Local Reactivity Descriptors Research Articles

Catalytic behavior, electronic structure and spectroscopic (FT-IR, Raman, UV–vis) properties for the new ionic liquid imidazolium hydrogen sulfate

Catalytic performance, chemical reactivity, vibrational modes and electronic transitions of the ion pair [H–Im]+[HSO4]– were investigated in the current paper. Hence, a combined experimental (Hammett acidity function, infrared, Raman and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopies) and theoretical (molecular electrostatic potential surface, reduced density gradient, frontier molecular orbital analysis, quantum theory of atoms in molecules, net atomic charges, global and local reactivity descriptors) study was conducted. In terms of the catalytic performance, the acetic acid esterification with butanol was evaluated. Important kinetic (rate constant, activation energy, pre-exponential factor) and thermodynamic (enthalpy, entropy, Gibbs free energy barrier) factors for ester production as a function of the temperature and catalyst loading have been determined. Results revealed intensive electron density distribution in [H–Im]+[HSO4]– due to chemical interactions between the cationic and anionic moieties. These bonds were established as electrostatic in nature. The pronounced charge transfers within [H–Im]+[HSO4]– managed the title compound acidity (H0) and its catalytic behavior towards butyl acetate synthesis. Using the thermodynamic and kinetic measurements, a mechanism for acetic acid esterification with butanol in the presence of imidazolium hydrogen sulfate ionic liquid was offered.

Unveiling the adsorption mechanism of propanehydrazine derivatives on magnesium oxide surface: Insights from computational approach

The use of green and effective inhibitors for preventing metal oxide (MgO) corrosion in industrial applications is highly significant in promoting environmental protection and sustainable development. This study delves into the adsorption behavior and interfacial mechanism of environmentally friendly inhibitor derived from propane hydrazine (PH) on MgO surface. Specifically, PH1, PH2, PH3, and PH4 were explored for their effectiveness in preventing corrosion by using advanced theoretical simulations-based density functional theory (DFT) for assessing the reactivity and adsorption characteristics. The study considered a detailed exploration of local and global reactivity descriptors, providing insights into the inhibitors’ reactivity and adsorption abilities in both isolated and adsorbed states. These findings focus more in the mechanisms underlying organic-inorganic interactions and present promising prospects for further development and application. Using first-principles DFT calculations alongside quantitative molecular surface analyses, we examined the adsorption patterns of PHs on the MgO(100) surface. These investigations are boosted by the application of independent gradient model (IGM) framework, providing robust verification of PHs' adsorption behavior on MgO(100) surface. Our calculations reveal a substantial decrease in the energy gap following complex formation, suggesting that charge density changes occur upon interaction with MgO surfaces, thereby facilitating direct electron transfer in all the studied systems. Noreover, the results highlight the crucial role of intermolecular interactions in boosting the interaction between PHs and the [Mg(H2O)6]2+ cation. First-principles DFT calculations show that all PH molecules consistently display parallel adsorption on the MgO surface, where the oxygen atoms form bonds with adjacent magnesium atoms. The bond lengths vary from 2.18 to 2.35 Å when PHs bind to the Mg atoms in parallel orientations through the oxygen atom, suggesting a stable parallel arrangement for PH molecules on the MgO surface. The calculated adsorption energy (Eads) varies in the following order: MgO-PH3 (−815.14 Kcal mol−1) > MgO-PH2 (−803.85 Kcal mol−1)) > MgO-PH4 (−695.38 Kcal mol−1) > MgO-PH1 (−125.77 Kcal mol−1). This trend indicates that parallel interactions enhance the adsorption behavior and binding of PH compounds through inter- and intra-molecular interactions, resulting in the PHs being centered at specific sites on the MgO surface. The potential enhancement in electrochemical properties is believed to stem from the synergistic interaction between the PHs and the MgO surface, which theoretically allows for a precise adjustment of their adsorption and interaction within the composite structure. This understanding provides a fundamental framework for examining the complex interfacial dynamics between inhibitor structures and elucidating how these molecular interactions influence the selection of corrosion inhibitors and their adsorption behaviors on the corrosion layer's surface, rather than on metallic Mg.

