X-ray Diffractometry Analysis Research Articles

Sodium alginate based fast swelling nanogels for solubility enhancement of chlorthalidone; synthesis, characterization and biosafety evaluation.

Purpose of the study was to enhance the solubility of Chlorthalidone, poorly soluble diuretic that has been the used for lowering high blood pressure for the past half-century. Solubility is a challenge for approximately 90 % of drug candidates. Chlorthalidone is BCS Class IV drug whose poor solubility needs to be improved in order to optimize its efficacy. Using a free radical polymerization technique, sodium alginate-based nanogels were formulated for enhancing solubility of Chlorthalidone. The evaluation of various characteristics of nanogels was done by structural characterization, drug loading, swelling, sol-gel transition, in-vitro release, solubility, and toxicity tests. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) revealed characteristic peaks of the primary raw materials and polymeric nanogels. The FT-IR spectra of the Chlorthalidone-loaded nanogels suggested discrete drug peaks confirming successful drug loading. The system's amorphous nature and thermal stability were indicated by powder X-ray diffractometry and thermal analysis. The scanning electron microscopy indicated a well-defined porous structure. The size of the nanogels was determined by zeta size analysis to be 189 ±18.35 n.m. The solubility enhancement factor demonstrated the potential for improved solubility of the poorly soluble drug. The resulting biocompatible nanogels could be used to improve the solubility of hydrophobic drugs.

Synthesis of Nanoparticle ZnO via Chemical Reduction Using Singkil (<i>Premna serratifolia linn</i>) Leaf Extract as Photocatalytic

Nanoparticles are one of the widely studied research topics. ZnO nanoparticles have numerous benefits, such as photocatalysts and antibacterial applications. Methylene blue, which a highly dangerous and pollutes the environment and human health, is mostly used as a coloring dye in the textile industry. The use of biodegradation to treat textile waste is time-consuming and less effective. Applying photocatalysts using semiconductor materials is a more efficient method than conventional approaches for decomposing organic waste. One environmentally friendly method is green synthesis, which involves the use of microorganisms, enzymes, and plant extracts in the fabrication process. In this study, the green synthesis using chemical reduction of Premna serratifolia linn leaf extract was used to produce ZnO nanoparticles. The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of temperature on the fabrication of ZnO nanoparticles and their photocatalytic performance. Zinc nitrate tetrahydrate was used as a precursor, and the furnace temperature was varied at 400, 500, and 600 °C. The obtained ZnO was then tested using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffractometry (XRD), and Fourier transforms infrared spectrophotometry (FTIR). Moreover, the photocatalytic test was evaluated by examining the degradation efficiency of methylene blue using UV light. The XRD analysis indicated that the ZnO nanoparticles had crystallite sizes ranging between 44-60 nm. The SEM morphological test showed that the ZnO particles had a nano-sized spherical shape. The FTIR test results demonstrated the presence of ZnO peaks around 520 cm‑1. The performance of photocatalytic activity under UV light irradiation was significantly affected by tuning the temperatures. It was observed that the photocatalytic activity increased with increasing temperature, and methylene blue degradation efficiency reached 50% at a temperature of 600 °C. The ability of ZnO as a photocatalyst material was also evaluated by recycling the used material two times, where there was no significant change in photocatalytic performance.

Changes of Unit Cell Parameters in Lactose Saturated by Substances Technologically Processed by Dilution

Background: Our research investigates how the structure of a lactose matrix can be altered by the specific drugs used to saturate it. In particular, we examine whether ultra-high dilutions of substances, such as antibodies, can change the crystal structure of lactose. Methods: We employed methods including X-ray diffractometry, Raman spectroscopy, and granulometric content analysis. Results: Our findings suggest that once saturated with highly diluted substances, lactose does indeed gain and retain changes in its crystalline structures [particularly cell parameters a, b, c, β]. These changes are most pronounced between intact and saturated lactose samples, and there are also differences observed when using different solutions for saturation. Conclusion: The results support the idea that ultra-high dilutions can irreversibly change the structure of lactose, potentially due to differences in solution wetting and subsequent recrystallization of the lactose matrix.

