Scanning Electron Microscopy Studies Research Articles

Efficacy of Different Root Canal Irrigating Solutions in Removing Smear Layer: A Scanning Electron Microscopic Study.

Background The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate and compare the efficacy of frequently used chemical agents in terms of their capacity to eliminate the smear layer after instrumentation, as observed via scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Materials and methods Sixty extracted single-rooted mandibular premolar teeth, each with roots 15 mm in length, were used in this study. The teeth were divided into one control group and four study groups, each containing 12 teeth. In Control Group 0, teeth were irrigated with 3 ml of saline only. In Group 1, teeth were irrigated initially with 3% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and then given a final rinse with 3 ml of 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) for one minute. In Group 2, teeth were irrigated with 3% NaOCl and given a final rinse with 3 ml of a mixture of tetracycline, acid, and detergent (MTAD, BIOPURE) for one minute. In Group 3, teeth were irrigated with saline and given a final rinse with 3 ml of 17% EDTA for one minute. In Group 4, teeth were irrigated with saline and given a final rinse with 3 ml of MTAD for one minute.One-half of each tooth was chosen and prepared for scanning electron microscopic (SEM) examination at the cervical, middle, and apical thirds. These were observed at magnifications of up to 1,000 times to check for the presence or absence of a smear layer. The data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test and post-hoc Dunn's test. Results All of the root canal irrigation protocols exhibited superior efficacy compared to the control group in the elimination of the smear layer. Group 2 (3% NaOCl with MTAD) showed the lowest mean scores, compared to all the groups, followed by Group 1 (3% NaOCl with 17% EDTA). MTAD was more effective than EDTA. The smear layer was effectively removed from the apical third, followed by the middle and coronal thirds of the root. Conclusion Initial irrigation with 3% NaOCl and one-minute final irrigation with 3 ml MTADwas the most effective root irrigant, and particularly indicated in teeth with infection of the apical third.

Colchicine induced polyploidy from thallus segments of Kappaphycus alvarezii (Doty) for genetic improvement

Regeneration of polyploidy from young thallus segments of Kappaphycus alvarezii was optimized for genetic improvement. Kappaphycus thallus segment cultured on sterile sea water supplemented with various combinations of Indole acetic acid, Kinetin and Acardian Marine Plant Extract Powder revealed differential response on callus proliferation and development of new thallus. Presence of Acardian Marine Plant Extract Powder (3 mg/l) in combination with Indole acetic acid and Kinetin (0.01 mg/l each) had induced the longest emerging thallus. Exposure of thallus to colchicine at 0.01% with above combination was optimal to induce high frequency regeneration of polyploidy mostly from the meristematic cells. Anatomical study of colchicine induced polyploidy revealed larger cortical cells with irregular thickening of epidermal layer. Phase contrast and Scanning Electron Microscopic study revealed increase in cell size in cortical region with significantly larger number of spherical shaped carrageenan globules in colchicine induced polyploidy than normal thallus. Single cells isolated using enzymatic treatments from colchicine induced polyploidy, shown chromosome number with a ploidy status of 4n ≈ 40. Whereas in normal thallus, only half the number of chromosomes (2n ≈ 20) were observed. Polyploidy were successfully acclimatized gradually using raft method for further evaluation. This is the first report reveals the induction and regeneration of polyploidy in Kappaphycus. The possible application of this finding in genetic improvement of Kappaphycus is discussed.

