Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy Studies Research Articles

In Situ Carbon-Confined MoSe2 Catalyst with Heterojunction for Highly Selective CO2 Hydrogenation to Methanol.

The synthesis of methanol from CO2 hydrogenation is an effective measure to deal with global climate change and an important route for the chemical fixation of CO2. In this work, carbon-confined MoSe2 (MoSe2@C) catalysts were prepared by in situ pyrolysis using glucose as a carbon source. The physico-chemical properties and catalytic performance of CO2 hydrogenation to yield methanol were compared with MoSe2 and MoSe2/C. The results of the structure characterization showed MoSe2 displayed few layers and a small particle size. Owing to the synergistic effect of the Mo2C-MoSe2 heterojunction and in situ carbon doping, MoSe2@C with a suitable C/Mo mole ratio in the precursor showed excellent catalytic performance in the synthesis of methanol from CO2 hydrogenation. Under the optimal catalyst MoSe2@C-55, the selectivity of methanol reached 93.7% at a 9.7% conversion of CO2 under optimized reaction conditions, and its catalytic performance was maintained without deactivation during a continuous reaction of 100 h. In situ diffuse infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy studies suggested that formate and CO were the key intermediates in CO2 hydrogenation to methanol.

Fabrication of silver nanoparticles synthesize using Lantana camara leaves extract on biofilm of sodium alginate

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) belong to the class of noble metal nanoparticles widely utilized across various sectors including biomedical applications, cosmetics, and everyday products like soaps, toothpaste, and detergents, thereby bringing individuals into direct contact with them. Extensive research has explored the antifungal properties of silver and silver nitrate. In this study, the synthesis of AgNPs was achieved effectively using a leaf extract from Lantana camara. Characterization of the synthesized AgNPs was performed employing transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Analysis via UV-vis spectroscopy, SEM and TEM proved reliable and sufficient, with the appearance of AgNPs resulting in a noticeable change in tonal form. SPR peaks for AgNPs were observed at 467-473 nm using UV-Vis spectroscopy, while FTIR studies delineated the stabilizing and peak properties of the AgNPs. Size of the synthesized silver nanoparticles increased with higher concentrations of AgNO3 solution, albeit averaging on the smaller side of the nanometer scale. Synthesized AgNPs have effective antibacterial properties of nanoparticles, their incorporation into food packaging materials could enhance food storage lifespan and ensure consumer safety. The burgeoning interest in developing biodegradable coatings, as alternatives to costly wax-based coatings lacking biodegradability, is on the rise. These coatings aim to preserve the qualities of harvested crops. These are flexible films derived from biological compounds like proteins and polysaccharides, act as barriers against external elements and exhibit bioflexibility. They hold potential applications in medicine, pharmacology, and the food industry. The integration of polysaccharides, proteins, and lipids to enhance the functionality of films represents a recent advancement in the manufacturing of biodegradable and biofilm-based films. The anticipatedoutcome of this study is to augment the beneficial properties of Lantana camara for the preparation of nanoparticles using its extract, thereby highlighting its biological activity against emerging pathogenic biofilm-forming species.

Randomly Methylated β-Cyclodextrin Inclusion Complex with Ketoconazole: Preparation, Characterization, and Improvement of Pharmacological Profiles.

As a powerful imidazole antifungal drug, ketoconazole's low solubility (0.017 mg/mL), together with its odor and irritation, limited its clinical applications. The inclusion complex of ketoconazole with randomly methylated β-cyclodextrin was prepared by using an aqueous solution method after cyclodextrin selection through phase solubility studies, complexation methods, and condition selection through single factor and orthogonal strategies. The complex was confirmed by FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy), DSC (differential scanning calorimetry), TGA (thermogravimetric analysis), SEM (scanning electron microscope images), and NMR (Nuclear magnetic resonance) studies. Through complexation, the water solubility of ketoconazole in the complex was increased 17,000 times compared with that of ketoconazole alone, which is the best result so far for the ketoconazole water solubility study. In in vitro pharmacokinetic studies, ketoconazole in the complex can be 100% released in 75 min, and in in vivo pharmacokinetic studies in dogs, through the complexation, the Cmax was increased from 7.56 μg/mL to 13.58 µg/mL, and the AUC0~72 was increased from 22.69 μgh/mL to 50.19 μgh/mL, indicating that this ketoconazole complex can be used as a more efficient potential new anti-fungal drug.

