Navigating challenges and solutions for metal-halide and carbon-based electrodes in perovskite solar cells (NCS-MCEPSC): An environmental approach.

The urgent need to shift to renewable energy is highlighted by rising global energy use and environmental issues like global warming from fossil fuel dependency. Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) stand out as a promising option, providing high efficiency and potential for cost-effective production. This study delves into the environmental concerns and viable solutions linked with metal-halide PSCs (M-PSCs) and carbon-based electrode PCSs (C-PSCs). It showcases the swift progress in PSC technology, highlighting its potential to deliver efficient and economical renewable energy options. Yet, the environmental implications of these technologies, especially the utilization of toxic lead (Pb) in M-PSCs and the issues of stability and degradation in C-PSCs, represent considerable hurdles for their broad application and sustainability. The paper details the recent advances in PSCs, focusing on enhancements in device efficiency and stability through innovative material combinations and device designs. Nonetheless, the environmental hazards linked to the dispersal of toxic substances from compromised or deteriorating PSCs into the ecosystem raise significant concerns. In particular, the risk of Pb from M-PSCs contaminating soil and aquatic ecosystems is a pressing issue for human and environmental health, spurring investigations into alternative materials and methods to diminish these impacts. The authors examine several strategies, including the introduction of Pb-free perovskites, encapsulation methods to block the escape of hazardous substances, and the recycling of PSC elements. The study stresses the necessity of aligning technological innovations with considerations for the environment and health, calling for ongoing research into PSC technologies that are sustainable and safe. This review highlights the need for detailed assessments of PSC technologies, focusing on their renewable energy contributions, environmental impacts, and strategies to mitigate these effects. The authors call for a cohesive strategy to develop PSCs that are efficient, cost-effective, eco-friendly, and safe for widespread use.

Synergistic effect by Sorghum bicolor L., citric acid, biochar, and vermiwash amendment for the remediation of a mine-contaminated soil.

Phytoremediation is an in situ remediation and eco-friendly technique employing accumulator plant species to remove trace elements (TEs) from contaminated sites. Moreover, it has been demonstrated that both natural and synthetic amendments can enhance trace elements (TEs) phytoremediation from polluted soils through bioenergy crops. This work assessed the synergistic impact of two tested biochar (BC) from data palm (B1) and Prosopis (B2) (1.5%/ kg), citric acid (CA, 1.5 mmol/kg) and vermiwash (VW, 20 ml/kg) to enhance the remediation of tested TEs (Mn, Zn, Cd, Pb, Ni, Cu, and Fe) from Mahad AD'Dahab mine-contaminated soil by sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.). The BC and CA amendments alone and combined with VW significantly augmented the proliferation and survival of sorghum grown in mine-contaminated soil. Considering the individual and combined applications of VW and BC, the influence on plant growth followed this order: K < VW < B2 < B1 < B1 + VW < B2 + VW < CA < CA + VW. Applying tested BC/CA and VW significantly increased chlorophyll compared to unamended soil. The outcomes revealed a substantial elevation in TE absorption in both shoot and root (p ≤ 0.05) with all tested treatments compared to the untreated soil (K). The combined application of CA and VW resulted in the most significant TE uptake of TEs at both the root and the shoot. Furthermore, adding CA or VW as a foliar spray enhanced the bioaccumulation factor (BCF) and translocation factor (TF) of studied metals. The combined addition of CA and foliar spraying of VW was more effective than the sole addition of CA or VW. Such increase reached 20.0%, 15.6%, 19.4%, 14.3%, 14.0%, and 25.6% of TF, and 13.7%, 11.9%, 8.3%, 20.9%, 20.5%,18.7%, and 19.8% of BCE for Cd, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn, respectively. This study highlights the efficiency of combining CA/BC with VW as a more viable option for remediating mine-contaminated soil than individual amendments. However, future research should prioritize long-term field trials to assess the efficiency of using citric acid and vermiwash for restoring contaminated mining soils.

Identification of potent indolizine derivatives against Mycobacterial tuberculosis: In vitro anti-TB properties, in silico target validation, molecular docking and dynamics studies.

