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Floating gastro-retentive delivery approach provides a significant pathway for controlled release of drug with increase gastric residence. In this study, we report crystallinity modulated electrosp...

Fibers obtained from fruits, stem, and plant leaves are nature-based fibers and are known as natural fiber. Due to their versatile properties such as good mechanical behavior, low cost, eco-friendly, less dense, biodegradable, etc. natural fibers are getting focus amongst researchers. Since the density of bio-composites reinforced by natural fiber is significantly inferior to other traditional materials they satisfy the automotive need of high-performance vehicle parts/components of lightweight. To decrease the cost and weight of the vehicle automotive manufacturers are extensively utilizing the natural fibers (as interior insulation, seat bottom, door panels, dashboard, body panels, boot liner, etc.). Although, the composite of natural fiber has few shortcomings like poor chemical and fire resistance, poor interfacial bonding among matrix and fiber, moisture intake. Thus, natural fiber is required to be surface treated. Among the finest method for physical treatment is plasma treatment. Herein plasma which participates within surface modification directly is produced within the vacuum chamber by the ionization of the gas. The improved interfacial bonding in fiber composite is obtained as a result of surface treatment of plasma, which results in increase mechanical strength. Effect of surface treatment of plasma on several natural fiber is included in this paper and the aim of this review paper is to occupy the literature gap through this paper.

Natural fiber reinforced composites (NFRPCs) are picking up favour over man-made fiber inferable from their lower cost and ecological amicable attributes, as they exist plentifully and are sustainable. The ever-evolving ecological, biological, and prudent concerns lead to expanded acknowledgment of natural fiber in each territory of conventional synthetic material application. This is due to great fatigue as well as corrosion resistance, comparable strength, low cost, low density, abundantly available, nontoxicity and biodegradability and etc. of natural fibers. In the present study, the optimization of most commonly used natural fiber reinforced composites that is Banana and Sisal fiber hybrid composite on the basis of fiber loading and fractional distribution of banana and sisal fiber has been discussed. For Finite Element Analysis, the CAD model of specimens with different fiber loading ranging from 20 to 50 percent as well as with different fractional distribution of banana and sisal fiber were prepared as per the ASTM standards using CREO 5.0 modelling software. The specimens were loaded in order to get the failure in the specimen with the help of CAE software named as ANSYS 16.0. The trend in values of load are in very close resemblance to that obtained by Idicula et al. which provides experimental validation to the results of this finite element study. It was concluded that with increase in total fiber volume percentage the flexural and the tensile strength of the composite also increases. Since, the strength of banana fiber is significantly higher than that of sisal fiber that hence higher degrees of strength were observed with increase in concentration of banana fiber.

Natural Fibers being environment friendly and sustainable materials are gaining the interest of scientists, researchers and industrialists all over the world. Natural Fibers composite being lighter and cheaper than the synthetic fiber composites are seen as a scope for advancement in the ever evolving field of material science. Moreover, natural fibers unlike synthetic fibers are biodegradable in nature which draws the eyes of environmentalists towards them in these high times. In the present study, the optimization of most commonly discussed natural fiber reinforced composites such as Banana fiber, Jute fiber, Kenaf fiber, Hemp fiber and Pineapple Leaf fiber (PALF) on the basis of fiber orientation has been discussed. Finite element models of each fiber reinforced epoxy composite was prepared at constant fiber volume percent of 30% with fiber orientation angles of 0°, +22.5°/−22.5°, 45°/−45°, +67.5°/−67.5° and 90° measured from horizontal axis. The models were loaded for different standard loading conditions, i.e., tensile, flexural, and hardness test. From the results it was observed that for tensile and flexural test all the fibers showed minimum stress at the orientation of 0° and 90°. In Brinell harness test, composites with 45o angle of orientation shows the best results.

Natural fibers are pliant in nature and their characteristics are vastly dependent on their physical aspects and chemical configuration. Banana fiber is derived by processing “pseudo stem of banana plant” (Musasepientum) Banana fiber is such a natural fiber being largely constituted of lignin, cellulose and hemicellulose thus earning the name of lignocellulosic fiber. The composite materials based on reinforced natural fibers have excellent mechanical properties attributing to their chemical composites and structure. However, further “improvement in the mechanical properties of natural fiber composites can be achieved if the adhesion at the fiber–matrix interface is enhanced”. This review paper comprises the on effects of various surface modification techniques on various mechanical properties of banana fiber in order to establish surface modification as a viable process in incorporating valuable banana fiber for industrial applications. The surface treatment of banana fiber reinforced composites, in turn, enables the development of banana fiber as a reliable and viable material for manufacturing of industrial and tribological components which helps meet the global aim of developing green materials for the sustainable future of mankind.

