Morphology Of NPs Research Articles

Optimization, imaging and LHE analysis of magnesium oxide nanoparticles synthesized with carambola extract as natural dye sensitizer

This work explores the enhancement of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) by using magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO NPs) that have been green-synthesized, with carambola extract acting as a natural dye sensitizer. Green synthesis minimizes the negative effects of traditional synthesis methods on the environment by providing a sustainable and ecologically friendly way to produce MgO NPs. To increase their effectiveness in DSSC applications, the synthesized nanoparticles underwent optimization. The morphology and size distribution of MgO NPs were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), which revealed spherical forms with a consistent size distribution. The crystalline nature of the MgO NPs was verified by X-ray diffraction (XRD), which revealed distinctive peaks that correspond to the bulk MgO crystal planes. A band gap of 3.5 eV, appropriate for UV region absorption, was found using UV–visible spectroscopy. FT-IR (Fourier-transform infrared) spectroscopy revealed information about their molecular compositions. Positive electronic characteristics, such as a negative total energy change (ΔE_T) and a high electrophilicity index (ω), which indicates effective charge transfer, were found through computational analysis. The light harvesting efficiency (LHE) value of 0.00459 signifies optimal light absorption capability by the dye molecule. The outcomes show that MgO NPs that have undergone green synthesis have the potential to be efficient and stable sensitizers for DSSCs. In addition to highlighting the significance of green synthesis techniques in nanomaterial research for renewable energy applications, this work advances the development of efficient and sustainable solar energy systems.

Preparation and Characterization of Berberine-Loaded Bovine Serum Albumin Nanoparticles: Encapsulation Efficiency and Release Rate Determination

Abstract Introduction/Objective Introduction: Berberine (BER) has garnered attention in various studies for its diverse biochemical and pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidepressant, anticancer, antihyperglycemic, hypolipidemic, antihypertensive, and hepatoprotective effects. Nanoparticles serve as efficient carriers for drugs, offering increased surface area and enhanced dissolution in the bloodstream, thereby improving drug delivery. Methods/Case Report Methods: Blank Bovine Serum Albumin Nanoparticles (BSA NPs) were synthesized using a desolvation process, followed by the fabrication of Berberine-loaded Bovine Serum Albumin Nanoparticles (BER-NP). Physicochemical characterization, including particle size and zeta potential, was conducted using a Malvern Zetasizer and dynamic light scattering (DLS). Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was employed to visualize the morphology of both blank BSA NPs and BER-loaded nanocarriers. Results (if a Case Study enter NA) Results: Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectra and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) thermograms were obtained for free berberine, BSA NPs, and BER-NPs. Encapsulation efficiency (EE) was determined by measuring the concentration of free BER in the supernatant after centrifugation, with EE calculated based on the difference between total added berberine and the measured supernatant concentration. Dialysis membranes were utilized to assess BER release from BER-NPs in vitro, with initial BER content in nanoparticles determining the release profile. Conclusion Conclusion: The prepared nanoparticles have demonstrated the potential to enhance drug permeation across epithelial and endothelial barriers. This approach holds promise for targeted drug delivery to specific sites, facilitating combined therapy with distinct modalities or drugs.

Green synthesis of Oscimum Sanctum mediated silver nanoparticles to fabricate sensors for hydrogen peroxide detection

In this study, silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) of an average size of ∼15 nm have been produced using the green synthesis technique with Oscimum Sanctum leaf extract. Further, these nanoparticles have been used to prepare electrodes for electrochemical sensors to monitor hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide sensors have many applications in different sectors, such as medical, agriculture, and industry. The optical and structural characteristics of the Ag NPs have been investigated by UV–visible absorption spectroscopy and XRD patterns. Particle size, shape, and morphology of as-synthesized Ag NPs have been analyzed using transmission and scanning electron microscopic techniques. These nanoparticles were deposited onto an indium-tin-oxide glass substrate using the electrophoretic technique, which was used as an electrode to assess the electro-oxidation of Ag NPs by cyclic voltammetry. The sensitivity of the sensor has been estimated to be 4.16 µA/mM-cm2. The limit of detection of the sensor is estimated to be 40 µM within the linear range of 5–28 mM. The lattice parameter, interplanar spacing, and crystallite size of Ag NPs have been quantified and estimated against pH variation.

