Search

Described here is an efficient encoding procedure for Algorithmic Wiswesser Notation (ALWIN), using the Morgan labelling algorithm and the neighborhood relationship in a chemical graph. This procedure introduces a hierarchy to bring an order for the unique description of the chemical structure with a minimal computational effect. (Author)

This research aims to examine HAMC’s tribology’s performance-[Hybrid Aluminium metal matrix composites] reinforced with Silicon carbide, Nickel & Graphite at different temperature conditions for thermal applications. This is highly significant for applications with high-temperature. The HAMCs were developed by stir casting method by reinforcing particles like SiC (5% & 10%) and Ni.-Gr. (2% fixed) into LM26 aluminium alloy. The wear rate and friction coefficient of the material is analyzed through pin-on-disc apparatus. The parameter impact on applied load, wt%, sliding distance, and the temperature is analyzed using an L9 orthogonal array. COF and wear loss of the proposed HAMC is determined using the ANOVA method. The Tribological property of HAMC is mainly influenced by applied load and temperature. The varying hybrid % controls the COF and wear loss. The SEM analysis is used to assist the performance of the worn surface.

Biopolymer electrolytes based on iota-carrageenan (I-carrageenan) with sodium trifluoromethanesulfonate (NaTf) were prepared by way of the conventional solution-casting technique. The biopolymer I-carrageenan was fixed as 1 g, and the concentration of NaTf was varied from 0.1 to 0.5 wt% in steps of 0.1 wt%. Distilled water was used as a solvent. Alternating current (AC) impedance measurements were carried out in the frequency window of 42 Hz–1 MHz. The same measurements were also carried out at different temperatures for all the prepared biopolymer samples. A maximum ionic conductivity of 2.6771 × 10−5 S/cm was obtained for the 0.3 wt% NaTf-added I-carrageenan system at room temperature. The temperature-dependent conductivity plot of the polymer electrolyte seemed to obey the Arrhenius relation. A low activation energy of 0.021 eV was observed for the sample with the highest ionic conductivity. From AC impedance data, dielectric parameters were obtained. The magnitude of the dielectric constant was found to increase with the increase in temperature. A low relaxation time was observed for the sample that possesses the maximum ionic conductivity.

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) activity has significant implications for the development of novel therapeutic modalities against neurodegenerative diseases. Although PPAR-α, PPAR-β/δ, and PPAR-γ nuclear receptor expressions are significantly reported in the brain, their implications in brain physiology and other neurodegenerative diseases still require extensive studies. PPAR signaling can modulate various cell signaling mechanisms involved in the cells contributing to on- and off-target actions selectively to promote therapeutic effects as well as the adverse effects of PPAR ligands. Both natural and synthetic ligands for the PPARα, PPARγ, and PPARβ/δ have been reported. PPARα (WY 14.643) and PPARγ agonists can confer neuroprotection by modulating mitochondrial dynamics through the redox system. The pharmacological effect of these agonists may deliver effective clinical responses by protecting vulnerable neurons from Aβ toxicity in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients. Therefore, the current review delineated the ligands’ interaction with 3D-PPARs to modulate neuroprotection, and also deciphered the efficacy of numerous drugs, viz. Aβ aggregation inhibitors, vaccines, and γ -secretase inhibitors against AD; this review elucidated the role of PPAR and their receptor isoforms in neural systems, and neurodegeneration in human beings. Further, we have substantially discussed the efficacy of PPREs as potent transcription factors in the brain, and the role of PPAR agonists in neurotransmission, PPAR gamma coactivator-1α (PGC-1α) and mitochondrial dynamics in neuroprotection during AD conditions. This review concludes with the statement that the development of novel PPARs agonists may benefit patients with neurodegeneration, mainly AD patients, which may help mitigate the pathophysiology of dementia, subsequently improving overall the patient’s quality of life.

1,5-Disubstituted indole-2-carboxaldehyde derivatives 1a–h and glycine alkyl esters 2a–c are shown to undergo a novel cascade imination-heterocylization in the presence of the organic base DIPEA to provide 1-indolyl-3,5,8-substituted γ-carbolines 3aa–ea in good yields. The γ-carbolines are fluorescent and exhibit anticancer activities against cervical, lung, breast, skin, and kidney cancer cells.

So far many attempts have been made to synthesize phase-pure Ti3AlC2 MAX-phase. But still the challenge posed by the presence of TiC and Ti-Al based intermetallic transient impurity phases in the final product is a persisting problem. Spark plasma sintering (SPS) technique has been the most successful method to decrease the impurity content of the final product. Even so, synthesis of phase-pure Ti3AlC2 MAX-phase, without any TiC and Ti-Al based intermetallic impurities, has not been achieved and reported in literature with substantial evidences. Further, high purity Ti3AlC2 MAX-phase synthesized using SPS technique has shown lack of phase and microstructural stability above 1350°C temperature. In this work, we have reported an optimized method for producing phase-pure Ti3AlC2 MAX-phase (having more than 99 % purity) using commercial grade Ti, Al and C elemental powders through SPS technique. The final product also showed very good high temperature stability up to 1500°C under flowing Argon inert atmosphere.

