Analysis Techniques Research Articles

Pharmaceutical Applications and Advances with Zetasizer: An Essential Analytical Tool for Size and Zeta Potential Analysis

Abstract: Zetasizer is an advanced device that measures various properties of particles or molecules suspended in a liquid medium. It is extensively used for evaluating the size of nanoparticles, colloids, and biomolecular particles, and for determining particle charge. There are several analytical techniques by which the size, zeta potential, and molecular weight can be determined, like Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) that measures the size of particles in dispersed systems, which can range from sub-nanometers to several micrometers in diameter. Electrophoretic Light Scattering (ELS) analyzes the mobility and charge of particles, also known as the zeta potential. Static Light Scattering (SLS) determines the molecular weight of particles in a solution. The Zetasizer is part of the Zetasizer Advance range of benchtop systems available for laboratory use. The Zetasizer Ultra model offers unique measurement capabilities, such as Multi-angle Dynamic Light Scattering (MADLS) and particle concentration. These features offer a deeper understanding of samples, making the Zetasizer a vital instrument in numerous scientific and industrial applications. In this review, we have discussed Zetasizer’s principles for the determination of particle size, zeta potential, and molecular weight, along with its qualification and applications in different formulations.

Ti2NTx MXene Materials Derived from Ti2AlN MAX Phases: Their Characterization and Electrocatalytic Activity Toward Hydrazine Electrooxidation

Nitride-based MXenes materials are promising for advancing technological developments, especially in popular scientific fields such as energy storage and conversion. This study successfully synthesized 2D lamellar Ti2NTx MXenes via selective etching of Al from the Ti2AlN MAX phase. Synthesized Ti2NTx MXene was characterized by field emission scanning electron microscope with energy-dispersive X–Ray spectroscopy attachment (FESEM-EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X–Ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analyses techniques in details. 2D lamellar morphology of MXene phase was observed with FESEM, while distinctive diffraction peaks were confirmed with XRD analyses. While the BET surface area of the MAX phase was 0.5375 m2/g, it was measured as 2.0867 m2/g with Ti2NTx MXene which increased by 3.88 times. Ti–O–N, Ti–N, and surface functional groups (Tx: –OH, –F, –O) of Ti2NTx MXenes were revealed with XPS analyses. (112) crystal plane associated interplanar d-space (0.243 nm) was observed with HRTEM results. The electrocatalytic activity of synthesized Ti2NTx MXene was investigated by hydrazine electrooxidation. The Ti2NTx electrocatalyst exhibited a specific activity of 2.739 mA/cm2 and mass activity of 44.1 mA/mg for hydrazine electrooxidation. Ti2N also showed long-term stability compared to Ti2AlN.

Microfurnace or filament pyrolyzer: An example of pyrolysis-GC/MS for condom lubricant analysis

Condom lubricants have been shown to contain polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) in over 95 % of cases, but PDMS is difficult to analyze using standard GC–MS or LC-MS due to their size, apolarity and issues with solvents and plasticizers. Py-GC–MS was established as one of the more relevant analytical techniques for PDMS evidence analysis. However, different pyrolysis units and various GC columns are available for use Py-GC–MS. These two parameters are likely to significantly affect the repeatability, reproducibility and sensitivity of the analysis and, as such, affect the recovery of condom traces in casework. This work employed a resistively heated filament pyrolyzer and an isothermal oven pyrolyzer to investigate differences in the profiles generated by the pyrolysis units in the analysis of 4 condom lubricants. Similar experiments were performed using different columns, with the same pyrolyzers, to determine which gave optimal compound separation. This enabled assessment of the combinations in terms of the qualitative and semi-quantitative repeatability, allowing recommendations for optimized condom residue analysis. Results indicate that the use of a HP-5MS column, coupled to an isothermal oven pyrolyzer, is the optimal instrument configuration for condom residue analysis, based on repeatability, reproducibility and sensitivity of PDMS analysis.

