Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy Analysis Research Articles

Green synthesis of cerium oxide nanoparticles usingTribulus terrestris: characterization and evaluation of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial efficacy against wound isolates.

Multi-drug resistance (MDR) infections are a significant global challenge, necessitating innovative and eco-friendly approaches for developing effective antimicrobial agents. This study focuses on the synthesis, characterization, and evaluation of cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2NPs) for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. The CeO2NPs were synthesized using aTribulus terrestrisaqueous extract through an environmentally friendly process. Characterization techniques included UV-visible spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), x-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Energy Dispersive x-ray (EDX) analysis. The UV-vis spectroscopy shows the presence of peak at 320 nm which confirms the formation of CeO2NPs. The FT-IR analysis of the CeO2NPs revealed several distinct functional groups, with peak values at 3287, 2920, 2340, 1640, 1538, 1066, 714, and 574 cm-1. These peaks correspond to specific functional groups, including C-H stretching in alkynes and alkanes, C=C=O, C=C, alkanes, C-O-C, C-Cl, and C-Br, indicating the presence of diverse chemical bonds within the CeO2NPs. XRD revealed that the nanoparticles were highly crystalline with a face-centered cubic structure, and SEM images showed irregularly shaped, agglomerated particles ranging from 100-150 nm. In terms of biological activity, the synthesized CeO2NPs demonstrated significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The nanoparticles exhibited 82.54% antioxidant activity at 100 μg ml-1, closely matching the 83.1% activity of ascorbic acid. Additionally, the CeO2NPs showed 65.2% anti-inflammatory activity at the same concentration, compared to 70.1% for a standard drug. Antibacterial testing revealed that the CeO2NPs were particularly effective against multi-drug resistant strains, includingPseudomonas aeruginosa,Enterococcus faecalis, and MRSA, with moderate activity againstKlebsiella pneumoniae. These findings suggest that CeO2NPs synthesized viaT. terrestrishave strong potential as antimicrobial agents in addressing MDR infections.

Surface modification of ilmenite with sodium persulfate and its effect on flotation performance

Ilmenite is a challenging mineral to float, making the improvement of its floatability a prominent research focus. This study proposes a novel surface modification method using sodium persulfate (Na2S2O8) activation in the sodium oleate system for ilmenite. The activation mechanism was investigated using micro-flotation, zeta potential analysis, adsorption measurement, contact angle measurement, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), atomic force microscopy (AFM), flotation kinetics calculation, and thermodynamic analysis. Flotation tests demonstrated a significant increase in ilmenite recovery after Na2S2O8 activation under weakly acidic conditions, particularly at pH 4.0, where recovery increased from 12.41 % to 67.24 %. Zeta potential, contact angle, and adsorption tests revealed that Na2S2O8 activation positively shifted the surface potential of ilmenite, enhancing sodium oleate adsorption and increasing hydrophobicity. FT-IR, XPS, and thermodynamic analyses showed that Na2S2O8 facilitated the conversion of Fe2+ to Fe3+ on the ilmenite surface. Additionally, activation with sodium persulfate increased the Fe3+ content on the surface from 20.13 % to 43.50 %, leading to the formation of a more stable ferric iron oleate. AFM scans confirmed that Na2S2O8 activation significantly increased the area and thickness of sodium oleate adsorbed on the ilmenite surface compared to unactivated ilmenite.

Characterization of Historical and Modern Leathers Using FTIR, XRD, SEM-EDX, and Thermal Techniques

Abstract A comprehensive study was conducted on four aged leather pieces of British origin that were utilized in book binding, dating back to the period between 1832 and 1860. The objective of this study was to characterize the thermal, structural, and deterioration properties of these historical leather fragments. Additionally, this study included two newly acquired leather samples of Indian provenance, proposed as potential replacements for this historical leather. The investigative process employed Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDX). Through the FTIR analysis, distinct spectral shifts were identified in the amide A band, indicating a disruption of hydrogen bonding within the aged leather. XRD diffractograms revealed the presence of amorphous phases in the aged leather specimens, signifying the deterioration of their triple helical structure. Notably, DSC analysis provided insight into the denaturation of the collagen-tannin matrix inherent to the historical leather, underlining the transformative effects of time on this intricate material composition. Under SEM analysis, cracks, fibre deterioration, and a general weakening in structural integrity were observed in the aged leather fragments. The EDX data identified one of the new leather samples as chrome-tanned, while the remaining samples exhibited characteristics consistent with vegetable-tanned leather.

