Potential Improvements Research Articles

Improvement of osteogenic differentiation potential of placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells by metformin via AMPK pathway activation.

Placenta-derived human mesenchymal stem cells (PL-MSCs) have gained a lot of attention in the field of regenerative medicine due to their availability and bone-forming capacity. However, the osteogenic differentiation capacity of these cells remains inconsistent and could be improved to achieve greater efficiency. Although metformin, a widely used oral hypoglycemic agent, has been shown to increase bone formation in various cell types, its effect on osteogenic differentiation of PL-MSCs has not yet been investigated. Therefore, the objective of this study was to examine the effect of metformin on the osteogenic differentiation capacity of PL-MSCs and the underlying mechanisms. The PL-MSCs were treated with 0.5 to 640µM metformin and their osteogenic differentiation capacity was examined by an alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity assay, Alizarin red S staining and expression levels of osteogenic genes. The role of adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling in mediating the effect of metformin on the osteogenic differentiation capacity of PL-MSCs was also investigated by determining levels of phosphorylated AMPK(pAMPK)/AMPK ratio and by using compound C, an AMPK inhibitor. The results showed that 10-160µM metformin significantly increased the viability of PL-MSCs in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Furthermore, 80-320µM metformin also increased ALP activity, matrix mineralization, and expression levels of osteogenic genes, runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), osterix (OSX), osteocalcin (OCN) and collagen I (COL1), in PL-MSCs. Metformin increases osteogenic differentiation of PL-MSCs, at least in part, through the AMPK signaling pathway, since the administration of compound C inhibited its enhancing effects on ALP activity, matrix mineralization, and osteogenic gene expression of PL-MSCs. This study demonstrated that metformin at concentrations of 80-320μM significantly enhanced osteogenic differentiation of PL-MSCs in a dose- and time-dependent manner, primarily through activation of the AMPK signaling pathway. This finding suggests that metformin could be used with other conventional drugs to induce bone regeneration in various bone diseases. Additionally, this study provides valuable insights for future osteoporosis treatment by highlighting the potential of modulating the AMPK pathway to improve bone regeneration.

Evaluation of solar distiller performance using steel wool pads, internal reflectors, and woven wire mesh: economic, environmental, and sustainability analysis

Abstract Different researches were performed by using thermal storage materials, solar concentrators, reflectors, and other technologies to increase the productivity of solar stills. The main objective of the present study is to enhance the basin solar still productivity by using ecomaterials from the wastes of workshops and factories. So, this study presents an experimental investigation of basin solar still performance using steel wool pads, internal reflectors, and woven wire mesh. The experimental setup was performed at Suez Canal University, Ismailia City, Egypt. Two solar stills were included: one represents the conventional design (CSS), and the second one is the modified with steel wool pads, internal reflectors, and woven wire mesh (MSS). Both solar stills were evaluated under identical climate conditions, considering water depths of 1, 2, 3, and 4 cm, and the required parameters were measured and tabulated during the working days. The results indicated that incorporating these modifications led to a notable increase in accumulative productivity and daily thermal efficiency with minimum cost per liter. The MSS enhanced the daily yield and thermal efficiency by 22.1% and 28.0%, respectively, versus CSS at a water depth of 1 cm. In addition, the energy production factor (EPF), energy payback time (EPT), and the average exergy waste were 1.2 years, 0.85, and 400.2 J, respectively, for MSS. The annual exergy output, environmental effect factor (EEF), improvement potential (IP), and sustainability index were 462.7 kWh, 10.4, 290.6 W, and 1.09, respectively, for MSS. Finally, the cost per liter and the annual CO2 reduction over a lifetime for CSS and MSS were 0.023 $/l, 17.4 tons, and 0.11 $/l, 20.4 tons, respectively. These results align with and reinforce previous publications on desalination, highlighting the potential of these modifications for addressing the pressing challenges of affordable and efficient water using solar energy.

Sustainability index and a bibliometric of photovoltaic thermal with rectangular channel

The main challenge associated with solar panels is the need to reduce excessive heat and optimize efficiency to achieve stable conditions. Therefore, a combination of collector and cooling technologies, such as Photovoltaic Thermal (PVT) Technology, is needed to address this problem. This research used water-based rectangular channel to cool the PVT through the Ansys simulation method. A total of nine variations of mass flow rates, which ranged from 0.001 to 0.009 kg/s and six solar intensities between 500 W/m2 and 1000 W/m2 were used to achieve the optimal performance. An energetic analytical method with average Sustainability Index (SI) of 0.001-0.009 kg/s and 1.186 at 1000 W/m2 intensity were incorporated. Furthermore, the maximum average Waste Exergy Rasio (WER) value of 0.854 at a 500 W/m2 intensity was used to determine the flow rate. The highest average Exergetic Ecological Index (EcEI) value recorded was -0.687 at a 1000 W/m2 radiation intensity, while the highest average Improvement Potential (IP) value was 421.145 W. The results showed that the simulation serve as a valuable point of reference in the design and advancement of water-based rectangular channel within future PVT technology.

