Showing papers in "Journal of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology in 2015"

Functionalized Gold Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Properties and Applications--A Review.

Abstract: The past few decades have witnessed significant advances in the development of functionalized gold nanoparticles for applications in various fields such as chemistry, biology, pharmacy and physics. Although it has been more than 150 years since they were first synthesized, extensive research has recently been undertaken to improve or modify gold nanoparticles, thereby opening up opportunities to enhance and optimize their potential and breadth of their applicability. Recently developed methods have allowed a precise control of gold nanoparticle size and the modification of gold nanoparticles with suitable protecting and functionalizing agents, facilitate their applications in different areas such as chemical and biological sensing, imaging and biomedical applications. This review focuses on the recent developments in various methods for the size and shape controlled synthesis of gold nanoparticles, understanding of different properties of gold nanoparticles and their applications in various fields. Particular attention is given to the chemical and biological sensing applications of gold nanoparticles and on the advances in the controlled ordering of gold nanoparticles for creating nanostructures for diverse applications.

Applications of Magnetic Nanoparticles in Targeted Drug Delivery System.

Abstract: Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are a special kind of nanomaterials and widely used in biomedical technology applications. Currently they are popularly customized for disease detection and treatment, particularly as drug carriers in drug targeted delivery systems, as a therapeutic in hyperthermia (treating tumors with heat), and as contrast agents in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Due to their biocompatibility and superparamagnetic properties, MNPs as next generation drug carriers have great attraction. Although the potential benefits of MNPs are considerable, any potential toxicity associated with these MNPs should be identified distinctly. The drug loading capability and the biomedical properties of MNPs generated by different surface coatings are the most sensitive parameters in toxicity. A lot of organic and inorganic materials are utilized as coating materials for surface functionalization and reducing toxicity of MNPs. pH or temperature sensitivity materials are widely used to manage drug loading and targeted release. In addition, MNPs can be controlled and directed to the desired pathological region by using external magnetic files (EMF). The realization of targeted drug delivery has decreased the dosage and improved the efficiency of drugs, which results in reduced side effects to normal tissues. This review discussed the possible organ toxicities of MNPs and their current advances as a drug delivery vehicle.

Nano-Carbon Electrodes for Thermal Energy Harvesting.

Abstract: Thermogalvanic cells are capable of converting waste heat (generated as a by-product of almost all human activity) to electricity. These devices may alleviate the problems associated with the use of fossil fuels to meet the world's current demand for energy. This review discusses the developments in thermogalvanic systems attained through the use of nano-carbons as the electrode materials. Advances in cell design and electrode configuration that improve performance of these thermo converters and make them applicable in a variety of environments are also summarized. It is the aim of this review to act as a channel for further developments in thermogalvanic cell design and electrode engineering.

Applications of Nanoparticles for Anticancer Drug Delivery: A Review.

Abstract: Biodegradable nanometer-sized particles have novel structural and physical properties that are attracting great interests from pharmaceuticals for the targeted delivery of anticancer drugs and imaging contrast agents. These smart nanoparticles are designed to ferry chemotherapeutic agents or therapeutic genes into malignant cells while sparing healthy cells. In this review, we describe currently clinically used chemotherapeutics in nanoparticle formulation and discuss the current status of nanoparticles developed as targeting delivery systems for anticancer drugs, with emphasis on formulations of micelles, liposome, polymeric nanoparticles, gold nanoparticle dendrimers, and bionanocapsules.

Applications of Nanomaterials in Food Packaging.

Abstract: Nanomaterials have drawn great interest in recent years due to their extraordinary properties that make them advantageous in food packaging applications. Specifically, nanoparticles can impart significant barrier properties, as well as mechanical, optical, catalytic, and antimicrobial properties into packaging. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and nanoclay account for the majority of the nano-enabled food packaging on the market, while others, such as nano-zinc oxide (ZnO) and titanium, share less of the current market. In current food packaging, these nanomaterials are primarily used to impart antimicrobial function and to improve barrier properties, thereby extending the shelf life and freshness of packaged food. On the other hand, there is growing concern about the migration of nanomaterials from food contact materials to foodstuffs and its associated potential risks. Indeed, insufficient data about environmental and human safety assessments of migration and exposure of nanomaterials are hindering their market growth. To overcome this barrier, the public believes that legislation from government agencies is critical. This review provides an overview of the characteristics and functions of major nanomaterials that are commonly applied to food packaging, including available and near- future products. Migration research, safety issues, and public concerns are also discussed.