Fabrication of β-cyclodextrin-based microgels for enhancing solubility of Terbinafine: An in-vitro and in-vivo toxicological evaluation

Abstract Solubility enhancement of poorly aqueous-soluble drugs, like Terbinafine (TBN), is a critical challenge in formulating effective dosage forms. This study focused on developing β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and polyacrylamide (PAM)-based microgels to address the solubility issue of TBN, classified as a biopharmaceutics classification system class II drug. The microgels were crafted through free radical polymerization, employing methylene bisacylamide as a cross-linker and methacrylic acid as a monomer, initiated by ammonium persulfate. Comprehensive characterizations, including Fourier transform infrared, thermo-gravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, scanning electron microscopy, powder X-ray diffractometry analysis, Zeta size, and Zeta potential, were conducted. In vitro studies, such as drug release and swelling, were performed at pH 1.2. Toxicity analysis in rabbits revealed zero toxicity. These β-CD/PAM microgels successfully enhanced the solubility of TBN.

Analyzing the combustion characteristics of Thar coal block XI: A comprehensive study

Coal is a key energy resource in the world that is available at low cost and the high energy content in coal makes it a fuel of choice in many developed and developing countries. Regardless of massive reserves, Thar coal of Pakistan is low-rank lignite coal with high moisture contents and has very limited use. The proximate analysis, ultimate analysis and X-ray diffractometry analysis were performed to investigate the combustion characteristics, morphological and mineral characteristics of Thar coal block XI. Thar coal samples in this study are characterized as low-rank lignite coal. The proximate analysis showed a significant difference in moisture content, volatile content, fixed carbon content and ash residue. The ultimate analysis provided the details of elemental contents (Carbon, Hydrogen, Nitrogen and Sulfer) in coal. The combustion characteristics such as combustion performance of lignite at high temperatures (950 °C) was investigated in thermogravimeter and the results showed the variations in the ignition temperature, burnout tempearature, combustion index and burnout index. The marphological characteristic were determined by X-ray diffraction. The mineral congregations, ash yields, major and minor elements (SiO2, Al2O3, CaO,MgO, Fe2O3) varied significantly in the coal. These analyses integrate various results for assessing major monitoring parameters of coal reactivity, its temperature ranges and combustion products.

UV Light‐Driven Photocatalytic Performance of CeO2 and Co Ion‐Doped CeO2 Nanoparticles: High‐Efficiency Electrochemical and Chromaticity Blue LED Application

AbstractThe study assesses the efficacy of CeO2 nanoparticles synthesised via the hydrothermal method for UV‐induced catalytic activity in decomposing cobalt complexes. Various analyses, including X‐ray diffractometry (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM), and UV‐Vis spectrophotometry were employed to investigate the impact of cobalt on cerium oxide's morphology, optical, electrochemical, and microstructural characteristics. The XRD analysis revealed a cubic structure in the fluorite‐type pattern, primarily oriented along the (111) direction. Raman spectroscopy supported these findings, identifying an active mode peak at 464 cm−1 and indicating the presence of F2g cubic fluorite. SEM imaging displayed cleavage and uniform, densely packed grains. Elemental analysis confirmed the presence of Ce, O, and Co, corroborated by X‐ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) data. Optical measurements indicated a band gap starting at 3.03 eV, which decreased with increasing Co ratio, reaching 2.9 eV at 4 % cobalt incorporation. Furthermore, cyclic voltammetry experiments demonstrated that Co‐doped samples exhibited enhanced ion storage capacity. These comprehensive analyses underscore the potential of Co‐doped CeO2 nanoparticles for UV‐induced catalytic activity, offering valuable insights into their structural and functional properties.