In the current study, two sets of compounds: (E)-1-(2-(4-substitutedphenyl)-2-oxoethyl)-4-((hydroxyimino)methyl)pyridinium derivatives (3a-3e); and (E)-3-(substitutedbenzoyl)-7-((hydroxyimino)methyl)-2-substitutedindolizine-1-carboxylate derivatives (5a-5j), were synthesized and biologically evaluated against two strains of Mycobacterial tuberculosis (ATCC 25177) and multi-drug resistant (MDR) strains. Further, they were also tested in vitro against the mycobacterial InhA enzyme. The in vitro results showed excellent inhibitory activities against both MTB strains and compounds 5a-5j were found to be more potent, and their MIC values ranged from 5 to 16 µg/mL and 16-64 µg/mL against the M. tuberculosis (ATCC 25177) and MDR-TB strains, respectively. Compound 5h with phenyl and 4-fluorobenzoyl groups attached to the 2- and 3-position of the indolizine core was found to be the most active against both strains with MIC values of 5 µg/mL and 16 µg/mL, respectively. On the other hand, the two sets of compounds showed weak to moderate inhibition of InhA enzyme activity that ranged from 5 to 17 % and 10-52 %, respectively, with compound 5f containing 4-fluoro benzoyl group attached to the 3-position of the indolizine core being the most active (52 % inhibition of InhA). Unfortunately, there was no clear correlation between the InhA inhibitory activity and MIC values of the tested compounds, indicating the probability that they might have different modes of action other than InhA inhibition. Therefore, a computational investigation was conducted by employing molecular docking to identify their putative drug target(s) and, consequently, understand their mechanism of action. A panel of 20 essential mycobacterial enzymes was investigated, of which ß-ketoacyl acyl carrier protein synthase I (KasA) and pyridoxal-5'-phosphate (PLP)-dependent aminotransferase (BioA) enzymes were revealed as putative targets for compounds 3a-3e and 5a-5j, respectively. Moreover, in silico ADMET predictions showed adequate properties for these compounds, making them promising leads worthy of further optimization.

Minimally invasive surgical approach to model hypertrophic scarring in the rabbit ear.

BACKGROUND: Current strategies for hypertrophic scar prevention and treatment are limited. OBJECTIVE: To facilitate these efforts, a minimally invasive hypertrophic scar model was created in a rabbit ear for the first time based on previous methods used to induce ischemia. METHODS: Six New Zealand white rabbits (12 ears total) were studied. First, ischemia was achieved by ligating the cranial artery, cranial vein and central artery, while preserving the caudal artery, caudal vein and central vein, respectively. The relative level of ischemia induced at time of surgery, both baseline and maximum perfusion, was assessed with a fluorescent light-assisted angiography and demonstrated lower rates of perfusion in the ischemic ears. Following vascular injury, a 2-cm full thickness linear wound was created on the ventral ear and closed with 4 - 0 Nylon sutures under high tension. For each rabbit, one ear received a combination of ischemia and wounding with suture tension (n = 6), while the other ear was non-ischemic with wounding and suture tension alone (n = 6). RESULTS: Four weeks post-operatively, ischemic ears developed scar hypertrophy (histological scar thickness: 1.1 ± 0.2 mm versus 0.5 ± 0.1 mm, p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Herein, we describe a novel, prototypical minimally invasive rabbit ear model of hypertrophic scar formation that can allow investigation of new drugs for scar prevention.

Valorization of Eichhornia crassipes for the production of cellulose nanocrystals further investigation of plethoric biobased resource.

Chemical processing is among the significant keys to tackle agro-residues utilization field, aiming to obtain value-added materials. Extraction of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) is an emerging route to valorize lignocellulosic wastes into high value particles. In this investigation, effect of acidic hydrolysis duration was monitored on size and morphology of obtained crystals; namely: CNCs from Nile roses fibers (NRFs) (Eichhornia crassipes). Different acidic hydrolysis duration range or different characterization techniques set this article apart from relevant literature, including our group research articles. The grinded NRFs were firstly subjected to alkaline and bleaching pretreatments, then acid hydrolysis process was carried out with varied durations ranging from 5 to 30 min. Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) was used as reference for comparison with NRFs based samples. The extracted CNCs samples were investigated using various techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Atomic force microscopy (AFM), Raman spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric (TGA) analysis. The figures gotten from SEM and AFM depicted that NRFs based CNCs appeared as fibril-like shapes, with reduced average size when the NRFs underwent pulping and bleaching processes. This was indicated that the elimination of hemicellulose and lignin components got achieved successfully. This outcome was proven by chemical composition measurements and TGA/DTG curves. On the other hand, AFM-3D images indicated that CNCs topology and surface roughness were mostly affected by increasing hydrolysis durations, besides smooth and homogeneous surfaces were noticed. Moreover, Raman spectra demonstrated that the particle size and crystallinity degree of NRFs based CNCs can be affected by acidic hydrolysis durations and optimum extraction time was found to be 10 min. Thermal stability of extracted CNCs-NRFs and CNCs-MCC was measured by TGA/DTG and the kinetic models were suggested to identify the kinetic parameters of the thermal decomposition of CNCs for each acid hydrolysis duration. Increasing hydrolysis duration promoted thermal stability, particularly for NRFs based CNCs. Results showcased in this article add new perspective to Nile rose nanocellulose and pave down the way to fabricate NRFs based humidity nano-sensors.

