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Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) secondary to an infusion reaction is extremely rare in the literature. Here, we present an unusual case of TCM in a patient with cervical squamous cell carcinoma who presented with acute hypoxic respiratory failure following the initiation of the first-cycle paclitaxel infusion therapy.

Study of the segmental mobility of polymer chains is important when the polymer is used as drag reduction agents of crude oil. Electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy can provide important information about segmental dynamics of polymer chains, which is related to their microenvironment. In this article, we employed an amphiphilic polymer to study the effect of hydrophilic/hydrophobic balance of the polymers on the segmental motion of polymer chains. Poly(styrene-co-maleic acid) (PSMA) was spin labeled with 4-amino TEMPO radicals by increasing the concentration of radical moiety on the polymer chains. The PSMA and spin labeled-PSMAs (SL-PSMAs) were characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and ESR techniques. Inter-polymer complexes (IPCs) of SL-PSMA-2 were prepared by employing polyethylene glycols (PEGs) of varying molecular weights. The results showed that the increased hydrophobic interactions of nitroxide radicals on the SL-PSMAs’ chains reduced the rotational mobility of spin labels and the random coil-to-globular transition of polymer chains occurred at higher pH value for SL-PSMAs, which showed a slow motion component in the ESR spectra of SL-PSMAs. Further, by increasing the molecular weight of PEGs in IPCs the complexation was increased, which also reduced the rotational motion of spin labels due to interpolymer hydrogen bonding causing a slow motion component in the ESR spectra.

Aim This study aimed to determine the potential prophylactic efficacy of probiotic individually and/or in combination with anti-coccidial drug on the performance and immunity of broilers under an induced coccidial infection over a 28-day of experimental trial. Methods One hundred and eighty 1-day-old Cobb broiler chicks were randomly divided into five groups, included control group (CG), control positive group (CPG), probiotic-treated group (Prob), diclazuril-treated group (Dic), and probiotic + diclazuril-treated group (Prob + Dic). On day 21 of age, all birds, except group CG, were orally inoculated with 1 ml of tap water containing 25,000 Eimeria tenella sporulated oocysts. Results Our results showed that the probiotic treatment did not influence pre-challenge body weight, feed intake and feed conversion ratio (FCR). During the post-challenge period, chickens in groups probiotic and diclazuril individually and in combination exhibited higher body weight and lower (better) FCR, reduced oocyst shedding (throughout the day four, five, six and seven post-infection), cecal lesions and mortality compared with control positive chickens. Moreover, Compared to CPG group, Prob + Dic group showed increased (p < 0.05) serum levels of interleukin-10 (IL-10) and immunoglobulin M (IgM) and decreased the concentrations of interferon gamma (IFN-γ). On the other hand, individual treatment with probiotic exhibited highest serum levels of IL-10 and IgM, while diclazuril alone increased the blood concentrations of IL-10 and decreased the levels of IFN-γ compared to control positive group; however, there was no significant effect of Prob on IFN-γ, Dic on IgM and all groups on interleukin-17. Conclusion In conclusion, supplementation of probiotic, with and/or without anti-coccidial drug, enhances immunity and inhibits the negative effects of Eimeria infection. Significance and Impact of the Study This study reveals the anti-coccidial mechanisms of probiotic in the presence and absence of anti-coccidial drug in preventing the coccidia infection.

OBJECTIVE This study evaluated urinary angiotensinogen in preeclampsia. METHODS Normal pregnant (n = 57) and preeclamptic patients (n = 31); Normal pregnant (n = 10) and preeclamptic rats (n = 10) were studied. Urinary angiotensinogen and plasma angiotensin II were assayed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS Urinary angiotensinogen in preeclampsia patients (2.0 ± 1.1 ng/mg creatinine) was suppressed (*p

Many Bangladeshi medicinal plants have been used to treat Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases. In the present study, the anticholinesterase effects of eight selected Bangladeshi medicinal plant species were investigated. Species were selected based on the traditional uses against CNS-related diseases. Extracts were prepared using a gentle cold extraction method. In vitro cholinesterase inhibitory effects were measured by Ellman’s method in 96-well microplates. Blumea lacera (Compositae) and Cyclea barbata (Menispermaceae) were found to have the highest acetylcholinesterase inhibitory (IC50, 150 ± 11 and 176 ± 14 µg/mL, respectively) and butyrylcholinesterase inhibitory effect (IC50, 297 ± 13 and 124 ± 2 µg/mL, respectively). Cyclea barbata demonstrated competitive inhibition, where Blumea lacera showed an uncompetitive inhibition mode for acetylcholinesterase. Smilax guianensis (Smilacaceae) and Byttneria pilosa (Malvaceae) were also found to show moderate AChE inhibition (IC50, 205 ± 31 and 221 ± 2 µg/mL, respectively), although no significant BChE inhibitory effect was observed for extracts from these plant species. Among others, Thunbergia grandiflora (Acanthaceae) and Mikania micrantha (Compositae) were found to display noticeable AChE (IC50, 252 ± 22 µg/mL) and BChE (IC50, 314 ± 15 µg/mL) inhibitory effects, respectively. Molecular docking experiment suggested that compounds 5-hydroxy-3,6,7,3′,4′-pentamethoxyflavone (BL4) and kaempferol-3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1⟶6)-β-D-glucopyranoside (BL5) from Blumea lacera bound stably to the binding groove of the AChE and BChE by hydrogen-bond interactions, respectively. Therefore, these compounds could be candidates for cholinesterase inhibitors. The present findings demonstrated that Blumea lacera and Cyclea barbata are interesting objects for further studies aiming at future therapeutics for Alzheimer’s disease.

2D/2D heterojunction photocatalysts with excellent photocatalytic activity highlight considerable potential in water disinfection. Here, an oxidized Sb/g-C3N4 2D/2D nanosheets heterojunction (Sb-SbOx/CNS) was constructed based on a facile one-step liquid-phase exfoliation method using concentrated sulfuric acid. By doing so, bulk Sb and g-C3N4 were exfoliated simultaneously and then, intercalated each other. Compared with CNS and Sb-SbOx, the obtained Sb-SbOx/CNS demonstrated better photocatalytic disinfection activity towards Escherichia coli K-12 (E. coli K-12) under visible light irradiation. The 5% oxidized Sb/g-C3N4 2D/2D nanosheets heterojunction (5.0% Sb-SbOx/CNS) exhibited the best photocatalytic performance and admirable cycling stability, which was ascribed to the unique structure where the interfacial charge separation was strengthened by the strong coupling effect between Sb-SbOx and CNS. Meanwhile, the fundamental mechanism of photocatalytic disinfection was also proposed. The photogenerated ROS (reactive oxygen species) violently attacked the E. coli K-12 membrane, creating massive and irreparable holes on the cell membrane. The leakage of cations (K+, Na+, Ca2+ and Mg2+), adenosine triphosphate, total soluble sugar and protein accelerated the destruction of E. coli K-12. Trapping experiments suggested that the photocatalytic disinfection process against E. coli K-12 was dominated by h+ generated on 5.0% Sb-SbOx/CNS. This work offers a new promising way to modify the 2D/2D heterojunction featuring efficient photocatalytic disinfection performance.

