Nanotechnology Laboratory Research Articles

Proof of the effectiveness of novel bioinspired antimicrobial nanostructures

Abstract Antimicrobial surfaces are a promising option for supporting hygiene measures. In addition to many different technologies, research is also ongoing into coatings that are modelled on natural surfaces. In an international project with the National Nanotechnology Laboratory in Costa Rica, the Technical University of Applied Sciences Amberg-Weiden is working on such an aluminum-based nanostructured coating, which is modelled on insect wings and has an antibacterial effect in nature. The aim is to test the effectiveness of these surfaces against bacterial pathogens (Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus) in a standard test procedure, as well as to investigate the resistance of the nanostructures to abrasion and reprocessing. Since the effect of such surfaces depends on the filigree nanostructure, resistance to possible abrasion or damage is a key factor here. Our results show that these coatings exhibit at least detectable activity (log 2.2) against the bacteria in the ISO 22196 test setup. Even after repeated wiping of the coatings with sterile water or reprocessing using ultrasound and wipe disinfection, no loss of effectiveness can be detected. Due to the intrinsic antimicrobial effect of the aluminum, the effectiveness of the nanostructured surface is even higher compared to a completely ineffective control surface. If further studies confirm these initial positive results, the coating we investigated could represent another effective alternative in infection control and prevention.

Seed Priming and Foliar Spraying with Biosynthesized Zinc Nanoparticles on Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Production

The research was carried out at the Green Nanotechnology Laboratory, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka, with a specific emphasis on the biosynthesis of zinc nanoparticles using Pseudomonas and actinobacteria. The zinc nanoparticles were biosynthesized and characterized through UV-Visible spectroscopy, Particle Size Analyzer (PSA), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), (EDX), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). After biosynthesis and characterization of the nanoparticles (NPs), a pot experiment was conducted under controlled condition to know the effect of biosynthesized zinc nanoparticles on wheat. Seed priming at 500 ppm and foliar spraying at 500 ppm at panicle initiation stage with zinc nanoparticles biosynthesized through actinobacteria (T12) recorded significantly higher plant height (93.73 cm), number of tillers per plant (4.87), total dry matter production (45.57 g pot-1), number of grains per spike (46.73), grain weight per spike (1.83 g), test weight (42.26 g), grain yield (3.95 g plant-1) and straw yield (5.97 g plant-1)and found on par with seed priming at 500 ppm and foliar spraying at 500 ppm at panicle initiation stage with zinc nanoparticles biosynthesized through Pseudomonas (T5).

Biofortification of Wheat Using Biologically Synthesized Zinc Nanoparticles

The research was carried out at the Green Nanotechnology Laboratory, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka, with a specific emphasis on the biosynthesis of zinc nanoparticles using Pseudomonas and actinobacteria. The zinc nanoparticles were biosynthesized and characterized through UV-Visible spectroscopy, Particle Size Analyzer (PSA), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). After biosynthesis and characterization of the nanoparticles (NPs), a pot experiment was conducted under controlled condition to enrich the zinc content in wheat using biosynthesized zinc nanoparticles.In wheatseed priming @ 500 ppm and foliar spraying @ 500 ppm at panicle initiation stage with zinc nanoparticles biosynthesized through actinobacteria(T12) recorded significantly higher number of grains per spike (46.73), 1000 grain weight (42.26 g), grain yield (3.95g plant-1), straw yield (5.97g plant-1), zinc content (grain 55.87μg g-1 and straw 66.27μg g-1) and zincuptake (grain 220.69 μg plant-1, straw 395.63μg plant-1 and total zinc uptake 616.32μg plant-1), which was on par with seed priming @ 500 ppm and foliar spraying @ 500 ppm at panicle initiation stage with zinc nanoparticles biosynthesized through Pseudomonas (T5).

