Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis Research Articles

Synthesis of strontium and manganese co-doped hydroxyapatite nanoparticles by ultrasound-supported hydrothermal technique and Taguchi design of experiments for biomedical applications

The present study aims to develop Strontium (Sr) and Manganese (Mn) co-doped Hydroxyapatite (HA) nanoparticles using the Taguchi design of experiments to understand the effect of process parameters on cell viability of human osteosarcoma MG-63 cells and antibacterial properties. An ultrasound-supported Hydrothermal technique was implemented for the synthesis, considering hydrothermal temperature; time for ultrasonic pretreatment; concentration of Sr; and concentration of Mn as important variable process parameters. They were varied at 145°C, 160°C, and 175°C; 10 min, 20 min, and 30 min; 0 wt%, 5 wt%, and 10 wt%; and 0 wt%, 5 wt%, and 10 wt%, respectively using Taguchi L9 orthogonal array. The particles displayed doping-induced colour variation. Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) analysis confirmed the samples' phase purity. Field effect-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to confirm the morphological similarity. Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis and Fourier transform–infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy were used to ensure the chemical purity of the samples. To confirm the non-toxicity of samples, the MTT assay was utilized for MG-63 human osteosarcoma cells. All nine samples displayed cell viability greater than 80%. Additionally, the antibacterial properties were checked against S. aureus, S. pyogenes, E. coli and P. aeruginosa using the broth dilution method. The particles displayed comparable antibacterial properties against only E. coli bacterial strain. The obtained data of cell viability (%) and Optical density of broth against blank at 600 nm (OD600) for the antibacterial properties were analyzed using the Taguchi S/N ratio considering the larger-the-better case and smaller-the-better case, respectively. Based on the response table and ANOVA, it is inferred that the dopants’ concentration played the most significant role in controlling the cell viability and antibacterial properties. Since the Taguchi method can not simultaneously optimize two responses, multi-response optimisation will be considered in future studies.

Investigation and estimation of structural and dielectric properties of chromium-doped cobalt ferrites nano particles

Abstract Nano ferrite materials are of critical importance in meeting the global demand for microwave and electronic devices, as spinel ferrites possess remarkable morphological, structural, and dielectric characteristics. This study investigates chromium-doped ferrite nanoparticles with the chemical composition CoCrxFe2-xO4 (x = 0.00, 0.30, 0.60, and 0.90), synthesize using the sol–gel technique and subjected to annealing at 900 °C. Energy Dispersive x-ray Analysis EDAX patterns confirmed compositional stoichiometry. X- Ray Diffraction analysis reveals that all samples exhibit a cubic crystal structure. Replacing some of the ions with chromium (Cr3+) led to a decrease in the x-ray density form (5.329–5.324). The average crystallite size in the fabricated samples ranged from 46.07 to 31.84 nm, and the lattice parameters decrease from 8.382 to 8.364 Å as the chromium content increase. Infrared spectra show that lower frequency band (ν2) at around 479.69-392 .60 cm–1 and a higher frequency band (ν1) within a range from 611.05–57661 cm–1 a clear indication of spinel structure characteristics. The examination using FE-SEM indicates that the produced materials exhibit porosity and amorphous characteristics. The significant tangent loss observe at lower frequencies suggests that these materials may have potential applications in medium-frequency devices. Consequently, spinel nanoferrites can offer advantages for advanced electronic and microwave technologies.

Impact of Dual-coated Silver Nanoparticle and Antibiotic Sutures on Wound Healing in Inflammatory Mouse Models.

The use of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in biomedicine has emerged in a big way owing to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. We hypothesize that combining the AgNPs with antibiotics for coating sutures will enhance the antibacterial property of sutures with the added advantage of the immunomodulatory effect of AgNPs on tissue healing. Polyglactin sutures were coated with AgNPs using the dip-coating method. The uniform coating and morphology of AgNPs on the suture surface were confirmed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Each type of suture - polyglactin plain, antibiotic coated (Triclosan), AgNP coated, and dually coated (antibiotic and AgNP) - was assessed for their antibacterial properties against Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, and anaerobes. These sutures were utilized in an abdominal and systemic inflammatory mice model for ileal anastomosis. The intestinal tissue was evaluated for acute and chronic inflammation and collagen deposition to assess the healing and inflammatory response. The SEM and energy dispersive X-ray analysis showed successful coating of AgNPs on plain and antibiotic-coated sutures. In comparison with the other groups, the dually coated suture had the best in vitro antibacterial efficacy. The AgNP-coated sutures were able to decrease both acute and chronic inflammatory cell infiltration, but the collagen synthesis and deposition were enhanced. AgNPs can be coated on Polyglactin suture either alone or in combination with antibiotics with preserved antibacterial effects. The dual coating of sutures gives a synergistic antibacterial effect. The AgNP diminishes immune response in the presence of preserved extracellular matrix generation.

