Evaluation of antibacterial property of hydroxyapatite and zirconium oxide‐modificated magnetic nanoparticles against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli

In the first section of this research, superparamagnetic nanoparticles (NPs) (Fe₃ O₄) modified with hydroxyapatite (HAP) and zirconium oxide (ZrO₂) and thereby Fe₃ O₄ /HAP and Fe₃ O₄ /ZrO₂ NPs were synthesised through co‐precipitation method. Then Fe₃ O₄ /HAP and Fe₃ O₄ /ZrO₂ NPs characterised with various techniques such as X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray analysis, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller, Fourier transform infrared, and vibrating sample magnetometer. Observed results confirmed the successful synthesis of desired NPs. In the second section, the antibacterial activity of synthesised magnetic NPs (MNPs) was investigated. This investigation performed with multiple microbial cultivations on the two bacteria; Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli). Obtained results proved that although both MNPs have good antibacterial properties, however, Fe₃ O₄ /HAP NP has greater antibacterial performance than the other. Based on minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration evaluations, S. aureus bacteria are more sensitive to both NPs. These nanocomposites combine the advantages of MNP and antibacterial effects, with distinctive merits including easy preparation, high inactivation capacity, and easy isolation from sample solutions by the application of an external magnetic field.Inspec keywords: nanocomposites, X‐ray chemical analysis, microorganisms, magnetic particles, scanning electron microscopy, precipitation (physical chemistry), nanomagnetics, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectra, nanoparticles, superparamagnetism, iron compounds, antibacterial activity, biomedical materials, nanomedicine, calcium compounds, nanofabrication, Fourier transform infrared spectra, magnetometers, zirconium compoundsOther keywords: antibacterial effects, antibacterial property, superparamagnetic nanoparticles, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray analysis, antibacterial activity, bactericidal concentration, S. aureus bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, hydroxyapatite, coprecipitation method, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray analysis, Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller method, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, vibrating sample magnetometer, microbial cultivations, nanocomposites     

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     

Green synthesis of the Ag/ZnO nanocomposite using Valeriana officinalis L. root extract: application as a reusable catalyst for the reduction of organic dyes in a very short time

A facile and green synthesis of the Ag/ZnO nanocomposite by extract of Valeriana officinalis L. root in the absence of any stabiliser or surfactant has been reported in this work. The green synthesised Ag/ZnO nanocomposite was characterised by Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), elemental mapping, Fourier‐Transform infrared (FT‐IR), X‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD) and UV‐Vis spectroscopy. According to SEM and TEM images, the Ag and ZnO particles are spherical with diameters of less than 20 and 40–50 nm, respectively. The Ag NPs/ZnO nanocomposite proved to be an effective catalyst in the reduction of various dyes including methyl orange (MO), Congo red (CR) and methylene blue (MB) in the presence of NaBH₄ in aqueous media at ambient temperature. A maximum degradation (100%) of dyes was performed using Ag/ZnO nanocomposite. The extraordinary performance of the prepared Ag/ZnO nanocomposite is attributed to the synergetic effect induced by both ZnO and Ag NPs in the catalytic degradation of organic dyes. The catalyst could be reused and recovered several times with no significant loss of catalytic activity.Inspec keywords: nanocomposites, silver, zinc compounds, II‐VI semiconductors, nanofabrication, catalysts, reduction (chemical), field emission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectra, ultraviolet spectra, visible spectra, X‐ray diffraction, surface morphology, nanoparticles, dyesOther keywords: green synthesis, nanocomposite, Valeriana officinalis L. root extract, reusable catalyst, reduction, organic dyes, surfactant, field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, elemental mapping, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction analysis, surface morphology, nanoparticles, methyl orange, congo red, methylene blue, UV–Vis spectroscopy, size 40 nm to 50 nm, wavelength 493 nm, wavelength 465 nm, wavelength 663 nm, Ag‐ZnO     

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     

Synthesis of Co3 O4 /graphene nanocomposite using paraffin wax for adsorption of methyl violet in water