Thymoquinone (TQ) is one of the leading phytochemicals, which is abundantly found in Nigella sativa L. seeds. TQ exhibited various biological effects such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-tumoral in several pre-clinical studies. Parkinson's disease (PD) is a long-term neurodegenerative disease with movement difficulties, and the common feature of neurodegeneration in PD patients is caused by dopaminergic neural damage in the substantia nigra pars compacta. The neuroprotective activity of TQ has been studied in various neurological disorders. TQ-mediated neuroprotection against PD is yet to be reported in a single frame; therefore, this review is intended to narrate the potentiality of TQ in the therapy of PD. TQ has been shown to protect against neurotoxins via amelioration of neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis, thereby protecting neurodegeneration in PD models. TQ could be an emerging therapeutic intervention in PD management, but mechanistic studies remain to be investigated to clarify its neuroprotective role.

The study aimed to validate the folkloric medicinal uses of Viburnum grandiflorum. The column chromatography led to the isolation of a compound from the chloroform soluble fraction of V. grandiflorum which was characterized as 2, 3-dihydro-2-(4ʹ-hydroxy, 3ʹ-methoxyphenyl)-3-hydroxymethyl-5-(2-formylvinyl) 7-hydroxybenzofuran (benzofuran) on the basis of various spectroscopic techniques. When benzofuran was studied for xanthine oxidase inhibition, it caused significant concentration dependent inhibition of the enzyme with IC50: 49.52 µM, however, it was found less potent than standard xanthine inhibitor allopurinol (IC50: 0.59 µM). Binding orientation and binding energy of benzofuran and allopurinol were predicted via docking studies. Docking simulations revealed that both studied molecules interact with key amino acid residues through hydrogen bond (Arg 880, Glu 1261, Thr1010 with Allopurinol & Thr 1010 with benzofuran) and hydrophobic interactions (Phe914, Phe1009 with Allopurinol & Phe 910, Phe 1009 with benzofuran). A fair correlation between the computed binding energy and experimental values was observed. Thus, it is concluded that the isolated compound, benzofuran had inhibition on xanthine oxidase, need further detail studies.

Nanoadsorbents having large specific surface area, high pore volume with tunable pore size, affordability and easy magnetic separation gained much popularity in recent time. Iron-based nanoadsorbents showed higher adsorption capacity for different pollutant removal from water among other periodic elements. Spinel ferrite nanomaterials among iron-bearing adsorbent class performed better than single iron oxide and hydroxides due to their large surface area, mesoporous pore, high pore volume and stability. This work aimed at focusing on water treatment using magnesium ferrite (MgFe2O4) nanomaterials. Synthesis routes, properties and pollutant adsorption were critically investigated to explore the performance of magnesium ferrite in water treatment. Structural and surface properties were greatly affected by the factors involved in different synthesis routes and iron and magnesium ratio. Complete removal of pollutants through adsorption was achieved using magnesium ferrite. Pollutant adsorption capacity of MgFe2O4 and its modified forms was found several folds higher than Fe2O3 and Fe3O4 nanomaterials. In addition, MgFe2O4 showed strong stability in water than other pure iron oxide and hydroxide. Modification with graphene oxide, activated carbon, biochar and silica was demonstrated to be beneficial for enhanced adsorption capacity. Complex formation was suggested as a dominant mechanism for pollutant adsorption. These nanomaterials could be a viable and competitive adsorbent for diverse pollutant removal from water.

Lepidagathis hyaline Nees is used locally in Ayurvedic medicine to treat coughs and cardiovascular diseases. This study explored its pharmacological potential through in vivo and in vitro approaches for the metabolites extracted (methanolic) from the stems of L. hyalina. A qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of numerous secondary metabolites. The methanol extract of L. hyalina stems (MELHS) showed a strong antioxidative activity in the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and reducing power assays, and in the quantitative (phenolic and flavonoid) assay. Clot lysis and brine shrimp lethality bioassays were applied to investigate the thrombolytic and cytotoxic activities, respectively. MELHS exhibited an expressive percentage of clot lysis (33.98%) with a moderately toxic (115.11 μg/mL) effect. The in vivo anxiolytic activity was studied by an elevated plus maze test, whereas the antidepressant activity was examined by a tail suspension test and forced swimming test. During the anxiolytic evaluation, MELHS exhibited a significant dose-dependent reduction of anxiety, in which the 400 mg/kg dose of the extract showed 78.77 ± 4.42% time spent in the open arm in the elevated plus maze test. In addition, MELHS demonstrated dose-dependent and significant activities in the tail suspension test and forced swimming test, whereas the 400 mg/kg dose of the extract showed 87.67 ± 6.40% and 83.33 ± 6.39% inhibition of immobile time, respectively. Therefore, the current study suggests that L. hyalina could be a potential source of anti-oxidative, cytotoxic, thrombolytic, anxiolytic, and antidepressant agents. Further study is needed to determine the mechanism behind the bioactivities.

In this study, gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) were prepared using polyacrylonitrile (PAN) polymer, ethylene carbonate (EC), propylene carbonate (PC) plasticizers and different compositions of tetrapropylammonium iodide (TPAI) salt. Linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements were done using non-blocking Pt-electrode symmetric cells. The limiting current (Jlim), apparent diffusion coefficient of triiodide ions and exchange current were found to be 12.76 mA cm−2, 23.41 × 10−7 cm2 s−1 and 11.22–14.24 mA cm−2, respectively, for the GPE containing 30% TPAI. These values are the highest among the GPEs with different TPAI contents. To determine the ionic conductivity, the EIS technique was employed with blocking electrodes. The GPE containing 30% TPAI exhibited the lowest bulk impedance, Rb (22 Ω), highest ionic conductivity (3.62 × 10−3 S cm−1) and lowest activation energy. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques were utilized for structural characterization. Functional group interactions among PAN, EC, PC and TPAI were studied in the FTIR spectra of the GPEs. An up-shift of the XRD peak indicates the polymer–salt interaction and possible complexation of the cation (TPA+ ion) with the lone pair of electrons containing site –CN at the N atom in the host polymer matrix. On the other hand, computational study shows that TPAI-PAN based GPE possesses the lowest frontier orbital bandgap, which coincided with the enhanced electrochemical and electrocatalytic performance of GPE. The dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) fabricated with these GPEs showed that the JSC (19.75 mA cm−2) and VOC (553.8 mV) were the highest among the GPEs and hence the highest efficiency, η (4.76%), was obtained for the same electrolytes.

