Effect of Ag‐NPs synthesised by Chamaemelum nobile extract on the inflammation and oxidative stress induced by carrageenan in mice paw

An environmentally friendly and rapid procedure was developed to synthesise silver nanoparticles (Ag‐NPs) by Chamaemelum nobile extract and to evaluate its in vivo anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant activities. The ultraviolet–visible absorption spectrum of the synthesised Ag‐NPs showed an absorbance peak at 422. The average size of spherical nanoparticles was 24 nm as revealed by transmission electron microscopy. Fourier transform infra‐red spectroscopy analysis supported the presence of biological active compounds involved in the reduction of Ag ion and X‐ray diffraction confirmed the crystalline structure of the metallic Ag. The anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant activity of the Ag‐NPs was investigated against carrageenan‐induced paw oedema in mice. The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and inflammatory cytokines tumour necrosis factor (TNF‐α), interferon gamma and interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐1β were assessed in this respect. The results demonstrated that anti‐inflammatory activity of the Ag‐NPs might be due to the ability of the nanoparticles to reduce IL‐1β, IL‐6 and TNF‐α. Moreover, reduction of antioxidant enzymes along with an increase in MDA level shows that the anti‐inflammatory activity of the synthesised Ag‐NPs by C. nobile is attributed to its ameliorating effect on the oxidative damage.Inspec keywords: silver, nanoparticles, nanofabrication, ultraviolet spectra, visible spectra, particle size, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectra, X‐ray diffraction, crystal structure, enzymes, molecular biophysics, tumours, biomedical materials, nanomedicineOther keywords: Chamaemelum nobile extract, oxidative stress, mice paw, silver nanoparticles, antiinflammatory activity, antioxidant activity, ultraviolet‐visible absorption spectrum, spherical nanoparticle size, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, biological active compounds, X‐ray diffraction, crystalline structure, carrageenan‐induced paw oedema, malondialdehyde, antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, inflammatory cytokines, tumour necrosis factor, interferon gamma, interleukin, IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNF‐α, MDA level, Ag     

Dynamic optimal experimental design yields marginal improvement over steady‐state results for computational maximisation of regulatory T‐cell induction in ex vivo culture

The isolation of T cells, followed by differentiation into Regulatory T cells (Tregs), and re‐transplantation into the body has been proposed as a therapeutic option for inflammatory bowel disease. A key requirement for making this a viable therapeutic option is the generation of a large population of Tregs. However, cytokines in the local microenvironment can impact the yield of Tregs during differentiation. As such, experimental design is an essential part of evaluating the importance of different cytokine concentrations for Treg differentiation. However, currently only single, constant concentrations of the cytokines have been investigated. This work addresses this point by performing experimental design in silico which seeks to maximize the predicted induction of Tregs relative to Th17 cells, by selecting an optimal input function for the concentrations of TGF‐β, IL‐2, IL‐6, and IL‐23. While this approach sounds promising, the results show that only marginal improvements in the concentration of Tregs can be achieved for dynamic cytokine profiles as compared to optimal constant concentrations. Since constant concentrations are easier to implement in experiments, it is recommended for this particular system to keep the concentrations constant where IL‐6 should be kept low and high concentrations of TGF‐β, IL‐2, and IL‐23 should be used.Inspec keywords: patient treatment, molecular biophysics, proteins, cellular biophysics, diseasesOther keywords: Tregs relative, optimal input function, dynamic cytokine profiles, optimal constant concentrations, IL‐23, computational maximisation, regulatory T‐cell induction, inflammatory bowel disease, viable therapeutic option, local microenvironment, Treg differentiation, single concentrations, predicted induction, dynamic optimal experimental design, interleukin‐2, IL‐6, transforming growth factor‐β     

Liposome nano‐formulation with cationic polar lipid DOTAP and cholesterol as a suitable pH‐responsive carrier for molecular therapeutic drug (all‐trans retinoic acid) delivery to lung cancer cells

