Showing papers in "Sensors international in 2022"

Nanocellulose as sustainable biomaterials for drug delivery

Abstract: Nanocellulose (NC) has lately appeared as a member of the major promising “green” materials, garnering great attentiveness due to it’s unique features. Several new materials with huge variety of biomedical uses have been developed based on the most coveted aspects of Nanocellulose, including biodegradability, sustainability, biocompatibility and their especial physicochemical properties. There are primarily three class of Nanocellulose, every one of which is maufactured in a different way and has different qualities. In the previous couple of years, scientists have concentrated on nanocellulose-based systems which are employed as drug delivery vehicles. Controlled and sustained drug release has varying potential for different applications and administration routes; in this case, nanocellulose was used as a persistent biomaterial that aided in drug delivery. There are two different forms of nanocellulose-based biomedical materials that are currently being developed. At the molecular level, they are tissue bioscaffolds for cellular growth, drug excipients for drug administration, and enzyme/protein immobilisation and recognition. On the contrary at the macroscopic level biomaterial, they are blood vascular and soft tissue substitutes, skin and bone tissue healing materials, and antibacterial materials. The prospective biomedical use of nanocellulose will also be determined by its functional alteration.

Approaches of 3D printing in current drug delivery

Abstract: Three-dimensional printing (3DP) is predicted to be one of the most progressive innovations within the pharmacy. Nowadays, the use of 3D printing technologies in drug delivery systems has exponentially expanded, due to its potential advantages over customizing drugs in individually adjusted doses. 3DP empowers the precise deposition of medicaments and excipients, which might cause a change in perspective in drug configuration, production, and use. It can span the medication improvement measure, from the preclinical turn of events and clinical preliminaries to frontline medical care. Though 3DP technology represents the clinical and financial advantages, some specialized and administrative challenges limit its utilization of pharmaceutical products. Accordingly, there's a prerequisite for constant development and refinement in 3DP methods to beat current limits and work with patients' particular medical services with the utilization of customized drugs in the future. This article presents a few 3DP technologies appropriate for drug fabrications with their applications in the improvement of the drug dose structures, demonstrating the feasibility of this innovation in regular commercial production with regulatory assessment.

Green synthesis of nanomaterials from sustainable materials for biosensors and drug delivery

Abstract: The integration of biosensing platforms with drug delivery systems has led to effective treatment strategies for biomedical applications. With the emergency of nanotechnology, the manipulation of materials in the nanometer (nm) scale of 1–100 ​nm, these biosensing and drug delivery systems have been tremendously improved due to the exceptional properties exhibited by these materials. The conventional approaches used to synthesize the nanomaterials including physical and chemical methods involve the usage of harsh chemicals and hazardous reaction conditions hence posing a threat to health and the environment. This problem is solved by the biological methods that involve green nanotechnology which integrates green chemistry and engineering principles to formulate harmless and eco-friendly nanomaterials to fight the complications affecting human health and the environment. These biological methods use phytochemicals found in plants and plants parts as well as microorganisms for the bioreduction of metal ions to their corresponding nanomaterials. The plants and the microorganisms are readily available, cost-efficient, and have biocompatibility hence offering sustainable synthetic methods for nanomaterials. This review will therefore focus on the plant-mediated and microbe-mediated green synthesis of different nanomaterials, the mechanisms of these synthetic methods, the application of the green synthesized nanomaterials in biosensing and drug delivery as well as the challenges of the synthetic methods. • This review focuses on green synthesized nanomaterials and their applications in Biosensors and drug delivery. • Emphasis was put on the Phytochemicals in plants and microorganisms that reduce metal ions to nanomaterials. • Various nanobiosensors developed using the green synthesized nanomaterials have been highlighted. • The review also highlights the challenges of using the green synthesized nanomaterials in biosensors and drug delivery. • The review recommends future research focus on effective means of eliminating the negative effects of the nanomaterials.