N-doped TiO2/rGO: synthesis, structure, optical characteristics, and humidity sensing applications.

In the current study, the effect of rGO ratio on the N-dopped TiO2has been synthesized through sol-gel method. The prepared N-doped TiO2/rGO composites were examined for humidity sensing applications. The relationship between optical properties and the humidity sensing properties was studied. The structure, morphology, and bonding interaction have been examined using XRD, FT-IR, PL and HRTEM respectively. The average particle size as estimated from XRD and HRTEM was found to be about 9 nm. The optical properties have been studied using UV/ Vis. Spectroscopy. Further, optical parameters including refractive index and optical band gap energy have been estimated. The humidity sensing behavior of the resultant composites were evaluated in a wide range of humidity (7%-97% RH) at different testing frequencies. The optical band gap was found to be decreased as the amount of rGO increase. Among all prepared samples, both the optical parameters and humidity sensing experiments confirmed that the 0.5% rGO@N-dopped TiO2sample is the best candidate for the humidity sensing applications. The best optimum testing frequency was demonstrated to be 50 Hz. The sensor demonstrates a fast response and recovery times of 13 s and 33 s with low hysteresis and large sensitivity. The humidity sensing mechanism was studied using complex impedance spectroscopy at different RH levels under testing frequency range from 50 Hz to 5 MHz and testing voltage of 1 VAC. The produced structure demonstrated a promising material for humidity measuring devices.

Vanillylacetone attenuates cadmium chloride-induced hippocampal damage and memory loss through up-regulation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 gene and protein expression.

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202412000-00030/figure1/v/2024-04-08T165401Z/r/image-tiff Memory loss and dementia are major public health concerns with a substantial economic burden. Oxidative stress has been shown to play a crucial role in the pathophysiology of hippocampal damage-induced memory impairment. To investigate whether the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound vanillylacetone (zingerone) can protect against hippocampal damage and memory loss induced by cadmium chloride (CdCl2) administration in rats, we explored the potential involvement of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway, which is known to modulate oxidative stress and inflammation. Sixty healthy male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: vehicle-treated (control), vanillylacetone, CdCl2, vanillylacetone + CdCl2, vanillylacetone + CdCl2 + brusatol (a selective pharmacological Nrf2 inhibitor) groups. Vanillylacetone effectively attenuated CdCl2-induced damage in the dental gyrus of the hippocampus and improved the memory function assessed by the Morris Water Maze test. Additionally, vanillylacetone markedly decreased the hippocampal tissue levels of inflammatory biomarkers (interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, intracellular cell adhesive molecules) and apoptosis biomarkers (Bax and cleaved caspase-3). The control and CdCl2-treated groups treated with vanillylacetone showed reduced generation of reactive oxygen species, decreased malondialdehyde levels, and increased superoxide dismutase and glutathione activities, along with significant elevation of nuclear Nrf2 mRNA and protein expression in hippocampal tissue. All the protective effects of vanillylacetone were substantially blocked by the co-administration of brusatol (a selective Nrf2 inhibitor). Vanillylacetone mitigated hippocampal damage and memory loss induced by CdCl2, at least in part, by activating the nuclear transcription factor Nrf2. Additionally, vanillylacetone exerted its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions.

Advances in Nanocarrier Systems for Overcoming Formulation Challenges of Curcumin: Current Insights.