Effects of clay grains on the shear properties of unsaturated loess and microscopic mechanism

Different clay grains affect the structural strength of loess through the cementation of skeletal particles. This study investigates both clay-clay grains and quartz-clay grains. Clay-clay grains mixed loess (CM-L) and quartz-clay grains loess (Q-L) samples were prepared, and their unsaturated shear properties analyzed. X-ray diffractometry (XRD) analysis was conducted to determine the types and proportions of clay grains. Ball mill grinding and laser particle size analysis were employed to ensure comparable sizes of clay grains, while mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) tests confirmed similar pore characteristics. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and unsaturated triaxial consolidation and drainage tests explored the impact of different clay grains on loess shear characteristics, assessing both microscopic and macroscopic performance. The results indicate that CM-L loess exhibits higher cohesion and a lower internal friction angle at the same matric suction level. The cohesion and internal friction angle of both CM-L and Q-L loess exhibit a linear relationship within the range of 50–200 kPa matrix suction. The cohesive force ranges for CM-L and Q-L loess are 60.31–80.07 kPa and 43.01–69.60 kPa, respectively, while the ranges for internal friction angles are 19.95°-19.59° and 25.91°-25.06°, respectively. Compared to Q-L loess, CM-L loess exhibits an average difference in cohesion of 23.18 kPa and in internal friction angle of -5.72°. The microscopic variation in shear strength can be attributed to the “fish scale-like” interlocking state between clay-clay grains and the “tower-like” scattering arrangement of quartz-clay grains. In conclusion, the effect of different clay-grain types on the shear strength of loess varies significantly. The present study elucidates the relationship between the influence of different clay grains on the mechanical properties of loess and their microscopic structural characteristics, thereby providing crucial data for investigating the microscopic effects on the structural strength of loess.

Cr–Sc co-substituted nickel-cobalt nanospinel ferrites: An investigation of their structural, magnetic properties and hyperfine interactions

The chromium and scandium co-substituted nickel-cobalt nanospinel ferrites (NSFs) having general formula of Co0.5Ni0.5ScxCrxFe2-2xO4 (CoNiScCr) (x ≤ 0.10) have been fabricated through the sol-gel route and citric acid as fuel and characterized by X-ray diffractometry (XRD), 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy, vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), and finally by scanning and transmission electron microscopy techniques (SEM and TEM, respectively). The crystallite size (Dmax) values of the products were estimated to lay between 31 and 46 nm, which was calculated by the Scherrer formula. It was observed that the doping ions’ concentration did not have a linear impact on the expansion of the lattice constant. SEM and TEM present the cubic shape of CoNiScCr NSFs. All ratios demonstrate highly agglomerated cubic particles with diverse sizes. Both XRD and EDX (Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy) analyses confirmed the absence of any impurity/phases. Through an analysis of hysteresis loops at 300 (RT = room temperature) and 20 K, along with a probe of temperature-induced alteration in magnetization M, the magnetic properties of CoNiScCr (x ≤ 0.10) NSFs have been thoroughly investigated. Notably, all products exhibited complementary soft and hard magnetic behaviors at RT and 20 K, respectively. At 20 K, the observation of squareness ratio values surpassing 0.5 exhibits a single-domain behavior at this specific temperature. Magnetic parameters, in general, exhibit fluctuations with increasing doping content. Across the entire range of materials studied, a notable trend emerges as the temperature decreases, the magnetization in the zero field cooling curves shows a non-linear decrease, eventually stabilizing in the field cooling branches. The findings suggest that the inclusion of Sc3+/Cr3+ dopants can be utilized to manipulate and achieve desired magnetic properties in Co–Ni ferrites. The spectra of Mössbauer analysis, which was utilized to establish the distribution of cations, presented four magnetic sextets for all samples. Doped ions are substituted with Fe3+ ions at the B site.

Reconstructing early sedimentation patterns of the lower Codó Formation (Early Cretaceous, NE Brazil): Evidence of marine influence and the onset of an alkaline hypersaline lake

