Fabrication of a free-standing Ti3C2T x -PTh counter electrode via interfacial polymerization for dye-sensitized solar cells.

The current work involves the fabrication of a MXene-Polythiophene (Ti3C2T x -PTh) composite via interfacial polymerization, alongside its deployment as a counter electrode (CE) or photocathode in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The structural properties of the synthesized materials were investigated through a comprehensive array of techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, high resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM), energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The electrochemical performance, assessed via cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), revealed that the Ti3C2T x -PTh CE exhibits superior electro-catalytic activity, and reduction in charge transfer resistance compared to other individual CEs. These observations are in concordance with the data obtained from Tafel analysis. The incorporation of Ti3C2T x sheets into the composite significantly augmented its catalytic efficacy for triiodide reduction, manifesting in elevated short-circuit photocurrent density and enhanced fill factor metrics. A DSSC utilizing the Ti3C2T x -PTh CE exhibited a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 5.83%, which stands on par with that of traditional Pt CEs. Thus, the Ti3C2T x -PTh CE material is posited as a viable, cost-efficient alternative to Pt, heralding a new era in the engineering of counter electrodes for the next generation of DSSCs.

Neurological manifestations of Flaviviridae, Togaviridae, and Peribunyaviridae as vector-borne viruses.

Vector-borne viruses pose a significant health problem worldwide, as they are transmitted to humans through the bite of infected arthropods such as mosquitoes and ticks. In recent years, emerging and re-emerging vector-borne diseases have gained attention as they can cause a wide spectrum of neurological manifestations. The neurological manifestations of vector-borne viruses encompass a board spectrum of clinical manifestations, ranging from mild and self-limiting symptoms to severe and life-threatening conditions. Common neurological complications include viral encephalitis, acute flaccid paralysis, aseptic meningitis, and various neuromuscular disorders. The specific viruses responsible for these neurological sequelae vary by geographic region and include Orthoflavivirus nilense, Zika virus, dengue virus, chikungunya virus, Japanese encephalitis virus, and tick-borne encephalitis virus. This review focuses on the pathogenesis of these neurologic complications and highlights the mechanisms by which vector-borne viruses invade the central nervous system and trigger neuroinflammatory responses. Diagnostic challenges and strategies for early detection of neurological manifestations are discussed, emphasising the importance of clinical suspicion and advanced laboratory testing.

Awareness and Attitudes Among Parents of Females Aged 9-26 in Saudi Arabia Regarding Human Papillomavirus Vaccination.

Background Most cases of cervical cancer are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which can be prevented by vaccination. The HPV vaccine received approval in Saudi Arabia in 2010. Objectives This study aimed to examine the awareness and attitudes toward the HPV vaccine among parents of females aged 9-26 in Saudi Arabia and explore factors contributing to hesitancy or acceptance. Methods Conducted from November 2022 to June 2023 in Saudi Arabia, this cross-sectional study surveyed parents of females aged 9-26 using a self-administered questionnaire. Data collected included parental demographics, maternal vaccination status, awareness of the HPV vaccine, and attitudes toward it. Results Out of 551 participants, 445 (82.4%) were mothers. Most participants (331; 69.1%) had attained a university education, and approximately half (315; 57.2%) were employed. A total of 339 (61.5%) were aware of the HPV vaccine, 256 (46.5%) knew of its connection to cervical cancer, and 296 (53.7%) understood its preventive role. Among them, 230 participants demonstrated a good level of awareness, while 321 had a poor level. The majority (377; 68.4%) intended to vaccinate their daughters. Reasons for hesitancy among those unwilling included lack of awareness (234; 42.5%), insufficient information (206; 37.4%), fear of vaccines and needles (203; 36.8%), and conflicting medical opinions (165; 29.9%). Conclusion The current level of awareness regarding HPV vaccines within the general population is deemed satisfactory, with the majority expressing intent to vaccinate their daughters. Ongoing efforts are warranted to enhance awareness further, particularly by leveraging social media platforms and the expertise of trusted physicians and healthcare authorities. These endeavors are crucial for mitigating the preventable impact of HPV infection. Additionally, it is imperative to sustain immunization programs for HPV vaccines, ensuring streamlined vaccine administration.

