FTIR Spectroscopy Research Articles

A bio-ionic liquid based self-healable and adhesive ionic hydrogel for the on-demand transdermal delivery of a chemotherapeutic drug.

The non-invasive nature and potential for sustained release make transdermal drug administration an appealing treatment option for cancer therapy. However, the strong barrier of the stratum corneum (SC) poses a challenge for the penetration of hydrophilic chemotherapy drugs such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). Due to its biocompatibility and capacity to increase drug solubility and permeability, especially when paired with chemical enhancers, such as oleic acid (OA), which is used in this work, choline glycinate ([Cho][Gly]) has emerged as a potential substance for transdermal drug delivery. In this work, we examined the possibility of transdermal delivery of 5-FU for the treatment of breast cancer using an ionic hydrogel formulation consisting of [Cho][Gly] with OA. Small angle neutron scattering, rheological analysis, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and dynamic light scattering analysis were used to characterize the ionic hydrogel. The non-covalent interactions present between [Cho][Gly] and OA were investigated by computational simulations and FTIR spectroscopy methods. When subjected to in vitro drug permeation using goat skin in a Franz diffusion cell, the hydrogel demonstrated sustained release of 5-FU and effective permeability in the order: [Cho][Gly]-OA gel > [Cho][Gly] > PBS (control). The hydrogel also demonstrated 92% cell viability after 48 hours for the human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT cells) as well as the normal human cell line L-132. The breast cancer cell line MCF-7 and the cervical cancer cell line HeLa were used to study in vitro cytotoxicity that was considerably affected by the 5-FU-loaded hydrogel. These results indicate the potential of the hydrogel as a transdermal drug delivery vehicle for the treatment of breast cancer.

Polyvinylalcohol Composite Filled with Carbon Dots Produced by Laser Ablation in Liquids

Carbon dots (CDs), owing to their excellent photoluminescent features, have been extensively studied for physics preparation methods and for biomedical and optoelectronic device applications. The assessment of the applicability of CDs in the production of luminescent polymeric composites used in LEDs, displays, sensors, and wearable devices is being pursued. The present study reports on an original, environmentally friendly, and low-cost route for the production of carbon dots with an average size of 4 nm by laser ablation in liquid. Jointly, to prove the significance of the study for a wide range of applications, a free-standing flexible polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composite containing photoluminescent carbon dots was manufactured. CDs were prepared using targets of porose charcoal with a density of 0.271 g/cm3 placed in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) liquid solution and irradiated for 30 min by pulsed IR diode laser. The optical properties of the obtained suspension containing carbon dots were studied with UV-ViS and FTIR spectroscopies. The photoluminescence of the produced carbon dots was confirmed by the emission peak at 480 nm in the luminescence spectrum. A narrow luminescence band with a full width at half-maximum (FWHM) of less than 40 nm could be an asset in spectral emission analysis in different applications. Atomic force microscopy confirms the feasibility of manufacturing CDs in clean and biocompatible environments, paving the way for an easier and faster production route, crucial for their wider applicability.

The application of FTIR spectra coupled with chemometrics for analysis of lard in food products for halal authentication: a mini review

Lard (LD) obtained from fat’s extraction of adipose tissue of swine is a good component to be used in food and pharmaceutical products to provide specific functions. Lard, according to the Food and Drug Administration, is generally considered recognized as safe (GRAS) to be used in the products. However, LD is not allowed to be consumed or used in the products due to certain religious restrictions in which Muslims and Jews are not allowed to consume any products containing LD because LD is categorized as nonhalal (Muslims) and non-kosher (Jews). Thus, the analysis of LD in food and pharmaceutical products is very urgent to ensure the product’s halalness (and Kosherness) for Muslims and Jews. Some methods have been reported for the analysis of LD, including FTIR spectra, due to their property as fingerprinting analytical techniques capable of fast and reliable tools for screening LD. The responses obtained from the measurement of LD using FTIR spectroscopy are very large, involving big data analysis. Therefore, the chemometrics application to treat these chemical data is unavoidable. This present review highlighted the use of FTIR spectra and chromatographic-based techniques coupled with chemometrics for the analysis of lard in food and pharmaceutical products for halal authentication. The main findings of this review can assist regulators and analytical chemists in selecting the best method for analysis of LD in the products intended for Halal authentication analysis.

