Chemical synthesis and super capacitance performance of novel CuO@Cu4O3/rGO/PANI nanocomposite electrode

Copper oxide-based nanocomposites are promising electrode materials for high-performance supercapacitors due to their unique properties that aid electrolyte access and ion diffusion to the electrode surface. Herein, a facile and low-cost synthesis in situ strategy based on co-precipitation and incorporation processes of reduced graphene oxide (rGO), followed by in situ oxidative polymerization of aniline monomer has been reported. CuO@Cu4O3/rGO/PANI nanocomposite revealed the good distribution of CuO@Cu4O3 and rGO within the polymer matrix which allows improved electron transport and ion diffusion process. Galvanostatic charge-discharge (GCD) results displayed a higher specific capacitance value of 508 F g-1 for CuO@Cu4O3/rGO/PANI at 1.0 A g-1 in comparison to the pure CuO@Cu4O3 278 F g-1. CuO@Cu4O3/rGO/PANI displays an energy density of 23.95 W h kg-1 and power density of 374 W kg-1 at the current density of 1 A g-1 which is 1.8 times higher than that of CuO@Cu4O3 (13.125 W h kg-1) at the same current density. The retention of the electrode was 93% of its initial capacitance up to 5000 cycles at a scan rate of 100 mV s-1. The higher capacitance of the CuO@Cu4O3/rGO/PANI electrode was credited to the formation of a fibrous network structure and rapid ion diffusion paths through the nanocomposite matrix that resulted in enhanced surface-dependent electrochemical properties.

Steric and energetic studies on the influence of cellulose on the adsorption effectiveness of Mg trapped hydroxyapatite for enhanced remediation of chlorpyrifos and omethoate pesticides

Magnesium-trapped hydroxyapatite (Mg.HP) was hybridized with cellulose fiber to produce a bio-composite (CLF/HP) with enhanced adsorption affinities for two types of toxic pesticides (chlorpyrifos (CF) and omethoate (OM)). The enhancement influence of the hybridized cellulose on the adsorption performances of Mg.HP was illustrated based on the determined steric and energetic factors. The computed CF and OM adsorption performances of CLF/HP during the saturation phases are 279.8 mg/g and 317.9 mg/g, respectively, which are significantly higher than the determined values using Mg/HP (143.4 mg/g (CF) and 145.3 mg/g (OM)). The steric analysis demonstrates a strong impact of the hybridization process on the reactivity of the surface of the composite. While CLF/HP reflects effective uptake site densities (Nm) of 93.3 mg/g (CF) and 135.3 mg/g (OM), the estimated values for Mg.HP are 51.2 mg/g (CF) and 46.11 mg/g (OM), which explain the reported enhancement in the adsorption performances of the composite. The capacity of each uptake site to be occupied with more than one molecule (n (CF) = 3-3.74 and n (OM) = 2.35-3.54) suggests multimolecular uptake. The energetic factors suggested physical mechanistic processes of spontaneous and exothermic behaviors either during the uptake of CF or OM.

Synergetic and advanced isotherm investigation for the enhancement influence of zeolitization and β-cyclodextrin hybridization on the retention efficiency of U(vi) ions by diatomite

In synergetic investigations, the adsorption effectiveness of diatomite-based zeolitic structure (ZD) as well as its β-cyclodextrin (CD) hybrids (CD/ZD) towards uranium ions (U(vi)) was evaluated to examine the influence of the transformation procedures. The retention behaviors and mechanistic processes have been demonstrated through analyzing the steric and energetic factors employing the modern equilibrium approach (a monolayer model with a single energy level). After the saturation phase, the uptake characteristics of U(vi) were dramatically improved to 297.5 mg g-1 after the CD blending procedure versus ZD (262.3 mg g-1) or 127.8 mg g-1. The steric analysis indicated a notable increase in binding site levels after the zeolitization steps (Nm = 85.7 mg g-1) as well as CD implementation (Nm = 91.2 mg g-1). This finding clarifies the reported improvement in the ability of CD/ZD to effectively retain the U(vi) ions. Furthermore, every single active site of the CD/ZD material has the capacity to adsorb around four ions, which are aligned according to a vertical pattern. The energetic aspects, specifically Gaussian energy (<8 kJ mol-1) along with retention energy (<40 kJ mol-1), validate the regulated influences of the physical mechanistic processes. The physical adsorption of U(vi) seems to depend on various intermolecular forces, such as van der Waals forces, in conjunction with zeolitic ion exchanging pathways (0.6-25 kJ mol-1). The thermodynamic assets have been evaluated to confirm the exothermic together with spontaneous adsorption U(vi) by ZD and its blend with CD (CD/ZD).

High-performance biosensors based on angular plasmonic of a multilayer design: new materials for enhancing sensitivity of one-dimensional designs

In this study, a theoretical examination is conducted to investigate the biosensing capabilities of different surface plasmon resonance (SPR) based hybrid multilayer structures, which are composed of two-dimensional (2D) materials. The transfer matrix formulation is implemented to calibrate the results of this study. A He-Ne laser of wavelength = 632.8 nm is used to simulate the results. Many permutations and combinations of layers of silver (Ag), aluminum oxynitride (AlON), and 2D materials were utilized to obtain the optimized structure. Ten dielectrics and twelve 2D materials were tested for a highly sensitive multilayer hybrid sensing design, which is composed of the prism (Ohara S-FPL53)/Ag/AlON/WS2/AlON/sensing medium. The optimized biosensing design is capable of sensing and detecting analytes whose refractive variation is limited between 1.33 and 1.34. The maximum sensitivity, which is achieved by using the proposed design is 488.2° per RIU. Additionally, the quality factor, figure of merit, detection limit, and qualification limit values of the optimized design were also calculated to obtain a true picture of the sensing capabilities. The designing approach based on the multilayer hybrid SPR biosensors has the potential to develop various plasmonic biosensors that are related to food, chemical, and biomedical engineering fields.

Effective retention of cesium ions from aqueous environment using morphologically modified kaolinite nanostructures: experimental and theoretical studies

Kaolinite can undergo a controlled morphological modification process into exfoliated nanosilicate sheets (EXK) and silicate nanotubes (KNTs). The modified structures were assessed as potential effective adsorbents for the retention of Cs+ ions. The impact of the modification process on the retention properties was assessed based on conventional and advanced equilibrium studies, considering the related steric and energetic functions. The synthetic KNTs exhibit a retention capacity of 249.7 mg g-1 as compared to EXK (199.8 mg g-1), which is significantly higher than raw kaolinite (73.8 mg g-1). The kinetic modeling demonstrates the high effectiveness of the pseudo-first-order kinetic model (R2 > 0.9) to illustrate the sequestration reactions of Cs+ ions by K, EXK, and KNTs. The enhancement effect of the modification processes can be illustrated based on the statistical investigations. The presence of active and vacant receptors enhanced greatly from 19.4 mg g-1 for KA to 40.8 mg g-1 for EXK and 46.9 mg g-1 for KNTs at 298 K. This validates the significant impact of the modification procedures on the specific surface area, reaction interface, and reacting chemical groups' exposure. This also appeared in the enhancement of the reactivity of their surfaces to be able to uptake 10 Cs+ ions by KNTs and 5 ions by EXK as compared to 4 ions by kaolinite. The thermodynamic and energetic parameters (Gaussian energy < 8.6 kJ mol-1; uptake energy < 40 kJ mol-1) show that the physical processes are dominant, which have spontaneous and exothermic properties. The synthetic EXK and KNT structures validate the high elimination performance of the retention of Cs+ either in the existence of additional anions or cations.

