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A rigid pentadentate chelating ligand (H2L) has been utilized to synthesize a series of octacoordinate mononuclear complexes, [Dy(L)(Ph3PO)(OOCR)] (where R = C6H5 (1), C(CH3)3 (2), CF3 (3)) and a dinuclear complex, [Dy2(L)2(Ph3PO)2{(OOC)2C6H4}] (4) based on the highly anisotropic Dy(III) ion. All the complexes were structurally characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies. The complexes were formed by the coordination action of the dianionic pentadentate ligand [L]2−, one phosphine oxide, and carboxylate ligands. DC and AC magnetic measurements were performed on 1–4. Complexes 1–4 show SMM behaviour, under zero DC field for 1 and 4, and under 500 Oe and 1000 Oe DC fields for 2 and 3 respectively, with thermally activated, Raman, and Raman and quantum tunnelling dominant relaxation mechanisms for 1 and 2, 3 and 4, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amidst the challenges posed by climate change, exploring advanced technologies like nanotechnology is crucial for enhancing agricultural productivity and food security. Consequently, this study investigated the impact of nano SiO2 (nSiO2), nano TiO2 (nTiO2) and SiO2/TiO2 nanocomposites (NCs) on 30-day-old Zea mays L. plants and soil health at concentrations of 100 and 200 ppm. Results showed that nSiO2 and nTiO2 at 100 ppm and SiO2/TiO2 NCs at both concentrations, positively influenced plant growth, with the best stimulation observed at 200 ppm of SiO2/TiO2 NCs. Improved plant growth was associated with higher chlorophyll content, photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, stomatal conductance, rhizospheric N-fixing and phosphate solubilizing bacterial population and plant nutrient uptake. Additionally, treated plants exhibited increased cellulose and starch levels. Malondialdehyde (MDA) content was lower or similar to that of the control, except at 200 ppm of nTiO2-treated shoots. Antioxidant enzyme activities fluctuated, indicating physiological adjustments. Overall, 100 ppm of nTiO2 as well as nSiO2 and 100 and 200 ppm of SiO2/TiO2 NCs improved soil fertility and Z. mays growth, suggesting potential benefits for sustainable agriculture. The findings lay the foundation for more comprehensive investigations into the long-term fate of nanomaterials in soil and their intricate molecular-level interactions with Z. mays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cobalt(II) complex and manganese(II) coordination polymer, formulated as [Co2(H2btca)(mbpy)4][H2btca]·4H2O (1) and {Mn2(btca)(mbpy)2(H2O)2}n (2) (H4btca = 1,2,4,5-benzenetetracarboxylic acid; mbpy = 4,4′-dimethyl-2,2′-bipyridyl), constructed by mixed bipyridine-tetracarboxylic ligands were synthesized and characterized. Single-crystal structural analyses reveal that compound 1 is a discrete neutral binuclear molecule, while compound 2 is a two-dimensional (2D) coordination polymer. The metal ions in these compounds are well isolated, with an intramolecular Co2+⋯Co2+ distance of 9.170 Å for 1 and Mn2+⋯Mn2+ separation of 10.984 and 11.164 Å for 2 due to the bulk tetracarboxylic linker. This isolation gives rise to a single-ion magnetism origin of the compounds. Magnetic studies reveal a large zero-field splitting parameter D of 82.6 cm−1 for 1, while a very small D of 0.42 cm−1 was observed for 2. Interestingly, dynamic ac magnetic measurements exhibited slow magnetic relaxation under the external dc field of the two compounds, revealing the field-supported single-ion magnet (SIM) of 1 and 2. The detailed theoretical calculations were further applied to understand the electronic structures, magnetic anisotropy, and relaxation dynamics in 1 and 2. Combined with our recently reported compound (Eur. J. Inorg. Chem., 2022, e202200354), the foregoing results provide not only a rare binuclear cobalt(II) SIM and the first 2D manganese(II) SIM coordination polymer but also a bipyridine-tetracarboxylic ligand approach toward novel SIMs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental problems can potentially be solved by covalent organic frameworks (COFs) that contain predesigned porous architectures. Herein, we developed an amorphous tetrazine–triazine-functionalized covalent organic framework (TzTPT-COF) by performing one-pot polycondensations of 2,4,6-tris-(4-formylphenoxy)-1,3,5-triazine (TPT-CHO) and s-tetrazine-diamine (Tz). The TzTPT-COF possesses ordered-disordered accessible nano-channels with an experimental pore width of 8.5 nm and simulated pore width of 6.4 nm. We detail the characterization of two-dimensional TzTPT-COF with readily accessible 8.5 nm-sized pores, which was subsequently employed as a porous adsorbent for the static and dynamic adsorption of small dye molecules, especially methylene blue from dye-adulterated water. Additionally, the COF quickly attained up to 99% of its maximum adsorption capacity within 15 min. The thermal stability of the COF was maintained, with the onset of gradual weight loss observed at 280 °C. Furthermore, the COF exhibited no crystallinity and possesses a mesoporous structure. The experimental findings and in silico simulation revealed that to create COF-based adsorbents with effective dye adsorption capabilities, it is necessary to concurrently consider the inherent pore size of the COF material as well as the size of the organic dye molecules. The TzTPT-COF has a great