Biosynthesis and Characterization of Zinc Nanoparticles Using Strains of Pseudomonas and Actinobacteria

Research was carried out at the Green Nanotechnology Laboratory, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka, with a specific emphasis on the biosynthesis of zinc nanoparticles using Pseudomonas and Actinobacteria. Collection and screening of Pseudomonas and Actinobacterial isolates were done at Microbial Genetics Laboratory, Department of Agricultural Microbiology, UAS, Dharwad. The ZnNPswere biosynthesized and characterized through UV-Visible spectroscopy, Particle Size Analyzer (PSA), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The ZnNPs synthesized through Pseudomonas(AUDP209) and Actinobacteria(AUDT636)isolates exhibited peak values at 365 and 374 nm, with average sizes of 48.7 nm and 54.9 nm, respectively.SEM images revealed the spherical shape of the biosynthesized ZnNPs, while EDX confirmed the zinc ions presence in the biosynthesized samples and the crystalline structure of the ZnNPswas confirmed by XRD.FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the organic compounds present in the microbial extracts responsible for the capping and stabilizing agents for biosynthesis of ZnNPs.

Evaluation of public perceptions on nanotechnology regulation in Costa Rica

Abstract This study investigates the perspectives of individuals, primarily Costa Ricans, on the necessity of implementing regulations for nanotechnology. Through a survey-based methodology, our findings reveal that approximately 98 per cent of respondents consider such regulation essential. The consensus on the need for regulation is significantly influenced by age, occupation, and field of expertise. Participants predominantly identified the health and environmental sectors as those most likely to benefit from advancements in nanotechnology. Despite the widespread agreement on the necessity for regulation, there was a divergence of opinion regarding which institution should oversee these regulations, with the National Nanotechnology Laboratory (LANOTEC) at the High Technology National Center (CENAT) being the most frequently chosen. This study underscores the importance of establishing regulatory frameworks for nanotechnology in Costa Rica. However, it also highlights the need for broader discussions to determine the most effective regulatory practices and the most appropriate institution for their implementation and oversight.

Particles in a box: novel design and evaluation of an adaptable engineering control enclosure for a common split tube furnace to eliminate occupational exposure to refractory ceramic insulation fibers

Split tube furnaces routinely used in nanotechnology laboratories to generate C-based nanomaterials rely on refractory ceramic insulation fibers, which can pose an inhalation risk to operators.

Student Camps to Promote Scientific Vocations in STEM: The Quimi Camp Case

[Objective] From 1988 to 2018, high school students in Costa Rica had to pass a final exam to graduate from high school and be eligible for public university education. In this context, students had to choose a national science test from the areas of physics, chemistry, and biology. Historically, chemistry was the least chosen (4-6 %) of those sciences. On the other hand, there is a need -at the national level- to increase interest in careers related to STEM (Sciences, technology, engineering, and mathematics). [Methodology] Under both premises, in 2016, the first national camp (called Quimi Camp) to promote scientific vocations was held to encourage high school students in Costa Rica to choose chemistry. Quimi Camp is an event supported by the OLCOQUIM National Chemistry Olympiad and the OLCOCI National Science Olympiad, which are in turn organized by the five Costa Rican State universities and the LANOTEC CENAT National Nanotechnology Laboratory at the National Center of High Technology, with the consent of the Ministry of Education (MEP) and the Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology and Telecommunication (MICITT). The participating students made the final evaluation of this event. [Results] The results showed an excellent perception of the event regarding its organization and content. [Conclusions] Quimi Camp promoted students' vocation for science and engineering and positively influenced the selection of a University Career in STEM.

PERUBAHAN SIFAT KIMIA TANAH DAN PERTUMBUHAN CABAI MERAH AKIBAT PENAMBAHAN PUPUK ORGANIK KOTORAN SAPI PADA TANAH SEDIMEN TELUK KENDARI