Sensing of heavy metal Pb2+ ions in water utilizing the photonic structure of highly controlled hexagonal TiON/TiO2 nanotubes

The detection of heavy metals in water, especially Pb2+ ions, is important due to their severe hazardous effects. To address this issue, a highly controlled hexagonal TiON/TiO2 heterostructure has been synthesized in this study. The fabrication process involved the utilization of atomic layer deposition and direct current sputtering techniques to deposit TiO2 and TiON layers onto a porous Al2O3 membrane used as a template. The resulting heterostructure exhibits a well-ordered hollow tube structure with a diameter of 345 nm and a length of 1.2 µm. The electrochemical sensing of Pb2+ ions in water is carried out using a cyclic voltammetry technique under both light and dark conditions. The concentration range for the Pb2+ ions ranges from 10-5 to 10-1 M. The sensitivity values obtained for the sensor are 1.0 × 10-6 in dark conditions and 1.0 × 10-4 in light conditions. The remarkable enhancement in sensitivity under light illumination can be attributed to the increased activity and electron transfer facilitated by the presence of light. The sensor demonstrates excellent reproducibility, highlighting its reliability and consistency. These findings suggest that the proposed sensor holds great promise for the detection of Pb2+ ions in water, thereby facilitating environmental monitoring, water quality assessment, and safety regulation across various industries. Furthermore, the eco-friendly and straightforward preparation techniques employed in its fabrication provide a significant advantage for practical and scalable implementation.

SILAR-Deposited CuO Nanostructured Films Doped with Zinc and Sodium for Improved CO2 Gas Detection

Gas sensing is of significant importance in a wide range of disciplines, including industrial safety and environmental monitoring. In this work, a low-cost SILAR (Successive Ionic Layer Adsorption and Reaction) technique was employed to fabricate pure CuO, Zn-doped CuO, and Na-doped CuO nanotextured films to efficiently detect CO2 gas. The structures, morphologies, chemical composition, and optical properties of all films are characterized using different tools. All films exhibit a crystalline monoclinic phase (tenorite) structure. The average crystallite size of pure CuO was 83.5 nm, whereas the values for CuO/Zn and CuO/Na were 73.15 nm and 63.08 nm, respectively. Subsequently, the gas-sensing capabilities of these films were evaluated for the detection of CO2 in terms of sensor response, selectivity, recovery time, response time, and limits of detection and quantification. The CuO/Na film offered the most pronounced sensitivity towards CO2 gas, as evidenced by a sensor response of 12.8% at room temperature and a low limit of detection (LoD) of 2.36 SCCM. The response of this sensor increased to 64.5% as the operating temperature increased to 150 °C. This study thus revealed a brand-new CuO/Na nanostructured film as a highly effective and economically viable sensor for the detection of CO2.

Enhanced Sensitivity of Binary/Ternary Locally Resonant Porous Phononic Crystal Sensors for Sulfuric Acid Detection: A New Class of Fluidic-Based Biosensors

This research presented a comprehensive study of a one-dimensional (1D) porous silicon phononic crystal design as a novel fluidic sensor. The proposed sensor is designed to detect sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) within a narrow concentration range of 0-15%. Sulfuric acid is a mineral acid extensively utilized in various physical, chemical, and industrial applications. Undoubtedly, its concentration, particularly at lower levels, plays a pivotal role in these applications. Hence, there is an urgent demand for a highly accurate and sensitive tool to monitor even the slightest changes in its concentration, which is crucial for researchers. Herein, we presented a novel study on the optimization of the phononic crystal (PnC) sensor. The optimization process involves a comparative strategy between binary and ternary PnCs, utilizing a multilayer stack comprising 1D porous silicon (PSi) layers. Additionally, a second comparison is conducted between conventional Bragg and local resonant PnCs to demonstrate the design with the highest sensitivity. Moreover, we determine the optimum values for the materials' thickness and number of periods. The results revealed that the ternary local resonant PnC design with the configuration of {silicone rubber/[PSi1/PSi2/PSi3]^N/silicone rubber} is the optimal sensor design. The sensor provided a super sensitivity of 2.30 × 10⁷ Hz for a concentration change of just 2%. This exceptional sensitivity is attributed to the presence of local resonant modes within the band gap of PnCs. The temperature effects on the local resonant modes and sensor performance have also been considered. Furthermore, additional sensor performance parameters such as quality factor, figure of merit, detection limit, and damping rate have been calculated to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed liquid sensor. The transfer matrix method was utilized to compute the transmission spectra of the PnC, and Hashin's expression was employed to manipulate the porous silicon media filled with sulfuric acid at various concentrations. Lastly, the proposed sensor can serve as an efficient tool for detecting acidic rain, contaminating freshwater, and assessing food and liquid quality, as well as monitoring other pharmaceutical products.

A theoretical approach for a new design of an ultrasensitive angular plasmonic chemical sensor using black phosphorus and aluminum oxide architecture

In this study, the biosensing capabilities of conventional and hybrid multilayer structures were theoretically examined based on surface plasmon resonance (SPR). The transfer matrix method is adopted to obtain the reflectance spectra of the hybrid multilayer structure in the visible region. In this regard, the considered SPR sensor is configured as, [prism (CaF₂)/Al₂O₃/Ag/Al₂O₃/2D material/Al₂O₃/Sensing medium]. Interestingly, many optimization steps were conducted to obtain the highest sensitivity of the new SPR biosensor from the hybrid structure. Firstly, the thickness of an Al₂O₃ layer with a 2D material (Blue P/WS₂) is optimized to obtain an upgraded sensitivity of 360° RIU^-1. Secondly, the method to find the most appropriate 2D material for the proposed design is investigated to obtain an ultra-high sensitivity. Meanwhile, the inclusion of black phosphorus (BP) increases the sensor's sensitivity to 466° RIU^-1. Thus, black phosphorus (BP) was obtained as the most suitable 2D material for the proposed design. In this regard, the proposed hybrid SPR biosensing design may pave the way for further opportunities for the development of various SPR sensors to be utilized in chemical and biomedical engineering fields.

Telocytes in Cutaneous Biology: A Reappraisal

The telocytes (TCs) are novel interstitial cells that have been overlooked for a long time due to their histologic similarity to other stromal cells. TCs can be separated from the stromal cells based on their distinct immunohistochemical, ultrastructural, and molecular features. Functionally, TCs are involved in the tissue renewal, mechanical support, and immune modulation. These cells are also involved in the signal transduction either through their direct interactions with the neighboring cells or through the paracrine signaling via extracellular vesicles. TCs are damaged in several inflammatory and fibrotic conditions such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, hepatic fibrosis, psoriasis, and systemic sclerosis. The transplantation of TCs in the damaged tissue can promote tissue regeneration. Therefore, enhancing tissue TCs either by their transplantation or by promoting their survival and growth using novel medications represents novel therapeutic strategy in the future. In this review, we addressed several aspects of TCs including their origin, distribution, morphologic features, and functions. We also discussed their involvement of the cutaneous TCs in the development various pathologic conditions.

