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Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN), the first type of lipid-based solid carrier systems in the nanometer range, were introduced as a replacement for liposomes. SLN are aqueous colloidal dispersions with solid biodegradable lipids as their matrix. SLN is produced using processes like solvent diffusion method and high-pressure homogenization, among others. Major benefits include regulated release, increased bioavailability, preservation of peptides and chemically labile compounds like retinol against degradation, cost-effective excipients, better drug integration, and a broad range of applications. Solid lipid nanoparticles can be administered via different routes, such as oral, parenteral, pulmonary, etc. SLN can be prepared by using high shear mixing as well as low shear mixing. The next generation of solid lipids, nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC), can reduce some of the drawbacks of SLN, such as its restricted capacity for drug loading and drug expulsion during storage. NLC are controlled nanostructured lipid particles that enhance drug loading. This review covers a brief introduction of solid lipid nanoparticles, manufacturing techniques, benefits, limitations, and their characterization tests.

The solvothermal method of producing spherically shaped and highly fluorescent tiny (∼3 nm) nitrogen-doped carbon quantum dots (NCQDs) with high quantum yield (43%) from Ixora coccinea flowers and o-phenylenediamine has been approached sustainably. Since these NCQDs exhibit excitation-dependent fluorescence activity, they were used to detect the Fe3+ ion selectively in real-time in human blood serum, because it is a component of human blood. The limit of detection (LOD) of the NCQDs was found to be 60 nM. We also synthesized palladium nanoparticles utilizing the NCQDs without additional reducing or stabilizing agents because these quantum dots serve as both. Numerous characterization techniques were used to characterize the nanoparticles, and all the characterizations showed the presence of NCQDs, which stabilize the nanoparticles. Palladium nanoparticles' small size (4 nm) and large surface area (35.77 m2 g−1) enable them to exhibit strong catalytic activity in Suzuki–Miyaura coupling and cyanation processes. It is obvious that synthetic palladium nanoparticles and NCQDs have a variety of uses in the fields of catalysis and sensing respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective(s): This study explores the biosynthesis of cerium oxide nanoparticles using aqueous extract of Equisetum ramosissimum Desf as both a reducing and stabilizing agent and evaluates its antibacterial activity against cariogenic streptococcus mutans. Materials and Methods: Cerium oxide nanoparticles were synthesized and characterized using UV-VIS, FTIR, XRD, FESEM, EDX, DLS, and Zeta potential analyses. Antibacterial activity against S. mutans was evaluated via the agar well diffusion method. Results: Optical analysis revealed an absorption peak within the 307-314 nm range, suggesting a bandgap value of 3.04-3.37 eV. FTIR analysis confirmed Ce-O stretching vibrations and bonds with phytochemicals from the E.ramosissimum Desf extract on the nanoparticle surfaces. XRD showed a cubic fluorite structure with a crystalline size of 5.99-11.74 nm. FESEM imaging depicted uniform, nearly spherical nanoparticles with estimated sizes ranging from 22 to 31 nm. The EDX spectrum indicated the presence of cerium and oxygen signals, affirming the purity of the fabricated nanoparticles. DLS results corroborated the average nanoparticle size (28.11-54.61 nm), in agreement with FESEM findings and zeta potential values (-11.4 to 29.2 mV) indicating moderate stability of nanoparticles. Antibacterial assays showed significant inhibition zones (20-32 mm) against S. mutans. Conclusion: The green-synthesized CeO2-NPs exhibit promising antimicrobial efficacy against S. mutans, suggesting their potential for dental applications. Furthermore, employing plant extract for cerium salt reduction presents a promising avenue for reducing the environmental impact associated with chemical synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Campylobacter jejuni is a major cause of global foodborne illnesses. To develop alternative antimicrobial strategies against C. jejuni, this study designed and optimized the green synthesis of metallic nanoparticles (NPs) with intracellular components of the medicinal fungus Ganoderma sessile to provide the needed reducing and stabilizing agents. NPs were characterized by transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering, and the quasi-spherical NPs had sizes of 2.9 ± 0.9 nm for the copper oxide NPs and 14.7 ± 0.6 nm for the silver NPs. Surface charge assessment revealed zeta potentials of −21.0 ± 6.5 mV and −24.4 ± 7.9 mV for the copper oxide and silver NPs, respectively. The growth inhibition of C. jejuni by the NPs occurred through attachment to the outer cell membrane and subsequent intracellular internalization and resulted in minimum inhibitory concentrations of the silver NPs at 6 µg/mL and copper oxide NPs at 10 µg/mL. On the other hand, a differential ROS production caused by silver and copper NPs was observed. In summary, this research presents the first demonstration of using green synthesis with the medicinal fungus G. sessile to produce metallic NPs that effectively inhibit C. jejuni growth, providing a sustainable and effective approach to the traditional use of antimicrobials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research explores the eco-friendly synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Chrysanthemum extract, emphasizing its application in antimicrobial treatments. The study primarily focused on assessing the effect of extract concentration on nanoparticle characteristics. The synthesized AgNPs, at higher Chrysanthemum extract concentrations (up to 15%), exhibited a notable decrease in size, from 48.5 nm at 2% to 22.1 nm, and an increase in yield, achieving 2.24 mg/mL. The AgNPs showed a significant antibacterial effect, with the lowest IC50 value of 2.08 µg/mL against Vibrio cholerae, demonstrating a broad-spectrum efficacy. Advanced characterization techniques like SEM and FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the morphological integrity and phytochemical capping of the nanoparticles. The study successfully highlights the potential of Chrysanthemum extract not only as a sustainable source for nanoparticle synthesis but also in enhancing the biocompatibility and efficacy of AgNPs, paving the way for their application in medical and environmental fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis of inorganic nanoparticles for diverse applications is an active research area that involves physical and chemical methods, which typically are expensive, involve hazardous chemical reagents, use complex equipment and synthesis conditions, and consume large amounts of time and energy. Thus, green synthesis methods have emerged as eco-friendly and easy alternatives for inorganic nanoparticle synthesis, particularly the use of plant-based extracts from fruit juice, leaves, seeds, peel, stem, barks, and roots, which act as reducing, capping, and stabilizing agents, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals and circular economy principles. Therefore, diverse inorganic nanoparticles have been synthesized using plant-based extracts, including gold, silver, titanium dioxide, zinc, copper, platinum, zirconium, iron, selenium, magnesium, nickel, sulfur, cobalt, palladium, and indium nanoparticles, which exhibit different biological activities such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, dye degradation, cytotoxic, analgesic, sedative, wound-healing, skin protection, sensor development, and plant-growth-promoting effects. Therefore, this review summarizes the advantages and limitations of plant-based extracts as reducing, capping, and stabilizing agents for inorganic nanoparticle green synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study focuses on fabrication of a cost‐effective Zinc Oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) adsorbent using Syngonium podophyllum leaves extract to remove hexavalent chromium (Cr6+) from synthetically prepared wastewater. Various spectroscopic