Tragacanth gum-based nano-nutraceuticals synthesis by encapsulation of beetroot juice and Ocimum basilicum leaves for micronutrient deficient population

Micronutrient deficiencies, such as iron, folic acid, and vitamins C and D, are currently prevalent due to inadequate consumption of natural food sources, namely raw vegetables and fruits. This deficiency is compounded by the growing reliance on synthetic nutraceuticals and processed food, which exhibit poor absorbency within the gastrointestinal tract. Scientific studies consistently indicate that naturally prepared whole foods are superior in terms of nutrient absorption compared to processed and synthetic supplements. To address this issue, we utilized FDA-approved tragacanth gum (TG) in the synthesis of nano-nutraceuticals by encapsulating beetroot juice and ball-milled sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum). TG, in its micro or macro form, possesses the remarkable ability to form hydrogels capable of absorbing water up to 50 times its weight. However, the hydrogel-forming property diminishes when TG is reduced to the nanoscale. We effectively exploited these properties to facilitate the synthesis of nano-nutraceuticals. The procedure involved encapsulating beetroot juice and sweet basil nanopowder using TG hydrogel, followed by freeze-drying. Subsequently, the freeze-dried encapsulated TG composite was subjected to ball-milling to achieve the desired nano-nutraceuticals. These nano-nutraceuticals naturally contain essential nutrients such as iron, folic acid, ascorbic acid, chlorophyll, niacin, and sugars, without the need for chemical processing or preservatives.

Classification of vein pattern recognition using hybrid deep learning

Recognition of finger vein patterns is essential technique that analyses the finger vein patterns to enable accurate authentication of an individual. A proper, accurate and quick learning of patterns is essentially required for improving the classification pattern. It is essential in developing an intelligent algorithm to effectively study and classify the patterns. In this paper, we develop an improved deep learning hybrid model for feature extraction and classification. A dimensional reduction deep neural network (DR-DNN) model has included a dimensional reduction model for extracting the essential features by reducing the dimensionality of feature datasets. A convolutional neural network (CNN) helps in classifying the benign vein patterns from the malignant vein patterns. The effectiveness is compared against existing deep learning classifiers to measure how effective the deep learning model is used for classifying finger vein patterns for biometric authentication. The results shows that the proposed method achieves an accuracy rate of 97.16% for the proposed method, where the other existing methods including CNN, Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) and Deep Neural Nets (DNN) has an accuracy rate of 86%, 80.66% and 88.31%, respectively.

Development of Sunlight-Driven Reduced Graphene Oxide (rGO)/CeO₂-CuO Nanofibrous Photocatalyst for Efficient Removal of Organic Dyes

A hybrid nanofibrous membrane photocatalysts was developed through electrospinningcarbonization method. In this work, the hybrid membrane with p-n hetero-structure consisting of CeO₂ and CuO metal-oxide nanoparticles was prepared by a hierarchical and facile approach through electrospun technique and stabilized by hydrothermal process. The obtained heterogeneous photocatalyst membrane was studied for its catalytic properties by performing several experiments using test solutions of anionic Congo red (CR) and cationic methylene blue (MB) dyes, respectively. The as-prepared Graphene-CeO₂/CuO intercalated polyacrylonitrile nanofibrous (GCPNs) membrane is characterized by using various analytical techniques and its photocatalytic degradation properties was studied by conducting batch studies and validated using the kinetics models. Furthermore, the functional group transformation, electronic transition state, binding energy values and chemical oxidation state of the GCPNs membrane before and after degradation was investigated by spectroscopic studies. The optical properties of the GCPNs membrane was further analysed by UV-VIS diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS). Also, the enhanced photo-degradation behaviour of the p-n hetero-structure due to the suppression of the recombination rate of the photogenerated electron-hole pairs was confirmed by photoluminescence studies (PL). These investigations implied that the developed photocatalyst GCPN membrane follows the pseudo first-order kinetics having higher reaction rate constant. Comprehensively, the GCPN has varying dye removal capacity of 90-98% for Congo red and 30-90% for Methylene blue in which the photocatalytic degradation capacity increases with increase in dye concentration and time. The reusability studies supported the sustainability and durability of the photocatalytic membrane for longer lifetime and practical value. Henceforth, nanotechnology-based cutting-edge technology offers novel hybrid nanomaterials having excellent properties that are pre-requisite for the development of sunlight mediated nano-photocatalytic reactors in the commercial applications.

