, CAMBS, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

This work reports on linearly polarized photoluminescence and electroluminescence through spontaneous self-assembly of mesogenic polythiophenes under ambient conditions. A systematic structural variation and different alkyl chain lengths lead to three series of closely related mesogenic polythiophenes viz.; TPn, TNn and TVn. Polarized light emitting diodes fabricated from TV12 by solution processing with the configuration of ITO/PEDOT:PSS/Polymer/Al show linearly polarized electroluminescence with a dichroic ratio of 14.32. Spun thin films of TV12 elicited a dichroic ratio of 15.02 in photoluminescence. Studies using a range of techniques such as; atomic force microscopy, grazing incidence X-ray diffraction, fluorescence anisotropy, linear dichroism, fluorescence lifetime and dynamic light scattering reveal that the presence of highly ordered self-assembly was responsible for the dimensional confinement of optoelectronic properties. The ordering in the thin films originates from vinyl groups in the side chains of the TV12 polymer. Further studies on device characteristics show higher charge carrier mobility in polymers with vinyl side chains. Solution processed PLEDs show a maximum brightness of 863 cd m(-2) for the TP12 polymer and TV12 based LEDs show a maximum brightness of 524 cd m(-2).

}, issn = {1463-9076}, doi = {10.1039/c4cp03457k}, author = {Ananthakrishnan, Soundaram Jeevarathinam and Wadgaonkar, Prakash P. and Somanathan, Narayanasastri} } @article { ISI:000336115000029, title = {Lipase mediated separation of triterpene structural isomers, alpha- and beta-amyrin}, journal = {Tetrahedron Letters}, volume = {55}, number = {19}, year = {2014}, month = {MAY}, pages = {3122-3125}, publisher = {PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD}, address = {THE BOULEVARD, LANGFORD LANE, KIDLINGTON, OXFORD OX5 1GB, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

Pentacyclic triterpenoids alpha- and beta-amyrin possess a wide range of biological and pharmacological activities. High structural similarity between these two structural isomers makes their chromatographic separation an ineffective and tedious choice. In this study, Candida rugosa lipase catalyzed separation protocol for the isolation of individual isomers has been developed. In the presence of vinyl acetate as the acyl donor, Candida rugosa lipase carried out acetylation of beta-amyrin more efficiently as compared to alpha-amyrin leading to a kinetic separation. The conditions of transesterification reaction were optimized systematically, which was utilized to separate alpha- and beta-amyrin from a mixture obtained from the latex of Plumeria obtusa. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {Amyrin, Candida rugosa, Kinetic separation, Lipase, Structural isomer}, issn = {0040-4039}, doi = {10.1016/j.tetlet.2014.04.015}, author = {Haldar, Saikat and Kale, Balaji S. and Jadhav, Dipesh D. and Thulasiram, Hirekodathakallu V.} } @article { ISI:000336107400002, title = {Living plant-mediated synthesis of different shaped gold nanoparticles}, journal = {Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Letters}, volume = {6}, number = {4}, year = {2014}, month = {APR}, pages = {279-283}, publisher = {AMER SCIENTIFIC PUBLISHERS}, address = {26650 THE OLD RD, STE 208, VALENCIA, CA 91381-0751 USA}, abstract = {

We demonstrate extracellular green synthesis of gold nanoparticles with different shapes and sizes by using live Prosopis juliflora L. seedling. The conversion of ionic to metallic gold nanoparticles by P. juliflora seedling was carried out in short period. The formed nanoparticles were characterized by UV, TEM, Diffraction and EDS. TEM shows well dispersed particles of different shapes and sizes. The percentage of different shapes of nanoparticles was calculated, most of the particles were spherical in shape (75\%). The triangle nanoparticles were 10\%, followed by squares (8\%), hexagonal (5\%) and rods (2\%). The diffraction shows the formed nanoparticles are crystalline in nature and EDS confirms the formed nanoparticles are of gold. This shows P. juliflora seedling can synthesis different shapes of well dispersed nanoparticles.

}, keywords = {Gold, Nanoparticles, Prosopis juliflora, Shapes, synthesis, TEM}, issn = {1941-4900}, doi = {10.1166/nnl.2014.1756}, author = {Raju, D. and Paneliya, Nikita and Mehta, Urmil J.} } @article {46402, title = {Low temperature grown CuBi2O4 with flower morphology and its composite with CuO nanosheets for photoelectrochemical water splitting}, journal = {Journal of Materials Chemistry A}, volume = {2}, year = {2014}, month = {MAR}, pages = {3661-3668}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

In this work we highlight a peculiar synthesis protocol for the p-type ternary metal oxide system of copper bismuth oxide (CuBi2O4), which yields a highly crystalline spherulitic morphology at a low temperature of 78 degrees C. We associate this growth with the hydrogen bonding effects imparted by the ethanol-water co-solvent system used for the synthesis. We present a detailed growth mechanism by evaluating different synthesis conditions systematically. Furthermore we show that upon the use of the non-stoichiometric (excess copper) precursor mixture under the same experimental conditions the growth of spherulitic CuBi2O4 changes the size and type of the spherulites. Interestingly, careful optimization of the nonstoichiometric synthesis presents a complete impediment to the spherulitic growth and produces a composite of nanorods of CuBi2O4 and nanosheets of CuO. This anisotropic nanocomposite shows an order of magnitude higher surface area as compared to spherulitic CuBi2O4. Since both CuBi2O4 and CuO are visible light absorbing p-type semiconductors, when the synthesized nanocomposite materials are examined as photoelectrochemical (PEC) photocathodes for water splitting, they show a remarkable dependence on the morphology and phase constitution. Almost 13-fold stronger PEC response is observed as the morphology changes from spherulites to nanorods.

}, issn = {2050-7488}, doi = {10.1039/c3ta14906d}, author = {Patil, Rupali and Kelkar, Sarika and Naphadeab, Rounak and Ogale, Satishchandra} } @article { ISI:000329886900016, title = {Luminescence and photocatalytic studies of Sm3+ ion doped SnO2 nanoparticles}, journal = {New Journal of Chemistry}, volume = {38}, number = {1}, year = {2014}, month = {JAN}, pages = {115-121}, publisher = {ROYAL SOC CHEMISTRY}, address = {THOMAS GRAHAM HOUSE, SCIENCE PARK, MILTON RD, CAMBRIDGE CB4 0WF, CAMBS, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

Sm3+ ion doped tetragonal SnO2 nanoparticles have been synthesized by the polyol method and its concentration and annealing effects on photoluminescence properties are studied. The XRD results show the changes of lattice parameters with the incorporation of the Sm3+ ion into the SnO2 host lattices. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) data indicate the formation of a Sn-O bond and capping of the nanoparticles by ethylene glycol. The broad emission peaks observed around 350 to 550 nm are attributed to the emission from defects or traps present in the host SnO2. The typical emission peaks of the Sm3+ ion are observed and there is efficient energy transfer between the host, SnO2 and the dopant, Sm3+ ion. Further, the prepared samples are experimented towards the photocatalytic behavior on selected triphenylmethane dyes, Ethyl Violet (EV) and Brilliant Green (BG). The degradation of dyes was found to be enhancing in the presence of Sm3+ ions as it suppress the e e(CB)(-) and h(VB)(+) recombination.

}, issn = {1144-0546}, doi = {10.1039/c3nj00759f}, author = {Singh, L. P. and Luwang, Meitram Niraj and Srivastava, S. K.} } @article { ISI:000362849600271, title = {Landscapes of membrane protein interactions from high-throughput MD simulations using the daft approach}, journal = {Biophysical Journal}, volume = {108}, number = {2, 1}, year = {2015}, note = {59th Annual Meeting of the Biophysical-Society, Baltimore, MD, FEB 07-11, 2015}, month = {JAN}, pages = {526A-526A}, publisher = {Biophys Soc}, address = {600 TECHNOLOGY SQUARE, 5TH FLOOR, CAMBRIDGE, MA 02139 USA}, issn = {0006-3495}, author = {Wassenaar, Tsjerk A. and Pluhackova, Kristyna and Moussatova, Anastassiia and Sengupta, Durba and Marrink, Siewert-Jan and Tieleman, D. Peter and Boeckmann, Rainer A.} } @article { ISI:000362308600004, title = {Lannea coromandelica attenuates glucagon and oxyntomodulin mediated cAMP formation in HEK cells stably-expressing human glucagon receptor}, journal = {Journal of Herbal Medicine}, volume = {5}, number = {3}, year = {2015}, month = {SEP}, pages = {153-157}, publisher = {ELSEVIER GMBH, URBAN \& FISCHER VERLAG}, address = {OFFICE JENA, P O BOX 100537, 07705 JENA, GERMANY}, abstract = {

Antagonism of glucagon is a potential therapeutic approach for Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The bark extract of Lannea coromandelica has been reported to have hypoglycemic or anti-diabetic effects on animal models and human subjects. The aim of this study was to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of L. coromandelica extract as a glucagon receptor antagonist. The aqueous extract of L. coromandelica bark attenuated glucagon-mediated cAMP formation in a concentration dependent manner with an IC50 value of 4.24 +/- 1.31 mu g/ml. It shifted a concentration response curve of glucagon towards the right with a 4, 21 and 40-fold change in IC50 at 6.25, 12.5 and 25 mu g/ml of extract, respectively. Additionally, it attenuated an oxyntomodulin-mediated cAMP response. The extract was found specifically to inhibit glucagon mediated cAMP formation since it was ineffective in reducing cAMP levels nonspecifically-elevated by forskolin. The data support that the aqueous extract of L. coromandelica antagonizes the glucagon receptor and has the potential to reduce glucagon mediated liver glucose output. (C) 2015 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {cAMP, Diabetes, Glucagon, Lannea coromandelica, Mechanism, Oxyntomodulin}, issn = {2210-8033}, doi = {10.1016/j.hermed.2015.06.005}, author = {Walunj, Sameer and Gupta, Rajesh and Joshi, Swati P. and Sabharwal, Sushma G. and Joshi, Kalpana} } @article { ISI:000362662100024, title = {Layer-separated MoS2 bearing reduced graphene oxide formed by an in situ intercalation-cum-anchoring route mediated by Co(OH)(2) as a Pt-free electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction}, journal = {Nanoscale}, volume = {7}, number = {40}, year = {2015}, month = {SEP}, pages = {16729-16736}, publisher = {ROYAL SOC CHEMISTRY}, address = {THOMAS GRAHAM HOUSE, SCIENCE PARK, MILTON RD, CAMBRIDGE CB4 0WF, CAMBS, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

A significant improvement in the electrochemical oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity of molybdenum sulphide (MoS2) could be accomplished by its layer separated dispersion on graphene mediated by cobalt hydroxide (Co(OH)(2)) through a hydrothermal process (Co(OH)(2)-MoS2/rGO). The activity make-over in this case is found to be originated from a controlled interplay of the favourable modulations achieved in terms of electrical conductivity, more exposure of the edge planes of MoS2 and a promotional role played by the coexistence of Co(OH)(2) in the proximity of MoS2. Co(OH)(2)-MoS2/rGO displays an oxygen reduction onset potential of 0.855 V and a half wave potential (E-1/2) of 0.731 V vs. RHE in 0.1 M KOH solution, which are much higher than those of the corresponding values (0.708 and 0.349 V, respectively) displayed by the as synthesized pristine MoS2 (P-MoS2) under identical experimental conditions. The Tafel slope corresponding to oxygen reduction for Co(OH)(2)-MoS2/rGO is estimated to be 63 mV dec(-1) compared to 68 mV dec(-1) displayed by the state-of-the-art Pt/C catalyst. The estimated number of electrons transferred during oxygen reduction for Co(OH)(2)-MoS2/rGO is in the range of 3.2-3.6 in the potential range of 0.77 V to 0.07 V, which again stands out as valid evidence on the much favourable mode of oxygen reduction accomplished by the system compared to its pristine counterpart. Overall, the present study, thus, demonstrates a viable strategy of tackling the inherent limitations, such as low electrical conductivity and limited access to the active sites, faced by the layered structures like MoS2 to position them among the group of potential Pt-free electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction.

}, issn = {2040-3364}, doi = {10.1039/c5nr04415d}, author = {Illathvalappil, Rajith and Unni, SreeKuttan M. and Kurungot, Sreekumar} } @article {42935, title = {Leucas mollissima, a source of bioactive compounds with antimalarial and antimycobacterium activities}, journal = {Planta Medica Letter}, volume = {2}, year = {2015}, month = {JAN}, pages = {e35-e38}, abstract = {

A phytochemical investigation of the acetone extract from the aerial parts of Leucas mollissima afforded one new (-)epi-marmelo lactone, (2 S, 4R, 6 S)-2,6-dimethyl-6 hydroxy-7-ene-4-olide (1), along with five known compounds, schensianol A (2), vanillin (3), β-hydroxy propiovanillone (4), lanost-9(11),25-diene-3β,24β-diol (5), and lanost-9(11),23E(24)-diene-3β,25-diol (6). Similarly, an investigation of the methanol extract of the aerial parts of L. mollissima resulted in the isolation of three known compounds, (+)-syringaresinol (7), anisofolin A (8), and apigenin 7-O-β-D(- 6''-p-E-coumaroyl)-glucoside (9). Structure elucidation of the isolated compounds was carried out using detailed analysis of 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance. All compounds were evaluated for antimalarial activity against Plasmodium falciparum (3D7) and for antimycobacterium activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Ra and Mycobacterium bovis. Compound 8 was found to have promising antimalarial activity (IC50 4.39 {\textpm} 0.25 {\textmu}M), promising antimycobacterium activity [IC50 4.50 {\textpm} 0.75 {\textmu}M (3.31 {\textmu}g/mL)] against M. tuberculosis H37Ra and at 100 {\textmu}g/mL, showed 55.6 \% inhibition of M. bovis. Compound 9 showed moderate inhibition of P. falciparum growth (35 \% inhibition at 10 {\textmu}M) with respect to the positive control atovaquone and 67.4 \% inhibition against M. bovis at 100 {\textmu}g/mL with respect to the positive control rifampicin.

}, author = {Chinchansure, Ashish A. and Arkile, Manisha A. and Shukla, Anurag and Shanmugam, Dhanasekaran and Sarkar, Dhiman and Joshi, Swati P.} } @article {42627, title = {Lifetime of inner-shell hole states of Ar (2p) and Kr (3d) using equation-of-motion coupled cluster method}, journal = {Journal of Chemical Physics}, volume = {143}, year = {2015}, month = {JUL}, pages = {Article No. 024305}, doi = {10.1063/1.4926396}, author = {Ghosh, Aryya and Pal, Sourav and Vaval, Nayana} } @article { ISI:000351236300080, title = {Ligand-, base-, co-catalyst-free copper fluorapatite (CuFAP) as a versatile, ecofriendly, heterogeneous and reusable catalyst for an efficient homocoupling of arylboronic acid at ambient reaction conditions}, journal = {RSC Advances}, volume = {5}, number = {31}, year = {2015}, month = {MAR}, pages = {24675-24680}, publisher = {ROYAL SOC CHEMISTRY}, address = {THOMAS GRAHAM HOUSE, SCIENCE PARK, MILTON RD, CAMBRIDGE CB4 0WF, CAMBS, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

This paper describes the first report in which copper species containing copper fluorapatite (CuFAP) acts as a versatile, eco-friendly, recyclable, heterogeneous catalyst for an efficient synthesis of symmetric biaryls from the homo-coupling of arylboronic acids in methanol solvent at ambient reaction conditions. The developed protocol is ligand-, base-, and co-catalyst-free, sustainable, mild, inexpensive, and compatible with a wide range of aromatic/heterocyclic boronic acids and provides the corresponding products in excellent yields without purification. The catalyst was easily recovered from the reaction mixture and reused several times without loss of activity.

}, issn = {2046-2069}, doi = {10.1039/c4ra16760k}, author = {Mulla, Shafeek Abdul Rashid and Chavan, Santosh S. and Pathan, Mohsinkhan Y. and Inamdar, Suleman M. and Shaikh, Taufeekaslam M. Y.} } @article { ISI:000352630600044, title = {Ligand-promoted intramolecular dehydrogenative cross-coupling using a Cu catalyst: direct access to polycyclic heteroarenes}, journal = {Chemical Communications}, volume = {51}, number = {32}, year = {2015}, month = {MAR}, pages = {7065-7068}, publisher = {ROYAL SOC CHEMISTRY}, address = {THOMAS GRAHAM HOUSE, SCIENCE PARK, MILTON RD, CAMBRIDGE CB4 0WF, CAMBS, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

A copper(II)-promoted intramolecular C-H coupling reaction between indole-2 and imidazole-2 moieties has been developed for polycyclic heteroarene synthesis. The method provides direct access to biheteroaryl incorporated polycyclic frameworks, which are of huge interest in the area of functional materials and drug-discovery.

}, issn = {1359-7345}, doi = {10.1039/c5cc01817j}, author = {Ray, Devalina and Manikandan, T. and Roy, Arup and Tripathi, Krishna N. and Singh, Ravi P.} } @article { ISI:000347513400044, title = {Lignin depolymerization into aromatic monomers over solid acid catalysts}, journal = {ACS Catalysis}, volume = {5}, number = {1}, year = {2015}, month = {JAN}, pages = {365-379}, publisher = {AMER CHEMICAL SOC}, address = {1155 16TH ST, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20036 USA}, abstract = {

It is imperative to develop an efficient and environmentally benign pathway to valorize profusely available lignin, a component of nonedible lignocellulosic materials, into value-added aromatic monomers, which can be used as fuel additives and platform chemicals. To convert lignin, earlier studies used mineral bases (NaOH, CsOH) or supported metal catalysts (Pt, Ru, Pd, Ni on C, SiO2, Al2O3, etc.) under a hydrogen atmosphere, but these methods face several drawbacks such as corrosion, difficulty in catalyst recovery, sintering of metals, loss of activity, etc. Here we show that under an inert atmosphere various solid acid catalysts can efficiently convert six different types of lignins into value-added aromatic monomers. In particular, the SiO2Al2O3 catalyst gave exceptionally high yields of ca. 60\% for organic solvent soluble extracted products with 95 +/- 10\% mass balance in the depolymerization of dealkaline lignin, bagasse lignin, and ORG and EORG lignins at 250 degrees C within 30 min. GC, GC-MS, HPLC, LC-MS, and GPC analysis of organic solvent soluble extracted products confirmed the formation of aromatic monomers with ca. 90\% selectivity. In the products, confirmation of retention of aromatic nature as present in lignin and the appearance of several functional groups has been carried out by FT-IR and H-1 and C-13 NMR studies. Further, isolation of major products by column chromatography was carried out to obtain aromatic monomers in pure form and their characterization by NMR is presented. A detailed characterization of six different types of lignins obtained from various sources helped in substantiating the catalytic results obtained in these reactions. A meticulous study on fresh and spent catalysts revealed that the amorphous catalysts are preferred to obtain reproducible catalytic results.

