Rapid synthesis of Bi 2 O 3 nano‐needles via ‘green route’ and evaluation of its anti‐fungal activity

Here, the authors report a rapid, simple, and eco‐friendly process for synthesis of Bi₂ O₃ nano‐needles. Dioscorea alata tuber extract was used as both reducing and capping agent for the first time. These nanoparticles were characterised by X‐ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscope, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometry, the nano‐structured Bi₂ O₃ needles have an average diameter of 158 nm with the lengths in the range of 1–3 μm. CLSI M27‐A2 standard was followed for evaluation of anti‐fungal activity. Bi₂ O₃ nano‐needles show remarkable activity against Candida albicans. It exhibits four time greater activity than bulk Bi₂ O₃ powder and two time greater activity than itraconazole, which makes it a potent anti‐fungal drug.Inspec keywords: bismuth compounds, nanoparticles, X‐ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectra, drugs, nanomedicine, biomedical materials, nanofabricationOther keywords: nanoneedles, antifungal activity, nanoparticles, X‐ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, CLSI M27‐A2 standard, Candida albicans, itraconazole, antifungal drug, Bi₂ O₃      

Synthesis,characterisation and potential applications of polyaniline/chitosan‐Ag‐nano‐biocomposite

Biodegradable polymers have greatly promoted the development of environmental, biomedical and allied sciences because of their biocompatibility and doping chemistry. The emergence of nanotechnology has envisaged greater options for the development of biodegradable materials. Polyaniline grafted chitosan (i.e. biodegradable PANI) copolymer was prepared by the chemical in situ polymerisation of aniline using ammonium per sulphate as initiator while Ag nanoparticle were synthesised by chemical reduction method and incorporated in to the polymer matrix. The as prepared materials were characterised by X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform Infra‐red spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray analysis. Moreover energy storage capacity, impedance properties were also studied. The main focus was on the photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes to remove the toxic and carcinogenic pollutants. This polymer nano‐biocomposite has multifold applications and can be used as excellent materials for enhanced photodegradation and removal of toxic contaminants from waste waters and natural water streams. In addition, the biocompatible materials with excellent mechanical properties and low toxicity can also be used for tissue engineering, drug delivery and electrical energy storage devices.Inspec keywords: silver, filled polymers, polymer blends, nanocomposites, nanoparticles, nanofabrication, biodegradable materials, polymerisation, reduction (chemical), Fourier transform infrared spectra, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray chemical analysis, X‐ray diffractionOther keywords: polyaniline‐chitosan‐silver‐nanobiocomposite, biodegradable polymers, biocompatibility, doping chemistry, nanotechnology, biodegradable PANI, polyaniline grafted chitosan copolymer, biodegradable materials, chemical in situ polymerisation, nanoparticle, polymer matrix, chemical reduction method, Fourier transform Infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray analysis, X‐ray diffraction, energy storage capacity, impedance properties, carcinogenic pollutants, toxic pollutants, photodegradation, toxic contaminants, natural water streams, waste waters, drug delivery, tissue engineering, electrical energy storage devices, mechanical properties, Ag     

Biomimetic production,characterisation, in vitro cytotoxic and anticancer assessment of aqueous extract‐mediated AgNPs of Teucrium stocksianum Boiss

Owing to the numerous biological applications, cost effectiveness and low cytotoxicity of the biomimetic nanoparticles (NPs), the authors optimised the production of silver NPs (AgNPs) using aqueous extract of Teucrium stocksianum Boiss. The NPs were characterised by ultraviolet‐visible (UV‐vis) spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The UV‐vis spectroscopy revealed a surface plasmon resonance (410‐440 nm) at an incubation temperature of 90°C when 1 mM Ag nitrate combined to 5 mg/ml extract concentration in the ratio of 1:10. DLS results show an average zeta size of ∼44.61 nm and zeta potential of −15.3 mV. SEM and XRD confirmed the high crystallinity and cubical symmetry with an average size below 100 nm. FTIR measurement shows the presence of various functional groups, responsible for the capping and reduction of Ag metal. The 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide cell viability assay shows that AgNPs are less cytotoxic to J774 and L929 cells as compared with enhanced anticancer activity with low IC50 concentrations (68.24 µg/ml) against Michigan Cancer Foundation‐7 (MCF‐7) cells. The ethidium bromide/acridine orange assay shows that the AgNPs kill the cell by apoptosis. Overall, the results show that AgNPs possesses potent anticancer activities.Inspec keywords: cellular biophysics, cancer, nanobiotechnology, nanomedicine, ultraviolet spectra, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopes, light scattering, patient treatmentOther keywords: anticancer assessment, in vitro cytotoxic assessment, aqueous extract‐mediated AgNPs, Teucrium stocksianum Boiss, nanoparticles, biological applications, biosynthesis, silver NPs, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy, UV‐vis spectroscopy, surface plasmon resonance, extract concentration, zeta potential, high crystallinity, FTIR measurement, amide molecules, viability assay, enhanced anticancer activity, potent anticancer activities     