This study discusses the use of Co₃ O₄ impregnated graphene (CoOIG) as an efficient adsorbent for the removal of methyl violet (MV) dye from wastewater. CoOIG nanocomposites have been prepared by pyrolyzing paraffin wax with cobalt acetate. The synthesised nanocomposite was characterised by X‐ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscope, Raman spectroscopy, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller isotherm studies. The above studies indicate that the composites have cobalt oxide nanoparticles of size 51–58 nm embedded in the graphene nanoparticles. The adsorption studies were conducted with various parameters, pH, temperature and initial dye concentration, adsorbent dosage and contact time by the batch method. The adsorption of MV dye by the adsorbent CoOIG was about 90% initially at 15 min and 98% dye removal at pH 5. The data were fitted in Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, and Dubinin–Radushkevich and Sips isotherm models. Various thermodynamic parameters like Gibbs free energy, enthalpy, and entropy of the on‐going adsorption process have also been calculated.Inspec keywords: cobalt compounds, graphene, nanoparticles, nanocomposites, nanofabrication, adsorption, dyes, scanning electron microscopy, field emission electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectra, Fourier transform infrared spectra, free energy, enthalpy, entropyOther keywords: nanocomposite, paraffin wax, adsorption, methyl violet dye, water, X‐ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller isotherm, cobalt oxide nanoparticles, graphene nanoparticles, thermodynamic parameters, Gibbs free energy, enthalpy, entropy, Co₃ O₄ ‐C     

Solvothermal‐assisted green synthesis of hybrid Chi‐Fe3 O4 nanocomposites: a potential antibacterial and antibiofilm material

In this present study, a hybrid Chi‐Fe₃ O₄ was prepared, characterised and evaluated for its antibacterial and antibiofilm potential against Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus marcescens bacterial pathogens. Intense peak around 260 nm in the ultraviolet–visible spectrum specify the formation of magnetite nanoparticles. Spherical‐shaped particles with less agglomeration and particle size distribution of 3.78–46.40 nm were observed using transmission electron microscopy analysis and strong interaction of chitosan with the surface of magnetite nanoparticles was studied using field emission scanning microscopy (FESEM). X‐ray diffraction analysis exhibited the polycrystalline and spinel structure configuration of the nanocomposite. Presence of Fe and O, C and Cl elements were confirmed using energy dispersive X‐ray microanalysis. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic analysis showed the reduction and formation of Chi‐Fe₃ O₄ nanocomposite. The antibacterial activity by deformation of the bacterial cell walls on treatment with Chi‐Fe₃ O₄ nanocomposite and its interaction was visualised using FESEM and the antibiofilm activity was determined using antibiofilm assay. In conclusion, this present study shows the green synthesis of Chi‐Fe₃ O₄ nanocomposite and evaluation of its antibacterial and antibiofilm potential, proving its significance in medical and biological applicationsInspec keywords: visible spectra, particle size, magnetic particles, nanocomposites, nanoparticles, X‐ray diffraction, nanofabrication, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray chemical analysis, nanomagnetics, microorganisms, antibacterial activity, iron compounds, ultraviolet spectra, biomedical materials, field emission scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectra, filled polymers, crystal growth from solution, polymer structureOther keywords: potential antibacterial material, antibiofilm potential, magnetite nanoparticles, solvothermal‐assisted green synthesis, hybrid Chi‐Fe₃ O₄ nanocomposites, staphylococcus aureus, staphylococcus marcescens, bacterial pathogens, ultraviolet–visible spectrum, spherical‐shaped particles, particle size, transmission electron microscopy, FESEM, field emission scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, spinel structure, polycrystalline structure, energy dispersive X‐ray microanalysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic analysis, deformation, bacterial cell walls, Fe₃ O₄      

Role of Ribes khorassanicum in the biosynthesis of AgNPs and their antibacterial properties