Safety Practices in Al-Baha: A Cross-Sectional Study on Parental Awareness of Child Choking Events.

BACKGROUND: Instances of choking continue to pose a concern for the health and safety of children. This study aims to assess parents' understanding, awareness, and perspectives on child choking. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Al-Baha region of Saudi Arabia from September 13, 2023, to October 3, 2023. Data collection was done via an electronically validated questionnaire among parents aged 18 years and above, covering knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney U test, the Kruskal-Wallis test, the Shapiro-Wilk test, and the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Any result below 0.05 (p < 0.05) was considered significant. RESULTS: Out of 819 participants, 705 individuals were included in the analysis. The results indicated that there was a good level of knowledge (55%) regarding handling child choking situations. Interestingly, females demonstrated higher levels of awareness compared to males (79.4% versus 20.6%). Attitudes toward managing child choking incidents were rated as overall moderate, with 66.5% showing poor practices, such as being hesitant to seek medical assistance if symptoms improved. A majority of choking cases occurred at home (85%), underscoring the importance of enhancing intervention strategies through increased knowledge dissemination. Notably, the internet and social media platforms (71.8%) emerged as primary sources of information on dealing with child choking incidents. There was significant interest in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) classes (69.2%), although many people found it hard to make time for them (45%). CONCLUSIONS: Parents in the Al-Baha area seem to have a good understanding but some concerning attitudes when it comes to child choking situations. It is important to spread awareness, correct misconceptions, and encourage CPR training.

Gold nanostructures on polyelectrolyte-brush-modified cellulose membranes as a synergistic platform for uric acid detection.

In this study, we present a convenient approach utilizing gold nanostructures coated cellulose membrane for the quantification of uric acid in an aqueous solution. The synthesis of system was achieved by functionalizing cellulose membrane with poly[2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl]trimethylammonium chloride (PMETAC) and cross-linked with ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA). FT-IR and XPS confirm the formation of PMETAC and PMETAC/EGDMA on the cellulose. The fabricated substrates were exposed to tetrachloroaurate solution, then reduced by NaBH4. We have systematically investigated the catalytic oxidation of 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in various pH conditions, absent uric acid, using the fabricated substrates. The colorimetric response-observed through UV-Vis spectroscopy-revealed significant shifts in absorbance at 660 nm, correlating with uric acid concentrations across a range of pH levels. The films exhibited a pronounced color change from green to light yellow in basic to neutral environments and from yellow to dark green under more acidic conditions, demonstrating their potential for high-sensitivity uric acid detection. The assessment of the catalytic films' reusability and stability revealed insights into their enduring performance, identifying opportunities for enhancing material design and functionality for extended applications. This study not only underscores the films' versatile detection capabilities but also emphasizes the importance of pH in tuning the assay's sensitivity and specificity.

2D MXene-Based Nanoscale Materials for Electrochemical Sensing Toward the Detection of Hazardous Pollutants: A Perspective.

MXenes (Mn+1XnTx), a subgroup of 2-dimensional (2D) materials, specifically comprise transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides. They exhibit exceptional electrocatalytic and photocatalytic properties, making them well-suited for the detection and removal of pollutants from aqueous environments. Because of their high surface area and remarkable properties, they are being utilized in various applications, including catalysis, sensing, and adsorption, to combat pollution and mitigate its adverse effects. Different characterization techniques like XRD, SEM, TEM, UV-Visible spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy have been used for the structural elucidation of 2D MXene. Current responses against applied potential were measured during the electrochemical sensing of the hazardous pollutants in an aqueous system using a variety of electroanalytical techniques, including differential pulse voltammetry, amperometry, square wave anodic stripping voltammetry, etc. In this review, a comprehensive discussion on structural patterns, synthesis, properties of MXene and their application for electrochemical detection of lethal pollutants like hydroquionone, phenol, catechol, mercury and lead, etc. are presented. This review will be helpful to critically understand the methods of synthesis and application of MXenes for the removal of environmental pollutants.

Different modalities to manage rheumatoid arthritis: an A to Z story.