techniques, including X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (EDX), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), were used to characterize the ZnONPs. Fourier infra‐red spectroscopy (FTIR) detected that various organic compounds like flavonoids, terpenoids, and carboxylic acids acts as stabilizing and capping agent. The batch adsorption study was conducted to investigate the effects of Cr6+ adsorption time, pH, adsorbent concentration, and initial adsorbate concentration. The maximum adsorption capacity was 267.068 mg/g at 313 K. The Freundlich isotherm model was most suitable, indicating multilayer confiscation of Cr6+ on the heterogeneous surface. Chemisorption was identified as the mechanism of sequestration. Thermodynamic studies revealed that Cr6+ removal was spontaneous and feasible, with ΔG° values suggesting predominantly physisorption. Additionally, ZnONPs displayed strong antibacterial activity against S. aureus bacteria, making them a potential alternative to antibiotics. ZnONPs exhibited impressive antioxidant activity. Overall, ZnONPs synthesized through biosynthesis proved to be excellent nano‐sorbents, antioxidants, and biocompatible materials with promising applications in water remediation and healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study describes the use of a novel and eco-friendly biogenic approach for the synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles (Cu2O NPs) utilizing Cucumis melo (musk melon) peel extract for the first time. The extract was discovered to consist of active chemical constituents that function as both reducing and stabilizing agents. The successful synthesis of Cu2O NPs is authenticated by several analytical and spectroscopic characterization methods. Furthermore, the catalytic performance of Cu2O NPs was examined for a cost-effective, sustainable and base-free synthesis of pharmaceutically important quinazolinone derivatives without the use of external ligands or additives. Significantly, the molecular complexation of the synthesized N-heterocycles is being examined, and successful synthesis of targets on a gram scale has been accomplished. Furthermore, the recyclability of the catalyst, control experiments, and the clarification of the underlying mechanisms were discussed in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we employed an eco-friendly approach to produce nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiO NPs) employing an aqueous leaf extract derived from Alternanthera sessilis. The resulting NiO NPs exhibited a monodispersed nature, as verified through UV-Vis spectroscopy, which exposed a clear peak at λmax 280 nm and stabilizing agents during the synthesis of A.S-NiO NPs. The XRD examination asserted the Face Centre Cubic (FCC) crystallinity of the biogenic A.S-NiO NPs. TEM examination revealed a size of 18 nm and a spherical morphology for A.S-NiO NPs. The biogenic NiO NPs demonstrated noteworthy antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer activities. The DPPH scavenging activity was shown to be maximum at an amount of 100 µg/ml, at 62.72%, and an IC50 value of 86.46 µg/ml. Additionally, A.S-NiO NPs exhibited superior antibacterial efficacy P. aeruginosa, E. coli, and other bacteria showed the strongest antibacterial activity. S. pyogenas, and S. aureus, resulting in Zone of Inhibition values of 16 mm, 14.5 mm, 10.6 mm, and 6.5 mm, respectively. Furthermore, A.S-NiO NPs demonstrated potential dose-dependent anticancer efficacy against HeLa and MCF-7 cancer cell lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This investigation aims to synthesize, analyze the molecularity, and test the ability of bacterial inhibition capability of silver nanoparticles that have been synthesized by simply mixing silver nitrate and aqueous extracts of marine natural products with and without the addition of amylum as a stabilizing agent. This research, with and without the addition of amylum as a stabilizing agent, obtained 39.0 and 55.2 mg of solids of round-shaped morphology silver nanoparticles with diameters of 87.9 and 103.0 nm., respectively. In addition, the antibacterial testing assay against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli showed some considerably good results. S. aureus with the addition of amylum had inhibition zone diameters of 8.55 and 7.45 mm, whereas without the addition of amylum had inhibition zone diameters of 7.82 and 7.22 mm. E. coli with the addition of amylum had inhibition zone diameters of 7.0 and 7.65 mm, whereas E. coli without the addition of amylum had inhibition zone diameters of 7.82 and 7.22 mm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colloidal Ru nanoparticles (NP) display interesting catalytic properties for the hydrogenation of (hetero)arenes as they proceed efficiently in mild reaction conditions. In this work, a series of Ru based materials was used in order to selectively hydrogenate quinaldine and assess the impact of the stabilizing agent on their catalytic performances. Ru nanoparticles stabilized with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and 1‐adamantanecarboxylic acid (AdCOOH) allowed to obtain 5,6,7,8‐tetrahydroquinaldine with a remarkable selectivity in mild reaction conditions by choosing the suitable solvent. The presence of a carboxylate ligand on the surface of the Ru NP led to an increase in the activity when compared to Ru/PVP catalyst. The stabilizing agent had also an impact on the selectivity, as carboxylate ligand modified catalysts promoted the selectivity towards 1,2,3,4‐tetrahydroquinaldine, with bulky carboxylate displaying the highest ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eco-friendly iron and copper nanoparticles were synthesized using masquerade and eucalyptus leaves extract as a reducing and stabilizing agents. Iron chloride heptahydrate (FeCl2.7H2O) and Copper sulphatepenta hydrate (CuSO4.5H2O) as metal precursors. It was characterized using UV visible, FTIR, XRD and SEM analysis. The UV result shows the highest peaks at 500 and 600 nm for iron and copper respectively. This is due to the surface plasma vibration of the phytochemical constituents present in the extract. FTIR shows presence of alkanoids and triterpenes, SEM shows the spherical granular with no well-defined morphology and mono dispersed structures for iron and copper nanoparticles respectively. It shows good antibacterial activity when tested against Escherichia-coli and Pseudomonas auredinosa (gramnegative), Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsella pneumonia (gram-positive). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) by bottom-up methods, such as redox reactions using amino acids and gold salts, has turned out to be a novel method for obtaining nanoparticles due to the reducing properties of these biomolecules and the ability to give the nanoparticle peculiar physicochemical characteristics for its biological application, thus derived from the known structure and amino acids functional groups. In this sense, this work shows the characterization using UV-Vis, DLS, FTIR, XPS, and HRTEM techniques of AuNPs synthesized using sodium borohydride (NaBH4) as a reducing compound and L-cysteine methyl ester hydrochloride (cysteine precursor) (HSCH2CH (NH2) COOCH3 • HCl) as a stabilizing agent. The above elucidates the reaction mechanisms for the formation of the nanoparticle through these reactions, as well as the stabilizing action and possible reducing potential of cysteine. Likewise, the resulting Cis@AuNP compounds were subjected to a preliminary biological evaluation using cell viability toxicity tests. The Cis@AuNPs showed high colloidal stability in a pH range of 3 to 11, where the L-cysteine methyl ester hydrochloride functional groups strongly influenced the hydrodynamic diameter and zeta potential behavior. Cytotoxicity assays in mouse leukocytes demonstrated the safety of these nanoparticles. These encouraging results open the way to explore the biological application potential of these systems with the perspective of their possible application in vaccinology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Butterfly pea petal extract (BPE)-loaded water-in-oil-in-water (W/O/W) emulsions were fabricated using nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) as a hydrophilic stabilizer and polyglycerol polyricinoleate (PGPR) as