Electron Microscopic Examination Research Articles

Renal Disease in Nepal, Under Microscope: One Year Study

Introduction: Renal disease is a significant health problem in Nepal that is creating an increasing health and economic burden. Renal disease usually does not cause symptoms until reaching an advanced stage. Correct diagnosis of renal biopsy requires correlation of clinical, biochemical, and serological parameters and histopathological examination by light microscopy, immunofluorescence, and sometimes electron microscopic examination. The present study was conducted to study the histopathological patterns of all renal biopsy specimens in Nepal with the help of information obtained from Light microscopy and Immunofluorescence examination. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional (Prospective study) undertaken at the Pathology Department at Pratham Pathology Laboratory, Lazimpat for 1year duration (January 1ST - December 31ST 2022), all renal biopsy specimens of patients with different glomerular diseases were enrolled. The final diagnosis was made by a pathologist correlating with the histopathological along with immunofluorescence and other clinical and laboratory findings. Results: A total of 195 patient renal biopsy specimens between ages (1-80 years) were enrolled. The majority of patients were in the age group of 21-30 years (23.60%). The study showed slight female predominance with a male-to-female ratio of 1: 1.34. The most common renal disease was Lupus Nephritis with a frequency of 64 with a predominance of Lupus Type IV with a frequency of 34 (17.45. Among all, 21 cases were of Chronic Glomerulonephritis and the most common leading cause for it was IgA Nephropathy with a frequency of 8 (38.10%). Conclusions: The most commonly diagnosed renal disease under a microscope was Lupus Nephritis with a frequency of 34 (17.45%). The leading primary glomerular disease for Chronic glomerulonephritis was IgA Nephropathy with a frequency of 8 (38.10%).

Developing Innovative Nano-Engineered Lightweight Foamed Concrete Incorporating Iron Oxide (II, III) with Enhanced Mechanical and Transport Properties

Recently, scientists have focused substantial attention on the incorporation of nanoscale components in cement-based materials. Iron oxide (II, III) nanoparticles (IONPs) have garnered significant attention in nanoparticle research. This paper portrays preliminary discoveries of an investigation assessing the characteristics of foamed concrete (FC) with the presence of IONPs. A comprehensive assessment of characteristics was conducted, including its workability, axial compressive strength, bending strength, tensile strength, apparent porosity and water absorption capacity. Furthermore, scanning electron microscope examination was performed and evaluated. The results indicate a significant enhancement in the FC strength characteristics, with 28-day compressive, tensile, and bending strengths improving by up to 70, 76 and 52 %, respectively, with the inclusion of 3 % IONPs. Nonetheless, adding IONPs beyond 3 % did not yield significant improvements in mechanical properties. With a rise in IONPs from 1 to 5 %, the FC exhibited significant improvements in apparent porosity and water absorption. The decreasing pore size in FC containing IONPs was found to be the cause of the anomalies. A significant alteration in the arrangement of pore dimensions was noted in FC mixtures when the amounts of IONPs were modified. Results from this investigation emphasise the prospective benefits associated with integrating IONPs into FC, that could boost its entire characteristics.

Favourable Outcome in a Case of Fibrillary Glomerulonephritis: Case Report and Brief Review of Literature

Fibrillary glomerulonephritis (FGN) is a rare pseudoamyloid glomerulopathy characterized by an extracellular deposit of DNAJB9 positive fibrils. Diagnosis of FGN is challenging, since there is no clinical specificity, and pathologically there are others glomerulopathies with organized deposits. Diagnosis of FGN is even more problematic in developing countries, where the necessary diagnostic tools aren’t available. Diagnosis of FGN requires DNAJB9 immunostaining or electron microscopy examination. Until today, there is no standard therapeutic regimen for FGN. The prognosis is still unclear and it is unpredictable. More than half of cases progress to the end-stage kidney disease. We report, in this paper, a case of FGN diagnosed in Moroccan woman. She was treated by steroids and rituximab induction therapy. She didn’t receive rituximab maintenance therapy due to a sustained CD19 depletion. We suspect here an association with an immunodeficiency condition. The clinical course was favourable. Nephrologists and pathologists, especially in developing countries, should be aware about this entity.