Aim: To investigate different approaches to RA treatment that might lead to greater efficacy and better safety profiles. Methods: The Search strategy was based on medical subject headings, and screening and selection were based on inclusion/exclusion criteria. Results & discussion: Early therapy is critical for disease control and loss of bodily function. The most promising outcomes came from the development of disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. Different foods have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities that protect against the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Some dietary patterns and supplements have been shown to have potential protective benefits against RA. Conclusion: Improvement in the quality of life of RA patients requires a tailored management approach based on the current patient medical data.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a complex disease with an unclear origin that affects the joints. In this systematic review, we aimed to investigate different effective ways of treating rheumatoid arthritis. Study results indicate that rheumatoid arthritis treatment requires coordination between different healthcare teams. As much as we can, when we start disease treatment early, this will lead to a better disease cure. Different drugs showed promising results in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, but the most promising treatment results came from a group of medicinal agents called 'disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs'. Different foods have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect and help in protection against rheumatoid arthritis, but others, such as red meat and salt, have the opposite effect. Some dietary patterns and supplements, such as the Mediterranean Diet, vitamin D and probiotics, have been shown to have potential protective benefits against rheumatoid arthritis. Improvement in the quality of patient life requires an individualized management roadmap based on current patient medical data.

Effect of 'Procumbenase' a serine protease from Tridax procumbens aqueous extract on wound healing: A scar free healing of full thickness wounds.

Wound healing involves several cellular and molecular pathways. Tridax procumbens activates genetic pathways with antibacterial, antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties, aiding wound healing. This study purified Procumbenase, a serine protease from T. procumbens extract, using gel filtration (Sephadex G-75) and ion exchange (CM-Sephadex C-50) chromatography. Characterization involved analyses of protease activity, RP-HPLC, SDS-PAGE, gelatin zymogram, PAS staining, mass spectrometry, and circular dichroism. Optimal pH and temperature were determined. Protease type was identified using inhibitors. Wound-healing potential was evaluated through tensile strength, wound models, hydroxyproline estimation, and NIH 3T3 cell scratch analysis. In incision wound rat models, Procumbenase increased tensile strength on day 14 more than saline and Povidone­iodine. It increased wound contraction by 89 % after 10 days in excision wound models, attaining full contraction by day 15 and closure by day 21. Scarless wound healing was enhanced by 18 days of epithelialization against 22 and 21 days for saline and povidone­iodine. Procumbenase increased hydroxyproline concentration 2.53-fold (59.93 ± 2.89 mg/g) compared to saline (23.67 ± 1.86 mg/g). In NIH 3 T3 cell scratch assay, Procumbenase increased migration by 60.93 % (50 µg) and 60.57 % (150 µg) after 48 h. Thus, Procumbenase is the primary bioactive molecule in T. procumbens, demonstrates scar-free wound healing properties.

The art of healing hearts: Mastering advanced RNA therapeutic techniques to shape the evolution of cardiovascular medicine in biomedical science.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide and are associated with increasing financial health burden that requires research into novel therapeutic approaches. Since the early 2000s, the availability of next-generation sequencing techniques such as microRNAs, circular RNAs, and long non-coding RNAs have been proven as potential therapeutic targets for treating various CVDs. Therapeutics based on RNAs have become a viable option for addressing the intricate molecular pathways that underlie the pathophysiology of CVDs. We provide an in-depth analysis of the state of RNA therapies in the context of CVDs, emphasizing various approaches that target the various stages of the basic dogma of molecular biology to effect temporary or long-term changes. In this review, we summarize recent methodologies used to screen for novel coding and non-coding RNA candidates with diagnostic and treatment possibilities in cardiovascular diseases. These methods include single-cell sequencing techniques, functional RNA screening, and next-generation sequencing.Lastly, we highlighted the potential of using oligonucleotide-based chemical products such as modified RNA and RNA mimics/inhibitors for the treatment of CVDs. Moreover, there will be an increasing number of potential RNA diagnostic and therapeutic for CVDs that will progress to expand for years to come.

In-vitro Cytotoxicity Investigations for Phytoconstituents of Saudi Medicinal Plants With Putative Ocular Effects.