Nitrogen-doped carbon quantum dots conjugated isoreticular metal-organic framework-3 particles based luminescent probe for selective sensing of trinitrotoluene explosive

Amine group-containing isoreticular metal-organic framework (IRMOF-3) particles are utilized for the first time as a trinitrotoluene (TNT) sensing material. IRMOF-3 particles are synthesized using zinc nitrate as a metal precursor and 2-amino-1,4-benzenedicarboxylic acid as a linker. The nitrogen-doped carbon quantum dots (NCQDs) are synthesized from citric acid and ethylenediamine as carbon and nitrogen precursor, respectively. The NCQDs are conjugated with IRMOF-3 particles as IRMOF-3/NCQDs. The TEM micrograph revealed the average size of IRMOF-3 particles to be 363.66 nm. The photoluminescence emission intensity of IRMOF-3 particles at λ_em 430 nm is highly increased in the presence of NCQDs (λ_ex 330 nm). Both the as-synthesized IRMOF-3 and IRMOF-3/NCQD particles are explored for TNT detection to compare the effect of NCQDs on the IRMOF-3 particle surface. Lower limit of detection (7.5 × 10^-8 M) and higher Stern-Volmer constant (4.46 × 10⁶ M^-1) are achieved by IRMOF-3/NCQD particles. The association constant also increased from 5.3 × 10⁴ to 2.78 × 10⁶ M^-1 after the conjugation of IRMOF-3 particles with NCQDs. Moreover, enhanced selectivity for TNT over trinitrophenol is achieved using the IRMOF-3/NCQD particles. Graphical Abstract.

Systematic approach of chromone skeleton for detecting Mg2+, ion: Applications for sustainable cytotoxicity and cell imaging possibilities

The systematic studies of chromone appended novel chemosensors, favored to Mg²⁺ ion detection, these were analyzed and characterized by different spectroscopic techniques such as NMR, mass spectroscopy, FTIR and optical techniques. The binding demeanor of the ligands was executed with the library of metal ions and shown the good coordination with Mg²⁺ ion to the ligand's cavity. Both ligands demonstrated good binding behavior with Mg²⁺ ion. The ligands represented 1: 1 stoichiometry with Mg²⁺ ions through Job's plot. The low limit of detection of Mg²⁺ ion was determined as 2.56 × 10^-6 and 1.28 × 10^-6 for L_a and L_b respectively. No interference was occurred in Inference study by foreign metal ions that supported the specific detection of Mg²⁺ ion among the other metal ions. Further, the cytotoxicity assay test of these chromone appended ligands revealed that both ligands and their respective compound with Mg²⁺ ion shown negligible toxicity with HeLa cancer cell line. Further, due to the fluorescence properties of the ligands, with or without Mg²⁺ ion was successfully tested in bioimaging experiment of HeLa cancer cell lines and found that ligands with Mg²⁺ ions represented good imaging with HeLa cancer cell.

Evaluation of surface properties of low density polyethylene (LDPE) films tailored by atmospheric pressure non-thermal plasma (APNTP) assisted co-polymerization and immobilization of chitosan for improvement of antifouling properties

This work describes the development of antifouling functional coatings on the surface of low density polyethylene (LDPE) films by means of atmospheric pressure non-thermal plasma (APNTP) assisted copolymerization using a mixture of acrylic acid and poly (ethylene glycol). The aim of the study was to investigate the antifouling properties of the plasma copolymerized LDPE films and the same was carried out as a function of deposition time with fixed applied potential of 14 kV. In a second stage, the plasma copolymerized LDPE films were functionalized with chitosan (CHT) to further enhance its antifouling properties. The surface hydrophilicity, structural, topographical and chemistry of the plasma copolymerized LDPE films were examined by contact angle (CA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Coating stability was also studied in detail over a storage time of 15 days by storing in water and air. The antifouling properties of the plasma copolymerized LDPE films were examined via protein adsorption and platelet adhesion studies. CA study showed significant changes in surface wettability after the coating process. XPS and FTIR analysis proved the presence of a dense multifunctional coating and an efficient immobilization of CHT. Substantial amendments in surface topography were observed, positively enhancing the overall surface hydrophilicity. Finally, in-vitro analysis showed excellent antifouling behavior of the surface modified LDPE films.