Effect of surface charge on laser-produced silver nanoparticles for dye reduction and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy

Silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) are widely used in biological, chemical, and physical fields due to their distinct properties. However, the effect of surfactants with different polarities on the catalytic and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) performance of Ag NPs has not been thoroughly studied. Here, we tailor the surface charge of laser-synthesized Ag NP without changing their morphology and investigate their catalytic and SERS capabilities. The surfactant-free silver nanoparticles (NPBare), synthesized via pulsed laser ablation in liquid (PLAL), are subsequently coated with ionic surfactants sodium dodecyl sulfate (NPSDS) and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (NPCTAB). The synthesis and morphology of Ag NPs are confirmed using UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The surface charge of fabricated NPs is determined using zeta potential (ZP) measurements. The ZP values of NPBare, NPSDS, and NPCTAB are determined to be -17 mV, 28.7 mV, and 5.58 mV, respectively. The catalytic activity of bare and coated Ag NPs was tested against the cationic and anionic dyes, Methylene blue (MB) and Methyl orange (MO) respectively. The reduction rate of both dyes was highest when using NPBare. However, in the case of coated nanoparticles, the rate of MB and MO reduction depends on the difference between the ZP of the dye and nanoparticles: the rate of reduction increases with the difference between the zeta potentials of the dye and coated nanoparticles increases. The SERS capability of bare and coated NPs was evaluated for anionic (MO) and cationic (MB, Rhodamine B, and Crystal Violet) dyes. The SERS intensity of dyes strongly enhanced with the increase in ZP difference between the dye molecules and NPs. Surface charge modified NPs shown excellent SERS sensitivity with detection limit up to nanomolar for dye molecules as well as the homogeneity of NPs demonstrated in Raman mapping results with relative standard deviation of 17%. The results suggest that the electrostatic interaction between the nanoparticles and dye molecules plays a dominant role in SERS enhancement. These findings highlight the significance of surface charge in improving the catalytic and sensing properties of noble metal nanoparticles.

Biological activity of MgO nanoparticle synthesis by plasma-assisted reduction method

In the current report, MgO nanoparticles are synthesized by the plasma-assisted reduction method. This method is eco-friendly due to its safety, not use of toxic reducing agents, low cost, and rapid synthesis. Several techniques were employed to determine the crystalline size, particle size, morphology, elemental analysis, and optical properties of the MgO NPs. MgO nanoparticles had a semi-spherical particle structure with diameters ranging from 30.40 to 39.57 nm. The average crystalline size was measured to be 23.7 nm. An analysis using a UV–vis spectrophotometer reveals that the absorbance of MgO nanoparticles results in a significant peak at 354 nm, indicating an energy band gap of 3.2 eV. Subsequent detailed analysis was performed utilizing Rietveld refinement to accurately determine the crystallographic parameters. Additionally, electron density mapping was scrutinized to provide further insights into the atomic arrangement. The antibacterial and antibiofilm activity of MgO NPs was assessed against Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli (gram-negative), and Staphylococcus aureus (gram-positive) bacteria at a dose concentration of 10 mg l−1. The antibacterial activity (zone of inhibition) and inhibition biofilm rate of MgO NPs against S aureus were more effective than those of K peneumoniae and E. coli. Consequently, this investigation demonstrates that the MgO NPs exhibited strong antibacterial properties and exhibited significant potential for the inhibition of pathogenic bacteria.