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been biosynthesised through the extracts of Ribes khorassanicum fruits, which served as the reducing agents and capping agents. Biosynthesised AgNPs have been found to be ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) absorption spectra since they have displayed one surface plasmon resonance peak at 438 nm, attesting the formation of spherical NPs. These particles have been characterised by UV–vis, field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy analysis. The formation of AgNPs at 1.0 mM concentration of AgNO₃ has resulted in NPs that contained mean diameters in a range of 20–40 nm. The green‐synthesised AgNPs have demonstrated high antibacterial effect against pathogenic bacteria (i.e. Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Biosynthesising metal NPs through plant extracts can serve as the facile and eco‐friendly alternative for chemical and/or physical methods that are utilised for large‐scale nanometal fabrication in various medical and industrial applications.Inspec keywords: X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray chemical analysis, nanofabrication, surface plasmon resonance, nanoparticles, antibacterial activity, microorganisms, scanning electron microscopy, silver, nanomedicine, visible spectra, ultraviolet spectra, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectra, field emission scanning electron microscopy, biomedical materialsOther keywords: antibacterial properties, silver nanoparticles, reducing agents, capping agents, surface plasmon resonance peak, spherical NPs, field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy analysis, plant extracts, ultraviolet‐visible absorption spectra, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, antibacterial effect, Ribes khorassanicum fruits, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, surface plasmon resonance, AgNO₃ , Ag     

Biologically‐synthesised ZnO/CuO/Ag nanocomposite using propolis extract and coated on the gauze for wound healing applications

Wound healing has long been recognised as a major clinical challenge for which stablishing more effective wound therapies is necessary. The generation of metallic nanocomposites using biological compounds is emerging as a new promising strategy for this purpose. In this study, four metallic nanoparticles (NPs) with propolis extract (Ext) and one without propolis including ZnO/Ext, ZnO/Ag/Ext, ZnO/CuO/Ext, ZnO/Ag/CuO/Ext and ZnO/W were prepared by microwave method and assessed for their wound healing activity on excision experimental model of wounds in rats. The developed nanocomposites have been characterised by physico‐chemical methods such as X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, diffuse reflectance UV–vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analyses. The wounded animals treated with the NPs/Ext in five groups for 18 days. Every 6 days, for measuring wound closure rate, three samples of each group were examined for histopathological analysis. The prepared tissue sections were investigated by haematoxylin and Eosin stainings for the formation of epidermis, dermis and muscular and Masson''s trichrome staining for the formation of collagen fibres. These findings toughly support the probability of using this new ZnO/Ag/Ext materials dressing for a wound care performance with significant effect compared to other NPs.Inspec keywords: nanomedicine, X‐ray diffraction, II‐VI semiconductors, visible spectra, ultraviolet spectra, nanocomposites, biomedical materials, proteins, wounds, nanoparticles, scanning electron microscopy, nanofabrication, skin, zinc compounds, silver, antibacterial activity, Fourier transform infrared spectra, copper compounds, molecular biophysicsOther keywords: propolis, wound healing applications, effective wound, metallic nanocomposites, biological compounds, metallic nanoparticles, microwave method, wound healing activity, physico‐chemical methods, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, diffuse reflectance UV‐vis spectroscopy, Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller analyses, wounded animals, wound closure rate, wound care performance, histopathological analysis, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, haematoxylin, Eosin stainings, Masson trichrome, epidermis, muscular trichrome, collagen fibres, time 18.0 d, time 6.0 d, ZnO‐CuO‐Ag     

Synthesis of ZnO/Fe3 O4 /rGO nanocomposites and evaluation of antibacterial activities towards E. coli and S. aureus