Effect of ginger, chamomile, and green tea extracts on prostate cancer cells

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a prevalent form of malignancy in males and is a significant contributor to cancer-related mortality worldwide. Because of this, studying the molecular processes of PCa cell growth and death is crucial. Hence, it is imperative to conduct further research on the regulatory mechanism underlying the progression of PCa to enhance our comprehension and identify innovative therapeutic targets. The present study investigates an experimental approach that utilizes cost-effective and environmentally sustainable plant extracts sourced from Egypt, namely ginger, chamomile, and green tea, which have been solubilized in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), then characterized by using different analytical means and techniques, such as HPLC and GC–MS. The present study employed MTT assay, ELISA, and qRT-PCR techniques to assess the possible impact of the investigated extracts on PCa in PC-3 cells. The findings indicate that ginger exhibited a noteworthy cytotoxic impact on PC-3. Remarkably, the treatment of PCa cells with ginger significantly increased relative lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) production compared to those treated with chamomile and green tea extracts. Autophagy may play a crucial role in the context of chemotherapy. Modifying autophagy through its induction or inhibition is a promising and innovative approach to controlcancer progression. Accordingly, it was found that ginger extract affects protein expression levels of autophagy markers LC3B, ATg12, and pro‐apoptotic signaling, including the Caspase-3 signaling pathway. The ELISA findings revealed a significant rise in the average levels of IL-1β and IL-8 after a 12-hour interval. To conclude, it can be inferred that ginger extract possesses the capability to control the production of inflammatory cytokines. Alternatively, utilizing herbal remedies containing ginger as a viable and secure means of treating PCa as an anticancer agent is possible.

The cognitive and conative image in insular marine protected areas: a study from Galapagos, Ecuador

The present study aimed to identify the factors related to cognitive and conative image attributes in an insular marine protected area and determine which factors explain tourist satisfaction and behavioral loyalty. The research was conducted in the Galapagos Islands, a marine protected area in Ecuador, South America. A total of 407 tourist questionnaires were collected on-site, including national and foreign visitors, and factor analysis and ordinal logistical regression techniques were applied. The findings reveal four factors in the image attributes of insular marine protected areas: Staff Attention, Tourist Facilities, Nature, and Cultural Activities. Among the factors explaining satisfaction with the tourist destination, as well as the intention to recommend it and provide positive feedback, Nature and Staff Attention at the destination stand out. Meanwhile, the cultural activities factor best explains the intention to return to the destination.These findings enhance the academic understanding of the factors influencing the image of coastal and marine destinations, particularly in insular marine protected areas. They also offer valuable insights for destination managers, providing practical guidelines to improve destination images, thereby boosting tourist satisfaction and loyalty.

Development of New N- and S-substituted-imidazolidin-4-one Analogues with Potent Anti-breast Cancer Activity: In vitroMolecular Docking Assessment

Abstract: 2-Thioxoimidazolidin-4-one derivatives 3, 4, 7, 8, and 9 have been synthesized from 3- (benzylideneamino)-2-thioxoimidazolidin-4-one (2) as a starting material. Compounds 3, 4, 7, 8, and 9 were obtained via the reaction of compound (2) with ethyl chloroacetate, methyl acrylate, and chlorophenacyl bromide, respectively. Elemental analysis and several spectroscopy techniques were used to confirm the synthesized compounds. The synthesized compounds, particularly compounds 7 and 8, exhibited significant cytotoxic influences on MCF-7 cells, surpassing staurosporine. Compounds 7 and 8 can induce apoptosis in those treated MCF-7 cells. Studying molecular docking approved that compounds 7 and 8 bind in two and three dimensions to the aromatase binding pockets. Molecular modeling indicates compounds 7 and 8 have a strong affinity for human topoisomerase II beta, establishing its promise as a multifaceted antitumor agent for breast cancer.

