Showing papers in "Journal of Bionanoscience in 2021"

Structural Properties and Antimicrobial Activities of Polyalthia longifolia Leaf Extract-Mediated CuO Nanoparticles

Abstract: Herein, we report the eco-benevolent fabrication of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) by a green process using Polyalthia longifolia leaf extract (PLLE). Phytochemical screening for the PLLE evinced the existence of tannins, terpenoids, saponins, phenols, glycosides, and flavonoids. The produced CuONPs were explored by using XRD, zeta potential, DLS, EDAX, HRTEM, BET-surface area, UV-DRS, photoluminescence, and FTIR to ascertain its structural, morphological, and optical properties. Besides, these CuONPs evinced noteworthy bactericidal performance against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Escherichia coli (E. coli), Streptococcus pyogenes (S. pyogenes), and good antifungal performance against Aspergillus niger (A. niger), Epidermophyton floccosum (E. floccosum), Aspergillus clavatus (A. clavatus), and Candida albicans (C. albicans). The results indicated that the proactive eco-benign fabrication of CuONPs by sustainable “green chemistry” approaches can offer a convenient alternative to orthodox multi-step strategies for the creation of CuONPs.

A Comparative Study on the Synthesis, Characterization, and Antioxidant Activity of Green and Chemically Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles

Abstract: Silver nanoparticles have been synthesized using green and chemical methods. Mussaenda frondosa (M. frondosa) leaf extract and sodium citrate used as reducing and stabilizing agents for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in green and chemical methods. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized using UV-vis spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The antioxidant activity of green and chemically synthesized nanoparticles was evaluated by DPPH (1, 1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) assay and observed that green synthesized nanoparticles possess remarkable antioxidant activity compared to chemically synthesized nanoparticles and it can be used for enormous applications in the biomedical field. The present study enlightens the importance of green synthesized AgNPs using M. frondosa leaf extract over the chemically synthesized one.

Hall and Ion Slip Currents’ Impact on Electromagnetic Blood Flow Conveying Hybrid Nanoparticles Through an Endoscope with Peristaltic Waves

Abstract: In this paper, a theoretical study is conducted to examine the electromagnetic peristaltic pumping features of an electrically conducting non-Newtonian blood through an endoscope where the blood is treated as the ionic suspension of hybrid nanoparticles. Casson fluid model is employed to simulate the rheological characteristics of blood. This study is motivated by the need to explore the dual impacts of Hall and ion-slip currents on the peristaltic bloodstream. The heat transfer is analyzed by contemplating the effects of viscous and Ohmic dissipations. Blood is used as a base fluid and silver and aluminum oxide nanoparticles are dispersed in order to have a homogenous hybrid blood suspension which is an ionic solution. Casson fluid model is adopted to describe non-Newtonian characteristics of the blood flow. The model problem is transformed from the fixed frame to the wave frame and rendered non-dimensional by employing befitting non-dimensional variables. The leading governing partial differential equations (PDEs) are simplified under the restrictions of long wavelength and low Reynolds number. The resulting PDEs subject to the physical boundary conditions are solved analytically, and closed-form expressions for the axial velocity, temperature, axial pressure gradient, pressure rise, heat transfer coefficient, and stream function are derived by using DSolve function built-in command of Mathematica. The influences of dominant flow parameters on the physical flow characteristics are graphically illustrated and interpreted. Graphical results reflect that Hall and ion slip currents exert a significant modification on blood velocity and pressure characteristics in the endoscopic annulus. Hybrid nanoparticles concentration has a pivotal role in the heat-conducting nature of blood which is cardinal to life-support. The streamline patterns illustrating the blood flow characteristics are found to be more strongly affected by changing the form of waves. This research study is to be pertinent in nano-pharmaco-dynamics, electromagnetic biomimetic blood pumps, medical pumps for drug delivery systems, etc.

Anticarcinogenic Effect of Chitosan Nanoparticles Containing Syzygium aromaticum Essential Oil or Eugenol Toward Breast and Skin Cancer Cell Lines

Abstract: The development of new green drugs is crucial because of the side effects and resistance to chemotropic drugs. Essential oils with a broad range of bioactivities such as antioxidant and anticancer activities are great resources for research and investigation. In this study, ingredients of the used Syzygium aromaticum essential oil (SAEO) were identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. The antioxidant effect of eugenol (major ingredients) was more potent than SAEO; their half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50s) were observed at 109 and 204 μg mL−1. Chitosan nanoparticles containing SAEO (158 ± 4 nm) and eugenol (200 ± 13 nm) were prepared using the ionic gelation method. The potency of the nanoformulations was significantly more than their non-formulated states on both examined cell lines. IC50s of chitosan nanoparticles containing SAEO and eugenol against melanoma (A-375) cells were obtained at 73 and 79 μg mL−1; these values on breast (MDA-MB-468) cells were 177 and 51 μg mL−1. Results showed that chitosan nanoparticles containing eugenol could be considered chemo-preventative or anticancer agents in further in vivo studies.