The development of photocatalytic systems composed of earth-abundant metal-based catalysts for efficient production of clean fuel, H2 as well as value-added chemicals is of significant importance towards sustainable generation of energy resources. Consequently, herein we report rational construction of Z-scheme CoTiO3/xZn0.5Cd0.5S (x = 5 (S1), 10 (S2), 15 (S3) and 20 wt% (S4)) heterostructures featuring suitable band structure for efficient photocatalytic reduction of protons of water to H2 combined with selective oxidation of furfuryl alcohol (biomass derivative) to a value-added product, furfuraldehyde. Electron microscopy analysis of heterostructure S2 revealed that Zn0.5Cd0.5S nanoparticles are decorated over the surface of CoTiO3 microrods. The photocatalytic studies showed higher catalytic performance by S2, for selective oxidation of furfuryl alcohol to furfuraldehyde with 95% yield coupled with a H2 generation rate of 1929 μmol g−1h−1 which is about 4-fold higher than that of pristine Zn0.5Cd0.5S. The enhanced catalytic performance of heterostructure S2 has been ascribed to synergistic interaction aided by the Z-scheme heterojunction formation between CoTiO3 and Zn0.5Cd0.5S. Overall, this work demonstrates the application of noble metal-free photocatalyst for simultaneous production of H2 and value-added chemical under mild and environment-friendly conditions.

RATIONALE: There is currently no data supporting specific dosing and weaning strategies for parental prostanoid therapy in children with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).OBJECTIVES: To describe the clinical practice of intravenous (IV) or subcutaneous (SC) prostanoid therapy in pediatric PAH and identify dosing strategies associated with favorable outcome.METHODS: From an international multicenter cohort of 275 children with PAH, 98 patients that received IV/SC prostanoid therapy were retrospectively analyzed.RESULTS: IV/SC prostanoids were given as monotherapy (20%), or combined with other PAH-targeted drugs as dual (46%) or triple therapy (34%). The median time-averaged dose was 37 ng/kg/min, ranging 2-136 ng/kg/min. During follow up, IV/SC prostanoids were discontinued and transitioned to oral or inhaled PAH-targeted therapies in 29 patients. Time-dependent ROC analyses showed specific hemodynamic criteria at discontinuation of IV/SC prostanoids (mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP)25 ng/kg/min), early start after diagnosis and combination with other PAH-targeted drugs were associated with better transplant-free survival.CONCLUSIONS: Early initiation of IV/SC prostanoids, higher doses of IV/SC prostanoids and combination with additional PAH-targeted therapy were associated with favorable outcome. Transition from IV/SC prostanoid therapy to oral or inhaled therapies is safe on the long-term in selected children, identified by reaching hemodynamic criteria for durable IV/SC prostanoid discontinuation while on IV/SC prostanoid therapy.

In the present work the drying characteristics and proximate analysis of turkey berry (Solanum torvum) were analyzed under open sun drying and greenhouse drying with two different glazing materials (UV Polyethylene sheet and Drip lock sheet) under passive and active modes. The drying rate under different modes of drying are 18.73g/h in drip lock greenhouse active mode,12.50 g/h in UV polyethylene sheet greenhouse active mode,15.22 g/hin drip lock sheet greenhouse passive mode, 11.84 g/h in UV polyethylene sheet greenhouse passive mode and 10.65 g/h in open sun drying. Twelve mathematical models were chosen to determine the drying characteristics of Turkey berry. From the statistical analysis it is found that Modified Henderson and Pabis model is the best drying model describing thin layer drying characteristics of turkey berry in both open sun drying and green house drying. The goodness of the fit achieved is based on the values of coefficient of determination(R2), sum square error(SSE), root mean square error(RMSE) and reduced chi square (χ2).From the proximate analysis of dried turkey berry it is found that more amount of carbohydrate is retained in UV polyethylene greenhouse dryer under passive mode. In drip lock greenhouse dryer under passive mode the retention of vitamins such as protein, vitamin C and ash content showed a positive sign. In drip lock greenhouse dryer under active mode the retention of calcium, iron and dietary fibre is found to be high. Finally it is observed that more amounts of nutrients are retained in greenhouse drying than in open sun drying.

Pandanus, a traditional medicinal plant is used for the ailment of several diseases in India. The extract prepared from leaves was tested for its secondary metabolites and also to phenolics, alkaloids, saponins and flavonoids. Subsequently, the antioxidant activity was observed using DPPH, reducing power, FRAP, metal chelating activity and total antioxidant assays. It is evident that more secondary metabolites were present in ethyl acetate and methanol solvents enriched in free radicals scavenging ability compared with other solvents. Further, the extracts were tested and observed for potential presence of anti-diabetic activity with strong inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase which suggests that the absorption and digestion of carbohydrates would possibly reduce the blood glucose levels and hence help management of type-2 diabetes. Though the ethyl acetate and methanol extract exhibited cytotoxicity and apoptosis activity on human HT-29 colon cancer cell line via MTT, AO/EtBr and DAPI staining assays that inhibits cancer cell line which in turn prevents cancer.

