Versatile Applications Research Articles

Generation of bessel-like beam by a binary ultrasonic lens

Bessel beams have already been used in acoustic tweezers, ultrasonic medical imaging, and Doppler velocity estimation due to their non-diffractive and self-healing properties. We proposed a binary ultrasonic lens, with ultra-thin planar periodic structures for efficient conversion of the plane wave into a Bessel-like beam. The effectiveness of long-axis focusing has been demonstrated through simulations and experiments with FWHM of 8.5 mm and 9.5 mm around 10 mm. By varying the operating frequency of the incident wave from 1.9 MHz to 2.2 MHz, the position of the long-axis focusing point can be adjusted experimentally from 23.05 mm to 28.95 mm. Additionally, the beam generated by the binary ultrasonic lens can form a focused sound field when passing through multi-layered tissues and the self-healing capability of the Bessel-like beam has been numerically validated, showing strong robustness. This binary ultrasonic lens for a Bessel-like beam would conform better to ergonomic and miniaturization requirements, and expand versatile applications in clinical diagnosis and therapy.

Comprehensive Insights into Microbial Lipases: Unveiling Structural Dynamics, Catalytic Mechanism, and Versatile Applications.

Microbial lipases (MLs) are pivotal biocatalysts in lipid biotechnology due to their diverse enzymatic properties and substrate specificity, garnering significant research attention. This comprehensive review explores the significance of MLs in biocatalysis, providing insights into their structure, catalytic domain, and oxyanion hole. The catalytic mechanism is elucidated, highlighting the molecular processes driving their efficiency. The review delves into ML sources, spanning fungi, yeasts, bacteria, and actinomycetes, followed by a discussion on classification and characterization. Emphasizing the scattered findings in the literature, the paper consolidates the latest information on ML applications across various industries, from food and pharmaceuticals to biofuel production and the paper and pulp industry. The review captures the dynamic landscape of ML research, emphasizing their structure-function relationships and practical implications across diverse sectors.

Theoretical Design of Thorium Nitride MXenes.

Actinides with 5f6d7s valence orbitals feature special physicochemical properties different from those of the other elements. Actinide-based two-dimensional (2D) materials combine the distinctive physics of actinides with the quantum size effect of 2D materials, but relevant studies are scarce. Since Th has a valence electron configuration of 6d27s2 like Ti, and Ti-based MXenes show excellent stability and versatile applications, whether Th can form stable MXenes has become an intriguing question. Herein, we designed Th2N, Th3N2, and Th4N3 MXenes and investigated their physical properties, functionalization, and potential applications using density functional theory. Their stabilities are validated by global minimum search, phonon spectra, ab initio molecular dynamics, enthalpy of formation, and energy above the hull. All the Th-N MXenes exhibit metallic properties and are stabilized by the electrostatic interaction between Th and N ions, as well as the covalent bonding interaction between the Th 6d/5f and N 2p/2s orbitals. The H-, O-, and F-functionalization3N2 MXene improve its stability while preserving its metallicity, and the O-functionalized Th3N2 MXene shows promising catalytic activity for hydrogen evolution. The thorium nitride MXenes enrich the family of actinide-based 2D materials and extend our understanding of the structures and properties induced by actinide elements in low-dimensional materials.

Polyoxazolines with Cholesterol Lipid Anchor for Fast Intracellular Delivery.

Due to the increasing challenges posed by the growing immunity to poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), there is growing interest in innovative polymer-based materials as viable alternatives. In this study, the advantages of lipids and polymers are combined to allow efficient and rapid cytoplasmic drug delivery. Specifically, poly(2-methyl-2-oxazoline) is modified with a cholesteryl hemisuccinate group as a lipid anchor (CHEMSPOx). The CHEMSPOx is additionally functionalized with a coumarin group (CHEMSPOx-coumarin). Both polymers self-assembled in water into vesicles of ≈100nm and are successfully loaded with a hydrophobic model drug. The loaded vesicles reveal high cellular internalization across variant cell lines within 1 h at 37°C as well as 4°C, albeit to a lesser extent. A kinetic study confirms the fast internalization within 5 min after the sample's addition. Therefore, different internalization pathways are involved, e.g., active uptake but also nonenergy dependent mechanisms. CHEMSPOx and CHEMSPOx-coumarin further demonstrate excellent cyto-, hemo-, and membrane compatibility, as well as a membrane-protecting effect, which underlines their good safety profile for potential biological intravenous application. Overall, CHEMSPOx, as a lipopolyoxazoline, holds great potential for versatile biological applications such as fast and direct intracellular delivery or cellular lysis protection.

