Displaying publications 161 - 180 of 317 in total

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  1. Size selectivity in antibiofilm activity of 3-(diphenylphosphino)propanoic acid coated gold nanomaterials against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus mutans
    Ahmed D, Anwar A, Khan AK, Ahmed A, Shah MR, Khan NA
    AMB Express, 2017 Nov 21;7(1):210.
    PMID: 29164404 DOI: 10.1186/s13568-017-0515-x
    Biofilm formation by pathogenic bacteria is one of the major threats in hospital related infections, hence inhibiting and eradicating biofilms has become a primary target for developing new anti-infection approaches. The present study was aimed to develop novel antibiofilm agents against two Gram-positive bacteria; Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 43300) and Streptococcus mutans (ATCC 25175) using gold nanomaterials conjugated with 3-(diphenylphosphino)propionic acid (Au-LPa). Gold nanomaterials with different sizes as 2-3 nm small and 9-90 nm (50 nm average size) large were stabilized by LPa via different chemical synthetic strategies. The nanomaterials were fully characterized using atomic force microscope (AFM), transmission electron microscope, ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy, and Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy. Antibiofilm activity of Au-LPa nanomaterials was tested using LPa alone, Au-LPa and unprotected gold nanomaterials against the both biofilm-producing bacteria. The results showed that LPa alone did not inhibit biofilm formation to a significant extent below 0.025 mM, while conjugation with gold nanomaterials displayed manifold enhanced antibiofilm potential against both strains. Moreover, it was also observed that the antibiofilm potency of the Au-LPa nanomaterials varies with size variations of nanomaterials. AFM analysis of biofilms further complemented the assay results and provided morphological aspects of the antibiofilm action of Au-LPa nanomaterials.
    Matched MeSH terms: Spectrum Analysis
  2. Synthesis of metallic mixed 3R and 2H Nb1+xS2 nanoflakes by chemical vapor deposition
    Mohmad AR, Hamzah AA, Yang J, Wang Y, Bozkurt I, Shin HS, et al.
    Faraday Discuss, 2021 Apr 01;227:332-340.
    PMID: 33523053 DOI: 10.1039/c9fd00132h
    In this work, we report the synthesis and characterization of mixed phase Nb1+xS2 nanoflakes prepared by chemical vapor deposition. The as-grown samples show a high density of flakes (thickness ∼50 nm) that form a continuous film. Raman and X-ray diffraction data show that the samples consist of both 2H and 3R phases, with the 2H phase containing a high concentration of Nb interstitials. These Nb interstitials sit in between the NbS2 layers to form Nb1+xS2. Cross-sectional Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy analysis with transmission electron microscopy suggests that the 2H Nb1+xS2 region is found in thinner flakes, while 3R NbS2 is observed in thicker regions of the films. The evolution of the phase from 2H Nb1+xS2 to 3R NbS2 may be attributed to the change of the growth environment from Nb-rich at the start of the growth to sulfur-rich at the latter stage. It was also found that the incorporation of Nb interstitials is highly dependent on the temperature of the NbCl5 precursor and the position of the substrate in the furnace. Samples grown at high NbCl5 temperature and with substrate located closer to the NbCl5 source show higher incorporation of Nb interstitials. Electrical measurements show linear I-V characteristics, indicating the metallic nature of the Nb1+xS2 film with relatively low resistivity of 4.1 × 10-3Ω cm.
    Matched MeSH terms: Spectrum Analysis
  3. Statistical optimization and modeling for color removal and COD reduction of reactive blue 19 dye by mesoporous chitosan-epichlorohydrin/kaolin clay composite
    Jawad AH, Abdulhameed AS, Malek NNA, ALOthman ZA
    Int J Biol Macromol, 2020 Dec 01;164:4218-4230.
