Nanotechnology-based Products Research Articles

Contribution of nanotechnology to greater efficiency in animal nutrition and production.

Feed costs present a major burden in animal production for human consumption, representing a key opportunity for cost reduction and profit improvement. Nanotechnology offers potential to increase productivity by creating higher-quality and safer products. The feed sector has benefited from the use of nanosystems to improve the stability and bioavailability of feed ingredients. The development of nanotechnology products for feed must consider the challenges raised by biological barriers as well as regulatory requirements. While some nanotechnology-based products are already commercially available for animal production, the exponential growth and application of these products requires further research ensuring their safety and the establishment of comprehensive legislative frameworks and regulatory guidelines. Thus, this article provides an overview of the current state of the art regarding nanotechnology solutions applied in feed, as well as the risks and opportunities aimed to help researchers and livestock producers.

Fabrication of sustainable, antioxidant, and antibacterial PVA nanomembranes loaded with plant extracts for dermal applications

Nanotechnology is unfolding its enormous abilities due to its unique attributes, such as large surface area, increased entrapment sites, and high surface energy. Similarly, nanotechnology-based products are replacing conventional ones due to their superior effectiveness. We have developed a dry, biocompatible, anti-oxidative, and antibacterial electrospun nanomembranes loaded with Cucumber (c. sativus) and Aloe vera (a.b miller) extract into polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) that can be utilized as dermal/skin patch. Various physiochemical characterizations are performed, such as scanning electron microscope (SEM), drug release, hydrophilicity, biocompatibility, antioxidant, and antibacterial activity on the developed membranes to ensure their productivity. Optimal nanofiber diameters were determined to be 396nm and 371nm at 8% wt./wt. and 100% extract concentration. The average particle size of extracts was 155 & 177nm, as determined by the Zeta sizer. The hydrophilicity of all developed nanomembranes is confirmed by having a water contact angle (WCA) of <60° and water absorption exceeding 550%. In addition, the nanomembranes exhibit burst drug release of > 72%, excellent biocompatibility, up to 92.8% cell viability, 86% anti-oxidative activity, and 99.8% effectiveness against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) bacteria. Lastly, nanomembranes can withstand a tensile strength of 53.88N, an elongation of 1.72%, and an air permeability of 16.98mm/sec, making them an ideal choice for multipurpose cosmetic/skin patches.

Magnetite nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs) performed by the co-precipitation and green synthesis processes

Abstract The design of chemical processes and products with a low use of hazardous substances is known as “green chemistry.” The method of producing nanoparticles (NPs) significantly affects their size and characteristics. Currently, there are two primary methods utilized for synthesizing NPs, known as the bottom-up and top-down approaches. To keep the prices of nanotechnology-based products, the green method employs plant metabolites as reducing agents. Two types of magnetite NPs (Fe3O4 NPs) were synthetized and characterized being denominated NPs1 synthetized by the co-precipitation method and NPs2 synthetized using the green synthesis process. It was found that the Fe3O4 NPs1 has a quasi-spherical morphology with a size of 43 nm, while the Fe3O4 NPs2 has a size of 6 nm.

Holistic Study Design Following Quality by Design Approach for Fabrication of Hybrid Polymeric Nanoparticulate Based Dry Powders as Carriers for Ciprofloxacin

Resistance to antibiotics such as Ciprofloxacin (CIP) is becoming a critical issue and needs to be addressed globally. CIP is widely used because of manifold uses; however, the long-term therapy poses serious health risks including FDA black box warnings such as tendinitis and peripheral neuropathy. Therefore, nanotechnology-based products can be an effective measure to improve therapeutic outcomes by maintaining the dose at the target site while reducing the dose-dependent toxicity. Biodegradable and biocompatible polymers, Chitosan (CS) and Hyaluronic acid (HA) were used in this work due to their diverse biological characteristics. A simple yet economical ionic gelation method was employed to synthesize nanoparticles with a plexus-like network; nanoplexes, followed by spray-drying to obtain the dry powders to improve stability. Quality by Design (QbD) approach was utilized during the study for robustness and standardization followed by Design of Experiment (DoE) for optimization in a holistic way. The mean particle size of the optimized powder sample was found to be 301.1 nm with a percentage encapsulation efficiency (% EE) of 78.8%. In-vitro dissolution studies corroborated the controlled release of CIP over 48 h. Also, mathematical kinetic modeling was applied to obtain thorough insight into the mechanism of drug release. Moreover, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were presented to be lower in the case of prepared dry powder as compared to CIP, stating that nanotechnology can improve antimicrobial activity.