This study aims to determine the effect of applying organic cow dung fertilizer to the sediment soil of Kendari Bay as a planting medium on the changes in soil chemical properties and the growth of red chili (Capsicum annum L.). This research was conducted in Experimental Field II, and soil analysis was performed in the Analytical Chemistry and Nanoscience Testing Laboratory as well as the Nano Technology Laboratory, Halu Oleo University. The study took place from August to December 2022. This research used a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with 6 treatments, namely without cow manure (M0); cow manure 100 g per polybag (M1); cow manure 200 g per polybag (M2); cow manure 300 g per polybag (M3); cow manure 400 g per polybag (M4); cow manure 500 g per polybag (M5), repeated 3 times, resulting in 18 experimental units. The results of the study showed that there were changes in soil chemical properties due to the application of cow dung fertilizer to the sediment soil of Kendari Bay, and an increase in growth in red chili plants. Total N increased from 0.01 to 0.08%, available P increased from 5.64 to 19.34 ppm, available K increased from 18.42 to 25.58 mg 100-1, as indicated by the increase in plant height and leaf number. The tallest plants were obtained in the treatment with 500 g per polybag (M5), and the highest number of leaves was obtained in the treatment with 500 g per polybag (M5).

PERUBAHAN BEBERAPA SIFAT KIMIA TANAH PESISIR DAN PERTUMBUHAN TANAMAN PAKCOY (Brassica rapa L.) YANG DIBERI PUPUK KANDANG AYAM

This study aimed to determine the changes in some chemical properties of coastal soil and the growth of pakcoy (Brassica rapa L.) given chicken manure and to obtain a treatment that changed the chemical properties of coastal soil and the growth of pakcoy (Brassica rapa L.) was more good. This study used a randomized block design (RBD) consisting of 4 treatments, namely A0 (without chicken manure), A1 (100 g chicken manure polybag-1), A2 (200 g chicken manure polybag-1), and A3 (300 g chicken manure polybag-1). Soil analysis was carried out at the Nanotechnology Laboratory, Halu Oleo University. This study showed that chicken manure increased the nutrient content of total N-, P-available, C-organic, and pH in coastal soil, with a dose of organic fertilizer that gave the best effect, namely 100 g polybag-1.

Academic nanotechnology laboratories: investigating good practices and students’ health status

Academic nanotechnology laboratories: investigating good practices and students’ health status

“Comparative analysis by total yield, antimicrobial and phytochemical evaluation of curcuminoid of district Kasur: With its potential use and characterization in electrospinning nanofibers”

It has been reported through various studies that turmeric of different geographical regions has variabilities regarding the number of phytochemicals, some have a better curcuminoid yield, some have better antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, and even turmeric of some regions does not show compatibility with modern applications due to having unfavorable quality. So, here in this study, we have tried to demonstrate the potential and efficacy of locally produced turmeric powder from district Kasur, Pakistan, through a comparative study with turmeric powder of international grade, analyzing their activity against pathogenic micro-organisms, presence of the number of phytochemicals, and presence of curcuminoid compounds like curcumin, extracted in four different solvents (ethanol, methanol, acetone and chloroform), and were verified by TLC and FTIR spectroscopy. This study justifies that the locally produced turmeric has better quality and potential as it gives a maximum curcuminoid yield of about 25% in Ethanol solvent and showed maximum zone of inhibition against E.coli about 14mm and 16mm against Staphylococcus aureus. While Antifungal activity was also observed high; as compared to the same amount of does of international grade turmeric extract. Further, electrospun nanofibers successfully generated from curcuminoid of Kasur Pakistan with PVA, present uniform, smooth nanofibers with an average diameter of 227. 49 nm. Finally, this study suggests that turmeric of Kasur has similar or more potential as compared to turmeric of international grade, and can be used/replaced in nanotechnology labs for various applications.

ANALISIS PENYEBARAN HARA N, P, DAN K PADA LAHAN SAWAH DI KELURAHAN NGKARI-NGKARI KECAMATAN BUNGI KOTA BAUBAU

This study sains to determine the distribution of N, P, and K nutrients in rice fields in Ngkari-Ngkari Village, Bungi District, Baubau City. The study was carrie out in Ngkari-Ngkari village, Bungi District, Baubau City, taking place from June to August 2021. This study used a random sampling method based on a zigzag fieldwork map and the determination of the nutrient status of N, P, and K was carried out by soil analysis at the Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Laboratory. Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science, Halu Oleo University. The results of this study showed that the nutrient status of rice fields in Ngkari-Ngkari Village, Bungi District, Baubau City varied, namely the N nutrient status with very low-moderate criteria (0.09-0.34%), P nutrient status was low (4.91-5.42 ppm), and K nutrient status is very low (2.85-3.24 me 100 g⁻¹). based on the nutrient status obtained, the fertilizer given is sufficient N, P, K so that it can be met for plants.