Photonic crystal nanostructure as a photodetector for NaCl solution monitoring: theoretical approach

In this research, we have a theoretical simple and highly sensitive sodium chloride (NaCl) sensor based on the excitation of Tamm plasmon resonance through a one-dimensional photonic crystal structure. The configuration of the proposed design was, [prism/gold (Au)/water cavity/silicon (Si)/calcium fluoride (CaF₂)¹⁰/glass substrate]. The estimations are mainly investigated based on both the optical properties of the constituent materials and the transfer matrix method as well. The suggested sensor is designed for monitoring the salinity of water by detecting the concentration of NaCl solution through near-infrared (IR) wavelengths. The reflectance numerical analysis showed the Tamm plasmon resonance. As the water cavity is filled with NaCl of concentrations ranging from 0 g l^-1 to 60 g l^-1, Tamm resonance is shifted towards longer wavelengths. Furthermore, the suggested sensor provides a relatively high performance compared to its photonic crystal counterparts and photonic crystal fiber designs. Meanwhile, the sensitivity and detection limit of the suggested sensor could reach the values of 24 700 nm per RIU (0.576 nm (g l)^-1) and 0.217 g l^-1, respectively. Therefore, the suggested design could be of interest as a promising platform for sensing and monitoring NaCl concentrations and water salinity as well.

Petal-like NiS-NiO/G-C3N4 Nanocomposite for High-Performance Symmetric Supercapacitor

Graphitic carbon nitride (G-C3N4) and NiS-NiO/G-C3N4 nanocomposite have been synthesized via combustion and hydrothermal techniques, respectively. The chemical and morphological properties of these materials were confirmed using different analytical methods. SEM confirms the formation of G-C3N4 sheets containing additional petal-like shapes of NiS-NiO nanoparticles. The electrochemical testing of NiS-NiO/G-C3N4 symmetric supercapacitors is carried out from 0.6 M HCl electrolyte. Such testing includes charge/discharge, cyclic voltammetry, impedance, and supercapacitor stability. The charge/discharge time reaches 790 s at 0.3 A/g, while the cyclic voltammetry curve forms under a high surface area. The produced specific capacitance (C_S) and energy density values are 766 F/g and 23.55 W.h.kg^-1, correspondingly.

Hybrid Tamm plasmon resonance excitation towards a simple and efficient biomedical detector of NaI solution

This work presents a theoretical verification for the detection of Sodium iodide (NaI) solution with different concentrations in the vicinity of Tamm plasmon (TP) resonance. The proposed sensing tool is constituted of {prism/Ag/cavity/(GaN/CaF₂)¹⁵/air}. The essential foundation of this study is based on the displacement of the TP resonance by varying the concentration of an aqueous solution of sodium iodide (NaI) that fills the cavity layer. The resonant TP dip is shifted downwards the shorter wavelengths with the increment of the Ag layer thickness. Nevertheless, the resonant TP dip is shifted upwards to longer wavelengths with the increment of NaI refractive index/concentration. Also, the sensitivity of the sensing tool decreases with the increment of the NaI refractive index. However, the minimum result is not less than the value of 9913 nm RIU⁻¹ for a concentration of 25%. Finally, the performance of our sensor in the form of the quality factor, detection limit, and figure of merit showed significant improvements in designing a high-performance liquid and biosensor.

NaI sensor: the suggested design of a NaI photonic crystal sensor that is constituted.

Development of a Highly Efficient Optoelectronic Device Based on CuFeO2/CuO/Cu Composite Nanomaterials

Herein, an optoelectronic device synthesized from a CuFeO₂/CuO/Cu nanocomposite was obtained through the direct combustion of Cu foil coated with Fe₂O₃ nanomaterials. The chemical, morphological, and optical properties of the nanocomposite were examined via different techniques, such as XRD, XPS, TEM, SEM, and UV/Vis spectrophotometer. The optical reflectance demonstrated a great enhancement in the CuFeO₂ optical properties compared to CuO nanomaterials. Such enhancements were clearly distinguished through the bandgap values, which varied between 1.35 and 1.38 eV, respectively. The XRD and XPS analyses confirmed the chemical structure of the prepared materials. The produced current density (J_ph) was studied in dark and light conditions, thereby confirming the obtained optoelectronic properties. The J_ph dependency to monochromatic wavelength was also investigated. The J_ph value was equal to 0.033 mA·cm^-2 at 390 nm, which decreased to 0.031 mA·cm^-2 at 508 nm, and then increased to 0.0315 mA·cm^-2 at 636 nm. The light intensity effects were similarly inspected. The J_ph values rose when the light intensities were augmented from 25 to 100 mW·cm^-2 to reach 0.031 and 0.05 mA·cm^-2, respectively. The photoresponsivity (R) and detectivity (D) values were found at 0.33 mA·W^-1 and 7.36 × 10¹⁰ Jones at 390 nm. The produced values confirm the high light sensitivity of the prepared optoelectronic device in a broad optical region covering UV, Vis, and near IR, with high efficiency. Further works are currently being designed to develop a prototype of such an optoelectronic device so that it can be applied in industry.

Characterization of Antimicrobial Resistance Genes of Pasteurella multocida Isolated from Diseased Chickens in Egypt

 In this study, the prevalence of Pasteurella multocida in diseased chickens, capsular genotyping, antimicrobial resistance patterns and some resistance genes were determined. Lungs, liver and spleen samples were collected from 250 diseased chickens from layers and broiler flocks from El-Gharbia and Kafr El-Sheikh governorates in Egypt for isolation of P. multocida in the period from June 2018 to December 2019. Confirmatory identification was done by using PCR for capsular type A antigen. P. multocida was isolated from 3.6 % of the diseased chicken. Six isolates of P. multocida that examined for detection of capsular type A showed positive results. Antimicrobial resistance patterns were evaluated for all isolates against twenty antimicrobial agents and the results showed 100% resistance totrimethoprim/sulfamethazole, oxacillin and nitrofurantion. Also, strains expressed highly resistant to penicillin, chloramphenicol, rifampicin and ampicillin \sulbactam, while they were sensitive to norfloxacin, clindamycin, cephalexin and cefotaxime. The antimicrobial resistance genes were detected by using PCR and the results showed  that all isolates harbored  β-lactam-resistantgene BlaROB-1 (100%), followed by sulfonamide resistant gene  sul1 (50%), tetracycline-resistant gene tetH (33.3%) and trimethoprim-resistant dihydrofolate reductase dfrA (16.6%).

Activated carbon derived from sugarcane and modified with natural zeolite for efficient adsorption of methylene blue dye: experimentally and theoretically approaches.. [DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-1769657/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0]

Activated carbon/natural zeolite (AC/NZ) was introduced as an effective and stable adsorbent for the enhancement of the adsorption of methylene blue (MB). The activated carbons (ACs) were prepared from sugarcane waste by calcination at different temperatures from 500 to 900 °C. The samples were characterized for confirming their structure and chemical composition by using many techniques. For activated carbon calcinated at 500 °C (AC500), the XRD patterns showed many broad peaks which confirm the amorphous phase of carbonization with disordered micro-graphite stacking. The SEM images of the AC500/NZ nanocomposite show that the zeolite surface is covert with the AC500 particles. The AC500/NZ nanocomposite showed light absorption capability in the visible region than activated carbon only. Batch experiments were performed to study the influence of various practical variables on adsorption processes. Dye adsorption isotherms and kinetics were also investigated. The effect of contact time, starting MB concentration, and pH were all measured. Adsorption of MB was reached to maximum removal (99.2 %) using 50 mg of AC500/NZ after 45 minutes. About 51 mg/g was found to be the maximum AC500/NZ adsorption capacity for MB dye with an initial concentration of 30 ppm, at 25 °C, pH 7, and an AC500/NZ mass of 50 mg. According to the kinetic tests, the best kinetic model for MB adsorption was pseudo-second-order. The adsorption isotherm of dye onto AC500/NZ almost agreed with the Temkin isotherm model. Adsorbed heat energy B value calculated according to Temkin model was less than 1.0 kcal/mol which indicates that the adsorption reaction of MB onto AC500/NZ occurs physically in the concentration studied. Additionally, the adsorption mechanism was also evaluated using Weber's intra-particle diffusion module. Finally, AC500/NZ adsorbent considers a good candidate for water remediation. Monte Carlo (MC) simulation studies indicated the adsorption of MB molecule on the AC/NZ nanocomposite surface in dry system (no solvent) following a parallel mode in most of all studied configurations, confirming the strong interactions between the MB molecule and surfaces atoms of AC/NZ nanocomposite. The molecular structure analysis of MB molecule on the AC/NZ nanocomposite surface indicated that the adsorption process related to Van der Waals dispersion force. Consequently, this helps to trap MB molecule on the AC/NZ nanocomposite surface (i.e., physical adsorption), which supports our experimental results.