Density Functional Theory (DFT) Study on the Nontoxic Alternative of Bisphenol A (BPA) Derivatives: A Comprehensive Review

AbstractBisphenol A is an oil‐derived, large market volume chemical with a wide spectrum of applications in plastics, adhesives, and thermal papers. However, bisphenol A and its derivative are not considered safe due to its endocrine disrupting properties and reproductive toxicity. A nontoxic alternative of bisphenol analogus has been proposed in this study using plant biomass. A study of different DFT‐based QSAR approaches has been done to show the significance of the conceptual DFT‐based selected descriptors with different QSAR models in the prediction of toxicity and to establish meaningful correlations between the molecular structure of the proposed compounds and their toxicological properties. Multiple regression analysis and ANN model are also suggested to use to relate the biological activity with the global and local reactivity descriptors.

N-(4-(1,3-benzothiazol-2-ylcarbamoyl)phenyl)isonicotinamide as corrosion mitigator for mild steel in 1 M HCl: A multifaceted study integrating synthesis, characterization, and molecular modelling

Newly synthesized, cost-effective corrosion inhibitor, N-(4-(1,3-benzothiazol-2-ylcarbamoyl)phenyl)isonicotinamide (BIA) was evaluated for mild steel/1M HCl interface. BIA showed a maximum inhibition efficiency of 90.40 % at 100 ppm and 303 ± 1 K, with efficiency increasing with concentration but decreasing with temperature. Inhibitor’s adsorption followed Langmuir isotherm via physicochemical interactions. Activation parameters revealed BIA retards both metal dissolution and hydrogen evolution held in unimolecular process. Potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) divulged BIA as a mixed-type, impeding charge-transfer. Electrochemical impedance spectra (EIS) confirmed BIA forms a protective double layer, blocking active sites at the interface. Surface analysis supported a protective film formation. Global and local reactivity descriptors using DFT/B3LYP/6-311G++(d,p) were calculated to relate inhibition efficiency with BIA’s electronic properties. Molecular dynamics simulation (MDS) showed an interaction energy of −224.7 kJ/mol between BIA and Fe(110) at 303 K, with Radial Distribution Function (RDF) showing bond lengths under 3.5 Å, confirming a chemical interaction. Theoretical results align with experimental data.

Unlocking the enigma: Spectroscopic insights, molecular modelling, molecular docking, simulation and MMPBSA analysis of L-ornithine

L-ornithine (APA) has been thoroughly investigated in quantum chemistry using vibrational spectroscopy and density functional theory (DFT). The B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p) basis set was utilized to calculate optimal structure, vibration frequencies, and relevant variables. The computational results were validated by comparing the generated estimates of IR and Raman spectra with stated spectra. The MEP was applied to determine the molecule’s reactive areas and gain an understanding of its chemical responsiveness. Also, the UV–Vis spectrum was generated by combining the methods of the Polarizable Continuum Model (PCM) with Time-Dependent DFT, and comparisons were done with experimental data that was published in the literature. The FMO energy, with an energy gap of 6.095 eV, determines the structural chemical equilibrium. Electronegativity, which measures an atom’s attraction to electrons in a covalent bond, was found to be 3.589, and the electrophilicity index was determined to be 2.320 eV. Local reactivity descriptors were utilized to comprehend interactions within physiologically relevant molecular systems and facilitate the development of novel pharmaceutical drugs. Protein-ligand connections and stability were investigated using molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) modeling, which provided useful insights into possible therapeutic uses. To further aid in the comprehension of APA’s pharmacological profile and potential as a pharmaceutical agent, assessments of drug-likeness and ADME were accomplished to appraise the biological characteristics of the substance.