Green synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles using aqueous extract of Convolvulus percicus L. as reusable catalysts in cross‐ coupling reactions and their antibacterial activity

CuO nanoparticles (NPs) were prepared by Convolvulus percicus leaves extract as a reducing and stabilising agent. The green synthesised copper oxide NPs was characterised by transmission electron microscope, energy dispersive X‐Ray spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared and ultraviolet‐visible analysis. The activities of the CuO NPs as catalyst were tested in the formation of C‐N and C‐O bonds. The N ‐arylated and O ‐arylated products of amides, N‐H heterocycles and phenols were obtained in excellent yields. Furthermore, the separation and recovery of copper oxide NPs was very simple, effective and economical. The recovered catalyst can be reused several times without significant loss of its catalytic activity. Moreover, the antibacterial activity of these NPs was tested against two human pathogenic microbes and showed significant antimicrobial activity against these pathogenic bacteria.Inspec keywords: copper compounds, nanoparticles, nanomedicine, antibacterial activity, biomedical materials, nanofabrication, microorganisms, catalysts, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray chemical analysis, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform spectra, infrared spectra, ultraviolet spectra, visible spectra, catalysisOther keywords: green synthesis, copper oxide nanoparticles, Convolvulus percicus L. aqueous extract, reusable catalysts, cross‐coupling reactions, antibacterial activity, reducing agent, stabilising agent, transmission electron microscope, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectra, ultraviolet‐visible spectra, C‐N bonds, C‐O bonds, N‐arylated products, O‐arylated products, amides, N‐H heterocycles, phenols, catalytic activity, human pathogenic microbes, antimicrobial activity, CuO     

Catalytic reduction of 2,4‐dinitrophenylhydrazine by cuttlebone supported Pd NPs prepared using Conium maculatum leaf extract

A facile and green process to synthesise cuttlebone supported palladium nanoparticles (Pd NPs/cuttlebone) is reported using Conium maculatum leaf extract and in the absence of chemical solvents and hazardous materials. The antioxidant content of the C. maculatum leaf extract played a significant role in converting Pd²⁺ ions to Pd NPs. Various techniques were used for the characterisation of the Pd NPs/cuttlebone such as field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared and ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy. This Pd NPs/cuttlebone showed excellent catalytic activity in the reduction of 2,4‐dinitrophenylhydrazine to 2,4‐diaminophenylhydrazine by sodium borohydride as the source of hydrogen at ambient condition. The catalyst could be separated and recycled up to five cycles with no loss of its activity.Inspec keywords: catalysis, catalysts, chemical engineering, palladium, nanoparticles, field emission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray chemical analysis, sodium compounds, ultraviolet spectroscopy, visible spectroscopyOther keywords: catalytic reduction, 2,4‐dinitrophenylhydrazine, cuttlebone, Conium maculatum leaf extract, green process, palladium nanoparticles, antioxidant content, field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, 2,4‐diaminophenylhydrazine, sodium borohydride     

Facile synthesis of mesoporous alumina using hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (HTAB) as template: simplified sol‐gel approach

