Electron Microscopic Examination Research Articles

A HRTEM-EDS-SAED Study of Precipitates in Mg-Zn-Zr Alloy

In this study, aging heat treatment was performed on extruded Mg-Zn-Zr alloy. Aging was performed on as-extruded samples at 180°C for 1-2-4-8 and 24 hours. Microhardness tests were made to obtain the aging curve. Detailed transmission electron microscopy (TEM) examinations such as selected area electron diffraction (SAED), energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS), and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) were used to investigate the microstructure, second phases, and precipitates. Size, type, and morphologies of second phases and precipitates were studied aided by advanced transmission electron microscopy techniques. With the help of hardness test results peak aged condition was found to be 8 hour aging. TEM examinations were detailed for the 8-hour aged sample. It was observed that the precipitates responsible for age hardening were MgZn2. Moreover, the majority of these precipitates were β’1 phase.

Morphometric, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural examination of age-related structural alterations in optic nerve

Aims: As individuals age, there is a known decline in visual function attributed to a reduction in the optic nerve fibers and myelin sheath degeneration. Studies present conflicting findings on whether aging affects axonal integrity in the human optic nerve. This study aims to investigate degenerative changes in the aging rat optic nerve. Methods: The investigation involved 36 Wistar albino rats. The rats were divided into six groups: the newborn, prepubertal, pubertal, junior, adult, and elderly groups. This study investigated optic nerve axon counts, axon diameters, levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein immunoreactivity (GFAP-IR) and nerve growth factor immunoreactivity (NGF-IR), as well as findings from light microscopy (LM) and electron microscopy (EM) in these groups. Results: This study observed age-related alterations in rat optic nerves, including increased diameter, irregular axon count fluctuations (both increases and decreases), elevated astrocyte count, and a simultaneous decline in oligodendrocyte count. Additionally, it was observed that NGF-IR was predominantly at the membrane level in newborns and moderately in the cytoplasm, whereas in older ages, it was evident at both cellular and axonal levels furthermore, it was observed that GFAP-IR increased with age. However, in LM and EM examinations, axonal loss and rarefaction, accumulation of osmiophilic substances, splitting of the myelin sheath, vacuolization, axonal retraction were observed. Conclusion: In this study, it was found that one of the causes of age-related vision loss is the advanced degenerative changes in the optic nerve and it was concluded that the remaining small-diameter myelinated nerve fibers may partially compensate for the sense of vision. Our study reveals that age-related degenerative changes in the central nervous system resemble those in multiple sclerosis (MS), suggesting a potential contribution to MS pathogenesis.

Effect of Rice Husk Ash (RHA) and slake-lime as partial replacement of cement in the production of concrete

This study examines the utilization of rice husk ash (RHA) and slaked lime as substitutes for a portion of the cement in manufacturing concrete. The RHA was acquired from a nearby source, subjected to calcination at temperatures ranging from 500 to 700 °C, and then passed through a sieve to obtain particles with a size of 150 microns. Concrete mixes were made using Ordinary Portland cement (OPC), fine and coarse aggregates, and water, with different amounts of RHA and slaked lime. The concrete mix design adhered to established standards, with a mix ratio of 1:1.5:3 (cement: fine aggregate: coarse aggregate). The experiment was designed using response surface methods, with RHA, slaked lime, and cement as factors, each having five levels. Concrete cubes were formed using 100 mm steel moulds and then submerged in water to assess their workability. The compressive strength was measured using universal testing equipment after 7, 28, and 90 days of cure. The flexural strength of concrete beams was assessed after 7 and 28 days. Samples were subjected to scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) examination after 28 days. The compressive and flexural strengths increased as the curing period progressed, with the 10% RHA substitution showing the maximum strength. The SEM analysis showed that RHA10 exhibited the maximum concentration of silicon, which corresponds to the recommended 10% replacement level of OPC and meets the concrete specifications specified by ASTM M20 grade. Utilising RHA decreases expenses and minimises the amount of concrete that is discarded. The most effective replacement for OPC was 10% RHA, which produced long-lasting and strong concrete.

Scanning Electron Microscopic Examination and Technical Training for Specialty Animal Fiber Identification of Raw Textile Materials

Scanning Electron Microscopic Examination and Technical Training for Specialty Animal Fiber Identification of Raw Textile Materials

Cholesterol Embolic Renal Disease: Experience of a Large Healthcare System.

