In this paper, we propose a hybrid metaheuristic algorithm to maximize the production and to minimize the processing time in the steel-making and continuous casting (SCC) by optimizing the order of the sequences where a sequence is a group of jobs with the same chemical characteristics. Based on the work Bellabdaoui and Teghem (2006) [Bellabdaoui, A., & Teghem, J. (2006). A mixed-integer linear programming model for the continuous casting planning. International Journal of Production Economics, 104(2), 260-270.], a mixed integer linear programming for scheduling steelmaking continuous casting production is presented to minimize the makespan. The order of the sequences in continuous casting is assumed to be fixed. The main contribution is to analyze an additional way to determine the optimal order of sequences. A hybrid method based on simulated annealing and genetic algorithm restricted by a tabu list (SA-GA-TL) is addressed to obtain the optimal order. After parameter tuning of the proposed algorithm, it is tested on different instances using a.NET application and the commercial software solver Cplex v12.5. These results are compared with those obtained by SA-TL (simulated annealing restricted by tabu list).

A simple, efficient and general method for the synthesis of 4H-pyrans is established through a multi component cyclocondensation of aromatic aldehydes, malononitrile and ethyl acetoacetate or acetyl acetone using snail shell as a natural catalyst. In this method the snail shell was used as green and reusable natural catalyst. Excellent yields, short reaction times and availability of the catalyst are the advantages of this method.

In the present work, Zn(II), Co(II) and Cr(II) metal complexes (3-5) of N-hydroxy-4-[(hydroxyimino)methyl]benzamidine ligand (2) were synthesized and their anti-HIV activity by inhibiting reverse transcriptase was explored. Structural characterization using NMR, FTIR, Mass, UV-Vis spectra, TGA, magnetic moment and elemental analyses were performed. The analyses show that geometry, lipophilicity and steric factor play crucial role. Cell viability test is performed on peripheral blood mononuclear cells to check toxicity of prepared compounds on immune system, shows toxicity only at higher concentration. Antimicrobial activity and DNA cleavage analysis have also been studied and reported.