Herein the authors present the synthesis of surface functionalised mesoporous alumina (MeAl) for textural characterisation by a simplified sol–gel method obtained by using hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide as a template. Etoricoxib (ETOX) was used as a model drug for the study. Alumina supported mesoporous material containing drug was characterised using instrumental technique namely Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area, Fourier transform‐infrared, differential scanning calorimetry, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and field emission scanning electron microscopy. Diffusion study using a dialysis bag method used to check the release pattern of ETOX‐loaded‐MeAl. Results of characterisation study revealed the successful surface functionalisation of the drug on nanocomposite. The IC₅₀ value obtained from cell viability study demonstrated the non‐toxic behaviour of synthesised drug‐loaded mesoporous alumina up to the tested concentration range. The present work has demonstrated that synthesised MeAl showed excellent stability with an expanded surface area suitable for carrier material for drug delivery system.Inspec keywords: Fourier transform spectra, adsorption, biomedical materials, silicon compounds, drug delivery systems, X‐ray diffraction, alumina, differential scanning calorimetry, nanocomposites, field emission electron microscopy, nanofabrication, nanomedicine, mesoporous materials, transmission electron microscopy, sol‐gel processing, scanning electron microscopyOther keywords: ETOX‐loaded‐MeAl, successful surface functionalisation, synthesised drug‐loaded mesoporous alumina, synthesised MeAl, expanded surface area, drug delivery system, hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide, sol‐gel approach, surface functionalised mesoporous alumina, simplified sol–gel method, mesoporous material containing drug, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area, Fourier transform‐infrared, differential scanning calorimetry, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, dialysis bag method     

Synthesis,characterisation and bactericidal effect of ZnO nanoparticles via chemical and bio‐assisted (Silybum marianum in vitro plantlets and callus extract) methods: a comparative study

Currently, the evolution of green chemistry in the synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) with the usage of plants has captivated a great response. In this study, in vitro plantlets and callus of Silybum marianum were exploited as a stabilising agent for the synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) NPs using zinc acetate and sodium hydroxide as a substitute for chemical method. The contemporary investigation defines the synthesis of ZnO NPs prepared by chemical and bio‐extract‐assisted methods. Characterisation techniques such as X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and energy dispersive X‐ray were used to confirm the synthesis. Although chemical and bio‐assisted methods are suitable choices for NPs synthesis, the bio‐assisted green assembly is advantageous due to superior stability. Moreover, this report describes the antibacterial activity of the synthesised NPs against standard strains of Klebsiella pneumonia and Bacillus subtilis.Inspec keywords: zinc compounds, II‐VI semiconductors, wide band gap semiconductors, nanoparticles, nanofabrication, semiconductor growth, antibacterial activity, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray chemical analysis, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectra, nanobiotechnologyOther keywords: chemical methods, bio‐assisted methods, Silybum marianum in vitro plantlets methods, Silybum marianum in vitro callus extract methods, green chemistry, zinc oxide nanoparticles, sodium hydroxide, zinc acetate, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray analysis, bio‐assisted green assembly, antibacterial activity, Klebsiella pneumonia, Bacillus subtilis, ZnO     

Phyto‐mediated synthesis,biological and catalytic activity studies of gold nanoparticles

In the present study, a phyto‐mediated synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) using an isoflavone, Dalspinosin (5,7‐dihydroxy‐6,3′,4′‐trimethoxy isoflavone) isolated from the alcoholic extract of roots of Dalbergia coromandeliana is reported. It is observed that Dalspinosin itself acts both as a reducing and a capping agent in the synthesis of the nanoparticles (NPs). An ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectral study showed a surface plasmon resonance band at 526 nm confirming the formation of AuNPs. The NPs formed were characterised by UV–Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM) with energy‐dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) and dynamic light scattering. HR‐TEM analysis showed the synthesised AuNPs were spherical in shape with a size of 7.5 nm. The AuNPs were found to be stable for seven months when tested by in vitro methods showed good antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activities. They also showed moderate anti‐microbial activities when tested against Gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus sp), Gram negative bacterial strains (Klebsiella pneumonia and Klebsiella terrigena) and fungal strain (Candida glabrata). The biosynthesised AuNPs showed significant catalytic activity in the reduction of methylene blue with NaBH₄ to leucomethylene blue.Inspec keywords: biomedical materials, catalysis, Fourier transform infrared spectra, gold, light scattering, microorganisms, nanomedicine, nanoparticles, spectrochemical analysis, surface plasmon resonance, transmission electron microscopy, ultraviolet spectra, visible spectra, X‐ray chemical analysis, X‐ray diffractionOther keywords: phyto‐mediated synthesis, biological activity studies, catalytic activity studies, dalspinosin (5,7‐dihydroxy‐6,3′,4′‐trimethoxy isoflavone), alcoholic extract, roots, Dalbergia coromandeliana, ultraviolet‐visible spectral study, surface plasmon resonance band, UV‐Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, EDX analysis, dynamic light scattering, HR‐TEM analysis, antioxidant activities, antiinflammatory activities, antimicrobial activities, Gram positive bacterial strains, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus sp, Gram negative bacterial strains, wavelength 526 nm, size 7.5 nm, time 7 month, Au     