A critical review on fate, behavior, and ecotoxicological impact of zinc oxide nanoparticles on algae.

The rapid inclusion of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) in nanotechnology-based products over the last decade has generated a new threat in the apprehension of the environment. The massive use of zinc nanosized products will certainly be disposed of and be released, eventually entering the aquatic ecosystem, posing severe environmental hazards. Moreover, nanosized ZnO particles owing the larger surface area per volume exhibit different chemical interactions within the aquatic ecosystem. They undergo diverse potential transformations because of their unique physiochemical properties and the feature of receiving medium. Therefore, assessment of their impact is critical not only for scavenging the present situation but also for preventing unintended environmental hazards. Algae being a primary producer of the aquatic ecosystem help assess the risk of massive NPs usage in environmental health. Because of their nutritional needs and position at the base of aquatic food webs, algal indicators exhibit relatively unique information concerning ecosystem conditions. Moreover, algae are presently the most vital part of the circular economy. Hence, it is imperative to understand the physiologic, metabolic, and morphologic changes brought by the ZnO NPs to the algal cells along with the development of the mechanism imparting toxicity mechanism. We also need to develop an appropriate scientific strategy in the innovation process to restrain the exposure of NPs at safer levels. This review provides the details of ZnO NP interaction with algae. Moreover, their impact, mechanism, and factors affecting toxicity to the algae are discussed.

Nanotechnology Innovations in Pediatric Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine: A Comprehensive Review.

(1) Background: Nanomedicine, incorporating various nanoparticles and nanomaterials, offers significant potential in medical practice. Its clinical adoption, however, faces challenges like safety concerns, regulatory hurdles, and biocompatibility issues. Despite these, recent advancements have led to the approval of many nanotechnology-based products, including those for pediatric use. (2) Methods: Our approach included reviewing clinical, preclinical, and animal studies, as well as literature reviews from the past two decades and ongoing trials. (3) Results: Nanotechnology has introduced innovative solutions in cardiovascular care, particularly in managing myocardial ischemia. Key developments include drug-eluting stents, nitric oxide-releasing coatings, and the use of magnetic nanoparticles in cardiomyocyte transplantation. These advancements are pivotal for early detection and treatment. In cardiovascular imaging, nanotechnology enables noninvasive assessments. In pediatric cardiology, it holds promise in assisting the development of biological conduits, synthetic valves, and bioartificial grafts for congenital heart defects, and offers new treatments for conditions like dilated cardiomyopathy and pulmonary hypertension. (4) Conclusions: Nanomedicine presents groundbreaking solutions for cardiovascular diseases in both adults and children. It has the potential to transform cardiac care, from enhancing myocardial ischemia treatment and imaging techniques to addressing congenital heart issues. Further research and guideline development are crucial for optimizing its clinical application and revolutionizing patient care.

Current Considerations and Practical Solutions for Overcoming Nanoparticle Interference with LAL Assays and Minimizing Endotoxin Contamination.

Monitoring endotoxin contamination in drugs and medical devices is required to avoid pyrogenic responses and septic shock in patients receiving these products. Endotoxin contamination of engineered nanomaterials and nanotechnology-based medical products represents a significant translational hurdle. Nanoparticles often interfere with an in vitro limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL) assay commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry for the detection and quantification of endotoxin. Such interference challenges the preclinical development of nanotechnology-formulated drugs and medical devices containing engineered nanomaterials. Protocols for the analysis of nanoparticles using LAL assays have been reported before. Here, we discuss considerations for selecting an LAL format and describe a few experimental approaches for overcoming nanoparticle interference with the LAL assays to obtain more accurate estimations of endotoxin contamination in nanotechnology-based products. The discussed approaches do not solve all types of nanoparticle interference with the LAL assays but could be used as a starting point to address the problem. This chapter also describes approaches to prevent endotoxin contamination in nanotechnology-formulated products.

Detection of Pre-Existing Antibodies to Polyethylene Glycol and PEGylated Liposomes in Human Serum.

Polyethylene glycol, or PEG, is common in consumer products, over-the-counter medications, food, and pharmaceutical products. Concerns about PEG immunogenicity and the subsequent negative impact of pre-existing and product-induced antibodies often shadow the benefits of using PEG in nanotechnology-based products. Such anti-PEG antibodies contribute to the accelerated blood clearance of PEGylated nanomedicines and result in premature drug release and antibody-mediated toxicities. Recent data demonstrated that using PEG in COVID-19 lipid nanoparticle-mRNA vaccines is associated with an induction of anti-PEG antibodies in healthy individuals, further contributing to the development or boosting of pre-existing antibodies and increasing the risks of antibody-mediated toxicities to other products containing PEG. Therefore, monitoring the levels of pre-existing and product-induced anti-PEG antibodies provides mechanistic insights for pharmacology, toxicology, and immunological studies of PEGylated drug products.

