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The escalating atmospheric CO₂ concentration arising from fossil fuel combustion and industrial activities ne cessitates immediate mitigation strategies to address global warming and environmental degradation. Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU) technologies have emerged as a pivotal approach to transforming CO₂ from a greenhouse gas into a valuable feedstock for fuels and chemicals. This review critically examines recent ad vancements in CO₂ capture techniques—including absorption, adsorption, membrane separation, and mineral carbonation—and their integration with various conversion routes such as thermocatalytic hydrogenation, electrochemical and photocatalytic reduction, and biological fixation. Particular emphasis is placed on the synthesis of methanol, ethanol, methane, syngas, cyclic carbonates, and biofuels, discussing their catalytic systems (Cu-, Ni-, and Ti-based catalysts, metal–organic frameworks, and nanostructured semiconductors), re action mechanisms, and process efficiencies. The review also evaluates techno-economic feasibility, energy in put–output ratios, and net CO₂ reduction potentials, highlighting strategies for coupling renewable hydrogen and solar-driven systems to improve sustainability. Finally, it outlines the current technology readiness levels (TRLs), life-cycle assessment (LCA) outcomes, and research priorities needed to accelerate the industrial implementation of CCU technologies toward a low and circular carbon economy.
(2026) Kumar, Ashok
The transport sector is the third most polluting sector in India. So, transforming
it into a more efficient and environmentally sustainable sector is essential., where
Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) could play a crucial role. To address modifica
tion at the policy level in India, the current study examined how transport carbon
emissions are influenced by PPP investment along with urbanization, economic
growth, FDI, trade openness and environmental technology innovations. The Quan
tile Autoregressive Distributed Lag Model (QARDL) has been used for the period
1998Q1-2022Q4. The key results highlights that PPP investment in long run is
insignificant in most of the quantiles but significant and negative in the quantiles
ranging from 0.6 to 0.9 in short run reflecting the impact of PPP investment in high
er quantiles. The Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis has also been
established in the data, whereas urbanization associated with the reduced transport
sector emission in 0.2 to 0.9 quantiles. The study also found environmental technol
ogy innovation associated with reduced transport emissions. Trade openness found
insignificant in long run but significant and adverse effect on the environment in
the short run. FDI have adverse effect on transport emission in the long run in all
quantiles (0.1–0.9). Finally, policy proposals have been made for transport sector
to reduce transport CO2 emissions in India.
Advancements in carbon capture and utilization technologies: Transforming CO into valuable resources for a sustainable carbon economy
(2025) Kumar, Harish
The escalating atmospheric CO₂ concentration arising from fossil fuel combustion and industrial activities ne
cessitates immediate mitigation strategies to address global warming and environmental degradation. Carbon
Capture and Utilization (CCU) technologies have emerged as a pivotal approach to transforming CO₂ from a
greenhouse gas into a valuable feedstock for fuels and chemicals. This review critically examines recent ad
vancements in CO₂ capture techniques—including absorption, adsorption, membrane separation, and mineral
carbonation—and their integration with various conversion routes such as thermocatalytic hydrogenation,
electrochemical and photocatalytic reduction, and biological fixation. Particular emphasis is placed on the
synthesis of methanol, ethanol, methane, syngas, cyclic carbonates, and biofuels, discussing their catalytic
systems (Cu-, Ni-, and Ti-based catalysts, metal–organic frameworks, and nanostructured semiconductors), re
action mechanisms, and process efficiencies. The review also evaluates techno-economic feasibility, energy in
put–output ratios, and net CO₂ reduction potentials, highlighting strategies for coupling renewable hydrogen and
solar-driven systems to improve sustainability. Finally, it outlines the current technology readiness levels (TRLs),
life-cycle assessment (LCA) outcomes, and research priorities needed to accelerate the industrial implementation
of CCU technologies toward a low and circular carbon economy.
Ultrasound-assisted extraction and RP-HPLC quantification of β-caryophyllene in plant essential oils: Separation efficiency and insecticidal activity
(2025) Kumar, Antresh
This study details the development of a method for separating essential oils using ultrasound-assisted extraction
(UAE) and quantifying β-caryophyllene in 14 plant samples via reverse phase-high performance liquid chro
matography (RP-HPLC). Extraction efficiencies of methods like hydrodistillation, Soxhlet extraction, and ultra
sonic extraction were compared, with n-hexane, methanol, and ethyl acetate as solvents. Notably, UAE with n
hexane showed the highest β-caryophyllene yield in HPLC analysis. Separation was achieved within 20 min using
isocratic elution on a C-18 reverse-phase column, with a mobile phase of acetonitrile and water (70:30) at room
temperature and detection at 210 nm via diode array. The method showed excellent linearity (0.1–5 µg/mL),
with LOD and LOQ values of 0.02 and 0.07 µg/mL, respectively, achieving high accuracy (recovery rate of
102.1%) and precision (RSD 0.45%). Additionally, the insecticidal potential of β-caryophyllene, isolated from
Hyptis suaveolens essential oil, was tested against two storage pests, Sitophilus granarius and Corcyra cephalonica
larvae, demonstrating significant insecticidal activity. This suggests that β-caryophyllene could serve as an
effective natural insecticide.