Synthesis,characterisation and potential biomedical applications of magnetic core–shell structures: carbon‐, dextran‐, SiO2 ‐ and ZnO‐coated Fe3 O4 nanoparticles

Due to the strong effect of nanoparticles'' size and surface properties on cellular uptake and bio‐distribution, the selection of coating material for magnetic core–shell nanoparticles (CSNPs) is very important. In this study, the effects of four different biocompatible coating materials on the physical properties of Fe₃ O₄ (magnetite) nanoparticles (NPs) for different biomedical applications are investigated and compared. In this regard, magnetite NPs are prepared by a simple co‐precipitation method. Then, CSNPs including Fe₃ O₄ as a core and carbon, dextran, ZnO (zincite) and SiO₂ (silica) as different shells are synthesised using simple one‐ or two‐step methods. A comprehensive study is carried out on the prepared samples using X‐ray diffraction, vibrating sample magnetometry, transmission electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analyses. According to the authors'' findings, it is suggested that carbon‐ and dextran‐coated magnetite NPs with high M _s have great potential in the application of magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents. Moreover, silica‐coated magnetite NPs with high coercivity are potentially suitable candidates for hyperthermia and ZnO‐coated Fe₃ O₄ is potentially suitable for photothermal therapy.Inspec keywords: iron compounds, carbon, silicon compounds, zinc compounds, nanomedicine, biomedical materials, nanofabrication, nanoparticles, magnetic particles, coatings, X‐ray diffraction, magnetometry, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform spectra, infrared spectra, biomedical MRI, hyperthermia, radiation therapyOther keywords: biomedical applications, magnetic core‐shell nanoparticles, CSNP, cellular uptake, biodistribution, coating material, biocompatible coating materials, co‐precipitation, dextran, zincite, silica, X‐ray diffraction, vibrating sample magnetometry, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents, hyperthermia, photothermal therapy, SiO₂ ‐Fe₃ O₄ , ZnO‐Fe₃ O₄      

Biosynthesis of the CuO nanoparticles using Euphorbia Chamaesyce leaf extract and investigation of their catalytic activity for the reduction of 4‐nitrophenol

Through this study an eco‐friendly, simple, efficient, cheap and biocompatible approach to the biosynthesis and stabilisation of CuO nanoparticles (NPs) using the Euphorbia Chamaesyce leaf extract is presented. The CuO NPs were monitored and characterised by field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscope and UV‐visible spectroscopy. The biosynthesised CuO NPs showed good catalytic activity for the reduction of 4‐nitrophenol (4‐NP) in water during 180 s and reused 4 times without considerable loss of activity.Inspec keywords: copper compounds, nanoparticles, nanofabrication, catalysis, reduction (chemical), field emission electron microscopy, X‐ray chemical analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectra, transmission electron microscopy, ultraviolet spectra, visible spectraOther keywords: biosynthesis, CuO nanoparticles, Euphorbia Chamaesyce leaf extract, catalytic activity, 4‐nitrophenol reduction, nanoparticle stabilisation, field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscope, UV‐visible spectroscopy, CuO     

Antibacterial,anticancer and antioxidant potential of silver nanoparticles engineered using Trigonella foenum‐graecum seed extract

In this study, the authors report a simple and eco‐friendly method for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Trigonella foenum‐graecum (TFG) seed extract. They explored several parameters dictating the biosynthesis of TFG‐AgNPs such as reaction time, temperature, concentration of AgNO₃, and TFG extract amount. Physicochemical characterisation of TFG‐AgNPs was done on dynamic light scattering (DLS), field emission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The size determination studies using DLS revealed of TFG‐AgNPs size between 95 and 110 nm. The antibacterial activity was studied against Escherichia coli, Proteus vulgaris, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. The biosynthesised TFG‐AgNPs showed remarkable anticancer efficacy against skin cancer cell line, A431 and also exhibited significant antioxidant efficacy.Inspec keywords: antibacterial activity, cancer, biomedical materials, silver, nanofabrication, nanomedicine, nanoparticles, microorganisms, skin, cellular biophysics, biochemistry, light scattering, X‐ray chemical analysis, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectra, particle sizeOther keywords: antibacterial potential, anticancer potential, antioxidant potential, silver nanoparticles, Trigonella foenum‐graecum seed extract, eco‐friendly method, biosynthesis, reaction time, AgNO₃ concentration, TFG extract amount, physicochemical characterisation, dynamic light scattering, field emission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, size determination, TFG‐AgNPs size, Escherichia coli, Proteus vulgaris, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, skin cancer cell line A431, Ag     