The molecular targeted drug ATRA demands a suitable carrier that delivers to the cancer site due to its poor bioavailability and drug resistance. ATRA, being a lipid with carboxylic acid, has been nano‐formulated as a cationic lipo‐ATRA with DOTAP:cholesterol:ATRA (5:4:1) and its pH‐responsive release, intracellular drug accumulation, and anticancer effect on human lung cancer (A549) cell line analysed. The analysis of the physicochemical characteristics of the developed lipo‐ATRA (0.8 µmol) revealed that the size of 231 ± 2.35 d.nm had a zeta potential of 6.4 ± 1.19 and an encapsulation efficiency of 93.7 ± 3.6%. The ATRA release from lipo‐ATRA in vitro was significantly (p ≤ 0.05) higher at acidic pH 6 compared to pH 7.5. The intracellular uptake of ATRA into lipo‐ATRA‐treated A549 cells was seven‐fold higher (0.007 ± 0.001 mg/ml) while only three‐fold uptake was observed in free ATRA treatment (0.003 ± 0.002 mg/ml). The lipo‐ATRA treatment caused a highly significant (p ≤ 0.001) decrease in percent cell viability at 48 h when compared with the free ATRA treatment. Overall, the results proved that the developed lipo‐ATRA has suitable physicochemical properties with enhanced ATRA release at acidic pH, while maintaining stability at physiologic pH and temperature. This resulted in an increased ATRA uptake by lung cancer cells with enhanced treatment efficiency. Hence, it is concluded that DOTAP lipo‐ATRA is a suitable carrier for ATRA delivery to solid cancer cells.     

Biosynthesis of reduced graphene oxide using Turbinaria ornata and its cytotoxic effect on MCF‐7 cells

Graphene‐based nanomaterials are gaining importance in biomedicine because of their large surface areas, solubility, and biocompatibility. Green synthesis is the most economical method for application, as it is rapid and sustainable. Biofunctionalized reduced graphene oxide (TrGO) nanosheets were synthesized using methanol extract of Turbinaria ornata, and bioreduction of graphene oxide was primarily confirmed and characterized using UV‐visible, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy and further characterized by zeta potential and transmission electron microscopy. The FTIR spectra of TrGO showed a decrease in the band intensities of oxygen groups, thus confirming effective deoxygenation. The zeta potential value of −34.6 mV revealed that synthesized TrGO was highly stable. The cytotoxic effect of TrGO against MCF‐10A and MCF‐7 cells was ascertained using MTT assay, showed a greater cytotoxic effect on MCF‐7 cells. The IC₅₀ of TrGO treatment against MCF‐7 was calculated to be 31.25 µg, which is onefold lower than the cytotoxic effect of methanolic extract of T. ornata (60.0 ± 1.14 µg/ml). In addition, there was a statistically significant difference in cell viability between MCF‐10A and MCF‐7 cells in the treatment of TrGO. Hence, this study results in an efficient green reductant for producing rGO nanosheets that possess cytotoxicity against breast cancer cells.     

Dioscin‐loaded zein nanoparticles alleviate lipopolysaccharide‐induced acute kidney injury via the microRNA‐let 7i signalling pathways

The present study investigates the potential role of dioscin (DIO) in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced kidney injury. For this purpose, DIO‐loaded zein nanoparticles (DIO‐ZNPs) were formulated and evaluated for physicochemical parameters. The DIO‐ZNPs exhibited a controlled release of drug compared with that of the free drug suspension. Results showed that the cell viability of NRK‐52E consistently decreased with the increase in LPS from 0.01 µg/ml to 2 µg/ml. When compared with LPS, DIO‐induced NPs showed 1.10‐, 1.32‐, 1.57‐ and 1.92‐fold increase in the cell viability for concentrations of 20 µg/ml, 50 µg/ml, 100 µg/ml and 200 µg/ml, respectively. DIO‐ZNPs exhibited the most remarkable recovery in the cell proliferation compared with free DIO as shown by the cellular morphology analysis. Furthermore, Annexin‐V staining analysis showed that the LPS‐treated cells possess the lowest green fluorescence indicating fewer viable cells, whereas DIO‐ZNPs exhibited the maximum green fluorescence comparable with that of the non‐treated cells indicating maximum cell viability. Furthermore, the results show that DIO‐ZNPs significantly increased the expression of miR‐let‐7i in the epithelial kidney cells, whereas the expression levels of TLR4 were significantly downregulated compared with that of the LPS‐treated cells. In conclusion, miR‐let‐7i could be an interesting therapeutic target and nanoparticle‐based DIO could be a potential candidate in the management of acute kidney injuryInspec     

