Spherical-shaped Nanoparticles Research Articles

Nanoparticle-based delivery of harmine: A comprehensive study on synthesis, characterization, anticancer activity, angiogenesis and toxicity Evaluation

The effective treatment of cancer presents numerous challenges, including drug resistance and the risk of detrimental effects on normal tissues. Harmine, a beta-carboline alkaloid, has demonstrated diverse biological properties. This study aimed to synthesize and characterize harmine encapsulated in polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles (Ha-PLGA-NPs) to investigate their potential as agents against cancer and angiogenesis. The synthesized Ha-PLGA-NPs were thoroughly characterized, exhibiting a connected rod-shaped crystal which some retaining the spherical shape of nanoparticles with an average size of 302.96 nm. Furthermore, the nanoparticles demonstrated a dispersion index of 0.23 and a surface charge of −16.51 mV. In vitro cytotoxicity assays conducted on the breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) revealed that Ha-PLGA-NPs possessed significant cytotoxic properties, with an observed IC50 value of 87.74 μg/mL. Notably, no substantial cytotoxicity was observed in human foreskin fibroblasts, indicating a favorable selectivity towards cancer cells. Evaluation of the anti-angiogenic activity of Ha-PLGA-NPs demonstrated a concentration-dependent inhibition of angiogenesis. Mechanistic investigations indicated that the observed inhibition was mediated through the regulation of key genes involved in angiogenesis, including caspase 3, caspase 9, VEGF, and VEGF-R. In vivo studies involving dietary administration of Ha-PLGA-NPs in mice revealed improvements in weight gain, feed intake, liver enzyme levels, and redox potential. These findings underscore the potential of Ha-PLGA-NPs as a promising therapeutic agent for cancer treatment. The observed effects are attributed to their ability to induce programmed cell death and inhibit angiogenesis, thus offering a multifaceted approach to combat cancer.

Evaluation of structural parameters of monoclinic nanocrystalline CuO and study of sunlight-driven photocatalytic dye degradation, antimicrobial and antioxidant potential

Highly pure, crystalline and spherical-shaped Copper oxide nanoparticles (NPs) have been synthesized via facile chemical coprecipitation. Various models including the Scherrer, Monshi-Scherrer, Williamson-Hall, Size-Strain Plot and Halder-Wagner method have been applied to study the crystal structure characteristics. The lattice parameters associated with the monoclinic crystal lattice of CuO NPs were estimated to be a = 4.69 Å, b = 3.41 Å, c = 5.14 Å and β = 99.87(degree), unit cell volume V = 81.35Å3 and cell density dx = 6.49 g/cm3. The photocatalytic dye degradation proficiency at 20 mg/l CuO concentration and 120 min sunlight exposure results the order of percentage dye degradation Malachite Green (88.4%) > Crystal Violet (70.8%) > Eosin Yellow (70.2%) > Methylene Blue (54.08%) dyes. The antimicrobial activity assessment was done against the broad-spectrum pathogenic microbes unveiled the exceptional microbial controlling capability of CuO NPs. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity test demonstrated the potential free radical scavenging activity of CuO NPs with an IC50 value of 47.733 µg/ml. Highlights Synthesis of pure and spherical shaped nanocrystalline CuO was done by using low cost and facile chemical coprecipitation method. XRD, FTIR, FESEM, EDX, UV-Vis, and Raman spectroscopic techniques were used for characterization purpose. The structural and crystallographic parameters of monoclinic crystal structure of CuO NPs were evaluated successfully. The photocatalytic performance of CuO NPs follow the percentage dye degradation order as MG (88.4%) > CV (70.8%) > EY (70.20%) > MB (54.08%) after 120 minutes of sunlight exposure. CuO NPs exhibit promising antifungal activity against COVID-19 associated Pulmonary Aspergillosis (CAPA) causing pathogenic fung. CuO NPs show potential DPPH free radical scavenging activity with an IC50 value of 47.733 µg/ml.

Synthesis, characterisation and in vitro anticancer activity of conjugated protease inhibitor-silver nanoparticles (AgNPs-PI) against human breast MCF-7 and prostate PC-3 cancer cell lines.