Synthesis, physical, chemical, biological, mechanical and electronic studies of polypyrrole (PPy) of versatile scales for electro-mechano, pharmaceutical utilities

The Polypyrrole is properly synthesized with the customary ammonium persulphate as an oxidizing agent. The number of reactions for versatile molar ratios (oxidant: monomer) is addressed and pronounced. Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed the material amorphous nature by wide peak from 20° to 30°. As the molar ratio is changed, the Fourier Transform Infra Red (FTIR) spectrum shows the substantiation of functional groups and peaks are shifted for each specimen slightly. UV–visible spectral study shows a major peak at 320 nm, for typical π-π* transitions. Scanning Electron Microscopic (SEM) study confirmed the agglomerated polypyrrole sample for the surface morphological periphery. It is enabled for electronic filter influx property with versatile macro scale in microns as 3.7874, Polypyrrole is tried for electronic filters as the influx in microns of different scales. Hardness profile for RISE effectiveness and in the biomedical sector as a better anti-diabetic agent by IC-50 values. The hardness value for Vicker's scale of 100 g is 97.9 kg/mm2.

Microwave-assisted synthesis of tentacles like Ag-doped copper oxide nano-ceramics: Structural, optical, and anti-campylobacter studies

The facile microwave approach has been adopted to successfully synthesize silver-doped CuO (ACO) and bare CuO (BCO) photocatalysts. Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), optical absorption, current-voltage (I–V), and photoluminescence (PL) studies have been executed to evaluate the effects of silver doping on texture, microscopic characteristics, crystal structure, bandgap, electrical conductivity, and charge carrier separation. Nanostructured (nanorods) and narrow bandgap ACO photocatalyst was produced owing to the synergistic impact of surfactant-assisted synthesis and silver doping-induced bandgap regulation. The ACO photocatalyst was a better choice for antibacterial application than its counterpart (BCO photocatalyst) due to the induced characteristics that increased its specific surface area and light-harvesting capabilities. Photoinduced charge carriers (holes and free electrons) in the ACO photocatalyst are shown to separate at maximal extent according to the PL and I–V analyses, indicating their facile transport from the production site to the site of action. The synergistic effects owing to the tailored features enable the ACO photocatalyst to kill the Campylobacter bacteria and mineralize Acridine orange dye at a fast rate. The antimicrobial activity of the doped catalyst has a linear relationship with the applied catalyst dosage as the zone of inhibition (ZOI) increases from 14.2 mm to 22.7 mm when the ACO photocatalyst dosage was raised from 4 μg to 12 μg.

Effect Annealing Temperature on Pure and Al-Doped Iron Oxide Thin Films for Formaldehyde Gas Sensing Application

The present study employs chemical spray pyrolysis to prepare pure and Al-doped α-Fe2O3 thin films with different aluminium concentrations. Subsequently, annealed at 450 °C and investigated the effect of annealing temperature on structural, morphological, optical, chemical and gas sensing properties. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies were adapted to examine the morphologies and microstructural properties of the α-Fe2O3-based thin films. All the films were polycrystalline with rhombohedral structure, and the (104) plane was confirmed to be the favoured orientation. Deposited thin films were seen to have agglomerated, superimposed sphere-like particles on their surfaces in AFM and FESEM micrographs. Raman spectroscopy analysis and XPS were used to examine the film’s symmetry and structural characteristics. The optical band gap of the deposited thin films is determined using a Tauc plot.Pure and Al-doped thin film’s formaldehyde sensing capability was examined based on aluminium (Al) doping concentration. The results of the experiments showed that the gas-detecting capabilities have been significantly enhanced by the optimal content of Al added to the α-Fe2O3 lattice.

SEM study of resin tags depth for filled pit and fissure sealants using subpressure and adhesive system - An experimental analysis

