Prominent Peak Research Articles

Magneto-dielectric effect in corundum-type oxide: Co4NbTaO9

We have thoroughly studied the structure, magnetic and magneto-dielectric properties of Co4NbTaO9 along with the isotypic Co4Nb2O9, Co4Nb1.5Ta0.5O9 and Co3NiNb2O9 phases, which are noncollinear antiferromagnet with trigonal structure. The transition temperature decreases with Ta substitution, whereas it increases with Ni substitution. In the absence of external magnetic fields, no dielectric anomaly is noticed below the magnetic transition temperature. However, prominent dielectric peak appears under external magnetic fields and the peak magnitude increases with increasing field strengths, depicting magneto-dielectric and magnetoelectric phenomena. We describe the magnetic field induced dielectric effect due to the spin-flop magnetic transition.

Effect of oxidation times on Gas sensitivity and characterization for (In2O3) thin films produced by thermal evaporated

Abstract thin films were prepared by the thermal evaporated method of Indium metal on a glass substrate, then conventional oxides in the presence of O2 at 400° C. The indium thin films have a thickness of 400nm and different oxidation times (60, 90, and 120) min. The findings from X-ray diffraction (XRD) pertain to the polycrystalline phase. The films (In2O3) had a polycrystalline cubic structure The films have prominent peaks that match (112), (222), and (004) planes at 21.448°, 30.515, 35.38 in the order mentioned. Change with increasing oxidation time each of The amounts The text refers to the number of crystallites, the dimensions of the crystallites, the density of dislocations inside the crystallites, and the level of microstrain present in the crystallites. The UV-vis spectra were used to investigate the optical characteristics such as(The transmittance and absorbance spectra, the absorption coefficient (α) and from there, the energy gap was computed. with different times are 3.1,3.3 and 3.05 eV, respectively. The film’s gas sensing performance approaches CO2 Gas measurements were made at many oxidation times. The performance of the gas detecting system was found to have significantly improved.

First-principles calculations to investigate Electronic, Optical, Mechanical, and transport characteristics of novel A2BAuCl6 (A = K/Rb/Cs; B = Sc/Y)

By utilizing FP-LAPW, the structure, electronic, optical, mechanical and Transport characteristic of A2BAuCl6 (A = K/Rb/Cs, B = Sc/Y) were examined by using DFT. The analysis to the band structure plot of the Halide double perovskites (HDP’s) being studied indicated the existence of indirect band-gaps. The compounds A2BAuCl6 (A = K/Rb/Cs, B = Sc/Y) exhibit anisotropic properties, except one compound as seen by their respective shear anisotropy readings of 0.629, 0.532, 1.006, 0.682, 0.803 and 0.977. The materials have inherent ductility, as indicated by their calculated Poisson’s ratios in the range of 0.30 to 0.35. The examined (HDP’s) materials appear to possess indirect band-gaps, as indicated by the band structure plots. The functional inorganic perovskites A2BAuCl6 (A = K/Rb/Cs, B = Sc/Y) haven’t similar band-gap values, as determined using the TB-mBJ (modified Becke Johnson) and TB-mBJ + Soc (Spin orbital coupling) assumptions. The visible and ultraviolet domain have prominent peaks, suggesting potential applications of the compounds in solar cells. Moreover, examination of additional optical characteristics such as reflectivity, conductivity, electron energy loss, and absorption coefficients suggest that it possesses the inherent features of a semiconductor. The maximum figure of merit for all the student compounds is above 0.74. The simulated output forms the foundation for A2BAuCl6 (A = K/Rb/Cs, B = Sc/Y) and are of practical importance for multijunction solar cells.