deal of potential as an adsorbent material for eliminating cationic dyes and other organic pollutants from wastewater due to the high adsorption efficiencies, ultrafast kinetics, and outstanding reusability. Hence, the present findings suggest that COFs can also be proven to be highly versatile porous materials for various environmental remediation applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We conducted a meta-analysis in which the blood pressure (BP)-reducing effect of telmisartan was compared to losartan among hypertensive subjects and its association with ethnicity, age, and gender was investigated. Materials and Methods: PubMed, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane library were searched from inception to April 2021 to obtain relevant articles. Cochrane risk of bias assessment tool was used for assessment of bias risk. GRADE analysis was done for determining the certainty of evidence. Data was analyzed using Revman 5.4.2 software. The pooled mean difference with 95% confidence interval (CI) was computed using random-effects model. Heterogeneity was also assessed using meta-regression and subgroup analysis. This study has been registered in PROSPERO with registration no. CRD42021245122. Results: Fifteen randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with 1926 subjects were selected from various countries. Both systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) were found to be significantly reduced among telmisartan-treated groups (weighted mean difference [WMD] = 2.69, 95% CI: 1.38-4.00 and WMD = 1.26, 95% CI: 0.45-2.08 respectively). One subgroup analysis noted better reduction in both SBP and DBP among Asian population compared to Caucasians. Conclusion: Telmisartan was found to be a better hypertensive drug compared to losartan in patients with mild to moderate hypertension. Its efficacy was higher in Asian population compared to Caucasian population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, we have explored a series of unsaturated hexa-18-crown-6 (U18C6) ligands towards designing highly anisotropic Dy(III) based single-ion magnets (SIMs) with the general formula [Dy(U18C6)X2]+ (where U18C6 = [C12H12O6] (1), [C12H12S6] (2), [C12H12Se6] (3), [C12H12O4S2] (4), [C12H12O4Se2] (5) and X = F, Cl, Br, I, OtBu and OSiPh3). By analysing the electronic structure, bonding and magnetic properties, we find that the U18C6 ligands prefer stabilising the highly symmetric eight-coordinated hexagonal bipyramidal geometry (HBPY-8), which is the source of the near-Ising type anisotropy in all the [Dy(U18C6)X2]+ complexes. Moreover, the ability of sulfur/selenium substituted U18C6 ligands to stabilize the highly anisotropic HBPY-8 geometry makes them more promising towards engineering the equatorial ligand field compared to substituted saturated 18C6 ligands where the exodentate arrangement of the S lone pairs results in low symmetry. Magnetic relaxation analysis predicts a record barrier height over 2700 K for [Dy(C12H12O6)F2]+ and [Dy(C12H12S6)X2]+ (where X = F, OtBu and OSiPh3) complexes, nearly 23% higher than those of the top performing Dy(III) based SIMs in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have simulated field-effect control of electrokinetic ion transport in a fluidic nanochannel with negative surface charge on its walls. A third electrode, known as a gate, is used on the channel walls to modulate its zeta-potential and ion concentration inside it. The ion current is controlled by the gate-induced ion enrichment/depletion and changes of electric field in the vicinity of the gate. There are four regions of ion current control by gate at low electrolyte concentration: decreasing electric field, cation enrichment, quasi-neutrality, and cation depletion as the gate potential changes from negative values to positive values. The effectiveness of ion current control by gate decreases with increasing surface charge density due to change in zeta-potential and overall electro-neutrality condition. The ion current through the nanochannel is also affected by electrolyte concentration. The proposed nanofluidic device could have broad applications in integrated nanofluidic circuits for manipulation of ions, biomolecules in sub-femtoliter volumes, ion separation, and biofluidic circuits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cu⋯Cu interactions, known as cuprophilicity, play a significant role in copper–chalcogenide functional materials. Three dinuclear copper chalcogenone complexes, [(L1CuI)2] (1), [(L2CuI)2] (2) and [Cu2(L3)4]PF6 (3), have been isolated and characterized. L1 = 1-(9-methyl anthracene)-2-isopropyl-benzimidazole-2-thione; L2 = 1-(9-methyl anthracene)-2-isopropyl-benzimidazole-2-selenone and L3 = 1-pyridine-2-isopropyl-imidazole-2-selenone, ligands and 1–3 were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, FT-IR, and SCXRD. Complexes 1 and 2 compress a four-membered strained ring system bridged by iodine, whereas 3 consists of a similar-four-membered ring core bridged by a selenium ligand. The Cu⋯Cu interactions in the crystal structures are observed (2.591 Å for 1, 2.576 Å for 2, and 2.523 Å for 3). The bridging ligand shows a key contribution to the Cu⋯Cu interactions. The density functional theory calculations also confirm the presence of d10⋯d10 interactions, which are predominantly covalent in nature. The computational study also