Satinder Kaur Brar

Bio: Satinder Kaur Brar is an academic researcher from University of York. The author has contributed to research in topics: Fermentation & Chemistry. The author has an hindex of 57, co-authored 452 publications receiving 13813 citations. Previous affiliations of Satinder Kaur Brar include York University & Université du Québec.

Antagonistic fungi, trichoderma spp.: panoply of biological control

Abstract: Trichoderma spp. have been widely used as antagonistic fungal agents against several pests as well as plant growth enhancers. Faster metabolic rates, anti-microbial metabolites, and physiological conformation are key factors which chiefly contribute to antagonism of these fungi. Mycoparasitism, spatial and nutrient competition, antibiosis by enzymes and secondary metabolites, and induction of plant defence system are typical biocontrol actions of these fungi. On the other hand, Trichoderma spp. have also been used in a wide range of commercial enzyme productions, namely, cellulases, hemicellulases, proteases, and β-1,3-glucanase. Information on the classification of the genus, Trichoderma, mechanisms of antagonism and role in plant growth promotion has been well documented. However, fast paced current research in this field should be carefully updated for the fool-proof commercialization of the fungi. The aim of this review is to sum up the BCA activity potential of these fungi and to shed light on commercial production processes. In this regard, this review focuses on Trichoderma spp. discussing different aspects—pest control, growth promotion, bioremediation, production processes and market values. Nevertheless, more research and review of the information regarding these biocontrol agents are needed to exploit their actual potential, which is the salient objective of this review.

Engineered nanoparticles in wastewater and wastewater sludge – Evidence and impacts

Abstract: Nanotechnology has widespread application in agricultural, environmental and industrial sectors ranging from fabrication of molecular assemblies to microbial array chips Despite the booming application of nanotechnology, there have been serious implications which are coming into light in the recent years within different environmental compartments, namely air, water and soil and its likely impact on the human health Health and environmental effects of common metals and materials are well-known, however, when the metals and materials take the form of nanoparticles - consequential hazards based on shape and size are yet to be explored The nanoparticles released from different nanomaterials used in our household and industrial commodities find their way through waste disposal routes into the wastewater treatment facilities and end up in wastewater sludge Further escape of these nanoparticles into the effluent will contaminate the aquatic and soil environment Hence, an understanding of the presence, behavior and impact of these nanoparticles in wastewater and wastewater sludge is necessary and timely Despite the lack of sufficient literature, the present review attempts to link various compartmentalization aspects of the nanoparticles, their physical properties and toxicity in wastewater and wastewater sludge through simile drawn from other environmental streams

Laccases for removal of recalcitrant and emerging pollutants

Abstract: Bioremediation of wastewater can be enhanced by the use of lignolytic enzymes such as laccases. Laccases oxidize, polymerize or transform phenolic or anthropogenic compounds to less toxic derivatives. Laccase substrates are diverse, and include phenols, dyes, pesticides, endocrine disrupters and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, some of which can be oxidized by extracellular fungal or bacterial laccase. Despite their enormous potential, the use of laccases for decontamination has so far usually been limited to the laboratory scale due to high enzyme production costs. The use of lignocellulosic waste material and/or wastewater as culture media for the growth of microorganisms producing laccase is gaining popularity, but is still low profile due to the ever-present challenges of this approach. The last two decades have seen the publication of numerous reviews on laccases; however, information on laccase properties and production parameters remains sketchy. Hence, a global overview of parameters affecting the biocatalysis of pollutants by laccases, particularly with regard to the economical production of these enzymes using synthetic media and waste materials, is timely.

Diclofenac and its transformation products: Environmental occurrence and toxicity - A review.

Abstract: Diclofenac (DCF) is a prevalent anti-inflammatory drug used throughout the world. Intensive researches carried out in the past few decades have confirmed the global ubiquity of DCF in various environmental compartments. Its frequent occurrence in freshwater environments and its potential toxicity towards several organisms such as fish and mussels makes DCF an emerging environmental contaminant. At typical detected environmental concentrations, the drug does not exhibit toxic effects towards living organisms, albeit chronic exposure may lead to severe effects. For DCF, about 30–70% removal has been obtained through the conventional treatment system in wastewater treatment plant being the major primary sink. Thus, the untreated DCF will pass to surface water. DCF can interact with other inorganic contaminants in the environment particularly in wastewater treatment plant, such as metals, organic contaminants and even with DCF metabolites. This process may lead to the creation of another possible emerging contaminant. In the present context, environmental fate of DCF in different compartments such as soil and water has been addressed with an overview of current treatment methods. In addition, the toxicity concerns regarding DCF in aquatic as well as terrestrial environment along with an introduction to the metabolites of DCF through consumption as well as abiotic degradation routes are also discussed. Further studies are required to better assess the fate and toxicological effects of DCF and its metabolites and must consider the possible interaction of DCF with other contaminants to develop an effective treatment method for DCF and its traces.

