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Fulltext The R2R3-MYB gene family in banana (Musa acuminata): Genome-wide identification, classification and expression patterns

Pucker B, Pandey A, Weisshaar B, Stracke R

PLoS One, 2020;15(10):e0239275.
PMID: 33021974 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0239275

The R2R3-MYB genes comprise one of the largest transcription factor gene families in plants, playing regulatory roles in plant-specific developmental processes, defense responses and metabolite accumulation. To date MYB family genes have not yet been comprehensively identified in the major staple fruit crop banana. In this study, we present a comprehensive, genome-wide analysis of the MYB genes from Musa acuminata DH-Pahang (A genome). A total of 285 R2R3-MYB genes as well as genes encoding three other classes of MYB proteins containing multiple MYB repeats were identified and characterised with respect to structure and chromosomal organisation. Organ- and development-specific expression patterns were determined from RNA-Seq data. For 280 M. acuminata MYB genes for which expression was found in at least one of the analysed samples, a variety of expression patterns were detected. The M. acuminata R2R3-MYB genes were functionally categorised, leading to the identification of seven clades containing only M. acuminata R2R3-MYBs. The encoded proteins may have specialised functions that were acquired or expanded in Musa during genome evolution. This functional classification and expression analysis of the MYB gene family in banana establishes a solid foundation for future comprehensive functional analysis of MaMYBs and can be utilized in banana improvement programmes.
Productivity of laccase in solid substrate fermentation of selected agro-residues by Pycnoporus sanguineus

Vikineswary S, Abdullah N, Renuvathani M, Sekaran M, Pandey A, Jones EB

Bioresour Technol, 2006 Jan;97(1):171-7.
PMID: 15967661

A comparative study on solid substrate fermentation (SSF) of sago 'hampas', oil palm frond parenchyma tissue (OPFPt) and rubberwood sawdust with Pycnoporus sanguineus for laccase production was carried out. Optimal mycelial growth of Pyc. sanguineus was observed on all the substrates studied over a 21 days time-course fermentation. Laccase productivity was highest during degradation of sago 'hampas' and OPFPt and a range from 7.5 to 7.6 U/g substrate on the 11th day of fermentation compared to degradation of rubberwood sawdust with a maximum laccase productivity of 5.7 U/g substrate on day 11 of SSF. Further optimization of laccase production was done by varying the inoculum age, density and nitrogen supplementation. SSF of OPFPt by Pyc. sanguineus gave maximum productivity of laccase of 46.5 U/g substrate on day 6 of fermentation with a 30% (w/w) of 4 weeks old inoculum and 0.92% nitrogen in the form of urea supplemented in the substrate. The extraction of laccase was also optimized in this study. Recovery of laccase was fourfold higher at 30.6 U/g substrate on day 10 of SSF using unadjusted tap water at pH 8.0 as extraction medium at 25+/-2 degrees C compared to laccase recovery of 7.46 U/g substrate using sodium acetate buffer at pH 4.8 at 4 degrees C. Further optimization showed that laccase recovery was increased by 50% with a value of 46.5 U/g substrate on day 10 of SSF when the extraction medium was tap water adjusted to pH 5.0 at 25+/-2 degrees C.
Fulltext Glycerol waste to value added products and its potential applications

Chilakamarry CR, Sakinah AMM, Zularisam AW, Pandey A

Syst Microbiol Biomanuf, 2021;1(4):378-396.
PMID: 38624889 DOI: 10.1007/s43393-021-00036-w

The rapid industrial and economic development runs on fossil fuel and other energy sources. Limited oil reserves, environmental issues, and high transportation costs lead towards carbon unbiased renewable and sustainable fuel. Compared to other carbon-based fuels, biodiesel is attracted worldwide as a biofuel for the reduction of global dependence on fossil fuels and the greenhouse effect. During biodiesel production, approximately 10% of glycerol is formed in the transesterification process in a biodiesel plant. The ditching of crude glycerol is important as it contains salt, free fatty acids, and methanol that cause contamination of soil and creates environmental challenges for researchers. However, the excessive cost of crude glycerol refining and market capacity encourage the biodiesel industries for developing a new idea for utilising and produced extra sources of income and treat biodiesel waste. This review focuses on the significance of crude glycerol in the value-added utilisation and conversion to bioethanol by a fermentation process and describes the opportunities of glycerol in various applications.
Thermo-kinetic behaviour of green synthesized nanomaterial enhanced organic phase change material: Model fitting approach