Experimental, quantum chemical spectroscopic investigation, topological, molecular docking/dynamics and biological assessment studies of 2,6-Dihydroxy-4-methyl quinoline

The present work is a comprehensive investigation of the spectral, electronic structure, bonding, and reactivity of the 2,6-dihydroxy-4-methylquinoline (26DH4MQ) molecule through a wide range of experimental and quantum chemical spectroscopic calculations techniques, along with its applications as nonlinear optical materials and biological assessments. The study utilized density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT) with the B3LYP method and the 6-311G++(d,p) basis set to analyze the structural and molecular properties of 26DH4MQ. The findings from UV–Vis, FT-IR, and FT-NMR spectroscopy show a strong agreement between the experimentally obtained vibrational frequencies and chemical shifts and those predicted by computational methods. Local reactivity descriptors, such as the dual descriptor, Fukui functions, and the molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) map, were used to identify the reactive regions of the molecule. Additionally, natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis provided insights into the charge transfer characteristics of 26DH4MQ, which helps to stabilize the molecular system. The study also revealed notable nonlinear optical (NLO) properties, with polarizability (18.52 × 10–24e.s.u.) and first-order hyperpolarizability (2.26 × 10–30e.s.u.) values that surpass those of standard organic compounds, suggesting significant potential for optoelectronic applications. The biological evaluation of 26DH4MQ assessed its drug-likeness, toxicity, enzyme inhibition, and ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion) parameters, highlighting its pharmaceutical potential. Furthermore, molecular docking and dynamics studies illustrated the compound's interaction with proteins, indicating its potential role as an insulin inhibitor.

Theoretical study of the antioxidant mechanism and structure-activity relationships of 1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-ylthieno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4-amine derivatives: a computational approach.

A theoretical thermodynamic study was conducted to investigate the antioxidant activity and mechanism of 1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-ylthieno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4-amine derivatives (OTP) using a Density Functional Theory (DFT) approach. The study assessed how solvent environments influence the antioxidant properties of these derivatives. With the increasing prevalence of diseases linked to oxidative stress, such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases, antioxidants are crucial in mitigating the damage caused by free radicals. Previous research has demonstrated the remarkable scavenging abilities of 1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives, prompting this investigation into their potential using computational methods. DFT calculations were employed to analyze key parameters, including bond dissociation enthalpy (BDE), ionization potential (IP), proton dissociation enthalpy (PDE), and electron transfer enthalpy (ETE), to delineate the antioxidant mechanisms of these compounds. Our findings indicate that specific electron-donating groups such as amine on the phenyl rings significantly enhance the antioxidant activities of these derivatives. The study also integrates global and local reactivity descriptors, such as Fukui functions and HOMO-LUMO energies, to predict the stability and reactivity of these molecules, providing insights into their potential as effective synthetic antioxidants in pharmaceutical applications.

Correction: Why local softness and local hyper–softness are more appropriate local reactivity descriptors than dual descriptor and Fukui functions?

Correction: Why local softness and local hyper–softness are more appropriate local reactivity descriptors than dual descriptor and Fukui functions?

Alkaloid extract of seed Citrullus colocynthis as novel green inhibitor for mild steel corrosion in one molar HCl acid solution: DFT and MC/MD approaches

The study was designed to explore the corrosion prevention capabilities of Citrullus colocynthis seeds alkaloid-rich extract (CSEA) on MS in a 1 M HCl environment by use of electrochemical and theoretical methods. Notably, Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization were used to probe the impact of immersion time and temperature. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and spanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to confirm the presence of a protective layer on the substrate surface. Density functional theory (DFT) method was used to optimize the investigated species by use of B3LYP/6–31 + G(d, p) level of theory. The global and local quantum chemical reactivity descriptors were calculated to explore the inhibition corrosion efficiency and to identify the most favorable sites for electrophilic and nucleophilic attacks. Monte Carlo (MC) and molecular dynamics simulation (MDS) methods were used to study the interactions between corrosion inhibitor and metal surface. Noteworthy, results showed that CSEA exhibited an impressive inhibition efficiency, which reached 94.3% with a concentration of 2 g/L at 298 K. Potentiodynamic polarization revealed that the extract acted as a mixed-type inhibitor. Nyquist graphs showed that charge-transfer resistance and dæouble-layer capacitance both rised with increasing CSEA concentration, suggesting better inhibition efficiency. Notably, the Langmuir adsorption isotherm is well-aligned with the adsorption of inhibitor compounds. Importantly, all aforementioned theoretical methods were in agreement with the experimental findings. The outcome of the present work supported using Citrullus colocynthis seeds alkaloid-rich extract as ecofriendly agents to prevent corrosion.