Toxicological Consequences of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles (TiO 2 NPs) and Their Jeopardy to Human Population

Abstract: Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) are the most produced nanomaterial for food additives, pigments, photocatalysis, and personal care products. These nanomaterials are at the forefront of rapidly developing indispensable nanotechnology. In all these nanomaterials, titanium dioxide (TiO2) is the most common nanomaterial which is being synthesized for many years. These nanoparticles of TiO2 are widely used at the commercial level, especially in cosmetic industries. High usage in such a way has increased the toxicological consequences of the human population. Several studies have shown that TiO2 NPs accumulated after oral exposure or inhalation in the alimentary canal, lungs, heart, liver, spleen, cardiac muscle, and kidneys. Additionally, in mice and rats, they disturb glucose and lipid homeostasis. Moreover, TiO2 nanoparticles primarily cause adverse reactions by inducing oxidative stress that leads to cell damage, inflammation, genotoxicity, and adverse immune responses. The form and level of destruction are strongly based on the physical and chemical properties of TiO2 nanoparticles, which administer their reactivity and bioavailability. Studies give indications that TiO2 NPs cause both DNA strand breaks and chromosomal damages. The effects of genotoxicity do not depend only on particle surface changes, size, and exposure route, but also relies on the duration of exposure. Most of these effects may be because of a very high dose of TiO2 NPs. Despite increased production and use, epidemiological data for TiO2 NPs is still missing. This review discusses previous research regarding the impact of TiO2 NP toxicity on human health and highlights areas that require further understanding in concern of jeopardy to the human population. This review is important to point out areas where extensive research is needed; thus, their possible impact on individual health should be investigated in more details.

Preparation of Nanoemulsions of Mentha piperita Essential Oil and Investigation of Their Cytotoxic Effect on Human Breast Cancer Lines

Abstract: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide. Common disadvantages of chemotherapy, such as drug resistance, nausea, and vomiting, have encouraged researchers to use herbal remedies. In this study, constituents of Mentha piperita essential oil were identified using GC-MS analysis with five major ingredients of menthol (31.0%), menthone (22.1%), camphane (7.0%), menthofuran (6.0%), and iso-menthone (5.8%). The essential oil anticancer activity was evaluated at various incubation periods (24, 48, and 72 h) against three human breast cancer cell lines. After that, nanoemulsions of M. piperita were prepared, and long- and short-time stability tests were also performed. The anticancer effect of the best nanoemulsion with a mean droplet size of 136 ± 2 nm (PDI 0.3 and SPAN 0.8) was significantly better than that of non-formulated essential oil. Interestingly, the obtained effect from nanoemulsion with an exposure time of 24 h was significantly better than essential oil even within 72-h exposure time. M. piperita possesses an antiemetic effect, and by preparation of its nanoemulsion dosage form, its anticancer effect was also improved. Therefore, this green nanoemulsion could be used as an anticancer agent for further investigation.

Green Phytosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Echinochloa stagnina Extract with Reference to Their Antibacterial, Cytotoxic, and Larvicidal Activities

Abstract: Herein, we report a novel green phytosynthesis for silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Echinochloa stagnina (Retz.) P. Beauv. (Burgu) extract and assess their potential activities. The phytosynthesized AgNPs were characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The surface plasmon resonance was peaked at 405 nm indicating the formation of AgNPs. Morphologically, AgNPs were spherical in shape with a diameter of 30 nm and monodispersed. Structurally, XRD data indicated that AgNPs were highly nanocrystalline in nature. FTIR spectral analysis demonstrated the presence of phytochemicals which could be responsible for the reduction of Ag ions and capping of AgNPs. The phytosynthesized AgNPs showed antibacterial activity with MIC of 12.5 and 6.25 μg/mL against multidrug-resistant (MDR) Klebsiella oxytoca (ATCC 51983) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC MP-23), respectively. The time-kill kinetics profile of AgNPs against MDR Klebsiella oxytoca (ATCC 51983) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC MP-23) revealed a time- and dose-dependent reduction manner. The inhibition concentrations of AgNPs that inhibits 50% (IC50) of Vero and HepG2 cells were 89.01 and 35.1 μg/mL, respectively. The LC50 and LC90 concentrations were (87.669 and 538.017 mg/mL) for Anopheles pharoensis and (51.338 and 311.227 mg/mL) for Culex pipiens, respectively. Collectively, our data suggest that plant-mediated synthesis of AgNPs is more feasible to synthesis AgNPs with improved properties.

Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, and Antiviral Activities of Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles by Phycobiliprotein Crude Extract of the Cyanobacteria Spirulina platensis and Nostoc linckia