Analysis of Voice Quality in Children With Smith-Magenis Syndrome

The production of phonation involves very complex processes, linked to the physical, clinical, and emotional state of the speaker. Thus, in populations with neurological diseases, it is possible to find the imprint in the voice signal left by the deterioration of certain cortical areas or part of the neurocognitive mechanisms that are involved in speech. In previous works, the authors determined the relationship between the pathological characteristics of the voice of the speakers with Smith-Magenis syndrome (SMS) and a lower value in the Cepstral Peak Prominence (CPP) with respect to normative speakers. They also described the presence of subharmonics in their voices. ObjectivesThe present study aims to verify whether both characteristics can be used simultaneously to differentiate SMS voices from neurotypical voices. It will also be analyzed if there is variation in the trajectory of the formants coinciding with the subharmonics. MethodsTo do this, the effect of subharmonics in the voices of 12 SMS individuals was isolated to see if they were responsible for the lower CPP values. An evaluation of the CPP was also carried out in the areas of subharmonic presence, from the peak that reflected the value of f0, rather than using the most prominent peak. This offered us a baseline for the CPP value in the presence of subharmonics. It was checked if changes in the formants occurred synchronously to the appearance of those subharmonics. If so, the muscles that control the position of the jaw and tongue would be affected at the same time as the larynx. The latter was difficult to observe since the samples were very short. A comparison of phonatory performance of a sustained /a/ between a normotypical group and non-normotypical group of children was carried out. These groups were balanced and matched in age and gender. The Spanish Association of Smith-Magenis Syndrome (ASME) provides almost 20% of the population in Spain. ResultsThe CPP allows differentiating between normative speakers and those wit SMS, even when isolating the effect of subharmonics. ConclusionsThe CPP is a robust index for determining the degree of dysphonia. It makes possible to differentiate pathological voices from healthy voices even when subharmonics are present. The presence of subharmonics is a characteristic of voices of SMS individuals and is not present in healthy ones. Both indexes can be used simultaneously to differentiate SMS voices from neurotypical voices.

Asymmetric Dust Accumulation of the PDS 70 Disk Revealed by ALMA Band 3 Observations

The PDS 70 system, hosting two planets within its disk, is an ideal target for examining the effect of planets on dust accumulation, growth, and ongoing planet formation. Here, we present high-resolution (0.″07 = 8 au) dust continuum observations of the PDS 70 disk in ALMA Band 3 (3.0 mm). While previous Band 7 observations showed a dust ring with slight asymmetry, our Band 3 observations reveal a more prominent asymmetric peak in the northwest direction, where the intensity is 2.5 times higher than in other directions and the spectral index is at the local minimum with α SED ∼ 2.2. This indicates that a substantial amount of dust is accumulated both radially and azimuthally in the peak. We also detect point-source emission around the stellar position in the Band 3 image, which is likely to be free–free emission. We constrain the eccentricity of the outer ring to be e < 0.04 from the position of the central star and the outer ring. From the comparison with numerical simulations, we constrain the mass of PDS 70c to be less than 4.9 MJupiter if the gas turbulence strength α turb = 10−3. Then, we discuss the formation mechanism of the disk structures and further planet formation scenarios in the disk.

Investigation on the structural, optical, photoluminescence, and antimicrobial properties of charged surfactants (CTAB, SDS), and uncharged surfactant (PEG) assisted ZnO/MgO nanocomposites

Different surfactants (CTAB, SDS, and PEG) assisted ZnO/MgO nanocomposites were synthesized by wet chemical route. The hexagonal/cubic system of ZnO/MgO was obtained in the XRD patterns for all synthesized composites.Particle morphologies were tuned in each surfactant in the SEM studies. The synthesized composites related entities were traced by EDX analysis. Narrow band gaps were found in the optical absorption spectra of the composites. Prominent visible emission peaks were detected at 680 nm in all synthesized ZnO/MgO from the PL measurement.The antimicrobial activity of CTAB-assisted ZnO/MgO was analysed against E.coli and S. aureus, and its results were discussed in detail.