Are we there yet? Unbundling the potential adoption and integration of telemedicine to improve virtual healthcare services in African health systems

Abstract: Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the attention has now shifted towards universal vaccination to gracefully lift strict COVID-19 restrictions previously imposed to contain the spread of the disease. Sub-Saharan Africa is experiencing an exponential increase of infections and deaths coupled with vaccines shortages, personal protective equipment, weak health systems and COVID-19 emerging variants. Some developed countries integrated telemedicine to reduce the impacts of the shortage of healthcare professionals and potentially reduce the risk of exposure, ensuring easy delivery of quality health services while limiting regular physical contact and direct hospitalization. However, the adoption of telemedicine and telehealth is still nascent in many sub-Saharan Africa countries. Therefore, this study reflects on progress made towards the use of telemedicine, virtual health care services, challenges encountered, and proffers ways to address them. We conducted a systematic literature review to synthesise literature on telemedicine in sub-Saharan Africa. The study revealed that telemedicine provides unprecedented benefits such as improving efficiency, effective utilization of healthcare resources, forward triaging, prevention of medical personnel infection, aiding medical students' clinical observation and participation, and assurance of social support for patients. However, the absence of policy on virtual care and political will, cost of sustenance of virtual health care services, inadequate funding, technological and infrastructural barriers, patient and healthcare personnel bias on virtual care and cultural barriers are identified as limiting factors to the adoption of virtual health care in many African health systems. To alleviate some of these barriers, we recommend the development of robust policies and frameworks for virtual health care, the inclusion of virtual care in the medical school curriculum, supporting virtual care research and development, increasing health funding, removing monopolisation of telecommunication services, developing of virtual health solutions that address eccentricities of African health systems.

Analyzing the Impact of Print Parameters on Dimensional Variation of ABS specimens printed using Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM)

Abstract: Fused Deposition Modelling is the most popular additive manufacturing technique. Its ability to build complex designs in limited time and money makes it more accessible than other AM techniques. Many Industries employ this technique in Prototyping, tooling, and mold design. However, the dimensional accuracy of the printed part is susceptible to deviations with changes in print settings, this drawback of FDM affects its employability in large scale manufacturing, where repeatability is of paramount importance. Therefore, in this paper the impact of six significant print parameters; wall thickness, infill density, build plate temperature, print speed, layer thickness and extrusion temperature on the dimensional accuracy of the printed specimens have been studied. The material chosen for the study is Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS). The experiments were conducted using a small resolution central composite design (CCD) and it was found that layer thickness and print speed have the most significant impact on the dimensional accuracy of the printed parts, it is also observed that lower values of layer thickness and higher print speed result in better dimensional accuracy.

92 years of zinc oxide: has been studied by the scientific community since the 1930s- An overview

Abstract: Zinc oxide (ZnO) is a one-of-a-kind material with semiconducting, piezoelectric, & pyroelectric properties. Before the arrival of the nanotechnology field, zinc oxide was used in bulk, but later it was also employed as a nanosized material for its intended purposes. ZnO in nano-scale materials is currently among the most significant semiconductor oxides. Nanotechnology is a broad field of study that has emerged as a cutting-edge & advanced manufacturing technology worldwide. Nanomaterials have diameters less than 100 ​nm. So, many materials are used in various applications; one of the common materials, i.e., Zinc oxides, are unique in their physiochemical properties, so they can be called multi-functional nanomaterial. Zinc oxide has been used as a nanomaterial based on its different morphologies such as–nano-particles/rods/wires/flakes/flower/sheets & etc. Zinc oxide plays an essential role in all most every field, from non-electric to the electronic field, diagnosis to therapeutics, textiles to agriculture. The first section of this evaluation includes an introduction, a brief history, properties, and benefits. The following section of this review describes the various fabrication methods of ZnO - indirect, direct, hydrothermal, sol-gel, chemical precipitation, green synthesis methods. Finally, this article presented prospective implementations of ZnO in many fields of industry. This review provides valuable information to specialize in ZnO, covering the research undertaken in the early 1990s until the new use of zinc oxides in 2022.

Disposable biosensors based on metal nanoparticles

Abstract: The coronavirus disease2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has highlighted the need for disposable biosensors that can detect viruses in infected patients quickly due to fast response and also at a low cost.The present review provides an overview of the applications of disposable biosensors based on metal nanoparticles in enzymatic and non-enzymatic sensors with special reference to glucose and H 2 O 2 , immunosensors as well as genosensors (DNA biosensors in which the recognized event consists of the hybridization reaction)for point-of-care diagnostics. The disposable biosensors for COVID19 have also been discussed.