Synthesis and Characterization of Lauha Bhasma

The preparation of ayurvedic bhasma is particularly challenging, as mass production in modern facilities often lacks the standardized equipment needed to ensure consistent quality, leading to concerns about toxic elements like mercury and arsenic in the final products. Addressing these concerns necessitates the standardization of the synthesis process through the implementation of stringent quality control measures at every stage of preparation. This study is dedicated to the synthesis and comprehensive characterization of lauha (iron) bhasma, employing both traditional methodologies and advanced analytical techniques. The synthesis process began with samanya shodhana (general purification), followed by vishesh shodhana (special purification) and marana (incineration) The resultant product then underwent amrutikaran, involving heating with aloe vera extract at an elevated temperature of 750°C.The synthesized lauha bhasma was meticulously characterized using a combination of classical Ayurvedic techniques and modern analytical methods, including Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface analysis, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Particle Size Distribution (PSD), and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. The final product, post-Amrutikaran, successfully passed all traditional Ayurvedic evaluations, affirming the proper formation of bhasma. XRD analysis revealed the formation of rhombohedral α-Fe₂O₃ with only trace amounts of free iron, indicating high purity. SEM and PSD analyses demonstrated the creation of nanosized particles ranging from 50 to 200 nm, complemented by a specific surface area of 12.55 m²/g as determined by BET studies. Crucially, EDX analysis confirmed that the amrutikaran process effectively eliminated mercury from the bhasma, ensuring its safety and compliance with stringent quality standards.

Boronize Coatings Studied with a New Mass Transfer Model.

This study examined the development of Fe2B (diiron boronize) coatings on the surface of 35NiCrMo4 steel through the thermochemical surface hardening process called boronizing. The morphology and thickness of the boronize coatings were assessed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and optical microscopy (OM). A novel mathematical mass transfer model was developed to estimate the diffusion coefficients of boron in hard coating. The presence of uniformly distributed boronize coatings with a typical sawtooth pattern on the surface of the substrate was confirmed. The boronize coating's chemical composition and phase constituents were analyzed utilizing X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). The study confirmed the presence of a single-phase boronize coating (Fe2B). Furthermore, microhardness tests indicated that the boronized specimen's surface demonstrated an average hardness of approximately 1953 HV. The wear study were conducted using the pin-on-disk method under dry debonding conditions at room temperature to estimate the coefficient of friction (COF) of the boronized (average ≈ 0.35) and untreated (0.725) specimens. The results revealed approximately 200% improvement in wear resistance due to the boronized coating. The empirical validation of the mathematical model was carried out for two additional boronizing conditions at 1223 K for 3 h and 1273 K for 1.5 h, resulting in an estimated percentage error of around 2.5% for both conditions. Additionally, an ANOVA analysis was performed, taking into account the temperature and time factors. The findings indicate that both factors exert a substantial influence on the dependent variable (u), with temperature (T) contributing 64.68%, time (t) contributing 27.37%, and the interaction of both factors (T × t) contributing 5.13%.

One Pot Green Synthesis of Zr doped NiO Nanoparticles using Annona squamosa Seed Extract: Characterization and Biological Properties

Pure and Zr-doped NiO nanoparticles were successfully synthesized through green synthesis using extract of Annona squamosa seeds. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, UV-vis spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), EDAX (energy dispersive X-ray analysis) and elemental mapping analysis. The addition of zirconium dopant has been integrated into the single-phase NiO lattice structure as indicated by characterization findings. Furthermore, the antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant properties of Zr-doped and undoped NiO NPs were thoroughly examined. As a result of the strong Zr-doped NiO NPs synergistic effect, the results showed that the Zr-doped NiO NPs have improved the biomedical properties when compared to the undoped NiO NPs. The optimized size and shape of the nanoparticles contributed significantly to their improved effectiveness against the microorganisms and oxidative stress.