Harnessing synergies: Gold-polyaniline based symmetric supercapacitor for low-frequency waveform generation

Electrochemical supercapacitors, one of the storage devices, have attracted much attention owing to their high power density, fast charge-discharge and long cycle life. In this study, we present findings of a hybrid system comprised of gold and polyaniline, fabricated via an in-situ, one pot synthesis route and designed for use in symmetric supercapacitor application. The gold-polyaniline (Au-PANI) based hybrid material was thoroughly characterized using microscopic, optical, and surface analytical techniques to gain a comprehensive understanding of the system. The electrochemical performance of Au-PANI based electrode was examined using cyclic voltammetry (CV), galvanostatic charge-discharge (GCD) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques. The hybrid system exhibited maximum specific capacitance (CS) 387F/g at the current density of 12A/g for three electrode system. The symmetric supercapacitor exhibited a maximum specific capacity (QS) 303mAh/g at the current density of 0.1A/g and achieved a maximum energy density (ED) and power density (PD) of 243 mWh/kg and 619W/kg at the current density of 0.1A/g and 0.9A/g, respectively. Further, the Au-PANI based symmetric device was applied to generate low-frequency waveforms.

Effect of post-annealing treatment on structural, optical and photocatalytic properties of TiO2 nanoparticles prepared via pulsed laser ablation in liquid

Ultrasmall TiO2 nanoparticles were synthesized through pulsed laser ablation of a metal titanium target in liquid followed by thermal annealing treatment. The impact of post-annealing treatment on the structural, morphological, optical properties, and the photocatalytic activity of the synthesized TiO2 nanoparticles have been investigated through a variety of analytical techniques, including X-Ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, ultraviolet-visible diffusion reflectance spectra, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results reveal that annealing temperature significantly improved the crystallinity of laser ablated TiO2 nanoparticles and modified the chemical states of surface elements. Defects introduced by laser ablation, which serve as electron traps, combined with enhanced crystallinity resulting from thermal annealing, have improved the photocatalytic degradation performance of TiO2 nanoparticles. Specifically, TiO2 nanoparticles annealed at 300 ℃ exhibited optimal photocatalytic performance in decomposition of model dye under the irradiation from xenon lamp, demonstrating the critical role of annealing in improving photocatalytic properties. This study not only broadens the comprehension of the impact of post-treatment on the characteristics of laser-ablated TiO2 nanoparticles nanoparticles but also highlights their potential for effective wastewater remediation.

Credit card fraud detection with advanced graph based machine learning techniques

<p>In the realm of credit card fraud detection, the landscape is continually evolving, demanding innovative approaches to stay ahead of increasingly sophisticated fraudulent activities. Our research pioneers a groundbreaking methodology that amalgamates the power of bipartite graph visualization with advanced machine learning techniques. This fusion yields a comprehensive framework capable of effectively evaluating the efficacy of a random forest classifier in uncovering fraudulent credit card transactions. Our study showcases the compelling application of this methodology, offering a paradigm shift in how we analyze and understand credit card fraud detection systems. By seamlessly integrating machine learning algorithms with network analysis, we provide a holistic view of the data, unveiling intricate patterns hidden within. At the heart of our approach lies the innovative use of bipartite graphs, which serve as a dynamic visual bridge between model predictions and real-world outcomes. This visual representation not only enhances interpretability but also facilitates a deeper understanding of the classifier’s performance. By visually mapping the relationships between transactions and their respective classifications, our methodology offers actionable insights into both successful detection and potential areas for improvement. Empowering analysts and stakeholders, our approach facilitates informed decision-making by enabling them to fine-tune model parameters and enhance the overall effectiveness of fraud detection systems. Through this synergy between cutting-edge machine learning and network analysis techniques, we provide a powerful tool to combat the critical challenge of credit card fraud prevention. Step into the future of fraud detection with our innovative methodology, where every transaction is scrutinized with precision, and where security is not just a possibility, but a promise fulfilled.</p>

Harnessing offshore wind for decarbonization: A geospatial study of hydrogen production and heavy industry utilization in Mexico