Polysaccharide Functionalized Single Walled Carbon Nanotubes as Nanocarriers for Delivery of Curcumin in Lung Cancer Cells

Nanoscale drug delivery systems have emerged as promising alternatives to overcome the problems associated with by conventional chemotherapy for cancer treatment such as poor drug stability and bio-distribution. Herein, we report a single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) based drug delivery system functionalized with polysaccharides such as alginate (ALG) and chitosan (CHI), which can be loaded with an anticancer drug curcumin (CUR). Modification of SWCNTs renders high drug loading efficiency and sustained drug release, imperative for drug activity. These were characterized through various tools viz, microscopic (transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy) and zeta potential analysis. Incorporation of CUR inside the modified SWCNTs was studied through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, fluorescence and UV-visible spectroscopy. In vitro release studies were conducted to gain an insight into the pH-dependent release behavior of the entrapped CUR from modified SWCNTs. The anti-cancer potential was further demonstrated using human lung adenocarcinoma (A549) cells as a model system. Various cell culture based assays were performed to study the ability of released CUR from modified SWCNTs for inhibiting the cancer cell proliferation by inducing apoptosis.

pH-responsive prodrug nanoparticles based on xylan-curcumin conjugate for the efficient delivery of curcumin in cancer therapy

In the present study, novel pH-responsive prodrug nanoparticles based on xylan-curcumin (xyl-cur) conjugate were developed to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of curcumin in cancer therapy. The synthesis of xyl-cur conjugate (prodrug) was confirmed by FT-IR, ¹H NMR, UV-vis and fluorescence spectroscopy. The xyl-cur prodrug was subsequently self-assembled in to nanoparticles (xyl-cur prodrug NPs) in an aqueous medium with the average particle size 253 nm and the zeta potential of -18.76 mV. The xyl-cur prodrug NPs were highly pH-sensitive in nature and most of the drug was released at lower pH. The interaction of the xyl-cur prodrug NPs with blood components was tested by hemolysis study. The cytotoxic activity of the xyl-cur prodrug NPs against human colon cancer cells (HT-29, HCT-15) demonstrated that the prodrug NPs exhibits greater cytotoxic effect than curcumin. Therefore, these results reveal that xyl-cur prodrug NPs could be a promising candidate for improving the intracellular delivery of curcumin in cancer therapy.

Ethylenediamine mediated luminescence enhancement of pollutant derivatized carbon quantum dots for intracellular trinitrotoluene detection: soot to shine

Vehicle-generated toxic pollutants are composed of gaseous smoke and particulate byproducts accumulated as a black substance at its exhaust. This particulate matter (soot) is utilized for the green synthesis of highly stable, non-toxic, environment friendly, carbon quantum dots (CQD). The CQDs are synthesized via the simple hydrothermal route in the absence (C1) and presence (C2) of oxidants. The as-synthesized CQDs are amine functionalized using ethylenediamine. The amine functionalized CQDs (C1N and C2N) are explored for trinitrotoluene detection. From transmission electron microscopy, the average size of C1 and C2 was found to be about 4.2 nm and 5.6 nm respectively. The incorporation of amine groups lead to an increase in quantum yields from 5.63% to 12.7% for C1 and from 3.25% to 8.48% for C2 QDs. A limit of detection (LOD) of 13 ppb was displayed by C1N while the LODs of 11 ppb and 4.97 ppb were delivered by C2N at λ_ex 370 nm and λ_ex 420 nm respectively. The Stern–Volmer constant for C1N is 2.02 × 10⁶ M⁻¹ while for C2N at λ_ex 370 nm and λ_ex 420 nm is 0.38 × 10⁶ M⁻¹ and 0.48 × 10⁶ M⁻¹ respectively. Furthermore, C1N presents high selectivity for TNT compared to C2N. Owing to their higher luminescence, C1N particles are successfully demonstrated for their applicability in intracellular TNT detection.

