Chemical Aspects of Halide Perovskite Nanocrystals

Halide perovskite nanocrystals (HPNCs) are currently among the most intensely investigated group of materials. Structurally related to the bulk halide perovskites (HPs), HPNCs are nanostructures with distinct chemical, optical, and electronic properties and significant practical potential. One of the keys to the effective exploitation of the HPNCs in advanced technologies is the development of controllable, reproducible, and scalable methods for preparation of materials with desired compositions, phases, and shapes and low defect content. Another important condition is a quantitative understanding of factors affecting the chemical stability and the optical and electronic properties of HPNCs. Here we review important recent developments in these areas. Following a brief historical prospective, we provide an overview of known chemical methods for preparation of HPNCs and approaches used to control their composition, phase, size, and shape. We then review studies of the relationship between the chemical composition and optical properties of HPNCs, degradation mechanisms, and effects of charge injection. Finally, we provide a short summary and an outlook. The aim of this review is not to provide a comprehensive summary of all relevant literature but rather a selection of highlights, which, in the subjective view of the authors, provide the most significant recent observations and relevant analyses.

Real world data on outcomes of anti-CD38 antibody treated, including triple class refractory, patients with multiple myeloma: a multi-institutional report from the Canadian Myeloma Research Group (CMRG) Database

Multiple myeloma (MM) remains incurable despite the availability of novel agents. This multi-center retrospective cohort study used the Canadian Myeloma Research Group Database to describe real-world outcomes of patients withanti-CD38 monoclonal antibody (mAb) refractory MM subsequently treated with standard of care (SoC) regimens. Patients with triple class refractory (TCR) disease (refractory to a proteasome inhibitor, immunomodulatory drug, and anti-CD38 mAb) were examined as a distinct cohort. Overall, 663 patients had disease progression on anti-CD38 mAb therapy, 466 received further treatment (346 with SoC regimens were included, 120 with investigational agents on clinical trial and were excluded). The median age at initiation of subsequent SoC therapy of 67.9 (range 39.6-89.6) years with a median of 3 prior lines (range 1-9). The median PFS and OS from the start of subsequent therapy was 4.6 (95% CI 4.1-5.6) months and 13.3 (95% CI 10.6-16.6) months, respectively. The median PFS and OS of patients with TCR disease (n = 199) was 4.4 (95% CI 3.6-5.3) months and 10.5 (95% CI 8.5-13.8) months. Our results reinforce that real-world patients with relapsed MM, particularly those with TCR disease, have dismal outcomes. There remains an urgent unmet need for the development of and access to effective therapeutics for these patients.

Oxygen and moisture-induced healing of halide double perovskite surface defects

In this work, we studied the impact of environmental constituents such as oxygen (O2) and moisture on halide double perovskite (HDP) films. The transport measurements indicate that an increment in O2 concentration enhances the resistivity of a Cs2AgBiBr6 film by two orders of magnitude. The adsorption of O2 on the film's surface helps in passivation of defects (∼50% reduction in defect density on O2 exposure), which inhibits ion migration and results in an increased resistivity of the film. The process of adsorption and desorption of O2 on the film surface is found to be fully reversible. In contrast, the resistivity of double perovskite films decreases by an order of magnitude in the presence of moisture. This is attributed to the generation of free protons as a result of the dissociation of water molecules at the films' surface, hence exhibiting an increase in current under external bias. The HDP films possess high resistivity (for T < 100 °C) due to the desorption of physisorbed water layers from the surface, which gradually decreases with an increase in the operating temperature. This work demonstrates that O2 and moisture are a good combination for defect passivation in any HDPs, in general.

BiOBr Surface-Functionalized Halide Double-Perovskite Films for Slow Ion Migration and Improved Stability

Surface-tailored lead-free halide double-perovskite (Cs₂AgBiX₆) thin films are utilized for ion migration studies. A thin surface layer of BiOBr/Cl is grown via intentional annealing of the halide films in ambient conditions. Herein, we physically stacked the two films, viz., Cs₂AgBiBr₆ and Cs₂AgBiCl₆, to thermally activate the halide ion migration at different temperatures (room temperature (RT)-150 °C). While annealing, the films' color changes from orange to pale yellow and transparent brown to yellow as a result of the migration of Br^- ions from Cs₂AgBiBr₆ to Cs₂AgBiCl₆ and Cl^- ions from Cs₂AgBiCl₆ to Cs₂AgBiBr₆, respectively. Annealing helps in homogenizing the halide ions throughout the films, consequently leading to a mixed phase, i.e., Cs₂AgBiCl_xBr_6-x/Cs₂AgBiBr_xCl_6-x (x = 0 to 6) formation. The movement of ions is understood by absorption studies performed at regular time intervals. These investigations reveal a redshift (from 366 to 386 nm) and a blueshift (from 435 to 386 nm) in absorption spectra, indicating the migration of Br^- and Cl^- toward Cs₂AgBiCl₆ and Cs₂AgBiBr₆, respectively. The films characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) reveal the presence of a peak at 2θ = 10.90° and binding energy of 158.1 eV, respectively, corresponding to the formation of Bi-O bonds at the film surface. Also, XRD studies show a lower 2θ shift of the diffraction peak in the case of Cs₂AgBiCl₆ films and a higher 2θ shift in the case of Cs₂AgBiB₆ films, which further confirms the migration of Cl^- and Br^- from one film to the other. XPS investigations confirm the compositional change with a gradual increment in the concentration of Br^-/Cl^- with an increase in heating time for Cs₂AgBiCl₆/Cs₂AgBiBr₆ films. All these studies confirm thermal diffusion of halide ions in double-perovskite films. Further, from the exponential decay of the absorption spectra, the rate constant for halide (Br) ion diffusion is calculated, which shows an increment from 1.7 × 10^-6 s^-1 at RT to 12.1 × 10^-3 s^-1 at 150 °C. The temperature-dependent rate constant follows Arrhenius behavior and renders an activation energy of 0.42 eV (0.35 eV) for bromide (chloride) ion mobility. A larger estimated value as compared to the reported values for Cs₂AgBiBr₆ wafers (∼0.20 eV) reveals a slow mobility of halide ions in thin films of Cs₂AgBiBr₆/Cl₆. The formation of a BiOBr passivation layer at the surface of Cs₂AgBiBr₆ thin film might be one of the plausible causes of the slow anion diffusion in the present work. Slow ion migration is an indication that the films are stable and of high-quality.

Reef islands have continually adjusted to environmental change over the past two millennia

Global environmental change is identified as a driver of physical transformation of coral reef islands over the past half-century, and next 100 years, posing major adaptation challenges to island nations. Here we resolve whether these recent documented changes in islands are unprecedented compared with the pre-industrial era. We utilise radiometric dating, geological, and remote sensing techniques to document the dynamics of a Maldivian reef island at millennial to decadal timescales. Results show the magnitude of island change over the past half-century (±40 m movement) is not unprecedented compared with paleo-dynamic evidence that reveals large-scale changes in island dimension, shape, beach levels, as well as positional changes of ±200 m since island formation ~1,500 years ago. Results highlight the value of a multi-temporal methodological approach to gain a deeper understanding of the dynamic trajectories of reef islands, to support development of adaptation strategies at timeframes relevant to human security.