Curcumin, an organic phenolic molecule that is extracted from the rhizomes of Curcuma longa Linn, has undergone extensive evaluation for its diverse biological activities in both animals and humans. Despite its favorable characteristics, curcumin encounters various formulation challenges and stability issues that can be effectively addressed through the application of nanotechnology. Nano-based techniques specifically focused on enhancing solubility, bioavailability, and therapeutic efficacy while mitigating toxicity, have been explored for curcumin. This review systematically presents information on the improvement of curcumin's beneficial properties when incorporated, either individually or in conjunction with other drugs, into diverse nanosystems such as liposomes, nanoemulsions, polymeric micelles, dendrimers, polymeric nanoparticles, solid-lipid nanoparticles, and nanostructured lipid carriers. Additionally, the review examines ongoing clinical trials and recently granted patents, offering a thorough overview of the dynamic landscape in curcumin delivery. Researchers are currently exploring nanocarriers with crucial features such as surface modification, substantial loading capacity, biodegradability, compatibility, and autonomous targeting specificity and selectivity. Nevertheless, the utilization of nanocarriers for curcumin delivery is still in its initial phases, with regulatory approval pending and persistent safety concerns surrounding their use.

Anti-viral Effects of Pavetta indica Methanolic Extract and Acyclovir on Behavioral and Biochemical Parameters in Streptozotocin-induced Alzheimer's Disease in Rats.

BACKGROUND: Alzheimer's disease is a neurological dysfunction of the brain caused by neurodegeneration and oxidative stress. Some viruses, such as herpes viruses, HSV-1, and HSV-2, are causative agents of Alzheimer's disease and result in ß-amyloid peptide and tau protein accumulation in the brain. Some antiviral drugs, such as valacyclovir, acyclovir, and foscarnet, reduce amyloid-beta and P-tau. Pavetta indica leaves are also reported for their antiviral properties. The current study aimed to find out the significance of using Pavetta indica methanolic extract and acyclovir against Alzheimer's disease induced by streptozotocin. METHODS: Wistar rats received acyclovir and Pavetta indica methanolic extract orally at different dose ranges (50, 150, 450 mg/kg) and (125, 250, 500 mg/kg), respectively. The standard therapy, Rivastigmine (2 mg/kg), was given orally. RESULTS: Intracerebroventricular-streptozotocin produced significant alternations in behavioral assessments, including locomotor activity test, Morris water maze test, and elevated plus maze test. Moreover, intracerebroventricular-streptozotocin ameliorated the antioxidant defense activity by decreasing levels of catalase, superoxide dismutase, and reduced glutathione while enhancing the oxidative stress markers, including malondialdehyde, and total nitrite levels. Finally, the main findings showed that intracerebroventricular-streptozotocin significantly increased the inflammatory marker, tumor necrosis factor-α, and disturbed neurotransmitter mediators, including levels of acetylcholinesterase, glutamate, and γ-amino butyric acid. CONCLUSION: In a dose-dependent manner, acyclovir and Pavetta indica methanolic extract treatments abrogated the streptozotocin-induced behavioral and neurological abnormalities in rats. The potential therapeutic effects of PIME and acyclovir administration in intracerebroventricular-streptozotocin-treated rats may be attributed to its potential antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. The current study suggests that Pavetta indica methanolic extract and acyclovir are promising therapeutic targets against Alzheimer's disease.

P4HA2 involved in SLUG-associated EMT predicts poor prognosis of patients with KRAS-positive colorectal cancer.

This study aimed to examine the immunohistochemical expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition biomarkers: P4HA2 and SLUG in colorectal carcinoma (CRC) specimens, then to assess their relation to clinicopathological features including KRAS mutations and patients' survival, and finally to study the correlation between them in CRC. The result of this study showed that SLUG and P4HA2 were significantly higher in association with adverse prognostic factors: presence of lympho-vascular invasion, perineural invasion, higher tumor budding, tumor stage, presence of lymph node metastasis, and presence of distant metastasis. CRC specimens with KRAS mutation were associated with significant higher SLUG and P4HA2 expression. High expression of both SLUG and P4HA2 was significantly unfavorable prognostic indicator as regards overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). In KRAS mutated cases, high P4HA2 expression was the only significant poor prognostic indicator as regarding DFS. In conclusions, our data highlight that both SLUG and P4HA2 expression may serve as potentially important poor prognostic biomarkers in CRC and targeting these molecules may be providing a novel therapeutic strategy. In KRAS mutation group, high P4HA2 expression is the only independent prognostic factor for tumor recurrence, so it can be suggested to be a novel target for therapy.