shows the effect of the bridged ligands on the d10⋯d10 interactions and overall stability of the complexes, where complex 2 is the most stable followed by 1, and after that 3, although the d10⋯d10 interactions were the strongest in the case of 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we employed the conventional arc discharge technique to synthesise carbon nanomaterials, with a primary focus on optimizing process parameters, specifically gas pressure and arcing voltage. These parameters are explored to enhance both the yield and quality of carbon nanotubes and carbon soot. Three distinct pressure levels (200, 400, and 600 Torr) and voltage settings (30, 35, and 40 V) were systematically investigated. The as-prepared materials underwent comprehensive characterization using a suite of analytical tools, including XRD, FESEM, HRTEM, Raman spectroscopy, and BET analysis. Our research also delved into the practical utility of these carbon nanomaterials by evaluating their dye adsorption capabilities. Specifically, we assessed the efficiency of removing Methyl Orange (MO) and Rhodamine B (RhB) dyes within a 2-hour timeframe. Our findings revealed that carbon nanotubes exhibited moderate performance, achieving 16 % removal efficiency for MO and 60 % for RhB dyes under similar experimental conditions. In contrast, carbon soot demonstrated remarkable efficacy, with removal efficiencies of 53 % for MO and an impressive 82 % for RhB dyes, owing to their high specific surface area. This excellent adsorption performance suggests the potential of these carbon nanomaterials for environmental remediation applications. To further enhance their overall efficiency, we suggest exploring appropriate functionalization techniques in future research endeavours. Various mechanisms of rhodamine B and methyl orange dye adsorption in carbon nanomaterials. [Display omitted] • Carbon nanomaterials were successfully synthesized using arc discharge technique and parameters optimization was done. • 400 Torr of helium gas pressure and 30 V of arc voltage resulted in higher yields of CNTs (cathode deposit). • 600 Torr of helium gas pressure and 40 V of arc voltage achieved higher amounts of carbon soot. • The optimized CNTs sample showed 16 % and 60 % of MO and RhB dye removal via adsorption technique in 2 h. • Whereas, the carbon soot removed 53 % and 82 % of MO and RhB dyes via adsorption within 2 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives The purpose of the comparative study was to evaluate the clinical parameters affecting healing after surgical excision of superficial, potentially malignant oral lesions using Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) and Collagen Membrane. Material and methods: A total of 100 patients requiring treatment for oral mucosal lesions (OML) were enrolled through a randomized selection of two different groups, where Group 1 (50 patients) received PRF while Group 2 (50 patients) received Collagen membrane following excisional biopsy. Parameters checked were Pain, Clinical Healing, Granulation Tissue, Epithelialization, Wound Contracture, and Complications postoperatively at 3rd, 7th and 30th day. Results: Group 1 showed better results with post-operative pain, clinical healing and granulation presence when compared to Group 2. Conclusion: PRF can be ascertained as a better dressing material than Collagen Membrane with better healing potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, tri-octyl phosphine/tri-octyl phosphine oxide (TOPO)-capped cadmium selenide (CdSe) quantum dots (QDs) of varied sizes (5–9 nm), prepared by varying the input Cd:Se precursor ratio using chemical route, were dispersed in conducting polymer matrices viz. poly[2-methoxy, 5-(2-ethyl-hexyloxy)-1,4-phenylene vinylene] (MEH-PPV) and poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT). By using a binary solvent mixture (pyridine–chloroform), homogeneous dispersion of CdSe nanocrystals in polymers (MEH-PPV, P3HT) could be realized. The properties of the resulting dispersions could be tailored by the composition and concentration of QDs in polymer. The emission and structural properties of polymer–CdSe nanocomposites are found to be dependent on the crystallite size and morphology of CdSe nanocrystallites. An effective quenching of photoluminescence emission in the polymer nanocomposite was observed for smaller CdSe quantum dots (size ∼6 nm) as compared to larger CdSe quantum dots (size ∼9 nm), thus ensuring efficient charge transfer process across the polymer–CdSe interface in the former case. The incomplete quenching, particularly for MEH-PPV:CdSe nanocomposites, could be as a result of insufficient coverage of polymers on the surface of CdSe nanocrystallites, mainly due to phase segregation for TOPO-stripped CdSe nanocrystallites. The superior morphology and optical properties of polymer nanocomposite (P3HT:CdSe QDs) could play a pivotal role for the realization of effective charge separation and transport in hybrid solar cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The current density–voltage () behavior of polymer PDY 132 thin films has been investigated in hole-only device configuration, viz., ITO/poly(ethylene-dioxthiophene):polystyrenesulphonate (PEDOT:PSS)/PDY 132/Au, as a function of polymer (PDY) film thickness (150 nm and 200 nm) and temperature (290–90 K). Hole current density was found to follow two distinct modes of conduction, (i) low electric field region I: ohmic conduction where slope , and (ii) intermediate and high electric field region II: non ohmic conduction where slope . Region I has been attributed to the transport of intrinsic background charge carriers while region II has been found to be governed by space charge limited currents (SCLC) with hole mobility strongly dependent on electric field and temperature. The respective hole transport parameters determined from the SCLC regime, is , is , and zero field activation energy () of 0.48 eV is obtained. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Double post-synthetic modification is used for the π-extension of perylene based conjugated porous polymers (CPPs) using sequential annulative π-extension (APEX) reactions. This approach enabled us to synthesize new CPPs rendered with donor–acceptor rigid π-systems such as benzoperylene anhydride (BPA-CPP) and benzoperylene benzimidazole (BPBI-CPP) with distinct optical properties. Despite its low surface area, BPBI-CPP shows good CO2 uptake and pH responsive behaviour owing to the presence of benzimidazole rings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the spectral response of uniform and apodized (Gaussian, hyperbolic tangent, apod1, sine, and raised sine) FBGs is analyzed for sensing applications. The reflectivity at Bragg wavelength as well as for sidelobes was assessed as a function of grating length and apodization profiles. The FBG strain and temperature sensors were simulated and a linear response between applied strain or temperature and the wavelength shift is observed. The results indicate that the sensitivity of the sensor is found to be affected both by the grating length and apodization type. The typical strain and thermal sensitivity values are 1.223 pm/ μ and 13.60 pm/ ∘ C, respectively. The results suggest that Gaussian, sine, and raised sine profiles have lower sidelobe strength and reliable sensitivities. The key finding from this study specifies that the ideal grating length must be preferably between 5 and 10 mm for a good sensing behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioactive glass ceramics (BGC) play a pivotal role in bone tissue engineering, specifically addressing challenges associated with bone repair and regeneration. In this study, we developed silica-based 55S0P and 45S10P spherical BGC nanoparticles (NPs), without and with P 2 O 5 content, using a modified Stöber sol-gel process with base hydrolysis. The fabricated spherical NPs with pronounced textural features effectively contribute to enhanced surface roughness, a desirable parameter for improved biological activity in physiologically relevant solutions and tissue matrices. A comprehensive evaluation of the structural properties of these novel spherical BGC-NPs using diverse characterization techniques revealed distinct nano-textural features in the form of cracks and pores. The HR-TEM confirmed the nanoscale dimensions (170–190 nm) of particles with spherical surface morphology and also systematically analysed via DLS, FE-SEM studies. An augmented surface area with mesopores when phosphate added to the silica glass network was revealed by BET analysis. On the biological front, the study records the formation of an HCA layer on the surfaces of the BGC-NPs, the thickness of which increased with an increase in both phosphate content and immersion time (0, 3, 14 & 28 days) in the SBF solution. The zeta potential values attain a maximum from −22 mV to −23.6 mV for 55S0P and −21.5 mV to −26.4 mV for 45S10P BGC-NPs, and improved with increased immersion time, thereby favouring cellular adhesion for desired biological responses. In vitro, cell culture studies on MG-63 cells, after 24 and 72 h of incubation, demonstrated higher cell adhesion and proliferation, with pronounced biocompatibility. In addition, these BGC-NPs exhibited good hemocompatibility even at the highest test concentration (15 mg/ml) and demonstrated effective antibacterial activity against K. pneumoniae and E. coli. A combinatorial analysis of structural and biological properties revealed that the 45S10P BGC-NPs are more potent than 55S0P BGC-NPs for desired biological performances. In conclusion, the results suggest that the sol-gel fabricated BGC-NPs with enhanced nano-textural features are evidently suitable for applications in bone tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. [Display omitted] • Design and development of BGC-NPs (55S0P and 45S10P) via modified Stöber's method. • Confirmation of enhanced textural features by BET, FE-SEM and HR-TEM analyses. • Obtained high negative Zeta values supporting improved surface reactivity for bio-compatible applications. • Identification of HCA layer by Optical Absorption (OA), supported by XRD, FTIR & FE-SEM. • Enhanced cell viability, hemocompatibility and antibacterial activity with P 2 O 5 content for bone regenerative applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have simulated bipolar nanochannel based fluidic diode for different values of junction sharpness. We can obtain significant ion current rectification even for a smooth junction between oppositely charged zones. The rectification increases with junction sharpness due to increase in unipolar character of electrolyte but a sharp junction is not a necessary condition for rectification. The ion current