Histidine-based hybrid perovskites as promising materials for wide wavelength photodetection

Layered 2D hybrid organic-inorganic perovskites (2D-HOIPs) exhibit a distinctive array of properties, including remarkable structural flexibility, enhanced resistance to moisture, and optoelectronic characteristics valuable for practical applications. Consequently, these materials are now widely acknowledged as pivotal components in optical and optoelectronic technologies. However, a significant drawback of 2D-HOIPs is their wide band gaps that has hindered their widespread application in optoelectronic devices. In this work we address this limitation by offering a novel series of 2D mixed-halide tin-based HOIPs with general formula (L-HisH)2SnBrxI4−x (where L-His = L-histidine, x = 4, 3.37, 1.70, 0.56, 0.44, and 0) for which the band gap can reach record narrow values, which are not typical for 2D-HOIPs. These compounds can be easily obtained in wide compositional range by implementing halide substitution approach. Each hybrid perovskite features a chiral structure imparted by chiral L-histidinium(+) cations interleaved between corner-shared tin halide octahedra, organized into single-layer thin inorganic slabs. Crucially, these new materials provide a high degree of flexibility in tuning their band gaps throughout the entire visible light spectrum, encompassing a range between 1.82 and 3.05 eV. As a “proof-of-concept”, we created a prototype HOIPs photodetector in which this HOIP was used as an active layer. It is noteworthy that the band gap of pure iodide perovskite is surprisingly narrow for this class of materials. The production of semiconductor materials with a variable width of the optical bandgap is the key to more versatile and diverse applications of these materials in the active components of modern optoelectronic devices. For the obtained prototype, light detection is observed in the wide range covering UV, visible and near-IR regions, marking a record achievement for 2D-HOIPs. Beyond photodetectors, these new histidine-based perovskites hold promise for applications in various other optoelectronic devices, including solar cells, photodiodes, phototransistors, polarized light detectors, and more.

Different Transformation Methods of the Lomax Distribution: A Review

Over the years, several scholars have attempted to create models for occurrences in which the data distribution exhibits varying degrees of heavy-tailedness. Various generalizations or expansions of the Lomax distribution have been suggested in order to achieve this objective. The behavior of the system is determined by two fundamental parameters: the form shape parameter and the scale parameter. The Lomax distribution effectively represents many failure patterns found in real-world situations. The versatility and wide range of applications make it an essential instrument in the investigation of dependability and survival modeling. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of several techniques for extending Lomax distribution. The included extensions include Lomax distribution, Inverse Transformation, and Alpha Power Transformations. Multiple novel and comparable distributions were deliberated and scrutinized. The research has the potential to serve as a valuable standard and encourage the development of improved distributions that can accurately represent complex events.

Editorial for two-dimensional materials-based heterostructures for next-generation nanodevices.

Heterostructures, such as van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures, provide a versatile platform for engineering the physical properties of two-dimensional (2D) layered materials, spanning electronics, mechanics, optics, as well as electron-phonon couplings. Furthermore, vdW heterostructures, which are composed of metal/semiconductor or semiconductor/semiconductor combinations, not only maintain the unique properties of their individual constituents but also exhibit tunable physical and chemical properties that can be externally adjusted through strain, heat, and electric fields. These externally tunable properties offer significant advances in the fields of solid-state devices and renewable energy applications. Additionally, 2D material-based heterostructures, such as those composed of 0D clusters or quantum dots, as well as 1D nanotubes/wires in combination with 2D materials, also show immense potential for advancing next-generation nanodevices. The vast design space of vdW heterostructures enables their versatile applications spanning numerous fields, such as light-emitting diodes, field-effect transistors, photocatalysis, solar cells, photodetectors, and so on.
In the Special Issue of Journal of Physics: Condensed Matter, entitled "Two-dimensional Materials-based Heterostructures for Next-generation Nanodevices", we have gathered a comprehensive collection of 14 articles, presenting the latest achievements in the fields of designing novel 2D materials and 2D heterostructures. Below, we have briefly condensed the essential research findings from these studies.&#xD.