Background: Pit and fissure caries account for about 90% of the caries of permanent posterior teeth and 44% of caries within the first teeth in children and adolescents. Sealant application may be a preventive conservative approach. However, it is still challenging to bolster the retention of the filled sealant and to chop back the microleakage. Aims and Objectives: To evaluate and compare the depth of resin tags of three filled pit and fissure sealants (PFS) using subpressure and adhesive system under scanning electron microscope (SEM). Materials and Methods: This study was in vitro experimental study. Forty-five orthodontically extracted premolars were prepared for resin tag depth measurement and divided according to materials and subgroups. Group A- Resin-based filled PFS, Group B- Resin modified glass ionomer-based filled PFS, Group C- Giomer based filled PFS. Subgroup 1- Only sealant application, Subgroup 2- Subpressure application, Subgroup 3-Adhesive system + Subpressure application. Samples were subjected to thermocycling. The sectioned tooth fragments were polished using a carbide stone and then mounted under SEM for analysis. Photographs of the sections were obtained and the resin tag lengths were measured. Unpaired t-test and one-way analysis of variance test used for analysis. Results were considered significant when P<0.05. Results: The depth of resin tags of the tested materials differed significantly for Giomer-based and resin-modified glass ionomer-based filled PFS group with P<0.05. Whereas Resin-based filled PFS group was not found significant P>0.05 for the depth of resin tags. Conclusion: This study concludes that Giomer based filled PFS group and Resin-modified glass ionomer-based filled PFSs showed the highest Resin tag depth respectively when compared with Resin-based filled PFSs. The Subpressure application group was more effective followed by Adhesive+subpressure application group and Control group.

Steccherinum filiferum sp. nov. from the neotropics, and a new combination for Odontia laxa

The new species Steccherinum filiferum, from Puerto Rico and Amazonian rainforests of Ecuador, is described. It is characterized by effused basidiomata with hyphal cords, a monomitic hyphal system, simple-septate hyphae, and minute hymenophoral aculei with encrusted, septate, Candelabrochaete -like cystidia. Because Odontia laxa [ ? Odonticium laxum ] is morphologically and phylogenetically similar to S. filiferum, the new combination Steccherinum laxum is proposed, after studying its type. Scanning electron microscopy studies show that S. filiferum and S. laxum can be differentiated by crystal size and arrangement on the cystidia. A key to the Steccherinum species with simple-septate generative hyphae is provided.

Extraction and characterization of Chitosan from Shell of Borassus flabellifer and their antibacterial and antioxidant applications

Chitosan is a bio-polymer made up of repeating units of N-acetyl glucosamine and glucosamine joined together by (1–4)-glycosidic linkages. Various bioresources have been used to develop bioactive materials that have a wide range of applications in different fields, including industry and medicine. Borassus flabellifer is a well-known source of chitin in the sub-Indian continent and is used in digestion, pharmaceuticals, and other applications. Chitin can be extracted from B. flabellifer fruit shells through demineralization and deproteinization and then converted into chitosan through deacetylation. This study aimed to investigate the biological activity of chitosan extracted from B. flabellifer fruit shells and to analyze its molecular structure using FT-IR analysis. Results showed the presence of NH, OH, and CO stretching, indicating the presence of various functional groups in chitosan. Scanning electron microscopic study revealed the topography of the chitosan. Well-diffusion and MIC tests showed that chitosan exhibited activity against E. coli and S. aureus. The chitosan extract also exhibited potential antioxidant polymer by scavenging free radicals.

Study of Root Transparency in Different Postmortem Intervals Using Scanning Electron Microscopy.

In the fields of forensics, the identification of human remains is a recurrent problem. The estimated age at death is one of the copious criteria to be evaluated. In adult teeth, the height of the root dentin transparency is used to estimate age. However, in archaeological material, this phenomenon appears inconstant. The aim of this work was to observe the structural modifications of the sclerotic dentin in the teeth for different postmortem intervals. The study included two parts (retrospective and prospective study) with 21 human monoradicular teeth, from bodies donated to medical science with postmortem intervals (PMIs) of 0, 1, 2 and 5 years and archeological excavation. After inclusion based on resin, section and polishing, the samples were analyzed with a scanning electron microscope (SEM) JSM-7800F®, and the procedure was completed via a semiquantitative analysis of calcium and phosphorus using EDX microanalysis. The analysis showed the existence of tubular and chemical modifications of sclerotic dentin at different PMIs. Our SEM study allowed us to observe a difference in tubule aspects linked to an increased PMI: the loss of peritubular collar and the lumen obstruction of tubules with a hyperdense material. Microanalysis highlighted variations in phosphocalcic ratios among the different groups, especially in the pulp area and the canine. Our hypotheses that explain these differences are based on the postmortem modifications of the crystals of the mineral phase of sclerotic dentin under the influence of chemical and/or bacterial action.

