Search

Perovskite oxides are well-known for their dielectric and ferroelectric properties. In this work, the dielectric properties of calcium lead strontium titanate synthesized by reverse co-precipitation process with two different solvent concentrations were studied. Formation of single phase was confirmed by X-ray diffraction and tetragonality present in the lattice was analysed through Rietveld refinement. The grain size, morphology and composition were studied using scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive spectroscopy. The influence of frequency in the range of 1 ​Hz–107 ​Hz and temperature range -100 ​°C to 300 ​°C on dielectric response were studied. Curie-Weiss fits showed both the systems to be relaxor ferroelectrics. The dielectric relaxation mechanism and activation energy were determined from the electric modulus. The relaxation time and the dissipation factors were obtained from Cole-Cole analysis. The ferroelectric properties were assessed using a polarization-electric field loop tracer and efficiencies of memory storage were analysed.

In vehicular communication networks, optimizing connectivity and efficiency is paramount for ensuring seamless and reliable communication among vehicles. The identified problem centers on the inadequacies of traditional optimization approaches in addressing the dynamic and complex nature of vehicular networks. The absence of a comprehensive solution that combines the adaptive capabilities of the KESHTel algorithm with the cognitive insights gained from Leabra models. Existing methodologies often fall short in adapting to real-time changes and fail to capitalize on cognitive principles for efficient decision-making. This research addresses the need for enhanced vehicular network optimization by proposing the utilization of the KESHTel algorithm, coupled with insights derived from Leabra models. The method details the integration of the KESHTel algorithm, known for its adaptive learning capabilities, with insights from Leabra models, which are inspired by the neural architecture of the brain. This hybrid approach leverages machine learning and cognitive principles to optimize communication routes, minimize latency, and allocate resources intelligently within the vehicular network. Results from simulations and experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach in improving communication reliability, reducing congestion, and enhancing overall network performance. The findings indicate a significant advancement in vehicular network optimization, showcasing the potential of the KESHTel algorithm and cognitive insights from Leabra models in addressing the complex challenges inherent in dynamic vehicular environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study investigated the CO2 fixation efficiency and biomass productivity by green algae Chlorella vulgaris which is grown in various concentrations of dairy wastewater supplemented with CO2. The cultivation was carried out at 25°C for various CO2-Air ratios such as (5%, 10%, and 15%). Artificial light-enhancing photosynthesis in bench-scale batch cultures were carried out in suspension (Photobioreactor) and attached (algadisk) for the period of 2 weeks. The maximum carbon fixation efficiency of 87.67 mg/l/day in suspended culture and 88.5 mg/l/d in algadisk was obtained at 15% CO2-Air ratio in dairy wastewater without dilution. Usage of external nutrient supply was supplemented by the nutrient-rich wastewater, which also results in nutrient removal from the dairy wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The soft tissue edge is displaced apically during gingival recession, exposing the root surfaces. Tooth malpositions resulting in trauma from occlusion, high frenal attachment, are related to gingival tissue recession and poor oral hygiene are other factors. Aim: The purpose of this study was to examine the types of malocclusions that were common in kids with gingival recession in the lower anterior teeth. Materials and methods; The data of 74092 patients between June 2019 and March 2021 were analysed and reviewed for this study at Saveetha Dental Colleges and Hospitals in Chennai, India. 56 patients are chosen who were between the ages of 9 and 17 and had lower anterior malocclusion and gingival recession. These datas were cross verified with photographs. To tabulate the datas Microsoft Excel was used. Data then posted to SPSS by IBM, in which the frequency of age, gender, tooth involved in gingival recession and type of malocclusion were assessed and from which graphs were made. Before the start of the study, approval of the ethical committee was taken. Results: The final data includes information from 56 pedodontic patients aged 9 to 17 who showed gingival recession in the lower anteriors. From the results it is evident that the age group of 16-17 years of age are very prone to have recession (50%) and more prevalent among females than the male. Gingival recession with malocclusion most commonly seen in lower central incisors (60%). Malocclusion such as crossbite (43%) and crowding (32%) are more common factors associated with a gingival recession in children Conclusion: The study's findings show a connection between malocclusion and the occurrence of gingival recession in individuals seeking orthodontic treatment at the hospitals and Saveetha Dental College. Therefore, a careful evaluation of gingival and dental cleanliness as well as the sufficiency of attached gingiva should be taken into account in patients considering orthodontic treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Algae are not only a great source of natural bio energy but also they have the ability to capture CO2. ALGADISK refers to a biofilm reactor for algae biomass production that could compete with the current algae cultivation technologies, e.g., open-pond and tubular photo bioreactors. When algae-based biomass is grown on the surface attached biofilm as opposed to a suspended culture, then the biomass is concentrated and it can be more easily harvested. Automatic and continuous harvesting, increased efficiency and decreased water requirements indicate ALGADISK as a promising technology. Since it is in developing stage, it has its own disadvantages such as it is not recommended to operate in cold weather conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymerization of methacrylate, silane and phosphocholine group through free radical method was envisaged to synthesize silicone hydrogels