Empty nano and micro‐structured lipid carriers of virgin coconut oil for skin moisturisation

Virgin coconut oil (VCO) is the finest grade of coconut oil, rich in phenolic content, antioxidant activity and contains medium chain triglycerides (MCTs). In this work formulation, characterisation and penetration of VCO‐solid lipid particles (VCO‐SLP) have been studied. VCO‐SLP were prepared using ultrasonication of molten stearic acid and VCO in an aqueous solution. The electron microscopy imaging revealed that VCO‐SLP were solid and spherical in shape. Ultrasonication was performed at several power intensities which resulted in particle sizes of VCO‐SLP ranged from 0.608 ± 0.002 µm to 44.265 ± 1.870 µm. The particle size was directly proportional to the applied power intensity of ultrasonication. The zeta potential values of the particles were from −43.2 ± 0.28 mV to −47.5 ± 0.42 mV showing good stability. The cumulative permeation for the smallest sized VCO‐SLP (0.608 µm) was 3.83 ± 0.01 µg/cm² whereas for larger carriers it was reduced (3.59 ± 0.02 µg/cm²). It is concluded that SLP have the potential to be exploited as a micro/nano scale cosmeceutical carrying vehicle for improved dermal delivery of VCO.Inspec keywords: skin, cosmetics, vegetable oils, ultrasonic applications, electron microscopy, particle sizeOther keywords: empty nanostructured lipid carrier, empty microstructured lipid carrier, virgin coconut oil, skin moisturisation, phenolic content, antioxidant activity, medium chain triglyceride, MCT, VCO‐solid lipid particle, VCO‐SLP, molten stearic acid ultrasonication, electron microscopy imaging, power intensity, particle size, dermal delivery     

Enhancement of in vitro antitumour activity of epirubicin in HER2+ breast cancer cells using immunoliposome formulation

Epirubicin (EPI) is one of the potent breast cancer (BC) chemotherapeutic agents, but its adverse effects limit its efficacy. Herein, EPI was selected to be loaded in liposomal carrier, which has been targeted by a monoclonal antibody, Herceptin. The preparation process of liposomes was a modified ethanol injection method followed by Herceptin conjugation. The in vitro cell toxicity and cellular uptake of optimum formulation against HER2+ and HER2− cancer cell lines were evaluated. The results showed that the drug loading (DL%) and encapsulation efficiency (EE%) of liposome preparation method yielded 30.62% ± 0.49% and 62.39% ± 8.75%, respectively. The average size of naked liposomes (EPI‐Lipo) and immunoliposomes (EPI‐Lipo‐mAb) was 234 ± 9.86 and 257.26 ± 6.25 nm, with a relatively monodisperse distribution, which was confirmed by SEM micrographs. The release kinetic followed Higuchi model for both naked and immunoliposomes. In vitro cytotoxicity study on three different BC cell lines including BT‐20, MDA‐MB‐453 and MCF‐7 demonstrated higher toxicity of EPI in the Herceptin conjugated form (EPI‐Lipo‐mAb) in comparison with the free EPI and EPI‐Lipo in HER2 overexpressing cell line. In addition, the cellular uptake study showed a higher uptake of immunoliposomes by MCF‐7 cells in comparison with naked liposomes. In conclusion, these data show that the targeted delivery of EPI to breast cancer cells can be achieved by EPI‐Lipo‐mAb in vitro, and this strategy could be used for breast cancer therapy with further studies.     