Selective Laser Direct Patterning of Silver Nanowire Percolation Network Transparent Conductor for Capacitive Touch Panel.

Abstract: We introduce a facile method to enhance the functionality of a patterned metallic transparent conductor through selective laser ablation of metal nanowire percolation network. By scanning focused nanosecond pulsed laser on silver nanowire percolation network, silver nanowires are selectively ablated and patterned without using any conventional chemical etching or photolithography steps. Various arbitrary patterns of silver nanowire transparent conductors are readily created on the percolation network by changing various laser parameters such as repetition rate and power. The macroscopic optical and electrical properties of the percolation network transparent conductor can be easily tuned by changing the conductor pattern design via digital selective laser ablation. Further investigation on the silver nanowire based electrode line prepared by the ablation process substantiates that the general relation for a conducting thin film fails at a narrow width, which should be considered for the applications that requires a high resolution patterns. Finally, as a proof of concept, a capacitive touch sensor with diamond patterns has been demonstrated by selective laser ablation of metal nanowire percolation network.

Comparative Studies of Spinel MnFe2O4 Nanostructures: Structural, Morphological, Optical, Magnetic and Catalytic Properties.

Abstract: Spinel MnFe2O4 nanostructures with two different morphologies such as nanoflakes (NFs) and nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized by a simple microwave-assisted combustion (MACM) and conventional combustion (CCM) methods respectively. Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) study showed that the samples have pure cubic spinel phase and the average crystallite size is found to be 15.13 ± 2 nm and 24.38 ± 13 nm for NFs and NPs respectively. The calculated lattice parameter values of the samples NFs and NPs are 8.476 and 8.474 A respectively. The morphology of the samples was recorded using high resolution scanning electron microscope (HR-SEM) analysis and was found that nanoflakes and nanoparticles morphologies by MACM and CCM methods respectively. Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) results showed that the composition of the elements was relevant as expected from these combustion methods. The optical properties of the as-prepared nanostructures were also investigated by UV-Visible Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (DRS) and Photoluminescence (PL) Spectroscopy. The energy band gap (E(g)) of the sample NFs is 1.78 eV, whereas the sample NPs has 1.75 eV. The magnetic properties were investigated using the Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM) at room temperature and the hysteresis loops confirmed the super-paramagnetic behavior for both samples with saturation magnetization (M(s)) values in the range of 59.29 ± 11 and 66.78 ± 06 emu/g for the samples NFs and NPs respectively. The oxidation of benzyl alcohol into benzaldehyde reached a maximum of 87.65% for MnFe2O4 NFs, whereas for MnFe2O4 NPs, the conversion was only 69.43% with 100% selectivity.

A Novel Synthesis and Characterization Studies of Magnetic Co3O4 Nanoparticles.

Abstract: Cobalt oxide (Co3O4) nanoparticles were synthesized by microwave combustion method (MCM) using urea as the fuel. For the purpose of comparison, they are also prepared by conventional combustion method (CCM). The prepared samples were examined by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), high resolution scanning electron microscopy (HR-SEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), UV-Visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). XRD analysis indicated that the as-prepared samples have well-crystalline cubic phase. HR-TEM images showed that Co3O4 nanoparticles have sphere-like structure with an average particle size in the range of 20-25 nm (MCM) and 45-50 nm (CCM). Optical properties of Co3O4 nanoparticles revealed the presence of two band gap (1.89 and 2.54 eV (MCM), 1.68 and 2.38 eV (CCM)) values, which in turn confirmed the semi-conducting properties. VSM measurements revealed a small hysteresis loop at room temperature thus indicating a weak ferromagnetism.

ZnO Nanoparticles-Red Sandalwood Conjugate: A Promising Anti-Diabetic Agent.