A graphene pH sensor fabrication process for a nanotechnology laboratory course

AbstractA laboratory course experiment is described that combines traditional semiconductor fabrication techniques with the application of a nanotechnology‐relevant material, graphene. Sensor devices made with graphene are integrated with a microfluidic device in order to introduce students to new applications of this technology in biology and medicine. The fabrication and test process for a pH sensor is used as a tangible example, exhibiting a changing resistance across graphene strips immersed in different pH buffer solutions. The processing and test equipment required is available in many Si device fabrication educational laboratories.

Design and validation of a tool to assess the safety principles of working with nanomaterials in nanotechnology laboratories

Introduction: The unique properties of nanomaterials, in addition to their applications in science and technology, can be a threat to human health and the environment. Exposure to these materials may occur in workplaces or research laboratories. It can be said that about half of people with occupational exposure to nanomaterials work in academic environments and laboratories. So, the present study was conducted to design and validate a tool to investigate the principles of working safely with nanomaterials in research laboratories. Materials & Methods: The tool was designed using reports, instructions and articles related to " Methods of working safely with nanomaterials". The validity of the tool was assessed using Lawshe method by calculating CVI and CVR. The reliability of the instrument was evaluated using Cronbach's alpha coefficient and kappa coefficient. Results: The tool was designed in 5 sections: "General Information", "Transportation and Storage of Nanomaterials", "Engineering Controls", "Administrative Controls" and "Personal Protection Equipment". After validation, 5 items did not get the necessary points to stay in the tool and were removed. The Cronbach's alpha value for each section of the tool was more than 0.80, indicating that the was "appropriate". Conclusion: According to the results, it seems that the tool studied in this study is compatible for the designed purpose and is ready to be used as a questionnaire or checklist.

Formulation of In-situ Thermoreversible Gel with Moringa oleifera Lam Extract as a Local Drug Delivery System for Adjunct Periodontal Treatment

Introduction: Periodontal disease is an outcome of a plethora of molecular mechanisms associated with oxidative stress, inflammation and oral microorganisms is managed by surgical or non surgical therapies with systemic antibiotics. However, local drug delivery system is known to augment the currently available therapies and improves prognosis. Although, there are several local drug delivery systems available, the search for an ideal agent with antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties continues. Moringa oleifera Lam extracts is one such wonder plant with all the above mentioned effects. Aim: To formulate an in-situ thermoreversible gel with Moringa oleifera Lam extract that could be used as a local drug delivery system as an adjunct to periodontal treatment. Materials and Methods: This in-vitro study was conducted in Nanotechnology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology at Saveetha Dental College, from May 2022 to June 2022. For preparation of thermoreversible gel the 19% of thermogelling polymer poloxamer 407 (15% to 30%w/v) which the least concentration that demonstrates thermoreverisibility at 36°C and 0.2% which is the least concentration of mucoadhesive polymer carbapol 934 (0.2% to 0.5% w/v) which forms sol-gel transition and 5% aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera and cold deionised water were used. Surface pH, gelation temperature, syringeability, in-vitro drug release, stability, gelation time and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis was done Results: The surface pH of the gel was 6.94±0.091 with a gelation temperature of 34°C±0.5. The gel was flowable with good stability and fast release of eight hours. The chemical components compatability study of Moringa oleifera Lam powder, thermoreversible gel without extract and thermoreversible gel with extract were subjected to FITR analysis. The spectral analysis showed no significant chemical interaction between the Moringa oleifera and thermoreversible gel. Conclusion: The study concluded that the thermoreversible gel with Moringa oleifera Lam extracts could be used as an adjunct for the management of periodontal disease with good bioavailability. However, future clinical studies have to be conducted to validate the results of the present study.

