- Home
- A-Z Publications
- Current Nanoscience
- Fast Track Listing
Current Nanoscience - Online First
Description text for Online First listing goes here...
-
-
Topical Application of Melatonin in a Grapeseed Oil-based Microemulsion Accelerated Wound Healing in Rat Models
Available online: 29 October 2024More LessObjectiveMelatonin has been associated with accelerated tissue regeneration and grapeseed oil has abundant unsaturated fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid that makes it a strong antioxidant, having the potential to promote wound healing by enhancing the presence of free radicals at the wound site. The study is aimed to evaluate the potential of a microemulsion gel using grapeseed oil as the organic phase and melatonin encapsulated in the vesicles to exhibit synergistic wound healing in Swiss albino rats.
Materials and MethodMicroemulsion containing grapeseed oil encapsulating melatonin was developed using the water-titration method. The surfactant and co-surfactant ratio (Smix) were fixed at 1:1. A pseudo-ternary diagram was used to determine the microemulsion zone and the developed microemulsion was further incorporated in carbopol 934P gel. The formulations were evaluated for their physicochemical properties and cytotoxicity assay. The optimized formulation was topically applied to cutaneous wounds of Swiss albino rat models. 30 Swiss albino rats were divided into five groups of 6 animals each: (i) Negative control group, (ii) Standard marketed formulation treated group, (iii) Optimized microemulsion containing Grapeseed oil and melatonin treated group, (iv) Grapeseed oil treated group and (v) Melatonin treated group. All the rats in each group were topically applied with the desired formulations daily for up to 14 days.
ResultsThe treatment with a formulation comprising 10.18% Grapeseed oil, 24.88% water, and 64.94% Smix exhibited the highest entrapment efficiency of 86.65 ± 1.88% with an enhanced in vitro drug release of up to 83.02 ± 1.09%, also demonstrating first-order release kinetics. Furthermore, it did not inhibit L929 mouse fibroblast cell proliferation up to 500 μg/mL and promoted wound closure prior to other groups. Additionally, increased tissue maturation with higher collagen deposition was mostly seen by day 7. Thus demonstrating it is suitable for dermal application and sustained release of melatonin. The in vivo wound healing study and histological investigations on rat models demonstrated comparable results as observed in the marketed formulation of melatonin.
ConclusionThe results showed that GSO oil based microemulsion encapsulating MEL could be a promising wound treatment option to exhibit accelerated wound healing effects.
-
-
-
A Study on Oxygen Vacancy Resistance Mechanism of V2O5
Authors: Lijun He, Chaopeng Zhang, Liyan Wang, Mi Yu, Cheng Mi, Liang She, Kang Ma and Xing LongAvailable online: 17 October 2024More LessIntroduction: Due to its magnetic and semiconductor properties, V2O5 has shown tremendous potential in resistive switching memory. Method: Therefore, this paper investigates the resistive mechanism of oxygen vacancies in V2O5. The formation energies of different oxygen vacancies are calculated. Results: The results indicate that oxygen vacancies tend to form single-component conductive filaments. In mixed oxygen vacancies clusters, the charge transfer characteristics and density of states of the V2O5-VO13 vacancies are the most significant, which is consistent with the analysis of formation energy data. Conclusions: Additionally, the charge transfer of cluster oxygen vacancies was calculated, showing that V atoms directly connected to oxygen vacancies tend to lose electrons, while adjacent oxygen atoms are more likely to gain electrons. In V2O5-VO12 and V2O5-VO13, the number of electrons obtained by O2 and O16 exceeds the average by 36.4% and 33.2%. Thus, the formation of oxygen vacancies effectively improves the resistance characteristics of the V2O5.
-
-
-
Controlled Synthesis of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles via QBD for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Atoosa Haghighizadeh, Sima Ghadiri, Saba Dadpour, Mostafa Amirinejad, Leila Etemad and Omid RajabiAvailable online: 17 October 2024More LessIntroductionIron oxide nanoparticles have gained significant attention in pharmaceutical applications because of their unique properties. The hydrothermal method is employed for the synthesis of iron nanoparticles [IONPs], which offers advantages such as uniform composition and size distribution.
MethodHowever, the size and properties of IONPs can be influenced by various factors. In this study, we utilized quality by design [QBD] via response surface methodology to investigate the impact of temperature, time, and pH on the size of hydrothermally prepared IONPs. The optimized synthesis conditions were determined, and the resulting nanoparticles were characterized using techniques such as dynamic light scattering [DLS], scanning electron microscopy [SEM], transmission electron microscopy [TEM], vibrating sample magnetometry [VSM], X-ray diffraction [XRD], and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy [FTIR].