Researchers and engineers have shifted their interest from synthetic fibres to natural fibres. These fibres are not only light weight and high-strength materials but are also more economical than the conventional synthetic fibres. Moreover, the natural fibres are eco-friendly and biodegradable. Banana fibre is a bi-product of banana fruit cultivation and hence abundant in nature. Banana fibre being one of the strongest natural fibres can be used for different applications when reinforced with some binding resin. Epoxy resin has excellent binding properties and is thus suitable matrix for composite formation. As it has been widely discussed in previous studies that fibre loading or fibre volume fraction affects mechanical strengths and properties of natural fibre-reinforced composite, this study is aimed finding the relation between the fibre volume percentage and the load-bearing capacity of banana fibre-reinforced epoxy composite material by data-driven decision method. In the finite element analysis conducted on the banana-epoxy composite, it has been seen that the composite bear maximum tensile load of up to 7956 N, flexural load of up to 411 N and has hardness of up to 167.28. On the basis of this study, it can be said that due to excellent load-bearing properties, banana-epoxy composite can be used for various medium to high-load industrial applications. The following paper also proposes an analytical relation based on the regression model superposition of the results of tensile, flexural and hardness test simulation conducted by finite element analysis software ANSYS 16.0 which was prepared on Minitab 19 software.

The objective of present work was to develop fibroin-sodium alginate floating microspheres of felodipine (FD) showing modified release. Binary polymer system of fibroin-sodium alginate was used to prepare microspheres by spray drying technique. Thus, FD loaded microspheres obtained were evaluated for % drug content, % entrapment efficacy, particle size, micromeritics, FT-IR, DSC, XRD, floatability profile, mucoadhesion, in vitro drug release, and accelerated stability studies. The drug content of FD-loaded microspheres (F1–F5) was in the range of 68.55 ± 1.20 to 78.21 ± 0.54 and entrapment efficacy 45.93 ± 0.41 to 61.60 ± 0.72%. The particle size varied from 60.33 ± 0.64 to 66.87 ± 0.85 μm. Acceptable Carr’s compressibility index and angle of repose demonstrated excellent flowability of microspheres (F1–F5). The FT-IR showed no chemical interactions between FD and polymers. The DSC and XRD indicated that FD was partially crystalline in microspheres. Floating parameters for optimized batch F2 were floating lag time10–15 s and floating time > 12 h. Floating buoyancy is 96.51 ± 0.66%. The in vitro drug dissolution kinetics of optimized F2 batch in 0.1NHCl and FSSGF demonstrated % drug release up to 80.42 ± 0.86% in 0.1NHCl and 84.64 ± 0.30% in FSSGF following Peppas model. Electrostatic repulsion between polymers successfully enabled the design of FD-loaded floating microspheres by spray drying. Excellent floating profile and extended release for 12 h, as per USFDA guidelines, have been demonstrated by the fibroin-sodium alginate binary composite system. In the future, fibroin-sodium alginate scaffold can be successfully used for tailor-made floating and release profiles of drugs belonging to different solubility classes.

Ethylene-co-vinyl acetate (EVA), high density polyethylene (HDPE) and their blends are being used in many engineering applications. In this work, an attempt was made to extend the conventional uses of EVA/HDPE blended polymer nanocomposites by laser treating their surface to automobile, aircraft, and similar industries, where tribological properties played an important role. Effects of laser irradiation on adhesive tribo-performances of maleic anhydride grafted polyethylene (MA-g-PE: 2phr) modified ethylene-co-vinyl acetate/high density polyethylene (EVA/HDPE: 70/30 wt. %) organ modified montmorillonite (OMMT: 4phr) blended polymer nanocomposite have been investigated. EVA/HDPE/MA-g-PE/OMMT polymer nanocomposite was irradiated by Ytterbium laser system (YSL-2000) at various scan speeds and power densities. As per ASTM G99 standard, tribo-performance attributes coefficient of friction and specific wear rate were evaluated using pin-on-disc machine against rotating EN31 steel disc of 60 HRC at different loads and speeds. Wear mechanisms of worn surfaces were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. It was observed that coefficient of friction and specific wear rate were significantly affected by power density and load, while sliding distance and scan speed have marginal effects.

In the recent years, there is a shift in interest of engineers and researchers to natural fibres from synthetic fibres. Natural fibres have high strength, are light weight and are also inexpensive than the traditional synthetic fibres. In addition, the fibres obtained naturally are biodegradability and eco-friendly in nature. Banana fibre is a derived product by cultivation of banana fruit and thus plentiful in environment. Banana fibre is classified among the strongest naturally obtained fibre and therefore when reinforced with other few binding resins can be utilized for different applications. Epoxy resin are suitable matrix for composite creation since they have outstanding binding characteristics. The (FEA) Finite Element Analysis of epoxy-banana composite shows that the maximum value of impact, flexural and tensile load that the composite can bear is 1000 N, 900 N and 2100 N respectively. According to this investigation it can be concluded that because of their outstanding load bearing characteristics epoxy-banana composite can be utilized for several medium load industrial uses to high load industrial uses. It is observed that the composite with least volume percent of epoxy has better mechanical strength and can bear higher deformation under higher load for tensile and flexural tests and for the impact strength results, the increase in fibre % results in lower impact strength. Also, the increase in higher vol. % of epoxy results in lower stiffness and higher deflection in the specimens, except for the specimen with 40% vol. of epoxy which obtained the most optimal results.