The conjugated silver nanoparticles using biomolecules have attracted great attention of researchers because physical dimensions and surface chemistry play important roles in toxicity and biocompatibility of AgNPs. Hence, in the current study, synthesis of bio-conjugated AgNPs with protein protease inhibitor (PI) isolated from Streptomyces spp. is reported. UV-visible spectra of PI and AgNPs showed stronger peaks at 280 and 405nm, confirming the synthesis of conjugated AgNPs-PI. TEM and SEM images of AgNPs-PI showed spherical-shaped nanoparticles with a slight increase in particle size and thin amorphous layer around the surface of silver nanomaterial. Circular dichroism, FT-IR and fluorescence spectral studies confirmed AgNPs-PI conjugation. Conjugated AgNPs-PI showed excellent anticancer potential than AgNPs and protease inhibitor separately on human breast MCF-7 and prostate PC-3 cell lines. The findings revealed that surface modification of AgNPs with protein protease inhibitor stabilised the nanomaterial and increased its anticancer activity.

A novel aloe vera mediated Bismuth–Magnesium–Copper nanocomposite for radiation shielding applications

In the current study, Bismuth-Magnesium-Copper nanocomposites (BMC NCs) are synthesized using versatile solution combustion synthesis using Alovera extract as a reducing agent. As obtained BMC NCs are characterized using standard techniques. Bragg’s reflections confirmed the formation of multi-phase BMC NCs with crystal sizes 18.11 nm and 21.12 nm. The surface morphology of BMC NCs confirmed the agglomeration of spherical-shaped nanoparticles. EDAX spectrum analyzed the presence of Bi, Mg, and Cu. The direct energy gap is found to be 3.08 eV. X-ray/gamma radiation shielding properties are then evaluated using a NaI(Tl) detector coupled with MCA. Shielding parameters are slightly higher than lead. Neutron shielding parameters are compared with conventional shielding materials. Scattering length is found to be 8.8 fm, and neutron absorption cross-section and neutron attenuation parameters of BMC NCs are found to be efficient when compared with lead, concrete, and steel. Bremsstrahlung radiation shielding parameters are computed at 1.511 MeV. Bremsstrahlung efficiency is comparable to lead, bremsstrahlung dose rate and specific bremsstrahlung constant are found to be more in comparison with lead. Thus, BMC NCs are highly efficient in shielding X/gamma ray and neutron radiations.

Novel synthesis of trans-ferulic acid loaded tragacanth-chitosan nanoformulations and evaluation of their biological activities

Trans-ferulic acid, is one of the many biologically significant bioactive components of Datura. It has wide range of potential applications in the food industry, health, and cosmetics industries. Trans-ferulic acid possess myriad properties like anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, antiangiogenic, anticancer, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. To exploit its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, first of all, trans-ferulic acid loaded tragacanth/chitosan nanoparticles (TFA loaded TGCA-NPs) were synthesized by ionic gelation method using tragacanth and chitosan as polymers. Tragacanth used to encapsulate the trans-ferulic acid is a polysaccharide gum, which is used all over the world in industries ranging from the food industry to healthcare systems due to its availability, affordability, non-toxicity, and environmental friendliness. The synthesized nanoparticles were then characterized by using techniques like FTIR, UV–Vis Spectroscopy, SEM and TEM. The particle size of nanoparticles thus obtained ranged from 105 nm to 250 nm. SEM micrograph of nanoparticles showed tiny rod-like structures, which appear to be coated on the polymer. TEM images showed somewhat sphere-shaped nanoparticles with a projecting rod-like structure that might be due to the trans-ferulic acid encapsulation in tragacanth-chitosan polymer. Decent antimicrobial activity of synthesized nanoparticles was observed against pathogenic bacteria named Staphylococcus aureus. Hemocompatibility of trans-ferulic acid loaded tragacanth-chitosan nanoparticles was also examined. The antioxidant activity was evaluated by DPPH radical scavenging assay, in which synthesized nanoparticles showed 41.62 % radical scavenging activity. For in-vitro anti-inflammatory activity Human Red Blood Cell membrane stabilization method (HRBC method) was used, and the results showed higher protection by the synthesized nanoparticles in comparison to the pure trans-ferulic acid and blank nanoparticles.