TERAPAN ETOS KAIZEN DALAM “MENINGKATKAN KELAS” BISNIS KULINER BERKEARIFAN LOKAL

This community service activity aims to provide counseling to the UMKM Association of Komunitas Sukses Berjamaah Indonesia (KSBI) in South Jakarta regarding the application of the Kaizen ethos in improving the quality and success of their culinary business based on local wisdom. This counseling aims to provide an understanding of the concept of Kaizen ethos and encourage KSBI members to apply it in their culinary business. In this activity, an interactive approach method was used through discussions and case studies to understand the potential for improving local wisdom-based culinary businesses. The participants were invited to identify problems, challenges, and opportunities in their culinary business, as well as to utilize local wisdom as an added value in the business. Key Kaizen principles, such as elimination of waste, quality improvement, employee engagement, and continuous improvement cycle, were explained and applied in the context of KSBI's culinary business. Through the delivery of implementation strategies and successful case examples, participants were given practical guidance to apply the Kaizen ethos in their culinary business. In addition, Q&A and discussion sessions provided an opportunity for KSBI members to share their experiences and obtain solutions to the questions and problems they faced. The results of this activity had a positive impact on the members of the UMKM Community Sukses Berjamaah Indonesia (KSBI) in South Jakarta, focusing on continuous improvement and utilization of local potential, the participants managed to improve their operational efficiency and the quality of their culinary products. Awareness of the importance of innovation and adaptation to market changes has also increased, thus opening up opportunities to expand markets and strengthen the competitiveness of local wisdom-based culinary businesses through the application of the Kaizen ethos.

Extraction, Isolation, Characterization, and Development of Phospholipids Complex Nanocarrier for Improved Solubility, Antiasthmatic, and Pharmacokinetic Potential of Curcuminoids.

Curcuma longa Linn. (Zingiberaceae) is a medicinal plant with significant biological activities owing to curcuminoids (CURs). Nevertheless, its low oral bioavailability because of low water solubility, inadequate absorption, short half-life, and rapid clearance hampered its clinical applications. The study aimed to extract, isolate, characterize, and formulate the Phospholipon ®90H complex and evaluate for improved solubility, antiasthmatic and pharmacokinetic potential of CURs. Phospholipon®90H-based complex of curcuminoids (CPLC) was synthesized via solvent evaporation technique and reported an improvement of solubility, antiasthmatic, and pharmacokinetic potential of CURs. CPLC was physico-chemically and functionally evaluated by Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, powder x-ray diffractometry, oral bioavailability, and antiasthmatic activity. Ethyl acetate rhizome extracts (EARE) displayed ~17.42 % w/w extraction yield of CURs. CPLC revealed high entrapment of CURs (~ 92.55 % w/w) within the polar head of phospholipids. Small particle size ~ 194 nm with zeta potential value ~ -20.4 mV suggests the physical stability of CPLC. Physical analysis evidenced the formation of stable and amorphous CPLC by establishing hydrophobic and weak intermolecular forces between CURs and Phospholipon ®90H. Undoubtedly, the amorphous CPLC raised the aqueous solubility of CURs (~2-fold) compared to pure CURs. CPLC formulations (~ 20 mg/kg of CURs, p.o.) significantly lowered the leucocyte and eosinophil count compared to pure CURs. CPLC improved the oral bioavailability of CURs compared to pure CURs. Results highlight that CPLC could be established as a breakthrough respiratory nanocarrier for CURs and other phytocompounds with respiratory potential.