Synthesis and tunable luminescence properties of SrY₂O₄:Dy³⁺ phosphors

In this study, SrY₂O₄:Dy³⁺ phosphors were synthesized using the solid-state reaction method and evaluated after heat treatment at 1300 °C for 5 h. XRD analysis confirmed the orthorhombic structure of SrY₂O₄ with residual Y₂O₃ present. The addition of Dy³⁺ ions caused lattice expansion, impacting grain size and crystallinity. SEM images showed that the phosphor particles had irregular shapes with minimal size variation, although they tended to agglomerate due to high-temperature heat treatment. Optical analysis revealed significant absorption and emission peaks, with a strong excitation band in the 200–306 nm range and prominent sharp peaks in the 306–480 nm range, particularly at a 0.5 mol% doping concentration. Emission spectra indicated the highest intensity at 0.5 mol% Dy³⁺ concentration, with intensity decreasing due to concentration quenching at higher levels. Thermal stability tests showed peak emission intensity at 70 °C, with stability maintained up to 190 °C before notable thermal quenching. Chromaticity coordinates remained within the warm white region at both temperatures. This study provides detailed insights into the effects of Dy³⁺ doping on the structural, optical, and thermal properties of SrY₂O₄ phosphors. Compared to previous studies on rare-earth-doped SrY₂O₄ phosphors, this work is the first to systematically explore the substitution of Y³⁺ ions with Dy³⁺ ions until full replacement. The study not only confirmed that the highest emission intensity occurs at 0.5 mol% Dy³⁺ concentration, but also demonstrated that Dy³⁺-doped SrY₂O₄ phosphors exhibit excellent thermal stability, with emission stability maintained below 150 °C. These findings expand the potential applications of Dy³⁺-doped SrY₂O₄ phosphors, particularly in high-temperature environments and solid-state lighting.

Green synthesis of carbon dots nanoparticles from edible swiftlet nest and evaluation of their antioxidant activity

Edible swiftlet nest (ESN) confers various health benefits to humans, including immune system enhancement, anti-inflammatory properties, bone strengthening, and antioxidative effect. ESN is notably rich in protein and minerals, with its proteins serving as non-enzymatic antioxidants capable of binding free radicals. However, the antioxidant capacity of ESN is comparatively lower than that of other free radical scavengers, such as carbon dots nanoparticles (CNPs). CNPs features charged ligands on their surface that act as electron donors for free radical binding. The presence of the carbon chain forming proteins in ESN suggests their potential as the primary source for CNPs formation. The enhancement of hydroxyl groups and delocalized electrons is imperative for enhancing the antioxidant activity of ESN. This study aims to enhance the antioxidant activity of ESN by converting it into CNPs nanoparticles. The results demonstrated the effective synthesis of CNPs from the ESN solution using microwave methods. This was evidenced by XRD patterns indicating CNPs formation, and an average particle size of 4.86 nm as indicated by TEM analysis. The optimal microwave heating duration of 30 min yielded CNPs with a prominent emission spectrum peak at 425 nm and significantly high intensity. Absorbance data revealed the presence of C=C bonds, consistent with aromatic CNPs bonds observed in FTIR studies. CNPs possessed hydroxyl and carboxyl linkages, suggesting their potential as antioxidants. The percent inhibition results indicated that CNPs exhibited a substantial percentage (62.5%) at a concentration of 50 mg ml−1. The free radical scavenging activity of the CNPs significantly elevated compared to ESN.

Effect Of Annealing Temperature On The Optical And Structural Properties Of Zinc-Doped Cd2SnO4 Thin Films Prepared By Dip-Coating Method

As demand for solar PV modules steadily increases studies on cheaper alternative TCO materials, with low resistivity and high transmittances in the visible spectrum to replace ITO are been undertaken. Among TCO materials considered as alternative to Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) is Cd2SnO4, owing to its availability in large quantities at relatively lower costs. Studies on optical properties of N2 and F2 doped Cd2SnO4 films have revealed increased transmittance 99%, and reduced band gap 3.3 eV. On the other hand Fe doped films have been observed to exhibit higher refractive indices, extinction and absorption coefficients with lower transmittance and optical band gap. Although studies have been carried out on Zinc doped Cd2SnO4 films, the effect of annealing temperature on the properties of the films have not been reported. This study investigated the effect of annealing temperature on the optical and structural properties of Zinc-doped Cd2SnO4 films. Thin films of Zincdoped Cd2SnO4 were prepared by mixing 0.1 M Cadmium Acetate with 0.1 M Tin II Chloride in ratio 1:1 to prepare Cd2SnO4 which was doped with 0.1 M Zinc Nitrate then dip-coated on clean glass substrates. The coated substrates were dried at room temperature and annealed in air the films annealed at 350 o C, 400 o C and 450 o C for 90 minutes Optical transmittance and reflectance were measured in wavelength range 200-1200 nm and with the results: prominent XRD peak oriented in the (2 0 0) direction, transmittance of 78.7% at 700 nm wavelength, absorption coefficient of 3.891 - 5.591 x 104 cm-1 , extinction coefficient of 0.1852 - 0.2126, refractive indices of 1.983-2.121 at 588 nm wavelength and band gap values range 3.45-3.65 eV. Annealing was observed to reduce refractive index and does not affect transmittance therefore doesn’t enhance suitability of films as TCO materials for Photovoltaic applications.