Nanosafety: a knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) study among Iranian researchers working in nanotechnology laboratories

Objectives. There is a set of evidence about the adverse effects of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) on humans and the environment. People working with nanomaterials (NMs) (in nanotechnology laboratories and workplaces) are often exposed to these materials. Following nanosafety principals can reduce exposure to ENMs. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of Iranian researchers toward nanosafety. Methods. This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted via a questionnaire designed using the results of a literature review and validated by a panel of experts. After completion of questionnaires by Iranian researchers, data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0. Results. Investigation into the knowledge of study participants showed that 61.38% of them answered the questions correctly. Although 74.34% of the study participants had a proper attitude to nanosafety, only 27.3% of them considered ENMs to be harmful to humans and the environment. Examination of researchers’ performance in laboratories showed that 24.25% of them ‘always’ have good performance. Conclusions. It seems that increasing awareness by teaching the principles of working safely with NMs can help to create a positive attitude toward the principles of nanosafety. Positive attitude can finally lead to the optimal performance of researchers in laboratories involved with NMs.

A perspectiva educativa nos laboratórios de pesquisa: um diálogo entre a escola básica e a universidade

As pesquisas em ensino de ciências têm apontado a necessidade de incorporar, na formação dos alunos da educação básica, experiências educacionais que ultrapassem atividades formais, destinadas aos contextos das salas de aula. Partindo desse pressuposto, neste artigo, discutimos desafios e potencialidades associados às visitas aos laboratórios de pesquisa. Em especial, investigamos como atividades propostas por docentes da escola básica e ações de divulgar de cientistas, quando complementares, podem promover reflexões sobre o saber e o fazer científico. Para tanto, são trabalhados aspectos quantitativos e qualitativos associados às respostas e produções de alunos participantes de atividades de divulgação científica realizadas em um laboratório de nanotecnologia, articuladas a ações que ocorreram no contexto formal de educação. Dentre os resultados, destacamos desafios associados à superação da suposta neutralidade da ciência por parte dos alunos, em especial, da visão salvacionista enfatizada neste artigo. Defendemos que é preciso aumentar a frequência de atividades que promovam discussões sobre a produção e apropriação do conhecimento científico e tecnológico, sempre na perspectiva de articular escola básica e universidade, reconhecendo que ambas são responsáveis pela formação de cidadãos.

Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (Hira) Analysis of Nanotechnology Laboratory in Universities in Indonesia

<p style="margin-bottom: 0.04in; line-height: 0.17in; orphans: 0; widows: 0;" lang="en-US">The article describes a concept of health and safety to conduct research in Nanomaterial Laboratory in Two Public University in Malang, East Java, Indonesia. The utilization of nanomaterials in the world of education has been done in two universities in Malang, namely Malang State University and Brawijaya University. The nanomaterial laboratory as a means for research and development of nanomaterial science that often creates hazards and risks of work accidents for its users, but things that are often not realized. Dangers and risks of work accidents caused by the absence of standards. This research focuses on hazards and accidents in the nanomaterial laboratory using the HIRA (Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment) method, which is then followed by a variety of independent variables. The population in this study were nanomaterial researchers at two universities in Malang. Based on the results of trials between respondents 'competency expertise with the level of risk of workplace accidents in the nanomaterial laboratory obtained p- value 0.00 (<0.05), meaning that there is a significant relationship between the respondents' scientific conservation and the level of work accident risk in the nanomaterials laboratory. Furthermore, the results of the study were also obtained between the research respondents with the level of risk of work accidents in the nanomaterial laboratory with a p-value of 0.00 (<0.05), meaning that there was a significant correlation between the respondent's research experience and the level of work accident risk in the nanomaterial laboratory.</p>

Effect of Enamel Pre-etching with Sodium Hypochlorite Deproteinisation and Bonding Agent on Retention and Microleakage of Pit and Fissure Sealants: An In-vitro Study