for contact lens application. The composition of hydrophilic units, poly ethylene glycol methacrylate (PEGMA) and methylacryloloxyphosphocholine (MPC), were varied to achieve better transparency, swelling index, film castability, water solubility and flexibility. Silicone hydrogel with optimal composition yielded high transparency and equilibrium water content up to 42.3% that would sustain the tear film and resist dryness in the eye. The studies on biocompatibility and drug delivery shown the developed silicone hydrogel is suitable for contact lens application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dry socket is a most commonly seen complication of extraction. Dry socket is also known as fibrinolytic osteitis. It is an inflammation of the alveolar bone around the extracted tooth and characterized by severe pain, breakdown of clot formed in the socket results in the socket empty. The main causes of dry socket is due to increased local fibrinolysis which leads to breakdown of clot. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the incidence of dry socket after extraction done in private college and hospital. We reviewed patient records and analysed the data of 86000 patients between June 2019 and March 2020. In that, a total of 1300 patients performed extraction. Out of the total population 0.5% has a complaint of dry socket. The study was done in a private dental college and hospital. Data envy about dry socket. Excel tabulation is done and statistics is done using SPSS software. Approval of the ethical committee was taken before the start of the study. A total of 1300 extractions were done in private dental college and hospital. The overall frequency of dry socket was 0.5%. Incidence of dry socket among females(50%) is higher than the male (44.4%). Incidence of dry socket with smoking is more than non-smoking. Patients age, gender, reason for extraction, onset of symptoms, tooth number, and treatment given play no role in the occurrence of dry socket. Surgical trauma and smoking are the major factors in the occurrence of dry socket. High incidence of dry socket is seen in mandibular molars than the maxillary molars. Treatment with zinc oxide eugenol dressing and irrigation of socket is the most common dry socket management technique. Thus the incidence of dry socket after extraction done in private college and hospital is estimated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tooth mobility may be a common problem among patients seeking dental treatment. Tooth mobility is defined as an extent of horizontal and vertical tooth displacement created by external forces, trauma and periodontal disease. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the pattern of tooth mobility in patients with periodontal disease. Case sheet records of 86000 patients who had visited Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals between June 2019 and March 2020 were reviewed. 200 patients (105 males, 95 females) with periodontitis were included in the study. Age, gender and the pattern of tooth mobility with respect to region were collected. The collected data were analysed using SPSS statistical software. Descriptive statistics (percentage, mean, SD) and inferential test (Chi-square test) were performed. Tooth mobility was more common among males (52.8%) than the females (47.2%). Age between 41-50 years (42.7%) had a higher chance of tooth mobility. Tooth mobility was more commonly seen in the mandibular arch (47.4%) and in the anterior region (45%). Patients age, gender, site and region of mobile tooth were not associated with tooth mobility. Tooth mobility due to periodontal disease can occur equally in both male and females. The present study showed that 80% of the patients with periodontal disease had tooth mobility. Therefore, early diagnosis, preventive therapeutic measures and oral hygiene reinforcement is needed to prevent progression of periodontal disease leading to tooth mobility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A nanocrystalline high entropy oxide with near-equimolar composition consisting of 5 transition metal cations and one alkali cation (Co,Cu,Mg,Na,Ni,Zn)O was synthesised by a reverse co-precipitation (RCP) process and characterised by standard methods of X-ray diffraction (for crystallite size and phases), electron microscopy (for particle morphology and size distribution) and Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (for bond identification and bond lengths). Charge compensation in the lattice by the formation of Co3+ and/or Ni3+ (in order to offset the +1 oxidation state of Na) and the creation of oxygen vacancies was quantified from X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy and further studied using vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM). The influence of different transition metals in being able to accommodate the larger and aliovalent sodium ion in a single phase-pure rocksalt lattice was investigated and the criteria for element selection in such multicomponent systems for single-phase formation examined. Presence of multivalency/non-stoichiometry to accommodate a different-sized cation and maintaining electroneutrality were identified as the critical criteria for single-phase formation in multicomponent systems and further confirmed through synthesis of various lower combination systems (by systematic removal of one transition metal cation) and by addition of bivalent Ca as well as cations of higher valencies. These criteria would aid in designing the compositions of high entropy oxides with aliovalent substitutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanocrystalline nickel oxide (NiO) was successfully synthesised as a phase-pure product from an inorganic precursor through a "single-pot", gas-phase synthesis method, nebulised spray pyrolysis (NSP). Functional properties such as magnetic behaviour, luminescence and band gap were studied and compared with the properties of NiO powder synthesised by a conventional reverse co-precipitation process (RCP) which also needed an additional calcination step. Although NiO crystallised in the cubic (rocksalt) form, Rietveld analysis of X-ray diffraction data revealed the synthesised nanopowders to be in a distorted cubic (rocksalt) or monoclinic form. This distortion resulted from the antiferromagnetic exchange interaction energy and increased magnetic surface anisotropy, as seen from the bond lengths determined from Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) studies. Raman