Abstract: The present work was designed for the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by Spirulina platensis and Nostoc linckia phycobiliprotein extract and for evaluation of their antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antiviral activities. The biosynthesized AgNPs were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, and Zeta potential analysis. The antimicrobial activity of the biosynthesized AgNPs was tested by the disk diffusion method. The antioxidant activity of the nanoparticles was assessed by using DPPH radical scavenging, total antioxidant capacity, and ferric reducing antioxidant assays. The antiviral activity of AgNPs was also challenged with the hepatitis C virus (HCV). The appearance of the surface plasmon resonance band at 420 nm indicated the biosynthesis of AgNPs. TEM images revealed that AgNPs had a mean average size of 21.211 and 21.052 nm for S. platensis and N. linckia, respectively. XRD analysis confirmed its spherical crystalline shape, and FTIR analysis suggested that proteins were responsible for their capping and stabilization. Zeta potential recorded − 15.902 mV and − 16.811 mV for S. platensis and N. linckia AgNPs, respectively, confirming its stability. AgNPs showed potent antimicrobial activity against some bacterial pathogens and Candida albicans. The antioxidant activity of AgNPs was evident by the use of three antioxidant assays. Significant antiviral activity against HCV (64.976%) was recorded for AgNPs of N. linckia, compared with Ribavirin (66.673%) as a standard drug, while S. platensis AgNPs recorded 48.334%. In conclusion, AgNPs biosynthesized from cyanobacterial phycobiliproteins were stable and showed potent antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antiviral activities.

Electromagnetic Hybrid Nano-Blood Pumping via Peristalsis Through an Endoscope Having Blood Clotting in Presence of Hall and Ion Slip Currents

Abstract: This article refers to an investigation of peristaltic transport of hybrid nanoparticle suspended blood through an endoscopic annulus with elastic walls in the existence of blood clotting under electromagnetic forces (EMF). The dual effects of Hall and ion-slip currents are accounted for. The energy equation is formulated invoking internal heat source and viscous-Ohmic dissipation terms. Blood is used as a base fluid, and silver and aluminum oxide nanoparticles are dispersed in order to have a hybrid blood suspension. The impacts of the geometrical shape of nanoparticles are examined. The governing partial differential equations (PDEs) for the proposed flow model are simplified under the assumption of long wavelength and low Reynolds number. The transformed non-linear coupled PDEs are solved analytically by employing the homotopy perturbation method (HPM) with Mathematica computational software. The graphical illustrations are presented to interpret various flow constraints of interest. Outcomes reflect that the Hall and ion slip parameters have diminishing behavior on the blood flow while the opposite fashion prevails on it for increasing Hartmann number. Augmenting Hall and ion slip parameters result in an upsurge in the blood temperature. Expanding the volume fraction of nanoparticles enhances the blood temperature. Hall and ion slip effects are to reduce the wall shear stress (WSS) at the peristaltic wall. The maximum amplitude of the heat transfer coefficient is computed for the brick shape of nanoparticles when compared to the other shapes of nanoparticles. The streamlines are configured with trapping ed bolus phenomena to outline the blood flow pattern in the endoscope. Our model may be pertinent to physiological systems, medical simulation devices, transport phenomena in pharmacology, nano-pharmacological delivery systems, surgical procedures, etc. In endoscopy, a magnetic force field is used in order to detect or treat diseases.

Outlining Impact of Hybrid Composition of Nanoparticles Suspended in Blood Flowing in an Inclined Stenosed Artery Under Magnetic Field Orientation

Abstract: In this theoretical analysis, our main concern is to explore the physical consequences of hybrid nanoparticle (NP) suspension in blood flowing through an inclined artery with mild stenosis filled with porous substances under the influence of a uniform magnetic field and heat source or sink. Darcy’s law is employed to predict the flow characteristics in the porous medium. The basic transported equations of blood flow in the diseased artery are formulated in a cylindrical coordinate system and simplified under the assumption of mild stenosis. The approximated analytical solutions based on the homotopy perturbation method (HPM) are achieved. Influences of significant physical parameters on the blood flow characteristics are displayed graphically and physical aspects are analyzed in detail. Graphical results based on the semi-analytical solutions reveal that the blood flow is appreciably influenced by the existence of stenosis at the arterial wall. The high concentration of hybrid nanoparticles significantly reduces the resistance impedance to the blood flow in a stenotic artery. The blood temperature due to the suspension of hybrid nanoparticles is found to be lower in comparison to copper blood or pure blood. The blood trapping pattern also manifests that the impulsion of hybrid nanoparticles speeds up the blood flow in the stenotic region. The rheological behavior of blood with hybrid nanoparticle (copper and alumina) suspension is examined because of decisive importance of nanoparticles in biomedicine, diagnosis, and treatment of arterial and cardiovascular diseases. It is believed that the simulated results hold key towards designing and analysis of bio-medical instruments or devices for great potential treatment modalities, nanodrug delivery systems, and anticancer drug industry, etc.

Bayesian Modeling Coherenced Green Synthesis of NiO Nanoparticles Using Camellia sinensis for Efficient Antimicrobial Activity

Abstract: Among various nanoparticles reported, nickel has been notable for its antimicrobial and photocatalytic exercises. However, to reduce the toxicity of the direct use of nickel, Camellia sinensis (tea) plant extract has been used in this work for the synthesis of nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiO NPs). The synthesis of NiO NPs has been confirmed by the UV absorption peak at 346 nm and photoluminescence peak at 341 nm. TEM images confirm the formation of NiO NPs with an average particle size of 2 nm. SEM pictures are indicating the formation of well-defined nanosheet-like NiO NPs. Statistical tools could be used to reinforce the confidence that the materials have been characterized correctly. Here, the bivariate Gaussian model has been applied to interrelate among absorbance and intensity with the wavelength, which was obtained in UV-Vis and photoluminescence spectra, respectively. A more generalized Bayesian estimate along with 95% highest probability density interval of the maximum absorption or emission wavelength observed at the highest absorbance or intensity has been calculated and investigated by using the observed values through Markov chain Monte Carlo simulations. Further, NiO NPs show efficient antimicrobial activity against both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria strain. The synthesized NiO NPs using tea leaf extract could provide a green pathway against bacterial pathogens.