Development of tailor-made pharmaceutical nanofibers has gained vital prominence due to ease of fabrication and versatility of electrospinning (ES). ES is one of the flexible and, wonderful strategies for the fabrication of nanofibers. ES unit comprises a supplier of high voltage current, a syringe (pump), spinneret and a metal plate collector. The obtained nanofibers are optimized by manipulating process and formulation variables Viz: polymer/drug resolution (viscosity, concentration, physical phenomenon, molecular mass) and the environmental conditions (humidity, temperature). The electrospun nanofibers can be used for loading of the drug, amorphization of a crystalline API and an increase in its physical storage stability. ES technique enables mixing of two or more API and may facilitate or inhibit the burst release of a drug, along with attainment of modified release. Additionally, nanofibers demonstrate a reduction in overall dose needed for the therapeutic activity, by improving dissolution and bioavailability of the drugs. The current review is an attempt to focus on ES method, the optimization parameters, and pharmaceutical applications of the electrospun nanofibers.

The development of efficient metal doped semiconductors for solar energy harvesting to produce hydrogen has attracted significant attention. Herein, the H2 generation over Ag-doped TiO2 photocatalyst, synthesized using a simple and cost-effective method based on chemical reduction, was reported. The Ag/TiO2 exhibited an absorption peak in the visible region and the reduction of the bandgap to 2.5 eV due to surface plasmonic resonance (SPR). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed the presence of oxygen vacancies and 11% of Ag in Ti–Ag–O phase. The effect of reaction time and photocatalyst loading in the absence and presence of sacrificial reagents (alcohols and sulfur) on water splitting was studied and compared the activity of Ag/TiO2 with that of bare TiO2. The H2 production rate of 23.5 mmol g−1 h−1 (with an apparent quantum yield of 19%), over 1.5Ag/TiO2, was the highest ever reported so far. The observed higher activity could mainly be attributed to the existence of oxygen vacancies and the Ti–Ag–O phase. The photocatalyst was stable for three consecutive cycles in both the presence and absence of sacrificial reagents. This study offers new insights into the rational design of metal-support hybrid structures for hydrogen production through photocatalytic water splitting.

Self-lubrication is one of the smart material properties required for producing components with enhanced wear resistance and low coefficient of friction. Bidirectional (BD) satin weave polyacrylonitrile (PAN) based carbon fiber (Cf) fabric preform was successfully infiltrated with Al 6061 alloy by squeeze infiltration process. The infiltrated composite shows uniform distribution of carbon fibers in the matrix with the elimination of porosities, fiber damage and close control on the formation of deleterious aluminum carbide (Al4C3) phase. Cf/Al composite exhibits remarkable wear resistance compared to unreinforced alloy due to the formation of self-lubricating tribolayer on the pin surface, which intercepts the contact of matrix metal to counter surface. The BD carbon fiber enhanced the hardness and compressive strength of the composite by restraining the plastic flow behavior of matrix. High resolution transmission electron microscopy shows the presence of Al2O3 and MgAl2O4 spinel, confirmed by EDS and SAD pattern, at the composite interface. The composite shows a lower density of 2.16 g/cm3 which is a major advantage for weight reduction compared to the monolithic alloy (2.7 g/cm3).

Objective: The objective of the present study was to the preparation of a coamorphous (COAM) system of paracetamol (PA) (Biopharmaceutics Classification System [BCS] Class-III) and ibuprofen (IB) (BCS Class-II) for enhancement of solubility and dissolution of IB. Methods: The COAM system was prepared by chemical electric magnetic field microwave-assisted method. Several batches with different concentrations of COAM PA and IB were prepared at constant temperature, pressure, and holding time. Solubility studies were carried out in different pH condition and the batch, which show the highest increase in solubility 98.00%. COAM samples were characterized by solubility, dissolution, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) studies. Results: FTIR results showed evidence of molecular interactions between both the drugs. Maximum increase in aqueous solubility of IB was seen 500:200 mg dose ratio (COAM) batch E in phosphate buffer 7.4. The COAM system increased solubility of IB about 98.70%. The solubility and dissolution rate of IB were also enhanced. In vitro drug release study, 100% of the drug was released within 120 min. Thus, saturation solubility and dissolution rate of IB were found significant improved unlike PA. XRD and DSC results confirmed amorphization of IB. FTIR results evidenced hydrogen bonding interactions between both the drugs. In accelerated stability studies, powder XRD and DSC results demonstrated insignificant changes, thus confirming successful stabilization of IB by PA. Conclusion: Hence, it concluded that the study of COAM of PA and IB successfully prepared by microwave-assisted method to enhance solubility, dissolution, stability, and bioavailability.