Evaluation of podocytopathy in patients with no abnormality detected by light microscopy

ABSTRACT When podocytes are injured, they may detach leading to podocytopenia, which represents a critical step in the development of podocytopathy. . This study aimed to study the diagnostic role of colloidal iron stain in assessment of podoctyopathy. This is a retrospective study, conducted on 50 archival renal biopsies with the clinical diagnosis of steroid resistant or dependent nephrotic syndrome and with no abnormality detected by light microscopy (LM). Colloidal iron special stain was used to delineate the sialomucin coat of podocytes. Desmin immunohistochemical stain for assessment of podocyte injury was also applied. Electron microscopic (EM) examination was performed. Assessment of the mean percent of colloidal iron and desmin stained pixels in relation to the surface glomerular tuft area; i.e. mean percent of stained area (PSA) was done using image analysis software. Minimal change disease (MCD) was observed in 38/50 (76%) cases. Podocytopathy with detached podocytes was observed in 12/50 (24%) cases. Mean PSA in cases diagnosed as MCD was 19.17 ± 2.42 and was 18.95 ± 3.18 in cases diagnosed as podocytopathy with detached podocytes, while in control cases, mean PSA was 23.61 ± 2.18 which showed statistically significant difference between (p value = ≤0.001). Colloidal iron stain is an easy routine-friendly method for assessment of podocytopathy.

Abstract 4123630: MRPL44 Plays an Important Role in Cardiac Hypertrophy and Function

Background: Mitochondrial ribosomal large subunit 44 (MRPL44) knockout mice were embryonic lethal, for which mutations are known to cause mitochondrial infantile cardiomyopathy and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. However, it remains unknown how MRPL44 contributes to cardiac function and hypertrophy. Aims: Our aim is to investigate the effect of MRPL44 haploinsufficiency in mice. Methods: MRPL44 haploinsufficient (MRPL44 +/- ) mice were generated. Mineralocorticoid receptor-associated hypertension mice were induced in MRPL44 +/- and wild-type (WT, MRPL44 +/+ ) mice with subcutaneous infusion of aldosterone(Aldo) and 8% NaCl food for 4 weeks after uninephrectomy. Systolic blood pressure was measured by tail cuffs every week. WB, qPCR, cardiac echo, and histological examinations were performed. RNA sequencing analysis, electron microscopy examinations and mitochondrial activity assay were performed to find differences between MRPL44 +/- and MRPL44 +/+ mice. Results: MRPL44 haploinsufficient mice spontaneously developed left ventricular hypertrophy. Heart rate, blood pressure, and cardiac systolic function were normal in MRPL44 haploinsufficient mice. MRPL44 was decreased about to 70% in MRPL44 haploinsufficient mice and mitochondrial arrangement were impaired in electron microscopic analysis. After Aldo treatment, blood pressure elevation were similar, however, MRPL44 haploinsufficient mice developed left ventricular systolic dysfunction and dilation compared with MRPL44 +/+ mice. WB showed mitochondrial electron transport chain protein complex IV expression was significantly decreased. Furthermore, mitochondrial activity assay showed MRPL44 haploinsufficient mice had a significant reduction in complex IV activity, whereas complex I and II activity were similar to MRPL44 +/+ mice. RNA sequencing analysis showed the significant changes in the expression of ribosomal subunits coded by nucleus in addition to mitochondrial ribosomal subunits. These results indicate MRPL44 plays an important role in the cardiac function of mitochondrial electron transport chain protein complexes via the expression of ribosomal protein subunits coded by both nucleus and mitochondria. Conclusion: MRPL44 haploinsufficient mice spontaneously develop left ventricular hypertrophy and shows systolic dysfunction after aldosterone treatment accompanied with oxidative phosphorylation enzyme dysfunction.