Background: Coronary heart disease (CHD) remains the major cause of mortality and morbidity in the entire world population despite therapeutic advances that control many risk factors. Lipid profile is regarded as an important factor in the development of coronary heart disease. There have been numerous studies confirming the association of hyperlipidemias with coronary heart disease in most of the Western as well as Asian countries of the world. But we have very little data on the relation between CHD and lipid profile. Aim of the Study: The aim of this study was to assess abnormal lipid levels and their association with coronary heart disease. Methods: This comparative observational study was conducted at the Department of Cardiology in M. Abdur Rahim Medical College, Dinajpur, Bangladesh from January 2019 to December 2019. Properly written consent was taken from all the participants before starting the main part of the investigation. Obeying inclusion and exclusion criteria of the study, a total of 131 participants were finalized as the study population. Among them, the Case Group was formed with 90 patients who had CHD, and with 41 healthy people, the Control Group was formed. All necessary data were collected, analyzed, and disseminated by several programs of MS-Office and SPSS version 23. Result: The study was conducted with 90 case group participants and 41 control group participants. Among the case group, 78% were male and 22% were female. Among the male case group participants, 44.29% were from 51 - 60 years of age, 35.71% were from 41 - 50 years of age and the rest 20% were above 60 years of age. On the other hand, among the female participants of Case Group, 45% were from 51 - 60 years of age, 30% from 41 - 50 years of age, and 25% were over 60 years of age. Regression analysis between the male and the female showed the P-value of 0.242. Serum cholesterol concentration and HDL concentration were significant between the Case and Control groups in all age groups and the P-value was - 50 and 51 - 60 years age groups with a P-value of 60 years age group, we did not find any significant correlation and there the P-value was 0.478. LDL concentration between the groups showed significant correlations between the Case and Control groups in 41 - 50 and 51 - 60-years’ age groups where the P values were found, the >60 years’ age group, we did not find any significant correlation and there the P- value was 0.515. Conclusion: In this study, it was found that the total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol concentrations were significantly higher in coronary heart disease (CHD) patients.

The study was intended to compare and evaluate the in vitro thrombolytic activity and in vivo anxiolytic activities of methanol extracts of Piper nigrum fruits (MEPNF) and Sesamum indicum seeds (MESIS). An in vitro thrombolytic activity was employed by investigating the clot lysis effect of MEPNF, MESIS, and their combinations. In vivo anxiolytic activity of MEPNF and MESIS was examined by using the Elevated Plus Maze (EPM) test considering diazepam (1 mg/kg) as the standard drug. In the thrombolytic test, MEPNF and MESIS showed a moderate (P < 0.1) clot lysis activity. Besides, MEPNF and MESIS showed significant (P < 0.001) dose-dependent anxiolytic activity. Since MEPNF 200 and 400 (mg/kg, b.w; p.o) was administered, the time spent in the open arms, and the number of entry into the open arms were increased. The finding suggests that MEPNF and MESIS may be the source for biological activity and therefore further research is required for confirmation. [ J Adv Biotechnol Exp Ther 2020; 3(3.000): 158-164]

In this approach, folic acid (FA) sensor was fabricated with wet-chemically prepared Fe2O3/NiO/Mn2O3 nanoparticles (NPs), which was coated on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) in the form of thin layers to create the desired sensor. The synthesized NPs were characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Tunneling Electron Microscopy (TEM), surface area (BET), and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) equipped with Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The fabricated sensor, Fe2O3/NiO/Mn2O3 NPs/Nafion/GCE is responded linearly in electrochemical method over 0.1 nM to 0.01 mM of folic acid (FA) and denoted as a dynamic range of detection (LDR). The slope of LDR is designated as the sensor sensitivity, which is appreciable (48.588 µA µM-1 cm−2). The lower limit of FA detection is evaluated at a signal-to-noise ratio of 3, and it is equal to 96.89 ± 4.85 pM. The sensor analytical parameters such as stability, reproducibility, sensitivity, response time and long-time stability in buffer phase are found as outstanding. The FA sensor was valued to analyze the biological samples and found acceptable and satisfactory results. This prospective sensor might be an efficient probe for diagnosis of bio-samples in field of health career sector.

Polyacrylonitrile (PAN)–based gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) consisting of plasticizers ethylene carbonate (EC) and propylene carbonate (PC) and different compositions of tetrabutylammonium iodide (TBAI) salt have been investigated. The GPEs have been characterized by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. EIS study shows that the GPE containing 30 wt% TBAI has the lowest bulk impedance, Rb (23 Ω), and highest room temperature ionic conductivity (3.46 × 10−3 S cm−1). Conductivity-temperature relationship in the temperature range studied obeys Arrhenius rule. The Ea value is decreased with TBAI percentage and is the lowest (12.59 kJ/mol) for GPE containing 30 wt% TBAI. From LSV experimental data, the limiting current density (Jlim), apparent diffusion coefficient of triiodide ion ( $$ {D}_{I_3^{-}}^{\ast } $$ ), and exchange current density (J0) have been calculated. The highest value for each of these parameters is 5.00 mA cm−2, 6.59 × 10−7 cm2 s−1, and 0.63 mA cm−2, respectively, for the highest conducting GPE. All samples are amorphous. LSV at stainless steel showed that the electrochemical stability window is 2.2 V. The cyclic voltammetry (CV) was performed from 1 to 1000 cycle which showed good electrochemical stability.

This paper presents an experimental approach to predict the friction and wear coefficients followed by finite element modeling (FE) to analyze the wear of silicon nitride sliding against alumina bearing components up to 2 years considering risky gait activities. First, the friction and wear coefficients were determined for four loading conditions - 15, 20, 25 and 30 N for 20 km (equivalent to 2 years of implant life) using ball-on-disc (BOD) tribometer with 0.9% (NaCl) saline solution to simulate a lubricating bearing contact similar to hip joint. These BOD loads were equivalent to gait loads which were named as four groups- A (as similar to sitting down or getting up), B (as similar to stair ascending and descending with load), C (as similar to carrying load 50 kg) and D (as similar to load transfer 50 kg). Interestingly, the experimental results showed the friction and wear coefficients obtained from BOD tests were found to be much lower for higher gait loads due to the formation of discontinuous tribofilm on the worn surface. Later, finite element simulation was carried out and the findings revealed that physically demanding gait activity of load transfer 50 kg had the least maximum linear and volumetric wear. Group A gait activity showed maximum linear and volumetric wear among all the groups. From these results, it is quite evident that, people engaged in physically demanding gait activities, may prefer silicon nitride and alumina combination for hip joint replacement which showed reduced wear for risky activities. Refereed/Peer-reviewed

Albumin, an important serum protein, is continuously exposed to various oxidizing/nitrating and glycating agents. Depending upon the nature/concentration of reactive species present, the protein may be glycated, oxidized/nitroxidized or glyco-nitro-oxidized. Peroxynitrite is a powerful nitroxidant and has been reported to damage a wide array of macromolecules. On the other hand, methylglyoxal is a very strong reactive dicarbonyl and a potent precursor for the formation of advanced glycation end products under pathological conditions. In certain pathological conditions albumin may be modified by peroxynitrite and methylglyoxal simultaneously. There is dearth of literature suggests that structural/conformational and functional alteration in albumin upon glycation and oxidation/nitroxidation, however the alterations produced by glyco-nitro-oxidation has not yet been explored. Therefore, in this study, simultaneous effect of glycation and nitroxidation on the structure and conformation, vis-a-vis function of albumin was explored. Glyco-nitro-oxidized albumin showed decreased free amino acid content together with decreased affinity of albumin towards cobalt. Molecular docking model and molecular dynamic simulations showed close interaction and formation of stable complexes between methylglyoxal, peroxynitrite and albumin. Formation of carboxymethyl lysine and 3-nitrotyrosine in glyco-nitro-oxidized albumin were confirmed by MALDI-TOF MS and UP-LC MS. Aggregate formation in glyco-nitro-oxidized albumin was visualized by transmission electron microscopy. On the basis of these results, it may be speculated that, albumin modified with endogenously generated methylglyoxal and peroxynitrite might be a driving factor in the progression of heightened inflammatory autoimmune responses. The work presents a ground to study the role of glyco-nitro-oxidized albumin in the pathogenesis and progression of various autoimmune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the application of fiberglass reinforcement method in thermoplastic mouthguard materials to improve flexural properties and adhesive strength. Commonly used two types of commercial mouth guard materials (ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer-based and polyolefin-based) were reinforced with glass fiber clothes by two-step hot press. Flexural strength and adhesive strength with each base material were examine via three-point bending test and delamination test, respectively. Ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer-based fiberglass-reinforced material has significantly greater adhesive strength with base material and improvement of flexural properties compared with polyolefin-based material. These results suggest that flexural properties of both conventional commercial mouthguard materials were improved when the glass-fiber-reinforced method was applied to reinforce mouthguard materials, and more, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer was more desirable for the base material.