Context. To determine the clinical-pathological features associated with cholesterol embolic renal disease, and review of literature. Design. This retrospective case series includes patients with cholesterol embolic renal disease (10 of 3087 kidney biopsies) who were diagnosed at Northwell Health, New York, between July 2017 and October 2022. Results. Cholesterol embolic renal disease is a rare disease with a prevalence of 0.32%. Four of 10 patients had intravascular interventional radiology procedures within 6 months prior to kidney biopsy. Four patients had remote interventional radiology history (6 months to 4 years). Seven patients presented with acute kidney injury; 3 patients underwent renal biopsy due to proteinuria. The average baseline creatinine was 2.0 ± 0.9 mg/dL; the creatinine at kidney biopsy and at follow-up was 4.3 ± 3.0 mg/dL and 2.8 ± 1.3 mg/dL, respectively. Eight patients had elevated serum eosinophil counts. Three patients died (mortality rate 30%) in an average follow-up of 4 months (range: 1-10 months). One patient progressed to end-stage kidney disease. The presence of cholesterol clefts is a hallmark of atherosclerotic emboli. Cholesterol clefts were present on the specimen for light microscopy (H&E and special stains) in 9 biopsies; 7 patients had cholesterol clefts in vascular lumens and/or walls. Cholesterol clefts were present on semi-thin sections for electron microscopy examination in 4 biopsies. One patient had cholesterol clefts present in semi-thin sections only. Conclusions. The clinical manifestation of cholesterol embolic renal disease in patients without recent intravascular interventional radiology history can be indolent but is associated with high mortality. Careful examination of all levels with light microscopy, including the perirenal tissue, and semi-thin sections can increase the detection rate of cholesterol embolic renal disease.

Improved Reversibility of Thin-Film Solid Oxide Cells at 500 °C by Tailoring Sputtering Processes for Depositing Yttria-Stabilized Zirconia Electrolyte.

The present study investigates the impact of sputtering configurations on the microstructure and crystallinity of thin-film yttria-stabilized zirconia electrolytes for anodized aluminum oxide-supported all-sputtered thin-film reversible solid oxide cells. Employing various sputtering parameters, such as target-substrate distance and substrate rotation speed, the present study reveals distinct surface characteristics and crystalline structures of thin-film yttria-stabilized zirconia. The microstructure analysis includes scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy examinations, uncovering the influence of the process parameters on the surface morphology, roughness, and grain size. X-ray diffraction data illustrate the texture preferences and crystallite characteristics. The electrochemical characterization of the reversible solid oxide cells demonstrates that the optimized sputtering configuration significantly outperforms the others in both SOFC and SOEC modes, showing exceptional current densities of 964 mA/cm2 at 1.3 V in electrolysis mode at 500 °C. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy further reveals improved charge transfer reactions at the interface of the electrolyte. The enhanced electrochemical performance is attributed to the unique microstructure and crystallinity of the thin film of yttria-stabilized zirconia. The record-breaking electrolysis performance of this work at 500 °C underscores the potential of tailored sputtering parameters in optimizing the reversible solid oxide cell performance.

Comparative performance analysis of straight and harped prestressing seven-wire strands: High-strength stainless steel vs. conventional carbon steel

This paper presents an experimental investigation into the utilization of high-strength stainless steel (HSSS) strands systems in prestressed bridges. The study delves into the effects of localized bent and harping of seven-wire HSSS strand systems under various harping angles and curvatures produced by the deviators. For comparison purpose, conventional carbon steel (CS) strands were also studied using the same experimental parameters. It was anticipated that CS strands would exhibit better performance due to its superior post-yied ductility. To closely mimic the state of practice in the precast plant, two types of deviators were designed and used in this investigation. A comparable harping capacity was observed for HSSS strands relative to CS strands, despite the CS strands exhibiting higher strain compared to the HSSS strands. Upon reaching their breaking load, necking of all seven wires was predominantly observed for HSSS, whereas the CS strands failed due to the fracture of only one or two outer wires. Due to the lack of ductility in the HSSS stand, it was expected to have the lower bent capacity, especially at higher harping angles. Despite the significant difference in post-yied ductility, the study revealed that both HSSS and CS strands exhibit similar performance. To further understand the similarity and difference in behaviour of these two materials, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) examinations were conducted on both HSSS and CS wires to visualize the bending effects on the microstructure level after bending the center wire at different angles.