Background: Carbon dots are a new class of biomaterials that have found a wide range of biomedical applications like cell imaging, targeted delivery, and bio-sensing. A review of the literature reveals that there are fewer reports on nanocomposites prepared by entrapment of carbon dots into polymers. Objective: A tetra carboxylic acid compound, can conveniently be used as a precursor to synthesize negatively charged carbon dots. Methods: Carbon dots have been prepared by microwave induced treatment of BTCA so as to have carboxylic groups onto the surface of the carbon dots. Their size distribution was determined by TEM analysis. These CNPs are loaded into chitosan films by solvent casting approach. The water absorption behavior of chitosan/carbon dots nanocomposite films is investigated by gravimetric method. Results: The size of the CNPs was found to be in the range of 50 to 60 nm with almost spherical geometry. Their zeta potential was found to be -20.2 mV, thus indicating the presence of negative charges on their surface. The contact angle measurements revealed that wettability of plain chitosan film reduced due to the addition of carbon dots. It was found that impregnation of carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) into chitosan film resulted in an almost seven-fold decrease in the water absorption capacity of the film. The equilibrium moisture uptake (EMU) data of plain chitosan and CNPs-loaded chitosan films were interpreted by GAB isotherm and related parameters were also evaluated. Conclusion: It may be concluded from the above study that BTCA, a tetra carboxylic acid compound, can conveniently be used as a precursor to synthesize negatively charged carbon dots. These carbon dots, when loaded into plain chitosan film, cause an effective crosslinking within the chitosan film matrix. The CNPs-loaded films produce green fluorescence when exposed to UV light.

Here, we report Cu2S nanocrystals based non-fullerene ternary polymer solar cells by incorporating Cu2S in conjugated polymer (PBDB-T: poly[(2,6-(4,8-bis(5-(2-ethylhexyl)thiophen-2-yl)-benzo[1,2-b:4,5-b′]dithiophene))-alt-(5,5-(1′,3′-di-2-thienyl-5′,7′-bis(2-ethylhexyl) benzo[1′,2′-c:4′,5′-c′]dithiophene-4,8-dione))]) and small molecule non-fullerene compound (ITIC:3,9-bis(2-methylene-(3-(1,1-dicyanomethylene)-indanone))-5,5,11,11-tetrakis(4-hexylphenyl)-dithieno[2,3-d:2′,3′-d′]-s-indaceno[1,2-b:5,6-b′]dithiophene). The devices were fabricated in inverted configuration i.e. ITO/ZnO/PBDB-T: Cu2S NCs: ITIC/MoO3/Ag. Effect of concentration of Cu2S nanocrystals on the performance parameters of PBDB-T: ITIC based organic solar cells is studied. An enhancement in the power conversion efficiency from 8.24% to 9.53% is achieved for the optimum concentration of Cu2S nanocrystals in the organic photoactive blend. The cause of improvement in the performance parameters of the device is investigated by means of the light intensity dependent electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy. It is found that the devices with Cu2S nanocrystals have less trap-assisted recombination.

Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology (RRCAT) has an ongoing program to develop 650 MHz, 5-cell elliptical superconducting RF (SCRF) cavities under the Indian Institutes and Fermilab Collaboration. The elliptical multi-cell SCRF cavity fabrication process involves forming of half-cells and their precise machining and joining by electron beam welding to form end groups and dumbbells, which are then joined to make the final cavity. To ensure that the final welded cavity achieves physical lengths and resonant frequencies within design tolerance and has good field flatness, the measurement and correction of resonant frequency are carried out for dumbbells and end groups. A novel method to identify the frequency of individual half-cells in a dumbbell cavity and a dedicated tuning fixture to correct them had been developed. The paper details the RF characterization and correction procedure employed during fabrication of the first six 650 MHz cavities at RRCAT.

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs, C-dots, or CDs), are generally small carbon nanoparticles having a size less than 10nm. Carbon dots (CDs) were accidentally discovered during the purification of single-walled carbon nanotubes through preparative electrophoresis in 2004. Carbon is an organic material having poor water solubility that emits less fluorescence. However, CDs have good aqueous solubility and excellent fluorescent property, hence more attention has been given to the synthesis of CDs and their applications in chemistry and allied sciences. CDs being easily accessible for in-house synthesis, simpler fabrication as per compendial requirements are wisely accepted. In addition, since CDs are biocompatible, of low toxicity, and of biodegradable nature, they appear as a promising tool for the health care sector. Furthermore, owing to their capabilities of expressing significant interaction with biological materials, and their excellent photoluminescence (PL), CDs have been emerging as novel pioneered nanoparticles useful for pharmaceutical and theranostic applications. Also, CDs are more eco-friendly in synthesis and therefore can be favorably consumed as alternatives in the further development of biological, environmental, and food areas. A massive study has been performed dealing with different approaches which are adopted for CDs synthesis and their applications as, filters for the separation of pollutants from polluted water, food safety, toxicological studies, and optical properties, etc. While still less emphasis is given on the applications of CDs in pharmaceuticals like for sustained and targeted drug delivery systems, theranostic study, etc. Hence, in the present review, we are exploring CQDs as a boon to pharmaceutical concerns.

Diluted magnetic semiconductor based on Ni-doped TiO 2 has been synthesized by hydrothermal process and effect of Ni doping on structure, morphology and magnetic studies were investigated. X-ray Rietveld analysis confirmed that all the samples were TiO 2 anatase structure without having any impurity phase. The lattice parameter and cell volume increased in Ni-doped TiO 2 nanotubes. TEM micrograph reveals clearly the formation of TiO 2 nanotubes with diameter of ∼8 nm. Magnetic properties studies were carried out by using vibrating sample magnetometer at room temperature and ferromagnetism was observed in both pure and Ni-doped TiO 2 nanotubes. The bound magnetic polarons formed by Ni ions and the oxygen vacancy may be responsible for the increased magnetic moment in Ni-doped TiO 2 nanotubes. These findings provide a better understanding for the mechanisms of Ni doped TiO 2 nanotubes ferromagnetism at room temperature.