Freshness/spoilage monitoring of protein-rich foods by betacyanin-loaded gelatin/carboxymethyl cellulose halochromic labels

In the present investigation, easy-to-use colorimetric on-package labels were developed based on gelatin/carboxymethyl cellulose films loaded with betacyanin-rich Mirabilis jalapa extract (MJE) for freshness tracking of shrimp and minced meat. The effect of MJE addition (2 %, 4 %, and 6 % (w/v)) on the morphology, micro-structural, optical, and functional characteristics of the labels was assessed. The addition of MJE indicated dose-dependent improvement of antioxidant potential and light barrier capability of the labels but the reduction of their mechanical strength and water barrier properties. The labels underwent color changes (pinkish-red to yellow) after being exposed to different pHs (2–13), which was similar to the MJE solutions when immersed in buffer solutions. The halochromic label loaded with 6 % (w/v) MJE exhibited the highest sensitivity to ammonia. This label was also capable of detecting ammonia concentrations ranging from 0.01 to 0.1 mg/mL, with a visible color shift from red to pale yellow. When utilized for freshness monitoring of shrimp and minced meat, this label displayed noticeable color changes resulting from the accumulation of volatile ammonia and changes in pH during the spoilage of these samples. The labels were also biodegradable, disintegrating within ∼21 days to a great extent. As a result, we found that a label containing 6 % (w/v) MJE can be used as a biodegradable halochromic indicator in the food packaging industry for visual quality monitoring of seafood and meat products.

A Bamboo HD-Zip Transcription Factor PeHDZ72 Conferred Drought Tolerance by Promoting Sugar and Water Transport.

Drought drastically affects plant growth, development and productivity. Plants respond to drought stress by enhancing sugar accumulation and water transport. Homeodomain-leucine zipper (HD-Zip) transcription factors (TFs) participate in various aspects of plant growth and stress response. However, the internal regulatory mechanism of HD-Zips in moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) remains largely unknown. In this study, we identified an HD-Zip member, PeHDZ72, which was highly expressed in bamboo shoots and roots and was induced by drought. Furthermore, PeSTP_46019, PeSWEET_23178 and PeTIP4-3 were identified as downstream genes of PeHDZ72 in moso bamboo by DAP-seq. The expressions of these three genes were all induced by drought stress. Y1H, DLR and GUS activity assays demonstrated that PeHDZ72 could bind to three types of HD-motifs in the promoters of these three genes. Overexpression of PeHDZ72 led to a remarkable enhancement in drought tolerance in transgenic rice, with significantly improved soluble sugar and sucrose contents. Meanwhile, the expressions of OsSTPs, OsSWEETs and OsTIP were all upregulated in transgenic rice under drought stress. Overall, our results indicate that drought stress might induce the expression of PeHDZ72, which in turn activated downstream genes PeSTP_46019, PeSWEET_23178 and PeTIP4-3, contributing to the improvement of cellular osmotic potential in moso bamboo in response to drought stress.

Finite Element Analysis of Reinforced Concrete Beams Strengthened with Hybrid Fiber Reinforced Polymer Systems using ANSYS

Background: Existing reinforced concrete (RC) structures can deteriorate over time due to aging, poor construction design, natural disasters, etc. In recent years, fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composite materials are becoming a preferred choice for concrete construction repair due to their durability, high strength, and corrosion resistance. This study aimed to study and analyze the properties of the constituent materials to identify any weaknesses and potential improvements. Methods: The present study investigated the effectiveness of flexural strengthening of RC beams using a hybrid grouping of glass-FRP (GFRP) and carbon-FRP (CFRP) unidirectional laminates. ANSYS finite element analysis (FE) software was used to investigate the failure modes of the beams and the stress-strain parameters. The impact of adopting two different grades of reinforcing bars in RC beam modeling was also contrasted in the study. Results: Comparisons between the finite element analysis and experimental literature results were made. Based on the test findings, it could be concluded that retrofitted beams perform better than non-retrofitted beams. According to experimental results, the HY14 sheet enhanced beam had a 188.46% higher ultimate load than the unenhanced beams. Conclusion: Comparing experimental findings to the conclusions of the numerical analysis, a maximum difference of ultimate load and deflection at mid-span of 3.40% and 4.91%, respectively, were used to assess the accuracy of the results.

A rare natural variation in TaFT-D2 underlies QTss.cas-3D associated with increased total spikelet number per spike in wheat

Total spikelet number per spike (TSS) is a crucial yield component in wheat. Dissecting and characterizing major stable quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with TSS can significantly enhance the genetic improvement of yield potential. In a previous study, we identified a stable major QTL for TSS, named QTss.cas-3D. In the present study, we conducted fine mapping of QTss.cas-3D, interval to approximately 6.35 Mb, ranging from 105.03 to 111.38 Mb, based on the IWGSC RefSeq v2.1. Through genome re-sequencing and gene function annotation, we identified TraesCS3D03G0308000 (TaFT-D2) as the candidate gene. Phenotypic evaluation with paired near-isogenic lines revealed that this locus predominantly increases kernel number per spike by enhancing TSS and fertile spikelet number per spike, without significantly affecting thousand-kernel weight or tiller number. The presence of the TaFT-D2 allele in the parent P3228, which is rare in nature populations, highlights its potential value. This study provides a valuable gene resource and functional marker for wheat molecular breeding aimed at improving TSS and establishes a foundation for gene functional analysis of TaFT-D2.