Kalidasan B, Pandey AK, Aljafari B, Chinnasamy S, Kareri T, Rahman S

J Environ Manage, 2023 Dec 15;348:119439.
PMID: 37890400 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119439

Metal, carbon and conducting polymer nanoparticles are blended with organic phase change materials (PCMs) to enhance the thermal conductivity, heat storage ability, thermal stability and optical property. However, the existing nanoparticle are expensive and need to be handle with high caution during operation as well during disposal owing to its toxicity. Subsequently handling of solid waste and the disposal of organic PCM after longevity usage are of utmost concern and are less exposed. Henceforth, the current research presents a new dimension of exploration by green synthesized nanoparticles from a thorny shrub of an invasive weed named Prosopis Juliflora (PJ) which is a agro based solid waste. Subsequently, the research is indented to decide the concentration of green synthesized nanoparticle for effective heat transfer rate of organic PCM (Tm = 35-40 °C & Hm = 145 J/g). Furthermore, an in-depth understanding on the kinetic and thermodynamic profile of degradation mechanism involved in disposal of PCM after usage via Coats and Redfern technique is exhibited. Engaging a two-step method, we fuse the green synthesized nanomaterial with PCM to obtain nanocomposite PCM. On experimental evaluation, thermal conductivity of the developed nanocomposite (PCM + PJ) increases by 63.8% (0.282 W/m⋅K to 0.462 W/m⋅K) with 0.8 wt% green synthesized nanomaterial owing to the uniform distribution of nanoparticle within PCM matrix thereby contributing to bridging thermal networks. Subsequently, PCM and PCM + PJ nanocomposites are tested using thermogravimetric analyzer at different heating rates (05 °C/min; 10 °C/min; 15 °C/min & 20 °C/min) to analyze the decomposition kinetic reaction. The kinetic and thermodynamic profile of degradation mechanism involved in disposal of PCM and its nanocomposite of PCM + PJ provides insight on thermal parameters to be considered on large scale operation and to understand the complex nature of the chemical reactions. Adopting thirteen different chemical mechanism model under Coats and Redfern method we determine the reaction mechanism; kinetic parameter like activation energy (Ea) & pre-exponential factor (A) and thermodynamic parameter like change in enthalpy (ΔH), change in Gibbs free energy (ΔG) and change in entropy (ΔS). Dispersion of PJ nanomaterial with PCM reduces Ea from 370.82 kJ/mol-1 to 342.54 kJ/mol-1 (7.7% reduction), as the developed nanomaterial is enriched in carbon element and exhibits a catalytic effect for breakdown reaction. Corresponding, value of ΔG for PCM and PCM + PJ sample within heating rates of 05-20 °C/min varies between 168.95 and 41.611 kJ/mol-1. The current research will unbolt new works with focus on exploring the pyrolysis behaviour of phase change materials and its nanocomposite used for energy storage applications. This work also provides insights on the disposal of PCM which is an organic solid waste. The thermo-kinetic profile will help to investigate and predict the optimum heating rate and temperature range for conversion of micro-scale pyrolysis to commercial scale process.
Factors affecting the morphology of some organic and inorganic nanostructures for drug delivery: characterization, modifications, and toxicological perspectives

Raychaudhuri R, Pandey A, Hegde A, Abdul Fayaz SM, Chellappan DK, Dua K, et al.

Expert Opin Drug Deliv, 2020 12;17(12):1737-1765.
PMID: 32878492 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2020.1819237

Introduction: In this review, we aim to highlight the impact of various processes and formulation variables influencing the characteristics of certain surfactant-based nanoconstructs for drug delivery. Areas covered: The review includes the discussion on processing parameters for the preparation of nanoconstructs, especially those made up of surfactants. Articles published in last 15 years (437) were reviewed, 381 articles were selected for data review and most appropriate articles (215) were included in article. Effect of variables such as surfactant concentration and type, membrane additives, temperature, and pH-dependent transitions on morphology has been highlighted along with effect of shape on nanoparticle uptake by cells. Various characterization techniques explored for these nanostructures with respect to size, morphology, lamellarity, distribution, etc., and a separate section on polymeric vesicles and the influence of block copolymers, type of block copolymer, control of block length, interaction of multiple block copolymers on the structure of polymersomes and chimeric nanostructures have been discussed. Finally, applications, modification, degradation, and toxicological aspects of these drug delivery systems have been highlighted. Expert opinion: Parameters influencing the morphology of micelles and vesicles can directly or indirectly affect the efficacy of small molecule cellular internalization as well as uptake in the case of biologicals.[Figure: see text].
Tailored enzymes as next-generation food-packaging tools

Sharma VK, Sharma M, Usmani Z, Pandey A, Singh BN, Tabatabaei M, et al.