Acid corrosion inhibition of mild steel by 8-hydroxyquinoline derivatives: organic synthesis, characterization, chemical, electrochemical investigation and theoretical calculations

In this study, two 8-hydroxyquinoline derivatives, HAPAQ and EAPAQ, were first synthesized, and their molecular structures were confirmed by 1H and 13C NMR. The effects of HAPAQ and EAPAQ on corrosion processes were investigated using weight loss, electrochemical, and theoretical methods. Overall, the data unmistakably demonstrate that the inhibition performance (η %) increases with an increase as HAPAQ and EAPAQ concentrations rise, peaking at 96.08% (HAPAQ) and 94.37% (EAPAQ) at the optimal concentration (10−3 M) for PPD technology. The two 8-hydroxyquinoline derivatives exhibit inhibitory behavior, as seen by the polarization curve impedance tests; however, they demonstrate that adsorption promotes protective action on metal surfaces, creating a geometric blocking effect and a protective coating that impedes metal breakdown. HAPAQ and EAPAQ's inhibitory efficacy may be reduced by the rising temperature. Furthermore, it adheres to Langmuir’s single-layer adsorption isotherm, and the physisorption and chemisorption mechanisms are linked to the corresponding value of the adsorption energy (ΔG ads). Additionally, the MS scanning electron microscope (SEM) has been studied and discussed. The possibility of complex organization between the inhibitor molecules, 8-hydroxyquinoline derivatives (HAPAQ and HAPAQ), and the Fe2+ ions generated during the oxidation process was established by examining the test solutions using UV–visible spectroscopy. Consequently, it is evident from DFT simulations that the surface recovery is dependent on the local reactivity descriptors. The theoretical outcomes derived from DFT are aligned with the findings of the experimental studies.

Optimization and mechanistic insight of phenol removal using an effective green kaolin adsorbent through experimental and computational approaches

The discharge of phenols into the aquatic environment has detrimentally affected human health and the aquatic ecosystem. Hence, removing phenols from polluted water bodies has been a global concern. In this study, a natural and low-cost adsorbent, kaolin, was used to remove phenol from aqueous solutions. Experimental and computational approaches were applied to optimize the removal efficiency and provide mechanistic insight into the phenol removal process. Based on the response surface methodology findings, the optimum conditions were pH 1.6, 40 min, 50 mg/L, and 2 g with 92.19 % maximum percentage removal. The regeneration test shows that kaolin retained over 76.76 % of adsorption capacities. SEM and FESEM reveals the surface morphology and effectiveness of kaolin as phenol removal. The best fit for the Isotherm adsorption for the phenol on kaolin is Freundlich isotherm, which indicated multilayer adsorption. The hydroxyl group from phenol (-OH) and the siloxane group of kaolin (Si-O-Si) shifted, suggesting the presence of a hydrogen bond between kaolin and phenol during adsorption, as determined by one- and two-dimensional IR spectroscopy. Density functional theory calculations were used to support the experimental results by providing information on the Mulliken charge and electronic transition of the complex to improve understanding of the adsorption of phenol on kaolin. Based on the quantum theory of atoms in molecules analysis (QTAIM) and the reduced density gradient non-covalent interaction (RDG-NCI) technique, the chemical reaction occurring during the removal of phenol by kaolin was determined to occur through hydrogen bonding and classified as an intermediate type (∇2ρ(r) > 0 and H < 0). Further characterizations employing molecular electrostatic potential, global reactivity, and local reactivity descriptors were conducted to investigate the mechanism of the phenol adsorption on kaolin. The findings demonstrated that phenol functions as an electrophile while kaolin acts as a nucleophile during the formation of hydrogen bonds, where the interaction occurred between the O2 atom of kaolin (electron donor) and the H13 atom of phenol (electron acceptor).