}, keywords = {aromatic monomers, Biomass, column chromatography, depolymerization, lignin, solid acid catalysts}, issn = {2155-5435}, doi = {10.1021/cs501371q}, author = {Deepa, Ayillath K. and Dhepe, Paresh Laxmikant} } @article { ISI:000368224600009, title = {Lithium-assisted proton conduction at 150 degrees C in a microporous triazine-phenol polymer}, journal = {Advanced Materials Interfaces}, volume = {2}, number = {16}, year = {2015}, month = {NOV}, pages = {1500301}, publisher = {WILEY-BLACKWELL}, address = {111 RIVER ST, HOBOKEN 07030-5774, NJ USA}, keywords = {conduction, hydrophobic polar frameworks, lithiated polymers, proton conduction, triazine-phenol polymers}, issn = {2196-7350}, doi = {10.1002/admi.201500301}, author = {Nandi, Shyamapada and Dhavale, Vishal M. and Shalini, Sorout and Werner-Zwanziger, Ulrike and Singh, Harpreet and Kurungot, Sreekumar and Vaidhyanathan, Ramanathan} } @article { ISI:000356515600001, title = {Long chain branched impact copolymer of polypropylene: microstructure and rheology}, journal = {Polymer Engineering and Science}, volume = {55}, number = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {JUL}, pages = {1463-1474}, publisher = {WILEY-BLACKWELL}, address = {111 RIVER ST, HOBOKEN 07030-5774, NJ USA}, abstract = {

A biphasic impact copolymer of polypropylene (ICP) was modified with peroxide by reactive extrusion process resulting in reduced melt flow index, improved melt strength, and higher die swell. The polymers were for the first time subjected to systematic rheological and microstructural characterization in an effort to understand their structure-property relations. In shear rheological tests, the modified ICP displayed higher flow activation energy, reduced values of loss tangent and nearly equal frequency dependence of storage and loss modulli. The modified ICP also showed strain hardening behaviour in uniaxial extensional rheology and higher crystallization temperature in differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). All these are definitive indications of the presence of long chain branches (LCB). Fitting the rheological data of modified ICPs with the eXtended Pom Pom (XPP) model indicated the presence of LCB on the higher molecular weight fraction in the polymer, a result which was corroborated with multi-detector high temperature gel permeation chromatography (HT-GPC). More importantly, the matrix and rubber phases of the ICP were separately characterized for presence of long chain branching by rheology, DSC and HT-GPC. The results indicate that while LCB existed in the matrix phase, microgels were present in both phases indicating that the reaction with peroxide occurred in both phases. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 55:1463-1474, 2015. (c) 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers

}, issn = {0032-3888}, doi = {10.1002/pen.23993}, author = {Chikhalikar, Kalyani and Deshpande, Anushree and Pol, Harshawardhan and Dhoble, Deepa Arun and Jha, Saroj and Jadhav, Kishor and Mahajan, Sunil and Ahmad, Zubair and Kulkarni, Surendra and Gupta, Surendra and Lele, Ashish K.} } @article {45879, title = {Low surface energy plane exposed co3o4 nanocubes supported on nitrogen-doped graphene as an electrocatalyst for efficient water oxidation}, journal = {ACS Applied Materials \& Interfaces}, volume = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {JAN }, pages = {442-451}, type = {Article}, issn = {1944-8244}, doi = {10.1021/am506450c}, author = {Singh, Santosh K. and Dhavale, Vishal M. and Kurungot, Sreekumar} } @article { ISI:000355656000013, title = {Low-temperature sintering and microwave dielectric properties of Zn2SiO4 ceramic added with crystalline zinc borate}, journal = {Journal of Electronic Materials}, volume = {44}, number = {7}, year = {2015}, month = {JUL}, pages = {2312-2320}, publisher = {SPRINGER}, address = {233 SPRING ST, NEW YORK, NY 10013 USA}, abstract = {

The physical and dielectric properties of composites of known microwave materials, Zn2SiO4 and Zn3B2O6, prepared by solid-state reaction, were investigated with the purpose of developing a low-loss dielectric material for low-temperature co-fired ceramic applications. An off-stoichiometric phase of Zn2SiO4 with extra SiO2 was used to avoid the occurrence of unreacted ZnO. During sintering, zinc borate was found to partially react with residual SiO2 to form Zn2SiO4. The residual zinc borate was converted to a boron-rich glassy phase which helped to reduce the sintering temperature of the composite. Good relative sintering density (\> 90\%) at temperatures below the melting temperature of zinc borate is indicative of a sintering mechanism of diffusion-based mass transfer. Composites containing 15 wt.\% zinc borate, 2.5 wt.\% lithium carbonate and 20 wt.\% zinc borate in zinc silicate had dielectric constants of 6.8 and 6.1, quality factors (Qxf) of 48,800 and 94,300 GHz when sintered at 900A degrees C and 950A degrees C, respectively. These quality factor results are close to the best values reported for zinc silicate at these sintering temperatures.

}, keywords = {dielectric constant, LTCC, quality factor, sintering density, zinc borate, zinc silicate}, issn = {0361-5235}, doi = {10.1007/s11664-015-3762-0}, author = {Chaware, Varsha and Deshmukh, Ravindra and Sarode, Chetan and Gokhale, Suresh and Phatak, Girish} } @article { ISI:000369591400061, title = {Large area chemical vapor deposition of monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides and their temperature dependent Raman spectroscopy studies}, journal = {Nanoscale}, volume = {8}, number = {5}, year = {2016}, month = {JAN}, pages = {3008-3018}, publisher = {ROYAL SOC CHEMISTRY}, address = {THOMAS GRAHAM HOUSE, SCIENCE PARK, MILTON RD, CAMBRIDGE CB4 0WF, CAMBS, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

We investigate the growth mechanism and temperature dependent Raman spectroscopy of chemical vapor deposited large area monolayer of MoS2, MoSe2, WS2 and WSe2 nanosheets up to 70 mu m in lateral size. Further, our temperature dependent Raman spectroscopy investigation shows that softening of Raman modes as temperature increases from 80 K to 593 K is due to the negative temperature coefficient and anharmonicity. The temperature dependent softening modes of chemical vapor deposited mono-layers of all TMDCs were explained on the basis of a double resonance phonon process which is more active in an atomically thin sample. This process can also be fundamentally pertinent in other emerging two-dimensional layered and heterostructured materials.

}, issn = {2040-3364}, doi = {10.1039/c5nr07401k}, author = {Pawbake, Amit S. and Pawar, Mahendra S. and Jadkar, Sandesh R. and Late, Dattatray J.} } @article {42663, title = {Large reduction in the magnitude and thermal variation of Frank elastic constants in a gold nanorod/nematic composite}, journal = {Journal of Physics D: Applied Physics}, volume = {49}, year = {2016}, month = {SEP}, abstract = {

We report measurements of splay and bend Frank elastic constants in a composite comprising a nematic liquid crystal doped with a small concentration of sterically stabilized gold nanorods. The composite exhibits not only a large reduction in the magnitude of the threshold voltage for switching (Vth, 20\%), as well as of the splay (K11, 40\%) and bend (K33, 40\%) elastic constants, but also presents an unprecedented feature: a substantial diminution in the temperature dependence of these parameters, almost to the point of becoming thermally invariant. This observation is significant because the electro-optic switching of liquid-crystal devices is largely controlled by the K11 and K33 elastic constants. Electrical conductivity measurements also show interesting behavior upon the inclusion of nanorods. Whereas the intrinsic Arrhenius behavior governing the temperature dependence is enhanced, the frequency dependence shows qualitative features of Jonscher{\textquoteright}s universal model, albeit with a higher exponent. Further, photoisomerization of an azobenzene guest component provides an additional influence on the elastic constants. The results are discussed in terms of (a) the effect of the order parameter dependence seen from the viewpoint of an extended mean-field model,and (b) local order. The advantage of incorporating nanorods with photofunctionality is also pointed out.

}, doi = {10.1088/0022-3727/49/42/425304}, author = {Madhuri, P. Lakshmi and Prasad, S.~Krishna and Shinde, Pravin~ and Bhagavatula L. V. Prasad} } @article { ISI:000382349600001, title = {Large trisoctahedral Au nanoparticles encapsulated inside porous silica catalyses CO oxidation at room temperature: probing the effect of encapsulation and the role of step atoms and interfaces}, journal = {Applied Catalysis A-General}, volume = {524}, year = {2016}, month = {AUG}, pages = {1-7}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV}, address = {PO BOX 211, 1000 AE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS}, abstract = {

As envisaged, a synthesis strategy is reported for encapsulating high index faceted trisoctahedral Au nanoparticles inside porous silica to preserve nanoparticle size by preventing sintering. Further, to probe the role of interfaces an active metal oxide junction was created by decorating trisoctahedral (TOH) Au nanoparticle with nano oxides before silica encapsulation. The activity of these catalysts was tested for CO oxidation reaction. The reaction was found to be facile on these encapsulated large structured Au nanoparticles showing appreciable activity at room temperature compared to non encapsulated counterparts. Apart from preventing sintering, the improved activity is demonstrated due to the retention of morphology and thereby the active centres due to encapsulation. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {Defect sites, Encapsulation, High index facets, Metal-oxide active perimeter, Trisoctahedral Au nanoparticles}, issn = {0926-860X}, doi = {10.1016/j.apcata.2016.05.023}, author = {Sreedhala, S. and Maheshwari, Shruti and Betsy, K. J. and Vinod, C. P.} } @article {43625, title = {Laser exfoliation of 2D black phosphorus nanosheets and their application as a field emitter}, journal = {RSC Advances}, volume = {6}, year = {2016}, month = {NOV}, pages = {112103-112108}, abstract = {Highly crystalline two dimensional (2D) few layered black phosphorus (BP) nanosheets have been synthesized via a one step facile laser irradiation technique under optimized experimental conditions. The field emission investigations on the few layered black phosphorus nanosheets were carried out at the base pressure 1 x 10(-8) mbar. The morphological, elemental, optical, and structural analysis of the as-synthesized black phosphorus sample was carried out using SEM, AFM, EDAX, TEM, and Raman spectroscopy. The turn-on values of the BP nanosheets emitter were found to be significantly lower than that of earlier reports of BP nanosheets, graphene, and carbon nanotubes based field emitters due to the high field enhancement factor (beta) similar to 2986 associated with atomically thin/sharp edges of the BP nanosheets emitter. The emission current versus time plot depicts the good emission current stability with a pre-set value of 1 mu A for similar to 5 h duration. Our facile synthesis approach and the robust field emitter nature of the BP nanosheets makes them a potential candidate for a practical electron source in vacuum micro/nanoelectronic devices.}, doi = {10.1039/c6ra24526a}, author = {Suryawanshi, Sachin R. and More, Mahendra A. and Late, Dattatray J.} } @article {43575, title = {Laser shielding and thermal ablation characteristics of resorcinol formaldehyde/boronnitride composites for thermal protection systems}, journal = {Industrial \& Engineering Chemistry Research}, volume = {55}, year = {2016}, month = {OCT}, pages = {10645-10655}, abstract = {Resorcinol formaldehyde (RF) composites were modified by incorporating different weight ratios of hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) through a novel in situ polymerization technique. Temperature modulated SAXS was used to understand the changes in polymer network due to h-BN addition. The ablation performance of RF BN composites was evaluated by pulsed laser and oxyacetylene torch tests. Linear ablation resistance under oxyacetylene conditions improved by 18\%. Laser ablation resistance increased by 44\%. The reasons for improved ablation resistance for RF BN composites were studied using XRD, FTIR, and XPS methods which indicated that h-BN undergoes phase transformation at higher temperatures and also displays typical floral assimilation leading to significant energy consumption. This results in improved ablation resistance. These findings could lead to fabrication of RF BN based thermal protection systems (TPS) having better protection capabilities.}, doi = {10.1021/acs.iecr.6b01443}, author = {Daniel, Alex and Badhe, Yutika and Srikanth, Ivaturi and Gokhale, Suresh and Balasubramanian, Kandasubramanian} } @article {42428, title = {Lewis acid catalyzed selective reactions of donor-acceptor cyclopropanes with 2-naphthols}, journal = {Angewandte Chemie-International Edition}, volume = {55}, year = {2016}, month = {AUG}, pages = {10061-10064}, abstract = {

Lewis acid-catalyzed reactions of 2-substituted cyclopropane 1,1-dicarboxylates with 2-naphthols is reported. The reaction exhibits tunable selectivity depending on the nature of Lewis acid employed and proceed as a dearomatization/rearomatization sequence. With Bi(OTf)(3) as the Lewis acid, a highly selective dehydrative [3+2] cyclopentannulation takes place leading to the formation of naphthalene-fused cyclopentanes. Interestingly, engaging Sc(OTf)(3) as the Lewis acid, a Friedel-Crafts-type addition of 2-naphthols to cyclo-propanes takes place, thus affording functionalized 2-naphthols. Both reactions furnished the target products in high regioselectivity and moderate to high yields.

}, keywords = {annulations; arenes; Lewis acids; reaction mechanisms; small ring systems}, doi = {10.1002/anie.201604373}, author = {Kaicharla, Trinadh and Roy, Tony and Thangaraj, Manikandan and Gonnade, Rajesh G. and Biju, Akkattu T.} } @article { ISI:000372981400010, title = {Ligand-free Pd catalyzed cross-coupling reactions in an aqueous hydrotropic medium}, journal = {Green Chemistry}, volume = {18}, number = {7}, year = {2016}, month = {NOV}, pages = {1898-1911}, publisher = {ROYAL SOC CHEMISTRY}, address = {THOMAS GRAHAM HOUSE, SCIENCE PARK, MILTON RD, CAMBRIDGE CB4 0WF, CAMBS, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

A simple, efficient and ligand-free protocol for the Suzuki-Miyaura reaction and base-free Heck-Matsuda reactions under mild reaction conditions have been developed over palladium supported on activated carbon (Pd/C) in an aqueous hydrotropic solution. The catalyst Pd/C was fully characterized by TG-DTA, SEM, EDS, XRD, XPS, BET and ICP-AES analyses. This green methodology represents a cost-effective and operationally convenient method for the synthesis of a variety of biaryls, prochiral ketones, and acrylates under the conditions that are tolerant for a broad range of functional groups with good to excellent yields. The developed Pd/C-aqueous hydrotrope combined catalytic system is well suited for the 3R approach (reducible, robust, and recyclable) for different cross-coupling reactions without an appreciable loss of its activity.

}, issn = {1463-9262}, doi = {10.1039/c5gc02314a}, author = {Jadhav, Sanjay N. and Kumbhar, Arjun S. and Rode, Chadrashekhar V. and Salunkhe, Rajashri S.} } @article { ISI:000373421700057, title = {Liquid exfoliation of black phosphorus nanosheets and its application as humidity sensor}, journal = {Microporous and Mesoporous Materials}, volume = {225}, year = {2016}, month = {MAY}, pages = {494-503}, publisher = {ELSEVIER SCIENCE BV}, address = {PO BOX 211, 1000 AE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS}, abstract = {

The bulk crystal of black phosphorus was exfoliated by liquid exfoliation method for a duration of 8 h using N-Methyl-2-Pyrrolidone as the solvent. The exfoliated sample was centrifuged at different rpm such as 3000, 5000 and 10,000 to separate out the 2D black phosphorus nanosheets with different thickness and length. The as synthesized black phosphorus nanosheets collected at these rpm values were characterized with TEM, AFM, Raman spectroscopy and Vis-NIR spectroscopy. Further, we investigated the humidity sensing behaviour of the devices fabricated by using these samples. The results obtained show that the device fabricated with black phosphorus nanosheets and nanoparticles obtained by filtration of the sample collected after 10,000 rpm exhibited better performance as compared to the nanosheets collected at 3000 and 5000 rpm. The response and recovery times of devices are found to be promising and better than those of the black phosphorus gas sensor reported earlier. The present investigations open up a new avenue for further studies in improving the performance of black phosphorus nanosheets based gas sensing devices. (C) 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {black phosphorus, Humidity sensors, Liquid exfoliation, nanosheets}, issn = {1387-1811}, doi = {10.1016/j.micromeso.2016.01.031}, author = {Late, Dattatray J.} } @article {45630, title = {Low band gap benzimidazole COF supported Ni3N as highly active OER catalyst}, journal = {Advanced Energy Materials}, volume = {6}, year = {2016}, month = {DEC }, pages = {Article No:1601189}, abstract = {

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have structures and morphologies closely resembling graphenes, whose modular construction permits atomiclevel manipulations. This, combined with their porous structure, makes them excellent catalyst supports. Here, the high electrocatalytic activity of a composite, formed by supporting Ni3N nanoparticles on a benzimidazole COF, for oxygen evolution reaction is shown. The composite oxidizes alkaline water with a near-record low overpotential of 230 mV @ 10 mA cm(-2) (eta(10)). This high activity is attributed to the ability of the COF to confine the Ni3N nanoparticles to size regimes otherwise difficult to obtain and to its low band gap character (1.49 eV) arising from the synergy between the conducting Ni3N nanoparticles and the pi-conjugated COF. The COF itself, as a metalfree self-standing framework, has an oxygen evolution reaction activity with 10 of 400 mV. The periodic structure of the COF makes it serve as a matrix to disperse the catalytically active Ni3N nanoparticles favoring their high accessibility and thereby good charge-transport within the composite. This is evident from the amount of O-2 evolved (230 mmol h(-1) g(-1)), which, to the best of our knowledge, is the highest reported. The work reveals the emergence of COF as supports for electrocatalysts.

}, issn = {1614-6832}, doi = {10.1002/aenm.201601189}, author = {Nandi, Shyamapada and Singh, Santosh Kumar and Mullangi, Dinesh and Illathvalappil, Rajith and George, Leena and Vinod, Chathakudath P. and Kurungot, Sreekumar and Vaidhyanathan, Ramanathan} } @article { ISI:000369603400025, title = {Low frequency noise and photo-enhanced field emission from ultrathin PbBi2Se4 nanosheets}, journal = {Journal of Materials Chemistry C}, volume = {4}, number = {5}, year = {2016}, month = {DEC}, pages = {1096-1103}, publisher = {ROYAL SOC CHEMISTRY}, address = {THOMAS GRAHAM HOUSE, SCIENCE PARK, MILTON RD, CAMBRIDGE CB4 0WF, CAMBS, ENGLAND}, abstract = {

Atomically thin two-dimensional layered materials have gained wide interest owing to their novel properties and potential for applications in nanoelectronic and optoelectronic devices. Here, we present the spectral analysis and photo-enhanced field emission studies of a layered intergrowth PbBi2Se4 nanosheet emitter, performed at the base pressure of similar to 1 x 10(-8) mbar. The emitter shows a turn-on field value of similar to 4.80 V mu m(-1), corresponding to an emission current density of similar to 1 mu A cm(-2). Interestingly, when the cathode was illuminated with visible light, it exhibited a lower turn-on field of B3.90 V mm(-1), and a maximum emission current density of similar to 893 mu A cm(-2) has been drawn at an applied electric field of similar to 8.40 V mu m(-1). Furthermore, the photo-enhanced emission current showed reproducible, step-like switching behavior in synchronous with ON-OFF switching of the illumination source. The emission current-time plots reveal excellent stability over a duration of similar to 6 h. Low-frequency noise is a significant limitation for the performance of nanoscale electronic devices. The spectral analysis performed on a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) analyzer revealed that the observed noise is of 1/f(alpha) type, with the value of alpha similar to 0.99. The low frequency noise, photo-enhanced field emission, and reproducible switching behavior characterized with very fast rise and fall times propose the layered PbBi2Se4 nanosheet emitter as a new promising candidate for novel vacuum nano-optoelectronic devices.

}, issn = {2050-7526}, doi = {10.1039/c5tc02993g}, author = {Suryawanshi, Sachin R. and Guin, Satya N. and Chatterjee, Arindom and Kashid, Vikas and More, Mahendra A. and Late, Dattatray J. and Biswas, Kanishka} } @article {43408, title = {Low temperature synthesis of metal doped perovskites catalyst for hydrogen production by autothermal reforming of methane (vol 41, pg 14605, 2016)}, journal = {International Journal of Hydrogen Energy}, volume = {41}, year = {2016}, month = {DEC}, pages = {21571-21571}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijhydene.2016.10.008}, author = {Pradhan, Sivaram} } @article {42913, title = {Low turn-on field and high field emission current density from Ag/TiO 2 nanocomposite}, journal = {Chemical Physics Letters}, volume = {657}, year = {2016}, month = {JUL}, pages = {167{\textendash}171}, abstract = {

High current density of 1.24 mA/cm2 was drawn at an applied field of 4.4 V/μm from Ag/TiO2 nanocomposite. Also the turn-on field has been reduced from 3.9 V/μm to 2.7 V/μm for the emission current density of 10 μA/cm2. Ag/TiO2 nanocomposite was synthesized by using UV-switchable reducing agent. TiO2 nanotube wall was decorated by Ag nanoparticles with average diameter of 17 nm. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report on the field emission studies of Ag/TiO2 nanocomposite. Simple synthesis route coupled with superior field emission properties indicate the possible use of Ag/TiO2 nanocomposite for micro/nanoelectronic devices.

