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Effects of electronic to nuclear energy losses (S e/ S n) ratio on damage evolution in defective KTaO3 have been investigated by irradiating pre-damaged single crystal KTaO3 with intermediate energy O ions (6 MeV, 8 MeV and 12 MeV) at 300 K. By exploring these processes in pre-damaged KTaO3 containing a fractional disorder level of 0.35, the results demonstrate the occurrence of a precursory stage of damage production before the onset of damage annealing process in defective KTaO3 that decreases with O ion energy. The observed ionization-induced annealing process by ion channeling analysis has been further mirrored by high resolution transmission electron microscopy analysis. In addition, the reduction of disorder level is accompanied by the broadening of the disorder profiles to greater depth with increasing ion fluence, and enhanced migration is observed with decreasing O ion energy. Since S e (∼3.0 keV nm−1) is nearly constant for all 3 ion energies across the pre-damaged depth, the difference in behavior is due to the so-called ' velocity effect ': the lower ion velocity below the Bragg peak yields a confined spread of the electron cascade and hence an increased energy deposition density. The inelastic thermal spike calculation has further confirmed the existence of a velocity effect, not previously reported in KTaO3 or very scarcely reported in other materials for which the existence of ionization-induced annealing has been reported. In other words, understanding of ionization-induced annealing has been advanced by pointing out that ion velocity effect governs the healing of pre-existing defects, which may have significant implication for the creation of new functionalities in KTaO3 through atomic-level control of microstructural modifications, but may not be limited to KTaO3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effects of electronic to nuclear energy losses (S e/ S n) ratio on damage evolution in defective KTaO3 have been investigated by irradiating pre-damaged single crystal KTaO3 with intermediate energy O ions (6 MeV, 8 MeV and 12 MeV) at 300 K. By exploring these processes in pre-damaged KTaO3 containing a fractional disorder level of 0.35, the results demonstrate the occurrence of a precursory stage of damage production before the onset of damage annealing process in defective KTaO3 that decreases with O ion energy. The observed ionization-induced annealing process by ion channeling analysis has been further mirrored by high resolution transmission electron microscopy analysis. In addition, the reduction of disorder level is accompanied by the broadening of the disorder profiles to greater depth with increasing ion fluence, and enhanced migration is observed with decreasing O ion energy. Since S e (∼3.0 keV nm−1) is nearly constant for all 3 ion energies across the pre-damaged depth, the difference in behavior is due to the so-called ' velocity effect ': the lower ion velocity below the Bragg peak yields a confined spread of the electron cascade and hence an increased energy deposition density. The inelastic thermal spike calculation has further confirmed the existence of a velocity effect, not previously reported in KTaO3 or very scarcely reported in other materials for which the existence of ionization-induced annealing has been reported. In other words, understanding of ionization-induced annealing has been advanced by pointing out that ion velocity effect governs the healing of pre-existing defects, which may have significant implication for the creation of new functionalities in KTaO3 through atomic-level control of microstructural modifications, but may not be limited to KTaO3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present work reports solution combustion synthesis (SCS) of Co0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 spinel ferrite, its chemical modification with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), synthesis of polyaniline (PANI), and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding properties of their composites. Both as-prepared and PMMA-modified Co0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 adopt cubic spinel structure as shown by X-ray diffraction studies. Field emission scanning electron microscopy images show the agglomerated and microporous nature of the ferrites. High resolution transmission electron microscopy image of as-prepared Co0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 shows lattice fringes related to (311) plane of the spinel structure. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies reveal the presence of Co2+, Zn2+, and Fe3+ in tetrahedral and octahedral coordinations in the ferrite. EMI shielding properties are evaluated for PMMA-modified Co0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 and PANI composites in different weight ratios. Composites containing PMMA-modified ferrite and PANI with 50:50 and 10:90 weight ratios show the best performance among all the composites in 2−20 GHz frequency range. Optimized PMMA-modified Co0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 and PANI composite with the ratio of 10:90 shows shielding effectiveness (SE) values of −16.6 to −24.2 dB in 2−20 GHz frequency region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, the doping effect of Zn2+ ion (varying doping concentrations in the range of 0 %–30 %) on PbO nanoparticles (NPs) has been investigated proficiently. This study aims at in-depth analysis of the structure-property relationships of the sol-gel derived Zn doped PbO (Pb 1- x Zn x O) NPs, especially the vacancy evolved properties and the luminescence properties. The X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), selected area electron diffraction (SAED), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopic characterization analyses justified the nanocrystallinity of the Pb 1- x Zn x O powdered NPs while the mean crystallite sizes were located in between 12 and 36 nm range. Williamson – Hall (W – H) method revealed a monotonous increase of the lattice strain which is compatible with the decrease of NPs' crystallite size by increase in the Zn2+ doping level. The replacement of Pb2+ ions with the Zn2+ ions caused the reduction of crystallite size by the higher Zn2+ doping level. Prominent peaks of Zn, Pb and O elements are noticed in energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopic (EDS) characterization. The elemental distributions of the chemicals present in the NPs were explored by the elemental mapping analysis. The optical absorption (OA) analysis indicated that the energy band gap (E g) can be estimated to be 2.21, 2.36, 2.55 and 2.70 eV for 0, 10, 20 & 30 % Zn doped PbO NPs, respectively. The positron annihilation lifetime (PAL) spectroscopic studies evidenced the presence of vacancy type defects within the NPs and an increase in defect concentrations has been observed by the increase in Zn concentrations. The photo-induced fluorescence (FL) emission spectra exhibited three luminescence peaks around the wavelengths 430 nm, 490 nm and 522 nm for all the NPs. The observations suggested the possibility of tailoring the characteristics of the synthesized NPs for practical applications in the field of optoelectronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, silver nanoparticles were synthesized via green synthesis using fenugreek (Trigonella foenum‐graecum L.) seeds of variety HM 425. The AgNPs were characterized by using UV‐Visible spectroscopy, Particle size analyzer, Field emission scanning electron microscopy coupled to Energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, XRD, High resolution transmission electron microscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. The AgNPs were spherical and had an average particle size of 28 nm. The reduction of cationic dyes Methylene blue, Rhodamine B, and an anionic azo dye Methyl Orange by Sodium borohydride was used as a model reaction to investigate the catalytic ability of AgNPs. The results demonstrated an efficient catalytic dye degradation of methylene blue (95.81 %, 25 min, 0.1737±0.01 min−1), Rhodamine B (90.23 %, 15 min, 0.1388±0.01 min−1) and methyl orange (83.63 %, 39 min, 0.0412±0.002 min−1). The synthesized AgNPs had an excellent detection limit of 12.50 μM for Hg2+, making them excellent solid bio‐based sensors for mercury sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, silver nanoparticles were synthesized via green synthesis using fenugreek (Trigonella foenum‐graecum L.) seeds of variety HM 425. The AgNPs were characterized by using UV‐Visible spectroscopy, Particle size analyzer, Field emission scanning electron microscopy coupled to Energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, XRD, High resolution transmission electron microscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. The AgNPs were spherical and had an average particle size of 28 nm. The reduction of cationic dyes Methylene blue, Rhodamine B, and an anionic azo dye Methyl Orange by Sodium borohydride was used as a model reaction to investigate the catalytic ability of AgNPs. The results demonstrated an efficient catalytic dye degradation of methylene blue (95.81 %, 25 min, 0.1737±0.01 min−1), Rhodamine B (90.23 %, 15 min, 0.1388±0.01 min−1) and methyl orange (83.63 %, 39 min, 0.0412±0.002 min−1). The synthesized AgNPs had an excellent detection limit of 12.50 μM for Hg2+, making them excellent solid bio‐based sensors for mercury sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) has evolved into a powerful characterization tool that allows visualization of materials with finer resolution than any other type of microscope in existence. While numerous areas of the physical and biologically sciences and engineering benefit tremendously from TEM and its analytical features, the highest resolution can only be achieved if