Knowledge on female hygiene and its associated diseases: a mini review

PurposeMenstruation is a part of the female reproductive cycle that begins with adolescence. Menstruation is a natural change; it relates to several malpractices and misconceptions that may contribute to adverse health outcomes.Design/methodology/approachThe authors have searched relevant papers using Google Scholar and PubMed to write this mini review.FindingsDuring menstruation, poor hygiene maintenance can cause serious illness, which includes the urinary tract and reproductive tract infection. Menstruation management is a hygienic system, and it is essential for females because poor hygiene maintenance during menstruation can cause some infections and numerous sexually transmitted diseases. There are a few nanotechnology-based products that have come into the market to offer some relief to females during their periods.Originality/value This mini review will help researchers to design innovative female hygiene products that can relieve the discomfort caused to women during their reproductive age.

Emerging Applications of Polymeric Nanoparticles in Tumor Targeting

Abstract: Nanoparticles are well-established carriers for targeted delivery of bioactive polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs). They have attracted significant attention from pharmaceutical scientists globally due to their wide range of applications in the medical field. The encapsulation of drugs into the nanoparticles offers several unique characteristics leading to prolonged circulation, improved drug localization, and thus enhanced drug efficacy. It also provides a better understanding of the molecular basis of the disease. Nanoparticles allow efficient maintenance of medication cycles at the target site, with less exposure to normal cells and thus decreasing the rehabilitation period. Despite extensive developments in the field of nanotechnology, specifically in drug delivery, only a few nanotechnology- based products are currently available in the market. Thus, further advanced exploration is necessary to make nanoparticles useful for the betterment of mankind. This review is focused on recent advancements in pharmaceutical nanotechnology with special emphasis on polymers used for the preparation of PNPs and their emerging applications in tumor-targeting. This manuscript also highlights the recent patents disclosing PNPs for tumor targeting.

Application of Nanotechnology-Based Products in Stroke.

Stroke is a disease with high disability and high mortality in the world. Due to the existence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), complex brain structure, and numerous neural signal pathways, the treatment methods are limited, so new drugs and new treatments need to be developed urgently. Thankfully, the advent of nanotechnology offered a new opportunity for biomedical development because of the unique properties of nanoparticles that give them the ability to traverse the BBB and accumulate in relevant regions of the brain. More importantly, nanoparticles could be modified on the surface to meet a variety of specific properties that people need. Some could be used for effective drug delivery, including tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), neuroprotective agents, genes, and cytokines; some nanoparticles were used as contrast agents and biosensors in medical imaging for further diagnosis of stroke; some were used to track target cells for prognosis of stroke; and some were used to detect pathological markers of stroke that appear at different stages. This Review looks at the application and research progress of nanoparticles in the diagnosis and treatment of stroke, hoping to bring some help to researchers.

Exploring the potential of intranasal drug delivery systems in the management of hypertension

Abstract Objectives The current review gives an overview of the anatomical and cellular structure of the nasal cavity. It presents some possibilities and different techniques to enhance the drug penetration through the nasal barrier. It comprehensively details the intranasal drug delivery system and the treatment modalities of hypertension, with an emphasis on nanotechnology-based products. Methods Gather published works about the research progression in the systemic delivery of antihypertensive drugs through the nasal epithelium, the formulation tactics and their related in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo assessment technologies in this field. Key findings Intranasal drug delivery is one of the potential routes for avoiding the first pass effect, lowering drug doses, reducing systemic side effects of most antihypertensive drugs and enhancing drug bioavailability. Conclusions Compared to oral medications, nasal medications often have better bioavailability and fewer adverse effects at the same dosage, which encourages pharmaceutical companies to manufacture additional medications in the form of nasal formulations intended for systemic treatment.