ResultsThe findings contribute to a better understanding of the controlled synthesis of IONPs and their potential applications in nanomedicine. The XRD characterization revealed that the product was Fe3O4. The FTIR results indicate that Fe3O4 nanoparticles were coated with PEG-400. The SEM and HRTEM images of the Fe3O4 nanoparticles showed that they were spherical and had a well-distributed size with an optimized hydrodynamic size of 65 nm.
ConclusionThe magnetic properties of the Fe3O4 nanoparticles indicated that they exhibited ferromagnetic properties. These prepared nanoparticles are suitable for biomedical purposes, like serving as contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging in different cancers and delivering drugs.
-
-
-
Reduction in Optical Feedback Noise of Atomic Force Microscopy by High-Frequency Current Modulation
Available online: 15 October 2024More LessIntroduction: With the advancement of technology, nanotechnology has emerged as a prominent research field. The Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) serves as a vital tool in nanoscience and technology, playing an indispensable role across various domains. Method: However, in the AFM photoelectric sensing system, the optical feedback noise from the beam deflection method can lead to inaccuracies in signal identification and analysis, impacting the accuracy and reliability of AFM measurements. To mitigate this interference, this study proposes a high-frequency current superposition system aimed at reducing optical feedback noise. By superimposing high-frequency currents, the semiconductor laser transitions from a single-mode to a multi-mode operational state, thereby altering its mode of operation and consequently reducing optical feedback noise during sensing. Initially, mathematical modeling and simulation analysis were conducted on the high-frequency current superposition noise reduction system to examine the impact of high-frequency current on the intensity noise of the semiconductor laser. Subsequently, the design of the high-frequency current superposition noise reduction system was outlined, encompassing the development of a constant current drive circuit, a voltage-controlled oscillator circuit, and a biasing circuit. Finally, the high-frequency current superposition noise reduction system underwent testing. Results: During the high-frequency current superposition noise reduction test, the system's Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) increased from 15.57 dB to 17.81 dB, and the system's noise peak-to-peak value decreased from 8 mV to 6 mV. Analysis of the superposition frequency and noise reduction effect determined the optimal superposition frequency of the AFM photoelectric sensor system to be 400 MHz. Characterization experiments of the high-frequency superposition noise reduction system compared the clarity of Escherichia coli images before and after noise reduction. Conclusion: The aforementioned experimental results demonstrated that high-frequency current superposition is an effective noise reduction method capable of mitigating optical noise in the AFM photoelectric sensing system.
-
-
-
Carbon Dots Prepared by One-step Sintering Method and their Application for pH Detection
Authors: Yang Wang, Ruikun Pan, Jiaji Cheng, Lei Zhang and Xiumei DongAvailable online: 15 October 2024More LessIntroductionIn recent years carbon dots (CDs) have attracted researchers due to their unique physicochemical and fluorescent (FL) features, which can be applied in many fields such as battery materials, fluorescence sensing, display, biological imaging and photocatalysis.
MethodWe prepared CDs by using a facile one-step sintering method. The fluorescent properties and the application of pH detection were measured and analyzed.
ResultsThe results show that CDs emit bright purplish-blue light centred at 425 nm excited by 355 nm UV light. FL intensity shows a linear relationship with pH values at 1~4 and 7~11, respectively. The reasonable mechanism of the tested effective pH sensitivity is discussed.
ConclusionOur study shows that the CDs prepared by the one-step sintering method have great potential to be used as pH sensors for physiochemical measurements.
-
-
-
A Systematic Review on the Scope and Applications of Nanomaterials in the Plant Systems: Current and Prospects
Available online: 14 October 2024More LessNanoparticles are essential tools used in manipulating plants, and there is a wide variety of nanoparticles, each with its own uses for different plants. Plants undergo minuscule gene manipulations that give them advantages and endurance. When particles are reduced to the nanometer scale, they exhibit a high surface area to volume ratio, resulting in unique properties that allow for systematic applications in engineering, biomedical, agricultural, and related fields. Nanomaterials can be created through bottom-up or top-down procedures using physical, chemical, and organic synthesis methods. This review study explores the use of different nano materials in the agricultural sector and the impact of silica nanoparticles, metal oxide, and metal nanoparticles on plant metabolic processes. Additionally, the impacts of nanoparticles on microbes, bacteria, and other pathogens are also being analyzed.