Dual modulation of blue-fluorescent carbon dots for simultaneous detection of topotecan and pantoprazole.

This study introduces a novel approach for the simultaneous determination of topotecan (TOP) and pantoprazole (PNT), two drugs whose interaction is critical in clinical applications. The significance of this study originates from the need to understand the pharmacokinetic changes of TOP after PNT administration, which can inform necessary dose adjustments of TOP. To achieve this, nitrogen blue emissive carbon dots (B@NCDs) were produced and employed due to their unique fluorescent properties. When TOP is added to B@NCDs, it exhibits strong native fluorescence at 545 nm without influencing the B@NCDs' fluorescence at 447 nm. Conversely, PNT causes quenching of B@NCDs fluorescence, a property that enables the distinct detection of both drugs. The B@NCDs were fully characterized using different techniques, including ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry, fluorescence analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and FTIR spectroscopy. The proposed method demonstrated excellent linearity, selectivity, and sensitivity, with low detection limits (LOD, S/N = 3); 0.0016 μg mL-1 for TOP and 0.36 μg mL-1 for PNT. Applied to spiked rabbit plasma samples, this method offers a new approach for evaluating the pharmacokinetic interaction between TOP and PNT. It enables the determination of all pharmacokinetic parameters of TOP before and after coadministration with PNT, providing essential insights into whether dose adjustments are necessary. This research not only contributes to the field of drug monitoring and interaction studies but also exemplifies the potential of B@NCDs in complex biological matrices, paving the way for further pharmacological and therapeutic applications.

Anthocyanins of Delonix Regia Floral Petals: A Novel Approach on Fluorescence Enhancement, Forster Resonance Energy Transfer Mechanism and Photostability Studies for Optoelectronic Applications.

In this work, we focused on extracting the anthocyanin dye in acetone, butanol, ethanol, and water solvents from Delonix regia flowers by a simple maceration extraction process. The identification of functional group analysis, vibrational studies, energy transfer mechanisms, optoelectronic properties, photostability studies, FRET-assisted potential light emissions and photometric properties of the anthocyanin dyes are successively investigated. FTIR spectroscopy and vibrational studies have confirmed the existence of polyphenolic groups in 2-phenyl chromenylium (anthocyanin) dyes. The optoelectronic results show the least direct bandgap (2.04eV), indirect bandgap (1.55eV), Urbach energy (0.380eV), high refractive index (1.20), dielectric constant (2.794), and high optical conductivity (1.954 × 103 S/m) for the anthocyanin dye extracted found in water solvent. The photoluminescence properties such as Stoke's shift, high quantum yield, and lifetime results show that anthocyanin dyes are promising candidates for red-LEDs and optical materials. The absorption and emission spectra of the anthocyanin dyes follow the mirror image rule and the Franck-Condon factor exists between vibrational energy levels corresponding to all the electronic transitions. The excellent correspondence between the absorption and emission spectra reinforces that the anthocyanins are efficient (46%) FRET probes. Further, photometric properties such as CIE, CRI, CCT and colour purity results of anthocyanins in all studied solvents revealed that this material exhibits orange to red shades (x = 0.48 → 0.54 and y = 0.36 →0.45) and is well suitable for have great potential in the manufacturing of Organic-LEDs and other optoelectronic device applications.

Pleurotus extract-mediated selenium and zinc nanoparticles exhibited improved yield of biofortified fruit bodies.

The current study was aimed for the generation of Pleurotus extracellular extract-mediated selenium and zinc-oxide nanoparticles (NPs). The Pleurotus djamor (PD) and Pleurotus sajor-caju (PSC) extracts were incubated with different concentrations of sodium selenate and zinc acetate to yield BioSeNPs and BioZnONPs. The NPs formation led to visual color change (brick-red and white for Se and Zn nanosols, respectively). The synthesized NPs were spherical with size of 124 and 68nm and 84 and 91nm for PD and PSC BioSeNPs and BioZnONPs respectively. The UV absorbance peaks were recorded at 293.2 and 292.2nm and 365.9 and 325.5nm for BioSeNPs and BioZnONPs derived from PD and PSC respectively. FT-IR spectroscopy indicated specific functional group adoration on metal-based NPs. On supplementation in straw, these NPs improved the fruit body yield besides enhancing their protein and Se/ Zn contents. These biofortified mushrooms could be potential dietary supplement/ nutraceutical.