Change in the Chemical State of Phosphorus Sulfide Molecules Inside Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes

This article presents the first experiments on filling single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) with the phosphorus sulfides P4S3 and P4S10 using the ampoule method. Transmission electron microscopy examination reveals the encapsulation of phosphorus and sulfur species inside the cavities of SWCNTs without the formation of any regular structures. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy observes different oxidation states of P and S atoms, depending on the P/S ratio in the initial mixture used to fill the nanotubes. The Raman signals associated with the encapsulated species are low in intensity, and the vibrational modes are shifted and broadened as compared to those in crystalline P4S3 and P4S10. The proposed models for the arrangement of sulfur and phosphorus inside SWCNTs suggest the formation of 1D amorphous glassy phosphorus sulfides with stoichiometric ratios close to those of elemental phosphorus and sulfur in the initial mixtures.

Insight into the Corrosion Inhibition Performance of Pistia stratiotes Leaf Extract as a Novel Eco-Friendly Corrosion Inhibitor for Mild Steel in 1 M HCl Solution.

In this research, the Pistia stratiotes leaf (PSL) extract was evaluated as a green corrosion inhibitor for the corrosion of mild steel in 1 M HCl using electrochemical measurements and surface characterization. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) spectra showed that the inhibitory activity of the phytochemical compounds enhanced with increasing concentration up to 400 ppm, which was reflected in the increase in the charge transfer resistance and double-layer capacitance. Regarding the effect of immersion time, EIS results indicated that the persistence of the PSL extract was between 4 h and 8 h of exposure time. From polarization curve (PCC) results, the best performance of the corrosion inhibitor was achieved at 400 ppm with an inhibition efficiency of 93.7%. The PSL extract acted as a mixed-type corrosion inhibitor. The adsorption of the phytomolecules on the metal surface obeyed the Langmuir isotherm through a mixed mechanism (physical and chemical interactions) dominated by physisorption. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) examinations and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) elemental analysis of the corroded samples confirmed the anticorrosive protection of the PSL extract. Chemical characterization of the PSL extract by GC-MS revealed the presence of phytol, steroids, and aromatic and long-chain unsaturated fatty acid esters, in order of abundance. Chemical quantum calculations by DFT allowed for determining that the phthalic acid, di(2-propylpentyl) ester compound has the most significant potential to act as the main active component in corrosion inhibition activity.

Impact of debranning on the nutritional, cooking, microstructural characteristics of five Indian small millets

BackgroundMillets are underutilized grains rich in nutrients. This study aimed to investigate the impact of debranning on the nutritional, cooking, and microstructural properties of five Indian millets namely foxtail, little, kodo, barnyard, and proso millet.MethodsThe proximate composition, mineral content, cooking properties (cooking time, solid loss, water uptake, alkali score), Fourier Transform Infra Red (FTIR) spectra, X ray Diffraction (XRD) and microstructural characteristics (Scanning Electron Microscopy) of dehusked and debranned millet samples were examined and analysed.ResultsDebranning resulted in decrease in protein (except for little and barnyard millets), dietary fibre, fat, mineral and phytate content in all the millets while enhanced available carbohydrates and amylose content. The cooking times for dehusked millets were significantly higher while, the solid loss and water uptake during cooking of debranned millets were higher. On debranning, Fourier Transform Infra Red (FTIR) spectra showed changes in the pattern with increase in the intensity of amide II (1363 to 1367 cm−1) and amide III (1215 to 1231 cm−1) bands in the debranned foxtail, little, and kodo millets. The X-ray diffractogram (XRD) showed decrease in relative crystallinity on debranning. Scanning Electron Microscopic (SEM) examination revealed that debranning resulted in the loss of seed coat, aleurone layer and partial loss of germ in the millets.ConclusionDehusked millets are nutritious and should be promoted in Indian diets to improve diet quality, debranned millets are nutritionally inferior, can increase the glycemic load of Indian diets.

ADHESION OF STEEL CORD WITH CU-ZN-FE COATING IN COBALT-FREE COMPOUND

ABSTRACT The adhesion of steel cord with Cu-Zn-Fe coating in a cobalt-free skim compound in hot and humid conditions was investigated and compared with the current adhesion system consisting of brass-coated steel cord in cobalt-containing skim compound. Standard adhesion tests showed that the adhesion retention of Cu-Zn-Fe–coated cord in a cobalt-free compound was significantly improved with respect to current adhesion system. Advanced characterization of adhesion interphases by field emission scanning electron microscopic examination of cord-compound cross sections and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy depth profiling revealed that incorporating the Fe element into the coating significantly reduces the dezincification of the metallic coating and prevented excessive growth of adhesion interphase. This results in high adhesion retention of Cu-Zn-Fe–coated steel cord in cobalt-free compound. Furthermore, a hypothesis was proposed to explain how the Fe element decreases the dezincification of the metallic coating in hot and humid conditions. Because Cu-Zn-Fe–coated cord eliminates the need for cobalt salts in the compound, using this cord in cobalt-free compounds generates a completely cobalt-free solution to tackle adhesion degradation and health risks of the current adhesion system.