In vitro biological evaluation of anti‐diabetic activity of organic–inorganic hybrid gold nanoparticles

Diabetes mellitus has been considered as a heterogeneous metabolic disorder characterised by complete or relative impairment in the production of insulin by pancreatic β‐cells or insulin resistance. In the present study, propanoic acid, an active biocomponent isolated from Cassia auriculata is employed for the synthesis of propanoic acid functionalised gold nanoparticles (Pa@AuNPs) and its anti‐diabetic activity has been demonstrated in vitro. In vitro cytotoxicity of synthesised Pa@AuNPs was performed in L6 myotubes. The mode of action of Pa@AuNPs exhibiting anti‐diabetic potential was validated by glucose uptake assay in the presence of Genistein (insulin receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor) and Wortmannin (Phosphatidyl inositide kinase inhibitor). Pa@AuNPs exhibited significant glucose uptake in L6 myotubes with maximum uptake at 50 ng/ml. Assays were performed to study the potential of Pa@AuNPs in the inhibition of protein‐tyrosine phosphatase 1B, α‐glucosidases, and α‐amylase activity.Inspec keywords: molecular biophysics, biomedical materials, sugar, enzymes, nanofabrication, gold, patient treatment, organic‐inorganic hybrid materials, biochemistry, diseases, cellular biophysics, nanoparticles, toxicology, nanomedicineOther keywords: glucose uptake assay, α‐amylase activity, organic–inorganic hybrid gold nanoparticles, diabetes mellitus, heterogeneous metabolic disorder, pancreatic β‐cells, insulin resistance, propanoic acid, antidiabetic potential, antidiabetic activity, in vitro cytotoxicity, L6 myotubes, Genistein, IRTK inhibitor, Wortmannin, P13K inhibitor, protein‐tyrosine phosphatase 1B, α‐glucosidases, Cassia auriculata, Au     

Design and development of a portable resistive sensor based on α‐MnO2/GQD nanocomposites for trace quantification of Pb(II) in water

The occurrence of heavy metal ions in food chain is appearing to be a major problem for mankind. The traces of heavy metals, especially Pb(II) ions present in water bodies remains undetected, untreated, and it remains in the food cycle causing serious health hazards for human and livestock. The consumption of Pb(II) ions may lead to serious medical complications including multiple organ failure which can be fatal. The conventional methods of heavy metal detection are costly, time‐consuming and require laboratory space. There is an immediate need to develop a cost‐effective and portable sensing system which can easily be used by the common man without any technical knowhow. A portable resistive device with miniaturized electronics is developed with microfluidic well and α‐MnO₂/GQD nanocomposites as a sensing material for the sensitive detection of Pb(II). α‐MnO₂/GQD nanocomposites which can be easily integrated with the miniaturized electronics for real‐time on‐field applications. The proposed sensor exhibited a tremendous potential to be integrated with conventional water purification appliances (household and commercial) to give an indication of safety index for the drinking water. The developed portable sensor required low sample volume (200 µL) and was assessed within the Pb(II) concentration range of 0.001 nM to 1 uM. The Limit of Detection (LoD) and sensitivity was calculated to be 0.81 nM and 1.05 kΩ/nM/mm², and was validated with the commercial impedance analyser. The shelf‐life of the portable sensor was found to be ∼45 days.     

In‐vitro and in‐vivo evaluation of chitosan‐based thermosensitive gel containing lorazepam NLCs for the treatment of status epilepticus