Free Vascularized Proximal Fibular Epiphyseal Transfer For Hip Reconstruction Following Septic Necrosis In Children.

BACKGROUND: Septic necrosis of the femoral head and neck in children represents a challenging problem. Several reconstructive techniques have been described but with disappointing long-term results. Vascularized epiphyseal transfer utilizing the proximal fibula have been successfully used for reconstruction of the proximal humerus and distal radius and only scarcely used for hip reconstruction. This cohort represents the largest reported series of epiphyseal transfer for hip reconstruction following septic necrosis in children. METHODS: A total of 18 patients with an average age at surgery of 5.4 years were included. The average follow-up was 3.6 years (range 2.3 to 6.8 y). RESULTS: Transient postoperative foot drop was observed in 4 patients. Radiographic resorption of the transferred fibula occurred in 2 cases. Longitudinal growth averaged 7.3 mm/year, and the physis width increased by an average of 2.7 mm/year. The rate of longitudinal growth was fastest after the age of 10 years (18.5 mm/y), which coincides with the pubertal growth spurt. All successful transfers had an open growth plate on final follow-up radiographs. Ten patients had limb length discrepancy of an average 2.8 cm (range 1 to 8 cm). Thirteen patients had satisfactory functional according to the criteria of Hunka et al. Three patients had unsatisfactory results; one had painful nonunion at the fibula-femur junction, and the other two had limited flexion range of 45 degrees. The average postoperative neck-shaft angle was 96.4 degrees which decreased by an average of 8 degrees at the final follow-up. Three patients underwent a valgus subtrochanteric osteotomy to correct a severe varus deformity. The final neck-shaft angle correlated significantly with the functional results where it averaged 96 degrees in the satisfactory group and 57 degrees in the unsatisfactory group. CONCLUSION: Vascularized epiphyseal transfer presents a promising treatment for children with septic necrosis of the femoral head and neck in whom other methods have failed to provide satisfactory long-term results. We recommend the procedure be done before the age of 5 years for optimum results. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level-IV.

Improvement of Na+-K+ ATPase Activity and Gene Expression Associated with Glomerular Ultrastructural Protection in Diabetic Nephropathy by Acacia senegal: Role of Oxidative Stress Disturbances / Mejora de la actividad Na+-K+ ATPasa y la Expresión Génica Asociada con la Protección Ultraestructural Glomerular en la Nefropatía Diabética por Acacia senegal: Papel de las Alteraciones del Estrés Oxidativo

SUMMARY: This study assessed the effects of Acacia Senegal (AS) combined with insulin on Na+/K+-ATPase (NKA) activity and mRNA expression, serum glucose, renal function, and oxidative stress in a rat model of diabetic nephropathy (DN). Sixty rats were equally divided into six groups: normal control, normal+AS, diabetic (DM), DM+insulin, DM+AS, and DM+insulin+AS groups. Diabetes mellitus (type 1) was induced by a single injection of streptozotocin (65 mg/kg), and insulin and AS treatments were carried until rats were culled at the end of week 12. Serum glucose and creatinine levels, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) were measured. Renal homogenate levels of NKA activity and gene expression, malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase and reduced glutathione (GSH) were evaluated as well as kidney tissue histology and ultrastructure. Diabetes caused glomerular damage and modulation of blood and tissue levels of creatinine, glucose, HbA1c, malondialdehyde, NKA activity and gene expression, SOD, catalase and GSH, which were significantly (p<0.05) treated with AS, insulin, and insulin plus AS. However, AS+insulin treatments were more effective. In conclusion, combined administration of AS with insulin to rats with DN decreased NKA activity and gene expression as well as oxidative stress, and improved glycemic state and renal structure and function.