spectroscopy also confirmed the distortion in the structure indicated by the presence of a first order phonon peak. The band gap decreased in case of both the powders and was attributed to the shallow donor or acceptor levels created due to the presence of defect states as determined from photoluminescence studies. The NSP powders also exhibited a dependence on the excitation wavelength during emission luminescence. A mixed antiferromagnetic and ferromagnetic behaviour was observed in the NSP powders and the susceptibility of each was deconvoluted through low and high field magnetometry studies. Further, the nanopowders from both the processes showed "core-shell" magnetism, with paramagnetic behaviour in the shell and antiferromagnetism in the core. The thicknesses of the core and shell were also determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to enhance the solubility of Methylprednisolone by choosing micronized form of drug and to enhance patient compliance by formulating it as dispersible tablets using quality by design (QbD) approach. Dispersible tablets of Methylprednisolone were developed by 23 factorial design. In this study independent variables were concentrations of MCC 102, CCS and Magnesium stearate and dependent variables were disintegration time, hardness and dissolution. The resulting data was fitted into Design Expert Software (Trial Version) and analyzed statistically using analysis of variance (ANOVA). The response surface plots were generated to determine the influence of concentration of MCC 102, CCS and magnesium stearate on responses. The tablets were prepared by direct compression method by choosing micronized form of drug and formulations were evaluated for the standard of dispersible tablets. Results showed that no significant drugpolymer interactions in FTIR studies. According to QbD suggestion the formulation O1 (Desirability- 0.73) with MCC-38mg, CCS-3.5mg and magnesium stearate-2.5mg was formulated and evaluated. The disintegration time was found to be 69 seconds, hardness was found to be 64N and in vitro dissolution with in 30minutes. Optimized O1 formulation was within the limits of standards of dispersible tablets with increased water solubility and better patient compliance. Stability study on optimized O1 formulation showed that there is no significant changes during study period. Thus, O1 formulation was found to be stable. The study indicates that formulation of Methylprednisolone dispersible tablets by using QbD approach is a promising formulation development method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Various nonsurgical interventions have been used for the management of patients with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, but their clinical effectiveness remains unclear. Hence, the purpose of this systematic review and meta-analyses was to assess the evidence of the effectiveness of nonsurgical interventions in the management of TMJ disorders. Materials and Methods: A literature search on five databases such as PubMed, PubMed Central Cochrane, TRIP, NGCH databases and hand searching was conducted for a period from October 1995 to 2015. Randomized control trials (RCTs) on the nonsurgical management of TMJ disorders were included and reported in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The quality of the articles was assessed by JADAD scoring. Finally, out of 23 RCTs, 11 articles having any of the primary outcomes (pain pressure threshold [PPT], pain, maximal pain-free mouth opening, and level of dysfunction) were selected. The extracted data were analyzed using NCSS software. Results: The results showed the evidence of pain reduction (P = 0.00), maximal pain-free mouth opening (P = 0.0138), and decrease in level of dysfunction (P = 0.0007) but no improvement in PPT to a significant level (P = 0.6600). Conclusion: Our results suggest that the simplest, cost-effective nonsurgical treatments have a positive therapeutic effect on the initial management of TMJ disorders. However, a consistent methodology recording both the objective and subjective outcomes would be a better choice for added reliability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Angiofibroma is a locally advancing immensely vascular tumor that essentially arises from the nasopharynx. The clinical characteristics of extranasopharyngeal angiofibroma (ENA) do not accord to that of nasopharyngeal angiofibroma and can present a diagnostic confront. We describe a case of primary juvenile ENA in a 19-year-old patient who presented with a rapidly enlarging mass of the cheek region. The case is unusual because of its anatomic location. The diagnostic and management particulars are sketched. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Hypertension is a global health problem. It is documented for causing cardiovascular diseases. Non-pharmacological treatment has the potential to reduce the risk factor of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack, stroke, and other related cardiacvascular problems. Recently, animal studies have shown that garlic has potential to reduce blood pressure, but primary studies show that non-systematic reviews and results of human are in varied mixed results. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 patients from Trichy district with hypertension are included in this study. The systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were measured before and after intake of garlic for a period of 15 days. Sphygmomanometer and stethoscope were used to measure the blood pressure. Results: This study shows the effect of garlic on hypertensive patients. The mean value of SBP was 141.03mmHg and 135.9mmHg before and after consumption of garlic respectively. The mean value of DBP value was 90.28mmHg and 88.34mmHg before and after consumption of garlic respectively. The results show the insignificant relationship. Conclusion: Based on our garlic preparations are superior to placebo in reducing blood pressure in hypertensive patients. However, it mainly depends on the duration of time and dosage used in the treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on a study conducted on the social engagement of the people living in slums near Chennai, India. It also discusses the community development and the role of governance in slum settlements and also presents information on the self organization for environment and health. According to the results, local action plan can develop slum culture.