Effects of AgO incorporation with 2D rGO nanocomposite characteristics and its beneficial electrochemical detection of acetaminophen

In this study, the AgO/rGO nanocomposite was facile synthesized via green molecules controllable route using Ocimum tenuiflorum leaf extract. And, we delve into the electrochemical sensing capacity of nanocomposite for the detection of both acetaminophen and 4-nitrophenols. XRD study revealed that the wider (002) rGO diffraction plane integrates with the Ag crystalline characteristic, with a nanocomposite crystallite size of 10.3 nm. Ocimum tenuiflorum biomolecules effectively reduced the metal ions as well as graphene oxide to the expected elemental compound. The incorporation of various leaf biomolecules such as poly-phenolic and alkaloids was bonded with rGO sheet position in the form of C-OH, C–H, N–H, with C = C molecular presence. The efficient interfacial contact between Ag, O and C (rGO) were investigated using XPS, which claimed that the biomolecular group phenol (O–H) with metallic compound as C-O-Ag around 533.9 eV, which has a significant witness for biomolecules incorporations. An identifiable count of elongated spherical-shaped Ag nanoparticles was stacked as well as incorporated between the thin rGO layers with 31.5 nm of particle size was confirmed by HR-TEM analysis. The electrochemical sensing parameters for acetaminophen the proposed sensor exhibits the lowest limit of detection of 0.25 mM for the linear range of concentrations 0.005 to 0.3 mM and 4-aminophenol exhibits the lowest limit of detection of 0.012 mM for the linear range of concentrations 0.001 to 0.3 mM. Overall, this research underscores the potential of AgO/rGO as a robust and efficient platform for achieving enhanced sensitivity in electrochemical sensing applications.

Silicon nanoparticle-based near-infrared surface enhanced fluorescence without any “dielectric spacer”

For the first time, herein, we report the theoretical investigation on silicon (Si) nanoparticle-based near-infrared (NIR) surface-enhanced fluorescence (SEF). Initially, the scattering spectra of single spherical-shaped Si nanoparticles of different sizes are plotted and characterized all the observed modes using the multipolar decomposition method. Later, the electric field intensity enhancement (EFIE) distribution inside and outside Si nanoparticles is plotted at the wavelengths of electric and magnetic type modes. Finally, the SEF enhancement (χSEF) is estimated by varying the excitation wavelength (λex), fluorescence wavelength (λem), and separation (d) between the fluorophore and Si nanoparticle of different sizes. The χSEF is found to vary from 1 to 3 orders of magnitude when the λem falls in the NIR region. In contrast to the plasmonic or metal nanoparticle-based SEF, the maximum χSEF is observed when d = 0. This indicates that the thin dielectric spacers between the fluorophores and Si nanoparticles are not required to obtain the enhancement in the case of the Si nanoparticle-based SEF technique. This can be considered as a significant advantage over the conventional metal nanoparticle-based SEF, where dielectric spacers are mandatory. Finally, the average SEF enhancement ⟨χSEF⟩ is also estimated.

Optimizing Antimicrobial Efficacy: Investigating the Impact of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticle Shape and Size.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) have been investigated due to their distinct properties, variety of structures and sizes, and mainly for their antimicrobial activity. They have received a positive safety evaluation from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for packaging applications as transparent ultraviolet (UV) light absorbers based on the absence of significant migration of zinc oxide in particulate form. ZnO NPs with different morphologies (spherical, flower, and sheet) have been synthesized via different sol-gel methods and extensively characterized by several solid-state techniques, namely vibrational spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), and nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherms. The ZnO NPs were assessed for their antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (gram-negative bacteria) and Staphylococcus aureus (gram-positive bacteria) to study the influence of morphology and size on efficacy. ZnO NPs with different morphologies and sizes demonstrated antimicrobial activity against both bacteria. The highest microbial cell reduction rate (7-8 log CFU mL-1 for E. coli and 6-7 log CFU mL-1 for S. aureus) was obtained for the sheet- and spherical-shaped NPs as a result of the high specific surface area. In fact, the higher surface areas of the sheet- and spherical-shaped nanoparticles (18.5 and 13.4 m2 g-1, respectively), compared to the flower-shaped NPs (5.3 m2g-1), seem to promote more efficient bacterial cell reduction. The spherical-shaped particles were also smaller (31 nm) compared with the flower-shaped (233 × 249 nm) ones. The flower ZnO NP resulted in a 4-5 log CFU mL-1 reduction for E. coli and 3-4 log CFU mL-1 reduction for S. aureus. The lower apparent antibacterial activity of the flower-shaped could be associated with either the lack of defects on the particle core or the shape shielding effect. Compared to S. aureus, E. coli seems to be less resistant to ZnO NPs, which may be explained by the characteristics of its cell membrane. With simple synthesis techniques, which do not allow the size and shape of the nanoparticles to be controlled simultaneously, it is a challenge to elucidate the effect of each of these two parameters on antibacterial performance.