    PMID: 32861784 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.08.201
    In current research work, chitosan (Chi) was subjected to subsequent physical and chemical modifications by incorporating kaolin clay (KA) into its polymeric structure, and crosslinking process with a covalent cross-linker namely epichlorohydrin (ECH) respectively. The final product of crosslinked chitosan-epichlorohydrin/kaolin (Chi-ECH/KA) composite was successfully applied for color removal and chemical oxygen demand (COD) reduction of textile dye namely reactive blue 19 dye (RB19) from aqueous environment. The influence of pertinent parameters, i.e. A: Chi-ECH/KA dose (0.02-0.1 g), B: pH (4-10), and C: time (5-30 min) on the RB19 color removal and COD reduction were statistically optimized by using response surface methodology with Box-Behnken design (RSM-BBD). The experimental data of the adsorption kinetic and the adsorption isotherm demonstrated a better fitness to pseudo-second order model and Langmuir isotherm model respectively. Excellent absorption ability of 560.9 mg/g was recorded for Chi-ECH/KA composite. The calculated thermodynamic functions clarified that the RB19 adsorption process was endothermic and spontaneous in nature. The mechanism of RB19 adsorption onto the Chi-ECH/KA may include electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bonding, Yoshida H-bonding, and n-π interactions. This study introduces Chi-ECH/KA composite as an eco-friendly, potential and multi-function composite bio adsorbent for removal of textile dye and COD reduction from aqueous environment.
    Matched MeSH terms: Spectrum Analysis
  4. Studies of oxygen binding energy to hemoglobin molecule
    Chow YW, Pietranico R, Mukerji A
    Biochem Biophys Res Commun, 1975 Oct 27;66(4):1424-31.
    PMID: 6
    Matched MeSH terms: Spectrum Analysis
  5. Fulltext Interrelations of Synthesis Method, Polyethylene Glycol Coating, Physico-Chemical Characteristics, and Antimicrobial Activity of Silver Nanoparticles
    Mohamad Kasim AS, Ariff AB, Mohamad R, Wong FWF
    Nanomaterials (Basel), 2020 Dec 10;10(12).
    PMID: 33321788 DOI: 10.3390/nano10122475
    Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been found to have extensive biomedical and biological applications. They can be synthesised using chemical and biological methods, and coated by polymer to enhance their stability. Hence, the changes in the physico-chemical characteristics of AgNPs must be scrutinised due to their importance for biological activity. The UV-Visible absorption spectra of polyethylene glycol (PEG) -coated AgNPs displayed a distinctive narrow peak compared to uncoated AgNPs. In addition, High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy analysis revealed that the shapes of all AgNPs, were predominantly spherical, triangular, and rod-shaped. Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy analysis further confirmed the role of PEG molecules in the reduction and stabilisation of the AgNPs. Moreover, dynamic light scattering analysis also revealed that the polydispersity index values of PEG-coated AgNPs were lower than the uncoated AgNPs, implying a more uniform size distribution. Furthermore, the uncoated and PEG-coated biologically synthesised AgNPs demonstrated antagonisms activities towards tested pathogenic bacteria, whereas no antagonism activity was detected for the chemically synthesised AgNPs. Overall, generalisation on the interrelations of synthesis methods, PEG coating, characteristics, and antimicrobial activity of AgNPs were established in this study.
    Matched MeSH terms: Spectrum Analysis
  6. Fulltext Rapid Green Synthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles Arbitrated by Curcumin in an Alkaline Medium
    Khan MJ, Shameli K, Sazili AQ, Selamat J, Kumari S
    Molecules, 2019 Feb 16;24(4).
    PMID: 30781541 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24040719
    Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles is desirable practice. It is not only the required technique for industrial and biomedical purposes but also a promising research area. The aim of this study was to synthesize green curcumin silver nanoparticles (C-Ag NPs). The synthesis of C-Ag NPs was achieved by reduction of the silver nitrate (AgNO₃) in an alkaline medium. The characterizations of the prepared samples were conducted by ultraviolet visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), selected area electron diffraction (SAED) and zeta potential (ZP) analyses. The formation of C-Ag NPs was evaluated by the dark color of the colloidal solutions and UV-vis spectra, with 445 nm as the maximum. The size of the crystalline nanoparticles, recorded as 12.6 ± 3.8nm, was confirmed by HRTEM, while the face-centered cubic (fcc) crystallographic structure was confirmed by PXRD and SAED. It is assumed that green synthesized curcumin silver nanoparticles (C-Ag NPs) can be efficiently utilized as a strong antimicrobial substance for food and meat preservation due to their homogeneous nature and small size.