This study comprehensively examines the techno-economic potential of utilizing offshore wind resources for hydrogen production in Mexico. Through the integration of geospatial analysis techniques with energy generation and economic models, the research estimates hydrogen production, CO2eq emissions reduction potential, Levelized cost of electricity (LCOE), and Levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH). The analysis highlights Mexico’s capacity to produce up to 217.33 million tons of hydrogen annually, predominantly from the Gulf of Mexico. Centralized offshore hydrogen production demonstrates significant cost advantages, being up to 0.92 USD/kg cheaper than onshore production. The study also underscores the economic benefits of repurposing existing oil and gas infrastructure, which can reduce LCOH by up to 11%. Environmental benefits are substantial, with hydrogen use in ammonia production potentially reducing CO2eq emissions by 82.5%. Additionally, the study identifies highly suitable offshore areas for hydrogen production, particularly near existing oil infrastructure, facilitating the integration of new renewable energy projects with minimal additional infrastructure development. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders, emphasizing the economic viability and environmental benefits of offshore wind hydrogen production as a strategic pathway for Mexico’s energy transition and decarbonization efforts.

Fungal elemental profiling unleashed through rapid laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS).

Historically, ionomics, the elemental profiling of an organism or materials, has been used to understand the elemental composition in waste materials to identify and recycle heavy metals or rare earth elements, identify the soil composition in space exploration on the moon or Mars, or understand human disorders or disease. To our knowledge, ionomic profiling of microbes, particularly fungi, has not been investigated to answer applied and fundamental biological questions. The reason is that current ionomic analytical techniques can be laborious in sample preparation, fail to measure all potential elements accurately, are cost-prohibitive, or provide inconsistent results across replications. In our previous efforts, we explored whether laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) could be used in determining the elemental profiles of poplar tissue, which was successful. In this proof-of-concept endeavor, we undertook a transdisciplinary effort between applied and fundamental mycology and elemental analytical techniques to address the biological question of how LIBS can used for fungi grown axenically in a nutrient-rich and nutrient-poor environment.

Strategi Bank Syariah Indonesia Mempertahankan Nasabah Melalui Handling Complaint Di BSI KCP Purwokerto

Customer Service is a very important aspect in the banking world. Therefore, banks must focus on providing services to customers. Because good service is a bank's strategy to retain its customers. This study aims to describe the Strategy of Bank Syariah Indonesia to Retain Customers Through Handling Complaints at BSI KCP Purwokerto through the role of customer service in handling complaints in order to retain customers. The type of field research with a qualitative descriptive approach. Data collection techniques consist of observation, interviews, and documentation. This study uses data collection methods, data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions as data analysis techniques. The results of this study indicate that customer service plays a very important role. The role of customer service in handling complaints is as a channel for problem information and solution services. To retain customers, customer service must provide friendly service, approach, and really look for solutions and alternatives to solve problems that occur so that customers feel comfortable and satisfied. So that it can retain customers, both new and old customers

Investigating new solutions for a general form of q$$ \mathfrak{q} $$‐deformed equation: An analytical and numerical study

SummaryThis paper contributes to the study of a new model called the ‐deformed equation or the ‐deformed tanh‐Gordon model. To understand physical systems with violated symmetries. We utilize the ‐expansion approach to solve the ‐deformed equation for specific parameter values. This method generates solutions that provide valuable insights into the system's dynamics and behavior. To verify the accuracy of our solutions, we also apply the finite difference technique to obtain numerical solutions to the ‐deformed equation. This dual approach ensures the reliability of our results. We present our findings using tables and graphics to enhance clarity and facilitate comparison between the analytical and numerical solutions. These visual aids help readers better understand the similarities and differences between the two approaches. The ‐deformation is significant as it models physical systems with nonstandard symmetry features, like extensivity, offering a more accurate representation of real‐world phenomena. The growing significance of this equation across various disciplines highlights its potential in advancing our understanding of complex physical systems. This paper contributes valuable knowledge about the ‐deformed equation, demonstrating its potential for accurately modeling physical systems with violated symmetries. Through both analytical and numerical techniques, we offer comprehensive solutions and validate their accuracy, with graphical representations enhancing the clarity and understanding of our results. This exploration of ‐deformation advances modeling techniques, providing a more precise depiction of real‐world processes with nonstandard symmetry features.

