Spectroscopy Scanning Electron Research Articles

Visible light sensitive BiVO4–TiO2 nanocomposites for photocatalytic dye degradation

Abstract The hydrothermal approach was used to prepare visible light active BiVO4–TiO2 nanosheet composites in varying molar ratios. The photoluminescence (PL) spectrum, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV-Visible Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (DRS), Transmission electroscopy (TEM), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), were used to analyze the photocatalysts and composites. Photocatalytic activity of BiVO4–TiO2 composites was investigated by decolorizing methylene blue. Out of four different molar ratio BiVO4–TiO2 composites with a molar ratio of 3:1 BiVO4 TiO2 composite showed enhanced photocatalytic activity which is further proved by photoluminescence investigation of coumarin and Scavenger test. The DRS of BiVO4 TiO2 composite showed red shift in optical absorption. The enhanced photocatalytic activity is due to minimizing electron hole recombination by making composite with TiO2.

A zinc oxide–tin oxide–nerolidol hybrid nanomaterial: Efficacy against esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract The sixth most common cancer in the world, esophageal cancer, requires aggressive treatment such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. Phytochemicals and medicinal plants are being used in the green synthesis of nanoparticles. Our study aimed to synthesize ZnO–SnO2 nerolidol nanocomposite and study its effects on esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cells. UV spectroscopy showed significant absorbance at 288 nm, transmission electron microscopy and DLS showed spherical shapes, and transmission electron microscopy also showed 108 nm average diameters. The ZnO–SnO2 nerolidol nanocomposite was also investigated using energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, photoluminescence, and field emission scanning electron microscopy. A cytotoxic effect was observed against KYSE-150 cells with an IC50 concentration of 14.9 μg/mL. The ZnO–SnO2 nerolidol nanocomposite inhibited cancer cell proliferation in KYSE-150 cells and enhanced apoptosis by altering its mitochondrial membrane potential. The ZnO–SnO2 nerolidol nanocomposite also enhanced oxidative stress, leading to a decrease in superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione and an increase in lipid peroxidation. Ultimately, ZnO–SnO2 nerolidol nanocomposite enhanced the caspase cascade by inducing caspases 3, 8, and 9 in KYSE-150 cells. On the whole, we suggest that the ZnO–SnO2 nerolidol nanocomposite can be an effective treatment strategy against esophageal squamous cell carcinoma in KYSE-150 cells. However, understanding molecular circuits is still warranted.

Bimetallic PdPt Nanoparticles Decorated PES Membranes for Enhanced H2 Separation.

Hydrogen separation has significant importance in diverse applications ranging from clean energy production to gas purification. Membrane technology stands out as a low-cost and efficient method to address the purpose. The development of efficient gas-sensitive materials can further bolster the membrane's performance. In this pursuit, bimetallic PdPt nanoparticles were synthesized using a wet chemical approach and were strategically decorated onto poly(ether sulfone) (PES) membranes. The fibrous morphology of the PES membranes provided an ideal platform for the decoration of nanoparticles, promising enhanced gas transport properties. Prior to the attachment of nanoparticles, the membranes were pretreated under UV light to enhance their surface properties and facilitate improved adhesion. The synthesized bimetallic nanoparticles were characterized by using transmission electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy for their morphological and elemental analysis. Furthermore, the engineered membranes were characterized using various techniques, such as Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) with rigorous scrutiny to ensure a comprehensive understanding of their structural, chemical, and morphological properties. The membranes were examined for their separation performance using pure H2, N2, and CO2 gases, and the results revealed a 30% increment in H2 permeability and 40 and 42% increments in H2/CO2 and H2/N2 selectivity, respectively. These findings confirmed the critical role of tailored material design and synthesis strategies in advancing membrane technologies for H2 separation applications.

