Review Article
Chemistry
Edet Patience Ime; Ede Joseph Ajor; Francis-Dominic Makong Ekpan; Humphrey Sam Samuel; Odii Peter Egwuatu
Abstract
The search for eco-friendly and sustainable materials for electrical applications has stepped up recently, spurred on by the demand for effective, greener solutions. To meet these expectations, a promising class of materials known as clay-reinforced recycled plastic composites has evolved. Increased ...
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The search for eco-friendly and sustainable materials for electrical applications has stepped up recently, spurred on by the demand for effective, greener solutions. To meet these expectations, a promising class of materials known as clay-reinforced recycled plastic composites has evolved. Increased mechanical strength, less thermal expansion, and higher flame resistance are all benefits of incorporating clay nanoparticles into recycled plastics, which are essential for maintaining the dependability and safety of electrical systems. Clay-reinforced recycled plastic composites have been investigated for usage in various applications, including electrical ones. The waste plastic components, such as polystyrene or high-density polyethylene, are combined with clay, such as montmorillonite, to create the composites using a cold pressing technique. In comparison to the original plastic materials, the resultant composites have better mechanical, thermal, and water absorption characteristics. In addition, it has been shown that adding clay to composites improves their electrical qualities, making them appropriate for use in electrical applications. Dielectric strength, dielectric constant, and electrical conductivity tests have all been used to assess the electrical properties of the composites. According to the findings, clay-reinforced recycled plastic composites could be used in electrical applications, such as the production of electrical insulators. Utilizing these composites can help develop sustainable materials for various applications and reduce plastic waste.
Review Article
Basic Medicine
Francis-Dominic Makong Ekpan; Merit Oluchi Ori; Humphrey Sam Samuel; Odii Peter Egwuatu
Abstract
In the face of growing environmental concerns and the need for sustainable energy sources, the production of bioethanol from lignocellulosic waste materials has emerged as a promising solution. This study provides an overview of efforts to enhance the eco-friendly production of bioethanol from lignocellulosic ...
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In the face of growing environmental concerns and the need for sustainable energy sources, the production of bioethanol from lignocellulosic waste materials has emerged as a promising solution. This study provides an overview of efforts to enhance the eco-friendly production of bioethanol from lignocellulosic waste, addressing both the environmental and economic aspects of this renewable energy source. Lignocellulosic waste materials, such as agricultural residues and forest biomass, offer a rich source of raw materials for bioethanol production. Their utilization not only reduces waste accumulation, but also decreases the dependency on finite fossil fuels. However, the challenge lies in the efficient conversion of these materials into bioethanol while minimizing environmental impacts. To achieve this, researchers have been exploring various strategies, including advanced pretreatment techniques, enzymatic hydrolysis, and microbial fermentation. These methods aim to increase bioethanol yields, reduce production costs, and minimize waste generation, thus promoting a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach. In addition, the integration of waste-to-bioethanol processes with existing industries and the development of circular bio-economies hold promise for economic viability. As the world shifts towards a more sustainable energy future, these advancements in bioethanol production from lignocellulosic waste materials play a crucial role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating environmental impacts.
Original Research Article
Basic Medicine
Azmat Hussain; Saira Habib; Inam Ullah; Fahma Sahreen; Imtiaz Ahmad; Imosobomeh L Ikhioya
Abstract
In this study, a hydrothermal method was used to synthesize Tix MnNiO nanostructures for photovoltaic applications. The synthesized films display a hexagonal phase and are polycrystalline. They exhibit a preferred alignment on the (111), (112), (116), (121), and (200) planes. The angles 2 theta are (26.612, ...
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In this study, a hydrothermal method was used to synthesize Tix MnNiO nanostructures for photovoltaic applications. The synthesized films display a hexagonal phase and are polycrystalline. They exhibit a preferred alignment on the (111), (112), (116), (121), and (200) planes. The angles 2 theta are (26.612, 30.816, 32.154, 33.154, and 37.856) degrees. The structural properties of the material are enhanced by incorporating titanium into the lattice of manganese, nickel oxide. By integrating titanium into the MnNiO lattice, the material's UV absorbance was enhanced. At 310 nm, the noticeable peaks of the materials show a rise in titanium concentration, leading to enhanced absorbance during synthesis. The material absorbance decreases as the wavelength of light in the visible region increases. The indirect bandgap energy of the synthesized Tix MnNiO film decreases with increasing molar concentration, ranging from 2.75 eV to 1.82-1.50 eV.
