Morphological Properties Research Articles

Exploring the Unique Properties and Superior Schwann Cell Guiding Abilities of Spider Egg Sac Silk.

Spider silk (SPSI) is a promising candidate for use as a filler material in nerve guidance conduits (NGCs), facilitating peripheral nerve regeneration by providing a scaffold for Schwann cells (SCs) and axonal growth. However, the specific properties of SPSI that contribute to its regenerative success remain unclear. In this study, the egg sac silk of Trichonephila (T.) inaurata is investigated, which contains two distinct fiber types: tubuliform (TU) and major ampullate (MA) silk. These fibers serve as models to derive material parameters governing SC migration on natural silk substrates, since they are produced by the same spider, yet exhibiting distinct composition and morphology. In this paper, detailed characterization of the fibers' material properties and in vitro evaluation of their SC-guiding performance were conducted. Live cell imaging revealed significantly enhanced SC mobility and directionality on TU silk compared to MA silk, which is remarkable, given the lack of studies on TU silk for nerve regeneration. Our results suggest that the distinct morphological and material properties of these fibers are critical to their nerve-guiding potential. These insights contribute to the optimization of NGC filler materials by identifying key parameters essential for effective nerve regeneration.

Mucin-Based Dual Cross-Linkable IPN Hydrogel Bioink for 3D Bioprinting and Cartilage Tissue Engineering.

The cartilage possesses limited regenerative capacity, necessitating advanced approaches for its repair. This study introduces a bioink designed for cartilage tissue engineering (TE) by incorporating ionically cross-linkable alginate into the photo-cross-linkable MuMA bioink, resulting in a double cross-linked interpenetrating network (IPN) hydrogel. Additionally, hyaluronic acid (HA), a natural component of cartilage and synovial fluid, was added to enhance the scaffold's properties. HA has been demonstrated to improve cartilage lubrication, regulate inflammation, promote cell proliferation, and support extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and regeneration, making it valuable for cartilage TE. Comprehensive experiments were conducted to assess morphology, swelling, degradation, mechanical and rheological properties, printability, and biocompatibility. Results indicated that the double cross-linked scaffolds comprising MuMA, alginate, and HA exhibited compressive moduli comparable to native cartilage, unlike single cross-linked variants. The double cross-linking also influenced degradation, water uptake, and porosity, contributing to the scaffold durability and stability for chondrocyte support. Biocompatibility tests with C28/I2 cells demonstrated the cell-supportive and chondrogenic potential of the bioink. This study establishes mucin as a versatile material for specialized cartilage tissue engineering applications.

A comparative study on the structural, chemical, morphological and electrochemical properties of α-MnO2, β-MnO2 and δ-MnO2 as cathode materials in aqueous zinc-ion batteries

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) are considered to be highly promising electrochemical energy storage device due to their affordability, inherent safety, large zinc resources, and optimal specific capacity. Among various cathode materials, manganese dioxide (MnO2) stands out for its high voltage, environmental benignity, and theoretical specific capacity. This study systematically investigates the phase formation and structural parameters of α-MnO2, β-MnO2, and δ-MnO2 synthesized via hydrothermal method, employing Rietveld refinement. FTIR and Raman spectroscopy confirms Mn-O and O-H bond formation. BET analysis reveals surface areas, and pore size distribution is calculated with BJH method. High-resolution XPS spectra exhibit a spin energy split of ~ 11.9 eV for Mn 2p confirming the presence of MnO2. Electrochemical studies shows an initial discharge capacities of 230.5, 188.74 and 263.30 mAh g− 1 at 0.1 A g− 1 for α-MnO2, β-MnO2 and δ-MnO2. The EIS spectra revealed the capacitive behaviour and electrode reaction kinetics where a RcT value of 484.14, 327.6, 162.5 Ω for α-MnO2, β-MnO2 and δ-MnO2. These study give insights into relation of various properties of MnO2 with electrochemical performance and its viability in grid storage applications.Graphical

Structure and Morphological Properties of Cobalt-Oxide-Based (Co3O4) Materials as Electrodes for Supercapacitors: A Brief Review