Exploring Enhanced Structural and Dielectric Properties in Ag-Doped Sr(NiNb)0.5O3 Perovskite Ceramic for Advanced Energy Storage

The ceramic Sr(NiNb)0.5O3, incorporating silver doping in the A site, was synthesized using a sol–gel route and subjected to comprehensive analysis through various experimental techniques. X-ray diffraction data analysis indicates a rhombohedral crystal structure. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) examination reveals densely packed grains with minimal surface porosity. A thorough investigation of electrical properties, encompassing dielectric constant, loss tangent, electrical impedance, modulus, conductivity, etc., was conducted across a wide frequency range (103–106 Hz) and temperature range (260–340 K). This analysis provided valuable insights into structure–property relationships and conduction mechanisms. The discussion highlights the significance of interface effects, space charge polarization, and Maxwell–Wagner dielectric relaxation in achieving the material’s high dielectric constant at low frequencies and elevated temperatures. Examination of temperature dependence through Nyquist plots elucidates the contributions of grain behavior to the material’s resistive and capacitive properties. The dielectric permittivity, dissipation of energy, and electrical characteristics like impedance, modulus and conductivity are notably influenced by the frequency of the applied electric field and temperature. Overall, the material exhibits promising potential for industrial applications such as energy storage, given its intriguing properties.

A new inhibitor of quaternary copolymer against calcium carbonate scaling in high-temperature geothermal fluids

An effective quaternary copolymer inhibitor against calcium carbonate scaling in 120 °C geothermal fluids, with an inhibition ratio of over 95 %, was synthesized through aqueous free radical polymerization of itaconic acid (IA), acrylic acid (AA), hydroxy ethyl methacrylate (HEMA), and sodium allylsulfonate (SAS). The synthesis process involved using ammonium persulfate as an initiator and tert-butanol as the molecular weight regulator. A four-factor, three-level orthogonal experiment was conducted to optimize the synthesis process, resulting in a monomer ratio of m(IA):m(AA) = 1:7, 15 % initiator concentration, a reaction temperature of 90 °C, and a reaction time of 2.5 h. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis revealed the presence of carboxyl, sulfonic acid, hydroxyl, and ester groups in the copolymer, while thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) confirmed its thermal stability. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) examinations of calcium carbonate crystals indicated that the copolymer scale inhibitor caused significant damage to the surface morphology and crystal structure. This scaling inhibitor is useful for efficient geothermal energy utilization.

LASIS-Assisted Copper Nanoparticle Synthesis and Characterization, along with UV-Visible Spectroscopy

This study investigates the creation of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) using chemical reduction and laser ablation in liquid (LASIS). UV-visible spectroscopy is used to examine the optical characteristics of the nanoparticles created by these techniques. The purpose of the study is to compare the stability, efficacy, and particle size of CuNPs produced using different techniques. When comparing the LASIS method to the chemical reduction process, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) examination revealed that the former produced smaller and more uniform nanoparticles. This work demonstrates the effectiveness of both synthesis techniques, with LASIS clearly outperforming the other in the production of superior CuNPs with more control over particle size and dispersion. A thorough explanation of the chemical reduction method and LASIS used in the synthesis of copper nanoparticles is provided, and UV-visible spectroscopy is used to characterize the resulting particles.

The influence of Sm[formula omitted]O[formula omitted] nanoparticles adding on some superconducting properties of Bi[formula omitted]Pb[formula omitted]Sr[formula omitted]Ca[formula omitted]Cu[formula omitted]O[formula omitted] ceramics

High-Temperature Superconductors Bi1.6Pb0.4Sr2Ca2Cu3O10+δ samples doped with Sm2O3 nanoparticles in different quantities (0.00, 0.02, 0.04 and 0.06), were synthesized. Solid state feedback technique was used to prepare the samples and then characterized. The morphology and structure of the specimens were deployed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) examination. The spectroscopy of the energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) experiment was utilised to obtain the elemental composition of the samples. Resistivity versus temperature measurement in DC mode was employed to estimate the critical transition temperature of each sample. XRD with the Rietveld refinement process revealed that Bi2223 and Bi2212 stages exist mutually in specimens with orthorhombic crystal systems. The lowest percentage of volume fraction associated with the Bi2223 phase belonged to the sample with x=0.06 nanoparticle samarium doped. It was detected that with rising samarium content the volume division of the Bi2223 phase decreases but the Bi2212 stage increases compared with the pristine specimen. SEM showed that the shrinkage of grain size occurs when the amount of nano-sized Sm was added to x=0.02 sample with lower inter-coupling among superconducting granules. This effect might be verified by SEM and TEM images. EDX exhibited some peaks related to Sm and other elements of the Bi2223 structure. These patterns confirm that all elements associated with the compounds were introduced into the Bi2223 matrix. The critical temperatures such as Tconset, TcPeak and Tczero decreased for Sm doped samples compared with the pure sample. Adding Sm2O3 nanoparticles causes rising calculated density and hole carrier concentration. These outcomes can be interpreted as the allocation of additional positive charges to the CuO2 planes. It is worth mentioning that the superb properties such as high-Tc, high Jc, strong flux pinning, and good thermal stability, for Bi2223 and high breakdown electric field, high dielectric constant, and large bandgap for Sm2O3 are the issues to motivate the author to dope Bi2223 with Sm2O3 NPs. In brief, the electrical, mechanical and structural properties of Sm2O3 NPs doped Bi2223 play the main role in the applications, which drive the investigations to emphasise the synthesis of superconducting samples.