Manufacturing and characterisation of 3D-printed sustained-release Timolol implants for glaucoma treatment.

Timolol maleate (TML) is a beta-blocker drug that is commonly used to lower the intraocular pressure in glaucoma. This study focused on using a 3D printing (3DP) method for the manufacturing of an ocular, implantable, sustained-release drug delivery system (DDS). Polycaprolactone (PCL), and PCL with 5 or 10% TML implants were manufactured using a one-step 3DP process. Their physicochemical characteristics were analysed using light microscopy, scanning electronic microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) / thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The in vitro drug release was evaluated by UV-spectrophotometry. Finally, the effect of the implants on cell viability in human trabecular meshwork cells was assessed. All the implants showed a smooth surface. Thermal analysis demonstrated that the implants remained thermally stable at the temperatures used for the printing, and FTIR studies showed that there were no significant interactions between PCL and TML. Both concentrations (5 & 10%) of TML achieved sustained release from the implants over the 8-week study period. All implants were non-cytotoxic to human trabecular cells. This study shows proof of concept that 3DP can be used to print biocompatible and personalised ocular implantable sustained-release DDSs for the treatment of glaucoma.

Physicochemical Investigation of Synthesized Bismuth and Silver-Doped Bismuth Nanoferrites, And Their Dielectric Properties

Bismuth nano ferrite and silver-doped bismuth nano ferrite are synthesized by the sol-gel method. The synthesized compound is characterized through several characterization methods such as the X-ray diffraction method, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and UV-Visible spectral studies. The X-Ray diffraction confirms bismuth nano ferrite has a Rhombohedral structure and belongs to the R-3m space group, and the silver-doped bismuth nano ferrite has an orthorhombic structure and belongs to the Cmcm space group. The crystallite size is calculated through Scherrer’s formula, the bismuth nano ferrite has a crystallite size of 20 nm, and the silver-doped bismuth nano ferrite has a crystallite size of 36.33 nm. FTIR studies confirm the formation of ferrite and indicate the metal ion group observed the peak shift after doping in the fingerprint region. The metal ion peaks are presented at 446.7 cm−1 and 527.8 cm−1 but after doping they shifted to 453 cm−1, 534 cm−1. The UV-Visible spectral analysis identifies the change in the energy band gap through a tauc plot, initially the energy band gap of bismuth nano ferrite is about 2.79 eV but after doping it reduces to 1.61 eV. the surface morphology is determined by SEM analysis and it provides 30 nm and for the doped compound 37 nm average particle size. Dielectric study confirms doping of silver to the bismuth gives more improved results which will be helpful at the application level such as in memory devices, photocatalysis, water splitting, and gas detection.

Crocin-Phospholipid Complex: Molecular Docking, Molecular Dynamics Simulation, Preparation, Characterization, and Antioxidant Activity

Background: Crocin is a water-soluble carotenoid compound present in saffron (Crocus sativus L.), known for its wide range of pharmacological activities, including cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, anti-tumorigenic, anti-atherosclerosis, and anti-inflammatory effects. Objectives: The instability of crocin, its low miscibility with oils, and poor bioavailability pose challenges for its pharmaceutical applications. This study aimed to design and prepare a crocin-phospholipid complex (CPC) and assess its physicochemical properties. Methods: The study investigated the formation of the complex and its binding affinity through molecular docking. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were conducted to find the optimal molar ratio of crocin to phospholipid for the complex's preparation. The CPC was produced using the solvent evaporation method. Techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and solubility studies were utilized to characterize and confirm the formation of CPC. Additionally, the in vitro antioxidant activity of crocin and CPC was evaluated. Results: Molecular dynamic simulations explored molar ratios of 1: 1, 1: 1.5, and 1: 2 for crocin to phospholipid. The ratio of 1: 2 was found to be the most stable, exhibiting the highest probability of hydrogen bond formation. Molecular docking, FTIR, and NMR studies indicated hydrogen bond interactions between crocin and phospholipid, confirming CPC's formation. XRD and FE-SEM analyses showed a decrease in crocin's crystallinity within the phospholipid complex. Furthermore, the solubility of crocin in n-octanol was enhanced post-complexation, indicating an increase in crocin's lipophilic nature. Conclusions: Phospholipid complexation emerges as a promising technique for enhancing the physicochemical characteristics of crocin.