Design of a tunable microlens based on hybrid single-wall carbon nanotube and liquid crystal

: Tunable liquid crystal (LC) lenses have garnered significant interest in recent years for their lightweight, cost-effectiveness, and versatility in applications like augmented reality, ophthalmic devices, and astronomy. Despite numerous proposed structures to enhance LC lens performance, achieving a minimal focal length while preserving image quality and balancing cost and complexity remains a daunting challenge. Adaptive microlenses encounter these obstacles due to physical constraints and diffraction effects. One promising solution lies in using adaptive LC-carbon nanotubes (CNTs) lenses. By adjusting external stimuli like electric or magnetic fields, it is possible to modify the refractive index distribution of the LC medium, thus changing the focal length of the microlens. When paired with CNTs, the LC molecules' orientation and control of focal length can be even more precise. Our research findings suggest that to achieve the shortest focal length in a microlens with a thickness of 22.5 μm, it is recommended that the diameter of the CNT should not exceed 10 nm, and the height of CNT should fall within the range of 10 to 20 μm considering the presence of screening effect. Conversely, for a microlens with low full width at half maximum (FWHM), narrower light spot, it is advisable to use CNT with a diameter larger than 100 nm and a height greater than 13 μm. Additionally, for a microlens with an efficient Fresnel number in the range of 1 to 10, the microlens should have CNT with widths from 100 to 200 nm. Therefore, based on the importance of each factor (focal length, FWHM, and Fresnel number), the dimensions of the carbon nanotube can be selected to suit the desired application.

Two-Dimensional Silver-Isocyanide Frameworks.

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have been widely studied due to their versatile applications and easily tunable structures. However, heteroatom-metal coordination dominates the MOFs community, and the rational synthesis of carbon-metal coordination-based MOFs remains a significant challenge. Herein, two-dimensional (2D) MOFs based on silver-carbon linkages are synthesized through the coordination between silver(I) salt and isocyanide-based monomers at ambient condition. The as-synthesized 2D MOFs possess well-defined crystalline structures and a staggered AB stacking mode. Most interestingly, these 2D MOFs, without π-π stacking between layers, exhibit narrow bandgaps down to 1.42 eV. As electrochemical catalysts for converting CO2 to CO, such 2D MOFs demonstrate Faradaic efficiency over 92%. Surprisingly, the CO2 reduction catalyzed by these MOFs indicates favorable adsorption of CO2 and *COOH on the active carbon sites of the isocyanide groups rather than on silver sites. This is attributed to the critical σ donor role of isocyanides and the corresponding ligand-to-metal charge-transfer effect. This work not only paves the way toward a new family of MOFs based on metal-isocyanide coordination but also offers a rare platform for understanding the electrocatalysis processes on strongly polarized carbon species.

Development of automatic CNC machine with versatile applications in art, design, and engineering

The area of computer numerical control (CNC) machines has grown fast, and their use has risen significantly in recent years. This article presents the design and development of a CNC writing machine that uses an Arduino, a motor driver, a stepper motor, and a servo motor. The machine is meant to create 2D designs and write in numerous input languages using 3-axis simultaneous interpolated operations. The suggested machine is low-cost, simple to build, and can be operated with merely G codes. The performance of the CNC writing machine was assessed by testing it on a range of solid surfaces, including paper, cardboard, and wood. The results reveal that the machine can generate high-quality text and images with great accuracy and consistency. The proposed machine's ability to write in several input languages makes it appropriate for various applications, including art, design, and engineering.