Synthesis, single crystal X-ray, and DFT study of new hybrid-ligand complex [Cu(hfac)2(Me3TTF-CH=CH-Pyr)] and new mixed-valence radical ion salt (Me3TTF-CH=CH-Pyr)2(PF6)3

This paper presents a comprehensive study that combines experimental techniques and Density Functional Theory (DFT) to investigate a newly synthesized mixed-ligand complex, [Cu(hfac)2(Me3TTF-CH=CH-Pyr)] (where hfac is hexafluoroacetylacetonate), and a novel mixed-valence radical ion salt (Me3TTF-CH=CH-Pyr)2(PF6)3. Both are constructed using ligands derived from the tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) donor molecule. These materials are meticulously characterized through single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. The complex crystallizes in the monoclinic system, specifically in the C2/c space group, with the following lattice parameters: a = 24.583(2) Å, b = 21.613(2) Å, c = 14.2066(13) Å, β = 99.789(5)°, and a volume of V = 7438.3(12) Å3. It exhibits five-coordinate behavior, forming a slightly distorted pyramid with a square base. The paper also provides a detailed account of the crystal structures and reports spectroscopic study results. Electrochemical behavior is explored through cyclic voltammetry in CH2Cl2 as the solvent. Additionally, the reactivity of these compounds is predicted using various theoretical tools, such as Local and Global reactivity descriptors, Hirshfeld charge analyses, and Molecular Electrostatic Potential. To elucidate charge transfer processes, Time-Dependent Density Functional Theory is utilized. Various types of interactions are analyzed through the Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules and Non-Covalent Interaction analyses. Finally, conductivity is estimated using frontier molecular orbitals (FMO) and gap energies as crucial parameters.

Synthesis of a new cyclic amide derivative: Study its optical nonlinear properties and molecular docking

2-(1,3-dioxoisoindolin-2-yl)-N-(pyrimidin-2-yl) acetamide is synthesized as a new cyclic amide derivative. The structure of this derivative has been characterized by NMR, FTIR, and Mass spectra. The molecular docking calculations of the prepared cyclic amide against (PDB ID: 3PP0) receptor are performed. The prepared compound has the potential to inhibit breast cancer cells, according to molecular docking results. The DFT/B3LYP via 6–311 G(d,p) level was performed to optimize the geometrical structure and the global and local reactivity descriptors of this compound. The calculated values of polarizability and hyperpolarizability of the prepared cyclic amide equal 30.774 ×10−24 esu and 114.678 ×10−32 esu, respectively. The nonlinear optical (NLO) properties of the prepared compound are studied under irradiation with a visible, cw laser beam. The nonlinear refraction index (NLRI), n2, of the compound is estimated using diffraction patterns (DPs) and the Z-scan techniques, where as high as 2.682 ×10−11 m2/W are obtained. The optical limiting property of the prepared compound is studied using the same laser beam. An optical limiting threshold of 15 mW is obtained.

New halo-enaminones as potential CNS drugs: Synthesis, characterization, DFT, NLO, molecular docking, and ADMET analysis

