FIELD OF INVENTION
[001] The present disclosure broadly relates to the field of sustainable pest management system and particularly refers to a thermo-responsive polymer composition.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[002] Eucalyptus was introduced into India in the 18th century and is currently estimated to be grown in over 3 million hectares of land. About 10% of the world s Eucalyptus plantation are grown in India. (Eucalyptus plantation: socio-economic and environmental impact; Indian Paper Manufacturers Association 2017). The popularity of Eucalyptus trees is increasing due to the increasing demand for the valuable products and services obtained from them for use as ornament, timber, firewood, and pulpwood, etc. As a consequence of the valuable products and services obtained from these Eucalyptus trees, mass propagation of these trees has attracted attention from various horticulturists, researchers, environmentalists, forest-based industries, etc. Every year around 150,000 hectares of Eucalyptus plantations are raised that offers employment opportunities to many people residing in rural India. (IPMA2017).
[003] In recent years, it has been observed that a global pest - Eucalyptus gall wasp {Leptocyhe invasa) originating from Australia has been reported to cause attacks in a variety of Eucalyptus species, hybrids and clones. Volatiles emitted by Eucalyptus trees are used by herbivores to discriminate between host and non-host plants. These volatiles can also serve as an attractant for herbivore predators and parasites (D K Choudhary et al, 2008. Current science 5; 10, 595-604). The selection of an ovipositional site is a critical factor for the survival and population dynamics of phytophagous insects (Eve castells etal, 2008. Springer Science 2:43-51). Thus, host plant (Eucalyptus tree) chemicals are probably the most important source of information contributing to the final decision by an insect to oviposit or not. Taking this into consideration, Leptocyhe invasa Fisher & La Salle females lay eggs in leaf midribs, petioles and fresh shoots of Eucalyptus trees, coppice and nursery seedlings, which induces extra growths (galls) to develop around the eggs. When the eggs

hatch, the maggot-like larvae feed and develop inside the gall. Fully developed larvae pupate inside the galls and emergent adults chew their way out of the gall. As a consequence of this, variety of Eucalyptus trees attacked by Leptocyhe invasa Fisher & La Salle, are manifested by leaf fall, gnarled appearance, loss of growth and vigor, stunted growth, lodging, dieback and eventually tree death. (Mendel et al, 2004. Australian journal of Entomology 43(2):51-63).
[004] Different pest management strategies have been explored against Leptocyhe invasa Fisher & La Salle. Some of the measures that have been deployed includes periodic monitoring of infested nurseries and plantation, application of systemic insecticide such as dimethoate or oxydemeton methyl or imidacloprid, etc. Various biological control methods were utilized for managing the alien pest over a large area. One of the biological method use parasitoids to manage the invasive Eucalyptus gall wasp (Harish Kulkarni, et al, 2010, Kamataka J. Agric. Sci., 23(l):91-92). However, the use of insecticides and botanicals to manage pest have not been very encouraging (Zong-You Huang et al, 2018 Environmental Science and Pollution Research 25:29983 29995)
[005] In view of this, a lot of work has been done to control the invasive pest Eucalyptus gall wasp and further protect Eucalyptus trees from said pests. For instance, US9970022B2 discloses gall wasp control agents that includes a small inhibitory ribonucleic acid molecule (siRNA) inhibiting expression of a Leptocyhe invasa nucleic acid molecule encoding coatomer subunit alpha (alpha COP). [006] CN207305853U discloses a branch eucalyptus gall wasp trap utilized for trapping and luring insects.
[0018] Although a lot of efforts have been made to protect Eucalyptus trees from invasive pests Leptocyhe invasa Fisher & La Salle, however, there still remains a need in the art to develop an efficient, ecological, and sustainable pest management system.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0019] In an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (c) at least one

non-ionic surfactant; and (d) a kairomonal blend, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range 3:2:1-18:2:1.
[0020] In another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a process for preparing a composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant; and (d) a kairomonal blend, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range 3:2:1-18:2:1, said process comprising: (i) obtaining at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (ii) obtaining at least one solvent; (iii) contacting the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof, and the at least one solvent to obtain a first mixture; (iv) obtaining at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (v) contacting the first mixture to the at least one polyether, to obtain a second mixture; (vi) obtaining at least one non-ionic surfactant; (vii) obtaining a kairomonal blend; (viii) contacting the kairomonal blend to the at least one non-ionic surfactant, to obtain a third mixture; and (viii) contacting the third mixture to the second mixture, to obtain the thermo-responsive composition. [0021] In one another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a formulation for the prolonged release of a kairomonal blend, comprising a thermo-responsive polymer composition, said thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant; and (d) a kairomonal blend, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in arange 3:2:1-18:2:1. [0022] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present subject matter will be better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential

features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS
[0023] The following drawings form a part of the present specification and are included to further illustrate aspects of the present disclosure. The disclosure may be better understood by reference to the drawings in combination with the detailed description of the specific embodiments presented herein.
[0024] Figure 1 depicts the Gas Chromatography electro-antennogram detection (GC-EAD) profile, wherein (A) GC-EAD response for boronyl actetate, and (B) GC-EAD response for l,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0025] Figure 2 depicts the release kinetics of the kairomonal blend, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0026] Figure 3 depicts the head space analysis of the thermo-responsive polymer composition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0027] Those skilled in the art will be aware that the present disclosure is subject to variations and modifications other than those specifically described. It is to be understood that the present disclosure includes all such variations and modifications. The disclosure also includes all such steps, features, compositions, and compounds referred to or indicated in this specification, individually or collectively, and any and all combinations of any or more of such steps or features. Definitions
[0028] For convenience, before further description of the present disclosure, certain terms employed in the specification, and examples are delineated here. These definitions should be read in the light of the remainder of the disclosure and understood as by a person of skill in the art. The terms used herein have the meanings