NanoGuard: Antibacterial marvels of strontium titanate – Synthesis, characterization, and multifunctional insights

This study presents a comprehensive exploration into the synthesis and multifaceted characterization of strontium titanate (ST) nanopowder via the solution combustion method. The investigation delves into the photoluminescent properties, electrochemical behaviors assessed through potentiodynamic polarization (PDP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), as well as antibacterial characteristics of the synthesized nanoproduct. Through meticulous analysis involving powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and UV–visible spectroscopy (UV–vis), ST nanoparticles revealed intriguing features. PXRD unveiled a cubic crystal structure with a crystallite size of ∼ 11 nm, showcasing a crystallinity of 89.23. FESEM, UV–visible spectroscopy, and FT-IR studies uncovered irregularities in size, band gap properties, and the formation of M−O bonds within ST, with an Eg value of ∼ 3.0 eV. Photoluminescence investigations highlighted oxygen deficiencies within the ST material. Furthermore, corrosion inhibition efficiency was evaluated, demonstrating a maximum of 81.9 % at a concentration of 400 ppm, while antibacterial studies exhibited promising results against both Gram-positive (Bacillus subtilis) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria, with zone of inhibitions (ZOI) measuring 8.00 ± 0.250 mm and 9.00 ± 0.000 mm, respectively. These findings collectively underscore the diverse potential applications of ST nanoparticles and offer valuable insights into their structural, optical, electrochemical, and antimicrobial properties.

Green route to prepare zinc oxide nanoparticles using Moringa oleifera leaf extracts and their structural, optical and impedance spectral properties

This article investigates biosynthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) from Moringa oleifera leaves extract using an eco-friendly preparation method. The crystalline structure, optical properties, morphology and impedance characteristics of ZnO NPs were analyzed using impedance spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and ultraviolet spectroscopy (UV-vis). The powder XRD pattern confirmed the crystallinity of the prepared samples as well as enabled determining their crystallite size and pure phase portion. The FTIR study confirmed the presence of functional groups responsible for reduction metal ions into ZnO NPs. UV-vis absorption spectra contained the absorption peak corresponding to ZnO NPs. Impedance spectroscopy of the prepared ZnO NPs revealed the grain boundaries in them and confirmed their semiconducting nature.