rectification increases with surface charge density due to increase in unipolar character of electrolyte and decrease in reverse ion current. The fluid enters (exits) the nanochannel through the centre from (to) the opposite directions for reverse (forward) bias due to fluid pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We demonstrate the effect of polarization on space charge limited J-V behavior in poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT):cadmium selenide (CdSe) (∼5 nm) quantum dot nanocomposite thin films in hole-only device configuration, indium tin oxide/poly(ethylene-dioxthiophene):polystyrenesulphonate/P3HT:CdSe/Au. Current density has been found to enhance in these hybrid films on polarization. This has been attributed to decrease in characteristic trap energy from 32 to 27 meV, trap density from 1.7×1018 to 1×1018 cm-3 and increase in hole mobility from 2.6×10-6 to 7.7×10-6 cm2 V-1 s-1 due to field induced enhanced order by dipolar alignment and/or trapping of charge carriers at the nanoscale interfacial boundaries of P3HT and CdSe quantum dots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This letter demonstrates the effect of cadmium selenide (CdSe) quantum dots on hole transport in poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) thin films. Current-voltage characteristics of P3HT and P3HT:CdSe thin films have been studied in the temperature range of 288–85 K, in hole only device configurations, i.e., indium tin oxide (ITO)/poly(ethylene-dioxthiophene):polystyrenesulphonate (PEDOT:PSS)/P3HT/Au and ITO/PEDOT:PSS/P3HT:CdSe/Au. The incorporation of CdSe quantum dots in P3HT results in the enhancement in hole current and switches the transport from dual conduction mechanism, viz., trap and mobility models to only trap model. This is attributed to the reduction in characteristic trap energy from 60 to 32 meV and trap density from 2.5×1018 to 1.7×1018 cm-3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spinel LiCrTiO 4 oxides to be used as electrode materials for a lithium ion battery and an asymmetric supercapacitor were synthesized using a soft-chemical method with and without chelating agents followed by calcination at 700 °C for 10 h. Structural and morphological properties were studied with powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron and transmission electron microscopy. Particles of 50–10 nm in size are observed in the microscopic images. The presence of Cr and Ti is confirmed from the EDS spectrum. Electrochemical properties of LiCrTiO 4 electrode were examined in a lithium ion battery. The electrode prepared with oxalic acid-assisted LiCrTiO 4 shows higher specific capacity.This LiCrTiO 4 is also used as anode material for an asymmetric hybrid supercapacitor. The cell exhibits a specific capacity of 65 mAh/g at 1 mA/cm 2 . The specific capacity decreases with increasing current densities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon coated vanadium oxide nanostructures were synthesized from the vanadium oxide sol using hydrothermal method with and without H 2 gas atmosphere for the purpose of cathodes in the lithium-ion batteries. The synthesized materials were characterized using x-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). A TEM image shows the thickness of carbon coating is more on vanadium oxide under H 2 gas atmosphere during synthesis. Electrochemical results shows that carbon coated vanadium oxide without H 2 gas atmosphere have higher capacity than the carbon coated vanadium oxide electrode with H 2 gas atmosphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient protocol for the hydroboration of organic nitriles, carboxylic esters, and carboxamides with pinacolborane (HBpin) using an alkali metal catalyst, neosilyllithium (LiCH 2 SiMe 3) is reported to accomplish a high yield of the corresponding N -boryl amines, boryl ethers, and amine hydrochlorides at room temperature under solvent free reaction conditions. DFT calculation reveals that the hydroboration of nitriles catalyzed by neosilyllithium occurs through the pre-coordination of the nitrile at Lewis acid lithium followed by hydride migration from the B–H entity. [Display omitted] We present here an efficient method for the hydroboration of organic nitriles, carboxylic esters, and carboxamides with pinacolborane (HBpin) using an alkali metal catalyst, neosilyllithium (LiCH 2 SiMe 3), in neat reaction conditions. The reactions were accomplished with efficient catalytic reactivity and demonstrated by neosilyllithium at room temperature, in solvent-free condition, to afford a high yield of the corresponding N -boryl amines, boryl ethers, and amine hydrochlorides. The protocol for the catalytic reaction presented in this paper is simple and efficient, with diverse substrate scope for nitriles, carboxylic esters, and carboxamides showing excellent functional group tolerance. DLPNO-CCSD(T) calculations were also performed, showing that the hydroboration of nitriles catalyzed by neosilyllithium occurs through the pre-coordination of the nitrile at Lewis acid lithium followed by hydride migration from the B–H entity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesoporous bioactive glass nanoparticles (MBGNPs) containing therapeutic ions have shown significant promise in the realm of hard and soft tissue repair and regeneration, owing to their multifunctional biological