This study proposed the methodology to produce silicon carbide particulate MMCs based on aluminum to create typical low-cost MMCs and achieve a homogeneous scattering of ceramic material. The trial was done with a different weight fraction of Silicon Carbide (2%, 3%) and Tungsten Carbide (2%, 3%) with all other parameters being maintained. A growing hardness was noticed with the rise in SiC & WC weight 2 to 3%. The advantages of this technique include improved mechanical characteristics, minimal residual stress and deformation, and fewer flaws. Although casting technique poses numerous technical obstacles, this problem can nevertheless be addressed. Aluminum materials with high strength to weight and low density have been proven to be the best option. As lightweight materials are developed, weight reduction has been offered several alternatives through conducting different tests to analyze different features such as mechanical and metallurgical characteristics.

Carbon dioxide is a major cause for global warming and believed as potential basis for climate change. The recent advances in catalysis and chemistry have made promising developments to make use of CO2 as feed stock for many intermediate chemicals. This article discusses various strategies and methods available for such applications. The use of ‘captured CO2′ as a petrochemical feedstock for the production of several value added-chemicals in the petrochemical industry provides an option to address several million tons of CO2 emissions per year consequences while increasing independence from fossil fuels. Here we include a summary on CO2 reduction using major catalysis such as photo-catalytic, electro-catalytic, and heterogeneous catalysts to transform CO2 into useful bulk products. This review also briefly explains the current practices, demand and supply gap on selected products, and market value of CO2. Also, this gives an overview of demo units across the world on processes utilizing CO2 as feedstock. With adequate progress in political and institutional infrastructure, technological & scientific advancements may help in regulating and stabilizing atmospheric CO2 levels. Using this approach, transforming CO2 into chemicals and energy products is a promising way not only to minimize CO2 emissions but also to create more economic value.

This present study aims to investigate the anti-Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and gastric cancer properties of Acacia nilotica (A. nilotica) aqueous leaf extract. The phytochemicals of this extract were identified by Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC–MS) analysis. The antagonistic activity of H. pylori was investigated using well diffusion assay. Cytotoxicity of crude extract studied against human gastric adenocarcinoma (AGS) cells using 3-(4, 5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide (MTT) assay. Further anti-gastric cancer properties of bioactive compounds were also validated using computational studies. The drug-likeness potential of phytochemicals was analyse based on absorption, digestion, metabolism, excretion (ADME) properties. GC–MS reveals the presence of different major phytochemicals like eicosanoic acid, oleic acid, 1-hexyl-2-nitrocyclo hexane, 9-octadecenal in the crude extract. MTT assay reveals that the maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of crude extract is (99.86 mg/ml). All the compounds showed good drug-likeness score; further, these compounds were selected for molecular docking studies with targeted H. pylori virulent proteins like cytotoxic associated gene A (CagA), vacuolating associated gene (VacA), urease and gastric cancer-induced signalling proteins such as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR). The validation of in vitro and in silico results proved that A. nilotica leaf extract acts as a massive anti-H. pylori and gastric cancer drug.

A new hydrazone, ethyl Z-2-(pyridine-2yl-methylene)hydrazinecarboxylate (C9H11N3O2; Hpyec) and its metal complexes bis(ethyl Z-2-(pyridine-2yl-methylene)hydrazinecarboxylate)nickel(II) monohydrate, [Ni(pyec)2]·H2O (1) and bis(acetato)(ethyl Z-2-(pyridine-2yl-methylene)hydrazinecarboxylate)cadmium(II), [Cd(Hpyec)(CH3COO)2] (2), have been prepared by mechanochemical syntheses and characterized by elemental analysis, UV–vis, IR and NMR spectroscopies, TG-DTA, and solid state emission techniques. The X-ray single crystal structures of both complexes were determined. In 1, the Ni2+ ion is coordinated by two N,N,O-tridentate anionic ligands to generate a distorted cis-NiO2N4 octahedron. In 2, the cadmium ion is seven-coordinate by one neutral N,N,O-tridentate ligand and two chelating acetate ions to generate a very-distorted CdN2O5 pentagonal bipyramid with the Hpyec atoms occupying both axial and one equatorial site. Crystal data: 1, C18H22N6NiO5, M r = 461.12, monoclinic, P21/c, a = 10.8759(3) Å, b = 11.7055(4) Å, c = 16.8424(5) Å, β = 108.583(1)°, V = 2032.38(11) Å3, Z = 4, R(F) = 0.023, wR(F 2) = 0.065; 2, C13H17CdN3O6, M r = 423.69, monoclinic, Cc, a = 13.0215(10) Å, b = 15.8104(11) Å, c = 7.99(6) Å, β = 96.692(2)°, V = 1621.7(2) Å3, Z = 4, R(F) = 0.017, wR(F 2) = 0.038.