recognized and known to those of skill in the art, however, for convenience and
completeness, particular terms and their meanings are set forth below.
[0029] The articles a , an and the are used to refer to one or to more than one
(i.e., to at least one) of the grammatical object of the article.
[0030] The terms comprise and comprising are used in the inclusive, open sense,
meaning that additional elements may be included. It is not intended to be construed
as consists of only .
[0031] Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise the word
comprise , and variations such as comprises and comprising , will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element or step or group of element or steps but not the exclusion of any other element or step or group of element or steps. [0032] The term including is used to mean including but not limited to .
Including and including but not limited to are used interchangeably. [0033] For the purposes of the present document, the term thermo-responsive polymer used herein refers to a polymer that exhibit a drastic and discontinuous change of their physical properties when exposed to specific temperature. For instance, in the present disclosure, thermo-responsive polymer exhibits a change in their physical property that provides a release of kairomonal blend at a specific temperature as disclosed herein.
[0034] As used herein, the term at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof intended to include linear sulphated polysaccharide, or any derivative of linear sulphated polysaccharide, or a combination of linear sulphated polysaccharide with any derivative of linear sulphated polysaccharide, or a combination of derivatives of linear sulphated polysaccharide. [0035] For the purpose of the present disclosure, carrageenan that belongs to the family of linear sulphated polysaccharides are extracted from red seaweeds. They are large, highly flexible molecules that curl forming helical structures, and therefore, they have an ability to form a variety of different gels at room temperature. All carrageenan are high-molecular-weight polysaccharides made up of (3-1,3-linked D-galactose and a-l,4-linked 3,6-anhydro-D-galactose. For the present disclosure, carrageenan as used was commercially procured.

[0036] As used herein, the term at least one polyether, or derivative thereof
intended to include polyether, or any derivative of polyether, or a combination of
polyether with any derivative of polyether, or a combination of derivatives of
polyether.
[0037] The term polyethylene glycol (PEG) refers to a hydrophilic polymer
composed of oxy-ethylene monomers.
[0038] The term at least one non-ionic surfactant refers to a surfactant that consists
of a hydrophilic head group and a hydrophilic tail, wherein these surfactants do not
have any charged groups in its head.
[0039] For the purpose of the present disclosure, poloxamer 407 refers to thermo
reversible non-ionic block copolymer with an ABA type triblock structure with the
molecular formula [HO(C2H40)ioi(C3H60)56 (C2H40)ioiH]. It has the ability to
increase the solubility of drugs with high log P and has been employed to achieve
different drug release profiles.
[0040] As used herein, the term kairomonal blend refers to mixture, combination,
admixture of highly volatile plant derived chemicals that are used by organisms as
information signals.
[0041] As used herein, preservative, dye, and sorbent refer to the generally known
components used in the art.
[0042] Ratios, concentrations, amounts, and other numerical data may be presented
herein in a range format. It is to be understood that such range format is used merely
for convenience and brevity and should be interpreted flexibly to include not only
the numerical values explicitly recited as the limits of the range, but also to include
all the individual numerical values or sub-ranges encompassed within that range as
if each numerical value and sub-range is explicitly recited.
[0043] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have
the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to
which this disclosure belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or
equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the
disclosure, the preferred methods, and materials are now described. All publications
mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference.

[0044] The present disclosure is not to be limited in scope by the specific embodiments described herein, which are intended for the purposes of exemplification only. Functionally-equivalent products, compositions, and methods are clearly within the scope of the disclosure, as described herein. [0045] Various efforts that have been deployed to control pest such as Leptocybe invasa Fisher & La Salle including the synthetic toxicants and use of parasitoids for providing classical biological control are associated with various risks. The risks of releasing exotic biological control agents include possible global or local extinction of a native species, large reductions in distribution and abundance of native organisms, interference in the efficacy of native enemies through intraguild interactions or competitive displacement and loss of biodiversity. In the light of increasing evidence of extinction of native organisms and resultant threat to native biodiversity associated with it, the classical biological control needs to be weighed carefully. Further various integrated pest management tools that are conventionally used, utilizes kairamone to manipulate the behavior of pest insects and their natural enemies to provide effective control of pests within the crop. However, these kairomones are highly volatile chemicals that makes the field application non-viable. Therefore, the problem of speedy release of these volatile chemicals do not provide the effective control of pests.
[0046] To overcome the afore-mentioned problems, the present disclosure discloses a thermo-responsive polymer composition. The thermo-responsive polymer composition as per the present disclosure comprises at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof, at least one polyether, or derivative thereof, at least one non-ionic surfactant; and a kairomonal blend, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 3:2:1-18:2:1. The thermo-responsive composition provides prolonged release of the kairomonal blend at a specific temperature, therefore, providing temperature based controlled release of kairomonal blend.
[0047] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated

polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant; and (d) a kairomonal blend, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 3:2:1-18:2:1. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 4:2:1-16:2:1. In one another embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof, the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 5:2:1-14:2:1. In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 5:2:1-12:2:1.
[0048] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant; and (d) a kairomonal blend, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 3:2:1-18:2:1, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof has a weight percentage in a range of 30-70% with respect to the composition, the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof has a weight percentage in a range of 9-30% with respect to the composition, the at least one non-ionic surfactant has a weight percentage in a range of 5-13% with respect to the composition, the kairomonal blend has a weight percentage in a range of 9-30% with respect to the composition. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof has a weight percentage in a range of 35-68% with respect to the composition, the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof has a weight percentage in a range of 10-28% with