Predictive Modelling and Functional Group of Clay Soil Treated with Steel Slag and Calcium Carbide Residue

Swell-shrink subgrade soils like clay are rich in sulphate and exhibit a high rate of volume change by swelling and shrinking during wet and dry cycles, respectively, leading to heaves, cracks, and differential settlement of pavement layers. The aim of this study was to establish predictive simulation models and functional group of clay soil treated with steel slag and calcium carbide residue. Physical and geotechnical tests (such as California bearing ratio (CBR), compaction characteristics, and consistency parameters) were carried out on the unstabilised and stabilised clay soil. Using SPSS statistical software (version 23), multiple linear regression analysis was applied to the experimental data that relate CBR to compaction parameters and additive contents (steel slag and calcium carbide residues). The generated models gave a reliable coefficient of determination, R2 , of 0.990, and 0.998, which can be used to successfully predict both unsoaked and soaked CBR of the stabilised clay soil, respectively. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis was examined on the clay soil, the additives, and the stabilised clay soils. The FTIR analysis showed weak peaks at 1115 and 1103 cm-1 for all the stabilised clay soils, and this revealed that both additives drastically reduced the sulphate content in the clay soil, which consequently reduced the expansion, cracking, and disintegration rates. As a result, the clay soil's chemical bonding was enhanced through physico- chemical mechanisms.

Influence of Calcination Temperature on the Physicochemical Properties of Synthesized Hydroxyapatite from Cow Bone Waste

The chemical similarity found in hydroxyapatite (HA) with natural bone makes it a popular choice for bone replacement. Therefore, in recent years, there has been an increasing tendency towards manufacturing HA from biological sources or waste, such as animal bone waste. Using naturally derived HA can benefit the economy, the environment, and human health. Therefore, this paper reports on the extraction of HA from cow bone waste using a simple and cost-effective technique. The bone powder was calcined in a furnace at temperatures ranging from 700°C to 1000°C for two hours. Then, the synthesized HA was characterized using a Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). FESEM images revealed that HA particles with non-uniform spherical morphology were produced where the size increases with the calcination temperature. This finding is consistent with the average value of particle diameter measured at a temperature of 1000°C (0.783±0.268 µm) which is much greater than at a temperature of 700°C (0.272±0.128 µm). EDX analysis revealed that the Ca/P ratio value obtained in this study indicates non-stoichiometric HA production. XRD analysis shows that only the HA phase is present and there is no secondary phase generated from the calcination process. Meanwhile, FTIR analysis can detect the main group elements of the HA which were OH- and PO43-. The findings obtained in this study prove the effectiveness of this method in producing highly crystalline HA powder from cow bone waste using the thermal treatment method.

Ferric ions crosslinked hyaluronic acid beads: potentials for drug delivery use

Introduction and purpose Despite the attractive properties of hyaluronic acid (HA), The preparation of HA beads is still challenging. This article reports the preparation of pH-sensitive gel HA beads. The ionic gelation method was used to prepare the HA gel beads using ferric ions. This cross-linking type is based on forming coordination bonds, which enhance the mechanical properties of the prepared beads. Methods The developed beads were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) examined the bead’s morphology. Furthermore, the potential of HA gel beads as an oral drug delivery system was investigated using metformin as a hydrophilic model drug. The entrapment efficiency and in vitro, release, and release kinetics were evaluated. The crosslinking density and HA concentration effect on drug release and bead swelling capacity under pH 1.2 and 7.4 were also investigated. Results The entrapment efficiency of metformin in HA beads was found to be 79.56 ± 3.89%. FTIR analysis indicated the ionic interaction between ferric ions and the carboxylic groups on the HA molecule. At the same time, there was no substantial interaction between metformin and the polymeric bead. Morphological evaluation and DSC analysis suggested the successful incorporation of metformin within the beads. The in vitro drug release evaluation showed pH-dependent extended release where the release kinetics followed the first-order mathematical model. Conclusions This study provides a value-added formulation with the potential for drug delivery use, which can be further investigated for biomedical applications.