Vehicle-generated toxic pollutants are composed of gaseous smoke and particulate byproducts accumulated as a black substance at its exhaust.

Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy: Single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT)-Porphyrin conjugate for visible light mediated inactivation of Staphylococcus aureus

Due to the excessive use of antibiotics over the years, the microorganisms have developed resistance to numerous drugs. The growth of multi-resistant organisms (MROs) heads due to the insufficient treatment with the currently available medications which present a great threat to the biotic component of the environment as well as to the food technology sectors. The goal of this research was to develop a nano-composite made up of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and amine-functionalized porphyrin, which could further be used for the anti-microbial studies in presence of visible light showing photodynamic effect to inactivate cells. Photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy is gaining significant interest due to its capabilities as an innovative form of antimicrobial treatment. The development of anti-microbial photodynamic therapy (a-PDT) is a non-antibiotic access to inactivate microorganisms. We examined the synthesis of amine-functionalized porphyrin and conjugated it to the oxidised single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). By the use of appropriate amount of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), we have shown the interaction between the porphyrin conjugated nanotubes and the bacterial cells in presence of visible light led to the cell membrane damage, concluding that SWCNT-porphyrin conjugates can be used as an antibacterial agent. The characterization of the oxidised SWCNT and SWCNT-porphyrin conjugates was determined by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), which provides detailed information about the composition and the morphological analysis. The particle size measurements were carried out by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). On investigating under the florescence microscopy, red fluorescence was observed. Thus, these properties demand us to design this facile material comprised of SWCNT-aminoporphyrin conjugates that shows potent antibacterial activity.

Niclosamide loaded biodegradable chitosan nanocargoes: an in vitro study for potential application in cancer therapy

Chitosan nanoparticles can advance the pharmacological and therapeutic properties of chemotherapeutic agents by controlling release rates and targeted delivery process, which eliminates the limitations of conventional anti-cancer therapies and they are also safe as well as cost-effective. The aim of present study is to explore the anti-tumour effect of niclosamide in lung and breast cancer cell lines using biocompatible and biodegradable carrier where nanoparticles loaded with hydrophobic drug (niclosamide) were synthesized, characterized and applied as a stable anti-cancer agent. Niclosamide loaded chitosan nanoparticles (Nic-Chi Np's) of size approximately 100-120 nm in diameter containing hydrophobic anti-cancer drug, i.e. niclosamide, were prepared. Physico-chemical characterization confirms that the prepared nanoparticles are spherical, monodispersed and stable in aqueous systems. The therapeutic efficacy of Nic-Chi Np's was evaluated against breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) and human lung cancer cell line (A549). MTT assay reveals the cell viability of the prepared Nic-Chi Np's against A549 and MCF-7 cells and obtained an IC₅₀ value of 8.75 µM and 7.5 µM, respectively. Acridine orange/ethidium bromide dual staining results verified the loss of the majority of the cells by apoptosis. Flow cytometer analysis quantified the generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and signified that exposure to a higher concentration (2 × IC₅₀) of Nic-Chi Np's resulted in elevated ROS generation. Notably, Nic-Chi Np treatment showed more apoptosis and cell death in MCF-7 as compared to A549. Further, the remarkable induction of apoptosis by Nic-Chi Np's was confirmed by semi-quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, scanning electron microscopy and cell-cycle analysis. Thus, Nic-Chi Np's may have a great potential even at low concentration for anti-cancer therapy and may replace or substitute more toxic anti-mitotic drugs in the near future.