Study on Corrosion Characteristics of Aluminum Alloy Al3102 in Sulfate-reducing Bacteria Environment and Investigating the Use of Azadirachta indica Leaves Extract in its Control

An effort to understand the corrosion characteristics of aluminium Al3102 alloy in a neutral medium in the presence of Desulfovibrio desulfuricans was made. The corrosion rate increased up to tenfold in the bacterial medium in comparison to the control (abiotic) medium. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) studies showed substantial sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) adhesion on the alloy surface and pit formation. Supplementation of 1000 ppm Azadirachta indica leaves extract decreased corrosion by 82%. Sulfide analysis, SEM, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) studies showed a significant effect of neem leaf extract (NLE) on bacterial metabolic activity and confirmed the adsorption of the inhibitor molecules on Al3102 surface. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy studies showed that the NLE formed a highly resistive external layer which protected the alloy surface from the corrosive effects. The gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy studies (GC-MS) showed appreciable amount of esters, terpenoids, heterocyclic nitrogen, sulfur compounds, and organic bromine compounds in NLE.

Aluminium Doped Tin Oxide (ATO) Thin Films Grown onto Glass Substrate by Spray Pyrolysis Technique

Nanostructured Al doped Tin Oxide (ATO) thin films were deposited on cleaned glass substrate by spray pyrolysis technique at 400 °C using a solution consisting of SnCl4 starting as material and doping source AlCl3 which were dissolved in methanol and stirred four hours. The effect of changes in doping source content of Al:SnO2 thin films were investigated and studied the crystalline structure, surface morphology, transmittance and optical band gap of ATO films. The dopant concentration varied from 0 to 10%. X ray diffraction studies conformed the proper phase formation in the films are polycrystalline without any second phase with preferential orientations along the (110), (200), and (211) planes and an average grain size of 20 nm. The visible transmittance exceeds 85% and the optical band gap was estimated to be around 2.6 eV to 3.6 eV. The scanning electron microscopic (SEM) studies showed the particle size lying in the range 20 nm for undoped films and it is decreasing while increasing of Al doping.

XRD and SEM analyses of structural properties of LaxBa1−xMnO3 solid solutions

Complex oxides La[Formula: see text]Ba[Formula: see text]MnO3, La[Formula: see text]Ba[Formula: see text]MnO3 and La[Formula: see text]Ba[Formula: see text]MnO3 were synthesized and their structural properties were studied. The structural investigation of the samples is done by incorporating X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) technique at room temperature. The Rietveld method was successfully used for the analysis of the obtained diffraction spectra. It was determined that these compounds have a perovskite structure. Partial substitutions La→Ba do not disturb the ideal perovskite structure and the cubic crystal structure with the space group Pm-3m is preserved. Crystallographic parameters, lattice parameters and interatomic distances were determined for each compound. As a result of SEM studies, it was determined that the size of crystallites in LaxBa[Formula: see text]MnO3 solid solutions ranged from 2 to 10[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m.

A Comparative Analysis of the Occluding Effects on Dentinal Tubules With the Use of Er:YAG Laser and a Commercially Available Desensitizing Agent: An In Vitro Scanning Electron Microscopic Study.