Environmental modification of cellulose fibers for reducing dye diffusion rate by anionic polyacrylamide

Reactive dyeing is the primary method for coloring cellulose fibers due to its vibrant colors, various hues, excellent colorfastness, and cost-effectiveness. However, this process consumes a large amount of water and chemicals, leading to significant environmental concerns due to the wastewater. Non-aqueous media/less water dyeing has emerged as a cleaner alternative, showing promising results in dyeing cotton fibers with reactive dyes. Nevertheless, the rapid adsorption rate of dyes can impact the evenness of dyeing. This study explores the use of anionic polyacrylamide (APAM) in the modification bath to reduce dye adsorption rate and enhance dye desorption during cellulose fibers dyeing. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and field-emission scanning electron microscope (FSEM) analysis revealed effective interaction between APAM and cellulose fibers. Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and breaking strength tests indicated minimal impact on the thermal stability and physical properties of cellulose fibers with APAM modification. Zeta potential testing demonstrated that APAM modification reduced the surface potential of cellulose fibers and increased their negative charge. The adsorption rate of reactive dye decreased with APAM modification, while dye fixation, washing, and rubbing fastness remained largely unaffected. Adsorption isotherm results supported the weakening of the affinity between dyes and fibers after APAM treatment. Furthermore, the electrostatic potentials of fibers decreased after APAM modification. Compared to salt-free dyeing in non-aqueous media dyeing systems, anionic polymer modification not only improves the level dyeing performance of cotton fiber and reduces 0.9% in dyeing costs, but also increases production efficiency.

Theoretical precipitation modeling and multidimensional characterization of sulfide inclusions in tellurium-containing steels

This study investigates the precipitation characteristics of sulfide inclusions during the solidification of alloy steels under the combined influence of sulfur (S), manganese (Mn), and tellurium (Te). A multidimensional characterization and comparison of sulfide inclusions in Te-containing steels with varying sulfur content and cooling conditions were performed using X-ray Micro-CT, Raman spectroscopy, and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). Both 2D and 3D analyses confirmed that increasing the S content in Te-containing steels leads to a higher overall number of sulfide inclusions. In particular, the rise in the proportion of small-sized inclusions was analyzed from the perspectives of interfacial dynamics and equilibrium thermodynamics. Regarding inclusion morphology, 2D characterization exhibited significant inaccuracies in assessing large inclusions in high-S, Te-containing steels, while X-ray Micro-CT proved advantageous for evaluating both the spatial distribution and morphology of inclusions. In addition, X-ray Micro-CT was used for the first time in this study to perform a non-destructive analysis of the layered MnS-MnTe structure, expanding the method's application in the metallurgical field. A predictive model based on inter-element activity interaction coefficients was employed to determine the first-order activity interaction coefficient of Te for Mn. Furthermore, a thermodynamic model for sulfide precipitation in Te-containing steels was developed. This study lays a theoretical foundation for better control of sulfide inclusions in future Te-containing specialty steels.

Manufacturing Radially Aligned PCL Nanofibers Reinforced With Sulfated Levan and Evaluation of its Biological Activity for Healing Tympanic Membrane Perforations.

The main objective of this study is to construct radially aligned PCL nanofibers reinforced with levan polymer and investigate their in vitro biological activities thoroughly. First Halomonas levan (HL) polysaccharide is hydrolyzed (hHL) and subjected to sulfation to attain Sulfated hydrolyzed Halomonas levan (ShHL)-based material indicating heparin mimetic properties. Then, optimization studies are carried out to produce coaxially generated radially aligned Poly(caprolactone) (PCL) -ShHL nanofibers via electrospinning. The obtained nanofibers are characterized with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR)and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-Ray (FESEM-EDX) analysis, and mechanical, contact angle measurement, biodegradability, and swelling tests as well. Afterward, cytotoxicity of artificial tympanic membranes is analyzed by MTT (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl) -2,5 Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide) test, and their impacts on cell proliferation, cellular adhesion, wound healing processes are explored. Furthermore, an additional FESEM imaging is performed to manifest the interactions between fibroblasts and nanofibers. According to analytical measurements it is detected that PCL-ShHL nanofibers i) are smaller in fiber diameter, ii) are more biodegradable, iii) are more hydrophilic, and iv) demonstrated superior mechanical properties compared to PCL nanofibers. Moreover, it is also deciphered that PCL-ShHL nanofibers strongly elevated cellular adhesion, proliferation, and in vitro wound healing features compared to PCL nanofibers. According to obtained results it is assumed that newly synthetized levan and PCL mediated nanofibers are very encouraging for healing tympanic membrane perforations.