Some new halo-enaminones (2b-2g) of (Z)-1-(((2-acetylphenyl)amino)methylene)naphthalen-2(1H)-one (2a) were successfully synthesized in a very good yield. They were characterized by spectroscopic techniques. The single crystal XRD analysis confirmed the structure, stereochemistry, and hydrogen bond interactions of the synthesized enaminones. Density Functional Theory (DFT) and Time-Dependent Density Functional Theory (TDDFT) were employed to study theoretical attributes such as Structural analysis, Natural Bond Order analysis (NBO), Frontier molecular Orbital Analysis (FMO), Global and local reactivity descriptors, Molecular Electrostatic Potential (MEP) analysis, Absorption, Emission and Non-Linear Optical (NLO) properties. Molecular docking analysis revealed that all these compounds had an excellent binding energy of ∼ -12 kcal/mol, with the human Sirtuin 2 (SIRT2) protein (PDB ID: 5Y5N), which is predominantly expressed in the brain. In addition, ADMET analysis revealed that all of them have drug-like properties, Blood Brain Barrier (BBB) permeable, and are not P–Glycoprotein substrates, implying that they are potential Central Nervous System (CNS) drugs.

Correction: Why local softness and local hyper-softness are more appropriate local reactivity descriptors than dual descriptor and Fukui functions?

Correction: Why local softness and local hyper-softness are more appropriate local reactivity descriptors than dual descriptor and Fukui functions?

Electronic contribution of ligands and metal in palladium and palladium-tin bimetallic complexes: A comparative study of reactivity descriptors using different ligands

The study of reactivity descriptors at the global and local levels provides valuable insights into the electronic properties of transition metal catalysts. This study focuses on the understanding of global and local reactivity descriptors of various palladium and palladium-tin bimetallic complexes using different ligands. A comparative analysis of the electronic contribution of three different ligands such as cyclooctadiene (COD), triphenylphosphine (PPh3), and N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) in these complexes was undertaken. The changes in the electronic parameters were observed for the corresponding bimetallic complexes containing tin as the second metal partner.

Exploring the efficacy of Congo Red dye as a corrosion inhibitor for aluminum in HCl solution: An interdisciplinary study with RSM modeling and theoretical simulations

This study investigates Congo Red Textile Dye (CRD) as a corrosion inhibitor for aluminum in a 1.0 mol/L hydrochloric acid solution. Utilizing a comprehensive suite of analytical techniques, including gravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometry (UV–Vis), Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS), and Potentiodynamic Polarization curves (PDP), we assessed CRD’s adsorption mechanism and its corrosion inhibition effectiveness. Significant corrosion mitigation was observed, with the efficiency of inhibition EI (%) increasing alongside CRD concentration, achieving a maximum efficiency of 87.5 %. This enhancement in EI (%) decreases with rising temperatures, assessed across a range from 298 to 323 K. Response surface methodology (RSM) and central composite design (CCD) were employed for accurate corrosion rates (Vcorr) and EI (%) prediction. Additionally, theoretical analysis was performed using global and local reactivity descriptors along with molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Theoretical results confirmed the widespread presence of nucleophilic and electrophilic sites, along with a strong affinity for the Al surface, suggesting CRD’s potential for enhancing corrosion resistance. This study proposes a potential pathway for the valorization of Congo Red dye, utilizing concentrations within non-toxic thresholds, thereby aligning with environmental safety and industrial application considerations.

Comprehensive study of Fenton reaction efficiency on textile wastewater treatment from dye solution to real effluent with emphasis on Fukui function analysis

This study investigated the continuous degradation monitoring of three reactive dyes, reactive yellow 176 (RY), reactive Blue 4 (RB) and reactive red 293 (RR), both in separate solutions and in a mixture, along with their corresponding dye bath and industrial dyeing effluent, using Fenton reaction. A kinetic study was conducted to compare the degradation efficiency of the studied solutions. This work provides important yield of dye degradation, where the results showed that RB, RY, and RR had 96.64 %, 92.47 %, and 73.27 % color removal, respectively, within a two-hour reaction time. The pseudo-second-order model fit well to describe the degradation of RR and RY, while the zero-pseudo-order model provided a better fit for RB. The dye mixture exhibited 57 % color removal, whereas the dyeing bath and real effluent showed 41 % and 36 % removal, respectively, over a two-hour reaction time. Moreover, significant reductions in chemical oxygen demand (COD) and biological oxygen demand over 5 days (BOD5) were observed, with the real effluent demonstrating a 73.91 % COD reduction and an 86.66 % reduction in BOD5. The COD and BOD5 reductions for the dye bath were 67.53 % and 95 %, respectively. Additionally, COD and BOD5 reductions of 72.96 % and 96.66 %, respectively, were observed for the dye bath. DFT calculations were employed to elucidate the regioselectivity of radical oxidation of the three reactive dyes by Fenton's reagent, providing insights into global and local reactivity descriptors. Toxicity studies further underscored the efficacy of the Fenton reaction in wastewater treatment. Additionally, UV–visible spectral analysis before and after 12 h of Fenton reaction revealed total discolouration and a reduction in UV and visible peaks across all reactions, indicating comprehensive dye degradation and reduction.