Development of enhanced electrochemical sensor and antimicrobial studies of ZnO NPs synthesized using green plant extract

Abstract: The present investigation envisages for plant mediated synthesis of ZnO NPs (ZNPs) by green combustion route using eco-friendly LCL (Lantana Camara Leaf) Extract. The optical and structural characterizations of ZNPs was studied by spectral techniques; PXRD (Powder X-ray diffraction) study confirms the phase formation and crystalline nature of NPs with its average particle size found to be 35 ​nm The internal morphology of synthesized NPs comprises noticeable pores, voids and agglomeration obtained by SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) technique. TGA-DTA (Thermogravimetric-Differential Thermal Analysis) analysis reveals the changes in physico-chemical properties of ZNPs by the effect of temperature. The electrochemical reaction measurements of ZNPs-graphite paste electrode in a 3-electrode system using 1 ​M HCl solution was conducted by CV (Cyclic Voltametric) and EIS (Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy) techniques in the different scan rates 0.01–0.05 ​V/s. Further, the corrosion inhibition activities of ZNPs were examined on mild steel (MS) in 1 ​M HCl solution by electrochemical spectral studies (CV & EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) measurements. The antimicrobial potential of ZNPs was discussed in detail in contrast to gram positive (Micrococcus luteus) and gram negative (P.auruginosa) bacterial strains by the zone of inhibition concept using disc diffusion technique.

Chitosan based injectable hydrogels for smart drug delivery applications

Abstract: Hydrogels have a number of characteristics that make them an ideal candidate for biomedical applications. Chitosan is a well-known natural polymer, and it is favoured due to its good biocompatibility, low toxicity, and biodegradability characteristics. Though chitosan is an ideal drug-delivery polymer, however due to its poor solubility and to increase the mechanical strength, stimuli-responsive injectable hydrogels are prepared. Different cross-linking mechanisms are followed for the preparation of injectable hydrogels. Among them, the most common ones are physical and chemical cross-linking methods. Chitosan based injectable hydrogels can be used for the delivery of genes, proteins, antigens and drugs, and have been effectively applied in experimental therapy of several diseases including Parkinson's Disease, cancer and in different forms of degeneration.

Graphene nanomaterials: The wondering material from synthesis to applications

Abstract: Graphene is the primitive two-dimensional crystal ever discovered by humankind. It's composed of just one graphite sheet, yet its unique features are redefining material science. However, practical mass-production technologies for defect-free monolayer graphene are currently lacking. Because of their planar shape, lightweight, high aspect ratio, electrical conductivity, inexpensiveness, and mechanical durability, graphene nanoparticles are appealing. Graphene and its associated derivatives, such as graphene, graphene oxide, reduced graphene oxide, and graphene materials have been generally regarded as viable possibilities for industrial, environmental, and biomedical applications because of the rapid development of synthesis and functionalization procedures. Currently, the utilization of graphene nanomaterials leads to great innovation in the field of nano-biotechnology due to its nano-size, unique morphology, large surface area, and strong properties. Due to such unusual properties of graphene and its nanomaterials comes in a wide range of shapes which are discussed in this review along with their synthesis method and also cover a wide portion of the applications. The review aims to summarize the outcomes of current studies of graphene and its nanomaterial and also disclose the most promising applications of graphene nanomaterial which revolutionizing the material science. • Discussed the recent studies of graphene nanomaterials. • Key properties of graphene along with a brief history were also depicted. • Different graphene-nanomaterial and their synthesis methods have been illustrated. • Summarized the different applications of graphene-based nanomaterials.

Investigation of antioxidant and antibacterial activity of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPS) synthesized from the aqueous extract of Penicillium spp.

Abstract: The biological synthesis of metal nanoparticles has arisen vastly with significant health and medical applications in recent years. The current study employs Penicillium spp. that was isolated from soils to synthesis iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs). The antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of the IONPs were investigated. The IONPs were synthesized via the extracellular method using cell-free filtrate and challenged with FeCl 3 . The characterization of IONPs was performed using UV-spectrophotometer, FTIR, TEM, SEM, EDX, and Zeta Potential Analysis. The antibacterial and antioxidant activity was examined through the disk diffusion method and DPPH-scavenging activity, respectively. This study showed that the IONPs were successfully synthesized from the fungal filtrate of Penicillium spp. The UV-spectrophotometer displayed a peak at 350 ​nm, indicating the formation of IONPs. The spherical shape of IONPs was determined by TEM and SEM analysis, with the size ranging from 3.31 to 10.69 ​nm. The FTIR spectrum of IONPs showed bands at 3313 ​cm −1 , and 1636 ​cm −1 revealed the protein's involvement in the formation and capping of nanoparticles. The EDX showed the presence of iron elements in the biosynthesized IONPs, and Zeta potential analysis indicated the high stability of IONPs (+33.9 ​mV). Biosynthesized IONPs exhibited good antibacterial activity against pathogenic bacteria as well as showed potent antioxidant activity. At the highest concentration (250 ​μg), the IONPs showed higher inhibition activity against S. aureus (12 ​± ​0.6 ​nm), E.coli (11.3 ​± ​1.2 ​nm) , K.pneumonia (11.3 ​± ​0.6 ​nm), S.sonnie (11.3 ​± ​0.6 ​nm), and P.aeruginosa (11.3 ​± ​0.6 ​nm). IONPs also exhibited antioxidant potential against DPPH radical compared with ascorbic acid with IC 50 values of 12.2 ​μg/mL. In conclusion, the biosynthesized IONPs from Penicillium spp. demonstrated the potential biomedical application such as antimicrobial and anticancer agents in the future. • Isolation of fungal species from soil. • Biosynthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles from fungal filtrate. • Characterization of iron oxide nanoparticles by UV–Vis spectrophotometer, FTIR, SEM, TEM, zeta potential and EDX. • Antioxidant and antibacterial activity of iron oxide nanoparticles.

