Search

In this study, we examine the assessment of surface roughness on turned surfaces of Ti 6Al 4V using a computer vision system. We utilize the Dual-Tree Complex Wavelet Transform (DTCWT) to break down the images of the turned surface into sub-images oriented in directions. Three different methods of feature generation have been compared, i.e., the use of Gray-Level Co-Occurrence Matrix (GLCM) and DTCWT-based extraction of second-order statistical features, DTCWT Image fusion, and the use of GLCM for feature extraction, and DTCWT image fusion using Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) based GLCM features. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was utilized to identify and select features. The model was developed using a Radial Basis Function Neural Network (RBFNN). Accordingly, six models were designed based on the three feature generation methods, considering all features and features selected using PCA. The RBFNN model, which incorporates DTCWT Image fusion and utilizes PSO with PCA features, achieved a training data prediction accuracy of 100% and a test data prediction accuracy of 99.13%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complex applications, as well as multimedia services, are increasing swiftly with the substantial growth of Mobile Users (MUs) and IoT devices; thus, demanding extra computations along with higher data communication. Nevertheless, with limited computation power along with energy, these devices are still resource-constrained. Numerous methodologies have been developed for efficient Resource Allocation (RA) in the cloud; however, owing to the loss of network resources, energy consumption, along lower battery lifetime, the prevailing methodologies are deemed to be ineffective. So, by utilizing an Entropy-centric Fish Swarm Optimization Algorithm (E-FSO) with Soft Swish Deep Dense Neural Network (SS-DDNN)-guided Crossover Mutation – Linear Scaling-centered Golden Eagle Optimization (CM-LSGEO) technique, a practical localization-centric safe RA has been suggested to help with the previously mentioned issues. Initially, the mobile's optimal location is detected by utilizing the E-FSO algorithm. Next, for the secure transmission of packets, the failure node is detected effectively by employing the SS-DDNN algorithm. By utilizing the CM-LSGEO algorithm, a model has been constructed to perform efficient RA. The performance of the suggested model is compared to that of the current models in the experimental assessment, which takes into account some metrics. The outcomes displayed that in comparison with the prevailing methodologies, the proposed framework is more efficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wind power has rapidly emerged as a leading renewable energy source, with doubly-fed induction generators gaining attention for their independent power control capability. Integrating doubly-fed induction generator-based wind farms into the grid requires significant upgrades to transmission and distribution infrastructure to fully harness wind energy's potential and address challenges like sub-synchronous control interaction. This phenomenon poses risks such as equipment damage and power supply interruptions. To mitigate these risks, a novel adaptive control strategy incorporating uncertainty and disturbance estimators, alongside H∞ and μ-synthesis controllers, is proposed. By introducing a time delay into the control system, oscillations can be detected and stabilized, ensuring system stability across various operational conditions. The controller parameters are optimized using a dynamic opposite learning-based enhanced mountain gazelle optimization algorithm. This algorithm is utilized to determine the optimal controller parameters that ensure system stability across different operational conditions. Simulation results conducted in MATLAB validate the effectiveness of the proposed controller in damping oscillations under different compensations and wind speeds. Specifically, it demonstrates superior damping capabilities at various wind speeds and compensations, enhancing power system stability and reliability. Results confirm the better damping capability of proposed controller under different compensations such as 75% and 45% and wind speeds such as 13 m/s, 7 m/s, and 11 m/s. This research provides better stability and reliability of power systems by dampening oscillations at 1.5 s, ensuring the sustainable integration of wind energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydatid disease is a parasitic infestation caused by Echinococcus granulosus. The disease is rare in the head and neck region with varying presentations. We present a rare case of recurrent hydatid disease of the temporal bone with intracranial involvement; and the treatment thereof. Hydatid disease is endemic in few parts of the world, its occurrence in head and neck region is very rare. The commonest causative organism is E. granulosus giving rise to cystic hydatid disease. Most of the former are asymptomatic, but can give rise to symptoms because of their mass effects or rupture. Our case is a 38 year male presenting to ENT department with recurrent left ear discharge, giddiness, headache and facial palsy having operated elsewhere twice in the past. The patient was investigated by Computed Tomography (CT) scanning and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of temporal bones, head and neck regions. Which showed soft tissue attenuation of middle ear cleft and multiple cystic lesions in the middle and posterior cranial fossae indicating intracranial extension of disease. We operated for left subtotal petrosectomy with vestibular labyrinthectomy. During the perioperative period he was treated with Albendazole. Patient remains clinically and radiologically asymptomatic (post surgery 1 year) till date of this manuscript submission. Hence, we report the recurrent hydatid cyst in the temporal bone and skull base, which was managed by combination of surgical and medical treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report in this article, the Dysprosium doping effects on microstructure and mechanical properties of nanoporous metallic gold, synthesized by electrochemical dealloying of Ag70Au30 and Ag70Au29Dy1 alloys. It is shown that these dealloyed nanoporous metallic materials exhibit the mean ligament diameter in a length scale of 5–10 nm. The variation of ligament diameter in pure and Dysprosium doped nanoporous Au with annealing temperature influences their mechanical properties. Higher microhardness value has been obtained around 10 nm ligament diameter on both pure and Dysprosium doped nanoporous gold. The maximum values of Vickers hardness HV obtained from the analysis of indentation diagonals with applied load are close to the HV value reported for bulk gold. Since the nanoporous metallic materials behave in a way like compressible sponge materials, we used the well-known density scaling equation for the determination of ligament yield strength of pure and Dysprosium doped nanoporous gold with ligament diameter. The results obtained have been finally compared with literature reports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interindividual genetic variation affects the susceptibility to and progression of many diseases1,2. However, efforts to study how individual human brains differ in normal development and disease phenotypes are limited by the paucity of faithful cellular human models, and the difficulty of scaling current systems to represent multiple people. Here we present human brain Chimeroids, a highly reproducible, multidonor human brain cortical organoid model generated by the co-development of cells from a panel of individual donors in a single organoid. By reaggregating cells from multiple single-donor organoids at the neural stem cell or neural progenitor cell stage, we generate Chimeroids in which each donor produces all cell lineages of the cerebral cortex, even when using