respect to the composition, the at least one non-ionic surfactant has a weight percentage in a range of 5.5-12.5% with respect to the composition, the kairomonal blend has a weight percentage in a range of 11-29% with respect to the composition. In one another embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof has a weight percentage in a range of 40-60% with respect to the composition, the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof has a weight percentage in a range of 11-26% with respect to the composition, the at least one non-ionic surfactant has a weight percentage in a range of 6-12% with respect to the composition, the kairomonal blend has a weight percentage in a range of 14-25% with respect to the composition.
[0049] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof selected from a group consisting of carrageenan, fucoidan, galactan, rhamnan, and combinations thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant; and (d) a kairomonal blend, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 3:2:1-18:2:1. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof is carrageenan.
[0050] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof selected from a group consisting of polyethylene glycol (PEG), macrogol, methoxypolyethylene glycols, PEG phospholipid construct selected from PEG-distearoyl phosphoethanolamine (DSPE-PEG) construct, PEG-dendron-phospholipid, or methoxy-PEG-distearoyl phosphoethanolamine (mPEG-DSPE), and combinations thereof.; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant; and (d) a kairomonal blend, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic

surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 3:2:1-18:2:1. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one poly ether, or derivative thereof is PEG. [0051] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant selected from a group consisting of poloxamer 407, ethoxylated aliphatic alcohol, polyoxyethylene surfactants, carboxylic esters, polyethylene glycol esters, anhydrosorbitol ester, ethoxylated derivatives, glycol esters of fatty acids, carboxylic amides, monoalkanolamine condensates, polyoxyethylene fatty acid amides, and combinations thereof; and (d) a kairomonal blend, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range 3:2:1-18:2:1. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one non-ionic surfactant is poloxamer 407. [0052] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant; and (d) a kairomonal blend comprising boronyl actetate and l,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 3:2:1-18:2:1.
[0053] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof selected from a group consisting of carrageenan, fucoidan, galactan, rhamnan, and combinations thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof selected from a group consisting of polyethylene glycol (PEG), macrogol, methoxypolyethylene glycols, PEG phospholipid construct selected from PEG-distearoyl phosphoethanolamine (DSPE-PEG) construct, PEG-dendron-phospholipid, or methoxy-PEG-distearoyl phosphoethanolamine (mPEG-DSPE), and combinations thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant selected from

a group consisting of poloxamer 407, ethoxylated aliphatic alcohol, polyoxyethylene surfactants, carboxylic esters, polyethylene glycol esters, anhydrosorbitol ester, ethoxylated derivatives, glycol esters of fatty acids, carboxylic amides, monoalkanolamine condensates, polyoxyethylene fatty acid amides, and combinations thereof; and (d) a kairomonal blend, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 3:2:1-18:2:1.
[0054] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof selected from a group consisting of carrageenan, fucoidan, galactan, rhamnan, and combinations thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof selected from a group consisting of polyethylene glycol (PEG), macrogol, methoxypolyethylene glycols, PEG phospholipid construct selected from PEG-distearoyl phosphoethanolamine (DSPE-PEG) construct, PEG-dendron-phospholipid, or methoxy-PEG-distearoyl phosphoethanolamine (mPEG-DSPE), and combinations thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant selected from a group consisting of poloxamer 407, ethoxylated aliphatic alcohol, polyoxyethylene surfactants, carboxylic esters, polyethylene glycol esters, anhydrosorbitol ester, ethoxylated derivatives, glycol esters of fatty acids, carboxylic amides, monoalkanolamine condensates, polyoxyethylene fatty acid amides, and combinations thereof; and (d) a kairomonal blend, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio in a range of 3:2:1-18:2:1, and wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof has a weight percentage in a range of 30-70% with respect to the composition, the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof has a weight percentage in a range of 9-30% with respect to the composition, the at least one non-ionic surfactant has a weight percentage in a range of 5-13% with respect to the composition, the kairomonal blend has a weight percentage in a range of 9-30% with respect to the composition.

[0055] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant; and (d) a kairomonal blend comprising boronyl actetate and l,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 3:2:1-18:2:1, and wherein boronyl actetate has a weight percentage in a range of 25-45% with respect to the kairomonal blend. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, boronyl actetate has a weight percentage in a range of 28-42% with respect to the kairomonal blend. In one another embodiment of the present disclosure, boronyl actetate has a weight percentage in a range of 30-40% with respect to the kairomonal blend.
[0056] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant; and (d) a kairomonal blend comprising boronyl actetate and l,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 3:2:1-18:2:1, and wherein l,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane has a weight percentage in a range of 55-75% with respect to the kairomonal blend. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, l,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane has a weight percentage in a range of 58-73% with respect to the kairomonal blend. In one another embodiment of the present disclosure, l,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane has a weight percentage in a range of 60-70% with respect to the kairomonal blend.
[0057] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant; and (d) a kairomonal blend comprising boronyl

actetate and l,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 3:2:1-18:2:1, and wherein boronyl actetate has a weight percentage in a range of 25-45% with respect to the kairomonal blend, and wherein l,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane has a weight percentage in a range of 55-75% with respect to the kairomonal blend.
[0058] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof selected from a group consisting of carrageenan, fucoidan, galactan, rhamnan, and combinations thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof selected from a group consisting of polyethylene glycol (PEG), macrogol, methoxypolyethylene glycols, PEG phospholipid construct selected from PEG-distearoyl phosphoethanolamine (DSPE-PEG) construct, PEG-dendron-phospholipid, or methoxy-PEG-distearoyl phosphoethanolamine (mPEG-DSPE), and combinations thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant selected from a group consisting of poloxamer 407, ethoxylated aliphatic alcohol, polyoxyethylene surfactants, carboxylic esters, polyethylene glycol esters, anhydrosorbitol ester, ethoxylated derivatives, glycol esters of fatty acids, carboxylic amides, monoalkanolamine condensates, polyoxyethylene fatty acid amides, and combinations thereof; and (d) a kairomonal blend comprising boronyl actetate and l,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 3:2:1-18:2:1.
[0059] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant; (d) a kairomonal blend; and (e) at least solvent, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the