The Role of Capital Structure in Mediating the Effect of Liquidity on Profitability

The objective of this study is to assess the impact of the Current Ratio (CR) on the Net Profit Margin (NPM), with the Debt-to-Equity Ratio (DER) and Debt-to-Asset Ratio (DAR) serving as intervening variables. This research was conducted due to certain business phenomena that became the focal point of investigation, discrepancies between empirical data and existing theories, and gaps in previous studies that prompted the need for further exploration. This study employs a quantitative research approach, utilizing data collection techniques based on company financial reports through documentation methods. The population of this study comprises all companies listed and consistently included in the Business-27 Index on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) from 2013 to 2022. A total of 6 companies were selected as samples from the 27 companies available, using purposive sampling methods. Path analysis and the Sobel test were utilized as data analysis techniques in this research. The findings of this study indicate that the CR does not have a significant impact on NPM. However, CR has a negative and significant effect on both DER and DAR. Furthermore, DER and DAR do not have a significant influence on NPM. While DER cannot mediate the relationship between CR and NPM, DAR can mediate this relationship.

Artificial Intelligence in Education: A Bibliometric Study on Its Role in Transforming Teaching and Learning

This study aimed to present a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of 1,726 academic studies from among those indexed by the Web of Science database platform between 2013 and 2023, to provide a general framework for the concept of artificial intelligence in education (AIEd). Trends in publications and citations across countries, institutions, academic journals, and authors were identified, as well as collaborations among these elements. Several bibliometric analysis techniques were applied, and for each analysis, the motivations behind the execution and method of producing findings were documented. Our findings showed that the number of studies on the concept of AIEd has increased significantly over time, with the U.S. and China being the most common countries of origin. Institutions in the U.S. stand out from those around the world. Pioneering journals in education have also emerged as prominent in the field of AIEd. On the other hand, collaboration between authors has been limited. The study was supplemented with keyword analysis to reveal thematic AIEd concepts and to reflect changing trends. For those exploring artificial intelligence in education, our insights on popular topics offer valuable guidance toward greater understanding of the latest advancements and key research areas.

Catalytic Application of POSS–COF-[(Co(acetate)2] for Selective Reduction of Nitriles to Amines

We report the reticular synthesis and structural investigations through the spectroscopic analysis of a novel polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS)-modified framework, hereby ascribed as a catalyst for the selective reduction of aryl nitriles to amines. The integration of the unique features of the polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane with 2,2′-Bipyridine-4,4′-dicarboxaldehyde and subsequently coordination to cobalt acetate manifests a distinctive feature, which is a stable covalent bond between Co and the functionalized POSS, effectively preventing catalyst leaching. The cobalt acetate-modified POSS–COF, synthesized with this approach, underwent a comprehensive characterization employing various analytical techniques including FTIR, XRD, SEM, XPS, TGA, and 29Si NMR. This thorough characterization provides a detailed insight into the structural and chemical attributes of the catalyst. Our catalyst, with its exceptional catalytic efficiency in catalyzing reduction reactions compared to its homogeneous counterparts, and its distinctive three-dimensional metalated POSS system, shows outstanding catalytic performance attributed to its diverse coordination interactions with ligands. Moreover, this catalyst presents additional merits, such as facile recovery and recyclability, making it a promising candidate for sustainable and efficient catalytic processes and thus instilling hope for a greener future.