Integrating ANSYS Fluent Simulation and Aspen Plus for efficient heavy metal ion removal with de-oiled cake

In this study bio-flocculant extracted from the de-oiled cake, a common waste generated while producing oil was used to treat an electroplating industrial effluent. A comprehensive analysis of flocculation efficiency in a simulated reactor using ANSYS Workbench - Fluent, with a focus on optimizing impeller position was carried out. The findings reveal that the optimal impeller position is 2 cm from the tank base, where maximum turbulent kinetic energy (0.02577 m2/s2) and dissipation rate (22.19 m2/s3) were achieved at 200 RPM, enhancing flocculation efficacy. Furthermore, the study identifies 0.5 g L−1 as the optimal flocculant dosage, resulting in 72.70 % and 89.38 % removal of Ni(II) and Cr(VI), respectively. The flocculation process was determined to follow second-order kinetics, with significant improvements in collision efficiency and particle aggregation at the optimized dosage. Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy analysis confirmed chemical interactions leading to flocculation, while zeta potential and particle size distribution studies corroborated the stability and effectiveness of the process. A techno-economic analysis was conducted, estimating the total capital investment required for pilot and industrial-scale implementations, highlighting the feasibility and scalability of the proposed treatment method. A holistic framework for enhancing industrial effluent treatment processes by integrated computational fluid dynamics, kinetic studies, and economic evaluation, is the novelty of this research.

Eco-friendly fabrication of ZnO-TiO2-rGO nanocomposite for efficient adsorption-assisted organic dyes elimination

The growing interest in combining the photocatalytic properties of semiconductors like ZnO and TiO2 with the superior electron conduction capabilities of graphene has resulted in the successful synthesis of in-situ reduced graphene oxide (rGO) supported ZnO-TiO2 nanostructures through a simple microwave-assisted synthesis method. X-ray Diffraction Spectroscopy (XRD), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM), UV–visible spectroscopy (UV–vis), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) were employed to characterize structural, morphological and optical properties as well as surface functional groups of the synthesized products. The XRD measurements of our synthesized samples confirm both structural crystallinity and phase purity, while the FTIR analysis verifies the complete reduction of graphene oxide (GO) to reduced graphene oxide (rGO). The synthesized ternary nanocomposite ZnO-TiO2-rGO exhibited a remarkable 100 % adsorption-assisted removal efficiency for 20 mg/L methylene blue (MB) dye under ultraviolet light illumination within 120 min, along with a 56 % dye adsorption removal efficiency in the same time interval. In comparison, pure ZnO showed 0 % adsorption and only 31 % photocatalytic efficiency at the similar condition. Remarkably, the ZnO-TiO2-rGO nanocomposite exhibited exceptional photocatalytic activity mediated by adsorption, achieving complete degradation of MB dye within 5 min under sunlight irradiation. The photocatalytic efficiency and dye adsorption capacity were found to be significantly lower for the anionic dye methyl orange (MO) compared to the cationic MB dye. The study thoroughly investigated the influence of catalyst dose and initial dye concentration on photodegradation. The proposed mechanism indicates that the extensive surface area and numerous active sites on the rGO promote adsorption, which is then followed by degradation through the metal oxides. Overall, the results unveil that the microwave-assisted synthesis of ZnO-TiO2-rGO nanocomposite is a promising and environmentally friendly approach for efficiently degrading dyes from contaminated wastewater using both UV light and natural sunlight irradiation.