Antibacterial activity of nanoparticles (NPs) and nanocomposites (NCs) has received wide spread attention in biomedical applications. In this direction, the authors prepared zinc oxide (ZnO), iron oxide (Fe₃ O₄), and their composite including reduced graphene oxide (rGO) by hydrothermal method. The structural and microstructural properties of the synthesised NPs and NCs were investigated by XRD, FT‐IR, UV‐Vis, TGA, and TEM analysis. PEG‐coated ZnO and Fe₃ O₄ form in hexagonal wurtzite and inverse spinel structures, respectively. ZnO forms in rod‐shaped (aspect ratio of ∼3) morphology, whereas well‐dispersed spherical‐shaped morphology of ∼10 nm is observed in Fe₃ O₄ NPs. The ZnO/Fe₃ O₄ composite possesses a homogeneous distribution of above two phases and shows a very good colloidal stability in aqueous solvent. These synthesised particles exhibited varying antibacterial activity against gram‐positive strain Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and gram‐negative strain Escherichia coli (E. coli). The nanocomposite exhibits a better cidal effect on E. coli when compared to S. aureus when treated with 1 mg/ml concentration. Further, the addition of rGO has intensified the anti‐bacterial effect to a much higher extent due to synergistic influence of individual components.Inspec keywords: colloids, visible spectra, II‐VI semiconductors, thermal analysis, nanofabrication, X‐ray diffraction, nanoparticles, biomedical materials, wide band gap semiconductors, transmission electron microscopy, ultraviolet spectra, antibacterial activity, nanocomposites, zinc compounds, nanobiotechnology, Fourier transform infrared spectra, graphene compounds, iron compounds, crystal growth from solution, crystal morphologyOther keywords: antibacterial activity, E. coli, biomedical applications, iron oxide, hydrothermal method, structural properties, microstructural properties, PEG‐coated ZnO, hexagonal wurtzite, inverse spinel structures, gram‐positive strain Staphylococcus aureus, S. aureus, gram‐negative strain Escherichia coli, nanocomposites, nanoparticles, XRD, FTIR spectra, UV‐vis spectra, TGA, TEM, rod‐shaped morphology, spherical‐shaped morphology, colloidal stability, cidal effect, ZnO‐Fe₃ O₄ ‐CO     

Peanut skin extract mediated synthesis of gold nanoparticles,silver nanoparticles and gold–silver bionanocomposites for electrochemical Sudan IV sensing

Sustainable methods are needed for rapid and efficient detection of environmental and food pollutants. The Sudan group of dyes has been used extensively as adulterants in food and also are found to be polluting the soil and water bodies. There have been several methods for detection of Sudan dyes, but most of them are not practical enough for common use. In this study, the electrochemical detection efficiency and stability of gold nanoparticle (AuNPs), silver NPs and Au–Ag bionanocomposites, synthesised by peanut skin extract, modified glassy carbon electrode has been investigated. The synthesised nanomaterial samples were characterised, for their quality and quantity, using ultra–visible spectroscopy, inductive coupled plasma mass spectrophotometer, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, high‐resolution transmission electron microscope and field emission scanning electron microscope. The nanomaterial hybrid electrodes showed great efficiency and stability in the detection of Sudan IV compared with the other previous electrodes. The peak current of the Sudan IV oxidation and reduction was found to be proportional to its concentration, in the range of 10–80 µM, with a detection limit of 4 µM. The hybrid electrodes showed 90% stability in detection for 20 cycles.Inspec keywords: gold, silver, nanoparticles, nanocomposites, biomedical materials, electrochemical sensors, dyes, nanofabrication, ultraviolet spectra, visible spectra, spectrophotometry, Fourier transform infrared spectra, X‐ray chemical analysis, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, field emission electron microscopyOther keywords: peanut skin extract mediated synthesis, gold nanoparticles, silver nanoparticles, gold–silver bionanocomposites, electrochemical Sudan IV sensing, electrochemical detection efficiency, modified glassy carbon electrode, ultra–visible spectroscopy, inductive coupled plasma mass spectrophotometer, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, high‐resolution transmission electron microscope, field emission scanning electron microscope, oxidation, reduction, detection limit, Au, Ag, Au‐Ag     

Green synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles and mosquito larvicidal activity against dengue,zika and chikungunya causing vector Aedes aegypti