The objective of this study was to develop an in‐situ gel containing lorazepam (LZM) loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) for direct nose‐to‐brain delivery in order to increase drug therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of epilepsy. Accordingly, LZM loaded NLCs were formulated using emulsification solvent diffusion and evaporation method; then the effects of the formulation variables on different physicochemical characteristics of NLCs were investigated. Thermosensitive in‐situ gels containing LZM‐NLCs were prepared using a combination of chitosan and β‐glycerol phosphate (β‐GP). The anticonvulsant efficacy of LZM‐NLCs‐Gel was then examined using the pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) model. The optimised NLCs were spherical, showing the particle size of 71.70 ± 5.16 nm and the zeta potential of −20.06 ± 2.70 mV. The pH and gelation time for the chitosan solution with 15% (w/v) β‐GP were determined to be 7.12 ± 0.03 and 5.33 ± 0.58 min, respectively. The in‐vivo findings showed that compared with the control group and the group that received LZM‐Gel, the occurrence of PTZ‐induced seizures in the rats was significantly reduced by LZM‐NLCs‐Gel after intranasal administration. These results, therefore, suggested that the LZM‐NLCs‐Gel system could have potential applications for brain targeting through nasal route and might increase LZM therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of epilepsy.Inspec keywords: biomedical materials, nanomedicine, cellular biophysics, electrokinetic effects, drug delivery systems, nanoparticles, brain, pH, drugs, particle size, nanofabrication, medical disorders, polymer gelsOther keywords: evaporation method, β‐glycerol phosphate, β‐GP, optimised NLCs, received LZM‐Gel, LZM therapeutic efficacy, chitosan‐based thermosensitive gel, lorazepam NLCs, nose‐to‐brain delivery, drug therapeutic efficacy, emulsification solvent diffusion, in‐vivo evaluation, in‐vitro evaluation, LZM‐NLC‐gel system, status epilepticus treatment, lorazepam loaded nanostructured lipid carriers, epilepsy treatment, physicochemical characteristics, thermosensitive in‐situ gel, anticonvulsant efficacy, pentylenetetrazole model, particle size, zeta potential, pH, gelation time, chitosan solution, PTZ‐induced seizures, intranasal administration     

Synthesis and characterisation of liposomal doxorubicin with loaded gold nanoparticles

Developing nanostructures for cancer treatment is growing significantly. Liposomal doxorubicin is a drug that is used in the clinic and represents a lot of benefits over doxorubicin. The development of multifunctional liposomes with different cancer treatment capability enables broader applications of doxorubicin chemotherapy. Many efforts were carried to prepare more effective liposomal formulation through loading gold nanoparticles (GNPs) in the formulation. Here, GNPs with an average size of 6 nm were loaded in liposomal formulation alongside doxorubicin. The hydrodynamic diameter of final formulation was 177.3 ± 33.9 nm that in comparison with liposomes without GNPs (112.5 ± 10.3 nm), GNPs‐loaded liposomes showed the bigger hydrodynamic diameter. GNPs‐loaded liposomes are slightly positively charged (4.4 ± 1.1 mV), while liposomes without loading the GNPs were negatively charged (−18.5 ± 1.6 mV). Doxorubicin was loaded in this formulation through active loading technique. Doxorubicin loading efficiency in gold‐loaded liposomes is slightly lesser than liposomes without GNPs, but still considerably high in comparison to passive loading techniques.Inspec keywords: nanofabrication, drugs, nanomedicine, gold, cancer, lipid bilayers, drug delivery systems, nanoparticles, crystal growth from solutionOther keywords: liposomal doxorubicin, multifunctional liposomes, doxorubicin chemotherapy, active loading technique, doxorubicin loading efficiency, gold‐loaded liposomes, passive loading techniques, gold nanoparticles, cancer treatment, liposomal formulation, GNP‐loaded liposomes, hydrodynamic diameter     

Mathematical model and nanoindentation properties of the claws of Cyrtotrachelus buqueti Guer (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to observe the macroscopic, microscopic, and cross‐sectional structures of the claws of Cyrtotrachelus buqueti Guer (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), and a mathematical model of a claw was used to investigate the structure–function relationships. To improve the quality of the SEM images, a non‐local means (NLM) algorithm and an improved NLM algorithm were applied. After comparison and analysis of five classical edge‐detection algorithms, the boundaries of the structural features of the claw were extracted based on a B‐spline wavelet algorithm, and the results showed that the variable curvature of the beetle claw enhances its adhesion force and improves its strength. Adhesion models of the claw were established, and the mechanical properties of its biomaterials were measured using nanoindentation. Considering that the presence of water can affect the hardness and Young''s modulus, both ‘dry’ and ‘wet’ samples were examined. For the dry samples, the hardness and Young''s modulus were 0.197 ± 0.074 GPa and 1.105 ± 0.197 GPa, respectively, whereas the respective values for the wet samples were both lower at 0.071 ± 0.030 GPa and 0.693 ± 0.163 GPa. This study provides data that can inform the design of climbing robots.     