Abstract: With the advances in nanoscience and nanotechnology the interest of researchers has expanded to interdisciplinary domain like bio-medical applications. Among such domains, one of the most important areas explored meticulously is the development of promising solutions in diabetes therapeutics. The disease associated with metabolic disorder, is one of the major challenges, due to its ever-increasing number of patients. The adverse effects of the synthetic enzymes like α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitors have invited many scientists to develop promising contender with minimal side-effects. On the other hand, Zinc has strong role in insulin synthesis, storage and secretion and thus its deficiency can be related to diabetes. In this context we have explored natural extract of Red Sandalwood (RSW) as a potent anti-diabetic agent, in conjugation with ZnO nanoparticles. ZnO nanoparticles have been synthesized via soft chemistry routes and duly characterized for their phase formation with the help of X-ray diffraction technique and Field-Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy. These monodispersed nanoparticles, -20 nm in size, were further conjugated to RSW extract. The conjugation chemistry was studied via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, UV-visible spectroscopy. Extract loading percentage was found from thermo-gravimetric analysis. 65% of the RSW extract was found conjugated to the ZnO nanoparticles. The anti-diabetic activity was assessed with the help of like α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition assay with murine pancreatic and small intestinal extracts. It was observed that the conjugated ZnO-RSW nanoparticles showed excellent activity against the crude murine pancreatic glucosidase as compared to the individual ZnO nanoparticles and the RSW extract. The ZnO-RSW conjugate showed 61.93% of inhibition while the bare ZnO nanoparticles and RSW showed 21.48% and 5.90% respectively.

Biomedical Applications of Nanodiamonds: An Overview.

Abstract: Nanodiamonds are a novel class of nanomaterials which have raised much attention for application in biomedical field, as they combine the possibility of being produced on large scale using relatively inexpensive synthetic processes, of being fluorescent as a consequence of the presence of nitrogen vacancies, of having their surfaces functionalized, and of having good biocompatibility. Among other applications, we mainly focus on drug delivery, including cell interaction, targeting, cancer therapy, gene and protein delivery. In addition, nanodiamonds for bone and dental implants and for antibacterial use is discussed. Techniques for detection and imaging of nanodiamonds in biological tissues are also reviewed, including electron microscopy, fluorescence microscopy, Raman mapping, atomic force microscopy, thermal imaging, magnetic resonance imaging, and positron emission tomography, either in vitro, in vivo, or ex vivo. Toxicological aspects related to the use of nanodiamonds are also discussed. Finally, patents, preclinical and clinical trials based on the use of nanodiamonds for biomedical applications are reviewed.

Graphene-Based Bulk-Heterojunction Solar Cells: A Review.

Abstract: The current highest power-conversion efficiencies found for different types of solar cell devices range from 20% to 46%, depending on the nature of the photovoltaic materials used and device configuration. Graphene has emerged as an important organic photovoltaic material for photoenergy conversion, where graphene can be used as a transparent electrode, active interfacial layer, electron transport layer, hole transport layer, or electron/hole separation layer in fabricating solar cell devices. This review article briefly discusses some recent advances made in different types of photovoltaic materials, and then summarizes the current status of graphene-based bulk-heterojunction (BHJ) solar cells, including graphene-containing perovskite and tandem solar cell devices. Power-conversion efficiencies currently exceed 10% for heteroatom-doped multilayer graphene-based BHJ solar cells and 15.6% for graphene-containing perovskite-based solar cells. The role of graphene layer thickness, bending, thermal annealing, passivation, heteroatom doping, perovskite materials, and tandem solar cell structure on the photovoltaic performance of graphene-based solar cells is discussed. Besides aiming for high power-conversion efficiency, factors such as long-term environmental stability and degradation, and the cost-effectiveness of graphene-based solar cells for large-scale commercial production are challenging tasks.

Neurotoxicity of Silver Nanoparticles in Rat Brain After Intragastric Exposure.

Abstract: It is known that the biological half-life of silver in the central nervous system is longer than in other organs. However, the potential toxicity of silver nanoparticles (NPs) on brain tissue and the underlying mechanism(s) of action are not well understood. In this study, neurotoxicity of silver NPs was examined in rat after intragastric administration. After a two-week exposure to low-dose (1 mg/kg, body weight) or high-dose (10 mg/kg) silver NPs, the pathological and ultrastructural changes in brain tissue were evaluated with H&E staining and transmission electron microscopy. The mRNA expression levels of key tight junction proteins of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) were analyzed by real-time RT-PCR, and several inflammatory factors were assessed in blood using ELISA assay. We observed neuron shrinkage, cytoplasmic or foot swelling of astrocytes, and extra-vascular lymphocytes in silver NP exposure groups. The cadherin 1 (2(-ΔΔCt): 1.45-fold/control) and Claudin-1 (2(-ΔΔCt): 2.77-fold/control) were slightly increase in mRNA expression levels, and IL-4 significantly increased after silver NP exposure. It was suggest that silver NP can induce neuronal degeneration and astrocyte swelling, even with a low-dose (1 mg/kg) oral exposure. One potential mechanism for the effects of silver NPs to the nervous cells is involved in inflammatory effects.