}, doi = {10.1016/j.cplett.2016.06.003}, author = {Patil, Girish P. and Deore, Amol B. and Bagal, Vivekanand S. and Late, Dattatray J. and More, Mahendra A. and Chavan, Padmakar G.} } @article { ISI:000379314700006, title = {Low-overpotential electrocatalytic water splitting with noble-metal-free nanoparticles supported in a sp(3) n-rich flexible COF}, journal = {Advanced Energy Materials}, volume = {6}, number = {13}, year = {2016}, month = {JUL}, pages = {Article No. 1600110}, publisher = {WILEY-V C H VERLAG GMBH}, type = {Article}, address = {POSTFACH 101161, 69451 WEINHEIM, GERMANY}, abstract = {

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are crystalline organic polymers with tunable structures. Here, a COF is prepared using building units with highly flexible tetrahedral sp(3) nitrogens. This flexibility gives rise to structural changes which generate mesopores capable of confining very small (\<2 nm sized) non-noble-metal-based nanoparticles (NPs). This nanocomposite shows exceptional activity toward the oxygen-evolution reaction from alkaline water with an overpotential of 258 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm(-2). The overpotential observed in the COF-nanoparticle system is the best in class, and is close to the current record of approximate to 200 mV for any noble-metalfree electrocatalytic water splitting system-the Fe-Co-Ni metal-oxide-film system. Also, it possesses outstanding kinetics (Tafel slope of 38.9 mV dec(-1)) for the reaction. The COF is able to stabilize such small-sized NP in the absence of any capping agent because of the COF-Ni(OH)(2) interactions arising from the N-rich backbone of the COF. Density-functional-theory modeling of the interaction between the hexagonal Ni(OH)(2) nanosheets and the COF shows that in the most favorable configuration the Ni(OH)(2) nanosheets are sandwiched between the sp(3) nitrogens of the adjacent COF layers and this can be crucial to maximizing their synergistic interactions.

}, issn = {1614-6832}, doi = {10.1002/aenm.201600110}, author = {Mullangi, Dinesh and Dhavale, Vishal M. and Shalini, Sorout and Nandi, Shyamapada and Collins, Sean and Woo, Tom and Kurungot, Sreekumar and Vaidhyanathan, Ramanathan} } @article {44118, title = {Laboratory evaluation of synthetic blends of L-(+)-lactic acid, ammonia, and ketones as potential attractants for aedes aegypti}, journal = {Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association}, volume = {33}, year = {2017}, month = {DEC}, pages = {301-308}, type = {Article}, abstract = {Attraction of Aedes aegypti to various binary, trinary, and quaternary blends of lactic acid and ketones with or without ammonia was studied using a dual choice olfactometer. A dose dependent attraction was observed in cases of single compounds where cyclopentanone attracted the highest percentage (36.9 +/- 1.8\%) of Ae. aegypti when tested alone. No significant difference was observed between the attraction levels of trinary and binary blends of lactic acid and acetone or butanone when tested against clear air. However, in competitive bioassays, the trinary blend of lactic acid, acetone, and butanone was significantly preferred over binary blends of individual compounds (P < 0.05). Acetylacetone was weakly attractive when tested alone but showed additive attraction when blended with lactic acid. However, acetylacetone acted as an attraction inhibitor when blended with other compounds. Cyclopentanone was attractive, but enhancement of attraction was not observed when blended with other components. Addition of ammonia to binary or trinary blends of lactic acid, acetone, and/or butanone did not increase the attraction significantly. In competitive bioassays, the blends containing ammonia were significantly preferred over the blends lacking ammonia (P < 0.05). This highlights ammonia as an essential component of synthetic blends. A quaternary blend of lactic acid, ammonia, acetone, and butanone was most attractive (65 +/- 1.5\%) and preferred blend of all other combinations.}, doi = {doi.org/10.2987/16-6599.1}, author = {Venkatesh, P. M. and Sen, A.} } @article {44009, title = {Large anion incorporation to improve the performance of large, paper based conducting polymer supercapacitors}, journal = {Materials Today Energy}, volume = {5}, year = {2017}, month = {SEP}, pages = {112-117}, type = {Journal Article}, abstract = {

Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) is a stable conducting polymer, hence its dispersion is widely used in commercial devices. However, PEDOT{\textquoteright}s charge storage properties are not impressive. Thus, improvement in charge storage properties of PEDOT will render the possibility of fabricating stable energy storage devices such as supercapacitors. A fundamentally different approach is required to achieve this objective. We envisioned that the charge storage property of PEDOT can be improved by trapping large anions. These ions would facilitate better ion transport into the PEDOT matrix from the electrolyte and increase the efficiency of supercapacitors. Furthermore, a large anion such as triiodide is relatively immobile in the polymer matrix, hence we hypothesize the ions to be trapped in the polymer. To test this hypothesis, triiodide trapped PEDOT based supercapacitors are fabricated on paper substrates. A 1 cm2 triiodide incorporated PEDOT based supercapacitor exhibited a specific capacitance of 486 F/g. On the other hand, PEDOT without triiodide incorporation exhibited a specific capacitance of 221 F/g. Indeed, a device with an area of 32 cm2 exhibited a specific capacitance of 476 F/g.

}, keywords = {Flexible Supercapacitors, Paper based Supercapacitors, polyphenols}, doi = {10.1016/j.mtener.2017.06.004}, author = {Jain, B. and Krishnamoorthy, K.} } @article {44038, title = {Less frustration, more Activity{\textemdash}theoretical insights into frustrated lewis pairs for hydrogenation catalysis}, journal = {ChemCatChem}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, month = {AUG}, pages = { 3013-3022}, type = {Journal Article}, abstract = {The field of frustrated Lewis pair (FLP) chemistry has seen rapid development in only a few years. FLPs have performed most spectacularly in hydrogenation catalysis: a wide variety of FLP-based systems can catalyze the hydrogenation of a range of different substrates, including imines, enamines, ketones, alkynes, and alkenes. However, FLP-based hydrogenation catalysts are yet to match the efficiency of their transition-metal counterparts. The current investigation reveals an important aspect of FLPs that can be exploited to improve their efficiency, that is, the more sterically hindered the FLP catalyst is, the lower is its turnover frequency. Full quantum chemical calculations with DFT for a family of different, experimentally known hydrogenation FLP catalysts shows that superior FLP catalysts can be designed by reducing the frustration (by reducing the steric demand and acid/base strength) in the FLP. However, as lowering the steric demand without reduction in the frustration can result in unwanted side reactions, the design of the most efficient FLP catalysts depends on tuning the system so that both the steric demand and the frustration are reduced appropriately.}, keywords = {Boranes, Hydrogenation, reaction mechanism, Steric Hindrance}, doi = {10.1002/cctc.201700289}, author = {Mane, M.V.}, editor = {Vanka, K.} } @article {43875, title = {Lewis acid catalyzed cascade annulation of alkynols with alpha-ketoesters: a facile access to gamma-spiroketal-gamma-lactones}, journal = {Chemical Communications}, volume = {53}, year = {2017}, month = {JUN}, pages = {6641-6644}, type = {Article}, abstract = {A novel Lewis acid catalyzed intermolecular cascade annulation of alkynols with alpha-ketoesters has been developed. This simple and efficient cascade annulation proceeds through a 5-exo-dig cyclization of alkynols followed by annulation with alpha-ketoester to provide a wide variety of unsaturated gamma-spiroketal-gamma-lactones (1,6-dioxaspiro[4.4]non-3-en-2-ones) related to many natural products.}, doi = {10.1039/c7cc03668j}, author = {Kambale, Digambar A. and Thorat, Sagar S. and Pratapure, Madhukar S. and Gonnade, Rajesh G. and Kontham, Ravindar} } @article {44171, title = {Linking catalyst-coated isotropic colloids into {\textquoteleft}{\textquoteleft}active{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright} flexible chains enhances their diffusivity}, journal = {ACS Nano}, volume = {11}, year = {2017}, month = {OCT}, pages = {10025-10031}, type = {Article}, abstract = {Active colloids are not constrained by equilibrium: ballistic propulsion, superdiffusive behavior, or enhanced diffusivities have been reported for active Janus particles. At high concentrations, interactions between active colloids give rise to complex emergent behavior. Their collective dynamics result in the formation of several hundred particle-strong flocks or swarms. Here, we demonstrate significant diffusivity enhancement for colloidal objects that neither have a Janus architecture nor are at high concentrations. We employ uniformly catalyst-coated, viz. chemo-mechanically, isotropic colloids and link them into a chain to enforce proximity. Activity arises from hydrodynamic interactions between enchained colloidal beads due to reaction-induced phoretic flows catalyzed by platinum nanoparticles on the colloid surface. This results in diffusivity enhancements of up to 60\% for individual chains in dilute solution. Chains with increasing flexibility exhibit higher diffusivities. Simulations accounting for hydrodynamic interactions between enchained colloids due to active phoretic flows accurately capture the experimental diffusivity. These simulations reveal that the enhancement in diffusivity can be attributed to the interplay between chain conformational fluctuations and activity. Our results show that activity can be used to systematically modulate the mobility of soft slender bodies.}, keywords = {active matter, Brownian motion, colloidal assembly, diffusivity, ice templating}, issn = {1936-0851}, doi = {10.1021/acsnano.7b04265}, author = {Biswas, Bipul and Manna, Raj Kumar and Laskar, Abhrajit and Kumar, P. B. Sunil and Adhikari, Ronojoy and Kumaraswamy, Guruswamy} } @article {45700, title = {Liquid crystalline supramolecular crosslinked polymer complexes of ditopic rylenebisimides and P4VP}, journal = {Journal of Polymer Science Part A-Polymer Chemistry}, volume = {55}, year = {2017}, month = {MAR}, pages = {951-959}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Perylenebisimide and naphthalenebisimide (PBIPDP and NBI-PDP) end functionalized with pentadecyl phenol is designed as ditopic hydrogen bonding acceptors to form supramolecular crosslinked network with poly(4-vinyl pyridine) (P4VP). The pristine PBI-PDP has been grown as single crystals from DCM-MeOH (dichloromethane-methanol) mixture at room temperature, which revealed a P21 space group. Noticeably, the pentadecyl alkyl chain shields the aromatic perylene core on both sides resulting in the absence of p-p interaction in single-crystal assembly. The naphthalenebisimide derivative exhibits thermotropic liquid crystalline behavior, while both the molecules exhibits lyotropic liquid crystalline phases in tetrahydrofuran (THF), which were characterized using a combination of differential scanning calorimeter, X-ray diffraction, and polarized light microscopy. The hydrogen-bonded complex of both the rylenebisimides with P4VP preserves the mesomorphic properties in THF. The electron transport mobility measured by space charge limited current measurements reveals a two orders of magnitude increase in the charge transport in the P4VP complex compared to that of the pristine molecule. The average electron mobility obtained is mu(e, avg): 10(-3) cm(2)/Vs for P4VP-PBI compared to mu(e, avg): 10(-5) cm(2)/Vs for pristine PBI derivative. (C) 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

}, keywords = {crystal structures, ditopic rylenebisimide, hydrogen bonding, lyotropic liquid crystal, P4VP, Self-assembly, supramolecular crosslink, supramolecular structures}, issn = {0887-624X}, doi = {10.1002/pola.28449}, author = {Saibal, B. and Narayan, Rekha and Chithiravel, S. and Asha, S. K.} } @article {44000, title = {Living in the polymer age}, journal = {Resonance}, volume = {22}, year = {2017}, month = {APR}, pages = {333-334}, type = {Article}, doi = {10.1007/s12045-017-0472-3}, author = {Kumaraswamy, Guruswamy} } @article {44120, title = {Ln(8) (Ln = Gd, Ho, Er, Yb) Butterfly core-exhibiting magnetocaloric effect and field-induced SMM behavior for Er analouge}, journal = {ChemistrySelect}, volume = {2}, year = {2017}, month = {DEC}, pages = {11341-11345}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

In this article, we report four pyridyl-pyrazolyl based poly-nuclear cluster complexes with Ln(8) {Ln = [Gd-8(III)(mu(3)-OH)(4)(L-1)(4)(DEA)(4)Cl-4](DMF)(2)(MeOH)(1), [Ho-8(III)(mu(3)-OH)(4)(L-1)(4)(DEA)(4)Cl-4](2), [Er-8(III)(mu(3)-OH)(4)(L-1)(4)(DEA)(4)Cl-4](DMF)(MeOH)(H2O)(3), [Yb-8(III)(mu(3)-OH)(4)(L-1)(4)(DEA)(4)Cl-4](DMF)(MeOH)(4) [DEA = Diethanolamine] cores. The impetus for this study was to explore the magnetic behaviour of lanthanide ions which are often ignored or overlooked. X-ray crystal analysis show that these complexes are isostructural and exhibit an interesting butterfly like topology. The semi-rigidity and asymmetric nature of the ligand led to different coordination environment around the metal centres. The lanthanide ions adopt two types of geometry, a bicapped trigonal prism and a distorted square antiprismatic geometry around the metal center. Such dissimilar coordination environments around the lanthanide centre can have profound effects on their magnetic behaviour. Indeed, the magnetic measurements revealed significant magnetocaloric effect for octanuclear gadolinium complex 1 with magnetic entropy change (-Delta S-m ) of 31.4 J kg(-1) K-1 for Delta H = 9 T at T = 3 K whereas Er analogue complex 3 displayed SMM behavior.

}, doi = {10.1002/slct.201701905}, author = {Bala, Sukhen and Adhikary, Amit and Bhattacharya, Sudeshna and Sen Bishwas, Mousumi and Poddar, Pankaj and Mondal, Raju} } @article {43823, title = {Low-dimensional hybrid perovskites as high performance anodes for alkali-ion batteries}, journal = {Journal of Materials Chemistry A}, volume = {5}, year = {2017}, month = {SEP}, chapter = {18634-18642}, abstract = {

State-of-the-art Li (or Na) ion batteries work by insertion/extraction of the alkali metal ions into a porous electrode material, where the overall capacity is strongly dependent on the accessibility of the host material interior to the ions. On the other hand, the performance stability depends on various factors governed by the specific constitution of the electrode. Here we show that molecularly engineered low-dimensional hybrid perovskites can work as excellent anode materials for alkali-ion batteries. We measure a high reversible capacity of 646 mA h g(-1) at 100 mA g(-1) with good stability tested up to 250 cycles for the benzidine mediated lead iodide based 1D system. An ex situ analysis of the electrodes reveals that the storage primarily occurs via the Li-x(or Na-x)Pb alloying/de-alloying process. We anticipate that these results open a new direction for the use of low-dimensional hybrid perovskites for energy storage applications.

}, keywords = {Generation, Inorganic-Organic Hybrid, Lead Iodide, lithiation-intramolecular electrophilic reaction, Na-Air Battery, Negative Electrodes, Organometal Halide perovskites, PB, Sequential Deposition, Solar-cells}, issn = {2050-7488}, doi = {10.1039/c7ta04529h}, author = {Tathavadekar, Mukta and Krishnamurthy, Shrreya and Banerjee, Aparna and Nagane, Satyawan and Gawli, Yogesh and Suryawanshi, Anil and Bhat, Suresh and Puthusseri, Dhanya and Mohite, Aditya D. and Ogale, Satishchandra} } @article {43715, title = {L-Proline functionalized dicationic framework of bifunctional mesoporous organosilica for the simultaneous removal of lead and nitrate ions}, journal = {ACS Sustainable Chemistry \& Engineering}, volume = {5}, year = {2017}, month = {MAY}, pages = {4188-4196}, type = {Article}, abstract = {A novel bifunctional mesoporous organosilica, PEG-functionalized bis-prolinium chloride bridged mesoporous organosilica (BPBMO) was synthesized by reacting the precursor, PEG-functionalized bis-prolinium chloride bridged organosilane (BPRIL) with tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) in the presence of surfactant. The chemical conformation of BPBMO was investigated by using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), thermogravimentric analysis (TGA), C-13, and Si-29 cross-polarization/magic angle spinning (CP/MAS) NMR techniques. The characterization represents PEG-linked-prolinium (-N+Cl-) and carboxyl (-COOH) entities, constructing the dicationic framework through siloxane (Si-O-Si) linkages. The pore-wall distribution and the periodicity of BPBMO retained during the synthesis were examined by small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), Brunauer-Emmett-TellerBarrett-Joyner-Halenda (BET-BJH), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. The results revealed BPBMO as a spherical shaped solid (50-100 nm) having mesopore channels hexagonally arranged with interparticle porosity (S-BET = 487 m(2)/g and D-BJH = 5.1 nm). The material has provided active binding sites for the simultaneous removal of NO3- and Pb2+ ions when introduced in the aqueous solutions of Pb(NO3)(2) (50 mg/L, pH 6). The removal of NO3- by ion-exchange with prolinium (-N+Cl-) entities and the electrostatic interaction of Pb2+ with carboxylate (-COO-) group were characterized by using Raman spectroscopy, ion chromatography, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) technique. The maximum removal of NO3- and Pia{\textquoteright} ions were achieved within 1 h of the adsorption reaction. The adsorption has followed the Langmuir isotherm model with the adsorption capacities (q(m)) of 23.04 and 21.92 mg/g for NO3- and Pb2+ ions, respectively. The efficiency of the adsorbent was also compared with other adsorbents. Further, the BPBMO material has depicted three consecutive adsorption/desorption cycles with negligible loss in the structural conformation.}, doi = {10.1021/acssuschemeng.7b00132}, author = {Dinker, Manish K. and Ajithkumar, Thalasseril G. and Kulkarni, Prashant S.} } @article {44513, title = {Large PAMAM dendron induces formation of unusual P4332 mesophase in monoolein/water system}, journal = {Langmuir}, volume = {34}, year = {2018}, month = {MAY}, pages = {6827-6834}, type = {Article}, abstract = {Compact macromolecular dendrons have been shown to induce the formation of discontinuous inverse micellar assemblies with Fd3m symmetry in monoolein/water systems. Here, we demonstrate that a large PAMAM dendron (G5: fifth generation) induces the formation a very unusual mesophase with P4332 symmetry. This mesophase had previously been observed in monoolein/water systems only on addition of cytochrome C. The P4332 mesophase can be considered an intermediate phase between the bicontinuous Ia3d and discontinuous micellar mesophases. In this unusual phase, every third rod junction of the Ia3d mesophase is replaced with a spherical micelle. We present a detailed investigation of the phase behaviour of monoolein/water as a function of G5 concentration and temperature. Addition of 1\% G5 in 85/15 monoolein/water system induces a transition from the L to Ia3d phase. Further increase in G5 concentration to above 2\% induces the formation of the P4332 phase. Thus, incorporation of G5 yields a qualitatively different phase diagram when compared with incorporation of lower generation PAMAM dendrons (G2 {\textendash} G4) in monoolein/water, where the reverse micellar Fd3m phase forms. PAMAM dendrons of all generations, G2 {\textendash} G5, bear terminal amine groups that interact with the monoolein head group. The compact molecular architecture of the dendrons and these attractive interactions induce bending of the monoolein bilayer structure. For smaller dendrons, G2 {\textendash} G4, this results in the formation of the Fd3m phase. However, the large size of the G5 dendron precludes this and a rare intermediate phase between the Ia3d and discontinuous micellar phase, the P4332 mesophase forms instead.}, issn = {0743-7463}, doi = {10.1021/acs.langmuir.8b00551}, author = {Kumar, Manoj and Patil, Naganath Ganapatarao and Ambade, Ashootosh V. and Kumaraswamy, Guruswamy} } @article {45490, title = {Layered TiO2 nanosheet-supported NiCo2O4 nanoparticles as bifunctional electrocatalyst for overall water splitting }, journal = {ChemElectroChem}, volume = {5}, year = {2018}, month = {DEC}, pages = {4000-4007}, type = {Article}, abstract = {Exploring the generation of efficient and long-lasting bifunctional electrocatalysts obtained from low-cost transition metal oxides is crucial to the optimal production of hydrogen and oxygen by electrocatalytic water splitting. This study aims to demonstrate the applicability of layered TiO2 nanosheets as support for designing electrocatalysts. We have demonstrated the performance by decorating the TiO2 support with NiCo2O4 nanoparticles (NiCo2O4/TiO2) as catalysts for electrocatalytic overall water splitting. Moreover, the corrosion effect of usually used carbon-based supporting materials can decrease the working efficiency and, thus, the overall performance of the catalysts. In this aspect, TiO2 can be a better alternative to carbon-based systems. Layered TiO2 was synthesized at room temperature, and a simple heat treatment protocol was employed for the large-scale synthesis of NiCo2O4/TiO2. TiO2 facilitated the formation of smaller NiCo2O4 nanoparticles, also improving the dispersion. This bifunctional electrocatalyst exhibits high OER and HER performance with a low overpotential of 309 mV and 185 mV respectively, at a current density of 10 mA cm-2. TiO2 supported catalyst also exhibits other advantages like remarkable durability in the alkaline medium along with high turnover frequency (TOF) values. This inexpensive catalyst can deliver a current density of 10 mA cm-2 at only 1.64 V with a steady performance for more than 12 h for overall water splitting. Thus, this homemade system provides a proficient and low-cost alternative to the more expensive systems such as RuO2, IrO2 or Pt for the electrochemical water splitting applications.}, doi = {10.1002/celc.201801107}, author = {Raji, Vadakkekara and Rajith, Illathvalappil and Sreekumar, Kurungot} } @article {45386, title = {The Leishmania donovani IMPACT-like protein possesses non-specific nuclease activity}, journal = {International Journal of Biological Macromolecules}, volume = {119}, year = {2018}, month = {NOV}, pages = {962-973}, type = {Article}, abstract = {IMPACT (Imprinted and Ancient)-like proteins are known to be regulators of GCN2 (General control non-derepressible 2) kinases involved in translation regulation. Here, we report on cloning and characterization of an IMPACT-like protein, LdIMPACT from Leishmania donovani which harbours two domains. {\textquoteright}RWD domain{\textquoteright} at the N-terminal end that mediates GCN2 regulation, while a conserved {\textquoteright}ancient domain{\textquoteright} lies at the C-terminal end whose function remains elusive. Interestingly, our observations indicated that LdIMPACT has a novel nonspecific nuclease activity. In silico analysis further revealed the resemblance of ancient domain of LdIMPACT to RNase PH domain (known to bind to nucleic acids). The recombinant LdIMPACT exhibited a Mg2+-dependent nuclease activity. Moreover, thermostability and pH stability assays of the protein suggest it to be a stress responsive protein. Circular dichroism studies elucidated the conformational transitions of the enzyme in response to various temperature and pH conditions which correlated well with the activity profiles. Thus, the current study highlights the structural and functional characteristics of LdIMPACT which interestingly also possesses a novel nuclease activity. With its physiological relevance unresolved, the multifaceted LdIMPACT might therefore lie in a hitherto unknown network, whose perturbation could be an attractive therapeutic approach for treating leishmaniasis. (C) 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.}, issn = { 0141-8130}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2018.07.175}, author = {Rao, Shilpa J. and Shukla, Ekta and Bhatia, Varsha and Lohiya, Bharat and Gaikwad, Sushama M. and Kar, Anita and Pal, Jayanta K.} } @article {44378, title = {Ligand/additive/base-free C(sp(2))-H activation and isocyanide insertion in PEG-400: synthesis of indolizine/imidazoline-fused heterocycles}, journal = {ChemistrySelect}, volume = {3}, year = {2018}, month = {MAY}, pages = {4581-4585}, abstract = {A ligand/base/metal oxidant free Pd-catalyzed C(sp(2))-H activation, followed by isocyanide insertion to synthesize indolizine/imidazoline fused heterocyclics in PEG-400 as a recyclable solvent. The present transformation is greener and an efficient strategy using oxygen as external oxidant. The spectroscopic properties of selected indolizine/imidazoline fused heterocyclics were studied by UV-visible and fluorescence spectroscopy.}, doi = {10.1002/slct.201800397}, author = {Kumar, K. Shiva and Rajesham, Bandari and Kumar, N. Praveen and Ramulu, Meesa Siddi and Dandela, Rambabu} } @article {45357, title = { Ligand-solvent compatibility: the unsung hero in the digestive ripening story}, journal = {Langmuir }, volume = {34}, year = {2018}, month = {NOV}, pages = {13680-13689}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Digestive ripening (DR) is a process where a polydisperse nanocrystal (NC) system is converted into a monodisperse one with the aid of thermal heating of NCs in the presence of an excess surface-active organic ligand called digestive ripening agent (DRA) and a solvent. Here, we demonstrate that the solvent-DRA compatibility influences the final size and size distribution of the NCs in a significant manner. Accordingly, in this study, using the DR of gold NCs as the test case with alkanethiol (decanethiol/C10HT) and fluorinated thiol (1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorodecanethiol/C10FT) as DRA{\textquoteright}s and toluene and alpha,alpha,alpha-trifluoro-toluene (TFT) and their combination as solvents, we clearly establish that alkanethiols result in best-quality NCs after DR in toluene while the fluorinated thiols provide reasonably monodispersed NCs in TFT. Our results also ascertain that even when DR is carried out in a mixture of solvents, as long as the compatible solvent is the major component, the DR process results in reasonably monodisperse NCs. As soon as the amount of uncompatible solvent exceeds a threshold limit, there is perceptible increase in the polydispersity of the NCs. We conclude that the polarity of the solvent, which affects the buildup of ligated atoms/clusters, plays a key role in controlling the size distributions of the NCs.