In vitro evaluation of biodegradable nHAP‐Chitosan‐Gelatin‐based scaffold for tissue engineering application

The present study focuses on fabrication and characterisation of porous composite scaffold containing hydroxyapatite (HAP), chitosan, and gelatin with an average pore size of 250–1010 nm for improving wound repair and regeneration by Electrospinning method. From the results of X ‐Ray Diffraction (XRD) study, the peaks correspond to crystallographic structure of HAP powder. The presence of functional group bonds of HAP powder, Chitosan and scaffold was studied using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The surface morphology of the scaffold was observed using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The Bioactivity of the Nano composite scaffolds was studied using simulated body fluid solution at 37 ± 1°C. The biodegradability test was studied using Tris‐Buffer solution for the prepared nanocomposites [nano Chitosan, nano Chitosan gelatin, Nano based Hydroxyapatite Chitosan gelatin]. The cell migration and potential biocompatibility of nHAP‐chitosan‐gelatin scaffold was assessed via wound scratch assay and were compared to povedeen as control. Cytocompatibility evaluation for Vero Cells using wound scratch assay showed that the fabricated porous nanocomposite scaffold possess higher cell proliferation and growth than that of povedeen. Thus, the study showed that the developed nanocomposite scaffolds are potential candidates for regenerating damaged cell tissue in wound healing process.Inspec keywords: nanofabrication, tissue engineering, electrospinning, wounds, cellular biophysics, scanning electron microscopy, surface morphology, X‐ray diffraction, biomedical materials, nanomedicine, porosity, biodegradable materials, nanoporous materials, calcium compounds, gelatin, nanocomposites, Fourier transform infrared spectra, nanoparticles, precipitation (physical chemistry)Other keywords: average pore size, wound repair, crystallographic structure, HAP powder, functional group bonds, simulated body fluid solution, biodegradability test, Tris‐Buffer solution, cell migration, wound scratch assay, tissue engineering, electrospinning method, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, biocompatibility, cytocompatibility, porous nanocomposite scaffold, cell tissue, nHAP‐chitosan‐gelatin scaffold composites, wet chemical precipitation method, surface morphology, nanohydroxyapatite‐nanochitosan‐gelatin scaffold composites, cell proliferation, wound healing, (Ca₁₀ (PO₄)₆ (OH)₂)     

Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using aqueous extract of silky hairs of corn and investigation of its antibacterial and anticandidal synergistic activity and antioxidant potential

This paper investigated the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using aqueous extract of silky hairs of corn (Zea mays L.) which is a waste material of the crop, as both a reducing and stabilising/capping agent. The AgNPs were characterised by UV‐visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (EDX), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR). The average size of AgNPs was found to be 249.12 nm. The AgNPs displayed strong antibacterial activity against five different foodborne pathogenic bacteria with diameter of inhibition zones ranged between (9.23 − 12.81 mm). It also exhibited potent synergistic antibacterial activity together with standard antibiotics, kanamycin (10.6 − 13.65 mm inhibition zones) and rifampicin (10.02 − 12.86 mm inhibition zones) and anticandidal activity with amphotericin b (10.57 − 13.63 mm inhibition zones). The AgNPs exhibited strong antioxidant activity in terms of nitric oxide scavenging (IC₅₀ 91.56 µg/mL), ABTS (2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulphonic acid) radical scavenging (IC₅₀ 115.75 µg/mL), DPPH (1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging (IC₅₀ 385.87 µg/mL), and reducing power (IC_0.5 23.14 µg/mL). This study demonstrated the synthesis of spherical AgNPs with strong antibacterial, anticandidal and antioxidant properties that could potentially be utilised in the biomedical, cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical industries.Inspec keywords: silver, nanoparticles, nanomedicine, antibacterial activity, biomedical materials, nanofabrication, botany, ultraviolet spectra, visible spectra, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray chemical analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectra, crystallitesOther keywords: biomedical industry, cosmetic industry, food industry, pharmaceutical industry, Ag, crystallite size, 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging, 2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulphonic acid) radical scavenging, nitric oxide scavenging, amphotericin b, anticandidal activity, rifampicin, kanamycin, standard antibiotics, inhibition zones, foodborne pathogenic bacteria, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis, scanning electron microscopy, ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopy, Zea mays L, antioxidant potential, anticandidal synergistic activity, antibacterial synergistic activity, corn, silky hair aqueous extract, silver nanoparticles biosynthesis     