LDL cholesterol an unmet target in diabetic, hypertensive population pan India exposing susceptive cardiovascular disorder risk

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Management and pathophysiology of diabetes and hypertension has always been the centre of research, with new insights being found consistently. CVD is the major cause of mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes and affects approximately 32.2% of people with type 2 diabetes. Southeast Asia stands out with a higher prevalence of CAD (29.4%) compared with other regions.

Purpose

The purpose of this EHR based real world study was to identify the proportion of patients with LDL-C out of control in people living with diabetes and hypertension who were under regular care of physicians. Specialized clinical care by super-specialists ensures management of specific disorders, yet risk factors for overall cardiovascular health continue to be expressed uncontrolled.

Methods

Patients reporting for routine care in 14 centers across the country were eligible to participate in the study. Patient recruitment at each site required informed consent signature, history of at least 6 months of diabetes mellitus type 2, was sequential and independent of other sites. An EMR (Medeva) integrated research proforma was created only for this study which collected data on medical history, comorbidities, diabetic complications, medications and laboratory values of relevance to the study. The recruitment started in March 2022 and ended in August 2022 (6 months).

Results

Average age of these patients was 54.36 years, and 1238 were male and 964 were female patients. Out of this sample, 1388 patients were only diabetic and 814 patients had diabetes as well as hypertension. 256 patients 44.8% patients had LDL-C within acceptable limits and the remaining 51.2% had hyperdyslipidemia. Average LDL-C value for all patients was 107.07, average LDL-C levels in only diabetic patients was 116.51, and LDL in patients with diabetes and hypertension is 90.97. In diabetes only patients, 37% patients had LDL-C under control whereas in diabetes and hypertension group 58% patients had LDL-C under control.

Conclusion

Although diabetic patients are under regular clinical care, their LDL-C values were higher in 55.2% of the patients. This is an alarming signal that calls all the stakeholders - diabetologists, researchers, educators, dieticians, policymakers, government agencies and people with diabetes must contribute towards the management of lipid profile for prevention of cardiovascular events. Also, the proportion of patients with LDL-C under control is lesser in patients who are only diabetic as compared to patients who are both diabetic and hypertensive. This finding suggests that there is either lesser focus or inadequate on lipid profile of patients who are only diabetic; more holistic management is an unprecedented requirement. More research is needed in this direction to recognize the loopholes, manage them and prevent them adequately.

Transition metal doped CeO2 for photocatalytic removal of 2-chlorophenol in the exposure of indoor white light and antifungal activity

Besides natural sunlight and expensive artificial lights, economical indoor white light can play a significant role in activating a catalyst for photocatalytic removal of organic toxins from contaminated water. In the current effort, CeO₂ has been modified with Ni, Cu, and Fe through doping methodology to study the removal of 2-chlorophenol (2-CP) in the illumination of 70 W indoor LED white light. The absence of additional diffractions due to the dopants and few changes such as reduction in peaks' height, minor peak shift at 2θ (28.525°) and peaks' broadening in XRD patterns of modified CeO₂ verifies the successful doping of CeO₂. The solid-state absorption spectra revealed higher absorbance of Cu-doped CeO₂ whereas a lower absorption response was observed for Ni-doped CeO₂. An interesting observation regarding the lowering of indirect bandgap energy of Fe-doped CeO₂ (∼2.7 eV) and an increase in Ni-doped CeO₂ (∼3.0 eV) in comparison to pristine CeO₂ (∼2.9 eV) was noticed. The process of e ^-- h ⁺ recombination in the synthesized photocatalysts was also investigated through photoluminescence spectroscopy. The photocatalytic studies revealed the greater photocatalytic activity of Fe-doped CeO₂ with a higher rate (∼3.9 × 10^-3 min^-1) among all other materials. Moreover, kinetic studies also revealed the validation of the Langmuir-Hinshelwood kinetic model (R² = 0.9839) while removing 2-CP in the exposure of indoor light with a Fe-doped CeO₂ photocatalyst. The XPS analysis revealed the existence of Fe³⁺, Cu²⁺ and Ni²⁺ core levels in doped CeO₂. Using the agar well-diffusion method, the antifungal activity was assessed against the fungus M. fructicola and F. oxysporum. Compared to CeO₂, Ni-doped CeO₂, and Cu-doped CeO₂ nanoparticles, the Fe-doped CeO₂ nanoparticles have outstanding antifungal properties.

Association of 25 (OH) Vitamin D and Leptin in Individuals with Insulin Resistance

Introduction

Asian-Indian individuals with diabetes have been shown to have low vitamin D levels. Whether this hypovitamonisis D is associated with hyperleptinaemia is unclear. Also, whether this association is different in those with and without insulin resistance has not been ascertained. The present study aimed to investigate the association of 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH) vitamin D] and leptin in individuals with and without insulin resistance.

Methods

Ninety two individuals were recruited in two study groups (n = 46 each group). First group included individuals with insulin resistance (homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance [HOMA-IR] ≥2.0). Second group included those without insulin resistance (HOMA-IR <2.0). Comparison of 25(OH) vitamin D, leptin, anthropometry, and biochemical parameters was done between two groups and correlations between 25(OH) vitamin D, leptin, and HOMA-IR were studied.

Results

Individuals with insulin resistance were of simiar age (39.6 ± 5.3 years) and body mass index (24.4 ± 3.2 kg/m2) as those without (39.5 ± 5.2 years and 23.6 ± 3.2 kg/m2). Individuals with insulin resistance showed significantly lower 25(OH) vitamin D (17.8 ± 7.1 vs. 22.3 ± 11.6 ng/mL, P = .03) and significantly higher leptin levels (16.9 ± 15.8 vs. 9.6 ± 9.3 ng/mL, P = .09) compared to those without. Significant negative correlation was observed between 25(OH) vitamin D and leptin levels overall (r = -0.3, P = .008). HOMA-IR showed significantly negative correlation with 25(OH) vitamin D levels in individuals with insulin resistance (r = -0.33, P = .027).

Conclusion

The present study found higher circulating leptin levels and lower 25(OH) vitamin D levels in individuals with insulin resistance. 25(OH) vitamin D levels were inversely associated with leptin levels particularly in women.