a sample fulfills certain requirements, including an optimal thickness as well as a sufficiently long e‐beam stability. At a fundamental level, the physical and chemical properties of organic polymers are generally problematic in conjunction with TEM, as they experience damage from the electron beam more readily than their hard materials counterparts. However, progress in polymer characterization using TEM has evolved considerably and the polymer community stands to benefit greatly from continued growth going forward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploring magnetic order in nonferromagnetic substances, such as CuO:ZnO, becomes especially attractive when introducing defect states through nonmagnetic ion doping. In this study, we delved into the impact of Yb doping on the structural, morphological, optical, and magnetic properties of CuO:ZnO. The Yb doped CuO:ZnO was prepared with different Yb concentrations (x = 0.00–20 %) via the temperature-assisted co-precipitation method. X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV–Vis spectroscopy, and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) were used to investigate the structural, morphological, optical, and magnetic properties of Yb doped CuO:ZnO nanocomposites. The incorporation of Yb in CuO:ZnO nanocomposites leads to a notable shift of the characteristic XRD peaks of CuO and ZnO to lower angles, accompanied by an increase in the lattice parameters. UV–visible absorption spectroscopy shows an overall decrease in the optical band gap energy of ZnO as the Yb defect level increases. FE-SEM studies revealed the transformation of spherical structures into agglomerated non-spherical structures upon the introduction of Yb ions into CuO:ZnO nanocomposites. According to XPS data, the predominant valences of Yb-doped CuO:ZnO nanocomposites are Zn2+, Cu2+, and Yb3+. One noteworthy observation from the XPS results is that, in comparison to the intensity of O L or O ad peaks, the intensity of O V (Oxygen vacancy) defect peak increases when the Yb impurity concentration increases. Magnetic measurements demonstrated a diamagnetic order in pure ZnO, which converts to a ferromagnetic order with the incorporation of Yb defect states. The ferromagnetic properties of the Yb-doped CuO:ZnO nanocomposite can be ascribed to the exchange interaction of Yb3+ ions with defect states (Oxygen Vacancy) in ZnO and CuO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The vast use of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in rapidly growing number of biomedical applications and sensing has given the importance of different synthetic methods for the preparation of AgNPs. Threre are lots of effective synthetic procedure that are lacking to synthesize nanoparticles with maintaining proper size and shape in colloidal medium. Here in this article synthesis of colloidal AgNPs and its characterization is described. The sizes of the synthesized AgNPs were of about 16±2nm. Some important modern techniques like UV-Vis spectroscopy, powdered X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) were used for proper characterization synthesized colloidal AgNPs. Silver nitrate (AgNO3) and sodium borohydride (NaBH4) were used to synthesize colloidal AgNPs where the later one plays vital dual role by reducing AgNO3 and giving stabilization of synthesized nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyaniline‐potassium doped nickel oxide nanocomposites (PANI/KNO) were efficiently synthesized via an in situ chemical oxidation method, meticulously confirmed by comprehensive x‐ray diffraction, Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy, energy dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy, selected area electron diffraction, and x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses. The crystallite size and strain exhibited distinct behaviors, while field emission scanning electron microscopy revealed a blend of irregular spherical shapes and nanofibers, further confirmed by high resolution transmission electron microscopy. These composites exhibited significantly enhanced thermal stability, surpassing PANI by 1.39 times, and showcased a band gap exceeding 3 eV, along with multiple photoluminescence peaks at room temperature (RT). Moreover, their RT AC conductivity experienced a remarkable surge by 4.91 times compared to pure polyaniline. Jonscher's Power Law model and the Havriliak–Negami relaxation model are employed to elucidate the electrical properties of composite materials. The composites displayed nonDebye relaxation behavior with increased conductivity, as observed through impedance analysis, electrical modulus evaluation, and dielectric constant assessment. Additionally, evident superparamagnetic properties and multiple magnetic domains further contributed to their effectiveness. The PANI/KNO composite demonstrated photocatalytic efficiency, achieving over 90% degradation of methylene blue dye across four cycles, thus highlighting its superior photostability. Furthermore, investigations into its response to pH variations and scavenger activity underscored its immense potential for highly effective photocatalytic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aloe striata Haw. (AS) is one of the beneficial Aloe species that is still underutilized. In this sense, phytochemical characterization, and biological investigation of AS gel protective efficacy against paracetamol (APAP) induced hepatic injury were evaluated in a mice model, with and without loading on chitosan nanoparticles (AS gel and CS-AS NPs, respectively). Spectrophotometric determination of AS gel showed high total soluble carbohydrate content representing 3.41±0.07 μg glucose equivalent (G eq)/mg and its protein content was 0.176±0.03 g/100 g. Twenty-two metabolites [sugars (90.23 %) and organic acids (5.80 %)] were determined by GC–MS, while 7 sugars were identified and quantified by HPLC where mannose (5679.73±4.28 μg) was the predominant. Chitosan gel nanoparticles were prepared and analyzed by dynamic light scattering, high resolution transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction methods. The CS-AS NPs were the most potent antioxidant of all tested samples with respect to quercetin in several in vitro antioxidant assays. Oxidative status, architectural or immuno-histochemical and histological signs in the context of the presence of caspase-3, c-Jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK), and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 (ERK-1) genes were evaluated in liver AS gel could significantly restore liver biochemical, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities and liver architecture. Moreover, caspase-3 contents, and ERK-1 and JNK genes expression were significantly downregulated compared to the APAP group. CS-AS NPs showed superior hepatoprotective activity than AS. CS-AS NPs hepatoprotective mechanisms could be attributed to its activation of antioxidant enzymes, and downregulation of malondialdehyde pro-inflammatory markers along with apoptosis and anti-inflammatory related genes (BAX, JNK, and ERK-1 genes). To the best of our knowledge, it is the first study reporting the hepatoprotective efficiency of AS gel and its CS-AS NPs. [Display omitted] • Quality control for multi-components in A. striata gel by GC–MS and HPLC was done. • Antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties of A. striata gel were evaluated. • The gel could preserve the normal functional status of the liver in APAP toxicity. • Hepatoprotective action was enhanced by loading the gel on chitosan nanoparticles. • Aloe striata gel and chitosan nanoparticles inhibited ERK and JNK gene expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High entropy thermoelectric oxides offer a route towards highly efficient thermoelectric energy conversion as the materials frustrate parasitic phonon transport. Here, entropy-stabilised perovskite oxide thermoelectrics (Ca 0.33 Sr 0.33 Ba 0.33)(Ti 0.5−x Zr 0.5−x Nb x)O 3 (x = 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.33) were prepared via solid-state reaction with sintering at 1673 K under a reducing atmosphere. The products contained two high entropy perovskite phases with homogeneous elemental distributions at the nanoscale. Through optimising the Nb content, the Seebeck coefficient was increased, yielding an enhanced power factor of 39.5 μW m−1 K−2 at 873 K. High resolution transmission electron microscopy revealed the presence of a large number of defects of different dimensionality, which enhanced phonon scattering. A glass-like, ultra-low thermal conductivity of 1.6 – 1.9 W m−1 K−1 was achieved from room temperature to 873 K, amongst the lowest reported values for perovskite oxides. This work highlights the design of high entropy oxide perovskites based on non-toxic components having both high Seebeck coefficients and ultra-low thermal conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prepared NVOY electrode achieves high stability and excellent cycle performance for AZIBs by embedding polypyrrole in ammonium vanadate layers to remove excess ammonium ions, expand the interlayer spacing, and enhance electronic conductivity. [Display omitted] Ammonium vanadate with stable bi-layered structure and superior mass-specific capacity have emerged as competitive cathode materials for aqueous rechargeable zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs). Nevertheless, fragile N H...O bonds and too strong electrostatic interaction by virtue of excessive NH 4 + will lead to sluggish Zn2+ ion mobility, further largely affects the electro-chemical performance of ammonium vanadate in AZIBs. The present work incorporates polypyrrole (PPy) to partially replace NH 4 + in NH 4 V 4 O 10 (NVO), resulting in the significantly enlarged interlayers (from 10.1 to 11.9 Å), remarkable electronic conductivity, increased