Solution-processable all-inorganic lead halide perovskites are under intensive attention due to their potential applications in low-cost high-performance optoelectronic devices such as photodetectors. However, solution processing usually generates structural and chemical defects which are detrimental to the photodetection performance of photodetectors. Here, a polymer additive of polyethylene glycol (PEG) was employed to passivate the localized defects in CsPbI2Br films through the Lewis acid-base interaction. The interfacial defects were passivated efficiently by introducing a trace amount of a PEG additive with a concentration of 0.4 mg mL-1 into the CsPbI2Br precursor solution, as suggested by the significantly reduced trap density of state, which was revealed using thermal admittance spectroscopy. Fourier transform infrared spectrum characterization showed that rather than Cs+ or I-, a Lewis acid-base interaction was established between Pb2+ and PEG to passivate the defects in the CsPbI2Br perovskite, which leads to large suppression of noise current. Both specific detectivity and linear dynamic range improved from 4.1 × 109 Jones and 73 dB to 2.2 × 1011 Jones and 116 dB, respectively. Our work demonstrates the feasibility of employing an environmentally stable polymeric additive PEG to passivate defects for high photodetection performance in all-inorganic perovskite photodetectors.

Great attention has been paid to membrane-based separation technology in various separation fields, including gas separation. It provides the benefits of energy efficiency, environmental friendliness, easy scale-up, and convenience in operation. Different division advancements are being utilized for the expulsion of acid gas carbon dioxide (CO2). The aim of this work is to synthesis the membrane using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) with treatment (WT) and without treatment (WOT) of the additive that is triethanolamine (TEA), to study the effect of additive on the permeance of membrane towards CO2 and the morphology changes of each membrane. In this research, virgin PVA and PVA with TEA were cast upon the porous support membrane of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). PVA was used as the polymer matrix, and TEA was used as a CO2 facilitating agent. Distilled water was used as a solvent for TEA and PVA in preparing the solution. Dimethyl acetamide (DMAc) and Tetrahydrofuran (THF) were used as solvents for PVC porous membranes. These membranes were tested on CO2 to find out the permeability and flux rates (J). For the morphology of the membrane, we performed SEM; for thermal analysis, we performed DSC and TGA, and for the strength, we performed the tensile test. The results reveal that the presence of TEA changes the morphology and thermal behavior increases the strength and the permeability of CO2. In a nutshell, the presence of TEA enhanced the performance and the morphology of the membrane.

The study was conducted to investigate the productivity and profitability of broiler on L-methionine supplemented diet. A total of 160 day-old broiler chicks (Cobb 500) was randomly distributed to four dietary supplements, D0 (Control), D1 (0.30 % L-Met), D2 (0.35 % L- Met) and D3 (0.40 % L- Met). Each treatment was replicated five times with 8 birds per cage. The chicks were reared in the battery cages while they were fed with broiler starter diet (crumble) until Day14 of age. The birds with fed with L-Met supplemented diets starting from Day15 until Day35 of age All the diets were iso-caloric and iso-nitrogenous.. Results revealed that the L-Met supplementations were in favor of higher live weight (LW) and better (p0.05) by the dietary supplements. No significant (p>0.05) difference was observed in the relative weights of visceral organs (small intestine, proventriculus, gizzard, liver and heart) except for the spleen. Relatively increased (p0.05) in the dietary groups. Higher profit (p

The structure of polyolefin has an important influence on its performance and application. Ethylene/1-hexene copolymerization is one of the important ways to control the structure of the polyolefin. However, research on the ethylene/1-hexene copolymerization catalyzed by nickel complexes with different steric ligands remains to be refined. Here, three α-diimine nickel catalysts are used to study the ligand effect on catalytic performance in the ethylene/1-hexene copolymerization. Reaction activity, molecular weight, phase-transition temperature and branching density of the resultant copolymer are measured to evaluate the catalytic performance. The results indicate that the steric ligands could exert great effect on the copolymerization. As for the chemical valance of Ni species, detailed EPR demonstrate that the presence of excess co-catalyst can reduce Ni(II) to the lower valance and affect the catalytic performance.

Artificial Intelligence techniques have been employed for the first time to train a dataset of 1258 distinct fluoride glasses collected from published literature to predict the density of novel oxy-fluoro glasses based on their chemical composition and ionic radii. The glass dataset was split based on the linear and non-linear variation to predict the glass density using various AI models like gradient descent, random forest regression and artificial neural networks. High concentration of boron in glass specimens resulted in scattering of datapoints in packing factor relation and density prediction. The random forest regression model fit the combined glass dataset with the highest R2 of 0.980. In case of boron-rich glasses, their non-linear behavior restricted the R2 for ANNs to 0.792 as optimum with the tanh activation function.

The present study sought to evaluate the central nervous system (CNS) depressant, antioxidant, and cytotoxicity activity of methanol and aqueous extract of Trametes versicolor (METV and AETV). The CNS activity was assessed by the open field, hole-cross, forced swimming, thiopental sodium-induced sleeping time, hole-board, and rotarod tests in Swiss albino mice. For both extracts, a substantial decrease in locomotion was observed in open field and hole-cross tests. In addition, the molecular docking study has been implemented through Maestro V11.1. The higher dose of METV (400 mg/kg) and the lower dose of AETV (200 mg/kg) exhibited a significant decrease in immobility time in forced swimming test and increased prolongation of sleep in thiopental sodium-induced sleeping time test, respectively. In contrast, a moderate finding was observed for the hole-board and rotarod tests. Additionally, a significant DPPH scavenging assay and a high toxicity effect in brine shrimp lethality assay were observed. Besides, five phenolic compounds, namely baicalin, quercetin, catechin, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, and quinic acid, were used for the molecular docking study, whereas catechin demonstrated the highest binding affinity towards the targets. The findings conclude that the T. versicolor could be an alternative source for CNS anti-depressant and antioxidant activity.