Strategy of metal iron doping and green-mediated ZnO nanoparticles: dissolubility, antibacterial and cytotoxic traits

Undoped and Fe-doped ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized using Amaranthus spinosus leaf extract as a reducing agent. The physicochemical traits, dissolution, cytotoxicity, as well as the antioxidant, photocatalytic and antibacterial activities of synthesized NPs were investigated. The results revealed that ZnO NPs were rod shaped with hexagonal phase structure, and their crystal size, dissolubility and aggregation decreased with Fe doping of NPs. Cytotoxicity of the NPs was studied against MCF-7 cells by MTT assay. IC₅₀ values for undoped and 1 wt% Fe-doped ZnO NPs were found to be 400 and 600 μg mL^-1, respectively. Cell viability with Fe-doped ZnO NPs was higher than with undoped ZnO. Among the synthesized NPs, A. spinosus-mediated 1 wt% Fe-doped ZnO shows a better decolourization efficiency of 97% for indigo carmine dye under solar irradiance. The antibacterial activity of NPs was tested against Gram-negative Escherichia coli and Gram-positive Bacillus safensis using disc diffusion, minimum inhibitory concentration and growth curve method. The bactericidal activity of Fe-doped ZnO NPs was more prominent with E. coli than B. safensis bacteria and when compared to undoped ZnO.

Efficient adsorption and antibacterial properties of electrospun CuO-ZnO composite nanofibers for water remediation

On the face of impending global water resources, developing low-cost and efficient water treatment technologies and materials thereof is highly important. Herein, we explore the adsorption capacity and antibacterial properties of CuO-ZnO (CZ) composite nanofibers. The ultrafine nanofibers were fabricated using simple and inexpensive electrospinning technique and were further characterized using Field Emission-Scanning Electron Microscope (FE-SEM), Transmission electron microscope (TEM) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). When employed as nanoadsorbents, CZ nanofibers exhibited excellent adsorption capacity for congo red dye. Adsorption Isotherms and kinetics were performed to determine the maximum adsorption capacity and the rate of adsorption, respectively, depicting the better efficiency of composite nanofibers as compared to their single counterparts. The mechanism of adsorption is also proposed with the evaluation of diffusion studies. The second part of this study deals with the examination of antibacterial activity of CZ composite nanofibers against antibiotic resistant GFP-E.coli and S. aureus. The antibacterial efficacy was monitored by visual turbidity assay, SEM analysis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) determination. Hence, such nanofibers have been explored as a single platform for the removal of biological as well organic contaminants so as to make them potential in the field of water remediation.

Biomimetic nanomaterials: Development of protein coated nanoceria as a potential antioxidative nano-agent for the effective scavenging of reactive oxygen species in vitro and in zebrafish model

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced oxidative stress is one of the major factors responsible for initiation of several intracellular toxic events that leads to cell death. Antioxidant enzymes defence system of the body is responsible for maintaining the oxidative balance and cellular homeostasis. Several diseases are promoted by the excessive oxidative stress caused by the impaired antioxidant defence system that leads to oxidant/antioxidant imbalance in the body. In order to restore or precise the aberrant antioxidant system, a large number of catalytic nanoparticles has been screened so far. Exceptional antioxidative activity of nanoceria made it as a potential antioxidative nano-agent for the effective scavenging of toxic ROS. In this work albumin coated nanoceria (ANC) was synthesized and further characterised by various physicochemical techniques. The antioxidant and superoxide dismutase (SOD) assay confirm that the albumin coating do not alter the antioxidant potential of ANC. The biocompatibility and protective efficacy of ANC against oxidative stress was investigated both in vitro and in vivo in human lung epithelial (L-132) cells and zebrafish embryos, respectively. The inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) analysis corroborates the uptake of ANC by the cells. Furthermore, the semi-quantitative gene expression studies confirmed that the ANC successfully defend the cells against oxidative stress by preserving the antioxidant system of the cells. Thus, the current work open up a new avenue for the development of improved antioxidant nano-drug therapies.

Influence of non-thermal TiCl4/Ar+O2 plasma-assisted TiOx based coatings on the surface of polypropylene (PP) films for the tailoring of surface properties and cytocompatibility