Trends Biotechnol, 2022 Feb 07.
PMID: 35144849 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2022.01.009

Enzymes have the potential for biotransformation in the food industry. Engineering tools can be used to develop tailored enzymes for food-packaging systems that perform well and retain their activity under adverse conditions. Consequently, novel tailored enzymes have been produced to improve or include new and useful characteristics for intelligent food-packaging systems. This review discusses the protein-engineering tools applied to create new functionality in food-packaging enzymes. The challenges in applications and anticipated directions for future developments are also highlighted. The development and discovery of tailored enzymes for smart food packaging is a promising way to ensure safe and high-quality food products.
How far have we explored fungi to fight cancer?

How CW, Ong YS, Low SS, Pandey A, Show PL, Foo JB

Semin Cancer Biol, 2022 11;86(Pt 2):976-989.
PMID: 33737109 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.03.009

The use of fungal cultures have been well documented in human history. Although its used in healthcare, like penicillin and statins, have saved countless of lives, but there is still no fungal products that are specifically indicated for cancers. Research into fungal-derived materials to curb cancers in the recent decades have made a considerable progress in terms of drug delivery vehicles, anticancer active ingredients and cancer immunotherapy. Various parts of the organisms have successfully been exploited to achieve specific tasks. Apart from the identification of novel anticancer compound from fungi, its native capsular structure can also be used as drug cargo to achieve higher oral bioavailability. This review summarises the anticancer potential of fungal-derived materials, highlighting the role of capsular polysaccharides, proteins, and other structures in variety of innovative utilities to fit the current pharmaceutical technology. Many bioactive compounds isolated from fungi have also been formulated into nanoparticles to achieve greater anticancer activity. The progress of fungal compounds and their analogues in clinical trials is also highlighted. In addition, the potential of various fungal species to be developed for anticancer immunotherapy are also discussed.
Advances in solid-state fermentation for bioconversion of agricultural wastes to value-added products: Opportunities and challenges

Chilakamarry CR, Mimi Sakinah AM, Zularisam AW, Sirohi R, Khilji IA, Ahmad N, et al.

Bioresour Technol, 2022 Jan;343:126065.
PMID: 34624472 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2021.126065

The increase in solid waste has become a common problem and causes environmental pollution worldwide. A green approach to valorise solid waste for sustainable development is required. Agricultural residues are considered suitable for conversion into profitable products through solid-state fermentation (SSF). Agricultural wastes have high organic content that is used as potential substrates to produce value-added products through SSF. The importance of process variables used in solid-phase fermentation is described. The applications of SSF developed products in the food industry as flavouring agents, acidifiers, preservatives and flavour enhancers. SSF produces secondary metabolites and essential enzymes. Wastes from agricultural residues are used as bioremediation agents, biofuels and biocontrol agents through microbial processing. In this review paper, the value addition of agricultural wastes by SSF through green processing is discussed with the current knowledge on the scenarios, sustainability opportunities and future directions of a circular economy for solid waste utilisation.
Corrigendum to "How far have we explored fungi to fight cancer?" [86/Part 2 (2022) 976-989]

How CW, Ong YS, Low SS, Pandey A, Show PL, Foo JB

Semin Cancer Biol, 2023 Jan;88:201.
PMID: 36585309 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.12.007
A Point Prevalence Study of the Use of Antibiotics in Six Tertiary Care Hospitals in the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal

Jha N, Thapa B, Pathak SB, Pandey A, Pokhrel S, Shankar PR, et al.