-
-
-
Changes of Unit Cell Parameters in Lactose Saturated by Substances Technologically Processed by Dilution
Authors: R.R. Konstantinov, N.N. Rodionova, E.O. Khimich, D.A. Skakun, A.O. Petrova, and and S.A. TarasovAvailable online: 07 October 2024More LessBackgroundOur research investigates how the structure of a lactose matrix can be altered by the specific drugs used to saturate it. In particular, we examine whether ultra-high dilutions of substances, such as antibodies, can change the crystal structure of lactose.
MethodsWe employed methods including X-ray diffractometry, Raman spectroscopy, and granulometric content analysis.
ResultsOur findings suggest that once saturated with highly diluted substances, lactose does indeed gain and retain changes in its crystalline structures [particularly cell parameters a, b, c, β]. These changes are most pronounced between intact and saturated lactose samples, and there are also differences observed when using different solutions for saturation.
ConclusionThe results support the idea that ultra-high dilutions can irreversibly change the structure of lactose, potentially due to differences in solution wetting and subsequent recrystallization of the lactose matrix.
-
-
-
Nano Innovation: Enhancing Food Packaging through Nanotechnology
Authors: Astha Singh, Aakriti Patel and Neha MinochaAvailable online: 07 October 2024More LessThe utilization of nanotechnology in developing novel packaging components has grown significantly in recent years, and it is anticipated to have a significant influence on the food industry shortly. It offers to produce food packaging with improved qualities that will assist food goods in lasting longer on the shelf. The present article comprehensively discusses the nanoparticles commonly used in food packaging, the significant changes they bring to the qualities of the material, and the commercially available packaging materials based on nanotechnology. This review primarily focuses on using nanotechnologies in food processing and packaging, explicitly examining their impact on food quality and safety. To comprehend the function of enhanced, active, and antimicrobial packaging in food packaging. The utilization of nanotechnology in food products has experienced a significant surge in popularity in both developed and developing nations. The review was obtained from searches conducted on academic databases such as Sci-Hub, Google Scholar, PubMed, etc. Collected data from many sources has been compiled and presented here to facilitate further research on the application of nanotechnology in food packaging. In the current review, we also discussed the different organic and inorganic nanomaterials. The article also discusses consumer health and safety concerns, highlighting the significance of thorough safety assessments and clear communication. Nanotechnology has numerous uses in diverse areas of food technology. This analysis examines the potential of nanotechnology to improve the quality and safety of packaged food. Nanotechnology in food packaging is highly encouraging, providing substantial advantages in terms of food preservation, safety, and sustainability. This paper offers a thorough examination of present trends, technological progress, and future predictions to provide a full understanding of how nanotechnology can fundamentally transform food packaging. This transformation will enable the development of creative, environmentally friendly, and more secure food systems.
-
-
-
Photocatalytic Degradation of Mancozeb Pesticide Residue using Nanoceria Doped Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles under Natural Solar Irradiation
Available online: 07 October 2024More LessIntroductionExcessive applications of agrochemicals to meet the high food demand from ever-increasing populations are becoming a major issue for both health practitioners and environmental managers. Chemicals such as ethylene bis-dithiocarbamate pesticide mancozeb (MCZ) are known to have deleterious effects on the ecosystem. AIM: This study, aimed at assessing the suitability of cerium-doped zinc oxide (Ce-ZnO) for efficient degradation of MCZ fungicide.
MethodThe photocatalysts were synthesized using the coprecipitation method with zinc nitrate hexahydrate, cerium nitrate hexahydrate, and sodium hydroxide. The synthesized nanocomposites were further characterized by Powder X-ray Diffraction (PXRD), Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDAX). The average crystallite size of the as-synthesized particles was found to be 31.42 nm, with very sharp PXRD peaks revealing the pure crystal nature of the particles. The photocatalytic degradation activity was evaluated following a series of experiments under natural environmental conditions. The optimal conditions for the degradation of MCZ fungicide using Ce-ZnO were found to be 10 ppm initial concentration of MCZ, 20 mg dose of the Ce-ZnO photocatalyst, 180 minutes irradiation time, and 10-11 atmospheric UV index.
ResultAt the optimum conditions, the degradation efficiency was found to be about 90% after 180 minutes. The reported photocatalytic degradation of MCZ using Ce-ZnO fits a pseudo-first-order kinetic model with an R2 value of 0. 9677. Similarly, the reusability of the as-synthesized photocatalyst was evaluated and found to be active for five rounds with little change in the activity.