SOLUBILITY ENHANCEMENT OF ATAZANAVIR BY HYDROTROPIC SOLUBILIZATION TECHNIQUE

Objective: The present study aims to increase the solubility and dissolution of atazanavir sulfate (ATZ) by employing a hydrotropic solubilization technique. Methods: ATZ is a poorly soluble drug classified under the biopharmaceutical classification system (BCS)-II, which accounts for its poor oral bioavailability. Different hydrotropic agents, such as urea and sodium benzoate and their combinations at different ratios were prepared. The prepared hydrotropes were systematically investigated for compatibility between the drug and excipients using Fourier Transform Infra-Red Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) approaches. Further, in order to understand the conversion from crystalline to amorphous nature, X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) studies were also performed. The formulation of a mixed hydrotropic mixture comprising urea (2.5% w/v) and sodium benzoate (5% w/v) exhibited a 100.35±1.7 % drug release at 0.25 h with higher dissolution efficiency as compared with other batches of individual hydrotrope, mixed hydrotropes as well as pure drug. Results: FTIR studies revealed that there is no incompatibility between the drug and the selected hydrotropes. DSC studies also confirmed the fact that there is no interaction between the drug and the hydrotropes by the disappearance of an endothermic peak. XRD studies revealed that there was a significant reduction in the intensity of peaks, indicating the conversion of crystalline to the amorphous form. The SEM studies indicated that the drug appears crystalline in the shape of an irregular tiny prismatic needle, indicating its crystallinity. At the same time, the hydrotrope mixtures appeared in agglomerated form with a porous nature, which may be accountable for its increase in solubility. The hydrotropes prepared using urea alone exhibited an increase in solubility of 4.42 folds, and the hydrotrope prepared using sodium benzoate alone exhibited an increase in solubility of 3.178 folds; the combination hydrotropes of urea and sodium benzoate exhibited an increase in solubility of 8.78 folds in water as compared to pure drug. The drug release from the mixed hydrotropes obeys zero-order kinetics with diffusion as the main mechanism. Conclusion: The present investigation concluded that the combination of hydrotropes enhanced the solubility of the aqueous soluble drug ATZ. However, in vivo studies are essential to establish its potential effect.

Selective recovery of copper from copper tailings and wastewater using chelating resins with bis-picolylamine functional groups

Industrial and mining wastewater, along with copper tailings, are typically highly acidic and contain copper and other heavy metals, which may contaminate and damage the environment. Copper (Cu) is, however, a valuable metal, making its removal and recovery from such wastewater and tailings environmentally and economically advantageous. Chelating ion exchange resins featuring bis-picolylamine functional groups are especially suitable for application requiring selective recovery of Cu(II) from highly acidic media. In this study, and for the first time, the kinetics, binding capacity and selectivity of Lewatit MDS TP 220 chelating resin towards Cu(II) are reported. The resin was characterized by Zeta potential, scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Factors including pH, initial concentration, contact time, temperature, and selectivity were investigated to assess the adsorption performance of the chelating resin. The adsorption kinetics tests revealed fast adsorption within the first 5–30 min and fitted the pseudo-second-order model, signifying chemisorption process. The adsorption isotherm followed the Langmuir model, implying monolayer adsorption process. The maximum adsorption capacity (qm) for Cu(II) determined by the Langmuir model was 103.9 mg/g. The adsorption thermodynamics showed an endothermic and spontaneous adsorption. FTIR and XPS studies suggested coordination or chelation as the possible adsorption mechanism. Lewatit MDS TP 220 exhibited excellent Cu(II) adsorption, desorption with 2 M ammonium hydroxide (NH4OH), and selectivity in multi-metal ions solution. Additionally, the resin demonstrated excellent reusability after five regeneration steps. This chelating resin is a potential adsorbent for effective and recurrent recovery of Cu(II) from copper tailings and wastewater, thereby contributing to environmental remediation.

Characterization and In vitro Dissolution Assessment of Pitavastatin-polyvinyl Pyrrolidone and Kollicoat®IR Solid Dispersions Prepared by Solvent Evaporation and Fusion Methodologies

Pitavastatin (PTV) is a potent lipid lowering drug that acts on hepatocytes by blocking the 3-hydroxy-3- methylglutaryl-CoA reductase enzyme. As a Biopharmaceutical Classification System (BCS) Class II drug, PTV possesses very low water solubility; hence, poor bioavailability leads to poor drug delivery to the target organ. The study aims to develop various PTV solid dispersion (SD) formulations and to investigate the release profile of PTV SD systems. Different PTV physical mixing and SD formulations were prepared using polyvinylpyrrolidone (Kollidon®90F) and Kollicoat®IR hydrophilic polymers by fusion and solvent evaporation approaches. The efficacy of the formulations was evaluated by in vitro PTV release studies. Subsequently, the characterization of SD formulations was performed using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The in vitro release studies confirmed that all the developed formulations showed a comparatively better release percentage (75.31–98.45%) than the pure PTV (61.76%) after 60 min. Additionally, the outcomes showed that raising the concentration of both polymers improved PTV's ability to dissolve. In comparison to physical mixing formulations, SD formulations made using fusion and solvent evaporation processes performed better during dissolution. The TGA, DSC, and FTIR studies confirmed that the tested SD formulations (1:2, 1:3 ratios) were stable at high temperatures with a reduction in crystallinity and no notable interaction between the drug and polymers. The SEM analysis showed that the PTV was evenly spread out in the carriers and that the crystal-like structure of the PTV had changed into an amorphous form. Bangladesh Pharmaceutical Journal 27(1): 37-50, 2024 (January)