pluripotent stem cell lines with notable growth biases. We used Chimeroids to investigate interindividual variation in the susceptibility to neurotoxic triggers that exhibit high clinical phenotypic variability: ethanol and the antiepileptic drug valproic acid. Individual donors varied in both the penetrance of the effect on target cell types, and the molecular phenotype within each affected cell type. Our results suggest that human genetic background may be an important mediator of neurotoxin susceptibility and introduce Chimeroids as a scalable system for high-throughput investigation of interindividual variation in processes of brain development and disease.An analysis in 3D multidonor Chimeroids—a scalable multidonor human brain organoid model—shows that human genetic background may be an important mediator of neurotoxin susceptibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of natural esters as an insulation medium in transformers is well known. This paper proposes to use Baobab oil (Adansolia digitata) as insulator. The Baobab oil is modified using the additives such as hydrocarbon -C12H26-C15H32 (AD1) and aluminium-II-oxide (AD2) of size 10 nm. The modified natural ester (NE) called nano natural ester (NNE) shows good dielectric strength at 7.5 mL/L of AD1 and 0.75 g/L of AD2. NNE is prepared by blending AD1 and AD2 using ultrasonic waves. Here, in NNE, AD1 serves as thinner, and AD2 acts as electron scavenger. The NNE is then subjected to accelerated heasting at 100 °C for 720 h. The dielectric properties like AC breakdown voltage, fire point, kinematic viscosity (at 30 °C), acid number and water content are measured at 120 h. The data is then used as an input to Euler's method (EM) for predicting the ageing rate for 1440 h. The prediction results of EM are confirmed using the artificial neural network (ANN); ANN shows significantly less deviance. The prediction results of NNE, NE and conventional insulating fluid (CIF) like mineral oil are compared, which indicates that NNE ages at a slower rate than CIF. Under lower temperature loading, NNE ages slower than the predicted results and shows endurance beyond 2880 h. Hence, the use of NNE is a cost-effective and suitable solution to insulating fluids in power and distribution transformers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lingual thyroid is a rare, abnormal ectopic thyroid tissue seen at the base of the tongue. It is a rare embryological anomaly caused by the failure of the descendence of the thyroid gland from the foramen caecum to its normal prelaryngeal area. The main aim of our study is to discuss recent advancements in the management of lingual thyroid using coblation technology. We are discussing the prospective study of 12 lingual thyroid cases that came to the government ENT hospital, Koti, in Hyderabad, from July 2016 to July 2023. All patients were assessed by a detailed history, blood investigations, fine needle aspiration cytology, radiological investigations, technetium-99 scintigraphy, and an endocrinologist opinion. In our study, all cases were hypothyroid and showed difficulty in swallowing and a few cases showed bleeding from the mouth, and difficulty in breathing, hence all 12 cases underwent coblation-assisted excision of swelling and with lifelong thyroxine supplementation. For all 12 cases, demographic, clinicopathological data and radiological data were recorded. Treatment depends on the age of the patient, the severity of symptoms, precipitating factors like puberty or pregnancy, or any other comorbidities with the disease. In our study, all cases were symptomatic and hypothyroid status, hence all 12 cases underwent coblation-assisted excision of swelling and lifelong thyroxine supplementation. All cases were followed up for 2 years with good recovery, minimal patient discomfort after surgery, and lifelong levothyroxine supplementation. Lingual thyroids have a female preponderance. In our study, all were female. Thyroid scintigraphy plays an important role in diagnosis, along with ultrasonography. In all symptomatic cases, surgery with Coblation-assisted excision of swelling is the treatment of choice, with good recovery, minimal patient discomfort after surgery and with lifelong levothyroxine supplementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity stress has detrimental effects on various aspects of plant development. However, our understanding of strategies to mitigate these effects in crop plants remains limited. Recent research has shed light on the potential of sodium acetate as a mitigating component against salinity stress in several plant species. Here, we show the role of acetate sodium in counteracting the adverse effects on oat (Avena sativa) plants subjected to NaCl-induced salinity stress, including its impact on plant morphology, photosynthetic parameters, and gene expression related to photosynthesis and antioxidant capacity, ultimately leading to osmoprotection. The five-week experiment involved subjecting oat plants to four different conditions: water, salt (NaCl), sodium acetate, and a combination of salt and sodium acetate. The presence of NaCl significantly inhibited plant growth and root elongation, disrupted chlorophylls and carotenoids content, impaired chlorophyll fluorescence, and down-regulated genes associated with the plant antioxidant defense system. Furthermore, our findings reveal that when stressed plants were treated with sodium acetate, it partially reversed these adverse effects across all analyzed parameters. This reversal was particularly evident in the increased content of proline, thereby ensuring osmoprotection for oat plants, even under stressful conditions. These results provide compelling evidence regarding the positive impact of sodium acetate on various plant development parameters, with a particular focus on the enhancement of photosynthetic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dual-band MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple outputs) antenna configurations are proposed in this work where circular rings are placed on the top of the surface, and hexagonal rings are placed on the bottom of the substrate, which operates at 2 GHz (5G communication) and 3.6 (Wi-Max) GHz application. MIMO antenna is fabricated and measured to validate its performance. Simulated and measured results are in good agreement. The proposed MIMO antenna shows a peak gain value of 7.6 dB across the operating frequency of 3.6 GHz. To get a low ECC (Envelop correlation coefficient) value, polarization diversity is employed between the adjacent radiator. Other MIMO parameters like MEG (Mean Effective Gain), DG (Directivity Gain), TARC (Total Active Reflection Coefficient), and CCL (Channel Capacity loss) were also evaluated. Performing all the parameters states that the design is most suitable for 5G communication and Wi-Max application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine seaweeds are rich source of polysaccharides present in their cell wall and are cultivated and consumed in China, Japan, Korea, and South Asian countries. Brown seaweeds (Phaeophyta) are rich source of polysaccharides such as Laminarin and Fucoidan. In present study, both the laminarin and fucoidan were isolated was yielded higher in PP (Padina pavonica) (4.36%) and STM (Stoechospermum marginatum) (2.32%), respectively. The carbohydrate content in laminarin and fucoidan was 86.91% and 87.36%, whereas the sulphate content in fucoidan was 20.68%. Glucose and mannose were the major monosaccharide units in laminarin (PP), however, fucose, galactose, and xylose in fucoidan (STM). FT-IR down peaks represent the carbohydrate of laminarin and fucoidan except, for 1219 cm−1, and 843 cm−1, illustrating the sulphate groups of fucoidan. The molecular weight of laminarin was 3–5 kDa, and the same for fucoidan was 2–6 kDa, respectively. Both the Fucoidan and Laminarin showed null cytotoxicity on Vero cells. Contrastingly, the fucoidan possess cytotoxic activity