Silica gel-based electrochemical sensor for tinidazole

Abstract: A sensitive method has been proposed for electrochemical reduction of tinidazole (TNZ) drugs employing a voltammetric approach. The supporting electrolyte, phosphate buffer solution (PBS) was prepared for different pH levels (3.0–8.0). The method involves a silica gel modified carbon paste electrode (SG/CPE) as an electrochemical sensor which demonstrated exceptional selectivity and sensitivity towards the detection of TNZ. Various parameters like the impact of accumulation time, pH of supporting buffer, scan rate, and concentration on electro-analysis of TNZ were examined. By the pH study, it was evident that the same number of protons and electrons participated in the process and by scan rate studies, we have estimated the heterogeneous rate constant and electron number. The process was irreversible and diffusion controlled. The linearity range was found to be 1.0 μM–10.0 μM from concentration variation studies. The detection and quantification limit was calculated and the practical applicability of a developed sensor is tested for tablet and urine samples. The reports obtained by studying the different parameters revealed that the electrode has good stability and sensitivity with reproducible results.

Sustainable materials and COVID-19 detection biosensor: A brief review

Abstract: COVID-19 is the current global problem. Billions of infected cases due to the pandemic cause an emergency requirement to contain the pandemic. A basic concept to manage the outbreak is an early diagnosis and prompt treatment. To diagnose COVID-19, the new biosensors become new interventions that are hopeful to help effective diagnosis. In clinical material science, the issues on materials of COVID-19 detection biosensor is very interesting. In this brief review, the authors summarize and discuss on sustainable materials and COVID-19 detection biosensor. The paper, cellulose and graphene - based materials are specifically focused and biosensors for RNA sensing, antigenic determination and immune response detection are covered in this short article.

Elaboration of a novel nanosensor using nanoparticles of α-Fe2O3 magnetic cores for the detection of metronidazole drug. Urine human and tap water

Abstract: Metronidazole (MTZ) is a widely used antibiotic to treat infections caused by anaerobic bacteria, protozoa, and bacteroids such as trichromonosis and vaginosis. In this study, we present a simple strategy for constructing an electroanalysis platform for metronidazole in real samples. We prepared a modified carbon paste with α-Fe2O3 magnetic core nanoparticles to construct an α-Fe2O3@CPE electrochemical sensor. The surface morphology and composition of the sensor were evaluated using several methods, such as X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope. The average size of the α-Fe2O3 magnetic core nanoparticles was around 34.30 ​nm. Cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and chrono-coulometry were performed for the understanding of the electron transfer behavior on the electrocatalytic surface of α-Fe2O3@CPE and the unmodified electrode CPE. The resulting sensor demonstrates a very good shift of the Metronidazole reduction peak to a more positive potential (−0.57v vs Ag/AgCl) compared to the unmodified CPE electrode (−0.71v .vs Ag/AgCl). The Metronidazole peak reduction current Ipc varies linearly with metronidazole concentration in the range of 10-4 ​M to 0.8x10-6 ​M with a limit of detection and limit of quantification of 2.852x10-7 ​M and 9.509x10-7 ​M respectively. Exceeding the detection limits of several existing analytical methods. The proposed procedure has been successfully demonstrated on pharmaceutical tablets and real tap water and urine samples.