Evaluation of the Effect of Static and Flowing Conditions on the Corrosion Behavior of the Hull of Marine Ships

Marine ship hulls' corrosion resistance behavior under static and flowing conditions was investigated. The metal of the hull panels of marine ships was chemically and mechanically examined and analyzed, revealing that carbon steel type DIN 1.0501 C35 is employed in constructing the hull of ships in the port of Basrah in Iraq. A corrosion resistance test for this metal was carried out in laboratory-prepared seawater under static and flowing conditions at a flow rate of 1500 liter/hour and various immersion times (12, 24, 48, 120, 168, 336) hours. The temperature was kept constant at 30°C, and a fixed salt concentration of (3.5% sodium chloride). The corrosion rate of C35 carbon steel was calculated using the weight loss method is an effective method for calculating the corrosion rate of carbon steel. The samples were examined using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) for corrosion analysis. Conclusions from this research indicate that an increase in the flow rate resulted in an elevation of the corrosion rate, doubling the corrosion rate compared to samples under static conditions. The corrosion rate exhibited a significant increase during the first 24 hours, followed by a gradual decrease with increasing immersion time. The corrosion rate increased by 682.9%. The speed of corrosion was fast initially, but the weight loss slowed after 24 hours of immersion. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) examination revealed that the flow environment was aggressive for carbon steel. It was much more severe, and the pits and grooves were more significant than the static condition.

A new approach to overcome cytotoxic effects of Cu by delivering dual therapeutic ions (Sr, Cu)

IntroductionThe incorporation of trace elements such as strontium (Sr) and copper (Cu) in the composition of mesoporous bioactive glass (MBG) is widely known to enhance its biological functionality for bone tissue regeneration MethodsTwo MBG powders with the composition 80SiO2-11CaO-5P2O5-XCuO/SrO, one doped with 4mol.% of CuO, the second with 4mol.% of SrO were blended in the weight ratios of Cu-MBG: Sr-MBG; 100:0, 70: 30, 50: 50, 30: 70 and 0:100 aiming at minimizing Cu to minimize the cytotoxicity of Cu while preserving its antimicrobial activity. The synergistic effects of Sr and Cu ions on bioactivity, cytotoxicity, and antimicrobial activity were studied. ResultsTransmission electron microscopy (TEM) examination of Cu-MBG and Sr-MBG showed fringes related to the development of a mesoporous structure. The specific surface area values of the Cu-MBG and Sr-MBG powders were 287 and 349 m2/g, respectively. A characteristic compact layer consisting of particles with platelet-like morphology commonly associated with HAp crystals was confirmed after 7 days soaking in simulated body fluid (SBF). Mouse preosteoblast cells (MC3T3-E1) exhibited higher cell viability when exposed to a 1% w/v eluate from blended Cu-MBG powders compared to pure Cu-MBG. Notably, the Cu-MBG: Sr-MBG ratio of 30:70 exhibited cell viability of around 85% at this concentration. A higher cell viability (above 100%) towards MC3T3-E1 cells was observed for all powders when tested with the 0.1% w/v eluate. With progressive increase in the amount of Cu-MBG in the blended system the bacterial inhibitory effects were more pronounced. The Cu ions releases from Cu-MBG generate hydroxyl ions and increase the pH leading to disruption of the cellular membrane of microbes, resulting in enhanced antimicrobial activity. ConclusionThis newly developed blended system composed of Cu and Sr doped MBGs is expected to be more effective as bioactive filler in comparison to single ion doped MBGs for bone tissue engineering applications.