Over the past 15 years, there has been a significant increase in the search for environmentally friendly energy sources, and transition-metal-based energy storage devices are leading the way in these new technologies. Supercapacitors are attractive in this regard due to their superior energy storage capabilities. Electrode materials, which are crucial components of supercapacitors, such as cobalt-oxide-based electrodes, have great qualities for achieving high supercapacitor performance. This brief review presents some basic concepts and recent findings on cobalt-based materials used to fabricate electrodes for supercapacitors. The text also clarifies how morphological characteristics typically influence certain properties. The inner surface of the electrode exhibits several properties that change to provide it a great boost in specific capacitance and charge storage. Porous structures with defined pore sizes and shapes and high surface areas are important features for improving electrochemical properties. Finally, we present some perspectives for the development of cobalt-oxide-based supercapacitors, focusing on their structure and properties.

NiCo2O4/P,N‐doped Carbon with Engineered Interface to Improve the Rechargeability of Zn‐Air Batteries at High Energy Demands

The search for cost‐effective, high‐performance bifunctional catalysts for Zn‐air batteries (ZABs) requires extensive research into precious‐metal‐free materials. This study provides insight into the synergy between nickel cobaltite and P,N‐doped carbon modified through interface engineering by inducing oxygen vacancies in the spinel and non‐metallic heteroatoms in the carbon material. NiCo2O4 with various oxygen vacancy levels was synthesized via an ethylene glycol‐assisted solvothermal route. This resulted in significant changes in the structural and morphological properties, such as reduced crystallite size, lattice distortion, and increased oxygen vacancies, as observed from the physicochemical results. This was further verified by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM), which showed a homogeneous dispersion of nickel cobaltite nanorods on the carbonaceous matrix, along with an increased concentration of pyridinic nitrogen and the formation of P–N and P–C bonds, both of which enhance electrocatalytic activity. NiCo2O4DI/P,N‐C exhibited superior discharge polarization behavior, achieving power and current densities of 124.4 mW cm−2 and 215.8 mA cm−2. The catalyst presented excellent stability (up to 100 h), while Pt‐IrO2/C lasted near 21 h. These results demonstrate the great potential of tailoring surface defects and heteroatom doping via interface engineering, resulting in high‐performance precious‐metal‐free electrocatalysts for long‐lasting and high‐efficiency ZABs.

Infinite Organic Solid-Solution Semiconductors with Continuous Evolution in Film Morphology, Crystalline Lattice and Electrical Properties.

Constructing a solid solution is an effective strategy for regulating the properties of composite organic semiconductors. However, there presents significant challenges in fabrication and understanding of organic solid-solution semiconductors. In this study, infinite solid-solution semiconductors are successfully achieved by integrating rod-like organic molecules, thereby overcoming the limitations of current organic composite semiconductors. Within these solid solutions, one type of molecule are incorporated into the crystalline lattice of another through random substitution. The continuous evolution in film morphology, crystalline lattice parameters and physical properties are observed as component ratios vary, accompanying with changes in the growth behavior of films. Molecular-level intercalation is evidenced by Davydov splitting, photoluminescence spectroscopy, and optical absorption analyses. Moreover, the continuous variation in ionization potential is demonstrated through organic Schottky diodes. This advancement in organic solid solutions can not only satisfy diverse requirements for device fabrication but also facilitate novel designs in device architecture.

Effect of heat-moisture treatment on structural, morphological, thermal, and physicochemical properties of non-conventional palmyra (Borassus flabellifer) starch

Effect of heat-moisture treatment on structural, morphological, thermal, and physicochemical properties of non-conventional palmyra (Borassus flabellifer) starch

A Systematic Study of the Structural Properties of Technical Lignins

Technical lignins are globally available and a sustainable feedstock. The unique properties of technical lignins suggest that these materials should have several industrial applications. The main proposal of this study is to evaluate the relationship between the structure and properties of two technical lignins. Morphological, chemical, physical, and thermal properties of sodium lignosulfonate (LGNa) and magnesium lignosulfonate (LGMg) were investigated. The results showed that a higher formation of intramolecular hydrogen bonds may occur in lignins with a higher content of phenolic hydroxyl groups, such as LGMg. As a result, an increase in the energy of hydrogen bonds in the lignosulfonate structure was observed, without significant change in the hydrogen bond distances. In addition, higher content of phenolic hydroxyl groups might also reduce lignosulfonates thermal stability. The combustion index value was three times higher for LGMg than for LGNa. The characterization study also revealed that phenolic hydroxyl groups influence the main properties of technical lignins and can be a determining factor when these lignosulfonates are used in industrial applications.