at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in arange of 3:2:1-18:2:1.
[0060] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant; (d) a kairomonal blend; and (e) at least solvent selected from a group consisting of water, isopropyl alcohol, methanol, ethanol, and combination thereof, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in arange of 3:2:1-18:2:1. [0061] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof selected from a group consisting of carrageenan, fucoidan, galactan, rhamnan, and combinations thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof selected from a group consisting of polyethylene glycol (PEG), macrogol, methoxypolyethylene glycols, PEG phospholipid construct selected from PEG-distearoyl phosphoethanolamine (DSPE-PEG) construct, PEG-dendron-phospholipid, or methoxy-PEG-distearoyl phosphoethanolamine (mPEG-DSPE), and combinations thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant selected from a group consisting of poloxamer 407, ethoxylated aliphatic alcohol, polyoxyethylene surfactants, carboxylic esters, polyethylene glycol esters, anhydrosorbitol ester, ethoxylated derivatives, glycol esters of fatty acids, carboxylic amides, monoalkanolamine condensates, polyoxyethylene fatty acid amides, and combinations thereof; (d) a kairomonal blend; and (e) at least solvent selected from a group consisting of water, isopropyl alcohol, methanol, ethanol, and combination thereof, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in arange of 3:2:1-18:2:1.
[0062] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a process for preparing a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or

derivative thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant; and (d) a kairomonal blend, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 3:2:1-18:2:1, said process comprising: (i) obtaining at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (ii) obtaining at least one solvent; (iii) contacting the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof, and the at least one solvent to obtain a first mixture; (iv) obtaining at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (v) contacting the first mixture to the at least one polyether, to obtain a second mixture; (vi) obtaining at least one non-ionic surfactant; (vii) obtaining a kairomonal blend; (viii) contacting the kairomonal blend to the at least one non-ionic surfactant, to obtain a third mixture; and (ix) contacting the third mixture to the second mixture, to obtain the thermo-responsive composition.
[0063] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a process for preparing a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant; and (d) a kairomonal blend, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 3:2:1-18:2:1, said process comprising: (i) obtaining at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (ii) obtaining at least one solvent; (iii) contacting the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof, and the at least one solvent to obtain a first mixture, wherein the first mixture is prepared at a temperature in a range of 60-90°C; (iv) obtaining at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (v) contacting the first mixture to the at least one polyether, to obtain a second mixture; (vi) obtaining at least one non-ionic surfactant; (vii) obtaining a kairomonal blend; (viii) contacting the kairomonal blend to the at least one non-ionic surfactant, to obtain a third mixture; and (ix) contacting the third mixture to the second mixture, to obtain the thermo-responsive composition. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the first mixture is prepared at a temperature in a range of 62-88°C. In one another embodiment of the

present disclosure, the first mixture is prepared at a temperature in a range of 67-82°C.
[0064] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a process for preparing a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant; and (d) a kairomonal blend, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 3:2:1-18:2:1, said process comprising: (i) obtaining at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (ii) obtaining at least one solvent; (iii) contacting the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof, and the at least one solvent to obtain a first mixture; (iv) obtaining at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (v) contacting the first mixture to the at least one polyether, to obtain a second mixture; (vi) obtaining at least one non-ionic surfactant; (vii) obtaining a kairomonal blend; (viii) contacting the kairomonal blend to the at least one non-ionic surfactant, to obtain a third mixture; and (ix) contacting the third mixture to the second mixture, to obtain the thermo-responsive composition, and wherein the composition is prepared at a stirring speed in a range of 80-110 rpm. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the composition is prepared at a stirring speed in a range of 85-108 rpm. In one another embodiment of the present disclosure, the composition is prepared at a stirring speed in a range of 88-105 rpm.
[0065] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a process for preparing a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof selected from a group consisting of carrageenan, fucoidan, galactan, rhamnan, and combinations thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof selected from a group consisting of polyethylene glycol (PEG), macrogol, methoxypolyethylene glycols, PEG phospholipid construct selected from PEG-distearoyl phosphoethanolamine (DSPE-PEG) construct, PEG-dendron-phospholipid, or methoxy-PEG-distearoyl phosphoethanolamine (mPEG-DSPE), and combinations thereof. ; (c) at least one

non-ionic surfactant selected from a group consisting of poloxamer 407, ethoxylated aliphatic alcohol, polyoxyethylene surfactants, carboxylic esters, polyethylene glycol esters, anhydrosorbitol ester, ethoxylated derivatives, glycol esters of fatty acids, carboxylic amides, monoalkanolamine condensates, polyoxyethylene fatty acid amides, and combinations thereof; and (d) a kairomonal blend, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one poly ether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 3:2:1-18:2:1, said process comprising: (i) obtaining at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (ii) obtaining at least one solvent; (iii) contacting the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof, and the at least one solvent to obtain a first mixture; (iv) obtaining at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (v) contacting the first mixture to the at least one polyether, to obtain a second mixture; (vi) obtaining at least one non-ionic surfactant; (vii) obtaining a kairomonal blend; (viii) contacting the kairomonal blend to the at least one non-ionic surfactant, to obtain a third mixture; and (ix) contacting the third mixture to the second mixture, to obtain the thermo-responsive composition. [0066] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a process for preparing a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant; (d) a kairomonal blend; and (e) at least solvent, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 3:2:1-18:2:1, said process comprising: (i) obtaining at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (ii) obtaining at least one solvent; (iii) contacting the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof, and the at least one solvent to obtain a first mixture; (iv) obtaining at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (v) contacting the first mixture to the at least one polyether, to obtain a second mixture; (vi) obtaining at least one non-ionic surfactant; (vii) obtaining a kairomonal blend; (viii) contacting the kairomonal blend to the at least one non-ionic surfactant, to

obtain a third mixture; and (ix) contacting the third mixture to the second mixture, to obtain the thermo-responsive composition.
[0067] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a process for preparing a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant; and (d) a kairomonal blend, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 3:2:1-18:2:1, said process comprising: (i) obtaining at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (ii) obtaining at least one solvent; (iii) contacting the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof, and the at least one solvent to obtain a first mixture, wherein the first mixture is prepared at a temperature in a range of 60-90°C; (iv) obtaining at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (v) contacting the first mixture to the at least one polyether, to obtain a second mixture; (vi) obtaining at least one non-ionic surfactant; (vii) obtaining a kairomonal blend; (viii) contacting the kairomonal blend to the at least one non-ionic surfactant, to obtain a third mixture; and (ix) contacting the third mixture to the second mixture, to obtain the thermo-responsive composition, and wherein the composition is prepared at a stirring speed in a range of80-110rpm.
[0068] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a process for preparing a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant; and (d) a kairomonal blend comprising boronyl actetate and l,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 3:2:1-18:2:1, said process comprising: (i) obtaining at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (ii) obtaining at least one solvent; (iii) contacting the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof, and the at least one solvent to obtain a first mixture; (iv) obtaining at least

one polyether, or derivative thereof; (v) contacting the first mixture to the at least one polyether, to obtain a second mixture; (vi) obtaining at least one non-ionic surfactant; (vii) obtaining a kairomonal blend; (viii) contacting the kairomonal blend to the at least one non-ionic surfactant, to obtain a third mixture; and (ix) contacting the third mixture to the second mixture, to obtain the thermo-responsive composition.
[0069] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a formulation for the prolonged release of a kairomonal blend, comprising the thermo-responsive polymer composition as described herein.
[0070] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant; and (d) a kairomonal blend comprising boronyl actetate and l,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 3:2:1-18:2, wherein the composition further comprises at least one excipient selected from a group consisting of preservative, dye, sorbent, and combinations thereof. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, preservative is selected from a group consisting of benzyl alcohol, proply paraben, methyl paraben, chlorocresol, imidazolidinyl urea, sodium benzoate, and combinations thereof, dye is selected from a group consisting of amaranth, erythrosin, eosin, tartarazine, and combinations thereof, and sorbent is selected from a group consisting of silica gel, activated carbon, clay, and combinations thereof.
[0071] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a formulation for the prolonged release of a kairomonal blend, comprising (a) the thermo-responsive polymer composition as described herein; and (b) at least one excipient selected from a group consisting of preservative, dye, sorbent, and combinations thereof.
[0072] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising: (a) at least one linear sulphated

polysaccharide, or derivative thereof; (b) at least one polyether, or derivative thereof; (c) at least one non-ionic surfactant; and (d) a kairomonal blend comprising boronyl actetate and l,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range of 3:2:1-18:2, wherein the composition further comprises at least one excipient selected from a group consisting of preservative, dye, sorbent, and combinations thereof, wherein preservative has a weight percentage in a range of 0.1-1% with respect to the formulation, dye has a weight percentage in a range of 0.01-0.1% with respect to the formulation, and sorbent has a weight percentage in a range of 0.1-1% with respect to the formulation.
[0073] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a formulation for the prolonged release of a kairomonal blend, comprising the thermo-responsive polymer composition as described herein, wherein the thermo-responsive polymer composition releases the kairomonal blend at a temperature in a range of 30-50°C. and wherein the formulation is in form of a group selected from gel, nanogels, aerogels, micellar gel, and combinations thereof. In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the thermo-responsive polymer composition releases the kairomonal blend at a temperature in a range of 34-49°C.
[0074] Although the subject matter has been described in considerable detail with reference to certain examples and implementations thereof, other implementations are possible.
EXAMPLES
[0075] The disclosure will now be illustrated with working examples, which is intended to illustrate the working of disclosure and not intended to take restrictively to imply any limitations on the scope of the present disclosure. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice of the disclosed methods and compositions, the

exemplary methods, devices and materials are described herein. It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to particular methods, and experimental conditions described, as such methods and conditions may apply.
[0076] The working and non-working examples as depicted in the forthcoming sections highlight the criticality of the working percentages of different components in achieving the thermo- responsive polymer composition of the present disclosure. It is specified that the presence of the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof, the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof, and the at least one non-ionic surfactant in a weight ratio in a range of 3:2:1-18:2:1 is critical for achieving the thermo- responsive polymer composition of the present disclosure, that provides the prolonged release of the kairomonal blend. It is further specified when any of the components as specified above are present outside the disclosed weight ratio range fails to provide the desired effect.
Materials and Methods
[0077] The components used for achieving the final composition of the present disclosure such as carrageenan (at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide or derivative thereof), polyethylene glycol (PEG) (at least one polyether, or derivative thereof), and poloxamer 407 (at least one non-ionic surfactant) were procured from BASF India Limited, whereas, boronyl actetate and l,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane were procured from Sigma-Aldrich (St. Louis, MO, USA). [0078] Eucalyptus leaf extracts were procured from Tamil Nadu, India.
EXAMPLE 1
Identification of ovipositional attractants
[0079] For the purpose of identification of compounds that drives the behaviour of Leptocyhe invasa, eucalyptus leaves were chopped into fine pieces and 10 gm of those chopped pieces were transferred into an Erlenmeyer flask (250 ml). Subsequently, hexane (100 ml) was added into each flask and vortexed for about 2 hours, to prepare samples. The samples were then filtered, vacuum evaporated and subjected to coupled Gas Chromatography electro-antennogram detection (GC-