Nanodiamond-Based Composite Structures for Biomedical Imaging and Drug Delivery.

Abstract: Nanodiamond particles are widely recognized candidates for biomedical applications due to their excellent biocompatibility, bright photoluminescence based on color centers and outstanding photostability. Recently, more complex architectures with a nanodiamond core and an external shell or nanostructure which provides synergistic benefits have been developed, and their feasibility for biomedical applications has been demonstrated. This review is aimed at summarizing recent achievements in the fabrication and functional demonstrations of nanodiamond-based composite structures, along with critical considerations that should be taken into account in the design of such structures from a biomedical point of view. A particular focus of the review is core/shell structures of nanodiamond surrounded by porous silica shells, which demonstrate a remarkable increase in drug loading efficiency; as well as nanodiamonds decorated with carbon dots, which have excellent potential as bioimaging probes. Other combinations are also considered, relying on the discussed inherent properties of the inorganic materials being integrated in a way to advance inorganic nanomedicine in the quest for better health-related nanotechnology.

Visible-Light Nanostructured Photocatalysts--A Review.

Abstract: This paper reviews the recent research and development of novel visible-light induced photocatalysts with nanostructures. In recent years, Ag3PO4-based and BiVO4-based nanomaterials have drawn wide attention due to their narrow band gap and excellent photocatalytic performance. The development of the new material covers the synthesis condition, unique morphology, further modification which focused on the Ag3PO4 and BiVO4, respectively. Meanwhile, titanium dioxide has already become one of the classical photocatalyst. However, the band gap of TiO2 (3.2 eV) limits its efficient utilization of solar energy, two categories novel modification methods of TiO2 are proposed to make them active under visible light illumination. Using polymers and dye to modify TiO2 is a wonderful approach to achieve excellent electronic and optical properties mainly in aspect of photocatalytic application. Therefore, the paper summarizes novel nanosized photocatalysts with visible-light response including Ag3PO4-based, BiVO4-based and TiO2-based materials, and suggests the further research prospect for the visible-light induced photocatalysts.

Effects of Graphene on Germination and Seedling Morphology in Rice.

Abstract: The effects of graphene on the germination and growth of rice seeds were studied. Seeds were treated with graphene solutions at different concentrations. Obvious delaying effects on the germination rate were observed with the increasing of graphene concentration. The growth of radicle and plumule was inhibited. And also, the morphology (root length, stem length, adventitious number, root fresh weight, fresh weight of over ground part and root cap ratio) of rice seedlings was certainly affected. After been treated by different concentrations of graphene for 16 d, promoting effects on adventitious root number, root fresh weight and fresh weight of over ground part were observed at concentration of 5 mg/L. Significant inhibitions on the stem length and fresh weight of over ground part were observed at concentration of 50 mg/L. In addition, all the indexes were inhibited at concentrations of 100 mg/L and 200 mg/L. It indicates that graphene certainly inhibit the morphogenesis of rice seedlings. But the mechanism by which graphene of 5 mg/L improves part of growth indexes still needs further study.

Diosgenin Functionalized Iron Oxide Nanoparticles as Novel Nanomaterial Against Breast Cancer.

Abstract: Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) have gained immense importance recently as drug nanocarriers due to easy multifunctionalization, simultaneous targeting, imaging and cancer hyperthermia. Herein, we report a novel nanomedicine comprising of IONPs core functionalized with a potent anticancer bioactive principle, diosgenin from medicinal plant Dioscorea bulbifera via citric acid linker molecule. IONPs were synthesized by reverse co-precipitation and characterized using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). Diosgenin functionalization was confirmed using fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and biochemical methods. Synthesized IONPs, citrate linked IONPs (IONPs-CA), diosgenin functionalized IONPs (IONPs-D) along with free citric acid and diosgenin were checked for anticancer activity against MCF7 breast cancer cells by MTT assay, wound migration assay, confocal microscopy and protein expression by western blotting. Size of IONPs, IONPs-CA and IONPs-D gradually increased ranging from 12 to 21 nm as confirmed by FESEM and HRTEM. Signature peaks of diosgenin at 2914, 1166 and 1444 cm-1 IONPs-D, revealed in FTIR indicated the presence of functionalized diosgenin. IONPs-D exhibited 51.08 ± 0.37% antiproliferative activity against MCF7 cells, which was found to be superior to free citric acid (17.71 ± 0.58%) and diosgenin (33.31 ± 0.37%). Treatment with IONPs-D exhibited reduced wound migration upto 40.83 ± 2.91% compared to bare IONPs (89.03 ± 2.58%) and IONPs-CA (50.35 ± 0.48%). IONPs-D and diosgenin exhibited apoptosis induction, confirmed by Alexa Fluor 488 annexin V/PI double-stained cells indicating extensive cell membrane damage coupled with PI influx leading to nuclear staining in treated cells. IONPs-D mediated selective PARP cleavage strongly rationalized it as superior apoptotic inducers. Based on these findings, IONPs-D can be considered as first diosgenin functionalized novel magnetic nanomedicine with antiproliferative, migration inhibiting and apoptosis inducing properties against breast cancer.