Quality by Design Approach for the Development and Validation of a Robust RP-HPLC Method for the Estimation of Aloe-Emodin

Introduction/Objective: The current study examines the methodical Quality by Design (QbD) that facilitated the creation of an easy-to-use, quick, affordable, and stability-indicating reversed- phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) technique for the efficient analysis of aloe-emodin. Methods: The chromatographic conditions were optimized with the Design Expert software 11.0 version, i.e., flow rate, buffer concentration, and column temperature. Results: The results of the linearity graph show R2 = 0.9988. The LOQ was 0.07949 μg/mL and the LOD was 0.02623 μg/mL. According to ICH rules, the technique validation parameters were within the allowed range. Utilizing the Design Expert 11.0 version, the Box–Behnken design experimental design explains the relationships between flow rate, buffer concentration, and column temperature at three distinct levels. The responses were monitored: the retention time (Rt), tailing factor (Tf), and number of theoretical plates (NTPs). Conclusion: The suggested approach was appropriate for quantitative determination and may be used in clinical pharmacokinetic investigations, biopharmaceutics, accredited testing laboratories, and quality control departments in enterprises.

MANAJEMEN KURIKULUM DAN SISTEM PENILAIAN KURIKULUM BERBASIS KKNI

This study aims to analyze the preparation, implementation and evaluation of curriculum development based on the Indonesian National Qualifications Framework (KKNI) at the Agribusiness Study Program, Wiralodra Indramayu University. This study uses a qualitative approach with descriptive analysis method. Interviews were conducted directly with informants, consisting of the Dean, Deputy Dean, Head of the Agribusiness Study Program. The results of observations and documentation were obtained from various studies of documents, manuscripts, and archives related to the IQF-based curriculum management. The data analysis technique uses data reduction, data display and verification. The results of this study indicate that: a) The curriculum of the Agribusiness Study Program at Wiralodra Indramayu University is in accordance with the applicable KKNI curriculum reference and every component of curriculum management consisting of planning, implementation and evaluation of the curriculum has been going well, although there are still shortcomings and weaknesses of each the process carried out; b) Development of curriculum management must pay attention to SOPs and regulations for the IQF curriculum, but in practice it is still not fully based on the IQF. Keywords: Curriculum Management, Indonesian National Qualifications Framework

Education Service for Children of Unregistered Indonesian Migrant Workers in Malaysia

Following registration records for the 2022 Unlicensed Foreign Worker Recalibration Program (PATI), 418,649 Indonesian citizens are participating in the labour recalibration program in Malaysia, so this will have a negative impact, namely an increase in the number of children of Indonesian migrant workers. Malaysian immigration authorities do not allow all migrant workers to invite their families to come live in Malaysia. This causes migrant workers' children to feel ostracized, discriminated against and denied their right to education due to a lack of access to education and love from their parents. The research aims to explore the role of government in providing educational services. The research method is descriptive and qualitative. The subjects of this research were the Indonesian and Malaysian governments, the children of unregistered immigrant workers in several guidance studios, and migrant workers. Data was collected through interviews, observation, and documentation. Data analysis techniques include data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The research results found that the rights of Indonesian citizens and children have been fulfilled, such as access to education. Fulfilling these needs is achieved through the role of government, such as establishing formal and non-formal schools to foster a sense of comfort and protection. In addition, the government, with its role, can create appropriate policies to provide rights and safety to the children of unregistered immigrant workers

The Effects Of Foreign Ownership On Corporate Risk Findings From Quantile Regression And FSQCA

The study investigates the correlation between foreign ownership and corporate risk at 147 listed firms in Vietnam from 2015 to 2019. Quantile regression and fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) technique method are applied to examine this relationship. Although the findings reveal that foreign ownership has an impact on corporate risk, the direction of this impact varies depending on the specific conditions. These empirical results have significant implications for firms in managing risks through effective policies related to foreign ownership. The findings will also enable foreign investors to assess the risk level of their investments when analyzing the current situation of a given firm, thereby adjusting their investment capital appropriately.