Background: To evaluate the chemopreventive potential of boldine against diethylnitrosamine (DEN) induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in wistar albino rats. Objective: Boldine is an alkaloid isolated from Peumus boldus. The primary active constituents of boldine exhibited several potential medicinal properties. The present study was evaluated to explore the chemopreventive agent of boldine on anti-proliferative efficacy against diethylnitrosamine (DEN) induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in wistar albino rats. Methods: The effect of boldine on cellular proliferative markers, i.e., PCNA and Ki67on hepatocellular carcinoma rats was determined by immuno expression study. Liver marker enzymes, tumor biomarker, oxidative stress markers, antioxidant status, and xenobiotic phase I and II enzymes in HCC rats were analyzed. Moreover, cell cycle proteins, i.e., p21Cip1/Kip1, p27 Cip1/Kip1, Cyclin D1, CDK 4, Cyclin E1, and CDK 2 were investigated using immuno expression analysis. Results: Treatment of boldine protected the liver against reactive oxygen species such as hydrogen peroxide, superoxide, protein carbonyl, and lipid peroxide during hepatocarcinogenesis by boosted antioxidants-superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT). Boldine caused a substantial enhanced detoxification process by moderating phase I and II xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes. Besides, the study found that boldine significantly inhibited the cellular proliferative markers like PCNA and Ki67 and regulated the specific cell cycle-associated proteins by up-regulated expression of p21Cip1/Kip1and p27 Cip1/Kip1 and down-regulated expression of Cyclin D1, CDK 4, Cyclin E1, and CDK 2. Conclusion: Our data manifests the anti-proliferative effect of boldine, which negatively modulates cellular proliferation and regulates cell cycle by protecting the cell from reactive oxygen species (ROS), suggesting that boldine establish it as a chemopreventive agent in diethylnitrosamine-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in rats.

Aim To evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of calcium hydroxide (CH) with antibiotic combinations: daptomycin and gentamicin against Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) dentinal biofilm. Materials and methods Sixty freshly extracted single-rooted mandibular premolars were inoculated with E. faecalis(ATCC 29212) (n = 30) (group A) and clinical isolates (n = 30) (group B) for 3 weeks to form a biofilm. The tooth samples of groups A and B were randomly divided into three subgroups of 10 each, groups 1A and 1B (CH), groups 2A and 2B (CH+G), groups 3A and 3B (CH+D), depending on the medicaments to be placed for one week. The difference between initial and final CFU was calculated and statistically analyzed. Results Among the clinical isolates, CH-antibiotic combinations were more effective than CH alone, which was statistically significant (p = 0.006). Conclusion The dentinal biofilm of clinical isolates of E. faecalis strains exhibited more reduction in bacterial colonies with CH in combination with antibiotics (D and G). Clinical significance Daptomycin and gentamicin when used as an intra-canal medicament in combination with CH are effective in eliminating E. faecalis. Keywords: Calcium hydroxide, Daptomycin, Dentinal biofilm, E. faecalis, Gentamicin.

Morphological modification in materials aids multi-channel electron access sites for easier electrolyte ion access for many electrochemical devices including energy storage devices. Controlled synthesis of such multichannel morphologies of metal oxides offers significant challenges. Herein, we report a template-assisted electrodeposition technique for the synthesis of Cu nanowires, which are transformed into either CuO nanotubes by controlled annealing or CuO hierarchical nanospikes using a simple hydroxyl ion impregnation technique and subsequent annealing. These materials are tested as electrodes in charge storage systems in 6 M KOH electrolyte in a three-electrode system; both electrodes have shown battery-type charge storage behaviour. Despite the chemical similarity between the two materials, the CuO nanospikes electrodes showed improved charge transport between electrode-electrolyte interface compared to the CuO nanotubes. With the cost-effectiveness, easy availability, and multi-channel morphology of CuO nanospikes along with the promising performance of the electrode in a three-electrode system, the present research offers future potential in developing low cost and high performing energy storage devices.

