Hybridization of concrete by the inclusions of kaolin, alumina and silica fume: Performance evaluation.

Concrete is the prime source, which fulfils the applications for construction in various forms. The prime roles of concrete industries are reducing material usage, enrichment of compressive strength, and flexural strength of concrete usage. This research focuses on recycling kaolin (mining waste) and silica fume, a great potential material for replacing coarse aggregate gravel stone and fine aggregate sand in conventional concrete as a hybrid. The developed concrete contained 5% nano alumina (Al2O3), 10% of kaolin waste (KW), and 5, 10, and 15% of silica fume (SF), and its behavior like compressive strength, flexural strength, water absorption, and acid attack behavior is studied. The molecular structure of crystalline is analyzed via X-ray diffraction (XRD). The 15% SF blended with 5% alumina and 10% KW cured within 28 and 90 days recorded high compressive and flexural strength (44 ± 1.76 MPa and 4.3 ± 0.17 MPa). XRD pattern proved their alumina, SF, and KW and found that the concrete blended with 5% alumina, 10% KW, and 15 wt% SF(90 days cured concrete) showed low water absorption (3.1 ± 0.12%). The effect of sulfuric acid behavior on weight reduction was 0.78% compared to CC1 (concrete cube without Al2O3, SF, and KW).

Improvement of mechanical performance on zirconium dioxide nanoparticle synthesized magnesium alloy nano composite.

With excellent mechanical properties and distinct solidification, the AZ31B series magnesium alloy has great potential for targeting engineering applications and synthesized via die casting process found a drawback on oxidation results porosity and reduced mechanical properties. Here, the magnesium alloy AZ31B series nanocomposite was synthesized with varied weight percentages of zirconium dioxide nanoparticles through a liquid metallurgy route with an applied stir speed of 200 rpm under an argon nature. With the help of a scanning electron microscope, the distribution of particles in the composite surface was found to be homogenous and void-free surface, which output results in less percentage of porosity (<1 %), and the composite contained 6 wt% ZrO2 offers superior yield strength (212 ± 3 MPa), tensile strength (278 ± 2 MPa), and impact strength of 16.4 ± 0.4 J/mm2. In addition, 8 wt% ZrO2 blended composite showed the maximum microhardness value (78.3 ± 1 HV). The best-enhanced result of NC3 (AZ31B/6 wt% ZrO2) is suggested for lightweight to high-strength structural applications.

Mitigation of bio-corrosion characteristics of coronary artery stent by optimising fs-laser micromachining parameters.

Cardiovascular diseases, particularly coronary artery disease, pose big challenges to human life. Deployment of the stent is a preferable treatment for the above-mentioned disease. However, stents are usually made up of shape memory alloy called Nitinol. The poorer surface finish on the machined nitinol stents accelerates the migration of Nickel ions from the implanted nitinol stent, which is considered toxic and can lead to stenosis. The current study deals with controlling surface quality by minimising surface roughness and improving corrosion resistance. Femtosecond laser (fs-laser 10-15 s) micromachining was employed to machine the Nitinol surface to achieve sub-micron surface roughness. The Grey relational analysis (GRA)-coupled design of the experimental technique was implemented to determine optimal levels of four micromachining parameters (laser power, pulse frequency, scanning speed, and scanning pattern) varied at three levels to achieve minimum surface roughness and to maximise the volume ablation. The results show that to yield minimum surface roughness and maximum volume ablation, laser power and scanning speed are in a higher range. In contrast, the pulse frequency is lower, and the scanning pattern is in a zig-zag manner. ANOVA results manifest that scanning speed is the predominant factor in minimising surface roughness, followed by pulse frequency. Furthermore, the corrosion behaviour of the machined nitinol specimens was evaluated, and the results show that specimens with lower surface roughness had lower corrosion rates.

Carbon capture, utilization and storage opportunities to mitigate greenhouse gases.

Carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) technologies are utmost need of the modern era. CCUS technologies adoption is compulsory to keep global warming below 1.5 °C. Mineral carbonation (MC) is considered one of the safest and most viable methods to sequester anthropogenic carbon dioxide (CO2). MC is an exothermic reaction and occur naturally in the subsurface because of fluid-rock interactions with serpentinite. In serpentine carbonation, CO2 reacts with magnesium to produce carbonates. This article covers CO2 mitigation technologies especially mineral carbonation, mineral carbonation by natural and industrial materials, mineral carbonation feedstock availability in Pakistan, detailed characterization of serpentine from Skardu serpentinite belt, geo sequestration, oceanic sequestration, CO2 to urea and CO2 to methanol and other chemicals. Advantages, disadvantages, and suitability of these technologies is discussed. These technologies are utmost necessary for Pakistan as recent climate change induced flooding devastated one third of Pakistan affecting millions of families. Hence, Pakistan must store CO2 through various CCUS technologies.

A comprehensive analysis of the emerging modern trends in research on photovoltaic systems and desalination in the era of artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Integration of photovoltaic (PV) systems, desalination technologies, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) combined with Machine Learning (ML) has introduced a new era of remarkable research and innovation. This review article thoroughly examines the recent advancements in the field, focusing on the interplay between PV systems and water desalination within the framework of AI and ML applications, along with it analyses current research to identify significant patterns, obstacles, and prospects in this interdisciplinary field. Furthermore, review examines the incorporation of AI and ML methods in improving the performance of PV systems. This includes raising their efficiency, implementing predictive maintenance strategies, and enabling real-time monitoring. It also explores the transformative influence of intelligent algorithms on desalination techniques, specifically addressing concerns pertaining to energy usage, scalability, and environmental sustainability. This article provides a thorough analysis of the current literature, identifying areas where research is lacking and suggesting potential future avenues for investigation. These advancements have resulted in increased efficiency, decreased expenses, and improved sustainability of PV system. By utilizing artificial intelligence technologies, freshwater productivity can increase by 10 % and efficiency. This review offers significant and informative perspectives for researchers, engineers, and policymakers involved in renewable energy and water technology. It sheds light on the latest advancements in photovoltaic systems and desalination, which are facilitated by AI and ML. The review aims to guide towards a more sustainable and technologically advanced future.

Advances in identifying and managing emerging contaminants in aquatic ecosystems: Analytical approaches, toxicity assessment, transformation pathways, environmental fate, and remediation strategies.

Emerging contaminants (ECs) are increasingly recognized as threats to human health and ecosystems. This review evaluates advanced analytical methods, particularly mass spectrometry, for detecting ECs and understanding their toxicity, transformation pathways, and environmental distribution. Our findings underscore the reliability of current techniques and the potential of upcoming methods. The adverse effects of ECs on aquatic life necessitate both in vitro and in vivo toxicity assessments. Evaluating the distribution and degradation of ECs reveals that they undergo physical, chemical, and biological transformations. Remediation strategies such as advanced oxidation, adsorption, and membrane bioreactors effectively treat EC-contaminated waters, with combinations of these techniques showing the highest efficacy. To minimize the impact of ECs, a proactive approach involving monitoring, regulations, and public education is vital. Future research should prioritize the refining of detection methods and formulation of robust policies for EC management.

Assessing the potential of GHG emissions for the textile sector: A baseline study.

The carbon footprint (CFP) is a measure of greenhouse gases (GHGs) emitted throughout the lifecycle of a product or activity, while the energy footprint (EFP) and water footprint (WFP) measure energy and water consumption, respectively. These footprints are essential for managing emissions and consumption and promoting low-carbon consumption. A carbon labeling scheme could help consumers make informed choices. Asia is a major textile producer and consumer, so studying textiles' carbon, energy, and water footprints is essential for managing domestic emissions, energy and water consumption, and international trade negotiations. This paper presents a method and framework for assessing CFP, EFP, and WFP at the product level and calculates the footprints for textile products. The results show that the total CFP of all textile products produced is 42,624.12 MT CO2e, with indirect emissions contributing significantly more than direct emissions. The total EFP is 248.38 PJ, with electricity consumption being the main contributor, while the total WFP is 80.71 billion liters. The spinning stage of production has the highest CFP and EFP, and energy consumption is the main contributor to all footprints. These results can help compare different products and reduce the footprints of the textile sector.