In the present study, high purity copper oxide nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesised using Tridax procumbens leaf extract. Green syntheses of nano‐mosquitocides rely on plant compounds as reducing and stabilising agents. Copper oxide NPs were characterised using X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR), Field‐emission scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy, Ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometry and fluorescence spectroscopy. XRD studies of the NPs indicate crystalline nature which was perfectly matching with a monoclinic structure of bulk CuO with an average crystallite size of 16 nm. Formation of copper oxide NPs was confirmed by FT‐IR studies and photoluminescence spectra with emission peaks at 331, 411 and 433 nm were assigned to a near‐band‐edge emission band of CuO in the UV, violet and blue region. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry studies inferred the phytochemical constituents of the leaf extract. Larvicidal activity of synthesised NPs using T. procumbens leaf extract was tested against Aedes aegypti species (dengue, chikungunya, zika and yellow fever transmit vector).Inspec keywords: photoluminescence, spectrophotometry, thermal analysis, chromatography, nanoparticles, antibacterial activity, field emission electron microscopy, microorganisms, wide band gap semiconductors, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, copper compounds, ultraviolet spectra, nanofabrication, X‐ray chemical analysis, crystallites, visible spectra, field emission scanning electron microscopy, nanobiotechnology, semiconductor materials, semiconductor growth, fluorescence, mass spectraOther keywords: energy dispersive spectroscopy, ultraviolet–visual spectrophotometry, fluorescence spectroscopy, chikungunya, green synthesis, mosquito larvicidal activity, zika, X‐ray diffraction analysis, field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, XRD, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, copper oxide nanoparticles, dengue, tridax procumben leaf extract, nanomosquitocides, FTIR, monoclinic structure, crystallite size, photoluminescence spectra, near‐band‐edge emission band, phytochemical constituents, Aedes aegypti species, yellow fever transmit vector, CuO     

Biocompatibility assessment of SiO2 –TiO2 composite powder on MG63 osteoblast cell lines for orthopaedic applications

The objective of this study is to evaluate the biocompatibility of composite powder consisting of silica and titania (SiO₂ –TiO₂) for biomedical applications. The advancement of nanoscience and nanotechnology encourages researchers to actively participate in reinvention of existing materials with improved physical, chemical and biological properties. Hence, a composite/hybrid material has given birth of new materials with intriguing properties. In the present investigation, SiO₂ –TiO₂ composite powder was synthesised by sol‐gel method and the prepared nanocomposite was characterised for its phase purity, functional groups, surface topography by powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) and scanning electron microscopy. Furthermore, to understand the adverse effects of composite, biocompatibility test was analysed by cell culture method using MG63 osteoblast cell lines as a basic screening method. From the results, it was observed that typical Si–O–Ti peaks in FT‐IR confirms the formation of composite and the crystallinity of the composite powder was analysed by XRD analysis. Further in vitro biocompatibility and acridine orange results have indicated better biocompatibility at different concentrations on osteoblast cell lines. On the basis of these observations, we envision that the prepared silica–titania nanocomposite is an intriguing biomaterial for better biomedical applications.Inspec keywords: bioceramics, nanocomposites, silicon compounds, titanium compounds, nanofabrication, sol‐gel processing, surface topography, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectra, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray chemical analysis, cellular biophysics, nanomedicineOther keywords: MG63 osteoblast cell lines, orthopaedic applications, biomedical applications, nanoscience, nanotechnology, nanotoxicology, physical properties, chemical properties, biological properties, biological applications, biomaterial synthesis, composite‐hybrid materials, intriguing properties, sol‐gel method, surface properties, ceramic nanocomposite, phase purity, functional groups, surface topography, powder X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, FT‐IR spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray analysis, biocompatibility test, cell culture method, screening method, crystallinity, XRD, in vitro biocompatibility, acridine orange, silica‐titania nanocomposite powder, SiO₂ ‐TiO₂      

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     

Photocatalytic degradation of synthetic dyes using iron (III) oxide nanoparticles (Fe2 O3 ‐Nps) synthesised using Rhizophora mucronata Lam