The superior bulk properties (corrosion resistance, high strength to weight ratio, relatively low cost and easy processing) of hydrocarbon based polymers such as polypropylene (PP) have contributed significantly to the development of new biomedical applications such as artificial organs and cell scaffolds. However, low cell affinity is one of the main draw backs for PP due to its poor surface properties. In tissue engineering, physico-chemical surface properties such as hydrophilicity, polar functional groups, surface charge and morphology play a crucial role to enrich the cell proliferation and adhesion. In this present investigation TiOx based biocompatible coatings were developed on the surface of PP films via DC excited glow discharge plasma, using TiCl4/Ar+O2 gas mixture as a precursor. Various TiOx-based coatings are deposited on the surface of PP films as a function of discharge power. The changes in hydrophilicity of the TiOx/PP film surfaces were studied using contact angle analysis and surface energy calculations by Fowke's approximation. X-ray photo-electron spectroscopy (XPS) was used to investigate the surface chemical composition of TiOx/PP films. The surface morphology of the obtained TiOx/PP films was investigated by scanning electron and transmission electron microscopy (SEM &TEM). Moreover, the surface topography of the material was analyzed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The cytocompatibility of the TiOx/PP films was investigated via in vitro analysis (cell viability, adhesion and cytotoxicity) using NIH3T3 (mouse embryonic fibroblast) cells. Furthermore the antibacterial activities of TiOx/PP films were also evaluated against two distinct bacterial models namely Gram positive Staphylococcus aureus (S.aureus) and Gram negative Escherichia coli DH5α. (E.coli) bacteria. XPS results clearly indicate the successful incorporation of TiOx and oxygen containing polar functional groups on the surface of plasma treated PP films. Moreover the surface of modified PP films exhibited nano structured morphology, as confirmed by SEM, TEM and AFM. The physico-chemical changes have improved the hydrophilicity of the PP films. The in-vitro analysis clearly confirms that the TiOx coated PP films performs as good as the standard tissue culture plates and also are unlikely to impact the bacterial cell viability.

Field-actuated antineoplastic potential of smart and versatile PEO–bPEI electrospun scaffold by multi-staged targeted co-delivery of magnetite nanoparticles and niclosamide–bPEI complexes

A PEO–bPEI based composite nanofiber scaffold has been realized for field actuated targeted delivery of magnetite nanoparticles and bPEI–niclosamide complexes for efficient management of cancer prognosis.

Dual applications of silver nanoparticles incorporated functionalized MWCNTs grafted surface modified PAN nanofibrous membrane for water purification

Herein, we have developed silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) incorporated carboxylated multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) grafted aminated polyacrylonitrile (APAN) nanofibrous membrane pertinent for the removal of toxic heavy metals and bacteria.

Hydrophobic myristic acid modified PAMAM dendrimers augment the delivery of tamoxifen to breast cancer cells

In the present study, cationic generation 5 polyamido amine (G5 PAMAM) dendrimers were hydrophobically modified by grafting the surface with lipid-like myristic acid (My) tails to augment their potential as a drug delivery vector in vitro.

Enhanced photocatalytic activity of hierarchical three dimensional metal oxide@CuO nanostructures towards the degradation of Congo red dye under solar radiation

In the present study, we report a two step method for the synthesis of metal oxide (ZnO and Fe₃O₄) deposited on CuO nanowire arrays over 3D copper foam using thermal oxidation followed by microwave-assisted deposition.

PEGylated graphene oxide-based nanocomposite-grafted chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol nanofiber as an advanced antibacterial wound dressing

Designing composite nanomaterials that display multiple antibacterial mechanisms offers new prototypes against bacterial resistance.

Fabrication of electrospun poly(ethylene oxide)–poly(capro lactone) composite nanofibers for co-delivery of niclosamide and silver nanoparticles exhibits enhanced anti-cancer effects in vitro

An intrinsic property of many anticancer drugs including niclosamide is poor water solubility, which hindered their translation from laboratory to clinics.

Multifunctional carbon dots as efficient fluorescent nanotags for tracking cells through successive generations

In the present work biocompatible multicolour fluorescent CDs have been synthesised from casein, which labels cells and also efficiently tracks them through successive generations. Apart from this, it also exhibits inherent ability to selectively labelE. coli.

Rapid and efficient removal of arsenic from water using electrospun CuO–ZnO composite nanofibers

To remove arsenic effectively from water, we synthesized CuO–ZnO composite nanofibers using a simple electrospinning technique assisted by post-calcination.