Transforming waste into wealth: Leveraging nanotechnology for recycling agricultural byproducts into value-added products
(2025) Deshmukh, Rupesh
The extensive generation of agricultural waste worldwide poses significant environmental challenges. Tradi
tional disposal methods, such as crop burning, contribute to severe air pollution and ecological degradation.
Current agricultural waste management strategies often fail to fully utilize the potential of these residues for
conversion into valuable resources. This review highlights the transformative role of nanotechnology in upcy
cling agricultural waste into high-value, sustainable products, thereby advancing the circular economy. In
novations such as nanocatalysts, biodegradable nanomaterials, and nano-enabled agrochemicals have opened
efficient pathways for converting agricultural residues into nanomaterials like nanocellulose, biopolymers,
bioplastics, nanofertilizers, and biochar. These technologies provide eco-friendly alternatives to conventional
materials while addressing pressing global sustainability challenges. Despite technical, regulatory, and market
barriers, integrating nanotechnology into agricultural waste management offers immense potential to minimize
waste, reduce environmental impacts, and create economic value. This review emphasizes the need for sup
portive policies, collaborative efforts between industry and academia, and increased public awareness to foster
the widespread adoption of nanotechnological innovations. By reimagining agricultural waste as a valuable
resource, nanotechnology can drive sustainable development and enhance resource efficiency, paving the way
toward a greener and more resilient future.
Synergistic in-vitro inhibition of lung cancer cells using L-carnosine-capped copper nanoclusters
(2025) Kumari, Neetu
Traditional cancer treatments are often associated with high toxicity and significant side effects, limiting the safe
dosage range for patients. To address these challenges, there is a critical need for specific medications with
reduced toxicity and enhanced efficacy. This study combined the unique anticancer properties of L-carnosine, a
dipeptide, and copper to synthesize L-carnosine-capped copper nanoclusters (Cu4L5). The nanoclusters were
characterized using UV–vis spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, FT-IR spectroscopy, HR-TEM, HR-MS, and
EDX mapping. The synthesized Cu4L5 exhibited synergistic anticancer effects against A549 lung cancer cells, as
evidenced by MTT assay results showing significantly higher cytotoxicity toward cancer cells while demon
strating minimal toxicity to normal Vero-2 cells, as indicated by IC50 values. Their anticancer properties were
compared to those of L-carnosine alone and copper nanoclusters stabilized with L-histidine. Cu4L5 exhibited
approximately twofold greater anticancer activity, confirming the enhanced efficacy of the L-carnosine-CuNCs
combination. Additionally, CuNCs enable the detection of GSH in solution within the nanomolar concentration
range using the Stern-Volmer equation. Computational studies of nanoclusters further revealed that copper atoms
bind with ligands through its N of imidazole ring and C––O group, leaving carboxylate and NH2 sites available for
interacting with cancer cells. This dual functionality of Cu4L5, combining therapeutic and diagnostic capabilities,
highlights its potential as a promising candidate for targeted cancer treatment with minimal off-target effects.
Synergistic fermentation of vitamin B2 (riboflavin) bio‑enriched soy milk: optimization and techno‑functional characterization of next generation functional vegan foods
(2025) Dhewa, Tejpal
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) is essential for cellular growth, energy production, and redox potential. Certain lactic acid bacteria
(LAB) can synthesize B2 in low levels in fermented products, however it is mostly retained inside the cell. This study aimed
to develop B2-enriched soymilk by fermenting with B2-producing probiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strains and
traditional starter culture Lactobacillus acidophilus NCIM2902. Using the central composite design approach, process
ing parameters were optimized for enhanced B2 content and probiotic count. Six independent variables were assessed:
temperature (A: 35–45 °C), pH (B: 4–6), time (C: 3–18 h), and inoculum size for strains L. plantarum MTCC 25432 (D: 1–2%),
L. plantarum MTCC 25433 (E: 1–2%), and L. acidophilus NCIM 2902 (F: 1–2%). The second-order model effectively predicted
responses, identifying optimal fermentation conditions for developing vitamin B2-enriched soymilk: temperature (A)
36 °C, pH (B) 5.5, fermentation time (C): 11 h, inoculum size for L. plantarum MTCC 25432 (D): 2%, MTCC 25433 (E): 2%,
and L acidophilus NCIM (F): 0.43%. These conditions resulted in a threefold increase in B2 concentration (481 µg/L) while
maintaining a probiotic count of 9 logs CFU/mL. Additionally, techno-functional characterization, including rheology
and texture profile analysis, showed that enhanced protease activity of co-cultured LAB improved protein hydrolysis
(6259 nm), positively impacting the water holding capacity (WHC) and overall acceptability of the fermented soymilk.
This optimized fermentation process represents a novel approach to developing nutritionally enhanced dairy-free soy
products with high riboflavin content, utilizing the synergistic benefits of co-fermentation by two riboflavin-producing L.
plantarum strains and traditional starter culture of L. acidophilus. This advancement is particularly significant for lactose
intolerant and vegan consumers who may lack sufficient dietary sources of Vitamin B2.