Exergy efficiency and sustainability indicators of forced convection mixed mode solar dryer system for drying process

The study investigates the effectiveness of a mixed-mode solar dryer (MSD) featuring two double-pass solar air collectors in series, with a focus on dehydrating cluster figs characterized by high moisture content and rapid deterioration. Exergy analysis is a powerful tool to assess the efficiency and sustainability of drying systems. The study involves experimental data obtained from the drying process under different air mass flow rates (0.018–0.062 kg/s). The solar radiation intensity ranged from 120 W/m2 to 750 W/m2 during these experiments. The solar air collectors and mixed mode dryer exergy efficiency is found to be dependent on solar radiation intensity, showing increased efficiency with higher air mass flow rates due to enhanced heat removal and reduced losses to the surroundings. The findings reveal that the optimal air mass flow rate of 0.062 kg/s yields the highest exergy efficiency in the solar air collectors. The overall exergy efficiency of the mixed-mode solar drying chamber increases with higher air mass flow rates, ranging from 18.8 % to 41.4 %. Improvement potential (IP) analysis indicates that, as the air mass flow rate increases, the potential for reducing exergy losses decreases. The sustainability index (SI), measures the environmental impact, and it ranges from 1.26 to 1.71, with higher values associated with higher exergy efficiency.

Effectiveness of the Village Fund Program in Aengdake Village, Bluto District, Sumenep Regency

Aengdake Village is located at the eastern tip of Madura Island, where one of the Village Fund programs that has been successfully implemented to date is the health post, starting from toddlers to teenagers to the elderly. This health post is very useful, especially for the health of toddlers, to prevent stunting in children. At the same time, for teenagers, you can consult regarding the problems they are experiencing, and for the elderly, it is very useful. Many elderly people need treatment, especially their knees. This research aims to determine the implementation, improvement of quality, potential, and effectiveness of Village Funds in implementing funding programs in Aengdake Village, Bluto District, Sumenep Regency. This research uses a qualitative approach with descriptive research methods. The data collection techniques used in this research are interviews, observation, and documentation. The results of this research show that the implementation of the village fund program in Aengdake Village, Bluto District, Sumenep Regency includes (a) Government operations, village government facilities and infrastructure, population administration, civil registration and statistics, government administration, and land. (b) Development: education, health, public works and spatial planning, transportation, communication, and information. (c) Development: youth and sports, as well as PKK development. (d) Community empowerment: agriculture and animal husbandry, and increasing the capacity of village officials. (e) Unexpected costs.

Unveiling the Potential of Aloe vera Gel Supplementation in a Cooling Extender: A Breakthrough in Enhancing Rooster Sperm Quality and Fertility Ability.

The cooling of semen storage at 5 °C from a Thai native rooster (Pradu Hang Dum), supplemented with herbs possessing antioxidant properties, provided limited research. This study was conducted to evaluate the efficiency of Aloe vera (AV) gel supplementation at various levels on the quality of cooled semen and subsequent fertility after artificial insemination. Sixty-four chickens had semen pooled, diluted, and supplemented with different levels of AV gel (0% as control, 0.25%, 0.50%, 1.0%, 2.5%, 5.0%, 10%, and 20%), and then stored for 72 h. In Experiment 1, semen quality, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and pH values were assessed at 0, 24, 48, and 72 h after storage. Experiment 2 assessed fertility potential using the most effective cooled storage semen from Experiment 1. Results showed a decrease in semen quality with prolonged storage time (p < 0.001). The highest semen quality was observed in the group supplemented with 1.0% AV gel (p < 0.001), whereas the lowest was noted in the 20% AV gel group (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the 1.0% AV gel group exhibited the highest semen quality at 24, 48, and 72 h of storage. The evaluation of fertility and hatchability rates revealed a statistically significant improvement in fertility potential (p < 0.05) in the group supplemented with 1.0% AV gel. In summary, this study represents the first investigation of stored Thai native rooster semen using a semen extender supplemented with Aloe vera gel at 5 °C, demonstrating its efficacy for storage up to 72 h. The addition of 1% AV gel was recommended as an antioxidant supplementation during the semen storage process at 5 °C to enhance semen quality and fertility rates.