Review Article
Nanosciences
Odii Peter Egwuatu; Merit Oluchi Ori; Humphrey Sam Samuel; Francis-Dominic Makong Ekpan
Abstract
This review article explores the transformative impact of AI in the field of nanomedicine, specifically focusing on AI-enabled diagnostics and monitoring. Nanomedicine has emerged as a promising approach for improving medical imaging, drug delivery, diagnostics, and therapy, and AI has become a disruptive ...
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This review article explores the transformative impact of AI in the field of nanomedicine, specifically focusing on AI-enabled diagnostics and monitoring. Nanomedicine has emerged as a promising approach for improving medical imaging, drug delivery, diagnostics, and therapy, and AI has become a disruptive force that enhances the precision, efficiency, and personalization of healthcare solutions. We delve into the role of AI in designing and optimizing nanomaterials, drug delivery systems, and combinatorial nanomedicine administration. AI's potential to examine vast datasets, discover patterns and predict behaviour in biological systems is discussed. The paper also highlights the vital role of AI-driven nanosensors in the real-time monitoring of biomarkers within the human body. Interdisciplinary collaboration in healthcare is emphasized, as it is essential for addressing complex challenges and achieving global health goals. The article concludes by exploring how AI has revolutionized surgical planning, anatomical modelling, and virtual anatomy education in the context of nanomedicine. Overall, this review demonstrates the significant potential of AI-enabled diagnostics and monitoring in nanomedicine to revolutionize healthcare.
Review Article
Chemistry
Chinedu Innocent Okoye; Obiamaka Doris Oboli
Abstract
Separation of asphaltenes into multiple sub-fractions is performed using different fractionation techniques which are investigated in this study. The method chosen depends on the parameter of interest such as solubility, molecular weight difference, polarity, etc. For this write-up, the methods reviewed ...
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Separation of asphaltenes into multiple sub-fractions is performed using different fractionation techniques which are investigated in this study. The method chosen depends on the parameter of interest such as solubility, molecular weight difference, polarity, etc. For this write-up, the methods reviewed include sequential elution fractionation, solvent extraction, sequential extraction, column chromatography, sequential precipitation, supercritical fluid extraction, etc.The yield and the quality of the fraction are the two important subjects for choosing the separation procedure. For example, the yield is influenced using different hydrocarbon liquids as a significant factor. In addition, the method of choice will determine the presence of co-precipitated resins or not. The advantages of some of the methods were highlighted as well as the future prospects and application of asphaltene.
Original Research Article
Physics
Ateeq ul Rehman; Tahir Munir; Shahbaz Afzal; Muhammad Saleem; Imosobomeh L Ikhioya
Abstract
Recent successes in the development of lead (Pb) halide perovskites have urged extensive research into cost-effective photovoltaic devices, to avoid significant challenges related to stability and toxicity. In this study, device modeling was presented for lead (Pb)-free perovskite solar cells (PSC), ...
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Recent successes in the development of lead (Pb) halide perovskites have urged extensive research into cost-effective photovoltaic devices, to avoid significant challenges related to stability and toxicity. In this study, device modeling was presented for lead (Pb)-free perovskite solar cells (PSC), by employing FAsnI3 as the perovskite absorber layer. The simulation evaluates the impact of varying thickness, acceptor density of the hole transport layer (HTL), and temperature within the ranges from 50 to 250 nm, 1x1018 cm-3 to 1x1022 cm-3, and 300 K to 450 K, respectively. The photovoltaic cell has inverted geometry (p-i-n) and device structure is ITO/PEDOT:PSS/FASnI3/BCP/Au. The FASnI3-based PSC exhibits an efficiency of 14.03%, current density (Jsc) 20.4 mA/cm2, fill factor (FF) 76.7%, and open circuit voltage (Voc) 0.92 V and these results are already presented experimental with same device structure. These results showed that a more eco-friendly solar cell using methyl ammonium tin was created successfully as perovskite. It is suggested to use alternative materials instead of methyl ammonium tin as perovskite.
Original Research Article
Chemistry
Samuel N. Ndung’u; Ruth N. Wanjau; Esther W. Nthiga
Abstract
The current study utilizes Silicon Nitride (Si3N4) as a novel adsorbent in evaluating its adsorptive ability for Congo red dyes from an aqueous solution. The adsorbent was prepared using extracted silica from sand and coffee husk biochar in an ammonia environment. The Si3N4 adsorbent was characterized ...