The present study aims at understanding the role of incorporating Cu2S nanocrystals (NCs) as a third component in ternary organic solar cells. Ternary photoactive blends consisting of conjugated polymer poly[4,8-bis(5-(2-ethylhexyl)thiophen-2-yl)benzo[1,2-b;4,5-b′]dithiophene-2,6-diyl-alt-(4-(2-ethylhexyl)-3-fluorothieno[3,4-b]thiophene-)-(2-carboxylate-2-6-diyl)] (PTB7-Th), fullerene derivative phenyl-C71-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) and different wt% of Cu2S NCs were formulated and were employed to fabricate ternary OSCs having a device architecture of ITO/ZnO/PTB7-Th:Cu2S NCs:PCBM/MoO3/Ag. It has been observed that with the addition of 3 wt% of Cu2S NCs, an improved power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 8.20% is obtained against the PCE of 6.96% for reference devices. EIS measurements and AFM studies suggests that the presence of Cu2S NCs facilitates formation of cascading energy levels, provides smoother surfaces and helps in suppressing trap-assisted recombination.

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a pathogenic bacteria which causes infectious diseases and food poisoning. Current diagnostic methods for infectious disease require sophisticated instruments, long analysis time and expensive reagents which restrict their application in resource-limited settings. Electrochemical paper based analytical device (EPAD) was developed by integrating graphene nano dots (GNDs) and zeolite (Zeo) using specific DNA probe. The ssDNA/GNDs-Zeo modified paper based analytical device (PAD) was characterized using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The genosensor was optimized at pH7.4 and incubation temperature of 30°C. A linear current response with respect to target DNA concentrations was obtained. The limit of detection (LOD) of the proposed sensor was found out to be 0.1nM. The specificity was confirmed by introducing non-complimentary target DNA to ssDNA/GNDs-Zeo modified PAD. The suitability of the proposed EPAD genosensor was demonstrated with fruit juice samples mixed with S. aureus. The proposed EPAD genosensor is a low cost, highly specific, easy to fabricate diagnostic device for detection of S. aureus bacteria which requires very low sample volume and minimum analysis time of 10s.

Discrete element method (DEM) simulations are broadly used to get an insight of flow characteristics of granular materials in complex particulate systems. DEM input parameters for a model are the critical prerequisite for an efficient simulation. Thus, the present investigation aims to determine DEM input parameters for Hertz–Mindlin model using soybeans as a granular material. To achieve this aim, widely acceptable calibration approach was used having standard box-type apparatus. Further, qualitative and quantitative findings such as particle profile, height of kernels retaining the acrylic wall, and angle of repose of experiments and numerical simulations were compared to get the parameters. The calibrated set of DEM input parameters includes the following (a) material properties: particle geometric mean diameter (6.24 mm); spherical shape; particle density ( $$1220~\hbox {kg m}^{-3}$$ ), and (b) interaction parameters such as particle–particle: coefficient of restitution (0.17); coefficient of static friction (0.26); coefficient of rolling friction (0.08), and particle–wall: coefficient of restitution (0.35); coefficient of static friction (0.30); coefficient of rolling friction (0.08). The results may adequately be used to simulate particle scale mechanics (grain commingling, flow/motion, forces, etc) of soybeans in post-harvest machinery and devices.

Gout is the world's most popular inflammatory arthritis and the prevalence of gout is rapidly rising worldwide. Typically, gout develops in a single joint as excessive swelling and intense pain wherein excessive deposition of uric acid (UA) crystals results in inflammation of the joint. Accordingly, UA is considered an effective biomarker to diagnose gout. Recently, the use of innovative sensors has attracted great attention, as it is effortless, responsive, quick, and powerful. While the traditional sensors for UA assessment are widely used, they pose many limitations and hurdles in terms of sensitivity, selectivity, and simplicity. In this vein, metal ions and organic ligand-based metal–organic framework (MOF) have gained much attention for the recognition of UA due to its larger surface area, porosity, high sensitivity, and defined selectivity. In this review, we provide details on the latest developments of MOF-centered biosensors for sensitive detection of UA. The status of gout, fundamentals of MOF, and MOF availed for detection of UA have been elaborated. Besides, we highlighted the nanoparticles and conjugates that rely on advanced strategies along with MOF that boost the sensitivity and selectivity towards the UA. Interestingly, different surface architectured MOFs biosensors showed a lower detection limit for UA from μM to nM. Finally, the threats and potential opportunities for MOF-based UA biosensors have been summarized. Therefore, based on ongoing research, the commercialization of this advanced platform for the biosensing of diverse biomarkers will open a new door for the in vitro diagnosis of assorted diseases.