In this paper we introduce Energy Efficient Multipath Routing Protocol (EEMRP) by using Load distribution approach and Sleep/Down mode approach. Each mobile node uses signal power strength from the received packets to predict the link breakage time, and sends a warning to the source node of the packet if the link is soon-to-be-broken. The load distribution approach is to balance the energy usage of all mobile node by selecting a route with underutilized nodes rather than the shortest route. Experimental results are simulated by using NS-2 tool to demonstrate the effectiveness of algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel, phase-pure, high entropy orthotitanate (Co,Cu,Mg,Ni,Zn) 2 TiO 4 spinel was synthesised. • The role of each cation was rationalized on the basis of the octahedral stabilisation energy. • The cation distribution in the high entropy orthotitanate was ascertained from XPS measurements. • Band gaps of the high entropy orthotitanates were 1.02–1.54 eV, lower than the individual titanates. [Display omitted] High entropy oxides (HEOs) with 5 or more cations in a single sublattice have recently emerged as a novel class of ceramic materials with interesting properties in the fields of energy and electronics. On the other hand, Ti-based oxides are well-known for their applications in the field of energy harvesting. In this study, Ti was added to a transition metal high entropy oxide, TM-HEO (Co,Cu,Mg,Ni,Zn)O and, a phase-pure orthotitanate inverse spinel structure (tetragonal lattice – P 4122 space group) was obtained as (Co,Cu,Mg,Ni,Zn) 2 TiO 4 and confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. The presence of tetragonal distortion was confirmed from Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy and attributed to the smaller ionic radii of Ti. The degree of inversion in the spinel structure was studied by Raman spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The stoichiometry, distribution of cations and the defect states in the compound were also quantified from XPS. The effect of the individual cations in the phase formation was analysed through the systematic elimination of each cation from the (Co,Cu,Mg,Ni,Zn) 2 TiO 4 system, which revealed that formation of a phase-pure spinel structure was achieved when a 1:2 ratio of cations occupying the tetrahedral to octahedral sites was maintained. The band gap energies of the (Co,Cu,Mg,Ni,Zn) 2 TiO 4 system as well as those of the phase-pure lower combination spinels were found to be in the infrared range of 1.02–1.54 eV which varied with the composition and the fact that it was lower than any of the individual oxides could be attributed to the band alignment of the individual cations. Band diagram for (Co,Cu,Mg,Ni,Zn) 2 TiO 4 was constructed from the valence band spectrum obtained from the XPS studies. (Co,Cu,Mg,Ni,Zn) 2 TiO 4 could, therefore, be a potential material for light harvesting applications as the band gap lies in the infrared regime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Identifying agents that activate nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor-2 (Nrf2), a key regulator of various cytoprotective antioxidant, and detoxifying enzymes has evolved as a promising strategy for cancer chemoprevention. In the present study, we investigated the effect of dietary supplementation of structurally diverse phytochemicals- astaxanthin, blueberry, chlorophyllin, ellagic acid, and theaphenon-E on Nrf2 signaling, and xenobiotic-metabolizing and antioxidant enzymes in the 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)-induced hamster buccal pouch (HBP) carcinogenesis model. We observed that these phytochemicals induce nuclear accumulation of Nrf2 while downregulating its negative regulator, Keap-1. This was associated with reduced expression of CYP1A1 and CYP1B1, the cytochrome P450 isoforms involved in the activation of DMBA, and the oxidative stress marker 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine coupled with upregulation of the phase II detoxification enzymes glutathione S-transferases and NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 and the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase. In addition, these dietary phytochemicals also enhanced the DNA repair enzymes 8-oxoguanine glycosylase 1 (OGG1), xeroderma pigmentosum D (XPD), xeroderma pigmentosum G (XPG), and x-ray repair cross complementing group 1 (XRCC1). Our data provide substantial evidence that the dietary phytochemicals inhibit the development of HBP carcinomas through the activation of Nrf2/Keap-1 signaling and by upregulating cytoprotective enzymes. The extent of the chemopreventive effects of the phytochemicals was in the order: chlorophyllin > blueberry > ellagic acid > astaxanthin > theaphenon-E. Thus these dietary phytochemicals that function as potent activators of Nrf2 and its orchestrated response are novel candidates for cancer chemoprevention. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]