Scanning Electron Microscopy Studies Research Articles

The development of chrome free chestnut and Tetrakis Hydroxymethyl Phosphonium Sulfate based Eco-benign combination tanning system

The replacement of the conventional chromium tanning system with an eco-benign tanning systems has received great attention owing to stringent environmental regulations. In this specific study, a chrome-free combination tanning system based on chestnut and tetrakis (hydroxymethyl) phosphonium sulfate (THPS) was developed and presented as an effective alternative cleaner tanning technology. Processing of the tanning trials were carried out varying the percentages of chestnut as a tannage, followed by THPS as a re-tannage for process optimization. The leathers obtained were characterized for their thermal stability, grain surface properties using a scanning electron microscope, physical strength characteristics, comfort, and organoleptic properties. Finally, the environmental impact of the tanning systems was assessed through the comparative analysis of their spent liquors. The chestnut-THPS combination system tanned leathers using 20 % chestnut followed by 2 % THPS resulted in maximum shrinkage temperature of 95OC. The hydrothermal stability of the leathers tanned using this combination tanning system were found to be better than those tanned using chestnut and THPS tanning systems alone, respectively. The strength and comfort properties of the leathers produced using the developed combination tanning system were found to be on par with or better than those of conventionally tanned leathers, and the scanning electron microscopic study depicted that the grain surface of the leathers produced were observed to be free of surface deposition. The environmental impact assessment showed that the combination tanning system used resulted in a significant reduction in TS, TDS, TSS, and BOD in the wastewater. This research article has attempted and established the use of chestnut-THPS-based combination tanning systems as an effective, eco-friendly alternative tanning process technology.

Removal of Calcium Hydroxide Medicament from the Apical Root Canal using Different Irrigation Methodologies: A Scanning Electron Microscopy Study

Introduction: To evaluate the efficiency of different irrigants and agitation techniques in the removal of calcium hydroxide Ca(OH)2 medicament from the root canal walls. Material and Methods: N=84 mandibular premolars were selected for this study. The root canal of these 84 premolars was cleaned up using the ProTaper rotary system up to the file size F3 and then filled with Ca(OH)2 medicament. For seven days, the root samples were maintained at 37o C and 100% relative humidity. The sample was divided into four groups (n=20 each) using random allocation employing different agitation methods: Group 1- MAF - Master Apical File, Group 2 - PUI - Passive Ultrasonic Irrigation, Group 3 - CB - Canal Brush, and Group 4 - FF - F File. Each group was further subdivided into two subgroups based on the specific chelating agent employed: (a) 10% Citric Acid and (b) 17% EDTA. Longitudinal bisection was performed in the apical (lower) third of the root structure. Further, an assessment was done using SEM (scanning electron microscopy) to study the elimination of Ca(OH)2. Kruskal- Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests were used for statistical analysis. Results: Groups 1 (MAF) and Group 3 (CB) showed a significant statistical difference (p<0.05) when compared to Group 2 (PUI) and Group 4 (FF). An insignificant difference (p>0.05) was seen between the performance of chelating agents (10% Citric Acid and 17% EDTA). Conclusion: Irrespective of the specific chelating agents employed, both the PUI (Passive Ultrasonic Irrigation) and FF (F File) agitation techniques exhibited superior efficacy in the removal of Ca(OH)2 medicament from the apical (lower) third when compared to the CB (Canal Brush) and MAF (Master Apical File) methods.

Fabrication of ambient processed carbon-based inorganic silver bismuth iodide solar cells without any expensive hole transport materials

Recently, tremendous progress has been made in inorganic–organic hybrid lead halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Still, most of the reported high-efficiency PSCs were made with harmful lead (Pb), which is one of the major obstacles to large-scale adoption. Silver bismuth iodide (AgBiI4) light absorbers have been identified as promising lead-free and low-toxic metal-halide materials for solar cell applications. Here, we present hole transport material (HTM) and lead-free carbon-based inorganic Rudorffite (AgBiI4) solar cells, which can be prepared by simple spin-coating using silver iodide and bismuth iodide precursors under ambient conditions. Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–visible absorption, and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) studies were used to characterize the deposited films. The performance of the fabricated device was studied using incident photon-to-current conversion efficiency (IPCE) and current density–voltage (J-V) characteristics. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was used to investigate the charge transfer process at the interface of the fabricated device. Under standard illumination test conditions, the fabricated device showed a photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE) of 1.04%. The devices also have good stability and retained 96% of their initial PCE after 200 hrs of storage in ambient conditions. This work demonstrates the potential of HTM-free, ambient processable, and lead-free Rudorffite stable solar cells.