Ferritin nanocages: a novel platform for biomedical applications

Ferritin is a ubiquitous iron storage protein responsible for maintaining the iron homeostasis in living organism and thereby protects the cell from oxidative damage. The ferritin protein cages have been used as a reaction vessel for the synthesis of various non-native metallic nanoparticles inside its core and also used as a nanocarrier for various applications. Lack of suitable non-viral carrier for targeted delivery of anticancer drugs and imaging agents is the major problem in cancer therapy and diagnosis. The pH dependent reversible assembling and disassembling property of ferritin renders it as a suitable candidate for encapsulating a variety of anticancer drugs and imaging probes. Ferritins external surface is chemically and genetically modifiable which can serve as attachment site for tumor specific targeting peptides or moieties. Recent studies, further establishes ferritin as a multifunctional nanocarrier for targeted cancer diagnosis and therapy. Moreover, the biological origin of these protein cages makes it a biocompatible nanocarrier that stabilizes and protects the enclosed particles from the external environment without provoking any toxic or immunogenic responses. This review mainly focuses on the application of ferritin nanocages as a novel non-viral nanocarrier for cancer therapy and it also highlights various biomedical applications of ferritin nanocages.

Self-Assembled Hybrids of Fluorescent Carbon Dots and PAMAM Dendrimers for Epirubicin Delivery and Intracellular Imaging

Advanced nanomaterials integrating imaging and therapeutic modalities on a single platform offers a new horizon in current cancer treatment strategies. Recently, carbon dots (CQDs) have been successfully employed for bioimaging of cancer cells. In the present study, luminescent CQDs with anionic terminus and cationic acetylated G5 poly(amido amine) (G5-Ac85) dendrimers were combined via noncovalent interactions to form self-assembled fluorescent hybrids. The fluorescence of CQDs in hybrids is enhanced in the vicinity of primary amine groups of dendrimers, making them suitable as cellular imaging probes. Encapsulation of chemo-drug epirubicin (EPI) in the dendrimer interiors endowed the fluorescent hybrids with therapeutic potential. The in vitro release of an entrapped EPI drug from CQDs@EPI⊂G5-Ac85 hybrids was faster in an acidic environment than under physiological conditions. Herein, multifunctional CQDs@EPI⊂G5-Ac85 hybrids serve as a dual-emission delivery system, to track the intracellular distribution and cytotoxic effects of EPI drugs. Green emission properties of CQDs were used for fluorescence microscopic imaging and cellular uptake by flow cytometry. Cell cycle analysis, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and up-regulation of apoptotic signaling genes unanimously demonstrated the apoptosis inducing ability of CQDs@EPI⊂G5-Ac85 hybrids in breast cancer (MCF-7) cells. Therefore, we have evaluated CQDs@EPI⊂G5-Ac85 hybrids as prospective candidates to achieve simultaneous imaging and drug delivery in cancer cells.

Antioxidant nanozyme: a facile synthesis and evaluation of the reactive oxygen species scavenging potential of nanoceria encapsulated albumin nanoparticles

Several diseases and disorders, including cancer are endorsed by excessive oxidative stress caused due to the incomplete removal of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by the antioxidant defense system of the body. Therefore, present interest among the scientific community lies in the development of a highly stable, biocompatible artificial enzymatic system that possesses a high ROS scavenging activity over a period of time. In recent years, catalytic nanoparticles emerged as a potential candidate in the field of nanomedicine. Due to their inherent catalytic properties, they are exploited as an artificial enzyme (nanozyme), to reinstate or correct aberrant enzymatic activities in patients. Among them, cerium oxide nanoparticles/nanoceria (CNPs) emerged as a potent artificial redox enzyme, mimicking the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase and endure a tremendous ROS scavenging potential as depicted in a surfeit of human cell lines and animal models. In the present article, a facile synthesis of biocompatible nanoceria encapsulated albumin nanoparticles (BCNPs) via desolvation technique that lead to the abatement of intracellular ROS is reported. Physico-chemical characterizations of as-prepared BCNPs corroborate the formation of a highly monodispersed, spherical and stable aqueous delivery system. Interestingly, such entrapment does not affect the enzyme mimetic activity of CNPs, as demonstrated by SOD assay. The biocompatibility and ROS scavenging potential of BCNPs were further assessed in vitro against human lung epithelial cells by cell viability assay and flow cytometric analysis, respectively. The quantitative and qualitative assessments of cellular uptake of BCNPs were done by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) analysis. Furthermore, the BCNPs preserve the cell's antioxidant defense system and protect them from oxidant-mediated apoptosis as confirmed by semi-quantitative RT-PCR analysis. Thus, the as-prepared BCNPs could provide an opportunity to be utilized as a potential candidate against ROS induced diseases and disorders.