Sorption of Cu(II) ions by nano‐scale zero valent iron supported on rubber seed shell

This study focused on synthesising nano‐scale zero valent iron (NZVI) impregnated on a low‐cost agro‐waste material, rubber seed shell (RSS), by borohydride reduction method. The characterisation studies of NZVI‐RSS were performed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction. The adsorption execution of NZVI‐RSS for Cu(II) ions evacuation from synthetic wastewater was explored by batch studies. The optimum condition for the present adsorption system is as follows: Cu(II) ion concentration = 25 mg/l; solution pH = 6.0; contact time = 30 min; NZVI‐RSS dose = 3 g/l; temperature = 30°C. The sorption data were best portrayed by pseudo‐first‐order and Freundlich models. The outcomes demonstrated the multilayer sorption of Cu(II) ions by NZVI‐RSS. The Langmuir capacity was observed as 48.18 mg/g. Thermodynamic parameters, ΔG °, ΔH ° and ΔS ° were ascertained, and it was watched that the adsorption system was unconstrained and exothermic. The sticking probability for Cu(II) ions by NZVI‐RSS was found to be high at lower temperature. At long last, the research inquire about reasoned that NZVI‐RSS has demonstrated unrivalled adsorption capacity. Also NZVI‐RSS is thought to be really green and financially amicable support for wastewater treatment.Inspec keywords: adsorption, copper, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, wastewater treatment, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopyOther keywords: nano‐scale zero valent iron, rubber seed shell, copper ions, borohydride reduction method, NZVI‐RSS, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, adsorption execution, synthetic wastewater, Langmuir capacity, Freundlich models, adsorption system, wastewater treatment, adsorption capacity, Cu     

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     

Formulation and optimisation of lamivudine‐loaded Eudragit® S 100 polymer‐coated pectin microspheres for colon‐specific delivery

This investigation is to find a prolonged or delayed drug release system, exclusively for the treatment of hepatitis‐B to reduce the side effects, which arise when conventional solid dose forms are administered. To pursue this goal, lamivudine‐loaded Eudragit‐coated pectin microspheres have been formulated employing water/oil (W/O) emulsion evaporation strategy. The formulation was optimised using a 3⁴ factorial design. A drug to polymer ratio of 1:2, the surfactant of 1 ml, the volume of 50 ml of processing medium with a stirring speed of 2500 rpm were found to be the optimal parameters to obtain the lamivudine‐loaded Eudragit‐coated pectin microspheres formulation with a high drug entrapment efficiency of 89.44% ± 1.44%. The in vitro release kinetics of lamivudine was a suitable fit to the Higuchi model, indicating a diffusion‐controlled release with anomalous transport. The obtained microspheres were then subjected to different characterisation studies, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). The results of this study clearly indicate that Eudragit‐coated pectin microspheres could be the promising controlled release carriers for colon‐specific delivery of lamivudine in the presence of rat cecal content.     