Effect of EDTA Activation on Blood Clot Structure in Regenerative Endodontics: A Scanning Electron Microscopy Study

IntroductionEDTA plays a crucial role in regenerative endodontic therapy (RET) because of its significant biological effects. However, EDTA is also recognized as the preferred anticoagulant for hematologic tests. Thus, this study aimed to assess the influence of different EDTA activation techniques on the morphology of blood clots after conditioning the root canal dentin. MethodsForty extracted human teeth were prepared to simulate immature teeth and divided into the following 5 groups: (1) saline solution (negative control), (2) EDTA 17% + saline solution (CNI), (3) CNI + ultrasonic activation, (4) CNI + Easy clean activation, and (5) CNI + XP-endo Finisher activation. After irrigation, the roots were cleaved, and the root canals were filled with human blood to clot formation. The morphology and density of erythrocytes, platelets, and the fibrin network were observed using a scanning electron microscope. The fibrin network density was classified using a 4-point scale. Data were analyzed using the Friedman test and the Kruskal-Wallis test with Bonferroni adjustment (α = 5%). ResultsAll groups exhibited consistent blood clot morphology characterized by a high density of erythrocytes, platelets, and white blood cells throughout the entire length of the root canal. The negative control group showed statistically significant high scores of fibrin density compared with the CNI group in all root thirds (P < .05). However, there was no statistical difference in the scores for the fibrin network density between the groups irrigated with EDTA with and without activation (P > .05). ConclusionsEDTA may impair the fibrin network formation compared with the saline group. However, EDTA activation did not significantly change the effects on the blood clot in contact with the conditioned intraradicular dentin.

Studies in the influence of D–π–A pyrenyl chalcone containing methoxy substitution as dye-sensitizer in DSSC

A pyrene based chalcone (PyMe) has been prepared by Claisen-Schmidt condensation reaction. The proposed structure was proceeded for characterization analysis of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopic (FTIR) and Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis) studies. The analysis of cyclic voltammetry (CV) performed has determined the appropriated position of HOMO and LUMO energy level for electron injection and dye regeneration in DSSC. The Field-Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) and Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) study has confirmed the existence of PyMe based on the distribution and composition of the elements on the TiO2 layer, respectively. The Donor–π–Acceptor (D–π–A) structural chromophores with methoxy (-OCH3) attachment in PyMe has also contribute to the power conversion efficiency of DSSC.

Subsequent welding of mild steel in the pipeline industry: mechanical, wear and microstructure characteristics

In this work, an attempt was made to join MS IS2062 using a combination of gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) and shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) processes using various welding parameters to get the best weldability. An initial scanning electron microscope study was conducted to determine the microstructure of the sample. In addition to measuring and correlating microstructures and welding parameters, mechanical properties like tensile strength and microhardness are also measured. Here, friction force (FF) and specific wear rate (SWR) were carried out to analyse the tribological behaviour of the weld joint. It was found that the weld MS IS2062 by subsequent welding achieved 15% and 5% higher yield strength and 5% and 4% harder than SMAW and GTAW. Pull-off and cracks were found in the tensile fracture image, and changes in grain boundaries have been observed in the microstructural study. The contact pressure shows the greatest influence on roughness and FF; at the same time, velocity influences the SWR, as found in the experimental results. The subsequent welding process was performed with good stabilisation by balancing between the SMAW and GTAW welding, and to obtain superior properties, we must optimise our results and choose the best possible method.