Isolation and In Silico Characterization of Defensin Genes from Some Indigenous Plant Species of Pakistan

Aims: Damage of crop plants due to pathogenic attacks, postharvest crops spoilage and lethal effects of chemical pesticides has enforced scientists to find some potential natural alternative. Plants produce different types of antimicrobial peptides including defensins in response to biotic and abiotic stresses. Defensins are small cysteine rich, cationic peptide with 40-45 amino acid residues with a variety of biological activities. Hence defensins have pharmaceutical and agricultural significance especially wide range of antifungal activities. Methodology: Nine plant species viz Brassica napus, Brassica nigra, Conyza bonariensis, Alhagi marorum, Sonchus arvensis, Brassica compestris, Eruca sativa, Cirsium arvensis and Brassica juncea were selected for the study. Four set of primers were applied on extracted genomic DNAs and four amplified genes were isolated from different plants species by PCR. The amplified genes were cloned via pTZ57R/T in E.coli. The cloned fragments were sequenced and characterized by different bioinformatics tool such as coding length and peptide sequence, site of cell aggregation, peptide physico-chemical properties, antimicrobial properties and gene expression pattern. Result: The amplified products from B. napus, B. nigra, B. compestris, E. sativa and B. juncea were about 330 bp in length and showed upto 85% nucleotide homology to the reported defensins. Deduced amino acid sequence from Bn-Def, Es-Def Bj-Def and Bc- Def showed the conserved defensin domain. These sequences were also characterized for different characteristic like charged amino acids, pI value, shelflife and stability.  Sonchus arvensis didn’t give any specific product by prescribed set of primers. However the products from Alhagi marorum was about 770 bp and B. napus was of 270 bp but both give homology below 30%. Conclusion: This study showed that in silico characterization of deduced antimicrobial peptides from different plant species has depicted these as an effective alternative to communal therapeutics. However, further work is needed to verify defensins specific activity at protein level.

Photoinduced quasi-2D to 3D phase transformation in hybrid halide perovskite nanoplatelets

We present a photo-induced quasi-2D to 3D phase transition of MAPbBr₃ (MA = CH₃NH₃) perovskite nanoplatelets (NPLs). To begin with, we synthesized quasi-2D MAPbBr₃ NPLs (two octahedral layers thick, n = 2). A systematic increase in the thickness of the perovskite platelets is observed as a result of continuous photon irradiation leading to a 78 nm red shift in the emission spectra through different stages. Moreover, the bandgap of the compound decreases from 2.72 eV to 2.2 eV as we move from a quasi-2D to 3D phase. The excitonic Bohr radius of the MAPbBr₃ NPLs is found to be 1.8 nm, whereas the thickness of a single layer of PbBr₆^4- octahedra is 5.9 Å. As the layer thickness increases (>4-6 layers), MAPbBr₃ NPLs move out of the quantum confinement regime, governed by the red shift in the emission spectra. To complement the experimental results, density functional theory calculations were performed on MAPbBr₃ of various layer thicknesses. The van der Waals interaction and a more accurate Heyd-Scuseria-Ernzerhof functional were used to calculate the optical bandgap for MAPbBr₃ platelets of different layer thicknesses, which matches exceptionally well with the experimental results. Our findings disclose an interesting and meaningful phenomenon in the emerging hybrid perovskite NPLs and are beneficial for any future development of perovskite-based devices.

Adipose tissue expression of UCP1 and PRDM16 genes and their association with postprandial triglyceride metabolism and glucose intolerance

AIMS

UCP1 and PRDM16 genes, primarily involved in browning of adipose tissue that can affect lipid metabolism are also associated with diabetes risk. Therefore, we planned to study the adipose tissue expression of UCP1 and PRDM 16 genes in subjects with glucose intolerance to find out its association with postprandial triglyceride (PPTg) measures and T2DM.

METHODS

A total of 30 subjects were recruited in three groups i.e., NGT, prediabetes and T2DM (NDDM + known T2DM) who were matched for age, sex and BMI. An 8-hour standardized fat challenge test was performed to study lipemic responses. UCP1 and PRDM16 genes quantification in adipose tissue was performed by real-time PCR followed by SDS PAGE.

RESULTS

UCP1 gene expression in SAT was significantly lower in T2DM and prediabetes as compared to NGT group while PRDM16 gene expression was significantly lower in T2DM group as compared to NGT group. UCP1 gene expression correlated with PPTg measures as well as with glycaemic measures while PRDM16 gene expression correlated with glycaemic measures only.

CONCLUSION

This study found downregulation of PRDM16 and UCP1 gene expression in SAT in subjects with glucose intolerance. The association of UCP1 gene expression with PPTg dysmetabolism may contribute to greater predisposition to T2DM.

Postprandial endothelial dysfunction and CIMT after oral fat challenge in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with and without macrovascular disease - A preliminary study

BACKGROUND

Very few studies have reported on association of postprandial lipids and endothelial dysfunction among patients with diabetes. Whether endothelial dysfunction particularly postprandial FMD is worse in patients with T2DM with macrovascular disease compared to those without and whether this difference is related to postprandial hypertriglyceridemia (PPHTg) is unclear. Therefore, present study was aimed to assess the relationship between PPHTg and endothelial function in patients with T2DM with and without macrovascular disease.

METHOD

Endothelial dysfunction by FMD and CIMT were compared in patients with T2DM with and without macrovascular disease (n = 13 each group) and 13 age, sex and BMI matched healthy individuals after an oral fat challenge.

RESULTS

There was significant postprandial deterioration of FMD 4-hr after fat challenge in patients with diabetes (P < 0.001) as well as healthy individuals (P = 0.004). Patients with diabetes with macrovascular disease had significantly lower fasting (5.7 ± 6.1% vs. 22.7 ± 10.0% and vs. 24.7 ± 5.3%) as well as postprandial (4-hr) (3.1 ± 5.0% vs. 15.3 ± 8.1% and vs. 15.4 ± 5.7%) FMD compared to other two groups. Fasting, postprandial as well as change in FMD and CIMT in patients with diabetes correlated significantly with fasting as well as postprandial triglycerides with stronger correlation in those with macrovascular disease.

CONCLUSION

Study found significant endothelial dysfunction by FMD that shows substantial further deterioration postprandially following high fat meal in patients with diabetes with macrovascular disease compared to patients with diabetes without macrovascular disease and healthy individuals. Study also indicates that PPHTg is a contributor to endothelial dysfunction. However, more studies are required to corroborate these findings.

Effect of inflammation-mediated endothelial metabolic shift on endothelial barrier function

Background

The integrity of the endothelial cell barrier of the microvasculature is compromised by inflammation. The increased vascular permeability leads to tissue injury and organ dysfunction. In recent years, considerable advances have been made in the understanding of signalling mechanisms regulating the endothelial barrier integrity. The role of endothelial metabolism as a modulator of endothelial barrier integrity is not yet well-studied. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of inflammation on endothelial metabolism and its role in the maintenance of endothelial barrier integrity.

Methods

The study was carried out on cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells and rat coronary microvascular endothelial cells. Inflammatory condition was simulated by treating cells with low concentrations (1 ng/mL) of TNFα for 24h. Endothelial barrier function was analysed by measuring the flux of albumen through endothelial monolayers cultured on filter membranes. Gene expression was analysed by qPCR-based assays. The capacity of endothelial cells for maximal ATP synthesis rate was investigated by the real-time live-cell imaging using FRET-based ATP-biosensor (live cell FRET). Total cellular ATP concentration was measured using luminescence-based commercial kit (ATPLite, PerkinElmer). Mitochondrial mass was analysed by the ratio of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) to nuclear DNA (nDNA). The cellular glucose uptake was measured by fluorescent microscopy using a fluorescent analogue of glucose (2-NBDG).