Two‐Dimensional Silver–Isocyanide Frameworks

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) have been widely studied due to their versatile applications and easily tunable structures. However, heteroatom‐metal coordination dominates the MOFs community, and the rational synthesis of carbon–metal coordination‐based MOFs remains a significant challenge. Herein, two‐dimensional (2D) MOFs based on silver–carbon linkages are synthesized through the coordination between silver(I) salt and isocyanide‐based monomers at ambient condition. The as‐synthesized 2D MOFs possess well‐defined crystalline structures and a staggered AB stacking mode. Most interestingly, these 2D MOFs, without π–π stacking between layers, exhibit narrow bandgaps down to 1.42 eV. As electrochemical catalysts for converting CO2 to CO, such 2D MOFs demonstrate Faradaic efficiency over 92%. Surprisingly, the CO2 reduction catalyzed by these MOFs indicates favorable adsorption of CO2 and *COOH on the active carbon sites of the isocyanide groups rather than on silver sites. This is attributed to the critical σ donor role of isocyanides and the corresponding ligand‐to‐metal charge–transfer effect. This work not only paves the way toward a new family of MOFs based on metal–isocyanide coordination but also offers a rare platform for understanding the electrocatalysis processes on strongly polarized carbon species.

Double perovskite CaSrMSbO6(M = La, Gd, Y): Bi3+ phosphors for multifunctional application

Bi3+-doping luminescent materials have recently evoked considerable interest in versatile applications. In this work, we have developed a series of Bi3+-activated CaSrMSbO6(M = La, Gd, Y) phosphors with double perovskite structures, exhibiting blue emission from 350 nm to 500 nm. The emission spectral position and intensity of Bi3+ ions can be tuned by changing excitation wavelength and doping concentrations. The relationship between the local crystal field environment and the luminescence properties is comprehensively analyzed. Importantly, optical temperature properties of CaSrLaSbO6: Bi3+ were investigated and were found to reach a maximum relative sensitivity of 4.57 % K−1 at 298 K. Furthermore, the anti-counterfeiting ink was prepared using CaSrLaSbO6: Bi3+ phosphors, and it showed tunable emission under different light stimulation. These results indicate that CaSrLaSbO6: Bi3+ phosphors have application potential in optical temperature sensing and anti-counterfeiting.

Biogenic synthesis of porous CuO nanoparticles: Synergistic effects in photocatalytic dye degradation and electrochemical energy storage applications

This study explores the biogenic synthesis of CuO nanoparticles functionalized with Solanum nigrum, using Acalypha indica leaf extract as a reducing agent. The biogenically synthesized CuO nanoparticles were comprehensively characterized by various analytical techniques, involves X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), BET surface area analysis (BET), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV–Visible spectral analysis (UV), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), fluorescence spectroscopy, photocatalytic degradation, antimicrobial assay, cytotoxicity assay, electrochemical analysis, and linear sweep voltammetry studies. The XRD analysis revealed end centered monoclinic phase with a 10 nm average crystalline size. BET analysis showed a mesoporous structure with a surface area of 11.54 m2/g. XPS and EDAX confirmed the presence of Cu2+ and O2− ions. SEM and TEM images indicated spherical, and porous nanostructures. UV–Visible spectroscopy identified an active optical range of 508–518 nm (2.40–2.45 eV), suggesting potential photocatalytic activity. The photocatalytic degradation efficiencies of Methylene blue (98.8 %) and Rhodamine B (95 %) were achieved after 100 min of irradiation. Antimicrobial tests demonstrated effectiveness against Staph. aureus, E. coli, Shigella flexneri, and Candida tropicalis. The nanoparticles exhibited notable cytotoxicity against colorectal cancer cells with IC50 values of 58.66 μg/ml and 66.78 μg/ml. Additionally, a symmetric supercapacitor electrode using these nanoparticles achieved a specific capacitance of 375 Fg−1 at the current density of 1 Ag−1. This research underscores the versatile applications of biogenic CuO nanoparticles in photocatalysis, antimicrobial treatments, cancer therapy, and energy storage.

Numerical failure modelling of natural fibre composite coupons using X-ray computed tomography based modelling

Natural fibre composites offer versatile applications across industries while being superior in sustainability aspects compared to other composite types. To unlock their full potential, it is essential to understand their complex failure involving fibre failure, matrix cracking, and debonding at the fibre-matrix interface. Efforts to address these challenges focus on advanced numerical models, probing behaviour from micro to macro scales. However, these models face complexities in handling intricate failure modes given the non-uniform nature of natural fibres. To overcome these challenges, image-based modelling using X-ray computed tomography scans is proposed. This work’s novelty lies in integrating detailed microstructure information with a nonlinear calibration procedure to accurately model damage and failure in natural fiber composites. It marks a significant step toward developing a virtual testing model, paving the way for assessing composites with varying fiber content or fiber types.