Molecular simulation using transfer-learned potentials for the disordered nanoscale structure of nitrogen-doped nanoporous carbons

Machine learning (ML)-based molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of the formation of a class of N-doped nanoporous carbons are performed to assess their disordered partially graphitized nanoscale structure. The study is motivated by the effectiveness of so-called nitrogen assembly carbons (NACs) for catalysis applications. Benchmark simulations for pure-C disordered graphitic systems reveal the importance of reliably capturing the vdW component of the potentials in order to accurately describe the tendency for layering of disordered graphene-like sheets. In our modeling, this is achieved by a transfer learning strategy incorporating features of the energetics from the optB88-vdW DFT functional into potentials initially trained with a less expensive functional, thereby providing a superior description of the pure-C systems. Generation from MD simulations of realistic partially graphitized structures is significantly more challenging for N-doped versus for pure C systems. However, such structures are achieved by a tailored MD simulation protocol mimicking the experimental synthesis process and in particular incorporating an annealing and subsequent quenching stages. Simulated PXRD patterns effectively reproduce the features of experimental observations for NACs, including the appearance of a prominent but broad (002) peak at around 25∘, and the development of another weaker feature associated with in-layer ordering of mixed C-N graphene-like sheets.

Photoresponse enhanced CsPbBr3 quantum dots quantum-confined in mesoporous PCN-600 single crystal microwires

In this work, the CsPbBr3 quantum dots (QDs) are encapsulated into the mesoporous iron-based metal-organic framework (PCN-600) by using a two-step solvothermal method. The success formation of CsPbBr3@PCN-600 composite is confirmed via SEM, TEM, XRD, FTIR, EDS and other measurements. Besides, the characterization of fluorescence lifetime of CsPbBr3@PCN-600 composite reveals the presence of the electron transfer between PCN-600 and CsPbBr3 QDs. Especially, CsPbBr3@PCN-600 exhibits a prominent emission peak at 473 nm due to the quantum confinement effect, and the photoluminescence quantum yield of CsPbBr3 QDs protected by the mesoporous PCN-600 increases to 71% compared to 52% of the pristine CsPbBr3 QDs. Also, the protection of CsPbBr3 QDs by the PCN-600 channel enhances the luminescence stability, thermal stability and blue-light stability of CsPbBr3. In fact, under light illumination, the photogenerated carriers from the encapsulated CsPbBr3 QDs could be captured by catalytically active sites on the inner surface of the PCN-600 channel. This charge capture effect can increase the photocurrent and implies much effective separation of electron-hole pairs of the CsPbBr3@PCN-600 composite. These results make this composite a promising candidate for high-performance photoelectronic devices.

The impact of plasma-activated water on the process of nickel bioremediation by Neowestiellopsis persica A1387

Cyanobacteria provide an economical, feasible, and environmentally friendly solution for heavy metal removal. In addition, plasma can facilitate the removal of heavy metals across various time frames. In this study, we applied plasma-activated water (PAW) to prepare Neowestiellopsis persica A1387 strain medium culture for 0, 10, 15, and 20 min via an Atmospheric Cold Plasma Jet device (ACPJ-17A). Nickel removal efficiency was evaluated after 48 hours of cultivation under controlled conditions at 0, 10, 30, 60, and 90 min. Further investigation was performed through FTIR, GC-MS, and XRD techniques. Statistical analysis of ANOVA and Tukey's test indicated that the samples treated for 15 min had the highest biomass dry weight, polysaccharide content, and nickel removal rate (p ≤ 0.05). The GC-MS analysis presented elevated concentrations of ethanol, 1,3-dimethylbenzene, acetic acid, 3-methylbutyl ester, aromatic chemicals, 2-methyl-1-propanol, and 3-octen-2-ol in all samples treated with plasma. The functional group analysis using the FT-IR approach showed increased peak intensities with more extended treatment periods, indicating the addition of methyl, methylene, and hydroxyl groups to the cyanobacterium cell wall. Furthermore, a peak at 468 cm⁻¹ wavelength was observed, correlating to the Ni-O stretching mode after absorption of Ni on the cyanobacterium surface. The XRD data exhibited prominent peaks in all diffraction patterns angles below 20 degrees, suggesting the presence of amorphous and non-crystalline chemical structures within the cyanobacterial structures. The peak intensity increased with longer treatment durations. The 15-min plasma treatment optimized Ni removal, but the efficiency decreased with prolonged exposure due to adverse effects such as increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production.