Targeting microbial biofilms: by Arctium lappa l. synthesised biocompatible CeO2 ‐NPs encapsulated in nano‐chitosan

This study is planned to synthesise new biocompatible, nano antimicrobial formulation against biofilm producing strains. Aqueous root extract of Arctium lappa l. was used to synthesise ceria nanoparticles (CeO₂ ‐NPs). The synthesised nanoparticles were encapsulated with nano‐chitosan by sol–gel method and characterised using standard techniques. Gas chromatography‐mass spectrometer of Arctium lappa l. revealed the presence of ethanol, acetone, 1‐ propanol, 2‐methylethane, 1,1‐di‐ethoxy, 1‐Butanol, and oleic acid acted as reducing and surface stabilising agents for tailoring morphology of CeO₂ ‐NPs. Erythrocyte integrity after treatment with synthesised nanomaterials was evaluated by spectrophotometer measurement of haemoglobin release having biocompatibility. Scanning electron microscopy revealed the formation of mono dispersed beads shaped particles with mean particle size of 26.2 nm. X‐ray diffractometry revealed cubic crystalline structure having size of 28.0 nm. After encapsulation by nano‐chitosan, the size of CeO₂ ‐NPs enhances to 48.8 nm making average coverage of about 22.6 nm. The synthesised nanomaterials were found effective to disrupt biofilm of S. aureus and P. aeruginosa. Interestingly, encapsulated CeO₂ ‐NPs revealed powerful antibacterial and biofilm disruption activity examined by fluorescent live/dead staining using confocal laser scanning microscopy. The superior antibacterial activities exposed by encapsulated CeO₂ ‐NPs lead to the conclusion that they could be useful for controlling biofilm producing multidrug resistance pathogens.Inspec keywords: particle size, microorganisms, organic compounds, nanomedicine, sol‐gel processing, cellular biophysics, scanning electron microscopy, optical microscopy, nanoparticles, antibacterial activity, fluorescence, biomedical materials, nanofabrication, X‐ray diffraction, chromatography, filled polymers, cerium compoundsOther keywords: microbial biofilms, aqueous root extract, sol–gel method, gas chromatography‐mass spectrometer, 1‐di‐ethoxy, 1‐Butanol, nanomaterial synthesis, mean particle size, antibacterial activities, ethanol, acetone, 1‐ propanol, biocompatible ceria‐nanoparticle encapsulation, nano‐chitosan, Arctium lappa l., oleic acid, erythrocyte integrity, spectrophotometer measurement, haemoglobin release, mono dispersed beads shaped particle formation, X‐ray diffractometry, cubic crystalline structure, fluorescent live/dead staining, confocal laser scanning microscopy, multidrug resistance pathogens, size 26.2 nm, size 28.0 nm, size 48.8 nm, size 22.6 nm, CeO₂      

Green synthesis of CuO nanoparticles loaded on the seashell surface using Rumex crispus seeds extract and its catalytic applications for reduction of dyes

In this study, CuO nanoparticles supported on the seashell (CuO NPs/seashell) was prepared using Rumex crispus seeds extract as a chelating and capping agent. The prepared nanocomposite was characterised by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The particle size of CuO NPs on the seashell sheets was in the range of 8–60 nm. Catalytic ability of CuO NPs/seashell was investigated for the reduction of 4‐nitrophenol (4‐NP) and Congo red (CR). It was observed that catalyst can be easily recovered and reused several times without any significant loss of catalytic efficiency.Inspec keywords: nanocomposites, nanoparticles, catalysis, dyes, Fourier transform infrared spectra, X‐ray diffraction, field emission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray chemical analysis, transmission electron microscopy, particle size, copper compoundsOther keywords: CuO, size 8 nm to 60 nm, Congo red, 4‐nitrophenol, particle size, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, nanocomposite, capping agent, chelating agent, dye reduction, catalytic application, Rumex crispus seeds extract, seashell surface, nanoparticles, green synthesis     