The upper Aptian lower Codó Formation is an attractive stratigraphic unit within the Parnaíba and São Luís basins, northeastern Brazil, formed during the break-up of Western Gondwana. Located in a large sag basin, the formation records a dynamic depositional history of deltaic, lacustrine, and sabkha environments. This sedimentary evolution is reflected in a diverse lithological succession characterized by intermittent terrestrial input, episodic marine incursions, and restricted lacustrine phases culminating in sulfate evaporite precipitation. While the later stages of the formation have been extensively studied, the initial sedimentary processes and environmental conditions remain poorly understood. This research aims to reconstruct the depositional paleoenvironments during the initial stages of Codó sedimentation, elucidating the onset of the alkaline hypersaline lake environment and the earlier marine incursions in the study region. To achieve this, it was conducted a high-resolution facies analysis using core descriptions, trace fossil analysis, petrography, various types of X-ray fluorescence, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometry, and isotope analyses (δ1³C, δ1⁸O, and ⁸⁷Sr/⁸⁶Sr) on a ∼63-m-thick succession from borehole 2-TV-1-MA. Thirteen facies were recognized and grouped into brackish lake, prodelta, delta front, and alkaline hypersaline lake facies successions. The lower Codó Formation exhibits cyclic sedimentation, indicating fluctuating water dynamics associated with shifts between open and closed drainage systems controlled by paleoclimate. Tectonic subsidence drove the basin's evolution from a brackish lacustrine-deltaic environment with an incipient marine influence (balanced-fill basin stage) to a restricted system with the establishment of an alkaline hypersaline lake (underfilled basin stage).

IRON-BASED SPIKY MICROSPHERES SYNTHESIZED USING OXALATE VIA ONE-STEP HYDROTHERMAL PROCESS — PRESENCE OF HUMBOLDTINE

In this study, novel iron-based spiky microparticles (approximately 1–2[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m in diameter) were synthesized using iron oxalate precursors using a straightforward one-step hydrothermal reaction. The microparticles’ morphological, mineralogical and chemical properties were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffractometry (XRD), Raman spectroscopy and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The physico-chemical characteristics of spiky microparticles were also compared with cubic iron microparticles synthesized using standalone iron as well as with the addition of glycine. XRD and Raman analyses identified substantial presence of humboldtine, a type of ferrous oxalate dehydrate mineral, in the resultant yellowish solid hydrothermal product. The mechanism involving reactions of species in the hydrothermal process was described herein. The results described in this study afford vital insights into the design of iron oxalate-based microparticles synthesis processes.

Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using green tea aqueous leaf extract and their biological and chemotherapeutic activity

Green tea leaf extract-mediated silver nanoparticles (GT-AgNPs) were synthesized and characterized for their biological and chemotherapeutic activity. The synthesis process involved the reduction of silver ions by green tea leaf extract (GTLE), resulting in the formation of GT-AgNPs. Characterization techniques including UV–Vis spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffractometry (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and zeta potential analysis were employed to study the physicochemical properties of GT-AgNPs. The GT-AgNPs exhibited a characteristic color change and a noticeable shift in the surface plasma resonance (SPR) absorption peak at 458 nm, confirming their successful formation of nanoparticles. XRD analysis indicated a cubic structure with a crystallite size of 9 ± 1 nm. Both SEM and TEM images revealed that the spherical shape and size of the synthesized nanoparticles. The SEM analysis confirmed that the average grain size of GT-AgNPs is 20.27 ± 1 nm, while the TEM analysis determined the average particle size of 9 ± 0.025. GT-AgNPs have a negative zeta potential of -19.7 mV indicating a hydrodynamic diameter of 140.90 nm with a polydispersity index (PDI) of 25.8 %. XPS confirmed the oxidation state of Ag0/+1 in GT-AgNPs. The energy band gap (Eg) value of GT-AgNPs is 3.38 eV, indicating semiconducting properties, while fluorescence activity was observed at 506.17 nm. CT-DNA and BSA protein binding studies demonstrated the formation of CT-DNA-GT-AgNPs and BSA-GT-AgNPs complexes with binding constants of 1.366×1010 M−1 and 6.77×109 M−1, respectively. GT-AgNPs exhibited exceptional anti-oxidant activity by effectively scavenging stable 2, 2ʹ - diphenyl-1-picryl hydroxyl (DPPH) radicals. Cytotoxicity assays using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) demonstrate moderate activity against KB3 and AGS cancer cells while showing no detectable cytotoxicity in Caco-2 cells. This indicates a safe therapeutic window for human eukaryotic cells.