The role of synbiotics in Alzheimer`s management

AbstractBackgroundQuercetin and Lactobacillus Brevis were used in the development of S‐SNEDDS for their antiinflammaging effect in Alzheimer`s diseaseMethodThe isotropic mixture was prepared by incorporating Capmul MCM, Tween 80 and Transcutol P as oil, surfactant and co surfactant phases respectively. Quercetin was then added. The probiotic mixture was selected as a solid carrier and drug loading was calculated. The droplet size and zeta potential was also determined. The formulation was also assessed for differential scanning colorimetry (DSC), powder x ray diffraction studies (PXRD), and field emission scanning electron microscopy studies (FESEM). Stability studies of the developed formulation was also carried out. Alzheimer’s disease was induced in rats by the use of aluminum chloride (100mg/kg) after taking necessary permission from the institution animal ethical committee. The Morris water maze (MWM) test was used to assess the animals 48 hours following the last treatment. Utilizing marketed ELISA kits, the concentrations of TNF, IL‐1, and IL‐6 were determined.ResultQuercetin was solubilized in the isotropic mixture. The drug loading was found to be 93.4±0.75% for the liquid SNEDDS (QUE‐L‐SNEDDS) formulation. The droplet size of QUE‐L‐SNEDDS was found to be 73.24±1.45nm and had a zeta potential of ‐23.21±1.34 mV. Whereas, the solid SNEDDS (QUE‐LB‐S‐SNEDDS) was found to be 74.56±1.23 nm and had a zeta potential of ‐21.43 mV, respectively. This indicated that there was no change in the L‐SNEDDS and S‐SNEDDS formulation. Further, the amorphous nature of quercetin was confirmed by the DSC, PXRD and FESEM studies. Aluminum chloride was successful in inducing Alzheimer`s disease in the rats. Impaired learning and memory impairments, increased short‐term memory loss, and decreased locomotor activity were all observed in the negative controls. The developed formulation was successful in reversing the inflammatory effects of Alzheimer’s disease.ConclusionThe present study reveals that Quercetin and Lactobacillus Brevis can be used as a symbiotic combination as well as an adjuvant therapy in the treatment of inflammation related to Alzheimer’s disease. The results reveal an interesting outcome at the preclinical level and warrants future studies aimed at other plant based polyphenolic compounds especially in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.

Extraction and characterization of a novel cellulosic fiber derived from the bark of Rosa hybrida plant

The current investigation aims to choose an alternate potential replacement for the nonbiodegradable synthetic fibers used in polymer composites. This goal motivated the thorough characterization of Rosa hybrida bark (RHB) fibers. The research explored fiber characterization such as morphological, mechanical, thermal, and physical properties. The suggested fiber features a percentage of cellulose, hemicellulose molecules, and lignin of 52.99 wt%, 18.49 wt%, and 17.34 wt%, respectively according to chemical composition studies, which improves its mechanical properties. It is suitable for lightweight applications due to its decreased density (1.194 gcm−3). The purpose of the Fourier transform infrared spectroscope was to observe and record how various chemical groups were distributed throughout the surface of the fiber. The presence of 1.41 nm-sized crystalline cellulose and further XRD analysis showed a crystallinity index of 75.48 %. Scanning electron microscope studies revealed that RHB fibers have a rough surface. According to a single fiber tensile test, for gauge length (GL) 40 mm, Young's modulus and tensile strength of RHB fibers were 6.57 GPa and 352.01 MPa, respectively, and for GL 50 mm, 9.02 GPa and 311 MPa, respectively. Furthermore, thermo-gravimetric examination revealed that the isolated fibers were thermally stable up to 290 °C and the kinetic activation energy was found to be 75.32 kJ/mol. The fibers taken from the Rosa hybrida flower plants' bark exhibit qualities similar to those of currently used natural fibers, making them a highly promising replacement for synthetic fibers in polymer matrix composites.

Anthelmintic efficacy of Phlogacanthus thyrsiflorus leaf extract on juvenile and adult worms of Hymenolepis diminuta (Cestoda).