Results

Treatment of human endothelial cells with TNFα resulted in significant suppression of mitochondrial and upregulation of glycolytic ATP synthesis rate, suggesting a metabolic switch. This was accompanied by a reduction in mitochondrial content (mtDNA/nDNA), reduction in total cellular ATP levels, an enhanced expression of glycolytic enzymes 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-biphosphatase 3 (PFKFB3) and phosphofructokinase 1 (PFK1), and enhanced glucose uptake by endothelial cells (n=5; p&lt;0.05 for all parameters tested). Moreover, TNFα caused a 3-fold increase in endothelial permeability. Pharmacological inhibition of glycolysis either by partial replacement of glucose with 2-deoxy glucose (2DG) or an inhibition of PFKFB3 resulted in further worsening (a 5-fold increase in permeability) of TNFα-induced endothelial barrier failure. On the other hand pharmacological activation of AMPK, a potent inducer of mitochondrial biogenesis, could attenuate TNFα-induced but not 2DG-induced endothelial hyperpermeability.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates that TNFα induces metabolic switch towards glycolysis in endothelial cells. Moreover, the data suggest that upregulation of glycolysis may serve as an endogenous metabolic adaptation to the TNFα-induced suppression of mitochondrial ATP synthesis, which protects endothelial barrier integrity.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Justus-Liebig University GiessenDZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Rhein-Main, Bad Nauheim, Germany

C0-C1f region of cardiac myosin binding protein-C induces pro-inflammatory responses in fibroblasts

Background

Cardiac myosin binding protein-C is a protein expressed in the myosin thick filament backbone that was recently described as a novel cardiac biomarker. Its N-terminal region, C0-C1f, is released within the first minutes of ischemia and plays a crucial role in the initiation of inflammation in bone marrow-derived macrophages. Long-term C0-C1f exposure induces cardiac fibrosis in transgenic mice; however, the mechanism by which C0-C1f causes fibrosis is unclear. The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of C0-C1f on fibroblasts, which are the main contributor to cardiac fibrosis, in vitro. We determined whether C0-C1f directly activates fibroblasts and causes a transdifferentiation to myofibroblasts or induces inflammatory responses. Moreover, we clarify whether other cell types could be involved in inducing fibrosis, i.e. by the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines upon C0-C1f interaction.

Methods

A novel human fibroblast cell line (huFib) was treated with C0-C1f, C0-Linker, TGF-β, or LPS for different time periods. Inflammatory and fibrotic responses were evaluated at the RNA and protein level using different techniques including microarray, qRT-PCR, and immunofluorescence imaging. For signalling pathway analysis, TLR4 and NFκB were inhibited using chemical compounds TAK-242 or Bay11–0785 respectively.

Results

C0-C1f treatment induced an increase in mRNA corresponding to pro-inflammatory genes in huFib cells (i.a. CXL1 upon 24 hours treatment: 29 fold, p&lt;0.001 and CCL2 4-fold, p&lt;0.001). The mRNA expression levels of pro-fibrotic genes such as ACTA2 or COL1A1, which were upregulated by TGF-β, were not reduced by C0-C1f (ACTA2 induced by TGF-β: 3,8 fold, p&lt;0.001, co-stimulation with C0-C1f: 1,8 fold, p=0.11 compared to control; COL1A1 induced by TGF-β: 2,94 fold, p&lt;0.001, co-stimulation with C0-C1f: 2.09 fold (p&lt;0.01) compared to control. Interestingly, co-stimulation of fibroblasts with C0-C1f and TGF-β led also to markedly lower inflammatory response compared to C0-C1f treatment alone (CXCL1 induction upon co-stimulation: 2,0 fold, p&lt;0.001, CCL2: 1,9 fold, p=0.001, which is a reduction by 27 fold, p&lt;0.001 or 2 fold, p=0.002, respectively). Inhibition of TLR4 or NFκB signaling diminished C0-C1f-mediated inflammatory responses.

Conclusion

C0-C1f induces inflammation in fibroblasts via TLR4/NFκB signalling pathway. Downregulation of C0-C1f mediated inflammatory responses upon co-stimulation with TGF-β suggests crosstalk between the two signaling pathways. Contrary, C0-C1f reduced TGF-β mediated pro-fibrotic responses reflected by conversion of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts was not observed. Taken together, these data are consistent with the idea that C0-C1f might play a key role in the early initiation of inflammation upon myocardial infarction, also in fibroblasts, and that TGF-β acts as a counterpart at later stages of cardiac remodeling.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): William G. Kerckhoff Stiftung für wissenschaftliche Forschung und Fortbildung

Hyperleptinaemia and its Association with Postprandial Hypertriglyceridemia and Glucose Intolerance

INTRODUCTION

Leptin resistance is believed to cause insulin resistance though the exact mechanism is not fully understood. The present study aims to investigate the temporal profile of postprandial triglyceride (PPTG) and leptin levels, and their association with each other as well as with markers of metabolic syndrome.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Serum leptin and PPTG levels were measured longitudinally till 26 weeks in Wistar rats fed on controlled diet (group 1) and high sucrose diet (HSD) (group 2). Two additional groups fed on HSD were taken and treated with pioglitazone (group 3) and atorvastatin (group 4). Body weight, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and glucose intolerance were also measured during this period. Comparison of the groups were done and Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to ascertain the association.

RESULTS

Leptin levels were significantly higher in all three groups receiving HSD compared to controlled diet group from week 2 to week 26 (P < 0.01). The postprandial triglyceride area under the curve (PPTG AUCs) were significantly higher in group 2 than controls during this period (P < 0.001). Body weight, HOMA-IR and glucose AUC were found to be significantly higher in group 2 rats than controls only from week 6, 8, and 12 respectively. In HSD-fed rats, but not in control, mean serum leptin levels from 2-26 weeks as well as peak (10^th week) and 26^th week were strongly associated with corresponding as well as preceding PPTG levels. Leptin levels significantly predicted HOMA-IR and prediabetes in group 2.

CONCLUSION

This study found significant hyperleptinemia associated with postprandial hypertriglyceridemia that predicted insulin resistance and prediabetes in high sucrose diet-fed rats.

Renal-Protective Activity of Dried Gel of Aloe barbadensis (Elwa) on Gentamicin- Induced Nephrotoxicity in Albino Rats

Introduction::

Elwa (Aloe barbadensis / Aloe vera) also known as Sibr in Unani medicine which is dried juice obtained by the inspissations and used to treat many diseases, especially digestive disorders, arthritis, gastric ulcer, jaundice, amenorrhoea, kidney diseases, diseases of spleen and liver, constipation, nervine disorders, wounds, burns, scalds and other skin diseases.