Thermodynamics and Kinetic Study for Removal of Orange-G Dye from Aqueous Solution by Nano Composite

In this study, where graphene oxide was prepared by Hummer method, while copper oxide was prepared in the green way using (capparies spinosa) plant extract as a reducing agent, these oxides were diagnosed as well as the binary nanocomposite by several techniques including Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-rays diffraction , and field Emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), after that the superimposed (GO/CuO) was used to adsorbent the orange G dye ( Orange - G) from its aqueous solutions, A number of factors affecting adsorption were studied (equilibrium time, surface weight, pH, concentration effect, temperature). The results showed that the ideal time for adsorption of the orange dye (orange-G) on the surface of the nanocomposite (GO/CuO) was (30min), the best ideal weight for dye removal was (0.05gm), the best concentration was (20ppm), and the best acid function was (pH=2). After that, the adsorption kinetics were also studied by applying the pseudo first and second order of adsorption. The results showed that the adsorption process follows the false second-order kinetics. The thermodynamic functions of the removal process were also studied, and it was found that the value of (DH) is negative for the surface of the composite (GO/CuO) with dye. Meaning the adsorption process is exothermic, and that the DG0 has negative value, meaning that the adsorption processes occur spontaneously. positive DS0 values indicate that the molecules are becoming less bound

Synergistic effects of thermally reduced graphene oxide/zinc oxide composite material on microbial infection for wound healing applications

Infections originating from pathogenic microorganisms can significantly impede the natural wound-healing process. To address this obstacle, innovative bio-active nanomaterials have been developed to enhance antibacterial capabilities. This study focuses on the preparation of nanocomposites from thermally reduced graphene oxide and zinc oxide (TRGO/ZnO). The hydrothermal method was employed to synthesize these nanocomposites, and their physicochemical properties were comprehensively characterized using X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR), Raman spectroscopy, UV-vis, and field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) techniques. Subsequently, the potential of TRGO/ZnO nanocomposites as bio-active materials against wound infection-causing bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli, was evaluated. Furthermore, the investigated samples show disrupted bacterial biofilm formation. A reactive oxygen species (ROS) assay was conducted to investigate the mechanism of nanocomposite inhibition against bacteria and for further in-vivo determination of antimicrobial activity. The MTT assay was performed to ensure the safety and biocompatibility of nanocomposite. The results suggest that TRGO/ZnO nanocomposites have the potential to serve as effective bio-active nanomaterials for combating pathogenic microorganisms present in wounds.

The Impact of Combination Ag: Se Core: Shell Nanoparticles Synthesized by Plasma Jet with Plantago lanceolata on REF Cell Line

Abstract The process well-thought-out for isolating new and novel ant-microbial components is though natural sources which is considered the best option. Plantago lanceolata is a medicinal plant that holds several bioactive compounds, containing tannins, phenolic compound, flavonoids and alkaloids. These benefits contain potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial. This study among to synthesize Ag: Se NPs at (125 and 250) μg mL−1 concentrations in ratio (0:10, 1:9, 2:8, 3:7) respectively. Characterization of the produced silver nanoparticles involved UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Cytotoxicity against normal cells line (REF) were assessed using several diluted concentrations, Ag: Se NPs (25, 50, and 100%) and concentrations of P. lanceolata (125 and 250) μg mL−1. The optimal XRD pattern and UV-visible were attained at a ratio (3:7). At a concentration of 100% Ag: Se NPs at 250 μg mL-1, the most significant cytotoxic on REF cell lines was stated. However, the addition of combined. Ag: Se NPs (125 and 250) μg mL−1 with P. lanceolata (125 and 250) μg mL−1 resulted in reduced cytotoxicity, indicating no synergistic effect at all. In conclusion, this study successfully synthesized Ag: Se NPs and investigating their combined effects with P. lanceolata on REF cell lines.