Kathmandu Univ Med J (KUMJ), 2022;20(79):351-358.
PMID: 37042379

Background Point prevalence survey (PPS) on antibiotic use developed by the WHO has already been used in many hospitals globally. Objective To obtain information on antibiotic prescribtion using point prevalence survey methodology in six private hospitals in the Kathmandu valley. Method This descriptive cross-sectional study was completed during 20th July to 28th July 2021 using point prevalence survey methodology. The study was conducted among inpatients admitted at or before 8:00 AM on the day of survey in various wards. Data was presented as frequencies and percentages. Result Maximum number of patients were above 60 years [34 (18.7%)]. Number of male and female participants were equal [91 (50%)]. Only one antibiotic was used in 81 patients (44.5%) followed by two antibiotics in 71 (39%) patients. Duration of prophylactic antibiotic use was one day in 66 (63.7%) patients. Blood, urine, sputum, and wound swabs were the common samples for culture. Cultures were positive for 17 (24.7%) samples. The common organisms isolated were E. Coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Ceftriaxone was the most used antibiotic. Drug and therapeutics, infection control committee and pharmacovigilance activities were present in 3/6 (50%) study sites. Antimicrobial stewardship was present in 3/6 (50%) and microbiological services was present in all hospitals. Antibiotic formulary and antibiotic guideline were present in 4/6 sites and facilities to audit or review surgical antibiotic prophylaxis choice in 2/6 (33.3%) sites, facility to monitor antibiotic use in 4/6 (66.6%) and cumulative antibiotic susceptibility reports in 2/6 (33.3%) study sites. Conclusion Ceftriaxone was the most used antibiotic. E. Coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumonia were the commonly isolated organisms. Not all parameters for infrastructure, policy and practice and monitoring and feedback were present at the study sites. KEY WORDS.
Clinicopathological Profile of Dengue Infection in a Tertiary Care Centre in Nepal

Thapa B, Pandey A, Gautum S, Kc S, Chhetri PD, Pokhrel E, et al.

J Nepal Health Res Counc, 2023 Jul 20;20(4):859-867.
PMID: 37489668 DOI: 10.33314/jnhrc.v20i4.4172

BACKGROUND: Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral disease with a wide spectrum of presentations ranging from subclinical disease to severe dengue. Dengue is endemic to the Terai of Nepal. Interestingly, an increasing incidence has been reported from hilly areas like Kathmandu valley. This study explored the clinicopathological profile of dengue infection.
METHODS: A total of 84 serologically confirmed dengue cases from September to November 2019 at KIST Medical College were recruited in a cross-sectional study after obtaining ethical approval. Dengue was categorized as dengue without warning signs, dengue with warning signs, and severe dengue. Clinicopathological information was recorded in the proforma by reviewing patients' records. A descriptive statistical tool and chi-square test were carried out.
RESULTS: Out of 84 patients, 76% (64) were dengue without warning signs, 21.4% (18) were dengue with warning signs and 2.4% (2) were severe dengue. About 97.6% (82) presented with fever. During the course of illness, anemia was identified in 38.1% (32), thrombocytopenia in 65.5% (55), hemoconcentration in 6% (5), and leucopenia in 82.1% (69). Similarly, elevated aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase (ALT) was observed in 67.7% (42) and 53.2% (33) respectively. The severity of dengue on presentation to hospital was significantly associated with thrombocytopenia, leucopenia, and elevated ALT. Similarly, the severity during course of illness in hospital was significantly associated with hemoconcentration, thrombocytopenia, leucopenia, and elevated ALT.
CONCLUSIONS: Most common presentation of dengue infection was fever. The most common laboratory abnormalities were leucopenia, thrombocytopenia, hemoconcentration, anemia, and elevated liver enzymes. Awareness of these clinical and laboratory parameters is important for the prompt diagnosis, severity estimation, and overall management of dengue infection.
Fulltext Baseline assessment of knowledge, attitude, practice, and adherence toward antimicrobials among women living in two urban municipalities in Lalitpur district, Nepal

Jha N, Kafle S, Joshi M, Pandey A, Koirala P, Bhandary S, et al.