A stable truncated 2’ fluoro-RNA aptamer contributes to the upstream interruption of the blood coagulation pathway by selectively binding with factor IX protein (FIX). This work followed a rational method for virtually analyzing structural orientation and binding interactions between aptamer and FIX. Three possible aptamer models from the same sequence were designed and evaluated for optimum binding with FIX. Molecular docking was performed to find a prime docking domain and the best docking conformation for a stable aptamer-FIX complex. Possible interactions are observed at PRO126-U9, LYS125-U9, LYS122-A7, ARG116-U9, GLY102-G22, THR101-G22, GLN74-G6, GLY60-G5, CGU36-U11, CGU40-A12, and ASP49-A10. A molecular dynamic simulation assessed the strength of the interaction between aptamer and FIX. It was revealed that the aptamer was effectively bound with the average amino acid fluctuation of 1 A. The complex reached equilibrium within ten ns during the initial phase of the simulation and then remained stable over 100 ns. B factor analysis showed a moderate atomic displacement from the crystal structure, except at N-terminal from atom 2247-5938. Principal component analysis of post-dynamic trajectories further revealed the stability by the arrayed orientation of amino acids dihedral angles. Overall, 2’ fluoro-RNA aptamer exhibits stronger stability in their interaction with FIX. Noteworthy, the aptamer's stability as an inhibitor to deactivate the clotting cascade by specifically binding with epidermal growth factor-like (EGF) 1 and 2 domains was evidenced.

An effective heterojunction with robust charge separation and enormous degradation efficiency is the major task for photocatalyst preparation. In this study, we have prepared the FeCo2O4-loaded g-C3N4 nanosheet by the sol–gel-assisted calcination method for photo-Fenton-like degradation under visible-light irradiation by activating persulfate. The nanocomposite exhibits a higher charge separation efficiency than pure g-C3N4 and FeCo2O4 for the degradation reaction against naproxen drugs. An effective interaction between the nanoparticles increases the degradation efficiency up to 91% with a synergistic index of 73.62%. Moreover, the nanocomposite exhibits a 78% mineralization efficiency against the naproxen pollutant under visible-light irradiation. For practical implementation, the degradation reaction was tested with various pH values, different water sources (DI, lake, and tap water), and light sources (LED (visible)/direct sunlight (UV–visible)). Moreover, the possible degradation mechanism predicted by the elemental trapping experiment and the recycling experiment clearly revealed that the heterojunction composite has a high enough degradation stability.

In the present study, we have evaluated the blast-induced auditory neurodegeneration in chinchilla by correlating the histomorphometric changes with diffusion tensor imaging. The chinchillas were exposed to single unilateral blast-overpressure (BOP) at ∼172dB peak sound pressure level (SPL) and the pathological changes were compared at 1 week and 1 month after BOP. The functional integrity of the auditory system was assessed by auditory brainstem response (ABR) and distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAE). The axonal integrity was assessed using diffusion tensor imaging at regions of interests (ROIs) of the central auditory neuraxis (CAN) including the cochlear nucleus (CN), inferior colliculus (IC), and auditory cortex (AC). Post-BOP, cyto-architecture metrics such as viable cells, degenerating neurons, and apoptotic cells were quantified at the CAN ROIs using light microscopic studies using cresyl fast violet, hematoxylin and eosin, and modified Crossmon's trichrome stains. We observed mean ABR threshold shifts of 30- and 10-dB SPL at 1 week and 1 month after BOP, respectively. A similar pattern was observed in DPAOE amplitudes shift. In the CAN ROIs, diffusion tensor imaging studies showed a decreased axial diffusivity in CN 1 month after BOP and a decreased mean diffusivity and radial diffusivity at 1 week after BOP. However, morphometric measures such as decreased viable cells and increased degenerating neurons and apoptotic cells were observed at CN, IC, and AC. Specifically, increased degenerating neurons and reduced viable cells were high on the ipsilateral side when compared with the contralateral side. These results indicate that a single blast significantly damages structural and functional integrity at all levels of CAN ROIs.

Two pairs of enantiomeric diarylheptanoid-phenylpropanoid adducts bearing a cyclohexenone core, (±)-saccardianones A and B (1 and 2), an alkaloidal diarylheptanoid-phenylpropanoid adduct bearing a 4-piperidone core, (±)-saccardianine A (3), a pair of enantiomeric dimeric diarylheptanoid alkaloids bearing a tetrahydropyridine core, (±)-saccardianine B (4), and a suspected degradation product, saccardianine C (5), in addition to a known diarylheptanoid, platyphyllenone (6), were isolated from the leaves of Pellacalyx saccardianus. Their chemical structures were elucidated based on detailed analyses of the NMR and MS data. The structure of (±)-(1) was also confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis. Compounds (±)-2 and 6 exhibited selective cytotoxicity towards the AsPC-1 and PANC-1 pancreatic cancer cell lines, respectively.