Significantly energy‐efficient ethanol sensor based on bougainvillea‐like Au/ZnO hierarchical nanostructured materials

AbstractThe energy consumption of MOS (metal oxide semiconductor) sensors has always been a challenge in improving their performance. In this study, bougainvillea‐like Au/ZnO nanostructures were successfully synthesized using the hydrothermal method and the sol fixation technique. The composition, crystallinity, crystal structure, and morphology of the materials were characterized using X‐ray diffraction, energy‐dispersive spectroscopy, and field emission scanning electron microscopy. The experimental results confirm the successful synthesis of a substantial quantity of bougainvillea‐like Au/ZnO nanostructures through nanoparticle self‐assembly. The sensitive performance of the bougainvillea‐like Au/ZnO sensor was evaluated using a CGS‐8 intelligent gas‐sensitive analysis system. Results demonstrate that modification of ZnO with Au in a bougainvillea‐like nanostructure significantly enhances sensitivity to ethanol vapor compared to those of unmodified material sensors. Specifically, the optimal work temperature was greatly reduced by 64%, whereas the sensitivity increased approximately 12 times and the response time decreased nearly 5 times. The significantly enhanced ethanol sensitivity can be attributed to the precious metal modification and unique three‐dimensional morphology. It provides the necessary experimental exploration for reducing energy consumption and improving the performance of MOS gas sensors.

Biochemical characterization of green zinc nanoparticles fabricated by Stevia rebaudiana aqueous extract and its nephroprotective effects against streptozotocin-induced nephropathy in mice: A histopathological study

The development and creation of novel therapeutic supplements and medications with exceptional efficacy in treating nephropathy is a top priority for both developed and developing nations. The antioxidant, nephroprotective, and cytotoxicity effects of green synthesized zinc nanoparticles (ZnNPs) containing Stevia rebaudiana aqueous extract were assessed in this study. The combination of Stevia rebaudiana aqueous extract with Zn nitrate solution resulted in the Zn nanoparticles production. The characteristics of Zn nanoparticles were determined using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray crystallography (XRD), ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The synthesized nanoparticles typically ranged in size from 20 to 30 nm. These nanoparticles displayed a crystalline structure and maintained a uniform shape. To induce diabetes, 60 mg/kg of streptozotocin was administered intraperitoneally in 50 mice (n = 10). The treatment groups received glibenclamide (0.5 mg/kg) and 100 and 200 μg/kg of Zn nanoparticles through gavage for 25 days. Additionally, there was a positive control group for comparison (treated-diabetic). On the final day, serum levels of creatinine, urea, and blood glucose were determined in the samples. Following tissue processing, 5 μm sections of kidneys were stained with periodic acid Schiff (PAS) for subsequent stereological and histopathological analysis. The groups treated with ZnNPs exhibited a notable reduction (p < 0.05) in urea and blood glucose levels (about 190 mg/dL) when compared to the diabetic group (about 500 mg/dL) that did not receive treatment. Furthermore, the treatment with a high dose of ZnNPs resulted in a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in kidney weight and volume (including vessels, interstitial tissues, collecting ducts, loop of Henle, and distal and proximal tubules), and kidney structures length (including vessels, collecting ducts, loop of Henle, and distal and proximal tubules) (p > 0.05). Based on the findings, ZnNPs can control urea and blood glucose levels while preventing kidney damage in streptozotocin-induced diabetic animals. This research proposes utilizing zinc nanoparticles synthesized from Stevia rebaudiana as a supplementary treatment for diabetes and kidney protection in developing nations.