Superior charge storage performance of optimized nickel cobalt carbonate hydroxide hydrate nanostructures for supercapacitor application

In our work, we report superior electrochemical performance of optimized 3D nanostructured, nickel-cobalt carbonate hydroxide hydrate (Ni3 − xCox-CHH (1 ≤ x ≤ 2)) materials with flower like morphology synthesised via one-step hydrothermal methods. A Ni rich sample (x = 1) demonstrate better specific capacitance and the improvement is attributed to more oxygen deficient neighbourhood of Ni compared to that of Co. The structural, morphological and electronic properties of the samples were investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), field emission electron microscopy (FESEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). A comprehensive characterization was used for physicochemical properties-electrochemical performance correlation. Cyclic voltammetry (CV), Galvanostatic charging and discharging (GCD) shows the supercapacitor feature of the samples for the composition containing the highest nickel concentration achieving a specific capacitance of 1649.51 F g− 1 at a current density of 1 A g− 1 and excellent rate capability of 1610.30 F g− 1 at a high current density of 5 A g− 1. The sample shows high cyclic stability of 80.86% after 3000 cycles. Improved specific capacitance is attributed to the synergy effect of bimetallic transition metals as well as improved surface area of flower like morphology. These findings show that Ni2Co-CHH electrode material demonstrates great potential as electrode material for supercapacitor device fabrication.

Reaction duration impact on morphological, optical, structural and photoelectrochemical properties of hydrothermally synthesized TiO2 nanorods

Abstract This study involved the hydrothermal synthesis of vertically oriented TiO2 nanorods on FTO substrate. We examined the impact of reaction duration on morphological, optical, structural and photoelectrochemical properties. The formation of TiO2 nanorods was confirmed by the FESEM and AFM results. The formation of TiO2 tetragonal crystal structure with the rutile phase was shown by XRD spectra. The average absorbance of the samples falls as the reaction duration increases, according to UV–vis spectroscopy analysis. According to PEC experiments, each sample demonstrated a strong photocurrent density and good light response in various lighting situations. The highest possible photocurrent density of 91.8 μA/cm2 at 1.2 V vs Ag/AgCl was recorded from TiO2 film with the reaction duration of 5 h (T@5 h). The quick separation and transfer of photogenerated charge carriers was demonstrated, and this result was confirmed by EIS data.

Analysis of Morphologic and Rheological Properties of Hyaluronic Acid Gel Fillers to Body Contouring and Its Clinical Correlation

The demand for minimally invasive body contouring procedures, particularly for gluteal augmentation, has grown significantly. This study evaluates the morphologic and rheological properties of four commercially available hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers used for body contouring and explores their clinical implications. Critical parameters such as storage modulus (G′), loss modulus (G″), complex modulus (G*), and damping factor (tan δ) were measured using oscillatory rheological tests to assess each filler’s elasticity, viscosity, and viscoelastic profile. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was performed to analyze the microstructure of the fillers, providing insights into their microscopic architecture. The results showed differences in mechanical properties and viscoelastic behavior among the fillers. These variations suggest that the choice of filler may need to be tailored to specific body contouring requirements. Understanding these differences is crucial for achieving the best clinical results and patient satisfaction, helping professionals select the most suitable filler for each case.

Influence of Zinc Salt Types on Physicochemical and Antimicrobial Properties of Zinc Stannate Nanostructures