BACKGROUND: Metastatic secondary ocular tumors spread from systemic malignancies, including breast cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxicity of extracts from 5 medicinal plants native to Saudi Arabia. METHODS: For preliminary activity screening, cytotoxicity using the MTT assay and selectivity index determinations were made for medicinal plant extracts against various cancer cell-lines. The most promising extract was subjected to GC-MS analysis to determine the phytochemical composition. Clonogenic assays were performed using the most promising extract to confirm the initial results. Finally, western blot analysis was used to determine the modulation in expression of survivin and P27 suppressor genes in the human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF7) cell-line to understand the potential mechanistic properties of the active plant extract. RESULTS: The 5 plant extracts showed various cytotoxic activity levels using IC50. The most active extract was found to be the leaves of Capparis spinosa L. (BEP-07 extract) against the MCF7 breast cancer cell-line (IC50 = 3.61 ± 0.99 µg/ml) and selectivity index of 1.17 compared to the normal human fetal lung fibroblast (MRC5) cells. BEP-07 extract showed a dose dependent clonogenic effect against the MCF7 colonies which was comparable with the effect of doxorubicin. BEP-07 extract caused a significant decrease of survivin and increase in P27 expression compared to control GAPDH at its highest dose (14 µg/ml). The GC-MS chromatogram of Capparis spinosa L. (BEP-07 extract) revealed the existence of 145 compounds, belonging to the diverse classes of phytoconstituents. Fatty acids and their derivatives represent 15.4%, whilst octadecanoic acid, 2,3-dihydroxypropyl ester was the principal component (7.9%) detected. CONCLUSION: Leaves of Capparis spinosa L. (BEP-07 extract) exhibited a significant cytotoxic effect particularly against breast cancer cells. It exhibited this effect through survivin inhibition and via P27 upregulation. The detected phytoconstituents in the plant extract might be involved in tested cytotoxic activity, while further investigations are required to complete the drug candidate profile.

Development of a microcantilever-based biosensor for detecting Programmed Death Ligand 1.

The ongoing global concern of cancer worldwide necessitates the development of advanced diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. The majority of recent detection strategies involve the employment of biomarkers. A critical biomarker for cancer immunotherapy efficacy and patient prognosis is Programmed Death Ligand 1 (PD-L1), which is a key immune checkpoint protein. PD-L1 can be particularly linked to cancer progression and therapy response. Current detection methods, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), face limitations like high cost, time consumption, and complexity. This study introduces a microcantilever-based biosensor designed for the detection of soluble PD-L1 (sPD-L1), which has a specific association with PD-L1. The biosensor utilizes anti-PD-L1 as the sensing layer, capitalizing on the specific binding affinity between anti-PD-L1 and sPD-L1. The presence of the sensing layer was confirmed through Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and contact angle measurements. Binding between sPD-L1 and anti-PD-L1 induces a shift in the microcantilever's resonance frequency, which is proportional to the PD-L1 concentration. Notably, the resonance frequency shift demonstrates a robust linear relationship with the increasing biomarker concentration, ranging from 0.05 ng/ml to 500 ng/ml. The detection limit of the biosensor was determined to be approximately 10 pg/ml. The biosensor demonstrates excellent performance in detecting PD-L1 with high specificity even in complex biological matrices. This innovative approach not only provides a promising tool for early cancer diagnosis but also holds potential for monitoring immunotherapy efficacy, paving the way for personalized and effective cancer treatments.

Asiatic acid rescues intestinal tissue by suppressing molecular, biochemical, and histopathological changes associated with the development of ulcerative colitis.

Asiatic acid (AA) is a polyphenolic compound with potent antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities that make it a potential choice to attenuate inflammation and oxidative insults associated with ulcerative colitis (UC). Hence, the present study aimed to evaluate if AA can attenuate molecular, biochemical, and histological alterations in the acetic acid-induced UC model in rats. To perform the study, five groups were applied, including the control, acetic acid-induced UC, UC-treated with 40 mg/kg aminosalicylate (5-ASA), UC-treated with 20 mg/kg AA, and UC-treated with 40 mg/kg AA. Levels of different markers of inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis were studied along with histological approaches. The induction of UC increased the levels of lipid peroxidation (LPO) and nitric oxide (NO). Additionally, the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and its downstream antioxidant proteins [catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione reductase (GR)] were down-regulated in the colon tissue. Moreover, the inflammatory mediators [myeloperoxidase (MPO), monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP1), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß)] were increased in the colon tissue after the induction of UC. Notably, an apoptotic response was developed, as demonstrated by the increased caspase-3 and Bax and decreased Bcl2. Interestingly, AA administration at both doses lessened the molecular, biochemical, and histopathological changes following the induction in the colon tissue of UC. In conclusion, AA could improve the antioxidative status and attenuate the inflammatory and apoptotic challenges associated with UC.