Performance evaluation of kevlar fiber reinforced epoxy composite by depositing graphene/SiC/Al2O3 nanoparticles

The synergistic effect of adding Silicon Carbide (SiC), Aluminum Oxide (Al2O3), and Graphene (GR) nanoparticles into Kevlar fiber-reinforced epoxy composites is investigated in this study. Within the epoxy matrix and Kevlar fibre reinforcement, these nanoparticles come in a variety of compositions. The mechanical and flammability features of the composite are revealed by experimental evaluation. Of the nanoparticles, graphene performs the best; the composite reinforced with graphene shows 324 MPa of tensile strength, 8 J/mm of impact strength, and 75.2 HRC of hardness. The composite layers' interior structure is investigated using scanning electron microscopy examination. To evaluate thermal stability of the composition the thermogravimetric (TG) and the differential thermal analysis (DTA) investigations were performed. Thermal stability is achieved by the graphene-reinforced composite at 775 °C. Additionally, corrosion tests and water absorption tests were conducted to assess the material's moisture sensitivity. The overall goal of the research is to ascertain whether adding various nanoparticles to Kevlar produces the best outcomes; graphene has demonstrated promising results in terms of improving mechanical and thermal stability.

Efficient separation of cathode materials from aluminum foil by novel low-melting mixture solvent based on choline chloride-xylitol system

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are important energy devices with significant growth and expansion that result in large amounts of metal waste. However, the separation of the cathode materials from aluminum (Al) foil during the recycling of spent LIBs is still challenging due to their strong bonding by polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). Herein, a novel low-melting mixture solvent (LoMMS) based on the choline chloride-xylitol system with ow-toxicity, cost-effectiveness, and environmental friendliness was developed for separating the cathode materials from Al foil in LIBs. Under the optimal treatment conditions of a molar ratio of choline chloride to xylitol of 2:1, a reaction temperature of 140 °C, a reaction time of 20min, and solid-liquid ratio of 16g/L separation efficiency cathode material reached a maximum of 94.92%. The mechanistic analysis revealed that the high separation efficiency can be attributed to strong hydrogen bonding provided by choline chloride and xylitol in LoMMS, disrupted PVDF molecular bonding and resulted in deactivation and successful separation of cathode material particles from the aluminum foil. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy examination revealed no changes in the morphologies of the cathode materials, useful for their restoration and reutilization. Overall, the proposed LoMMS method with low-cost and eco-friendly aspects has great potential for recycling spent LIB cathode materials.

Unveiling the Role of SlRNC1 in Chloroplast Development and Global Gene Regulation in Tomato Plants.

RNC1, a plant-specific gene, is known for its involvement in splicing group II introns within maize chloroplast. However, its role in chloroplast development and global gene expression remains poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the role of RNC1 in chloroplast development and identify the genes that mediate its function in the development of entire tomato plants. Consistent with findings in maize, RNC1 silencing induced dwarfism and leaf whitening in tomato plants. Subcellular localization analysis revealed that the RNC1 protein is localized to both the nucleus and cytoplasm, including the stress granule and chloroplasts. Electron microscopic examination of tomato leaf transverse sections exposed significant disruptions in the spatial arrangement of the thylakoid network upon RNC1 silencing, crucial for efficient light energy capture and conversion into chemical energy. Transcriptome analysis suggested that RNC1 silencing potentially impacts tomato plant development through genes associated with all three categories (biological processes, cellular components, and molecular functions). Overall, our findings contribute to a better understanding of the critical role of RNC1 in chloroplast development and its significance in plant physiology.