Characterization and antibacterial studies of Sn doped CuO nanocomposite using centratherum punctatum leaf extract

In order to synthesize CuO, SnO2, and Sn doped CuO nanocomposites, accessible and non-toxic materials, specifically leaf extract from Centratherum punctatum, were used in this work to apply the concepts and practices of green chemistry. These methods are both economical and environmentally friendly. A comprehensive range of characterisation techniques, including as FTIR, X-ray diffraction, and UV-vis spectroscopy, were also used to confirm the structures of all the produced nanomaterials. Instead, FESEM and EDAX were used to analyze the morphologies and elemental composition of recently produced nanomaterials. A decline in the optical band gap values was indicated by the red shift observed in the UV-vis study following tin doping. A sample's presence of different functional groups is confirmed by FT-IR analysis. For CuO NPs, SnO2, and Sn doped CuO NCs, the XRD results yielded crystallite sizes of 6 nm, 21 nm, and 29 nm, respectively, for the produced particles. The ferromagnetic, diamagnetic, and super paramagnetic characteristics of the produced samples at room temperature were validated by vibrating sample magnetometer experiments. Cyclic voltammetry is used to examine the nanoparticles' electrochemical analysis. Using Sn doped CuO nanocomposite material, it shows a high specific capacitance value of about ~187 Fg-1 at a current density of 10 mV/s. It was found from the electrochemical studies that the produced nanomaterials are suitable for capacitive behaviour. After all, the presence of inhibition zones surrounding each well led us to the conclusion that the nanoparticles exhibited antibacterial activity against the pathogenic strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.

Bio-based composite active film/coating from deccan hemp seed protein, taro starch and leaf extract: Characterizations and application in grapes

This study aimed to create a novel, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly food packaging film or coating using agricultural waste materials such as deccan hemp seeds and leaves. The process involved blending deccan hemp seed protein and leaf extract at an optimal ratio through a casting technique. Additionally, starch isolated from taro root was added into the protein-based film to enhance its structural, barrier, and mechanical properties. The introduction of bioactive compounds, like deccan hemp leaf extract, led increase in antioxidant activity and enriching the film with beneficial phenolic compounds.The combination of leaf extract and starch with the protein film resulted in a homogeneous, dense, and smooth film matrix, as evidenced by scanning microscopy images. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed interlinkage among the various constituents in the film. Rheological analysis of the film-forming solution showed its shear-thinning behavior, with the storage modulus exceeding the loss modulus in the angular frequency range of 0.1 rad/s to 100 rad/s, indicating the film's elastic nature. Furthermore, the physical and optical attributes of the films were enhanced through the addition of starch and leaf extract.In a practical application, the film-forming solution was applied to grapes, leading to improved quality and extended shelf life for grapes stored under ambient conditions for ten days. Overall, this study's findings suggest that the use of deccan hemp seed protein-based packaging film holds promise as an emerging solution for enhancing the shelf life of vegetables and fruits, offering a sustainable and effective alternative for food packaging.

Enzyme variants in biosynthesis and biological assessment of different molecular weight hyaluronan

In the present study, low- and high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acids (LMW-HA and HMW-HA) were synthesized in vitro by truncated Streptococcus equisimilis hyaluronan synthases (SeHAS). The enzyme kinetic parameters were determined for each enzyme variant. The MW, structure, dispersity, and biological activity of polymers were determined by electrophoresis, FTIR spectroscopy, carbazole, cell proliferation, and cell migration assay, respectively. The specific activities were calculated as 7.5, 6.8, 4.9, and 2.8 µgHA µgenzyme−1 min−1 for SeHAS, HAS123, HAS23, and HASIntra, respectively. The results revealed SeHAS produced a polydisperse HMW-HA (268 kDa), while HAS123 and HAS23 produced a polydisperse LMW-HA (< 30 kDa). Interestingly, HASIntra produced a low-disperse LMW-HA. Kinetics studies revealed the truncated variants displayed increased Km values for two substrates when compared to the wild-type enzyme. Biological assessments indicated all LMW-HAs showed a dose-dependent proliferation activity on endothelial cells (ECs), whereas HMW-HAs exhibited an inhibitory effect. Also, LMW-HAs had the highest cell migration effect at 10 µg/mL, while at 200 µg/mL, both LMW- and HMW-HAs postponed the healing recovery rate. The study elucidated that the transmembrane domains (TMDs) of SeHAS affect the enzyme kinetics, HA-titer, HA-size, and HA-dispersity. These findings open new insight into the rational engineering of SeHAS to produce size-defined HA.Graphical abstract