Particle swarm optimization for performance enhancement of cadmium telluride thin film solar cells by embedded nano-grating structures with a plasmonic metal coating layer

As the demand for energy in world is increasing rapidly and there is pursuit for renewable energy sources which is cheap, easy to generate and requires low maintenance, solar energy is a top contender. The world is in dire need of photovoltaic solar cells that can aid in keeping up with the hiking energy demands. However, thin film solar cells (TFSCs) which are developed for cost effectivity, suffer in performance due to reduced thickness. Therefore, this computational study uses Finite-Difference Time-Domain (FDTD) and delves into the scope of using a 1-D nano-grating structure embedded into absorbing layer of cadmium telluride TFSC to enhance the optoelectronic performance. A unique nano-grating structure with SiO2 at its core and aluminium coating aims to enhance the performance of CdTe TFSC with cost effectivity and ease of fabricability as the main motifs. Additionally, an evolutionary computational technique, Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), was used to determine the optimal parameters of nano-gratings on CdTe TFSCs, i.e., nano-grating height, angle, duty cycle, aluminium coating thickness and grating substrate thickness. The PSO algorithm resulted in a nano-grating structure that yielded an efficiency increase of 52.86% and increase in short-circuit current density of 25.45% with respect to bare CdTe TFSCs. Subsequently, the performance of the optimal nano-grating structure was also observed to be insensitive to variation of wide range of incidence angle of light, a key feature preferred for versatile application of TFSCs.

The Immunomodulatory Effects of Selenium: A Journey from the Environment to the Human Immune System

Selenium (Se) is an essential nutrient that has gained attention for its impact on the human immune system. The purpose of this review is to explore Se’s immunomodulatory properties and to make up-to-date information available so novel therapeutic applications may emerge. People acquire Se through dietary ingestion, supplementation, or nanoparticle applications. These forms of Se can beneficially modulate the immune system by enhancing antioxidant activity, optimizing the innate immune response, improving the adaptive immune response, and promoting healthy gut microbiota. Because of these many actions, Se supplementation can help prevent and treat pathogenic diseases, autoimmune diseases, and cancers. This review will discuss Se as a key micronutrient with versatile applications that supports disease management due to its beneficial immunomodulatory effects. Further research is warranted to determine safe dosing guidelines to avoid toxicity and refine the application of Se in medical treatments.

Advances in Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Characterization, and Biomedical Uses

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) have drawn significant attention due to their exceptional properties and diverse range of applications, particularly in nanomedicine. The distinctive properties of MSNs, such as their high surface area, tunable pore size, and versatile surface chemistry, make them ideal candidates for various biomedical applications. This review aims to present a detailed understanding of MSNs, from synthesis and characterization to their versatile applications in biomedicine, highlighting their significant potential in advancing healthcare technologies. The synthesis methods for MSNs were comprehensively discussed, emphasizing the influence of parameters like solvent, base, alkoxysilane concentrations, and template surfactants on the size and shape of the nanostructures. Different types of MSNs, including MCM-41, SBA-15, KIT-6, and hollow MSNs, are discussed, along with their synthesis protocols and unique characteristics. The review also covers various spectroscopic techniques, such as XRD, XPS, FTIR, NMR, and fluorescence spectroscopy, which are crucial for characterizing MSNs. Furthermore, the biomedical applications of MSNs are highlighted, demonstrating their potential in drug delivery systems, imaging, and diagnostics. The review concludes with a discussion of the future perspectives and challenges in the field, providing insights into potential developments and the prospects for clinical translation.