Determination of phytochemical quality of leaves Vaccinium vitis-idaea L. and Vaccinium myrtillus L. from the polluted and non-polluted areas

Elemental composition of Vaccinium myrtillus L. and Vaccinium vitis-idaea L. has not been determined yet in detail. In our study, a scanning electron microscope coupled with an energy dispersive X-ray analyser (SEM–EDX) ensured the determination of 15 elements in the leaves of Vaccinium sp. growing in the control and the mine polluted locality. The soil elemental analyses showed a higher content of 11 elements from all determined in the mine-influenced samples. Elemental analyses of the control leaves showed the highest contents of all determined elements for V. vitis-idaea, except for carbon. The impact of pollution on V. myrtillus leaves caused significant increase in oxygen, natrium, magnesium, sulphur, chlorine, potassium and calcium content. The contents of carbon, nitrogen and silicon decreased substantially. In the case of the V. vitis-idaea leaves, the content of most of elements reduced, and in the case of six elements, even significantly. A significant increase was recorded for carbon, iron and copper. The effect of the environment has influenced the production of phytochemicals, assessed by HPLC–DAD. The production of flavonoids (hyperoside, isoquercetin) increased significantly in V. myrtillus and decreased to a detectable minimum in V. vitis-idaea. In the case of chlorogenic acid, arbutin and hydroquinone, their levels changed minimally in V. myrtillus, but significantly more in the V. vitis-idaea leaves. The importance of elemental analyses lies in detecting the presence of toxic elements or their harmful concentrations in plants that are the source of food or dietary supplements.

Synthesis and Characterization of Iron Nanoparticles from a Bioflocculant Produced by Pichia kudriavzevii Isolated from Kombucha Tea SCOBY.

The intriguing characteristics of nanoparticles have fueled recent advancement in the field of nanotechnology. In the current study, a microbial-based bioflocculant made from the SCOBY of Kombucha tea broth was purified, profiled, and utilized to biosynthesize iron nanoparticles as a capping and reducing agent. UV-visible absorption spectroscopy, transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), and TGA were used to characterize the Fe nanoparticles. The FT-IR spectra showed functional groups such as hydroxyl, a halogen (C-Br), and carbonyl, and the alkane (C-H) functional groups were present in both samples (bioflocculant and FeNPs) with the exception of the Fe-O bond, which represented the successful biosynthesis of FeNPs. The TEM investigation revealed that the sizes of the produced iron nanoparticles were between 2.6 and 6.2 nm. The UV-vis spectra revealed peaks at 230 nm for the bioflocculant and for the as-fabricated FeNPs, peaks were around 210, 265, and 330 nm, which confirms the formation of FeNPs. X-ray diffraction presented planes (012), (104), (110), (113), (024), (116), and (533) and these planes correspond to 17.17, 32.58, 33.75, 38.18, 45.31, 57.40, and 72.4° at 2Ө. The presence of Fe nanoparticles presented with 0.82 wt% from the EDX spectrum of the biosynthesized FeNPs. However, Fe content was not present from the bioflocculant. SEM images reported cumulus-like particles of the bioflocculant, while that of FeNPs were agglomerated and hexagonal with sizes between 18 and 50 nm. The TGA of FeNPs showed thermal stability by retaining above 60% of its weight at high temperatures. It can therefore be deduced that the purified bioflocculant produced by a yeast Pichia kudraivzevii can be utilized to synthesize FeNPs with the current simple and effective method.

Enhanced Antibacterial Efficacy of Ag(I), Cu(II), and Zn(II) Modified Sodalite Zeolite Against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus

Sodalite zeolite modified with metal ions Ag+, Cu2+, Cu2+, and Zn2+ was successfully synthesized and evaluated for antibacterial activity. The research aims to obtain silver, copper, and zinc metal-modified sodalite separately and determine their antibacterial activity on Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Sodalite zeolite was synthesized using ludox and sodium aluminate through hydrothermal methods, ensuring uniform crystal growth and optimal crystallinity, as confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The average particle sizes of the modified zeolites were determined to be 54.9 nm for Ag-Zeolite, 37.2 nm for Cu-Zeolite, and 28.56 nm for Zn-Zeolite, with structural changes observed through alterations in peak intensity. Scanning Electron Microscopy - Energy Dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX) analysis showed no significant change in the zeolite’s morphology. In addition, the EDX results showed the presence of Ag (3.15%), Cu (3%), and Zn (2.41%) metals indicating successful ion exchange. Antibacterial assays revealed that Cu-Zeolite demonstrated superior efficacy inhibition zones against Escherichia coli (14.04±1.26) and Staphylococcus aureus (20.74±0.48), highlighting its potential as an antimicrobial agent. The mechanism of action involved the controlled release of metal ions, disrupting bacterial cell membranes and metabolic processes. Notably, Cu2+ ions exhibited the strongest antibacterial properties due to their smaller ionic radius and higher electronegativity than Ag+ and Zn2+. This research underscores the promising applications of metal-ion-modified sodalite zeolite in medical and environmental contexts.