Current Updates On the In vivo Assessment of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Toxicity Using Animal Models

Abstract: Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) is one of the most exploited nanoparticles in the biomedical field due to its enormous potential in disease diagnostics and monitoring. The upsurge in demand for ZnO NPs due to its peculiar properties and vast applications has led to an increase of inadvertent exposure of ZnO NPs to humans, resulting in higher risk for nanotoxicity. Previous literature is strongly suggestive of the notion that ZnO NPs may induce adverse health effects in humans and organisms in the environment. Hence, knowledge of the physiological interactions of ZnO NPs with the biological system as well as understanding the interplay between the physicochemical properties of ZnO NPs and its toxic effects are key factors in developing ZnO NPs that can be safely applied in the biomedical field. At present, many experiment models have been employed to unveil the possible unforeseen effect of ZnO NPs on the human, animals, and environment. Among these experiment models, animal models are of paramount importance as it allows the prediction of the possible toxic effects of ZnO NPs in individual organs or the body as a whole. The current review systemizes and summarizes the in vivo assessments of organ-specific nanotoxicity of ZnO NPs using animal models published between 2015 and 2020. Besides, this review attempts to outline the possible mechanisms of ZnO NPs–induced toxicity and factors influencing these toxic effects of ZnO NPs.

Biosynthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using Hertia intermedia and Evaluation of its Cytotoxic and Antimicrobial Activities

Abstract: The unique properties of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) produced using plant extract make them attractive for use in medical as well as industrial applications. In this study, ZnO-NPs were synthesized using Hertia intermedia extract as the reducing and stabilizing agent followed by characterization and evaluation of its biological potency. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) image showed spherical nanoparticles with a size range of 20–80 nm. UV-vis spectroscopy displayed absorption peaks at 362.67 nm which is one of the characteristic features of ZnO-NPs. FT-IR spectra confirmed the presence of some phytoconstituents as capping agents to stabilize the nanoparticles. MTT assay showed cytotoxicity of ZnO-NPs against Caco-2 (IC50 177 μg/mL), SH-SY5Y (IC50 184 μg/mL), MDA-MB-231 (IC50 168 μg/Ml, and HEK-293 (IC50 240 μg/mL) cell lines. Using 7-dichlorodihydrouorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA) assay, significant production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was measured after 24 h of treatment with 200 μg/mL ZnO-NPs that is indicative of ZnO-NP-mediated oxidative stress. Induction of apoptosis/necrosis in ZnO-NPs-treated cells was determined using annexin V-PE/7-AAD staining. Furthermore, expression analysis of pro-apoptotic gene Bax and anti-apoptotic gene Bcl-2 by real-time PCR showed 10-fold increase in expression of Bax and 16-fold decrease in expression of Bcl-2 after exposure of cells to ZnO-NPs. Well diffusion method did not show effective antibacterial activities of synthesized ZnO-NPs against both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. All the results confirm that the ZnO-NPs synthesized in the present work are a potential candidate to induce ROS and oxidative stress that lead to cytotoxicity in cell lines.

Tetraselmis indica Mediated Green Synthesis of Zinc Oxide (ZnO) Nanoparticles and Evaluating Its Antibacterial, Antioxidant, and Hemolytic Activity

Abstract: The indenture of the green approach in synthesizing metal oxide nanoparticles has resulted in greater stoutness and favorable dimensions of nanoparticles since they are synthesized using a single step process. In this study, using algae extract of Tetraselmis indica as precursor, Zinc acetate was reduced to obtain ZnO nanoparticles using green synthesis approach. Synthesized ZnO nanoparticles (ZnONPs) were characterized using UV spectrometer (UV-vis spec), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive analysis of X-ray (EDAX), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The biomedical application of ZnONPs was further studied in understanding with antibacterial, antioxidant, and hemolytic assays. UV visible spectrophotometry at wavelength of 372 nm confirmed the synthesis of ZnONPs. The results from X-ray diffractometer (XRD) studies approve the crystalline spherical structure of nanoparticle and the mean size of the ZnONPs was calculated to be ± 27 nm by using Scherrer formula. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis distinguished the presence of the various functional groups at different peak range, and the absorption peak at 470 cm−1 exhibits the presence of ZnO nanoparticle. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images identified the zinc oxide nanoparticles ranging in size from 20 to 40 nm. Results of EDAX (energy dispersive analysis of X-ray) represented the elemental configuration of the zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles. The biosynthesized ZnONPs had potential antibacterial property against pathogenic strains of bacteria which was confirmed by performing “Agar well diffusion method.” Out of selected bacterial strains, the gram-positive organism S. aureus with the maximum zone (18.4 ± 0.5 mm) and the gram-negative organism E. coli with the minimum zone (12.3 ± 0.3 mm) were the most sensitive and resistant organisms. The hemolysis assay performed with horse blood exhibited the less toxicity of the nanoparticles with the erythrocytes. The free radical scavenging activity of the ZnO nanoparticles was studied using DPPH assay and it was observed to have high reduction property in high concentration (100 mg ml−1) which is directly proportional. Therefore, the findings observed not only indicate the possible use of ZnO nanoparticles but also provide an alternative source, i.e., algae, for the cost-effective synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles by means of green synthesis, demonstrating their potential applications in the field of biomedical, textile, cosmetic, and food packaging applications.