Green synthesis of Au nanoparticles by Scutellaria barbata extract for chemo-photothermal anticancer therapy

IntroductionThe combination of photothermal therapy and chemotherapy has emerged as a promising strategy for cancer treatment. The green synthesis of gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) using extracts from traditional Chinese medicine Scutellaria barbata D. Don (Scu) has revealed an economical, sustainable, and eco-friendly approach for the outstanding anticancer activities. MethodsScu extract was mixed with HAuCl4 solution to fabricate Scu-Au NPs. The synthesis process was optimized by varying the reaction temperature, reaction time, and HAuCl4 concentration. The changes in the components of Scu before and after synthesis were analyzed using the 3,5-dinitrosalicylic acid (DNS) reduction test, the rutin colorimetric method, and the Folin–Ciocalteu method. The morphology, size, and structure of Scu-Au NPs were characterized by TEM, DLS, XRD, and XPS. The photothermal characteristics induced by near-infrared (NIR) irradiation were assessed by continuously monitoring the temperature elevation. The anticancer activity and mechanisms of Scu-Au NPs were investigated using MTT assay, cell uptake studies, ROS level detection, cell apoptosis and necrosis assays, flow cytometry analysis, intracellular Caspase-3 protein activity fluorescence detection, and Western blot analysis on A549, 4T1, and RAW264.7 cells. ResultsScu-Au NPs were successfully fabricated using Scu extract as a reducing agent. The Scu-Au NPs were spherical with a size of 50 nm. During the synthesis process, the levels of reducing sugars, flavonoids, and polyphenols in the Scu extract decreased by 80.8%, 54.3%, and 70.1%, respectively. Scu-Au NPs demonstrated excellent photothermal responsiveness, thermostability, and biocompatibility. For chemo-photothermal anticancer therapy, the cytotoxicity of Scu-Au NPs on 4T1 cells reached approximately 85% upon exposure to 808 nm NIR irradiation. The anticancer activity was attributed to the induction of apoptosis and necrosis, achieved by increasing intracellular ROS levels, causing cell cycle arrest at the S phase, and modulating the expression of apoptosis-related proteins. DiscussionOur synthesized Scu-Au NPs exhibit favorable photothermal conversion characteristics, demonstrating excellent therapeutic efficacy and safety for cancer treatment.

SnO2 encapsulated in alginate matrix: Evaluation and optimization of bioinspired nanoadsorbents for azo dye removal.

Synthesized SnO2 NPs demonstrate potential capacity to adsorb toxic azo dye. Powder X-ray diffraction and SEM imaging confirmed the rutile phase and spherical morphology of SnO2 NPs. Average particle size has been confirmed to be approximately 3 nm through TEM analysis. Adsorption capacity is attributed to the high surface and presence of oxygen vacancy confirmed through BET and XPS, respectively. To mitigate the leaching of NPs in treated water, the encapsulation of NPs in sodium alginate (SA) has been proposed as an environmentally friendly, biocompatible, and economic solution. This study specifically focuses on investigating the parameters for the encapsulation of NPs within a sodium alginate matrix using CaCl2 as cross-linker, including effect of physical shape of encapsulation, effect of sodium alginate and CaCl2 concentration on the encapsulation efficiency and overall adsorption efficiency. Experimental results indicated that the physical form of encapsulation, such as spherical, wire-like, or irregular shape maintained consistent adsorption efficiency, which indicates its versatility. For effective encapsulation of NPs and adsorption, SA and CaCl2 concentration are suggested to be within the range of 0.2-0.3 g and > 0.5 M, respectively..

Effect of solvothermal reaction time on adsorption and photocatalytic activity of spinel ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles

The present investigation explored the impact of solvothermal reaction time on the adsorption properties of synthesized spinel ZnFe2O4 Nanoparticles (ZF NPs) and their photocatalytic activity for the degradation of congo red (CR) dye. The structure, morphology and chemical composition is identified for the synthesized ZF NPs. The reaction times for the solvothermal synthesis of ZF NPs were investigated at time intervals of 6 hrs and 18 hrs which are denoted as ZF-6 h and ZF-18 h respectively. The XRD confirms the formation of spinel-type ZF-6 h and ZF-18 h with crystallite size of 5.50 nm and 8.36 nm for ZF-6 h and ZF-18 h respectively. The FESEM image of ZF-6 h exhibits microspheres, whereas in ZF-18 h NPs, the microspheres undergoes deformation. TEM analysis of ZF-6 h revealed that the microspheres were consists of 8–10 nm size ZF-NPs. Raman spectroscopy and XPS studies indicates, the reaction time influence the occupancy with 64 % and 32 % of inversion of Zn2+ cations from tetrahedral to octahedral sites in ZF-6 h and ZF-18 h, respectively. The surface area of mesoporous ZF-6 h and ZF-18 h are 138.29 m2/g and 128.41 m2/g respectively as confirmed using BET and BJH techniques. The CR dye adsorption capacity of 123.73 mg/g for ZF-6 h is higher compared to ZF-18 h (99.93 mg/g). The maximum dye removal efficiency evaluated for ZF-6 h NPs and ZF-18 h NPs was 87.33 % and 73.09 % respectively upon exposure of natural sunlight. The recyclability study identifies that ZF-6 h NPs remain stable for three degradation cycles. These results indicate that reaction time in solvothermal synthesis is sensitive to the morphology and physicochemical properties of ZF NPs. The enhanced performance of such ZF NPs is attributed to the synergistic effect of adsorption followed by photocatalytic (photo-Fenton) degradation of dyes.

Green synthesis of undoped and Ag-doped NiO nanoparticles: Evaluation and their synergetic effect on antimicrobial, anticancer, and antioxidant activities

In this investigation, we successfully synthesized nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiO NPs) using a combustion method with Acacia nilotica gum as a biofuel, and systematically altered silver (Ag) concentrations within the NiO matrix. Post-calcination at 400 °C, various characterization techniques confirmed the formation, surface morphology, and crystalline characteristics of NiO NPs. The Ag-doped NiO NPs, particularly the NiAg4 sample, demonstrated remarkable antimicrobial efficacy, with superior activity against both fungal and bacterial pathogens. The NiAg4 sample also exhibited potent cytotoxicity against HT-29 human colon cancer cells, achieving an IC50 value of 1.5 mg/mL. Toxicological assessments revealed that both undoped and Ag-doped NiO NPs maintained biocompatibility with human red blood cells, indicating their potential for biomedical applications. Additionally, the NPs showed strong antioxidant activity and protein kinase inhibition, further supporting their therapeutic potential. These findings suggest that Ag-doped NiO NPs synthesized through a green protocol possess enhanced bioactivities, making them promising candidates for future in vivo studies and diverse biomedical applications.

Effectiveness and biochemical impact of ozone gas and silica nanoparticles on Culex pipiens (Diptera: Culicidae)

Culex pipiens (Diptera: Culicidae) is a vector of many serious human diseases, and its control by the heavy use of chemical insecticides has led to the evolution of insecticide resistance and high environmental risks. Many safe alternatives, such as ozone gas (O3) and silica nanoparticles (silica NPs) can reduce these risks. Therefore, O3 and silica NPs were applied to 3rd larval instars of Cx. pipiens at different concentrations (100, 200, and 400 ppm) for different exposure times (1, 2, 3, and 5 min for O3 and 24, 48, and 72 h for silica NPs). The activity of some vital antioxidant enzymes as well as scanning electron microscopy of the body surface were also investigated. A positive correlation was observed between larval mortality % and the tested concentrations of O3 and silica NPs. O3 was more effective than silica NPs, it resulted in 92% mortality at 400 ppm for a short exposure time (5 min). O3-exposed larvae exhibited a significant increase in glutathione peroxidase, glutathione S-transferase, and catalase activities as well as the total antioxidant capacity. Scanning electron microscopy showing disruptive effects on the body surface morphology of ozone and silica NPs treated larvae. These results provide evidence that O3 and silica NPs have the potential for use as alternative vector control tools against Cx. pipiens.

Green mediated synthesis of cerium oxide nanoparticles by using Oroxylum indicum for evaluation of catalytic and biomedical activity.