EAD) analyses with Leptocybe invasa to detect biologically active peaks. The biological active peaks identified from GC-EAD profile, indicated active components or ovipositional attractants that drove the behaviour of Leptocybe invasa. Identification of EAD-active peaks was done by using NIST 98 library (National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland). The structures of the identified compounds were confirmed by using commercially available synthetic standards with purity >97% (as indicated on the labels) obtained from Sigma® Chemical Co. (St. Louis, MOUSA).
[0080] As illustrated in Figure 1, two components were identified from GC-EAD profile- boronyl actetate (Figure 1A) and l,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane (Figure IB). It was further observed that presence of the afore-mentioned compounds in Eucalyptus trees as identified by using GC-EAD analysis were considered as ovipositional attractants that drove the behaviour of Leptocybe invasa. Taking this into consideration, boronyl actetate and l,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane were further used for the evaluation to achieve the purpose of the present disclosure.
EXAMPLE 2 Multi-Olfactometer assays
[0081] To study the effect of the active components such as boronyl actetate and l,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane on the behavioural response of Leptocybe invasa, different concentrations of boronyl actetate and l,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane were utilized individually and in combination thereof, to form the kairomonal blend, as mentioned in Table 1.
[0082] For the purpose of testing the behavioural response of Leptocybe invasa to different components of the afore-mentioned active components, multi- olfactometer was used. Multi-Olfactometer study was similar to Y-tube study, however, multi-olfactometer study used two source chambers/boxes connecting with tubes to central insect releasing area, wherein the wasps were allowed to make a choice among the sources placed in said two chambers/boxes.
a) Method for analysing the behavioural response of Leptocybe invasa by multi-olfactometer assay

[0083] The multi-olfactometer assay was carried out by the following steps: About lOul of the test solution (kairomonal blend) was loaded onto the filter paper and the solvent was then allowed to evaporate. For the purpose of the study, hexane was used as control. The wasps were then allowed to make choice between source(s) (test solution loaded filter paper) placed in two chambers/boxes within 30 minutes and it was observed that a total of at least 20 wasps were tested. Various behavioural responses were recorded, depending on the action taken by the wasp-Leptocybe invasa, including:
1. When Wasps entered the Source chamber/region, the response was considered as insect response.
2. When wasp entered & exit source, and then later re-entered the source, was noted as number of positive visits.
3. When wasps remained in the source chamber, the response was considered as retention time (total time).
4. When wasps contacted the chemical loaded filter paper it was considered as a source contact.
[0084] All tests were conducted at a room temperature, i.e. 25 ±2 °C, with constant
purified and moistened air flow at a rate of 0.5 1/min, and odorant compounds were
switched between the two arms every 5th test.
b) Observations
[0085] After conducting multi-olfactometer study to test the behavioural response of
Leptocybe invasa, it was observed that 2mg of boronyl actetate and 2mg of 1,3,3-
trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane used individually, attracted 4 and 3 wasps out
of 20 wasps respectively.
[0086] Further as shown in Table 1, when boronyl actetate and l,3,3-trimethyl-2-
oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane used at different ratios (1:1, 1:2, 1:4, 1:0.5, 1:1, 1:2, 1:0.25,
1:0.5,1:1) to prepare combinations 1,11, III, IV, V, VI,VII, VIII, and IX respectively,
it was observed that combination I (0.5mg of boronyl actetate: lmg of 1,3,3-
trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane with 1:2 ratio) attracted 5 wasps out of 20
wasps with 27 minutes retention time as compared to other combinations and Control
(Hexane).

Table 1

Combination Actives Response Retention time
(-)-Boronyl actetate (0.5mg) 0 0
(-)-Boronyl actetate (lmg) 1 10
(-)-Boronyl actetate (2mg) 4 27
3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane (0.5mg) 0 0
3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane (lmg) 1 8.5
3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane (2mg) 3 20
I (-)-Boronyl actetate: 3,3 -trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane (1:1); (0.5mg:0.5mg) 2 4.5
II (-)-Boronyl actetate: 3,3 -trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane (1:2); (0.5mg:lmg) 5 27
III (-)-Boronyl actetate: 3,3 -trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane (1:4); (0.5mg:2mg) 1 6
IV (-)-Boronyl actetate: 3,3 -trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane (1:0.5); (lmg:0.5mg) 0 0
V (-)-Boronyl actetate: 3,3 -trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane (1:1); (lmg: lmg) 2 3.5
VI (-)-Boronyl actetate: 3,3 -trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane (1:2); (lmg:2mg) 6 29

VII (-)-Boronyl actetate: 3,3 -trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane (1:0.25); (2mg:0.5mg) 0 0
VIII (-)-Boronyl actetate: 3,3 -trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane (1:0.5); (2mg:lmg) 0 0
IX (-)-Boronyl actetate: 3,3 -trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane (1:1); (2mg:2mg) 1 2.5
[0087] From the above observations it can be inferred that the kairomonal blend in combination II and VI (having Boronyl actetate and 3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane in a weight ratio of 1:2) showed better retention time of 27 and 29 minutes respectively. However, out of both the combinations, combination II (0.5mg of Boronyl actetate: lmg of 3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane) was explicitly used in the present disclosure, since both the active components in said combination that were present at a lower concentration showed a better efficacy as compared to combination VI. Although, combination VI can also be used alternatively for exemplification purposes.
EXAMPLE 3
Preparation of the thermo-responsive polymer composition and formulation of
the present disclosure
[0088] Different preparations (prep) of thermo-responsive polymer composition of
the present disclosure were prepared by following steps:
[0089] Step 1: carrageenan (at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or
derivative thereof) at various concentrations (lmg, 5mg, lOmg, and 20mg) was
obtained
[0090] Step 2: water (at least one solvent) was obtained;
[0091] Step 3: carrageenan and water were contacted at a temperature of about 80°C
and stirred continuously, to obtain a first mixture.