Process optimization in the pyroconversion of native sweet potato starch: structural and functional characterization of pyrodextrin

This work aims to produce dextrin from sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) starch by pyroconversion. The effect of dextrinization process (roasting time, temperature, and hydrochloric acid concentration) on properties (structural and functional) of starch have been studied using central composite design of experiment. Reaction conditions included: roasting time (55 and 94 min), temperature (127 and 152 °C), and hydrochloric acid concentration (0.17 and 0.43 M). The temperature (quadratic effect X22) is highly significant on the three measured responses (p < 0.05) (Color Index (CI), Turbidity (Turb), and Saccharification Percentage (SP)). Also, the findings indicated that the two most important parameters influencing the pyroconversion of sweet potato starch in the current study were temperature (X2) and hydrochloric acid concentration (X3). The optimal conditions for dextrin production obtained are 94 min, 127 °C and 0.43 M for roasting time, temperature, and hydrochloric acid concentration respectively having 97% of solubility. The FTIR analysis revealed that OH, C-H, C-O, C–C and C-O–H were the main functional groups. These functional groups remained unaffected by the pyroconversion, since the bands extend and the spectrums of all native and pyrodextrin were similar. X-Ray Diffractometry analysis results of dextrin showed that the thermal treatment reduces the crystallinity of starch. Also, this analysis shows starch has CA-type XRD patterns. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis results showed that the defined optimal production maintains the morphology of starch. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) used for thermal analysis helps to obtain the glass transition temperature of modified starch equals to 139 °C. Optimal conditions of production of pyrodextrins from sweet potato granule starches could be easily produced with improved physicochemical properties to be used as encapsulating agent or additives in food and chemical industries.

EFFECT OF HOLDING TIME ON EXTRACTION OF NATURAL HYDROXYAPATITE FROM GOAT BONE WASTE FOR BIOMEDICAL APPLICATIONS

Hydroxyapatite (HAP) is a very essential biomaterial used in orthopedics and dentistry to support bone healing processes as it shares chemical similarities with natural human and animal bones. Extraction of hydroxyapatite has been done both synthetically and naturally from animal bones. However, extraction of HAP from natural sources is challenged by the appropriate choice of processing parameters such as holding time and temperature that will enable the production of hydroxyapatite that meets the standard. This work investigated the influence of varying holding time on the physico-chemical properties of HAP obtained from goat bone (GB) waste by heat treatment. GB femur was obtained; washed; dried; pulverized and sieved to obtain GB powder of ≤ 500 µm that was calcined at 900°C and 1000°C and soaked for 1hr., 2 hrs. and 3 hrs. The composition, structure and morphology of the uncalcined and calcined powders were studied using Fourier Transform Infra-Red Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffractometry (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. The FITR result confirmed presence of associated functional groups consisting of phosphate ions (PO43−), hydroxyl ions (OH−) and carbonate (CO32- ) ions in the synthesized HAP, but the phosphate ions (PO43−) were most prominent. XRD analysis revealed similar crystallographic peaks of pure HAP. Increase in holding time led to decrease in crystallinity. SEM analysis revealed changes in the morphology of the samples with increase in holding time and temperature due to decomposition of organic compounds in calcined GB. The surface morphologies became finer with increase in holding time. Thus, holding time is an important parameter in extraction of HAP from goat bone waste.

Effective degradation of dyes using silver nanoparticles synthesized from Thunbergia grandiflora leaf extract

Motivated by the urgent need to address dye-related environmental pollution, this study explores the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Thunbergia grandiflora leaf extract for its simplicity, affordability, and eco-friendliness. UV–Vis spectroscopy reveals a distinctive signal at 441 nm, while Dynamic Light Scattering shows a zeta potential charge of −18.2 mV, indicating nanoparticle stability. The study demonstrates the catalytic activity of AgNPs in degrading industrial dyes Acid Red 88 and Methylene Blue, showcasing first-order kinetics with kinetic constants of 0.18 min−1 and 0.14 min−1, respectively. Moreover, Scanning Electron Microscopic images reveal predominantly spherical nanostructures, while X-ray diffractometry analysis portrays a face-centered crystalline structure. These findings underscore the potential of AgNPs synthesized from T. grandiflora leaf extract in nanoremediation efforts, offering a sustainable solution to the pressing challenge of dye-contaminated wastewater, thereby contributing to environmental protection.