Prevalence, Clinical Characteristics and Determinants of Unsuccessful Treatment Outcomes Among Pulmonary Tuberculosis Patients: A 5-Year Registry-Based Retrospective Cohort Study.

Purpose: Despite the existence of effective medications, pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) remains a significant global public health concern, The evaluation and feedback of national TB control programs are crucial, requiring diligent monitoring of TB treatment outcomes and analysis of the factors influencing these outcomes. This study aims to provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by TB patients, which can inform better strategies for treatment and management in the future. Patients and Methods: We conducted a study in King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2023. The study was a registry-based retrospective cohort study. Patients' data were sourced from the National Tuberculosis Registry database of Saudi Arabia. Treatment outcomes were determined as either success or failure, considering clinical evaluation, changes in chest X-rays, and the results of subsequent sputum examinations during follow-up. To evaluate the data, SPSS version 28.0 was used. Results: A total of 427 PTB patients participated in the study. The results show successful treatment outcomes among 88.5% of patients. Among the patients, males exhibited a higher likelihood of treatment failure as compared to females (aOR 1.3; 95%Cl 1.2-1.5, p < 0.001). Patients with positive sputum smear (aOR 1.3; 95%Cl 1.1-1.3 p < 0.00) and the presence of cough were associated with an increased risk of treatment failure (aOR1.5; 95%Cl 1.1-1.4, p < 0.001). Conclusion: This study shows that the percentage of unsuccessful treatment outcomes is high, ie, 11.5%, due to patients' deaths and loss to follow-up. Enhanced supervision and treatment monitoring for tuberculosis patients at high risk of treatment failure can lead to improved treatment success rates in Saudi Arabia.

Cold Plasma Treatment of Little Millet Flour: Impact on Bioactives, Antinutritional Factors and Functional Properties.

This study delves into the transformative effects of atmospheric cold plasma (CP) treatment on little millet flour (LMF), specifically exploring alterations in bioactive compounds, antinutritional factors, and functional properties. Foaming and emulsification properties experienced noteworthy enhancements with plasma treatment, manifesting in significant increases in foaming capacity (up to 51.47 ± 0.49%), foaming stability, emulsification ability, and emulsion stability (up to 47.02 ± 0.35%). The treatment also positively influenced water absorption index and swelling power. Antinutritional factors, including tannins and saponins, exhibited substantial reductions following plasma treatment. Saponin content, for instance, decreased by an impressive 58% after exposure to 20 kV for 20 min. Conversely, bioactive compounds such as phenolic content and antioxidant activity saw significant increases. Total phenolic content (TPC) rose from 527.54 ± 8.94 to 575.82 ± 3.58 mg GAE/100 g, accompanied by a remarkable 59% boost in antioxidant activity. Interestingly, plasma treatment did not exhibit a discernible effect on pasting properties. These findings collectively underscore the potential of atmospheric CP treatment as a novel and effective method for enhancing the functional and nutritional attributes of LMF, thereby opening new avenues for its application in food science and technology.

Burden of routine orthopedic implant removal a single center retrospective study.