    Matched MeSH terms: Spectrum Analysis
  7. Fulltext Gamma-Irradiation Induced Functionalization of Graphene Oxide with Organosilanes
    Aujara KM, Chieng BW, Ibrahim NA, Zainuddin N, Thevy Ratnam C
    Int J Mol Sci, 2019 Apr 18;20(8).
    PMID: 31003413 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20081910
    Gamma-ray radiation was used as a clean and easy method for turning the physicochemical properties of graphene oxide (GO) in this study. Silane functionalized-GO were synthesized by chemically grafting 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) and 3-glycidyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (GPTES) onto GO surface using gamma-ray irradiation. This established non-contact process is used to create a reductive medium which is deemed simpler, purer and less harmful compared conventional chemical reduction. The resulting functionalized-GO were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and Raman spectroscopy. The chemical interaction of silane with the GO surface was confirmed by FT-IR. X-ray diffraction reveals the change in the crystalline phases was due to surface functionalization. Surface defects of the GO due to the introduction of silane mioties was revealed by Raman spectroscopy. Thermogravimetric analysis of the functionalized-GO exhibits a multiple peaks in the temperature range of 200-650 °C which corresponds to the degradation of chemically grafted silane on the GO surface.
    Matched MeSH terms: Spectrum Analysis, Raman
  8. Fulltext Functional Hydrophilic Membrane for Oil-Water Separation Based on Modified Bio-Based Chitosan-Gelatin
    Zakuwan SZ, Ahmad I, Abu Tahrim N, Mohamed F
    Polymers (Basel), 2021 Apr 06;13(7).
    PMID: 33917600 DOI: 10.3390/polym13071176
    In this study, we fabricated a modified biomaterial based on chitosan and gelatin, which is an intrinsic hydrophilic membrane for oil-water separation to clean water contamination by oil. Modification of the membrane with a non-toxic natural crosslinker, genipin, significantly enhanced the stability of the biopolymer membrane in a water-based medium towards an eco-friendly environment. The effects of various compositions of genipin-crosslinked chitosan-gelatin membrane on the rheological properties, thermal stability, and morphological structure of the membrane were investigated using a dynamic rotational rheometer, thermogravimetry analysis, and chemical composition by attenuated total reflectance spectroscopy (ATR). Modified chitosan-gelatin membrane showed completely miscible blends, as determined by field-emission scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and ATR. Morphological results showed membrane with establish microstructure to further experiment as filtration product. The membranes were successfully tested for their oil-water separation efficiencies. The membrane proved to be selective and effective in separating water from an oil-water mixture. The optimum results achieved a stable microporous structure of the membrane (microfiltration) and a separation efficiency of above 98%. The membrane showed a high permeation flux, generated as high as 698 and 420 L m-2 h-1 for cooking and crude oils, respectively. Owing to its outstanding recyclability and anti-fouling performance, the membrane can be washed away easily, ensuring the reusability of the prepared membrane.
    Matched MeSH terms: Spectrum Analysis
  9. Fulltext Green chemistry synthesis of nanostructured zinc oxide powder using azadirachta indica extract for latent fingermark development
    Revathi Rajan, Yusmazura Zakaria, Shaharum Shamsuddin, Nik Fakhuruddin Nik Hassan
    Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2020;16(101):38-42.