Objective This in vitro scanning electron microscopic (SEM) study aimed to compare the effect of Er:YAG laser and a commercially launched dental productnamely 8% arginine-calcium carbonate on exposed dentinal tubules. Materials and methods A total of 120 tooth samplesprepared from healthy maxillary first premolars extracted due to orthodontic reasons were grouped randomly into four groups of 30 samples each - Group I: control group (C); Group II: laser group (LG); Group III: toothpaste group (TP) and Group IV: laser + toothpaste group (LT). The samples in Group II-IV were treated with the respective test agents and were placed under SEM to study the changes in the dentinal tubule number and diameter. The data obtained from SEM were then subjected to statistical analysis using an unpaired t-test. Results The unpaired t-test revealed extreme statistical differences in means between the test and the control groups and among the test groups (p<0.0001).The results we obtained within the scope of this study showed that both the Er:YAG laser (1.3 W, 100 mJ, 3 Hz, 60 s twice) and dentifrice containing 8% arginine-calcium carbonate as the main ingredient can significantly reduce the number and diameter of the open dentinal tubules. Conclusion Our findings have demonstrated that boththe 8% arginine-calcium carbonate technology and Er:YAG lasersuccessfully reduced the number and diameter of the open dentinal tubules and hence can bepromising agents to deal with dentinal hypersensitivity in future clinical studies.

The Antimicrobial, Hemostatic, and Anti-Adhesion Effects of a Peptide Hydrogel Constructed by the All-d-Enantiomer of Antimicrobial Peptide Jelleine-1.

Peptide hydrogels are believed to be potential biomaterials with wide application in the biomedical field because of their good biocompatibility, injectability, and 3D printability. Most of the previously reported polypeptide hydrogels are composed of l-peptides, while the hydrogels formed by self-assembly of d-peptides are rarely reported. Herein, a peptide hydrogel constructed by D-J-1, which is the all-d-enantiomer of antimicrobial peptide Jelleine-1(J-1) is reported. Field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) and rheologic study are performed to characterize the hydrogel. Antimicrobial, hemostatic, and anti-adhesion studies are carried out to evaluate its biofunction. The results show that D-J-1 hydrogel is formed by self-assembly and cross-linking driven by hydrogen bonding, hydrophobic interaction, and π-π stacking force of aromatic ring in the structure of D-J-1. It exhibits promising antimicrobial activity, hemostatic activity, and anti-adhesion efficiency in a rat sidewall defect-cecum abrasion model. In addition, it also exhibits good biocompatibility. Notably, D-J-1 hydrogel shows improved in vitroand in vivostability when compared with its l-enantiomer J-1 hydrogel. Therefore, the present study will provide new insight into the application of d-peptide hydrogel, and provides a new peptide hydrogel with antibacterial, hemostatic, and anti-adhesion efficacy for clinical use.

Increase of solubility and transmembrane permeability of niclosamide from its mechanochemically synthesized solid dispersions

More than 4.5 billion people worldwide are affected by parasitic diseases, with helminth infections accounting for 99% of the total number. Niclosamide (NS) is a weakly acidic active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) used to treat helminth infections. However, the pharmaceutical use of pure niclosamide is limited by its low bioavailability due to its poor aqueous solubility. The aim of this work is a mechanochemical preparation of niclosamide solid dispersions with increased solubility. Due to the pH dependence of NS water solubility and possible complexes formation, NS solid dispersions (SD) with 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) and alkalizing agents, such as calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and N-methyl-D-glucamine (MG) are mechanochemically prepared in this study. The physical properties of NS SD in solid state are characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray diffraction, FT-IR spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy studies. The characteristics of the water solutions formed from the obtained SDs are analyzed by HPLC. It is shown that the solubility increases for all studied compositions. These phenomena are obliged by complexation with HP-β-CD, which was shown by 1H-NMR methods, and enhanced ionization in the cases of using calcium carbonate and MG. Results of the parallel artificial membrane permeability assay (PAMPA) have shown that mechanochemically obtained NS/MG SD (1/1 mass ratio, 8 h milling) significantly enhances permeation of NS across an artificial membrane. Thus, the obtained compositions are a promising basis for the development of NS-based preparations for oral administration, with reduced dose and high pharmacological effect.