We investigated the static and dynamic aspects of the magnetic properties for single phase nanocrystalline BiFeO 3 with average crystallite size of 35 nm. The frequency dependence of the peak is observed in the real part of ac susceptibility χ′ ac vs T measurement and described well by the Vogel-Fulcher law as well as the power law. These analyses indicated the existence of cluster glass state with significant interaction among the spin clusters and results in cluster-glass like cooperative freezing at low temperature. The influence of temperature and magnetic field cooling on the exchange bias effect is investigated. A training effect is also observed. We have reported a significantly high ZFC & FC exchange bias of 200 Oe & 450 Oe at 300 K and 900 Oe & 2100 Oe at 5 K. The obtained results are interpreted in the framework of core-shell model, where the core of the BFO nanoparticles shows antiferromagnetic behavior and surrounded by CG-like ferromagnetic (FM) shell associated to uncompensated surface spins.

Ca2Al2O5:Eu3+, Ca2Al2O5:Dy3+ and Ca2Al2O5:Tb3+ phosphors were synthesized using a combustion synthesis method. The prepared phosphors were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction for phase purity, by scanning electron microscopy for morphology, and by photoluminescence for emission and excitation measurements. The Ca2Al2O5:Eu3+ phosphors could be efficiently excited at 396 nm and showed red emission at 594 nm and 616 nm due to 5D0 → 7F1 and 5D0 → 7F2 transitions. Dy3+-doped phosphors showed blue emission at 482 nm and yellow emission at 573 nm. Ca2Al2O5:Tb3+ phosphors showed emission at 545 nm when excited at 352 nm. Concentration quenching occurred in both Eu3+ and Dy3+phosphors at 0.5 mol%. Photoluminescence results suggested that the aluminate-based phosphor could be a potential candidate for application in environmentally friendly based lighting technologies.

In this experimental study, effect of addition of organomodified montmorillonite (OMMT) nanoclay in increasing quantity, viz. 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 parts per hundred on three-body abrasive wear behavior of maleic anhydride grafted polyethylene compatibilized ethylene-co-vinyl acetate/high-density polyethylene (EVA/HDPE/MA-g-PE) nanocomposites have been investigated. Experiments were conducted on rubber wheel abrasion tester, which was in-house developed according to ASTM G65-04 standard. Comparative wear volume loss and specific wear rate of polymer nanocomposites were evaluated at different loads and sliding distances with 300 µm sand abrasive size particles. It was observed that both wear volume loss and specific wear rate were increased with increase in loads. Wear volume loss was increased with increase in sliding distance while specific wear rate was decreased. Taguchi (L18) design of experiment and analysis of variance were used to optimize control factors and determine statistical significance and percentage contribution of control factors. Scanning electron microscopic images showed surface fatigue and microploughing wear mechanism on surface matrix. The aim of this study is to establish the prospects of studied polymer nanocomposites in automobile, aerospace, and similar industrial applications, where three-body abrasive wear is dominating. POLYM. COMPOS., 2017. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers

Atmospheric plasma spray technique is used to develop alumina-based coatings by spraying mechanically blended alumina-chromia feedstock with chromia content varying from 1–6 wt-%. The influence of ...

The settlement of high embankments constructed over soft compressible soil deposits is affected by the self-weight of the embankment material. In such situations, lightweight materials are preferred over the conventional earth materials. This paper delineates the geoengineering properties lightweight foamed geopolymer prepared from a mixture of fly ash and ground granulated blast furnace slag with sodium hydroxide as an activator. Aluminum powder, hydrogen peroxide and Triton X 100 are used as foaming agents. UCS tests are conducted to evaluate the mechanical properties after curing periods of 7 and 28 days. XRD and SEM tests are performed to inspect geopolymerization reactions, composition and microstructure of the products. Lowest density of 0.96 g/cc is obtained by using 0.5% H2O2 as foaming agent with unconfined compressive strength of 1.33 MPa indicating that this can be used in sub-base and subgrade of highway embankments, constructed over soft soil deposits.

In the current situation, composite material has a great deal of scope because of its enhanced mechanical properties like hardness, sturdiness, compressive strength & elasticity. Regular solid materials have restrictions regarding the composite material. Advancement of hybrid metal framework composites has turned into an imperative region of research enthusiasm for Material Science. composite material containing Aluminum alloy Al356 (LM 25) as matrix and fly ash, alumina as strengthening the support weight divisions of consistent 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, 10% fly ash remains and fluctuating %wt of 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, 10% Alumina (Al2O3). The specimen is manufactured and mechanical properties of these specimen were studied by carrying out various tests like tensile test, compression test, wear test, impact strength, hardness, etc.

Enormous research is going on Aluminum Metal Matrix composite material because of wide applications Automobile, Aerospace, Ship and so forth. In the current modern situation, composite material has a ton of extension because of its enhanced mechanical properties like hardness, sturdiness, compressive quality and elasticity. Traditional solid materials have restrictions as for the composite material as far as tribological properties. The composite substance has two characteristic stages as matrix and reinforcement. The aluminum composite A356 can possibly fill in as grid material due to its low softening point, great weld ability, cast ability, just as consumption obstruction. In the present examination, it is discovered that in tribological properties, when the fortification % builds wear of composite material reductions. At the point when the heap expands wear in micron of composite material increments. At the point when the speed expands wear in micron of composite material increments.