The main objective of this project was to formulate novel amphiphilic PLGA nanoparticles having better physicochemical properties for the delivery of the novel peptide (CK-10) to be used for targeting the cancerous/tumour tissue. Double emulsion/Solvent evaporation and novel microfluidic techniques were used to formulate the nanoparticles. Loading efficiency and in-vitro release were measured by a modified Lowry assay. Size and zeta potential were characterized by dynamic light scattering, tuneable pore resistive sensing, and laser obscuration time. Images were scanned by scanning, transmission electron microscopes, and laser obscuration time. Stability was checked by high-performance liquid chromatography and capillary zone electrophoresis. Water absorption and its associated changes in the physicochemical properties were measured by various titration techniques. PLGA/Poloxomer nanoparticles had the highest peptide loading efficiency by 56.13 % for the novel microfluidic technique as well as the highest in-vitro release and water absorption values. It also had the smallest size with the lowest PDI (208.90 nm, 0.11) which are vital parameters for targeting cancer/tumour tissue. The successful development of better physicochemical properties for the CK-10 loaded PLGA nanoparticles could improve the RAN blocking by CK-10.

Objective: To determine the diagnostic accuracy of the Lactate Dehydrogenase, C-Reactive Protein and Ferritin in suspected patients of COVID-19. Study Design: Cross-sectional validation study. Place and Duration of Study: Pathology department of Combined Military Hospital Lahore in the month of May 2020. Methodology: We included 101 adult (>18 years) symptomatic suspected COVID-19 patients of both genders. Children, pregnant women and asymptomatic patients were excluded from study. Age, gender and results of Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction, Lactate Dehydrogenase, C-Reactive Protein, ferritin were recorded. Results: Lactate Dehydrodenase had highest sensitivity (75%) with positive predictive value of 71.6% and diagnostic accuracy of 65.3% among three biochemical parameters studied. Receiver Operator Characteristic curve was studied. Area under curve of Lactate Dehydrogenase (AUC=0.65) and Ferritin (AUC=0.59) reflected their ability to prognosticate the presence of COVID19 disease. However, C-Reactive Protein (AUC=0.42) appeared to be a poor predictor of the disease. Conclusion: Raised serum Lactate Dehydrogenase (>490 U/L) and Ferritin (>152 ng/L) levels can be used to predict the Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction positivity for COVID-19 in the population of suspected patients of COVID19. However, C-Reactive Protein is a poor predictor of COVID-19.

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) is a traditionally important vegetable herb used to treat numerous illnesses, including diabetes mellitus, in many rural parts of Bangladesh and the South Asian subcontinent. However, the scientific evidence for the aforementioned properties has not been adequately validated. Hence, the aim of this study was to explore the antidiabetic, antilipidemic activity of okra mucilage powder, and to compare its effectiveness with the isolated peel–seed of okra after mucilage extraction in Swiss albino mice. After extraction, both mucilage and peel–seed were made into powder. In addition, crude protein, mineral contents, and in vitro antioxidant activity of mucilage and peel–seed powder were assessed. After acute toxicity test, methanolic extracts of both powders were administered to alloxan‐induced diabetic mice for 3 weeks. Blood glucose levels were assessed weekly. Finally, blood samples were collected on day 21 to estimate blood glucose level, total protein (TP), and lipid profile levels. Okra mucilage powder showed less amount of protein, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and iron compared with peel–seed powder. In terms of antioxidant activity, the IC50 value and total phenolic content were found higher in okra mucilage powder in contrast to peel–seed powder. However, total flavonoid content was higher in peel–seed powder than mucilage powder. Three‐week administration of mucilage and peel–seed suspensions at a dose of 150 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg significantly (p, The present research provides evidence that mucilage of Abelmoschus esculentus has antioxidant properties. The results from this study also revealed that the mucilage of Abelmoschus esculentus is rich in protein and minerals. Three weeks of administration of mucilage and peel–seed suspensions reduced the blood glucose concentration of alloxan‐induced diabetic mice. Cholesterol, triglycerides, low‐density lipoproteins, high‐density lipoproteins, and total protein were found to be significantly improved after mucilage and peel–seed treatment.

Background. Hatikana is a traditional medicinal plant used to treat inflammation, urolithiasis, goiter, cancer, wounds and sores, gastrointestinal, tumor, tetanus, arthritis, hepatic damage, neurodegeneration, and other ailments. The goal of this study is to investigate the antidiabetic properties of Hatikana extract (HKEx) and to construct the effects of its natural constituents on the genes and biochemical indices that are connected with them. Methods. HKEx was evaluated using GC-MS and undertaken for a three-week intervention in fructose-fed STZ-induced Wistar albino rats at the doses of HKEx50, HKEx100, and HKEx200 mg/kg bw. Following intervention, blood serum was examined for biochemical markers, and liver tissue was investigated for the mRNA expression of catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD1) by RTPCR analysis. Most abundant compounds (oleanolic acid, 7α, 28-olean diol, and stigmasterol) from GC-MS were chosen for the network pharmacological assay to verify function-specific gene-compound interactions using STITCH, STRING, GSEA, and Cytoscape plugin cytoHubba. Results. In vivo results showed a significant ( P < 0.05 ) decrease of blood sugar, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), creatinine kinase (CK-MB), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and increase of liver glycogen, glucose load, and serum insulin. Out of three antioxidative genes, catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD1) were found to be few fold increased. Oleanolic acid and stigmasterol were noticed to strongly interact with 27 target proteins. Oleanolic acid interacted with the proteins AKR1B10, CASP3, CASP8, CYP1A2, CYP1A2, HMGB1, NAMPT, NFE2L2, NQO1, PPARA, PTGIR, TOP1, TOP2A, UGT2B10, and UGT2B11 and stigmasterol with ABCA1, ABCG5, ABCG8, CTSE, HMGCR, IL10, CXCL8, NR1H2, NR1H3, SLCO1B1, SREBF2, and TNF. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis revealed the involvement of 25 target proteins out of twenty seven. Cytoscape plugin cytoHubba identified TNF, CXCL8, CASP3, PPARA, SREBF2, and IL10 as top hub genes. Pathway analysis identified 31 KEGG metabolic, signaling, and immunogenic pathways associated with diabetes. Notable degree of PPI enrichment showed that SOD1 and CAT are responsible for controlling signaling networks and enriched pathways. Conclusion. The findings show that antioxidative genes have regulatory potential, allowing the HKEx to be employed as a possible antidiabetic source pending further validation.

Neurodegeneration is a multifactorial process involved the different cytotoxic pathways that lead towards neuronal cell death. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a persistent neurodegenerative disorder that normally has a steady onset yet later on it worsens. The documented evidence of AD neuropathology manifested the neuro-inflammation, increased reactive oxygen, nitrogen species and decreased antioxidant protective process; mitochondrial dysfunction as well as increased level of acetylcholinesterase activity. Moreover, enhanced action of proteins leads towards neural apoptosis which have a vital role in the degeneration of neurons. The inability of commercial therapeutic options to treat AD with targeting single mechanism leads the attraction towards organic drugs. Ellagic acid is a dimer of gallic acid, latest studies expressed that ellagic acid can initiate the numerous cell signaling transmission and decrease the progression of disorders, involved in the degeneration of neurons. The influential property of ellagic acid to protect the neurons in neurodegenerative disorders is due to its antioxidant effect, iron chelating and mitochondrial protective effect. The main goal of this review is to critically analyze the molecular mode of action of ellagic acid against neurodegeneration.