Influence of surface oxidation rate on the flotation of sphalerite and galena inhibited by gum arabic

Differences in the flotation behavior of galena and sphalerite using potassium permanganate (KMnO4) and gum arabic (GA) alone and using a mixture of KMnO4 and GA were investigated. The single mineral flotation tests revealed that when KMnO4 and GA were used individually, galena and sphalerite flotation were inhibited, but the reagent dosages required were large. Sphalerite was strongly inhibited by the addition of a tiny amount of GA after oxidation with KMnO4 while galena was not inhibited under the same conditions. Following oxidation by KMnO4, galena and sphalerite exhibited a significant 83 % difference in flotation recovery when 10 mg/L GA was used, which clearly showed the potential for the combined use of KMnO4 and GA to achieve flotation separation of galena from mixed lead-zinc ores. The inhibitory effect of GA on sphalerite was investigated through a combination of analytical techniques, including Microcalorimetry, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy, contact angle measurements, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) coupled with Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDS) analysis. The results displayed that sphalerite had a much higher oxidation rate than galena, resulting in more oxides and hydroxides. As a result, the sphalerite surface exhibits an increased availability of active sites favorable to GA adsorption, thereby impeding Butyl xanthate (PBX) adsorption. However, the galena surface was able to absorb PBX, resulting in mineral separation.

Optical, electrical, dielectric and mechanical properties of microcrystalline cellulose/starch based biocomposite films

Abstract In this work, we have synthesized biocomposite films based on starch reinforced with microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) with different MCC/starch weight contents (0, 1, 3, 5, and 7 %). These films were characterized by various techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), which showed dispersed and biocompatible structures for MCC and starch. It was found that the increase in MCC content (from 0 to 7 wt%) led to decreasing the water solubility, and reducing the absorption coefficients, transmission percentages and electrical conductivity. However, the improvement of dielectric and mechanical properties was demonstrated by decreasing the dielectric loss tangent and increasing the Young’s modulus, respectively making them suitable for dielectric and mechanical applications.

Investigation of Hydrogen Gas Production and Catalytic Effect of Green-Synthesized ZnO on NaBH4 Hydrolysis

This study was conducted to investigate the catalytic effects of ZnO, prepared using ethanolic turmeric extract, on the hydrolysis reaction of NaBH4. The generated ZnO particles were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Furthermore, Ultraviolet spectroscopy (UV) analysis and zeta potential measurements were conducted for the ZnO nanoparticles. The results demonstrated that the green synthesized ZnO nanoparticles exhibited effective catalytic behavior in the hydrolysis of NaBH4.

Holistic exploration of silver nanoparticles synthesized from Carthamus oxycantha leaf extracts: Characterization and assessment of antioxidant, anti-α-amylase, and anti-cholinesterase activities using comprehensive statistical methods

In the burgeoning field of nanotechnology, plant-mediated nanoparticles (NPs) have attracted significant attention due to their small size, favorable chemical properties, and eco-friendly nature. We utilized Carthamus oxycantha leaf extract to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and evaluate their potential as antioxidants and inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and alpha-amylase (α-amylase). The AgNPs were characterized using advanced techniques. The UV–Vis spectrum recorded at 410 nm, with an absorbance of 2.3 a.u., confirmed the presence of AgNPs. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) indicated that functional groups from the extract were attached to the AgNP surface, aiding in their formation and stabilization. X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) revealed four major peaks at 37, 43, 64, and 77, confirming AgNP synthesis. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that 80 % of the AgNPs were spherical, measuring 25–50 nm, while energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis indicated that silver constituted 83 % of the material. The AgNPs demonstrated significant scavenging activity: 59.3 % with ABTS, 67.2 % with ammonium molybdate, 60.35 % with DPPH, 65.2 % with ferric chloride, and 55.2 % with H2O2. Both α-amylase and AChE were inhibited by AgNPs, exhibiting uncompetitive inhibition characteristics. For glucophage, Km decreased from 143 to 75 µg, and Vmax decreased from 45 % to 72 % as concentrations increased from 50 to 150 µg. The Km of AgNPs decreased from 25 to 17 µg, and Vmax decreased from 16 % to 37 %. The extract showed noncompetitive inhibition against α-amylase, while AgNPs caused noncompetitive inhibition in AChE. These findings highlight the potential of AgNPs as therapeutic agents for managing oxidative stress and enzyme-related disorders, paving the way for future research and applications in medicinal chemistry.