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The current study utilizes Silicon Nitride (Si3N4) as a novel adsorbent in evaluating its adsorptive ability for Congo red dyes from an aqueous solution. The adsorbent was prepared using extracted silica from sand and coffee husk biochar in an ammonia environment. The Si3N4 adsorbent was characterized using a Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FEI ESEM) which showed rod-like and fiber-like structures for α-Si3N4 and β- Si3N4, respectively. The SEM results also showed pores on the adsorbent surface before adsorption and a more rigid and restrained surface after adsorption. The adsorbent surface is hydroxylated in water to give important adsorption sites of silanolate ions (Si-O-) and silazane groups (Si2=NH2+) responsible for congo red (CR) dye removal. The adsorption process was investigated by batch mode. The maximum adsorption capacity (28.87 mg/g) was obtained at an optimal pH=1.00, agitation time (50 minutes), adsorbent dosage (25 mg), and initial concentration (50 mg/L). The Langmuir isotherm model was best fitted with equilibrium data with R2 > 0.9, showing that the adsorption was chemisorption in nature. The results revealed Si3N4 adsorbent as a potential adsorbent in textile dye wastewater treatment.
Short Communication
Clinical Medicine
Roohallah Yousefi
Abstract
In summary, this study investigated the relationship between climate, COVID-19 transmission and mortality rates. The results showed that countries with colder climates have higher infection and mortality rates. This could be due to factors such as increased time spent indoors during the winter and less ...
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In summary, this study investigated the relationship between climate, COVID-19 transmission and mortality rates. The results showed that countries with colder climates have higher infection and mortality rates. This could be due to factors such as increased time spent indoors during the winter and less outdoor activity in cold conditions. On the other hand, warmer temperatures and higher humidity were associated with lower transmission rates of COVID-19. In contrast, colder temperatures and lower humidity may favor the spread of the virus. In addition, air pollution was found to worsen COVID-19 transmission and mortality rates, possibly due to its effects on respiratory health and immune function. These findings highlight the complicated relationship between climate, air pollution, COVID-19 transmission, and mortality rates. We also point out that various factors must be taken into account to understand the COVID-19 dynamics in different climatic and environmental conditions.
Original Research Article
Engineering
Masoud Mahdavi; Seyyed Reza Hosseini; Abbas Babaafjaei
Abstract
The seismic performance of a steel structure depends on various factors, such as the design, materials, and dimensions. One important aspect to consider is the span length of the structure, which can influence the seismic response and the overall performance of the structure. In this study, a 10-story ...
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The seismic performance of a steel structure depends on various factors, such as the design, materials, and dimensions. One important aspect to consider is the span length of the structure, which can influence the seismic response and the overall performance of the structure. In this study, a 10-story steel structure with chevron bracing system was designed with ABAQUS software and finite element method. The structure was subjected to the El Centro earthquake for 25 seconds using the dynamic analysis method. Furthermore, the W index was defined equal to the span length to the story height, and the values of 0.67, 1.67, and 2.5 were considered for W. The results showed that the increase of the W index has direct relationship with the changes in the seismic parameters of the structure, including the displacement and acceleration, the von mises stress, the acceleration-time, and the displacement-time diagrams in the roof and the base shear force. Changing the index from 0.67 to 1.67 and 2.5 has caused an increase of 13.34% and 16.67%, respectively. Changing the index from 0.67 to 1.67 and 2.5 has caused an increase of 10.15% and 52.28%, respectively. Changing the index from 0.67 to 1.67 and 2.5 has caused an increase of 43.75% and 109.37%, respectively. Changing the index from 0.67 to 1.67 and 2.5 has caused an increase of 20.83% and 47.91%, respectively.
Brief Report
Basic Medicine
Roohallah Yousefi; Shahla Mokaramian
Abstract
The coronavirus pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has emerged as a significant global threat to all countries and societies. Analyzing infection rates, mortality due to Covid-19, and the impact of vaccination, weather conditions, and demographic and ethnic composition on infection and mortality ...
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The coronavirus pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has emerged as a significant global threat to all countries and societies. Analyzing infection rates, mortality due to Covid-19, and the impact of vaccination, weather conditions, and demographic and ethnic composition on infection and mortality rates can provide crucial insights into this disease. SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus causing acute respiratory syndrome, first emerged as a global pandemic in the Chinese city of Wuhan in December 2019. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there have been 768,237,788 confirmed cases of Covid-19 reported worldwide, resulting in 6,951,677 fatalities as of July 19, 2023. Analyzing various factors like infection rates, mortality, vaccination, weather conditions, and demographics helps us understand the disease better. The United States has the highest COVID-19 death toll, while African countries have reported the lowest. However, Africa's high death-to-infection ratio might be due to inadequate healthcare services and vaccination rates, which require urgent attention. In addition, the relationship between environmental temperatures and COVID-19 cases and mortality is still under investigation.