Synthesis, physiochemical characterization, molecular docking study, and anti-breast cancer activity of silymarin loaded zein nanoparticles

Breast cancer is a major cause of death in women worldwide leading to requirement of new therapeutic strategies. Silymarin demonstrated the anti-cancer activity however, due to low bioavailability its use is restricted. This study aimed to improve the solubility of silymarin by developing a silymarin loaded zein nanoparticles (SLNPs) which was stabilized by beta cyclodextrin. Comprehensive physiochemical characterization studies based on DLS, FTIR, UV–Vis Spectroscopy, FE-SEM, TEM, XRD, DSC, NMR and TGA confirmed the successful synthesis of SLNPs via an anti-solvent precipitation method. FE-SEM and TEM images demonstrated the uniform size and spherical shape of nanoparticles with encapsulation and loading efficiencies of 84.32 ± 1.9 % and 15.25 ± 2.4 % respectively. The zein protein interaction with silymarin, and β-cyclodextrin was shown to be beneficial via the use of molecular simulations and binding energy calculations. Cellular studies demonstrated dose and time dependent cytotoxicity of SLNPs on MCF-7 breast cancer cell. FACS, qRT-PCR and Western blotting showed Bax (pro-apoptotic) upregulation while Bcl-2 (anti-apoptotic) downregulation. Our findings suggest that these loaded nanoparticles are more efficient than pure drug, enhancing its bioavailability and paving the path for developing it as a promising nutraceutical to treat breast cancer.

Achieving new insights on rational design and application of double perovskite Y2CrMnO6 nanostructures as potential materials for electrochemical hydrogen storage performance

Fossil fuel consumption and environmental concerns have long motivated the use of electric vehicles around the world. To meet the global energy demand, hydrogen has been proposed as a clean energy carrier with carbon-free combustion. There is, however, a great need for high-performance electrode materials in hydrogen storage applications in order to achieve the desired goals of long life and superior specific capacity. The purpose of our study is to investigate how novel double perovskite Y2CrMnO6 (YCMO) nanostructures can be used as highly active electrocatalysts in hydrogen storage activity by kinetics of redox and physisorption mechanisms. For the first time, spherical-shaped YCMO nanoparticles were fabricated via sol-gel auto-combustion using grape juice as fuel and complexing agent. A series of physic-chemical and electrochemical techniques was used to analyze the electrochemical performance of resultant YCMO samples based on their uniformity, size, and phase purity, including X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM), Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), Cyclic Voltammetry (CV), chronopotentiometry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and Tafel polarization. At a constant current of 1 mA in a three electrode set-up, the 15th profile of hydrogen storage capacity of YCMO-15, synthesized with 15 mL of grape juice, reached a maximum value of 465 mAh g−1 at a constant current of 1 mA, which is higher than that of YCMO-5 (355 mAh g−1) and YCMO-10 (350 mAh g−1). The results presented here can also lead to a new plan for developing Cr–Mn-based double perovskite oxides with hydrogen storage properties.