Development and characterization of corrosion-resistant plasma-sprayed Ni-Al composite coatings via graphene oxide fillers

In this study, the authors propose a procedure to enhance pure Ni-Al powders through graphene oxide dispersion in water for plasma spraying. The enhanced powders were utilized to coat A36 steel via plasma spraying. Next, the powders and the coatings were characterized by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, micro-Raman spectroscopy, and field emission scanning electron microscopy. Given the capability of the generated X-ray to characterize near surfaces to a depth of a few micrometers, the performed X-ray microanalyses convey that the carbon species incorporated within the powders through the graphene oxide dispersion can act as nanofillers reducing the number of holes/pores in the plasma-sprayed coatings. Potentiodynamic polarization testing and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were used to investigate the corrosion behavior of the samples at two intervals: after 1 h and after 30 days of exposure to a 3.5 % NaCl solution. According to the results of the corrosion testing, the enhanced coatings can display about 2.35 times lower corrosion current density compared to pure Ni-Al coatings, with the corrosion potentials of the enhanced coatings being higher than that of pure Ni-Al coatings (i.e., improved corrosion resistance). This improvement in corrosion resistance is also evident when the enhanced coatings are compared to the A36 substrate after 30 days of exposure to the solution. It appears that the incorporated carbon nanofillers, by reducing deep holes and pores that communicate with the surface of the substrate, ultimately determine the highest corrosion resistance. Thus, the outcome offers enhanced Ni-Al coatings possessing superior anticorrosion properties that typical plasma-sprayed Ni-Al bond coats may not exhibit.

Breakthrough in aluminum protection: Electrochemical and wear insights into sol-gel sealed PEO-coated AA2024-T3 and AA2198-T851

In consideration of the intrinsic porosity in layers generated via the plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) process, sol-gel coatings have gained a lot of attention for their environmentally friendly and robust protective qualities when applied as a post-treatment. The sealing capabilities of the sol-gel layer were scrutinized for the PEO coating applied on AA2024-T3 and AA2198-T851 aluminum alloys. Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM) confirmed that for the same operating conditions, the morphological properties of the PEO coating depend on the substrate nature and play a key role in the corrosion protection given by such duplex coatings. Furthermore, the findings indicated that the use of a sol-gel enhances the wear resistance compared to the blank substrates and the PEO coatings.

Green chemistry approach for the synthesis of CrxCu1-xO nanoparticles: An investigation of the structural and dielectric properties

Chromium (Cr)-doped copper oxide (CrxCu1-xO, x = 0, 0.02, 0.04, 0.06, 0.10) nanoparticles were prepared by a green chemistry approach using Juglans regia fruit extract. The characteristics of pristine and Cr-doped CuO were examined in relation to the concentration of the dopant (2, 4, 6, and 10mol%) using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy dispersive analysis (EDX), and UV-Vis. spectroscopy (UV-Vis). According to the XRD results, the synthesized samples exhibited a polycrystalline nature and monoclinic crystal structure. It was discovered that the average grain size varies from 22.4nm to 17.82nm because of the addition of dopants. The optical analysis revealed an increase in the band gap from 1.62 to 3.10eV. We performed the dielectric analysis of pure and Cr-doped CuO nanoparticles and analyzed the behavior of dielectric parameters like dielectric constant, dielectric loss, and ac conductivity with frequency. The dielectric constant and loss exhibit a decreasing trend with frequency whereas ac conductivity demonstrates an increasing trend with frequency and composition.

Lead Toxicity From Imported Jewelry.