a hydrophobic emulsifier. The impact of different concentrations of NCC and PGPR in different phase proportions on the emulsion formation, rheology, and stability of an anthocyanin-loaded (pH ≈ 7.0) emulsion was investigated. The mean droplet size of the emulsions increased as the NCC concentration increased, while color intensity (greenness) decreased as the PGPR and NCC concentrations increased. A microscopic examination confirmed that the NCC nanoparticles stabilized the inner W1/O phase, whereas the excess concentration of non-adsorbing NCC nanoparticles was suspended in the continuous aqueous phase. The rheological results showed that robust emulsion networks were formed when the NCC concentration increased. A network structure between the droplets and the development of the NCC network during the continuous phase were attributed to a gel-like behavior. Over the course of seven days, the emulsions with a higher proportion of NCC remained stable, as in samples 3%P-%N, 5%P-2%N, and 5%P@1%N, the total anthocyanin content decreased from 89.83% to 76.49%, 89.40% to 79.65, and 86.63% to 71.40%, respectively. These findings have significant implications for the accurate formulation of particle-stabilized double emulsions for anthocyanin delivery with higher stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological extracts have great potential to be used in the synthesis of metallic nanoparticles (M-NPs) due to their variety of biomolecules and different functional groups found in their structure, which act as potential reducing and stabilizing agents. Moreover, is understood as a safer alternative for the environment and health, as it aims to mitigate the use of substance with high toxicity, becoming a more environmentally friendly proposal. In this context, this review emphasizes the influence of the composition of plant extracts, especially extracts that present in their composition biomolecules such as flavonoids, for the synthesis of metallic nanoparticles, focusing on the interactions of the different functional groups found in the structures of flavonoids with metal precursors, to understand the mechanisms of synthesis reaction of metallic nanoparticles. In addition, the use of characterization techniques such as electrochemical, vibrational, morphological and structural is addressed, aiming to understand the potential of biological extracts as reducing and stabilizing agents, as a function of the composition of the extract, and for characterizations of the physicochemical properties of synthesized nanomaterials. Furthermore, the use of metallic nanoparticles as catalysts in the treatment of pollutants, development of electrochemical sensors and biological applications is briefly reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoparticles have attracted substantial attention for their diverse range of applications, particularly in biomedicine applications and drug delivery, owing to their unique properties. However, their tiny size facilitates easy cellular entry, which can also lead to interactions with cellular components, potentially resulting in toxicity and undesirable effects. In this study, a novel nanocomposite formulation was developed using biopolymers, specifically ethylcellulose and collagen, as capping and stabilizing agents to create bimetallic nanoparticles including TiO2@Cr2O3 nanoparticles. Physicochemical and morphological analyses were carried out to validate the formulation's structure. The obtained characteristics emphasized the presence of a nanostructure involving bimetallic nanoparticles. This formulation exhibited excellent biological activity, including high biocompatibility with Vero and WI38 cells at concentrations of 40.4 and 52 µg/mL, respectively, as well as effective anticancer activity with significant selectivity. The IC50 values were determined to be 19 and 22 µg/mL for MCF7 and A549 cells, respectively. The antimicrobial assessment revealed the highest MIC value for A. niger at 50 µg/mL, while the lowest MIC value was observed for Gram-positive bacteria at 3.12 µg/mL. Additionally, the nanocomposite demonstrated antioxidant activity at a low concentration of 1.5 µg/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This current study is designed to incorporate sericin protein as a reducing, capping, and stabilizing agent to synthesize sonication‐mediated silver nanoparticles. Fabrication of sericin‐reduced silver nanoparticles (Sr‐AgNPs) is confirmed using UV–visible spectrophotometry, zeta sizer, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐Ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). UV–Vis spectral peak of Sr‐AgNPs is observed at 420–440nm while the average size is found between 3 to 30 nm. SEM also confirms the reduction of large‐sized (1–40 µm) sericin macromolecules into nanometric hexagonal and triangular silver nanoparticles with a normal distribution (polydispersity index > 0.5). FTIR peaks from 500 to 4000cm−1 are analyzed for sericin while Sr‐AgNPs peaks with minor shifts (700–1000 cm−1 (COOCO stretching) in Sr‐AgNPs) are also observed. XRD peaks of 2θ at 27° with multiple low peaks at 38.2°, 47°, 49°, and 63.8° authenticate the amorphous nature of sericin and sharp peaks at 36°, 48°, 54.3°, and 61.9° with miller indices (hkl) of 98, 111, 200, and 211, assess the crystalline structure of Sr‐AgNPs. TGA reveals that sericin enhances the stability of silver NPs at high temperature (200–600 °C) by lowering the percentage weight loss from 70–80% to 60–65%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work outlines the successful synthesis of selenium nanoparticles (Se NPs) stabilized with gum shellac (GS) and their use as photocatalyst for the enhanced degradation of dyes. Se NPs were synthesized by a simple and cost effective chemical reduction method using selenious acid, GS and sodium borohydride. Gum shellac was used as stabilizing agent. The orange red gum shellac-selenium nanoparticles (GS–Se NPs) were characterized by UV–Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The morphology of these particles appeared to be uniform and spherical as observed in SEM images. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopic profile showed the presence of elemental selenium, carbon and oxygen. The synthesized GS–Se NPs were investigated for their photo-catalytic efficiency towards degradation of methylene blue (MB) and methyl orange (MO) dye in aqueous media. Absorbance was measured at λmax 665 nm and 455 nm for MB and MO, respectively. Maximum degradation of MB in-comparison with MO obtained at 50 mg/L were 81.72 % and 71.42 % respectively. A very slow degradation rate was observed for the MO and MB in the absence of synthesized photocatalyst whereas greater percentage degradation was observed for the GS–Se NPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selenium nanoparticles (Se NPs) have many biomedical applications as both therapeutic agents and delivery systems. The bio-functionality and toxicity of Se NPs are defined by their size, morphology, and surface chemical composition, which are associated with the capping layer on the surface of NPs. Capping agents can modify the characteristics of NPs and make them appropriate candidates for biomedical use. They play a critical role in preventing over-growth and aggregation of NPs, which is one of the major obstacles in NPs preparation. Capping agents stabilize the NPs interface, where is in contact with the surrounding medium and are responsible for the physicochemical and biological properties of NPs. A wide range of compounds with different sources can be used as capping agents for Se NPs synthesis to improve their pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Each capping agent has its unique characteristics leading to a particular NP formation. In this narrative review, different types of capping agents based on their sources and their effects on physicochemical and biological aspects of Se NPs are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simplistic green synthesis route for the platinum nanoparticles has been successfully identified by using chloroplatinic acid hexahydrate (H2PtCl6.6H2O) as the metal precursor and sodium borohydride (NaBH4) as the reducing agent at room temperature. Chitosan was used in minute quantities as capping and stabilizing agent. The visual observation of a black coloured