PLoS One, 2025;20(1):e0317092.
PMID: 39787140 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0317092

INTRODUCTION: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant problem in developing, low- and middle-income countries like Nepal. Community engagement can be an important means to address the problem. Knowledge, attitude, practice, and adherence of women regarding antibiotics and AMR was studied.
METHODS: This baseline study was conducted in two urban municipalities of Lalitpur district as preparation for a larger intervention study (Mahalaxmi municipality will be the intervention and Godawari the comparison/control area). The study population was women belonging to the mother's groups of 45 female community health volunteers (FCHVs) from each municipality. The study was done from September 2023 to January 2024. A total of 1207 individuals (580 in Mahalaxmi and 627 in Godawari) were involved. Data on demographics, knowledge, attitude, practice, and adherence was collected using a pre-validated structured questionnaire.
RESULTS: The average age, educational status, monthly income, occupation, presence of respiratory disease, chronic diseases and communicable diseases were found to be not different among the two municipalities. Work experience, presence of respiratory disease and of health worker in the household was different in the baseline survey among the two locations. Knowledge was higher in Mahalaxmi municipality, but adherence was higher in Godawari municipality (p <0.0001). No significant difference was seen in attitude and practice scales. Knowledge, attitude, practice and adherence scores among different subgroups of respondents in the two municipalities were found to be significantly different for occupation (p <0.0001), and education (p <0.0001). The attitude scores were also significantly different according to presence/absence of respiratory disease in the household (p = 0.027).
CONCLUSION: At baseline the two study sites were broadly comparable in terms of participants' demographic characteristics. There was higher knowledge and lower adherence in Mahalaxmi municipality. An educational intervention to improve KAP and adherence is required and will be conducted.
Dynamic trends of dengue fever serotypes in northern India: Exploring clinical manifestations, serotype dissemination, and the influence of mixed infections

Pandey P, Ranjan R, Agarwal P, Gupta RM, Pandey AK, Das A, et al.

Trop Biomed, 2024 Dec 01;41(4):464-470.
PMID: 39876504 DOI: 10.47665/tb.41.4.007

Examining the co-circulation of various serotypes and finding serotypes linked to illness severity were the main objectives of this study, which sought to investigate the epidemiology and serotype distribution of dengue in Haryana, North India. The cross-sectional study, which was carried out in a tertiary care hospital between September 2021 and April 2023, enrolled participants who met WHO criteria for probable dengue fever. Blood samples underwent molecular and serological diagnostics, such as immunochromatographic testing, VIDAS® Dengue NS1 assays, and TRUPCR® Dengue Detection and serotyping kits, in addition to the collection of clinical and demographic data. Dengue was found to be present in 212 of the 536 probable cases, with serotype DENV-2 being the most common. There have also been reports of mixed DENV-1 and DENV-2 infections. Different serotypes caused different lengths of sickness; DENV-2 showed a sustained high RT-PCR positivity. The severity of the disease was linked to distinct serotypes based on significant differences in aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels between individuals with dengue fever (DF) and dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF). The study emphasizes how complicated dengue virus infections can be because of the co-circulation of several serotypes and the possibility of mixed infections. Serotypes and illness severity are correlated, which emphasizes the necessity of continuous surveillance and monitoring to improve outbreak prediction and management. These results are critical for guiding clinical judgments and public health policy, especially with relation to the possible introduction of a dengue vaccine.
Fulltext Incidental Gallbladder Carcinoma in Gallbladder Polyps: Challenges of Gallbladder Malignancy for an Endemic Population

Gautam A, Pandey A, Masood S, Chauhan S, Choudhary D, Kumar S, et al.

Malays J Med Sci, 2021 Feb;28(1):27-34.
PMID: 33679217 DOI: 10.21315/mjms2021.28.1.4

Background: Gallbladder polyps are considered pre-malignant lesions of gallbladder carcinoma. This study aims to highlight the role of early cholecystectomy in the management of gallbladder polyps in an endemic population.
Methods: A retrospective analysis of 2,076 lap cholecystectomy procedures performed at the Department of Surgical Gastroenterology at a tertiary referral centre in Northern India was conducted and incidental malignancy in gallbladder polyps analysed. The 8th edition of the American Joint Committee on Cancer for tumour-node-metastasis (TNM) staging of gallbladder carcinoma was used.
Results: Of 54 patients with gallbladder polyps, 53 had benign histology and one had malignant cells in the lamina propria suggestive of T1a adenocarcinoma. The patient with the malignant polyp was older (57 years old) than the patients in the non-cancer group, which had a mean age of 45 (P = 0.039). The size of the malignant polyp was approximately 4 mm, significantly smaller than the average 7.9 mm size of the benign polys (P = 0.031).
Conclusion: Cholecystectomy needs to be considered early in the management of small-sized gallbladder polyps, particularly in areas endemic for gallbladder carcinoma.
Fulltext Long non-coding RNA expression in primary human monocytes

Mirsafian H, Manda SS, Mitchell CJ, Sreenivasamurthy S, Ripen AM, Mohamad SB, et al.