STUDY THE ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES OF GRAPHENE OXIDE – NANOCELLULOSE COMPOSITE

This study investigates the electrical properties of a graphene oxide (GO) and nanocellulose (NC) composite using impedance spectroscopy, complemented by thorough characterization through Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Raman spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). FTIR analysis revealed characteristic peaks corresponding to functional groups present in both GO and NC, providing insights into their chemical composition. XPS spectra exhibited distinctive peaks indicative of carbon and oxygen bonding states, elucidating the surface chemistry of the materials. Raman spectroscopy provided information on the structural order and defects within the samples, particularly highlighting the graphitic structure of GO. SEM images revealed the morphological features of the composite membrane, showcasing the distribution of NC particles and structural modifications induced by their incorporation. Impedance spectroscopy was utilized to investigate the electrical conductivity of the GO-NC composite. Results indicated a temperaturedependent behavior, with an increase in conductance observed as the temperature rose within the operational range of fuel cells. Remarkably, the addition of NC did not significantly alter the conductive behavior of the composite, suggesting compatibility and stability. In summary, this comprehensive characterization using multiple analytical techniques offers valuable insights into the electrical properties of the GO-NC composite. The findings suggest its potential for various applications requiring enhanced electrical conductivity, particularly in fuel cell technology.

Mixed bio-based surfactant-templated mesoporous silica for supporting palladium catalyst

The study aimed on the synthesis of bio-based surfactant-templated mesoporous silica for supporting palladium catalyst using mixed bio-based templating agents namely cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) and castor oil for pore direction purposes. The materials prepared through co-condensation of 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTS) and tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) in a 1:4 M ratio using 1:1, 4:1 and 9:1 ratio of CNSL and castor oil. The resulting porous materials were utilized to support the palladium(II) chloride catalyst, resulting in a heterogeneous catalyst-a better and more environmentally friendly catalyst than a homogeneous one. Different instruments were used to characterize the prepared materials such as nitrogen porosimeter, Powder X-ray Diffraction, Diffuse Reflectance Infrared Fourier Transform Spectroscopy and Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy. Physisorption studies of the prepared materials indicated that the largest pore diameter of 43.84 nm could be obtained by using a 1:1 M ratio of CNSL and castor oil. On the other hand, the largest surface area of 209 m2/g was obtained from a 9:1 whereas the largest pore volume was 1.55 cm3/g from a 4:1. Diffuse Reflectance Infrared Fourier Transform Spectroscopy analysis confirmed the presence of N-H group, the bending vibration bands at around 1640 and 1543 cm−1 indicating that the reaction of organoaminesilanes and tetraethyl orthosilicate had occurred. The palladium content of the supported catalyst was determined by ICP-OES which confirmed the attachment of palladium to the synthesized materials. The highest palladium loading was obtained from the adsorbent prepared by using 1:1 ratio of surfactants mixture which gave the adsorption value of 2.16 mmol/g. Powder X-ray Diffraction indicated that the synthesized organosilica materials are amorphous with improved crystallinity upon attachment of palladium catalyst. The incorporation of palladium in the synthesized materials using the mixed bio-based surfactant was successful.

Effect of The Amount of 3-(trimethoxysilyl) propyl methacrylate on Improving Surface’s Adhesive Properties of Zirconia

Abstract The objective of this research was silanize zirconium oxide (ZrO2) nanoparticles with 3-(trimethoxysilyl) propyl methacrylate (γ -MPS). Silanization is a surface treatment process of a material using silane compounds to improve the surface adhesive and compatibility of ZrO2 with other materials or coatings and to modify its surface. The surface modification of ZrO2 by 3-(trimethoxysilyl) propyl methacrylate as coupling agents under the influence of ultrasonic waves. The silanized ZrO2 was characterized Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The FTIR analysis indicated the interaction of the silane compound on the ZrO2 surface, showing characteristic peaks corresponding to Zr-OH, C-H stretching, carbonyl groups, and Zr-O-Si bonds, indicating successful grafting. The FTIR spectra for the ZrO2 nanoparticles, showing peaks at 1088 cm−1 showed the formation of Zr-O-Si covalent bonds. ZrO2 nanoparticles also exhibited a characteristic peak at 400 cm−1, indicating the deformation of Zr-O-Zr bonds. C=C, and C=O peaks are observed in the range of 1632-1714 cm−1. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) measures showed a higher weight loss of the silanized ZrO2 when higher amounts of silane were added.

Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy combined with chemometrics for quality control of Curcuma aeruginosa rhizomes: An essential oil analysis

Rhizome of Curcuma aeruginosa is a traditional herb utilized in many nations. The compound content in C. aeruginosa rhizomes can vary depending on their geographical origin. This study aims to determine the chemical fingerprints for quality control and identify the active ingredients in C. aeruginosa essential oil (CAEO) based on multiple geographic origins. Chemical fingerprints of CAEO from five different geographic origins have been determined using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Principal component analysis and partial least squares discriminant analysis were utilized to examine the chemical data of CAEO utilizing pattern recognition techniques. A total of 52 fluctuating compounds were identified in gas chromatography-mass spectra instrumentation, and the highest essential oil result was the 1,8-cineole compound content. According to the results from the FTIR analysis, CAEO samples were successfully grouped based on their geographical origins. The experimental results showed that the wave numbers 1489.0715, 1475.3892, 1520.7538, and 1653.0743 per cm were used as markers to identify compounds in the CAEO based on the differences in the place of growth and quality control. This study showed that chemometric methods combined with FTIR-based fingerprinting could offer a dependable platform for verifying quality control and authentication.

Revolutionizing fast disintegrating tablets: Harnessing a dual approach with porous starch and sublimation technique

This study investigates the transformation of neat starch (NS) from mung beans into porous starch (PS) for the formulation of fast-disintegrating tablets (FDTs) using the sublimation technique, contrasting their performance with superdisintegrants such as sodium starch glycolate (SSG) and croscarmellose sodium (CS). Camphor was used as a sublimating agent. The interaction between drug and excipients was analyzed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), while preformulation assessments were conducted on powder blends. Model drug Diclofenac sodium (DL)-loaded FDTs were prepared via direct compression technique. Thermal behavior and crystalline properties were evaluated using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), respectively. Compressibility of tablets was assessed through Heckel and Kawakita analyses. Post-compression evaluations encompassed hardness, thickness, in vitro disintegration, and dissolution studies. FTIR analysis indicated the absence of chemical interactions among constituents, while precompression analyses confirmed favorable flow properties of the blends. Heckel analysis supported the material's notable compressibility. Microscopic examination revealed the formation of pores on the tablet surface due to the sublimation process. Integration of PS significantly accelerated the disintegration time of FDTs, with durations ranging from 50 to 82 s, compared to 76–104 s for NS-FDTs. While PS-FDTs exhibited a longer disintegration time compared to SSG, they demonstrated faster disintegration compared to croscarmellose sodium. A significant disparity (p<0.01) in drug release at 60 min was observed between SSG and PS-FDTs, with DP3 achieving 97.65 % drug release. Most batches followed the Korsmeyer-Peppas model, except for DN2 and DN3, which adhered to Higuchi-matrix drug release kinetics. Stability assessments after 90 days revealed no significant differences (p>0.05). Conclusively, this study highlights the effectiveness of PS and the sublimation method in creating FDTs with enhanced drug release properties.

Eagle syndrome: tissue characteristics and structure of the styloid process.