Biosynthesis of nanoparticles through plant extracts is gaining attention due to the toxic free synthesis process. The environmental engineering applications of many metal oxide nanoparticles have been reported. In this study, iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe₂ O₃ ‐Nps) were synthesised using a simple biosynthetic method using a leaf extract of a mangrove plant Rhizophora mucronata through reduction of 0.01 M ferric chloride. Fe₂ O₃ ‐Np synthesis was revealed by a greenish colour formation with a surface plasmon band observed close to 368 nm. The stable Fe₂ O₃ ‐Np possessed excitation and emission wavelength of 368.0 and 370.5 nm, respectively. The Fourier‐transform infrared spectral analysis revealed the changes in functional groups during formation of Fe₂ O₃ ‐Np. Agglomerations of nanoparticles were observed during scanning electron microscopic analysis and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopic analysis confirmed the ferric oxide nature. The average particle size of Fe₂ O₃ ‐Np based on dynamic light scattering was 65 nm. Based on transmission electron microscopic analysis, particles were spherical in shape and the crystalline size was confirmed by selected area electron diffraction pattern analysis. The synthesised Fe₂ O₃ ‐Np exhibited a good photodegradation efficiency with a reduction of 83 and 95% of phenol red and crystal violet under irradiation of sunlight and florescent light, respectively. This report is a facile synthesis method for Fe₂ O₃ ‐Np with high photodegradation efficiency.Inspec keywords: photochemistry, dyes, nanofabrication, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, nanoparticles, iron compounds, X‐ray diffraction, catalysts, catalysis, particle size, X‐ray chemical analysis, electron diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectra, surface plasmonsOther keywords: energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopic analysis, ferric oxide nature, transmission electron microscopic analysis, selected area electron diffraction pattern analysis, iron oxide nanoparticles, plant extracts, toxic free synthesis process, metal oxide nanoparticles, metal nanoparticles, nanofiltration, nanobiocides, Rhizophora mucronata Lam, crystalline size, phenol red, crystal violet, sunlight irradiation, florescent light, scanning electron microscopic analysis, Fourier‐transform infrared spectral analysis, surface plasmon, ferric chloride, leaf extract, nanocatalysts, nanoadsorbents, photocatalytic degradation, synthetic dyes, mangrove plant, water remediation, wastewater pollutant, wavelength 370.5 nm, wavelength 368.0 nm, Fe₂ O₃      

Hypnea musciformis‐mediated Ag/AgCl‐NPs inhibit pathogenic bacteria,HCT‐116 and MCF‐7 cells’ growth in vitro and Ehrlich ascites carcinoma cells in vivo in mice

In the present study, Ag/AgCl‐NPs were biosynthesised using Hypnea musciformis seaweed extract; NPs synthesis was confirmed by a change of colour and observation of a razor‐sharp peak at 424 nm by UV–visible spectroscopy. Synthesised nanoparticles were characterised by transmission electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, X‐ray powder diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Bacterial cell growth inhibition proves that the Ag/AgCl‐NPs have strong antibacterial activity and cell morphological alteration was observed in treated bacterial cells using propidium iodide (PI). Ag/AgCl‐NPs inhibited Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) cells, colorectal cancer (HCT‐116) and breast cancer (MCF‐7) cell line in vitro with the IC₅₀ values of 40.45, 24.08 and 36.95 μg/ml, respectively. Initiation of apoptosis in HCT‐116 and MCF‐7 cells was confirmed using PI, FITC‐annexin V and Hoechst 33342 dye. No reaction oxygen species generation was observed in both treated and untreated cell lines. A significant increase of ATG‐5 gene expression indicates the possibility of autophagy cell death besides apoptosis in MCF‐7 cells. The initiation of apoptosis in EAC cells was confirmed by observing caspase‐3 protein expression. Ag/AgCl‐NPs inhibited 22.83% and 51% of the EAC cell growth in vivo in mice when administered 1.5 and 3.0 mg/kg/day (i.p.), respectively, for 5 consequent days.     