BACKGROUND: Open reduction and internal fixation represent prevalent orthopedic procedures, sparking ongoing discourse over whether to retain or remove asymptomatic implants. Achieving consensus on this matter is paramount for orthopedic surgeons. This study aims to quantify the impact of routine implant removal on patients and healthcare facilities. A retrospective analysis of implant removal cases from 2016 to 2022 at King Fahad Hospital of the University (KFHU) was conducted and subjected to statistical scrutiny. Among these cases, 44% necessitated hospitalization exceeding one day, while 56% required only a single day. Adults exhibited a 55% need for extended hospital stays, contrasting with 22.8% among the pediatric cohort. The complication rate was 6%, with all patients experiencing at least one complication. Notably, 34.1% required sick leave and 4.8% exceeded 14 d. General anesthesia was predominant (88%). Routine implant removal introduces unwarranted complications, particularly in adults, potentially prolonging hospitalization. This procedure strains hospital resources, tying up the operating room that could otherwise accommodate critical surgeries. Clearly defined institutional guidelines are imperative to regulate this practice. AIM: To measure the burden of routine implant removal on the patients and hospital. METHODS: This is a retrospective analysis study of 167 routine implant removal cases treated at KFHU, a tertiary hospital in Saudi Arabia. Data were collected in the orthopedic department at KFHU from February 2016 to August 2022, which includes routine asymptomatic implant removal cases across all age categories. Nonroutine indications such as infection, pain, implant failure, malunion, nonunion, restricted range of motion, and prominent hardware were excluded. Patients who had external fixators removed or joints replaced were also excluded. RESULTS: Between February 2016 and August 2022, 360 implants were retrieved; however, only 167 of those who met the inclusion criteria were included in this study. The remaining implants were rejected due to exclusion criteria. Among the cases, 44% required more than one day in the hospital, whereas 56% required only one day. 55% of adults required more than one day of hospitalization, while 22.8% of pediatric patients required more than one day of inpatient care. The complication rate was 6%, with each patient experiencing at least one complication. Sick leave was required in 34.1% of cases, with 4.8% requiring more than 14 d. The most common type of anesthesia used in the surgeries was general anesthesia (88%), and the mean (SD) surgery duration was 77.1 (54.7) min. CONCLUSION: Routine implant removal causes unnecessary complications, prolongs hospital stays, depletes resources and monopolizing operating rooms that could serve more critical procedures.

Alkaline protease functionalized hydrothermal synthesis of novel gold nanoparticles (ALPs-AuNPs): A new entry in photocatalytic and biological applications.

Researchers are consistently investigating novel and distinctive methods and materials that are compatible for human life and environmental conditions This study aimed to synthesize gold nanoparticles (ALPs-AuNPs) using for the first time an alkaline protease (ALPs) derived from Phalaris minor seed extract. A series of physicochemical techniques were used to inquire the formation, size, shape and crystalline nature of ALPs-AuNPs. The nanoparticles' ability to degrade methylene blue (MB) through photocatalysis under visible light irradiation was assessed. The findings demonstrated that ALPs-AuNPs exhibited remarkable efficacy by destroying 100 % of MB within a mere 30-minute irradiation period. In addition, the ALPs-AuNPs demonstrated remarkable effectiveness in inhibiting the growth of gram-positive (S. aureus) and gram-negative (E. coli) bacteria. The inhibition zones examined against the two bacterial strains were 23(±0.3) mm and 19(±0.4); 13(±0.3) mm and 11(±0.5) mm under light and dark conditions respectively. The ALPs-AuNPs exhibited significant antioxidant activity by effectively scavenging 88 % of stable and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals. As a result, the findings demonstrated that the environmentally friendly ALPs-AuNPs showed a strong potential for MB degradation and bacterial pathogen treatment.

Zn/Al layered double hydroxide and carboxymethyl cellulose composite beads as support for the catalytic gold nanoparticles and their applications in the reduction of nitroarenes.

Until now, many efficient catalysts have been reported that are used for the reduction of nitroarenes. However, a catalyst reusability is a challenge that is often faced in practical environment. In this report, we designed a hydrogel composite (CMC-LDH), which act as support and making it possible to address this challenge. In this research work, zinc/aluminum based layered double hydroxides (Zn/Al LDH) have been assembled with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) to prepare CMC/LDH hydrogel beads. The CMC/LDH hydrogel beads were prepared by the ionotropic gelation method. For CMC/LDH/Au preparation, the already prepared CMC/LDH beads were kept in gold ion (Au3+) solution, and their subsequent reduction with sodium borohydride (NaBH4). For the characterization of the prepared samples different instrumental techniques, such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were adopted. For the catalytic evaluation of CMC/LDH/Au, it was utilized as a catalyst in 4-NP and 4-NA reduction reactions. The continuity of the reaction was monitored by a UV-visible spectrophotometer. Rate constant (kapp) of 0.48474 min-1 and 0.7486 min-1 were obtained for 4-NP and 4-NA reduction, respectively. The hydrogel beads were recycled and reused for up to five successive cycles without significantly changing their catalytic efficiency.