CdO nanoparticles,c‐MWCNT nanoparticles and CdO nanoparticles/c‐MWCNT nanocomposite fibres: in vitro assessment of anti‐proliferative and apoptotic studies in HeLa cancer cell line

A simple ultrasonic assisted chemical technique was used to synthesise cadmium oxide (CdO) nanoparticles (NPs) and CdO NPs/c‐Multiwalled carbon nanotube (c‐MWCNT) nanocomposite fibres.To confirm the physio‐chemico properties and to analyse surface morphology of the obtained nanomaterials X‐Ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) were performed. To evaluate the anti‐cancer property of CdO NPs, c‐MWCNT NPs and CdO NPs/c‐MWCNT nanocomposite fibres, an anti‐proliferative assay test (Methylthiazolyl diphenyl‐ tetrazolium bromide ‐ MTT assay) were performed on HeLa cells which further estimated IC50 value (Least concentration of sample in which nearly 50% of cells remain alive) under in‐vitro conditions. On comparison, CdONPs/c‐MWCNT based system was found to be superior by achieving 52.3% cell viability with its minimal IC50 value of 31.2 μg/ml. Lastly, the CdO NPs based system was taken up for an apoptotic study using DNA fragmentation assay for estimating its ability to cleave the DNA of the HeLa cells into internucleosomal fragments using the agarose gel electrophoresis method. In conclusion, based on our observations, CdO NPs/c‐MWCNT hybrid based system can be further used for the development of efficient drug delivery and therapeutic systems.Inspec keywords: drug delivery systems, electrophoresis, oxidation, toxicology, DNA, nanoparticles, drugs, field emission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, nanofabrication, surface morphology, cancer, X‐ray diffraction, nanomedicine, cellular biophysics, filled polymers, biomedical materials, molecular biophysics, biochemistry, Fourier transform infrared spectra, multi‐wall carbon nanotubesOther keywords: c‐MWCNT nanoparticles, apoptotic study, HeLa cancer cell line, cadmium oxide nanoparticles, c‐MWCNT NPs, anti‐proliferative assay test [methyl thiazolyl diphenyl‐tetrazolium bromide assay], human epithelioid cervix carcinoma cells, live cells, CdO NP‐based system, IC50 concentration, HeLa cell line, cell deaths, CdO‐C     

Role of catalytic protein and stabilising agents in the transformation of Ag ions to nanoparticles by Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Biological routes of synthesising metal nanoparticles (NPs) using microbes have been gaining much attention due to their low toxicity and eco‐friendly nature. Pseudomonas aeruginosa JP2 isolated from metal contaminated soil was evaluated towards extracellular synthesis of silver NPs (AgNPs). Cell‐free extract (24 h) of the bacterial isolate was reacted with AgNO₃ for 24 h in order to fabricate AgNPs. Preliminary observations were recorded in terms of colour change of the reaction mixture from yellow to greyish black. UV‐visible spectroscopy of the reaction mixture has shown a progressive increase in optical densities that correspond to peaks near 430 nm, depicting reduction of ionic silver (Ag⁺) to atomic silver (Ag⁰) thereby synthesising NPs. X‐ray diffraction spectra exhibited the 2θ values to be 38.4577° confirming the crystalline and spherical nature of NPs [9.6 − 26.7 (Ave. = 17.2 nm)]. Transmission electron microscopy finally confirmed the size of the particles varying from 5 to 60 nm. Moreover, rhamnolipids and proteins were identified as stabilising molecules for the AgNPs through Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy. Characterisation of bacterial crude and purified protein fractions confirmed the involvement of nitrate reductase (molecular weight 66 kDa and specific activity = 3.8 U/mg) in the Synthesis of AgNPs.Inspec keywords: microorganisms, silver, nanoparticles, enzymes, molecular biophysics, ultraviolet spectra, visible spectra, X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectra, catalysis, biochemistry, nanobiotechnologyOther keywords: catalytic protein, stabilising agents, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, metal nanoparticles, UV–visible spectroscopy, optical densities, ionic silver, atomic silver, X‐ray diffraction spectra, transmission electron microscopy, nitrate reductase, rhamnolipids, Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy, Ag     

Biogenic synthesis of Au,Ag and Au–Ag alloy nanoparticles using Cannabis sativa leaf extract