Methods::

The aim of this study was to evaluate the nephroprotective activity of Aloe barbadensis gel (ABG) on gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats. Wistar rats were divided into four groups of six animals in each. Group I (control); group II, III and IV were administered gentamicin 100 mg/kg/d subcutaneously from day four to eight. The lower (350 mg/kg) and higher doses (1260 mg/kg) of crude ABG were co-administrated orally in group III and group IV from day 1. On 9th day animals were sacrificed and serum was studied for blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine and kidneys were prepared for histo-pathological analysis. Gentamicin alone treated group showed increased levels of blood urea nitrogen (118.76  0.90) and creatinine (3.42  0.13) were significantly inhibited in groups pretreated with lower [blood urea nitrogen (40.130.56); creatinine (1.640.13)] and higher [blood urea nitrogen (55.79  0.71); creatinine (2.50  0.06)] doses of crude Aloe barbadensis gel.

Results::

The histopathological analysis also showed the protective nature of Aloe barbadensis gel in gentamicin-induced renal damage.

Discussion::

In conclusion, the biochemical parameters and histopathological results confirmed nephroprotective effect of the crude Aloe barbadensis gel against gentamicin induced renal damage.

Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia: Background and recent literature updates on the diagnosis and treatment

Hyperbilirubinemia or jaundice has been studied by many researchers because of its diverse causes and potential for toxicity especially in the neonate but to a lesser extent beyond the neonate as well. Several studies have been performed on the normal metabolism and metabolic disorders of bilirubin in last decades of the 20th century. The recent advancement in research and technology facilitated for the researchers to investigate new horizons of the causes and treatment of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. This review gives a brief introduction to hyperbilirubinemia and jaundice and the recent advancement in the treatment of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. It reports modifications in the previously used methods and findings of some newly developed ones. At present, ample literature is available discussing the issues regarding hyperbilirubinemia and jaundice, but still more research needs to be done.

Longterm effects of rotational night shift work on expression of circadian genes and its association with postprandial triglyceride levels - A pilot study

Abnormalities of lipid metabolism in the form of high fasting as well as postprandial triglyceride levels immediately after night shift work and under simulated night shift conditions have been reported in the literature. Whether dysregulation of circadian genes in the long term is associated with abnormal triglyceride metabolism has not been previously investigated. This pilot study aimed to investigate the long-term effect of rotational night shift work on the expression of circadian genes among healthcare workers and to ascertain the association between the expression of circadian genes and postprandial triglyceride and insulin resistance parameters. The study was conducted on two groups of healthcare workers (n = 20/group). Group 1 included day shift workers who had not done night shift duty during the past one year or ever. Group 2 included healthcare workers doing rotational night shift duties (≥4 night shift duties/month). Fasting blood samples were collected at 08:00 h to study the expression of circadian genes CLOCK, NPAS2, BMAL1, CRY1, CRY2, PER1, PER2, PER3, REVERBα, and biochemical parameters after which a standardized fat challenge test was done to measure postprandial triglyceride levels. Study of Group 2 individuals was conducted after a minimum of one week after the last night shift duty. Expression of CLOCK, NPAS2, PER1, PER3, and REV-ERBα genes was higher in Group 2 compared to Group 1 subjects, and expression of BMAL1 and CRY1 genes were lower in Group 2 compared to Group 1. Several of these genes showed significant correlations with postprandial triglyceride and insulin resistance parameters in Group 2 but not in Group 1 subjects. The present study showed altered expression of several circadian genes in healthcare workers involved in rotational night shift duties associated with postprandial triglyceride and insulin resistance parameters. This study therefore suggests that long term circadian gene dysregulation could have serious metabolic consequences in individuals engaged in rotational night shift duties.

Spontaneous anion-exchange synthesis of optically active mixed-valence Cs2Au2I6 perovskites from layered CsAuCl4 perovskites

Cs2Au2I6, a lead-free photovoltaic material, has been synthesized via controlled and systematic addition of hydroiodic acid (HI) to CsAuCl4. X-ray diffraction studies suggest the formation of Cs2Au2I6 when a threshold concentration of HI is added to CsAuCl4. The final compound shows good stability against light, oxygen and moisture and at temperatures up to 140 °C without any phase degradation. The stability of Cs2Au2I6 is also confirmed by its high negative formation energy and the convex hull diagram constructed using Density Functional Theory (DFT). Absorption studies suggest an abrupt band shift from 2.31 eV to 1.06 eV when HI concentration reaches the threshold limit (∼100 μl). A sharp absorption edge was found for Cs2Au2I6 with an Urbach energy of 59 meV, indicating lower structural disorder and higher crystallinity.

Spontaneous Ion Migration via Mechanochemical Ultrasonication in Mixed Halide Perovskite Phase Formation: Experimental and Theoretical Insights

We present a simple yet powerful synthesis process to prepare compound-phase perovskite nanoparticles (MAPbX_3-nY_n; MA = CH₃NH₃⁺ and X/Y = I, Br, or Cl). This is achieved by mixing two pure-phase perovskites (MAPbX₃ and MAPbY₃) by using ultrasonic vibration as a mechanochemical excitation. Unlike conventional methods, this procedure does not require any effort in designing a reaction or choosing any particular precursor. X-ray diffraction and TEM studies confirm compound-phase formation in all possible stoichiometries. The origin behind ultrasonic mixing lies in the generation of mechanical stress and high temperature arising from acoustic cavitation during reaction. Long-term experimental stability of the compound-phase is comprehended theoretically by simulating the temperature-dependent Gibbs free energy. Negative mixing entropy plays a crucial role during the synthesis which leads to better stabilization of the compound-phase perovskite over the pure-phase. The ease of synthesis and remarkable phase stability make this process effective and less cumbersome for perovskite nanoparticle synthesis.

Effect of postprandial triglycerides on DDT/ppDDE levels in subjects with varying degree of glucose intolerance

BACKGROUND

Organochlorine pesticides such as DDT as well as postprandial hypertriglyceridemia have been linked with insulin resistance and diabetes mellitus. The cardiometabolic risk of PPhTg could also be due to its potential to increase the serum levels of this highly lipophilic pesticide. We studied the effect of postprandial triglyceride responses to a standard oral fat challenge on the levels of DDT and its metabolites in subjects with varying degree of glucose intolerance METHODS: A standard fat challenge was performed in 60 subjects who were categorized as NGT, prediabetes, and NDDM based on an earlier OGTT. Fasting and postprandial levels of serum triglycerides, plasma DDT and its metabolites were estimated and compared in the 3 groups and their association with each other, and measures of glycemia and insulin resistance were also determined.