Influence of varying concentrations of TiO2 nanoparticles and engine speed on the performance and emissions of diesel engine operated on waste cooking oil biodiesel blends using response surface methodology.

For a few decades now fast depleting fossil fuels has been a major challenge. Fast expanding population and increased rate of urbanization has increased energy demand. This makes the current scenario worse. Fossil fuels' emissions are another challenge. Apart from fossil fuel emissions, the untreated disposal of waste cooking oil presents another environment's sustainability challenge. The treatment of waste cooking oil as fuel presents a tangible solution to challenge. In this research article, impact of the engine speed and the concentration of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles (NPs) in diesel-biodiesel blended fuels on the engine's performance. The emission characteristics of a single-cylinder four-stroke diesel engine has also been examined. TiO2 NPs were produced by a sol-gel methodology. The diesel-biodiesel combination was fortified with TiO2 NPs at 40, 80 and 120 ppm. These mixtures were used to power the diesel engine, which was then run at 1150, 1400, 1650, 1900 and 2150 RPM. Interaction between engine speeds and nanoparticle concentrations and investigation of their combined effect on engine performance and emissions was done using response surface methodology. The minimum BSFC of 0.33994 kg/kWh and maximum BTE of 25.90% were found for B30 + 120 ppm biodiesel blend at 2150 rpm as compared to all other tested fuels. The emissions including CO and HC emissions were recorded as 25.61486 kg/kWh and 0.05289kg/kWh respectively at 2150 rpm for B30 + 120 ppm biodiesel blend while NOx on the contrary side exhibits a slight escalation with increasing engine speed and nanoparticles concentration. The findings of the experiments demonstrated that adding TiO2 nanoparticles to diesel-biodiesel blends is an effective way to enhance the performance of diesel engines while simultaneously reducing the emissions. It was also discovered that the mathematical model that was built can efficiently estimate the performance of the engine and the emission levels.

Comprehensive review of environmental factors influencing the performance of photovoltaic panels: Concern over emissions at various phases throughout the lifecycle.

Recently, solar photovoltaic (PV) technology has shown tremendous growth among all renewable energy sectors. The attractiveness of a PV system depends deeply of the module and it is primarily determined by its performance. The quantity of electricity and power generated by a PV cell is contingent upon a number of parameters that can be intrinsic to the PV system itself, external or environmental. Thus, to improve the PV panel performance and lifetime, it is crucial to recognize the main parameters that directly influence the module during its operational lifetime. Among these parameters there are numerous factors that positively impact a PV system including the temperature of the solar panel, humidity, wind speed, amount of light, altitude and barometric pressure. On the other hand, the module can be exposed to simultaneous environmental stresses such as dust accumulation, shading and pollution factors. All these factors can gradually decrease the performance of the PV panel. This review not only provides the factors impacting PV panel's performance but also discusses the degradation and failure parameters that can usually affect the PV technology. The major points include: 1) Total quantity of energy extracted from a photovoltaic module is impacted on a daily, quarterly, seasonal, and yearly scale by the amount of dust formed on the surface of the module. 2) Climatic conditions as high temperatures and relative humidity affect the operation of solar cells by more than 70% and lead to a considerable decrease in solar cells efficiency. 3) The PV module current can be affected by soft shading while the voltage does not vary. In the case of hard shadowing, the performance of the photovoltaic module is determined by whether some or all of the cells of the module are shaded. 4) Compared to more traditional forms of energy production, PV systems offer a significant number of advantages to the environment. Nevertheless, these systems can procure greenhouse gas emissions, especially during the production stages. In conclusion, this study underlines the importance of considering multiple parameters while evaluating the performance of photovoltaic modules. Environmental factors can have a major impact on the performance of a PV system. It is critical to consider these factors, as well as intrinsic and other intermediate factors, to optimize the performance of solar energy systems. In addition, continuous monitoring and maintenance of PV systems is essential to ensure maximum efficiency and performance.

Experimental and Computational Analysis of Newly Synthesized Benzotriazinone Sulfonamides as Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors.