Improvement of Echinacea purpurea and Ganoderma lucidum Extracts with Cell Model on Influenza A/B Infection.

Since 2019, COVID-19 has been raging around the world. Respiratory viral infectious diseases such as influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection are also prevalent, with influenza having the ability to cause seasonal pandemics. While vaccines and antiviral drugs are available to prevent and treat disease, herbal extracts would be another option. This study investigated the inhibitory effects of extracts of Echinacea purpurea (EP) and Ganoderma lucidum (G. lucidum) and the advanced G. lucidum drink (AG) on influenza A/B viruses. To determine whether EP and G. lucidum extracts enhance cell immunity and thus prevent virus infection or act to directly suppress viruses, cell survival and hemagglutination (HA) assays were used in this study. Cells were treated with samples at different concentrations (each sample concentration was tested from the highest non-cytotoxic concentration) and incubated with influenza A/B for 24 h, with the results showing that both G. lucidum and EP extracts and mixtures exhibited the ability to enhance cell survival against viruses. In the HA assay, AG and EP extract showed good inhibitory effect on influenza A/B viruses. All of the samples demonstrated an improvement of the mitochondrial membrane potential and improved resistance to influenza A/B virus infection. EP and G. lucidum extracts at noncytotoxic concentrations increased cell viability, but only AG and EP extract directly decreased influenza virus titers. In conclusion, results indicate the ability of EP and G. lucidum extract to prevent viruses from entering cells by improving cell viability and mitochondrial dysfunction and EP extract showed direct inhibition on viruses and prevented viral infection at post-infection strategy.

Comparative responses of two maize genotypes with contrasting drought tolerance to biochar application

The impact of biochar application on plant performance under drought stress necessitates a comprehensive understanding of biochar–soil interaction, root growth, and plant physiological processes. Therefore, pot experiments were conducted to assess the effects of biochar on plant responses to drought stress at the seedling stage. Two contrasting maize genotypes (drought-sensitive KN5585 vs. -tolerant Mo17) were subjected to biochar application under drought stress conditions. The results indicated that biochar application decreased soil exchangeable Na+ and Ca2+ contents while increased soil exchangeable K+ content (2.7-fold) and electrical conductivity (4.0-fold), resulting in an elevated leaf sap K+ concentration in both maize genotypes. The elevated K+ concentration with biochar application increased root apoplastic pH in the drought-sensitive KN5585, but not in the drought-tolerant Mo17, which stimulated the activation of H+-ATPase and H+ efflux in KN5585 roots. Apoplast alkalinization of the drought-sensitive KN5585 resulting from biochar application further inhibited root growth by 30.7%, contributing to an improvement in water potential, a reduction in levels of O2–, H2O2, T-AOC, SOD, and POD, as well as the down-regulation of genes associated with drought resistance in KN5585 roots. In contrast, biochar application increased leaf sap osmolality and provided osmotic protection for the drought-tolerant Mo17, which was associated with trehalose accumulation in Mo17 roots. Biochar application improved sucrose utilization and circadian rhythm of Mo17 roots, and increased fresh weight under drought stress. This study suggests that biochar application has the potential to enhance plant drought tolerance, which is achieved through the inhibition of root growth in sensitive plants and the enhancement of osmotic protection in tolerant plants, respectively.Graphical

P-024 Revitalizing male fertility: Crocin’s dual role in antioxidant mastery and mitochondrial activation to enhance sperm motility