Non-invasive smart implants in healthcare: Redefining healthcare services delivery through sensors and emerging digital health technologies

Abstract: The adoption of non-invasive smart implants is inevitable due to recent technological advancements in smart implants and the increasing demand to provide pervasive and personalized care. The integration of non-invasive smart implants presents unprecedented opportunities for effective disease prevention, real-time health data collection, early detection of diseases, real-time monitoring of chronic diseases, virtual patient care, patient-tailored treatment, and minimally invasive management of diseases. Even though the research work in this area is nascent, this study presents the potential benefits and use of non-invasive smart implants in healthcare while reflecting on the potential challenges and limitations of their utilization. With current technological advancements, the adoption of non-invasive smart implants is regaining momentum in managing chronic conditions and diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, cognitive impairment; orthopedic surgery, dental surgery; and managing and remotely monitoring infectious diseases such as the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, the full adoption and utilization of non-invasive smart implants still encounter barriers such as lack of policies and frameworks regulating their use, limited memory space, health consequences and implants' failure, clinical challenges, health hazards imposed by non-invasive smart implants, health data security, and privacy risks. Therefore, there is a need for robust security and privacy measures as well as the formulation of policies guiding the development and use of non-invasive smart implants. With the gained experience from smart implants, the next generation of non-invasive smart implants may include sophisticated modern computational techniques that can analyze health data and suggest adequate therapeutic actions.

An improved amperometric sarcosine biosensor based on graphene nanoribbon/chitosan nanocomposite for detection of prostate cancer

Abstract: We describe herein an improved amperometric biosensor for detection of sarcosine, a potential biomarker for prostate cancer. The biosensor is based on covalent immobilization of sarcosine oxidase (SOx) onto nanocomposite of chitosan (CHIT) and graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) electrodeposited onto Au electrode. The GNRs were studied by transmission electron microscopy and UV spectroscopy. The working electrode (SOx/CHIT/GNRs/AuE) exhibited maximum current at a potential of 0.1V against Ag/AgCl, generated from electrochemical oxidation of H2O2, from sarcosine by immobilized SOx. The biosensor showed optimum response i.e. current (mA) within 2s at pH 7.3 and 35 ​°C. There was a linearity between current (mA) and sarcosine concentration in a wider range 0.001–100 ​μM with a minimum detection limit of 0.001 ​μM and a high sensitivity of 277.5 ​μA/μM/cm. Analytical recoveries of added sarcosine in sera were 97.35%, within and between-batch coefficients of variation were 1.08% and 1.40% respectively. A good correlation (R2 ​= ​0.99) was obtained between sera sarcosine values, as measured by the standard immuno kit method and present biosensor. The biosensor measured sarcosine levels in sera of prostate cancer patients, which was significantly higher than in apparently healthy persons. The enzyme electrode lost 20% of its initial activity during 180days, when stored dry at 4°C.

Graphene sheet-based electrochemical sensor with cationic surfactant for sensitive detection of atorvastatin

Abstract: The present work investigates the electrochemical studies of atorvastatin (ATRV) by establishing graphene (GR) and cationic surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) based electrochemical sensor (GR-CTAB/CPE). The morphological study of a modifier was executed utilizing the electronic scanning microscopy (SEM) technique. GR-CTAB/CPE was identified as a supersensitive electrode for the identification of ATRV, as the electrochemical sensor exhibited enhanced electrocatalytic property and increased peak current in pH 4.2 of phosphate buffer solution employing voltammetric approaches like cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The impact of pre-concentration time, supporting electrolyte (pH), scan rate, and concentration was examined. The number of protons and electrons involved in the electro-oxidative mechanism of ATRV was depicted. The ATRV at the developed sensor has a limit of detection of 2.46 × 10−9 M. The proposed method was proven effective in determining ATRV concentration in clinical and biological samples. The data obtained from the recovery studies suggests that the GR-CTAB/CPE was selective and highly sensible in identifying ATRV.

Significant capabilities of SMART sensor technology and their applications for Industry 4.0 in trauma and orthopaedics

Abstract: The Industry 4.0 revolution has made it possible for the manufacturing of newly customised implants, tools, devices instruments for the medical field. Sensor technology uses embedded or surface devices that detect physical, chemical, biological signals and provide a way of interpretation of these signals to be measured and recorded. Sensor technology products have been established in various branches of medicine. In healthcare these applications have been utilized in the diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of diseases. Innovations in computer and design technology have allowed researchers to expand sensor technology in the field of orthopaedic surgery. SMART (Self- Monitoring Analysis and Reporting Technology) implants along with Sensor technology have been developed to provide improved diagnostic and therapeutic functions in the management of a spectrum of musculoskeletal conditions. SMART implants have evolved due to the advances in microchip technologies. In this article we explore the role of Sensor technology in the branch of trauma and orthopaedics. Experimental studies, in-vivo and current clinical applications of Sensor technology in total hip replacement, total knee replacement, spine surgery, fracture healing assessment is highlighted. Overall the significant capabilities of Sensor technology can be utilized to improve patient satisfaction and functional scores whilst managing their orthopaedic conditions.