Optimization and Transfollicular Delivery of Finasteride Loaded PLGA Nanoparticles Laden Carbopol Gel for Treatment of Hair Growth Stimulation

Background: One of the frequent side effects of cancer treatment is chemotherapyinduced alopecia (CIA). The psychological discomfort of hair loss may cause patients to stop receiving chemotherapy, lowering the therapy's effectiveness. Finasteride (FNS), a JAK inhibitor, has shown tremendous promise in therapeutic uses for treating baldness. Still, systemic side effects constrained its broad use in alopecia from oral treatment and a low absorption rate at the target site— PLGA-loaded nanoparticles (NPs) for topical delivery of FNS—to overcome these issues. Methods: The nano-precipitation process was used to make FNS-NPs. The independent variables (stabiliser and polymer) were PLGA (X1), P407 (X2), and sonication time (X3). Based on the point prediction method obtainable by the Box Behnken design software, the best FNS-NPs composition was selected. Entrapment efficiency, particle size, zeta potential, and polydispersity index were used to characterize the nanoparticles. Using Carbopol as a polymer, the ideal FNS-NPs composition was further transformed into a gel formulation. The prepared topical gel formulation (FNS-NPs gel) included gel characterization, Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Powder X-ray Diffraction (PXRD), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), invitro and in vivo studies. Results: Optimized FNS-NPs (F13) had particle sizes of 175.26±3.85 nm, 0.241±0.11 PDI, 71.04±1.35 % EE, and -33.27±0.39 surface charges. There is no interaction between the drug and the excipients, according to FTIR studies. The FNS were visible in the X-ray diffractogram enclosed in a polymer matrix. The developed FNS-NPs gel formulation shows ideal drug content, viscosity, pH, and spreadability. According to the release and permeation investigation findings, FNS released slowly (68.73±0.94%) but significantly permeated the membrane more than before. In a dose- and time-dependent manner, the produced nanoparticles considerably (p≤0.05) increased FNS delivery compared to the FNS solution. The FNS-NPs gel therapy significantly increases the quantity and size of hair follicles dose-dependently. The effectiveness of the 1% FNSNPs gel and the 2% minoxidil solution were comparable. After 72 hours, the FNS-NPs gel showed no signs of skin irritation. The outcomes, therefore, showed that the trans follicular delivery mechanism of the FNS-NPs gel might stimulate hair growth. Conclusion: These findings imply that the innovative formulation that has been developed has several beneficial properties that make it suitable for FNS dermal delivery in the treatment of alopecia areata

Exploring the multiferroic and water sensing behavior of Cu/Er co-substituted ferrites as key enablers for next-gen hydroelectric cells