Gamma Radiation-Mediated Synthesis of Antimicrobial Polyurethane Foam/Silver Nanoparticles

Nosocomial infections represent a major threat within healthcare systems worldwide, underscoring the critical need for materials with antimicrobial properties. This study presents the development of polyurethane foam embedded with silver nanoparticles (PUF/AgNPs) using a rapid, eco-friendly, in situ radiochemical synthesis method. The nanocomposites were characterized by UV–vis and FTIR spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray technique (SEM/EDX), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), tensile and compression strengths, antimicrobial activity, and foam toxicity tests. The resulting PUF/AgNPs demonstrated prolonged stability (over 12 months) and good dispersion of AgNPs. Also, the samples presented higher levels of hardness compared to samples without AgNPs (deformation of 1682 µm for V1 vs. 4307 µm for V0, under a 5 N force), tensile and compression strength of 1.80 MPa and 0.34 Mpa, respectively. Importantly, they exhibited potent antimicrobial activity against a broad range of bacteria (including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Enterococcus faecalis) and a fungal mixture (no fungal growth on the sample surface was observed after 28 days of exposure). Furthermore, these materials were non-toxic to human keratinocytes, which kept their specific morphology after 24 h of incubation, highlighting their potential for safe use in biomedical applications. We envision promising applications for PUF/AgNPs in hospital bed mattresses and antimicrobial mats, offering a practical strategy to reduce nosocomial infections and enhance patient safety within healthcare facilities.

Cadmium oxide nanoparticles from new organometallic Cd(II)-Schiff base complex and in vitro biological potentials: dual S. aureus and E. coli DNA gyrase inhibition by the precursors via in silico binding modes’ study

AbstractAt the nanoscale level, several biological processes take place, owing to the potential that engineered nanomaterials might interrelate with bio-molecules and cellular procedures. This study aimed to synthesize cadmium oxide nanoparticles via a one-step calcination process of tetradentate Schiff base-Cd(II) complex at different temperature ranges. The as-synthesized compounds were carried out via a viz UV–visible, elemental analysis, 1H NMR, molar conductivity, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), FT-IR spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction (PXRD). The band gap energy and average particle sizes of the CdO particles are respectively (2.69 eV, 3.54 eV), 26.88 nm for CdO@250, and (3.20 eV, 3.57 eV), 25.67 nm for CdO@300, while CdO@350 exhibited the 3.78 eV and 28.42 nm values. The antioxidant accomplishments of the test samples through the scavenging activity of DPPH radicals showed CdO@300 to possess (IC50 = 5.18 ± 0.56 µg/mL). Similarly, the as-synthesized CdO nanoparticles exhibited higher antibacterial activities against S. aureus and E. coli as compared to the corresponding Cd-HMB and ligand (HMB), while ciprofloxacin acted as a standard antibiotic. Furthermore, HMB and its complex Cd-HMB were docked against the DNA gyrase enzymes of S. aureus (PDB IDs: 5CDQ) and E. coli (PDB IDs: 6F86) as receptors. The binding sites docking results showed that the binding energies of HMB and Cd-HMB to 5CDQ ranged from − 3.44 to − 4.99 kcal/mol and from − 6.45 to − 6.64 kcal/mol, while the binding energies related to the target 6F86 are in the ranges of (− 3.64, − 4.76) kcal/mol and (− 6.08, − 6.09) kcal/mol respectively. Therefore, the significant antioxidant and antibacterial activities of the ligand (HMB), Cd-HMB, and CdO NPs review the broad application prospects of these compounds as therapeutic agents for wide-ranging biomedical applications.