Sustainable solar powered battery-free wireless sensing for food cold chain management

Abstract: Green, sustainable and non-stop wireless sensing is not only one of the critical issues in the widespread applications of wireless sensing to guarantee the food quality and safety in cold chain, but also one of the important ways to improve the sustainability of the food cold chain. The aim of this paper is to propose and develop a sustainable solar powered battery-free sensing system for food cold chain management. The system includes the sustainable solar energy harvesting layer, battery-free wireless sensing layer and remote monitoring and management center. The sustainable solar power performance, battery-free wireless sensing performance, energy consumption performance, emergy based sustainability performance and the system evaluation performance of the sustainable solar powered battery-free wireless sensing system were analyzed and evaluated. The proposed and developed sustainable solar powered battery-free sensing system could reduce the average energy consumption by 87.04%, the cost by 15.3% and increase the greening, sustainability and non-stop monitoring of the food cold chain by comparing with the battery powered wireless sensing system. This study could also provide some theoretical and experimental methods for the other food non-stop monitoring in cold chain to improve the sustainable development and ensure the food quality and safety. It is also possible to integrate more different sensors for non-stop cold chain battery-free wireless sensing. • Proposing a sustainable solar powered battery-free sensing system for food cold chain. • Improving greening, sustainability and non-stop monitoring of food cold chain. • No battery needed for non-stop cold chain monitoring for food quality and safety. • Reducing average energy consumption by 87.04% compared with battery powered system. • Reducing cost by 15.3% compared with battery powered wireless sensing system.

PVC membrane, coated-wire, and carbon-paste electrodes for potentiometric determination of vardenafil hydrochloride in tablet formulations and urine samples

Abstract: Comparative study was made between three designs of vardenafil ion (Vr)-selective electrodes: a poly vinyl chloride (PVC) membrane (liquid inner contact) called electrode A, copper-coated (solid contact) called electrode B and a modified carbon paste electrode (CPE) called electrode C based on vardenafil - tetraphenylborate (Vr-TPB) as ion-exchanger complex. Electrode A has a linear dynamic range from 4.5X10-6 – 1.0X10-2 ​M, with a Nernstian slope of 51.8 mV/ decade and a detection limit of 1.6X10-6 ​M. Electrode B shows linearity over the concentration range from 8.0X10-6 - 1.0X10-2, with a Nernstian slope of 55.8 ​mV/decade and a limit of detection of 4.3X10-6 ​M. Electrode C exhibits linearity over the concentration range from 8.0X10-6 - 1.0X10-2 ​M, with a Nernstian slope of 61.3 mV/decade and a limit of detection of 4.0X10-6 ​M. These sensors exhibited a fast response time (about 2 ​s) and good stability. Selectivity coefficients, determined by modified separate solution method (MSSM) and separate solution method (SSM), showed high selectivity for vardenafil hydrochloride (VrCl) over a large number of inorganic cations, organic cations, sugars, urine components, and some common drug excipients. The proposed sensors were applied for determination of VrCl in tablets and in spiked urine samples using potentiometric determination and the calibration curve methods. The results obtained were satisfactory with excellent percentage recovery comparable and sometimes better than those obtained by other routine methods for the assay. The CPE is more suitable for commercialization owing to its attractive properties.

Phytosynthesis of TiO2 nanoparticles in diverse applications: What is the exact mechanism of action?

Abstract: Production of compatible nanoparticles (NPs) for biomedical applications is a crucial requirement of today’s research advancements. Furthermore, using environmentally acceptable technologies to create biocompatible and less toxic NPs is a significant win. Medical implants, photodynamic treatment, medicinal delivery, bio-sensing, and antimicrobial agents have all been thoroughly investigated using titanium dioxide (TiO2) NPs. In this study, extracts of Leechai kottai keerai (Pisonia grandis) were employed for the first time in the phytosynthesis of TiO2 NPs. XRD, UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy, FT-IR, FE-SEM, with EDAX analyses were used to characterize the NPs, which are confirmed their formation, shape, crystallinity, and size. The antimicrobial activity of synthesized TiO2 NPs against microbial pathogens was investigated by well diffusion method. MTT and NRU assays were used to examine the cytotoxicity. Methylene blue dye was explored for its photocatalytic properties. The phytosynthesized TiO2 NPs with an average size of 34 ​nm displayed exceptional antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities, as demonstrated by MTT and NUR assessments of SaOS-2 ​cell lines, with IC50 values of 80.6 and 38.4 ​g/mL, accordingly. Overall results shows that the synthesized TiO2 NPs degrading efficiency, cell viability, and zone inhibition layer show that they have been a promising choice for environmental and biological applications.