Rice residue management: Alternative strategies and emerging technologies for a sustainable ecosystem
(2025) Beniwal, Vikas
Rice straw, which is produced after the harvest of rice, is a major agricultural waste in the world. Rice straw has a high carbon/nitrogen ratio and is more
resistant to microbial degradation than other straws because its main constituents are cellulose and hemicelluloses encrusted by lignin. When rice straw
is burned, hazardous substances such as carbon dioxide, methane, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen monoxide are released into the air as smoke (less than
10 µm-sized particles). The rise in the burning of rice straw has contributed to too many accidents and health issues in the general population residing in
Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh of India. These states are being urged by the National Green Tribunal to generate money instead of burning rice straw.
Even though these lignocellulosic materials might be beneficial, not much has been carried out with them. This overview covers the properties of rice straw
and husks, the numerous procedures used to create valuable products, and various applications that may be made for them. These include energy sources,
environmental adsorbents, building supplies, and specialist commodities.
Revolutionizing material science: Enhanced functionalities through reduced graphene oxide/Al 2 O 3 /CuO/TiO 2 nanocomposites
(2025) Kumar, Harish
Reduced graphene oxide@Al
2
O
3-CuO-TiO
2
(ACT) based nanocomposites (NCs) were combined by regulated
hydrothermal technique to create novel rGO@metal oxides-based NCs. The resultant NCs showed excellent
photocatalytic, antibacterial, anticorrosive, and magnetic characteristics. The use of FTIR, TEM, UV-visible, X
ray diffraction, and SEM aids the structural examination of NCs. The synergistic pairing of ACT NPs with rGO
exhibits enhanced photocatalytic, magnetic, anticorrosive, and antibacterial characteristics. The NCs exhibited
paramagnetic character (
χ
= 0.140) and increased induced current with applied magnetic field. The photo
catalytic properties of NCs were examined for decomposing methylene blue dye in UV and Sunlight. 94.7 % and
70.5 % dye degradation was observed under UV and Sunlight after 335 and 110 min. of exposure, respectively.
The Zone of Inhibition was examined against S. aureus (Gram-positive) and E. coli (Gram-negative) bacteria and
was found comparable with standard antibiotics (Ampicillin) against S. aureus bacterial strain. The NCs show 99
%corrosion inhibition efficiency at a low concentration (10 ppm). The potential applications of ACT@rGO NCs
in environmental rehabilitation, the medical field, anticorrosive coatings, and impure water purification,
contribute toward the development of advanced nanomaterials-based devices.
Production, characterization and bio-functional properties of multi-functional peptides from fermented plant-based foods: A review
(2025) Singh, Brij Pal
Bioactive peptides derived from fermented plant-based foods have gained increasing attention due to their po
tential health-promoting properties. Fermentation of plant-based substrates leads to the manufacturing of various
peptides with bioactive properties through the enzyme’s activity in microorganisms or endogenous plant en
zymes. These peptides exhibit diverse biological activities such as antioxidant, antihypertensive, antimicrobial,
anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic and anti-cancer effects. This review provides an overview of the health bene
f
icial properties of peptides with biological activity derived from fermented foods mainly plants, including their
modes of operation and prospective uses in promoting human health. Understanding the health benefits and
ways of behaviour about bioactive specific protein fragments from fermented plant-based meals can contribute to
the creation of dietary supplements and culinary products with enhanced health-promoting properties.
Procaine and salicylate‑based ionic liquid: synthesis, in silico, in vitro, biophysical and biological studies
(2025) Kumari, Neetu
Herein, we explored the synergistic effect of ionic liquids as anticancer and antibacterial agents to avoid available
combination therapies. We synthesized an API-based ionic liquid (IL) designated as [Pro-pip]SAL to meet our objec
tives. This compound features a cationic moiety derived from procaine and 1,3-benzodioxole, tagged with a salicylate
salt as the anionic counterpart. Molecular docking studies showed that interaction is polar involving H-bonding and
van der Waal forces. Spectroscopic studies were carried out to validate the results of computational studies for the
binding interaction mechanism of [Pro-pip]SAL IL with bovine serum albumin (BSA). The UV–visible spectra showed
an increase in absorbance intensity with bathochromic shift, and fluorescence spectra showed static quenching with
bathochromic shift revealing that polar interaction played an important role in the interaction between Pro-pip]SAL
IL with BSA. CD spectra showed no significant change in the secondary structure of BSA. The antibacterial study
revealed that IL showed significant activity against Staphylococcus aureus (gram-positive) bacteria and no effect was
observed on E. coli (gram-negative) bacteria. Cytotoxicity study on Vero cell line (non-cancerous cell line; kidney
epithelium cells of African green monkey) showed IC50 values 207.95 ± 1.25 μM. Cytotoxicity analysis of [Pro-pip]
SAL IL on A549 cell lines revealed antiproliferative properties with an IC50 value of 54.55 ± 0.22 μM. This study
interpreted that Pro-pip]SAL IL could be used as an anticancer and antibacterial drug, warranting further exploration
and development in these therapeutic areas.