colloidal suspension, the characteristic XRD peaks and the absorption peak in the range of 200-300nm confirmed the production of Pt nanoparticles. The average crystallite size calculated using Debye-Scherrer equation is about 19 ± 2 nm and a less intense absorption peak was found at 246nm and 281nm. The FTIR spectroscopy was used to confirm the capping with chitosan molecules. Zeta-potential calculation gave a surface charge of -23.8mV, and this high negative value, then validated the stability of the nanoparticle. The synthesis of platinum nanoparticles is very significant for their catalytic activity and biomedical applications in industrial as well as healthcare sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents studies on the precipitation of Pt, Pd, Rh, and Ru nanoparticles (NPs) from model and real multicomponent solutions using sodium borohydride, ascorbic acid, sodium formate, and formic acid as reducing agents and polyvinylpyrrolidone as a stabilizing agent. As was expected, apart from PGMs, non-precious metals were coprecipitated. The influence of the addition of non-precious metal ions into the feed solution on the precipitation yield and catalytic properties of the obtained precipitates was studied. A strong reducing agent, NaBH4 precipitates Pt, Pd, Rh, Fe and Cu NPs in most cases with an efficiency greater than 80% from three- and four-component model solutions. The morphology of the PGMs nanoparticles was analyzed via SEM-EDS and TEM. The size of a single nanoparticle of each precipitated metal was not larger than 5 nm. The catalytic properties of the obtained nanomaterials were confirmed via the reaction of the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (NPh) to 4-aminophenol (NAf). Nanocatalysts containing Pt/Pd/Fe NPs obtained from a real solution (produced as a result of the leaching of spent automotive catalysts) showed high catalytic activity (86% NPh conversion after 30 min of reaction at pH 11 with 3 mg of the nanocatalyst). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the chemical industry, 1,4-diethylene dioxide, commonly called dioxane, is widely used as a solvent as well as a stabilizing agent for chlorinated solvents. Due to its high miscibility, dioxane is a ubiquitous water contaminant. This study investigates the effectiveness of catalyst- and ultrasound (US)-assisted persulfate (PS) activation with regard to degrading dioxane. As a first step, a composite catalyst was prepared using zeolite. A sonochemical dispersion and reduction method was used to dope zeolite with iron nanoparticles (FeNP/Z). In the subsequent study, the reaction kinetics of dioxane degradation following the single-stage and two-stage addition of PS was examined in the presence of a catalyst. Using GC-MS analysis, intermediate compounds formed from dioxane degradation were identified, and plausible reaction pathways were described. Upon 120 min of sonication in the presence of a catalyst with a two-stage injection of PS, 95% 100 mg/L dioxane was degraded. Finally, the estimated cost of treatment is also reported in this study. Sonolytically activated PS combined with a FeNP/Z catalyst synergizes the remediation of biorefractory micropollutants such as dioxane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyester pseudo-poly(amino acid)s due to their biodegradability and biocompatibility are promising materials for the development of dispersed systems for drug delivery. It is essential for drug delivery systems to reach the target site within a certain period before they are eliminated or degraded. Biodegradable materials should meet the following criteria: (1) possess surface-active properties; (2) be non-toxic; (3) form self-stabilized dispersions with the size of the dispersed phase in the range of 10–100 nm. Polyesters based on N-derivatives of dicarboxylic α-amino acids and hydrophilic PEG diols modified with phosphate group meet the requirements to the dispersed drug delivery systems. Obtained polyesters have a complex architecture consisting of hydrophilic fragments, which stabilize the system, and lipophilic fragments, which solubilize biologically active substances. The phosphate group introduced into the hydrophilic chain of polyoxyethylene glycol provides chemisorption of a number of biologically active substances due to the formation of ionic bonds between them. Synthesized polyesters form self-stabilized dispersed systems, which do not require additional stabilizing agents when used for medical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using Camellia Sinensis leaf aqueous extract as a friendly reducing, capping, and stabilizing agent, ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) are synthesized via the green process. The plausible mechanism for the ZnO NPs formation is proposed as the chelation of Zn, or metal complexation, under the thermally assisted energy from the annealing process. An inclusive study on the effect of the annealing process on the ZnO NPs is conducted from room temperature to 850 °C. The structural, morphological, thermal, and optical characteristics and their intercorrelation with annealing temperature are thoroughly studied. In particular, the change of crystalline texture coefficient contributed to the systematic perspective of the shape changes of the ZnO NPs. The (002)-oriented growth becomes preferred at 400–700 °C, corresponding to the increase of conical-shaped NPs from 150 to 250 nm in average size. With further temperature, the preferred growth transfers from (002) to (100) orientations, and polygonal spherical-shaped NPs can be obtained. Photoluminescence spectra reveal that singly and doubly ionized oxygen vacancies are the most dominant in the NPs. With the optimized green materials, implementing an eco-friendly memristor based on ZnO NPs found promising for electronic devices. The green synthesis of ZnO NPs using Camellia Sinensis leaf extract. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Catechol is demonstrated as a versatile reducing agent/stabilizing agent for the facile and one pot synthesis of monometallic (Au, Se and Pd) and bimetallic nanoparticles in alkaline condition (pH = 11) based on the redox chemistry of catechol. Catechol-derived PdNPs and SeNPs exhibit laccase and peroxidase like activity, respectively. Catechol derived gold nanoparticles serving as an excellent support for enzyme immobilization with recyclable properties are also reported here. As a test model protienase k immobilized on gold nanoparticles exhibits significant biocatalytic activities without compromising the enzyme activity. In summary. this work offers a versatile reducing agent for nanoparticle synthesis and demonstrates new generation of artificial enzymes. Catechol is explored toward the synthesis of monometallic (Au, Pd, Se) and their corresponding bimetallic nanoparticles and they are found to behave like artificial enzymes [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoparticle applications are becoming increasingly popular in fields such as photonics, catalysis, magnetics, biotechnology, manufacturing of cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and medicines. There is still a huge pile of undermining information about the potential toxicity of these products to humans, which can be encountered by neuroprotective antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Nanoparticles can be administered using a variety of methods, including oronasal, topical applications, and enteral and parenteral routes of administration. There are different properties of these nanomaterials that characterize different pathways. Crossing of the blood-brain barrier, a direct sensory nerve-to-brain pathway whose barriers are bypassed, these checks otherwise prevent the nanoparticles from entering the brain. This inflicts damage to sensory neurons and receptors by nanoparticles that lead to neurotoxicity of the central nervous system. A number of routes make nanoparticles able to penetrate through the skin. Exposure by various routes to these nanoparticles can result in oxidative stress, and immune suppression triggers inflammatory cascades and genome-level mutations after they are introduced into the body. To out-power, these complications, plant-based antioxidants, essential oils, and dietary supplements can be put into use. Direct nanoparticle transport pathways from sensory nerves to the brain via blood have been studied grossly. Recent findings regarding the direct pathways through which nanoparticles cross the blood-brain barriers, how nanoparticles elicit different responses on sensory receptors and nerves, how they cause central neurotoxicity and neurodegeneration through sensory nerve routes, and the possible mechanisms that outcast these effects are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron oxide nanoparticles (NPs) have attracted substantial interest due to their superparamagnetic features, biocompatibility, and nontoxicity. The latest progress in the biological production of Fe3O4 NPs by green methods has improved their quality and biological applications significantly. In this study, the fabrication of iron oxide NPs from Spirogyra hyalina and Ajuga bracteosa was conducted via an easy, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective process. The fabricated Fe3O4 NPs were characterized using various analytical methods to study their unique properties. UV-Vis absorption peaks were observed in algal and plant-based Fe3O4 NPs at 289 nm and 306 nm, respectively. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analyzed diverse bioactive phytochemicals present in algal and plant extracts that functioned as stabilizing and capping agents in the fabrication of algal and plant-based Fe3O4 NPs. X-ray diffraction of NPs revealed the crystalline nature of both biofabricated Fe3O4 NPs and their small size. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that algae and plant-based Fe3O4 NPs are spherical and rod-shaped, averaging 52 nm and 75 nm in size. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy showed that the green-synthesized Fe3O4 NPs require a high mass percentage of iron and oxygen to ensure their synthesis. The fabricated plant-based Fe3O4 NPs exhibited stronger antioxidant properties than algal-based Fe3O4 NPs. The algal-based NPs showed efficient antibacterial potential against E. coli, while the plant-based Fe3O4 NPs displayed a higher zone of inhibition against S. aureus. Moreover, plant-based Fe3O4 NPs exhibited superior scavenging and antibacterial potential compared to the algal-based Fe3O4 NPs. This might be due to the greater number of phytochemicals in plants that surround the NPs during their green fabrication. Hence, the capping of bioactive agents over iron oxide NPs improves antibacterial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of natural reducing and capping agents has gained importance as a way to synthesize nanoparticles (NPs) in an environmentally sustainable manner. Increasing numbers of studies have been published on the green synthesis of NPs using natural sources such as bacteria, fungi, and plants. In recent years, the use of honey in the synthesis of metal and metal oxide NPs has become a new and promising area of research. Honey acts as both a stabilizing and reducing agent in the NP synthesis process and serves as a precursor. This review focuses on the use of honey in the synthesis of silver NPs (Ag-NPs) and zinc oxide NPs (ZnO-NPs), emphasizing its role as a reducing and capping agent. Additionally, a comprehensive examination of the bio-based reducing and capping/stabilizing agents used in the honey-mediated biosynthesis mechanism is provided. Finally, the review looks forward to environmentally friendly methods for NP synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The preparation of three different functionalized palladium nanoparticles (PdNPs) systems for room temperature BTX (benzene, toluene, p‐xylene) sensing detection and their morphostructural characterization is described. PdNPs are prepared through a two‐phase water/toluene wet chemical reduction method in the presence of bifunctional organic thiols as stabilizing agents suitable for the formation of covalently linked PdNPs networks: p‐terphenyl‐4,4″‐dithiol (PdNPs‐TR), biphenyl‐4,4′‐dithiol (PdNPs‐BP), or with 9,9‐didodecyl‐2,7‐bis(acetylthio)fluorene (PdNPs‐FL). Comparing the hydrodynamic diameter values, TR and BP ligands help to obtain networks consisting of spherical NPs of about 2 nm, in which each bifunctional ligand act as a bridge between PdNPs. In contrast, PdNPs‐FL show a population centered at <2RH> = 45 ± 5 nm. To perform preliminary gas sensing measurements, PdNPs networks are cast deposited on interdigitated electrodes to study their resistive response toward volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as benzene (0–5%), toluene (0–1.7%), and p‐xylene (0–0.4%) (BTX) and common interfering gases (H2S, NH3, SO2, and relative humidity, RH). PdNPs‐FL show enhanced response to BTX with an appreciable response also toward H2S and RH. PdNPs‐TR exhibit a better ability to discriminate benzene gas with a negligible response after H2S exposure. Moreover, all the PdNPs systems show little to no response to NH3 and SO2 gases, offering an interesting perspective in practical sensing applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoparticles synthesised using natural resources is a cost-effective and ecofriendly technique with a number of advantages. In current work, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been synthesized using the extract of Fragaria ananassa seeds. The extract was used as a source of phytochemicals that can act as reducing and stabilizing agents. The characteristics of AgNPs were determined by UV/Visible, FTIR, SEM, XRD and Dynamic light scattering (DLS) techniques. The appearance of the distinctive absorption peak in UV-visible spectra at 430 nm confirmed the formation of AgNPs. The involvement of different bioactive functional groups with AgNPs was authenticated by FTIR studies. Particle size and morphology was confirmed by DLS, SEM and XRD analysis. The catalytic potential of AgNPs for the removal of poisonous organic dyes, brilliant green (BG) and methyl orange (MO) was also tested. Effect of different parameters including the catalyst concentration, dyes concentration and presence of different salts on the degradation of dyes was investigated. Nano-size and well-distributed nature of AgNPs, BG and MO dyes were degraded rapidly individually as well as simultaneously. The degradation process obeyed pseudo first order kinetics. Authors concluded that AgNPs synthesized using environment friendly and cost-effective method, can be used as a new tool to combat pollution caused by carcinogenic organic dyes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The degradation of dyes is a difficult task due to their persistent and stable nature; therefore, developing materials with desirable properties to degrade dyes is an important area of research. In the present study, we propose a simple, one-pot mechanochemical approach to synthesize CuO nanoparticles (NPs) using the leaf extract of Seriphidium oliverianum, as a reducing and stabilizing agent. The CuO NPs were characterized via X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), photoluminescence (PL) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The photocatalytic activity of CuO NPs was monitored using ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy. The CuO NPs exhibited high potential for the degradation of water-soluble industrial dyes. The degradation rates for methyl green (MG) and methyl orange (MO) were 65.231% ± 0.242 and 65.078% ± 0.392, respectively. Bio-mechanochemically synthesized CuO NPs proved to be good candidates for efficiently removing dyes from water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report the preparation of positively charged and stable gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) using a strong polycation, polydiallyldimethylammonium chloride (PDADMAC), as a stabilizing agent, for the colorimetric detection of a typical organophosphorus pesticide, chlorpyrifos (CPF). As deduced from zeta potentials, beside strong interaction of sulfur atom in CPF molecule with AuNPs, the hydrophobic interaction of CPF with PDADMAC outer shell significantly enhanced the sensitivity of the method, with an ultralow detection limit down to 2.28 ppb, which satisfies stringent requirement for maximum residue limit allowed by the United State Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in agricultural products. In the presence of CPF, the PDADMAC-AuNP solution gave a linear increase of maximum absorption wavelength with CPF