Zinc stannate (ZTO) NPs were prepared hydrothermal for 20 hours at 200 ᵒC. Structural, morphological, and optical properties of the ZTO NPs were studied for different zinc salt types (ZnSO4.7H2O, Zn(CH3COO)2.2H2O, and Zn (NO3)2•6H2O). The X-ray diffraction studies showed the crystalline nature with a spinel crystal structure of the ZTO nanostructure. FE-SEM image showed spherical morphology with the formation of a network of aggregates. The transmittance spectra were recorded at wavelengths ranging from 200 nm to 1200 nm. In particular, their optical band gap energies were 3.65, 3.85, and 3.8 eV for three zinc salts of ZTO (ZnSO4.7H2O, Zn(CH3COO)2.2H2O, Zn (NO3)2.6H2O), respectively. The MIC showed the ZTO NPs for zinc salt ZnSO4.7H2O in Volumetric dilution 3.125% and 12.5 was more effective against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus from another zinc salt of ZTO NPs. Inhibition Zone assessed ZTO NPs' antibacterial efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. With three concentrations of ZTO, the test showed that ZTO NPs have a stronger antibacterial activity against gram-positive bacteria than gram-negative bacteria. The antibacterial activity of zinc salt ZnSO4.7H2O was found to be 32 against Escherichia coli and 19 nm against Staphylococcus aurous, it was more effective than other zinc salt of ZTO NPs.

Study the effect of strontium and copper co-doping on the structural, morphological, and optoelectronic properties of nickel oxide thin films

Study the effect of strontium and copper co-doping on the structural, morphological, and optoelectronic properties of nickel oxide thin films

Fabrication and characterization of 3D-printed polymeric-based scaffold coated with bioceramic and naringin for a potential use in dental pulp regeneration (in vitro study).

3D-printed scaffolds loaded with healing directed agents could be employed for better treatment outcome in regenerative dentistry. The aim of this study was to fabricate and characterize simple 3D-printed poly lactic acid (PLA) scaffolds coated with nanoHydroxyapatite (nHA), Naringin (NAR), or their combination, and testing their morphological, chemical, mechanical, antibacterial, biocompatible and bioactive properties. Two variants pore sizes, 300 and 700 μm, of 3D-printed PLA disc scaffolds measuring (10 × 1 mm) were fabricated. These scaffolds were dip-coated with nHA, NAR, or both (nHA/NAR). Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FeSEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR), compressive and flexural strength testing was employed for optimizing pore size. Then, antibacterial activity against isolated Streptococcus mutans and Enterococcus faecalis, and cytotoxicity against normal human fibroblast were assessed. Additionally, appetite formation on scaffold surfaces was assessed after storage in simulated body fluid (SBF) for 14 days by further using FeSEM, EDX and XRD. FeSEM showed uniform structure for 3D-printed scaffolds in both pore size designs, and a consistent surface coating with nHA and NAR, which were further confirmed by EDX and FTIR. However, mechanical testing revealed statistical significant higher compressive and flexural strengths (p < .000) for 300 μm pore size scaffolds. Statistical significant antibacterial activities (p < .05) were also found with PLA/NAR, and PLA/nHA /NAR scaffolds in comparison with neat. The MTT assay revealed biocompatibility of PLA, nHA and NAR, with the combinations of the latter two working synergistically. Lastly, the formation of a calcium-phosphate appetite layer was recognized on the surface of PLA/nHA, PLA/nHA/NAR scaffold after being stored in SBF. 3D-printed, 300 μm pore size, PLA scaffold coated with a combination of nHA and NAR showed the best surface characteristics and improved mechanical, antibacterial and biocompatible properties for further investigation in regenerative studies.

Isolation and complete genome sequence of Citrobacter bacteriophage Ursula

The emergence of antibiotic resistance among bacterial pathogens poses a significant threat to aquaculture and public health. This study presents the characterization of a novel bacteriophage, designated as Ursula, specifically targeting Citrobacter, a prominent pathogen affecting fish populations. We isolated Ursula from aquatic environments during a search for novel phages active against fish pathogens, and conducted a comprehensive analysis of its morphological, genomic, and lytic properties. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that Ursula has a myovirus morphology, being a rather large T4-like phage. Genomic sequencing identified a double-stranded linear DNA genome of approximately 183 kb, containing unique genes associated with lytic activity and host recognition. This phage is related to other T4-like Citrobacter phages, being a new species.

Tuning Fork Scanning Electrochemical Cell Microscopy for Resolving Morphological and Redox Properties of Single Ag Nanowires.