RESULTS

Peak Tg and TgAUC levels were significantly higher in NDDM group as compared to NGT and PD groups. TgAUC showed positive correlation with fasting plasma glucose (r=0.33, p=0.01), postprandial plasma glucose (r=0.39, p=0.002) and HOMA IR(r=0.63, p=0.001). ppDDE levels were found to be significantly higher in NDDM subjects compared with NGT group. ppDDE-AUC was significantly higher in the NDDM group compared with the other two study groups. Mean ppDDE levels also showed strong positive correlation with peak Tg (r=0.295 p=0.022), TgAUC (r=0.303 p=0.018), iPPTgAUC(r=0.57 p≤0.001) and iPPpeakTg(r=0.51 p≤0.001) as well as with FPG (r=0.269 p=0.038) PPPG (r=0.424 p=0.001) and HbA1c (r=0.321 p=0.012).

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study support the concept that the cardiometabolic risk associated with PPhTg may at least in part be related to the associated increase in serum levels of lipophilic OCPs like DDT.

Synthesis, characterization and photocatalytic performance of W6+ impregnated g-C3N4 for the removal of chlorophenol derivatives in natural sunlight exposure

The surface of the g-C₃N₄ was altered by impregnating W⁶⁺ ions that transformed to homogeneously coated oxide layer by a calcination process. An enhanced absorption and the suppressed de-excitation in the emission spectra, with the increasing W⁶⁺ loading, exposed the supporting role of the coated layer in extending the spectral response as well as the prolonged life span of excitons. The same was further supported by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The XRD and XPS analysis revealed the coated layer as highly crystalline pure phase monoclinic WO₃ with the majority of impregnated tungsten ions in 6+ oxidation state respectively, whereas the FESEM and HRTEM analysis substantiated the uniformity of the coated layer with the interlayer spacing of the 0.369 nm. Additionally, the probable formation of individual WO₃ nanoparticles or clusters was ruled out. The as-synthesized impregnated photocatalysts, in comparison to pure g-C₃N_4, were subjected to natural sunlight exposure for the photocatalytic removal of chlorophenol derivatives (2-CP, 3-CP, 4-CP, 2,3-DCP, 2,4-DCP, 2,4,6-TCP and PCP) that revealed the 5 wt% coating as the optimum level for significant removal. The progress of the photocatalytic process was monitored by periodic HPLC analysis whereas ion chromatography (IC) was used for the estimation of released ions. The mineralization capability of the as-synthesized W⁶⁺ coated catalysts was measured by the time scale TOC measurements. As the formation of intermediates was indicated in HPLC analysis, selected samples were subjected to GC-MS analysis for the identification of the nature of intermediates. The variable degree of removal of chlorophenol derivatives signified the role of the position and orientation of Cl group. The kinetics of the removal process was evaluated with the calculation of rate constants. The results extracted from the analytical tools and the associated band edge potentials were correlated to speculate the probable mechanism as well as the identification of major reactive oxygen species (ROS) involved in the removal process.

Erosive assessment of dry mouth lozenges and tablets on enamel and dentin

OBJECTIVES

To assess the erosive potential of dry mouth lozenges and tablets on enamel and dentin.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The following lozenges and tablets were tested: Salese, Oracoat Xylimelts, Cotton Mouth, TheraBreath, DenTek OraMoist, SmartMouth, ACT, CVS Health, Rite Aid, Med Active, and Hager Pharma. pH Analysis: Each lozenge or tablet was crushed with a pestle and mortar and 5 g of the resultant powder was dissolved in 10 ml of distilled water (pH 7.02) The pH of each lozenge solution was assessed by using a calibrated pH meter. Titratable Acidity (TA) was determined by adding 0.1 M of NaOH to each homogenous tablet solution until the pH reached 7.0. Gravimetric Analysis was measured with freshly extracted molars crown/roots were sectioned at the CEJ and enamel and dentin specimens were fabricated. The specimens were then submerged in 5 ml of solution containing 2.5 gm of crushed tablets for 24 h, 48 h, 96 h and 14 days with measurements performed at each interval after drying. The solutions were renewed at each interval.

RESULTS

Significant correlation between pH and TA was observed for lozenges and tablets evaluated (p < 0.0001). Both variables were strongly correlated with enamel and dentin loss (p < 0.0001). For enamel, DenTek resulted in significantly more substance loss (p < 0.05) than with the other tested products, while Xylimelts presented the lowest percentage of substance loss. For dentin, Cotton Mouth resulted in the highest substance loss, and Xylimelts presented the lowest percentage of substance loss.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a strong correlation between the pH, tritatable aciditiy, and erosive potential of these products. DenTek and Cotton Mouth reported erosive effect to the enamel and dentin, respectively. Xylimelts performed better than the rest of the products in relationship to enamel and dentin.

The efficacy of Co3O4 loaded WO3 sheets for the enhanced photocatalytic removal of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol in natural sunlight exposure

Owing to the promising photocatalytic performance, the sheet-like WO₃ was modified by depositing nanostructured Co₃O₄ at the surface. The appearance of the varying dual absorption edges in the optical analysis exposed the composite nature of the synthesized materials. The structural analysis revealed the deposition of Co₃O₄ particles at the surface without altering the lattice of WO₃ however, during the processing the cracking of disc was also evidenced. The FESEM and HRTEM analysis corroborated the uniform surface dispersion of Co₃O₄ nanoparticles. The co-existence of 2+ and 3+ oxidation states of Co in the deposited Co₃O₄ was examined by XPS analysis. The efficient trapping of excitons by Co₃O₄ surface entities was witnessed in the emission measurements whereas the same was authenticated by the photo-electrochemical chronopotentiometry. The Co₃O₄ loaded sheets exhibited substantially enhanced activity for the removal of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol as compared to pure WO₃ in the complete spectrum and visible region of natural sunlight exposure. The progress of the degradation process was monitored by HPLC whereas the degradation products were identified by GC-MS. The measurement and identification of the ion released during the photocatalytic process facilitated the estimation of the probable route and role of reactive oxygen species involved in the removal process. Although, the careful analysis of the findings from the analytical tools revealed the major involvement of hydroxyl radicals however, the role of superoxide anions was also exposed. An alternative mechanism of the generation of the superoxide radical involving the 2+ and 3+ oxidation states of Co was also proposed. The effect of the pH and the added concentration of H₂O₂ on the ease of removal process was also investigated.

Evaluation of nuclear reaction cross sections for optimization of production of the important non-standard positron emitting radionuclide 89Zr using proton and deuteron induced reactions on 89Y target

⁸⁹Zr (T_1/2 = 3.27 d) is an important β⁺-emitting radionuclide of zirconium used in immuno PET. The excitation functions of the ⁸⁹Y(d,2n)⁸⁹Zr and ⁸⁹Y(p,n)⁸⁹Zr reactions were analyzed to deduce the optimum conditions for the high purity production of ⁸⁹Zr. The nuclear model codes ALICE-IPPE, EMPIRE 3.2 and TALYS 1.9 were used to check the consistency and reliability of the experimental data. A polynomial fit to the chosen data for each reaction gave the excitation function, which was then used for the integral yield calculation of the product. The amount of the major radioactive impurity ⁸⁸Zr was precisely analyzed for both the proton and the deuteron induced reactions on the ⁸⁹Y target.