oxygen vacancies and reinforced layered structure. The partial removal of NH 4 + will alleviate the irreversible deammoniation to protect the laminate structures from collapse during ion insertion/extraction. The expanded interlayer spacing and the increased oxygen vacancies by the virtue of the introduction of polypyrrole improve the ionic diffusion, enabling exceptional rate performance of NH 4 V 4 O 10. As expected, the resulting polypyrrole intercalated ammonium vanadate (NVOY) presents a superior discharge capacity of 431.9 mAh g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 and remarkable cycling stability of 219.1 mAh g−1 at 20 A g−1 with 78 % capacity retention after 1500 cycles. The in-situ electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), in-situ X-ray diffraction (XRD), ex-situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and ex-situ high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) analysis investigate a highly reversible intercalation Zn-storage mechanism, and the enhanced the redox kinetics are related to the combined effect of interlayer regulation, high electronic conductivity and oxygen defect engineering by partial substitution NH 4 + of PPy incorporation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building up and an investigating the efficiency of the cost-effective modified graphite for hybrid supercapacitor application is fascinating due to an extraordinary performance of graphite in battery application in day-to-day life about past decades. The metal oxides (Fe, Co, Ni) embedded in graphite was synthesized through the facile ultrasonication-assisted technique. Fe–Co–Ni deposited on graphite (Fe–Co–Ni-G) was studied structurally and morphologically by fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and high resolution transmission electron microscopy analyses. The electrochemical studies such as cyclic voltammetry, Galvanostatic charge–discharge analysis, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analysis were revealed the supercapacitor performance of Fe–Co–Ni-G composite. The superior calculated areal capacitance of Fe–Co–Ni-G was 1355 mF cm−2 at 2 mA cm−2 which was higher than single metal deposited graphite (Fe-G 490 mF cm−2 at 2 mA cm−2) composite. EIS study supported the higher diffusion process of Fe–Co–Ni-G directed to higher supercapacitor performance that is possible for day-to-day life applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hepatocytes within the liver present an immense capacity to adapt to changes in nutrient availability. Here, by using high resolution volume electron microscopy, we map how hepatic subcellular spatial organization is regulated during nutritional fluctuations and as a function of liver zonation. We identify that fasting leads to remodeling of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) architecture in hepatocytes, characterized by the induction of single rough ER sheet around the mitochondria, which becomes larger and flatter. These alterations are enriched in periportal and mid-lobular hepatocytes but not in pericentral hepatocytes. Gain- and loss-of-function in vivo models demonstrate that the Ribosome receptor binding protein1 (RRBP1) is required to enable fasting-induced ER sheet-mitochondria interactions and to regulate hepatic fatty acid oxidation. Endogenous RRBP1 is enriched around periportal and mid-lobular regions of the liver. In obesity, ER-mitochondria interactions are distinct and fasting fails to induce rough ER sheet-mitochondrion interactions. These findings illustrate the importance of a regulated molecular architecture for hepatocyte metabolic flexibility. Hepatocytes are central for maintaining metabolic homeostasis during nutritional transitions. Here, we show that the structural remodelling of hepatic organelles is part of hepatocytes' metabolic plasticity to adapt to cycles of fasting/feeding and this process is zonated in the liver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research work, nickel dioxide (NiO2) with a fixed quantity of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) and various concentrations of yttrium (Y) (2, 4 wt%) were synthesized via the coprecipitation method. The main objective is to degrade hazardous dyes such as Rhodamine B (RhB) with synthetic material and to assess antibacterial and catalytic activity with molecular docking analysis of the synthesized Y/g-C3N4-doped NiO2 nanostructures (NSs). A series of characterizations for optical, morphological, structural, and compositional analysis of prepared NSs were monitored to better understand the obtained samples. X-ray diffraction pattern evaluated the hexagonal structure of NiO2. Fourier transform infrared spectra demonstrated the prescence of bending and stretching vibration modes. Upon the incorporation of Y and g-C3N4, no visible transmittance shift was observed. The high resolution transmission electron microscopy micrographs affirmed the formation of agglomerated NiO2 NSs with few rod-like shapes, also assured by EDS elemental configuration. The UV–vis spectra revealed a redshift upon including Y and g-C3N4 into NiO2, leading the band gap energy to decrease from 3.6 to 3.4 eV. The catalytic efficacy of prepared samples was examined against Rhodamine B (RhB) dye in the prescence of reducing agent. In an acidic medium, the highest catalytic degradation rate of 99.85% was achieved by 4% Y/g-C3N4–NiO2, ascribed to increased production of H+ ions absorbed over the NSs surface. Moreover, the antimicrobial efficacy of synthesized NSs was evaluated against Escherichia coli (E.coli) bacteria and was observed as 3.15 mm. In silico docking studies of g-C3N4/NiO2 and Y/g-C3N4–NiO2 NSs for dihydrofolatereductase (DHFR) and dihydropteroate synthase (DHPS) of E.coli postulated inhibition of the enzymes above as a possible mechanism in addition to their microbicidal activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NiMoS/TiMg and NiWS/TiMg nanocatalysts were synthesized, characterized by various techniques and tested in the hydrodesulphurization (HDS) of dibenzothiophene (DBT). TiMg mixed oxides containing 5, 10 or 15 wt% of MgO were prepared by sol–gel and then used as catalyst supports. A constant atomic ratio of Ni/(Ni + M) = 0.5 was kept for all the catalysts (M = Mo or W). The catalysts were first prepared by sequential-wet impregnation. Then, after an ex-situ sulfidation process, they were characterized by high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and physisorption of N2 following the BET method. The presence of MgO in the NiMoS/TiMg and NiWS/TiMg catalysts resulted in an enhancement in the HDS activity of DBT. In addition, their HDS activities were higher than those observed in the NiMoS/Ti and NiWS/Ti catalysts. Furthermore, higher HDS activity was found for the NiMoS/TiMg compared with their NiWS/TiMg catalysts counterpart. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, mixed phase (tetragonal and monoclinic) Zirconia nanoparticles (ZrO2 NPs) namely, ZS3, ZS7 and ZS10 were synthesized via hydrothermal method at different pH values of (3, 7, 10) respectively. A combination of Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM), and Selected Area Electron Diffraction (SAED) characterization techniques confirmed the formation of mixed phase ZrO2 nanoparticles. The photocatalytic behavior of synthesized ZrO2 NPs was examined for the degradation of anionic Congo Red (CR) Dye under visible light irradiation. A systematic study of the efficiency of the prepared ZS3, ZS7 and ZS10 nanoparticles was compared and it was found that ZS7 outperformed the ZS3 and ZS10 materials, having removal efficiency of up to 98.9% with 0.1 g of the prepared ZS7 nanoparticles for 75 ppm of Congo Red (CR) dye. Furthermore, the surface area analysis revealed that among the prepared materials, ZS7 exhibited the highest surface area, thereby corroborating the finding of its superior catalytic efficiency. Under the optimized experimental conditions, the degradation of dye followed first-order kinetics. ZS7 showed the highest removal efficiency in just 60 min of contact time for all the CR dye concentrations ranging from 50 to 100 ppm, making it a superior catalyst for the efficient removal of the targeted Congo Red dye. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, surface reflection of incident sunrays over solar cells results in degradation of output performance of the solar cells. This can be sorted out using an antireflection coating. In this investigation, ARC materials such as Titanium dioxide (TiO 2), Aluminium oxide (Al 2 O 3) and blended TiO 2 – Al 2 O 3 were utilized over the mono-crystalline Si (m-Si) solar cells. The ARCs for m-Si solar cell was coated using RF sputtering method. The optical, structural, electrical, I–V characteristics and temperature behavior of solar cell samples with coating and bare cells were studied. The elemental analysis was carried out using X-ray diffraction (XRD) method. The morphological study was conducted using High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM) and Atomic Force Microscope (AFM). The electrical resistivity was measured in dark at room temperature using four-point probe technique. Optical characteristics was determined using UV–visible spectroscopy. It was discovered that the TiO 2 – Al 2 O 3 blend coated cell (I3) shows great performance than the other coatings. I3 solar cell demonstrated high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 19.42 % and 20.16 %, when exposed to direct sunlight and neodymium radiation in both open and controlled environments. The findings indicate that TiO 2 – Al 2 O 3 blends are a suitable material for ARC applications, since they effectively reduce the incident photons scattering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) are a new type of carbon nanomaterial that has recently attracted great attention as a potential competitor to standard semiconductor quantum dots. There are various ways to synthesis CQDs, and one of harmless way is undoubtedly green synthesis. In this study, hydrothermal synthesis based on the green way was employed to synthesize CQDs. The CQDs were obtained using the green leaves of the Stachys euadenia plant extract, an endemic species located in Turkey. The CQDs were characterized by fluorescent and UV‐Visible spectroscopy, and results confirmed blue emission (430–480 nm) and absorption around 280 nm. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis revealed C=C, C–N and C–O interactions. X‐ray diffractometer (XRD) patterns confirmed structure of carbon with a broad peak of (002) plane. High resolution tunneling electron microscopy (HRTEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis was used to determine the shape and size of CQDs. The CQDs obtained from Stachys euadenia were employed as electrode materials for capacitor application, and they were tested in Swagelok‐type cell by cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurements. CQD capacitors exhibited 2.12 F/g charge and 1.24 F/g discharge capacitances were obtained with ~58% coulombic efficiency rate for the first cycle. Results highlights that CQDs are synthesized successfully by green synthesis method and can be used for capacitor applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rare earth complexes have gained attention in recent years for their remarkable luminescence properties, especially their long lifetimes, clear emission bands, and significant luminous quantum efficiency. In the ultraviolet area, the lanthanide ions exhibit relatively tiny absorption. The current investigation systematically portrays the tailoring of the micro-structural, opto-electonic and defect related features of the sol-gel derived pristine and rare earth element-samarium (Sm3+) substituted tin oxide (SnO 2) i.e., Sn 1- x Sm x O 2 (x = 0.0, 0.1, 0.2 & 0.3) nanoparticles (NPs). The structural, optical, electronic, morphological, photo-induced luminescence and defects related characteristics of the NPs were explored as a function of samarium (Sm3+) substitution level. In-depth analysis of the structure-property correlation of the Sn 1- x Sm x O 2 NPs is the goal of this study, focusing especially on the properties related to vacancy evolution and luminescence. The elemental mapping results revealed through energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopic (EDS) technique confirmed that the Sm-substitution is distributed uniformly throughout the NPs. The X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) studies corroborate that the Sm3+ substitution in the SnO 2 matrix causes the decrease in crystallite size of the NPs and increase in the dislocation density. A monotonic increase in lattice strain has been observed using the Williamson – Hall (W – H) approach, which is in line with the NPs' increased dislocation density and decreased crystallite size with the Sm3+ substitution level. The presence of vacancy-type defects inside the NPs was demonstrated by positron annihilation lifetime (PAL) spectroscopic measurements, and a decrease in defects was noticed as the level of Sm3+ substitution increased. To explore the optical characteristics and the evolution of the energy band gap with Sm3+ substitution level, the optical absorption (OA) spectroscopic measurement was carried out. As the Sm-substitution level rises, the optical energy band gap of the substituted SnO 2 NPs widens relative to that of pure SnO 2 NPs. The existence of various absorbance bands corresponding to the atomic vibrations within the NPs were investigated by the Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopic technique. The photo-induced fluorescence (FL) emission spectroscopic analysis evidenced that the defect density decreased as the Sm-substitution level increased, which is in accordance with the PAL spectroscopic studies. The FL spectra showed the two typical near band edge (NBE) and deep level emission (DLE) peaks of the NPs. The proportion of different defects and vacancies associated with the FL emission transitions are portrayed as Pie-chart diagrams. The tailored NPs can establish to be effective candidates for possible spintronic and optoelectronic applications including magneto-optical devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The controlled synthesis of two‐dimensional nanocrystals of graphene particles instead of amorphous carbon quantum dots is highly challenging and requires tremendous efforts to optimize the reaction conditions. It has been observed that as a significant bio‐compatible zero‐dimensional material, graphene quantum dots are considered as a novel material for opto‐electronics, energy, biological and environmental applications. However, very few are known about their utilization in photocatalytic degradation of pesticides, especially organochlorine pesticides which are resistant to removal by conventional wastewater treatment methods. In this work, graphene quantum dots were produced from rice husk at relatively low temperatures, resulting in an average particle size of 3.3 nm. The high resolution transmission electron microscopy clearly showed the formation of spherical quantum dots having lattice fringes and the selected area electron diffraction pattern showed the crystallinity of the graphene quantum dots. A study of photodegradation of three highly toxic organochlorine pesticides namely, dichlorodiphenyl trichloro ethane, cypermethrin and fenvalerate were carried out using as‐synthesized graphene quantum dots from rice husk. Interestingly, all these pesticides were found to be degraded around 60 % to 70 % under visible light conditions. It confirmed that synthesized graphene quantum dots from rice husk can act as prominent photocatalyst for the degradation of pesticides and other pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Superconducting qubits have arisen as a leading technology platform for quantum computing, which is on the verge of revolutionizing the world's calculation capacities. Nonetheless, the fabrication of computationally reliable qubit circuits requires increasing the quantum coherence lifetimes, which are predominantly limited by the dissipations of two-level system defects present in the thin superconducting film and the adjacent dielectric regions. In this paper, we demonstrate the reduction of two-level system losses in three-dimensional superconducting radio frequency niobium resonators by atomic layer deposition of a 10 nm aluminum oxide Al2O3 thin films, followed by a high vacuum heat treatment at 650 °C for few hours. By probing the effect of several heat treatments on Al2O3-coated niobium samples by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy plus scanning and conventional high resolution transmission electron microscopy coupled with electron energy loss spectroscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy, we witness a dissolution of niobium native oxides and the modification of the Al2O3-Nb interface, which correlates with the enhancement of the quality factor at low fields of two 1.3 GHz niobium cavities coated with 10 nm of Al2O3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis of undoped and copper doped ZnS nanoparticles (NPs) by a facile starch mediated microwave assisted hydrothermal route is reported in this work. Polycrystalline, cubic ZnS nanostructure of the samples were revealed by X-ray diffraction studies. High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) analysis revealed the crystalline nature of NPs with size distribution in 2–7 nm range. Analysis of X-ray emission induced by particles of samples indicated presence of copper content in the sample. Cu doping showed a strong influence on the green emission properties of the ZnS NPs under UV light illumination. The band gap values determined from UV–Vis absorption studies were higher than that for bulk ZnS (3.68 eV), confirming quantum confinement effect. Further, starch capping and Cu doping confirmed by Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) spectra. A strong PL emission around 507 nm observed due to carrier transition from conduction band of ZnS to Cu2+ t 2 level. The intensity of this peak reduced at high dopant concentration due to quenching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The vertebral centra of sharks consist of cartilage, and many species' centra contain a bioapatite related to that in bone. Centra microarchitectures at the 0.5-50 µm scale do not appear to have been described previously. This study examines centrum microarchitecture in lamniform and carcharhiniform sharks with synchrotron microComputed Tomography (microCT), scanning electron microscopy and spectroscopy and light microscopy. The analysis centers on the blue shark (carcharhiniform) and shortfin mako (lamniform), species studied with all three modalities. Synchrotron microCT results from seven other species complete the report. The main centrum structures, the corpus calcareum and intermedialia, consist of fine, closely-spaced, mineralized trabeculae whose mean thicknesses and spacings range from 4.5 to 11.2 µm and 4.5 to 15.6 µm, respectively. A significant (p = 0.00001) positive linear relationship between and exists for multiple positions within one mako centrum. Carcharhiniform species' and exhibit an inverse linear relationship (p = 0.005) while in lamniforms these variables tend toward a positive relationship which does not reach statistical significance (p = 0.099). In all species, the trabeculae form an uninterrupted, interconnected network, and the unmineralized volumes are similarly interconnected. Small differences in mineralization level are observed in trabeculae. Centrum growth band pairs are found to consist of locally higher /lower mineral volume fraction. Within the intermedialia, radial canals and radial microrods were characterized, and compacted trabeculae are prominent in the mako intermedialia. The centra's mineralized central zones were non-trabecular and are also described. This study's novel result is the demonstration that the mineralized cartilage of sharks' vertebral bodies (centra) consists of a fine 3D array of interconnected plates (trabeculae) and an interpenetrating network of unmineralized tissue. This microstructure is radically different from that in tesserae or in teeth, the other main mineralized shark tissues. Using volumetric synchrotron microComputed Tomography, numerical values of mean trabecular thickness and spacing and their relationship were measured for nine species. Scanning electron microscopy added a higher resolution view of the microstructures, and histology provided complementary information on cartilage and cells. The present results suggest centra microstructure helps accommodate the very large in vivo strains and may prevent damage accumulation during millions of cycles of swimming-induced loading. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports synthesis by wet chemical route for neodymium doped lanthanum arsenates nanoparticles with chemical formula NdxLa1−xAsO4 (x = 0.0, 0.05, 0.10 and 0.15) and its characterization. Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) confirms monoclinic structure of the prepared nanomaterials. Crystallite size decreases with increasing concentration of Nd3+ ions. PXRD results are further validated by Rietveld refinement with low values of goodness factor (χ2). Morphology has been investigated by high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) equipped with selected area electron diffraction (SAED) which shows the crystalline nature of nanomaterials. Various functional groups present have been studied by FTIR spectroscopy. The optical band gap calculated using UV–Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy is found to decrease with increasing dopant concentration. The emission spectrum studied by applying photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. At 315 nm excitation, the NdxLa1−xAsO4 exhibits a bright red emission with emission peaks in the range of 610–630 nm. Chromaticity plot shows that chromaticity coordinates are located in the red region. The dielectric analysis carried out to study variation of dielectric constant with frequency over range of 1–25 kHz and temperature range of 20–200 °C. The conductivity measurements are carried out and activation energy has been calculated. The variation of electrical modulus with frequency has also been observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nano size Z n 2 − x C u x V 2 O 7 (x = 0 ∼ 2) ceramics, prepared through a single step modified combustion method has been sintered at a relatively lower temperature for the first time. The thermodynamics of phase transition of the as prepared samples with respect to temperature was studied using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). The powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis of the samples along with Rietveld refinement of the data confirmed that the compositions crystalized in monoclinic structure despite increasing x from 0 to 2. Raman spectroscopic analysis carried out in the powders also corroborated the XRD analysis. The High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM), shows that the annealed powders have a particle size of around 43 nm. A systematic study on the densification behaviour of the cylindrical pellets was conducted in the range 680 0 C - 780 0 C to obtain optimal density. The microstructural study of the pellets sintered to the optimum density was conducted using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The electrical properties of the polished samples were measured using an Impedance Analyzer in the range 100 Hz – 1 MHz at different temperatures from 50 °C to 500 °C. On varying x from 0 to 2, the dielectric constant of Zn 2 V 2 O 7 ceramic showed a gradual increase from 7.9 to 15.9 at 10 kHz at room temperature. The Zn 2 V 2 O 7 ceramics showed a conductivity range from 4.10 × 10 − 9 S cm − 1 to 4.56 × 10 − 7 S cm − 1 between 300 °C and 450 °C.The present study confirmed the suitability of the ceramics as potential substrate material for LTCC applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biodiesel has recently emerged as a renewable and environmentally benign fuel substitute for fossil‐derived energy sources. The use of heterogeneous solid catalysts for the generation of biodiesel from biomass‐derived fats and oils is sustainable. Among various reported catalyst supports, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have been popular choices for enhancing catalytic activity for biodiesel synthesis because of several outstanding features including porosity, high surface area, adjustable structures, and uniform pore sizes. In this research, the authors synthesized a novel nanocomposite of MOF‐supported hydroxyapatite (UiO‐66@HAp) using a facile impregnation technique and the characterization of the as‐synthesized catalyst was performed by different spectroscopic methods including powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), field emission gun‐scanning electron microscope (FEG‐SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and N2 adsorption–desorption techniques. After successful synthesis, the catalytic property of the prepared material was evaluated in the palm oil transesterification into biodiesel. Product formation was confirmed by the 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, 13C NMR, FTIR, and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) of the biodiesel. The influence of different reaction variables such as catalyst dosage, methanol/oil molar ratio, temperature of the reaction, and reaction time was also studied. The outcomes revealed that the maximum biodiesel yield (∼97%) was obtained when 6 wt% catalyst was used with a 6:1 ratio of methanol/oil at 70 °C for 1 h. It was also observed that, even after 5 cycles of reuse, the catalyst was capable of producing significant amounts of biodiesel (over 90%). The results suggest that the synthesized novel catalyst holds a promising future in the sustainable production of biodiesel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the use of high-resolution scanning electron microscopy to image the structural organization of the LINC complex cage at the nuclear envelope. The LINC complex is a group of proteins that connect the cytoskeleton to the nucleus, playing a crucial role in controlling nuclear deformability and integrity during cell migration. The study aims to directly image the structure of the LINC complex and its interactions with the nuclear envelope. The results provide preliminary evidence of a network of filaments that connect the cytoplasmic cytoskeleton to the outer nuclear membrane and embed in the inner nuclear membrane. The study also highlights the importance of sample preparation techniques and the use of immunogold labeling for imaging. The author, Lakshana Baheerathan, gained valuable technical and transferable skills through this research project and plans to continue studying cell biology and microscopy in future projects. [Extracted from the article]

• Addition of CrO 3 with MgH 2 decreases the dehydrogenation temperature of MgH 2. • CrO 3 added MgH 2 also effectively interacts with Li in a Li ion battery. • Interaction between MgH 2 and CrO 3 produces Cr, MgO and MgCr 2 O 4 products. • Highly dispersed Cr nanocrystals were found, and they exhibit a size of ∼5 nm. • Interfacial activity is suggested to be crucial for the storage of both H and Li. This study explores how the chemical interaction between magnesium hydride (MgH 2) and the additive CrO 3 influences the hydrogen/lithium storage characteristics of MgH 2. We have observed that a 5 wt.% CrO 3 additive reduces the dehydrogenation activation energy of MgH 2 by 68 kJ/mol and lowers the required dehydrogenation temperature by 80 °C. CrO 3 added MgH 2 was also tested as an anode in an Li ion battery, and it is possible to deliver over 90% of the total theoretical capacity (2038 mAh/g). Evidence for improved reversibility in the battery reaction is found only after the incorporation of additives with MgH 2. In depth characterization study by X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique provides convincing evidence that the CrO 3 additive interacts with MgH 2 and produces Cr / MgO byproducts. Gibbs free energy analyses confirm the thermodynamic feasibility of conversion from MgH 2 /CrO 3 to MgO/Cr, which is well supported by the identification of Cr(0) in the powder by X ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) technique. Through high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) we found evidence for the presence of 5 nm size Cr nanocrystals on the surface of MgO rock salt nanoparticles. There is also convincing ground to consider that MgO rock salt accommodates Cr in the lattice. These observations support the argument that creation of active metal – metal dissolved rock salt oxide interface may be vital for improving the reactivity of MgH 2 , both for the improved storage of hydrogen and lithium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen energy possesses immense potential in developing a green renewable energy system. However, a significant problem still exists in improving the photocatalytic H 2 production activity of metal-free graphitic carbon nitride (g-C 3 N 4) based photocatalysts. Here is a novel Cu 3 P/CdS/g-C 3 N 4 ternary nanocomposite for increasing photocatalytic H 2 evolution activity. In this study, systematic characterizations have been carried out using techniques like X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), Raman spectra, UV–Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), surface