Biogenic synthesis of gold (Au), silver (Ag) and bimetallic alloy Au–Ag nanoparticles (NPs) from aqueous solutions using Cannabis sativa as reducing and stabilising agent has been presented in this report. Formation of NPs was monitored using UV–visible spectroscopy. Morphology of the synthesised metallic and bimetallic NPs was investigated using X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Elemental composition and the surface chemical state of NPs were confirmed by energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy analysis. Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy was utilised to identify the possible biomolecules responsible for the reduction and stabilisation of the NPs. Biological applicability of biosynthesised NPs was tested against five bacterial strains namely Klebsiella pneumonia, Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis), Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) and Leishmania major promastigotes. The results showed considerable antibacterial and anti‐leishmanial activity. The Au–Ag bimetallic NPs showed improved antibacterial activity against B. subtilis and P. aeruginosa as compared to Au and Ag alone, while maximum anti‐leishmanial activity was observed at 250 μg ml⁻¹ NP concentration. These results suggest that biosynthesised NPs can be used as potent antibiotic and anti‐leishmanial agents.Inspec keywords: silver, silver alloys, gold, gold alloys, nanoparticles, nanofabrication, reduction (chemical), ultraviolet spectra, visible spectra, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray chemical analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectra, microorganisms, antibacterial activityOther keywords: biogenic synthesis, Cannabis sativa leaf extract, bimetallic alloy Au–Ag nanoparticles, aqueous solutions, reducing agent, stabilising agent, UV–visible spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, elemental composition, surface chemical state, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy analysis, Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy, biomolecules, bacterial strains, Klebsiella pneumonia, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Leishmania major promastigotes, antibacterial activity, anti‐leishmanial activity, Ag, Au, AuAg     

Fluorescein isothiocyanate‐dyed mesoporous silica nanoparticles for tracking antioxidant delivery

This study investigated the cellular uptake of fluorescein isothiocyanate‐labelled mesoporous silica nanoparticles (FITC‐MSNs), amine‐functionalised FITC‐MSNs (AP‐FITC‐MSNs) and their gallic acid (GA)‐loaded counterparts. Mesoporous silica nanoparticles were labelled with fluorescein isothiocyanate, functionalised by 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) (AP‐FITC‐MSNs) and then loaded by GA. All nanoparticles were characterised by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction. The cytotoxicity of different concentrations of dyed nanoparticles was investigated using (3‐(4,5‐trihydroxybenzoic acid, dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay and flow cytometry. TEM images showed that the average particle sizes of FITC‐MSNs and AP‐FITC‐MSNs were about 100 and 110 nm, respectively. These nanoparticles were internalised by Caco‐2 cells, accumulated and dispersed into the cytoplasm, nucleus, and subcellular organelles. Nanoparticles containing GA clearly decreased the viability of cells. FITC‐MSNs showed no toxicity on Caco‐2 cells at concentrations of ≤50 µg/ml. Functionalisation of FITC‐MSNs using APTES decreased toxicity effects on the cells. It was found that FITC‐MSNs can be applied at low concentrations as a marker in the cells. In addition, AP‐FITC‐MSNs showed better biocompatibility with Caco‐2 cells than FITC‐MSNs, because of their positive surface charges.Inspec keywords: mesoporous materials, porosity, nanoparticles, dyes, silicon compounds, nanocomposites, nanofabrication, nanomedicine, cellular biophysics, molecular biophysics, biochemistry, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectra, X‐ray diffraction, toxicology, particle size, biomedical materials, surface charging, cancerOther keywords: fluorescein isothiocyanate‐dyed mesoporous silica nanoparticles, antioxidant delivery tracking, cellular uptake, amine‐functionalised FITC‐MSNs, gallic acid‐loaded counterparts, 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane, transmission electron microscopy, TEM, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, cytotoxicity, dyed nanoparticles, (3‐(4,5‐trihydroxybenzoic acid‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay, flow cytometry, particle sizes, AP‐FITC‐MSNs, Caco‐2 cells, cytoplasm, subcellular organelles, cell viability, biocompatibility, positive surface charges, SiO₂      

Green fabricated CuO nanobullets via Olea europaea leaf extract shows auspicious antimicrobial potential