Potential Risk of Nanotechnology Radioactive Materials for Diagnostics

The manufacture of personalized, real time, specific, and sensitive diagnostic tools continue to be of importance as the need for rapid diagnosis and monitoring of disease persists. In many health conditions like cancer and Covid-19 infection timely diagnosis of diseases can affect chances of survival. The accurate and timely diagnosis of diseases is enhanced by the unique optical, fluorescent, and magnetic properties of nanoscale elements. However, ultra-fine Nano particles unintentionally released into the air through human activities like combustion have been linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. This makes it important for Nano engineered devices to be assessed for safety and toxicity concerns. Toxicity studies on the bulk material of the nanoscale elements used in diagnosis does not suffice as Nano materials due to their small size have unique interactions with biological membranes. Radioactive functionalized nanoparticles have been employed in several diagnostic imaging techniques such as Positron Emission Tomography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Computed Tomography, and Optical Imaging. These radioactive nanoparticles provide many benefits over conventional contrast agents including their theranostic ability. Spherical gold nanoparticles used in vivo for CT imaging have shown a 3-fold higher X ray attenuation than an iodine-based contrast agent. The tremendous benefits associated with use of radioactive functionalized nanoparticles calls for study of the risks associated with them as more and more radioactive nanotechnology-based products are employed in health care. Radioactive functionalized nanoparticles should be assessed for safety in both their radionucleotide component and nanomaterial component. Recent studies of nanoparticles have shown that they can lead to DNA damage by generation of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS). Some of the discovered factors that play a key role in the generation of ROS include size, composition, surface charge, and shape. Understanding of the method of different radio nucleotide nanoparticle toxicity, the extent to which it causes toxic effects, and factors involved in its toxicity can help manufacturers reduce or eliminate their toxic profile while maximizing their benefits.

Nanofertilizers for Enhancing Nutrient Use Efficiency and Crop Productivity in Major Rabi Season Crops of Gujarat

Background: In era of innovations it times to use nanotechnology, to maintain the ever-increasing market for food crops. Methods: Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Ltd. (IFFCO) has introduced its nanotechnology-based products i.e., Nano-N, Nano-Zn and Nano-Cu for initial testing on 7 major crops grown during Rabi season in Gujarat. Result: We tested 5 treatment combinations among which treatment T5 i.e., 50% farmer fertilizer practices plus 1 spray of Nano-N, 1 spray of Nano-Zn and 1 spray of Nano-Cu give higher return than all there treatments in all crops. It conclude that application of nano-fertilizers significantly increase crop yield over control or without application of nanofertilzer it is mainly because of increasing growth of plant parts and metabolic process such as photosynthesis leads to higher photosynthates accumulation and translocation to the economic parts of the plant. Foliar application of nano particles as fertilizer significantly increases in yield of the crop.

The Symbiotic Fungus Leucoagaricus gongylophorus (Möller) Singer (Agaricales, Agaricaceae) as a Target Organism to Control Leaf-Cutting Ants.

Simple SummaryThe most used approach to control leaf-cutting ants (which cause damage in agricultural areas) is the application of synthetic chemical compounds that directly affect these insects. But another approach is the use of natural substances that attack the symbiotic fungus responsible for many aspects of the survival of the nest. In this study, we discuss the natural substances already reported in the literature to have fungicidal activity and how they could be applicable as products for the control of leaf-cutting ants.Atta and Acromyrmex are the main genera of leaf-cutting ants present in North and South America, causing extensive damage to agroforestry. Control of the ants requires high handling costs with few effective methods available to decrease the losses. The symbiosis between the leaf-cutting ants and the fungus Leucoagaricus gongylophorus is essential for ant nest survival. Therefore, L. gongylophorus may be a key target in controlling leaf-cutting ants, since its reduction may cause an imbalance in the symbiosis necessary to maintain the nest. Among the options for natural fungal control, plant species are considered important sources of compounds belonging to several classes of natural products that show potential as antifungal agents. This review also presents studies that establish that the antagonist fungi from the Escovopsis and Trichoderma genera effectively reduce the development of L. gongylophorus. The development of nanostructured delivery systems, which have shown advantages over conventional formulations, is suggested for ant control; no commercial nanotechnology-based product has yet been developed, and this appears to be a new approach for future studies.

Blockchain Technology and the Contemporary Business Models; Connecting Nano Energy Storage Devices with Trade for Investors

The rapid rate of growth in nanotechnologies and their application in almost every field of life is not only set to improve the living standards of the general public around the globe but also serves as a great opportunity for business as well. In this regard, a sound business model is required, as the product and services based upon this technology may not conform to traditional business models. In this research, we have reviewed the general business models for Nanotechnology-based products and services. In this respect one of the potential opportunities in the field of Nano energy storage devices and their practical application. We have conceptualized the potential use of “Blockchain” technology in the trading aspect of energy storage contracts and the potential opportunities this presents to the investors as well as the general public who form the wider sphere of stakeholders.