    MyJurnal
    Introduction: Application of nano-engineered fingerprint dusting powders has been a recent trend to achieve latent fingermark development with superior ridge clarity. As such, efforts have been made to utilise natural resources to increase the sustainability of these emerging nano-engineered powders. Lithium-doped zinc oxide, primarily used as white pigments, have been previously applied to latent fingermarks with success. In the current study, nanostruc- tured zinc oxide, synthesised using neem extract as the reducing agent, was evaluated for fingermark development on non-porous surfaces. Methods: The reduction of zinc nitrate hexahydrate was facilitated by neem extract, pre- pared by boiling neem leaves in distilled water. The thick yellow paste recovered was calcined in the furnace to produce a light yellow powder. Physicochemical composition of the powder was determined using microscopic and spectroscopic instruments. The effectiveness of the powder was tested on natural fingermark deposited on several non-porous surfaces. Results: Nanostructured zinc oxide with particle size ranging in between 1 to 3 µm consisting of highly aggregated spherical particle with less than 100 nm dimensions were synthesised. Developed fingermarks revealed excellent ridge details and contrast on dark coloured surfaces. Studying the fingermark closely under scan- ning electron microscope displayed selective distribution of particle on the ridges of the fingermark residue and very minimal deposition on the fingermark valleys. Conclusion: Nanostructured zinc oxide fabricated using green chem- istry approach can be applied for the development of fingermark. Nevertheless, future works can be undertaken to enhance particle dispersity and to confer strong photoluminescence to the zinc oxide nanoparticles.
    Matched MeSH terms: Spectrum Analysis
  10. Fulltext Polymerization Shrinkage and Degree of Conversion of New Zirconia-Reinforced Rice Husk Nanohybrid Composite
    Lin GSS, Abdul Ghani NRN, Ismail NH, Singbal KP, Yusuff NMM
    Eur J Dent, 2020 Jul;14(3):448-455.
    PMID: 32599624 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1713951
    OBJECTIVES:  This study aimed to compare the polymerization shrinkage and degree of conversion of new zirconia-reinforced rice husk nanohybrid composite with commercialized microhybrid and nanofilled composites.

    MATERIALS AND METHODS:  Overall, 180 samples were used for polymerization shrinkage (buoyancy and optical methods) and degree of conversion tests in which they were divided into Group 1, nanofilled composite (Filtek-Z350- XT; 3M ESPE, St Paul, MN 55144-1000, USA), Group 2, microhybrid composite (Zmack-Comp), and Group 3, nanohybrid composite (Zr-Hybrid). Polymerization shrinkage test was performed using buoyancy and optical methods. For buoyancy method, samples were weighed in air and water to calculate the shrinkage value, whereas, for optical method, images of nonpolymerized samples were captured under a digital microscope and recaptured again after light-cured to calculate the percentage of shrinkage. Degree of conversion was tested using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy spectrometer.

    STATISTICAL ANALYSIS:  Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance complemented by post hoc Dunnett's T3 test for polymerization shrinkage and Tukey's honestly significant difference test for degree of conversion. Level of significance was set at p < 0.05.

    RESULTS:  Group 3 demonstrated similar polymerization shrinkage with Group 1, but lower shrinkage (p < 0.05) than Group 2 based on buoyancy method. However, optical method (p < 0.05) showed that Group 3 had the lowest shrinkage, followed by Group 1 and lastly Group 2. Besides, Group 3 showed a significantly higher degree of conversion (p < 0.05) than Group 1 and comparable conversion value with Group 2.

    CONCLUSIONS:  Zirconia-reinforced rice husk nanohybrid composite showed excellent shrinkage and conversion values, hence can be considered as an alternative to commercially available composite resins.

    Matched MeSH terms: Spectrum Analysis
  11. Fulltext A Highly Sensitive Room Temperature CO2 Gas Sensor Based on SnO2-rGO Hybrid Composite
    Lee ZY, Hawari HFB, Djaswadi GWB, Kamarudin K
    Materials (Basel), 2021 Jan 22;14(3).
    PMID: 33498992 DOI: 10.3390/ma14030522
    A tin oxide (SnO2) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) hybrid composite gas sensor for high-performance carbon dioxide (CO2) gas detection at room temperature was studied. Since it can be used independently from a heater, it emerges as a promising candidate for reducing the complexity of device circuitry, packaging size, and fabrication cost; furthermore, it favors integration into portable devices with a low energy density battery. In this study, SnO2-rGO was prepared via an in-situ chemical reduction route. Dedicated material characterization techniques including field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were conducted. The gas sensor based on the synthesized hybrid composite was successfully tested over a wide range of carbon dioxide concentrations where it exhibited excellent response magnitudes, good linearity, and low detection limit. The synergistic effect can explain the obtained hybrid gas sensor's prominent sensing properties between SnO2 and rGO that provide excellent charge transport capability and an abundance of sensing sites.