properties. In this study, gallium-incorporated silica-based gallium incorporated MBGNPs (Ga-MBGNPs) with fixed amount of Li 2 O (8 mol %) were synthesized using an emulsion-assisted sol-gel method. The impact of Ga 2 O 3 integration into the silicate glass network was evaluated by investigating the microtextural properties. The results confirmed the production of spherical-shaped, nano-sized, amorphous particles with an enhanced specific surface area and ordered hexagonal meso-porosity (10–20 nm) in the developed Ga-MBGNPs. The in vitro bioactivity, assessed through hydroxyapatite (HAp) layer formation in simulated body fluid (SBF), over varying time intervals (0, 1, 3, 7, 14 & 21 days), revealed pronounced formation of short rod-like carbonated HAp with increasing immersion time and Ga3+ content in all glasses. However, a delayed apatite formation was observed for composition-dependent Ga-4 and Ga-5 MBGs during the initial incubation periods (1, 3, and 7 days). Further, the presence of Li + ions along with Ga3+ enhanced the apatite deposition when compared with the only Ga3+ inclusion. Evaluation of degradation rate and pH values indicated enhanced apatite formation with lower Ga ion content, while a slight reduction was noted with higher Ga ion content, attributable to the presence of reactive Si–O–Si bonds. Furthermore, analysis using a Zeta potential analyzer confirmed the dispersibility and bioreactivity of all glass powders owing to their higher negative surface charge. Moreover, Ga-MBGNPs exhibited notable antimicrobial effects against both E. coli and S. aureus bacteria due to the release of Ga3+ ions. Overall, the findings suggest that the incorporation of Ga in MBGNPs renders them potential multifunctional candidates for expediting the healing of bone tissue injuries in biomedical applications. [Display omitted] • Synthesis of Ga 2 O 3 mixed MBGN particles by the emulsion-assisted sol-gel. • SAXRD validates the ordered hexagonal mesoporosity of Ga-MBGNPs. • Reported high specific surface area with increased content of Ga 2 O 3. • Enhanced HCA mineralization over the MBG surfaces with immersion time. • Ga3+ ions in silica MBGs demonstrate substantial antimicrobial efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: In this study, we followed a facile method to grow well‐aligned PANI nanostructures on S‐doped reduced graphene oxide nanosheets (SPANI/S‐rGO) using hydrothermal method combined with soft template polymerization of aniline where naphthalene sulfonic acid is used as a dopant for PANI as well as the soft template. The effect of using different wt% of S‐rGO on the structural, morphology, and electrochemical performance of SPANI/S‐rGO composites has been evaluated. Supercapacitor fabricated using SPANI/S‐rGO10 (10 wt% of S‐rGO) composite based electrodes delivered a high specific capacitance of 347.5 F/g at a current density of 1 A/g in symmetrical cell design (the specific capacitance was calculated based on a single electrode). Only 11% of its initial capacitance is lost after 2500 cycles at a current density of 2 A/g. The enhanced performance is attributed to the optimum loading of S‐rGO in designing binary composite, well‐aligned growth of SPANI nanostructures on S‐rGO sheets, and synergistic effect of both S‐rGO and SPANI. The facile synthesized SPANI/S‐rGO composite electrode material with the aforementioned features is considered to be a promising candidate for a high‐performance supercapacitor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the purification and characterization of a novel acid stable and pH tolerant α-amylase from a Aspergillusoryzae JGI 21 isolated from Mangalore. The enzyme displayed a molecular weight of 22 kDa and it was stable over a broad range of acidic and alkaline pH with maximum activity and stability at 6.5. The optimum temperature of enzyme stability was found to be around 24+/-2°C. The purification of α-amylase by ammonium sulphate precipitation and ion-exchange chromatography resulted in 23.56 fold increase in its activity (100.38 U/mg protein). Considering its promising properties, this enzyme can find potential applications in the food industry as well as in laundry detergents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• F-rGO as ternary additive for improving the performance of polymer solar cells have been demostrated. • F-rGO nanosheets enhance the charge dissociation due to p-doping effect owing to high work-function. • Enhanced electron extraction between donor–acceptor in the blend results in improved PCE. • In addition, better charge transport is supported by improved film morphology of the ternary blend. We demonstrate the potential of using reduced-fluorinated graphene oxide (F-rGO) in improving the performance of polymer bulk-heterojunction when added as a ternary additive. The best device using 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): [6,6]-phenylC 71 -butyric-acid-methyl-ester (PC 71 BM): F-rGO (5 wt%) ternary blend, showed a higher power conversion efficiency (PCE) ~ 7.36 % compared to devices without F-rGO (PCE ~ 3.54 %). F-rGO nanosheets not only enhance the charge dissociation by promoting the electron extraction from PTB7-th to PCBM, but also support charge transport by providing conducting pathways. It is attributed to F-rGO induced p-doping effect owing to high work-function of F-rGO nanosheets, and enhanced hole mobility due