Engineering plant-based chicken substitutes: Application of fava bean (Vicia Faba) and wheat gluten blend (Triticum Aestivum) via novel layering technique

This study explores feasibility of producing a plant-based chicken analogue using an innovative layering method with sprouted fava bean flour, wheat gluten and beet powder. Analyses of raw and cooked samples were conducted to mimic conventional chicken properties. Results indicate that sprouting process significantly improve protein and amino acid profile of meat analogue from 22 % to 45 % respectively, outperforming conventional chicken. The meat analogue has higher unsaturated fatty acids (UFA) compared to chicken's higher saturated fatty acids (SFA). Prominent enhancements in colour and vitamin B12 enrichment were observed in the meat analogue, underlining the significance of this research. Scanning electron microscopic examination revealed fibrous structures in the meat analogue, with a complex matrix in arrangement. Flavor, texture, and chewiness significantly influenced the organoleptic evaluation, correlating with the texture profile and beany flavor. Ongoing refinements are necessary to address limitations in mimicking chicken and to align with evolving consumer preferences.

Size effects on the magnetic properties of a system of ε-Fe2O3 nanoparticles embedded in a SiO2 xerogel matrix

A representative series of samples consisting of fine ε-Fe2O3 nanoparticles uniformly distributed over the SiO2 xerogel matrix with an iron oxide content of 5–33 wt % has been synthesized and studied by mutually complementary physical methods. It has been shown by the X-ray diffractometry and high-resolution electron microscopy examination that, with increasing iron oxide concentration, the average particle size <d> increases from 4 to 11 nm. According to the X-ray diffractometry and Mӧssbauer spectroscopy data, the samples with an iron oxide content of 5–20 wt % are single-phase, while at the highest Fe2O3 concentration (33 wt %), the β-Fe2O3 and α-Fe2O3 phases arise. As the average particle size <d> increases, a monotonic increase in coercivity HC and remanent magnetization MR of the synthesized systems at room temperature is observed, which is indicative of their magnetic hysteresis. The magnetic transition known to occur in the ε–Fe2O3 oxide manifests itself in all the investigated samples as a drastic change in the HC and MR values at 150–75 K. At the same time, a thorough analysis of the temperature dependence of the real part of the ac magnetic susceptibility χ′ has shown that the particles with a size smaller than a critical value of dC ∼6.5 nm do not undergo the magnetic transition and have a much lower magnetic anisotropy constant as compared with coarser particles (d > dC). It has been found that, in the low-temperature region, the magnetic moments of these fine particles experience superparamagnetic blocking. It has been established that the size effects that arise in ultra-fine ε–Fe2O3 particles has a serious impact on the macroscopic magnetic properties of the highly dispersed systems based on them.

MRPL44 haploinsufficient mouse spontaneously develops hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and shows systolic dysfunction after aldosterone treatment

Abstract Introduction It has been recently reported there are big differences in pathophysiological and molecular phenotypes in mouse and human hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. These differences are observed all in terms of myocyte redox, mitochondrial number and respiration, mitochondrial reactive oxygen species generation and Ca2+ handling. Therefore we should search for molecules to be able to induce similar phenotype and molecular signaling both in mice and human. Mitochondrial ribosomal large subunit 44 (MRPL44) knockout mice were embryonic lethal, for which mutations are known to cause mitochondrial infantile cardiomyopathy and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Purpose Our purpose is to investigate the effect of MRPL44 haploinsufficiency in mice. Methods MRPL44 haploinsufficient (MRPL44+/-) mice were generated. Mineralocorticoid receptor-associated hypertension mice were induced in MRPL44+/- and wild-type (WT, MRPL44+/+) mice with subcutaneous infusion of aldosterone(Aldo) and 8% NaCl food for 4 weeks after uninephrectomy. Systolic blood pressure was measured by tail cuffs every week. WB, qPCR, cardiac echo, and histological examinations were performed. RNA sequencing analysis, electron microscopy examinations and mitochondrial activity assay were performed to find differences between MRPL44+/- and MRPL44+/+ mice. Results MRPL44 haploinsufficient mice spontaneously developed left ventricular hypertrophy in 6 weeks old. Heart rate, blood pressure, and cardiac systolic function were normal in MRPL44 haploinsufficient mice. MRPL44 was decreased about to 70% in MRPL44 haploinsufficient mice and mitochondrial arrangement were impaired in electron microscopic analysis. After Aldo treatment, blood pressure elevation were similar, however, MRPL44 haploinsufficient mice developed left ventricular systolic dysfunction and dilation compared with MRPL44+/+ mice. WB showed mitochondrial electron transport chain protein complex IV expression was significantly decreased. Furthermore, mitochondrial activity assay showed MRPL44 haploinsufficient mice had a significant reduction in complex IV activity, whereas complex I and II activity were similar to MRPL44+/+ mice. RNA sequencing analysis showed the significant changes in the expression of ribosomal subunits coded by nucleus in addition to mitochondrial ribosomal subunits. These results indicate MRPL44 plays an important role in the cardiac function of mitochondrial electron transport chain protein complexes via the expression of ribosomal protein subunits coded by both nucleus and mitochondria. Conclusions MRPL44 haploinsufficient mice spontaneously develop left ventricular hypertrophy and shows systolic dysfunction after aldosterone treatment accompanied with oxidative phosphorylation enzyme dysfunction.