Over exploitation of non-renewable energy reserves will lead to increase in price of petroleum fuels. Therefore there is a need for suitable and sustainable substitutes (renewable resource) for conventional fuels. In this study, an efficient and environmental friendly method for production of bio-diesel from Pongamia (Karanja) oil has been developed using a solar reactor. During the experimental study, the maximum temperature attained by the pongamia oil during the transesterification process was 64.1°C. The transesterification reaction was studied by varying different parameters such as reactant flow rate (5-20 LPH), stirring speed (150-450 r·min-1), catalyst loading (0.5 wt% -2 wt%) and methanol to oil ratio (3:1 to 15:1). The maximum biodiesel yield was 83.11% at a flow rate of 5 LPH, stirring speed of 350 rpm, a methanol to oil ratio of 15:1, catalyst loading of 1wt % and reaction time of 270 min. The physical and chemical properties of biodiesel was analyzed as per American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) standards and it had density of 938 kg·m-3, viscosity (28.7 cSt), acid value (9.45 mg KOH·(g oil)-1) and flash point (215°C). The energy efficiency of solar heating process was determined by comparing the net energy ratio of direct heating process and solar heating process. For solar heating the net energy ratio (NER) was found to be 31.85 against 5.73 for direct heating. Similarly, net energy efficiency index was calculated for 10 kg production scale and was found to be increasing when scaled up which means that the solar heating process is more effective even in scaled up production.

Applications of biomaterials in cancer therapy has been limited to drug delivery systems and markers in radiation therapy. In this article, we introduce the concept of phase-functionalization of silicon to preferentially select cancer cell populations for survival in a catalyst and additive free approach. Silicon is phase-functionalized by the interaction of ultrafast laser pulses, resulting in the formation of rare phases of SiO2 in conjunction with differing silicon crystal lattices. The degree of phase-functionalization is programmed to dictate the degree of repulsion of cancer cells. Unstable phases of silicon oxides are synthesized during phase-functionalization and remain stable at ambient conditions. This change in phase of silicon as well as formation of oxides contributes to changes in surface chemistry as well as surface energy. These material properties elicit in precise control of migration, cytoskeleton shape, direction and population. To the best of our knowledge, phase-functionalized silicon without any changes in topology or additive layers and its applications in cancer therapy has not been reported before. This unique programmable phase-functionalized silicon has the potential to change current trends in cancer research and generate focus on biomaterials as cancer repelling or potentially cancer killing surfaces.

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)-based cancer diagnostics is an important analytical tool in early detection of cancer. Current work in SERS focuses on plasmonic nanomaterials that suffer from coagulation, selectivity, and adverse biocompatibility when used in vitro, limiting this research to stand-alone biomolecule sensing. Here we introduce a label-free, biocompatible, ZnO-based, 3D semiconductor quantum probe as a pathway for in vitro diagnosis of cancer. By reducing size of the probes to quantum scale, we observed a unique phenomenon of exponential increase in the SERS enhancement up to ~106 at nanomolar concentration. The quantum probes are decorated on a nano-dendrite platform functionalized for cell adhesion, proliferation, and label-free application. The quantum probes demonstrate discrimination of cancerous and non-cancerous cells along with biomolecular sensing of DNA, RNA, proteins and lipids in vitro. The limit of detection is up to a single-cell-level detection., Surface enhanced Raman scattering is a bio-analytical tool and the development and optimisation of probes is an active area of investigation. Here, the authors report on the development and testing of biocompatible semiconductor zinc oxide quantum probes on a platform for cell adhesion and analysis.

We present the creation of a unique nanostructured amorphous/crystalline hybrid silicon material that exhibits surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) activity. This nanomaterial is an interconnected network of amorphous/crystalline nanospheroids which form a nanoweb structure; to our knowledge this material has not been previously observed nor has it been applied for use as a SERS sensing material. This material is formed using a femtosecond synthesis technique which facilitates a laser plume ion condensation formation mechanism. By fine-tuning the laser plume temperature and ion interaction mechanisms within the plume, we are able to precisely program the relative proportion of crystalline Si to amorphous Si content in the nanospheroids as well as the size distribution of individual nanospheroids and the size of Raman hotspot nanogaps. With the use of Rhodamine 6G (R6G) and Crystal Violet (CV) chemical dyes, we have been able to observe a maximum enhancement factor of 5.38 × 106 and 3.72 × 106 respectively, for the hybrid nanomaterial compared to a bulk Si wafer substrate. With the creation of a silicon-based nanomaterial capable of SERS detection of analytes, this work demonstrates a redefinition of the role of nanostructured Si from an inactive to SERS active role in nano-Raman sensing applications.

Developing platforms that allow tuning cell functionality through incorporating physical, chemical, or mechanical cues onto the material surfaces is one of the key challenges in research in the field of biomaterials. In this respect, various approaches have been proposed and numerous structures have been developed on a variety of materials. Most of these approaches, however, demand a multistep process or post-chemical treatment. Therefore, a simple approach would be desirable to develop bio-functionalized platforms for effectively modulating cell adhesion and consequently programming cell functionality without requiring any chemical or biological surface treatment. This study introduces a versatile yet simple laser approach to structure silicon (Si) chips into cytophobic/cytophilic patterns in order to modulate cell adhesion and proliferation. These patterns are fabricated on platforms through direct laser processing of Si substrates, which renders a desired computer-generated configuration into patterns. We investigate the morphology, chemistry, and wettability of the platform surfaces. Subsequently, we study the functionality of the fabricated platforms on modulating cervical cancer cells (HeLa) behaviour. The results from in vitro studies suggest that the nanostructures efficiently repel HeLa cells and drive them to migrate onto untreated sites. The study of the morphology of the cells reveals that cells evade the cytophobic area by bending and changing directions. Additionally, cell patterning, cell directionality, cell channelling, and cell trapping are achieved by developing different platforms with specific patterns. The flexibility and controllability of this approach to effectively structure Si substrates to cell-repulsive and cell adhesive patterns offer perceptible outlook for developing bio-functionalized platforms for a variety biomedical devices. Moreover, this approach could pave the way for developing anti-cancer platforms that are repellent to cancer cells but favourable for other types of cells.