Currently, the consumption of energy has enormously risen which in turn causes environmental degradation and this associated degraded environment prompts the research around the devices that produce green energy. Here, we have reported a cost-effective way to produce copper and erbium co-substituted cobalt ferrite nanoparticles [Co1-xCuxFe1.85Er0.15O4, 0.00 ≤ x ≤ 0.09] via sol-gel auto combustion synthesis route. The structural analysis from X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements confirms the cubic structure of nanoparticles with an average crystallite size of 22 nm. The FT-IR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) studies have revealed the expansion in the octahedral (431-434.85 cm−1) and tetrahedral bands (523-538.82 cm−1) with the increase in the copper content. FESEM-EDX (Field emission scanning electron microscopy) morphology unveils the porous nanostructures with an average particle size around 82.38 nm using ImageJ software. Electrical studies display a net increment in the dielectric constant (ε´) value from 66.908 to 147.97 with an increase in copper concentration from 0 % to 9 % because of the agglomeration of copper and erbium ions at the grain boundaries. It has been also noted that the addition of Cu2+ ions above 6 % into erbium-substituted cobalt ferrite caused a tremendous decrease in the Ms value from 93.75 emu/g to 57.25 emu/g due to weak superexchange interaction upon the co-substitution of copper and erbium ions in cobalt ferrites. The overall value of saturation polarization (Ps) has been improved from 1.009 μC/cm2 to 12.79 μC/cm2 upon increasing the copper concentration in the spinel ferrite. The improvement in ferroelectricity and ferromagnetism in co-substituted cobalt ferrite confirms the presence of multiferroicity in them. The I–V measurements yield prepared hydroelectric cells can deliver a maximum current of 14.772 mA with a power of 11.300 mW for 9 % copper doping in the erbium substituted spinel ferrite while the lowest is reported around 4.08 mA and power of 3.18 mW for only erbium substituted cobalt ferrite. Therefore, the prepared material can be suggested for its useful application in hydroelectric cells.

Preparation, Characterization and In-vitro Evaluation of Nano Encapsulated 1-Octacosanol for Solubility Enhancing by using Various Polymers through Spray Drying Approach

This research aimed to develop a nano-encapsulated free-flow powder of 1-octacosanol for functional food application. We had prepared stable green nano-emulsion oil in water by Dyno Mill and spray dryer for free flow powder by using different polymers (Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, polyvinylpyrrolidone, octenyl succinate starches) as hydrophilic polymers in different ratios for enhancing the solubility. Zeta potential, X-ray diffraction (XRD), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), encapsulation efficiency, particle size distribution, surface morphology, differential scanning calorimetry spectroscopy and in-vitro dissolution research were used to analyze 1-octacosanol. The optimized nano-emulsion preparation F15 consists of an average particle size 720.9 nm, zeta potential -24.5 mV shows stable nano-emulsion oil in water type, and encapsulation efficiency was found to be 96.76%, FTIR studies did not show any evidence of interaction between the herbal extract and the polymers. XRD shows the conversion of crystalline to amorphous nature of powder. In differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), spectroscopy studies found three major peaks in standard herbal extract peaks is 60.21, 67.16, 81.27°C and nano-encapsulated spray dried powder peaks are 58.18, 66.44, 79.25°C with minor moisture absorbed by the polymer in formulation. This evaluation shows significant improvement between normal herbal extract of 1-octacosanol and encapsulated spray-dried powder of 1-octacosanol for functional food application successfully improving the water solubility without changing a structural and chemical properties of the 1-octacosanol crystal.

Effect of Manganese-Doping on the chemical and optical properties of cobalt ferrite nanoparticles

We report on the effect of manganese (Mn) doping on the structural, chemical and optical properties of cobalt ferrite (CFO) nanoparticles (NPs). The Mn(II)-substituted CFO NPs with variable chemical composition (Co1-xMnxFe2O4; x = 0.0–0.5; CMFO) were synthesized by an eco-friendly hydrothermal route. The CMFO NPs produced were with a crystallite size varying in the range of 8–14 nm, where the chemical valence state, chemical bonding, electronic structure and optical properties are strongly influenced by the Mn-substitution. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies revealed the Mn-substitution induced changes in CFO crystal structure. The Mn-substitution in CFO causes the lattice parameter enhancement (a), crystallite size increase, and micro-strain (ε) as evident in the XRD studies. The chemical composition driven direct, functional relationship reflected in a-D-ε correlation, which suggests the Mn-substitution allows the ability to control the size and strain in CFMO NPs. Chemical bonding analyses using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) corroborates with structural assessment made with XRD studies. The MTd–O (MTd = metal ions in tetrahedral locations) absorption bands shifting to higher wavenumbers in FTIR studies indicate that, Mn-substitution induce changes in the metal cation distribution between the tetrahedral and octahedral locations of the ferrite lattice. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic (XPS) analyses indicate the presence of iron as Fe+3, cobalt as Co+2, and manganese in Mn+2 chemical state. With increasing Mn-content, the XPS revealed that the binding energy (BE) separation of Fe, as well as Mn, does not change compared to Co, indicating the chemical stability and valence state of Fe+3 and Mn+2 cations maintained well in the CMFO samples. While the overall chemistry of CFO is maintained, and is not influenced by the increasing Mn-concentration, the remarkable effect of Mn-substitution is seen on the optical properties of CFO NPs. The optical studies indicate that the band gap of CFO NPs exhibits a direct, functional dependence on Mn-concentration; the band gap varies in a wide range of 2.38–3.12 eV. The analyses indicate the exponential dependence of CFO optical band gap with Mn-content which provide a roadmap to engineer the materials with tunable band gap for desired technological applications.