Introduction: Sealants have proved to be one of the easiest methods of caries prevention in young permanent teeth, the placement of which is very technique sensitive. The non-invasive method of pretreating the enamel surface by deproteinising it with 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) for 60 seconds prior to etching has proven to be a promising method for improving retention and reducing microleakage of sealant. Aim: To evaluate the effect of enamel pre-etching with sodium hypochlorite deproteinisation and bonding agent on retention and microleakage of pit and fissure sealants. Materials and Methods: This in-vitro experimental study was conducted in Department of Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry at Annoor Dental College, Muvattupuzha, Kerala and Nanotechnology Lab at Amrita Institute of Medical Science. Freshly extracted Intact permanent maxillary and mandibular 20 third molars and 20 premolars mounted on acrylic blocks were divided into 4 groups containing 5 teeth in each group. Molars and premolar were taken for assessing the rate of retention and microleakage, respectively. Teeth in Group 1 were subjected to acid etching only, Group 2 were deproteinised prior to acid etching, Group 3 were subjected to acid etching followed by bonding and Group 4 were subjected to deproteinisation, etching and bonding. Then, all teeth were sealed with pit and fissure sealant and underwent thermocycling in artificial saliva bath for evaluation of sealant retention and microleakage. After thermocycling, retention was assessed on molar by one pre-calibrated blinded examiner by passing a 0.5 mm diameter probe along the margins of the sealant placed to verify integrity, failure, or loss of continuity based on Simonsen’s criteria (1989). To assess microleakage, premolar samples were immersed in rhodamine B, sectioned longitudinally, and examined under a stereomicroscope for assessment of microleakage. Collected data were statistically analysed using Chi-square and Mann-Whitney u test. Results: The results showed 100% retention for teeth in Group 2a, Group 3a, Group 4a, while partial sealant loss was present in 3 teeth from Group 1a. The differences between the groups for retention was statistically significant (p=0.014). In the case of microleakage, Group 3b showed more microleakage and group 4b showed least microleakage and the difference between them was statistically significant (p=0.009). Conclusion: Deproteinisation and use of bonding agent increases retention of the pit and fissure sealants. However, deproteinisation is a more effective method to control microleakage when compared to bonding agent. Thus, it can be considered as an effective method for pretreating enamel surface before sealant placement.

FESD: An Approach for Biometric Human Footprint Matching Using Fuzzy Ensemble Learning

Biometric traits such as fingerprint, retina scan, and palm-prints are used to identify a person at attendance monitoring, banking, passport, travel, and many other applications. Biometric-based person identification is the only method that never changes according to time, and no one can copy it without knowledge. Footprint-based biometric is one way to recognize a person based on different features associated with human footprints. For example, some places, such as airports, nanotechnology laboratories, silicon industries, temples, and public areas, require high security. It is necessary to add a footprint-based biometric trait for such high alert areas. The number of subjects taken by existing footprint-based methods is limited to very few subjects. The above research gaps motivate to add more subjects for this study. The proposed algorithm utilizes the fuzzy logic-based method for personal identification. Considerably 220 subjects with temporal aspects are taken into account to fill the existing methods gap. Three approaches, Fine Gaussian SVM (FSVM), Fine KNN (FKNN), and Fuzzy Ensemble Subspace Discriminant (FESD), have been utilized to create the enhanced human footprint matcher. The Fine Gaussian SVM approach exhibits an accuracy of 84.7%, the FKNN approach results in an accuracy of 92.3%, and the FESD approach gives an accuracy of 98.89%. FESD approach rectifies the recognition rate(to reach the required accuracy of 98.88%) False Match Rate (FMR, the rate of falsely as genuine classified imposters) at 0.01, False Non-Match Rate at 0.093 which is the rate of falsely as imposter classified genuine users) to a set of different matchers for the identification task. It improves the speed of recognition with 220 subjects by implementing the prototype schemes for footprint biometric to evaluate system properties, including accuracy and performance.