Genomics, 2016 07;108(1):37-45.
PMID: 26778813 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2016.01.002

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to possess a wide range of functions in both cellular and developmental processes including cancers. Although some of the lncRNAs have been implicated in the regulation of the immune response, the exact function of the large majority of lncRNAs still remains unknown. In this study, we characterized the lncRNAs in human primary monocytes, an essential component of the innate immune system. We performed RNA sequencing of monocytes from four individuals and combined our data with eleven other publicly available datasets. Our analysis led to identification of ~8000 lncRNAs of which >1000 have not been previously reported in monocytes. PCR-based validation of a subset of the identified novel long intergenic noncoding RNAs (lincRNAs) revealed distinct expression patterns. Our study provides a landscape of lncRNAs in monocytes, which could facilitate future experimental studies to characterize the functions of these molecules in the innate immune system.
Utilization of solar energy for wastewater treatment: Challenges and progressive research trends

Pandey AK, Reji Kumar R, B K, Laghari IA, Samykano M, Kothari R, et al.

J Environ Manage, 2021 Nov 01;297:113300.
PMID: 34293672 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.113300

This article offers a trend of inventions and implementations of photocatalysis process, desalination technologies and solar disinfection techniques adapted particularly for treatment of industrial and domestic wastewater. Photocatalysis treatment of wastewater using solar energy is a promising renewable solution to reduce stresses on global water crisis. Rendering to the United Nation Environment Programme, 1/3 of world population live in water-stressed countries, while by 2025 about 2/3 of world population will face water scarcity. Major pollutants exhibited from numerous sources are critically discussed with focus on potential environmental impacts & hazards. Treatment of wastewater by photocatalysis technique, solar thermal electrochemical process, solar desalination of brackish water and solar advanced oxidation process have been presented and systematically analysed with challenges. Both heterogenous and homogenous photocatalysis techniques employed for wastewater treatment are critically reviewed. For treating domestic wastewater, solar desalination technologies adopted for purifying brackish water into potable water is presented along with key challenges and remedies. Advanced oxidation process using solar energy for degradation of organic pollutant is an important technique to be reviewed due to their effectiveness in wastewater treatment process. Present article focused on three key issues i.e. major pollutants, wastewater treatment techniques and environmental benefits of using solar power for removal of pollutants. The review also provides close ideas on further research needs and major concerns. Drawbacks associated with conventional wastewater treatment options and direct solar energy-based wastewater treatment with energy storage systems to make it convenient during day and night both listed. Although, energy storage systems increase the overall cost of the wastewater treatment plant it also increases the overall efficiency of the system on environmental cost. Cost-efficient wastewater treatment methods using solar power would significantly ensure effective water source utilization, thereby contributing towards sustainable development goals.
Fulltext Secondary transmission of SARS-CoV-2 through wastewater: Concerns and tactics for treatment to effectively control the pandemic

Thakur AK, Sathyamurthy R, Velraj R, Lynch I, Saidur R, Pandey AK, et al.

J Environ Manage, 2021 Jul 15;290:112668.
PMID: 33895445 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.112668