MXene-Based Aptasensor: Characterization and High-Performance Voltammetry Detection of Deoxynivalenol

Abstract: Deoxynivalenol (DON) is a mycotoxin secreted by Fusarium species members, and the consumption of which causes a serious health issue. In this work, MXene is used to generate a highly sensitive and selective biosensing system for DON. MXene is prepared by the selective etching of aluminum from titanium aluminum carbide (Ti3AlC2-MAX) powder using hydrochloric acid-lithium fluoride (HCl-LiF). The prepared MXene surface is immobilized with a tailor-made DON aptamer, and its affinity towards DON is measured using a sweep voltammetry. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) displays the intercalation between MXene layers indicating the successful etching of aluminum. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy study confirms the incident elemental compositions, whereas X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis shows a high composition of Ti-Fx and TiO2, due to the replacement of the aluminum layers with oxygen and fluorine terminations. The presence of oxygen is beneficial for surface modification and biomolecular immobilization as attested by the Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy peak profile. The aptasensor shown here has a high sensitivity with a limit of detection at 1 fg mL−1 and demonstrates a remarkable selectivity towards DON by discriminating the binding of similar mycotoxins, zearalenone, and ochratoxin A and with DON-spiked paddy extract. This simple yet cost-effective high-performance detection of DON can be an alternative strategy for screening food and feed samples.

Antioxidant and Anticancer Activities of Gold Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Aqueous Leaf Extract of Ziziphus nummularia

Abstract: The green synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) using plants has gained much interest due to their potential widespread biomedical applications as compared to conventional tools. Due to small size and high surface to volume ratio, nanoparticles exhibited complete new or improved properties as compared to the bulk materials. Thus, the present study reports green synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) using Ziziphus nummularia leaf extract and their antioxidant and anticancer activities. AuNPs were synthesized using aqueous leaf extract, and characterization was done by spectroscopic and microscopic techniques like UV-Vis, TGA, FITR, XRD, and TEM. The characteristic peak was at 534 nm by UV-Vis spectra. TEM disclosed the green synthesized particles to be 11–12 nm in size and spherical in shape. The green synthesized AuNPs showed dose-dependent cytotoxicity against human cervical cancer cell line, breast cancer cell line, and fibroblast normal cell line. AuNPs were found to be nontoxic towards normal cell line. The genotoxicity study revealed the nontoxic nature at lower concentration. The biosynthesized AuNPs showed effective dose-dependent in vitro antioxidant activity against DPPH (IC50 = 520 μg/ml), SO (IC50 = 330 μg/ml), and ABTS (IC50 = 690 μg/ml) radicals. Considering the results together, AuNPs exhibited three different bioactivities (3-in-1 system), i.e., dose-dependent antioxidant, cytotoxic, and genotoxic activity. The results suggested that synthesized AuNPs can be used for various biological applications and can be effectively employed as future antioxidant and anticancer agents in the field of biomedicine.

Medicinal Plant Leaves Extract Based Synthesis, Characterisations and Antimicrobial Activities of ZrO2 Nanoparticles (ZrO2 NPs)

Abstract: In this work, the ZrO2 NPs have been synthesised using the leaves extract of a medicinal plant Tinospora cordifolia (Giloy) and characterised by means of FESEM, EDX, FTIR and powder XRD techniques. The phytochemical analysis was indicating the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, tannins and other components in the leaves extract of Tinospora cordifolia. Such secondary metabolites act as stabilising, reducing and capping agents during the synthesis of nanoparticles. The synthetic method was found highly efficient, very low cost and eco-friendly. The bio-based ZrO2 NPs were utilised as antibacterial and antifungal agents. The antimicrobial study of ZrO2 NPs has been done by using well diffusion method against the different bacterial and fungal species. The maximum zones of inhibition have been found for Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus mutans, Escherichia coli, Aspergillus fumigatus and Aspergillus niger at maximum dosage of ZrO2 NPs as 36 mm, 32 mm, 28 mm, 34 mm, 34 mm and 32 mm, respectively. The experimental data indicated the efficiency of synthetic method and best utilisation of ZrO2 NPs as strong antibacterial and antifungal agents.