on human liver cancer cells (HepG2) (IC50—24.4 ± 1.5 µg/mL). Simultaneously, laminarin also shown cytotoxicity on human colon cancer cells (HT-29) (IC50—57 ± 1.2 µg/mL). The AO/EB (Acriding Orange/Ethidium Bromide) assay significantly resulted in apoptosis and necrosis upon laminarin and fucoidan treatments, respectively. The DNA fragmentation results support necrotic cancer cell death. Therefore, laminarin and fucoidan from PP and STM were potential bioactive compounds for anticancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Horadandia brittani is a small cyprinid fish species initially discovered in the coastal floodplains of southern India. For almost 50 years, the genus Horadandia was monotypic with a single species confined to Sri Lanka. In 1992, a new species H. brittani was described from south-western India. Despite being described as a separate species, H. brittani was later considered a synonym of H. atukorali, but in 2013, researchers recognized it as a distinct species based on morphological differences. Despite this clarification, there was still a need to validate the identity of H. brittani and determine its evolutionary relationship with its closely related species using DNA sequences. Methods: To address the uncertainties surrounding the identity of H. brittani, the present study utilized molecular techniques to generate DNA sequences. Sample collection involved obtaining specimens of H. brittani from their natural habitats. Subsequently, DNA was extracted from the collected samples, and the mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase (COI) gene was amplified using appropriate methods. Results: The analysis of DNA sequences obtained from the COI gene revealed significant genetic distinctions between H. brittani and H. atukorali. The genetic distance values between these two species ranged from 3.21 to 3.63%, clearly indicating that these two species are genetically separate entities. The study successfully established the phylogenetic relationships between H. brittani and H. atukorali based on the COI gene sequences, further confirming the validity of H. brittani as a distinct and separate species. Conclusion: The findings of this study conclusively demonstrate that H. brittani is a valid and separate species, distinct from H. atukorali. The genetic analysis based on mitochondrial COI gene sequences provided strong evidence for the differentiation between these two species. The molecular data generated in this research can be used to identify H. brittani quickly and accurately in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growth and development of meristem in Barley are a result of complex regulatory networks and well-coordinated transcriptional reprogramming modulated by hormonal, photoperiod, nutrient availability, and genetic makeup of cultivars. A critical double ridge stage attained by meristems during phase transitions of vegetative meristems to inflorescence meristem has a significant role in developing the number of spikelets and seeds in lateral stages of plant growth and final crop yield. The early development of meristems leads to attaining early critical stages of phenology and plant growth, completing plant ontogeny in a shorter time displays a heat escaping mechanism to avoid the effects of terminal heat stress on crop growth and yield. In the current study, our results led us to identify a set of tolerant (RD2715, DWRB64) and sensitive (BW902, K508 and GP) contrasting cultivars to terminal heat stress conditions. Tolerant cultivars exhibit a heat escaping mechanism to avoid increasing temperatures by developing and flowering early. The sensitive cultivars are susceptible to terminal heat stress conditions with late development and flowering. This study assessed developing IM tissues at double ridge stage of two contrasting cultivars, RD2715 and GP. Transcriptome data revealed a massive transcriptional reprogramming associated with meristem development accompanied by a set of uniquely expressed transcription factors, possible candidates for early and faster development of meristem. The regulation and development in GP are much slower than RD2715 at the same developmental stage, and they differ in their transcriptional regulation and developmental pace. This study may further expand our understanding of inflorescence development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study, aluminium 7075 were reinforced with different wt% (2 to 6) of silicon carbide (SiC) and aluminium 7075 hybrid composites reinforced with different wt% (2 to 6) of silicon carbide (SiC) with constant 2 wt% of boron carbide (B4C) were fabricated using the Powder Metallurgy method. The microstructural study of sintered samples was performed using FESEM. This mechanical alloying process helped uniform distribution of SiC and B4C particles throughout the aluminium matrix. Electron backscatter diffraction studies demonstrated that Al7075 + 6wt%SiC particles have a finer grain structure. Aluminium 7075 alloy composites analysed using XRD to confirm the peak phases. The higher hardness values were obtained for Al7075 + 6wt% SiC and Al7075 + 3wt%SiC + 2wt%B4C composites as 195 HV and 161 HV respectively. The higher compressive strength values were obtained for Al7075 + 3wt%SiC and Al7075 + 2wt%SiC + 2wt%B4C composites as 220 MPa and 175 MPa respectively. The density of hybrid composites had a considerable impact on the influence of SiC and B4C particles. The surface nature of Al7075 + 2wt%SiC and Al7075 + 4wt%SiC + 2wt%SiC composites have obtained as hydrophilic and hydrophobic respectively. Based on the thermal conductivity measurement, it was found that the Al7075 + 6wt%SiC composite sample has obtained the thermal conductivity of 58.99 W/m.K. Furthermore, the investigation on wear studies showed the wear rate for Al7075 + 4wt%SiC and Al7075 + 6wt%SiC + 2wt%B4C composite as smaller under the load of 10N. The Al7075 + 6wt%SiC and Al7075 + 2wt%SiC + 2wt%B4C hybrid composites have a higher corrosion resistance than in a 3.5% than the other aluminium 7075 composite samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study investigates the efficacy of enteric-coated solid lipid nanoparticles for pH-sensitive, colon-specific delivery of oxaliplatin (OXA) for treating colorectal cancer. The Box-Behnken experimental design was used to optimize oxaliplatin-encapsulated solid lipid nanoparticles (OXA-SLNs) with a 17-run, 3-factor, 3-level study for reducing the off-targets of OXA. Solvent emulsification process was utilized for formulating OXA-SLNs. Optimized OXA-SLNs have been used in the preparation of enteric coated OXA-SLNs (E-OXA-SLNs) using Eudragit-S100. The surface morphology and particle size of the prepared E-OXA-SLNs were determined. Drug release from E-OXA-SLNs was observed at the alkaline pH of the colon. Furthermore, the E-OXA-SLNs exhibited greater cytotoxicity on colorectal cancer cells in vitro when compared to free OXA. Annexin-V assay and AO/EB stain indicated a significant improvement in the apoptosis of OXA. In conclusion, the E-OXA-SLNs are efficient carriers for improved efficacy, stability, and site specificity of OXA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel motile bacterium was isolated from a sediment sample collected in Kochi backwaters, Kerala, India. This bacterium is Gram negative, rod shaped, 1.0–1.5 µm wide, and 2.0–3.0 µm long. It was designated as strain AK27T. Colonies were grown on marine agar displayed circular, off-white, shiny, moist, translucent, flat, margin entire, 1–2 mm in diameter. The major fatty acids identified in this strain were C18:1ω7c, C16:0, and summed in feature 3. The composition of polar lipids in the strain AK27T included phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, diphosphatidylglycerol, one unidentified amino lipid, two unidentified aminophospholipids, two unidentified phospholipids, and six unidentified lipids. The genomic DNA of strain AK27T exhibited a G+C content of 56.4 mol%. Based on the analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequence, strain AK27T showed sequence similarity to M. ramblicola D7T and M. zhoushanense WM3T as 98.99% and 98.58%, respectively. Compared to other type strains of the Marinobacterium genus, strain AK27T exhibited sequence similarities ranging from 91.7% to 96.4%. When compared to Marinobacterium zhoushanense WM3T and Marinobacterium ramblicola D7T, strain AK27T exhibited average nucleotide identity values of 80.25% and 79.97%, and dDDH values of 22.9% and 22.6%, respectively. The genome size of the strain AK27T was 4.55 Mb, with 4,229 coding sequences. Based on the observed phenotypic and chemotaxonomic features, and the results of phylogenetic and phylogenomic analysis, this study proposes the classification of strain AK27T as a novel species within the genus Marinobacterium. The proposed name for this novel species is Marinobacterium lacunae sp. nov. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main challenges associated with the electrode material of a supercapacitor are costly synthesis processes and low energy density. To overcome those challenges, herein we report a quick co-precipitation method for the synthesis of a ternary composite using nickel oxide, manganese oxide, and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) as an electrode material. The microscopic structure and morphological characterization of the material were confirmed using x-ray diffraction spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and field-emission transmission electron microscopy. The electrochemical behavior of the electrode material was studied using cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge–discharge tests; for the ternary composite, the obtained power density was 810 W Kg−1 and the energy density was 45 Wh Kg−1. The specific capacitance of rGO, NiO-Mn2O3, and NiO-Mn2O3@rGO were 524 F g−1, 162 F g−1, and 442 F g−1, respectively. The results showed that the incorporation of rGO with metal oxides led to high electrode performance. Hence, the synthesis method can be adopted for scalable processes to fabricate electrode material for supercapacitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomimicry is becoming deep-rooted as part of bioceramics owing to its numerous functional advantages. Naturally occurring hydroxyapatite (HA) apart from primary nano structures are also characterised by various ionic substitutions. The ease of accommodating such key elements into the HA lattice is known to enhance bone healing properties of bioceramics. In this work, hydroxyapatite synthesized via biomimetic approach was substituted with individual as well as multiple cations for potential applications in bone repair. Ion substitutions of Sr, Mg and Zn was carried out on HA for the first time by using Serratia grown in a defined biomineralization medium. The individual ions of varying concentration substituted in Serratia HA (SHA) (Sr SHA, Mg SHA and Zn SHA) were analysed for crystallinity, functional groups, morphology and crystal size. All three showed decreased crystallinity, phase purity, large agglomerated aggregates and needle-shaped morphologies. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra indicated increased carbonate content of 5.8% resembling that of natural bone. Additionally, the reduced O–H intensities clearly portrayed disruption of HA lattice and subsequent ion-substitution. The novelty of this study lies primarily in investigating the co-substitution of a combination of 1% Sr, Zn and Mg in SHA and establishing the associated change in bone parameters. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) images clearly illustrated uniform nano-sized agglomerates of average dimensions of 20–50 nm length and 8–15 nm width for Sr SHA; 10–40 nm length and 8–10 nm width for both Zn SHA and Mg SHA and 40–70 nm length and 4–10 nm width in the case of 1% Sr, Zn, Mg SHA. In both individual as well as co-substitutions, significant peak shifts were not observed possibly due to the lower concentrations. However, cell volumes increased in both cases due to presence of Sr2+ validating its dominant integration into the SHA lattice. Rich trace ion deposition was presented by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and quantified using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer (ICP-OES). In vitro cytotoxicity studies in three cell lines viz. NIH/3T3 fibroblast cells, MG-63 osteosarcoma cells and RAW 264.7 macrophages showed more than 90% cell viability proving the biocompatible nature of 1% Sr, Zn and Mg in SHA. Microbial biomineralization by Serratia produced nanocrystals of HA that mimicked "bone-like apatite" as evidenced by pure phase, carbonated groups, reduced crystallinity, nano agglomerates, variations in cell parameters, rich ion deposition and non-toxic nature. Therefore ion-substituted and co-substituted biomineralized nano SHA appears to be a suitable candidate for applications in biomedicine addressing bone injuries and aiding regeneration as a result of its characteristics close to that of the human bone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MgO/few-layer graphene (FLG) nanocomposite is proven as an excellent electrode in aqueous supercapacitors (AS). The synergy between the pseudo-capacitive MgO and the double-layer charging nature of FLG that enhances the supercapacitors' specific capacitance (SC) was successfully tested. The SC could be further enhanced by combining MgO/FLG with a third component, such as a conducting polymer (with a Faradaic type of charge storage capability). Herein, such an attempt has been made. MgO/FLG was uniformly filled in polyaniline (PANI) by using a simple in situ polymerization method. X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and Raman and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic analyses clearly showed the formation of a ternary nanocomposite constituted by MgO, FLG and PANI. As anticipated, the ternary nanocomposite (MgO/FLG-filled PANI (MFP)) exhibited an enhanced SC (compared to MgO/FLG) when tested as electrode material in AS. The MFP composite was evaluated for SC using a 3-electrode system. MFP composite exhibited a maximum SC of 347 F g−1 when tested at a scan rate of 5 mV s−1 using 1 M aqueous H2SO4 as the electrolyte. The electrode material assumable with symmetric capacitance achieved a maximum capacitance of 396 F g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1 and showed a capacitance retention of 81%. In contrast, MgO/FLG exhibited much lower values under similar testing conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photovoltaic (PV) systems are subjected to several environmental disturbances, one such a disturbance is partial shading, which adversely alters the characteristics of the photovoltaic system. Therefore, under Partial Shading Condition (PSC) there is a need to develop a complete analytical model of the PV system to investigate the most appropriate maximum power point tracking (MPPT) strategy in larger PV Systems. Based on the necessity, a precise analytical model of the PV system under PSC considering the effect of both series and shunt resistance is developed. The effects of temperature changes, irradiation changes, and effect for change in series, and shunt resistance and PSCs on electrical characteristics of the PV array are examined. A comparison was made with real-time data over the proposed and existing models during various PSCs. The results proved that the reliability of the proposed model is good, and it can be used to model different ranges of photovoltaic systems for both standalone and grid-integrated systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highly dispersed nanoporous Au rods have been prepared from arc melted Ag70Au30 alloy using site-selective electrochemical potential controlled dealloying method followed by Au anodizing process. The microstructure studies using scanning electron microscope and atomic