Structural study of strontium-containing iron-phosphate glasses for radioactive waste vitrification

Iron-phosphate glasses are a wide group of materials with a wide range of applications. Among others, they are promising materials in toxic waste vitrification because of their high chemical durability and relatively low processing temperature and time. They are a novel group of glasses that are considered in the vitrification of radioactive waste, especially those that cannot be treated using conventional borosilicate ones. Since strontium isotopes are one of the main fission products present in the waste, the influence of Sr on the structural properties of the glasses is an important factor.Strontium-containing iron-phosphate glasses were subjected to structural studies using FT-IR and Raman spectroscopies. The obtained spectra were described, and appropriate band assignments were done. Based on the research conducted, the structural features of the phosphate network and their changes were determined.The results obtained showed that strontium in relatively low content up to 20 mol% acts as the glass network charge compensator and can stabilize the network. Above this threshold, SrO can be treated as a pure modifier, leading to gradual depolymerization. Thus, this point may be treated as the maximum waste loading for effective strontium immobilization.

The role of annealing in optimizing the electrical, linear, and nonlinear optical properties ZIf-8@TiO2 films for possible use in photonic and optoelectronic devices

Abstract Here, we fabricate zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8)–doped 5 wt. % nanosized TiO2 (ZIf-8@TiO2) thin films using a vapor coating unit. The effects of annealing up to 473 K on the physical characteristics of fabricated ZIf-8@TiO2 thin films were studied. XRD, FTIR, and UV-Vis spectroscopy were utilized to investigate the structural properties of the as-deposited and annealed samples. An increase of approximately 18% was observed in the electrical conductivity. As the annealing temperature increased, the light transmission decreased. This could be due to the growth or aggregation of TiO2 particles during annealing. Raising the annealing temperature by 100 K enhanced the refractive index (n) and energy gap (Eg) by approximately 33% and 8%, respectively. The decrease in ε1 and ε2 in response to the annealing temperature increase was due to the evaporation of MOF organic linkers. The nonlinear optical results indicated a dependence on the annealing temperatures that improved charge carrier mobility and coherent light-matter interactions. Our thesis findings can improve the overall performance and efficiency of optoelectronic devices.

Evaluation of diethyl 4-(5-bromo-1H-indol-3-yl)-2,6-dimethyl-1,4-dihydropyridine-3,5-dicarboxylate: synthesis, anti-corrosion potential, and biomedical applications

The pursuit of advanced multifunctional compounds has gained significant momentum in recent scientific endeavours. This study is dedicated to elucidating the synthesis, rigorous characterization, and multifaceted applications—encompassing anti-corrosion, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties—of Diethyl 4-(5-bromo-1H-indol-3-yl)-2,6-dimethyl-1,4-dihydropyridine-3,5-dicarboxylate. The 1,4-dihydropyridine derivative was meticulously synthesized through a strategic reaction of ethyl acetoacetate, ammonium acetate, and 5-bromoindole-3-carboxaldehydein the ethanol medium at 60 C. Subsequent spectral validations were conducted using sophisticated techniques, namely FTIR, NMR, and Mass spectrometry, resulting in data that perfectly resonated with the hypothesized chemical structure of the compound. Its anti-corrosive potential was assessed on mild steel subjected to an aggressive acidic environment, employing comprehensive methodologies like gravimetric analysis, Tafel polarization, and EIS. Concurrently, its antimicrobial prowess was ascertained against a spectrum of bacterial and fungal pathogens viz., Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas, Candida albicansandAspergillusniger, leveraging the disc diffusion method and using Gentamicin as a reference standard.The empirical results illustrated a substantial decrement in corrosion rates with ascending concentrations of the organic compound, achieving an apex of anti-corrosive efficacy at 81.89% for a concentration of 2 × 103 M. Furthermore, the compound outperformed Gentamicin in antimicrobial screenings, manifesting superior efficacy against all tested pathogens. The antioxidant potential, quantified using the DPPH free radical scavenging assay against ascorbic acid as a benchmark, was found to have an IC50 value of 113.964 ± 0.076 µg/ml.This comprehensive investigation accentuates the paramount potential of the synthesized dihydropyridine derivative in diverse domains—from industrial applications as a corrosion inhibitor to therapeutic avenues given its pronounced antimicrobial and antioxidant capabilities. The compelling results obtained pave the way for expansive research and development initiatives cantered around this multifaceted compound.Graphical