Mapping the structural properties of zinc scaffold fabricated via rapid tooling for bone tissue engineering applications

PurposeThe purpose of this study to investigate the organized porous network zinc (OPNZ) scaffolds. Their mechanical characteristics, surface roughness and fracture mechanism were assessed in relation to their structural properties. The prospects of fused deposition modeling (FDM) for printing metal scaffolds via rapid tooling have also been studied.Design/methodology/approachZn scaffolds with different pore and strut sizes were manufactured via the rapid tooling method. This method is a multistep process that begins with the 3D printing of a polymer template. Later, a paraffin template was obtained from the prepared polymer template. Finally, this paraffin template was used to fabricate the Zn scaffold using microwave sintering. The characterization of prepared Zn samples involved structural characterization, microstructural study, surface roughness testing and compression testing. Moreover, based on the Gibson–Ashby model analysis, the model equations’ constant values were evaluated, which can help in predicting the mechanical properties of Zn scaffolds.FindingsThe scanning electron microscopy study confirmed that the fabricated sample pores were open and interconnected. The X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that the Zn scaffold contained hexagonal closed-packed Zn peaks related to the a-Zn phase, validating that scaffolds were free from contamination and impurity. The range for ultimate compressive strength, compressive modulus and plateau stresses for Zn samples were found to be 6.75–39 MPa, 0.14–3.51 GPa and 1.85–12.6 MPa by adjusting their porosity, which are comparable with the cancellous bones. The average roughness value for the Zn scaffolds was found to be 1.86 µm.Originality/valueThis research work can widen the scope for extrusion-based FDM printers for fabricating biocompatible and biodegradable metal Zn scaffolds. This study also revealed the effects of scaffold structural properties like porosity, pore and strut size effect on their mechanical characteristics in view of tissue engineering applications.

Functional and Tableting Properties of Alkali-Isolated and Phosphorylated Barnyard Millet (Echinochloa esculenta) Starch.

The functional and tableting properties of barnyard millet starch (Echinochloa esculenta) were investigated in its native (alkali-treated) and chemically modified (phosphorylated) states. The grains were pulverized, soaked, and ground before filtration to separate starch and protein. Multiple NaOH treatments were performed. The starch was washed, neutralized, and dried. Sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) and sodium sulfate were used to modify the starch, followed by maceration, washing, and drying to remove unreacted chemicals. The amylose content of alkali-treated barnyard millet starch increased by 19.96 ± 3.56% w/w. The amount of protein, the kind of starch used, and the size of the starch granules, all affected the ability of the starch granules to swell up. It was observed that alkali-extracted barnyard millet starch (AZS) has a swelling power of 194.3 ± 0.0064% w/w. The swelling capacity of treated starch was lesser as compared to the native alkali barnyard millet starch. Decrement in swelling power of phosphorylated starch was observed due to tightening of bonds in the molecular structure. The moisture content of the excipients may affect the overall stability of the formulation. The moisture content of the AZS was found to be 15.336 ± 1.012% w/w. Compared to AZS, cross-linked barnyard millet starch had a moisture content that was up to 20% lower than AZS. The Hausner ratio for phosphorylated starch was found to be 1.25, which indicates marked flow property. Similar morphologies could be seen in the alkali-isolated barnyard millet starch and the cross-linked/phosphorylated barnyard millet that was cross-linked using a mixture of sodium sulfate and sodium tripolyphosphate. The modest degree of substitution would have no effect on the surface morphology as shown by the scanning electron microscopic study. The crushing and compacting abilities of modified barnyard millet starch were also improved, but its friability and rate of disintegration were decreased. The whole study revealed that after cross-linking, barnyard millet had good tableting properties and it can be used as an excipient in drug delivery.