Ex-vivo evaluation of clinically-set hydraulic sealers used with different canal dryness protocols and obturation techniques: a randomized clinical trial

ObjectivesThis 2-part randomized parallel triple-blind clinical trial adopts a unique model assessing clinically-set hydraulic calcium silicate-based sealers (HCSBS) after different root canal dryness protocols and obturation techniques.MethodsFor the first phase of the study, 24 teeth scheduled for orthodontic extractions were allocated into four groups according to the canal dryness protocol and the obturation technique. G1 (CLC-AHP): cold lateral compaction (CLC) with AH Plus sealer, G2 (CLC-ES-SD): CLC with Endosequence (ES) after standard canal(s) dryness (SD); G3 (SC-ES-SD): matching single-cone (SC) with ES after SD; G4 (SC-ES-PD): as G3 but after partial canal(s) dryness (PD). Teeth were extracted after one month of clinical service and examined for intracanal voids by micro-CT (2D & 3D). For the 2nd phase, another 24 teeth were allocated into four groups according to the root canal dryness protocol and the HCSBS used (ES or CeraSeal (CeS)). Teeth were extracted after one month and sectioned vertically for energy dispersive X-ray (EDX)/scanning electron microscope (SEM) examination. One-way ANOVA with Games-Howell post-hoc test and Chi-square test with multiple z-tests were used for statistical analysis.ResultsSC-PD showed the highest percentage of voids (p < 0.05). MicroCT scans as well as EDX/SEM examination showed that PD resulted in significantly larger interfacial gaps (p < 0.001) with more hydration products at the sealer/dentin interface than SD.ConclusionsBoth tested dryness protocols allowed the hydration of HCSBS and the formation of hydration products, thus standard dryness is recommended to reduce the incidence of intracanal voids.Clinical relevanceWhen using the single-cone obturation technique, intentional root canal moisture negatively affects the performance of HCSBS.Protocol Registrationhttp://www.clinicaltrials.gov, ID: NCT05808062.

Effect of Synthesis Process on The Piezoelectric Properties of (1-x) NBT-xBT: A Comparative Study Between Solid State and Hydrothermal Methods

Lead-free oxide perovskite materials are produced to ensure that no toxic or dangerous waste is released into the environment, although this technique often requires a high-temperature synthesis method. Nevertheless, the development of an environmentally friendly chemical process to carry out the synthesis of perovskite material in the laboratory at low temperature is a major challenge. In this investigation, to lower the temperature of the thermal treatment, (1-x)(Na0.5Bi0.5)TiO3-xBaTiO3 (abbreviated as (1-x)NBT-xBT) ceramics were synthesized using two different methods: a hydrothermal method and a conventional calcination process (solid-state), using the same reagents. The effects of various synthesis techniques on the composition, structure, morphology, and dielectric properties of the (1-x)NBT-xBT ceramics were registered and examined. The XRD plots taken at ambient temperature were used to verify the phase formation of the samples. The occurrence of functional bands was also verified by Raman spectroscopy at ambient temperature. Using the Rietveld refinement method were able to detect the morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) near x=0.05-0.07. When the hydrothermal process was adopted, the (1-x)NBT-xBT ceramics show a single perovskite structure sintered at 1000°C. Moreover, scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) examination revealed a uniform distribution of grains and a significant change in grain size with the increase in BaTiO3 concentration when compared to the conventional method. The microstructure of ceramics is generally strongly influenced by the method used to prepare the powders, which has a considerable impact on their performance. Piezoelectric and dielectric properties of the specimens have been compared with the properties of those prepared by the hydrothermal process. Thus, the choice of the suitable synthesis method depends on the desired properties of the (1-x)NBT-xBT materials.