Clinical and Haematological Findings in Dengue Fever

From 2000 onwards dengue fever has been occurring at regular intervals in Bangladesh. Ultrasonography is a useful diagnostic procedure. This study was done, keeping this background in mind. Objective of this study was to identify the role of ultrasonography as a useful tool in early diagnosis of dengue haemorrhagic fever. This was a cross-sectional descriptive type of observational study. Results of ultrasonography, haematogy an immunology were observed in 2004 and 2019 in 32 patients on each occasion. In 2004 out of 32 patients 29 had positive ultrsonographic findings supported by corresponding haematological and immunological findings. In 2019 ultrsonography was done in three out of thirty two patients, all three had had positive ultra sonographic findings which were supported by haematological and immunological findings. Dengue fever has serious complications like plasma leakage which manifest in the form of ascites, pleural effusion, thick gallbladder wall etc. If such complications can be detected at an early stage many lives can be saved.

Glucose sensor modeling based on Fano resonance excitation in titania nanotube photonic crystal coated by titanium nitride as a plasmonic material

The brilliant optical properties of plasmonic metal nitrides improve many applications. Modeling of light-confining Fano resonance based on a titanium nitride (TiN)-coated titanium oxide one-dimensional photonic crystal is investigated as a glucose sensor. There is a cavity layer filled with a glucose solution between the TiN thin layer and photonic crystals. The reflection spectrum is calculated numerically by using Bruggeman's effective medium approximation and transfer matrix method. The effect of plasmonic layer thickness, cavity layer thickness, and the thicknesses of the titanium oxide nanotube layers are optimized to achieve a high performance sensor. The result shows that the Fano resonances shift to higher wavelengths with increasing glucose concentration. The best sensitivity of the optimized biosensor is about 3798.32 nm/RIU. Also, the sensor performance parameters such as the limit of detection, figure of merit, and quality factor are discussed. The proposed sensor can be of potential interest due to its easy fabrication and higher performance than many previous reported sensors in the sensing field.

Simple, efficient and accurate method toward the monitoring of ethyl butanoate traces

We introduce in this research a simple, accurate, safe, and efficient design for the detection of ethyl butanoate that be present in the dry exhaled breath. In particular, the presence of ethyl butanoate in the dry exhaled breath could be utilized as a platform for the diagnosing of COVID 19. The main idea of this theoretical investigation is based on the inclusion of a cavity layer between a thin layer of Au and the well-known one-dimension photonic crystals. Accordingly, the cavity layer is filled with dry exhaled breath. The numerical results are investigated in the vicinity of the Drude model and transfer matrix method. The investigated results show the appearance of Tamm plasmon resonance in the reflectance spectrum of our design through the IR region. Such resonant mode provides very high sensitivity with the change in the concentration of ethyl butanoate. We have examined the performance of the proposed sensor by calculating its sensitivity, detection limit, detection accuracy, quality factor and figure of merit. The designed sensor could receive sensitivity of 0.3 nm/ppm or 260,486 nm/RIU, resolution of 7 ppm and quality factor of 969.

Highly Efficient Photocatalyst Fabricated from the Chemical Recycling of Iron Waste and Natural Zeolite for Super Dye Degradation

In this paper, Fe2O3 and Fe2O3-zeolite nanopowders are prepared by chemical precipitation utilizing the rusted iron waste and natural zeolite. In addition to the nanomorphologies; the chemical composition, structural parameters, and optical properties are examined using many techniques. The Fe2O3-zeolite photocatalyst showed smaller sizes and higher light absorption in visible light than Fe2O3. Both Fe2O3 and Fe2O3-zeolite are used as photocatalysts for methylene blue (MB) photodegradation under solar light. The effects of the contact time, starting MB concentration, Fe2O3-zeolite dose, and pH value on photocatalytic performance are investigated. The full photocatalytic degradation of MB dye (10 mg/L) is achieved using 75 mg of Fe2O3-zeolite under visible light after 30 s, which, to the best of our knowledge, is the highest performance yet for Fe2O3-based photocatalysts. This photocatalyst has also shown remarkable stability and recyclability. The kinetics and mechanisms of the photocatalytic process are studied. Therefore, the current work can be applied industrially as a cost-effective method for eliminating the harmful MB dye from wastewater and recycling the rusted iron wires.

Remote Temperature Sensor Based on Tamm Resonance

A highly-sensitive remote temperature sensor based on Tamm resonance is proposed using a one-dimensional photonic crystal. The proposed structure is prism/Ag/Toluene/SiO₂ /(PSi₁/PSi₂)^N/Si. The transfer matrix method is used to discuss the interaction between the structure and the S-polarization of the incident radiation waves. We optimized the structure by studying the effect of the incident angle, the thickness of the first and second layers of the photonic crystal unit cell, the porosity of them, and the thickness of the toluene layer. High sensitivity, high signal-to-noise ratio, and very low resolution are achieved due to the coupling between the porous silicon photonic crystal properties and Tamm resonance that makes it very distinguished compared to previous works.

Recycling Rusty Iron with Natural Zeolite Heulandite to Create a Unique Nanocatalyst for Green Hydrogen Production

Corrosion-induced iron rust causes severe danger, pollution, and economic problems. In this work, nanopowders of Fe2O3 and Fe2O3/zeolite are synthesized for the first time using rusted iron waste and natural zeolite heulandite by chemical precipitation. The chemical composition, nanomorphologies, structural parameters, and optical behaviors are investigated using different techniques. The Fe2O3/zeolite nanocomposite showed smaller sizes and greater light absorption capability in visible light than Fe2O3 nanopowder. The XRD pattern shows crystalline hematite (α-Fe2O3) with a rhombohedral structure. The crystallite sizes for the plane (104) of the Fe2O3 and Fe2O3/zeolite are 64.84 and 56.53 nm, respectively. The Fe2O3 and Fe2O3/zeolite have indirect bandgap values of 1.87 and 1.91 eV and direct bandgap values of 2.04 and 2.07 eV, respectively. Fe2O3 and Fe2O3/zeolite nanophotocatalysts are used for solar photoelectrochemical (PEC) hydrogen production. The Fe2O3/zeolite exhibits a PEC catalytic hydrogen production rate of 154.45 mmol/g.h @ 1 V in 0.9 M KOH solution, which is the highest value yet for Fe2O3-based photocatalysts. The photocurrent density of Fe2O3/zeolite is almost two times that of Fe2O3 catalyst, and the IPCE (incident photon-to-current conversion efficiency) reached ~27.34%@307 nm and 1 V. The electrochemical surface area (ECSA) values for Fe2O3 and Fe2O3/zeolite photocatalysts were 7.414 and 21.236 m2/g, respectively. The rate of hydrogen production for Fe2O3/zeolite was 154.44 mmol h-1/g. This nanophotocatalyst has a very low PEC corrosion rate of 7.6 pm/year; it can retain ~97% of its initial performance. Therefore, the present research can be applied industrially as a cost-effective technique to address two issues at once by producing solar hydrogen fuel and recycling the rusted iron wires.