The leaves of Phlogacanthus thyrsiflorus are used as an anthelmintic remedy by the tribal communities of upper Assam in India. The present study was carried out to validate the anthelmintic credentials of this plant. Mature and larval Hymenolepis diminuta worms were exposed to varying concentration of methanolic leaf extract of plant and parasites were observed for paralysis and mortality. At the end of the experiment, worms were collected and processed for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) study to observe the effect of extract on tegument of parasite. The in vivo study was carried out in H. diminuta-rat model with 200, 400 and 800mg/kg concentrations of extract. The in vivo anthelmintic efficacy was assessed by reductions in egg per gram (EPG) and worm counts after necropsy of animals. In vitro studies revealed the earliest mortality of larval worms in 1.05 ± 0.04h by 30mg/ml concentration and of adult worms in 2.05 ± 0.08h. SEM study revealed extensive damage to the suckers, body tegument and microtriches of worms treated with 30mg/ml concentration of extract. In in-vivo studies, 800mg/kg dose of extract showed highest efficacy, with 59% and 54.25% reduction in EPG counts and worm count against juvenile worms, and 63.16% and 66.75% reduction in EPG counts and worm counts, respectively against adult worms. Although the effects were comparatively less than the reference drug, nevertheless this study reveals that P. thyrsiflorus possess anthelmintic efficacy and justify its use in traditional medicine against intestinal-worm infections.

Styrene–butadiene rubber‐based nanocomposites toughened by carbon nanotubes for wide and linear electromechanical sensing applications

AbstractThe contribution from specific interactions between rubber and filler sometimes plays a crucial role in the mechanical reinforcement and electromechanical sensitivities of rubber composites. This research explores the physical, mechanical, and electromechanical properties of styrene‐butadiene rubber (SBR) composites reinforced with carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Mechanical, thermodynamic, and scanning electron microscopy studies reveal that CNTs primarily enhance the mechanical properties through physical interactions with the rubber. Notably, π‐stacking interactions between the aromatic π‐electrons in SBR and the delocalized π‐electrons in CNTs contribute to significant improvements in mechanical strength. For instance, adding 4 phr (per hundred grams of rubber) of CNTs results in an impressive 871% increase in fracture toughness compared to unfilled rubber. These composites also exhibit remarkable stress and strain improvements even with small amounts of CNTs, making them suitable for robust strain sensing applications. Specifically, the composite containing 3 phr of CNTs demonstrates superior strain sensitivity (2.87 &lt; GF &lt; 48.62), a wide detection range (0% &lt; Δε &lt; 187%), and excellent linearity (0.927 &lt; R2 &lt; 0.995). Lower CNT content enhances sensitivities but reduces overall linearity, while higher CNT content improves linearity but decreases sensitivity. Moreover, these composites perform exceptionally well under compressive forces, even at a 0.5 N applied force. Given their excellent response to mechanical forces and strain, these composites hold promise for applications like electronic skin, strain sensors, and energy‐harvesting devices.Highlights Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were used as reinforcing fillers in SBR composites. CNTs significantly improve physical, mechanical, and electrical properties. Primarily, π‐stacking may be involved in enhancing these properties. The composites exhibit strong strain and force‐sensing capabilities. These composites could be valuable for wearable electronics in the future.

Scanning electron microscopy study of Lars Silns cheilostome bryozoan type specimens in the historical collections of natural history museums in Sweden.

The type specimens of 42 cheilostome bryozoan species introduced by Lars Siln between 1938 and 1954 and housed at three different Swedish institutions (the Swedish Museum of Natural History in Stockholm, the Biological Museum in Lund and the Museum of Evolution in Uppsala) are here revised using scanning electron microscopy, with two exceptions, for the first time. As a result of this revision, new morphological observations were made for some species, such as ooecia in Antropora erecta, a costal pseudopore in Jullienula hippocrepis, intracolonial variation in the number of intracostal windows in Costaticella gisleni, and oral spines in Triphyllozoon mauritzoni. Some other observations confirmed the presence of structures/polymorphs in type material that had previously only been noted in non-type specimens, such as spinose interzooidal kenozooids in Retevirgula triangulata and putative brooding zooids in Bugulina kiuschiuensis. Structures originally interpreted as hydroid tube openings on the dorsal side of Triphyllozoon microstigmatum were confirmed to be avicularia, while the supposed kenozooidal attachment rootlet of Fedora nodosa might be the polypide tube of a coronate scyphozoan. In addition, the original combination Heliodoma goesi is here reinstated after Lagaaij assigned the species to Setosellina in 1963. The following new combinations are also proposed: Labioporella aviculifera for Siphonoporella aviculifera; Mangana canui and Mangana incrustata for Callopora canui and Tegella incrustata, respectively; Sphaerulobryozoon ovum for Fedora ovum. Lectotypes were selected when appropriate. This work clarifies the exact identity of some species that have never been recorded after their first description, such as Stylopoma magnovicellata and three species of Triphyllozoon, and contributes to the current increasing effort to digitize historical key specimens in natural history museum collections.