Este estudio evaluó los efectos de Acacia senegal (AS) combinada con insulina sobre la actividad Na+/K+- ATPasa (NKA) y la expresión de ARNm, la glucosa sérica, la función renal y el estrés oxidativo en un modelo de nefropatía diabética (ND) en ratas. Sesenta ratas se dividieron equitativamente en seis grupos: control normal, normal+AS, diabética (DM), DM+insulina, DM+AS y DM+insulina+AS. La diabetes mellitus (tipo 1) se indujo mediante una única inyección de estreptozotocina (65 mg/kg), y los tratamientos con insulina y AS se llevaron a cabo hasta que las ratas fueron sacrificadas al final de la semana 12. Se midieron niveles séricos de glucosa y creatinina, hemoglobina A1c (HbA1c). Se evaluaron los niveles de homogeneizado renal de actividad NKA y expresión génica, malondialdehído, superóxido dismutasa (SOD), catalasa y glutatión reducido (GSH), así como la histología y ultraestructura del tejido renal. La diabetes causó daño glomerular y modulación de los niveles sanguíneos y tisulares de creatinina, glucosa, HbA1c, malondialdehído, actividad y expresión génica de NKA, SOD, catalasa y GSH, los cuales fueron tratados significativamente (p<0,05) con AS, insulina e insulina más AS. Sin embargo, los tratamientos con AS+insulina fueron más efectivos. En conclusión, la administración combinada de AS con insulina a ratas con DN disminuyó la actividad de NKA y la expresión genética, así como el estrés oxidativo, y mejoró el estado glucémico y la estructura y función renal.

Synthesis, characterization and larvicidal studies of ethyl 3-benzoyl-7-(piperidin-1-yl)indolizine-1-carboxylate analogues against Anopheles arabiensis and cheminformatics approaches.

According to WHO, in 2021, there was an estimation of 247 million malaria cases from 84 malaria-endemic countries. Globally an estimated count of 2 billion malaria cases and 11.7 million deaths due to malaria were recorded in the past two decades. Further, the emergence of drug-resistant mosquitos threatens mankind. Therefore, the development of newer larvicidal agents is the need of the hour. This research identifies a new series of variably substituted indolizines for their effectiveness in controlling Anopheles arabiensis larvae through larvicidal activity. The series of Ethyl 3-benzoyl-7-(piperidin-1-yl)indolizine-1-carboxylate analogues (4a-j) were synthesized by reacting 4-(piperidin-1-yl)pyridine, phenacyl bromides with ethyl propiolate via 1, 3-dipolar cycloaddition and the green metrics of the process are reported. All the newly synthesized compounds were characterized by spectroscopic techniques such as 1H NMR,13C NMR, FT-IR, and HRMS. The larvicidal effectiveness of the newly synthesized compounds was assessed against Anopheles arabiensis. Among the compounds studied, namely 4c, 4d, 4e, and 4f, displayed the most notable larval mortality rates within the series, reaching 73%, 81%, 76%, and 71% respectively, in contrast with the negative control acetone. In comparison, the standard Temephos exhibited a mortality rate of 99% at the same concentration. Furthermore, computational approaches including molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations identified the potential targets of the series compounds as the larval Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme and the Sterol Carrier Protein-2 (SCP-2) protein. However, it is essential for these computational predictions to undergo experimental validation.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Intermediate Cervical Plexus Block in the Management of Refractory Somatosensory Tinnitus Following Whiplash: Prospective Series in 30 Patients.

OBJECTIVE: Whiplash-associated disorder comprises of a constellation of persistent symptoms after neck trauma. Tinnitus that develops postwhiplash is termed somatosensory tinnitus. The objective is to assess the role of intermediate cervical plexus block (iCPB) in patients with somatosensory tinnitus secondary to whiplash. METHODS: Prospective service evaluation in adults with whiplash-associated disorder and concomitant somatosensory tinnitus. Patients underwent specialist otorhinolaryngology review before pain clinic referral. Patients were offered ultrasound-guided iCPB with steroids. Intensity of tinnitus was recorded on a numerical rating scale at baseline, 3 and 6 months posttreatment. Brief Pain Inventory Short Form and Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale questionnaires were also completed. RESULTS: Over a 36-month period, 32 patients with refractory somatosensory tinnitus following whiplash were offered iCPB(s). Two patients refused because of needle phobia. iCPB(s) was performed in 30 patients as an outpatient procedure. One patient (1/30, 3.3%) was lost to follow-up. Twenty-three patients (23/30, 77%) reported clinically significant reduction in intensity of tinnitus at 3 months postprocedure. Nineteen patients (19/30, 63%) reported ongoing benefit at 6-month follow-up. Six patients failed to report any benefit (6/30, 20%). CONCLUSION: The cervical plexus could play a significant role in the development of somatosensory tinnitus after whiplash. iCPB may have a role in the management of somatosensory tinnitus in this cohort.