Eagle syndrome is a bone disease where elongation of the styloid process leads to throat and neck pain, and in severe cases neurovascular symptoms such as syncope and neuralgia. The pathophysiology of Eagle syndrome is poorly understood with various theories having been proposed how this elongation is caused. To better understand the pathophysiology, we performed a work-up in 6 patients presenting with Eagle syndrome. Patients mainly presented with pain on turning the neck (100%), foreign body sensation (67%), tension in the neck (67%), and dysphagia (50%). The typical length of the styloid process ranges from 25 to 30 mm; however, [18F]NaF (sodium fluoride) PET/CT showed elongated styloid processes with an average length of 52.1 ± 15.6mm (mean ± SD) with increased turnover at the base of one of the styloid processes. The removed styloid processes were further examined by histology, micro-CT, quantitative backscatter electron imaging (qBEI), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and circularly polarized light imaging. Histology revealed one case of a fractured styloid process healing through callus formation and one case of pseudarthrosis. Bone mineral density and mineralization was similar in the styloid processes when compared to cortical bone samples derived from the mandibular bone of different patients. Circular polarized light microscopy showed a collagen orientation in the styloid process comparable to the cortical bone samples with a distinct separation of collagen structure between the mineralized structure and the surrounding soft tissue with FTIR analysis demonstrating a typical composition of bone. This altogether suggests that the elongated styloid processes in Eagle syndrome are mature bone, capable of endochondral repair, possibly growing from the base of the process through endochondral ossification, rather than being a form of secondary calcification of the stylohyoid ligament as previously postulated.

Fish Oil Alginate Microspheres Produced via Wave-Based Drop-on-Demand Jetting Electrospray: Improving Stability and Palatability

Despite the proven health benefits of fish oil to the human body, the unpleasant aftertaste and short shelf-life limit the public acceptability as supplementation. Microencapsulation of the fish oil into microspheres is an approach to overcome these limitations. This study aims to prepare controllable-size fish oil alginate microspheres using pulsed electrospray technique for enhancing fish oil stability and palatability. Fish oil alginate microspheres were prepared and optimized by bipolar wave-based drop on demand jetting electrospray. The microspheres were characterized in terms of particle size, aspect ratio, encapsulation efficiency (EE), loading capacity (LC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and drug release. The stability of the fish oil microspheres was assessed based on specific characteristics and antioxidant activity over a period of 6 months. The anticancer effectiveness of encapsulated and unencapsulated fish oil was evaluated using HCT116 and 3T3 cell lines. Additionally, a human panel palatability test was conducted to evaluate the taste masking ability of fish oil microspheres. The optimal formulation exhibited an average particle size of 344.75 ± 10.84 μm, aspect ratio of 1.03 ± 0.02, EE of 98.98 ± 0.72%, and LC of 22.60 ± 0.62%. The FTIR analysis revealed that the chemical properties of the fish oil were preserved after microencapsulation and remained stable after 6 months of storage. The fish oil microspheres showed a superior anticancer effect compared to the free ones. In addition, the panellists of the palatability test of the fish oil microspheres showed an excellent taste masking ability. Hence, this study formulated fish oil microspheres with enhanced stability, efficacy, and palatability, suggesting their potential utility as dietary supplements to fulfil the daily recommended intake of fish oil.

An in vitro experimental study on the interference of glyphosate on the urease enzyme

Purpose: Exposure to glyphosate is increasing due to the density of agricultural areas in Türkiye. In this study, the possible interference effect of glyphosate on urease, an enzyme that is frequently used in the diagnosis and follow-up of many diseases and in the measurement of urea in biological samples was examined. Materials and Methods: First, glyphosate was observed to have a negative interference in experiments using solutions of varying concentrations of urea. Second, blood samples were examined using the urease-glutamate dehydrogenase (GLDH) and indirect nesslerization procedures to determine the effects of glyphosate on the results before and after its addition. To determine the morphological and chemical alterations, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses were conducted, and binding patterns were established through molecular docking. Urea measurements conducted with urease-GLDH and indirect nesslerization demonstrated a negative interference on the results with glyphosate concentrations of 10–3, 10–4, and 10–5 M. Results: Morphological changes observed in the SEM analysis were supported by the 3228.25 (O-H), 1642.08 (C=C), and 1531.20 (N-O) cm–1 bonds formed in the FTIR analysis. Furthermore, the molecular docking analysis showed that glyphosate affected the urease via hydrogen bonding (Gly13, Ser12, Lys14, Thr15, and Asp37) and hydrophobic interactions (Val10, Asp37, and Glu98). It was hypothesized that these interacting amino acids limit the accessibility of the urease’s active catalytic conformation and/or impact the stability of the catalytic transition state. Conclusion: Glyphosate leads to negative interference in human serum urea assays, leading to incorrect test results in clinical biochemistry, microbiology, and agricultural laboratories. This effect should be considered when conducting analysis, and clinicians as well as hospital information management systems should be informed ahead of time, with special emphasis devoted to this interference.