The present perspective emphasizes the green synthesis of CeO2-NPs using Oroxylum indicum fruit extract. The synthesized NPs were characterized utilizing analytical techniques, including FT-IR, UV-vis, XRD, SEM-EDX, and VSM. Of them, XRD analysis ratifies the cubic fluorite crystal structure along with a particle size of 23.58 nm. EDX results support the presence of cerium and oxygen in a proper ratio. The surface morphology of NPs, however, was scrutinized using SEM. The lower IC50 value (20.8 μg mL-1) of NPs compared to the reference substance, ascorbic acid (33.2 μg mL-1), demonstrates CeO2-NPs to be a compatible antioxidant. Moreover, the drug-releasing capability of CeO2-NPs was a buffer pH-dependent parameter. The acidic pH solution was 20.5%, while the basic pH solution was 16.9%. The drug-releasing capability was analyzed using the Higuchi model and Korsmeyer-Peppas kinetics. The values of the determination coefficient (R 2) were found to be 0.9944 and 0.9834, respectively. The photocatalytic activity of CeO2-NPs was evaluated, considering methylene blue as a model dye. The degradation percentage was attained up to 56.77% after it had been exposed for 150 min. Apart from this, the synthesized NPs were screened against two fungus species, Bipolaris sorokiniana and Fusarium. The percentage of growth was measured at 56% and 49%, respectively.

Photocatalytic activity for degradation of methylene blue dye-mediated nanocomposite-copper oxide/graphene oxide preparation from blood solution via hydrothermal method with laser irradiation

Blood solution contains an abundant supply of metals, natural polysaccharides, and protein. Copper oxide/graphene oxide nanocomposite (CuO/GO NCs) was created by the hydrothermal method of mixing a blood solution with copper nitrate (Cu2NO3) salt and graphene (G) material, followed by irradiation with a pulse laser ablation (PLA) (Nd-YAG) technique at 250 Mj, 532 nm, 5 cm, and 900 pulses. Paper filters were used to investigate the methylene blue (MB) dye degradation of CuO-GO NCs produced via the PLA process. The structure and optical properties of CuO-GO-NCs were studied and analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) images, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images, and UV–visible spectra. CuO/GO NCs have a cubic shape with an average crystal size range of 11–52 nm, according to XRD research. An average particle size of 40 nm is created in the surface morphology investigated with FE-SEM, indicating the form of small grains in the nanoparticle. Inside cell morphology examined by TEM, a grain particle size of 40 nm is produced, suggesting that the nanoparticle has a tiny spherical form for CuO NPs, while the morphology of GO NPs has a nanosheet-like structure. CuO/GO NCs have an optical band edge value of 2.5 eV and a wavelength of 352 nm, according to the UV–visible spectrum. Using filter paper containing CuO/GO NCs, the degradation efficiency of MB dye after 50 min in the presence of ambient light in the environment was 99 %. This is a brand-new, rapid, and safe technique that has never been used before.

Self-Assembly of Rhein and Matrine Nanoparticles for Enhanced Wound Healing.

Carrier-free self-assembly has gradually shifted the focus of research on natural products, which effectively improve the bioavailability and the drug-loading rate. However, in spite of the existing studies, the development of self-assembled natural phytochemicals that possess pharmacological effects still has scope for further exploration and enhancement. Herein, a nano-delivery system was fabricated through the direct self-assembly of Rhein and Matrine and was identified as a self-assembled Rhein-Matrine nanoparticles (RM NPs). The morphology of RM NPs was characterized by TEM. The molecular mechanisms of self-assembly were explored using FT-IR, 1H NMR, and molecular dynamics simulation analysis. Gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogel was used as a drug carrier for controlled release and targeted delivery of RM NPs. The potential wound repair properties of RM NPs were evaluated on a skin wound-healing model. TEM and dynamic light scattering study demonstrated that the RM NPs were close to spherical, and the average size was approximately 75 nm. 1H NMR of RM NPs demonstrated strong and weak changes in the interaction energies during self-assembly. Further molecular dynamics simulation analysis predicted the self-assembly behavior. An in vivo skin wound-healing model demonstrated that RM NPs present better protection effect against skin damages. Taken together, RM NPs are a new self-assembly system; this may provide new directions for natural product applications.