concentrations. Under the optimum conditions of pH 5, incubation time 25 min, and 3 × 10−3 M Na2SO4, this method achieved a wide linear range from 2.5 × 10−8 to 10−6 M, a low limit of detection (LOD) of 6.5 × 10−9 M (2.28 ppb), and high precision (RSD < 5%). High selectivity for CPF over other pesticides is also demonstrated. The developed sensor can be applied to detect CPF in various real samples such as vegetables or environmental water samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Each year more than 150,000 tons of dyes are released in effluents by industries. These chemicals entities non-biodegradable and toxic can be removed from effluent by metallic nanomaterials. The aqueous extract of Manotes expansa leaves is used as reducing and stabilizing agent in the biogenic synthesis of Mn-CuO nanocomposites. The nanoparticles obtained were characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), X-ray Fluorescence, Dynamic Light Scattering (DSL), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The hemotoxicity of biosynthesized nanomaterials was assessed by evaluating their hemolytic activity using erythrocytes as a model system. The photocatalytic activity of Mn-CuO was carried out by photocatalytic degradation of Methylene Blue dye as a model. The results obtained by UV-vis spectroscopy showed a Plasmonic Surface Resonance band at 408 nm. XRD and X-ray fluorescence made it possible to identify the presence of particles of formula Mn0.53Cu0.21O having crystallized in a Hexagonal system (a = 3.1080 Å and c = 5.2020 Å). Spherical morphology and average height 49.34 ± 6.71 nm were determined by SEM and DSL, respectively. The hemolytic activity of biosynthesized nanomaterials revealed that they are not hemotoxic in vitro (% hemolysis 3.2%) and 98.3% of Methylene Blue dye was removed after 120 min under irradiation with solar light in the presence of Mn-CuO nanocomposites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green synthesis process has been developed to produce MgO nanoparticles using wet chemical method. In this process, Madhuca longifolia (M. longifolia) flower extracts has been used as a reducing and stabilizing agent and magnesium nitrate hexahydrate is used as a metal precursor. This study exhibits the effect of varied concentrations of metal precursors and flower extracts on the shape and size of the MgO nanoparticles. FTIR, UV vis spectroscopy, SEM, EDS and HRTEM analysis have been carried out to identify the functional groups involved in the reduction process, confirmation of MgO nanoparticles, morphological and elemental analysis of the MgO nanoparticles respectively. The results confirmed the presence of spherical MgO nanoparticles decorated over the surface of MgO microclusters. It is observed that the varying concentration of flower extracts and precursor have a profound effect on morphology of the nanoparticles resulting in the decrease in cluster size with the increase in extract concentration. The nanoparticles were also tested for the presence of antibacterial activity against the bacterial species of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) were synthesized using the seed extract of Moringa oleifera (Lam.) and its perspective was explored against biological applications. The biosynthesized nanoparticles were characterized and screened for the presence of phytochemicals and also assessed for their diverse properties such as phytotoxic, photocatalytic, and antimicrobial activities. Phytochemicals such as alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, glycosides, polyphenols, proteins, and carbohydrates were detected in the biosynthesized ZnONPs which proved to be a potential stabilizing and capping agent in the formation of zinc oxide nanoparticles. The results of the UV–Vis spectrum revealed the formation of surface plasmon bands at 223.5 nm indicating the formation of ZnONPs. FT-IR analysis confirmed the presence of functional groups that contributed to the formation of ZnONPs. SEM–EDS analyses confirmed the structural morphometry of nanostructured ZnONPs and their high stability while the XRD revealed the crystalline nature of the biosynthesized nanoparticles. The particle size of 15.3 nm indicated the nanostructure of the biosynthesized nanoparticle. Phytotoxicity studies revealed an appreciable germination rate in the green gram seedlings treated with ZnONPs. The photocatalytic activity also confirmed the potential of ZnONPs in the degradation of crystal violet. The isotherm, kinetics, and thermodynamics studies validated the mechanism of adsorption of crystal violet onto ZnONPs. The adsorption process fits well with both the Langmuir and Freundlich models and obeyed pseudo-second-order kinetic model, implying the removal of crystal violet onto ZnONPs. According to thermodynamic studies, the adsorption capacity dropped as the temperature rose, indicating the exothermic process. The biosynthesized ZnONPs displayed enhanced microbicidal activity against the tested bacterial and fungal isolates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

p-nitrophenol (pNP) is a highly toxic organic compound and is considered carcinogenic and mutagenic. It is a very stable compound with high resistance to chemical or biological degradation. As a result, the elimination of this pollutant has been very challenging for many researchers. Catalytic reduction is one of the most promising techniques, if a suitable catalyst is developed. Thus, this work aims to prepare an eco-friendly catalyst via a simple and low-cost route and apply it for the conversion of the toxic p-nitrophenol (pNP) into a non-toxic p-aminophenol (pAP) that is widely used in industry. Manganese oxide was prepared in an environmentally friendly manner with the aid of Lawsonia inermis (henna) extract as a stabilizing and capping agent and loaded on the surface of 13X molecular sieve zeolite. The UV-Vis spectrum, EDS, and XRD patterns confirmed the formation of the pure MnO2 loaded on the zeolite crystalline network. The TGA analysis showed that the samples prepared by loading MnO2 on zeolite (Mn2Z, Mn3Z, and Mn4Z) lost more mass than pure MnO2 (Mn) or zeolite (Z), which is mainly moisture adsorbed on the surface. This indicates a better dispersion of MnO2 on the surface of zeolite compared to pure MnO2, and thus a higher number of active adsorption sites. SEM images and EDS confirmed the dispersion of the MnO2 on the surface of the zeolite. Results showed a very fast reduction rate, following the order Mn2Z > Mn3Z > Mn4Z > Mn > Z. With sample Mn2Z, 96% reduction of pNP was achieved in 9 min and 100% in 30 min. For Mn3Z, Mn4Z, and Mn, 98% reduction was achieved in 20 min and 100% in 30 min. Zeolite was the slowest, with only a 40% reduction in 30 min. Increasing the amount of zeolite in the synthesis mixture resulted in lower reduction efficiency. The kinetic study indicated that the reduction of p-nitrophenol on the surface of the prepared nanocomposite follows the pseudo-first-order model. The results show that the proposed nanocomposite is very effective and very promising to be commercially applied in water treatment, due to its low cost, simple synthesis procedure, and reusability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antibacterial properties of nanoparticles are of particular interest because of their potential to serve as an alternative therapy to combat antimicrobial resistance. Metal nanoparticles such as silver and copper nanoparticles have been investigated for their antibacterial properties. Silver and copper nanoparticles were synthesized with the surface stabilizing agents cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB, to confer a positive surface charge) and polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP, to confer a neutral surface charge). Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), and viable plate count assays were used to determine effective doses of silver and copper nanoparticles treatment against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Sphingobacterium multivorum. Results show that CTAB stabilized silver and copper nanoparticles were more effective antibacterial agents than PVP stabilized metal nanoparticles, with MIC values in a range of 0.003 μM to 0.25 μM for CTAB stabilized metal nanoparticles and 0.25 μM to 2 μM for PVP stabilized metal nanoparticles. The recorded MIC and MBC values of the surface stabilized metal nanoparticles show that they can serve as effective antibacterial agents at low doses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emulsion systems are widely used in various industries, including the cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and food industries, because they require emulsifiers to stabilize the inherently unstable contact between oil and water. Although emulsifiers are included in many products, excessive use of emulsifiers destroys skin barriers and causes contact dermatitis. Accordingly, the consumer demand for cosmetic products made from natural ingredients with biocompatibility and biodegradability has increased. Starch in the form of solid nanosized particles is considered an attractive emulsifier that forms and stabilizes Pickering emulsion. Chemical modification of nanosized starch via acid hydrolysis can effectively provide higher emulsion stability. However, typical acid hydrolysis limits the industrial application of starch due to its high time consumption and low recovery. In previous studies, the effects of starch nanoparticles (SNPs) prepared by treatment with acidic dry heat, which overcomes these limitations, on the formation and stability of Pickering emulsions were reported. In this study, we evaluated the safety of SNPs in skin cell lines, 3D cultured skin, and human skin. We found that the cytotoxicity of SNPs in both HaCaT cells and HDF cells could be controlled by neutralization. We also observed that SNPs did not induce structural abnormalities on 3D cultured skin and did not permeate across micropig skin tissue or human skin membranes. Furthermore, patches loaded with SNPs were found to belong in the "No irritation" category because they did not cause any irritation when placed on human skin. Overall, the study results suggest that SNPs can be used as a safe emulsifier in various industries, including in cosmetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the green synthesis of ZnO NPs using an aqueous solution of hagenia abyssinica leaf extract, which acts as a reduction of zinc acetate dihydrate as a reducing agent and stabilizing agent. The synthesized ZnO NPs were characterized by various techniques such as XRD, SEM, FTIR, and UV–Vis spectroscopy. The XRD pattern confirmed that the hexagonal crystalline phase structure and average crystal size of the synthesized nanoparticle was 27.833 nm. Several functional groups were detected using the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) method. Within 120 minutes of sunlight irradiation, 83.17% photocatalytic degradation of MO was recorded, with an initial concentration of 15 ppm and a catalyst dosage of 40 mg. The present study shows a novel, eco-friendly method to synthesize zinc oxide nanoparticles that have potential applications in water treatment and dye degradation. The disc diffusion method was used to determine antibacterial activity against gram-positive (S. aureus and S. epidermidis) and gram-negative (E. coli and K. pneumoniae) bacterial strains. The biosynthesized ZnO nanoparticles were highly effective against S. epidermidis with inhibition zones of 21 ± 1.0 mm at 30 mg/mL and less effective against E. coli with inhibition zones of 16 ± 1.0 mm at 10 mg/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bergenia ciliata (B. ciliate) leaf extract was used as a capping and stabilizing agent to synthesize copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs). The selection of B. ciliate is purely based on its rich phytochemical composition and less utilization in green chemistry. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis showed that the CuO NPs were found to be highly crystalline, while the irregular morphology and other structural properties were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and the average particle size was found to be 50.05 nm. Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy was used to determine the percentage composition and purity, whereas Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was utilized to examine the surface functional groups. CuO NPs were tested for their antibacterial properties against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, and the activity was found to increase with an increasing concentration of CuO NPs in the wells. The dose-dependent antioxidant potential is slightly higher than ascorbic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polysaccharide-based guar gum (GG) biopolymer is used via a hydrothermal process to synthesize silver nanoparticles. The GG biopolymer act as a reducing and stabilizing agent. Moreover, GG was used for preparing peel-off masks to provide the desired consistency of formulation and synthesis of nanoparticles as an antibacterial agent. This work presents the novel GG/Ag nanoparticles peel-off gel and evaluates the antibacterial efficiency. The synthesized Ag-nanoparticles analyzed by UV–spectroscopy reflect a prominent peak at 413 nm. The size and distribution of nanoparticles were examined by TEM images obtained from the 6 to 18 nm range. We demonstrate the efficiency of peel-off facial gel as an antibacterial and preservative-free cosmetic product at different temperature ranges. The RSM study was used for parameter optimization of peel-off gel for extrudability, spreadability, and drying time by employing a CCD. The results show that the optimized GG, PVA, and ethanol concentration were 3.47, 8.30, and 5.80 w/w%, respectively, with 0.02 w/w% Ag nanoparticles. The peel-off gel antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (11 ± 0.1 mm), Staphylococcus aureus (10 ± 0.3 mm), and Propionibacterium acnes (11 ± 0.3 mm). The peel-off gel was prepared from natural ingredients; due to this, it is non-toxic for human skin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel metallic nanoparticles (NPs), such as biosynthesized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), have been extensively studied because of their wide applications. Consequently, the present investigation aimed at the biosynthesis, characterization, and comparative assessment of biological activities of AuNPs. Biosynthesized AuNPs (ED-AuNPs) were synthesized using aqueous extract of Euphorbia dendroides (E. dendroides) aerial parts (EDAE), which functions as a reducing and stabilizing agent by its nature. Presence of tannins, saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides/or carbohydrates, steroids, and terpenes was revealed by the qualitative phytochemical analysis of EDAE. Characterization of the biosynthesized AuNPs was attained by UV-Visible spectrophotometry, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), XRD, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR). The cytotoxic effects of ED-AuNPs and EDAE were assessed in vitro against HepG2 and HCT-116 cancer cells. The MTT assay revealed a significant cytotoxic effect of ED-AuNPs and EDAE on HepG2 (IC50 = 41.72 ± 1.26 and 55.26 ± 2.25 μg mL−1) as well as HCT-116 (IC50 = 44.96 ± 3.23 and 69.83 ± 0.96 μg mL−1) cells, thus indicating their potential anticancer activity. Furthermore, ED-AuNPs exhibited potent anti-diabetic activity, with an IC50 value of 19.8 ± 1.97 µg mL−1, pointing to their plausible use as therapeutics in the treatment of diabetes, as well as a promising antimicrobial activity against H. pylori. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concurrent heavy metals remediation in natural environments poses significant challenges due to factors like metal speciation and interactions with soil moisture. This review focuses on strategies for immobilizing both anionic and cationic metals simultaneously in soil-crop systems. Key approaches include water management, biochar utilization, stabilizing agents, nanotechnology, fertilization, and bioremediation. Sprinkler or intermittent irrigation combined with soil amendments/biochar effectively immobilizes As/Cd/Pb simultaneously. This immobilization occurs through continuous adsorption-desorption, oxidation-reduction, and precipitation mechanisms influenced by soil pH, redox reactions, and Fe-oxides. Biochar from sources like wine lees, sewage sludge, spent coffee, and Fe-nanoparticles can immobilize As/Cd/Pb/Cr/Co/Cu/Zn together via precipitation. In addition, biochar from rice, wheat, corn straw, rice husk, sawdust, and wood chips, modified with chemicals or nanoparticles, simultaneously immobilizes As and Cd, containing higher Fe 3 O 4 , Fe-oxide, and OH groups. Ligand exchange immobilizes As, while ion exchange immobilizes Cd. Furthermore, combining biochar especially with iron, hydroxyapatite, magnetite, goethite, silicon, graphene, alginate, compost, and microbes—can achieve simultaneous immobilization. Other effective amendments are selenium fertilizer, Ge-nanocomposites, Fe–Si materials, ash, hormone, and sterilization. Notably, combining nano-biochar with microbes and/or fertilizers with Fe-containing higher adsorption sites, metal-binding cores, and maintaining a neutral pH could stimulate simultaneous immobilization. The amendments have a positive impact on soil physio-chemical improvement and crop development. Crops enhance production of growth metabolites, hormones, and xylem tissue thickening, forming a protective barrier by root Fe-plaque containing higher Fe-oxide, restricting upward metal movement. Therefore, a holistic immobilization mechanism reduces plant oxidative damage, improves soil and crop quality, and reduces food contamination. [Display omitted] • Simultaneous metals immobilization is challenging for various factors. • Soil pH and redox reaction greatly influence the immobilization. • Fertilization with sprinkler or intermittent irrigation can reduce both As and Cd. • Nano-biochar with microbes can initiate simultaneous immobilization. • The pathways of anionic metalloids and cationic metals are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enoki mushroom-mediated sulfur nanoparticles (SNP) were developed using a facile acid hydrolysis process. Enoki mushroom extract was applied as a natural stabilizing agent for SNPs. The capped SNPs showed good dispersion and stability in an aqueous solution. Enoki mushroom extract-capped SNPs were ~ 20 nm in size and approximately spherical. The XPS and FTIR analysis confirmed that mushroom extract successfully capped SNPs. The SNPs were used to fabricate the gelatin/cellulose nanofiber (CNF)-based binary functional film. The mixing of SNPs pointedly enhanced the mechanical and UV-protective properties of the film. However, the inclusion of SNPs did not meaningfully change the film's other physical properties. The SNP-added nanocomposite film displayed strong antibacterial action toward foodborne pathogenic bacteria. The gelatin/CNF-based functional films are expected to be used in active packaging applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we report the synthesis of copper nanoparticles (NP) at mild conditions using dual biopolymer, chitosan-alginate, modified magnetic nanoparticles as a protecting/stabilizing agent and sodium borohydride as a reducing agent. The obtained nanocomposite (Fe3O4/Chitosan-Alginate/Cu NPs) were physico-chemically assessed over FT-IR, FE-SEM, EDX, elemental mapping, ICP-OES, TEM, VSM, and XRD studies. The as-synthesized Fe3O4/Chitosan-Alginate/Cu NPs were explored as an efficient heterogeneous nanocatalyst in the aryl and heteroaryl C–N cross-coupling reactions with considerably high yields under mild conditions. The catalyst was isolated and reused for nine times with reproducible catalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we used khat (Catha edulis) leaf extract as a reducing and stabilizing agent for the biosynthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs). The rapid color change of the solution to pale yellow and UV-visible absorption peak at 322 nm confirmed the initial formation of ZnO NPs. FTIR spectrum analysis revealed the contribution of khat leaf extract to the bioreduction of Zn2+ ions to ZnO NPs. The FTIR spectrum for the stretching vibration of ZnO at 480 cm-1 also confirms the formation of ZnO NPs. The XRD spectrum showed the crystallinity and the hexagonal wurtzite structure of ZnO NPs. The size of the synthesized ZnO NPs calculated using the Debye-Scherrer formula was found to be equal to 17 nm. Antibacterial efficacy of green-produced zinc oxide nanoparticles against Gram-positive and Gram-negative microorganisms was tested. It has the greatest inhibition zone (23 mm) against E. coli, but the least activity was against S. pneumoniae (15 mm). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to produce multifunctional cotton fabric with improved mechanical performance by utilizing the potentiality of ZnO nanoparticles. Synthesized ZnO nanoparticles are immobilized on the cotton fabric with the following recipes: (i) only ZnO nanoparticles, (ii) ZnO nanoparticles with an acrylic binder, and (iii) ZnO nanoparticles with polyethylene wax emulsion and binder. SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) and EDS (Dispersive Energy Spectroscopy) are used to investigate the surface morphology. For analysis of functional properties antimicrobial activity, ultraviolet (UV) protection ability, and crease resistance are measured. Several mechanical properties are also investigated. The results show that the treatment with the first and second recipes improves the functional properties but degrades the mechanical properties. In contrast, nano ZnO treatment with the third recipe improves mechanical as well as functional properties. Specifically, the nano deposition by this recipe increases the tensile strength, tearing strength, elongation, abrasion, and pilling resistance. Therefore, the findings in this research will boost up the confidence of textile researchers and manufacturers for the use of nano ZnO and understanding its characteristics in the production of valuable functional textiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) with antimicrobial activities shows high potential for various clinical applications. We herein synthesized Poloxamer(P407)‐assisted CuNPs with improved oxidative stability using a simple process that included environment friendly Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) as a reducing agent and nontoxic P407 polymer as a stabilizing agent. To optimize the reducing agent, the effect of the molar ratio of ascorbic acid‐to‐Cu2+ salt was investigated through fluorescence measurements. The UV‐Visible spectrum presented that the inclusion of P407 improved the efficiency of CuNPs synthesis. In addition, DLS demonstrated that when the concentration of P407 was increased, the particle size of CuNPs was reduced. According to the XRD patterns, all the CuNPs are fcc‐structured and crystalline. The FE‐SEM and EDX images indicated the cubic morphology and the absence of any oxides of copper. The synthesized CuNPs have different particle sizes, showing strong antimicrobial activities against Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacteria as well as funguses. Our findings suggest that P407‐assisted CuNPs could be a new way to fight both human and plant pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Calciprotein particles (CPPs) are endogenous nanoparticles consisting of hybrid mineral-organic colloidal complexes made of calcium phosphates and Fetuin-A (Fet-A), a protein that in physiological conditions binds to amorphous calcium phosphate forming primary CPP (CPP1). CPP1 can crystallize resulting in hydroxyapatite-based secondary CPP (CPP2) that can eventually precipitate leading to vascular calcifications. The treatment of patients with molecules and ions that delay the amorphous-to-crystalline transition has shown promising results from a clinical perspective, but the study of their mechanism of action has not been thoroughly examined so far. This work describes the formation and crystallization mechanism of synthetic analogs of endogenous CPPs. The effect of different concentrations of Fet-A and of stabilizing agents (Mg2+, citrate and pyrophosphate) on the features and stability of CPPs was addressed by combining different characterization techniques such as turbidimetry, dynamic light scattering, infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. The results show that the stabilizing agents display different action mechanisms and are effective to a different extent in preventing the formation of CPPs or delaying their crystallization. Such findings could be of interest to develop effective therapies for vascular calcifications and to deepen the understanding of amorphous calcium phosphate stabilization and its interaction with proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]