Corrosion Behavior of Al-Containing CoNiV Medium Entropy Alloy Coating Fabricated by Laser Cladding.

CoNiV medium entropy alloys (MEAs) have been widely recognized for their superior corrosion resistance. Nonetheless, their extensive application has been hindered by high production costs and complex fabrication processes. In this study, CoNiVAlx MEA coatings were synthesized on AISI 304 stainless steel substrates via laser cladding technology. The microstructure, phase composition, corrosion resistance, and corrosion mechanisms of the coatings were systematically investigated by using advanced characterization techniques, including optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometry, and electrochemical workstation analysis. The ratio of O2-/OH- in the passivation film of the coated surface exhibited a gradual increase with the addition of Al. The formation of the Al-containing precipitated phase L21 was observed at x = 0.3 and 0.4. The results demonstrated that moderate Al doping (x ≤ 0.2) enhanced corrosion resistance by improving the stability of the passivation film and reducing the thermodynamic tendency toward corrosion. In contrast, excessive Al doping (x > 0.2) led to the formation of the L21 phase, which increased the susceptibility to localized corrosion, thus compromising the overall corrosion resistance.

Corrosion behavior of TiN monolayer and CrN/TiN multilayer coatings: Impact of immersion time and saline solution type

AbstractThe corrosion behavior of the TiN monolayer and CrN/TiN multilayer coatings deposited via cathodic arc evaporation physical vapor deposition (CAE‐PVD) on the Ti–6Al–4V substrates were evaluated in Ringer's and Hank's physiological saline electrolytes. XRD (x‐ray diffractometry) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis were used to characterize the coatings. The corrosion behavior of coatings was assessed by impedance spectroscopy and potentiodynamic polarization techniques. The results showed that the corrosion resistance of coatings was increased in the order of TiN‐Ringer's &lt; TiN‐Hank's &lt; CrN/TiN‐Ringer's &lt; CrN/TiN‐Hank's. Therefore, it can be concluded that the CrN/TiN coating, due to having a large number of interfaces and a smoother surface with fewer macroparticles and pinholes, is more efficient in raising the corrosion resistance properties of titanium than TiN monolayer coating. Moreover, it was observed that Ringer's solution is a more severe environment than Hank's solution. Both coatings, because of the precipitation of a protective corrosion products layer on their surface, showed an enhancement in corrosion resistance with increasing the immersion time from 1 to 14 days in Hank's. The results suggest TiN monolayer and CrN/TiN multilayer coatings as promising candidates for biomedical applications.

Effect of Mineral Admixtures on Physical, Mechanical, and Microstructural Properties of Flue Gas Desulfurization Gypsum-Based Self-Leveling Mortar.

The production of flue gas desulfurization gypsum poses a serious threat to the environment. Thus, utilizing gypsum-based self-leveling mortar (GSLM) stands out as a promising and effective approach to address the issue. β-hemihydrate gypsum, cement, polycarboxylate superplasticizer, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose ether (HPMC), retarder, and defoamer were used to prepare GSLM. The impact of mineral admixtures (steel slag (SS), silica fume (SF), and fly ash (FA)) on the physical, mechanical, and microstructural properties of GSLM was examined through hydration heat, X-ray diffractometry (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses. The GSLM benchmark mix ratio was determined as follows: 94% of desulfurization building gypsum, 6% of cement, 0.638% each of water reducer and retarder, 0.085% each of HPMC and defoamer (calculated additive ratio relative to gypsum), and 0.54 water-to-cement ratio. Although the initial fluidity decreased in the GSLM slurry with silica fume, there was minimal change in 30 min fluidity. Notably, at an SS content of 16%, the GSLM exhibited optimal flexural strength (6.6 MPa) and compressive strength (20.4 MPa). Hydration heat, XRD, and Raman analyses revealed that a small portion of SS actively participated in the hydration reaction, while the remaining SS served as a filler.