New Insights Into the Anatomy of the Eyelashes With Regard to Ethnic Differences Against a Clinical Background.

To investigate the root depth, root angle, and light and scanning electron microscopical anatomy of human eyelashes relevant to eyelash ablation. Eyelash root depth, the angle between eyelash root and skin epithelium, spatial relationship, and scanning electron microscopical features of the eyelashes were studied on 4 upper and 4 lower eyelids of Caucasian (n = 4) and Indian (n = 4) cadaver heads according to a set protocol. There were significant differences in the mean eyelash root depth between Indians (2.3 ± 0.38 mm) and Caucasians (1.9 ± 0.26 mm; p = 0.007), as well as between upper eyelids and lower eyelids (1.9 ± 0.2 mm vs. 1.8 ± 0.1 mm). The mean angle between the lash follicle root and the skin epithelium was 75 ± 11 degrees and similar in both ethnic groups. The eyelash bulb was located close to the tarsal plate and meibomian glands and formed an angle of less than 15 degrees with the eyelash root. Scanning electron microscopy studies revealed that the eyelash bulb was 202 ± 12 μm wide in Indians and 170.6 ± 16.8 μm wide in Caucasian eyelids ( p = 0.08). The eyelashes were placed more closely in Indian eyelids than in Caucasian eyelids ( p = 0.03). The width of the cuticle layer varied between the hair shaft and the inner eyelid segment. There are differences in eyelash root depth, inter-eyelash distance, and cuticle thickness between Indian and Caucasian eyelids. The oblique orientation of the eyelash root and close proximity of the eyelash bulb to the tarsal plate should be kept in mind while doing the electroepilation procedure.

A new, simplified, drying protocol to prepare tardigrades for scanning electron microscopy.

A new protocol for preparation of tardigrades for scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis is proposed. The more conventional protocols require various steps and a long time to obtain good drying of water bears, together with specific and uncommon instruments (i.e., critical point dryer) or highly volatile toxic compounds (i.e., hexametildisilazane). The new protocol can be performed using few and simple instruments and materials, all easily accessible, and produces a high yield in terms of dried animals in excellent condition for the observation of external morphological structures with SEM. The acquired data exhibit considerable promise, and the proposed methodology shows potential for application to other meiofaunal groups, including small arthropods, nematodes, and rotifers. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Cheap, safe, and fast new method for Tardigrada preparation for SEM. With the new protocol, the number of animals required for SEM studies is minimized. New protocol is potentially applicable to the study of other meiofaunal soft-bodied taxa.

Cesium antimony iodide perovskite thin films by rapid iodization of Sb2S3-CsCl precursor under ambient conditions

In the present work, we report the synthesis of lead free cesium antimony iodide (Cs3Sb2I9) perovskite thin films by rapid iodization of Sb2S3-CsCl precursors under ambient conditions. In this method, first, Sb2S3 thin films were deposited using a chemical bath containing SbCl3 and Na2S2O3, following drop casting and spin coating of CsCl with varying molarities. These Sb2S3-CsCl precursor layers were iodized and the resulting films were investigated for their structure and morphology. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy studies revealed the formation of phase pure hexagonal structured Cs3Sb2I9 (P63/mmc) thin films with uniform surface coverage, exhibiting distinct morphologies for drop casting and spin coating cases. Moreover, Cs3Sb2I9 films obtained by varying iodization times (30 s – 10 min) were analyzed. The optical studies showed a direct band gap in the range of ∼ 1.8–1.96 eV for both drop casting and spin coating films. The Cs3Sb2I9 films were photoconductive and exhibited photodetection properties at zero bias voltage, functioning as self-powered photodetecors. Furthermore, we investigated stability of the self-powered photodetectors. Our work offers a facile synthesis process for producing photoconductive Cs3Sb2I9 thin films with inherent self-biased photodetection properties.