We summarize here the presentation and course of lead poisoning in a 1-year-old who ingested a lead-containing metallic medallion from India. We analyzed the medallion to determine its composition, using x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy. A simple extraction test was used to estimate oral bioavailability. We used the US Environmental Protection Agency Integrated Exposure Uptake Biokinetic model to compare actual versus predicted blood lead levels. X-ray fluorescence analysis revealed the composition of the medallion to be: Lead 155 000 ppm (15%), copper 530 000 ppm (53%), nickel 49 000 ppm (4.9%), arsenic 22 000 ppm (2.2%), antimony 12 000 ppm (1.2%), tin 3000 ppm (0.3%), and silver 1300 ppm (0.13%). With a fixed ingestion of 7786 µg/d (estimated by simulated gastric extraction analysis) and assuming 50% bioavailability, Integrated Exposure Uptake Biokinetic modeling predicted the geometric mean blood lead level would increase from 2.05 µg/dL to 173.9 µg/dL. This patient had potentially life-threatening lead poisoning from an ingested piece of jewelry. The medallion contained 550 times the allowable content of lead in children's metallic jewelry sold in the United States. This case highlights the ubiquitous nature of lead in our global environment and the risk of exposure to novel sources, especially for children.

Influence of Sulfur Addition on The Physical and Photocatalytic Properties Biosynthesized Se-doped ZnO Nanoparticles

Abstract The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of Sulfur (S) addition to selenium-doped zinc oxide (Se-ZnO) nanoparticles on their physical properties and photocatalytic activity. S,Se-ZnO sample was prepared by adding 1wt% sulfur onto 4%Se-ZnO nanoparticles. In the synthesis procedure, microwave irradiation was used as heating power and matoa leaf extract was used as a bioreductor. The nanoparticles were characterized using UV-Vis Spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM). The calculated band gap energies of Se-ZnO and 1% S,Se-ZnO are 2.38 eV and 2.62 eV, respectively. Both samples exhibit a hexagonal wurtzite structure. FESEM image of addition S reveals flower petal flake formations and decrease particle size of 187 nm. The photocatalytic activity of nanoparticles was evaluated through 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) degradation under UV-C irradiation. 1% S,Se-ZnO exhibits high photocatalytic efficiency compared to Se-ZnO, with a degradation percentage of 85.09% after 60 min and a reaction rate of -0.0315 min−1. Based on these results, the addition of S on Se-ZnO biosynthesized shows improve physical properties and efficient photocatalytic materials for pollutant removal.

Theoretical and experimental studies on the electrochemical behavior of steel in HCl solution in the presence of two bio-inhibitor mixtures

In this new study, the inhibitory effectiveness of two bio-inhibitor mixtures has been studied on the corrosion characteristics of carbon steel in an HCl environment. The inhibitors were derived from a plant seed (quinoa seed-QS) and an insect extract (Oestrus ovis larvae-OOL). The total inhibitor concentration was a variable factor even the ratio of bio-inhibitor concentration was a fixed parameter. The electrochemical behavior of steel substrate was investigated through the Tafel polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy were performed to identify bonds and analyze the morphology of the corroded surface of the steel. Additionally, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and quantum calculations were applied to investigate the inhibitory influence of utilized bio-inhibitors. The experimental results indicated that the corrosion resistance decreased to 85 % when the optimum total concentration of the bio-inhibitor was 1 g L−1. The Langmuir model was used to illustrate the adsorption mechanism on the steel surface when physical adsorption occurred. Quantum chemical calculations revealed that the QS-inhibitor adsorbed more effectively onto the metal surface than the OOLE-inhibitor, due in part to a lower energy gap and higher HOMO energy. MD simulation and Monte Carlo calculations further confirmed that the QS-inhibitor was adsorbed on the Fe (110) surface with higher adsorption energy than the OOLE-inhibitor.

Effectiveness of magnetite nanoparticles for the removal of DNA of multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli from municipal wastewater.