An experimental analysis on nanoparticles role in drilling fluids

The study around nanotechnology has increased in the last decade or so, with rise in applications in many industries. There are now many nanotechnology-based products available like in healthcare, defense, coating industries etc. It has seen rise in usage in oil and gas industry as well. Application of nano particles in water based muds results in reduction of fluid loss and hence increases the wellbore stability and drilling efficiency. In this study, we have examined the fluid loss on water-based mud by adding graphene nanoparticles as additive and estimated the optimum value of nanoparticle composition for having less fluid loss. The results of experimental analysis for filtration loss from water-based mud with addition of graphite nanoparticles was studied and effect of friction factor was analyzed. The nanoparticles concentration added in fluid ranges from 1 to 5 lb/bbl and the size of the particles was observed to be 30–80 nm. Variation of fluid loss volume and friction coefficient under different nanoparticle composition was established.

Employment of nanoparticles for improvement of plant growth and development

Nanotechnology, with its research and results, has become one of the essential fields among scientific disciplines. Nanotechnology is used in many areas of science such as physics, chemistry, pharmacology, materials science, medicine and agriculture. The use of nanotechnology could provide breakthroughs that would revolutionise many scientific studies. The role of nanoparticles in plant nutrition under soil pollution represents a comprehensive overview of nanotechnology in agriculture related to the importance, recycling, and transformation of nanoparticles. Nanomaterials are used in plant protection, nutrition, and the management of agricultural practices. The new challenges nanotechnology faces today include using biological or green synthesis methods to produce nanoparticles and offset the toxicity of conventionally integrated nanoparticles. The efficiency of nanoparticle uptake and the effects of nanoparticles on growth and metabolic functions differ between plant species. The concentration of nanoparticles affects processes such as germination and plant growth and development. The agriculture sector has also profited from various nanotechnology-based products such as nanofertilisers, nanopesticides, nanogrowth promoters, and many more for sustainable agriculture and crop improvement.

Pain Management Using Nano-Bio Fusion Gel in Fixed Orthodontic Therapy-Induced Gingivitis: A Split-Mouth Design Study

Nanotechnology-based products containing antioxidants may be effective adjuvants in the treatment of periodontal diseases. To assess the treatment effect of nano bio-fusion gel (NBFG) in pain perception (PP) in fixed orthodontic therapy-induced gingivitis (FOTIG). The gel contains propolis, vitamin C, and vitamin E in the form of nanoemulsion. Thirty-two patients were finally selected from the orthodontic clinic after assessments for FOTIG. Patients were allocated randomly into active and placebo-control groups. Patients were evaluated at three intervals (T1, T2, and T3). Pain perception using a numeric rating scale (NRS) was performed at baseline (T1), on the 7th day (T2) and on the 28th day (T3) on his/her visit to an orthodontic clinic. In the T1, T2, and T3 period, patients apply NBFG (active or placebo side) to their gingiva after brushing two times a day for 28 consecutive days. Results: The baseline data between the active or placebo group showed almost similar PP. From T1 to T2 and T3, the active or placebo-control group showed significant improvement in PP over time. Compared to placebo, the active group showed highly significant (p ≤ 0.001, T1 to T2 and T2 to T3) improvement in PP. The use of NBFG is an effective means of improvement in PP of FOTIG cases.

Synthesis, Characterization, and Antifungal Activity of Silver Nanoparticles Embedded in Pullulan Matrices.

Steady developments made in nanotechnology-based products have facilitated new perspectives for combating drug-resistant fungi. Silver nanoparticles represent one of the most attractive nanomaterials in biomedicine due to their exclusive optical, electromagnetic, and catalytic properties and antifungal potency compared with other metal nanoparticles. Most studies show that the physicochemical parameters affecting the antifungal potential of AgNPs include the shape, size, surface charge, and concentration and colloidal state. For the present study, pullulan (P) and its oxidized counterpart (PO) have been selected as matrices for the silver nanoparticles’ generation and stabilization (AgNPs). The TEMPO (2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidin-1-yl radical)–sodium hypochlorite–sodium bromide system was used for the C6 selective oxidation of pullulan in order to introduce negatively charged carboxylic groups in its structure. The structure and morphology of the synthesized AgNPs were analyzed using FTIR and EDX. The main objective of this study was to elucidate the antifungal activity of AgNPs on the clinical yeasts isolates and compare the performance of AgNPs with the conventional antifungals. In this study, different concentrations of AgNPs were tested to examine antifungal activity on various clinical isolates.