Colour and COD Removal from Food and Beverages Industrial Wastewater by using Spent Alkalis Carbide Lime (SACL)

The abundant amount of water used in the food &amp; beverages (F&amp;B) industry has caused the wastewater from this industry to be one of the major sources of water pollution, due to its high content of colour and chemical oxygen demand (COD). In this study, spent alkalis carbide lime (SACL) was used in treating the colour and COD simultaneously from the F&amp;B industrial wastewater. SACL was used to reduce the amount of landfill waste and because of its similar characteristic to lime. The SACL was characterized using X-ray Diffractometer (XRD) X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) while the F&amp;B industrial wastewater was characterized by using HACH DR6000 and UV-Vis Spectrophotometers. Several series of chemical precipitation experiments were conducted through jar tests to evaluate the effects of SACL dosing, pH value, and contact time on the percentage removal of colour and COD. The optimum conditions obtained from this study are pH 7 and 20 minutes, with percentage removal of 99.5% and 89.8% for colour and COD. However, the percentage removal of colour and COD decreased as contact time increased. With the same value of pH and contact time, SACL managed to remove more colours compared to lime, which is 93.6% compared to 88.54%, respectively. According to the analyses of FTIR and UV-Vis, the wastewater sample was cleaner when using SACL compared to using lime during the treatment. Thus, the study proves that SACL is a reliable alternative to treat colour and COD from F&amp;B industrial wastewater.

Nanoencapsulation of phase change material with CuO nanoparticles: Development of thermal properties for energy storage

Today, the efficient use of energy resources has become essential due to the increasing need for energy. Therefore, thermal energy storage systems are used to minimize lost energy and more efficient energy consumption can be achieved by preventing energy losses. Phase change materials (PCMs) can be effectively used in thermal energy storage and are among the promising materials for a carbon–neutral future. In this study, the synthesis of nanoencapsulated phase change material (NEPCM) containing CuO NPs for use in thermal energy storage systems is included. In the production of phase change material, Copper oxide Nanoparticles were added into urea–formaldehyde resin as shell material, and an NEPCM, a eutectic mixture of capric acid-myristic acid, was prepared. Since the final product will be used in the structure, the phase change material was optimized for room temperature. In-situ polymerization, the synthesis process was carried out to obtain a better shell material to improve thermal properties and prevent leakage. Scanning Electron Microscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis were used to determine the morphology and chemical structure of the prepared NEPCM. Elemental analysis was performed to determine the presence of CuO NPs as shell material in urea–formaldehyde resin. Differential scanning calorimetry analyses were performed to determine the thermophysical properties. While the thermal degradation for CuO NPs-NEPCM occurred between 22.78–29.45 °C, the thermal degradation temperature shifted and the thermal degradation status in the first stage was less than that of normal NEPCM. It was observed that the thermal stability and strength of NEPCM increased with the addition of CuO NPs. NEPCM containing CuO NPs has thermal energy storage and energy conservation potential in buildings as a heat storage material. This study can provide an effective way to synthesize form-stable CuO-doped NEPCMs that are economically feasible for thermal applications and have the potential to contribute to future energy storage requirements.