This paper deals the MHD slow viscous motion of electrically conducting fluid over a rigid sphere surrounded by a concentric permeable sphere. Darcy’s equation is adopted to describe the motion in semipermeable region and Stokes equation is applied to describe the flow of viscous fluid region. For both flow fields, stream functions are calculated. The resistance force on composite sphere is obtained and variation of drag force with respect to different parameters has been plotted graphically. Some limiting cases are deduced and compared with the solution derived in other research papers. We observed that drag force increases with increasing magnetic field.

We report synthesis, characterization and magnetic properties of exchange-coupled L 1 0 -FePt/fcc-FePt nanomagnets. Structural and morphological characterization of exchange-coupled L 1 0 -FePt/fcc-FePt was carried out by powder X-ray diffraction, Mossbauer spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Rietveld refinement of powder X-ray diffraction pattern has been used to quantify L 1 0 -FePt and fcc-FePt phases present in samples. Room temperature Mossbauer spectroscopy showed sextets of both L 1 0 -FePt and fcc-FePt phases with their respective hyperfine interaction parameters. Transmission electron microscopic (TEM and HRTEM) images confirmed nanocrystalline nature of exchange-coupled nanomagnets with particle size ranges from 15 nm to 50 nm after annealing for different time at 700 °C. Room temperature magnetic studies showed ferromagnetic nature of nanomagnets and maximum energy product (BH) max ~10.92 MGOe was obtained for sample containing 89.0% volume fraction of L 1 0 -FePt phase.

Amongst assorted regio-selective and targeted oral drug delivery strategies accepted for the gastro-retentive drug delivery system (GRDDS), the floating drug delivery system (FDDS) holds a major share as clinically accepted formulations. The major objective of the present investigation was to explore the silk industry waste protein, silk fibroin (SF) as a possible electrospun nanocarrier for the FDDS. In a nutshell, electrospinning (ES) is one of the flexible and astonishing strategies for the fabrication of porous electrospun nanofibers (NFs), which offers the potential to amend the floating profile, dissolution rate, solubility, and release patterns of the drug, etc as per compendial requirements. Looking at the prospects of floating SF-NFs preparation, we have isolated and lyophilized the SF from industrial waste cocoons and prepared drug-loaded SF single polymer nanofibers (SPN). Lafutidine (LF) being a good candidate for GRDDS selected as a model drug, which is an excellent proton pump inhibitor, mainly used in the treatment of gastric ulcers. Finally, the obtained LF loaded SF-NFs (LF-SF-NFs) were successfully analyzed for physicochemical characteristics, porosity, swelling index, antioxidant activity, mucoadhesion strength, floating properties, enzymatic degradation, and accelerated stability study, etc. Further, these LF-SF-NFs were evaluated for percent drug content, weight variation, in-vitro dissolution in 0.1 N hydrochloric acid (HCl, pH:1.2) and fasted state simulated gastric fluid (FSSGF), and accelerated stability study. It has shown significant floating time >18 h, about 99% ± 0.58% floating buoyancy with sustained release up to 24 h. LF-SF-NFs showed good compatibility, entrapment efficiency, antioxidant activity, mucoadhesion strength, enzymatic degradation, and long term stability. Soon, the essential floating and drug release profiles can claim single polymer (SF) based electrospun protein NFs as a possible novel oral nanocarrier for FDDS.

The number of unit operations to be followed in the preparation of tablets was cumbersome and may introduce material as well as process-related critical parameters which may negatively affect the quality of final formulation. The hypothesis of the present research was to develop directly compressible, high-strength extended-release spherical agglomerates of talc containing indapamide by crystallo-co-agglomeration technique. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose 15 cps and polyethylene glycol 6000 were used to impart the desired sphericity, strength, and deformability to agglomerates, respectively. Ethyl cellulose 10 cps was used to improve the strength of agglomerates and achieve extended release. Design of experiment (rotatable central composite design) was implemented for the elucidation of the effect of type and quantity of polymers on quality attributes of agglomerates. Prepared agglomerates were evaluated for morphological, micromeritic, mechanical, and drug release properties. A satisfactory yield (> 97%, wt/wt), better crushing strength, and low friability of agglomerates indicated good processing and handling characteristics. Compatibility and reduced crystallinity of indapamide in agglomerates were confirmed by spectroscopic and X-ray diffraction studies. Formation of the miniscular dosage form and hydrophobicity of talc were the key factors observed in controlling and extending the drug release (up to 6 h) from agglomerates. Hence, the developed crystallo-co-agglomeration technique could be successfully used for the preparation of directly compressible high-strength extended-release spherical agglomerates of indapamide.

Textured Vanadium Nitride (VN) nanofibers are prepared from hydrothermally derived V 2 O 5 nanofibers by NH 3 reduction and nitridation approach. The reaction temperature is seen to be a crucial parameter to prepare pure VN phase. VN produced via this route has distinctive structural characteristics. The crystal structure, morphology, and oxidation states of the elements of VN nanofibers are characterized by XRD, FESEM, TEM, HRTEM, and XPS studies. Field emission properties for these textured VN nanofibers have been explored. The field emission properties show the reproducible turn-on field of 3.4 V/μm for the emission current density of 10 μA/cm 2 . The observed turn-on field is found to be quite superior compare to carbide, nitride and oxide nanostructures. High emission current density of 44 μA/cm 2 has been found at a field of 4 V/μm. Emission current stability for the preset current of 5 μA has been recorded for the period of 2 h. Present results indicate the considerable potential for the utilizing VN nanofibers as a cold cathode in the field emitter devices.