Analyzing Sunflower Trait Patterns Using MANOVA, PCA, and Correlation Across Seasons and Locations

Sunflower is an important agricultural crop valued for its high oil yield, versatility in culinary and industrial applications and adaptability to diverse environments. Eight advanced sunflower genotypes were tested in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications at six locations over the 2018 and 2019 seasons. The study aimed to evaluate the effects of environmental and genotypic variations using MANOVA, PCA, and correlation analysis to discover trait patterns and relationships. The MANOVA results revealed highly significant effects of genotype, environment, and their interaction on the 11 dependent variables (p < 0.001). The four principal components account for 74.23% of the total variation, with key traits such as seed yield per hectare, oil yield per hectare, days to maturity, plant height, and grain filling period significantly contributing to the overall variability. Oil yield per hectare and seed yield per hectare exhibited a very strong association (0.974). Days to maturity (DM) and grain filling period (GFP) showed a strong correlation (0.666), suggesting that longer grain filling periods may enhance both maturity and yield. Additionally, plant height (PH) and seed yield per hectare (YELDK) had a moderate correlation (0.491). Breeding programs should target traits with strong correlations to boost sunflower productivity and adaptability. Future research should prioritize selecting genotypes that perform well across diverse environments, focusing on seed yield, oil yield, and traits such as maturity and grain filling period. Additionally, breeding should incorporate disease resistance and optimize days to flowering to develop more robust and productive sunflower varieties.

Self-sensing function and thermoelectric effect of engineered cementitious composites (ECC) with porous structures

This study investigates the self-sensing and thermoelectric mechanism of ultra-lightweight engineered cementitious composites (ULW-ECC) with porous structures by comparing seven different mixtures. Porous structures based on fly ash cenosphere (FAC) and polyethylene (PE) fibre are compared with those formed solely by individual materials (air-entraining admixture (AEA), FAC, PE fibre), as well as dense structure (pure cement). Mechanical properties, electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, and self-sensing capabilities (compression, bending, and tension) were systematically tested. Additionally, thermoelectric behaviours were examined under various treatment methods (normal state and leaching treatment) and electrodes. Scanning electronic microscope (SEM) and mercury intrusion porosimeter (MIP) analysis were conducted to explain the self-sensing and thermoelectric mechanism of ULW-ECC. Results indicate that achieving self-sensing functionality in cementitious composites without conductive fillers and other special treatments is feasible through the creation of a porous structure, with enhanced performance corrected with increased porosity. Such porous structure can be achieved using high-volume FAC, PE fibres, and AEA either independently or in combination. Furthermore, cement-based composites exhibit ionic thermoelectric performance, with efficiency influenced by mineral admixtures, porosity, specific porous area, electrode types, and leaching treatment. The ionic Seebeck coefficient increases with higher porosity and specific surface area, resulting in ULW-ECC with a porous structure demonstrating a superior ionic Seebeck coefficient compared to pure cement. This study provides novel insights into the versatile applications of ULW-ECC and other cement-based composites.

Modeling of genetic algorithm tuned adaptive fuzzy fractional order PID speed control of permanent magnet synchronous motor for electric vehicle

This study presents a novel Genetic Algorithm-optimized Adaptive Fuzzy Fractional Order Proportional Integral Derivative (GA-AFFFOPID) controller for enhancing the speed control performance of permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) drives in Electric Vehicles. The proposed GA-AFFFOPID controller, which combines the advantages of genetic algorithm optimization and adaptive fuzzy fractional-order PID control, represents a unique and innovative approach to address the control challenges associated with PMSM drives. Permanent magnet synchronous motor technology, known for its efficiency, compactness, reliability, and versatility in motion control applications, is increasingly adopted in electric vehicle drive systems. However, the inherent non-linearity, dynamics, and uncertainties of permanent magnet synchronous motors pose significant control challenges. The exceptional performance of the GA-AFFFOPID controller, demonstrated through its superior system dynamics, precise speed tracking, and robustness against parameter variations and sudden load disturbances, underscores the significant advancements enabled by the genetic algorithm optimization technique in improving the control performance of PMSM drives for electric vehicle applications. Comparative analysis with traditional control methods demonstrates the exceptional performance of the Genetic Algorithm-optimized Adaptive Fuzzy Fractional Order Proportional Integral Derivative controller. These findings highlight the significant performance improvements facilitated by the genetic algorithm optimization technique in enhancing the control performance of the adaptive fuzzy fractional order PID controller in PMSM drives for electric vehicle applications.