Impact of miconazole nitrate ferrying cationic and anionic nanoemulsion and gels on permeation profiles of across EpiDerm, artificial membrane, and skin: Instrumental evidences

Based on our previous report, the study was extended to investigate the impact of miconazole nitrate (MCN) loaded cationic/anionic nanoemulsions and nanoemulsion gels on permeation behaviour across artificial-membrane, EpiDerm, and rat skin. Nanoemulsions and gels were evaluated for size, charge, viscosity, size-distribution, pH, and percent entrapment efficiency (%EE). In vitro drug diffusion across artificial membrane and EpiDerm were conducted to get diffusion coefficients. Permeation profiles were studied using rat skin to investigate mechanistic insight of formulated mediated permeation followed by CLSM (confocal laser scanning microscopy), SEM (scanning electron microscopy), AFM (atomic force microscopy), and irritation studies. Results showed that MCNE11-Rh (probed cationic nanoemulsion at pH ∼ 7.2) and MNE11-Rh (probed anionic nanoemulsion at pH ∼ 7.2) showed size values of 158 nm and 145 nm, respectively whereas MCNE11-GR (probed cationic nanoemulsion gel at pH ∼ 6.8) and MNE11-GR (probed anionic nanoemulsion gel at pH ∼ 6.8) exhibited size values 257 nm and 243 nm, respectively. The %EE values were found to be as 91.5 % and 89.6 % for MCNE11-Rh and MNE11-Rh, respectively. The gels (∼6000 cP) elicited relatively high viscosity than nanoemulsions (∼3300 – 3500 cP). MCNE11-GR showed the highest values of permeation flux, diffusion rate, diffusion coefficient (D), and permeation coefficient (P) across artificial membrane, EpiDerm, and rat skin which may be attributed to three potential factors (cationic charge, composition, and hydration by the hydrophilic gel) working in tandem. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) by the MCNE11-GR was maximum (14.4 g/m2h) than control (6.1 g/m2h) indicating augmented interaction of MCNE11-Rh with skin components. Conclusively, cationic nanoemulsion gel was promising carrier for enhanced permeation and the drug access to the dermal region to treat deep seated fungal infections.

Synthesis of ionic liquid modified 1‐D nanomaterial and its strategical distribution into the biodegradable binary polymer matrix to get reduced electrical percolation threshold and electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness

AbstractIonic liquid is increasingly being used as a chemical modulator of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT). Here, we report the practical method for producing biodegradable electromagnetic interference (EMI) shield films made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polybutylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate (PBAT), and 1‐(2‐aminoethyl)‐3‐methyl‐1H‐imidazol‐3‐ium modified MWCNT (MIL). The field emission scanning electron microscopy study of cryo‐fractured 50:50 PBAT/TPU blend giving co‐continuous morphology and subsequent polymer EMI shield nanocomposite material had shown the co‐continuous nanofiller distribution. The nanoparticles were chosen to be distributed in the PBAT portion, according to subsequent research employing HRTEM and DMA. The electrical percolation threshold (EPT) is determined to be situated within 1–3 wt% of nanoparticles loading as the remarkable shift in total EMI shielding efficiency from −14.6 dB (for 1 wt%) to −28.6 dB (for 3 wt%) of nanoparticle‐loaded film at 10 GHz (in X‐band region) for a 0.8 mm thick film reveals that the EPT is approximately at 2 wt% of nanoparticle loading. The effective EMI shielding of −37.3 dB was achieved by 10 wt% of MIL loading.

Synthesis of Autofluorescent Phenanthrene Microparticles via Emulsification: A Useful Synthetic Mimic for Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon-Based Cosmic Dust.