The pH-responsiveness carrier of sanxan gel beads crosslinked with CaCl2 to control drug release

Natural polysaccharide-based gel carriers have been widely studied for their potential to provide slow and controlled release. Sanxan is an edible polysaccharide produced by Sphingomonas sanxanigenens. In this study, gel beads were prepared using the extrusion dripping method with sanxan as the carrier material and HCl and CaCl2 as the fixing solution. The molecular structure, texture profile, and microstructure of the bead were analyzed. And the swelling characterization and in vitro release of beads were evaluated. The results of Fourier-transform infrared analysis indicate that Ca2+ was used to create an ionically crosslinked structure of sanxan. Texture analyzer and scanning electron microscope studies showed that the acid‑calcium gel exhibited physical resistance and resilience, as well as a distinct gel pore structure. The swelling, dissolution, and drug release of the beads decreased as the amount of CaCl2 increased. Compared to the control (without CaCl2), the release of sanxan beads when 0.5 CaCl2 was added (sanxan carboxyl/Ca2+, by the number of moles M/M) in the stomach and small intestine release decreased by 40.9 % and 49.5 %, respectively. This study indicates that the fabrication of sanxan-Ca2+ crosslinked gel had sustained release characteristics, indicating that sanxan carriers have great potential for gradual and regulated medication delivery.

Fatigue characteristics of nano-SiO2 cemented soil under coupled effects of dry-wet cycle and seawater corrosion

In the marine environment, cement soils are subject to a variety of adverse conditions, including seawater corrosion, dry and wet cycles, and dynamic loading. These environmental conditions pose a significant threat to the structural integrity of these engineered soils. The addition of Nano-SiO2 particles to these cement-treated soils is offered as an engineering solution to extend their service life. It has been shown that the incorporation of Nano-SiO2 into the Cemented soil can significantly increase the static strength and improve the microstructure of the Cemented soil. Four different Nano-SiO2 particles, which have been extensively studied in the literature, are used as admixtures in the cemented-soil. Optimal dosages of these Nano-SiO2 particles are determined based on unconfined compressive strength (UCS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) data. Wet-dry cycles are applied to the cement-treated soil samples to simulate tidal rise and fall relevant to the marine environment. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and X-ray diffraction tests are also performed to complement the SEM study. The incorporation of Nano-SiO2 into cement-treated soils in a marine environment improved the mechanical strength and fatigue life of the cement-treated soils. It also reduced the corrosion rate of the cemented soils in the sea, and the improvement in mechanical stability was also quite remarkable. The fatigue life of Nano-SiO2 cemented soils was 1.35 times longer than that of conventional cemented soils, and the peak dynamic modulus of elasticity of the added Nano-SiO2 cemented soils increased by 29%, when subjected to 60 cycles of seawater. The improved fatigue life of Nano-SiO2 Cemented soils is a function of their structural filling tropism and distribution tropism. The improved fatigue of Nano-SiO2 is a result of the combined effect of particle effect, volcanic ash effect, and nucleation effect.

Development and optimization of Ropinirole loaded self-nanoemulsifying tablets

BackgroundThe present research work aims to develop a Ropinirole-loaded self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery system. Ropinirole has limited oral bioavailability due to substantial first-pass metabolism, which ultimately results in poor oral bioavailability and reduces plasma drug concentration and an overall reduction in therapeutic effects. Avoiding hepatic first-pass metabolism by increasing lymphatic uptake is the goal of the creation of the Ropinirole Self-NanoEmulsifying System. The solvent system for the liquid Self-NanoEmulsifying Drug Delivery System (SNEDDS) was optimized using Box-Behnken Design, where the concentration of oil(X1), surfactant (X2), and co-surfactant(X3) were taken as independent variables. The formulated liquid SNEDDS were then converted into solid SNEDDS by the adsorption method for improving patient compliance.ResultsThe obtained mean droplet size of the formulated SNEDDS was 96.71 nm, and the rate of emulsification was 22 s. Liquid SNEDDS was converted into solid SNEDDS using Syloid 244 FP as adsorbent. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) study shows well-separated particles adsorbed on Syloid 244 FP. In vitro drug release studies show better release from solid and liquid SNEDDS when compared to pure suspension.ConclusionsRopinirole-loaded SNEDDS can be a better option for reducing the extensive first-pass metabolism associated with Ropinirole.