ITO/Poly-3-Methylaniline/Au Electrode for Electrochemical Water Splitting and Dye Removal

Application of aniline derivative semiconductor nanopolymer and its Au composite for H2 generation and dye removal were investigated. Electrochemical polymerization of poly-3-methylaniline (P3MA) on ITO glass was carried out for acid medium. Au nanoparticles with crystal sizes of 15 and 30 nm were sputter coated on the surface. Chemical structure of the polymer and its composite was characterized using FTIR, XRD, 1HNMR, SEM, and UV-Vis. All function groups were confirmed using FTIR analyses. XRD confirmed the formation of nanopolymer with a crystal size of ∼15 nm. SEM confirmed the formation of smooth lamellar surface feature with a <20 nm nanoporous structure. Porosity and particle sizes increases with Au coating, confirmed using the modeling Image J program. Optical analysis also demonstrated that the strength of P3MA absorption peaks increases with rising Au coating time, in which the bandgap values changed from 1.64 to 1.63 eV for 15 and 30 nm Au, respectively. The photoelectrode ITO/PMT/30 nm Au was applied for H2 generation and dye removal. The current density (J ph) values were −0.3 and −1.6 mA.cm−2 in the absence and presence of the Congo red dye, respectively. The incident photon-to-current conversion efficiency (IPCE%) for the electrode was 2.3 at 390 nm. The activation energy (E a ) was 31.49 KJ mol−1. The enthalpy (∆H * ) and entropy (∆S * ) values were 114.49 and 160.46 JK−1 mol−1, respectively. A simple mechanism for the H2 generation and dye removal is mentioned.

Fabrication of ZnO/CNTs for Application in CO2 Sensor at Room Temperature

Thin films of ZnO and ZnO/carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are prepared and used as CO2 gas sensors. The spray pyrolysis method was used to prepare both ZnO and ZnO/CNTs films, with CNTs first prepared using the chemical vapor deposition method (CVD). The chemical structure and optical analyses for all the prepared nanomaterials were performed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transformer infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and UV/Vis spectrophotometer devices, respectively. According to the XRD analysis, the crystal sizes of ZnO and ZnO/CNTs were approximately 50.4 and 65.2 nm, respectively. CNTs have average inner and outer diameters of about 3 and 13 nm respectively, according to the transmitted electron microscope (TEM), and a wall thickness of about 5 nm. The detection of CO2 is accomplished by passing varying rates of the gas from 30 to 150 sccm over the prepared thin-film electrodes. At 150 sccm, the sensitivities of ZnO and ZnO/CNTs sensors are 6.8% and 22.4%, respectively. The ZnO/CNTs sensor has a very stable sensitivity to CO2 gas for 21 days. Moreover, this sensor has a high selectivity to CO2 in comparison with other gases, in which the ZnO/CNTs sensor has a higher sensitivity to CO2 compared to H2 and C2H2.

Effect of Morphology and Plasmonic on Au/ZnO Films for Efficient Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting

To improve photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting, various ZnO nanostructures (nanorods (NRs), nanodiscs (NDs), NRs/NDs, and ZnO NRs decorated with gold nanoparticles) have been manufactured. The pure ZnO nanostructures have been synthesized using the successive ionic-layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) combined with the chemical bath deposition (CBD) process at various deposition times. The structural, chemical composition, nanomorphological, and optical characteristics have been examined by various techniques. The SEM analysis shows that by varying the deposition time of CBD from 2 to 12 h, the morphology of ZnO nanostructures changed from NRs to NDs. All samples exhibit hexagonal phase wurtzite ZnO with polycrystalline nature and preferred orientation alongside (002). The crystallite size along (002) decreased from approximately 79 to 77 nm as deposition time increased from 2 to 12 h. The bandgap of ZnO NRs was tuned from 3.19 to 2.07 eV after optimizing the DC sputtering time of gold to 4 min. Via regulated time-dependent ZnO growth and Au sputtering time, the PEC performance of the nanostructures was optimized. Among the studied ZnO nanostructures, the highest photocurrent density (Jph) was obtained for the 2 h ZnO NRs. As compared with ZnO NRs, the Jph (7.7 mA/cm2) of 4 min Au/ZnO NRs is around 50 times greater. The maximum values of both IPCE and ABPE are 14.2% and 2.05% at 490 nm, which is closed to surface plasmon absorption for Au NPs. There are several essential approaches to improve PEC efficiency by including Au NPs into ZnO NRs, including increasing visible light absorption and minority carrier absorption, boosting photochemical stability, and accelerating electron transport from ZnO NRs to electrolyte carriers.

Preparation of hexagonal nanoporous Al2O3/TiO2/TiN as a novel photodetector with high efficiency

The unique optical properties of metal nitrides enhance many photoelectrical applications. In this work, a novel photodetector based on TiO2/TiN nanotubes was deposited on a porous aluminum oxide template (PAOT) for light power intensity and wavelength detection. The PAOT was fabricated by the Ni-imprinting technique through a two-step anodization method. The TiO2/TiN layers were deposited by using atomic layer deposition and magnetron sputtering, respectively. The PAOT and PAOT/TiO2/TiN were characterized by several techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX). The PAOT has high-ordered hexagonal nanopores with dimensions ~ 320 nm pore diameter and ~ 61 nm interpore distance. The bandgap of PAOT/TiO2 decreased from 3.1 to 2.2 eV with enhancing absorption of visible light after deposition of TiN on the PAOT/TiO2. The PAOT/TiO2/TiN as photodetector has a responsivity (R) and detectivity (D) of 450 mAW-1 and 8.0 × 1012 Jones, respectively. Moreover, the external quantum efficiency (EQE) was 9.64% at 62.5 mW.cm-2 and 400 nm. Hence, the fabricated photodetector (PD) has a very high photoelectrical response due to hot electrons from the TiN layer, which makes it very hopeful as a broadband photodetector.

Removal of iron, zinc, and nickel-ions using nano bentonite and its applications on power station wastewater

Removal of high concentrations of toxic heavy metals from wastewater is very important within the environmental field because heavy metals pollution a serious environmental problem due to them being nonbiodegradable. This study shed some light on the use of Nano bentonite as an adsorbent for the elimination of Iron, Zinc, and Nickel ions from wastewater, and the optimum conditions were evaluated to find out thermodynamic and kinetic parameters and equilibrium adsorption models have been applied. The results showed that adsorption percentage increases with increasing temperature, speed of rotation, and volume of solution, but decreases with adsorbent dose and initial concentration increase. The adsorption process has fit pseudo-second-order kinetic model Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherm models were applied to analyze adsorption data and both were found to apply to these adsorption processes. Thermodynamic parameters e.g., ΔG^o, ΔS^o, and ΔH^o of the adsorption process were found to be endothermic. Finally, the Nano bentonite was observed to be more powerful for the removal of Fe (III), Zn (II), and Ni (II) at the same experimental conditions.

Refractive index gas sensor based on the Tamm state in a one-dimensional photonic crystal: Theoretical optimisation

Gas sensors are important in many fields such as environmental monitoring, agricultural production, public safety, and medical diagnostics. Herein, Tamm plasmon resonance in a photonic bandgap is used to develop an optical gas sensor with high performance. The structure of the proposed sensor comprises a gas cavity sandwiched between a one-dimensional porous silicon photonic crystal and an Ag layer deposited on a prism. The optimised structure of the proposed sensor achieves ultra-high sensitivity (S = 1.9×105 nm/RIU) and a low detection limit (DL = 1.4×10-7 RIU) compared to the existing gas sensor. The brilliant sensing performance and simple design of the proposed structure make our device highly suitable for use as a sensor in a variety of biomedical and industrial applications.