Study anti-viral drugs for their efficiency against multiple SARS CoV-2 drug targets within molecular docking, molecular quantum similarity, and chemical reactivity indices frameworks

The study focused on drug discovery for COVID-19, emphasizing the challenges posed by the pandemic and the importance of understanding the virus’s biology. The research utilized molecular docking and quantum similarity analyses to explore potential ligands for SARS-CoV-2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. Docking Results Docking outcomes for various ligands, including Oseltamivir, Prochloraz, Valacyclovir, Baricitinib, Molnupiravir, Penciclovir, Famciclovir, Lamivudine, and Nitazoxanide, were presented. Interactions between ligands and specific residues in the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase were analyzed. Reactivity Descriptors Global parameters, such as electronic chemical potential, chemical hardness, global softness, and global electrophilicity, were computed for the ligands. For the local reactivity descriptors, the Fukui Functions were used. Fukui functions, representing electrophilic and nucleophilic sites, were calculated for selected ligands (Valacyclovir and Penciclovir). Nucleophilic character assignments for specific molecular regions were discussed, providing insights into potential charge-donating interactions. Results and Discussion Challenges in COVID-19 drug discovery, such as virus mutability, rapid evolution, and resource limitations, were summarized. Progress in vaccine development and the need for ongoing research to address variants and breakthrough cases were emphasized. Overlap Operator Analysis Higher MQSM between Lamivudine and Molnupiravir (0.5742) indicates structural and electronic similarity. Lowest MQSM between Oseltamivir and Prochloraz (0.2233) implies structural dissimilarity. Coulomb Operator Analysis Higher MQSM between Lamivudine and Molnupiravir (0.9178) suggests both structural and electronic similarity. Lowest MQSM between Baricitinib and Famciclovir (0.6001) indicates greater structural diversity. Measurements above 0.5 in Table 3 suggest electronic similarity, emphasizing the electronic aspects in molecular analysis. In this sense, it study employed a multi-faceted approach combining molecular docking, quantum similarity analyses, and chemical reactivity assessments to explore potential drug candidates for COVID-19. The findings provide valuable insights into ligand interactions, reactivity patterns, and the challenges associated with drug discovery in the context of the global pandemic.

The Effect of Global and Local Chemical Reactivity Descriptors in the Determination of Properties of Transition Metal Clusters

Recently, research on material properties has got lots of attention because of their promising technological applications. In this paper, the author’s focus is on the global and local chemical reactivity descriptors of some transition metal clusters. In addition, the author also include findings of chemical properties with reactivity descriptors. Furthermore, according to Thomas–Fermi approximation and from the exact formulation of Density Functional Theory by Hohenberg and Kohn’s theorem, the author introduce electronegativity and the theory of hardness and softness for further investigation of chemical properties of the clusters. As a part of investigations, the author also introduce the Fukui functions with an emphasis for the determinations of chemical reactivity descriptors. All the results are obtained by theoretical investigation of electronegativity), Chemical potential (), chemical hardness (), and polarizability () of the given transition metal clusters (Cr and Mn). From the results, the author observed that the ionization potential of the clusters increases with decreasing cluster size as the clusters become more stable and tend towards chemical inertness. In conclusion, determination of the reactivity descriptors of the transition metal clusters show results that are in line with previous experimental and theoretical findings.