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder in which the pancreas secretes insulin but the body cells do not recognize it. As a result, carbohydrate metabolism causes hyperglycemia, which may be fatal for various organs. This disease is increasing day by day and it is prevalent among people of all ages, including young adults and children. Acarbose and miglitol are famous alpha-glucosidase inhibitors but they complicate patients with the problems of flatulence, pain, bloating, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. To overcome these challenges, it is crucial to discover new anti-diabetic drugs with minimal side effects. For this purpose, benzotriazinone sulfonamides were synthesized and their structures were characterized by FT-IR, 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR spectroscopy. In vitro alpha-glucosidase inhibition studies of all synthesized hybrids were conducted using the spectrophotometric method. The synthesized compounds revealed moderate-to-good inhibition activity; in particular, nitro derivatives 12e and 12f were found to be the most effective inhibitors against this enzyme, with IC50 values of 32.37 ± 0.15 µM and 37.75 ± 0.11 µM. In silico studies, including molecular docking as well as DFT analysis, also strengthened the experimental findings. Both leading compounds 12e and 12f showed strong hydrogen bonding interactions within the enzyme cavity. DFT studies also reinforced the strong binding interactions of these derivatives with biological molecules due to their lowest chemical hardness values and lowest orbital energy gap values.

Unusually High Mortality in Waterfowl Caused by Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) in Bangladesh.

Mortality in ducks and geese caused by highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) infection had not been previously identified in Bangladesh. In June-July 2011, we investigated mortality in ducks, geese and chickens with suspected H5N1 infection in a north-eastern district of the country to identify the aetiologic agent and extent of the outbreak and identify possible associated human infections. We surveyed households and farms with affected poultry flocks in six villages in Netrokona district and collected cloacal and oropharyngeal swabs from sick birds and tissue samples from dead poultry. We conducted a survey in three of these villages to identify suspected human influenza-like illness cases and collected nasopharyngeal and throat swabs. We tested all swabs by real-time RT-PCR, sequenced cultured viruses, and examined tissue samples by histopathology and immunohistochemistry to detect and characterize influenza virus infection. In the six villages, among the 240 surveyed households and 11 small-scale farms, 61% (1789/2930) of chickens, 47% (4816/10 184) of ducks and 73% (358/493) of geese died within 14 days preceding the investigation. Of 70 sick poultry swabbed, 80% (56/70) had detectable RNA for influenza A/H5, including 89% (49/55) of ducks, 40% (2/5) of geese and 50% (5/10) of chickens. We isolated virus from six of 25 samples; sequence analysis of the hemagglutinin and neuraminidase gene of these six isolates indicated clade 2.3.2.1a of H5N1 virus. Histopathological changes and immunohistochemistry staining of avian influenza viral antigens were recognized in the brain, pancreas and intestines of ducks and chickens. We identified ten human cases showing signs compatible with influenza-like illness; four were positive for influenza A/H3; however, none were positive for influenza A/H5. The recently introduced H5N1 clade 2.3.2.1a virus caused unusually high mortality in ducks and geese. Heightened surveillance in poultry is warranted to guide appropriate diagnostic testing and detect novel influenza strains.

Experimental assessment of non-edible candlenut biodiesel and its blend characteristics as diesel engine fuel.

Exploring new renewable energy sources as a substitute of petroleum reserves is necessary due to fulfilling the oncoming energy needs for industry and transportation systems. In this quest, a lot of research is going on to expose different kinds of new biodiesel sources. The non-edible oil from candlenut possesses the potential as a feedstock for biodiesel production. The present study aims to produce biodiesel from crude candlenut oil by using two-step transesterification process, and 10%, 20%, and 30% of biodiesel were mixed with diesel fuel as test blends for engine testing. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and gas chromatography (GC) were performed and analyzed to characterize the biodiesel. Also, the fuel properties of biodiesel and its blends were measured and compared with the specified standards. The thermal stability of the fuel blends was measured by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scan calorimetry (DSC) analysis. Engine characteristics were measured in a Yanmar TF120M single cylinder direct injection (DI) diesel engine. Biodiesel produced from candlenut oil contained 15% free fatty acid (FFA), and two-step esterification and transesterification were used. FTIR and GC remarked the biodiesels' existing functional groups and fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) composition. The thermal analysis of the biodiesel blends certified about the blends' stability regarding thermal degradation, melting and crystallization temperature, oxidative temperature, and storage stability. The brake power (BP), brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC), and brake thermal efficiency (BTE) of the biodiesel blends decreased slightly with an increasing pattern of nitric oxide (NO) emission. However, the hydrocarbon (HC) and carbon monoxides (CO) of biodiesel blends were found decreased.