area analysis (BET), electrochemical impedance (EIS), and transient photocurrent response measurements. Surprisingly, the improved 3CP/Cd-6.25CN photocatalyst displays a high H 2 evolution rate of 125721 μmol h−1 g−1. The value obtained exceeds pristine g-C 3 N 4 and Cu 3 P/CdS by 339.8 and 7.6 times, respectively. This could be the maximum rate of hydrogen generation for a g–C 3 N 4 –based ternary nanocomposite ever seen when exposed to whole solar spectrum and visible light (λ > 420 nm). This research provides fresh perspectives on the rational manufacture of metal-free g-C 3 N 4 based photocatalysts that will increase the conversion of solar energy. By reusing the used 3CP/Cd/g-C 3 N 4 photocatalyst in five consecutive runs, the stability of the catalyst was investigated, and their individual activity in the H 2 production activity was assessed. To comprehend the reaction mechanisms and emphasise the value of synergy between the three components, several comparison systems are built. Sphere-like Cu 3 P/CdS/g-C 3 N 4 photocatalyst was developed using hydrothermal route followed by ball milling and wet impregnation assisted method. A highest hydrogen production of 125721 μmol h−1g−1 was obtained for the above nanocomposite containing 6.25 wt% of g-C 3 N 4. [Display omitted] • Sphere-like Cu 3 P/CdS/g-C 3 N 4 composites was developed for visible light activity. • Metal free composites for H 2 evolution under visible light illumination was achieved. • The improved charge separation, transfer and transport results highest H 2 production. • Best activity results are observed for 3CP/Cd-6.25CN catalysts supported on g-C 3 N 4. • First time we report highest H 2 production activity for Cu 3 P/CdS/g-C 3 N 4 composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed at developing an exopolysaccharide based nanoemulsion with increased kinetic stability, solubility, and availability. The nanoformulation was fabricated employing ultrasonication, a high energy fabrication method and constituted of flaxseed oil, tween 80, ethanol, and exopolysaccharide (extracted from Ganoderma gibbosum). The resultant formulation was found to have an average droplet size of 101.5 nm, with a PDI of 0.189, and a zeta potential of -8.2 mV. The particle size was further confirmed via the high resolution transmission electron microscopy which reported the nanoemulsion droplets to be round, uniform in size, with particle size ranging between 10 to 115 nm. In terms of the thermodynamic and storage stability the formulation was found to be highly stable and resistant to creaming, phase separation, and changes in pH. Further, the results in-vivo antioxidant assay revealed an increase in the activity of serum superoxide dismutase and catalase and a decrease in the serum level of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances suggesting that the formulation is capable of ameliorating the effect of reactive oxygen species in biological system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As traditional non-renewable energy sources become scarcer, researchers are exploring effective strategies for producing sustainable and renewable energy. Oxygen evolution reaction through electrocatalytic water splitting (EC-OER) on the surface of a semiconductor has drawn much more attention in the worldwide as it has the principal role towards the several kind of energy applications viz. fuel cell, metal-ion rechargeable batteries and water oxidation. It is extremely difficult to develop eco-friendly, plentiful, and cost-effective nanomaterials as catalysts in order to achieve high efficiency of hydrogen production through water splitting. Furthermore, hierarchical nanostructures will become more valuable in future energy conversion applications due to their excellent physicochemical properties. Herein, we have synthesized total six different kinds of multi-metal-doped porous silica nanomaterials by utilizing the combination of nickel, iridium, and ruthenium metal slats in order to explore them as potential catalysts for electrochemical water oxidation process. We present a simple strategy to synthesize multi-metal-doped silica materials with spherical morphology, deploying a cation surfactant template (CTAB) as a structure directing agent in water-ethanol solvent mixtures. These materials are thoroughly characterized with the help of powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), UV–Vis, FT-IR, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), nitrogen-sorption isotherm, thermogravimetric (TGA) analysis. The particles are 550–600 nm in size with a fine-looking spherical morphology and surface area in the range of 111–419 m2/g. Among all of these metal-silica, Ni–Ir–Ru-doped mesoporous silica particles (NIRS) exhibit excellent electrocatalytic activity towards oxygen evolution reaction (100 mA/cm2 current density@0.5V) with long-term durability up to 10 h, and the Tafel slope is also very low (∼68 mV/dec) in 1 M KOH medium. The excellent electrical conductivity of Ni–Ir–Ru-doped silica makes it a superior electrocatalyst due to its spherical morphology, synergistic effects of the multi metallic components, and its hierarchical nanoporous structure. [Display omitted] • A facile method for multi-metal-doped mesoporous silica was developed. • The particle sizes were 550–600 nm and surface area were up to 419 m2/g. • Multi-metal-doped mesoporous silica particles were spherical particles. • NIRS generated 100 mA/cm2 and current density@0.5V during OER in pH=14. • NIRS exhibited high durability up to 10 h with Tafel slope of 68 mV/dec in pH=14. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Li–CdS/TiO 2 nanocomposite with different composition 10Li–CdS/TiO 2 , 20Li–CdS/TiO 2 , 30Li–CdS/TiO 2 , 40Li–CdS/TiO 2 , 50Li–CdS/TiO 2 were coated on FTO surface by using doctor blade followed by successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method. As synthesized Li–CdS/TiO 2 photoanode is characterized with field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-DRS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and photoluminescence (PL). FE-SEM analysis suggests that, Li–CdS/TiO 2 film is 10.2 μm thick, porous, spongy and uniformly covered on FTO surface. The HR-TEM images reveal that the CdS nanoparticles are in intimate contact with the TiO 2 nanocrystal shells with the CdS/TiO 2 interfaces and the particle size of CdS and Li 2 S lies in the range of 20 nm–50 nm. UV-DRS analysis shows that, as the loading of Li in CdS/TiO 2 films increases, there is decrease in band gap energy. The XPS analysis supports the presence of Li+ in Li–CdS/TiO 2 nanocomposite. The PL spectra suggest that, with the increase in extend of Li+ ions into Li–CdS/TiO 2 , intensity of green emission band increases and it is shifted to higher wavelength. This reflects the low recombination rate of photo generated charge carrier in Li–CdS/TiO 2 which is responsible for higher photocatalytic H 2 production. The visible light photoanodic performance of Li–CdS/TiO 2 was investigated for H 2 evolution using aqueous Na 2 SO 3 and Na 2 S solution under natural sunlight. Among the all-synthesized nanocomposite material, the highest amount of hydrogen produced over 20Li–CdS/TiO 2 was found to be 38.61 ml/g/h in natural sunlight. Photoelectrochemical (PEC) performance of Li–CdS/TiO 2 was examined. A possible mechanism for photocatalytic hydrogen generation is also discussed. • Li–CdS/TiO 2 function as photocatalyst cum photoanode during solar water splitting. • Li–CdS/TiO 2 photoanode was synthesized by doctor blade followed by SILAR method. • Li–CdS/TiO 2 photoanode produces excellent H 2 as compare to TiO 2 and CdS/TiO 2. • In natural sunlight, 38.69 ml/g/h H 2 were evolved over 20Li–CdS/TiO 2. • 20Li–CdS/TiO 2 shows excellent transfer kinetics in PEC water splitting process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, bio-based conductive polymer composites were developed to utilize as supporting material for anode catalysts for oxidation of fuels to generate electrical energy. An in-situ method was adopted to synthesize the conducting polymer carbon composites through combined condensation process by reacting terephthalaldehyde and benzidine, and reinforced with almond shell carbon (BT-ASC). Using formaldehyde reduction method platinum-tin nanoparticles were deposited on BT-ASC composites and were characterized using modern analytical instruments., viz., X-ray diffraction (XRD), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Thermal stability of the conducting polymer composites was analyzed by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The electrochemical properties of the prepared catalysts were studied by cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometric analyses. Data obtained from different studies inferred that the Pt–Sn/BT-ASC catalyst possesses the maximum current density (88.6 mA/mg) with minimum oxidation potential than those of Pt–Sn/ASC, Pt/BT-ASC and Pt/ASC catalysts. The present work ascertains the importance of conducting polymer composites developed using reinforced with bio-carbon towards electro-oxidation of methanol and these supporting materials possess an enhanced catalytic activity than that of reported catalysts. • A bio-based conductive polymer composites as supporting material for anode catalysts. • Pt and Pt–Sn nanoparticles were developed by simple chemical reduction method. • Deducing jf/jb ratio, surface area and catalytic activity relationship of catalysts. • PtSn/BT-ASC, higher surface area and excellent catalytic activity. • PtSn/BT-ASC catalyst material for methanol fuel oxidation in acidic medium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a novel cobalt-doped cerium oxide (CeO2)on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) substrate was successfully prepared through a hydrothermal method. The comprehensive characterization of the synthesized nanocomposite involved X-ray diffraction studies (XRD), Raman spectrum analysis, High Resolution Transmission Electron microscopy (HRTEM), and Field Emission Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM). The effective surface area of CeO2/rGO and Co-CeO2/rGO was determined using the Randles-Sevecik equation, revealing values of 4.02X10-5 cm2 and 6.35X10-5 cm 2, respectively. Cyclic Voltammetry (CV) was employed to investigate the electrochemical reversibility behavior, demonstrating promising results for Co-CeO2/rGO nanocomposite. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy(EIS) further highlighted low charge transfer resistance (Rct) and enhanced double-layer capacitance (Cdl). Notably, the synthesized nanocomposite exhibited excellent electrocatalytic activity for methanol and formic acid oxidation in an acidic medium. Overall, this work provides valuable insights into the synthesis characterization, and electrochemical performance of Co-CeO2/rGO nanocomposite, showcasing their potential applications in energy-related processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microstructure of nanostructured bainite formed by austempering in high-carbon silicon steel is characterized by high resolution electron microscopy. The results show that the bainitic sheaves consist of nanoscale subunits. The found kinds of crystal lattice distortions of each subunit in one bainite lath show clear difference. The latest generated subunit has most distortions. As the subunit grows up, the lattice distortion gradually gets relaxed. This indicates that the subunits form with high phase transformation strain energy, which causes severe lattice distortion. The results provide new experimental evidence on subjects relevant to the understanding of the mechanism of formation of bainitic ferrite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high explosive PBX 9502 undergoes irreversible expansion during thermal cycling ("ratchet growth"). Recent innovations in thermomechanical modeling via homogenization strategies are beginning to incorporate mesoscale information such as grain size, total porosity, and spatial distribution of voids and cracks. To generate a complete experimental data set to challenge and inform these models, PBX 9502 pellets were thermally cycled, cross-sectioned using ion polishing, and imaged in high resolution with scanning electron microscopy. Ratchet growth was found to drive expansion through microcracking. Microcracks were affected by agglomeration of crystals within the PBX. Virgin material showed greater ratchet growth than recycled material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Noble metal single-atom catalysts (SACs) have been extensively investigated due to their unique electronic structure and high-efficiency catalytic performance. However, there are relatively few studies on the preparation of non-noble metal single atoms and their application in oxygen evolution reaction (OER). In this paper, nickel single-atom catalyst was prepared using a facile one pot method. Ni-SAC-2.5% showed uniform SACs distribution and anti-ferromagnetic property as evidenced by the aberration-corrected high resolution electron microscopy and the first-principle calculations, achieving the lowest overpotential of 220 mV (10 mA/cm2) and stable performance in 1 M KOH solution. Meanwhile, it exhibited the largest specific capacitance value of 1.77 mF/cm2 and the lowest charge transfer resistance value of 40.75 Ω due to the accelerated kinetic process. First-principle calculations further confirmed the lowest computed overpotential of 0.54 eV for Ni-SAC-2.5%. However, Ni small clusters and nanoclusters with superparamagnetic performance were observed when the Ni content was further increased to 3.5% and 4.5%, resulting in higher overpotentials of 0.85 eV and 2.01 eV for OER process as indicated by the theoretical simulation. This paper provides a facile method to prepare non-noble metal SACs and useful guidance for designing high performance OER catalysts. • Nickel single-atom catalyst was prepared using a facile one pot method. • Ni-SAC-2.5% showed uniform SACs distribution and anti-ferromagnetic property. • Ni-SAC-2.5% exhibited the lowest overpotential of 220 mV (10 mA/cm2) for OER process. • Ni-SAC-2.5% exhibited the largest specific capacitance value of 1.77 mF/cm2. • First-principle calculations confirmed the lowest overpotential of 0.54 eV for Ni-SAC-2.5%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present work deals with the extraction of nanocellulose (NC) from pistachio nut shells, which is an agro-waste. NC was extracted through acid hydrolysis and characterized with respect to particle size, and morphology. Non- agglomerated hybrid NCAg was synthesized successfully because NC can act as a reducing and stabilizing agent. The as-synthesized nanocellulose silver (NCAg) hybrid was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV–vis), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and dynamic light scattering (DLS). UV-Visible spectrum at 406 nm revealed surface plasmon resonance (SPR) caused by the spherically shaped Ag-NPs. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and HRTEM studies confirmed the FCC crystalline structure of silver in the nanocellulose matrix. The Ag-NPs were uniform and spherical, with particle size ranging from 2 to 18 nm according to the TEM micrographs. NCAg hybrid was tested for antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis bacteria. The NCAg hybrid with controlled morphology, size and good antibacterial activity has potential applications in active packaging films, wound treatment, coatings, adhesives, and anti-biofouling films with good reinforcement ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of the research was to develop a cubosomal in situ gel encapsulated with Triamcinolone acetonide (TCA) in order to enhance its penetration through the blood-brain barrier (BBB) when administered via the intranasal route, thus enabling efficient and rapid action. Cubosomes were formulated by top-down approach using glyceryl monooleate (GMO), using pluronics127 (PF127) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) in varying proportions based on the Box-Behnken design. High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) analysis confirmed the morphology of the cubosomes. The in situ gel was formulated and optimized. Experiments involving ex vivo permeation and histopathology analyses were undertaken to evaluate drug permeation and tissue effects. The cubosomes exhibited a particle size (PS) of 197.9 nm, zeta potential (ZP) of −31.11 mV, and entrapment efficacy (EE) of 84.31%, with low deviation. Batch F4 (19% PF127) showed favorable results. In vitro and ex vivo permeation studies revealed drug release of 78.59% and 76.65%, respectively, after 8 h. Drug release followed the Hixson Crowell model of release kinetics. The histopathological examination revealed no signs of toxicity or adverse effects on the nasal mucosa of the sheep. The formulation exhibited short-term stability, maintaining its integrity and properties when stored at room temperature. The utilization of an intranasal cubosomal in situ gel encapsulated with TCA was anticipated to lower intracranial pressure and improve patient adherence by offering effective relief for individuals suffering from Brain edema. This efficacy is attributed to its rapid onset of action and its safe and well-tolerated dosage form. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report different growth modes and corresponding magnetic properties of thin EuSe films grown by molecular beam epitaxy on BaF2, Pb1−xEuxSe, GaAs, and Bi2Se3 substrates. We show that EuSe grows predominantly in the (001) orientation on GaAs(111) and Bi2Se3, but along the (111) crystallographic direction on BaF2 (111) and Pb1−xEuxSe (111). High resolution transmission electron microscopy measurements reveal a sharp and highly crystalline interface for both (001) and (111) EuSe films. In agreement with previous studies, ordered magnetic phases include antiferromagnetic, ferrimagnetic, and ferromagnetic phases. In contrast to previous studies, we found a strong hysteresis of the antiferromagnetic–ferrimagnetic transition. The ability to grow epitaxial films of EuSe on Bi2Se3 and of Bi2Se3 on EuSe enables further investigation of interfacial exchange interactions between various phases of an insulating metamagnetic material and a topological insulator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein we demonstrated the preparation of sulphur-doped graphene (SG) prepared via hydrothermal route. The resulted material is used for making highly sensitive and selective electrochemical sensor platform for accurate quantification of Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2). Structural features and surface morphology of synthesised materials are fully examined using High resolution Transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), FT-IR and Raman spectroscopy techniques. In addition to that, electrochemical techniques like cyclic voltammetry (CV) and chronoamperometry (CA) are used to quantify the electron transfer kinetics and electro catalytic activity, these results inveterate it is due to strong electron donating ability of doped sulphur (S) atom and edge plane sites in SG that promotes the electron transfer process at electrode-electrolyte interface. The SG modified glassy carbon electrode (SG/GCE) exhibited finite selectivity; sensitivity stability with a regression coefficient (R2) value is 0.99 towards H2O2 estimation. The above observation conclude that these results are finest report to scrutinise the electrochemical properties of Graphene network by doping with Sulphur atom and it served as an important benchmark for the development of inexpensive SG based