Enhanced heat transfer analysis on Ag-Al2\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$_{2}$$\\end{document}O3\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$_{3}$$\\end{document}/water hybrid magneto-convective nanoflow

The primary goal of this investigation is to examine the heat and flow characteristics of a hybrid nanofluid consisting of silver (Ag) and aluminum oxide (Al2\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$_{2}$$\\end{document}O3)\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$_{3})$$\\end{document} nanoparticles over an unsteady radially stretching sheet embedded in porous medium. The investigation is conducted under the influence of several key parameters, namely joule heating, viscous dissipation, porous, slip, and suction. The technique of similarity transformations is used to transform the governing system of PDEs into nonlinear ODEs and the bvp4c solver is used to solve them numerically. The present study examines the influence of sphere and platelet shape nanoparticles on the temperature and velocity profiles. The outcomes are discussed through graphs and tables. A rise in the porous, slip, and suction parameters makes the velocity profile decrease gradually. The temperature escalates when Biot number, magnetic parameter, and Eckert number increase. As compared to sphere shapes, platelet-shaped nanoparticles exhibit the greatest heat transfer and flow. Results reveal that by using Ag-Al2\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$_{2}$$\\end{document}O3\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$_{3}$$\\end{document}/H2\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$_{2}$$\\end{document}O hybrid nanofluid with a volume fraction of 5%, the heat transfer enhancement of platelet shape nanoparticles increased by 11.88% than sphere-shaped nanoparticles. Overall, the platelet shape of nanoparticles offers distinctive advantages in various engineering applications, primarily due to their large surface area, anisotropic properties, and tunable surface chemistry. These properties make them versatile tools for improving the performance of materials and systems in engineering fields. The findings can contribute to the design and optimization of nanofluid-based systems in various engineering applications, such as heat exchangers, microfluidics, and energy conversion devices.

Synthesis of nano-selenium and its effects on germination and early seedling growth of four crop plants

In this work, nano-selenium (NSe) with different shapes (wires, rods, and spherical particles) was synthesized by a wet chemical method. These synthesized products were characterized by x-ray powder diffraction (XRD) analysis, a field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) with an energy dispersive x-ray analyzer, and Raman spectroscopy. FE-SEM images revealed that nanowires with an average diameter of 30–50 nm and length of 3–5 µm, nanorods with lengths of 400–800 nm and diameters of about 20–50 nm, and spherical-shaped nanoparticles (NPs) with diameters ranging from 40 to 60 nm were successfully synthesized. The XRD and Raman analysis confirmed that all the produced NSe samples exhibited hexagonal single-phase crystalline structure with no impurity phase. All three NSe products (SeNWs, SeNRs, and SeNPs) with a concentration range of 25–150 mg/l were used to investigate the impact of shape and concentration on seed germination and seedling vigor of four different crop species, namely, green bean, okra, wheat, and radish. The results revealed that NSe at low concentrations (≤50 mg/l for SeNWs and ≤100 mg/l for SeNRs and SeNPs) can promote seed germination, plant growth, and development of all the studied crop species. However, NSe can adversely affect the growth of plants at higher concentrations (≥75 mg/l for SeNWs).

Development of the Sb4O5Cl2@NbSe2 Composite: The Impact of 2H-NbSe2 Nanoparticles on Sb4O5Cl2 and Their Application for the Removal of Cr(VI)/Fe(III) and Methyl Orange from Wastewater.

A potential adsorbent, Sb4O5Cl2@NbSe2 composite, was generated from the Sb4O5Cl2 photocatalyst and 5 wt % layered 2H-NbSe2 nanoparticles for the highly effective removal of Cr(VI) and Fe(III) ions and methyl orange (MO) from aqueous solution, and a comparison was drawn against the precursors. Sb4O5Cl2 crystallites and NbSe2 nanoparticles were synthesized hydrothermally, and the composite was prepared by the incipient wetness impregnation technique. The crystal structure of Sb4O5Cl2 was determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD) data. Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) study revealed the 2H phase of NbSe2 nanoparticles. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) analysis confirmed the formation of the spherical-shaped NbSe2 nanoparticles from rod-shaped bulk 2H-NbSe2. Morphological changes from the hexagonal to irregular prismatic shape were found upon the formation of the Sb4O5Cl2@NbSe2 composite compared to pure Sb4O5Cl2. Negative ζ-potential values indicated that electrostatic interactions were the predominant factor for the adsorption process. Sb4O5Cl2@NbSe2 provided removal efficiencies of 99% for MO in 6 h, 96.52% for Cr(VI) within 2.5 h, and 92.43% for Fe(III) within 4 h of 10 mg/L initial concentration. The maximum adsorption capacities of the composite for MO, Fe(III), and Cr(VI) were found to be 66.56, 131.48, and 122.30 mg/g, respectively, as calculated using the Langmuir isotherm equation.