Design of Highly Porous Materials Based on Chitosan/Pectin Interpolyelectrolyte Complex for Wound Healing Application

Interpolyelectrolyte complexes (IPECs) of polysaccharides are multifunctional polymer materials that improve the mechanical and physicochemical properties of individual polysaccharides. In this study, highly porous (&gt;90%) materials based on IPECs of versatile natural polysaccharides, chitosan (30 and 1,200 kDa) and pectin, are obtained by freeze-drying technique. To enhance the interaction between chitosan and pectin macromolecules, the latter are chemically functionalized with dialdehyde groups. The chitosan-/aldehyde-functionalized pectin (Chit/AF-Pect) polyelectrolyte complex sponges obtained are characterized using SEM, FTIR spectroscopy, and TGA. The swelling capacity study reveals a higher swelling ratio of IPEC sponges with an increase in both the molecular weight and content of chitosan: for Chit30/AF-Pect, the swelling ratio rises from 327% to 480%, while for Chit1200/AF-Pect, from 681% to 1,066%. Additionally, the in vitro degradation test demonstrates higher stability of Chit1200/AF-Pect sponges in comparison with those of Chit30/AF-Pect: after 4 days of incubation, the weight losses are found to be 9%–16% and 18%–41%, respectively. The cytotoxicity study shows that Chit30/AF-Pect sponges are noncytotoxic, with cell viability values &gt;70%. Furthermore, the Chit30/AF-Pect sponges, obtained at chitosan:pectin weight ratio of 5:1, exhibit bactericidal activity against Escherichia coli BIM B-984 G, Pseudomonas aeruginosa BIM B-807 G, Staphylococcus aureus BIM B-1841, and slightly inhibit the growth of Enterococcus faecalis BIM B-1530 G. These findings indicate that the obtained Chit30/AF-Pect sponges can be used to create wound dressings for wound healing applications.

Edible Paper Sheets from Alternanthera philoxeroides and Hypophthalmichthys molitrix: Smart Biomass Valorization

Alternanthera philoxeroides and Hypophthalmichthys molitrix offer significant nutritional benefits. This study evaluates the proximate composition, amino acid profile, GC-MS analysis, FT-IR spectroscopy, SEM and EDX, and color values of edible paper sheets (EPSs) derived from Alternanthera philoxeroides incorporating different levels of Hypophthalmichthys molitrix flesh. The protein content in the EPSs varied based on fish flesh incorporation, peaking at 52.66% in Ap100/Hm300 (Non-boil). Protein and carbohydrate contents showed an inverse correlation across EPSs, with the highest carbohydrate content of 60.89% in sample Ap400/Hm0 (Boil). Lipid content was also found to correlate with H. molitrix flesh content in EPSs, ranging from 1.59% to 18.41%. Amino acid analysis identified 11 types, with methionine as the most prevalent, followed by leucine, phenylalanine, and lysine. GC-MS analysis revealed 51 bioactive compounds, including carbonic acid, hentriacontane, and various fatty acids. FT-IR analysis showed characteristic bonds, while color analysis displayed L* values ranging from 24.37 to 30.97. SEM analyses depicted the microstructure, surface view, and elemental composition of the EPSs, and EDX showed an abundance of Ca, N, K, O, C, Mg, Na, P, Cl, Mn, and Fe. Therefore, EPSs prepared from A. philoxeroides and H. molitrix could offer a promising approach for effectively utilizing aquatic biomass and providing both plant and animal nutrients to consumers.

The Impact of Adding Dioxane Derivatives to Polyurethane Structures on their Performance and Degradation in the Environment

AbstractThe novel dioxane-polyether polyurethanes underwent a 12-month outdoor soil burial test to look into how they would degrade in a natural setting. The structure, thermal properties, surface features, and mechanical strength of the polyurethane films were compared. The initial chemical structure and subsequent chemical alterations were identified using FTIR spectroscopy. The polyurethane samples were less thermally stable throughout the duration of the soil burial test, according to TG/DTG curves. According to all findings, polyurethanes containing 1,3-dioxane-5,5-dimethanol exhibit excellent physical characteristics and mild degradation levels after being buried in soil for a year. These polyether urethanes can break down if the rigid domain structure is exposed to moisture and if microorganisms can spread into the polymer matrix. The physical properties, surface features, and degradation of polyether polyurethanes can be improved by varying the molar ratios of the hard segment components and the dioxane derivative structures.