Selection and screening of drought tolerant high yielding chickpea genotypes based on physio-biochemical indices and multi-environmental yield trials

BACKGROUND

Chickpea is one of the major legume crops being cultivated in the arid and semi-arid regions of Pakistan. It is mainly grown on the marginal areas where, terminal drought stress is one of the serious threats to its productivity. For defining the appropriate selection criteria for screening drought tolerant chickpea genotypes, present study was conducted. Distinct chickpea germplasm was collected from different pulses breeding institutes of Pakistan and evaluated for drought tolerance at germination and early seedling stages, furthermore, at late vegetative growth stages physiochemical traits and multi-environment yield performance were also tested.

RESULTS

Chickpea genotypes under different environments, were significantly varied for different seedling traits, physio-chemical attributes and seed yield. Genotypes showing drought tolerance by performing better at an early seedling stages were not correspondingly high yielding. Screening for drought tolerance on seed yield basis is the most appropriate trait to develop the drought tolerant as well as high yielding chickpea genotypes. Results confirmed that traits of early growth stages were not reflecting the drought tolerance at terminal growth stages and also did not confer high yielding. NIAB-rain fed environment proved ideal in nature to screen the chickpea genotypes whereas, NIAB-lysimeter and Kalur Kot was least effective for selecting genotypes with high seed yield. Genotypes D0091-10, K010-10, D0085-10, K005-10, D0078-10, 08AG016, 08AG004, D0080-10, 09AG002, K002-10 and D0099-10 were high yielding and drought tolerant based on their performance across multiple hotspot environments.

CONCLUSIONS

The selected genotypes are intended for further evaluation for varietal approval to recommend for general cultivation on farmer fields in drought hit areas of Pakistan. Among physio-biochemical traits, higher proline, glycine betain, RWC and CMS were reflecting the higher capability to tolerate the drought stress in chickpea. Drought sensitive genotypes (K0037-10, 2204, K0052-10, 09AG015, K0042-10, CM709/06, K0068-10, K004-10, K0026-10 and K0063-10) were also identified in present study which were resourceful asset for using as contrasting parents in hybridization programs. To our knowledge, this is first report using an integrated approach involving, physio-biochemical indices, and multi-environmental yield trials, for comparison, screening and selection of chickpea genotypes for drought tolerance.

Construction of a ternary g-C3N4/TiO2@polyaniline nanocomposite for the enhanced photocatalytic activity under solar light

The combination of two or more semiconductor materials for the synthesis of new hybrid photocatalyst could be a good approach to enhance the visible light absorption, electron-hole (e^-/h⁺) pair separation rate and photocatalytic decomposition of the organic contaminants. Herein, a facile in situ oxidative polymerization method has been used for the synthesis of visible light active g-C₃N₄/TiO₂@polyaniline (g-C₃N₄/TiO₂@PANI) nanocomposite for the decomposition of the congo red (CR) under the solar light irradiation. Prior to making the composite of TiO₂ (P25) with g-C₃N₄ and polyaniline, a lamellar structure was generated onto the TiO₂ brim by alkali hydrothermal treatment to enhance the surface area and adsorption properties. The PL and UV-visible analysis clearly showed the fast separation of the e^-/h⁺ pair, and reduction in the bandgap energy of the g-C₃N₄/TiO₂@PANI nanocomposite. The results revealed TiO₂, PANI and g-C₃N₄ showed the synergestic behavior in the g-C₃N₄/TiO₂@PANI nanocomposite and greatly enhanced the photocatalytic degradation of the CR. The photocatalytic decomposition of the CR was almost 100% for 20 mg/L at pH 5, 7 and 180 min. The reusability study of the spent catalyst showed the 90% degradation of CR after four consecutive cycles indicate that g-C₃N₄/TiO₂@PANI nanocomposite is a stable and efficient catalyst. The high efficiency and reusability of the g-C₃N₄/TiO₂@PANI nanocomposite could be attributed to the higher visible light absorption and sensitizing effect of the g-C₃N₄ and PANI.

Composition-Controlled Synthesis of Hybrid Perovskite Nanoparticles by Ionic Metathesis: Bandgap Engineering Studies from Experiments and Theoretical Calculations

Herein a newly discovered non-polar solvent based synthesis of MAPbX₃ hybrid perovskite nanoparticles (NPs) is presented, where MA=Methylammonium and X=I, Br and Cl, as well as their mixed halide counterparts. The methodology proposed is simple and uses low-cost commercial precursors. The conventional method of hybrid perovskite preparation requires methylammonium halide precursors and highly polar solvents. Mandatory use of polar solvents and a particular perovskite precursor makes an intermediate compound which then requires a non-polar solvent to recover the NPs. In contrast here, a whole range of mixed halide perovskite NPs is fabricated without using a methylammonium halide precursor and a polar solvent. In this method, a non-polar solvent is used, which provides a better platform for the particle recovery. Organic cations on the nanoparticle surface prevent degradation from water, due to their hydrophobic nature, and hence offer a stable colloidal suspension in toluene for more than three months. Ab-initio calculations within density functional theory (DFT) predict lower formation energies compared to previously reported values, confirming better chemical stability for this synthesis pathway. Through the halide compositional tuning, these NPs exhibit a variety of emission and absorption starting from ultraviolet to near infrared (IR). The absorption spectra of various halide perovskite show a sharp band edge over the visible wavelength with high absorption coefficient. High oscillator strengths due to high excitonic binding energies combined with the simulated finite dipole transition probabilities point towards the observed high absorption. The emission spectra of mixed halide perovskites vary from 400 to 750 nm, which covers the whole range of visible spectra with sharp full-width at half maxima. Different halide perovskite exhibit average recombination lifetime from 5 to 227 ns. Ambient synthesis, chemical robustness and tunability of emission with varying halide compositions make MAPbX₃ (X=I, Br and Cl) NPs appealing for the optoelectronic applications.

Enhanced and Faster Potassium Storage in Graphene with Respect to Graphite: A Comparative Study with Lithium Storage

The mechanisms, extent, and rate of K-storage in graphenic and graphitic carbons, as direct comparisons with Li-storage in the same structures/materials, in terms of the effects of dimensional scale and presence of surface and exposed edge sites have been brought to the fore via DFT-based simulations, duly complemented and supplemented by experimental studies. The simulation indicates feasibilities toward K-storage on single-layer graphene (SLG) at a concentration greater than that in graphite ( i. e., beyond KC₈), the formation of more than one layer of K on SLG, and K-storage on both the surfaces of SLG, unlike that for Li-storage. Simulations done with graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) indicate that K can get hosted on the graphene surfaces and at the exposed "stepped" edges, in addition to the "classical" K-intercalation in-between the constituent graphene layers. Accordingly, the computation studies indicate considerably enhanced K-storage "specific capacity" of GNR, as compared to bulk graphite, with the capacity decreasing with the increase in number of graphene layers. Electrochemical potassiation/depotassiation of well-ordered fairly pristine few layers graphene films (FLG; ∼6-7 layers) confirms the simultaneous occurrences of bulk ( i. e., K-intercalation) and surface storage of K, resulting in reversible K-storage capacity being greater than that of thicker bulk graphite films by a factor of ∼2.5. This is in agreement with the predictions from DFT. However, this increment is less compared to that for Li-storage, again in accordance with the DFT results. Our measurements indicate lower diffusivity of K, as compared to Li, in the same graphitic structure by an order of magnitude. Accordingly, the rate capability of K-storage in graphite has been found to be considerably inferior to Li-storage, which renders the reduction in dimensional scale even more important in the case of K-storage, as observed here with FLG.