Influence of Stacking Order on the Structural and Optical Properties of Cu2ZnSnS4 Absorber Layer Prepared from DC-Sputtered Oxygenated Precursors

Several studies have attempted to overcome the sudden volume expansion of the precursor during sulfurization by the use of oxygen-containing precursors when growing the CZTS absorber. This work demonstrates the influence of precursor stacking orders on the properties of the CZTS thin film absorber layer from DC-sputtered oxygenated precursors for solar cell applications. CZTS absorber layers were prepared from three types of DC-sputtered stacks, namely, Zn-O/Sn/Cu, Sn/Zn-O/Cu, and Sn/Cu/Zn-O. The precursors were sequentially deposited on a soda lime glass (SLG) using DC-magnetron sputtering and annealed in a sulfur and nitrogen ambient. X-ray diffractometry (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy analyses reveal the formation of crystalline kesterite CZTS structure regardless of the precursor stacking order. Atomic force microscope (AFM) analysis showed that CZTS thin films grown from precursor stacks SLG/Zn-O/Sn/Cu and SLG/Sn/Zn-O/Cu had improved morphological properties with densely packed large grains compared to that with stack SLG/Sn/Cu/Zn-O. SLG/Zn-O/Sn/Cu is the best stack among the studied stacking orders since it exhibits large grains in the absorber layer, which is preferential for high-efficiency thin film solar cells. The use of oxygenated precursor with order Sn/Zn-O/Cu promises improved CZTS absorber properties as it exhibits better morphological properties.

β-Cyclodextrin metal-organic framework as a green carrier to improve the dissolution, bioavailability, and liver protective effect of luteolin

The incidence of acetaminophen-induced liver injury has increased, but effective prevention methods are limited. Although luteolin has hepatoprotective activity, its low solubility and bioavailability limit its applications. Cyclodextrin metal-organic frameworks (CD-MOFs) possess 3D-network structures and large inner cavities, which make them excellent carriers of poorly soluble drugs. In this study, we used CD-MOFs as carriers to improve the dissolution of luteolin and assessed their antioxidant activity, bioavailability, and hepatoprotective effects. Luteolin was loaded into β-CD-MOF, γ-CD-MOF, β-CD, and γ-CD, and characterized by powder X-ray diffractometry (PXRD) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Our results showed that luteolin-β-CD-MOF was the most stable. The main driving forces were hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces, as determined by molecular simulation. The loading capacity of luteolin-β-CD-MOF was 14.67 wt%. Compared to raw luteolin, luteolin-β-CD-MOF exhibited a 4.50-fold increase in dissolution and increased antioxidant activity in vitro. Luteolin-β-CD-MOF increased the bioavailability of luteolin by approximately 4.04- and 11.07-fold in healthy rats and liver injured rats induced by acetaminophen in vivo, respectively. As determined by biochemical analysis, luteolin-β-CD-MOF exhibited a better hepatoprotective effect than raw luteolin in rats with acetaminophen-induced liver injury. This study provides a new approach for preventing acetaminophen-mediated liver damage.

Structural, Optical and Dielectric Properties of Some Nanocomposites Derived from Copper Oxide Nanoparticles Embedded in Poly(vinylpyrrolidone) Matrix.

Polymer nanocomposite films based on poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) incorporated with different amounts of copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles were prepared by the solution casting technique. The PVP/CuO nanocomposites were analyzed by X-ray diffractometry (XRD), scanning electron microscopy, UV-Visible absorption spectroscopy and dielectric spectroscopy. The XRD analysis showed that the monoclinic structure of cupric oxide was maintained in the PVP host matrix. The key optical parameters, such as optical energy gap Eg, Urbach energy EU, absorption coefficient and refractive index, were estimated based on the UV-Vis data. The optical characteristics of the nanocomposite films revealed that their transmittance and absorption were influenced by the addition of CuO nanoparticles in the PVP matrix. Incorporation of CuO nanoparticles into the PVP matrix led to a significant decrease in band gap energy and an increase in the refractive index. The dielectric and electrical behaviors of the PVP/CuO nanocomposites were analyzed over a frequency range between 10 Hz and 1 MHz. The effect of CuO loading on the dielectric parameters (dielectric constant and dielectric loss) of the metal oxide nanocomposites was also discussed.