EFFECTS OF SYNTHESIS TEMPERATURE ON THE STRUCTURAL AND OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF CaAl2O4: Eu2+, Dy3+NANOPARTICLES

Calcium aluminate phosphor nanomaterials co-doped with europium and dysprosium (CaAl2O4: Eu2+, Dy3+) were prepared using a facile solution combustion technique. The structural and optical properties were investigated. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) results confirmed the presence of the monoclinic phase in all the samples, with few impurity phases in the samples synthesized at 300°C and 400°C. The Fourier-transform infrared analysis gave the expected chemical combustion results of the final product with few traces of Ca3Al2O6 impurities at low and very high synthesis temperatures. The XRD patterns displayed diffraction angles of the major peaks shifting to higher 2 theta as the synthesis temperature increased. This is attributed to an increase in particle sizes, which led to an increase in lattice parameters. The intensity of the prominent peak increased up to 500°C due to improved crystal quality. The crystallite sizes of the as-prepared samples were determined using the Debye-Scherrer equation. It was noted that there is variation in the crystallite sizes with synthesis temperature. The UV-Vis graph shows that absorption edges also shifted to lower wavelengths with an increase in synthesis temperature. It was noted that the band gap increased with an increase in synthesis temperature up to 500°C, but at temperature of 1000°C, the band gap was observed todecrease. Scanning electron microscope micrographs showed that the samples had irregular shapes with pores and cracks. The study provides a simple route to synthesize CaAl2O4: Eu2+, Dy3+ phosphors with optimum synthesis temperature, producing the most crystalline sample for use in lighting devices.

Role of growth temperature on microstructural and electronic properties of rapid thermally grown MoTe2 thin film for infrared detection

In the field of electronic and optoelectronic applications, two-dimensional materials are found to be promising candidates for futuristic devices. For the detection of infrared (IR) light, MoTe2possesses an appropriate bandgap for which p-MoTe2/n-Si heterojunctions are well suited for photodetectors. In this study, a rapid thermal technique is used to grow MoTe2thin films on silicon (Si) substrates. Molybdenum (Mo) thin films are deposited using a sputtering system on the Si substrate and tellurium (Te) film is deposited on the Mo film by a thermal evaporation technique. The substrates with Mo/Te thin films are kept in a face-to-face manner inside the rapid thermal-processing furnace. The growth is carried out at a base pressure of 2 torr with a flow of 160 sccm of argon gas at different temperatures ranging from 400 °C to 700 °C. The x-ray diffraction peaks appear around 2θ= 12.8°, 25.5°, 39.2°, and 53.2° corresponding to (002), (004), (006), and (008) orientation of a hexagonal 2H-MoTe2structure. The characteristic Raman peaks of MoTe2, observed at ∼119 cm-1and ∼172 cm-1, correspond to the in-plane E1gand out-of-plane A1gmodes of MoTe2, whereas the prominent peaks of the in-plane E12gmode at ∼234 cm-1and the out-of-plane B12gmode at ∼289 cm-1are also observed. Root mean square (RMS) roughness is found to increase with increasing growth temperature. The bandgap of MoTe2is calculated using a Tauc plot and is found to be 0.90 eV. Electrical characterizations are carried out using current-voltage and current-time measurement, where the maximum responsivity and detectivity are found to be 127.37 mA W-1and 85.21 × 107Jones for a growth temperature of 600 °C and an IR wavelength illumination of 1060 nm.