to improved film morphology. This results in enhanced performance of (PTB7-th:PCBM:F-rGO) based-ternary organic solar cell devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel graphitic-carbon nitride (g-C 3 N 4) photocatalyst was synthesized by thermal-pyrolysis of melamine. Pyrolysis reaction temperature (500–700 °C) and gas atmosphere, were optimized to achieve an efficient visible light active photocatalyst. In-depth studies indicate that the reaction temperature of 650ᵒC is an optimum condition for the synthesis of the g-C 3 N 4 photocatalyst. Air atmosphere dominantly favoured a formation of layered g-C 3 N 4 structure compared to those pyrolyzed under argon or nitrogen atmosphere. In contrast to other samples, the optimized g-C 3 N 4 photocatalyst showed significant photodegradation, with a degradation rate of 4.4 × 10−2 min−1, for Rhodamine B(RhB) degradation under simulated solar radiation. A large surface area of 42 m2g-1 and suitable band energetics is attributed to better degradation performance. Image 1 • The optimized pyrolysis temperature for g-C 3 N 4 structure formation is 650 °C. • Air atmosphere favours the synthesis process than that of argon and nitrogen atmospheres. • The optimized photocatalyst had a reasonable surface area of 42 m2g-1. • 96% of the pollutant was degraded in just 45 min of illumination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic-inorganic perovskite solar cells (PrSCs) have emerged as a promising solar photovoltaic technology in terms of realizing high power conversion efficiency (PCE). However, their limited lifetime and poor device stability limit their commercialization in future. In this regard, interface engineering of the electron transport layer (ETL) using 2D materials have been currently used owing to their high carrier mobility, high thermal stability and tunable work function which in turn enormously impact the charge carrier dynamics. In this work, we report an easy and effective way of simultaneously enhancing the efficiency and air-stability of PrSCs via interface engineering by incorporating 2D-MoS 2 (bi/tri-layered) in mesoporous-titanium dioxide (mp -TiO 2) scaffold electron transport buffer layer, and using CVD grown perovskite layers. The PrSCs were fabricated in ambient air conditions in device configuration, FTO/c-TiO 2 / mp -TiO 2 :2D-MoS 2 /CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 /P3HT/Au, with an active area of 0.16 cm2. The best device using c -TiO 2 / mp -TiO 2 :2D-MoS 2 (0.5 wt%) ETL exhibited a substantial increase in PCE ∼13.04% as compared to PCE ∼8.75% realized in reference device fabricated without incorporating MoS 2 in mp -TiO 2 buffer layer. The incorporation of MoS 2 nanoflakes in mp -TiO 2 ETL not only enhances the PCE to ∼49%, but also improve the lifetime (retaining PCE ∼86% of its initial value up to 500 hrs, without encapsulation). The enhancement in performance of c -TiO 2 / mp -TiO 2 :2D-MoS 2 ETL based devices as compared with reference c -TiO 2 / mp -TiO 2 ETL based devices is attributed to, (i) reduction in the work function of mp -TiO 2 ETL buffer on dispersion of 2D-MoS 2 nanoflakes forming of a perfect interface at ETL/perovskite offering extremely less interfacial energy barrier to promote the charge extraction process at the interface, and suppress the surface recombination losses, (ii) fast charge collection as 2D-MoS 2 in TiO 2 strongly support the electron transport due to their highly crystalline nature, and (iii) lifetime improvement due to better moisture stability of 2D-MoS 2 and high quality of chemical vapor grown perovskite thin films. This work presents an efficient mp -TiO 2 :2D-MoS 2 scaffold ETL for realizing high performance, low cost, air-processed PrSCs for their future development. [Display omitted] • CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 perovskite film was deposited by CVD in perovskite solar cells. • [ mp -TiO 2 :2D-MoS 2 ] buffer layer improved the performance. • Addition of 2D-MoS 2 in mp -TiO 2 suppress interface traps, promote charge extraction, and transport. • 2D-MoS 2 also improves the operational stability of the devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic-inorganic perovskite solar cells (PrSCs) have emerged as a promising solar photovoltaic technology in terms of realizing high power conversion efficiency (PCE). However, their limited lifetime and poor device stability limit their commercialization in future. In this regard, interface engineering of the electron transport layer (ETL) using 2D materials have been currently used owing to their high carrier mobility, high thermal stability and tunable work function which in turn enormously impact the charge carrier dynamics. In this work, we report an easy and effective way of simultaneously enhancing the efficiency and air-stability of PrSCs via interface engineering by incorporating 2D-MoS 2 (bi/tri-layered) in mesoporous-titanium dioxide (mp -TiO 2) scaffold electron transport buffer layer, and using CVD grown perovskite layers. The PrSCs were fabricated in ambient air conditions in device configuration, FTO/c-TiO 2 / mp -TiO 2 :2D-MoS 2 /CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 /P3HT/Au, with an active area of 0.16 cm2. The best device using c -TiO 2 / mp -TiO 2 :2D-MoS 2 (0.5 wt%) ETL exhibited a substantial increase in PCE ∼13.04% as compared to PCE ∼8.75% realized in reference