Catalytic Reductive Degradation of 4-Nitrophenol and Methyl orange by Novel Cobalt Oxide Nanocomposites

Cobalt oxide nanocomposites were synthesized and used for the catalytic degradation of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) and methyl orange (MO). Cobalt oxide nanocomposites PyroHAB9 was prepared by heating cobalt acetylacetonate complex HAB9 at 300 °C, while PyroHAB19 was prepared by heating cobalt acetylacetonate–carboxymethyl cellulose complex at 300 °C. FTIR indicated the presence of Co3O4 species, while Raman spectrum indicated the presence of graphite in PyroHAB19. The SEM morphology of nanocomposites exhibited irregular spherical shape nanoparticles with sizes ranging between 20 to 60 nm. Additionally, nanowires were also seen in HAB19. Also, 2Ɵ peaks in PXRD revealed the formation of Co3O4 in HAB19. Cyclic voltammetry indicated enhanced electrochemical redox activity of HAB19. The structures of the nanocomposites were related to their catalytic activities. The turnover frequency (TOF) values of the catalytic reduction of p-nitrophenol (P-NP) and methyl orange (MO) were greater for HAB19 compared to HAB9 nano-catalysts. Also, the TOF values of the catalytic reduction of MO were greater than that of P-NP by both nano-catalysts. It is obvious that the rate constants of catalytic reductions for MO by metal oxide nanocomposites were greater than the corresponding rate constants for PNP. The highest rate constant was found for PyroHAB19 in MO reduction.

Assembly of spherical-shaped resistant starch nanoparticles to the oil droplet surface promotes the formation of stable oil in water Pickering emulsions

The use of starch-based nanoparticles in stabilizing Pickering emulsions has gained momentum since it offers a versatile, biocompatible, and sustainable approach with a wide range of applications. In the present study, starch nanoparticles produced using a sequential 3-step physical process were used as particle stabilizers to create Pickering emulsions. According to our results, high amylose starch nanoparticles can provide long-term colloidal stability to Pickering emulsions. The concentration of the particle-based stabilizer affected the size of the droplets, which in turn had an impact on the stability properties of the produced emulsions. By increasing nanoparticle concentration, surface and interfacial tension were reduced, providing the ability to the particles to adsorb at the interface. When starch and oil concentrations were compared using Dynamic Laser Scattering (DLS) and zeta potential, smaller droplets were produced by increasing starch amount and improved stability was depicted. Rheological profiles showed that the emulsion network structure was strengthened by the addition of nanoparticles, increasing the storage (G′) and loss (G″) moduli, as well as viscosity. In conclusion, the produced emulsions can be categorized as Pickering emulsion gels. These networks, specifically at starch nanoparticle concentration of 3% w/v and 5% w/v, have the advantage of preventing phase separation, droplet coalescence, and Ostwald ripening. The formation of a strong gel network was also obtained by Confocal Laser Microscopy (CLSM). All in all, this study provides new insights into the preparation and stabilization of starch-based Pickering emulsions, as the demand for sustainable and eco-friendly solutions in food product development is growing.