Phenanthrene is the simplest example of a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH). Herein, we exploit its relatively low melting point (101 °C) to prepare microparticles from molten phenanthrene droplets by conducting high-shear homogenization in a 3:1 water/ethylene glycol mixture at 105 °C using poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone) as a non-ionic polymeric emulsifier. Scanning electron microscopy studies confirm that this protocol produces polydisperse phenanthrene microparticles with a spherical morphology: laser diffraction studies indicate a volume-average diameter of 25 ± 21 μm. Such projectiles are fired into an aluminum foil target at 1.87 km s-1 using a two-stage light gas gun. Interestingly, the autofluorescence exhibited by phenanthrene aids analysis of the resulting impact craters. More specifically, it enables assessment of the spatial distribution of any surviving phenanthrene in the vicinity of each crater. Furthermore, these phenanthrene microparticles can be coated with an ultrathin overlayer of polypyrrole, which reduces their autofluorescence. In principle, such core-shell microparticles should be useful for assessing the extent of thermal ablation that is likely to occur when they are fired into aerogel targets. Accordingly, polypyrrole-coated microparticles were fired into an aerogel target at 2.07 km s-1. Intact microparticles were identified at the end of carrot tracks and their relatively weak autofluorescence suggests that thermal ablation during aerogel capture did not completely remove the polypyrrole overlayer. Thus, these new core-shell microparticles appear to be useful model projectiles for assessing the extent of thermal processing that can occur in such experiments, which have implications for the capture of intact PAH-based dust grains originating from cometary tails or from plumes emanating from icy satellites (e.g., Enceladus) in future space missions.

DESIGN AND OPTIMIZATION OF NANO ENCAPSULATED BERBERIS ASIATICA BIO COMPOUNDS

Objective: The current study goal is to develop and optimize nanoencapsulated biocompounds of Berberis asiatica (BCBA) utilizing the ionic gelation process to target the kidney for antiurolithiatic activity. Methods: Nanoencapsulated BCBA was prepared employing the ionic gelation method. Box Behnken Design (BBD) 3-factor, 3-level is used to examine the effects of formulation parameters and to enhance the desired responses. Characterization studies include Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), particle size, zeta potential, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) performed to study the quality of optimized nanoparticles. Results: Mathematical equations and response surface plots were used to relate the dependent and independent variables. Diagnostic charts were used to show the varied factor level permutations. The percentages of entrapment efficiency (% EE) and drug release (% DR) used in evaluation studies of optimized biocompounds of Berberis asiatica nanoparticles (OBCBANPs) were determined to be 83.7% and 78.33%, respectively. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) results showed that chitosan, sodium tripolyphosphate (NaTPP), and BACB were compatible. Due to chitosan and NaTPP gelation in the case of OBCBANPs, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses have acknowledged the crystalinity. The particle size and zeta potential of the optimized formulation, found to be 95.4 nm and 31 mV, respectively, indicate the nanoparticles are in the nano range and possess extreme stability by preventing particle convergence. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) studies reveal that the optimized formulation nanoparticles are spherical in shape, homogeneous, and have little aggregation. The accelerated stability studies showed that the optimized formulation was stable at different temperatures and relative humidity. Conclusion: The stable optimized formulation was prepared, evaluated, and characterized. BBD is employed to optimize the formulation by minimizing the number of experimental runs and enhancing the desired responses. The optimized formulation further needs to investigate the invivo studies for antiurolithiatic activity by targeting the kidney.

Effect of Passion Fruit Juice in Removal of Smear Layer in Root Canal of Ex Vivo Human Teeth: A Scanning Electron Microscopic Study

Effect of Passion Fruit Juice in Removal of Smear Layer in Root Canal of Ex Vivo Human Teeth: A Scanning Electron Microscopic Study

Green Synthesised Silver Nanoparticles Using Anoectochilus elatus Leaf Extract: Characterisation and Evaluation of Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, Antidiabetic, and Antimicrobial Activities

The present study investigates the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles was carried out using a leaf extract of Anoectochilus elatus (Ae-AgNPs). The synthesised Ae-AgNPs were characterised using different analytical techniques like UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX). Additionally, in vitro activities were investigated, and they possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antimicrobial properties. The UV-Vis spectra exhibited characteristic absorption peaks at approximately 480 nm. FTIR identified functional groups of the Ae-AgNPs. The crystalline structure of the Ae-AgNPs was verified via XRD analysis. SEM studies revealed that the nanoparticles exhibited a spherical morphology. The fabrication of Ae-AgNPs was established by the EDX spectrum, which exhibited prominent signals of silver atoms. The Ae-AgNPs show potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic activity compared to standard drugs. In addition, Ae-AgNPs demonstrated the most significant zone of Inhibition. This study affirms the superior biological capability of Ae-AgNPs for target drug delivery and their potential for usage in biomedical research and therapeutics.