ConclusionThus, the degradation method in the current study can be suitable for the degradation and removal of MCZ in agricultural runoff in the field.
-
-
-
Nanoencapsulation as an Ally of the Bioactive Compound Carvacrol: A Review of 10 Years of Advances
Available online: 03 October 2024More LessFoodborne diseases (FBDs) are a major global public health problem, causing millions of deaths annually and substantial economic losses. Antimicrobial treatment is increasingly challenged by bacterial resistance. Essential oils from herbs and spices, such as carvacrol from thyme and oregano, offer potential solutions due to their broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties. However, its stability and its controlled release are affected by media and environmental conditions. Nanoencapsulation presents a promising alternative to address these challenges. This review analyzes 44 original papers and 21 patents concerning the recent advancements in the nanoencapsulation of carvacrol over the past decade, focusing on natural matrices and their applications in food, packaging, and human health fields. Various encapsulation techniques and matrices have been explored, demonstrating that nanoencapsulation can maintain the stability and antimicrobial efficacy of carvacrol. Moreover, nanoencapsulated carvacrol shows promising applications in inhibiting biofilm formation and quorum sensing, as well as exhibiting anticancer and anti-inflammatory effects. Patents related to nanoencapsulated carvacrol highlight its potential for intelligent packaging and healthcare. Nanoencapsulated carvacrol is a promising alternative to synthetic antimicrobials and as an adjuvant in inflammatory disease treatments and cancer, offering enhanced efficacy and versatility in applications.
-
-
-
Prospects of Natural Polymers based Nano-drug Delivery Systems in the Treatment of Pulmonary Disorders
Available online: 19 September 2024More LessNumerous lung conditions, including lung cancer, influenza, acute respiratory distress syndrome, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD], asthma, and pneumonia, present a great threat to people all over the world. A range of pharmaceutical drugs, peptides, antibodies, and genetic therapies have all been used to treat chronic lung illnesses. Unfortunately, the majority of chronic lung disorders cannot be fully cured by medication alone. At the moment, managing the symptoms is the only asthma treatment. This article provides a brief overview of the state-of-the-art understanding of the function of natural polymeric materials and emphasises recent developments in innovative drug delivery systems that may help treat a variety of lung diseases. Furthermore, the paper also discusses the latest application of natural polymeric materials for targeting gene delivery through different approaches.
-
-
-
Fabrication of Ti/Zr-SnO2/PbO2-Nd Electrode for Efficient Electrocatalytic Degradation of Alizarine Yellow R
Authors: Jing Zhang, Bi Yang, Guan-Jin Gao, Qing-Dong Miao, Wei-Guo Hu and Jin-Gang YuAvailable online: 30 August 2024More LessIntroductionA novel attempt to degrade alizarine yellow R (AYR) by lead dioxide (PbO2)/ neodymium (Nd) coated Ti anode was investigated.
MethodTi/Zr-SnO2/PbO2-Nd electrode showed high oxygen evolution potential, high current density, and neutral conditions, which favored the degradation of AYR. The PbO2-Nd layer on Ti/Zr-SnO2 was further characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The electrochemical properties of Ti/Zr-SnO2/PbO2-Nd electrode were evaluated by cyclic voltammetry, AC impedance spectroscopy, and accelerated life test.
ResultThe relatively higher oxygen evolution overpotential (~1.80 V) of the developed electrode can effectively suppress the occurrence of surface side reactions and oxygen evolution. A relatively lower charge transfer resistance (Rct, 18.0 Ω) of Ti/Zr-SnO2/PbO2-Nd electrode could be found. The Ti/Zr-SnO2/PbO2-Nd electrode exhibited an accelerated lifetime of 110 min under a very high current density of 10,000 A/m2. The doping of Nd could produce loosely-stacked sheet-like structures, thus, the number of active sites on the electrode surface increases.
ConclusionMoreover, an outstanding conductivity of Ti/Zr-SnO2/PbO2-Nd electrode was obtained, which favored the electron transfer and catalytic activity of the modified electrode. The Ti/Zr-SnO2/PbO2-Nd electrode exhibited improved electrochemical performances and higher oxygen evolution potential, and the highest oxygen evolution potential is 1.80 V. Under the current density of 30 mA/cm2, the electrocatalytic degradation of 92.3% could be achieved in 180 min. The electrochemical oxidation of AYR at the Ti/Zr-SnO2/PbO2-Nd electrode proved to be feasible and effective, indicating that it might be used for the elimination of AYR from wastewater.
-