Gold nanoparticle decorated graphene for efficient sensing of NO2 gas

Abstract: We have devised a method to simultaneously reduce graphene oxide and gold metal ions onto the surface of graphene. The nanohybrid was in-turn used for efficient sensing of NO2 gas. The nanohybrid was characterized using X-ray diffractometry, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), UV–Visible spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Morphological details revealed the successful growth of gold nanoparticles onto graphene sheets. Considerable variations in electrical characteristics of graphene-Au nanohybrid were recorded upon the exposure of NO2 gas. The sensor showed fast response and recovery time and good response of 3.2 % for 50 ​ppm NO2 gas. The method can pave the way to develop miniaturized gas sensors useful for environmental monitoring.

Spectrum sensing techniques for 5G wireless networks: Mini review

Abstract: Cognitive radio (CR) is a leading candidate for addressing spectrum constraints and is a key component of fifth-generation (5G) communications. For optimum usage of accessible unused spectrum, spectrum sensing is a critical aspect of CR. In spectrum sensing, various Wide Band techniques suited for 5G were investigated in this paper. The channel status, primary user condition, hardware cost, and heterogeneous nature of the broad band spectrum are used to classify different approaches. In addition applications of compressive sensing techniques over various 5G techniques were also discussed. Various wide band compressive spectrum sensing techniques were discussed. The relative merit and demerit are also discussed with their sensing performance.

Explainable machine learning of the breast cancer staging for designing smart biomarker sensors

Abstract: In medical diagnostics, smart biomarker sensors are used to detect and monitor biomarker thresholds. Recent bariatric research has shown a connection between obesity and an elevated risk of breast cancer in women, with the growth of adipose tissues and malignancy as a disease caused by the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines and adipocytokines. The current article focuses on HOMA, leptin, adiponectin, and resistin, the adipocytokines that have been identified as the primary causes of breast cancer in obese women during the last two decades. In this manuscript, the XAI tool is implemented on the breast cancer data and presents graphical interpretation. The clinical significance and molecular processes behind circulating HOMA, leptin, adiponectin, and breast cancer resistance have been explored, and XAI methods have been used to construct models for the identification of novel breast cancer biomarkers. The premise of this study is based on classifying each adipokine into two groups: low- and high-level concentrations. We examine the correlation between each group and the likelihood of developing breast cancer. The results provided useful evidence to develop accurate treatment interventions for breast cancer patients based on their biomarker levels and body mass index. • Quantum sensors can work more efficiently than routine biosensors for biomarkers. • Artificial intelligence and explainable AI can improve the data processing. • Hybrid future research can emerge from proposed scheme. • Improved biosensors for biomarker research can be more promising when associated with artificial intelligence.

Sensing and 3D printing technologies in personalized healthcare for the management of health crises including the COVID-19 outbreak

Abstract: A major threat that has surrounded human civilization since the beginning of the year 2020 is the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). It has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization and significantly affected populations globally, causing medical and economic despair. Healthcare chains across the globe have been under grave stress owing to shortages of medical equipments necessary to address a pandemic. Furthermore, personal protective equipment supplies, mandatory for healthcare staff for treating severely ill patients, have been in short supply. To address the necessary requisites during the pandemic, several researchers, hospitals, and industries collaborated to meet the demand for these medical equipments in an economically viable manner. In this context, 3D printing technologies have provided enormous potential in creating personalized healthcare equipment, including face masks, face shields, rapid detection kits, testing swabs, biosensors, and various ventilator components. This has been made possible by capitalizing on centralized large-scale manufacturing using 3D printing and local distribution of verified and tested computer-aided design files. The primary focus of this study is, “How 3D printing is helpful in developing these equipments, and how it can be helpful in the development and deployment of various sensing and point-of-care-testing (POCTs) devices for the commercialization?” Further, the present study also takes care of patient safety by implementing novel 3D printed health equipment used for COVID-19 patients. Moreover, the study helps identify and highlight the efforts made by various organizations toward the usage of 3D printing technologies, which are helpful in combating the ongoing pandemic.

