Navrachana University is a Private University located in Vadodara, Gujarat. It was created by the state of Gujarat under the Private University Act, 2009.
The study presents the synthesis of terpene-based novel biosurfactants derived from sodium and choline salts of citronellic acid (SC, CC) and citronellyl sulfate (SCS, CCS). Surface tension (ST) measurements, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) were used to examine their colloidal properties and thermodynamic parameters. The findings suggest that hydrophobic tail architecture, headgroup chemistry, and counterion identity significantly influence the micellization behavior of citronellol-based amphiphiles. Sulfate-containing surfactants (SCS and CCS) had lower critical micellar concentrations (CMCs) of 134 +/- 9.4 and 88.8 +/- 4.3 mM, respectively, than carboxylate analogs (SC and CC; similar to 200 mM). SANS analysis revealed spherical micelles with radii of 0.8-0.9 and 1.1-1.3 nm for SCS and CCS, respectively. DLS measurements further validated the presence of predominant nanoscale aggregates (< 5 nm) with reduced polydispersity, especially at higher concentration. The zeta potential data indicated that the choline counterion exhibited partial charge screening compared to sodium. All surfactants showed very low cytotoxicity (IC50 = 1149-1400 mu g/mL) against RAW264.7 macrophage immune cells and biocompatibility similar to that of lauryl glycoside and Tween 20 in HEK-293 cells. Initial studies reveal their potential as safe insect repellents and as a part of crop-protection formulations.
Thermoplastic composites have emerged as advanced engineering materials due to their superior recyclability, damage tolerance, and processing versatility compared with conventional thermoset systems. This review provides a comprehensive assessment of recent advances in thermoplastic composite materials, with particular emphasis on matrix and reinforcement selection, advanced processing technologies, recyclability, and performance-related challenges. Key manufacturing approaches such as compression molding, thermoforming, automated tape placement, and in-situ consolidation are critically discussed, highlighting their advantages, limitations, and influence on microstructural integrity and mechanical performance. The review further examines sustainability aspects through life cycle assessment, renewable feedstocks, and end-of-life management strategies, positioning thermoplastic composites as promising candidates for circular economy-driven applications. Despite these advantages, long-term durability issues remain significant, particularly under dynamic loading, environmental exposure, and hygrothermal conditions. Challenges related to viscoelastic damage evolution, interfacial bonding, moisture sensitivity, and residual stress development are also discussed. Finally, the review identifies existing research gaps and outlines future directions focused on interfacial engineering, advanced process control, data-driven modeling, and sustainable material design to enable reliable large-scale adoption of thermoplastic composites in automotive, aerospace, marine, and construction sectors.
Background & aimLeptin (LEP), a pro-inflammatory adipokine secreted by adipocytes acting through leptin receptor (LEPR), is critical in maintaining body weight, lipid and glucose metabolism. LEP and LEPR genetic variants are reportedly associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Among these, the LEPR rs1137101 A/G polymorphism has emerged as a potential determinant of metabolic risk. The current study investigates the association of LEP and LEPR genetic variants, along with their transcript and protein levels, and evaluates genotype-phenotype correlations with metabolic parameters and T2D susceptibility in the Gujarat population.MethodsGenomic DNA isolated from PBMCs of 451 controls and 439 patients was used for genotyping LEP (rs7799039 G/A; rs2167270 G/A) and LEPR (rs1137101 A/G; rs1805094 G/C) polymorphisms by PCR-RFLP. RNA isolated from PBMCs was used to assess LEP and LEPR transcript levels by qPCR. Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG) levels, Body Mass Index (BMI) and plasma lipid profile were also assessed for the genotype-phenotype correlation analysis. ELISA was performed to estimate plasma protein levels of leptin and its soluble receptor (sOb-R).ResultsOur findings suggest a significant association of LEPR rs1137101 A/G with T2D, where the GG genotype and G allele conferred a 1.66- and 1.24-fold increased risk for the disease, respectively. The GG genotype also showed an association with increased FBG and TC levels. In addition, an increased GG haplotype frequency, increased LEP transcript and protein levels, and decreased LEPR transcript and protein levels were observed in T2D patients. Moreover, leptin protein levels showed a positive correlation with increased BMI and TG, while sOb-R protein levels showed a positive correlation with increased BMI, FBG, and TG levels.ConclusionThe LEPR rs1137101 A/G polymorphism, together with elevated leptin, and decreased sOb-R protein levels, may increase susceptibility to T2D in the Gujarat population.
PurposeThe purpose of this research study is to examine the dynamic relationship between social media platforms and the changing landscape of education and practice in the hospitality and tourism sector. The study seeks to position social media as both a pedagogical tool in education and a driver of tourism practices. In doing so, the research examines key social media trends, such as user-generated content, influencer marketing, virtual tourism, and data-informed decision-making, as the drivers of innovation, collaboration, and skill development. By linking theory with practice, the study highlights how these trends can improve curriculum relevance and strengthen industry-ready skills. It further demonstrates how such integration supports the hospitality and tourism sector in remaining resilient and adaptable within a contemporary, interdisciplinary, and skill-based education framework. Under this umbrella, the three-point focus would involve examining how social media platforms contribute to the promotion and increased visibility of lesser-known tourism destinations by engaging travelers, vloggers and influencers (Focus 1); to analyze how government bodies and tourism organizations strategically utilize social media for destination branding and the development of local tourism (Focus 2) and to explore how social media can be integrated into hospitality and tourism education to foster interdisciplinary learning, enhance digital skill development and improve industry readiness among students (Focus 3).Design/methodology/approachA qualitative exploratory research was conducted in the areas that were unexplored tourist places in the states of Gujarat and Goa (India). In-depth virtual and face-to-face interviews were conducted amongst the four categories: academics (travel and tourism faculty), influencers, travel agents and customers.FindingsIt is observed that social media promotes sustainable tourism practices, improves customer experiences and fosters international partnerships. Five to seven years ago, destinations such as Dudhsagar Fall (Goa), Shivrajpur Beach (Devbhoomi Dwarka, Gujarat) and Statue of Unity (Gujarat) were relatively less known. However, with the integration of interdisciplinary skill sets, such as digital literacy, marketing strategies, customer engagement and cultural understanding, into hospitality and tourism education programs, this integration has equipped professionals to thrive in an increasingly interconnected and digital-centric world.Research limitations/implicationsAs the qualitative-exploratory nature of this study, a small sample size of 12 interviews was conducted.Originality/valueThe sense of emotional connect, genuineness, experience and trust build by the influencers and vloggers have not only promoted tourism but boosted the state and nation's travel economy as well.
The evolution of submarine communication cable dates back to the 18th century and from 1884 the systematic evolution of the submarine cable have been started and the same carried forwarded by the advent of United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea in 1982 which is universally accepted which also lays the procedure for exploration covering all the areas of sea however, with the advent of biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction will change the scenario as the instrument will accurately cover all the sea related aspect specifically High Seas. The primary treaty related to submarine cables is United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea as it provides for the freedom to lay and maintain cables in high seas. Implementation of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction may restrict the laying off submarine cables in the areas beyond national jurisdiction especially in marine protected areas and the schemes which permits the same may come into conflict with the high – seas. Considering the present scenario, the same may lead to authority and jurisdiction overlap and in order to eradicate it streamlining the authorities is need of the hour. The research will be mainly based upon various treaties, committee reports and various policies. The research will contribute to sustainable solution to sustainable development.