Experimental investigation of a multicylinder unmodified diesel engine performance, emission, and heat loss characteristics using different biodiesel blends: rollout of B10 in Malaysia.

This paper deals with the performance and emission analysis of a multicylinder diesel engine using biodiesel along with an in-depth analysis of the engine heat losses in different subsystems followed by the energy balance of all the energy flows from the engine. Energy balance analysis allows the designer to appraise the internal energy variations of a thermodynamic system as a function of ''energy flows" across the control volume as work or heat and also the enthalpies associated with the energy flows which are passing through these boundaries. Palm and coconut are the two most potential biodiesel feed stocks in this part of the world. The investigation was conducted in a four-cylinder diesel engine fuelled with 10% and 20% blends of palm and coconut biodiesels and compared with B5 at full load condition and in the speed range of 1000 to 4000 RPM. Among the all tested blends, palm blends seemed more promising in terms of engine performance, emission, and heat losses. The influence of heat losses on engine performance and emission has been discussed thoroughly in this paper.

Reduction of fuel consumption and exhaust pollutant using intelligent transport systems.

Greenhouse gas emitted by the transport sector around the world is a serious issue of concern. To minimize such emission the automobile engineers have been working relentlessly. Researchers have been trying hard to switch fossil fuel to alternative fuels and attempting to various driving strategies to make traffic flow smooth and to reduce traffic congestion and emission of greenhouse gas. Automobile emits a massive amount of pollutants such as Carbon Monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC), carbon dioxide (CO2), particulate matter (PM), and oxides of nitrogen (NO x ). Intelligent transport system (ITS) technologies can be implemented to lower pollutant emissions and reduction of fuel consumption. This paper investigates the ITS techniques and technologies for the reduction of fuel consumption and minimization of the exhaust pollutant. It highlights the environmental impact of the ITS application to provide the state-of-art green solution. A case study also advocates that ITS technology reduces fuel consumption and exhaust pollutant in the urban environment.

Risk factors for highly pathogenic avian influenza in commercial layer chicken farms in bangladesh during 2011.

A case-control study conducted during 2011 involved 90 randomly selected commercial layer farms infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza type A subtype H5N1 (HPAI) and 175 control farms randomly selected from within 5 km of infected farms. A questionnaire was designed to obtain information about potential risk factors for contracting HPAI and was administered to farm owners or managers. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify significant risk factors. A total of 20 of 43 risk factors for contracting HPAI were identified after univariable logistic regression analysis. A multivariable logistic regression model was derived by forward stepwise selection. Both unmatched and matched analyses were performed. The key risk factors identified were numbers of staff, frequency of veterinary visits, presence of village chickens roaming on the farm and staff trading birds. Aggregating these findings with those from other studies resulted in a list of 16 key risk factors identified in Bangladesh. Most of these related to biosecurity. It is considered feasible for Bangladesh to achieve a very low incidence of HPAI. Using the cumulative list of risk factors to enhance biosecurity pertaining to commercial farms would facilitate this objective.

Molecular characterization of foot-and-mouth disease virus: implications for disease control in Bangladesh.

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is endemic in Bangladesh, and to implement an effective FMD control programme, it is essential to understand the complex epidemiology of the disease. Here, we report on the characterization of FMD virus (FMDV) recovered from FMD outbreaks in Bangladesh in late 2009. All isolated viruses belonged to the FMDV serotype O. The phylogenetic reconstruction showed that all isolates belonged to the Middle East-South Asia (ME-SA) topotype, but fell into two distinct sublineages, one named Ind-2001 (the other has not been named). Within both sublineages, the 2009 Bangladesh isolates were most closely related to viruses from Nepal collected during 2008 and 2009. Additionally, both sublineages contained older viruses from India collected in 2000 and 2001. In South Asia, there is extensive cross-border cattle movement from Nepal and India to Bangladesh. Both these findings have implications for the control of FMD in Bangladesh. Because of the porous borders, a regional FMD control strategy should be developed. Further, animal identification and monitoring animal movements are necessary to identify the cross-border movements and market chain interactions of ruminants, leading to improved border and movement controls. Additionally, a vaccination strategy should be developed with the initial objective of protecting small-scale dairy herds from disease. For any successful FMD control programme, long-term Government commitment and adequate resources are necessary. A sustainable programme will also need farmer education, commitment and financial contributions.