The antioxidant and selective apoptotic activities of modified auraptene-loaded graphene quantum dot nanoparticles (M-AGQD-NP)

BackgroundPancreatic and Gastric cancers are very aggressive and deadly types of cancer that require effective treatment strategies to stop their progression. Nano-drug delivery systems, like those using Auraptene-loaded GQD nanoparticles, play a crucial role in addressing this need by delivering targeted and controlled treatments to cancer cells, making treatment more effective, and reducing side effects. The study focused on investigating the effects of Auraptene, an efficient anticancer compound when loaded into Graphene Quantum Dots (GQDs) on types of human cancer cells.MethodsTo create auraptene-loaded graphene quantum dot nanoparticles (AGQD-NP) (Unmodified and modified types) a combination of hydrothermal and high-energy homogenization methods was used. The nanoparticles were characterized by conducting DLS (Dynamic light scattering), FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy), FESEM (Field Emission Scanning Electron microscopy), and zeta potential analysis. bioactivity of AGQD-NP was assessed through tests, including antioxidant capacity measured by ABTS and DPPH scavenging abilities well as cytotoxicity tested using MTT assay on both human cancer cell lines and normal human vascular endothelial cells.ResultsThe modified AGQD-NP (M-AGQD-NP) demonstrated antioxidant properties by neutralizing free radicals. They also displayed selective toxicity, towards human gastric adenocarcinoma cell-line (AGS) and human pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PANC) cancer cells with IC50 values recorded at 78.8 µg/mL and 89.72 µg/mL respectively. The specific targeting of gastric cancer cells was evident from the differing IC50 values compared to the Human breast adenocarcinoma cell line (MCF-7), Human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line (Hella), and normal vascular endothelial cells (Huvec). Additionally, the induced apoptotic death, in the human pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PANC) cancer cells was confirmed through AO/PI staining and Annexin-based flow cytometry revealing increased expression levels of P53, Caspase3, BAX, and Caspase8.ConclusionIn summary, the M-AGQD-NP have shown encouraging effects displaying antioxidant capabilities and a specific focus, on pancreatic and gastric cancer cells. These findings indicate uses for AGQD-NP as an efficient apoptosis inducer in cancer treatment. Additional In-vivo researches are required to validate their effectiveness, in living organisms.

Comparing low-temperature NH3-SCR activity, operating temperature window and kinetic properties of the Mn-Fe-Nb/TiO2 catalysts prepared by different methods

In order to overcome the shortcomings of traditional V-based catalysts, such as poor low-temperature activity, narrow temperature window, and toxicity. Therefore, the Mn-Fe-Nb/TiO2 catalysts were prepared using impregnation (IM), citric acid complexation (CA), co-precipitation (CP), hydrothermal synthesis (HY), and sol–gel (SG) methods to develop novel NH3 selective catalytic reduction (NH3-SCR) catalysts with excellent low-temperature activity, a wide temperature window, and environmental friendliness. Their NH3-SCR catalytic activity was evaluated, followed by a detailed analysis of their morphology, structure, specific surface area, chemical state, redox properties, acidity, and interactions using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Bruaner-Emmet-Teller (BET), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), H2 temperature-programmed reduction (H2-TPR), NH3 temperature-programmed desorption (NH3-TPD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) techniques. The 5Mn-7Fe-4Nb/TiO2-SG catalyst, prepared via sol–gel, exhibited the highest denitrification (de-NOx) activity and the widest operating temperature window, achieving over 80% Nitric oxide (NO) conversion at 180–350 °C and a peak conversion of 97% at 250 °C. The XRD, BET, SEM, and HR-TEM characterization results showed that the catalyst prepared using the sol–gel method had the smallest particles, the highest specific surface area, and the greatest dispersion. XPS and NH3-TPD results revealed that the catalyst prepared using the sol–gel method possessed the highest surface adsorbed oxygen (Oα) content and the largest number of acidic sites. H2-TPR and FTIR analyses indicated that the catalyst prepared using the sol–gel method enhanced the reduction capacity and possessed the strongest interaction forces among support-active-promoter components. Steady-state kinetic tests confirmed that in the NH3-SCR reaction, the rate-determining step was the adsorption activation of NO on the catalyst surface. The sol–gel method reduced the activation energy for de-NOx reactions, enhancing the low-temperature activity of the catalyst.