Manufacturing Radially Aligned PCL Nanofibers Reinforced With Sulfated Levan and Evaluation of its Biological Activity for Healing Tympanic Membrane Perforations.

The main objective of this study is to construct radially aligned PCL nanofibers reinforced with levan polymer and investigate their in vitro biological activities thoroughly. First Halomonas levan (HL) polysaccharide is hydrolyzed (hHL) and subjected to sulfation to attain Sulfated hydrolyzed Halomonas levan (ShHL)-based material indicating heparin mimetic properties. Then, optimization studies are carried out to produce coaxially generated radially aligned Poly(caprolactone) (PCL) -ShHL nanofibers via electrospinning. The obtained nanofibers are characterized with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR)and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-Ray (FESEM-EDX) analysis, and mechanical, contact angle measurement, biodegradability, and swelling tests as well. Afterward, cytotoxicity of artificial tympanic membranes is analyzed by MTT (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl) -2,5 Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide) test, and their impacts on cell proliferation, cellular adhesion, wound healing processes are explored. Furthermore, an additional FESEM imaging is performed to manifest the interactions between fibroblasts and nanofibers. According to analytical measurements it is detected that PCL-ShHL nanofibers i) are smaller in fiber diameter, ii) are more biodegradable, iii) are more hydrophilic, and iv) demonstrated superior mechanical properties compared to PCL nanofibers. Moreover, it is also deciphered that PCL-ShHL nanofibers strongly elevated cellular adhesion, proliferation, and in vitro wound healing features compared to PCL nanofibers. According to obtained results it is assumed that newly synthetized levan and PCL mediated nanofibers are very encouraging for healing tympanic membrane perforations.

The influence of cooling time on the alloy distribution in weld metals

This research explores the impact of cooling time on the distribution of alloying elements within weld metals of high-strength steel, a critical factor in optimizing welding processes for advanced structural applications. Using gas metal arc welding (GMAW) and two different filler materials, this study systematically varies cooling times to analyze the resulting chemical compositions. Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis was employed to examine the alloy content in the weld metal, base material, and heat-affected zone (HAZ). The results demonstrate that cooling time significantly influences the concentration of alloying elements, such as chromium, nickel, and manganese, within the weld metal, revealing complex diffusion behaviours that are dependent on the thermal cycles introduced during welding. Notably, an in-depth analysis of the HAZ shows a distinct diffusion pattern for silicon, indicating intricate microstructural changes. These findings highlight the importance of controlling cooling time to optimize the microstructural and chemical properties of welded joints in high-strength steels, with implications for improving weld performance and reliability.

Silver nanoparticles versus chitosan nanoparticles effects on demineralized enamel

BackgroundTo compare the impacts of different remineralizing agents on demineralized enamel, we focused on chitosan nanoparticles (ChiNPs) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs).MethodsThis study was conducted on 40 extracted human premolars with artificially induced demineralization using demineralizing solution. Prior to the beginning of the experimental procedures, the samples were preserved in artificial saliva solution. The nanoparticles were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and teeth were divided into four equal groups: Group A was utilized as a control group (no demineralization) and received no treatment. Group B was subjected to demineralization with no treatment. Group C was subjected to demineralization and then treated with ChiNPs. Group D was subjected to demineralization and then treated with AgNPs. The teeth were evaluated for microhardness. The enamel surfaces of all the samples were analysed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for morphological changes and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) for elemental analysis.ResultsThe third and fourth groups had the highest mean microhardness and calcium (Ca) and phosphorous (P) contents. SEM of these two groups revealed relative restoration of homogenous remineralized enamel surface architecture with minimal micropores.ConclusionChitosan nanoparticles (NPs) and silver NPs help restore the enamel surface architecture and mineral content. Therefore, chitosan NPs and AgNPs would be beneficial for remineralizing enamel.

Synthesis and characterization of a crosslinked deacetylated chitin modified chicken bone waste-derived hydroxyapatite and TiO2 biocomposite for defluoridation of drinking water

This work represents an innovative approach to the synthesis and characterization of a chitosan-based biocomposite for fluoride adsorption. The work involved the development of a biocomposite based on modified chicken bone waste-derived hydroxyapatite and TiO2. The composite was characterized using scanning electron microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared analysis (FTIR), thermal-gravimetric analysis (TGA), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The optimum parameters for fluoride removal were determined, and the kinetic data was better fitted to the pseudo-first-order model. The Liu equations provided a better description of the experimental adsorption isotherm data. The adsorption mechanism and the interaction of the composite with fluoride were better understood using Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations and Non-Covalent Interactions (NCI) analyses, paving the way for more effective and efficient defluoridation methods.