    Matched MeSH terms: Spectrum Analysis, Raman
  12. Engine performance and emission characteristics of palm biodiesel blends with graphene oxide nanoplatelets and dimethyl carbonate additives
    Razzaq L, Mujtaba MA, Soudagar MEM, Ahmed W, Fayaz H, Bashir S, et al.
    J Environ Manage, 2021 Mar 15;282:111917.
    PMID: 33453625 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2020.111917
    This study investigated the engine performance and emission characteristics of biodiesel blends with combined Graphene oxide nanoplatelets (GNPs) and 10% v/v dimethyl carbonate (DMC) as fuel additives as well as analysed the tribological characteristics of those blends. 10% by volume DMC was mixed with 30% palm oil biodiesel blends with diesel. Three different concentrations (40, 80 and 120 ppm) of GNPs were added to these blends via the ultrasonication process to prepare the nanofuels. Sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) surfactant was added to improve the stability of these blends. GNPs were characterised using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), while the viscosity of nanofuels was investigated by rheometer. UV-spectrometry was used to determine the stability of these nanoplatelets. A ratio of 1:4 GNP: SDS was found to produce maximum stability in biodiesel. Performance and emissions characteristics of these nanofuels have been investigated in a four-stroke compression ignition engine. The maximum reduction in BSFC of 5.05% and the maximum BTE of 22.80% was for B30GNP40DMC10 compared to all other tested blends. A reduction in HC (25%) and CO (4.41%) were observed for B30DMC10, while a reduction in NOx of 3.65% was observed for B30GNP40DMC10. The diesel-biodiesel fuel blends with the addition of GNP exhibited a promising reduction in the average coefficient of friction 15.05%, 8.68% and 3.61% for 120, 80 and 40 ppm concentrations compared to B30. Thus, combined GNP and DMC showed excellent potential for utilisation in diesel engine operation.
    Matched MeSH terms: Spectrum Analysis
  13. Interactions of Flavone and Steroid from A. subintegra as Potential Inhibitors for Porcine Pancreatic Lipase
    Ibrahim M, Abdul Azziz SSS, Wong CF, Bakri YM, Abdullah F
    Curr Comput Aided Drug Des, 2020;16(6):698-706.
    PMID: 31648647 DOI: 10.2174/1573409915666191015112320
    BACKGROUND: Obesity is one serious health condition that contributes to various chronic diseases. The inhibition of pancreatic lipase is a promising treatment for obesity.

    OBJECTIVE: The present study was designed to investigate anti-porcine pancreatic lipase effect of isolated compounds from Aquilaria subintegra and its mechanism.

    METHODS: Compounds were isolated with serial column chromatography and their structure were identified using spectroscopic methods. Isolated compounds were tested for anti-lipase potential activity using colorimetric assay. The prediction of energy binding between isolated compounds and enzyme was described using YASARA software.

    RESULTS: Four compounds were successfully isolated from the bark of A. subintegra, namely, 5- hydroxy-7,4'-dimethoxyflavone, luteolin-7,3',4'-trimethyl ether, 5,3'-dihydroxy-7,4'-dimethoxyflavone and β-sitosterol. The results indicated that all compounds displayed promising pancreatic lipase inhibitory activity ranging between of 6% to 53% inhibition. Compound 5-hydroxy-7,4'- dimethoxyflavone was a competitive inhibitor and decreases the enzyme catalysis. Meanwhile, β- sitosterol was a non- competitive inhibitor since the latter was bind allosterically toward enzyme.

    CONCLUSION: This finding is significant for further investigation of bioactive compounds from A. subintegra on animal study.