Green Synthesis of Chitosan Capped-Copper Nano Biocomposites: Synthesis, Characterization, and Biological Activity against Plant Pathogens

Abstract: Metallic nanoparticles have been reported to have wide spread applications in the field of agricultural with a potential to enhance the activity natural substances to replace hazardous chemical fungicides and pesticides. Higher size to volume ratio, greater surface area, optimum efficacy, and immense precision are some of the benefits of employing nanotechnology in agricultural formulations. In this study, copper nano-biocomposites have been successfully synthesized using chitosan, a naturally occurring polymer and an organically available ascorbic acid. We report the appearance of the characteristic brick-brown color in aqueous solution that indicates the formation of copper nanoparticles. These particles were subjected to various physico-chemical characterizations using UV-Vis spectrophotometer, DLS, Zeta Potential, TEM, TGA, and FTIR to understand the morphology, chemical, and physical profiling. It was inferred that ascorbic acid acted as reducing agent while chitosan as capping agent to stabilize the colloidal copper nanoparticles of 20–120 nm size. In aqueous solution, the particles were observed to be monodispersed with minimum aggregation. The synthesized nanoparticles showed significant antifungal and antibacterial activity against common notorious agricultural plant pathogens, viz., Fusarium sp., Aspergillus sp., Alternaria alternata, Pythium sp., and Bacillus cereus, assayed using poisoned food method. The antimicrobial activity was showcased at a minimum concentration of 0.1–0.7% for different organisms. Furthermore, filed trial studies were performed on ginger (Zingiber officinale) plantations for a period of 8 weeks which substantiated with our lab results. These studies validated our claim of antifungal activity and simultaneously furnished us with toxicity results. The use of eco-friendly, nontoxic, biodegradable, and environmentally safe raw materials and the resultant nanoparticle solution ensure that the finished product does not induce any threat to the environment or human and shows maximum efficacy at minimum concentration.

Biosynthesis of Metals and Metal Oxide Nanoparticles Through Microalgal Nanobiotechnology: Quality Control Aspects

Abstract: Nanotechnology is a novel technology for production and application of nanoscale materials. Although many physical and chemical techniques for the synthesis of nanoparticles have been developed, these methods are not sustainable. Microalgae are interesting microorganisms for simple and eco-friendly synthesis of nanoparticles. Up to now, various metal nanoparticles have been synthesized by different microalgae and many applications have been explored for them. Various parameters such as concentration of metal salt, microalgae species, pH, reaction time, reaction temperature, and the culture condition of microalgae can affect the rate of nanoparticle production, as well as nanoparticle quantity and quality. For using green synthesized nanoparticles for medical applications, especially in pharmaceutical industries, they should conform to the US food and drug administration (FDA) criteria. In this review, we explain the biosynthesis of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles by using microalgae and the involved mechanisms. Effective parameters to control physical characteristics of nanoparticles such as size, shape, dispersity, and stability of particles are summarized with a focus on quality control and standards for medical purposes.

Hyaluronic Acid/Oxidized К-Carrageenan Electrospun Nanofibers Synthesis and Antibacterial Properties

Abstract: The current examination is relating to building up a novel nanofiber wound dressing including hyaluronic acid (HA)/oxidized К-carrageenan (OKC) for biomedical application. Until now, electrospinning of К-carrageenan (КC) has fizzled, because of its high-hydrophilic nature, its shaping gel partiality. To beat this problem, KC is exposed to oxidation, by means of sodium periodate (NaIO4). The ideal conditions are NaIO4 to КC 0.5:1; temperature, 40 °C; time, 3 h; and pH 3. OКC was mixed with HA and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) for delivering electrospun arrangement, which is at long last manufactured to frame nanofiber, utilizing electrospinning setup. The created nanofiber was evaluated by SEM and FTIR spectroscopy, and measuring antibacterial properties was likewise assessed. SEM pictures uncovered that the mixing proportion 2.5:2.5:5 of HA, OКC, and PVA individually accomplished uniform, normal, and globule-free nano-filaments. The outcomes showed likewise that all nano-filaments have antibacterial properties against Gram-positive and Gram-negative microbes, which is elevated to be utilized effectively in biomedical applications.

Halloysite Nanotubes for Nanomedicine: Prospects, Challenges and Applications

Abstract: Recently, naturally occurring and abundantly available halloysite nanoclay has emerged as a nanomaterial carrier system suitable for both controlled and sustained delivery. These aluminosilicate tubes of 50-nm diameter, with outer silica and inner alumina layers, possess a tubular structure, with excellent features such as large aspect ratio, good biocompatibility, and high mechanical strength entails them to be suitable for drug delivery. The unique features of these nanotubes are the ability to load DNA and enzyme due to opposite charges on both inner and outer surfaces which allow selective drug loading on both surfaces. This review article emphasizes on the drug loading techniques with release characteristics and some important applications in biomedical, environmental fields, and different types of medication. Being most versatile, these nanotubes can be used widely as a carrier system for enzyme bases and different types of the nucleus which can be a most promising step for novel drug delivery systems.