Investigating the impact of shear and bulk viscosity on the damping of confined acoustic modes in phononic crystal sensors

Phononic crystal (PnC) sensors are recognized for their capability to control acoustic wave propagation through periodic structures, presenting considerable potential across various applications. Despite advancements, the effects of fluid viscosity on PnC performance remain intricate and inadequately understood. This study theoretically investigates the influence of shear (dynamic) and bulk viscosity on acoustic wave damping in defective one-dimensional phononic crystal (1D PnC) sensors designed for detecting liquid analytes. Acetic acid with varying viscosities is considered to fill a cavity layer intermediated by a multilayer stack of lead and epoxy. The effects of dynamic and bulk viscosity on the resonance characteristics of the defective mode were analyzed. Numerical results reveal that increased dynamic viscosity leads to substantial broadening and decreased intensity of resonance peaks, accompanied by a shift to higher frequencies due to enhanced elastic wave attenuation and damping. At low dynamic viscosity (η = 0.2 ηd), numerous resonance peaks with varying intensities are observed. However, at higher viscosities (η = 2.0 ηd to η = 10.0 ηd), only one prominent peak appears in the spectrum. The intensity of this resonant peak starts at 98% for η = 2 ηd and decreases to 58.8% as the dynamic viscosity increases to η = 10 ηd. Additionally, the combined effect of dynamic and bulk viscosity introduces further damping, causing a strong shift of the resonance peak to higher frequencies, along with an increase in the full width at half maximum (FWHM) and a decrease in the quality factor (QF). These findings emphasize the necessity of incorporating both shear and bulk viscosity in the design of PnC sensors to enhance their sensitivity and accuracy in practical applications. This theoretical framework provides critical insights for optimizing sensor performance and bridging gaps between theoretical predictions and experimental observations, especially in 1D PnCs, offering potential solutions to challenges in real-world PnC sensor applications.

Tailoring Li-ion transport in hybrid biopolymer electrolyte from Maydis stigma for supercapattery applications

Corn Silk Biopolymer (CSBP), a potent biomaterial shed light on offering a sustainable solution to agrowaste and achieve waste valorization. Hybrid Biopolymer Electrolyte (HBPE) was synthesized using corn silk extract by simple solution casting strategy. Freshly synthesized [30wt % CSBP+70 wt % PVDF-Co-HFP] system exemplifies conductivity of 2.35 × 10−8 Scm−1 and while loading 3.2 v/v % LiClO4 salt, the conductivity increased to 4.05 × 10−4 Scm−1 at 25 °C. Structural studies indicate complex formation between the Li+ and polar groups within polymer-salt system. From FTIR studies, prominent peaks noticed at 1651 and 1628 cm−1 are due to the interaction of –C=O group with Li+ and 625 cm−1 for unbound ClO4−.Our best conducting system reveal Li+ ions (tion = 0.98) are the major charge carriers. Electrochemical behaviour from CV demonstrates a good reversibility with a specific capacity (Qs = 25.6 Cg-1) and specific capacitance (Csp = 10.67 Fg-1) at a scan rate of 1 mV s−1. Also, the relation between the peak current with different scan rates for CPL 2 system is estimated from the slope as b = 0.7 suggesting the extraordinary behavior of a hybrid battery and super capacitor offering a unique platform for the sustainable energy storage technology.

HYDROTHERMAL SYNTHESIS OF NITROGEN-DOPED CQDS OF RUBUS NIVEUS LEAVES FOR FLUORESCENT pH SENSING AND PHOTOCATALYTIC APPLICATIONS

The development of a fluorescent pH sensor and the treatment of wastewater with nanoparticles are both critical topics. The variation in pH impacts the morphology and subsequent properties of the nanoparticles, which are used for their utilization in various fields and the second one gives a better treatment approach for industrial waste entities. The present study examines the effects of these variables on the biologically produced nitrogen-doped carbon quantum dots (NCQDs). Hydrothermal process was performed for the synthesis of the same by using Rubus-niveus leaf extract as a precursor. The UV-Vis spectroscopy analysis shows absorption spectra in the wide range of 200 nm to 800 nm and shows prominent peaks at 236 nm and 392 nm, respectively. Further, the direct energy band gap of 3.65eV was analysed for NCQDs. The SEM image shows flower-shaped particles, and FT-IR analysis indicates the existence of amide, CHO, N-H, and C-N functional groups. XRD pattern showed that the surface morphology of NCQDs is amorphous in nature. A good response was found in the variation of fluorescence intensity with the pH values, confirming the possibility of NCQDs serving as pH sensors. Rhodamine-B (Rh-B) dye's reaction kinetics was revealed for the purpose of analyzing the potential of NCQDs for the degradation of commercial dyes and found to be followed by pseudo-first order kinetics with the correlation coefficient of 0.80.