Enhanced binding interaction and antibacterial inhibition for nanometal oxide particles activated with Aloe Vulgarize through one-pot ultrasonication techniques

The interaction of green zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) with bacterial strains are still scarcely reported. This work was conducted to study the green-one-pot-synthesized ZnO NPs from the Aloe Vulgarize (AV) leaf peel extract assisted with different sonication techniques followed by the physicochemical, biological activities and molecular docking studies. The NPs structure was analyzed using FTIR, UV–vis and EDX. The morphology, particle size and crystallinity of ZnO NPs were identified using FESEM and XRD. It was found that the formed flower-like structure with sharp edge and fine size of particulates in ZnO NPs/AV could enhance the bacterial inhibition. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for all the tested bacterial strains is at 3.125 µg/ml and the bacterial growth curve are dependent on the ZnO NPs dosage. The results of disc diffusion revealed that the ZnO NPs/AV possess better antibacterial effect with bigger ZOI due to the presence of AV active ingredient. The molecular docking between active ingredients of AV in the NPs with the protein of IFCM and 1MWU revealed that low binding energy (Ebind = -6.56 kcal/mol and −8.99 kcal/mol, respectively) attributes to the excessive hydrogen bond from AV that highly influenced their interaction with the amino acid of the selected proteins. Finally, the cytotoxicity test on the biosynthesized ZnO NPs with concentration below 20 µg/ml are found nontoxic on the HDF cell. Overall, ZnO NPs/20 % AV (probe sonication) is considered as the best synthesis option due to its efficient one-pot method, short sonication time but own the best antibacterial effect.

Enhancement of Magnetorheological Fluids with Size and Morphology-Optimized Fe3O4 Nanoparticles: Impacts on Rheological Properties and Stability.

In this study, we synthesized Fe3O4 nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs) of varying sizes and morphologies using the solvothermal method and incorporated them as additives into carbonyl iron magnetorheological fluids (CI-MRFs). We tested the shear stress, yield stress, viscosity and storage modulus of the MRFs using a magnetorheometer to investigate how the size and morphology of Fe3O4 NPs influence the performance of MRFs. Our results indicate that the size of the additive nanoparticles significantly enhances the MR properties of MRFs more than their morphological attributes. This enhancement results from optimizing and stabilizing the CI magnetic chain structure of the nanoparticles in the presence of a magnetic field. Specifically, MRFs with Fe3O4 NPs averaging 250 nm in size exhibit higher yield stress and storage modulus and show increased resistance to shear strains. Although the nanoparticle morphology has a modest effect on the rheological properties of MRFs, hexahedral and octahedral particles can enhance rheological properties through increased internal friction compared to spherical particles. Additionally, Fe3O4 NPs of different sizes and morphologies improve the sedimentation stability of MRFs, with those around 250 nm being particularly effective at slowing down sedimentation. Both hexahedral and octahedral Fe3O4 NPs slow down sedimentation more effectively than spherical Fe3O4 NPs. This paper investigates the rheological properties of CI-MRFs by controlling the additive particle size and morphological features, providing a research foundation for the design and optimization of MRFs.