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Justicia adhatoda leaves extract and its anticancer effect on human lung carcinoma via induced apoptosis mechanism

In this study, Justicia adhatoda leaves extract was used to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and assess its anticancer attributes against human lung carcinoma (A549) cell line via induction of apoptosis mechanism. Initially, the biosynthesis of AgNPs was evident by observing the appearance of dark brown colour solution. UV–Vis spectrum showed characteristic surface plasmon resonance peak at 420 nm. FT-IR spectroscopy demonstrated the presence of distinct functional groups in both the extract and AgNPs. The peaks in XRD pattern corresponded to 101, 111, 200, and 220 crystal planes, thereby representing face-centred cubic silver. The EDX analysis confirmed the reduction of silver ions. The HR-SEM revealed spherical-shaped nanoparticles with an average size of 8–13 nm. In vitro cytotoxicity of extract and AgNPs was determined against A549 cell lines using MTT assay. The AgNPs revealed higher cytotoxity (59.25 ± 1.3–5.55 ± 1.3 %) than the extract (81.48 ± 1.3–16.66 ± 1.6 %) with reduced viabilities of cells at different concentrations. The IC50 values of the extract and AgNPs were calculated as 95.36 and 15.1 µg/mL, respectively. Apoptosis of AgNPs was analyzed using varied techniques as per the standard protocols. Acridine orange staining showed reduced green fluorescence of A549 cells due to the action of AgNPs. DNA fragmentation assay revealed the breakage of DNA double strands of cells and yielded laddered pattern. Flow cytometry analysis depicted increment in the cells count in S phase and concomitant decrement in Go/G1 phase. Quantitative real-time PCR demonstrated the upregulation and downregulation of Bax and Bcl-2 genes, respectively. Additionally, the exposure of A549 cells with AgNPs induced cytochrome C production from depolarized mitochondrial membrane into cytosol, which further upregulated caspase-9 and caspase-3 genes. In conclusion, J. adhatoda leaves-mediated AgNPs induced the apoptosis mechanism in A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells and indicated its paramount role as an effectual anticancer agent in future nanomedicine.

Techno-economic and environmental analysis of a hybrid PV/T solar system based on vegetable and synthetic oils coupled with TiO2 in Cameroon

To assess the production potential, economic profitability and ecobalance of the photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) system in Cameroon, different configurations of HTF based on water, vegetable and synthetic oils, coupled with different forms of titanium dioxide (TiO2) are used. A numerical code is written in Matlab. The PV/T model connected in direct contact PV-absorber is validated and a multi-objective optimization of the system is performed. The hourly evolution of PV cell temperature for the six HTF configurations revealed a value below 36 °C with Coton/TiO2. The platelets-and spherical-shaped nanoparticles increase the convection transfer coefficient between the fluids and the tubes. TiO2 showed a higher thermal influence in vegetable and synthetic oils than in water at a volume concentration of 4 %. The cotton/TiO2 configuration showed a 12.08 % improvement in electrical efficiency over conventional PV systems with low exergy efficiency compared to water. Configurations with therminolVP-1/TiO2 are better, with the proposed energy cost reduced to 33 % of the price of electricity in Cameroon. The PV/T-Palm/TiO2 system showed an energy cost of $0.03 with a net present value of $568.45, an emission rate of 7.78 kg, a reversibility index of 1.95, an annual cost of $7.07 and a payback time of 5.97yr. This shows that PV/T systems based on vegetable oils are economical.

Irreversibility and nanomaterials shape consequences on peristalsis of magneto hybrid nanofluid via curved configuration with homogeneous–heterogeneous chemical reactions

Over the last decade, research on nanofluids has grown at a breakneck pace. As part of their nanofluid research, researchers have recently attempted to use hybrid nanofluids, made by combining different nanomaterials. The novelty of this analysis is to inspect the consequences of entropy generation on the peristalsis of a hybrid nano-liquid via a curved conduit with homogeneous and heterogeneous chemical reactions. Hybrid nanofluid is formed of copper and iron oxide nanomaterials added to water. Furthermore, the simplified model also considered the Hall current, viscous dissipation, and electrical resistance heating effects. The Hamilton–Crosser thermal conductivity model is used to study the nanomaterials shape effects (i.e. sphere, platelet, and blade) on the thermal features of hybrid nano-liquids. Mathematical expressions for the flow problem are simplified by employing the small wave and Reynolds numbers assumptions, which are then resolved analytically and numerically. Analytical results are used to scrutinize the impacts of several included quantities on the flow and thermal characteristics, chemically reactive concentration, and entropy creation. It is found that with a rise in Hartmann number, the velocity reduces, whereas an improvement is noted in temperature and entropy production for large values of Hartmann number. The noteworthy discoveries indicate that hybrid nano-liquids exhibit enhanced thermal efficiency when compared to conventional nanofluids. Specifically, the introduction of a small quantity of ferrous oxide nanoparticles into the copper–water nanofluid led to less than 2% increase in the thermal transport rate. Additionally, it was observed that spherical-shaped nanoparticles generate more heat in comparison to platelets and blade-shaped nanoparticles. Furthermore, the homogenous reaction parameter and Schmidt number lead to a drop in the concentration profile.