}, issn = { 0743-7463}, doi = {10.1021/acs.langmuir.8b02699}, author = {Shimpi, Jayesh R. and Chaudhari, Vijay Raman and Prasad, Bhagavatula L. V.} } @article {45472, title = {Limonene inhibits Candida albicans growth by inducing apoptosis}, journal = {Medical Mycology}, volume = {56}, year = {2018}, month = {JUL}, pages = { 565-578}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Anti-Candida potential of limonene was evaluated against planktonic growth, biofilm (adhesion, development and maturation) and morphogenesis of Candida albicans in this study. Limonene is a major constituent of citrus oil and most frequently used terpene in food and beverage industry due to its pleasant fragrance, nontoxic, and is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) flavoring agent as well as treatment option in many gastrointestinal diseases. Limonene exhibited excellent anti-Candida activity and was equally effective against planktonic growth of C. albicans isolates differentially susceptible to FLC (N = 35). Limonene inhibited morphogenesis significantly at low concentration. However, it showed stage dependent activity against biofilm formation, that is, it was more effective against adhesion followed by development and maturation. Limonene also exhibited excellent synergy with FLC against planktonic and biofilm growth. SWATH-MS analysis led to identification of limonene responsive proteins that provided molecular insight of its anti-Candida activity. Proteomic analysis revealed upregulation of proteins involved in cell wall glucan synthesis (Kre6); oxidative stress (Rhr2, Adh7 and Ebp1); DNA damage stress (Mbf1 and Npl3); nucleolar stress (Rpl11, Rpl7, Rpl29, Rpl15) and down regulation of cytoskeleton organization (Crn1, Pin3, Cct8, Rbl2), and so forth, in response to limonene. Limonene mediated down regulation of Tps3 indicates activation of caspase (CaMca1) and induction of apoptosis in C. albicans. These results suggest that limonene inhibits C. albicans growth by cell wall/membrane damage induced oxidative stress that leads to DNA damage resulting into modulation of cell cycle and induction of apoptosis through nucleolar stress and metacaspase dependent pathway.

}, issn = {1369-3786}, doi = {10.1093/mmy/myx074}, author = {Thakre, Archana and Zore, Gajanan and Kodgire, Santosh and Kazi, Rubina and Mulange, Shradha and Patil, Rajendra and Shelar, Amruta and Santhakumari, Bayitigeri and Kulkarni, Mahesh J. and Kharat, Kiran and Karuppayil, Sankunny Mohan} } @article {44514, title = {Lipase catalyzed synthesis of antimicrobial andrographolide derivatives}, journal = {Data in Brief}, volume = {18}, year = {2018}, month = {JUN}, pages = {1134-1141}, abstract = {In this data article we describe screening of various lipases for the regioselective acylation of Andrographolide. Each lipase was screened with seven acyl donors. Amano lipase AK from Pseudomonas fluorescens was used for the synthesis of two new acylated andrographolide derivatives. Two new compounds, andrographolide-14-propionate and andrographolide-14-caproate were characterized by various spectral studies. These two derivatives showed more antimicrobial activity than andrographolide.}, doi = {10.1016/j.dib.2018.03.103}, author = {Patil, Harshal S. and Jadhav, Dipesh and Paul, Ajay and Mulani, Fayaj Alam and Karegaonkar, Shrikant J. and Thulasiram, Hirekodathakallu V.} } @article {44353, title = { Lithium hydride as an efficient reagent for the preparation of 1,2-anhydro inositols: does the reaction proceed through {\textquoteright}axial rich{\textquoteright} conformation?}, journal = {Carbohydrate Research}, volume = {463}, year = {2018}, month = {JUL}, pages = {32-36}, type = {Article}, abstract = {scyllo-Inositol derived 1,2-trans-diequatorial halohydrins can be efficiently converted to the corresponding epoxides in the presence of lithium hydride. The structure of one of the epoxides was determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. This provides a potential route for the preparation of ring modified inositol derivatives. DFT calculations suggest that this epoxide formation could be proceeding through the intermediacy of the cyclohexane ring-inverted axial-rich conformer (1,2-trans-diaxial halohydrin). This is supported by the results of DFT calculations on the formation of inositol orthoformate, where the product is locked in the axial-rich conformation, while the starting inositol has the equatorial-rich conformation.}, doi = {10.1016/j.carres.2018.04.014}, author = {Sarkar, Nitai and Sardessai, Richa S. and Shashidhar, Mysore S. and Tamboli, Majid I. and Gonnade, Rajesh G.} } @article {44617, title = {Lower scaling approximation to EOM-CCSD: a critical assessment of the ionization problem}, journal = {International Journal of Quantum Chemistry}, volume = {118}, year = {2018}, month = {JUL}, pages = {e25594}, abstract = {

In this article, we investigate the performance of different approximate variants of the EOM-CCSD method for calculation of ionization potential (IP), as compared to EOM-CCSDT reference values. None of the lower scaling approximations to the EOM-CCSD method give a consistent performance for valence, inner valence, and core ionization, favoring one, or the other depending on the nature of the approximation used. The parent EOMIP-CCSD method gives superior performance for valence IP but can show large errors for inner valence and core ionization. The problem is particularly severe for core-ionization, where even the EOMIP-CCSDT method cannot provide quantitative accuracy.

}, keywords = {EOM-CCSD, Ionization potential, lower scaling}, issn = {0020-7608}, doi = {10.1002/qua.25594}, author = {Dutta, Achintya Kumar and Vaval, Nayana and Pal, Sourav} } @article {45491, title = {Large enhancement in the magnetostriction parameters of the composite of CoFe2O4 and CoFe1.9Ga0.1O4}, journal = {Materials Letters}, volume = {236}, year = {2019}, month = {FEB }, pages = {303-306}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

A new strategy to enhance the magnetostriction parameters of cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) is illustrated. A composite comprising of nanocrystalline CoFe2O4 and bulk CoFe(1.9)Ga(0.1)O(4 )powders were mixed together then compacted and sintered at 1450 degrees C for 10 min. For a composite of 70 wt\% CoFe2O4 and 30 wt\% of CoFe(1.9)Ga(0.1)O4, maximum magnetostriction coefficient (lambda(max)) of -350 ppm has been obtained at lower magnetic field which is nearly 20\% and 65\% higher than that obtained for CoFe2O4 and CoFe1.9Ga0.1O4, respectively. Moreover, the composite exhibited higher strain sensitivity [d lambda/dH](max )of -2.6 x 10 (9) A(-1) m against the individual components of the composite. (C) 2018 Published by Elsevier B.V.

}, keywords = {Ceramics, Composite materials, Magnetic materials}, issn = {0167-577X}, doi = {10.1016/j.matlet.2018.10.115}, author = {Anantharamaiah, P. N. and Joy, P. A.} } @conference {47487, title = {Leukemia cancer detection using image analytics : (comparative study)}, booktitle = {2019 5th International Conference On Computing, Communication, Control And Automation (ICCUBEA)}, year = {2019}, month = {SEP}, publisher = {IEEE Xplore}, organization = {IEEE Xplore}, address = {Pune, India}, abstract = {Leukemia is a cancer of white blood cells (WBC). It can be fatal if not detected early. Microscopic images are studied by hematologists for detecting cancer. This manual detection becomes very tedious and time-consuming process. Leukemia if detected in earlier stages, can be cured. But traditional process causes late detection of cancerous cells. Hence in order to minimize the death caused due to late detection, an automated system can be used. This paper proposes an automated system which uses image analytics. Based on image analytics and classification algorithms performed on cell image samples of patients, the proposed system will give correct output. The dataset for experimentation is obtained from TCIA (The Cancer Imaging Archive) repository. The dataset is already pre-processed. An open source tool, "Orange-Data Mining" is used for predictions. In this comparative study, it was found that K-means clustering performs well for segmentation phase and also Neural Networks gives better results for classification phase. We have achieved AUC (area under curve) 0.865, Calculation accuracy (0.838), precision (0.835) and F1(0.836) for neural networks.}, doi = {10.1109/ICCUBEA47591.2019.9128546}, author = {Belhekar, Akshay and Gagare, Kumar and Bedse, Ritesh and Bhelkar, Yugandhar and Rajeswari, K. and Karthikeyan, Muthukumarasamy} } @article {46338, title = {Ligand-enabled gold-catalyzed C(sp(2))-n cross-coupling reactions of aryl iodides with amines}, journal = {Organic Letters}, volume = {21}, year = {2019}, month = {OCT }, pages = {8101-8105}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

The first example of ancillary (P,N)-ligand-enabled gold-catalyzed C-N cross-coupling reactions of aryl iodides with amines is reported. The high generality of the reaction in de novo synthesis, late-stage modifications, and cascade processes to access functionalized indolinones and carbazoles underscores the synthetic potential of the presented strategy. Monitoring the reaction with ESI-HRMS and NMR provided strong evidence for the in situ formation of putative high valent Au(III) intermediates.

}, issn = {1523-7060}, doi = {10.1021/acs.orglett.9b03082}, author = {Akram, Manjur O. and Das, Avishek and Chakrabarty, Indradweep and Patil, Nitin T.} } @article {45611, title = {Light-triggered, spatially localized chemistry by photoinduced electron transfer}, journal = {Angewandte Chemie-International Edition}, volume = {58}, year = {2019}, month = {FEB}, pages = {2715-2719}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

It is of immense interest to exert spatial and temporal control of chemical reactions. It is now demonstrated that irradiation can trigger reactions specifically at the surface of a simple colloidal construct, obtained by adsorbing polyethyleneimine on fluorescent colloidal particles. Exciting the fluorescent dye in the colloid affords photoinduced electron transfer to spatially proximal amine groups on the adsorbed polymer to form free radical ions. It is demonstrated that these can be harnessed to polymerize acrylic acid monomer at the particle surface, or to break up colloidal assemblies by cleaving a cross-linked polymer mesh. Formation of free radical ions is not a function of the size of the colloid, neither is it restricted to a specific fluorophore. Fluorophores with redox potentials that allow photoinduced electron transfer with amine groups show formation of free radical ions.

}, doi = {10.1002/anie.201812700}, author = {Usgaonkar, S. and Deshmukh, S. and Biswas, B. and Karjule, N. and Yadav, P. and Nithyanandhan, J. and Kumaraswamy, G.} } @article {46426, title = {Lignin conversion using catalytic ionic liquids: understanding the role of cations, anions, and hammett acidity functions}, journal = {Industrial \& Engineering Chemistry Research}, volume = {58}, year = {2019}, month = {NOV }, pages = {21273-21284}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Because it is undisputable that lignin depolymerization is a must to make the biorefinery concept economically feasible, several efforts are put toward it; however, a lot of catalyst designing is required to achieve efficient depolymerization activities. In this work, we show a systematic approach in the synthesis and characterization of ionic liquids (ILs) with varying combinations of cations (imidazole, benzimidazole, phosphonium, and ammonium) and anions (HSO4, PTS (p-toluenesulfonate), Cl, H2PO4, SnCl3, FeCl4, and CuCl3) for the depolymerization of lignin into low-molecular weight aromatic fractions (\<220 g/mol) under mild reaction conditions (120 degrees C, 1 h, ambient pressure). In a methodical approach, effects of various reaction parameters such as temperature (70-170 degrees C), time (15-360 min), pressure (N-2, 0.5-3 MPa), solvents and substrate, and so forth were studied to achieve best activity. Among all the catalysts, IL with the imidazolium cation and HSO4 as the anion showed best activity (78\% yield). Subsequent to depolymerization, three aromatic monomers (5 wt \% pure vanillin) were isolated using flash column chromatography. These aromatic monomers were characterized using gas chromatography (GC), GC-mass spectrometry, and NMR techniques for their purity. Hammett acidity functions (H-0) of ILs were measured using UV-vis photo-spectroscopy, and values are correlated with lignin depolymerization results. Lignin and tetrahydrofuran-soluble products were thoroughly characterized using assorted physicochemical techniques such as NMR (H-1 and C-13), gel permittivity chromatography, thermogravimetric analysis, and so forth. The catalyst was recycled up to six runs and showed similar results in consecutive reactions.

}, issn = {0888-5885}, doi = {10.1021/acs.iecr.9b03375}, author = {Singh, Sandip K. and Dhepe, Paresh L.} } @article {46310, title = {Lignocellulosic biomass: hurdles and challenges in its valorization}, journal = {Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology}, year = {2019}, type = {Review; Early Access}, abstract = {

Lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) is globally available and sustainable feedstock containing sugar-rich platform that can be converted to biofuels and specialty products through appropriate processing. This review focuses on the efforts required for the development of sustainable and economically viable lignocellulosic biorefinery to produce carbon neutral biofuels along with the specialty chemicals. Sustainable biomass processing is a global challenge that requires the fulfillment of fundamental demands concerning economic efficiency, environmental compatibility, and social responsibility. The key technical challenges in continuous biomass supply and the biological routes for its saccharification with high yields of sugar sources have not been addressed in research programs dealing with biomass processing. Though many R\&D endeavors have directed towards biomass valorization over several decades, the integrated production of biofuels and chemicals still needs optimization from both technical and economical perspectives. None of the current pretreatment methods has advantages over others since their outcomes depend on the type of feedstock, downstream process configuration, and many other factors. Consolidated bio-processing (CBP) involves the use of single or consortium of microbes to deconstruct biomass without pretreatment. The use of new genetic engineering tools for natively cellulolytic microbes would make the CBP process low cost and ecologically friendly. Issues arising with chemical characteristics and rigidity of the biomass structure can be a setback for its viability for biofuel conversion. Integration of functional genomics and system biology with synthetic biology and metabolic engineering undoubtedly led to generation of efficient microbial systems, albeit with limited commercial potential. These efficient microbial systems with new metabolic routes can be exploited for production of commodity chemicals from all the three components of biomass. This paper provides an overview of the challenges that are faced by the processes converting LCB to commodity chemicals with special reference to biofuels.

}, keywords = {Biomass pretreatment, Biomass supply chain, Cellulosic ethanol, Consolidated bio-processing, Lignocellulosic biomass (LCB)}, issn = {0175-7598}, doi = {10.1007/s00253-019-10212-7}, author = {Singhvi, Mamata S. and Gokhale, Digambar V.} } @article {46124, title = {Lipid composition and salt concentration as regulatory factors of the anion selectivity of VDAC studied by coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations}, journal = {Chemistry and Physics of Lipids}, volume = {220}, year = {2019}, month = {MAY}, pages = {66-76}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

The voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC) is a mitochondrial outer membrane protein whose fundamental function is to facilitate and regulate the flow of metabolites between the cytosol and the mitochondrial inter membrane space. Using coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations, we investigated the dependence of VDAC selectivity towards small inorganic anions on two factors: the ionic strength and the lipid composition. In agreement with experimental data we found that VDAC becomes less anion selective with increasing salt concentration due to the screening of a few basic residues that point into the pore lumen. The molecular dynamics simulations provide insight into the regulation mechanism of VDAC selectivity by the composition in the lipid membrane and suggest that the ion distribution is differently modulated by POPE compared to the POPC bilayer. This occurs through the more persistent interactions of acidic residues located at both rims of the beta-barrel with head groups of POPE which in turn impact the electrostatic potential and thereby the selectivity of the pore. This mechanism occurs not only in POPE single component membranes but also in a mixed POPE/POPC bilayer by an enrichment of POPE over POPC lipids on the surface of VDAC. Thus we show here that computationally-in-expensive coarse-grained simulations are able to capture, in a semi-quantitative way, essential features of VDAC anion selectivity and could pave the way toward a molecular level understanding of metabolite transport in natural membranes.

}, keywords = {Coarse-grained molecular, Membrane channel, Protein-lipid interactions, VDAC}, issn = {0009-3084}, doi = {10.1016/j.chemphyslip.2018.11.002}, author = {Van Liefferinge, F. and Krammer, E. -M. and Sengupta, D. and Prevost, M.} } @article {46289, title = {Lithium compounds as single site catalysts for hydroboration of alkenes and alkynes}, journal = {Chemical Communications}, volume = {55}, year = {2019}, month = {OCT }, pages = {11711-11714}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

The hydroboration of alkenes and alkynes using easily accessible lithium compounds [2,6-di-tert-butyl phenolatelithium (1a) and 1,1 {\textquoteleft} dilithioferrocene (1b)] has been achieved with good yields, high functional group tolerance and excellent chemoselectivity. Deuterium-labeling experiments confirm the cis-addition of pinacolborane. The methodology has been further extended to myrcene, which undergoes selective 4,3-hydroboration. DFT calculations provide insights into the mechanism.