Short Communication
Basic Medicine
Roohallah Yousefi
Abstract
Introduction: In beta-thalassemia, an imbalance in the production of beta subunits of hemoglobin leads to the oxidation and deposition of excess alpha-globin chains at the cell membrane, resulting in the hemolysis of erythrocytes and a disorder of erythropoiesis. Antioxidants, such as curcumin, may promote ...
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Introduction: In beta-thalassemia, an imbalance in the production of beta subunits of hemoglobin leads to the oxidation and deposition of excess alpha-globin chains at the cell membrane, resulting in the hemolysis of erythrocytes and a disorder of erythropoiesis. Antioxidants, such as curcumin, may promote this progression. This study aims to investigate the antioxidant effect of curcumin on hemolysate samples from patients with beta-thalassemia.Materials and methods: Pure curcumin was extracted and purified for use in studying its effect on the visual light absorbance of hemoglobin in hemolysate samples from beta-thalassemia patients compared to control samples. Changes in light absorbance at 540 and 700 nm wavelengths during exposure to curcumin were analyzed to examine the shift from oxyhemoglobin to deoxyhemoglobin.Results: Curcumin was found to dissolve rapidly and to a high degree in ethanol at 1 mg/ml, but did not dissolve in distilled water at the same concentration. The curcumin addition to the hemolysate sample of a patient with beta-thalassemia resulted in a decrease in the light absorbance of the sample at 540 nm wavelength, with minimal changes observed in the control sample.Conclusion: Curcumin deoxygenated the hemolysate samples from both the patient and control, causing hemoglobin precipitation to occur slowly. The study suggests a greater potential role for curcumin in deoxygenating hemoglobin in the hemolysate samples of beta-thalassemia patients compared to those of the normal control.
Original Research Article
Basic Medicine
Roohallah Yousefi
Abstract
Introduction: Voxelotor, also known as GBT 440, binds to the alpha cleft in HbS tetramers and promotes the stability of the relaxed or oxygenated state of HbS. This process hinders the conformational change of the HbS tetramers into the deoxygenated state. Voxelotor prevents interactions between HbS ...
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Introduction: Voxelotor, also known as GBT 440, binds to the alpha cleft in HbS tetramers and promotes the stability of the relaxed or oxygenated state of HbS. This process hinders the conformational change of the HbS tetramers into the deoxygenated state. Voxelotor prevents interactions between HbS tetramers in the deoxygenated state, ultimately inhibiting the polymerization of HbS tetramers and resulting in significant clinical improvements, particularly in raising hemoglobin levels in patients. In this study, we have explored the use of herbal compound models, such as rosmarinic acid and compounds with similar structures that exhibit high binding affinity to Voxelotor's hemoglobin binding site.Materials and methods: The molecular model of hemoglobin (PDB: 5E83) was initially obtained from the RCSB PDB database. In addition, we collected 453 ligand models with structural similarity to rosmarinic acid from the PubChem database. To prepare these models for molecular docking, we utilized the Molegro Virtual Docker tool. Subsequently, we used the SwissADME web tool to predict the physicochemical properties and pharmacokinetics of these compounds. Results: We investigated the affinity and binding site of 453 compounds similar to rosmarinic acid on the hemoglobin model (PDB: 5E83). Our focus was on the alpha cleft between two alpha chains of the hemoglobin model (PDB: 5E83). The results showed that most compounds had molecular weights above 500 daltons, and some exhibited acceptable hydrophobicity. Furthermore, their solubility in aqueous solutions was good. None of the compounds were able to cross the blood-brain barrier or have gastrointestinal absorption. However, they did have varying inhibitory effects on CYP2C9 cytochromes. The skin penetration rate was generally low.
Conclusion: Through our study, we identified three compounds (CID: 162739375, CID: 141386569, and CID: 24015539) with promising potential for further research. These compounds demonstrated high binding affinity to the hemoglobin model, favorable dissolution and digestive absorption rates, as well as suitable hydrophobicity, making them ideal candidates for continued laboratory investigation