Preparation of protein nanoparticles using diselenide functionalized gelatin for redox responsive release of doxorubicin

The present study demonstrates the fabrication of a nanocarrier system using diselenide conjugated gelatin (G-Se-Se-G) for the redox responsive delivery of a wide spectrum anticancer drug, doxorubicin (Dox). The method involves nanoprecipitation of the aqueous solution of G-Se-Se-G employing ethanol and F68 as the desolvating and stabilizing agents respectively. The drug, Dox is loaded within the nanocarrier by entrapment method during the nanoparticle synthesis. The physico-chemical characterizations confirm the formation of nanoparticles of regular spherical shape with hydrodynamic size, surface charge and loading efficiency of 181 ± 12.6 nm, -13.10 ± 0.83 mV and ∼9 % respectively. Notably, Dox loaded G-Se-Se-G carrier shows significantly higher drug release in response to acidic (pH = ∼5.5) and reducing (10 mM glutathione) sink conditions. Dox release kinetic data fitted to a universal Korsmeyer–Peppas model suggests that irrespective of the nature of stimuli, the release of Dox from G-Se-Se-G carrier follows non-Fickian mechanism which is attributed to the diffusion and erosion. The cytotoxicity studies employing human lung adenocarcinoma (A549) and human normal lung fibroblast (WI38) cells confirm the potency as well as selectively of Dox loaded G-Se-Se-G carrier towards cancer cells. The intracellular drug release studies through fluorescence imaging indeed corroborate the redox (reducing environment) mediated preferential release of Dox from G-Se-Se-G carrier in A549 cells as compared to WI38 cells. Finally, in vivo studies using A549 derived xenograft tumor model establishes that Dox loaded G-Se-Se-G nanocarrier is better tolerable than free Dox with almost similar efficacy.

Improved photocatalytic activity of graphene oxide modified Ag-TiO2 for degradation of piroxicam-20 and dehydrogenation of methanol under light irradiation

BackgroundGraphene oxide (GO), an atomic sheet structure made of sp2-bonded carbon atoms with superior optoelectronic, and catalytic properties, has attracted much interest. Incorporating a carbon-rich material, onto metal-loaded TiO2 is reported to increase the photocatalytic properties of resultant composites. MethodsThis research aimed at the deposition of different amounts (1–5 wt.%) of GO using the ultrasonication method on bare TiO2 and Ag (3 wt.%)-TiO2 (AT3) and studied their influence on piroxicam-20 degradation under visible light and methanol dehydrogenation under UV light. The prepared composites' structural, optical, and morphological properties were characterized using XRD, DRS, HR-TEM, FE-SEM, and XPS. Significant findingsHRTEM analysis confirmed the existence of GO layers and spherical-shaped Ag nanoparticles deposited over the TiO2 surface. GO(5 wt.%)@Ag(3 wt.%)-TiO2 (G5@AT3) displayed better photodegradation efficiency (78 %) (k = 0.0082 min−1) under 120 min, and GO(1 wt.%)@Ag(3 wt.%)-TiO2 (G1@AT3) composite produced higher amount (427 mmol) of H2 from photocatalytic dehydrogenation of CH3OH under 5 h relative to TiO2 (2 mmol), AT3 (166 mmol) and GO(5 wt.%)@TiO2 composite (GT5) (11 mmol). HRMS analysis was performed to identify the piroxicam-20 degradation intermediates. Thus, this research provides a proactive strategy highlighting the cooperative effect of Ag and GO loading to improve the photocatalytic efficiency of TiO2 photocatalyst using both UV–visible light irradiation.