}, issn = {1359-7345}, doi = {10.1039/c9cc05783h}, author = {Bisai, Milan Kumar and Yadav, Sandeep and Das, Tamal and Vanka, Kumar and Sen, Sakya S.} } @article {46133, title = {Lithium speciation in the LiPF6/PC electrolyte studied by two dimensional heteronuclear overhauser enhancement and pulse field gradient diffusometry NMR}, journal = {Journal of Physical Chemistry C}, volume = {123}, year = {2019}, month = {APR}, pages = {9661-9672}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Electrolytic dissociation of lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6) in the nonaqueous cyclic propylene carbonate (PC) has been investigated in the wide range of concentration (0.05-3.5 M) by Li-7 solution-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Two-dimensional heteronuclear Overhauser enhancement spectroscopy NMR experiments have not only enabled the cation solvation and ion-pairing to be directly monitored but additionally evidence anion solvent interaction at higher concentrations (\>1.2 M) of the PC electrolyte. Preliminary analysis of kinetic nOe data has been made to determine site-dependent cross-relaxation rates for the spatial interaction of the solvent with the Li+ cation and the PF6- anion. The concentration dependence of the Li-7 NMR self-diffusion coefficient (D-self), determined using very strong pulsed magnetic field gradients (similar to 1700 Gauss/cm), depicts two breaks to mark the solvation and ion-pairing events in a distinct manner. This in turn has aided the determination of solvent coordination number and average sizes of solvated and ion-paired clusters. Our results indicate that in the contact ion pair (CIP)-dominated electrolyte (\>2 M), lithium-ion mobility across the solvated and ion-paired environments appears to be inhibited which makes the spectral distinction of solvated and ion-paired environments possible. The concentration dependence of the Li-7 NMR spectral and diffusometry data is in striking correspondence with that of bulk conductivity measurements and point to the detrimental effect of CIP aggregates in impeding the ionic conductivity at high salt concentrations. These results have significance in understanding the structure and dynamics of lithium-ion solvates that are ubiquitous in the working environment of a lithium-ion battery.

}, issn = {1932-7447}, doi = {10.1021/acs.jpcc.8b11599}, author = {Kumar, Vikas and Reddy, R. Ravikanth and Kumar, B. V. N. Phani and Avadhani, Chilukuri V. and Ganapathy, Subramanian and Chandrakumar, Narayanan and Sivaram, Swaminathan} } @article {46645, title = {Lauric acid sophorolipid: accelerating the gelation of silk fibroin}, journal = {ACS Omega}, volume = {5}, year = {2020}, month = {NOV}, pages = {28571-28578}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Silk fibroin (SF) hydrogels find wide applications in tissue engineering. However, their scope has been limited due to the long gelation time in ambient conditions. This paper shows the reduction in gelation time of silk fibroin to minutes upon doping with a newly synthesized lauric acid sophorolipid (LASL). LASL comprises a fatty acid, lauric acid (with a 12-carbon aliphatic chain), that is derivatized by glucose molecules using a non-pathogenic yeast Candida bombicola. LASL was characterized using spectroscopic (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) and chromatographic (high-performance liquid chromatography, thin-layer chromatography, and high-resolution mass spectrometry) methods. This gelation of SF is comparable to the effect of an anionic surfactant, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). The microstructure of SF-LASL hydrogels was investigated by small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) measurements and exhibited the beads-on-a-necklace model. The rheological properties of these hydrogels show similarity to SF-SDS hydrogels, therefore presenting a greener alternative for tissue engineering applications.

}, issn = {2470-1343}, doi = {10.1021/acsomega.0c03411}, author = {Hirlekar, Swarali and Ray, Debes and Aswal, Vinod K. and Prabhune, Asmita A. and Nisal, Anuya} } @article {46719, title = {LHRH-conjugated, PEGylated, poly-lactide-co-glycolide nanocapsules for targeted delivery of combinational chemotherapeutic drugs Docetaxel and Quercetin for prostate cancer}, journal = {Materials Science \& Engineering C-Materials for Biological Applications}, volume = {114}, year = {2020}, month = {SEP}, pages = {111035}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

One of the major challenges in effective cancer chemotherapy is the severe systemic cytotoxicities of anticancer drugs on healthy tissues. The present study reports chemically modified polymeric nanocapsules (NCs) encapsulating combination of chemotherapeutic drugs Docetaxel (DTX) and Quercetin (QU) for its active targeting to prostate cancer (PCa). The active targeting was achieved by conjugating Luteinizing-hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) ligand to poly-lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) using polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a spacer. The structure of the conjugates was characterized and confirmed using H-1 NMR and ATR-FTIR. The drug encapsulated NCs showed a homogenous size distribution with their size ranging between 120 and 150 nm, and exhibited a negative zeta potential in the range of - 20 to - 40 mV. The in vitro release studies highlighted the sustained drug release pattern from the respective NCs; while the PEG coating to polymeric NCs provided serum stability to the NCs. The in vitro biological evaluation of the NCs was conducted using PC-3 and LNCaP cell lines. The results of the cellular uptake studies showed a significantly higher untake of the LHRH targeted NCs, while the LHRH-targeted-PEGylated DTX: QU NCs exhibited higher caspase-3 activity. The cell viability assay results showed the enhanced cell inhibition activity of the combinatorial DTX: QU when compared to individual DTX. Further, higher cell cytotoxicity was achieved by LHRH-targeted DTX: QU NCs as compared to their free-form or non-targeted NCs. Finally, the results of in vivo tumor localization and in vivo antitumor activity studies complimented and upheld the in vitro results, demonstrating the beneficial role of PLGA-PEG-LHRH NCs encapsulating combination of DTX and QU in combating prostate cancer (PCa).

}, keywords = {Active targeting, Anticancer, Controlled release, EPR effect, Hydrophobic, Prostate}, issn = {0928-4931}, doi = {10.1016/j.msec.2020.111035}, author = {Shitole, Ajinkya A. and Sharma, Neeti and Giram, Prabhanjan and Khandwekar, Anand and Baruah, Meghna and Garnaik, Baijayantimala and Koratkar, Santosh} } @article {46991, title = {Ligand structure directed dimensionality reduction (2D -> 1D) in lead bromide perovskite}, journal = {Journal of Physical Chemistry C}, volume = {124}, year = {2020}, month = {JAN}, pages = {1888-1897}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Low dimensional (2D, 1D) lead halide perovskites are currently attracting huge research interest due to their enabling properties. Demonstrating synthetic control on the dimensionality/ structure of these perovskites is highly challenging. Dimensionality in these perovskites is largely dictated by the nature/structure and composition of the incorporating ligands and the utilized synthetic conditions. Here, we demonstrate chemical composition based control on reduction of dimensionality (2D -\> 1D) for lead bromide perovskite utilizing 2-(2-aminoethyl)isothiourea dihydrobromide as a common precursor ligand (Isothio Bromide). Controlling the hydrothermal reaction parameters (temperature, time) at a fixed precursor ratio affords corner-shared, contorted 2D sheet perovskite and corner-shared, contorted, chiral 1D chain perovskite. Such dimensionality reduction leads to contrasting photophysical properties: 1D chain perovskite shows long-lived and self-trapped broad band emission, whereas 2D perovskite shows short-lived, band edge emission with a long tail. Mechanistic studies and single crystal structure analysis reveal the incorporation of the utilized precursor ligand (Isothio Bromide) in 2D perovskite. Surprisingly, the 1D perovskite is found to be chiral (P2(1) space group) incorporating 2-(2-aminoethyldisulfanyl)ethanamine and ammonium ions as the achiral ligands generated in situ due to hydrothermal cleavage of the precursor (Isothio Bromide) ligand. Such structural and compositional change of the ligands, which manifests a different hydrogen bonding network in the resultant perovskite structure, plays a decisive role in dictating the final molecular formula and dimensionality/structure of the perovskite which largely controls their photophysical properties.

}, issn = {1932-7447}, doi = {10.1021/acs.jpcc.9b11033}, author = {Bakthavatsalam, Rangarajan and Haris, Muhammed P. U. and Shaikh, Samir R. and Lohar, Amruta and Mohanty, Ashutosh and Moghe, Dhanashree and Sharma, Shivani and Biswas, Chinmoy and Raavi, Sai Santhosh Kumar and Gonnade, Rajesh G. and Kundu, Janardan} } @article {47143, title = {Lignocellulose-derived platform molecules: an introduction}, journal = {Recent Advances in Development of Platform Chemicals}, year = {2020}, month = {JAN}, pages = {1-31}, type = {Book Chapter}, abstract = {

Fossil feedstocks such as crude oil, natural gas, and coal are formed by natural anaerobic decomposition of buried organisms for a period of more than 650\ million years. On the other hand, agrobiomass is quick to grow and becomes a renewable source of chemical and fuel production through processing in a biorefinery.

}, keywords = {Biomass, Biorefinery Cellulose, Lignocellulose Petrofinery, Platform molecules}, doi = {10.1016/B978-0-444-64307-0.00001-9}, author = {Shinde, Suhas H. and Hengne, Amol and Rode, Chandrashekhar V.} } @article {46757, title = {Lipid-dependent conformational landscape of the ErbB2 growth factor receptor dimers}, journal = {Chemistry and Physics of Lipids}, volume = {230}, year = {2020}, month = {AUG}, pages = {104911}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Altered lipid metabolism has been linked to cancer development and progression. Several roles have been attributed to the increased saturation and length of lipid acyl tails observed in tumors, but its effect on signaling receptors is still emerging. In this work, we have analyzed the lipid dependence of the ErbB2 growth factor receptor dimerization that plays an important role in the pathogenesis of breast cancer. We have performed coarse-grain ensemble molecular dynamics simulations to comprehensively sample the ErbB2 monomer-dimer association. Our results indicate a dynamic dimer state with a complex conformational landscape that is modulated with increasing lipid tail length. We resolve the native N-terminal {\textquoteleft}{\textquoteleft}active{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright} and C-terminal {\textquoteleft}{\textquoteleft}inactive{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright} conformations in all membrane compositions. However, the relative population of the N-terminal and C-terminal conformers is dependent on length of the saturated lipid tails. In short-tail membranes, additional non-specific dimers are observed which are reduced or absent in long-tailed bilayers. Our results indicate that the relative population as well as the structure of the dimer state is modulated by membrane composition. We have correlated these differences to local perturbations of the membrane around the receptor. Our work is an important step in characterizing ErbB dimers in healthy and diseased states and emphasize the importance of sampling lipid dynamics in understanding receptor association.

}, keywords = {ErbB2 dimer, Lipid effects, Martini coarse-grained simulations, Membrane protein structure, Transmembrane association}, issn = {0009-3084}, doi = {10.1016/j.chemphyslip.2020.104911}, author = {Gopal, Srinivasa M. and Pawar, Aiswarya B. and Wassenaar, Tsjerk A. and Sengupta, Durba} } @article {47728, title = {Lamellar bimetallic thiolates: synthesis, characterization, and their utilization for the preparation of bimetallic chalcogenide nanocrystals through mechanochemical grinding}, journal = {Advanced Materials Interfaces}, volume = {8}, year = {2021}, month = {DEC}, pages = {2100898}, type = {Article}, abstract = {Thiolates of single metal ions are known to exist as lamellar structures in the neat state and some of these metal thiolates can be delaminated into individual molecular sheets simply by adding a nonpolar organic solvent. It is established here that even bimetallic thiolates such as copper-indium thiolate and silver-indium thiolate exist as lamellar sheets. Each of these sheets consists of both metal ions arranged in a random fashion. It is also demonstrated that these bimetallic thiolates can be employed as single source precursors to prepare phase pure bimetallic chalcogenide nanocrystals (NCs) through mechanochemical routes by grinding them with an appropriate chalcogenide source. Notably, these bimetallic chalcogenide NCs, though synthesized in the absence of any solvent, get easily dispersed in nonpolar solvents as their surface is protected by the thiolate molecules released during the grinding process. These ternary NCs display a strong and tunable photoluminescence in the visible to near-infrared region. Based on detailed systematic studies it is concluded that to obtain phase pure bimetallic sulfide/selenide NCs bimetallic thiolates, consisting of both metal ions in each sheet, must be used as single source precursors and physical mixtures of individual thiolates do not afford such phase pure materials.}, keywords = {bimetallic chalcogenide nanocrystals, bimetallic thiolate, mechanochemical grinding}, issn = {2196-7350}, doi = {10.1002/admi.202100898}, author = {Bera, Abhijit and Pathak, Sushil S. and Kotha, Vishal and Prasad, V, Bhagavatula L.} } @article {47775, title = {Laser cladding of PAC 718, tribaloy T-700 and METCO 41 C hard facing powders on AISI SS 304L substrate}, journal = { Materials Science}, year = {2021}, month = {FEB}, type = {Article}, abstract = {The present investigation aims to deposit the three different hard facing powder (Triboloy T-700 and PAC 718, and TETCO 41 C) on SS 304L using laser cladding technique. The single and overlapped clad track was deposited using 2 kW laser power system. The optimized laser process parameters and 50\% overlap clad track was used to deposit a large surface area. The optimum laser process parameters were finalised using single clad structure study. The cross-sections of the clad layers were used to obtain the microstructure and micro-hardness from different regions namely, clad layer, diffusion layer, and substrate. Throughout the study, the laser power was kept constant i.e. 1.2 kW. For single clad deposition, the scanning speed and powder feed rate varied from 0.3 to 0.5 m/min and 4 to 9 g/min, respectively. T-700 and PAC 718 shows uniform developing micro-structure while METCO 41 C shows the development of mixed dendritic and cellular type microstructure. The Triboloy shows the maximum surface hardness of 534 Hv, 321 Hv for PAC 718, and 294 Hv for METCO 41 C.}, doi = {10.5829/IJE.2021.34.02B.20}, author = {More, S. R. and Bhatt, D. V. and Menghani, J. and Paul, C. P. and Desale, G. R.} } @article {47130, title = {Laser patterning of boron carbon nitride electrodes for flexible micro-supercapacitor with remarkable electrochemical stability/capacity}, journal = {Carbon}, volume = {171}, year = {2021}, month = {JAN}, pages = {750-757}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

High performance, all solid-state planar micro-supercapacitor (MSC) with interdigitated Boron carbon Nitride (BCN) electrodes are fabricated via fast, scalable laser patterning technique. Heteroatom doping desirably enhances the electrochemical activity of carbon electrodes. This BCN based micro-supercapacitor showed comparatively very high specific capacitance of 72 mFcm(-2) at a current density of 0.15 mAcm(-2). Even at a high current density of 1 mAcm(-2) device showed specific capacitance as high as 17 mFcm(-2). It has demonstrated excellent electrochemical stability when tested up to 80000 cycles without any sign of further decay in capacity/efficiency. This device showed stable capacity even after bending at 150 degrees angle, for 1500 times during cycling showing remarkable flexibility. (C) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

}, keywords = {BCN, Co-doping, Energy storage, Flexible, Laser patterning, Micro-supercapacitor}, issn = {0008-6223}, doi = {10.1016/j.carbon.2020.09.053}, author = {Karbhal, Indrapal and Basu, Aniruddha and Patrike, Apurva and Shelke, Manjusha V.} } @article {47418, title = {Lead-free zero dimensional tellurium(iv) chloride-organic hybrid with strong room temperature emission as a luminescent material}, journal = {Journal of Materials Chemistry C}, volume = {9}, year = {2021}, month = {MAR }, pages = {4351-4358}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Despite the current progress in {\textquoteleft}Pb-free{\textquoteright} low dimensional main group metal halide based luminescent materials, it is challenging to synthesize Te(iv) halide hybrids with strong ambient emission with excitation features in the visible range as efficient and stable phosphors for potential lighting applications. Reported here is a (benzyltriethylammonium)(2)TeCl6 zero dimensional hybrid material with excitation features in the visible range and strong room temperature, broadband, intrinsic luminescence (PLQY similar to 15\%) arising due to self-trapped excitons (STEs). Furthermore, a proof-of-concept LED architecture demonstrates successful optical down-conversion with a visible light excitation source. Here, exclusive adoption of a {\textquoteleft}regular{\textquoteright} octahedral Te(iv)-halide unit structure with minimal static distortion provides a unique opportunity to unmask the role played by 5s(2) lone pair electrons in shaping the emissive properties. This effort may open up new avenues towards unravelling the role of lone pair stereoactivity in controlling the PLQY in low dimensional hybrids that has proven to be challenging for the reported (Sb, Sn) based low dimensional 5s(2) metal halide hybrid materials.

}, issn = {2050-7526}, doi = {10.1039/d0tc05752e}, author = {Biswas, Anupam and Bakthavatsalam, Rangarajan and Bahadur, Vir and Biswas, Chinmoy and Mali, Bhupendra P. and Raavi, Sai Santosh Kumar and Gonnade, Rajesh G. and Kundu, Janardan} } @article {47685, title = {L-Histidine-derived smart antifouling biohybrid with multistimuli responsivity}, journal = {Biomacromolecules}, volume = {22}, year = {2021}, month = {SEP}, pages = {3941-3949}, type = {Article}, abstract = {A novel dual pH/thermoresponsive amphiphilic poly(histidine methacrylamide)-block-hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene-block-poly(histidine methacrylamide) (PHisMAM-b-PB-b-PHisMAM) triblock copolymer biohybrid, composed of hydrophobic PB and ampholytic PHisMAM segments, is developed via direct switching from living anionic polymerization to recyclable nanoparticle catalyst-mediated reversible-deactivation radical polymerization (RDRP). The transformation involved in situ postpolymerization modification of living polybutadiene-based carbanionic species, end-capped with ethylene oxide, into dihydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene and a subsequent reaction with 2-bromo-2-methylpropionyl bromide resulting in a telechelic ATRP macroinitiator (Br-PB-Br). Br-PB-Br was used to mediate RDRP of an L-histidine-derived monomer, HisMAM, yielding a series of PHisMAM-b-PB-b-PHisMAM triblock copolymers. The copolymer{\textquoteright}s stimuli response was assessed against pH and temperature changes. The copolymer is capable of switching among its zwitterionic, anionic, and cationic forms and exhibited unique antifouling properties in its zwitterionic form. These novel triblock copolymers are expected to be show promising potential in biomedical applications.}, issn = {1525-7797}, doi = {10.1021/acs.biomac.1c00748}, author = {Mohammad, Sk Arif and Dolui, Subrata and Kumar, Devendra and Mane, Shivshankar R. and Banerjee, Sanjib} } @article {47033, title = {Limonoid biosynthesis 3: functional characterization of crucial genes involved in neem limonoid biosynthesis}, journal = {Phytochemistry}, volume = {184}, year = {2021}, month = {APR}, pages = {112669}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Neem (Azadirachta indica L.) is well known for its medicinal, agricultural, and pesticidal applications since ages. The secondary metabolites, limonoids, confer these biological properties, wherein over 150 different limonoids have been reported from neem. To understand limonoid biosynthesis, we analyzed tissue-specific (kernel, pericarp, leaves, and flower) transcriptome that resulted in the identification of one farnesyl diphosphate synthase (AiFDS), one squalene synthase (AiSQS), three squalene epoxidases (AiSQE1, AiSQE2, and AiSQE3), two triterpene synthases (AiTTS1 and AiTTS2), cycloartenol synthase (AiCAS), two cytochrome P450 reductases, and ten cytochrome P450 systems. Comparative tissue-expression analysis indicated that AiFDS, AiSQS, AiSQE3, and AiTTS1 are expressed higher in the kernel than in the other tissues. Heterologously expressed recombinant AiTTS1 produced tirucalla-7,24-dien-3 beta-ol as the sole product. Expression profile data, phylogeny with triterpene synthases from Meliaceae and Rutaceae families, real-time PCR of different tissues, and transient transformation revealed the involvement of tirucalla-7,24-dien-3 beta-ol synthase (AiTTS1) in limonoid biosynthesis. Further, mutagenesis studies of AiTTS1 indicated that Y125 and F260 are probably involved in stabilization of dammarenyl cation. A 2.6-fold increase in production of tirucalla-7,24-dien-3 beta-ol was observed when AiSQE1 was coexpressed with mutant AiTTS1 in a yeast system. Furthermore, we functionally characterized the highly expressed cytochrome P450 reductases and cycloartenol synthase. This study helps in further analysis and identification of genes involved in limonoid biosynthesis in Meliaceae/Rutaceae and their production in a metabolically tractable heterologous system.