The structure and photoelectrochemical activity of Cr-doped PbS thin films grown by chemical bath deposition

Nanocrystalline undoped and Cr-doped PbS thin films were prepared on glass substrates by a simple chemical bath deposition method. The X-ray diffraction analyses of the films showed their polycrystalline nature with cubic structure and preferential growth along the (111) orientation. Cr incorporation decreases the average PbS crystallite size from 59.97 to 37.59 nm, whereas the strain and dislocation density showed an increasing trend. The atomic ratio of doping for Cr is about 0.63, 1.75, and 4.70% according to energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy. Morphological analysis showed that the average sizes of nanoclusters decreased from 73 to 41 nm as the Cr concentration increased. The optical band gap values are increased with increasing Cr doping. The photoelectrochemical (PEC) behaviors and the stability of the Cr doped PbS photoelectrodes were studied in 0.3 M Na₂SO₃ electrolyte solution. Also, the incident photon-to-current efficiency and applied bias photon-to-current efficiency are calculated and showed optimized values of 13.5% and 1.44% at 0.68 V and 390 nm. Moreover, the optimized electrode shows high chemical stability and a long lifetime. Finally, the effect of temperature on the PEC behaviors is evaluated and the different thermodynamic parameters are calculated.

Nanocrystalline undoped and Cr-doped PbS thin films were prepared on glass substrates by a simple chemical bath deposition method as photoelectrodes for solar water splitting.

Enhanced photoelectrochemical water splitting activity of carbon nanotubes@TiO2 nanoribbons in different electrolytes

Hydrogen production from water splitting by a photocatalytic process is one way that can be used to solve global problems related to energy depletion and environmental pollution. This work aims to design and characterize a novel photocatalyst nanohybrid carbon nanotubes@TiO₂ nanoribbons (CNTs@TNRs) for enhanced photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting in different electrolytes under visible light irradiance. Here, hydrothermal and chemical vapor deposition (HT-CVD) were combined to grow CNTs @ the nanopits of TNRs producing network of nanohybrid CNTs@TNRs. The structural, morphological, optical, and photocatylatic properties of the TNRs and CNTs@TNRs nanohybrid were characterized by different techniques. The crystallite size is increased from 14.86 nm for TNRs to 21.61 nm for CNTs@TNRs nanohybrid. The CNTs@TNRs nanohybrid has well-resolved nanopits on the surface of the TNRs with an average diameter of 10 nm. The absorption edge of CNTs@TNRs relative to TNRs was strongly shifted to the visible light region. The band gap values are 3.78 and 2.07 eV for TNRs and CNTs@TNRs, respectively. The TNRs and CNTs@TNRs were used for the photocatalytic water splitting under visible light irradiance in Na₂S₂O₃, HCl and KOH electrolytes of different concentrations. The calculated incident photon-to-current conversion efficiency (IPCE) was 97% at 510 nm. These values are higher than those previously reported for different photoelectrodes. The number of hydrogen moles was calculated to be 300 μmol h^-1 cm^-2. Therefore, our work demonstrates a feasible route for efficient PEC water splitting under sunlight irradiation utilizing the novel CNTs@TNRs photocatalyst.

Locally Resonant Phononic Crystals at Low frequencies Based on Porous SiC Multilayer

In this work, a one-dimensional porous silicon carbide phononic crystal (1D-PSiC PnC) sandwiched between two rubber layers is introduced to obtain low frequency band gaps for the audible frequencies. The novelty of the proposed multilayer 1D-PnCs arises from the coupling between the soft rubber, unique mechanical properties of porous SiC materials and the local resonance phenomenon. The proposed structure could be considered as a 1D acoustic Metamaterial with a size smaller than the relevant 1D-PnC structures for the same frequencies. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first time to use PSiC materials in a 1D PnC structure for the problem of low frequency phononic band gaps. Also, the porosities and thicknesses of the PSiC layers were chosen to obtain the fundamental band gaps within the bandwidth of the acoustic transducers and sound suppression devices. The transmission spectrum of acoustic waves is calculated by using the transfer matrix method (TMM). The results revealed that surprising low band gaps appeared in the transmission spectra of the 1D-PSiC PnC at the audible range, which are lower than the expected ones by Bragg's scattering theory. The frequency at the center of the first band gap was at the value 7957 Hz, which is 118 times smaller than the relevant frequency of other 1D structures with the same thickness. A comparison between the phononic band gaps of binary and ternary 1D-PSiC PnC structures sandwiched between two rubber layers at the micro-scale was performed and discussed. Also, the band gap frequency is controlled by varying the layers porosity, number and the thickness of each layer. The simulated results are promising in many applications such as low frequency band gaps, sound suppression devices, switches and filters.

Ni-doped and Ni/Cr co-doped TiO2 nanotubes for enhancement of photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue

Ni-doped and Ni/Cr co-doped TiO₂ nanotubes were successfully synthesized using a novel hydrothermal method. The surface and bulk properties of as-synthesized nanopowders were characterized using various microstructural and optical techniques. The photocatalytic ability of these nanopowders was investigated systematically for the decomposition of methylene blue dye (MB) under visible light illumination. The morphological results revealed the structural transformation of TiO₂ nanotubes to nanosheets, and further to a mixture of nanosheet/nanotube on doping with Ni and co-doping of Ni/Cr, respectively. Moreover, the Ni doping causes an optical absorption edge shifts towards lower wavelengths, while doping by Ni/Cr results to an optical absorption edge shifts towards higher wavelength in comparison to TiO₂-nanotubes. Also, Ni-doping and Ni/Cr co-doping strongly affects the Raman vibrational modes owing to the changes in interplanar distance, crystallite size, dislocation density, and crystal microstrains. Among the undoped, doped and co-doped TiO₂ nanoparticles, the 6Ni/4Cr co-doped TiO₂ exhibited a higher efficiency of 95.6% and excellent stability towards the photocatalytic degradation of MB. It is attributed to the availability of many carriers for the efficient photo-oxidation within the UV-Vis optical absorption range. Also, the photocatalytic reaction kinetics and degradation mechanism of MB were discussed.

Ultra-high sensitive 1D porous silicon photonic crystal sensor based on the coupling of Tamm/Fano resonances in the mid-infrared region

Porous silicon one-dimensional photonic crystals (PSi-1DPCs) are capable of sensing solutions and liquids based on the smallest variation of the refractive indices. In the present work, we present a novel metal/PSi-1DPC as a liquid sensor based on Tamm/Fano resonances. The operating wavelength range is from 6.35 to 9.85 μm in the mid-infrared (MIR) spectral region. Different metals (Al, Ag, Au, and Pt) are attached to the top surface of the PSi-1DPCs structure to show Tamm/Fano resonances more clearly. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first time that Tamm/Fano resonances exhibit simultaneously in PSi-1DPCs within the same structure. The reflection spectra were calculated for the metal/PSi-1DPC structure by using the transfer matrix method (TMM) and the Bruggeman’s effective medium approximation (BEMA). The simulations show that the Tamm/Fano resonances are red-shifted towards the higher wavelengths with increasing the refractive index of the pores. The Ag/PSi-1DPC sensor showed the highest performance. Its sensitivity can be reached to the value 5018 nm/RIU with a high-quality factor of about 2149.27. We predict the proposed sensors can be easily fabricated and we expect them to show higher performance than other reported sensors of this type. Therefore, it will be of interest in the field of optical sensing in different fields.