The SARS-CoV-2 virus has spread globally and has severely impacted public health and the economy. Hand hygiene, social distancing, and the usage of personal protective equipment are considered the most vital tools in controlling the primary transmission of the virus. Converging evidence indicated the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater and its persistence over several days, which may create secondary transmission of the virus via waterborne and wastewater pathways. Although, researchers have started focusing on this mode of virus transmission, limited knowledge and societal unawareness of the transmission through wastewater may lead to significant increases in the number of positive cases. To emphasize the severe issue of virus transmission through wastewater and create societal awareness, we present a state of the art critical review on transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater and the potential remedial strategies to effectively control the viral spread and safeguard society. For low-income countries with high population densities, it is suggested to identify the virus in large scale municipal wastewater plants before following up with one-to-one testing for effective control of the secondary transmission. Ultrafiltration is an effective method for wastewater treatment and usually more than 4 logs of virus removal are achieved while safeguarding good protein permeability. Decentralized wastewater treatment facilities using solar-assisted disinfestation methods are most economical and can be effectively used in hospitals, isolation wards, and medical centers for reducing the risk of transmission from high local concentration sites, especially in tropical countries with abundant solar energy. Disinfection with chlorine, sodium hypochlorite, benzalkonium chloride, and peracetic acid have shown potential in terms of virucidal properties. Biological wastewater treatment using micro-algae will be highly effective in removal of virus and can be incorporated into membrane bio-reaction to achieve excellent virus removal rate. Though promising results have been shown by initial research for inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater using physical, chemical and biological based treatment methods, there is a pressing need for extensive investigation of COVID-19 specific disinfectants with appropriate concentrations, their environmental implications, and regular monitoring of transmission. Effective wastewater treatment methods with high virus removal capacity and low treatment costs should be selected to control the virus spread and safeguard society from this deadly virus.
Microplastics in the environment: An urgent need for coordinated waste management policies and strategies

Amesho KTT, Chinglenthoiba C, Samsudin MSAB, Lani MN, Pandey A, Desa MNM, et al.

J Environ Manage, 2023 Oct 15;344:118713.
PMID: 37567004 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.118713

Microplastics (MPs) have become a prevalent environmental concern, exerting detrimental effects on marine and terrestrial ecosystems, as well as human health. Addressing this urgent issue necessitates the implementation of coordinated waste management policies and strategies. In this study, we present a comprehensive review focusing on key results and the underlying mechanisms associated with microplastics. We examine their sources and pathways, elucidate their ecological and human health impacts, and evaluate the current state of waste management policies. By drawing upon recent research and pertinent case studies, we propose a range of practical solutions, encompassing enhanced recycling and waste reduction measures, product redesign, and innovative technological interventions. Moreover, we emphasize the imperative for collaboration and cooperation across sectors and jurisdictions to effectively tackle this pressing environmental challenge. The findings of this study contribute to the broader understanding of microplastics and provide valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders alike.
Design and applications of photobioreactors- a review

Sirohi R, Kumar Pandey A, Ranganathan P, Singh S, Udayan A, Kumar Awasthi M, et al.

Bioresour Technol, 2022 Apr;349:126858.
PMID: 35183729 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2022.126858

There has been increasing attention in recent years on the use of photobioreactors for various biotechnological applications, especially for the cultivation of microalgae. Photobioreactors-based production of photosynthetic microorganisms furnish several advantages as minimising toxicity and providing improved conditions. However, the designing and scaling-up of photobioreactors (PBRs) remain a challenge. Due to huge capital investment and operating cost, there is a deficiency of suitable PBRs for development of photosynthetic microorganisms on large-scale. It is, therefore, highly desirable to understand the current state-of-the-art PBRs, their advantages and limitations so as to classify different PBRs as per their most suited applications. This review provides a holistic overview of the discreet features of diverse PBR designs and their purpose in microalgae growth and biohydrogen production and also summarizes the recent development in use of hybrid PBRs to increase their working efficiency and overall economics of their operation for the production of value-added products.
A Review on CNTs-Based Electrochemical Sensors and Biosensors: Unique Properties and Potential Applications

Meskher H, Ragdi T, Thakur AK, Ha S, Khelfaoui I, Sathyamurthy R, et al.

Crit Rev Anal Chem, 2023 Feb 01.
PMID: 36724894 DOI: 10.1080/10408347.2023.2171277

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs), are safe, biocompatible, bioactive, and biodegradable materials, and have sparked a lot of attention due to their unique characteristics in a variety of applications, including medical and dye industries, paper manufacturing and water purification. CNTs also have a strong film-forming potential, permitting them to be widely employed in constructing sensors and biosensors. This review concentrates on the application of CNT-based nanocomposites in the production of electrochemical sensors and biosensors. It emphasizes the synthesis and optimization of CNT-based sensors for a range of applications and outlines the benefits of using CNTs for biomolecule immobilization. In addition, the use of molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP)-CNTs in the production of electrochemical sensors is also discussed. The challenges faced by the current CNTs-based sensors, along with some the future perspectives and their future opportunities, are also briefly explained in this paper.

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