Adsorption and anion exchange insight of indigo carmine onto CuAl-LDH/SWCNTs nanocomposite: kinetic, thermodynamic and isotherm analysis

Two-dimensional layered materials are gaining much attention in the field of wastewater purification. Herein, we report the synthesis and characterization of an anion selective copper–aluminum-layered double hydroxide/single-walled carbon nanotubes (CuAl-LDH/SWCNTs) composite for the scavenging of organic dye indigo carmine (IC) from aqueous solution. A facile urea hydrolysis method was used for the controlled growth of the metal hydroxides over the SWCNTs. Structural characterization of the prepared materials was investigated using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. The obtained results revealed that the CuAl-LDH/SWCNTs composite has a higher potential for the removal of IC in comparison to CuAl-LDH and SWCNTs. The enhanced adsorption capacity of the composite revealed that deposition of CuAl-LDH over SWCNTs increases the active adsorption sites and promotes the interactions between the composite and IC dye via anion exchange, electrostatic, π–π, hydrogen bonding etc. Moreover, adsorption kinetics, isotherms, and thermodynamic studies have been also proposed to illustrate the mechanism of the IC adsorption onto the CuAl-LDH/SWCNTs composite. Thermodynamic parameters showed that the adsorption of IC dye onto the CuAl-LDH/SWCNTs composite was exothermic and spontaneous in nature. Intra-particle diffusion was determined to be the rate-limiting step and adsorption of IC followed the Langmuir isotherm model with the maximum monolayer adsorption capacity 294.117 mg g⁻¹ at 20 °C. The results suggest that the CuAl-LDH/SWCNTs composite is a potential material for IC adsorption in aqueous solution.

Two-dimensional layered materials are gaining much attention in the field of wastewater purification.

Prevalence of double diabetes in youth onset diabetes patients from east Delhi and neighboring NCR region

BACKGROUND

It is being increasingly reported that some of the youth onset diabetes patients cannot be classified clearly as type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) or type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) based on usual criteria and the term double diabetes (DD) coined for these cases.

AIM

The objective of the study was to find out the prevalence of DD in youth onset diabetes patients from east Delhi and neighboring NCR region.

METHODS

A total of 200 patients with youth onset diabetes below 25 years of age were recruited from a tertiary care hospital in East Delhi. Clinical history, family history of diabetes and anthropometry of patients were recorded. Fasting serum C-peptide, Anti-IA2-antibody and Anti-GAD-antibody were measured in all patients. Patients positive for Anti-GAD-antibody (>1.05U/ml) and C-peptide level >0.3nmol/l were characterized as DD patients. Patients negative for Anti-GAD-antibody and C-peptide >0.3nmol/l were kept under the category of T2DM. Patients with low C-peptide level along with one of the following, positive Anti-GAD-antibody, positive Anti-IA2-antibody and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) were considered as T1DM. Remaining patients were kept under the unknown category.

RESULTS

Mean age of study subjects was 18.2±7.1years. Seven percent (7%) of the subjects were classified as DD, 51% as T1DM, 13% as T2DM and 29% were kept under the unknown category. Mean age of subjects with 22.2±9.7, 16.9±6.7, 20.6±7.7 and 19.4±7.4 years in DD, T1DM, T2DM and unknown category respectively. Mean BMI of subjects with DD, T1DM, T2DM and unknown category was 19.8±5.7, 16.6±3.7, 19.3±4.1 and 18.0±4.6 kg/m² respectively.

CONCLUSION

Double diabetes is an important occurrence among youth onset diabetes subjects. Only half of the subjects with youth onset of diabetes had T1DM.

High prevalence of diabetes, prediabetes and obesity among residents of East Delhi - The Delhi urban diabetes survey (DUDS)

AIM

The burden of diabetes is very high in our country particularly in the urban metros. The present survey was planned to ascertain the current prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes in Delhi since the available prevalence estimates are over a decade old.

METHODS

The present study was conducted in urban area of east Delhi and followed a multistage random sampling design. The prevalence of known diabetes was ascertained based on self reporting and prevalence of newly detected diabetes and prediabetes was based on oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).

RESULTS

We surveyed 470 households and included 1317 individuals. Prevalence of diabetes was 18.3% (known 10.8% and newly detected 7.5%). Prevalence of prediabetes was 21% as per WHO criteria and 39.5% as per ADA criteria. The ratio of known to unknown diabetes was 1.44:1. Every third household (35.77%) had at least one known case of diabetes. High rates of obesity and central obesity were also observed in the study population.

CONCLUSION

The present study found a strikingly high prevalence of diabetes, prediabetes and obesity in Delhi. This calls for urgent and effective preventive measures to prevent diabetes.

Evaluation of SnO2 for sunlight photocatalytic decontamination of water

The broad bandgap tin (IV) oxide (SnO₂) is the least investigated semiconductor material for photocatalytic water decontamination in sunlight exposure. A detailed study covering the synthesis, characterization and the evaluation of photocatalytic activity of SnO₂, in the natural sunlight exposure, is presented. The structural characterization by XRD revealed the formation of phase pure tetragonal SnO₂ with the average crystallite size of ∼41.5 nm whereas minor Sn²⁺ states in the material were identified by XPS analysis. As explored by diffuse reflectance (DR) and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, the material exhibited a distinct absorption edge at ∼3.4 eV. The morphological and microstructure analysis of the synthesized SnO₂ was carried out by FESEM and HRTEM. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and chronopotentiometry (CP) predicted the better charge transport and retention ability of the material under illumination whereas the Mott-Schottky extrapolation prophesied the n-type behavior with the flat-band potential of -0.60 V. The photocatalytic activity of SnO₂ was assessed in the exposure of complete spectrum natural sunlight for the removal of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol. The HPLC and TOC analysis monitored the progress of degradation and mineralization whereas the released chloride ions were evaluated by ion chromatography. The effect of the transition metal ions (Fe³⁺, Cu²⁺, Ni^2+, and Zn²⁺) as electron capture agents and H₂O₂ as ROS generator was explored during the degradation process. The utility of the material for the simultaneous removal of chlorophenols in the mixture was also investigated. The SnO₂ exhibited sustained activity in the repeated use. Based on experimental evidence congregated, the mechanism of the removal process and the efficacy of SnO₂ for sunlight photocatalytic decontamination of water was established.