}, keywords = {24-dien-3 beta-ol, Azadirachta indica A. Juss., Cytochrome P450 system, Limonoids, Meliaceae, Tirucalla-7, Transcriptome}, issn = {0031-9422}, doi = {10.1016/j.phytochem.2021.112669}, author = {Pandreka, Avinash and Chaya, Patil S. and Kumar, Ashish and Aarthy, Thiagarayaselvam and Mulani, Fayaj A. and Bhagyashree, Date D. and Shilpashree, H. B. and Jennifer, Cheruvathur and Ponnusamy, Sudha and Nagegowda, Dinesh and Thulasiram, V. Hirekodathakallu} } @article {47343, title = {Limonoid biosynthesis 3: functional characterization of crucial genes involved in neem limonoid biosynthesis (vol 184, 112669, 2021)}, journal = {Phytochemistry}, volume = {187}, year = {2021}, month = {JUL}, pages = {112751}, type = {Correction}, issn = {0031-9422}, doi = {10.1016/j.phytochem.2021.112751}, author = {Pandreka, Avinash and Chaya, Patil S. and Kumar, Ashish and Aarthy, Thiagarayaselvam and Mulani, Fayaj A. and Bhagyashree, Date D. and Shilpashree, H. B. and Jennifer, Cheruvathur and Ponnusamy, Sudha and Nagegowda, Dinesh and Thulasiram, Hirekodathakallu V.} } @article {47058, title = {Lithium compound catalyzed deoxygenative hydroboration of primary, secondary and tertiary amides}, journal = {Dalton Transactions}, volume = {50}, year = {2021}, month = {FEB}, pages = {2354-2358}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

A selective and efficient route for the deoxygenative reduction of primary to tertiary amides to corresponding amines has been achieved with pinacolborane (HBpin) using simple and readily accessible 2,6-di-tert-butyl phenolate lithium center dot THF (1a) as a catalyst. Both experimental and DFT studies provide mechanistic insight.

}, issn = {1477-9226}, doi = {10.1039/d1dt00364j}, author = {Bisai, Milan Kumar and Gour, Kritika and Das, Tamal and Vanka, Kumar and Sen, Sakya S.} } @article {47406, title = {Lithium silicate nanosheets with excellent capture capacity and kinetics with unprecedented stability for high-temperature CO2 capture}, journal = {Chemical Science}, volume = {12}, year = {2021}, month = {APR }, pages = {4825-4835}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

An excessive amount of CO2 is the leading cause of climate change, and hence, its reduction in the Earth{\textquoteright}s atmosphere is critical to stop further degradation of the environment. Although a large body of work has been carried out for post-combustion low-temperature CO2 capture, there are very few high temperature pre-combustion CO2 capture processes. Lithium silicate (Li4SiO4), one of the best known high-temperature CO2 capture sorbents, has two main challenges, moderate capture kinetics and poor sorbent stability. In this work, we have designed and synthesized lithium silicate nanosheets (LSNs), which showed high CO2 capture capacity (35.3 wt\% CO2 capture using 60\% CO2 feed gas, close to the theoretical value) with ultra-fast kinetics and enhanced stability at 650 degrees C. Due to the nanosheet morphology of the LSNs, they provided a good external surface for CO2 adsorption at every Li-site, yielding excellent CO2 capture capacity. The nanosheet morphology of the LSNs allowed efficient CO2 diffusion to ensure reaction with the entire sheet as well as providing extremely fast CO2 capture kinetics (0.22 g g(-1) min(-1)). Conventional lithium silicates are known to rapidly lose their capture capacity and kinetics within the first few cycles due to thick carbonate shell formation and also due to the sintering of sorbent particles; however, the LSNs were stable for at least 200 cycles without any loss in their capture capacity or kinetics. The LSNs neither formed a carbonate shell nor underwent sintering, allowing efficient adsorption-desorption cycling. We also proposed a new mechanism, a mixed-phase model, to explain the unique CO2 capture behavior of the LSNs, using detailed (i) kinetics experiments for both adsorption and desorption steps, (ii) in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform (DRIFT) spectroscopy measurements, (iii) depth-profiling X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) of the sorbent after CO2 capture and (iv) theoretical investigation through systematic electronic structure calculations within the framework of density functional theory (DFT) formalism.

}, issn = {2041-6520}, doi = {10.1039/d0sc06843h}, author = {Belgamwar, Rajesh and Maity, Ayan and Das, Tisita and Chakraborty, Sudip and Vinod, Chathakudath P. and Polshettiwar, Vivek} } @article {47034, title = {Loss of a water-mediated network results in reduced agonist affinity in a beta(2)-adrenergic receptor clinical variant}, journal = {Biochimica ET Biophysica Acta-Proteins and Proteomics}, volume = {1869}, year = {2021}, month = {APR}, pages = {140605}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

The beta(2)-adrenergic receptor (beta(2)AR) is a member of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family that is an important drug target for asthma and COPD. Clinical studies coupled with biochemical data have identified a critical receptor variant, Thr164Ile, to have a reduced response to agonist-based therapy, although the molecular mechanism underlying this seemingly {\textquoteleft}{\textquoteleft}non-deleterious{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright} substitution is not clear. Here, we couple molecular dynamics simulations with network analysis and free-energy calculations to identify the molecular determinants underlying the differential drug response. We are able to identify hydration sites in the transmembrane domain that are essential to maintain the integrity of the binding site but are absent in the variant. The loss of these hydration sites in the variant correlates with perturbations in the intra-protein interaction network and rearrangements in the orthosteric ligand binding site. In conjunction, we observe an altered binding and reduced free energy of a series of agonists, in line with experimental trends. Our work identifies a functional allosteric pathway connected by specific hydration sites in beta(2)AR that has not been reported before and provides insight into water-mediated networks in GPCRs in general. Overall, the work is one of the first step towards developing variant-specific potent and selective agonists.

}, keywords = {beta(2)-Adrenergic receptor, G protein coupled receptor, GPCR, molecular dynamics, Pharmacogenetics, SNP}, issn = {1570-9639}, doi = {10.1016/j.bbapap.2021.140605}, author = {Nikte, V. Siddhanta and Sonar, Krushna and Tandale, Aditi and Joshi, Manali and Sengupta, Durba} } @article {47649, title = {Lowering the C-H bond activation barrier of methane by means of SAC@Cu(111): periodic DFT investigations}, journal = {New Journal of Chemistry}, volume = {46}, year = {2021}, month = {DEC }, pages = {70-74}, type = {Article}, abstract = {Methane has long captured the world{\textquoteright}s attention for being the simplest yet one of the most notorious hydrocarbons. Exploring its potential to be converted into value-added products has raised compelling interest. In the present work, we have studied the efficiency of single-atom catalysts (SACs) for methane activation employing density functional theory (DFT). The climbing image-nudged elastic band (CI-NEB) method is used in tandem with the improved dimer (ID) method to determine the minimum energy pathway for the first C-H bond dissociation of methane. Our study reported that the transition-metal doped Cu(111) surfaces enhance the adsorption, activate the C-H bond, and reduce the activation barrier for first C-H bond cleavage of methane. The results suggest Ru-/Co-/Rh-doped Cu(111) as promising candidates for methane activation with a minimal activation barrier and a less endothermic reaction. For these SACs, the calculated activation barriers for the first C-H bond cleavage are 0.17 eV, 0.24 eV, and 0.26 eV respectively, which is substantially lower than 1.13 eV, the activation barrier for Cu(111).}, issn = {1144-0546}, doi = {10.1039/d1nj04525c}, author = {Bhati, Meema and Dhumal, Jignesh and Joshi, Kavita} } @article {47721, title = {Lsi2: A black box in plant silicon transport}, journal = {Plant and Soil}, volume = {466}, year = {2021}, month = {SEP}, pages = {1-20}, type = {Review}, abstract = {Background Silicon (Si) is widely considered a non-essential but beneficial element for higher plants, providing broad protection against various environmental stresses (both biotic and abiotic), particularly in species that can readily absorb the element. Two plasma-membrane proteins are known to coordinate the radial transport of Si (in the form of Si(OH)(4)) from soil to xylem within roots: the influx channel Lsi1 and the efflux transporter Lsi2. From a structural and mechanistic perspective, much more is known about Lsi1 (a member of the NIP-III subgroup of the Major Intrinsic Proteins) compared to Lsi2 (a putative Si(OH)(4)/H+ antiporter, with some homology to bacterial anion transporters). Scope Here, we critically review the current state of understanding regarding the physiological role and molecular characteristics of Lsi2. We demonstrate that the structure-function relationship of Lsi2 is largely uncharted and that the standing transport model requires much better supportive evidence. We also provide (to our knowledge) the most current and extensive phylogenetic analysis of Lsi2 from all fully sequenced higher-plant genomes. We end by suggesting research directions and hypotheses to elucidate the properties of Lsi2. Conclusions Given that Lsi2 is proposed to mediate xylem Si loading and thus root-to-shoot translocation and biosilicification, it is imperative that the field of Si transport focus its efforts on a better understanding of this important topic. With this review, we aim to stimulate and advance research in the field of Si transport and thus better exploit Si to improve crop resilience and agricultural output.}, keywords = {Efflux, Lsi2, Membrane transport, Root-to-shoot translocation, silicon, Xylem loading}, issn = {0032-079X}, doi = {10.1007/s11104-021-05061-1}, author = {Coskun, Devrim and Deshmukh, Rupesh and Shivaraj, S. M. and Isenring, Paul and Belanger, Richard R.} } @article {48066, title = {Lewis acid triggered N-alkylation of sulfoximines through nucleophilic ring-opening of donor-acceptor cyclopropanes: synthesis of gamma-sulfoximino malonic diesters}, journal = {Organic \& Biomolecular Chemistry}, volume = {20}, year = {2022}, month = {MAR }, pages = {2518-2529}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Scandium triflate (Sc(OTf)(3)) catalyzed, mild, and regioselective ring-opening reaction of donor-acceptor (D-A) cyclopropanes has been developed using sulfoximines for the synthesis of gamma-sulfoximino malonic diesters. This protocol allows the synthesis of different N-alkyl sulfoximines in good to excellent yields (up to 94\%) with broad functional group tolerance. In this process, N-H and C-C bonds are cleaved to form new C-N and C-H bonds. The feasibility of this method is supported by a gram-scale reaction and synthetic elaboration of the obtained product.

}, issn = {1477-0520}, doi = {10.1039/d2ob00213b}, author = {More, Satish G. and Suryavanshi, Gurunath} } @article {48364, title = {Lewis acid-catalyzed chemodivergent and regiospecific reaction of phenols with quaternary peroxyoxindoles}, journal = {Journal of Organic Chemistry}, volume = {87}, year = {2022}, month = {NOV }, pages = {14155-14167}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

The indium-catalyzed regiospecific coupling of substituted phenol derivatives and quaternary peroxyoxindoles for the synthesis of C2 or C4 benzoxazin-3-one-substituted phenols via skeletal rearrangement is described. This reaction is demonstrated with 17 examples with good yields and diverse aryl substituents. In contrast to the indium-catalyzed reaction, the Cu(OTf)2- catalyzed reaction of the phenol with quaternary peroxyoxindoles afforded C2 or C4 2-oxindole-substituted phenol derivatives. This diverse catalytic reaction generated various biologically important phenol-substituted 2-oxindole derivatives directly without any skeleton rearrangement and was demonstrated with 19 examples in high yield. The regiospecificity and the reaction pathways were explained with the support of density functional theory (DFT).

}, issn = {0022-3263}, doi = {10.1021/acs.joc.2c01701}, author = {Shaikh, Moseen A. and Samal, Pragnya Paramita and Ubale, Akash S. and Krishnamurty, Sailaja and Gnanaprakasam, Boopathy} } @article {48071, title = {Ligand dynamics time scales identify the surface-ligandinteractions in thiocyanate-capped cadmium sulfide nanocrystals}, journal = {Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters}, volume = {13}, year = {2022}, month = {APR }, pages = {3059-3065}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

The nanocrystal surface, which acts as an interface between thesemiconductor lattice and the capping ligands, plays a significant role in theattractive photophysical properties of semiconductor nanocrystals for use in awide range of applications. Replacing the long-chain organic ligands with shortinorganic variants improves the conductivity and carrier mobility of nanocrystal-based devices. However, our current understanding of the interactions betweenthe inorganic ligands and the nanocrystals is obscure due to the lack ofexperiments to directly probe the inorganic ligands. Herein, using two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy, we show that the variations in the inorganicligand dynamics within the heterogeneous nanocrystal ensemble can identifythe diversities in the inorganic ligand-nanocrystal interactions. The liganddynamics time scale in SCN-capped CdS nanocrystals identifies three distinctligand populations and provides molecular insight into the nanocrystal surface.Our results demonstrate that the SCN-ligands engage in a dynamic equilibriumand stabilize the nanocrystals by neutralizing the surface charges through both direct binding and electrostatic interaction.

}, issn = {1948-7185}, doi = {10.1021/acs.jpclett.2c00493}, author = {Deshmukh, Samadhan H. and Chatterjee, Srijan and Ghosh, Deborin and Bagchi, Sayan} } @article {48350, title = {Ligands as {\textquoteleft}{\textquoteleft}Matchmakers{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright}: alloying from a physical mixture of metal nanoparticle dispersions by digestive ripening}, journal = {Langmuir}, volume = {38}, year = {2022}, month = {DEC }, pages = {15917-15924}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Digestive ripening (DR) of a physical mixture of different metal nanoparticles (NPs) in the presence of a suitable ligand is demonstrated to be a convenient way to obtain alloy NPs. The results show that the right choice of metal-ligand combination is extremely important for efficient alloying. The results are rationalized on the basis of hard soft acid base principles, and it is concluded that better alloying ensues if DR is carried out with soft ligands when soft metals are being used and hard ligands facilitate alloying between hard metals. On the other hand, when a physical mixture of hard-soft metals is taken, ligands with intermediate character work better. The results presented here could prove to be extremely valuable and open new avenues of making interesting alloy/intermetallic systems.

}, issn = {0743-7463}, doi = {10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c01884}, author = {Shimpi, Jayesh R. and Prasad, V. Bhagavatula L.} } @article {48220, title = {Lignocellulose degradation by Penicillium janthinellum enzymes is influenced by its variable secretome and a unique set of feedstock characteristics}, journal = {Bioresource Technology}, volume = {365}, year = {2022}, month = {DEC}, pages = {128129}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Substrate characteristics and proteins that affect lignocellulose-hydrolysis by the hypercellulolytic fungus Peni-cillium janthinellum NCIM 1366 (PJ-1366) were investigated. The hydrolysis rate of PJ-1366 enzymes was very high, with upto 75 \% of the reaction being completed in initial 4 h. Comparison of the hydrolytic efficiencies on differently pretreated biomass indicated that the greatest (negative) effect was imparted by lignin, suggesting that improving ligninase activity of the PJ-1366 enzymes may help to improve hydrolysis. Larger pore sizes and higher crystallinity of substrates, which favor enzyme penetration and processive hydrolysis, positively influ-enced hydrolysis efficiency. For alkali-pretreated substrates, 16 FPU/g of PJ-1366 cellulases released the sugar -equivalent of using 10 FPU/g of a commercial biomass hydrolyzing enzyme. By correlation analysis, 41 proteins, including 20 CAZymes were identified, whose abundance in the secretome positively correlated with the cellulase activities of the culture filtrate. These proteins may be considered as the primary drivers of FPase/ CMCase/pNPGase/xylanase activity in PJ-1366.

}, keywords = {Biofuel, CAZyme, Cellulase, Penicillium, Secretome}, issn = {0960-8524}, doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2022.128129}, author = {Christopher, Meera and Sreeja-Raju, Athiraraj and Sankar, Meena and Gokhale, Digambar Vitthal and Pandey, Ashok and Sukumaran, Rajeev K.} } @article {48061, title = {Looking beyond adsorption energies to understand interactions at surface using machine learning}, journal = {ChemistrySelect}, volume = {7}, year = {2022}, month = {OCT}, pages = {e202202414}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Identifying factors that influence interactions at the surface is still an active area of research. In this work, the importance of analyzing bond length activations (BLact) along with adsorption energies (E-a) while interpreting Density Functional Theory (DFT) results is emphasized. Investigating adsorption of different small molecules, such as O-2, N-2, CO, and CO2, on commonly studied facets ((100), (110), and (111)) of seven fcc transition metal surfaces (M=Ag, Au, Cu, Ir, Rh, Pt, and Pd) demonstrates the missing linear correlation between E-a and BLact. Further, tree based Machine Learning (ML) models reinforce the missing linear correlation between the two parameters and also highlight the importance of analyzing both to develop a better understanding of adsorption at surfaces. The best performing Random Forest models have a mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.19 eV for E-a prediction, and even lower MAE of 0.012 angstrom for BLact prediction. While often d-band center is correlated with E-a, our observations show that infact the d-band center has a better correlation with BLact. These observations emphasizes the role of BLact in gaining a fuller picture for catalysis. The fact that the factors responsible for BLact is a lesser-explored subject adds to the novelty of the findings.

}, keywords = {Adsorption energy, Bondlength activation, catalysis, DFT, machine learning}, issn = {2365-6549}, doi = {10.1002/slct.202202414}, author = {Agarwal, Sheena and Joshi, Kavita} } @article {48150, title = {Luminescence turn-off detection of metal ions and explosives using graphene quantum dots}, journal = {MRS Communications}, volume = {12}, year = {2022}, month = {APR}, pages = {168-174}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Green luminescent graphene quantum dots (GQDs) obtained from combustion of white printing paper were used for detection of fourteen different metal ions and six different explosives in an aqueous medium. These were obtained using a microwave-assisted synthesis process. After optimizing the experimental conditions (pH 6; quantum yield (QY) similar to 38.2\%), a sensitive sensing system was developed to detect explosives and free residual metal ions in the environment based on fluorescence quenching of GQDs. The as-synthesized GQDs, as a sensing system, is most sensitive for Cu2+ ion and 2,4-DNP with a detection limit of 0.62 mu M and 0.50 mu M, respectively.

}, issn = {2159-6859}, doi = {10.1557/s43579-022-00157-w}, author = {Jyotsna, Shubhra and Sadhu, Subha and Sharma, Vinay and Gupta, Preeti and Sharma, Geeta and Poddar, Pankaj} } @article {48154, title = {Luminescent magnesium complexes with intra- and inter-ligand charge transfer}, journal = {Chemical Communications}, volume = {58}, year = {2022}, month = {OCT}, pages = {11843-11846}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Herein, we report two 2,2{\textquoteright}-pyridylpyrrolide (PyPyrH) ligand supported magnesium complexes (1 and 2), which demonstrate bright luminescence with a quantum yield of 22\% and 14\% in the solid state, respectively. Theoretical calculations reveal that their emissive properties originate from the intra- and inter-ligand charge transfer.

}, issn = {1359-7345}, doi = {10.1039/d2cc04142a}, author = {Kumar, Rohit and Pahar, Sanjukta and Chatterjee, Joy and Dash, Soumya Ranjan and Gonnade, Rajesh G. and Vanka, Kumar and Sen, Sakya S.} } @article {48285, title = {Late-stage C(sp(2))-H arylation of artemisinic acid and arteannuin B: effect of olefin migration towards synthesis of C-13 arylated artemisinin derivatives}, journal = {Chemistry-An Asian Journal}, volume = {18}, year = {2023}, month = {APR }, type = {Article}, abstract = {

In recent years, C-H bond functionalization has emerged as a pivotal tool for late-stage functionalization of complex natural products for the synthesis of potent biologically active derivatives. Artemisinin and its C-12 functionalized semi-synthetic derivatives are well-known clinically used anti-malarial drugs due to the presence of the essential 1,2,4-trioxane pharmacophore. However, in the wake of parasite developing resistance against artemisinin-based drugs, we conceptualized the synthesis of C-13 functionalized artemisinin derivatives as new antimalarials. In this regard, we envisaged that artemisinic acid could be a suitable precursor for the synthesis of C-13 functionalized artemisinin derivatives. Herein, we report C-13 arylation of artemisinic acid, a sesquiterpene acid and our attempts towards synthesis of C-13 arylated artemisinin derivatives. However, all our efforts resulted in the formation of a novel ring-contracted rearranged product. Additionally, we have extended our developed protocol for C-13 arylation of arteannuin B, a sesquiterpene lactone epoxide considered to be the biogenetic precursor of artemisinic acid. Indeed, the synthesis of C-13 arylated arteannuin B renders our developed protocol to be effective in sesquiterpene lactone as well.