Electrochemical polarization behavior of two newly developed ferritic-pearlitic railway axle steels (MS3 and MS6) and the standard Indian conventional axle steel has been studied in sodium borate buffer solution of pH 8.4 with and without the presence of NaCl. The polarization behavior of both the new axle steels shows close resemblance, whereas, different polarization behavior has been observed for the conventional axle steel. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements have clearly reflected significantly improved passivation behavior for the newly developed steels compared to that of the conventional axle steel. NaCl salt fog exposure tests have also shown superior corrosion resistance of the newly developed axle steels as compared to the conventional axle steel. Higher surface roughness on the corroded conventional axle steel has also been observed compared to the smoother surface in case of the new axle steels. Higher corrosion resistance of the new axle steels has been attributed to their finer microstructure and strongly adherent protective rusts.

The aims of the present work were to pelletize talc by extrusion-spheronization technique using microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) as a pelletization aid and to study its performance as a neutral substrate for coating. A 32 factorial design was used to study the effect of independent variables (X1, amount of talc, and X2, MCC) on pellet properties. A total of nine batches of pellets prepared (TP1–TP9) were evaluated for the percentage yield, topology, sphericity, micromeritics, mechanical properties, and disintegration time. An optimized talc pellet batch (TP9) and plain MCC pellet (MP0) were layered with felodipine, coated using aqueous ethyl cellulose dispersion (Surelease NG), and subsequently evaluated for drug release performance. The yield of talc pelletization process was found in the range of 41.50–90.80 % wt/wt. All pellets (TP1–TP9) showed satisfactory angle of repose, aspect ratio (AR)

Monodisperse indium oxide (In 2 O 3 ) nanoparticles (NPs) with the average diameter of 11 nm were prepared by a solvothermal method. The In 2 O 3 NPs were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Raman and transmission electron microscopy. The intrinsic nature of ferromagnetism in In 2 O 3 NPs has been established with the experimental observation of magnetic hysteresis loop. Photoluminescence and UV–visible studies were employed to evidence the presence of oxygen vacancies and revealed that the oxygen vacancies contribute to the ferromagnetism. The origin of ferromagnetism in In 2 O 3 NPs may be due to exchange interactions among localized electron spin moments resulting from oxygen vacancies.

Aim This study compared the efficacy of conventional, endovac and ultrasonic irrigation system for the removal of debris from root canal walls, using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) at cervical, middle and apical 3rd. Materials and methods A total of 30 freshly extracted human mandibular premolars with complete root formation were selected and divided into group 1 endovac, group 2 conventional and group 3 ultrasonic. After instrumentation and irrigation, the teeth were sectioned in buccolingual direction and analyzed by SEM and the results were analyzed statistically by students unpaired ‘t’ test. Results There was significant difference between mean values of cervical (CV), middle (M), and apical (A) when endovac compared with conventional and conventional compared with ultrasonic group (i.e. < 0.05) and no significant difference between mean values at CV, M and A when endovac compared with ultrasonic group. Conclusion Among all groups ultrasonic and endovac group showed cleaner canal walls and less amount of debris than conventional group. Clinical significance Application of ultrasonic and endovac can be used effectively for irrigation of canals leading to least debris and better prognosis. How to cite this article Tambe VH, Vishwas J, Ghonmode WN, Nagmode P, Agrawal GP, Balsaraf O. Scanning Electron Microscopic Analysis to Compare the Cleaning Efficiency of Three Different Irrigation Systems at Different Root Canal Levels: An in vitro Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2014;15(4): 433-437.

Carbon nanotubes (CNT) are nature’s finest gift to mankind, the most amazing and wonderful nanostructure that the human being has discovered so far. CNT are either single walled or multiwalled and have been studied extensively. A large number of research articles, review articles and books have been published on this topic. However, review articles covering all the aspects of CNT are rarely found. This article gives an overview of CNT in terms of classification, synthesis, characterization, functionalization, properties, composites, applications and future directions.

We report the room-temperature ferromagnetism in Cr-doped TiO 2 nanorods (NRs) synthesized via the hydrothermal method followed by annealing at 700 °C. The transmission electron microscopy showed that the diameter of the NRs is between 40 and 70 nm. X-ray diffraction, XPS and Raman technique are used to confirm the absence of magnetic contaminations of metallic Cr clusters or any other phases. To test the oxygen vacancy related ferromagnetism, annealing in oxygen, air and argon are performed. With the changing of annealing atmosphere from oxygen to argon, the saturation magnetization ( M s ) of NRs increases. These results strongly prove that the oxygen vacancies play an important role in inducing the ferromagnetism. The shifting and broadening of the most intense E g (1) mode at 144 cm −1 observed by Raman spectroscopy further confirms that the origin of the ferromagnetism in NRs is due to the oxygen vacancies.