Abstract Study question The study aims to investigate the potential effect of crocin, a major constituent of Crocus sativus (saffron), on improving sperm motility in patients with asthenozoospermia. Summary answer In vitro crocin treatment enhances sperm motility, reduces ROS, improves mitochondrial membrane potential, and boosts mitochondrial activity, suggesting the potential role of enhancing sperm motility. What is known already Male infertility can result from various factors, with excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) adversely affecting sperm motility. Crocin, known for its antioxidant properties in scavenging ROS, has led to increasing interest in natural compounds to enhance sperm quality. Study design, size, duration The current study involved the evaluation of 95 patients at the Service of Reproductive Biology at the Maternity and Neonatology Center of Monastir. Sperm samples were collected and incubated for 3 hours at 37 °C with increasing concentrations of Crocin (0, 0.2, 0.5, 1, 1.5 mM). Participants/materials, setting, methods This study included asthenozoospermic patients, categorized into two groups: G1 with progressive motility (PM) between 20% and 30%, and G2 with PM between 10% and 15%. Sperm samples underwent treatment with Crocin. Evaluation encompassed sperm motility, considering the distance covered and velocity via video-microscopy. Additionally, intracellular ROS levels were assessed using DCFH-DA fluorochrome, mitochondrial membrane potential was measured with rh123, and mitochondrial activity was determined through succinate dehydrogenase activity via the MTT assay. Main results and the role of chance The results demonstrate that sperm motility is significantly enhanced after in vitro treatment with 1mM Crocin for 3 hours, with 1.9-fold (p &amp;lt; 0.001) and 1.7-fold (p &amp;lt; 0.001) increases in sperm velocity and distance traveled, respectively. Additionally, Crocin reduces intracellular ROS levels, exhibiting a reduction of 1.5-fold (p &amp;lt; 0.001) in G1 and 2.4-fold (p &amp;lt; 0.001) in G2. Fluorescence microscopy of spermatozoa from a patient with severe asthenozoospermia showed intense ROS-induced fluorescence, which was attenuated after incubation with 1 mM Crocin for 3 hours. Furthermore, Crocin demonstrates a noteworthy improvement in mitochondrial membrane potential, with 1.7-fold (p &amp;lt; 0.001) for G1 and 1.9-fold (p &amp;lt; 0.001) for G2, suggesting its capability to prevent the decline of mitochondrial potential. Microscopic fluorescence revealed a marked increase in fluorescence, particularly in the midpiece after Crocin treatment, confirming the protective effect of Crocin on mitochondrial membrane potential. Moreover, there is a substantial increase in mitochondrial activity with Crocin, particularly in G1, showing a 2.14-fold (p &amp;lt; 0.001) increase compared to the G2 group’s 1.85-fold (p &amp;lt; 0.001) increase. These findings collectively highlight the multifaceted benefits of Crocin, encompassing enhanced sperm motility, reduced ROS levels, preserved mitochondrial membrane potential, and heightened mitochondrial activity, underscoring its potential as a therapeutic agent for male infertility, particularly in cases of asthenozoospermia. Limitations, reasons for caution While promising, this study’s limitations include the in vitro treatment, and not fully replicating complex in vivo conditions. Focused on asthenozoospermia, generalizing findings to other male infertility forms necessitates further investigation. Validation of Crocin’s therapeutic potential in male infertility requires additional clinical trials. Wider implications of the findings Our findings suggest that in vitro enhancement of sperm quality with crocin may serve as a promising solution to improve assisted reproductive techniques, mitigating exogenous oxidative stress during laboratory procedures. This insight holds potential for advancing reproductive interventions and warrants further exploration in clinical settings. Trial registration number not applicable

Performance enhancement of inorganic Cs2AgInBr6-based perovskite solar cell by numerical simulation

To fulfil the growing need for energy, researchers are consistently working on enhancing the effectiveness of solar cells. Keeping the same goal in mind, a completely inorganic Cs2AgInBr6-based perovskite solar cell (PSC) is simulated by the SCAPS 1D simulation package. A completely inorganic design is preferred to achieve good stability and a good efficiency of 32.517 %. Enhancement in device performance is achieved by optimizing various parameters, including the back electrode's work function, absorber thickness and defect density, and charge transport layers' thickness, doping density and defect density. Under optimized conditions, a conversion efficiency of 32.517 % is achieved using palladium (Pd) as the back contact metal. The study emphasizes an absorber thickness of 600 nm and defect density of 1.8 × 1011 cm−3 as optimal for maximizing photovoltaic performance parameters. The charge transport layers TiO2 as ETL and CuO as HTL are optimized to achieve the utmost photovoltaic properties. The HTL thicknesses around 200 nm and ETL thicknesses around 10 nm are suitable for high-efficiency solar cells. The p-type doping in HTL and n-type doping in ETL is varied from 1014 cm−3 to 1023 cm−3. The changing doping level has a small affect on the photovoltaic parameters. Considering all four parameters, the medium doping levels around 1018 cm−3 are good for HTL and ETL. Further, the effect of series resistance, shunt resistance, and temperature on perovskite solar cell performance are also investigated. The power conversion efficiency and fill factor are better at lower temperatures. The efficiency decreases from 34.189 % to 26.211 % and the fill factor declines from 91.400 % to 85.002 % as the temperature rises from 260 K to 450 K. Overall, the research ensures the significant improvement in photovoltaic potential for inorganic Cs2AgInBr6 based PSCs through the utilization of low-cost back contact metal Pd and inorganic transport materials such as TiO2 and CuO. The article will serve as a comprehensive guide for researchers keen on developing perovskite solar cells, specifically focusing on selecting various material properties for the absorber and charge transport layers.