Effect of Repeated Moist Heat Sterilization on Titanium Implant-Abutment Interface-An In Vitro Study.

OBJECTIVES: Sterilization eliminates microbial viability by decreasing the biological load, but likewise have the ability to deteriorate the mechanical properties of an implant material. This study intended to evaluate the effect of repeated moist heat sterilization on implant-abutment interface using two different implant systems. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty screw-retained titanium implant-abutment combinations (fixture 3.5 ×10 mm, abutment 2 mm diameter), twenty each from Genesis (Aktiv Implant Systems, United States) and Bredent (SKY, Germany), were divided into four different groups (n = 10) and placed in a computer-aided diagnostic model. The abutments from each group were exposed to first and second autoclave cycle (121°C for 30 minutes), connected back to the fixture and analyzed under scanning electron microscope for marginal gap and surface roughness. RESULTS: Genesis group showed higher marginal gaps on both sides (buccal/mesial [2.8 ± 0.47]; lingual/distal [2.8 ± 0.33]), while Bredent implant-abutment system (IAS) did not show any changes in marginal gaps after autoclaving. Differences within and between the group were found to be statistically significant. Surface roughness for Genesis (243.7 ± 70.30) and Bredent groups (528.9 ± 213.19) was highest at second autoclave, with Bredent implant-abutment showing higher values for surface roughness than Genesis IAS. CONCLUSION: Marginal vertical gap increased with autoclaving for Genesis IAS, while Bredent implant abutments were more stable. Surface roughness increases with autoclaving for both Genesis and Bredent group of IAS.

Humidity sensing using Zn(1.6 - x)Na0.4CuxTiO4 spinel nanostructures.

In this paper, we present a humidity sensing material based on nanostructured Zn(1.6 - x)Na0.4CuxTiO4 spinel to enhance optical and sensitivity performance. Nano-porous of Zn (1.6 - x) Na0.4CuxTiO4 spinel were synthesized using sol gel reactions and calcined at 700 °C. The nanostructures of Zn(1.6 - x)Na0.4CuxTiO4 spinel underwent thorough characterization through multiple techniques. X-ray diffractometry (XRD) coupled with Rietveld refinement using FullProf software, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Raman Spectroscopy, and optical analysis were employed to assess various aspects of the nanostructures. These techniques were utilized to determine the phase composition, particle size distribution, chemical bonding, and the tunable band gap of the nanostructures. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis of Zn(1.6 - x)Na0.4CuxTiO4 samples revealed well-defined and prominent peaks, indicating a highly crystalline cubic spinel structure. The lattice parameter was decreased from 8.4401 to 8.4212 Å with increasing Cu content from 0 to 1.2 mol%. UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectra were employed to investigate the optical characteristics of copper-doped Zn1.6Na0.4TiO4. The applicability of Cu@NaZT spinel nanostructures in humidity sensors was evaluated at ambient conditions. The fabricated sensor was investigated in a wide span of humidity (11-97%). The examined sensor demonstrates a low hysteresis, excellent repeatability, fast response and recovery. The response and recovery times were estimated to be 20 s and 6 s respectively. The highest sensitivity was achieved at 200 Hz. The proposed sensor can be coupled easily with electronic devices as the humidity-impedance relationship is linear.

Fixation of Mallet Fractures Using a Modified Hook Plate Technique: A Prospective Case Series of 17 Patients.

Objective Various modalities have been suggested to manage mallet fractures; however, inappropriate treatment can lead to extension lag, a swan neck deformity, or arthritis of the distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ). The current study aimed to evaluate the results (functional, radiological, and complications) of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of mallet fractures using low-cost hook plates fabricated from low-profile titanium mini plates. Methods A prospective case series of 17 consecutive patients (average age of 32.3 years) with mallet fractures (six were Wehbe Type IB and 11 were Wehbe Type IIB). Eleven (64.7%) were males. The affected hand was dominant in all patients, and the affected digit was the index in 6 (35.3%), the ring in 5 (29.4%), the small in 3 (17.65%), and the middle in 3 (17.65%) patients. The same fellowship-trained hand surgeon performed all surgeries. Results The average operative time was 37.65 minutes. After an average follow-up of 10.94 months (range 6-27), the average DIPJ motion was 50° ° (range 20°-70°), the extensor lag was noted in 4 (23.5%) patients, and complications were reported in 6 (35.29%) patients. According to Crawford criteria, 6 (35.3%) patients achieved excellent results, 7 (41.2%) achieved good results, and 4 (23.5%) achieved fair results. Conclusion The modified hook plate technique for fixation of mallet fractures is a beneficial, economical, yet demanding technique that adequately provides stable fixation to allow early DIPJ motion with acceptable functional outcomes.