In present investigation, copper oxide (CuO) nanostructures have been prepared via green chemistry. Olea europaea leaf extract act as strong chelating agent for tailoring physical as well as bio‐medical characteristics of CuO at the nano‐size. Physical characterisation such as scanning electron microscope analysis depicts the formation of homogenised spherical shape nanoparticles (NPs) with average size of 42 nm. X‐ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy further confirmed the crystalline pure phase and monoclinic structure. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) testing is performed to evaluate the relative concentration of bioactive molecules in the O. europaea leaf extract. From HPLC results capping action of organic molecules around CuO‐NPs is hypothesised. The antimicrobial potency of biosynthesised CuO‐NPs have been evaluated using colony forming unit (CFU) counting assay and disc diffusion method which shows a significant zone of inhibition against bacterial and fungal strains may be highly potential for future antimicrobial pharmaceutics. Furthermore, reduction of various precursors by plant extract will reduce environmental impact over chemical synthesis.Inspec keywords: copper compounds, antibacterial activity, biochemistry, nanoparticles, nanomedicine, biomedical materials, chromatographyOther keywords: CuO, size 42 nm, chemical synthesis, antimicrobial pharmaceutics, bacterial strain, fungal strain, disc diffusion method, colony forming unit counting assay, biosynthesised CuO‐NP, bioactive molecules, high‐performance liquid chromatography testing, monoclinic structure, crystalline pure phase, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, homogenised spherical shape nanoparticles, scanning electron microscope analysis, CuO biomedical characteristics, chelating agent, green fabricated CuO nanobullets, green chemistry, copper oxide nanostructures, antimicrobial potential, Olea europaea leaf extract     

Biosynthesis of Selenium Nanoparticles using yeast Nematospora coryli and examination of their anti‐candida and anti‐oxidant activities

Selenium (Se) is a rare and essential element for the human body and other living organisms because of its role in the structure of several proteins and having anti‐oxidant properties to reduce oxidative stress at cells. Some microorganisms can absorb Se oxyanions and convert them into zero‐valent Se (Se0) in the nanoscale dimensions, which can be used for producing Se nanoparticles (SeNPs). In the present study, SeNPs were intracellularly biosynthesised by yeast Nematospora coryli, which is an inexpensive method and does not involve using materials hazardous for human and environment. The produced NPs were refined by a two‐phase system and then characterised and identified by ultraviolet–visible, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray fluorescence, transmission electron microscope, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analyses. The structural analysis of biosynthesised SeNPs showed spherical‐shaped NPs with size ranging from 50 to 250 nm. Also, extracted NPs were applied to explore their anti‐candida and anti‐oxidant activities. The results of this investigation confirm the biological properties of Se.Inspec keywords: X‐ray diffraction, microorganisms, oxidation, transmission electron microscopy, reduction (chemical), nanomedicine, biomedical materials, visible spectra, nanoparticles, proteins, nanofabrication, selenium, ultraviolet spectra, particle size, Fourier transform infrared spectra, antibacterial activityOther keywords: proteins, oxidative stress, Se oxyanions, yeast, biosynthesised SeNPs, anti‐oxidant activities, human body, living organisms, Se nanoparticles, Nematospora coryli, anti‐candida activities, biosynthesis, ultraviolet–visible analysis, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray fluorescence, transmission electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, structural analysis, size 50.0 nm to 250.0 nm, Se     

Biosynthesis of waste pistachio shell supported silver nanoparticles for the catalytic reduction processes

Silver nanoparticles (NPs) are immobilised on pistachio shell surface by Cichorium intybus L. leaves extract as an antioxidant media. The Fourier transform infrared spectra, X‐ray diffraction, field‐emission scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscope analyses confirmed the support of silver NPs on the pistachio shell (Ag NPs/pistachio shell). Ag NPs on the pistachio shell had a diameter basically in the 10–15 nm range. Reduction reactions of 4‐nitrophenol (4‐NP), and organic dyes at ambient condition were used in the investigation of the catalytic performance of the prepared catalyst. Through this research, the Ag NPs/pistachio shell shows a high activity and recyclability, and reusability without loss of its catalytic activity.Inspec keywords: transmission electron microscopy, nanoparticles, X‐ray diffraction, catalysis, nanofabrication, dyes, X‐ray chemical analysis, reduction (chemical), silver, catalysts, Fourier transform infrared spectra, field emission scanning electron microscopyOther keywords: waste pistachio shell, silver nanoparticles, catalytic reduction processes, pistachio shell surface, antioxidant media, infrared spectra, X‐ray diffraction, field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscope analyses, reduction reactions, catalytic performance, catalytic activity, Cichorium intybus L. leaves extract, size 10.0 nm to 15.0 nm, Ag