The antidiarrheal effect of methanolic extract of Trillium govanianum Wall. ex D. Don (Melanthiaceae alt. Trilliaceae) was studied at doses of 12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg in different animal models of diarrhea including castor oil (6 mL/kg), magnesium sulfate (2 gm/kg), sodium picosulfate (2 mL/kg) and lactitol (0.25 mL/kg). The antispasmodic effect of T. govanianum was studied on isolated rabbit's jejunum, using acetylcholine as tissue stabiliser and verapamil as calcium channel blocker. T. govanianum attenuated the diarrhea by producing a significant decrease in the number and weight of stool, and an increase in stool latency time. T. govanianum completely inhibited both spontaneous as well as high potassium induced contractions of isolated rabbit's jejunum, which was analogous to verapamil. Moreover, T. govanianum produced a right shift in calcium concentration response curve, confirming its calcium channel blocking activity. These findings provide scientific ground to its medicinal use in diarrhea and gut spasms.

Thermal burns are a major cause of death and suffering around the globe. They can cause debilitating, life-altering injuries as well as lead to significant psychological and financial consequences. Several research works have been conducted in attempt to find a wound healing therapy that is successful. At present, hydrogels have been widely used in cutting-edge research for this purpose because they have suitable properties. This study aimed to see how therapy with chitosan-polyethylene glycol (Ch-Peg) based hydrogels affected the healing of burn wounds in rats. With the concern of public health, xanthan gum (X), boric acid (B), gelatin (Ge), polyethylene glycol (Peg), chitosan (Ch), glutaraldehyde (G), and HPLC-grade water were prepared using X : Ge : G, X : Ge : Peg : G, X : Ge : Ch : G, X : Ge : Peg : Ch : G, X : Ge : B : Ch : G, X : Ge : B : Peg : G, and X : Ge : B : Peg : Ch : G. The produced composite hydrogels were examined for swelling ability, biodegradability, rheological characteristics, and porosity. The 3D structure of the hydrogel was revealed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). After that, the structural characterization technique named Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to describe the composites (SEM). Lastly, in a rat skin wound model, the efficacy of the produced hydrogels was studied. Swelling ability, biodegradability, rheological properties, and porosity were all demonstrated in composite hydrogels that contained over 90% water. Hydrogels with good polymeric networks and porosity were observed using SEM. The existence of bound water and free, intra- and intermolecule hydrogen-linked OH and NH in the hydrogels was confirmed using FTIR. In a secondary burned rat model, all hydrogels showed significant wound healing effectiveness when compared to controls. When compared to other composite hydrogels, wounds treated with X : Ge : Peg : Ch : G, X : Ge : B : Peg : G, and X : Ge : B : Peg : Ch:G recovered faster after 28 days. In conclusion, this research suggests that X : Ge : Peg : Ch : G, X : Ge : B : Peg : G, and X : Ge : B : Peg : Ch : G could be used to treat skin injuries in the clinic.

Phenol is the toxicant present in cigarette smoke that causes pulmonary diseases, eyes infection, and even various kinds of cancer. So, in this research, an attempt was done to prepare a suitable absorbent to remove phenol from cigarette smoke. A novel bio-based adsorbent succinylated carboxymethyl starch (S-CMS) was prepared by reacting carboxymethyl starch (CMS) with succinic anhydride (SA) in the presenting of N, N-dimethylformamide (DMF) solvent and pyridine. The structure of the S-CMS was confirmed by spectroscopic techniques including proton nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transform infrared. The S-CMS crystallinity and thermal properties were checked by x-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis. The results showed a decrease in thermal properties and crystallinity for S-CMS. The S-CMS were tested as adsorbents for the removal of phenol. The adsorption efficiencies of CMS, S-CMS1, S-CMS2, and S-CMS3 towards phenol were shown to be 0.297 g/g, 0.321 g/g, 0.322 g/g, and 0.324 g/g, respectively.

Halochromism or pH sensitivity has tremendous potential for applications in various textile fields, such as protective clothing, wound dressings, etc. Reactive dye is mostly used to colour cotton or other regenerated cellulose fibres due to its better fastness and wide range of hue, from vivid to dull shades. In this research work, an azo-based dichlorotriazine reactive dye was synthesised from H-acid (4-amino-5-hydroxy-2,7-naphthalenedisulfonic acid) and 4-nitroaniline, which incorporates a halochromic behaviour. The change of colour of this dye was evaluated both in the the solution stage and coloured fabric stage in various pH solutions. A visible change of colour with the alteration of pH was observed after dyeing textile fabric with the synthesised dye. However, a significant difference was observed in a few cases with regard to the change of colour with the alteration of pH in the solution stage and coloured fabric stage. The dyed fabric also displayed very good to excellent wash fastness properties. Generally, the reactive dye synthesised in this research demonstrated an obvious change of colour with the alteration of the pH level.

Cancer is one of the major causes of death worldwide. Chemotherapeutic drugs have become a popular choice as anticancer agents. Despite the therapeutic benefits of chemotherapeutic drugs, patients often experience side effects and drug resistance. Biopolymers could be used to overcome some of the limitations of chemotherapeutic drugs, as well as be used either as anticancer agents or drug delivery vehicles. Chitosan is a biocompatible polymer derived from chitin. Chitosan, chitosan derivatives, or chitosan nanoparticles have shown their promise as an anticancer agent. Additionally, functionally modified chitosan can be used to deliver nucleic acids, chemotherapeutic drugs, and anticancer agents. More importantly, chitosan-based drug delivery systems improved the efficacy, potency, cytotoxicity, or biocompatibility of these anticancer agents. In this review, we will investigate the properties of chitosan and chemically tuned chitosan derivatives, and their application in cancer therapy.

An efficient and biodegradable adsorbent chitosan 10B was used to eliminate cefixime trihydrate from aqueous solution. The kinetic behavior of cefixime trihydrate adsorption onto chitosan 10B was studied in aqueous medium, from various operational aspects, such as contact time, solution pH, antibiotic concentrations, and temperatures. Cefixime adsorption onto chitosan 10B was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The antibiotic adsorption kinetics obeyed a pseudo-second-order model rather than pseudo-first-order and Elovich kinetic models. The best illustration of antibiotic adsorption equilibrium was made by the Langmuir model, with the highest adsorption ability qm: 37.04 μmol/g at 298 K. The activation energy (Ea) of the present adsorption system was computed to be 44.18 kJ/mol. The values of activation (ΔG‡, ΔH‡ and ΔS‡) and thermodynamic (ΔG, ΔH and ΔS) parameters confirmed that the cefixime trihydrate adsorption onto chitosan 10B in aqueous medium is an exothermic physisorption process. Cefixime desorption from antibiotic-loaded chitosan 10B was performed in 0.1 M NaOH solution and the recycled adsorbent was utilized for a second time without significant loss of its adsorption capacity.