Radiolabeling and evaluation of alginate blend-isoniazid microspheres by 99mTc for the treatment of tuberculosis in rabbit model.

Isoniazid (INH) is the first line anti-tubercular drug that is widely used in the treatment of tuberculosis. (99m)Tc-alginate-INH microsphere scintigraphy has been demonstrated to be a useful noninvasive imaging technique for microsphere deposits located in different organs of the rabbits. The aim of this study was to develop an improved formulation, to validate the formulation for long-time retention, as well as to assess radiotracer stability by novel quality control methods. Our study reports the labeling and evaluation of alginate blends-INH microspheres. The incorporation efficiency of optimized formulation was 89% w/w. The in vitro release study was carried out in simulated intestinal fluid at pH 7.4, and it was found that the formulation delivered the drug for 36 h. The labeling efficiency of (99m)Tc-alginate blends-INH microspheres was seen at various pH (i.e. pH ranging from 5 to 7.5) and different concentration of stannous chloride dehydrate (i.e. 25-200 microg) and it was concluded that 96% labeling efficiency was achieved in case of pH 7.5 and 60 microg stannous chloride. The stability study was carried out in saline and serum and it was found that the complex was highly stable in vitro and in vivo. The blood clearance in rabbits showed bi-exponential pattern depicting that 50% of activity washed out at 2 h with t(1/2(Fast)) was 2.1 h and t(1/2(Slow)) was 12.5 h. Bio-distribution was normal and the experimental mice showed major accumulation of the radiolabeled formulation in liver, intestine, lungs and kidneys, indicating hepatobiliary and renal route of excretion. The distribution of the drugs to the lung was showing its efficiency in the treatment of tuberculosis.

Superficial sural artery island flap for management of exposed Achilles' tendon - surgical techniques and clinical results.

OBJECTIVE: Superficial Sural artery island flap is a "island flap" based on vascular axis of the sural nerve which gets reverse blood flow through communication with the perforating branch of the peroneal artery situated in the region of lateral malleolar gutter. Achilles Tendon can be exposed due to trauma, post-operative wound dehiscence, infection etc. This exposed tendon requires immediate coverage to avoid complications. This versatile flap provides an excellent coverage for the exposed tendoachilles and has definitive advantages such as being easy to raise, having a wide range of arc of rotation, not compromising major arteries of the leg, requiring minimal expertise and infra-structural facilities, and having less morbidity to donor site and being a single staged surgery. METHODOLOGY: Thirty patients with exposed Achilles' tendon were treated with Superficial Sural Island Flap with excellent outcome. The present study was carried out in the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics Rehabilitation (NITOR), Sher-e-Banglanagar, Dhaka, Bangladesh between January 2001 to December 2004.

Congenital hypoparathyroidism, seizure, extreme growth failure with developmental delay and dysmorphic features--another case of this new syndrome.

A 4-year-old Saudi female child with extreme failure to thrive, striking dysmorphic features, developmental delay, congenital hypoparathyroidism, UTI, seizures, chronic otitis media, chronic non-specific gastroenteritis and repeated life-threatening infections was followed from birth. She was the product of first-cousin consanguineous marriage. She had striking facies with frontal prominence, deep-set eyes, depressed nasal bridge, beaked nose, long philtrum with thin upper lip, micrognathia, large floppy ears, bifid uvula, and growth retardation with SD score less than -2 for height, weight and head circumference. We believe these features which include congenital hypoparathyroidism, severe growth failure and developmental delay in the absence of chromosomal abnormality represent a newly described genetically determined syndrome.