[0092] Step 4: after 2 hours, when clear solution of the first mixture was obtained,
2mg of polyethylene glycol (PEG) (at least one poly ether, or derivative thereof) was
obtained and subsequently contacted with clear solution of the first mixture for
another 30 minutes, to obtain a second mixture;
[0093] Step 5: lmg of poloxamer 407 (at least one non-ionic surfactant) was
obtained;
[0094] Step 6: a kairomonal blend (combination II) was obtained;
[0095] Step 7: the kairomonal blend was contacted to 1ml of poloxamer 407(lmg)
solution, to obtain a third mixture; and
[0096] Step 8: the third mixture was contacted to the second mixture, and stirred at
lOOrpm, to obtain the thermo-responsive composition.
[0097] The thermo-responsive composition was left on slow agitation for about 5
minutes to form the formulation of the present disclosure. The formulation
comprising the thermo-responsive composition was poured into the petri dishes
(35mm) and stored at ambient temperature.
[0098] Table 2 shows the concentration of different components used for preparing
the thermo-responsive composition.
Table 2

Experiment code Carrageenan (at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof) (mg) Polyethylene glycol (PEG) (at least one polyether, or derivative thereof) (mg) poloxamer 407 (at least one non-ionic surfactant) (mg) Ratio
Prep 1 1 2 1 1:2:1
Prep 2 5 2 1 5:2:1
Prep 3 10 Is) 1 10:2:1
Prep 4 20 Is) 1 20:2:1

[0099] Referring to Table 2, it was observed that carrageenan, polyethylene glycol (PEG), and poloxamer 407 used at different ratios to prepare various preparations-prep 1 (1:2:1), prep 2 (5:2:1), prep 3 (10:2:1), and prep 4 (20:2:1) that were loaded with the kairomonal blend (combination II; Boronyl actetate:3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane (1:2); (0.5mg:lmg)) to provide the thermo-responsive polymer composition of the present disclosure.
EXAMPLE 4
Release kinetics experiment
[00100] After preparation of different preparation(s) of the thermo-responsive polymer composition as explained in example 3, release kinetics experiments were conducted for the purpose of measuring the influence of temperature on volatile rate of the kairomonal blend encapsulated in the thermo-responsive polymer composition (thermo-responsive gel). The aim of the release kinetics experiment was to implement the thermo-responsive polymer composition in the Eucalyptus filed / nursery and test the effectivity of different preparations (as prepared in example 3) in providing the temperature based controlled release for kairomonal blend, that can be used as a gall wasp attractant in the Eucalyptus filed / nursery. [00101] For the purpose of carrying out the release kinetics experiment, about lgm of free (-)-Boronyl acetate: 3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane (kairomonal blend) at a definite ratio and samples of thermo-responsive polymer composition prepared at different ratios (1:2:1, 5:2:1, 10:2:1, 20:2:1) were weighed and placed in an oven. The oven was calibrated at 40°C, to measure the rate of volatility. The results related to weight loss were collected every 60 minutes for about 7 hours. The data was then processed, and the percentage of blend loss was estimated. [00102] Table 3 shows the volatility % of the samples of thermo-responsive polymer composition at different ratios and free kairomonal blend. Table 3

Time (h) 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Volatility
0/
Prep 1 0 2 3.5 7 9 11 15 17

Prep 2 0 1.5 2.5 3.5 5.5 7.5 9 10.5

Prep 3 0 0.5 1 2 3.5 4.5 5.5 6.5
Prep 4 0 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3

Free
Kairamone
blend 0 2 4 7.5 9.5 12.5 15.5 17.5

[00103] It can be observed from Table 3 and Figure 2, that the samples of thermo-responsive polymer composition had different volatility values due to the presence of carrageenan at different concentration(s). It was further observed that prep 1 (1:2:1), prep 2 (5:2:1) showed higher volatility of the kairomonal blend, whereas, prep 3 (10:2:1) and prep 4 (20:2:1) showed lower release rate of the kairomonal blend as compared to free kairomonal blend.
[00104] Therefore, it can be inferred from Table 3 and Figure 2, when the influence of temperature was measured on the volatility rate of the free kairomonal blend and kairomonal blend encapsulated in the thermo-responsive polymer composition, prep 3 and prep 4 showed lower release rate of the kairomonal blend and prep 1 and prep 2 showed higher release rate of the kairomonal blend as compared to free kairomonal blend.
EXAMPLE 5
Headspace Extraction and GC-MS analysis.
[00105] Head space extraction of the volatile components present in each sample of
thermo-responsive polymer composition was performed using Shimadzu Triple
Quadrupole GCMS equipped with a headspace auto-sampler, heater, and agitator
(Agilent Technologies).
[00106] Headspace coupled GC-MS as disclosed herein was a tool utilized for the
analysis of light volatiles present in samples that can be efficiently partitioned into
the headspace gas volume from solid sample.
[00107] For this purpose, about 2gms of the thermo-responsive polymer
composition containing kairomonal blend was weighed and transferred into the
sample vial and sealed with PTFE rubber septum. The headspace equilibrium
temperature was set at 50°C for about 15 minutes and followed by gentle shaking.

The loop and transfer line temperature were set as 150°C. The pressurization time and the loop fill time were 0.2 min, and the injection time was 0.2 min. [00108] The release of the kairomonal blend from the thermo-responsive polymer composition were identified using Shimadzu Triple Quadrupole GCMS, Model: GCMS-TQ8030 fitted with a HP-5 MS column with 30 m X 0.25mm ID, 0.25 uM thickness (Agilent Technologies). The following GC temperature program was used: holding the temperature at 50 °C for 5 minutes, then increasing the temperature to 250 °C at a rate of 5 °C/min, and finally holding the temperature at 250 °C for 5 minutes. The injector and the detector temperatures were 250 °C and 180 °C, respectively. The flow rate for the helium carrier gas was 1 ml/min. The ionization voltage was at 70eV.
[00109] The head space analysis of the thermo-responsive polymer composition, as illustrated in Figure 3 shows that there was a significant difference in the volatile profile of kairomonal blend encapsulated in different preparations of the thermo-responsive polymer composition. Among all the preparations, volatile analysis from Prep 2 (5:2:1) and Prep 3 (10:2:1) showed the presence of both boronyl acetate and 3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane as compared with the other preparations Prepl (1:2:1), and Prep 4 (20:2:1).
[00110] It can be inferred from Figure 3 and from above observations, that Prep 2 (5:2:1) and Prep 3 (10:2:1) provided prolonged release of the kairomonal blend (comprising boronyl acetate and 3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane at a weight ratio of 1:2) and therefore were considered as the working examples of the present disclosure. Prep 1 (1:2:1), and Prep 4 (20:2:1) showed a faster release of the kairomonal blend were considered as the non-working examples of the present disclosure. The non-working examples depict the criticality of the weight ratio ranges as disclosed in the present disclosure.
[00111] Overall, the combination of the least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof, the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof, the at least one non-ionic surfactant, and the kairomonal blend is essential to achieve the thermo-responsive polymer composition of the present disclosure. It is specified that the presence of the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to