Salinity is one of the most important abiotic stress inhibiting wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) growth and development. Therefore, finding efficient strategies to prevent salt-induced growth retardation and yield loss is critical for modern agriculture to sustain production. The role of exogenous salicylic acid (SA) and thiourea (TU) in regulating salt tolerance was investigated by evaluating morpho-physiological characteristics and antioxidant response in two wheat genotypes at the seedling stage. In both wheat genotypes, salt stress reduced growth characteristics and leaf water status, photosynthetic pigments, while simultaneously increasing the Na+/K+ ratio, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and malondialdehyde (MDA). In contrast, exogenous application of SA and/or TU alone in the salt-stressed plants significantly reduced the negative effects of salt stress and improved the growth performance by up-regulating photosynthetic pigments, leaf water status, and proline content in both genotypes. Besides, when compared to seedlings treated only with salt stress, SA and TU played an important role in maintaining lower Na+/K+ levels and reducing oxidative stress by lowering MDA and H2O2 levels in salt-stressed plants through boosting the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, and peroxidase. In addition, hierarchical clustering and principal component analysis revealed a significant interaction among growth characteristics, chlorophyll content, carotenoid content and antioxidant activity with the salt, SA, and/or TU treatments. The findings suggested that exogenous application of SA or TU could be a useful technique for reducing the negative effects of salinity on wheat growth and development.

The main objective of this project was to overcome the drawbacks of the emulsification techniques during rising a delivery system for a novel and potent anticancer drug, CK-10, projected for enlightening the therapeutic index of the drug. Emulsion/Solvent evaporation and innovative microfluidic techniques were used to frame the nanoparticles. Loading efficiency and in-vitro release were characterized by a modified Lowry assay. Size and zeta potential were analyzed by dynamic light scattering, laser obscuration time, and tuneable pore resistive sensing. Compatibility and shelf life were tested by differential scanning calorimeter and Fourier transform infra-red. The extent of the nanoparticles degradation was measured by color indicator and potentiometric titrations. The result showed that PLGA/B Cyclodextrin nanoparticles had a higher peptide loading efficiency by 53.92% for the novel microfluidic technique as well as higher in-vitro release and better degradation. PLGA/B Cyclodextrin and PLGA/HPMA nanoparticles had a closely related size and zeta potential. It was concluded that the novel microfluidic technique could augment the physicochemical properties of the CK-10 nanoparticles to improve its pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.

The increased level of pesticide residues in vegetables is a potential threat to human health, especially in children. In this study, human health risk assessment associated with the presence of pesticide residues in fresh pointed gourd (Trichosanthes dioica Roxb.) samples purchased from different markets of Dhaka City, Bangladesh, was done. Six selected organophosphorus pesticide residues (dimethoate, fenitrothion, chlorpyrifos, quinalphos, diazinon and malathion) in the samples were determined using modified QuEChERS extraction and gas chromatography coupled with flame thermionic detector. The method was validated by assessing the accuracy, precision, linearity, limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ). The average recoveries of the selected pesticides ranged from 85 to 106% with precision in case of repeatability ≤ 10% and combined uncertainty < 7 % in five fortification levels of 0.01 mg kg−1, 0.05 mg kg−1, 0.1 mg kg−1, 0.2 mg kg−1 and 0.3 mg kg−1. The linearity of the calibration curve was very good and the relative residuals were

The study was conducted to observe the performance of broiler in low level of dietary nutrients but using citric acid (CA) as feed additive. A total of 240 day old straight run broiler chicks (COBB 500) were randomly distributed into eight groups, with three replicate cages having 10 birds in each. Control diet (Group 1) was formulated with corn-soybean based ingredients contained 22.7% CP and 3213 kcal ME/kg. Other dietary Groups 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 were control+0.5% CA, control+4% low protein and energy, control+4% low protein and energy with 0.5% CA, control+8% low protein and energy, control+8% low protein and energy with 0.5% CA, control+12% low protein and energy and 12% low protein and energy with 0.5% CA, respectively. At the age of 31 days 8% lowering the protein and energy could compensate by the addition of citric acid (group 6). There was no significant difference of total feed intake among the groups. As live weight 8% lowering the protein and energy could compensate the feed efficiency when addition of CA. Tibia ash was determined in first four groups that were 44.2, 49.5, 46.8 and 47.1% in group 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. The mortality was 0.0% during the whole experimental period. The cost of production (BDT/kg broiler) was lowest in group 8, that means lowering protein and energy reduces feed cost. It may be concluded that diets containing low protein and energy up to 8% but addition of 0.5% citric acid would compensate the performance of broiler, but 12% reduction of energy and nutrients is cost effective. Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2021. 50 (1):36-42

A series of seventeen analogs (1─17) were synthesized and characterized through different spectroscopic techniques such as 1H, 13CNMR, HR-EI-MS and were evaluated for in vitro thymidine phosphorylase inhibition. All compounds showed excellent to good thymidine phosphorylase activity having IC50 value ranging between 4.10 ± 0.20 and 54.60 ± 1.40 µM when compared with standard drug 7-deazaxanthine (IC50 = 38.68 ± 1.12 µM). Among the series, compounds 1 (IC50 = 8.30 ± 0.30 µM), 6 (IC50 = 6.30 ± 0.10 µM), 11 (IC50 = 8.40 ± 0.30 µM) and 16 (IC50 = 4.10 ± 0.20 µM) were found more potent. Potent compounds were further subjected to molecular docking study to identify their interactions with the active site of amino acid. Structure activity relationship was done for all analogs mostly based on substitution pattern on phenyl and isatin rings.

openaire: EC/H2020/820423/EU//S2QUIP | openaire: EC/H2020/965124/EU//FEMTOCHIP | openaire: EC/H2020/834742/EU//ATOP The heterogeneous integration of low-dimensional materials with photonic waveguides has spurred wide research interest. Here, we report on the experimental investigation and the numerical modeling of enhanced nonlinear pulse broadening in silicon nitride waveguides with the heterogeneous integration of few-layer WS2. After transferring a few-layer WS2 flake of similar to 14.8 mu m length, the pulse spectral broadening in a dispersion-engineered silicon nitride waveguide has been enhanced by similar to 48.8% in bandwidth. Through numerical modeling, an effective nonlinear coefficient higher than 600 m(-1) W-1 has been retrieved for the heterogeneous waveguide indicating an enhancement factor of larger than 300 with respect to the pristine waveguide at a wavelength of 800 nm. With further advances in two-dimensional material fabrication and integration techniques, on-chip heterostructures will offer another degree of freedom for waveguide engineering, enabling high-performance nonlinear optical devices, such asfrequency combs and quantum light sources.

The paracetamol-induced injuries of liver and kidneys in animals are mostly used to screen out the hepato and nephroprotective effect of extract or other therapeutic agents. In the present study total phenolic and flavonoid contents, in vitro antioxidant, and in vivo hepato/nephroprotective (on paracetamol-induced intoxication in experimental rabbits) potentials of the Daphne mucronata leaves methanolic extract were determined. For the identification of possible phytochemicals, HPLC (high performance liquid chromatography) analysis was carried out and a total of eight phenolic compounds; malic acid, gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, epigallocatechin gallate, quercetin, morin, ellagic acid, and rutin were identified. D. mucronata extract at doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg body weight were given for eight days to paracetamol intoxicated rabbits and the observed results were compared with standard Silymarin. The level of liver enzymes like aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, serum triglyceride, serum cholesterol, serum bilirubin, and kidneys biomarkers like serum urea, uric acid, and creatinine, as well as lipid peroxidation malondialdehyde contents were increased while the antioxidant enzymes like reduced glutathione and total antioxidant capacity were decreased. Furthermore, histopathological analysis of the liver and kidney tissues of control and treated groups also confirmed the hepatoprotective and nephroprotective effect of the D. mucronata which was most probably due to its high antioxidant phenolic and flavonoid phytoconstituents.