Moringa Oleifera leaf-based zinc oxide nanoparticles: Green synthesis, characterization, and their antibacterial investigations

In the current study, an extract from Moringa Oleifera (MO) leaves was utilized for synthesis nanoparticles (ZnO) in an easy-to-use and ecologically friendly manner. Different ratios of MO leaf extraction (1:1, 1:3, 1:5, and 1:7, 1:9) were used to synthesize the nanostructured ZnO. The synthesized ZnO NPs were examined using an array of analytical methods, including energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy, and antibacterial investigations. The synthesized MOL: ZnO NPs confirmed the hexagonal wurtzite structure, as demonstrated by XRD analysis. FT-IR demonstrated that the presence of distinct functional groups was required for the reduction of the metal ion into MOL: ZnO NPs. High purity and crystalline EDX has been used to identify the intense and narrow measurements of the zinc and oxygen found in the MOL: ZnO NPs. After being examined for antibacterial activity, the produced MOL: ZnO NPs showed the highest zones of inhibition against both gram negative Pseudomonas and gram positive Bacillus. The results show that ZnO-based NPs aided by leaf extract of Moringa Oleifera are the promising materials for a variety of applications such as food package applications and advanced forensic applications.

The effect of coating chitosan from cuttlefish bone (Sepia Sp.) on the surface of orthodontic mini-screw

IntroductionPeri-implantitis is a significant complication resulting from the failure of orthodontic mini-screws. Recent strategies to address this issue include the application of natural antibacterial coatings to prevent bacterial colonization. Notably, cuttlefish (Sepia sp.) bones are rich in chitosan, which is recognized for its antibacterial effectiveness and biocompatibility. ObjectivesTo evaluate the effects of a chitosan coating derived from cuttlefish bone (Sepia sp.) on mini-screws against Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans bacteria frequently linked to peri‑implantitis. Materials and MethodsThe surface functional groups, phase composition, and crystal morphology of chitosan were analyzed using conventional analytic techniques alongside energy-dispersive X-ray analysis. These prepared were tested for antibacterial activity against A. actinomycetemcomitans by disk diffusion assay; minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) were determined. Stainless steel mini-screws were coated with chitosan, and their surfaces were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). ResultsThe investigation revealed that chitosan exhibited a MIC value of 8 ppm against A. actinomycetemcomitans with MBCs recorded at 16 ppm. Zones of inhibition varied based on concentration; notably, concentrations at 0.4 %, 0.6 %, and 0.8 % produced zones averaging 16.17 ± 1.64 mm collectively while increasing to a mean zone size of 20.99 ± 3.63 mm at the highest tested concentration (0.8 %). SEM analyses further confirmed the successful adhesion of the chitosan compound onto immersed mini-screw surfaces. ConclusionThe prepared chitosan from cuttlefish bone (Sepia sp.) has antibacterial activity against the bacteria A. actinomycetemcomitans in vitro and can successfully coat SS mini-screws to enhance their efficiency.

Mechanical, physical and durability performance of engineered cementitious composites prepared with calcium aluminate cement

This research aims to fill a gap in existing studies by exploring the use of calcium aluminate cement (CAC) as an eco-friendly substitute for Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) in Engineered Cementitious Composites (ECC). The study investigates the impact of CAC, both with and without the presence of fly ash (FA), on the mechanical, physical, durability, and microstructural properties of ECC-CAC mixtures. Various proportions of FA-to-CAC up to 1.5 were considered, while assessing different engineering parameters of compressive and flexural strengths, ductility, ultrasonic measurements, chloride penetrability, and drying shrinkage. Moreover, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and X-Ray diffraction (XRD) were utilized to analyze the reaction products related to CAC and/or FA in selected mixtures. Higher strengths of CAC-ECC were achieved at earlier curing ages, though the transformation of CAC’s metastable phases led to reduced strengths in ECC-CAC mixtures compared to the control ECC during extended curing periods. Furthermore, the combination of FA with CAC played a crucial role in avoiding the hydrates conversion and minimizing the shrinkage in CAC-ECC, achieving even lower shrinkage levels than those observed in control OPC-ECC.