}, keywords = {Arteannuin B, Artemisinic acid, artemisinin, C-H functionalization, Pd-catalysis}, issn = {1861-4728}, doi = {10.1002/asia.202300162}, author = {Paul, Sayantan and Ghodake, Balaji M. M. and Bhattacharya, Asish K. K.} } @article {48341, title = {Lead-free solid state mechanochemical synthesis of Cs2NaBi1-XFeXCl6 double perovskite: reduces band gap and enhances optical properties}, journal = {Inorganic Chemistry}, volume = {62}, year = {2023}, month = {MAR}, pages = {4861-4871}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Efficient and stable lead-free halide double perovskites (DPs) have attracted great attention for the future generation of electronic devices. Herein, we have developed a doping approach to incorporate Fe3+ ions into the Cs2NaBiCl6 crystal unit and reveal a crystallographic and optoelectronic study of the Cs2NaBi1-xFexCl6 double perovskite. We report a simple solid-state mechanochemical method that has a solvent-free, one-step, green chemistry approach for the synthesis of Cs2NaBi1-xFexCl6 phosphor. The analysis of powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) data determines the contraction of the lattice due to the incorporation of Fe3+ cations, and this effect is well supported by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), Raman spectroscopy, and solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (ss-NMR). The band gap is reduced with increasing Fe content owing to the strong overlap of the Fe-3d orbitals with Cl-3p orbitals and shift of the valence band maxima (VBM) toward higher energies, as confirmed by ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS) and density functional theory (DFT) analyses. Photoluminescence (PL) studies of Cs2NaBi1-xFexCl6 phosphors exhibit a large Stokes shift, broadband emission, and increased PL intensity more than ten times for 15\% of Fe content phosphor with enhancement in the average decay lifetimes (up to 38 ns) compared to pristine Cs2NaBiCl6 DP. These results indicate that the transition of dark self-trapping of excitons (STEs) into bright STEs enhances yellow emission. XRD, UV, and thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA) confirmed that the Cs2NaB1-xFexCl6 DPs have good structural and thermal stabilities. Our findings indicate that the doping of Fe3+ cations into the Cs2NaBiCl6 lattice is a constructive strategy to enhance significantly the optoelectronic properties of these phosphors.

}, issn = {0020-1669}, doi = {10.1021/acs.inorgchem.2c04149}, author = {Udavant, Rohini and Thawarkar, Sachin and Rondiya, Sachin and Shelke, Ankita and Aher, Rahul and Ajithkumar, Thalasseril G. and Cross, Russell W. and Dzade, Nelson Y. and Jadkar, Sandesh} } @article {48959, title = {Ligand-free one-pot synthesis of Ru/W18O49 self-assembled hierarchical coral-like nanostructures for selective conversion of glucose into glycols}, journal = {ACS Applied Nano Materials }, volume = {6}, year = {2023}, month = {DEC }, pages = {22635-22642}, type = {Journal Article}, abstract = {

In this study, we report a simple inorganic route for the synthesis of Ru/W18O49 self-assembled coral-like nanostructures, with the following advantages: It is one step and requires no surfactant or stabilizing agent; Ru loading is easily tuned, and the as-synthesized nanomaterials can be used as a catalyst without any further processing. The preliminary investigations of the catalytic performance of these as-synthesized Ru/W18O49 nanomaterials appear quite promising for converting glucose to glycols. The total glycol selectivity of 82.6\% with 100\% conversion of glucose was obtained over 0.03 wt \% Ru loading on tungsten nanostructures, which turns out to be the lowest Ru loading\% on support reported to date to achieve the highest total glycol selectivity among the previously reported catalyst based on Ru-nano/composite materials. Additionally, preliminary results show that the concentration of Ru on W18O49 significantly affects the selectivity of the glycol production. Thus, our methodology will open up a wide range of opportunities regarding the choice of metals, stoichiometric/nonstoichiometric WOx (x=1-3) as support, and the viability of further catalytic manipulations. A probable catalytic mechanism for this catalytic process is also proposed.

}, keywords = {glycols, Nanostructure, One-pot synthesis, ruthenium (Ru), selective conversion of glucose, tungsten oxide (W18O49)}, doi = {10.1021/acsanm.3c04200}, author = {Patil, Manoj Krishnat and Gaikwad, Supriya Hanmant and Kirali, Arun Arunima Balachandran and Marimuthu, Banu and Mukherjee, Shatabdi Porel} } @article {48914, title = {Linear polymer comprising dual functionalities with hierarchical pores for lithium ion batteries}, journal = {Chemelectrochem}, volume = {10}, year = {2023}, month = {OCT }, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Organic materials with carbonyl, azo, nitrile and imine moieties are widely used in lithium batteries. The solubility of these materials in battery electrolytes is an issue. Aggregation of the organic molecules can suppress the solubility, but the accessibility of lithium-ion is hindered. Therefore, insoluble porous organic materials are desired. Herein, we synthesized a linear polymer with carbonyl and azo functionalities. Due to the presence of easily isomerizable azo moiety, a porous polymer was obtained. The polymer showed nano and micropores. The battery with the porous polymer showed an impressive specific capacity of 400 mA h/g at 0.2 A/g. If the battery is pre-conditioned, the specific capacity increased to 615 mA h/g at the same current density. The post-mortem analysis of the battery confirmed that the polymer didn{\textquoteright}t dissolve in the battery electrolyte. The control material is a small molecule with carbonyl and azo moieties that showed a poor specific capacity of 40 mA h/g indicating the necessity to have a hierarchically porous dual-functional polymer. Polymers for batteries: A linear polymer with micro and Nano pores with azo and carbonyl functionalities renders increased accessibility to Li ions after preconditioning. During charge-discharge experiment Azo-Carb-PDI electrode had impressive discharge capacity of 469 mA h/g after 500 cycle which is almost 15 times higher than the monomer (Azo-PDI-Azo, 30 mA h/g after 100 cycle).image

}, keywords = {azo polymer, carbonyl, Li-ion battery, porous polymer, Rylene-imide}, issn = {2196-0216}, doi = {10.1002/celc.202300389}, author = {Aher, Jagadish D. and Palani, Sathishkumar and Krishnamoorthy, Kothandam} } @article {48991, title = {Liquid-liquid equilibria of ternary mixtures containing Aniline plus Toluene plus water at elevated temperatures: measurements and correlation}, journal = {Separation Science and Technology }, volume = {58}, year = {2023}, month = {NOV }, pages = {2718-2725}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Liquid-liquid equilibrium (LLE) data for the ternary system, Aniline + Toluene + Water, was measured at different temperatures of 298.15 K, 313.15 K and 323.15 K under atmospheric pressure with the help of High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis and Karl-Fischer technique. The efficiency of Toluene to extract Aniline from aqueous phase was then quantified in terms of the distribution coefficient and separation factor based on the tie line data. The system showed very good separation ability quantified in terms of high values of distribution factor (average around 7) and separation factors (as high as 1000). The experimental tie line data was verified by Hand and Othmer-Tobias equations. The LLE data was also correlated using NRTL and UNIQUAC models and both of them were able to represent the behavior of the system accurately when tested against experimental results. Toluene has been demonstrated to be very efficient to extract Aniline from reaction mixture, which is typically a by-product in hydrogenation of nitrobenzene, a process commercially used to produce p-Aminophenol in industry.

}, keywords = {Aniline, LLE, NRTL, Tie line, Toluene, UNIQUAC}, issn = {0149-6395}, doi = {10.1080/01496395.2023.2232104}, author = {Gaikwad, Shashank G. and Pathak, Abhishek A. and Mote, Dhananjay R. and Gogate, Parag R. and Singh, Shivani and Modhera, Bharat} } @article {48284, title = {Low-temperature preferential CO oxidation in a hydrogen-rich stream over Pt-NaY and modified Pt-NaY catalysts for fuel cell application}, journal = {Fuel Cells}, volume = {23}, year = {2023}, month = {FEB}, pages = {15-28}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Preferential oxidation of CO (CO-PROX) in the hydrogen-rich stream has been carried out over Pt-NaY catalysts containing various Pt loadings along with Fe, Co, and Au. Catalysts have been characterized with inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy, Brunauer, Emmett, and Teller surface area, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, temperature programmed reduction, and Pt dispersion. CO-PROX activities and CO oxidation selectivities are observed to increase with an increase in Pt content. Pt-NaY catalyst with 0.75 wt.\% Pt loading shows maximum CO-PROX activity at low temperatures. An increase in space velocity decreases the CO and O-2 conversions, but CO oxidation selectivity increases. A decrease in activity is observed when reformat gas contains around 20\% H2O. During the stability test, no change in CO and O-2 conversions is observed, but a small increase in the CO oxidation selectivity is noticed after 10 h indicating that the Pt-NaY catalyst is a promising candidate for CO-PROX reaction in a hydrogen-rich stream. The Pt-Fe-NaY catalyst shows better activity than the Pt-NaY catalyst but starts deactivating after 10 h. However, activity is observed to decrease over Pt-Co-NaY and Pt-Au-NaY catalysts. Pt-Fe-NaY catalyst with 0.75 and 0.35 wt.\% Pt and Fe, respectively, shows better CO-PROX activity at a temperature of 75 degrees C.

}, keywords = {catalysis, CO oxidation, experimental results, flow bed, Fuel Cell Applications, Hydrogen, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy}, issn = {1615-6846}, doi = {10.1002/fuce.202200134}, author = {Malwadkar, Sachin and Bera, Parthasarathi and Satyanarayana, Chilukuri V. V.} } @article {48790, title = {Luminescent 3D printed poly(lactic acid) nanocomposites with enhanced mechanical properties}, journal = {Polymer Engineering and Science}, volume = {63}, year = {2023}, month = {JUL}, pages = {2059-2072}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

The three-dimensional (3D) printing of functional composite materials has gained tremendous interest in recent years. Nevertheless, research on 3D printing of luminescent composite materials is very limited, and the mechanical properties of such 3D-printed composites are poor. Herein, we report the preparation and characterization of a poly(lactic acid) (PLA) composite that, when 3D printed, exhibits enhanced toughness and high solid-state fluorescence quantum yield. Incorporation of only 1 wt\% pyrene butyric acid modified cellulose nanofibers (PBA-m-CNF) and l0 wt\% thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) into PLA led to 223\% increase in toughness and 21\% increase in tensile modulus of PLA. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray microcomputed tomography (mu-CT) analysis of the fractured cross-sections of 3D printed composites revealed a ductile failure mode. The PLA/PBA-m-CNF1/TPU10 3D printed composite also exhibited a high solid-state fluorescence quantum yield of 38.35\%. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to show both enhanced mechanical properties and high solid-state fluorescence emission for 3D printable PLA. Such functional PLA composites could have potential applications in the fabrication of complex-shaped sensors, optical light pipes, etc.

}, keywords = {3D printing, Composite, fluorescence, Nanocellulose, poly(lactic acid), toughness}, issn = {0032-3888}, doi = {10.1002/pen.26345}, author = {Kothavade, Premkumar Anil and Yadav, Prashant and Nidhankar, Aakash D. and Torris, Arun and Pol, Harshawardhan and Kafi, Abdullah and Bateman, Stuart and Sukumaran, Santosh Babu and Shanmuganathan, Kadhiravan} } @article {49208, title = {La-Fe-O perovskite based gas sensors: recent advances and future challenges}, journal = {ACS OMEGA}, volume = {9}, year = {2024}, month = {JUL }, pages = {29994-30014}, type = {Review}, keywords = {ASSISTED SYNTHESIS, ETHANOL SENSING CHARACTERISTICS, LAFEO3 NANOPARTICLES}, issn = {2470-1343}, doi = {10.1021/acsomega.4c00334}, author = {Patil, Suraj S. and Babar, Bapuso M. and Nadargi, Digambar Y. and Shaikh, Faiyyaj I. and Nadargi, Jyoti D. and Sankapal, Babasaheb R. and Mulla, Imtiaz S. and Tamboli, Mohaseen S. and Truong, Nguyen Tam Nguyen and Suryavanshi, Sharad S.} } @article {48938, title = {Lanthanide mimicking by magnesium for oxazolidinone synthesis}, journal = {Chemistry- a european journal}, volume = {30}, year = {2024}, month = {JAN }, type = {Article}, abstract = {

In the last decade, magnesium complexes have emerged as a viable alternative to transition-metal catalysts for the hydrofunctionalization of unsaturated bonds. However, their potential for advanced catalytic reactions has not been thoroughly investigated. To address this gap, we have developed a novel magnesium amide compound (3) using a PNP framework that is both bulky and flexible. Our research demonstrates that compound 3 can effectively catalyze the synthesis of biologically significant oxazolidinone derivatives. This synthesis involves a tandem reaction of hydroalkoxylation and cyclohydroamination of isocyanate using propargyl alcohol. Furthermore, we conducted comprehensive theoretical calculations to gain insights into the reaction mechanism. It is important to note that these types of transformations have not been reported for magnesium and would significantly enhance the catalytic portfolio of the 7th most abundant element. A monomeric magnesium compound was employed as a catalyst for the cascade cyclization of propargylic alcohol and isocyanate, resulting in the formation of pharmaceutically significant oxazolidinone derivatives. This transformation, previously attributed solely to transition metals or lanthanides, signifies a noteworthy advancement.image

}, keywords = {catalysis, Magnesium, oxazolidinone, pincer ligand, Sustainability}, issn = {0947-6539}, doi = {10.1002/chem.202303478}, author = {Kumar, Rohit and Mahata, Biplab and Gayathridevi, S. and Raj, K. Vipin and Vanka, Kumar and Sen, Sakya S.} } @article {49463, title = {Lead-free Cs2AgBiCl6 double perovskite: experimental and theoretical insights into the self-trapping for optoelectronic applications}, journal = {ACS Physical Chemistry Au}, volume = {4}, year = {2024}, month = {JUL}, pages = {476{\textendash}489}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Lead-free double perovskites (DPs) will emerge as viable and environmentally safe substitutes for Pb-halide perovskites, demonstrating stability and nontoxicity if their optoelectronic property is greatly improved. Doping has been experimentally validated as a powerful tool for enhancing optoelectronic properties and concurrently reducing the defect state density in DP materials. Fundamental understanding of the optical properties of DPs, particularly the self-trapped exciton (STEs) dynamics, plays a critical role in a range of optoelectronic applications. Our study investigates how Fe doping influences the structural and optical properties of Cs2AgBiCl6\ DPs by understanding their STEs dynamics, which is currently lacking in the literature. A combined experimental{\textendash}computational approach is employed to investigate the optoelectronic properties of pure and doped Cs2AgBiCl6\ (Fe{\textendash}Cs2AgBiCl6) perovskites. Successful incorporation of Fe3+\ ions is confirmed by X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy. Moreover, the Fe{\textendash}Cs2AgBiCl6\ DPs exhibit strong absorption from below 400 nm up to 700 nm, indicating sub-band gap state transitions originating from surface defects. Photoluminescence (PL) analysis demonstrates a significant enhancement in the PL intensity, attributed to an increased radiative recombination rate and higher STE density. The radiative kinetics and average lifetime are investigated by the time-resolved PL (TRPL) method; in addition, temperature-dependent PL measurements provide valuable insights into activation energy and exciton{\textendash}phonon coupling strength. Our findings will not only deepen our understanding of charge carrier dynamics associated with STEs but also pave the way for the design of some promising perovskite materials for use in optoelectronics and photocatalysis.

}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1021/acsphyschemau.4c00008}, author = {Rahane, Swati N. and Rahane, Ganesh K. and Mandal, Animesh and Jadhav, Yogesh and Godha, Akshat and Rokade, Avinash and Shah, Shruti and Hase, Yogesh and Waghmare, Ashish and Saykar, Nilesh G. and Roy, Anurag and Salgaonkar, Kranti N. and Dubal, Deepak and Makineni, Surendra K. and Dzade, Nelson Y. and Jadkar, Sandesh R. and Rondiya, Sachin R.} } @article {49405, title = {Lead-free low-dimensional tetraalkylammonium manganese- and copper-based hybrid organic{\textendash}inorganic perovskites for visual fluorometric Pb2+ ion detection}, journal = {ACS Applied Optical Materials}, volume = {2}, year = {2024}, month = {JUL}, pages = {1533{\textendash}1545}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

For the first time, we have synthesized lead (Pb)-free manganese (Mn)- and copper (Cu)-based hybrid organic{\textendash}inorganic perovskite (HOIP) compounds, compound\ 1, (TEA)2MnBr4, compound\ 2, (TBA)2MnBr4, compound\ 3, (TEA)2CuBr4, and compound\ 4, (TBA)CuBr2\ (where TEA is tetraethylammonium and TBA is tetrabutylammonium), under ambient conditions via mechanochemical synthesis methodology using a Kakuhunter-made planetary mixer. The compounds are characterized as 2D except for (TBA)CuBr2, which has crystallized in the 0D lattice. The synthesized compounds are phase pure and show a stable solid-state emission at room temperature. The Mn-based perovskite compound\ 1\ showed excellent environmental photostability for over a month and reasonable stability under a relative humidity of 70{\textendash}80\%. The nanoparticle (NP) dispersions of compounds\ 1\ and\ 2\ were used further for fluorescence titration studies using various heavy metal cations, including transition metals and lanthanides (e.g., Y3+, Nb3+, Co2+, Ni2+, Ag+, Zn2+, Cd2+, Pb2+, Gd3+, and Dy3+), where they showed good fluorescence switching by the Pb2+\ ion. Compound\ 1\ demonstrated excellent fluorescence switching performance with Pb2+\ titration with a Pb2+\ detection limit of 2.43 {\texttimes} 10{\textendash}8\ M and hence can be used to fabricate a Pb2+\ calorimetric sensor. A preliminary visual thin film-based sensor using NPs of compound\ 1\ was fabricated to test the change in emission from blue to green in correlation with the results obtained in the NP solution during Pb2+\ ion sensing. A fascinating in situ ion-exchange-based mechanism for the sensitivity of NPs of compound\ 1\ is confirmed. This study reveals the ability of Pb-free Mn-based HOIPs to detect an oxidizing metal cation, Pb2+, efficiently and quantitatively.

}, doi = {10.1021/acsaom.4c00182}, url = {https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsaom.4c00182}, author = {Kour, Prachi and Sahu, Pragati and Dambhare, Neha V. and Rath, Arup Kumar and Mukherjee, Shatabdi Porel} } @article {49384, title = {Leveraging machine learning to dissect role of combinations of amino acids in modulating the effect of zinc on mammalian cell growth}, journal = {BIOTECHNOLOGY PROGRESS}, volume = {40}, year = {2024}, month = {MAY}, type = {Journal Article}, keywords = {Absorption, Cytotoxicity, ENTEROCYTES, HISTIDINE}, issn = {8756-7938}, doi = {10.1002/btpr.3436}, author = {Pandey, Ujjiti and Madhugiri, Indrani and Gadgil, Chetan and Gadgil, Mugdha} } @article {49261, title = {Ligand isomerization driven electrocatalytic switching}, journal = {ANGEWANDTE CHEMIE-INTERNATIONAL EDITION}, volume = {63}, year = {2024}, month = {JUL}, type = {Journal Article}, keywords = {Catalysts, CO2 reduction, O-2 REDUCTION, oxygen reduction}, issn = {1433-7851}, doi = {10.1002/anie.202405664}, author = {Kottaichamy, Alagar Raja and Nazrulla, Mohammed Azeezulla and Parmar, Muskan and Thimmappa, Ravikumar and Devendrachari, Mruthyunjayachari Chattanahalli and Vinod, Chathakudath Prabhakaran and Volokh, Michael and Kotresh, Harish Makri Nimbegondi and Shalom, Menny and Thotiyl, Musthafa Ottakam} } @article {49015, title = {Ligand-free MnBr2-catalyzed chemo- and stereoselective hydroboration of terminal alkynes}, journal = {Chemistry-an asian jounrnal}, volume = {19}, year = {2024}, month = {MAY}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Developing simple and benign protocols for synthesizing alkenylboronates is crucial as they are synthetically valuable compounds in various organic transformations. In this work, we report a straightforward ligand-free protocol for synthesizing alkenylboronates via atom-economical hydroboration of alkynes with HBpin catalyzed by a manganese salt. The reaction shows a high level of chemo and regioselectivity for the terminal alkynes and exclusively produces E-selective alkenylboronates. The hydroboration scope is vast, with the resilience of a range of synthetically beneficial functionalities, such as halides, ether, alkenyl, silyl and thiophenyl groups. This reaction proceeds through the involvement of a metal-hydride intermediate. The developed alkenylboronate can be smoothly converted to useful C-C, C-N and C-I bond-forming reactions.