force microscope indicate that selective removal of Ag from the Ag70Au30, precursor results in the formation of bi-continuous three-dimensional network structures with uniform pores and Au ligaments diameter of 6 nm. The noticeable features present in the optical studies of highly dispersed nanoporous Au rods using UV—Vis spectroscopy are two absorption bands peaking at 477 and 546 nm with overlapping of these bands at 520 nm. The antimicrobial testing by Agar well diffusion method reveals that the dispersed porous Au rods have greater inhibitory effect against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. The results obtained provide opportunities to design and manipulate nanoporous Au rods at atomic level to achieve antimicrobial efficacy for biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to see how different treatments affect the low-stress mechanical properties of micro-denier polyester/cotton (MDP/C—65/35) fabrics. This blend was chosen for the study because it is the most popular blend used in polyester/cotton blended material. The results of fabric properties treated with sericin revealed that fabrics treated with sericin and glutaraldehyde as a cross-linking agent had higher bending rigidity, regardless of how it was tested. Concerning the blend fabrics, it was noticed that there was deterioration in tensile resilience following sericin treatment. Shear rigidity, accompanied by shear hysteresis, showed an increase in sericin-treated fabrics. Compression properties were affected by the treatment, and in general, the fabric suffered deterioration in those the samples were hard. Surface properties such as coefficient of friction, mean deviation of friction and mean deviation of surface contour were found to be higher than those of the control and sericin-treated fabrics in a few cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strongyloides stercoralis is a helminth, widely distributed in tropical and subtropical countries. Its infestation in humans usually does not produce symptoms. However, in some patients, severe and life-threatening forms of this infection can occur, especially in immunocompromised individuals. Severe parasitic infection is triggered by any imbalance in the host's immunity favouring the auto-infective cycle. This results in an increase in the intraluminal parasitic burden. In addition, tissue infestation is also very common. Clinical presentation is variable, and it is very difficult to diagnose clinically. Diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion. In some cases, the diagnosis is established only on histopathological examination of the excised tissue by the pathologist. Here, the authors report a case of an elderly male diabetic patient, who presented to the emergency department with the features of acute abdomen. On exploratory laparotomy, he was found to have the features suggestive of gangrene of small bowel. Resection of the gangrenous bowel was done, and end-to-end anastomosis was done as the rest of the bowel appeared to be normal. However, the patient died of multi-organ failure and septicaemia on the second postoperative day. The resected intestine showed tissue infestation of Strongyloides stercoralis on histopathological examination. In this review article, the authors summarize a case of hyper infection syndrome of strongyloidiasis and discuss the various aspects of Strongyloides stercoralis infection with emphasis on life cycle of the parasite and different clinical features of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing aging population and progressive nature of the disease, Alzheimer's disease (AD) poses to be an oncoming epidemic with limited therapeutic strategies. It is characterized by memory loss, behavioral instability, impaired cognitive function, predominantly, cognitive inability manifested due to the accumulation of β-amyloid, with malfunctioned cholinergic system. Rivastigmine, a reversible dual cholinesterase inhibitor, is a more tolerable and widely used choice of drug for AD. However, rivastigmine being hydrophilic and undergoing the first-pass metabolism exhibits low CNS bioavailability. Nanoformulations including liposomes and PLGA nanoparticles can encapsulate hydrophilic drugs and deliver them efficiently to the brain. Besides, the nasal route is receiving considerable attention recently, due to its direct access to the brain. Therefore, the present study attempts to evaluate the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of nasal liposomal and PLGA nanoparticle formulations of rivastigmine in acute scopolamine-induced amnesia and chronic colchicine induced cognitive dysfunction animal models, and validate the best formulation by employing pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) modeling. Nasal liposomal rivastigmine formulation showed the best pharmacokinetic features with rapid onset of action (Tmax = 5 min), higher Cmax (1489.5 ± 620.71), enhanced systemic bioavailability (F = 118.65 ± 23.54; AUC = 35,921.75 ± 9559.46), increased half-life (30.92 ± 8.38 min), and reduced clearance rate (Kel (1/min) = 0.0224 ± 0.006) compared to oral rivastigmine (Tmax = 15 min; Cmax = 56.29 ± 27.05; F = 4.39 ± 1.82; AUC = 1663.79 ± 813.54; t1/2 = 13.48 ± 5.79; Kel (1/min) = 0.0514 ± 0.023). Further, the liposomal formulation significantly rescued the memory deficit induced by scopolamine as well as colchicine superior to other formulations as assessed in Morris water maze and passive avoidance tasks. PK-PD modeling demonstrated a strong correlation between the pharmacokinetic parameters and acetylcholinesterase inhibition of liposomal formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel Gram-staining-negative, rod-shaped, 0.6–0.8 µm wide and 2.0–3.0 µm in length, motile bacterium designated strain AK62T, was isolated from the green algal mat collected from saltpan, Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, India. Colonies on ZMA were circular, off-white, shiny, moist, translucent, 1–2 mm in diameter, flat, with an entire margin. The major fatty acids include C16:0, C18:1ω7c, and summed feature 3 (C16:1ω7c and/or C16:1ω6c and/or iso-C14:0 3-OH). Polar lipids include diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, one unidentified aminophospholipid, three unidentified phospholipids, and one unidentified lipid. Polyamine includes Spermidine. The DNA G + C content of the strain AK62T was 58.8 mol%. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequence revealed that strain AK62T was closely related to the type strains Marinobacterium sediminicola, Marinobacterium coralli and Marinobacterium stanieri with a pair-wise sequence similarity of 96.9, 96.6 and 96.6%, respectively, forming a distinct branch within the genus Marinobacterium and clustered with M. stanieri, M. sediminicola, M. coralli and M. maritimum cluster. Strain AK62T shares average nucleotide identity (ANIb, based on BLAST) of 78.44, 76.69, and 76.95% with M. sediminicola CGMCC 1.7287T, M. stanieri DSM 7027T, and Marinobacterium halophilum Mano11T respectively. Based on the observed phenotypic, chemotaxonomic characteristics, and phylogenetic analysis, strain AK62T is described in this study as a novel species in the genus Marinobacterium, for which the name Marinobacterium alkalitolerans sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of M. alkalitolerans is AK62T (= MTCC 12102T = JCM 31159T = KCTC 52667T). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To study the management of laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) among the subspecialties of practicing otolaryngology-head and neck surgeons and their trainees. Methods: A survey was sent to over 8000 otolaryngologists (OTOHNS) over 65 countries, utilizing membership lists of participating otolaryngological societies. The outcomes were answers to questions regarding LPR knowledge and practice patterns, and included queries about its definition, prevalence, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment. Results: Of the 824 respondents, 658 practiced in one specific otolaryngologic subspecialty. The symptoms and findings thought to be the most related to LPR varied significantly between subspecialists. Extra-laryngeal findings were considered less by laryngologists while more experienced OTOHNS did not often consider digestive complaints. Compared with colleagues, otologists, rhinologists and laryngologists were less aware of the involvement of LPR in otological, rhinological and laryngological disorders, respectively. Irrespective of subspecialty, OTOHNS consider symptoms and signs and a positive response to empirical therapeutic trial to establish a LPR diagnosis. Awareness regarding the usefulness of impedance pH-studies is low in all groups. The therapeutic approach significantly varies between groups, although all were in agreement for the treatment duration. The management of non-responder patients demonstrated significant differences among laryngologists who performed additional examinations. The majority of participants (37.1%) admitted to being less than knowledgeable about LPR management. Conclusions: LPR knowledge and management vary significantly across otolaryngology subspecialties. International guidelines on LPR management appear necessary to improve knowledge and management of LPR across all subspecialties of otolaryngology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents an effective method to improve estimation accuracy of software projects to a significant level by tuning the hyperparameters of the stacking ensemble model using evolutionary methods. Traditional and parametric methods for software effort estimation are mostly inaccurate due to bias and subjectivity. Machine Learning methods are found to be effective in dealing with bias and subjectivity issues, if the data is subjected to appropriate data pre-processing and feature extraction methods. Instead of employing a single machine learning model to estimate the software project effort, ensemble of learning models is deployed to improve the estimate. Accurate hyperparameters need to be determined to operate the ensemble model at optimised level and to reduce the errors. Hyperparameters setting is traditionally done manually according to the problem and dataset by trial and error, which is a cumbersome process. In this paper, two evolutionary approaches namely Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) and Genetic Algorithms (GA) have been employed to tune the hyperparameters. ISBSG dataset has been used for constructing the stacking ensemble model, which is a heterogeneous dataset consisting of software project data from different countries and organizations. Experimental outcomes reveal that the accuracy of estimation is higher when the hyperparameters are tuned using PSO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early detection of cervical tumour is very important to minimise deaths due to cervical cancer. Further it provides a deep insight into the anatomical information of the normal and abnormal cervix and helps in planning for a good treatment well in advance. Numerous techniques are used to detect malignancy through image segmentation. One such segmentation technique is discussed here. The proposed technique uses Artificial Neural Network Fuzzy Inference system (ANFIS) and watershed segmentation techniques for image classification and processing and compares the results with known techniques. A comprehensive set of fuzzy rules was used in the experiment to classify abnormal images to the corresponding malignancy. The experiment shows that the proposed technique is feasible and provides greater accuracy in detection of tumour types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhodamine derivatives are heterocyclic compound, related to the fluorescent probe having a profound application in the field of biotechnology. Herein, we present two new synthesized rhodamine based fluorescent probes from the rhodamine B (probe 1) and rhodamine 6G (probe 2), respectively. The structures of the synthesized probes 1 and 2 were confirmed using 1H NMR and LC-MS spectral techniques. Further, photophysical properties such as absorption, emission and fluorescence lifetime were examined and compared for both the probes under identical conditions. These comparable data provide a possibility to discuss the mechanism which controls the fluorescence properties of probes. The data also showed that the probes in different solvent environment induce a gradual change in the molecular structure and produce a change in fluorescent intensity as a sensory signal. The changes in fluorescence lifetime and quantum yield with the parent compounds are because of change in solvent polarity and also due to the rigidity of the alkyl groups on N atoms in molecular structure. Moreover, the cell imaging and cellular toxicity studies using the probes were performed. Notably, the result obtained in this study suggests that the probe 2 has significant application in the field of cellular imaging or biotechnology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biopolymers have gained enormous awareness in recent years as a result of white pollution, which could conquer the shortcomings of toxic synthetic polymers. The present investigation is being focused on synthesizing and characterizing natural solid polymer electrolytes comprising of tamarind seed polysaccharide as host polymer and lithium triflate (LiCF3SO3) salt as ionic dopant via cost-effective solution-casting technique. X-ray diffraction analysis validates the increase in the concentration of ionic salt enhancing the amorphous nature of the polymer electrolyte which in turn may increase the ionic conductivity of the polymer electrolyte. Vibrational analysis by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirms the complexation and interaction between TSP host biopolymer and LiCF3SO3 salt. Thermal characterization by differential scanning calorimetry indicates the change in glass transition temperature (Tg) of the polymer electrolyte due to the incorporation of LiCF3SO3 salt. Polymer electrolyte composition of 1 g TSP: 0.45 g LiCF3SO3 possesses the optimum ionic conductivity value of the order of 10−4 S cm−1 observed by AC impedance spectroscopy analysis. Electrochemical properties of the optimum conducting biopolymer electrolyte have been characterized via linear sweep voltammetry technique, and the results reveal that the electrochemical stability window of the prepared biopolymer electrolyte is appreciable. Optimum ionic conducting polymer membrane (1 g TSP: 0.45 g LiCF3SO3) has been employed to fabricate lithium ion conducting battery, and its cell parameters have been measured and reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Distributed generators (D.G.'s) enable us to generate, supply and be self-reliant on power while also allows us to supply power to meet the demand through virtual power plants. The virtual power plants also help us analyse, control, optimise, and help bridge the gap of demand and supply in these vast energy requirements. With this also comes challenges associated with securing physical systems, data protection and information privacy. Recent technological advancements have aided cybercriminals to disrupt operations by carrying out deliberate attacks on the energy sector. Though security researchers have tried to mitigate the risks, vulnerabilities, and it remains a challenge. This paper aims to present a comprehensive Edge-based security architecture to help reduce the risks and help secure the physical systems and ensure privacy and data protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psidium guajava L. (guava) is predominantly grown throughout the world and known for its medicinal properties in treating various diseases and disorders. The present work focuses on aqueous extraction of bioactive compounds from the guava leaf and its utilization in the formulation of jelly to improve the public