Green synthesis of multifunctional carbon dots from coriander leaves and their potential application as antioxidants, sensors and bioimaging agents

In the present study, a facile one-step hydrothermal treatment of coriander leaves for preparing carbon dots (CDs) has been reported. Optical and structural properties of the CDs have been extensively studied by UV-visible and fluorescence spectroscopic, microscopic (transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy) and X-ray diffraction techniques. Surface functionality and composition of the CDs have been illustrated by elemental analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Quenching of the fluorescence of the CDs in the presence of metal ions is of prime significance, hence CDs have been used as a fluorescence probe for sensitive and selective detection of Fe(3+) ions. Eventually, biocompatibility and bioimaging aspects of CDs have been evaluated on lung normal (L-132) and cancer (A549) cell lines. Qualitative analysis of cellular uptake of CDs has been pursued through fluorescence microscopy, while quantitative analysis using a flow cytometer provided an insight into the concentration and cell-type dependent uptake of CDs. The article further investigates the antioxidant activity of CDs. Therefore, we have validated the practicality of CDs obtained from a herbal carbon source for versatile applications.

Morphology and Yield Parameters and Biochemical Analysis of Soybean (<i>Glycine max</i> (L.) Mrr.) Using Gamma Rays, EMS and DES Treatment

Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) var. Co-1 seeds were treated with physical mutagen namely such as gamma rays and chemical mutagen namely such as Ethyl Methane Sulphonate (EMS) and Diethyl Sulphate (DES). Various concentrations of gamma rays 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 KR, EMS (0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5 and 0.6 %) and DES (0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5 and 0.6 %). The morphological parameters such as days to first flower, plant height, number of cluster per plant, number of pod per plan, seed yield per plant, number of branches per plant, number of leaves per plant, protein content and oil content increasing with increasing level of some doses gamma rays, Ethyl methane sulphonate and Diethyl sulphate treatment in M2 and M3 generation were carried out. A number of mutants were recorded in M2 and M3 generations for one or more traits viz., plant height, maturity, branching, pigmentation, fruit size and yield were isolated in M2 and M3 generation. Mean for various characters increased at mutagenic treatment than control. The yield parameters like plant height, number of cluster per plant, number of seeds per plant and seed yield per plant were recorded the moderated and high mean value in the 50 KR of gamma rays 0.5% of EMS and 0.4% of DES treated population with compared to control plants.

Bionanotherapeutics: niclosamide encapsulated albumin nanoparticles as a novel drug delivery system for cancer therapy

In this work niclosamide was encapsulated into albumin nanoparticles through a desolvation method to improve its scope of application in cancer therapy.

Multicomponent 5-fluorouracil loaded PAMAM stabilized-silver nanocomposites synergistically induce apoptosis in human cancer cells

Herein, we report the development of a poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimer based multicomponent therapeutic agent forin vitrocancer therapy applications.

Dual-functional carbon dots–silver@zinc oxide nanocomposite: in vitro evaluation of cellular uptake and induction of apoptosis

We report here the devleopment of novel CDs decorated on a silver–zinc oxide (CD–Ag@ZnO) nanocomposite (NC) consisting of highly fluorescent CDs and Ag@ZnO.

Tumor-targeted folate-decorated albumin-stabilised silver nanoparticles induce apoptosis at low concentration in human breast cancer cells

The current study exploits the folate-mediated delivery of bovine serum albumin (BSA) stabilized Ag NPs and thereby overcomes various drawbacks associated with non-specific targeting.

Implications of surface passivation on physicochemical and bioimaging properties of carbon dots

The prevalence of surface functionalized carbon dots (CDs) with intriguing fluorescence properties has given a new dimension to the field of bioimaging and is perceived as a promising alternative to quantum dots (QDs).