Polyethylene Films Containing Silver Nanoparticles for Applications in Food Packaging: Characterization of Physico-Chemical and Anti-Microbial Properties.

Abstract: This paper reports the antibacterial effect and physico-chemical characterization of films containing silver nanoparticles for use as food packaging. Two masterbatches (named PEN and PEC) con- taining silver nanoparticles embedded in distinct carriers (silica and titanium dioxide) were mixed with low-density polyethylene (LDPE) in different compositions and extruded to produce plain films. These films were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The morphology of the films showed the formation of agglomerates of nanoparticles in both PEN and PEC composites. X-ray analyses confirmed the presence of SiO2 in PEN samples and TiO2 in PEC samples. Thermal analyses indicated an increase in thermal stability of the PEC compositions. The antimicrobial efficacy was determined by applying the test strain for Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, according to the Japanese Industrial Standard Method (JIS Z 2801:2000). The films analyzed showed antimicrobial properties against the tested microorganisms, presenting better activity against the S. aureus than E. Coli. These findings suggest that LDPE films with silver nanoparticles are promising to provide a significant contribution to the quality and safety of packaged food.

Curcumin-Loaded Chitosan-Coated Nanoparticles as a New Approach for the Local Treatment of Oral Cavity Cancer.

Abstract: Mucoadhesive nanoparticles loaded with curcumin were developed as a new approach to deliver curcumin for the local treatment of oral cancer. PCL nanoparticles coated with chitosan displaying different molar masses were prepared by using the nanoprecipitation technique. The mucoadhesive properties of nanoparticle suspensions were demonstrated by their strong ability to interact with the glycoprotein mucin through electrostatic interactions. Similar permeation profiles of curcumin loaded in uncoated and chitosan-coated nanoparticles across porcine esophageal mucosa were verified. Curcumin concentrations retained in the mucosa suggest the possibility of a local effect of the drug. In vitro studies demonstrated that free curcumin.and curcumin loaded into nanoparticles coated with chitosan caused significant reduction of SCC-9 human oral cancer cell viability in a concentration and time-dependent manner. However, no significant cell death was observed after 24 h of treatment with unloaded nanoparticles coated with chitosan. In addition, curcumin-loaded nanoparticles showed reduced cytotoxicity, when compared with the free drug. Therefore, chitosan-coated PCL nanoparticles may be considered a promising strategy to deliver curcumin directly into the oral cavity for the treatment of oral cancer.

Carbon Nanomaterials for Drug Delivery and Cancer Therapy.

Abstract: Nanotechnology is one of the most exciting disciplines and it incorporates physics, chemistry, materials science, and biology. It can be applied to design cancer medicines with improved therapeutic indices. At the basic level, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene are sp2 carbon nanomaterials. Their unique physical and chemical properties make them interesting candidates of research in a wide range of areas including biological systems and different diseases. Recent research has been focused on exploring the potential of the CNTs as a carrier or vehicle for intracellular transport of drugs, proteins, and targeted genes in vitro and in vivo. Several research groups are actively involved to find out a functional CNT carrier capable of transporting targeted drug molecules in animal models with least toxicity. Current investigations are also focused on graphene, an allotrope of carbon, which appears to be a promising agent for successful delivery of biomolecules in various animal models. But potential clinical implementations of CNTs are still hampered by distinctive barriers such as poor bioavailability and intrinsic toxicity, which pose difficulties in tumor targeting and penetration as well as in improving therapeutic outcome. This article presents recent progresses in the design and evaluation of closely related CNTs for experimental cancer therapy and explores their implications in bringing nanomedicines into the clinics.