Triclosan: Current Status, Occurrence, Environmental Risks and Bioaccumulation Potential

Abstract: Triclosan (TCS) is a multi-purpose antimicrobial agent used as a common ingredient in everyday household personal care and consumer products. The expanded use of TCS provides a number of pathways for the compound to enter the environment and it has been detected in sewage treatment plant effluents; surface; ground and drinking water. The physico-chemical properties indicate the bioaccumulation and persistence potential of TCS in the environment. Hence, there is an increasing concern about the presence of TCS in the environment and its potential negative effects on human and animal health. Nevertheless, scarce monitoring data could be one reason for not prioritizing TCS as emerging contaminant. Conventional water and wastewater treatment processes are unable to completely remove the TCS and even form toxic intermediates. Considering the worldwide application of personal care products containing TCS and inefficient removal and its toxic effects on aquatic organisms, the compound should be considered on the priority list of emerging contaminants and its utilization in all products should be regulated.

The Design and Analysis of Experiments

Abstract: THE DESIGN AND ANALYSIS OF EXPERIMENTS. By Oscar Kempthorne. New York, John Wiley and Sons, Inc., 1952. 631 pp. $8.50. This book by a teacher of statistics (as well as a consultant for \"experimenters\") is a comprehensive study of the philosophical background for the statistical design of experiment. It is necessary to have some facility with algebraic notation and manipulation to be able to use the volume intelligently. The problems are presented from the theoretical point of view, without such practical examples as would be helpful for those not acquainted with mathematics. The mathematical justification for the techniques is given. As a somewhat advanced treatment of the design and analysis of experiments, this volume will be interesting and helpful for many who approach statistics theoretically as well as practically. With emphasis on the \"why,\" and with description given broadly, the author relates the subject matter to the general theory of statistics and to the general problem of experimental inference. MARGARET J. ROBERTSON

반도체 공정 overview

Abstract: With digital equipment becoming increasingly networked, either on wired or wireless networks, for personal and professional use alike, distributed software systems have become a crucial element in information and communications technologies. The study of these systems forms the core of the ARLES' work, which is specifically concerned with defining new system software architectures, based on the use of emerging networking technologies. In this context, we concentrate on the study of distributed systems which bring to life the vision of ubiquitous computing systems, also known as ambient intelligence.

Carbon capture and storage update

Abstract: In recent years, Carbon Capture and Storage (Sequestration) (CCS) has been proposed as a potential method to allow the continued use of fossil-fuelled power stations whilst preventing emissions of CO2 from reaching the atmosphere. Gas, coal (and biomass)-fired power stations can respond to changes in demand more readily than many other sources of electricity production, hence the importance of retaining them as an option in the energy mix. Here, we review the leading CO2 capture technologies, available in the short and long term, and their technological maturity, before discussing CO2 transport and storage. Current pilot plants and demonstrations are highlighted, as is the importance of optimising the CCS system as a whole. Other topics briefly discussed include the viability of both the capture of CO2 from the air and CO2 reutilisation as climate change mitigation strategies. Finally, we discuss the economic and legal aspects of CCS.

Synthesis of metallic nanoparticles using plant extracts.

Abstract: Biomolecules present in plant extracts can be used to reduce metal ions to nanoparticles in a single-step green synthesis process. This biogenic reduction of metal ion to base metal is quite rapid, readily conducted at room temperature and pressure, and easily scaled up. Synthesis mediated by plant extracts is environmentally benign. The reducing agents involved include the various water soluble plant metabolites (e.g. alkaloids, phenolic compounds, terpenoids) and co-enzymes. Silver (Ag) and gold (Au) nanoparticles have been the particular focus of plant-based syntheses. Extracts of a diverse range of plant species have been successfully used in making nanoparticles. In addition to plant extracts, live plants can be used for the synthesis. Here we review the methods of making nanoparticles using plant extracts. Methods of particle characterization are reviewed and potential applications of the particles in medicine are discussed.