Thymoquinone and curcumin modify inducible nitric oxide synthase, caspase 3, and thioredoxin immunohistochemical expression in acetaminophen hepatotoxicity

BACKGROUND

Acetaminophen (APAP) hepatotoxicity is characterised by an extensive oxidative stress due to depletion of glutathione (GSH), which results in massive lipid peroxidation and subsequent liver injury. The current paradigm suggests that mitochondria are the main source of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which impair mitochondrial function and are responsible for cell signalling resulting in cell death. This study was designed to compare the potential impact of thymoquinone (THQ), and/or curcumin (CURC) on liver injury induced by APAP toxicity in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Serum levels of alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, total bilirubin, and total protein were measured. In addition, liver nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde, reduced glutathione (GSH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were estimated. Moreover, these biochemical parameters were confirmed by histopathological and immunohistochemical investigations for the expression of thioredoxin, iNOS and caspase 3.

RESULTS

Acetaminophen toxicity elevated most of the above-mentioned parameters but decreased GSH, SOD, and total protein levels. Histologically, liver sections demonstrated liver injury characterised by hepatocellular necrosis with nuclear pyknosis, karyorrhexis and karyolysis. Immunohistochemical study revealed increased expression of iNOS and caspase 3 proteins, while the thioredoxin protein expression was decreased.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with the THQ and CURC regulated the biochemical and histopathological alterations induced by APAP toxicity. It was concluded that the combination strategy of THQ and CURC might be considered as a potential antidote in combating liver injury induced by APAP with minimal side effects.

Silver nanoparticles enhance the larvicidal toxicity of Photorhabdus and Xenorhabdus bacterial toxins: an approach to control the filarial vector, Culex pipiens

Mosquito-control is still based mostly on chemical insecticides which are toxic and cause environmental deprivation. This study investigates synthesizing silver bio-nanoparticles (AgNPs) from nematode-symbiotic bacterial toxin complexes as an alternative larvicidal bioinsecticide agent against Culex pipiens larvae. Five species/strains of nematode-symbiotic bacteria, Xenorhabdus indica, Xenorhabdus spp., Photorhabdus luminescens laumondii HP88, Photorhabdus luminescens akhurstii HRM1 and Photorhabdus luminescens akhurstii HS1 were used. AgNPs were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and x-ray diffraction analysis. Larvae were initially exposed to descending concentrations (300, 150, 75, 37.5 and 18.75 µg/ml) of each of the five bacterial toxins (as positive controls) or to the bio-AgNPs synthesized from the same bacterial toxins (200, 100, 50, 25, 12.5, 6.25, 3.12 and 1.5 µg/ml) for 48 hours. Results of toxicity bioassays showed that mortality of treated larvae was concentration-dependent, toxins from X. indica, P. luminescens laumondii HP88 and P. luminescens akhurstii HS1 showed LC₅₀ of 29, 28 and 2002 µg/ml, respectively. While, toxins from P. luminescens akhurstii HRM1 and Xenorhabdus sp. showed LC₅₀ of 199, 318 µg/ml, respectively. Bio-AgNPs synthesized from, X. indica or Xenorhabdus sp. toxins have significantly increased their larvicidal activities (LC₅₀ of 1.6, 3.7 µg/ml ) at 48h post-treatment. Moreover, bio-AgNPs synthesized from P. luminescens laumondii HP88, P. luminescens akhurstii HRM1 or P. luminescens akhurstii HS1 toxins significantly increased their larvicidal activities (LC₅₀ of 2.1, 1.5, 13.9 µg/ml, respectively) at 48h post treatment. In conclusion, the highest larval toxicity was observed when larvae were treated with bio-AgNPs synthesized from P. luminescens akhurstii HRM1 and X. indica, followed by P. luminescens laumondii HP88 and Xenorhabdus sp. Subsequently, data of the present study suggest these bio-AgNPs toxin complexes as potentially effective bio-control candidates in the battle against mosquito. However, testing other types of bio-synthesized nanomaterials, and their synergistic combinations against different mosquito species still under investigation.

Peste des petits ruminants infection in domestic ruminants in Sudan

The existence of peste des petits ruminants (PPR) in domestic ruminants and camels in Sudan during 2008-2012 was investigated. Lung tissues and serum samples were randomly collected from sheep, goats, cattle, and camels at different areas of Sudan. A total of 12,384 serum samples were collected from clinically healthy 7413 sheep, 1988 camels, 1501 cattle, 1459 goats, and 23 gazelles at different areas in the Sudan. They were examined for PPR antibodies using competitive ELISA (cELISA). The overall detected seroprevalence of PPR in tested sera was 49.4%; seroprevalence values within species were 67.1, 48.2, 25.8, 2.1, and 21.7% in sheep, goat, cattle, camels, and gazelles, respectively. The highest seroprevalence (68.1%) was observed in sera collected from Darfur states, then the central states (54.3%). A total of 1276 lung tissue samples (623 sheep, 324 cattle, 220 camels, and 109 goats) were collected. The majority of lung samples were collected from clinically healthy animals that showed lesions on PM in slaughterhouses (95%) and during PPR outbreaks; samples were tested for PPR antigen using immunocapture ELISA (IcELISA). PPR antigen was detected in 233 out of the 1276 tested samples (18.3%). Positive results were observed in samples collected from clinically healthy and diseased animals. The observed prevalence values in each species were 33.6, 21.1, 15.4, and 12.3% in camel, goat, sheep, and cattle, respectively. PPR antigen was detected in samples from different areas; however, the highest prevalence (63.9%) was found in samples collected from the eastern states, then Khartoum state (28%). Trials for virus isolation were done in different cell cultures. Out of 30 IcELISA-positive samples inoculated in primary bovine and ovine kidney cells, Vero cells, the PPR virus was successfully isolated from 15 (eight sheep, five camels, and two goats) samples in the three cell culture types. Using RT-PCR, PPRV nucleic acid was detected in all 25 IcELISA-positive tested samples.

Adrenal medulla of AS/AGU rats: a histological and immunohistochemical study

BACKGROUND

The outcome of the autograft therapy for Parkinson's disease including autologous cells from adrenal medulla was disappointing. This could be attributed to the pathological process in Parkinson's disease affecting cells of the adrenal medulla. This study was performed to investigate the histopathological changes in the adrenal medulla of AS/AGU rat, a model of Parkinson's disease, in comparison with Albino Swiss (AS) rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 24 male AS rats were divided into four groups, each of 6 animals: AS W1 - AS rats aged 1 week; AS adult - AS adult rats; AS/ /AGU W1 - AS/AGU rats aged 1 week; and AS/AGU adult - AS/AGU adult rats. The rats were sacrificed and the adrenal glands were dissected and processed for histological staining with haematoxylin and eosin and periodic acid Schiff and for immunohistochemical staining for S100 protein, ubiquitin and tyrosine hydroxylase.

RESULTS

The histological investigation of the adrenal medulla of AS/AGU rats showed vascular congestion, inflammatory cellular infiltration, pyknotic nuclei, necrotic chromaffin cells and medullary inclusion bodies. The immunohistochemical investigation of AS/AGU rats showed a statistically significant decrease in the expression of S100 protein, ubiquitin and tyrosine hydroxylase compared to AS rats.

CONCLUSIONS

The histological and immunohistological changes in the adrenal medulla could explain the failure of outcome of adrenal autograft therapy in Parkinson's disease.