Synthesis and Characterization of Cadmium Sulfide Nanoparticles by Chemical Precipitation Method.

Abstract: Cadmium sulfide (CdS) nanoparticles were synthesized by chemical precipitation method using cadmium chloride (CdCl2), sodium sulfide (Na2S) and water as a solvent by varying temperatures from 20-80 degrees C The nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) and UV-Visible spectroscopy XRD pattern revealed cubic crystal structure for all the synthesized CdS nanoparticles Raman spectra showed first and second order longitudinal optical (LO) phonon vibrational modes of CdS The size of CdS nanoparticles was found to be in the range of 15-80 nm by FE-SEM analysis, in all cases The atomic percentage of cadmium and sulfur was confirmed to be 1:1 from EDS analysis TEM micrograph depicts the spherical shape of the particles and the size is in the range of 15-85 nm while HR-TEM images of CdS nanoparticles exhibit well-resolved lattice fringes of the cubic structure of CdS The optical properties of CdS were examined by UV-Visible spectroscopy which showed variation in absorption band from 460-480 nm The band gap was calculated from the absorption edge and found to be in the range of 32-35 eV which is greater than the bulk CdS

Nanotechnologies for Removal of Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products from Water and Wastewater. A Review.

Abstract: The occurrence of pharmaceuticals and other hazardous substances in surface waters and drinking water and the long-term exposure may represent a potential risk for both the environment and human health. Many studies have evidenced that conventional technologies used for wastewater treatment do not completely remove pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) residues, which can be detected in receiving waters at concentrations ranging from few ng L(-1) until more than μg L(-1). Nanomaterials are of fundamental importance in the current research efforts to develop more efficient water treatment and remediation systems in place of conventional technologies. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the most relevant works available in literature reporting the use of nanosorbents (nanotubes and zeolites), nanofiltration (NF) and advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) for the removal of PPCPs compounds from water and wastewater. The literature review of laboratory- and pilot-scale studies have shown that nanomaterials are promising tools in environmental cleaning processes and water purification, even if more researches are necessary.

Glycyrrhizin Conjugated Dendrimer and Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes for Liver Specific Delivery of Doxorubicin.

Abstract: The purpose of the present investigation was to investigate the drug targeting potential of glycyrrhizin (GL) conjugated dendrimers (GL-PPI) and multi walled carbon nanotubes (GL-MWCNTs) towards liver targeting of a model anti-cancer agent, doxorubicin (DOX). The synthesis was confirmed by FTIR, 1H-NMR and morphology analysis. Higher DOX loading was observed in case of GL-PPI-DOX and GL-MWCNT-DOX (43.02 ± 0.64% and 87.26 0.57%, respectively) than parent nanocarriers. GL attachment considerably reduced the haemolytic toxicity of DOX by 12.38 ± 1.05 and 7.30 ± 0.63% by GL-PPI-DOX and GL-MWCNT-DOX, respectively. MTT cytotoxicity studies, flow cytometry and cell morphology assessment was done in HepG2 cell. The IC50 of DOX was reduced from 4.19±0.05 µM to 2.0±0.01 and 2.7±0.03 µM, respectively by GL-PPI-DOX and GL-MWCNT-DOX, respectively. Flow cytometry and phase contrast microscopy confirmed GL conjugated formulations to be significantly dragging higher cancer cell number of cells in early apoptosis as well as in early apoptotic phase.

Biomedical Applications of Advanced Multifunctional Magnetic Nanoparticles.