Synthesis of CuO/CeO2 Nanocomposites for Adsorption and Efficient Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue Dye

Nanocomposites are composed of a wide range of systems, including 1-D, 2-D, 3-D, and unstructured substances, and are blended at nanometer sizes with very distinct constituents. Due to the presence of quantum confinement, surface Plasmon response, tunneling of electrons, and density of states, nanocomposites are superior materials that display unusual and distinctive features. Photocatalysts benefit from unique features offered by nanocomposites made of two or more semiconductors with differing band gaps. Due to their uses and possible threats to living things, dyes are considered the most significant water contaminants. Industrial effluent must be treated using powerful adsorbents and photocatalysts to remove dangerous chemical dyes from contaminated water sources. This paper employs a co-precipitation approach to create photocatalytic CeO2 nanoparticles and a CuO/CeO2 nanocomposite for the inexpensive removal of Methylene Blue (MB) from aqueous solution. In this approach, the dispersion of electrons and holes is induced by the absorption of visible light, leading to the breaking of water molecules into radicals. These radicals serve as agents for the degradation of dyes. Utilizing X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), Ultra-Violet Visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), and Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), the CuO/CeO2 nanocomposite has been characterized. The peaks in XRD suggest that the nanocomposite is most likely made up of the crystalline phases of CuO and CeO2. A sequence of smaller peaks and larger peaks are visible in the measured pattern, spanning the 20° to 40° 2θ range, indicating the presence of amorphous or loosely organized regions inside the material. The results of the FTIR study show that CuO and CeO2 phases are present in the nanocomposite simultaneously. The results further suggest that the CuO/CeO2 nanocomposite exhibits notable photocatalytic activity, successfully facilitating the decomposition of the reactants under UV-Vis light exposure for a certain period.

Revolutionizing Drug Delivery: Nicardipine Nanosuspension Formulation and In-Vitro Evaluation

Nicardipine hydrochloride, is a potent calcium channel blocker, is commonly used in the management of hypertension and angina. It is a BCS class II drug which has low aqueous solubility and high permeability. In the present study, an attempt was made to formulate and evaluate nanosuspension of Nicardipine hydrochloride using different stabilizers, namely Tween 80, PVP K30, Poloxamer 188 by using Nanoprecipitation method with the objective to improve solubility and enhance dissolution of Nicardipine hydrochloride. Prepared nanosuspensions were evaluated for drug-excipient compatibility, particle size, PDI (Polydispersity Index), Zeta potential, Drug content, Saturation solubility, In-vitro release study, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM). FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) studies revealed the compatibility of the drug with excipients. Nanosuspension (F3), which had the lowest particle size and the highest % Drug Release, was selected as the optimum formulation. It showed the droplet size, PDI, ZP,% Drug content and %Drug release of 150.4 nm,0.243, -30.6 mV,95.52%,91.24%. Kinetic release profiles of the NS F3 revealed that it followed First order kinetics. This study showed the ability of nanosuspension system in improving the solubility and drug release of Nicardipine.
 Keywords: Nicardipine, Nanosuspension, Solubility, % Drug Release, % Drug content, Scanning electron microscopy.

Simultaneously Inhibiting P-gp Efflux and Drug Recrystallization Enhanced the Oral Bioavailability of Nintedanib.