the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant in a weight ratio range of 3:2:1-18:2:1 is essential to provide the prolonged release of the kairomonal blend, as provided by the preparation 2, and preparation 3, wherein the afore-mentioned components were present in a weight ratio of 5:2: land 10:2:1 in respective preparations. The examples present herein also clearly depicts that deviating anyone of the components specified above from their disclosed weight ratio range fails to provide the desired result, as exemplified in preparation 1 (1:2:1), and preparation 4 (20:2:1).
Advantages of the present disclosure
[00112] The present disclosure discloses a thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof, at least one polyether, or derivative thereof, at least one non-ionic surfactant, and a kairomonal blend, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in a range 3:2:1-18:2:1. The presence of the afore-mentioned components in the disclosed weight ratio range is critical for providing the prolonged release of the kairomonal blend. The kairomonal blend is released only when the composition is exposed to a specific temperature range of about 30-50°C. The property of the composition of present disclosure to provide temperature-based release of the kairomonal blend, helps to control the invasive Eucalyptus gall wasp effectively, since these gall wasps are reported in the field at a temperature above 40°C. Also, the thermo-responsive polymer composition exhibits sol-gel transition property and thereby form a variety of different gels at room temperature. Overall, the composition proves to be effective in attracting and controlling the invasive pest such as Leptocybe invasa Fisher & La Salle.

I/We Claim;
1. A thermo-responsive polymer composition comprising:
a. at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative
thereof;
b. at least one polyether, or derivative thereof;
c. at least one non-ionic surfactant; and
d. a kairomonal blend,
wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof to the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof to the at least one non-ionic surfactant weight ratio is in arange 3:2:1-18:2:1.
2. The thermo-responsive polymer composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof has a weight percentage in a range of 30-70% with respect to the composition, the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof has a weight percentage in a range of 9-30% with respect to the composition, the at least one non-ionic surfactant has a weight percentage in a range of 5-13% with respect to the composition, the kairomonal blend has a weight percentage in a range of 9-30% with respect to the composition.
3. The thermo-responsive polymer composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative thereof is selected from a group consisting of carrageenan, fucoidan, galactan, rhamnan, and combinations thereof.
4. The thermo-responsive polymer composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one polyether, or derivative thereof is selected from a group consisting of polyethylene glycol (PEG), macrogol, methoxypolyethylene glycols, PEG phospholipid construct selected from PEG-distearoyl phosphoethanolamine (DSPE-PEG) construct, PEG-dendron-phospholipid, or methoxy-PEG-distearoyl phosphoethanolamine (mPEG-DSPE), and combinations thereof.

5. The thermo-responsive polymer composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one non-ionic surfactant is selected from a group consisting of poloxamer 407, ethoxylated aliphatic alcohol, polyoxyethylene surfactants, carboxylic esters, polyethylene glycol esters, anhydrosorbitol ester, ethoxylated derivatives, glycol esters of fatty acids, carboxylic amides, monoalkanolamine condensates, polyoxyethylene fatty acid amides, and combinations thereof.
6. The thermo-responsive polymer composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the kairomonal blend comprises boronyl actetate and 1,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane.
7. The thermo-responsive polymer composition as claimed in claim 6, wherein boronyl actetate has a weight percentage in a range of 25-45% with respect to the kairomonal blend.
8. The thermo-responsive polymer composition as claimed in claim 7, wherein l,3,3-trimethyl-2-oxabicyclo(2.2.2)octane has a weight percentage in a range of 55-75% with respect to the kairomonal blend.
9. The thermo-responsive polymer composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the composition further comprises at least solvent.
10. The thermo-responsive polymer composition as claimed in claim 9, wherein the at least solvent is selected from a group consisting of water, isopropyl alcohol, methanol, ethanol, and combination thereof.
11. A process for preparing a thermo-responsive polymer composition as claimed in claim 1, said process comprising:
a. obtaining at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or derivative
thereof;
b. obtaining at least one solvent;
c. contacting the at least one linear sulphated polysaccharide, or
derivative thereof, and the at least one solvent to obtain a first
mixture;
d. obtaining at least one polyether, or derivative thereof;

e. contacting the first mixture to the at least one polyether, to obtain a
second mixture; f obtaining at least one non-ionic surfactant; g. obtaining a kairomonal blend; h. contacting the kairomonal blend to the at least one non-ionic
surfactant, to obtain a third mixture; and i. contacting the third mixture to the second mixture, to obtain the
thermo-responsive composition.
12. The process for preparing a thermo-responsive polymer composition as claimed in claim 11, wherein the first mixture is prepared at a temperature inarangeof60-90°C.
13. The process for preparing a thermo-responsive polymer composition as claimed in claim 11, wherein the composition is prepared at a stirring speed in a range of 80-110 rpm.
14. The thermo-responsive polymer composition as claimed in any one of the claims 1-10, wherein the composition further comprises at least one excipient selected from a group consisting of preservative, dye, sorbent, and combinations thereof.