Experimental and computational DFT, drift-diffusion studies of cobalt-based hybrid perovskite crystals as absorbers in perovskite solar cells.

The optimised designs of dimethyl ammonium cobalt formate-based perovskite crystals [(CH3)2NH2]Co(HCOO)3 were experimentally synthesized and computationally utilized as absorbers for perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Crystals were grown using solvothermal synthesis. Additive materials (Fe, Ni) are responsible for the growth and suppression of crystals in the micrometre range. Temperature and pressure were altered to obtain optimum growth conditions. Grown crystals were characterized by spectroscopy (XRD, FT-IR, UV-Vis) and optical microscopy. Combined density functional theory (DFT) and drift-diffusion modelling frameworks were simulated. These simulators were used to examine various perovskite absorbers for solar-cell configurations. Field calculations were used to examine the structural stability, band structure, and electronic contribution of the constituent elements in [(CH3)2NH2]Co1-nMn(HCOO)3 (M = Fe, Ni and n = 0, 0.1) as absorber material. Conventional TiO2 and spiro-OMeTAD were used as the electron-transport layer and hole-transport layer, respectively, and Pt was used as a back contact. Comprehensive analysis of the effects of several parameters (layer thickness, series and shunt resistances, temperature, generation-recombination rates, current-voltage density, quantum efficiency) was carried out using simulation. Our proposed strategy may pave the way for further design of new absorber materials for PSCs.

Retraction: Isolated Superior Mesenteric Artery Dissection After Methamphetamine Use: A Rare Adverse Effect.

[This retracts the article DOI: 10.7759/cureus.19551.].

Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] improved blood glucose and restored histopathological alterations in splenic tissues in a rat model with streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetes through CD8+ T cells and NF-kß expression.

Diabetes mellitus is a complex metabolic syndrome that involves dysfunction of spleen and other lymphoid organs. Medicinal plants, including okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench), were used widely for diabetes treatment. Scarce data are available about the potential anti-diabetic effects of okra, the histopathological alterations in splenic tissues and the mechanistic pathways underlying this association. The current research investigated the effects of okra pod extract on the biochemical parameters and expression of CD8+ T cells and nuclear factor kappa (NF-k) B and releasing proinflammatory cytokines in spleen in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rat models. A total of 50 mature male Wister albino rats were divided into five isolated groups; the first served as control (untreated) animals, the second (DM group) diabetes induced by STZ (at a dose of 45 mg/kg body weight, administered intraperitoneally), the third group (DM + Insulin): diabetic rats administered insulin subcutaneously (10 units/kg bw/day) daily for 4 weeks, the fourth group was administrated 400 mg/kg okra extract daily for 4 weeks, and diabetic induced rats in the fifth group were administrated 400 mg/kg okra extract daily for 4 weeks. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity in Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench was studied, and the content of phenolic compounds in okra pods was estimated using high-performance liquid chromatography. Diabetes induction led to decreased body weight, increased blood glucose levels. Capsular thickness was significantly increased, white pulp was widely dispersed, and mature lymphocytes in the periphery were also drastically decreased, with thick follicular arteries, necrosis, and depletion of lymphocytes in the germinal center. Red pulp revealed severe congestion and degenerative changes, deposition of hemosiderin granules and lymphocytic depletion. In addition, collagen fiber deposition was increased also in this group. The induction of diabetes exaggerated NF-kß expression and mediated downregulation of the expression of CD8+ T cells in spleen tissue. Interestingly, oral administration of okra extracts post diabetes induction could mitigate and reverse such adverse effects. Altogether, our study points out the potential benefits of okra in improving blood glucose levels and restoring histopathological alterations in splenic tissues through CD8+ T cells and NF-kß expression in a diabetic rat model.