In this study we report for the first time a method for direct patterning of silicon oxide on a silicon substrate by irradiation with a femtosecond laser of Mega Hertz pulse frequency under ambient condition. Embossed lines of silicon oxide with around 3~4 µm width and less than 100 nm height were formed by controlling the parameters such as laser pulse power and frequency rate. A Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), an optical microscopy and a Micro-Raman and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy were used to analyze the silicon oxide layer.

The current state-of-the-art in nanotip synthesis relies on techniques that utilize elaborate precursor chemicals, catalysts, or vacuum conditions, and any combination thereof. To realize their ultimate potential, synthesized nanotips require simpler fabrication techniques that allow for control over their final nano-morphology. We present a unique, dry, catalyst-free, and ambient condition method for creating densely clustered, flower-like, sodium oxide (Na2O) nanotips with controllable tip widths. Femtosecond laser ablation of a soda-lime glass substrate at a megahertz repetition rate, with nitrogen flow, was employed to generate nanotips with base and head widths as small as 100 and 20 nm respectively, and lengths as long as 10 μm. Control of the nanotip widths was demonstrated via laser dwell time with longer dwell times producing denser clusters of thinner nanotips. Energy dispersive X-ray analysis reveals that nanotip composition is Na2O. A new formation mechanism is proposed, involving an electrostatic effect between ionized nitrogen and polar Na2O. The synthesized nanotips may potentially be used in antibacterial and hydrogen storage applications. PACS: 81 Materials science; 81.07.-b nanoscale materials and structures: fabrication and characterization; 81.16.-c methods of micro- and nanofabrication and processing

Background Natural biomaterials from bone-like minerals derived from avian eggshells have been considered as promising bone substitutes owing to their biodegradability, abundance, and lower price in comparison with synthetic biomaterials. However, cell adhesion to bulk biomaterials is poor and surface modifications are required to improve biomaterial-cell interaction. Three-dimensional (3D) nanostructures are preferred to act as growth support platforms for bone and stem cells. Although there have been several studies on generating nanoparticles from eggshells, no research has been reported on synthesizing 3D nanofibrous structures. Results In this study, we propose a novel technique to synthesize 3D calcium carbonate interwoven nanofibrous platforms from eggshells using high repetition femtosecond laser irradiation. The eggshell waste is value engineered to calcium carbonate nanofibrous layer in a single step under ambient conditions. Our striking results demonstrate that by controlling the laser pulse repetition, nanostructures with different nanofiber density can be achieved. This approach presents an important step towards synthesizing 3D interwoven nanofibrous platforms from natural biomaterials. Conclusion The synthesized 3D nanofibrous structures can promote biomaterial interfacial properties to improve cell-platform surface interaction and develop new functional biomaterials for a variety of biomedical applications.

We have developed a metal-free, mild, and green synthetic route toward benzothieno[3,2-b]benzofurans by the annulation of 3-nitrobenzothiophene with phenols. The reaction was found to be general with a range of substituted phenols. In addition, we could extend the methodology for the synthesis of pentacenes and could demonstrate the synthesis in gram-scale. Moreover, we extended the strategy for the synthesis of benzothieno[2,3-b]benzofurans by starting from 2-nitrobenzothiophenes.

The demand for energy storage is exponentially increasing with growth of the human population, which is highly energy intensive. Batteries, supercapacitors, and hybrid capacitors are key energy sto...

Biomass, renewable, abundantly available and a good source of energy. The conversion of biomass waste into valuable products has received wide attention. In this study, an empty fruit bunch (oil palm EFB) supported magnetic acid catalyst for esterification reaction was successfully prepared via the one-step impregnation process. The new magnetic catalyst achieved a higher surface area of 188.87 m2/g with a total acidity of 2.4 mmol/g and identified iron oxide as g-Fe2O3. The magnetization value of 24.97 emu/g demonstrated that the superparamagnetic catalyst could be easily recovered and separated after the reaction using an external magnet. The catalytic performance of oil palm EFB supported magnetic acid catalyst was examined by esterification of oleic acid. Esterification process parameters were optimized via Response Surface Methodology (RSM) optimization tool with Box-Behnken design (BBD). The following optimum parameters were determined: an amount of 9 wt% catalyst, molar ratio of methanol to oleic acid of 12:1, reaction time of 2 h and reaction temperature of 60 °C with a maximum conversion of 94.91% was achieved. The catalyst can be recycled up to five cycles with minimal loss in its activity. The oil palm waste-based magnetic acid catalyst indicates its potential replacement to the existing solid catalysts that are economical and environmentally friendly for the esterification process in biofuel applications. Copyright © 2021 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).