}, keywords = {alkenylboronates, alkyne, Hydroboration, manganese, stereoselectivity}, issn = {1861-4728}, doi = {10.1002/asia.202400158}, author = {Pawar, Rameshwar B. and Karmur, Mital H. and Punji, Benudhar} } @article {49640, title = {Lignocellulosic biomass analysis: acidic lignin recovery, characterisation, and depolymerisation}, journal = {Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery}, volume = {14}, year = {2024}, month = {FEB}, pages = {5239-5249}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

For the development of an effective lignocellulosic biomass conversion technology to biofuels and chemicals, the biomass composition analysis and their properties need to be characterised prior to biomass valorisation, including polysaccharide hydrolysis and lignin depolymerisation. In this work, a facile colorimetric titration method for the quantification of alpha-, beta-, and gamma-cellulose, pentosan, lignin, and silica percentages of wheat straw (WS) and two bagasse (BG I and II) samples was done. The result showed higher amounts of structural biopolymers (i.e. holocellulose and lignin (similar to 89.3\%)) in BG compared to WS (81\%) sample. Lignin recovery from BG (I and II) and WS samples was done by applying two-stage concentrated and dilute sulphuric acid hydrolysis, and maximum recovery (i.e. 21.5\%; acid soluble +insoluble) of lignin obtained from BG II sample. Elemental and composition analysis results were represented substantial differences in lignin properties, including higher heat values (19.8 MJkg(-1)) of recovered lignin from BG II as well as high amounts of silica percentage from WS lignin. An intense Si-O-Si asymmetric stretching mode and/or C-O-C aliphatic aromatic ether (similar to 1100 cm(-1)) was characterised for lignin derived from WS. C-13 CP-MAS NMR exhibited variable intensities for dibenzodioxocin, spirodienone, and tricin moieties in recovered lignin samples. These lignin samples were processed for depolymerisation using homogeneous (1-methyl-3-(3-sulphopropyl)-imidazolium hydrogen sulphate) and heterogeneous (immobilised Bronsted acidic ionic liquid) catalysts to lower molar mass aromatic fractions and represented 89\% and 92\% organic solvent-soluble product yields respectively from WS-derived lignin.

}, keywords = {bagasse, Dibenzodioxocin, Holocellulose, Lignin depolymerisation, Spirodienone, Tricin, Wheat straw}, issn = {2190-6815}, doi = {10.1007/s13399-022-02705-9}, author = {Singh, Sandip K. and Matsagar, Babasaheb M. and Dhepe, Paresh L.} } @article {49296, title = {Linear poly(lactic acid) ionomers with pendant ionic groups}, journal = {New Journal of Chemistry}, volume = {48}, year = {2024}, month = {DEC}, pages = {20304-20316}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Although PLA is widely used, melt processing of this polymer is still a challenging task. In our efforts to improve the melt strength and processability of PLA, we report the synthesis of high molecular weight linear PLA ionomers. PLA copolymers (CP1-CP3) with pendant alkyne groups were synthesized by reacting L-lactide with propargylated lactide. The existence of copolymers with alkyne groups was unambiguously demonstrated, and the percentage of alkyne was found to be 3-7\%. A click reaction protocol was developed to treat the resultant alkyne functionalized copolymers (CP1-CP3) with mercaptosuccinic acid (MSA) and pendant carboxylic acid group functionalized copolymers (CP1-MSA1 to CP3-MSA3) were obtained. The 1-2D NMR confirmed the formation of a major MSA bis-addition product, along with a minor mono-addition product. In the final step, the MSA functionalized copolymers were treated with sodium hydride (NaH) to obtain the corresponding linear PLA ionomers (CP1-MSA1-Na1 to CP3-MSA3-Na3). Significant improvement in thermal and melt rheological properties was observed in these ionomers, as compared to the precursor copolymer and unmodified PLA, due to the microstructural changes caused by the association of the ionic groups. Storage modulus (G {\textquoteleft}) and loss modulus (G {\textquoteleft}{\textquoteright}) values showed a substantial increase in melt elasticity of the ionomers with G {\textquoteleft} \> G {\textquoteleft}{\textquoteright}, whereas the unmodified PLA melt behaved like a viscoelastic liquid. Detailed investigation reveals that incorporating pendant ionic groups in a high molecular weight linear PLA remarkably enhances the elastic modulus from 10 to 100 000 Pa (four orders of magnitude).

}, issn = {1144-0546}, doi = {10.1039/d4nj04170d}, author = {Joseph, Seena and Menon, Abhijith Hari and Lele, Ashish K. and Chikkali, Samir H.} } @article {49641, title = {LsBOS utilizes oxalyl-CoA produced by LsAAE3 to synthesize β-ODAP in grass pea}, journal = {Nature Communications}, volume = {15}, year = {2024}, month = {AUG}, pages = {6715}, type = {Article}, doi = {10.1038/s41467-024-50703-4}, author = {Goldsmith, Moshe and Avram, Liat and Brandis, Alexander and Mehlman, Tevie and Ben-Dor, Shifra and Peleg, Yoav and Ben-Zeev, Efrat and Barbole, Ranjit S. and Reich, Ziv} } @article {49938, title = {LDH-dsRNA nanocarrier-mediated spray-induced silencing of juvenile hormone degradation pathway genes for targeted control of Helicoverpa armigera}, journal = {International Journal of Biological Macromolecules}, volume = {332}, year = {2025}, month = {DEC}, pages = {148673}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Helicoverpa armigera, a devastating agricultural pest, poses significant threats to global crop productivity. Targeting the Juvenile Hormone (JH) degradation pathway may offer a promising approach for pest management, given its pivotal role in insect development and reproduction. In this study, we developed a nanoclay-based formulation of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) targeting three key JH degradation pathway genes: Juvenile Hormone Esterase (HaJHE), Juvenile Hormone Epoxy Hydrolase (HaJHEH), and Juvenile Hormone Diol Kinase (HaJHDK). Expression analysis revealed tissue and stage-specific patterns of these genes, with qRT-PCR confirming high expression levels of specific isoforms in key developmental transition: the pre-pupal stage. Treatment with bacterially expressed dsRNAs achieved \>50 \% silencing of target genes, resulting in delay in larval-to-pupal transitions. Bioassay demonstrated that treatment with LDH-based dsRNA nanocarrier resulted in downregulation of target genes, causing developmental delays, including prolonged larval and pupal stages. Metabolomic analysis further indicated reduced accumulation of JH degradation pathway metabolites, highlighting the pathway-specific action of dsRNAs. Furthermore, combinatorial application of dsRNAs resulted in higher mortalities compared to individual dsRNA application. These results suggest that the application of the LDH-based dsRNA nanocarrier formulation against H. armigera JH degradation pathway for spray-induced gene silencing could serve as a potential insect management strategy.

}, keywords = {Development, dsRNA, Helicoverpa armigera, Juvenile hormone, Layered double hydroxide, Nanocarrier}, issn = {0141-8130}, doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.148673}, author = {Joshi, Kaumudi S. and Barvkar, Vitthal T. and Hadapad, Ashok B. and Hire, Ramesh S. and Joshi, Rakesh S.} } @article {49560, title = {Liquid phase nitration of benzene to nitrobenzene using a mesoporous MoO3/Nb2O5 nanocatalyst}, journal = {Catalysis Letters}, volume = {155}, year = {2025}, month = {APR}, pages = {141}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

This work reports the synthesis of a mesoporous MoO3/Nb2O5 catalyst by a facile co-precipitation method for the liquid phase nitration of benzene to nitrobenzene, which is a vital industrial reaction. Pristine Nb2O5 and MoO3/Nb2O5 nanocatalysts were characterized using various techniques, including powder XRD, N-2 adsorption-desorption, Raman, SEM/TEM, pyridine FT-IR, and XPS. The MoO3/Nb2O5 catalyst (10 wt\% MoO3 with respect to Nb2O5) showed uniform dispersion of Mo and Nb species, higher amount of oxygen vacancies, and more Br \& oslash;nsted acid sites, resulting in a 90\% yield of nitrobenzene. In contrast, only 35 and 58\% yields were obtained in the case of commercial Nb2O5 and nanosized Nb2O5, respectively. The liquid phase nitration of benzene was carried out using commercial 65\% HNO3 as a nitrating agent without sulfuric acid. The mesoporous MoO3/Nb2O5 catalyst is structurally stable, as confirmed by the characterization of the spent catalyst. However, a gradual decrease in the yield of nitrobenzene was observed, which could be due to the leaching of MoO3 species from the catalyst surface.

}, keywords = {Benzene nitration, Bronsted acid sites, Mesoporous MoO3/Nb2O5 Catalyst, nitrobenzene, Uniform metal dispersion}, issn = {1011-372X}, doi = {10.1007/s10562-025-04981-2}, author = {Kalbande, Pavan Narayan and Swapna, Bhattu and Sudarsanam, Putla and Umbarkar, Shubhangi B.} } @article {49676, title = {Long cycling stability imparted to li-ion batteries by conjugated polymers with low dihedral angles and high electron density on functional groups}, journal = {ACS Applied Polymer Materials}, volume = {7}, year = {2025}, month = {JUN}, pages = {7719-7728}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

In conjugated polymers, dihedral angles at bonds connecting their monomers impact the polymers{\textquoteright} properties such as the packing of the polymer chains, bandgap, and conductivity. These properties are expected to impact the performance of rechargeable Li-ion batteries because the Li-ion transport and conductivity of the polymers are two important parameters. To understand this, we designed and synthesized two polymers with two different dihedral angles. The polymer, Poly(EDOT-DPP), comprising diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP) and ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) as monomers, showed a low dihedral angle of 2 degrees. On the other hand, the polymer, Poly(EDOT-i-Ind), comprising EDOT and i-Indigo (i-Ind) showed a dihedral angle of 17 degrees. Density functional theory (DFT) studies showed that the electron density at the carbonyl moiety of EDOT-DPP is higher than that of EDOT-i-Ind. This resulted in a higher Li+ binding energy of -3.665 eV for EDOT-DPP and a lower Li+ binding energy of -3.464 eV for EDOT-i-Ind. Battery electrodes were fabricated using either Poly(EDOT-DPP) or Poly(EDOT-i-Ind) with multiwalled carbon nanotubes as conducting fillers in the absence of any binders. The Li+ ion diffusion coefficient ( D Li + ) measured for the as prepared batteries based on Poly(EDOT-DPP) was found to be 3.9 x 10-19 cm2/s, which is slightly higher than that found for Poly(EDOT-i-Ind). However, after 2000 cycles, the D Li + increased by about two orders of magnitude for both polymers. Due to the low dihedral angle in the case of Poly(EDOT-DPP), the D Li + was found to be 21\% higher than that of Poly(EDOT-i-Ind). The higher binding of Li+ ions with Poly(EDOT-DPP) and Li+ ion diffusion improved the specific capacity and cycling performance of batteries fabricated with this polymer. At a current density of 0.2 A/g, Poly(EDOT-DPP) showed a 39\% higher specific capacity than the Poly(EDOT-i-Ind) polymer after 2000 cycles. The batteries also showed stable performance over 2000 cycles with an insignificant decrease in specific capacity.

}, keywords = {dihedral angle, diketopyrrolopyrrole, i-indigo, Li-ion battery, Li-ion transport}, issn = {2637-6105}, doi = {10.1021/acsapm.4c04072}, author = {Kargude, Radhakisan and Srinivasalu, Hari Haran and Devasia, George and Krishnamurty, Sailaja and Krishnamoorthy, Kothandam} } @article {50002, title = {Long-term genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in campus wastewater depicts lineage trends and public health implications during and after omicron waves}, journal = {Environment \& Health}, volume = {3}, year = {2025}, month = {JUN}, pages = {908{\textendash}919}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

SARS-CoV-2 transmission and detection on academic campuses in low- to middle-income countries has not been explored. The present study explored wastewater surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in a campus setting in Pune, Maharashtra, India, offering insights into variant-specific trends and their correlation with clinical cases over a 2.5 year period from November 2021 to April 2024. We collected 242 wastewater samples from the campus sewershed and processed them to extract RNA and perform RT-qPCR and sequencing, followed by lineage assignment using the LCS tool. Early signals of different SARS-CoV-2 variants, such as BA.2.X, JN.1.X, and KP.2.X, were detected in wastewater prior to its first clinical report in Maharashtra, India. Wastewater viral load strongly correlated with clinical cases during the Omicron phase (ρ = 0.73{\textendash}0.81) compared to the post-Omicron phase (ρ = -0.06 to 0.31). This study also highlights that alerts and warnings issued on the basis of wastewater viral hikes have proven instrumental in preventing outbreaks of SARS-CoV-2 variants on campus. However, downgrading COVID-19 from pandemic status by the WHO resulted in a subsequent decrease in public vigilance, changing the viral dynamic in the last phase of the study. This study showcases the utility of wastewater surveillance in a campus setting as an early warning system and understands the interplay of public health policy effects in viral dynamics within controlled ecosystems, such as campuses or offices.

}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1021/envhealth.5c00048}, author = {Pramanik, Rinka and Rajput, Vinay and Malik, Vinita and Nannaware, Kiran and Matra, Sejal and Joshi, Sai and Kumar, Shubham and Samson, Rachel and Yadav, Rakesh Kumar and Shah, Priyanki and Shashidhara, LS and Dastager, Syed and Karmodiya, Krishanpal and Dharne, Mahesh} } @article {49581, title = {Low-cost gelatin/collagen scaffolds for bacterial growth in bioreactors for biotechnology}, journal = {Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology}, volume = {109}, year = {2025}, month = {MAY}, pages = {113}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

A wide array of pharmaceutical and industrial products available in today{\textquoteright}s market stems from bioreactors. Meeting the escalating demand for these products necessitates significant enhancements in biotechnological processes. This study focuses on developing cost-effective scaffolds designed explicitly for use within bioreactors, employing commonly used polymers such as gelatin and collagen. Bacterial proliferation assays involving Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were conducted to assess the effectiveness of these scaffolds. The scaffolds were produced by electrospinning polymeric solutions with varying concentrations of gelatin and collagen and were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and thermogravimetric analysis. Results revealed that scaffolds with 15\% gelatin increased the 24-h proliferation of S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, and E. coli by 52\%, 35\%, and 20\%, respectively. In the case of E. coli, scaffolds with lower gelatin concentrations (1-10\%) were more effective, leading to 35-55\% proliferation growth. These findings highlight the potential application of gelatin/collagen scaffolds in fabricating industrial products derived from these bacteria.

}, keywords = {Bacterial cell proliferation, collagen, gelatin, Polymeric electrospinning, scaffolds}, issn = {0175-7598}, doi = {10.1007/s00253-025-13491-5}, author = {Pompa-Monroy, Daniella Alejandra and Vera-Graziano, Ricardo and Dastager, Syed G. and Perez-Gonzalez, Graciela Lizeth and Bogdanchikova, Nina and Iglesias, Ana Leticia and Villarreal-Gomez, Luis Jesus} } @article {50026, title = {Lattice dynamics and electron-phonon coupling in geometrically distorted halide double perovskites}, journal = {Journal of Physical Chemistry C}, volume = {130}, year = {2026}, month = {MAR }, pages = {3486-3503}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

Electron-phonon coupling is a critical factor in regulating the photophysical behavior of halide double perovskites (HDPs), influencing their emission broadening through lattice softness and exciton dynamics. In this work, we investigate four structurally distorted compounds, such as Cs2Ag0.4Na0.6InCl6, Cs2NaIn0.9Bi0.1Cl6, Cs2AgIn0.9Bi0.1Cl6, and Cs2Ag0.4Na0.6In0.9Bi0.1Cl6, prominent for their broad emission characteristics. Our combined experimental analysis and numerical models demonstrate that the electron-phonon coupling is dictated by the interplay between the sublattice distortion and the bonding nature between the metal and halide atoms, which vitally modulates the overall lattice softness and the resulting spectral broadening. The introduction of more ionic Na-Cl bonds in the HDP structure softens (weaker bonding) the lattice and enhances the phonon population, resulting in strong coupling between the electron and phonon, as quantified by the Huang-Rhys factor for Cs2NaIn0.9Bi0.1Cl6 (18.88), Cs2Ag0.4Na0.6InCl6 (17.64), and Cs2Ag0.4Na0.6In0.9Bi0.1Cl6 (14.46). Raman analysis further evidences Na-induced lattice softness with a 5 cm-1 red shift of the A1g mode in Cs2NaIn0.9Bi0.1Cl6, compared to Ag-containing HDPs. These findings highlight that Na-based compounds have stronger electron-phonon coupling than Cs2AgIn0.9Bi0.1Cl6. Furthermore, temperature-dependent phonon dynamics using the cubic anharmonic model and the three-phonon anharmonicity theory demonstrate that the distorted structures involve a phonon anharmonicity due to the thermal disorder. We show that strong coupling between the electron and the energetic phonon broadens the emission spectrum but suppresses the PL intensity. This quenching may arise from the excessive phonon-intervened nonradiative relaxations in the Na-rich compounds. By contrast, the temperature-dependent PL of Cs2Ag0.4Na0.6In0.9Bi0.1Cl6, a compound with maximum PL intensity, reveals the major contribution of optical phonon to electron-phonon coupling, which facilitated the efficient STE formation. This study highlights the significance of lattice softness to regulate the optoelectronic properties of the halide double perovskites, providing a design approach for compositional engineering towards high-performance optoelectronic devices.

}, issn = {1932-7447}, doi = {10.1021/acs.jpcc.5c07577}, author = {Kanapathi, Prakash and Ravi, Nalini and Mohan, Subramaniam and Vijayan, Viswanathan and Appadurai, Tamilselvan} } @article {50048, title = {Liquid crystalline nanoconfined growth of PANI on rGO for enhanced electrochemical glucose sensing}, journal = {Nanoscale}, volume = {18}, year = {2026}, month = {MAR }, pages = {5531-5543}, type = {Article}, abstract = {

We report here a new strategy for the successful synthesis of a hybrid 2D nanocomposite via the in situ functionalization of graphene oxide (GO) with aniline monomers in a bi-solvent swollen liquid crystalline lamellar mesophase (SLCLM) nanoreactor. The synthesized nanocomposite product revealed possible simultaneous reactions at the edge and basal plane of GO. A mechanism for the transformation via simultaneous nucleophilic attack and spontaneous polymerization, forming a reduced graphene oxide-polyaniline (rGO-PANI) nanocomposite, is proposed. The multistep plausible reaction mechanism for the functionalization of the GO edge -COOH group is achieved by successful synthesis, followed by isolation and characterization of the N-phenyl anthranilic acid derivative as an intermediate product. Furthermore, the detection of CO2 evolution as a by-product during the reaction complements the plausible mechanism for the incorporation of (-C Xi C-) graphyne-type edges and formation of new -C-N- and O-H bonds in the rGO-PANI nanocomposite. These results are supported by FT-IR, Raman, XPS, SAXS, and C-13 NMR spectroscopy analyses. A reduced graphene oxide-polyaniline (rGO-PANI) modified glassy carbon electrode was developed for glucose sensing, exhibiting a wide linear range (0.554-10 \& micro;M), low detection limit (50 pM), and high sensitivity (372 660 \& micro;A mM(-1) cm(-2)). The sensor demonstrated excellent selectivity against common interferents (ascorbic acid, uric acid, and dopamine), reproducibility (RSD \< 5\%), and stability over 10 000 s with minimal signal loss. The detection of glucose from human metabolites, such as urine and sweat, achieved 98-100\% recoveries for spiked glucose, confirming its practical applicability. These results establish rGO-PANI as a robust platform for sensitive and selective glucose detection.

}, issn = {2040-3364}, doi = {10.1039/d6nr00065g}, author = {Tawade, Anita K. and Kumar, Praveen and Tayade, Shivaji N. and Sharma, Geetarani K. and Luwang, Meitram Niraj and Sharma, Kiran Kumar K.} }