Novel Silibinin Loaded Chitosan-Coated PLGA/PCL Nanoparticles Based Inhalation Formulations with Improved Cytotoxicity and Bioavailability for Lung Cancer

Abstract: Silibinin is widely used as an anticancer agent. There are important matters of concern regarding the drug pharmacokinetics related to the conventional formulation due to their low solubility and bioavailability. The aim of the present investigation was to develop, characterize, and evaluate chitosan-coated PLGA/PCL nanoparticles containing Silibinin (SB) intended for pulmonary delivery for treating lung cancer. Nanoparticles were prepared by double emulsion solvent evaporation method followed by lyophilized to obtain inhalation powder form. The prepared nanoparticles (NPs) were evaluated for their physicochemical characteristic along with DSC, FTIR, and SEM. The anticancer activity of SB-loaded NPs was assessed in the human A549 lung cancer cell line utilizing MTT assay and anti-cancer potential assessed by clonogenic assay. The pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution studies of SB-loaded NPs were assessed in comparison with the SB solution. The prepared NPs exhibited particle sizes in the range of 187–284 nm. Zeta potential was altered from negative to positive due to the coating with chitosan. Chitosan-coated NPs showed the sustain release effect up to 48 h with an aerodynamic particle size of 1.82 μm. Moreover, a tremendous increase in cell inhibition was determined by chitosan-coated PLGA NPs. Pharmacokinetics study showed that chitosan coating onto PLGA nanoparticles promoted to release drug in the lungs and increased vivo residence time. Thus, proposed formulations with improved bioavailability can be useful for efficient pulmonary delivery. These nanoparticles coated with chitosan could open a new avenue for effective treatment of lung cancer.

Very Selective Detection of Low Physiopathological Glucose Levels by Spontaneous Raman Spectroscopy with Univariate Data Analysis

Abstract: After decades of research on non-invasive glucose monitoring, invasive devices based on finger blood sampling are still the predominant reference for diabetic patients for accurately measuring blood glucose levels. Meanwhile, research continues improving point-of-care technology toward the development of painless and more accurate devices. Raman spectroscopy is well-known as a potentially valuable and painless approach for measuring glucose levels. However, previous Raman studies deal with glucose concentrations that are still order of magnitudes away with respect to human tissues’ physiological concentrations, or they propose enhancement methodologies either invasive or much complex to assure sufficient sensitivity in the physiological range. Instead, this study proposes an alternative non-enhanced Raman spectroscopy approach sensitive to glucose concentrations from 1 to 5 mmol/l, which correspond to the lowest physiopathological glucose level in human blood. Our findings suggest a very selective detection of glucose with respect to other typical metabolites, usually interfering with Raman spectroscopy’s glucose detection. We validate the proposed univariate sensing methodology on glucose solutions mixed with lactate and urea, the two most common molecules found in human serum with concentrations similar to glucose and similar features in the Raman spectra. Our findings clearly illustrate that reliable detection of glucose by Raman spectroscopy is feasible by exploiting the shifted peak at 1125 ± 10 cm–1 within physiopathological ranges.

Green and Phytogenic Fabrication of Co-Doped SnO2 Using Aqueous Leaf Extract of Tradescantia spathacea for Photoantioxidant and Photocatalytic Studies

Abstract: The influence of cobalt doping in SnO2 crystal lattice tailored the optical, structural, and surface properties of SnO2. Co2+ was successfully doped in SnO2 (Co-SnO2) via green synthesis using Tradescantia spathacea aqueous leaf extract. Powder X-ray diffraction patterns of the synthesized nanoparticles showed a rutile structure with no impurities. As Co-doping was increased, the average crystallite size increased from 13.25 nm to 32.32 nm and BET results showed reduced surface area. The presence of organic compounds of the aqueous leaf extract was confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy showed a red shift suggesting a band gap reduction with Co-doping. The photoluminescence study showed a peak quenching with the increase in Co-doping. Spherical and smaller particles were observed by scanning electron microscopy. The density of states was proposed using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy data. A novel antioxidant study of SnO2 and Co-SnO2 nanoparticles was done under visible light irradiation using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radicals and was compared to conventional antioxidant method in the dark. Photocatalytic 4-nitrophenol conversion was also conducted in the dark and under visible light irradiation. The enhancement in the photoantioxidant activities and photocatalytic conversion of 4-nitrophenol to 4-nitrophenolate using SnO2 and Co-SnO2 was observed under visible light irradiation.

Evaluation of Bioactive Potential of a Tragia involucrata Healthy Leaf Extract @ ZnO Nanoparticles

Abstract: The aim of the present work is to prepare ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) from Tragia involucrata leaf extract by low-cost technology. The extracted ZnO NPs were calcined at different temperatures such as 400 °C (TZ 1), 450 °C (TZ 2), and 500 °C (TZ 3). The as-prepared ZnO NPs were characterized using techniques such as TG-DTA, XRD, FTIR, and SEM. Based on the observations made using the above techniques, the calcination temperature was fixed at 450 °C and EDS, HR-TEM, and VSM studies were made for these samples. The XRD analysis revealed the hexagonal structure with the average crystallite size being ~ 27 nm for the different samples (TZ 1, TZ 2, and TZ 3). The occurrence of FTIR peaks in the region 600–450 cm−1 confirmed the presence of the Zn–O bond. SEM and HR-TEM images indicated the rod and conical shapes for the bio-synthesized ZnO NPs, and the d-spacing value has been found to be 0.24 nm with (1 0 1) lattice plane, matching very well with that of XRD. The SAED pattern clearly portrayed annular rings indicating the single crystalline nature. The results of VSM studies indicated a diamagnetic nature at room temperature. The green synthesized ZnO NPs were screened for antibacterial and antifungal activities. Among the bacteria used, Klebsiella pneumoniae has secured maximum sensitivity (22 mm) and Proteus vulgaris has secured minimum sensitivity (12 mm). In the case of fungal studies, Aspergillus niger showed a maximum sensitivity (16 mm) as compared to Aspergillus flavus (15 mm). Thus, it is concluded that the bio-synthesized ZnO NPs using Tragia involucrata leaf extract may serve as a potential candidate for biomedical applications.