Immunohistochemical study of sustentacular cells in adrenal medulla of neonatal and adult rats using an antibody against S-100 protein

BACKGROUND

This study was performed to investigate the light microscopic features of sustentacular cells in adrenal medulla in neonatal and adult male albino rats using an antibody against S-100 protein. S-100 expression in sustentacular cells is considered a reliable cell marker for this type of cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-four male albino rats were allocated into two groups, neonatal group (1 week old, 12 rats) and adult group (3 months old, 12 rats). Paraffin sections of the adrenal glands were immunostained for the expression of S-100 protein.

RESULTS

The results demonstrated differences in distribution, arrangement and structure of sustentacular cells in adrenal medulla in neonatal and adult rats. All sustentacular cells of adrenal medulla in all animals showed intense immunoreactivity for S-100 protein in their nuclei, perikarya, and cytoplasmic processes. Most of S-100 immunopositive sustentacular cells in adrenal medulla of neonatal rats are few, dispersed, small in size, and oval in shape with thin short bipolar cytoplasmic processes. These cells in adult rats are more numerous, larger in size, and stellate in shape with numerous slender, longer branched cytoplasmic processes.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicated that adrenal medullary sustentacular cells showed obvious morphological postnatal changes with aging suggesting structural and functional maturation.

[Rates of prostate-specific antigen testing for early detection of prostate cancer: a first comparison of German results with current international data]

OBJECTIVE

Measurement of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is not only used as a screening instrument by urologists, but also by general practitioners and internal specialists (GP-IS). Until now, there are neither data on the approach of German GP-IS in practicing this nor have data been classified in the context of available international literature on this topic.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between May and December 2012, a questionnaire containing 16 items was sent to 600 GP-IS in Brandenburg and Berlin. The response rate was 65% (392/600). Six indicator questions (IQ1-6) were selected and results were set in the context of available international data. The quality of present studies was evaluated by the Harden criteria.

RESULTS

Of the 392 responding physicians, 317 (81%) declared that they would use PSA testing for early detection of PCA (IQ1) and, thus, formed the study group. Of these GP-IS, 38% consider an age between 41 and 50 years as suitable for testing begin (IQ2), while 53% and 14% of the GP-IS perform early detection until the age of 80 and 90 years, respectively (IQ3). A rigid PSA cut-off of 4 ng/ml is considered to be reasonable by 47% of the involved GP-IS, whereas 16% prefer an age-adjusted PSA cut-off (IQ4). Patients with pathological PSA levels were immediately referred to a board-certified urologist by 69% of the GP-IS. On the other hand, 10% first would independently control elevated PSA levels themselves after 3-12 months (IQ5). Furthermore, 14% of the interviewed physicians consider a decrease of PCA-specific mortality by PSA screening as being proven (IQ6). Knowledge regarding PCA diagnostics is mainly based on continuous medical education for GP-IS (33%), personal contact with urologists (6%), and guideline studies (4%). While 53% indicated more than one education source, 4% did not obtain any PCA-specific training. The results provided by this questionnaire evaluating response of German GP-IS to six selected indicator questions fit well into the international context; however, further studies with sufficient methodical quality are required.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite current findings and controversial recommendations of the two large PCA screening studies on this issue, German GP-IS still frequently use PCA screening by PSA measurement. Primary strategies of early detection as well as follow-up after assessment of pathologically elevated PSA levels poorly follow international recommendations. Thus, an intensification of specific education is justified.

Health-related quality of life and its determinants in HIV patients with post herpetic neuralgia

BACKGROUND

Postherpetic neuralgia is a neuralgia caused by the varicella zoster virus. Its natural history involves slow resolution of the pain syndrome. A subgroup of patients may develop severe, long-lasting pain that does not respond to medical therapy. It also accounts for 11-15% of all referrals to pain clinics but little is known about the quality of life of patients with this condition in our locality Nigeria.

METHOD

Fifty three Post herpetic Neuralgia patients aged between 25 and 56 years (mean = 37.47 +/- 8.29 years) receiving antiretroviral therapy/treatment at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Maiduguri, Nigeria participated in this study. The short-form 36 (SF-36) generic health-related Quality of Life questionnaire was used to assess the QoL. Spearman rank correlation procedure was used to evaluate the relationship of HRQoL outcomes with medical and socio-demographic factor.

RESULT

Physical functioning), Role limitations due to physical health (LPH), Role limitations due to emotional problems (LEP), Social functioning (SF), General health perceptions (GH) scores were below average (35.59 +/- 19.85, 34.28 +/- 33.16, 33.70 +/- 23.26, 49.07 +/- 17.04, 44.09 +/- 9.72 respectively) while Emotional well being/Mental health (EM) was above average (50.13 +/- 11.56). An average (moderate) symptom scale score was Energy/Fatigue (EF) (51.32 +/- 12.87) while Bodily pain (BP) was severe (31.09 +/- 20.46). Age and sex had no significant influence on any of the functional and symptom scale scores as well as the overall QOL. Inverse relationship was observed between age and each of the LPH, LEP, SF, GH, overall QoL and the entire symptom scales. The overall QoL and each of the symptom scale scores were significantly related (P > 0.05). The functional scale score PF, RPH, REP EM and GH were significantly related to overall QoL while SF was not significantly related (P > 0.01).

CONCLUSION

This study has shown that the overall QoL of PHN in HIV positive patients undergoing adjuvant therapy is below average. The predictor factors of the overall QoL of this group of patients have been brought to light. These patients would require ways to improve the QoL, there is the need for health care provider to address the factors uncovered by this study. Four of the determinant factors (PF, LP, BP and EF) are issues that fall within the corridor of physical therapy. Physical therapist should arise to address these significant aspects of the management this group of patients.

Flock dynamics of desert Barki sheep in relation to age structure

Reproduction data of 8689 ewe records spread over 40 years (from 1960 to 2000) representing 2952 breeding Barki ewes were used in this study. The flock belonged to the Desert Research Center in Egypt. Flock dynamics of nine age groups (2-10 yrs) were assessed. Two parameters were used to evaluate flock dynamics, net reproduction rate (R(o)) (number of ewe- lambs reaching joining age and produced by each ewe during its lifetime in the flock) and intrinsic rate of increase (r(m)) (flock growth when no resource is limiting). Age of ewe had a highly significant (P < 0.01) effect on number of ewes lambing per ewe joined (E(PJ)), number of lambs born per ewe joined (L(BJ)), number of lambs weaned per ewe joined (L(WJ)) and number of ewe lambs reaching joining age per ewe joined (L(EJ.J)). All estimates tended to increase with dams age up to four years and decreased thereafter. The results of R(o) and r(m) showed that the studied flock must consist of 5 age groups to maintain its size and replace itself. It may be recommended to cull the breeding ewe at the age of 6 years to accelerate genetic improvement.

Staphylococcus aureus isolated from a horse in a sudden death condition in Kassala state, eastern Sudan

In this study, Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from a draught horse presented to Kassala Veterinary Research Laboratory (KVRL) for investigation and diagnosis. The affected animal was previously treated with Gentamycin and Tetracycline before submitted to this laboratory, but the animal was not cure. Thereafter, the animal was attended to the laboratory; it was suffering from inguinal abscess and some clinical signs. Clinical and laboratory examinations were carried out however, the animal was suddenly fallen and died immediately. Then post-mortem, bacteriological and histopathological examinations were done. S. aureus was isolated as pure culture from the lungs and peritoneum of the necropsied animal. This isolate showed highly sensitivity to Erythromycin and Clindamycin and it was resistant to Penicillin, Cloxacillin, Cefotaxime, Co-Trimoxazole, Cephalexin and Tetracycline. It was concluded from this study, the shock resulted from S. aureus was the causative agent of the death in this case.