The influence of variations in salinity levels on the biocementing process on soil improvement of liquefaction potential

Abstract This article presents an innovative method of soil improvement cementing to increase the shearing strength of very loose sand with 10% relative density (Dr) in saline conditions. Salt in saline soils destroys the stability of stable soils. In contrast, the salt content reduces the level of homogenization of unstable soils, causes technical problems in calcareous soils, and affects their stability, especially if the salt content is more than 3.0%. The variations in salinity levels can determine the optimal percentage of salt levels in the stabilized soil. The application of biocementation to saline soil can drastically increase the shear strength of soil in soil with potential liquefaction in coastal areas due to earthquakes. Calcium carbonate deposition (MICP) in the microbial-induced biocementing process is a new method that utilizes the metabolic processes of microorganisms in this study using Bacillus sp. In the MICP process, microbes need Ca2+ ions obtained from fly ash, which can produce SiO2 and CaO to produce CaCO3 for binding between particles. Soil improvement was carried out by combining initial soil, fly ash, mycobacteria, and variations in salinity obtained from NaCl with varying percentages of 0%, 1%, 2%, and 3,4% after testing at curing times 7, 14, 21, and 28 days. The research samples from the UCS and direct shear tests showed that the shear and UC strength that were treated increased. The highest increase in shear strength was at 3,4% salinity at 28 days of 80.9°. CaCO3 production resulting from the binding between particles in the biocementing reaction can be seen from the results of SEM tests. Soil improvement using biocementing in this study resulted in an effective increase in the strength of loose sand soil in salinity condition.

Management of Guillain–Barre Syndrome through Basti (Medicated Enema) and Composite Ayurveda Treatment: A Case Report

Abstract BACKGROUND: Guillain–Barre syndrome (GBS) is a condition characterized by polyradiculoneuropathy associated with an immune-mediated response. Conventional therapies such as intravenous immunoglobulins and plasma exchange have been used to manage this condition, but they often result in unpleasant clinical and electrophysiological outcomes. The present case report describes traditional Ayurveda treatments, specifically Basti (medicated enema) and composite Ayurveda treatment, used to manage GBS. This report aims to provide insights into the effectiveness of traditional Ayurvedic treatments in managing GBS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this case, the patient presented with complaints of tingling and numbness in the bilateral upper and lower limbs for 2 months, weakness in bilateral upper and lower limbs for 1 month, inability to stand and walk, pain in the lumbar region, intermittent constipation, and dysphagia since 1 month. The patient was diagnosed with Guillain–Barre syndrome based on clinical findings, electromyography, and nerve conduction velocity test (EMG-NCV). He received treatment from a private hospital, but his symptoms were aggravated, so he was referred to Government Ayurveda Hospital Nagpur for further clinical management. Plasma transfusion was done at PVT Hospital 15 days before. He was treated based on the treatment principles of Vatavyadhi Chikitsa, Vata Dosha Upkram, and Santarpan Chikitsa. The primary goals of the therapy were to nourish the bodily tissues (Santarpan) and pacify the Pitta Dosha (Pittaghna). RESULTS: The patient’s electromyography and nerve conduction velocity test (EMG-NCV) results showed acute demyelinating sensorimotor polyneuropathy involving both the upper limbs and lower limbs. Compared to before treatment, EMG-NCV studies showed definite improvement in compound motor action potential (CMAP) amplitudes more prominently in upper limbs after 4 months of therapy. The muscle power grade increased from 0 to 5, indicating a significant improvement. The bedridden patient can walk alone after the completion of treatment. CONCLUSION: This case study reveals that Ayurvedic treatment has the potential for significant recovery in GBS instances.