health. The guava leaf extract has been used in the preparation of jelly with pectin (1.5 g), sugar (28 g) and lemon juice (2 mL). The prepared guava leaf extract jelly (GJ) and the control jelly (CJ, without extract) were subjected to proximate, nutritional and textural analyses besides determination of antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. GJ was found to contain carbohydrate (45.78 g/100 g), protein (3.0 g/100 g), vitamin C (6.15 mg/100 g), vitamin B3 (2.90 mg/100 g) and energy (120.6 kcal). Further, the texture analysis of CJ and GJ indicated that both the jellies showed similar properties emphasizing that the addition of guava leaf extract does not bring any change in the texture properties of jelly. GJ exhibited antimicrobial activity against various bacteria ranging from 11.4 to 13.6 mm. Similarly, GJ showed antioxidant activity of 42.38% against DPPH radical and 33.45% against hydroxyl radical. Mass spectroscopic analysis of aqueous extract confirmed the presence of esculin, quercetin, gallocatechin, 3-sinapoylquinic acid, gallic acid, citric acid and ellagic acid which are responsible for antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent years medical fields are facing more challenging issues while detecting disease because day by day disease are developed due to the several factors. The IoT medical device is placed in human body that captures the people's cancer related health conditions such as breast conditions, skin rashes, teeth related information and lung information is collected. The gathered data analyzed using machine learning, data mining algorithm to get the changes present in the people health condition. Features are determined from the collected information, and optimized features are chosen by the implementation of a selection method for Iterated memetic correlations. The selected features are trained using an echo state deep learning process that uses various levels of hidden layers that solve possible cognitive cancer decisions without making any errors. The new features are classified using the compositional pattern neural network with the assistance of trained features. Finally, system efficiency is assessed using experimental results such as F-measure, mean absolute error, precision, recall and abnormal pattern prediction rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Status of diabetes of an individual is majorly evaluated by the frequent monitoring of glucose estimation. Use of serum samples and inappropriate plasma for estimating glucose is an existing practise in Indian standard of laboratories. There is a strong evidence for occurrence of in vitro glycolysis on the above mentioned specimens. The aim is to study the pre-analytical variations on the glucose estimation of using sodium fluoride–disodium EDTA (NaF–Na2EDTA) plasma (glycolysis inhibiting anticoagulant) and determine the fact behind the activity of glycolysis inhibition on the same. Healthy volunteers 20–35 years of both genders consisting of 40 members were selected for the study, and after getting the informed consent form, random blood samples were collected to study the errors of pre-analytical i.e., mixing of NaF–Na2EDTA tube by phlebotomist (no of inversion). Difference in duration from blood collection to centrifugation and a variable in time were taken from centrifugation to analyzing the plasma sample. Comparative studies on EDTA plasma and serum sample were also carried out. The usage of the evacuated blood collection system on NaF–Na2EDTA was shown to have the complete glycolysis inhibitor among all pre-analytical errors, whereas other tubes shown considerable increase in glycolysis. Recently the use of glycolysis inhibitor tubes are come into practise only in accredited or certified laboratories. Hence the authentication of glycolysis inhibition study is mandatory for the pre-analytical variations on the same. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guava is considered as poor man's apple rich in phytochemicals with medicinal value and hence it is highly consumed. Gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy (GC–MS) analysis of guava leaf extract revealed the presence of various bioactive compounds with antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, and antitumor properties. Hence, it is used in tooth paste formulations along with other ingredients such as Acacia arabica gum powder, stevia herb powder, sea salt, extra virgin coconut oil, peppermint oil in the present study. Three formulations F1, F2 and F3 have been made by varying the concentration of these ingredients and the prepared formulations were studied for their antimicrobial activity and physico-chemical parameters such as pH, abrasiveness, foaming activity, spreading and cleaning ability. Among these, F3 showed significant antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, minimal cytotoxicity, maximum spreadability and very high cleaning ability. This study surmises that the herbal toothpaste formulation is greener, rich in medicinal values and imparts oral hygiene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of this study was to extract collagen from underutilized fish species owing to its cost effective nature and also its ability to address the demand of type I collagen arising from food and pharmaceutical industries. Acid and pepsin soluble collagen (ppASC and ppPSC) were extracted from the skin of sucker catfish (Pterygoplichthys pardalis) with a yield of 19.6 and 23.8% on wet weight basis respectively. The same were characterized and confirmed as type I collagen by SDS–PAGE, FTIR and UV–Vis spectroscopy, amino acid analysis, and Zeta potential. Taking into consideration the application of collagen in food industry, a food product was developed by incorporating with fresh cheese. This fortification was found to be acceptable and had not altered the taste, odor and other sensory properties of the product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nanostructured titanium (Ti) obtained by the equal-channel angular pressing (ECAP) has shown great promise as a biomedical implant material over the past few decades. The present work aims to investigate the effect of topographical changes caused by ECAP and piranha treatment (Tr) on the surface performance and biological properties of Ti for bone tissue engineering applications. The effects of dual treatments, i.e., ECAP and Tr, on Ti were systematically investigated by multiple characterization techniques, surface wettability, apatite-forming ability, cellular behavior, and antibacterial studies. We demonstrate that both ECAP and ECApTr samples possess desirable mechanical and physical properties and are biocompatible to cultured human fetal osteoblast (hFOB) cells. The potential of adhesion and proliferation of hFOB cells on ECAP and ECApTr samples was found to be superior to that of control unprocessed sample (annealed). Ti samples prepared by both methods showed excellent antimicrobial properties against clinical strains of the most common pathogenic bacteria causing orthopedic implant infections, Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa). This study supports the established claim about mechanical properties improvement by ultrafine refinement and further enhances the antibacterial properties when chemically etched with a piranha solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human blood compatibility of previously prepared magnesia-doped bioactive glass samples was evaluated by hemolysis assay. The in vivo evaluation was carried out using a rat model in which a hole was made in the rat femur bone by drilling and the bioactive glass samples were implanted in the cavity. Histological examination had demonstrated the better bone regeneration and blood vessel formation as compared to the reference one. The in vivo complete blood count (CBC) was also analyzed at different time periods. The in vivo results of magnesium-containing bioactive glasses had shown