Ibrutinib is a Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor used to treat many hematologic conditions, most commonly B-cell lymphomas and leukemias. Reportedly, skin rash is an adverse event in up to 27% of treated patients. Histopathologic description of these lesions is limited. We present two cases of ibrutinib-associated skin toxicities showing diverse histopathologic features. Case 1: A 72-year-old man was started on ibrutinib for chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Two months later, he developed multiple erythematous crusted papules on the chest, abdomen, and extremities. Biopsies revealed varied histopathology including poorly formed granulomatous dermatitis, epidermal necrosis, ulceration, and panniculitis. Ibrutinib was discontinued and his skin lesions resolved within 1 month. Case 2: A 48-year-old man received ibrutinib after failing standard therapy for primary central nervous system EBV positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Two months after initiation of ibrutinib, he developed multiple firm, red, non-tender nodules on the forehead, buttock, and thigh. Biopsies revealed "pseudolymphoma"-like reaction with dense pandermal lymphohistiocytic inflammation and granulomas. His skin toxicity resolved without cessation of therapy. Awareness of the spectrum of histopathologic features that may be encountered in skin lesions of patients treated with ibrutinib, as illustrated by these two cases, will be critical for optimal patient management.

Background: Ofatumumab, the first fully human anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, has been developed as a treatment for relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS) which can be self-administered at home. Objective: To investigate the efficacy and safety of ofatumumab in RMS patients from Japan and Russia. Methods: APOLITOS included a 24-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled core-part followed by an open-label extension-part. Patients were randomized (2:1) to subcutaneous ofatumumab 20 mg or placebo. Primary outcome was the number of gadolinium-enhancing (Gd+) T1 lesions per scan over 24 weeks. Results: Sixty-four patients were randomized (ofatumumab, n = 43; placebo, n = 21). Primary endpoint was met; ofatumumab reduced Gd + T1 lesions versus placebo by 93.6% ( p < 0.001) and the results were consistent across regions (Japan/Russia). Ofatumumab reduced annualized T2 lesion and relapse rate versus placebo by week 24. Both groups showed benefit from ofatumumab in the extension-part. Incidence of adverse events was lower with ofatumumab versus placebo (69.8% vs 81.0%); injection-related reactions were most common. No deaths, opportunistic infections, or malignancies were reported. Conclusion: Ofatumumab demonstrated superior efficacy versus placebo, with sustained effect through 48 weeks in RMS patients from Japan/Russia. Switching to ofatumumab after 24 weeks led to rapid radiological and clinical benefits. Safety findings were consistent with pivotal trials.

Cloud computing is a computing strategy that provides services hosted on the Internet to its users/customers. It refers to the computer solutions that are distributed. The cloud allows data to be stored and provides remote access to any work-related data. Enables easy access to cloud computing services at a low cost. Data protection and privacy protection are two major confusions about cloud technology. Various methods have been followed to make data security in the cloud reliable. A two-way DNA encryption algorithm (BDEA) is one such data protection technique. However, the current technology ignores the non-English user of cloud computing and focuses only on the ASCII script. This proposed work focuses on improving BDEA. To increase the security and confidentiality of data in the cloud environment, DNA sequences are used for encryption programs with Morse code. Using Morse code makes it very difficult for an intruder to steal the original data. Theoretical and experimental results show the efficiency of the algorithm, It is also an indication that it can be used in a variety of applications such as security, banking, and medical purposes. The future job is to encrypt color images and videos to upload to the cloud.

The influences of polymerization conditions, viz. the kind of catalyst, solvent medium and temperature, on thermal, molecular and structural characteristics of carbon fiber precursor polymer were investigated. The dependence of the exothermic peak temperature (Tpk) and heat release rate on the kind of polymerization process was established. An aqueous redox slurry polymer had narrow exothermic peaks (Tpk = 294–297 °C) and relatively high heat release rates (∆H/∆T = 0.96–3.3 J g−1 s−1), and polymers prepared in solid state, solution and bulk had a broader exotherms with Tpk in the range 264–318 °C and low heat release rates in the range 1.15–3.9 J g−1 s−1. Dynamic and thermomechanical analyses indicate three glass transition temperature ranges, i.e., 42–54 °C, 80–98 °C, and 140–142 °C, which are similar irrespective of catalysts. Branching tendency in aqueous redox slurry polymer was notable beyond the intrinsic viscosity of 250 cm3/g. Bulk densities of the polymers were found to be in the range 0.25–0.45 g cm−3.