Sn-doped BaTi4O9 (BT4) dielectric ceramics were prepared by a mixed oxide route. Preliminary X-ray diffraction (XRD) structural study shows that the ceramic samples have orthorhombic symmetry with space group (Pnmm). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) shows that the grain size of the samples decreases with an increase in Sn4+ content. The presence of the metal oxide efficient group was revealed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The photoluminescence spectra of the ceramic samples reported red color ~ 603, 604, 606.5 and 605 nm with excitation energy ~ 2.06, 2.05, 2.04 and 2.05 eV for Sn4+ content with x = 0.0, 0.3, 0.5, and 0.7, respectively. The microwave dielectric properties of these ceramic samples were investigated by an impedance analyzer. The excellent microwave dielectric properties i.e. high dielectric constant (εr = 57.29), high-quality factor (Qf = 11,852), or low-dielectric loss (3.007) has been observed.

The development of superior heterogeneous catalyst for hydrogen (H2) evolution is a significant feature and challenging for determining the energy and environmental crises. However, the dumping of numerous lethal colorants (dye) as of textile manufacturing has fascinated widespread devotion-aimed water pollution anticipation and treatment. In this regard, a photocatalytic H2 evolution by visible light using low-dimensional semiconducting materials having pollutant degradable capacity for Rhodamine B dyes (RhB) has been anticipated as a route towards environmental aspect. Here we fabricated the incorporation of organic electron-rich heterocyclic monomer 2,6-dimethylmorpholine (MP), inside electron-poor graphitic carbon nitride (g-CN) semiconductor by solid-state co-polymerization. The supremacy of copolymerization process was successfully examined via absorbent, calculated band gap, and migration of electrons on the photocatalytic performance of as-constructed CN-MP copolymer. The density functional theory (DFT) calculation provides extra support as evident for the successful integration of MP into the g-CN framework by this means-reduced band gap upon co-polymerization. The hydrogen evolution rate (HER) for g-CN was found as 115.2 μmol/h, whereas for CN-PM0.1 was estimated at 641.2 μmol/h (six times higher). In particular, the pseudo-order kinetic constant of CN-MP0.1 for photodegradation of RhB was two times higher than that of g-CN. Results show an important step toward tailor-designed and explain the vital role of the D-A system for the rational motifs of productive photocatalysts with effective pollutant degradable capability for future demand.

In this work, we systematically investigate the effects of growth parameters on the structural and surface morphological properties of β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3 thin films grown on (010) β-Ga2O3 substrates via metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). By varying [TMAl]/[TEGa + TMAl] molar flow rate ratio, growth temperature and chamber pressure, (i) the structural and physical properties of β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3 films including Al incorporations, growth rates, strain properties, rocking curve full width at half maximum, and (ii) the surface morphological properties are investigated. Higher [TMAl]/[TEGa + TMAl] molar flow ratio leads to higher Al incorporation in β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3 films. Higher growth temperature promotes lower growth rates with substantial surface roughening, although the Al incorporation remains similar for a given [TMAl]/[TEGa + TMAl] molar flow ratio. In addition, increasing chamber pressure leads to lower growth rates and lower Al incorporation in the AlGaO films. This study reveals that the MOCVD growth window for (010) β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3 films becomes narrower as the Al composition increases.

Since injection administration for diabetes is invasive, it is important to develop an effective transdermal method for insulin. However, transdermal delivery remains challenging owing to the strong barrier function of the stratum corneum (SC) of the skin. Here, we developed ionic liquid (IL)-in-oil microemulsion formulations (MEFs) for transdermal insulin delivery using choline-fatty acids ([Chl][FAs])-comprising three different FAs (C18:0, C18:1, and C18:2)-as biocompatible surface-active ILs (SAILs). The MEFs were successfully developed using [Chl][FAs] as surfactants, sorbitan monolaurate (Span-20) as a cosurfactant, choline propionate IL as an internal polar phase, and isopropyl myristate as a continuous oil phase. Ternary phase behavior, dynamic light scattering, and transmission electron microscopy studies revealed that MEFs were thermodynamically stable with nanoparticle size. The MEFs significantly enhanced the transdermal permeation of insulin via the intercellular route by compromising the tight lamellar structure of SC lipids through a fluidity-enhancing mechanism. In vivo transdermal administration of low insulin doses (50 IU/kg) to diabetic mice showed that MEFs reduced blood glucose levels (BGLs) significantly compared with a commercial surfactant-based formulation by increasing the bioavailability of insulin in the systemic circulation and sustained the insulin level for a much longer period (half-life > 24 h) than subcutaneous injection (half-life 1.32 h). When [Chl][C18:2] SAIL-based MEF was transdermally administered, it reduced the BGL by 56% of its initial value. The MEFs were biocompatible and nontoxic (cell viability > 90%). They remained stable at room temperature for 3 months and their biological activity was retained for 4 months at 4 °C. We believe SAIL-based MEFs will alter current approaches to insulin therapy and may be a potential transdermal nanocarrier for protein and peptide delivery.

Polypyrrole nanotube/ferrocene-modified graphene oxide composites (PNT/GO-Fc, PNT/GO-Fc-GO, PNT/GO-EDA-Fc and PNT/GO-EDA-Fc-EDA-GO) were fabricated via in situ chemical oxidative polymerization. The prepared composites were characterized by FTIR, XRD, XPS, Raman, TGA, SEM, TEM and EDS. The electromagnetic interference shielding performance of the prepared composites was evaluated by a coaxial method within the frequency range of 1.0–4.5 GHz. The results demonstrated that the composite of PNT/GO-EDA-Fc-EDA-GO-7:1 exhibited the best electromagnetic interference shielding property with 28.73 dB (at the frequency of 1.0175 GHz with the thickness of 3.0 mm) of total shielding effectiveness by adding 50 wt% of the composite in the paraffin matrix. And the composite of PNT/GO-EDA-Fc-EDA-GO-7:1 exhibited good conductivity with a value of 1.320 S/cm. The relationship between the conductivities of prepared samples and the EMI shielding performance was investigated.

We report a novel glycan array architecture that binds the mannose-specific glycan binding protein, concanavalin A (ConA), with sub-femtomolar avidity. A new radical photopolymerization developed specifically for this application combines the grafted-from thiol-(meth)acrylate polymerization with thiol-ene chemistry to graft glycans to the growing polymer brushes. The propagation of the brushes was studied by carrying out this grafted-to/grafted-from radical photopolymerization (GTGFRP) at >400 different conditions using hypersurface photolithography, a printing strategy that substantially accelerates reaction discovery and optimization on surfaces. The effect of brush height and the grafting density of mannosides on the binding of ConA to the brushes was studied systematically, and we found that multivalent and cooperative binding account for the unprecedented sensitivity of the GTGFRP brushes. This study further demonstrates the ease with which new chemistry can be tailored for an application as a result of the advantages of hypersurface photolithography.