Lowering detection limits of copper(II)-selective carbon paste electrodes using an SNO- and an SNNS- Schiff base ligands

Abstract: Interestingly, this work presents two newly designed copper(II)-selective carbon paste electrodes with distinctively low detection limits which is attained utilizing the Schiff base ligands 2-(2-hydroxyphenylimino)carboxythiophene (L1) and 1,2-di(2-carboxythiopheneimino] benzene (L2). The sensors exhibit a Nernstian slope of 29.10 and 29.28 mVdecade−1 for Cu(II) ion over a wide concentration range from 1.18 ​× ​10−7 – 1.00 ​× ​10−2 ​M and 7.91 ​× ​10−8 – 1.00 ​× ​10−2 ​M with the detection limits of 1.00 ​× ​10−7 ​M and 5.28 ​× ​10−8 ​M for L1 and L2 respectively. These sensors exhibit short response time (about 2 ​s) and good stability over the pH range 2.5–5.8. In addition, the present sensors show fairly good selectivity toward copper(II) ion in comparison to other common cations. Furthermore, they were satisfactorily used as indicator electrodes in complexometric titration with EDTA and for determination of copper(II) in water, tea and urine samples.

Biomimetics and 3D printing - Opportunities for design applications

Abstract: Incorporating and drawing analogies from natural systems has always been an important consideration for designers, however owing to the complexity involved in the natural systems, mimicking natural systems and developing systems with conventional technologies is difficult. With the advent of additive manufacturing and its intrinsic nature, the technology of additive manufacturing can be employed for developing 3D-printed parts. The current paper is structured in a manner to focus on how biomimetics can be better augmented with the design of various engineering systems. A section will highlight the various types of natural systems which can help improve the design process. A special discussion on the various application areas of biomimetics such as architecture, biomedical, aerospace has also been included. A systematic literature review of the work carried out in the area of 3D printing and biomimetics is also presented in this chapter. Few applications namely biomimetic sniffing, biomimetic shark skin, and biomimetic lotus root are profoundly discussed.The paper ends with the challenges associated with the current technologies, economic aspects, and future recommendations.

Design and implementation of a solar powered navigation technology for the visually impaired

Abstract: The Blind Navigation System using Arduino and 1sheeld is a system that intends to enhance blind peoples' access to the environment, particularly in Ghana, Africa. This research aimed at designing a safe navigation system to allow seamless transitions for visually impaired people from one location to another, as well as a tool to assist them in communicating with their surroundings and guardians when in a difficult situation. The design uses PVC pipe as the cane, 1Sheeld, Arduino Uno, ultrasonic and water sensors for processing and monitoring, a buzzer and vibration motor to offer an alarm system via vibration and sound, housed within a circuit box and the handle, and finally powered by a portable mini solar panel with a rechargeable battery. The phone of the blind is connected to the 1sheeld board via Bluetooth link and the 1sheeld App is installed on the mobile phone. The guardian receives a call or an SMS with the GPS coordinates, which can be tracked when the blind person is lost through Google Map. The simulations related to the design's overall purpose were precise, and the trial findings from volunteers obtained from the final test were encouraging and ensured the safety and speed of mobility. As a result, the goal of designing a safe navigation system to detect impediments and provide the exact location of the visually impaired through GPS/SMS processing and powered by a mini solar panel with rechargeable battery system were achieved.

Synthesis and characterization of WO3–SnO2/rGO nanocomposite for Propane-2-ol sensing

Abstract: Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are hazardous for both environment and human health. With increase in the usage of VOCs containing products, the extent of hazard is inceasing at an alarming rate. Therefore, the monitoring and sensing of VOCs become a need of the hour. Keeping in view, in the present work, We had studied the effect of rGO doping on the sensing performance of WO 3 –SnO 2 ​mixed metal oxide for Propan-2-ol. The optical characterization of as-prepared samples were done using UV/Vis and FTIR spectroscopy. The structural and morphological analysis was studied using XRD and FESEM technique, respectively. The electrical studies were checked by I–V measurements. The sensing parameters such as sensitivity, response, recovery time, effect of temperature and concentrations, as well as stability were also studied. . • rGO doped WO 3 , SnO 2 and WO 3 –SnO 2 has been synthesized by hydrothermal method. • The optical, structural, and morphological characterizations depict the successful formation of WO 3 /rGO, SnO 2 /rGO and WO 3 –SnO 2 /rGO nanocomposite. • The electrical properties were used to study the sensing phenomenon of these nanocomposites for Propan-2-ol which is a VOC. • The sensitivity calculated from these value shows that WO 3 –SnO 2 /rGO nanocomposite is the best material for sensing of VOC.