Exploring Zinc Vanadate/Cobalt Oxide (Zn3(VO4)2/CoO) Nano Hybrid Composites as Supercapacitors for Sustainable Energy Storage Applications

A hybrid nanocomposite of zinc vanadate/cobalt oxide (Zn3(VO4)2/CoO at ratios of 90/10, 80/20, 50/50, and 20/80) was obtained using a simple co-precipitation technique, then calcinated for 4 hrs at 400°C. The surface morphological, vibrational, and structural characteristics of the synthesized hybrid nanocomposites were examined. According to the structural study, orthorhombic Zn3(VO4)2 and cubic crystal systems of CoO with space groups Fm-3m were formed. The functional groups of Zinc Vanadate/Cobalt Oxide were examined using FTIR spectroscopy. A scanning electron microscopy (SEM) study reveals the nanosheets structures with the size of 200 nm. The chemical composition and formation of the Zn3(VO4)2/CoO composites were confirmed using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The electrochemical performance of the hybrid nanocomposites was assessed through CV, GCD and impedance analysis. Among the nanocomposites, Zn3(VO4)2/CoO 80/20 exhibited a high specific capacitance value of 564.36 Fg-1 and retaining 97% of their total capacitance even after 3000 cycles.

Investigation of half-sandwich platinum group metal complexes featuring benzamide derived ligands and their diazido derivatives: Synthesis, molecular structures and biological studies

Benzamide derivative ligands L1 and L2 were synthesized and reactions of these ligands with metal dimers [Ru(p-cymene)Cl2]2 and [Cp*MCl2]2 (M = Rh/Ir) yielded a series of “piano-stool”-type neutral mononuclear metal-arene-benzamide complexes (1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6) of the general formula [(arene)M(κ1(N)L)Cl2] (where arene = p-cymene and Cp*, M = Ru, Rh and Ir and L = L1 and L2). Further treatment of the neutral complexes 1-6 with sodium azide in methanol resulted in the formation of diazido complexes 7, 8, 9 and 10. Crystallographic studies of the complexes 2, 5, 7 and 8 revealed the ligands coordinated to the metal centers through the nitrogen atom of thiazole/thiadiazole ring in a monodentate fashion. The complexes were characterized by NMR, FTIR, UV-Vis spectroscopy and ESI-mass spectrometry. All the ligands and metal complexes were screened for their antibacterial and antioxidant activities. Interestingly, it was observed that only the diazido complexes were active towards the Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus bacterial strains, with activities more than the standard. Antioxidant study revealed that the compounds possess insignificant activities.

Soil organic matter components and characteristics of forest soil in spruce and sycamore plantations in the temperate region

The stability of soil organic matter (SOM) that governs soil organic carbon (SOC) storage depends on its characteristics and components, but little is known about how tree species in forest ecosystems affect SOM components and characteristics. In this study, we used FTIR spectroscopy to investigate plantations of two ecologically and economically significant tree species—namely, spruce (Picea spp.) and sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus)—in order to determine how the different litter inputs and root-microbe interactions of these two plantations affect the functional groups, components, and characteristics of their SOM. Soil samples were taken from the topsoil (0–10 cm) and subsoil (10–20 cm). In the 0–10 cm soil depth, the SOM's hydrophilic, hydrophobic, and aromatic components differ between the spruce and sycamore plantations. The hydrophobic components constitute the primary constituents of the SOM of the two forest plantations, in contrast to the expected predominance of the hydrophilic component of the SOM. Also, the high hydrophobicity (hydrophilic/hydrophobic) in the subsoil of the spruce plantations was attributed to a decrease in hydrophilic components and a subsequent increase in hydrophobic components of the SOM. The sycamore plantations exhibited a higher SOM aromaticity and a greater degree of decomposition than the spruce plantations. The aforementioned distinctions emphasise the contrasting mechanisms involved in transforming and turnover of the two-tree species' soil organic matter (SOM).