Exploiting the potential of mesoporous NiMoO4/TiS2 composite for enhanced electrochemical supercapacitor performance

The mesoporous electrode material offers a high surface area, excellent porous texture, and optimal pore-size distribution, facilitating increased active sites for ion accretion and enhanced ionic diffusion rates. NiMoO4, TiS2, and their composites such as NT-1, NT-2, NT-3, and NT-4 composites have been prepared by hydrothermal approach to enhance the capacitance of supercapacitor electrodes. Different methodologies have been employed to analyze the optical, morphological and structural characteristics of the synthesized materials. X-ray diffraction was utilized to assess the crystalline nature of both the pristine materials and composites. Scanning electron microscopy examination confirmed the formation of mesoporous and irregular nanoparticles with sizes ranging from 50 to 100 nm. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy was employed to examine the stretching vibrations of the prepared samples. Through photoluminescence (PL) analysis, the energy band gap of the NT-1 composite was decisive to be 2.78 eV. The NT-1 composite exhibits an impressive specific capacitance of 1257.14 Fg−1 at 1 Ag−1, attributed to its huge surface area, efficient charge transfer, and synergistic effect while demonstrating remarkable stability after 5000 cycles with 92% capacitance retention. Therefore, NT-1 binary metal sulfide composite unleashes high-performance supercapacitors with remarkable specific capacitance and cyclic stability.

Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Liriodendron chinense Leaves.

Liriodendron chinense has been widely utilized in traditional Chinese medicine to treat dispelling wind and dampness and used for alleviating cough and diminishing inflammation. However, the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects of L. chinense leaves and the key active constituents remained elusive. So, we conducted some experiments to support the application of L. chinense in traditional Chinese medicine by investigating the antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory abilities, and to identify the potential key constituents responsible for the activities. The ethanol extract of L. chinense leaves (LCLE) was isolated and extracted, and assays measuring ferric reducing antioxidant power, total reducing power, DPPH•, ABTS•+, and •OH were used to assess its in vitro antioxidant capacities. Antimicrobial activities of LCLE were investigated by minimal inhibitory levels, minimum antibacterial concentrations, disc diffusion test, and scanning electron microscope examination. Further, in vivo experiments including macro indicators examination, histopathological examination, and biochemical parameters measurement were conducted to investigate the effects of LCLE on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury (ALI) in mice. LCLE was further isolated and purified through column chromatography, and LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells were constructed to assess the diminished inflammation potential of the identified chemical composites. ABTS•+ and •OH radicals were extensively neutralized by the LCLE treatment. LCLE administration also presented broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties, especially against Staphylococcus epidermidis by disrupting cell walls. LPS-induced ALI in mice was significantly ameliorated by LCLE intervention, as evidenced by the histological changes in the lung and liver tissues as well as the reductions of nitric oxide (NO), TNF-α, and IL-6 production. Furthermore, three novel compounds including fragransin B2, liriodendritol, and rhamnocitrin were isolated, purified, and identified from LCLE. These three compounds exhibited differential regulation on NO accumulation and IL-10, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, COX-2, and iNOS mRNA expression in RAW264.7 cells induced by LPS. Fragransin B2 was more effective in inhibiting TNF-α mRNA expression, while rhamnocitrin was more powerful in inhibiting IL-6 mRNA expression. LCLE had significant antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects. Fragransin B2, liriodendritol, and rhamnocitrin were probably key active constituents of LCLE, which might act synergistically to treat inflammatory-related disorders. This study provided a valuable view of the healing potential of L. chinense leaves in curing inflammatory diseases.

Carbon fiber recovery from carbon fiber reinforced polymer matrix composite by microwave pyrolysis

The recovery of high-value carbon fibers (CFs) from carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRP) is essential for advancing sustainability goals. In this study, CFs were extracted from CFRP using a microwave pyrolysis method known for its efficiency and environmental friendliness. The pyrolysis process was optimized through the response surface methodology to minimize carbon residue accumulation on the CFs' surface. The microwave pyrolysis of CFRP was simulated using COMSOL software to analyze temperature distribution patterns. The optimal parameters for microwave pyrolysis were determined as follows: a temperature of 543.7 °C, a holding time of 22.8 minutes, and a microwave power of 840.9 W, resulting in a residual carbon rate of only 3.7 %. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) examination revealed no visible surface damage to the CFs. Analysis using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy indicated a slight reduction in the crystallinity and graphitization level of the CFs due to the presence of deposited carbon. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results suggested increased oxygen-containing functional groups. The comparative microstructural analysis between the pyrolyzed and pristine CFs showed no significant disparities. These results demonstrate the successful recovery of CFs through rapid resin pyrolysis in CFRP using microwave irradiation.