sensor platforms for electrochemical biosensor applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The heating characteristics of citrate-coated magnetite nanoclusters in a magnetic inductive system were analyzed with several methods, such as the numerical initial slope method, a fourth-degree polynomial, a single Box-Lucas equation, a sum of two and three Box-Lucas equations, the corrected slope method and its extension. The Box-Lucas equation was modified by considering a half-rate heating constant (λ1/2) rather than the traditional heating-rate constant (λ), which is usually presented in the literature. The nanoclusters, produced by the precipitation method were characterized with high resolution transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Mössbauer spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry. High resolution transmission electron microscopy showed the nanoclusters of the synthesized magnetic particles. According to the X-ray diffraction data, these nanoclusters had average particle sizes ranging from 20 to 31 nm and comprised magnetite. Mössbauer spectroscopy showed the characteristic double magnetic pattern associated with the iron ions located at the A and B sites of the inverse spinel crystal structure for magnetite. Infrared peaks such as those at 1629 cm−1 and 564 cm−1 for the citrate-coated magnetite nanoclusters, suggested that citrate ions were indeed attached to the particle surfaces. Additionally, a thermogravimetric analysis showed that from 4.6 to 10.9 wt% citrate ions were attached to the particle surfaces. Both the modified Box-Lucas equation and the extension of the corrected slope method provided consistent results and greatly simplified estimation of the specific absorption rate of the magnetite nanoclusters used in the magnetic fluid hyperthermia studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cu–Ni/SiO2 catalysts were prepared by coprecipitation method and used in the dehydrogenation reaction of secondary butyl alcohol to methyl ethyl ketone (MEK). The crystal structure, reduction characteristics, element valence state and dispersibility of the catalysts were investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), hydrogen temperature-programmed reduction (H2-TPR), inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray Auger electron spectroscopy (XAES) and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The role of Ni component in the dehydrogenation reaction of secondary butyl alcohol was analyzed. The results showed that the conversion of secondary butyl alcohol increased to over 99% when using the Cu–Ni/SiO2 catalyst. The addition of nickel component to Cu/SiO2 inhibited the agglomeration of copper nanoparticles. The interaction between copper and nickel was strengthened due to the formation of the Cu–Ni compound. This resulted in change to the valence state and improved the dispersion of copper species on the catalyst surface. The Cu+/(Cu+ + Cu0) ratio increased with the addition of nickel component to Cu/SiO2, which may be responsible for the enhancement of the secondary butyl alcohol conversion. However, the addition of the nickel component increased the reduction temperature of the catalysts and deteriorated their reduction characteristics, which leads to insufficient reduction, resulting in a high content of Cu+ species remaining in the catalyst. Therefore, side reactions can occur, which are detrimental to the selectivity and yield of MEK. The selectivity to MEK can reach 98% with the Cu/SiO2 catalyst, whereas that for the Cu–Ni/SiO2 catalyst was 97%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sn3O4 are promising semiconductor materials due to their visible light absorption ability. In this work, a series of materials, such as SnO2, Sn3O4 and Sn3O4/SnO2 heterostructures, with different phase ratios were prepared using hydrothermal synthesis. The materials were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), nitrogen adsorption (BET). Flat-band potentials (EFB) of the samples were determined using the photocurrent onset potential (POP) method. It was shown that the potentials obtained with open circuit potential measurements versus illumination intensity (OCP) likely corresponded to the EFB of SnO2 nanoparticles in heterostructures due to interfacial electron transfer from the conducting band of Sn3O4 to that of SnO2. The photo-electrooxidation processes of a series of organic substrates were studied in the potential range of 0.6–1.4 V vs. RHE under irradiation with ultraviolet (λ = 370 nm) and visible (λ = 450 nm) light. The Sn3O4 sample showed high activity in the photo-electrooxidation of acetone and formic acid in visible light. The Sn3O4/SnO2 samples exhibited noticeable activity only in the oxidation of formic acid. The presence of the SnO2 phase in the Sn3O4/SnO2 samples increased the photocurrent values under ultraviolet illumination, but significantly reduced the oxidation efficiency in visible light. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have prepared CoNPs@CN that cobalt nanoparticles(CoNPs) dispersed uniformly in the carbon matrix Composite (CN) via a facile and controllable method. Samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–V spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). CoNPs@CN exhibited favorable photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation. The results of quenching and photoluminescence experiments reveal the generation of main active species (•OH and •O 2 − radicals). The producing mechanism of active species can be attributed to that CoNPs@CN absorb photons and generate photogenerated electrons through localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effect, then H2O and O2 in the solution react with the photogenerated hole and electrons to produce •OH and •O 2 − radicals. In the current study, CoNPs@CN are prepared that the cobalt (Co) nanoparticles dispersed uniformly in the carbon matrix via a facile and controllable method. Co@CN exhibited favorable photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation. Co@CN can absorb photons under illumination through LSPR effect, thus the photogenerated electrons and holes were generated. H2O and O2 in the solution reacted with the photogenerated electrons to produce •OH and •O2– radicals. These two main radicals are used to decompose MO effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nano-glasses are next-generation scintillators combining favorably the merits of both scintillator crystals and glasses. Here, a new nano-glass scintillator is prepared embedding CsGd 2 F 7 :Ce3+ nanocrystals (NCs). The microscopic morphology, particle size, and distribution of the NCs are studied by high resolution transmission electron microscopy. Significantly enhanced radioluminescence efficiency is obtained in the nano-glasses. The largest integrable intensity of X-ray excited luminescence is 316% of the standard Bi 4 Ge 3 O 12 (BGO) crystal. A well-resolved full-energy peak with an energy resolution of 17.4% is registered for the 662 keV gamma rays, and the light yield is determined to be 827 ± 8 ph/MeV. The nano-glass scintillators exhibit good radiation hardness and thermal stability. As a proof of concept, an X-ray imaging system of a good resolution is built on the nano-glass scintillators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microstructural defects play a critical role in flourishing various properties of materials. Here in this article, the effect of Ag substitution on the various properties of CdS quantum dots (QDs) is studied. Ag doped CdS QDs are synthesized using chemical co-precipitation, a simple, cost-effective method suitable for mass-production. High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) images show dopant induced change in density and types of microstructural defects. The development of multiple nanotwinning at the cost of stacking faults as well as single twin boundary via the substitution of Ag in CdS lattice is noticed. In present study, a strong quantum confinement is observed and confirmed by the crystallite sizes estimated via X-ray diffraction (XRD) and TEM studies. A systematic enhancement in the bandgap and reduction in crystallite size are observed with increasing concentration of dopant. The atomic concentration of element and chemical bonding in CdS QDs are studied using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) respectively. Unlike other elemental dopants, QDs when doped with Ag with the varying concentration exhibit a non-systematic emission behaviour with increasing concentration which is correlated to the microstructural defects and confinement strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this report, we synthesized the neodymium-doped yttrium hydroxide nanobelts (Nd:Y(OH)3) using a facile route. The characterization methods, such as UV-Visible and photoluminescence spectroscopy, Raman, X-ray photoemission, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), were applied to clarify the properties of the prepared colloidal sample. The structural characteristics of the prepared sample were analyzed via X-ray diffraction (XRD) and HRTEM. The average size of the hexagonal crystal is about 25 nm, which shows the compatibility of XRD and HRTEM spectroscopy results. Absorbance and emission spectra of the synthesized sample have demonstrated that the intensity of light emission by the colloidal sample is affected by the concentration of Nd3+ ions. In this research, it has been shown that the excitation of the samples with the wavelengths of 355 and 360 nm almost does not change the blue emission spectra because the wavelengths are related to the nature of the Nd+ 3, but with the excitation of 300 nm, the intensity of the emission spectra increases with the increase in the concentration up to 0.05 g (sample 2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]