device fabricated without incorporating MoS 2 in mp -TiO 2 buffer layer. The incorporation of MoS 2 nanoflakes in mp -TiO 2 ETL not only enhances the PCE to ∼49%, but also improve the lifetime (retaining PCE ∼86% of its initial value up to 500 hrs, without encapsulation). The enhancement in performance of c -TiO 2 / mp -TiO 2 :2D-MoS 2 ETL based devices as compared with reference c -TiO 2 / mp -TiO 2 ETL based devices is attributed to, (i) reduction in the work function of mp -TiO 2 ETL buffer on dispersion of 2D-MoS 2 nanoflakes forming of a perfect interface at ETL/perovskite offering extremely less interfacial energy barrier to promote the charge extraction process at the interface, and suppress the surface recombination losses, (ii) fast charge collection as 2D-MoS 2 in TiO 2 strongly support the electron transport due to their highly crystalline nature, and (iii) lifetime improvement due to better moisture stability of 2D-MoS 2 and high quality of chemical vapor grown perovskite thin films. This work presents an efficient mp -TiO 2 :2D-MoS 2 scaffold ETL for realizing high performance, low cost, air-processed PrSCs for their future development. [Display omitted] • CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 perovskite film was deposited by CVD in perovskite solar cells. • [ mp -TiO 2 :2D-MoS 2 ] buffer layer improved the performance. • Addition of 2D-MoS 2 in mp -TiO 2 suppress interface traps, promote charge extraction, and transport. • 2D-MoS 2 also improves the operational stability of the devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A facile method for the mass production of PANI/rcGO for high performance flexible supercapacitors. • PANI/rcGO enhances the electrode performance by offering high interfacial contact due to its fluffy structure. • Heat-treated PANI/rcGO has delivered a specific capacitance ∼299 F g-1at current density of 0.5 A g-1. • PANI/rcGO exhibit capacitance retention of 88.5% at current density of 2 A g-1 after 2000 charge/discharge cycles. Smart wearable electronic gadgets are getting popularity among the masses and their high demand leading the quest for high power/energy density flexible energy storage devices like supercapacitors and batteries. To address the need for high energy and high power in supercapacitors, we have prepared heat-assisted polyaniline (PANI)/reduced crumbled graphene oxide (rcGO) nanostructures as a high quality flexible electrode material through in-situ polymerization of aniline in the presence of crumbled graphene oxide (cGO). Spectroscopic results revealed the successful reduction of cGO by charge transfer from PANI chains during the heating process. The resulting PANI/rcGO nanocomposites have been used as electrode material, and cast into flexible electrodes to fabricate symmetrical supercapacitor device. The flexible PANI/rcGO electrodes have delivered a specific capacitance of 299 F g−1 at 0.5 A g-1 current density, whereas pure PANI given 248 F g-1 at the same rate. Further, PANI/rcGO nanocomposites exhibited long cyclic stability even after 2000 charge-discharge cycles. The excellent electrochemical performance of heat-assisted PANI/rcGO nanocomposites have been realized due to the lamination of rcGO by PANI chains and formation of high interfacial contact between rcGO and polymer chains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• TPSCs using P3HT:PTB7-th:PC 71 BM blend with improved performance are presented. • Device performance via interface engineering by GO/PEDOT:PSS-GO HTL is investigated. • Work function tuning and morphology control of HTL on device performance is studied. • Device physics and underlying photovoltaic mechanism have been acquired. In this work, we present a solution-processed poly(3,4-ethylene dioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate)-graphene oxide (PEDOT:PSS-GO) composite as a novel hole transporting material with excellent hole extraction properties which boost the performance of ternary blend polymer solar cells (TPSCs). TPSCs employing ternary blend active layer composed of two conjugated polymer donors i.e., poly(3-hexyl)thiophene):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)] (P3HT:PTB7-th) blended with organic acceptor [6,6] -phenyl C 71 -butyric-acid-methyl-ester (PC 71 BM) have shown high performance when PEDOT:PSS-GO is used as hole transport layer (HTL). The best TPSC, ITO/PEDOT:PSS-GO(1:1)/P3HT:PTB7-th:PC 71 BM(0.3:0.7:1)/LiF/Al, has showed improved performance with power conversion efficiency (PCE) as high as 7.1% and external quantum efficiency of 70–80% in a broad wavelength range of 350–800 nm. There is an increment of 55% in PCE compared to TPSCs with PEDOT:PSS-only HTL. The improvement in performance of TPSCs with PEDOT:PSS-GO HTLs is predominantly attributed to the better charge extraction and carrier collection owing to significantly reduced photo-generated exciton lifetime, tuned work function, reduced potential barrier at HTL/active layer interface, remarkably improved film morphology, and increased conductivity of PEDOT:PSS-GO films. PEDOT:PSS-GO HTLs significantly boost the performance and lifetime stability of (P3HT:PTB7-th:PC 71 BM) ternary blend-based TPSCs. Our work demonstrate the superior hole transport properties of PEDOT:PSS-GO over conventional PEDOT:PSS HTLs for the accelerating development of TPSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]