A mixture of free and microencapsulated essential oils combined with turmeric and tannin in the diet of cattle in the growing and finishing phase: A new tool to enhance productivity

The study was conducted to evaluate whether adding a blend containing free and microencapsulated essential oils, combined with turmeric and tannin, can replace monensin as a performance improver, positively influencing animal health and meat quality. Fourteen male cattle with an average initial body weight of 253 kg and ten females with an average initial body weight of 239 kg were included in the experiment in a confinement system. The animals were divided into four independent groups: Males (M-PHYTO, inclusion of the phytogenic mixture; M-MONEN, inclusion of monensin); Females (F-PHYTO, inclusion of phytogenic; F-MONEN, inclusion of monensin). The diets were formulated for an average daily gain of 1.5 kg, with food provided twice daily. Data and biological samples were collected on days 33, 100, and 153. M-PHYTO and F-PHYTO showed greater average daily gain and body weight, with a tendency to consume more dry matter and feed efficiency. However, the apparent digestibility of nutrients was higher in animals in the MONEN group than those in the PHYTO group, regardless of sex. The total number of leukocytes in cattle in the M-PHYTO and F-PHYTO groups was higher due to the higher lymphocyte count in the blood of these animals. The activity of gamma-glutamyltransferase and aspartate aminotransferase in animals that consumed the phytogenic mixture was lower compared to animals that consumed monensin. TBARS levels were lower in the serum and meat of cattle in the M-PHYTO and F-PHYTO groups, as were the total thiol concentration and glutathione S-transferase activity in the blood and meat of these animals. Bacterial activity was greater in the rumen fluid of cattle that consumed the phytogenic, as demonstrated by the methylene blue reduction test. The total production of short-chain fatty acids and acetic acid showed an interaction between treatment and days for both sex classes and an effect of treatment for females, with a higher concentration in the rumen in the M-PHYTO and F-PHYTO groups. Propionic acid affected treatment and the treatment x day interaction for males and females, with the M-PHYTO and F-PHYTO groups showing higher concentrations. There was an interaction between treatment and day in the acetate/propionate ratio, being lower in M-PHYTO and F-PHYTO cattle. Treatment between ruminal microbiota groups had no effect. The rib eye area had more significant gains when consumed phytogenic by males and females. The subcutaneous and sirloin fat thickness was greater in F-PHYTO animals than in the control group; however, in males, the result was the opposite. The sum of polyunsaturated fatty acids in meat was higher in M-PHYTO compared to M-MONEN and lower in F-PHYTO meat compared to F-MONEN. These results indicate that the phytogenic mixture is a potential performance improver in the diet of growing and finishing cattle, regardless of sex, but meat characteristics differ between males and females.

A look into osmotic, ionic, and redox adjustments in wild tomato species under combined salt and water stress

Conventional tomato production is widely threatened by environmental changes that impose increasingly frequent and severe conditions of soil salinization and water shortage. The assessment of the wild germplasm has become an appealing strategy for the stress-resilience improvement of crops. Tomato interspecific diversity encompasses wild species that are native to the dry shores and high-elevated deserts of the Andean countries, often thriving under circumstances of drought and salinity. The present work aimed to compare the effects of moderate salinity stress under different watering regimes on the ion distribution, redox homeostasis, osmoregulation, and antioxidant defenses between a domestic cultivar of tomato (Chico III) and the wild tomato species Solanum galapagense (LA1403), Solanum habrochaites (LA1223), and Solanum neorickii (LA2194). Results showed that although wild tomato plants grew slower than the cultivar, their growth was less affected by exposure to salt or to lower water availability. S. galapagense revealed a Na+ includer behavior under salt stress, increasing Na+ levels by 6-fold over control, reaching levels 4 times higher than in the cultivar. Nonetheless, H2O2-detoxifying enzymes were activated, and shoot elongation was sustained in this species, suggesting an efficient Na+ compartmentalization. On the other hand, the domestic cultivar had the highest accumulation of Na+ in roots and showed the lowest ability to sustain growth under combined stress. Leaves of S. habrochaites showed a huge proline buildup under salt stress, whereas S. neorickii and S. galapagense seemed to prevent proline accumulation. S. habrochaites also had high levels of antioxidant metabolites and superoxide dismutase activity under control conditions but downregulated further antioxidant defenses in response to stress exposure. No oxidative damages were noticed despite the almost 2-fold increase in ROS content in the leaves of S. neorickii under salt stress, which showed a negative correlation with growth traits, but an improvement in the antioxidant potential. A principal component analysis (PCA) revealed five PCs with eigenvalues >1, explaining 84 % of the total variability, and suggesting a separation of the evaluated samples mainly in accordance with the type of redox disturbances and antioxidant defenses employed, levels of photosynthetic pigments, balance between Na+ and K+ uptake and proline accumulation. These findings show that wild tomato plants respond differently than cultivated ones under moderate salinity and reduced water availability, suggesting interesting osmoregulatory and antioxidant mechanisms in S. galapagense and S. habrochaites.