Improved photocatalytic activity triggered by UV light, as well as electrochemical sensing characteristics of MgO nanoparticles

ABSTRACT The current study’s objective was to investigate the potential applications of synthesised magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO NPs) as green fuel through solution combustion with leaves of tulsi (holy basil). The end product was further calcined for 3 h at 800°C to produce a well-crystalline nanomaterial. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) examinations indicated a typical crystallite size of approximately 52 nm, determined by applying Scherer’s formula. The results from the scanning electron microscope (SEM) revealed a morphology that is clumped, puffy, and porous. The energy band gap (Eg) values for MgO NPs were determined to be 4.31 eV using DRS data, verifying the semiconductor behaviour of the NPs. Degradation experiments were conducted on two dyes, Fast Blue (FB) and Fast Orange (FO), exposed to UV light for 90 minutes. Under UV light, the photocatalytic degradation of FO (80.35%) and FB (80.5%) reached their maximum. A graphite paste electrode was used for cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and sensor investigations. The cyclic CVs of the MgO NPs-modified graphite paste electrode in 0.1 M NaOH were scanned at 10 to 50 mV/s to determine the specific capacitance values of 250.3 Fg−1. Based on the acquired EIS data, the MgO NPs used as the electrode displayed pseudocapacitive capacitor characteristics. Further, the proposed sensor was employed to determine the Pb2+ and Li+ ions in water and showed sensitivity in the order of 0.005 and 0.006 A. Therefore, MgO NPs synthesised via green solution combustion may have excellent applications as photocatalysts and electrochemical sensors.

A Melt-Processable Metal Halide Perovskite Ferroelectric.

Molecular ferroelectrics have increasingly garnered significant attention in both fundamental scientific research and technological applications due to their ease of processing, lightweight nature, and mechanical flexibility. Among these, metal halide perovskite ferroelectrics (MHP FEs), a subset of molecule-based ferroelectrics, exhibit diverse functionalities owing to their distinctive structures, thus emerging as a focal point of molecular ferroelectrics research. However, thin films, the predominant application form for MHP FEs, primarily rely on spin-coating, which presents considerable limitations. The development of melt-processable MHP FEs has been sparse, largely due to the challenge of integrating ferroelectricity with meltability. In this context, we propose a rational strategy for the successful synthesis of a melt-processable MHP FE, (MBPA)2PbBr4 (MBPA = N-methyl bromopropylammonium), featuring a notably low congruent melting temperature and excellent molten stability. The reversibility of solid and liquid states was demonstrated by X-ray diffraction and Raman and IR spectrum. Scanning electron microscopy examinations show a better quality of the melt-processed thin films compared to spin-coated ones. This study marks the successful implementation of integrating ferroelectricity and melt-processability into melt-processable MHP FEs, paving the way for a novel approach in processing MHP FEs and facilitating their future applications.