Screening the UV‐blocking and antimicrobial properties of herbal nanoparticles prepared from Aloe vera leaves for textile applications

Nanomaterials play a vital role in textile industries due to their unique properties and applications. There is an increase in the use of nanoscale phyto products in textiles to control the bacterial infection in fabrics. Here, natural herbal nanoparticles of different sizes were prepared from shade‐dried Aloe vera plant leaves using ball milling technique without any additives. The amorphous herbal A. vera nanoparticles possess an average particle size of 40 ± 2 nm and UV‐absorption maximum at 269 nm. A. vera nanopowders–chitosan nanocomposites were prepared and coated on cotton fabrics using pad‐dry cure method. The evaluation of antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (22.05 ± 0.06 mm) and Staphylococcus aureus (27.17 ± 0.02 mm), UV‐protection properties (UV‐protection factor = 57.2 ± 0.1), and superhydrophobic nature (155 ± 3°) of the prepared herbal nanoparticles and their composites were analysed by disc diffusion, UV–visible spectral analysis, and contact angle analysis. Understanding the functional properties of herbal nanoparticles, coated particles on fabrics highlights their potential applications in protective clothing with better antimicrobial properties, hydrophobicity, and UV‐protection properties. This study of using A. vera herbal nanoparticles in textiles significantly enhances the fabric performance to develop protective textile fabrics in defence and biomedical fields.Inspec keywords: nanoparticles, particle size, nanofabrication, nanomedicine, antibacterial activity, biomedical materials, hydrophobicity, ultraviolet spectra, visible spectra, radiation protection, textile fibres, cotton fabrics, ball milling, X‐ray diffraction, light scattering, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray fluorescence analysis, fluorescence, amorphous state, nanocomposites, filled polymers, protective coatings, curing, microorganisms, biodiffusion, contact angle, surface morphology, protective clothingOther keywords: UV‐blocking, antimicrobial properties, disc diffusion, UV‐visible spectral analysis, contact angle analysis, morphological characteristics, protective clothing, protective textile fabrics, biomedical fields, superhydrophobic nature, UV‐protection factor, UV‐protection properties, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, pad‐dry cure method, cotton fabrics, A. vera nanopowders‐chitosan nanocomposites, UV‐absorption maximum, average particle size, amorphous herbal A. vera nanoparticles, X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, UV‐visible spectrophotometry, X‐ray diffraction, ball milling, shade‐dried Aloe vera plant leaves, natural herbal nanoparticle size, bacterial infection, nanoscale phyto products, textile industries, nanomaterials, textile applications     

Micro RNA‐30b (inhibitor) nanoparticles suppressed the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced acute kidney injury

The main aim of present study is to evaluate the effect of miR‐30b on the function of human proximal tubular epithelial cell line HK‐2 cells. For this purpose, miRNA was loaded in an ionically cross‐linked polysaccharide nanoparticle. The authors have demonstrated the influence of miR‐30b mimic and inhibitor in HK‐2 cell killing effect. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) significantly increased the level of inflammatory cytokines of TNF‐α, IL‐1β and level was further increased with the treatment of PAg‐miR mimic consistent with the cell viability assay. Interestingly, PAg‐miR inhibitor significantly downregulated the expression of inflammatory cytokines and thereby reduced the inflammation in the body. Western blot analysis showed that LPS induced severe apoptosis of HK‐2 cells and the apoptosis was further promoted by the PAg‐miR (mimic). In contrast, PAg‐miR (inhibitor) alleviated the apoptosis of HK‐2 cells as indicated in the significantly reduced levels of Bax and c‐Caspase‐3 proteins. Overall, miR‐30b promoted LPS‐induced HK‐2 cell inflammatory injury by inducing the apoptosis and by releasing inflammatory cytokines, as well as by impairing autophagy process.Inspec keywords: biomedical materials, nanoparticles, molecular biophysics, enzymes, toxicology, injuries, nanomedicine, RNA, cellular biophysics, kidney, proteins, drugs, biochemistryOther keywords: microRNA‐30b, nanoparticles suppressed the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced, main aim, human proximal tubular epithelial cell line HK‐2 cells, polysaccharide nanoparticle, HK‐2 cell killing effect, inflammatory cytokines, IL‐1β, cell viability assay, PAg‐miR inhibitor, apoptosis, reduced levels, LPS‐induced HK‐2 cell inflammatory injury