Abstract: In this review, we have presented the latest results and highlights on biomedical applications of a class of noble metal nanoparticles, such as gold, silver and platinum, and a class of magnetic nanoparticles, such as cobalt, nickel and iron. Their most important related compounds are also discussed for biomedical applications for treating various diseases, typically as cancers. At present, both physical and chemical methods have been proved very successful to synthesize, shape, control, and produce metal- and oxide-based homogeneous particle systems, e.g., nanoparticles and microparticles. Therefore, we have mainly focused on functional magnetic nanoparticles for nanomedicine because of their high bioadaptability to the organs inside human body. Here, bioconjugation techniques are very crucial to link nanoparticles with conventional drugs, nanodrugs, biomolecules or polymers for biomedical applications. Biofunctionalization of engineered nanoparticles for biomedicine is shown respective to in vitro and in vivo analysis protocols that typically include drug delivery, hyperthermia therapy, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and recent outstanding progress in sweep imaging technique with Fourier transformation (SWIFT) MRI. The latter can be especially applied using magnetic nanoparticles, such as Co-, Fe-, Ni-based nanoparticles, α-Fe2O3, and Fe3O4 oxide nanoparticles for analysis and treatment of malignancies. Therefore, this review focuses on recent results of scientists, and related research on diagnosis and treatment methods of common and dangerous diseases by biomedical engineered nanoparticles. Importantly, nanosysems (nanoparticles) or microsystems (microparticles) or hybrid micronano systems are shortly introduced into nanomedicine. Here, Fe oxide nanoparticles ultimately enable potential and applicable technologies for tumor-targeted imaging and therapy. Finally, we have shown the latest aspects of the most important Fe-based particle systems, such as Fe, α-Fe2O3, Fe3O4, Fe-Fe(x)O(y) oxide core-shell nanoparticles, and CoFe2O4-MnFe2O4 core-shell nanoparticles for nanomedicine in the efficient treatment of large tumors at low cost in near future.

A Simple Combustion Synthesis and Optical Studies of Magnetic Zn1-xNi(x)Fe2O4 Nanostructures for Photoelectrochemical Applications.

Abstract: Ni-doped ZnFe2O4 (Ni(X)Zn1-x,Fe2O4; x = 0.0 to 0.5) nanoparticles were synthesized by simple microwave combustion method. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirms that all compositions crystallize with cubic spinel ZnFe2O4. The lattice parameter decreases with increase in Ni content resulting in the reduction of lattice strain. High resolution scanning electron microscope (HR-SEM) and transmission electron microscope (HR-TEM) images revealed that the as-prepared samples are crystalline with particle size distribution in 42-50 nm range. Optical properties were determined by UV-Visible diffuse reflectance (DRS) and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy respectively. The saturation magnetization (Ms) shows the superparamagnetic nature of the sample for x = 0.0-0.2, whereas for x = 0.3-0.5, it shows ferromagnetic nature. The Ms value is 1.638 emu/g for pure ZnFe2O4 sample and it increases with increase in Ni content. Photoelectrochemical (PEC) measurements showed a significant increase of photocurrent density with increase in the Ni-dopant, and 0.5% Ni-doped ZnFe2O4 sample was found to show the better photoresponse than the other doping concentrations.

Microwave Combustion Synthesis and Characterization Studies of Magnetic Zn(1-x)Cd(x)Fe2O4 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.5) Nanoparticles.

Abstract: Nano-sized pure and Cd-doped ZnFe2O4 (Zn(1-x)Cd(x)Fe2O4 with x = 0.0-0.5) samples were synthesized by a simple microwave combustion method. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the single phase cubic spinel structure. The average crystallite size was found in the range of 17.47-41.21 nm. The lattice parameter is found to increase with increase in the concentration of Cd. Pure ZnFe2O4 and all compositions of the Zn-Cd ferrites showed similar particle-like morphologies, which is confirmed by high resolution scanning electron microscopy (HR-SEM). Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis shows that the theoretical and observed percentage of the elements; Zn2+, Cd2+ and Fe3+ are in the desired stoichiometric proportion. The UV-Visible diffuse reflectance spectrum (DRS) shows the band gap value increases with increasing Cd content. All the samples showed the characteristic near-band-edge emission at around 428 nm, which is observed by photoluminescence (PL) spectra. The magnetic properties were measured by using vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) and it was found that the saturation magnetization is increased with increase the concentration of Cd content. The results revealed that for lower Cd concentration (x = 0.0-0.2) the samples shows a superparamagnetic behavior, whereas for higher concentration (x = 0.3-0.5), it becomes ferromagnetic.

One-Pot Low Temperature Synthesis and Characterization Studies of Nanocrystalline α-Fe2O3 Based Dye Sensitized Solar Cells.