Novel protocol for rapid evaluation of plasmonic enhancement for up-converting phosphors applied to Y2O3 doped with Er3+ and Er3+/Yb3+

A novel technique was created to quickly evaluate the impact of various ratios on the efficiency of up-conversion emission using a combination of up-conversion nanophosphors (UCNPs) and gold nanoparticles (Au NPs). Four different types of Y2O3 UCNPs with different Er3+ or Er3+/Yb3+ doping, which affects the emission colour as well as the up-conversion mechanism, were prepared via the microwave-assisted hydrothermal method. Au NPs were produced independently using the reduction technique. Different ratios of UCNPs were mixed with the Au NPs in water. The mixed powder composites were extracted for analysis. X-ray powder diffraction was utilized to study the structure of UCNPs with and without Au NPs, while transmission electron microscopy was used to study the morphology and size of Au NPs. Absorption and up-conversion measurements were also made. The novel protocol allowed rapid evaluation of four different Y2O3 UCNPs of Er3+ and Er3+/Yb3+ doped with concentrations optimized for red and green emission over a range of Au/UCNP concentrations, which might usually be done in four separate studies. Despite the wide range of variables, only a decrease in UC emission was measured in the presence of Au NPs, suggesting that the conditions for plasmonic enhancement are limited and not easy to attain. In spite of this, in many phosphor/metal NP systems, the innovative prototyping process can enable quick assessment of possible plasmonic enhancement.

An Exceptional Valorization of CuO Nanoparticles in Ionic Liquids as an Efficient Medium for the Electrophilic Substitution of Indole Towards the Formation of Bis(indolyl)methanes

Aim: Ionic liquids are promising green solvents with simple but unique structure-related physical properties such as negligible vapour pressure, exceptional thermal conductivity, remarkable thermal stability and their suitability and inertness towards a broad range of catalytic applications. CuO NPs have been addressed as a cost-effective and a reagent of a choice that necessitates only mild reaction conditions to offer a high yield of the desired products with exceptional selectivity in a short duration of time. Therefore, in the present work, attempts have been made to explore the catalytic potentials of CuO NPs in an ionic liquid medium to synthesize biologically important bis(indolyl)methanes. Background: Catalytic explorations of metal oxide nanoparticles in ionic liquids offers a cooperative effect that has a significant impact on the kinetics as well as on the outcome of the reaction. Therefore, such catalytic systems in the present times have seized the scientific community's interest from the perspectives of sustainable development in synthetic organic chemistry. The combination of metal oxide nanoparticles with highly tunable ionic liquids is not only used to synthesize simple organic molecules but also explored in the synthesis of complex organic molecules of high commercial and biological relevance. Objectives: The current work offers a rapid and robust protocol for synthesizing bis(indolyl)methanes via electrophilic substitution reaction between indole and various aldehydes in the presence of a CuO nanoparticles-ionic liquid system. The discussion focuses on the high tolerance of different functionalities by the catalytic system leading to the synthesis of bis(indolyl)methanes. Methods: CuO NPs have been synthesized via the co-precipitation method using ionic liquid. The applicability of metal oxide nanoparticles-IL matrix was further investigated in synthesizing bis(indolyl)methanes. Results: The FT-IR absorption below 600 cm-1 and the XRD pattern showing all the peaks in the diffraction diagram revealed the formation of CuO NPs. FESEM images show the flake-shaped morphology of CuO NPs and are found to be separated from the agglomerated clusters Conclusion: Ionic liquid-CuO NPs matrix reveals good to exceptional catalytic properties, and their advancements as a catalytic system at room temperature open new avenues for synthetic organic chemists.

Photo-catalytic dye degradation potentials of Ag-Pd bimetallic nanoparticles synthesized from Vitex negundo.

Plant extracts are a great alternative to synthesizing nanoparticles of different metals and metal oxides. This green synthesis method has opened up numerous possibilities in various scientific domains. In present study, Leaf extract from Vitex negundo is a non-deciduous, long-lasting shrub from the Verbenaceae family is used as capping and reducing agents for the synthesis of silver and palladium nanoparticles. The characterization study UV-vis spectrophotometer analysis showed absorbance value around 320nm which confirming that Ag-Pd nanoparticles have been successfully obtained. Further, SEM is used to investigate the morphology of Ag-Pd NPs, which revealing their spherical and rod-like configuration, aggregation, and the size of the particles are obtained between 50 and 100nm. The successful synthesis of Ag-Pd NPs was further confirmed by the EDAX chart, which displayed the peak of Ag and Pd at bending energies between 0.5 and 1.5keV. According to the quantitative study, Ag and Pd ions found about 5.24 and 13.28%, respectively. In addition, surface studies with TEM confirming that synthesized Ag-Pd NPs are predominates with spheres structure morphologies, with sizes averaging 11.20nm and ranging from 10 to 20nm. Further, Ag-Pd nanoparticles was applied as potential photocatalyst materials to degrade methylene blue dye and found about 85% of the degradation efficiency within 150min of the sunlight exposure thus could be used as catalyst to removal of hazardous organic dye molecules.