Ternary nanocomposite comprising MnO2, GQDs, and PANI as a potential structure for humidity sensing applications.

Humidity sensing has been offering a noticeable contribution in different industrial, medical, and agricultural activities. Here, graphene quantum dots doped with polyaniline (PANI) and MnO2 were successfully prepared. The synthesized system is exposed to a set of structural, morphological, and optical investigations. The apparent crystallite size is less than 30 nm, reflecting the nanoscale of the structure, and thus validating the preparation route as evident on XRD pattern. SEM images show a fibrous structure where polyaniline dominates and covers most of the structure's surface. The evident bands of the FTIR spectrum are designated to the component used in synthesis confirming the chemical structure of the fabricated system. The humidity sensing study of the synthesized structure is carried out through a wide range of relative humidity (RH) levels range of 11-97%. The response and recovery times of the fabricated structure are found to be around 120 and 220s, respectively.

Sikh and Muslim perspectives on kidney transplantation: phase 1 of the DiGiT project - a qualitative descriptive study.

OBJECTIVES: Kidney transplantation offers patients better quality of life and survival compared with dialysis. The risk of end stage renal disease is higher among ethnic minorities and they experience longer wait times on transplant lists. This inequality stems from a high need for kidney transplantation combined with a low rate of deceased donation among ethnic minority groups. This study aimed to explore the perspectives around living donor kidney transplantation of members of the Sikh and Muslim communities with an aim to develop a digital intervention to overcome any barriers. DESIGN: A qualitative descriptive study using in person focus groups. SETTING: University Teaching Hospital and Transplant Centre. PARTICIPANTS: Convenience sampling of participants from the transplant population. Three focus groups were held with 20 participants, all were of South Asian ethnicity belonging to the Sikh and Muslim communities. METHODS: Interviews were digitally audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim; transcripts were analysed thematically. RESULTS: Four themes were identified: (a) religious issues; (b) lack of knowledge within the community; (c) time; (d) cultural identification with transplantation. CONCLUSIONS: Not only is the information given and when it is delivered important, but also the person giving the information is crucial to enhance consideration of live donor kidney transplantation. Information should be in a first language where possible and overtly align to religious considerations. A more integrated approach to transplantation counselling should be adopted which includes healthcare professionals and credible members of the target cultural group. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT04327167.

Biosynthesis of MgO Nanoparticles and Their Impact on the Properties of the PVA/Gelatin Nanocomposites for Smart Food Packaging Applications.

Fabricating active and intelligent packaging materials has become the highest demand for catering to market needs, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, for ensuring food safety. Thus, the wider objective of this article was to promote active and smart packaging biofilms possessing antibacterial and humidity-sensing properties for sustainable poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/gelatin (Ge) reinforced with biosynthesized magnesium nanoparticles (MgO NPs) by a solvent-casting route. The UV-visible spectrum has been utilized to determine the optimized biosynthesized MgO NPs and then the nanostructure of optimized MgO NPs investigated by varying techniques such as XRD, SEM-EDX, TEM, FT-IR, and thermogravimetric analysis. Four MgO NPs proportions (i.e., 1, 3, 5, and 10 wt %) were used to fabricate PVA/Ge biofilms. In the biofilms system, the tensile results showcased that the nanocomposite film containing 5 wt % of MgO NPs had the highest tensile strength value (i.e., 22.10 MPs) compared to the other biofilms or the unfilled blank (i.e., 6.30 MPs). Correspondingly, the humidity-sensing data revealed that the PVA/Ge-1% MgO NPs sensor had higher sensitivity over a broad range of relative humidity from (7-97% RH) and at 100 Hz. Additionally, the hydrophobicity of biofilms, measured by water contact angle, UV-stability, and antioxidant and antibacterial properties was also analyzed to possibly use these biofilms in active food packaging with extended shelf life of foodstuffs. However, the PVA/Ge-1% MgO NPs biofilm was predominately found to possess attractive sensing properties and could be considered as a sensor for intelligent food packaging.