Abstract: Dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) based α-Fe2O3 nanostructures with two different morphologies, such as nanorods (FeONRs) and nanoparticles (FeONPs), were synthesized by one-pot low temperature method. The crystal structure and phase purity of the as-prepared samples were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and further determined by Rietveld refinements XRD analysis. The average crystallite size was calculated using Debye Sherrer formula, and it shows the range of 9.43-26.56 nm. The morphologies of the products were studied by high resolution scanning electron microscopy (HR-SEM) and it was confirmed by high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM). The formation of pure α-Fe2O3 samples was further confirmed by energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. The optical properties and the band gap energy (E(g)) were measured by UV-Visible diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS) and photoluminescence (PL) spectra. The band gap energy was measured using Kubelka-Munk method, and the values are decreased from 2.36 eV to 2.21 eV as the temperature increased from 300 to 400 degrees C with increasing the crystallite size. Magnetic hysteresis (M-H) loop revealed that the as-prepared α-Fe2O3 samples displayed ferromagnetic behavior. FeONRs sample shows higher saturation magnetization (M(s)) value (40.21 emu/g) than FeONPs sample (23.06 emu/g). The dye-sensitized solar cell based on the optimized FeONRs array reaches a conversion efficiency of 0.43%, which is higher than that obtained from FeONPs (0.29%) under the light radiation of 1000 W/m2.

Polymeric Micelles as Novel Carriers for Poorly Soluble Drugs--A Review.

Abstract: Polymeric micelles are used as 'smart drug carriers' for targeting certain areas of the body by making them stimuli-sensitive or by attachment of a specific ligand molecule onto their surface. The main aim of using polymeric micelles is to deliver the poorly water soluble drugs. Now-a-days they are used especially in the areas of cancer therapy also. In this article we have reviewed several aspects of polymeric micelles concerning their mechanism of formation, chemical nature, preparation and characterization techniques, and their applications in the areas of drug delivery.

Recent Advances in Preparation, Structure, Properties and Applications of Graphite Oxide.

Abstract: Graphite oxide, also referred as graphitic oxide or graphitic acid, is an oxidized bulk product of graphite with a variable composition. However, it did not receive immense attention until it was identified as an important and easily obtainable precursor for the preparation of graphene. This inspired many researchers to explore facts related to graphite oxide in exploiting its fascinating features. The present article culminates up-dated review on different preparative methods, morphology and characterization of physical/chemical properties of graphite oxide by XRD, XPS, FTIR, Raman, NMR, UV-visible, and DRIFT analyses. Finally, recent developments on intercalation and applications of GO in multifaceted areas of catalysis, sensor, supercapacitors, water purification, hydrogen storage and magnetic shielding etc. has also been reviewed.

Effects of Nanofillers on the Thermo-Mechanical Properties and Chemical Resistivity of Epoxy Nanocomposites.

Abstract: MWCNTs was synthesized using Ni-Cr/MgO by CVD method and were purified. The purified MWCNT was used as a filler material for the fabrication of epoxy nanocomposites. The epoxy nanocomposites with different amount (wt% = 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0 and 5.0) of nanofillers (CB, SiO2 and MWCNTs) were prepared by casting method. The effects of nanofillers on the properties of neat epoxy matrix were well studied. The thermal properties of nanocomposites were studied using DSC, TGA and flame retardant, and also the mechanical properties such as tensile strength, flexural strength, compressive strength, impact strength, determination of hardness and chemical resistance were studied extensively. Based on the experiment's results, 2 wt% MWCNTs loading in epoxy resin showed the highest improvement in tensile strength, as compared to neat epoxy and to other epoxy systems (CB/epoxy, SiO2/epoxy). Improvements in tensile strength, glass transition temperature and decomposition temperature were observed by the addition of MWCNTs. The mechanical properties of the epoxy nanocomposites were improved due to the interfacial bonding between the MWCNTs and epoxy resin. Strain hardening behavior was higher for MWCNT/epoxy nanocomposites compared with CB/epoxy and SiO2/epoxy nanocomposites. The investigation of thermal and mechanical properties reveals that the incorporation of MWCNTs into the epoxy nanocomposites increases its thermal stability to a great extent. Discrete increase of glass transition temperature of nanocomposites is linearly dependent on MWCNTs content. Due to strong interfacial bonding between MWCNTs and epoxy resin, the chemical resistivity of MWCNT/epoxy nanocomposites is superior to neat epoxy and other epoxy systems.

Characteristics of Plasma Treated Electrospun Polycaprolactone (PCL) Nanofiber Scaffold for Bone Tissue Engineering.

Abstract: Polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofibers (PCL-NF) with uniform fibrous structure were fabricated by electrospinning. However, PCL-NF has hydrophobic surface, lacks functional groups and hence it is not a good substrate for cell adhesion. To improve the cell adhesion, PCL-NF surfaces were modified by low pressure RF discharge plasma treatment using monomer such as acrylic acid or oxygen gas. The plasma treated PCL-NFs improved the wettability and cell proliferation.