Structural Reversibility of Nanoscaled Sn Anodes.

Alloying-type anode materials provide high capacity for lithium-ion batteries; however, they suffer pulverization problems resulting from the volume change during cycling. Realizing the cycling reversibility of these anodes is therefore critical for sustaining their electrochemical performance. Here, we investigate the structural reversibility of Sn NPs during cycling at atomic-level resolution utilizing in situ high-resolution TEM. We observed a surprisingly near-perfect structural reversibility after a complete cycle. A three-step phase transition happens during lithiation, accompanied by the generation of a significant number of defects, grain boundaries, and up to 202% volume expansion. In subsequent delithiation, the volume, morphology, and crystallinity of the Sn NPs were restored to their initial state. Theoretical calculations show that compressive stress drives the removal of vacancies generated within the NPs during delithiation, therefore maintaining their intact morphology. This work demonstrates that removing vacancies during cycling can efficiently improve the structural reversibility of high-capacity anode materials.

Quality by design (QbD) approach-based development of optimized nanocarrier to achieve quality target product profile (QTPP)-targeted lymphatic delivery

Background. Insulin, commonly used for diabetes treatment, needs better ways to improve its effectiveness and safety due to its challenges with poor permeability and stability. Various system has been developed for oral peptide delivery. The non-targeted system can prevent gastric and enzymatic degradation of peptides but cannot increase the bulk transport of peptides across the membrane. However, the non-selectivity is the limitation of the existing system. Numerous carbohydrate-binding receptors overexpressed on intestinal macrophage cells (M-cells) of gut-associated lymphoid tissue. It is the most desirable site for receptor-mediated endocytosis and lymphatic drug delivery of peptides. Objective. The prime objective of the study was to fabricate mannose ligand conjugated nanoparticles (MNPs) employing a quality-by-design approach to address permeability challenges after oral administration. Herein, the study’s secondary objective of this study is to identify the influencing factor for producing quality products. Considering this objective, the Lymphatic uptake of NPs was selected as a quality target product profile (QTPP), and a systematic study was conducted to identify the critical formulation attributes (CFAs) and critical process parameters (CPP) influencing critical quality attributes (CQAs). Mannosylated Chitosan concentrations (MCs) and TPP concentrations were identified as CFAs, and stirring speed was identified as CPP. Methods. MNPs were prepared by the inotropic gelation method and filled into the enteric-coated capsule to protect from acidic environments. The effect of CFAs and CPP on responses like particle size (X) and entrapment (Y) was observed by Box-Behnken design (BBD). ANOVA statistically evaluated the result to confirm a significant level (p < 0.05). The optimal conditions of NPs were obtained by constructing an overlay plot and determining the desirability value. HPLC and zeta-seizer analysis characterized the lyophilized NPs. Cell-line studies were performed to confirm the safety and M-cell targeting of NPs to enhance Insulin oral bioavailability. Results. The morphology of NPs was revealed by SEM. The developed NPs showed a nearly oval shape with the average size, surface potential, and % drug entrapment were 245.52 ± 3.37 nm, 22.12 ± 2.13 mV, and 76.15 ± 1.3%, respectively. MTT assay result exhibited that MNPs safe and Confocal imaging inference that NPs selectively uptake by the M-cell. Conclusion. BBD experimental design enables the effective formulation of optimized NPs. The statistical analysis estimated a clear assessment of the significance of the process and formulation variable. Cell line study confirms that NPs are safe and effectively uptake by the cell.