    Matched MeSH terms: Spectrum Analysis
  14. Heavy metals contamination in lipsticks and their associated health risks to lipstick consumers
    Zakaria A, Ho YB
    Regul Toxicol Pharmacol, 2015 Oct;73(1):191-5.
    PMID: 26190304 DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2015.07.005
    This study aimed to determine the heavy metals (lead, cadmium, and chromium) concentration in lipsticks of different price categories sold in the Malaysian market and evaluate the potential health risks due to daily ingestion of heavy metals in lipsticks. A total of 374 questionnaires were distributed to the female staff in a public university in Malaysia in order to obtain information such as brand and price of the lipsticks, body weight, and frequency and duration of wearing lipstick. This information was important for the calculation of hazard quotient (HQ) in health risk assessment. The samples were extracted using a microwave digester and analyzed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). The concentrations of lead, cadmium, and chromium in lipsticks ranged from 0.77 to 15.44 mg kg(-1), 0.06-0.33 mg kg(-1), and 0.48-2.50 mg kg(-1), respectively. There was a significant difference of lead content in the lipsticks of different price categories. There was no significant non-carcinogenic health risk due to the exposure of these heavy metals through lipstick consumption for the prolonged exposure of 35 years (HQ < 1).
    Matched MeSH terms: Spectrum Analysis
  15. Fulltext A CONVENIENT SYNTHESIS OF 5-ARYLIDENE MELDRUM'S ACID DERIVATIVES VIA KNOEVENAGEL CONDENSATION
    Adryana Izzati Adnan, noorhidayah977@uitm.edu.my, Nur Ain Nabilah Ash’ari
    Journal of Academia Universiti Teknologi MARA Negeri Sembilan, 2021;9(1):80-84.
    MyJurnal
    A series of ten 5-arylidene Meldrum’s acid derivatives had been synthesised in excellent yield via Knoevenagel condensation. This method does not require catalyst, or any further purification. Isopropylidene malonate (2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxane-4,6-dione), also known as Meldrum’s acid, is utilised as a core skeleton for various kind of reactions. Meldrum’s acid has features of a peculiar ring- opening sequences based on nucleophile-sensitive carbonyl functional groups at C-4 and C-6, which has made it possible for useful synthetic transformations, as well as its high acidity of methylene hydrogen at carbon position C-5. Hence, it allows the compound to be a flexible reagent for further reaction to prepare other derivatives. Therefore, Meldrum’s acid derivatives showed high potential of biological functions, such as antibacterial, antimalarial and antioxidant activities due to the olefinic linkage which played an important role in the enhancement of antimalarial activity. Furthermore, when arylidene Meldrum’s acid transformed to epoxide, the compound showed losses of antimalarial behaviour. Additionally, this compound has unique molecules due to the high acidity of methylene hydrogen at the carbon-5 position to initiate various reactions with different functional groups. In this research, Meldrum’s acid, 3 and ten its 5-arylidene derivatives (4a-e) and (5a-e) were synthesised by using two short and efficient reaction steps. The first step involved the condensation of malonic acid, 1 with acetone, 2 in acetic anhydride and acid via one-pot reaction to give Meldrum’s acid, 3 in 50% overall yield. Having Meldrum’s acid in hand, the reaction was proceeded with the Knoevenagel condensation reaction by using various functional groups, such as aryl aldehydes and aryl amines. All the synthesised compounds were characterised by using 1H and 13C spectroscopy.
    Matched MeSH terms: Spectrum Analysis
  16. Fulltext Influence of Irradiation Time on the Structural and Optical Characteristics of CuSe Nanoparticles Synthesized via Microwave-Assisted Technique
    Shitu IG, Liew JYC, Talib ZA, Baqiah H, Awang Kechik MM, Ahmad Kamarudin M, et al.
    ACS Omega, 2021 Apr 27;6(16):10698-10708.