We report a Tuning Fork Scanning Electrochemical Cell Microscopy (TF-SECCM) technique for providing morphological and electrochemical information on single redox-active entities. This new operation configuration of SECCM utilizes an electrolyte-filled nanopipette tip mounted onto a tuning fork force sensor to obtain a precise tip-sample distance control and surface morphological mapping capabilities. Redox activities of regions of interest (ROIs) can be investigated by scanning electrode potential by moving the nanopipette to any target regions while maintaining the constant force engagement of the tip with the sample. Using silver nanowires (Ag NWs) as a model system due to their extensive utilization in energy and sensing devices, TF-SECCM provides not only the topography of single Ag NWs but also their distinctive redox activities, catalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activities, and electrolyte anion adsorption/desorption features in contrast to NW bundles and a supporting substrate.

ENHANCING SOLAR CELL EFFICIENCY: A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY ON THE OPTO-ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES OF CUINALSE&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt; THIN FILMS AS AN ABSORBER LAYER

CIAS (CuInAlSe2) thin films were prepared by 1-step electrodeposition on ITO coated glass substrate by varying deposition potential to obtain low cost, uniform and compact crystallinity at room temperature. The 200ml solution has been prepared and operated at 0.55V to 0.95V deposition potentials. CIAS solution has been prepared at different molarity ratios varying from 0.1M to 1.0M solution and optimum results obtained at 0.5M molar solution. The results obtained from cyclic voltammetry reveals that quaternary compound having different reduction potential can be deposited in potential range 0.5V to 0.95V. XRD technique were used to study the structural, morphological properties of thin films that shows the strong evident of its crystalline nature having tetragonal pure phase with preferred orientation at (400) plane. The result showed that single phase having good stoichiometry can be produced in this potential range. The optical properties studied by ellipsometry technique revealed that the films are highly absorbing in visible and visible-infrared region by increasing deposition potential. The band gap calculation form absorption spectra were maintained at 1.11 to 1.32 eV which was excellent for good absorbing solar materials. Hall effect application van der pauw method used for electrical properties which show promising results for production of electricity by solar cells. The variation of deposition potential offers very effective change in band gap. Structural, morphological, electrical and optical properties were carried out to establish the suitability of thin films for solar cells fabrication.

Sol–gel biosynthesis and portrayal of nickel nanocores for biomaterial applications

ABSTRACT An eco-friendly biogenic method was developed for the green synthesis of nickel oxide (NiO) nanoparticles using plant extracts via the sol–gel method. Over recent decades, various nano-scale techniques have been advanced to design biosensors with high sensitivity, selectivity, and efficiency. Biomaterials consist of biological recognition elements and physical/chemical transducers, offering significant advantages in high throughput processing. The morphological, structural, and optical properties of NiO nanoparticles were analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-vis spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). XRD revealed a high-purity crystalline cubic structure, while UV-vis spectroscopy using the Tauc plot showed a blue shift in the band gap. FTIR confirmed the presence of NiO functional groups on the surface. Despite significant progress in biomaterials, challenges remain in improving the stability of such samples.

The effect of different solvents on the morphology and gas-sensitive properties of tungsten oxide nanoparticles

The effect of different solvents on the morphology and gas-sensitive properties of tungsten oxide nanoparticles

Lignin Reinforcement in Polybutylene Succinate Copolymers

This study investigated the valorization of industrial lignin for producing biodegradable polybutylene succinate (PBS)–lignin copolymers. PBS was blended with varying lignin contents (0–45 wt. %) and crosslinked/grafted using dicumyl peroxide (DCP). The preparation of the copolymers by reactive extrusion was successful, with mechanical, thermal, and morphological properties comprehensively analyzed. Lignin addition decreased tensile strength but improved stiffness (modulus) and thermal stability. Crosslinking with DCP improved the interfacial adhesion between PBS and lignin, resulting in better flexural performance at moderate lignin levels. Differential scanning calorimetry showed that lignin initially improved the crystallization temperature, but hindered it at higher concentrations due to its rigid, aromatic structure. Scanning electron microscopy analysis showed poor interfacial adhesion in PBS–lignin blends, but the surface morphology improved in crosslinked PBS–lignin copolymers, with less phase separation observed. An optimal lignin concentration appeared to depend on the property of interest. While 30% lignin provided the best improvement in flexural strength, 20% lignin offered a more balanced enhancement for most properties without the severe reduction in tensile strength observed at higher lignin contents.