improved bioactivity as well as better biocompatibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioconvection in magneto-nanoliquid embedded with gyrotactic microorganisms across an elongated sheet with velocity slip of second order is addressed. Nonlinear thermal radiation and chemical reaction aspects are retained in energy and concentration equations. Numerical simulations for the modeled problem are proposed via Runge–Kutta–Fehlberg-based shooting technique. Special attention is given to the impact of involved parameters on the profiles of motile microorganisms, nanoparticle volume fraction, temperature and velocity. Our simulations figured out that assisting flow generates more heat transfer than the opposing flow situation. The motile microorganism's boundary layer decayed for higher bioconvection Peclet and bioconvection Lewis numbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mg plays an important role in the human skeletal system as it stimulates the bone formation and reduces bone resorption. Magnesium has been substituted into SiO2-Na2O-CaO-P2O5 bioactive glass. In the present work, the bioactive glasses were designed to enhance bioactivity. Bioactivity of these glasses was assessed by the immersion of the samples in simulated body fluid (SBF) for different time periods. The formation of hydroxy carbonate apatite (HCA) layer was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometry, and FTIR spectrometry which had shown the HCA layer formation and growth. The formation of HCA layer was found to increase on the surface of the SBF immersed bioactive glasses with increasing magnesia contents in the glass. In vitro cell culture investigations such as viability, proliferation, and cell attachment were studied using human osteosarcoma U2-OS cell lines. The in vitro results of new magnesium containing bioactive glasses had shown improved bioactivity as well as better biocompatibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the transient hydrodynamic and heat transfer behaviour of a cross-flow over a heated circular cylinder under the influence of thermal buoyancy. The Reynolds number chosen for the present study is fixed as 100, and the Richardson number is varied from 0.1 to 2. A relatively new ghost fluid thermal lattice Boltzmann method (GF-TLBM) is used as the numerical solver. Cascaded collision model is incorporated into the code and validated successfully. As the Richardson number increases from 0.1 to 2, the buoyancy forces become dominant and tend to tilt the vortex shedding towards the vertical direction. The drag and lift coefficients as well as the Strouhal number and the average Nusselt number show an increasing trend with the increase in the Richardson number. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the influence of microstructural changes on the mechanical and corrosion properties of the dissimilar weld between austenitic stainless steel (ASS 316L) and duplex stainless steel (DSS 2205) has been examined and reported. The weld joint was fabricated through the use of gas tungsten arc welding process with a nickel enhanced filler metal ER 2209. The microstructural changes observed in the fusion zone such as nucleation of delta ferrite (δ), austenite (γ) reformation, precipitation of intermetallic phases and the formation of coarser ferrite phases in the HAZ have been reported. Also, the mechanical properties of the weldment such as microhardness, impact toughness and tensile properties have been correlated with microstructural changes. Potentiodynamic polarization test results showed a better electrochemical behavior for ASS 316L than with the weldment and the parent metal of DSS 2205. The austenite phase was found to be electrochemically more stable than the ferrite phase in duplex microstructure. On the other hand, achievement of the stress corrosion cracking resistance by the weldment and the parent metal of DSS was found to be excellent, whereas ASS 316L ended with surface fissures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A dual local drug delivery system (DDS) composed of calcium phosphate bioceramic nanocarriers aimed at treating the antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and bone-regenerative aspects of periodontitis has been developed. Calcium-deficient hydroxyapatite (CDHA, Ca/P = 1.61) and tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) were prepared by microwave-accelerated wet chemical synthesis method. The phase purity of the nanocarriers was confirmed by x-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), while the transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed their nanosized morphology. CDHA was selected as carrier for the antibiotic (tetracycline) while TCP was chosen as the anti-inflammatory drug (ibuprofen) carrier. Combined drug release profile was studied in vitro from CDHA/TCP (CTP) system and compared with a HA/TCP (BCP) biphasic system. The tetracycline and ibuprofen release rate was 71 and 23% from CTP system as compared to 63 and 20% from BCP system. CTP system also showed a more controlled drug release profile compared to BCP system. Modeling of drug release kinetics from CTP system indicated that the release follows Higuchi model with a non-typical Fickian diffusion profile. In vitro biological studies showed the CTP system to be biocompatible with significant antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activity. In vivo implantation studies on rat cranial defects showed greater bone healing and new bone formation in the drug-loaded CTP system compared to control (no carrier) at the end of 12 weeks. The in vitro and in vivo results suggest that the combined drug delivery platform can provide a comprehensive management for all bone infections requiring multi-drug therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A nonlinear flow of Jeffrey liquid with Cattaneo-Christov heat flux is investigated in the presence of nanoparticles. The features of thermophoretic and Brownian movement are retained. The effects of nonlinear radiation, magnetohydrodynamic (MHD), and convective conditions are accounted. The conversion of governing equations into ordinary differential equations is prepared via stretching transformations. The consequent equations are solved using the Runge-Kutta-Fehlberg (RKF) method. Impacts of physical constraints on the liquid velocity, the temperature, and the nanoparticle volume fraction are analyzed through graphical illustrations. It is established that the velocity of the liquid and its associated boundary layer width increase with the mixed convection parameter and the Deborah number. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TiAlN/AlCrN and AlCrN/TiAlN bilayer coatings were deposited on tungsten carbide cutting inserts using the plasma enhanced physical vapour deposition process. Their thermal stability was varied by annealing the specimens at different temperatures and time durations. The thermal stability was evaluated from hardness measurement, oxygen absorption and X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns. TiAlN/AlCrN coating initially shows an increase in hardness, but it decreases when the annealing temperature is increased. A high hardness of 46 GPa is measured in the TiAlN/AlCrN coating annealed at 600 °C for 08 h. But, AlCrN/TiAlN coating displays a decrease in hardness after annealing at 600 °C, and the hardness increases to 47 GPa on increasing the annealing temperature further (1000 °C for 6 h). From weight measurements, it is clear that the TiAlN/AlCrN bilayer coating results in weight reduction initially, but it increases with a further increase in the annealing temperature. In contrast, in the AlCrN/TiAlN coating, the weight increases monotonically, but gradually, with increasing temperature of annealing. The XRD results are discussed with reference to the different oxide phases formed in the two bilayer coatings during annealing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]