    PMID: 34056223 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c00148
    A rapid, sustainable, and ecologically sound approach is urgently needed for the production of semiconductor nanomaterials. CuSe nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized via a microwave-assisted technique using CuCl2·2H2O and Na2SeO3 as the starting materials. The role of the irradiation time was considered as the primary concern to regulate the size and possibly the shape of the synthesized nanoparticles. A range of characterization techniques was used to elucidate the structural and optical properties of the fabricated nanoparticles, which included X-ray diffraction, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), atomic force microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy (Raman), UV-Visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), and photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL). The mean crystallite size of the CuSe hexagonal (Klockmannite) crystal structure increased from 21.35 to 99.85 nm with the increase in irradiation time. At the same time, the microstrain and dislocation density decreased from 7.90 × 10-4 to 1.560 × 10-4 and 4.68 × 10-2 to 1.00 × 10-2 nm-2, respectively. Three Raman vibrational bands attributed to CuSe NPs have been identified in the Raman spectrum. Irradiation time was also seen to play a critical role in the NP optical band gap during the synthesis. The decrease in the optical band gap from 1.85 to 1.60 eV is attributed to the increase in the crystallite size when the irradiation time was increased. At 400 nm excitation wavelength, a strong orange emission centered at 610 nm was observed from the PL measurement. The PL intensity is found to increase with an increase in irradiation time, which is attributed to the improvement in crystallinity at higher irradiation time. Therefore, the results obtained in this study could be of great benefit in the field of photonics, solar cells, and optoelectronic applications.
    Matched MeSH terms: Spectrum Analysis, Raman
  17. Fulltext Determination of Non-Recrystallization Temperature for Niobium Microalloyed Steel
    Akhtar MN, Khan M, Khan SA, Afzal A, Subbiah R, Ahmad SN, et al.
    Materials (Basel), 2021 May 18;14(10).
    PMID: 34070060 DOI: 10.3390/ma14102639
    In the present investigation, the non-recrystallization temperature (TNR) of niobium-microalloyed steel is determined to plan rolling schedules for obtaining the desired properties of steel. The value of TNR is based on both alloying elements and deformation parameters. In the literature, TNR equations have been developed and utilized. However, each equation has certain limitations which constrain its applicability. This study was completed using laboratory-grade low-carbon Nb-microalloyed steels designed to meet the API X-70 specification. Nb- microalloyed steel is processed by the melting and casting process, and the composition is found by optical emission spectroscopy (OES). Multiple-hit deformation tests were carried out on a Gleeble® 3500 system in the standard pocket-jaw configuration to determine TNR. Cuboidal specimens (10 (L) × 20 (W) × 20 (T) mm3) were taken for compression test (multiple-hit deformation tests) in gleeble. Microstructure evolutions were carried out by using OM (optical microscopy) and SEM (scanning electron microscopy). The value of TNR determined for 0.1 wt.% niobium bearing microalloyed steel is ~ 951 °C. Nb- microalloyed steel rolled at TNR produce partially recrystallized grain with ferrite nucleation. Hence, to verify the TNR value, a rolling process is applied with the finishing rolling temperature near TNR (~951 °C). The microstructure is also revealed in the pancake shape, which confirms TNR.
    Matched MeSH terms: Spectrum Analysis
  18. Fulltext Green Synthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles Using Spondias mombin Extract and Their Antimicrobial Activity against Biofilm-Producing Bacteria
    Samuggam S, Chinni SV, Mutusamy P, Gopinath SCB, Anbu P, Venugopal V, et al.
    Molecules, 2021 May 03;26(9).
    PMID: 34063685 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26092681
    Multidrug resistant bacteria create a challenging situation for society to treat infections. Multidrug resistance (MDR) is the reason for biofilm bacteria to cause chronic infection. Plant-based nanoparticles could be an alternative solution as potential drug candidates against these MDR bacteria, as many plants are well known for their antimicrobial activity against pathogenic microorganisms. Spondias mombin is a traditional plant which has already been used for medicinal purposes as every part of this plant has been proven to have its own medicinal values. In this research, the S. mombin extract was used to synthesise AgNPs. The synthesized AgNPs were characterized and further tested for their antibacterial, reactive oxygen species and cytotoxicity properties. The characterization results showed the synthesized AgNPs to be between 8 to 50 nm with -11.52 of zeta potential value. The existence of the silver element in the AgNPs was confirmed with the peaks obtained in the EDX spectrometry. Significant antibacterial activity was observed against selected biofilm-forming pathogenic bacteria. The cytotoxicity study with A. salina revealed the LC50 of synthesized AgNPs was at 0.81 mg/mL. Based on the ROS quantification, it was suggested that the ROS production, due to the interaction of AgNP with different bacterial cells, causes structural changes of the cell. This proves that the synthesized AgNPs could be an effective drug against multidrug resistant bacteria.