Green Synthesized Unmodified Silver Nanoparticles as Reproducible Dual Sensor for Mercuric Ions and Catalyst to Abate Environmental Pollutants

Abstract: The present study involves the green synthesis of unmodified silver nanoparticles using the aqueous leaf extract of Mimosa diplotricha (AgNP-MD). This work highlights the reliable optical and electrochemical sensing of Hg2+ ion (5–45 μM) by AgNP-MD with high selectivity. Optical sensing was easily identified by the color change of AgNP-MD to colorless upon effective interaction of metal nanoparticles with mercuric ions, which is in accordance with the decrement in surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of nanoparticles. Electrochemical voltammetric sensing was performed using a platinum electrode modified with AgNP-MD (AgNP-MD-Pt). The limit of detection (LOD) of the developed green sensor for mercuric ions was calculated from differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) analysis as 1.46 μM. The applicability of unmodified AgNP-MD towards Hg2+ ions was inspected for the collected real water samples. Ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) spectrophotometer, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), zeta potential, and dynamic light scattering (DLS) techniques were used to characterize the synthesized AgNP-MD and AgNP-MD-Hg2+ complexation. Moreover, the catalytic potential of green synthesized AgNP-MD towards the reduction of methyl orange and methylene blue was also evaluated. Both the degradations were fast, completed within few minutes, and followed pseudo-first-order kinetics with good regression coefficients. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the synthesis of AgNP-MD using MD extract and its multifunctional applications including the fields of sensors and catalysis.

Degradation of Ciprofloxacin Using Ultrasound/ZnO/Oxone Process from Aqueous Solution-Lab-Scale Analysis and Optimization

Abstract: Nowadays, the existence of antibiotic compounds in pharmaceutical wastewaters is one of the new problems that can be considered in environmental pollution. The removal of ciprofloxacin from aqueous solutions is examined in the present study by using peroxymonosulfate (Oxone=PMS) activated with hybridized ultrasonic waves and synthesized ZnO nanoparticles. Operational parameters like ZnO nanoparticles dosage, initial pH, and peroxymonosulfate concentration, and their effect on the removal of the antibiotic have been investigated. The results showed 98.3% antibiotics removal observed with an initial pH of 3, ZnO nanoparticles dosage of 1 g/L, and peroxymonosulfate concentration of 1 g/L. This process had a high removal efficiency and was suitable for the removal of ciprofloxacin from aquatic environments.

Biological Synthesis of Gold Nanoparticles from Suspensions of Green Microalga Dunaliella salina and Their Antibacterial Potential

Abstract: Green synthesis of nanoparticles has been widely considered because of its applications in various fields such as medicine and pharmaceutical industries. The synthesis of nanoparticles using microalgae is less known, hence the attention of researchers in this context already has been attracted. In the present study, gold nanoparticles (GNPs) were synthesized from gold(III) chloride trihydrate (HAuCl4·3H2O) by an ecofriendly, low-cost method using a green microalgae Dunaliella salina as a reducing and stabilizing agent simultaneously. The effect of pH, algal suspension volume, algal population, gold salt concentration, and temperature was studied for determining the optimum conditions of GNP synthesis. Biosynthesis of GNPs was monitored by UV–Visible (UV–Vis) absorption spectroscopy, which showed surface plasmon resonance band at 550 nm. The Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy revealed that the functional groups of algal cells including hydroxyl (–OH), carbonyl (C = O), and amine (–NH) interact with gold ions to reduce and stabilize GNPs. The electron graphs (TEM and SEM) showed that the resulting GNPs are all almost spherical with the average size of 50 nm. The presence of sharp peaks in X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns shows a high degree of crystallinity with the face-centered cubic (FCC) structure for GNPs generated by D. salina suspension. The antibacterial effect of 0.05 mg ml−1 of synthesized GNPs displayed a significant bactericidal power on Gram-positive bacteria. These results suggest that algae-synthesized GNPs have a high potential for clinical and pharmaceutical purposes, which support its commercial generation.

Bioconvection of Nanofluid Due to Motile Gyrotactic Micro-Organisms with Ohmic Heating Effects Saturated in Porous Medium

Abstract: In proposed investigation, author offered numerical studies on gyrotactic micro-organisms in nanofluids by ohmic heating effect saturated in porous medium. Similarity transformations are taken into consideration to convert PDE into non-linear coupled ODE and thus solved by 5th-order Runge-Kutta-Fehlberg method by shooting technique. Physical parameters were explored on various profiles say velocity, temperature, concentration, and density of gyrotactic micro-organisms. Outcome of proposed investigation explores that with increasing effect of bioconvection Lewis number, bioconvection Peclet number and micro-organisms concentration difference parameter result in decline of density of motile micro-organisms’ profile. Code validations of proposed investigations were done with existing results in literature.