Fe3 O4 /Ag nanocomposite biosynthesised using Spirulina platensis extract and its enhanced anticancer efficiency

In this work, the authors investigated the apoptotic activities of Fe₃ O₄ /Ag nanocomposite biosynthesised by Spirulina platensis extract against MCF‐7 (human breast cancer cells). The physico‐chemical properties of prepared Fe₃ O₄ /Ag nanocomposite were studied by different spectroscopic methods. To evaluate the in vitro cytotoxic effect, MCF‐7 cells were treated with different concentrations of Fe₃ O₄ /Ag nanocomposite and examined by 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Moreover, apoptotic effects were also studied by Hoechst 33258 staining, caspase 3 activation assays, and annexin V‐fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) and propidium iodide staining. Microscopic observations of Fe₃ O₄ /Ag nanocomposites indicated approximately spherical shape and small particles in the size range of about 30–50 nm. The MTT assay result revealed that the Fe₃ O₄ /Ag nanocomposite causes a dose‐dependent cell proliferation reduction in MCF‐7 cells (IC₅₀  = 135 μg/ml). Regarding to the Annexin V/PI staining result, the increase percentage of apoptotic cells (28.09%) was detected as compared to untreated cells. According to the caspase assay, Fe₃ O₄ /Ag nanocomposite enhances caspase 3 level. Furthermore, in vitro anti‐cancer activity of the nanocomposite was performed by Hoechst 33258 staining method. The proposed data suggest that Fe₃ O₄ /Ag nanocomposite may be an effective agent for the inhibition of breast cancer cells at in vitro level.Inspec keywords: nanomedicine, nanocomposites, toxicology, cancer, drug delivery systems, nanofabrication, cellular biophysics, nanoparticlesOther keywords: MCF‐7 cells, 5‐diphenyl‐tetrazolium, apoptotic effects, propidium iodide staining, dose‐dependent cell proliferation reduction, apoptotic cells, untreated cells, nanocomposite, Hoechst 33258 staining method, human breast cancer cells, physico‐chemical properties, spectroscopic methods, in vitro cytotoxic effect, in vitro anticancer activity, biosynthesis, caspase 3 activation assays, annexin V‐fluorescein isothiocyanate, FITC, Fe₃ O₄ ‐Ag     

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     

Green preparation of seaweed‐based silver nano‐liquid for cotton pathogenic fungi management

Silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) were synthesised using the crude ethyl acetate extracts of Ulva lactuca and evaluated their bioefficacy against two crop‐damaging pathogens. The sets of lattice planes in the XRD spectrum for the Ag NPs were indexed to the 111, 200, 220 and 311 orientations and support the crystalline nature of the Ag NPs. The 3414 and 2968 cm⁻¹ peaks were observed in crude algal thallus extract and they were characteristic of terpenoids. Further, a peak at 1389 cm⁻¹ was observed as fatty acids. The marine macroalgae terpenoids and palmitic acid acted as reducing agent and stabiliser, respectively. The size (3 and 50 nm) and shape (spherical) of Ag NPs were recorded. The energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy analysis exemplified the presence of silver in its elemental nature. Moreover, U. lactuca Ag NPs were effective against two cotton phytopathogens namely Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. vasinfectum (FOV) and Xanthomonas campestris pv. malvacearum (XAM). The minimum inhibitory concentration was found to be 80.0 and 43.33 μg ml⁻¹ against FOV and XAM, respectively. Results confirmed the anti‐microbial activity of green nanoparticles against select pathogens and suggest their possible usage in developing antifungal agents for controlling destructive pathogens in a cotton agroecosystem.Inspec keywords: nanoparticles, biotechnology, antibacterial activity, silver, microorganisms, X‐ray chemical analysis, crops, X‐ray diffraction, cottonOther keywords: crude ethyl acetate extracts, crop‐damaging pathogens, lattice planes, XRD spectrum, crystalline nature, crude algal thallus, fatty acids, marine macroalgae terpenoids, palmitic acid, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy analysis, elemental nature, cotton phytopathogens, green nanoparticles, destructive pathogens, cotton agroecosystem, green preparation, seaweed‐based silver nanoliquid, cotton pathogenic fungi management, silver nanoparticles, Ag NP, Ag     

Biosynthesis of γ ‐Fe2 O3 @CuO core–shell nanoclusters using aqueous extract of Sesbania grandiflora Linn fresh leaves,its characterisation,and antimicrobial activity studies against Staphylococcus aureus strains