Photocatalytic, antibacterial and antioxidant potential of spheroidal shape chromium and yttrium doped cobalt oxide nanoparticles: A green approach

This study delves into the versatile attributes of green synthesis of chromium doped cobalt oxide and yttrium doped cobalt oxide nanoparticles, synthesized through a sustainable process utilizing phytochemicals extracted from Bergera koenigii. The primary focus is on evaluating their effectiveness in photocatalysis, antibacterial activity, and antioxidant properties. The cubic structure of both chromium doped cobalt oxide and yttrium doped cobalt oxide nanoparticles was confirmed through X-ray diffraction analysis with crystallite size of 14.204 and 12.949 nm, respectively. Transmission electron microscopy and Scanning electron microscopy and Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy examinations revealed the presence of spheroidal nanoparticles ranging from 37 to 41 nm in size. Photocatalytic efficiency, assessed through congo red dye degradation, demonstrated degradation of 86.963 and 94.499 % for chromium doped cobalt oxide and yttrium doped cobalt oxide nanoparticles, respectively. Antibacterial evaluations underscored the nanoparticles capacity to disrupt Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli, with yttrium doped cobalt oxide nanoparticles exhibiting superior antibacterial activity compared to chromium doped cobalt oxide nanoparticles. The antioxidant potential, evaluated via the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical assay, showcased the nanoparticle's ability to scavenge free radicals, with yttrium doped cobalt oxide nanoparticles displaying highest scavenging up to 83.359 % which attributed to the introduced phytochemicals during the green synthesis process. The innovation of this research lies in the green synthesis of chromium doped cobalt oxide and yttrium doped cobalt oxide nanoparticles, harnessing their distinct properties for synergistic applications. The study provides valuable insights into potential future applications, offering novel solutions for environmental remediation and biomedical uses.

Lacrimal gland Alterations and the Effect of artesunate on experimental induced diabetes rat models and related mechanisms

Diabetic patients are at high risk of developing lacrimal gland dysfunction, and the antimalarial drug artesunate (ART) was recently used to induce experimental-induced diabetes mellitus. This study’s objective is to investigate the lacrimal gland alteration and the effect of ART on experimentally induced diabetes rat models and its related mechanisms. Forty rats were divided into five groups (8 rats/group): healthy control group (HC), diabetic group (DM), 50 mg/kg ART intervention diabetic group [DM + ART (50 mg/kg)], 100 mg/kg ART intervention diabetic group [DM + ART (100 mg/kg)] and 6 U/kg Insulin intervention diabetic group (DM + INS). The morphology of the eyeball and lacrimal gland tissues was determined using hematoxylin and eosin staining. In addition, external lacrimal glands were harvested for electronic microscopic examination, NFκB1, and TNF-α protein expression evaluation by immunohistochemistry and mRNA expression analysis by RT-PCR. Histopathological and ultrastructural changes suggest ART intervention has an improved structural effect. Protein expression of NFκB1 in the DM + ART (100 mg/kg) group was decreased. TNF-α significantly decreased in the DM + ART (50 mg/kg) and insulin groups. We concluded that ART improves structural changes in a lacrimal gland in diabetic rats. The present study provides further evidence of the therapeutic effect of ART on the lacrimal gland of diabetic rats by decreasing the expression of NFκB1 and TNF-α.

Asbestos exposure determined 357 days after death through autopsy: a report of a multidisciplinary approach.

Asbestosis is an interstitial lung disease caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers and poses a significant risk to individuals working in construction, shipping, mining, and related industries. In a forensic context, postmortem investigations are crucial for accurate diagnosis, for which the gold standard is the histopathological examination. This case report describes the autopsy and related investigations conducted on an 84-year-old man, nearly one year (357 days) after his death. After a post-mortem CT scan, an autoptic investigation was performed, followed by histopathological, immunohistochemical, and scanning electron microscopy examinations. The integration of the evidence from these examinations with previously available personal and clinical information conclusively confirmed the diagnosis of asbestosis. We demonstrated the efficacy and reliability of our diagnostic protocol in detecting asbestosis and asbestos fibers and excluding mesothelioma even in decomposed tissues. According to our findings autopsy remains the diagnostic gold standard in cases of suspected asbestosis within a forensic context, even 1 year after death, therefore it is always highly recommended, even in cases where the body has decomposed.