    Matched MeSH terms: Spectrum Analysis
  19. Physicochemical Properties of a Highly Efficient Cu-Ion-Doped TiO₂ Nanotube Photocatalyst for the Degradation of Methyl Orange Under Sunlight
    Razali MH, Noor AFM, Yusoff M
    J Nanosci Nanotechnol, 2020 02 01;20(2):965-972.
    PMID: 31383093 DOI: 10.1166/jnn.2020.16944
    In this study, a series of copper-ion-doped titanium dioxide (Cu-ion-doped TiO₂) nanotubes (NTs) were synthesized via a hydrothermal method by the concentration variation of doped Cu ions (0.00, 0.50, 1.00, 2.50, and 5.00 mmol). In addition, the samples were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), nitrogen gas adsorption measurements, and ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) diffuse-reflectance spectroscopy. The photocatalytic activity of the Cu-iondoped TiO₂ NTs was investigated for the degradation of methyl orange (MO) under sunlight. The results obtained from the structural and morphological studies revealed that, at low concentrations of Cu-doped TiO₂ NTs, Cu is incorporated into the interstitial positions of the TiO₂ lattice, affording a new phase of TiO₂ (hexagonal) instead of the anatase TiO₂ (tetragonal) observed for undoped TiO₂ NTs. EDX analysis confirmed the presence of Cu in the TiO₂-based photocatalyst. All of the investigated samples exhibited a hollow fibrous-like structure, indicative of an NT morphology. The inner and outer diameters of the NTs were 4 nm and 10 nm, respectively. The photocatalysts exhibited a large surface area due to the NT morphology and a type IV isotherm and H3 hysteresis, corresponding to the mesopores and slit-shaped pores. The Cu-ion-doped TiO₂ NTs were excited by sunlight because of their low bandgap energy; and after the incorporation of Cu ions into the interstitial positions of the TiO₂ lattice, the NTs exhibited high visible-light activity owing to the low bandgap.
    Matched MeSH terms: Spectrum Analysis
  20. Enhanced Photocatalytic Behavior of (GO/Cu₂O) Composite with Cu₂O Being Synthesized Through Green Route
    Muthukumaran M, Dhinagaran G, Narayanan V, Raju T, Venkatachalam K, Karthika PC, et al.
    J Nanosci Nanotechnol, 2019 Nov 01;19(11):7215-7220.
    PMID: 31039878 DOI: 10.1166/jnn.2019.16671
    Graphene oxide/Cuprous oxide (GO/Cu₂O) composite is a visible light photocatalyst for the degradation of dyes. A simple and efficient approach for preparing GO/Cu₂O composite adopted in this study involves reducing cuprous oxide precursors in the presence of graphene oxide using an aqueous solution of pulp derived from banana fruit. The GO/Cu₂O composite was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Diffused reflectance Ultraviolet visible spectroscopy (DRS UV-Vis), Raman spectroscopy and Field Emission Scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). Cu₂O particles were distributed randomly on the graphene oxide sheets due to the template effect of GO. The results showed higher photocatalytic activity for the composite (band gap 2.13 eV), for the degradation of the organic dyes (Methylene blue and Rhodamine-B). The enhanced photocatalytic activity is due to effective charge transfer from GO to Cu₂O, and high specific surface area which improves the effective separation of the generated electron-hole pairs. Our present study is inspired by a facile, low cost, green production of (GO/Cu₂O) composite whose photocatalytic activity can be extended to degradation of all other water-born textile dyes.
    Matched MeSH terms: Spectrum Analysis, Raman
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