Exploring the structure and dynamics of soft and hard cuticle of Bombyx mori using solid-state NMR techniques

This study conducts a comprehensive analysis and comparison of Bombyx mori cuticles across different developmental stages, ranging from larval to adult, utilizing advanced solid-state NMR techniques. The primary objective is to elucidate the underlying reasons for the contrasting hardness of adult cuticles and softness of larval cuticles. Notably, PXRD analysis reveals a prominent broad peak at 19.34°, indicating the predominantly amorphous nature of both larval and adult cuticles. Analysis of 13C CP-MAS SSNMR spectra highlights an elevated proportion of phenoxy carbon in adult cuticles (6.77%) compared to larval cuticles (1.24%). Furthermore, a distinctive resonance line at 144 ppm is exclusively observed in adult cuticles, due to catechols, suggesting potential biochemical pathway variations during development. Significant variations in the primary components of 13C chemical shift anisotropy (CSA) tensors for aliphatic carbons of amino acids, catechols, and lipids between adult and larval cuticles indicate alterations in electronic environments. Additionally, the shorter spin–lattice relaxation time of carbon nuclei in larval cuticles compared to adult cuticles implies slower motional dynamics with enhanced degree of sclerotization in adults. By investigating the internal structure and dynamics of cuticles, this research not only contributes to biomimetic material development but also enhances our understanding of structural changes across different developmental stages of B. mori.

Fortification of cotton fabrics with dithiocarbamate-metal complexes to prepare durable antimicrobial fabrics

In this study, a simple and practical method is reported to fortify cotton fabrics with dithiocarbamate (DTC-Ct), dithiocarbamate-Cu (Cu-Ct) and dithiocarbamate-Ni (Ni-Ct) complexes via impregnation process to prepare durable antimicrobial fabrics. FTIR analysis indicates the presence of characteristic peaks corresponding to cellulose functional groups in the fortified fabrics. SEM micrographs illustrate the transition from a closed-packed, smooth surface in untreated cotton to a rough texture enveloped with metal complexes in fortified fabrics. EDX images confirm successful impregnation, with prominent peaks due to C and O in the untreated cotton, while additional signals of S, Cu, and Ni were observed in the fortified samples. TEM images revealed irregular, spherical nanoparticles within fortified cotton, compared with the rough surface of untreated fabrics. The average size of the treated cotton fabric fell within the range of 2.20–7.32, 3.83–28.50, and 2.70–7.32 nm for DTC-Ct, Cu-Ct and Ni-Ct, respectively. Untreated cotton fabric exhibits no inherent antibacterial properties, whereas fortified cotton fabrics demonstrate enhanced antibacterial efficacy against strains including Salmonella typhi, Enterobacter aerogenes, Shigella dysenteriae, and Klebsiella pneumonia, with Ni-Ct-fortified cotton proving most effective. Furthermore, the durability of additive adhesion to cotton fabrics was evaluated through washing tests, revealing robust adherence even after multiple cycles, with sustained antimicrobial inhibition observed for up to five wash cycles.

Biomedical applications of terbium oxide nanoparticles by Couroupita guianensis aubl leaves extract: A greener approach

Couroupita guianensis aubl (CGA) is a plant known for its therapeutic characteristics and extensively used in biomedicine. This paper presents a method for synthesizing terbium oxide (Tb2O3) nanoparticles (NPs) utilizing the leaves extract of CGA which is sustainable and environmentally friendly. The practical synthesis of Tb2O3 NPs was validated using UV–vis analysis, revealing a prominent peak at 246 nm and the calculated band gap value of 3.02 eV. The existence of numerous functional groups and molecular bonding interactions in the Tb2O3 NPs was confirmed using FTIR spectrum analysis. In addition, the XRD examination confirmed that the nanoparticles had a crystalline structure with dimensions of 27.3 nm. The TEM imaging revealed the particle size of around 5.63 nm. The manufactured Tb2O3 NPs were analysed for anticancer capabilities against human MCF-7 cancer cell lines. Overall, our study emphasizes the ability of green-produced Tb2O3 NPs to be versatile agents with antidiabetic, antioxidant, and anticancer effects. These nanoparticles are potentially used in biomedical applications, providing long-lasting solutions to various health-related problems.