Water is an important component of life and plays a vital role in human and animal lives, and because of these essential roles of water to life, access to quality water and in adequate quantity becomes imperative. Subsequently, water/wastewater systems have become established as reservoirs of antimicrobial resistance determinants in the environment. In this study, we carried out the synthesis and characterization of magnetite nanoparticles for use in the removal of genomic DNA of antibiotic resistant Escherichia coli isolate in aqueous system. The synthesis of this nanoparticle was achieved by using precipitation method and characterization of the material was conducted by using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron spectroscopy (SEM), electron diffraction spectroscopy (EDS), and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM). The SEM analysis revealed that this material is spherical in shape, while the FTIR spectra revealed Fe-O vibrational band at ~ 450cm-1 confirming the success of the synthesis of this material. The magnetite nanomaterial showed efficiency for the removal of the bacterial DNA from water with a maximum removal capacity of 45.5ngg-1. The effect of pH (qe max = 55ngg-1 @ pH = 10), time (qt max @ 180min), DNA concentration (DNA concentration of 185ng/mL, qe max = 45.5ngg-1), and adsorbent weight (% adsorption max = 61.65% @ 0.025g) suggest that adsorption conditions influence the removal of DNA by this material. In addition, kinetic study shows that the removal of bacterial DNA obeyed pseudo 2nd order indicating that adsorption process was achieved by bimolecular interaction between magnetite and antibiotics resistant bacterial DNA. We conclude that magnetite nanoparticle appears to be a potential candidate for the removal of nucleic acids and antimicrobial resistance determinants in water/wastewater treatment.

Facile Synthesis and Characterization of Pure and Bi-doped ZnS Nanoparticles for Photocatalytic Application

In the present research, a simple solvothermal microwave irradiation (SMI) method has been adopted for the preparation and synthesis of pure and Bi doped ZnS nanoparticles using zinc acetate, bismuth acetate, thiourea and ethylene glycol were utilized as precursors. As-synthesized pure and Bi doped ZnS nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX), ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy and Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). From the XRD and EDAX studies, crystallite size, lattice parameter and analysis of the elemental compositions are calculated and analyzed respectively. The UV-vis spectra revealed that the optical band gap energy of pure and Bi doped ZnS nanoparticles was calculated. The FESEM shows that the average particle size spherical and agglomerated of as-synthesized pure and Bi doped ZnS nanoparticles sizes were decreased. In addition, the photocatalytic activity of pure and Bi doped ZnS nanoparticles was studied with methylene blue dye in an aqueous solution under UV light irradiation; the 5.0 mol % of Bi doped ZnS nanoparticles dye degradation efficiency of the sample was calculated as 75% in 120 minutes.

Increased bone mass but delayed mineralization: in vivo and in vitro study for zoledronate in bone regeneration

BackgroundBisphosphonates (BPs) are widely used to inhibit excessive osteoclast activity. However, the potential to compromise bone defect healing has limited their broader application. To better understand the influence of BPs on bone regeneration, we established a bone grafting model with Zoledronate administration, aiming to deepen the understanding of bone remodeling and mineralization processes.MethodsA bone grafting model was established in the distal femurs of male Sprague–Dawley rats. The experimental group received systemic administration of Zoledronate (ZOL, 0.2 mg/kg, administered twice). Histological analysis and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were employed to assess osteoblastic and macrophage activity, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining was used to evaluate osteoclastogenesis. Mineralization was assessed through Micro-CT analysis, Raman spectroscopy, and back-scatter scanning electron microscopy (BSE-SEM). Additionally, the in vitro effects of ZOL on osteoblast and osteoclast activity were investigated to further elucidate its impact on bone regeneration.ResultsIn vivo, the ZOL group showed increased bone mass, as observed in histological and radiological assessments. However, Micro-CT, Raman spectroscopy, and BSE-SEM detection revealed lower mineralization levels in ZOL group's regenerated bone. Acid-etched SEM analysis showed abnormal osteocyte characteristics in ZOL-group’s regenerated bone. Simultaneously, elevated osteopontin (OPN), F4/80 expression along with reduced TRAP expressing was found in the grafting region of ZOL group. In vitro, ZOL did not negatively impact osteogenetic activity (ALP, BMP4, OCN expression) at the tested concentrations (0.02–0.5 g/ml) but significantly impaired mineralization and inhibited osteoclast formation, even at the lowest concentration.ConclusionsThis study highlights a less recognized negative effect of ZOL on bone mineralization during bone regeneration. More research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanism.