Design of Aluminum Doped ZnO/Phenyl-C-Butyric Acid Methyl Ester/Tungsten Disulfide (AZO/PCBM/WS2) Heterojunction-Based Device for Applications in Solar Cells and Broadband Self-Powered Photodetectors.

The domain related to the use of renewable energy is showing high interest among the researchers in the current days, and light energy can be considered as one of such. Solar cells are the kind of devices that use light energy in an efficient way to generate electricity. Hence, designing and developing a solar cell requires meticulous attention to get an optimum output. This work focuses on designing and optimization of aluminum dope ZnO/phenyl-C-butyric acid methyl ester/tungsten disulfide (AZO/PCBM/WS2) heterojunction-based device for applications in solar cells. Moreover, considering the high demand of optoelectronics like photodetectors, this work also uncovers the capabilities of the device in the applications of broadband self-powered photodetectors. The optimized values of several parameters of the device such as the thickness and doping density of the WS2 layer, the defect density of the WS2 layer, and the interface PCBM/WS2 were 2 µm, 1017 cm-3, 1014 cm-3, and 1010 cm-2, respectively. These optimal conditions facilitated in obtaining fill factor and efficiency values of 84.78 and 23.92%, respectively. Further, the photodetection performance was evaluated with the parameters like responsivity and detectivity. The maximum calculated responsivity of the device at 0 V bias was 0.63 A/W at 880 nm, whereas the maximum detectivity was 1.54 × 1013 Jones. This study also extensively focuses on the in-depth understanding of the physics associated with the movement of the charge carriers under the illuminated conditions by studying the band diagrams and the electric fields of the heterojunctions at various conditions.

N-Doped Carbon Dots and ZnO Conglomerated Electrodes for Optically Responsive Supercapacitor Applications.

The over-dependence of human society on fossil fuels for energy is exhausting the level of such non-renewable energy sources. Alternative energy storage systems have gained more popularity recently to counter this issue. In this context, we report the fabrication of N-doped carbon dot (N-CD)-decorated ZnO-based electrodes for supercapacitor applications. Due to the light-responsive nature of the N-CDs and ZnO, the electrode was also responsive under the influence of UV light. After the experimental tests, it was found that the areal capacitance value of the supercapacitor increased upto ∼58.9% when illuminated compared to that under the dark conditions. Moreover, the device showed a maximum areal capacitance of 2.6 mF/cm2 after photocharging and galvanostatically discharging at a current density value of 1.6 µA/cm2, which is quite comparable with the previously reported data. The doping of N-CDs with ZnO showed a significant improvement in the areal capacitance value under both illuminated (∼58.64%) and dark conditions (∼22.08%) compared to the case of pristine ZnO, which justifies the purpose of attaching N-CDs with ZnO. Therefore, in brief, we have fabricated a photoresponsive electrode material for supercapacitor application by combining N-CDs and ZnO. An explicit electrochemical characterization of the electrode was also done to identify the contribution from diffusion-controlled capacitance and double layer capacitance, and it was observed that the diffusion-controlled capacitance gets reduced from 59.1 to 33.6% when the scan rate is increased from 2 to 75 mV/s. Moreover, a detailed study has also been done to understand the reaction mechanism. It was confirmed that the defects in the electrode material played a vital role in the intercalation of K+ ions.

Smith-magenis syndrome: A rare case report.

Smith-Magenis syndrome is a rare genetic disorder involving multiple body systems, along with mental retardation and sleep disturbances. It is attributed to micro deletion at 17p11.2 chromosome region encoding for RAI1 gene. This article presents a case report of a 7-year-old patient having this rare syndrome along with his genetic analysis.

Proliferative verrucus leukoplakia: A case series.

Oral proliferative verrucous leukoplakia (OPVL) is a rare form of oral leukoplakia first reported in 1985. It is a longterm progressive condition, which develops initially as a white plaque of hyperkeratosis that eventually becomes a multifocal disease with confluent, exophytic, and proliferative features. It has no racial preference with female predilection, associated with various factors including human papillomavirus (HPV) association, genetic susceptibility, and long-standing low-grade traumatic factors. The malignancy transformation rate varies from 0.13 to 17.5% with frequent recurrences. Here, we have reported two cases of PVL seen over the tongue and palate. It is confirmed by clinical and histopathological features and treated with Vitamin A and its supplements and a long-term follow-up showed no recurrence, and hence, Vitamin A has proven as a potent treatment option of PVL by its antioxidant and epithelialization property.

Growth of Carbon Dot-Decorated ZnO Nanorods on a Graphite-Coated Paper Substrate to Fabricate a Flexible and Self-Powered Schottky Diode for UV Detection.

The fabrication of flexible as well as self-powered optoelectronic devices is a growing and challenging area of research. Some scientists have reported the fabrication of either flexible or self-powered photodetectors recently. However, most of the literature studies fail to report the fabrication of self-powered as well as flexible photodetectors. This study reports the fabrication of self-powered, carbon dot (CD)-enhanced, flexible ZnO/graphite heterojunction-based UV detector where cellulose paper has been used as the substrate. A detailed study on the crystallinity and the defects of the ZnO nanorods has been done with appropriate characterizations. The CD-enhanced ZnO/graphite heterojunction showed Schottky characteristics. The Schottky parameters such as the barrier height, ideality factor, and the series resistance have also been calculated using the Cheung-Cheung method. The observed values of barrier height, ideality factor, and the series resistance are 0.74 eV, 3.74, and 503 kΩ, respectively. The transient response at self-powered condition has been demonstrated. The response time and the recovery time at self-powered condition have also been calculated with the help of the transient response, and those values are ∼2 and ∼3.2 s, respectively. The responsivity and the specific detectivity of the fabricated UV detector have been calculated as 9.57 mA/W and 4.27×108 Jones, respectively, at 330 nm wavelength, which is quite comparable with literature-reported values, considering a self-powered photodetector.

Nikolsky's sign: A pathognomic boon.

Nikolsky's sign has been a very useful diagnostic tool in cases of skin disorders like pemphigus, toxic epidermal necrolysis, etc., The sign is demonstrated when lateral pressure is applied on the border of an intact blister, which results in the dislodgment of the normal epidermis and extension of the blister.

Evaluation of cystic schwannoma of masticator space - A case report.

Schwannoma is a benign neoplasm originating from the neural sheath and occurring in up to 45% of the cases of extracranial neurogenic tumors. Schwannomas of masticator spaces are rare. This article reports the case of an intraoral schwannoma occupying the masseteric and buccal spaces of a 55-year-old woman, for whom detailed imaging investigations were performed, comprising conventional extraoral radiographs, ultrasound, and plain and contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging. The lesion was surgically resected.

Cone-beam computed tomography a reliable tool for morphometric analysis of the foramen magnum and a boon for forensic odontologists.

BACKGROUND/AIM: The aim of this pilot study was to perform morphometric analysis of the foramen magnum (FM) using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study included CBCT images of 120 individuals (60 males and 60 females). The sagittal and transverse diameters and circumference of the FM were measured. The data were statistically analyzed with Chi-square and t-tests to assess the level of significance for sex and age. RESULTS: The means of its sagittal and transverse diameters and also circumference were higher in males than in females. Statistically significant differences were found between transverse and circumference in case of males and females for all variables (P < 0.05). No statistically significant difference (P > 0.05) was found in sagittal diameter and age groups for all variables. CONCLUSION: CBCT images can provide valuable information regarding FM and the measurements of its sagittal and transvers diameters and also its circumference may be reliably used for sexual dimorphism in anthropometric analysis and forensic medicine.

Pulse therapy: Opening new vistas in treatment of pemphigus.

Pemphigus is comprised of a group of life-threatening autoimmune diseases that is characterized by circulating IgG antibodies targeting several types of keratinocyte antigens. After introduction of systemic steroids, survival has improved dramatically. However, mortality and morbidity were still very high due to side effects of steroids. Pulse therapy is defined as discontinuous/intermittent intravenous infusion of very high doses of corticosteroids along with certain immunosuppressive agents over a short period. This therapy was introduced to minimize the side effects of conventional corticosteroid therapy. The target is to achieve a faster response and stronger efficacy and to decrease the need for long-term use of systemic corticosteroids. As a result, this therapy has gained its popularity since three decades. The purpose of this article is to review the various available pulse therapy regimens with dosage, indications and contraindications and side effects.

Pemphigus vulgaris - A report of three cases and review of literature.

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is an autoimmune, potentially life-threatening disease causing blisters and erosions of the skin and mucous membranes associated with intraepithelial acantholysis. The underlying mechanism responsible for causing intraepithelial lesions is the binding of immunoglobulin G autoantibodies to desmoglein 3, a transmembrane glycoprotein adhesion molecule present on desmosomes. Histological features comprise intraepithelial cleft and Tzanck cells. Corticosteroids remain the mainstay of the treatment plan. In this article, we have discussed about the diagnosis of three patients suffering from PV, the treatment rendered, and the outcome of the same.

A Novel Computer-Assisted Method of Bite Mark Analysis for Gender Determination.

Background: Bite mark analysis is an imperative area of forensic odontology and considered the commonest form of dental evidence presented in the criminal court. The process of comparing bite marks with a suspect's dentition includes analysis and measurement of shape, size, and position of an individual's teeth. The present study was aimed to evaluate the bite marks of males and females using a novel indirect computer-assisted method and explicate its application in forensic odontology. Materials and methods: 60 subjects (30 males and 30 females) with normal occlusion were included in the present study. Bite registrations were obtained with help of modelling waxes, and positive replicas were prepared with dental stone and barium powder. Intraoral periapical radiographs were taken for the same. The radiographs obtained were scanned and analyzed by measuring tools using Sidexis Next Generation software. Intercanine distance (ICD), line AB, angle ABX, and angle ABY were measured. The Kruskal-Wallis test was performed to compare the bite marks of males and females. Results: The mean ICD of males and females was found to be 32.95 mm and 29.84 mm, respectively, and was statistically highly significant with a p value <0.001. The mean ICD, line AB, and angle ABX were found to be higher in males when compared to females. Conclusion: Analysis of bite marks using this novel computer-assisted method is a simple, reliable, easily reproducible, and economical technique with confidentiality of the identity of the participants involved.

Gorham's Disease of the Maxilla and Mandible With Distinctive Cone Beam Computerized Tomographic Features.

Gorham's disease is a rare and atypical disorder epitomized by progressive osteolysis of bone with eventual total disappearance of bone. The etiology is poorly understood with variable clinical presentation. Most times it is initially misdiagnosed as temporomandibular joint dysfunction, periodontal disease or odontogenic tumors clinically and radiographically in routine dental practice. Radiographic examination, such as Cone Beam Computerized Tomography (CBCT) play a vital role in diagnosing such disorder resulting in disappearance of the involved bone entirely, which is a definitive distinguishing feature of this condition. Regarding the rarity of the condition, the current study presents a case of Gorham's disease with distinctive clinical, radiological, and histological, features involving maxilla and mandible.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy: Case report and review.

Muscular dystrophies are a clinically and heterogeneous group of disorders that all share clinical characteristics of progressive muscular weakness. Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is the most common X-linked disorder muscular dystrophy in children, presenting in early childhood and characterized by proximal muscle weakness and calf hypertrophy in affected boys. There is usually delay in motor development and eventually wheelchair confinement followed by premature death from cardiac or respiratory complications. Treatment modalities such as corticosteroid therapy and use of intermittent positive pressure ventilation have provided improvements in function, ambulation, quality of life, and life expectancy, although novel therapies still aim to provide a cure for this devastating disorder. Here, we present a case of DMD in a 12-year-old male with remarkable clinical and oral manifestations.

Infantile Alexander Disease: Case Report and Review of Literature.

Alexander Disease (AD) is an autosomal dominant leukodystrophy and occurs predominantly in infants and children. It usually results in death within ten years after onset. Among the four subtypes, infantile form comprises the most of affected individuals. It presents in the first two years of life, typically with progressive psychomotor deficiency, loss of developmental milestones, seizures, and pyramidal signs. Clinical and magnetic resonance image findings usually establish diagnosis of AD. Here, we present a case of Infantile AD with characteristic clinical and radiological features.

Tuberous sclerosis complex: A case report.

Tuberous sclerosis complex is an unusual autosomal dominant neurocutaneous syndrome characterized by the development of benign tumors affecting different body systems affecting the brain, skin, retina, and viscera. It is characterized by cutaneous changes, neurologic conditions, and the formation of hamartomas in multiple organs leading to morbidity and mortality. The most common oral manifestations are fibromas, gingival hyperplasia, and enamel hypoplasia. The management of these patients is often multidisciplinary involving specialists from various fields. Here, we present a case report of a 26-old-year male patient with characteristic clinical, radiological, and histological features of tuberous sclerosis complex.

Prevalence and subjective knowledge of tongue lesions in an Indian population.

AIM: The current study was designed to determine prevalence of various tongue lesions and their association with age, gender, systemic illness, deleterious habits, and distribution over the surfaces of tongue. It also explored the awareness and knowledge of subjects in relation to presence of tongue lesions, etiological factor, symptoms, and treatment received if any. METHODS: The present study was conducted on 1360 randomly selected dental outpatients from 1/10/2013 to 30/09/2014. Examination of tongue included surface changes, size, movements, and the presence of mucosal lesions. The subjects were asked about the knowledge, symptoms, and treatment obtained in case of awareness regarding the lesion. RESULTS: The prevalence of tongue lesions was found to be 13.75%. The most prevalent lesion was found to be coated tongue. The majority of the lesions were located on dorsum of tongue and not related with age, gender, habit, and systemic condition. A considerable number of subjects were aware of the changes on their tongue but negligible number sought any treatment. CONCLUSIONS: The presence of tongue lesions in the study population was found be significant. Hence, general dental practitioners and health care providers should be educated about the diagnosis, etiology, investigations, and proper management of such tongue lesions.

Nonsurgical Management of Oral Mucocele by Intralesional Corticosteroid Therapy.

Background. Oral mucocele is a common lesion resulting from an alteration of minor salivary glands due to mucus accumulation. Rapid appearance, specific location, history of trauma, bluish colour, and consistency help in the diagnosis. Conventional surgical removal is the treatment of choice but has several disadvantages like damage to adjacent ducts with further development of satellite lesions. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of intralesional corticosteroid injection (betamethasone) as a nonsurgical treatment procedure in oral mucoceles. Material and Method. A total of 20 cases (males and females, 10-30 years of age) with clinically diagnosed oral mucoceles were given 1 mL of betamethasone intralesionally. All the patients were examined after a period of 7, 14, and 21 days to evaluate the response of the lesion towards treatment and consequently given the 2nd, 3rd, 4th injections. If the lesion resolved after one or two injections, the treatment was discontinued. Results. Out of the 20 cases, 18 of them showed complete regression of the lesion whereas the remaining 2 cases showed decrease in size. All the patients received maximum of 4 consecutive shots in weekly interval. Conclusion. Intralesional corticosteroid therapy can be considered as the first choice in the treatment of oral mucoceles.