Evaluation of multi-phased heterostructures in Fe-Cr-based alloys through TEM observation combined with a newly developed LRLM model

The characteristics of the multi-phased oxide-TiN-TiC-(δ-Fe) heterostructures in Fe-Cr-based alloys are essential for TiN refinement and resultant grain refinement. While the refining phenomena of TiN and as-cast grains in Fe-Cr-based alloys were well reported, the detailed refining mechanisms for TiN and δ-Fe grains remain to be further elucidated. In order to evaluate the oxide-TiN-TiC-(δ-Fe) heterostructures, three foils for transmission electron microscope (TEM) examination were prepared, denoted as the I0, R1, and MR1 samples, respectively. Here, the atomic lattice matching modes and orientation relationships (ORs) across the (Mg and /or RE bearing oxide)-TiN-TiC-(δ-Fe) heterostructures were revealed. Based on the results, the simulated multilayer /3D atomic matching models for the interfaces of each heterostructure were established, revealing the actual atomic-scale structures of the heterostructures and their formation processes originating from the oxides. Furthermore, a newly developed long-range lattice matching (LRLM) model was established to provide a new method of the OR verifications. In summary, this study does provide new insights into interfacial engineering and new ideals on refining TiN and as-cast grains in industrial production of Fe-Cr-based alloys.

Macrophage hyperfunction as a cellular trigger for fibroplastic changes in internal organs in pneumoconiosis among miners

Introduction. The significant prevalence of anthracosilicosis and silicosis, characterized by the rapid development of pneumofibrosis in coal mine workers, is a serious socially significant problem worldwide. A key component of the pathogenesis of pneumoconiosis is the macrophage reaction to fibrogenic dust, which is a complex immunological response, with prolonged and intense exposure leading to chronic inflammation in various organs and systems, fibrosis and a progressive decrease in their functions. A deep understanding and evaluation of the macrophage reaction as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis of lung damage in miners will allow us to develop more effective strategies to combat dust damage to organs and systems. The study aims to consider macrophage hyperfunction as a trigger mechanism for fibroplastic changes in internal organs in pneumoconiosis in miners. Materials and methods. Using light microscopy, specialists conducted extended cytological, histological and immunohistochemical studies of bronchial smears and autopsy material (fragments of bronchi, lungs, heart, liver and kidneys) of 50 miners of Kuzbass coal enterprises who died simultaneously as a result of a man-made disaster. Morphometric analysis of histological structures with measurement of linear dimensions was used for a comprehensive assessment of pathomorphological changes. Results. There was a sharp increase in the number and size of actively phagocytic alveolar macrophages loaded with dust particles in the lungs of miners. Pathological changes in internal organs were characterized by pronounced fibrosis in the peribronchial and perivascular zones, stroma with deposition of dust particles and a pronounced macrophage reaction. In a group of miners with more than 15 years of experience in the central and distal parts of the lungs, in the intermuscular zones of the myocardium, the portal tracts of the liver, and the central segments of the kidneys, there was a constant increase in the expression of immunohistochemical markers CD14, CD34, actin and vimentin, which can be used as diagnostic markers for the identification of macrophage inflammation and fibrosis, will allow to assess the degree of severity of the pathological process. A characteristic feature of the miners' long experience of dust exposure was the presence of progressive pronounced perivascular sclerosis extending beyond the vascular histione. Experts found fibroblastic cells with positive expression of CD14, CD31 and CD34 in the sclerotic zones. Limitation. The absence of cytogenetic and electron microscopic examination, which is expected in the future in conjunction with the expansion of the range of immunohistochemical research methods. Conclusion. The results of extended pathomorphological and cytological studies emphasize the importance of an integrated approach to the diagnosis of occupational diseases in the coal industry. The use of a combination of these methods will allow timely detection of macrophage inflammation and fibrous process in dust pathology, specific changes at the cellular and tissue levels, as well as to assess the severity of the pathological process. Ethics. The study of autopsy material was based on a secondary examination of blocks and ready-made histological micro-preparations (glasses) of the material of the Bureau of Forensic Medical examination of Novokuznetsk, Osinniki, Prokopyevsk. The studies of pathomorphological material were carried out strictly on the basis of Federal Law No. 323-FZ dated 11/21/2011 "On the Basics of Protecting the Health of Citizens in the Russian Federation", in particular Article 67 "Conducting pathological anatomical autopsies", Federal Law No. 8-FZ dated 12.01.1996 "On Burial and Funeral Business" (Article 5, pp. 1, 2), as well as in accordance with the Order of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation dated 06.06.2013 No. 354n "On the procedure for conducting pathological anatomical autopsies", Order of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation dated 03/24/2016 No. 179n "On the Rules for conducting pathological anatomical studies".