Nintedanib (NDNB) is a novel triple-angiokinase inhibitor for the treatment of lung cancer. However, the oral bioavailability of NDNB is only 4.7% owing to the poor solubility and the efflux of P-glycoprotein (P-gp). The aim was to explore the potential applications of a hydrogel of NDNB/hydroxypropyl-β- cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) complex combined with a strong P-gp inhibitor Itraconazole (ITZ) for augmenting the oral delivery of NDNB. The NDNB/HP-β-CD complex was prepared and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and molecular simulation and was subjected to in vitro and in situ studies. Then the NDNB/HP-β-CD complex was dispersed in carbopol 934 hydrogel and the gel was evaluated for pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics studies. The HP-β-CD and NDNB formed complex by van der Waals and hydrogen bonding interaction forces by XRD, FT-IR, and molecular simulation studies. When the molar ratio of NDNB/HP-β-CD was 1:20, the complex exhibited high drug inclusion efficiency and excellent stability. The in situ perfusion results revealed that the permeability of the combination of complex and ITZ enhanced about 3.0-fold compared with the NDNB solution. The oral bioavailability of the sequential administration of ITZ and NDNB/HP-β-CD complex gels was increased 3.5-fold by preventing recrystallization, extending the residence time in the gastrointestinal tract, and inhibiting P-gp in comparison with NDNB soft capsules. The co-therapy with NDNB/HP-β-CD complex gels and ITZ exerted a strong anti-tumor effect. In conclusion, NDNB/HP-β-CD complex gels combined with P-gp inhibitor were a potential strategy for enhancing the oral bioavailability and anti-tumor effect of NDNB.

Structural study and physical properties of tellurite glasses containing lead bromide

In this work, a suggested approach based on ion exchange process (IXP) between Br− ions from PbBr2 and O ions from Ag2O was applied to obtain crystalline glass ceramic directly from glasses. Silver-borate glasses in the system: xPbBr2-(45-x) Ag2O55TeO2, with (x = 0, 10, 15, 20, 22.5, and 25 mol.% PbBr2) were synthesized by melt quenching technique. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to investigate the structure and properties of the as prepared glasses. According to both Raman and FTIR studies, as PbBr2 content increases, some of the TeO4 and TeO3+1 units are converted to TeO3, which contains more NBO. Increasing the latter with increasing PbBr2 content was discussed on the basis of the ion exchange process. According to X-ray results, the addition of lead bromide causes a noticeable change in the nature of the glass. The lead-bromide-free glass implies two crystalline extremes that can be attributed to the formation of the silver tellurite crystalline phase (Ag2TeO3). Upon the addition of lead bromide, even with small concentrations up to 20 mol.%, the most prominent structure is amorphous. On the other hand, increasing the concentration of lead bromide forms lead tellurite crystalline phase (Pb3TeO6). Data based on density, packing density, molar volume, free molar volume, and oxygen molar volume were discussed and correlated with the structural changes caused by addition of PbBr2. In view of a potential application on ion exchange process, formation of crystalline dispersed phases in host tellurite matrices will be object of a further investigation.

Facile Extraction of Natural Hydroxyapatite (HA) from Biowaste and Its Characterizations

Natural Hydroxyapatite (HA) with chemical formula Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2 is a major mineral storage form of calcium and phosphorous in bone and it has been applied in many fields. In the present study, HA was extracted from biowaste; namely the buffalo bone by alkaline hydrolysis process followed by calcination at 900°C with holding time 6 hrs. in muffle furnace. The isolated material was analyzed by X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infra-Red Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) etc. The SEM image suggested the isolated material had rod shaped and agglomerated. FTIR study indicated the phosphate and hydroxide were the major functional groups along with carbonate present in it. Further, XRD analysis inferred that the isolated material was only HA phased. The specific surface area of the isolated HA was determined by methylene blue adsorption method and it was found to be 141.12 m2 /g and pH point of zero charge (pHPZC) of the extracted biomaterial was determined to be 6.8 by pH the drift method. Thus the pure HA powder was synthesized by an environmentally friendly, cost effective method and may be applicable in many fields including waste water treatment and biomedicine etc.