The present study reports an eco‐friendly and rapid method for the synthesis of core–shell nanoclusters using the modified reverse micelle method. It is a green synthetic method which uses Sesbania grandiflora Linn extract which acts as a reducing and capping agent. It is observed that this method is very fast and convenient and the nanoclusters are formed with 5–10 min of the reaction time without using harsh conditions. The core–shell nanoclusters so prepared were characterised using UV–Vis spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Further, their effective antibacterial activity towards the gram‐positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus was found to be due to their smaller particle size.Inspec keywords: iron compounds, copper compounds, nanoparticles, particle size, nanofabrication, nanomedicine, biomedical materials, core‐shell nanostructures, antibacterial activity, ultraviolet spectra, visible spectra, microorganisms, reduction (chemical), scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectraOther keywords: biosynthesis, γ‐Fe₂ O₃ ‐CuO core‐shell nanoclusters, aqueous extract, Sesbania grandiflora Linn fresh leaves, antimicrobial activity, Staphylococcus aureus strains, eco‐friendly method, modified reverse micelle method, green synthetic method, reducing agent, capping agent, UV‐visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, antibacterial activity, gram‐positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, particle size, time 5 min to 10 min, Fe₂ O₃ ‐CuO     

Antifungal and antiovarian cancer properties of α Fe2 O3 and α Fe2 O3 /ZnO nanostructures synthesised by Spirulina platensis

Candida albicans (C. albicans) infection shows a growing burden on human health, and it has become challenging to search for treatment. Therefore, this work focused on the antifungal activity, and cytotoxic effect of biosynthesised nanostructures on human ovarian tetracarcinoma cells PA1 and their corresponding mechanism of cell death. Herein, the authors fabricated advanced biosynthesis of uncoated α‐Fe₂ O₃ and coated α‐Fe₂ O₃ nanostructures by using the carbohydrate of Spirulina platensis. The physicochemical features of nanostructures were characterised by UV–visible, high resolution transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction. The antifungal activity of these nanostructures against C. albicans was studied by the broth dilution method, and examined by 2′, 7′‐dichlorofluorescein diacetate staining. However, their cytotoxic effects against PA1 cell lines were evaluated by MTT and comet assays. Results indicated characteristic rod‐shaped nanostructures, and increasing the average size of α‐Fe₂ O₃ @ZnO nanocomposite (105.2 nm × 29.1 nm) to five times as compared to α‐Fe₂ O₃ nanoparticles (20.73nm × 5.25 nm). The surface coating of α‐Fe₂ O₃ by ZnO has increased its antifungal efficiency against C. albicans. Moreover, the MTT results revealed that α‐Fe₂ O₃ @ZnO nanocomposite reduces PA1 cell proliferation due to DNA fragmentation (IC₅₀ 18.5 μg/ml). Continual advances of green nanotechnology and promising findings of this study are in favour of using the construction of rod‐shaped nanostructures for therapeutic applications.Inspec keywords: nanocomposites, toxicology, nanofabrication, cellular biophysics, X‐ray diffraction, iron compounds, biochemistry, cancer, antibacterial activity, transmission electron microscopy, biomedical materials, wide band gap semiconductors, DNA, II‐VI semiconductors, visible spectra, molecular biophysics, ultraviolet spectra, nanomedicine, zinc compounds, nanoparticles, microorganisms, Fourier transform infrared spectraOther keywords: Spirulina platensis, antifungal activity, α‐Fe₂ O₃ nanoparticles, antiovarian cancer properties, Candida albicans infection, cytotoxic effect, biosynthesised nanostructures, human ovarian tetracarcinoma cell PA1, cell death, uncoated α‐Fe₂ O₃ , coated α‐Fe₂ O₃ nanostructures, α‐Fe₂ O₃ ‐ZnO nanocomposite, carbohydrate, physicochemical features, UV‐visible spectroscopy, high resolution transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, broth dilution method, 2′, 7′‐dichlorofluorescein diacetate staining, PA1 cell lines, comet assays, MTT assays, rod‐shaped nanostructures, surface coating, PA1 cell proliferation, DNA fragmentation, green nanotechnology, Fe₂ O₃ ‐ZnO, Fe₂ O₃