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Regarding the rheological properties of fluids, certain nanoparticles can markedly modify the rheological behavior of low surface tension solutions by interacting with surfactant molecules. In this work, a low surface tension fluid with cetyltrimethylammonium chloride was prepared, and the silica nanoparticles were uniformly dispersed into it by ultrasonic dispersion. By adjusting the size, shape, and concentration of nanoparticles, the fluid behavior can be changed from Newtonian to non-Newtonian with finely tuned viscosity and characterized by a shear-thinning rheological behavior. In addition, this work explored how variations in environmental temperature and solution pH affect the rheological responses of the low surface tension suspension system. The experimental findings revealed that increasing the temperature substantially decreases the system's viscosity and induces a shear-thickening behavior. It is particularly significant that, under extreme pH conditions (either strongly acidic or alkaline), the viscosity of the nanoparticle suspensions was markedly enhanced at a particle concentration of 10 000 ppm. This interesting result coincided with a notable reduction in the zeta potential and an increase in the average particle size, suggesting an intensified aggregation of particles within the suspension system. A mechanism detailing the interaction between silica nanoparticles and surfactant micelles was proposed. This work indicates that the incorporation of nanoparticles into surfactant solutions offers a powerful approach to modulating fluid rheology across various conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are highly toxic and carcinogenic compounds as they are low water solubility, hardly degradable and may persist in the environment for many years. Therefore, this study was directed to PAHs 'anthracene and naphthalene' removal using a combination method between adsorption and degradation using sunlight. Three adsorbent materials, iron oxide (Fe) alone, Sargassum dentifolium (S) alone, and mixture of Iron oxide and Sargassum dentifolium (FeS) were prepared. Afterwards, optimisation process was performed for the three adsorbent forms through some preliminary experiments followed by full factorial design experiment to get the optimum interacted factors that achieve high PAHs removal efficiency. Some characterisation analyses such as FT-IR, TEM, DLS, zeta potential, specific surface area, magnetisation analysis, isotherm and kinetics studies were performed. The full factorial design showed that, the highest anthracene removal efficiency of 99.15% was obtained at 50 ppm concentration, 3 h contact time by using 1 g/l Sargassum dentifolium, whereas the highest naphthalene removal efficiency of 93.05% was achieved after 4 h contact time at 50 ppm concentration by using 4 g/l Sargassum dentifolium. Moreover, 93.02% naphthalene removal efficiency was stated at 50 ppm concentration after 1 h contact time by using 1 g/l mixed form of Iron oxide/Sargassum dentifolium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of oils in the food industry is challenging, owing to their inherent factors such as oxidation. Therefore, new technologies, such as nanoencapsulation, are being developed. Among the nanoencapsulated oils, essential oils (EO) and edible oils stand out for their high consumer demand. This review analyzes the production, characterization, stability, and market scenario of edible and EO nanoparticles applied in foods. Homogenization was found to be the most common technique for producing oil nanoparticles. Different encapsulants were used, and Tween 80 was the main emulsifier. Approximately 80% of the nanoparticles were smaller than 200 nm, and the polydispersibility index and zeta potential values were satisfactory, mainly for nanoparticles containing EO, whereas encapsulation efficiency varied based on the technique and the type of oil used. Oil nanoparticles were mainly applied on meat products. The temperatures and times used in the stability tests of foods containing oil nanoparticles varied depending on the food matrix, especially in microbiological and physicochemical analyses. Only one product with nanoencapsulated oil in its composition was found in the market. Oil nanoparticles have great potential in the development of innovative, economically viable, and sustainable techniques for producing new food products that are high in nutrition value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the first study to optimize magnesium oxide nanoparticles by grafting copper as an effective antibacterial against prevalent pathogenic microorganisms, which were synthesized by sol-gel method with a particle size of 11–17 nm. At a preparation temperature of 70 °C, copper was added at rates of 2.5 wt%, 5 wt%, 7.5 wt% and 10 wt%. The particles were heated at 600 °C. Nanoparticles were analyzed using XRD, FTIR, UV–Vis spectrum, Raman, TGA-DTA, SEM, EDX, zeta potential and TEM. XRD study revealed the crystal structure of the space group of MgO nanoparticles is cubic. Optical measurements yielded optical gap values falling within the range of 2.35 eV, which was reduced to 2.20 eV. The presence of the copper dopants in the MgO host lattice was confirmed by FTIR analysis. It reveals the existence of Mg-O-Cu, Mg-O, and Mg-O-Mg bonds. Additionally, the dielectric and electrical characterization of MgO was conducted using complex impedance spectroscopy over a frequency range of 10–106 Hz and conductivity measurements across a temperature range of 60–380 °C. The real and imaginary parts of the dielectric constant showed both frequency-dependent and temperature-dependent behaviors. Notably, the variations observed in the imaginary component of the modulus and impedance at the maximum frequency indicates a relaxation process that is not of the Debye type, with calculated activation energies (E a). Moreover, the samples were evaluated against various bacteria, including, -ve gram (Klebsiella pneumoniae , Escherichia coli , Pseudomonas aeruginosa), and +ve gram (Staphylococcus aureus , and Streptococcus pneumonia) using two different techniques. Studies have shown that copper-containing samples exhibit resistance to these bacteria. These findings suggest that the samples have potential as useful biomaterials in nanobiotechnology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we report on the synthesis and characterization of novel magnetic MoS2/CoFe2O4/MIL101-(Fe) nanocomposite catalysts designed for the efficient reduction of toxic nitroaromatic compounds, such as nitrophenols and nitroanilines, to their corresponding amines at ambient temperature. The nanocomposites were engineered by integrating metal–organic frameworks (MIL101-(Fe)), flower-like MoS2 microspheres, and CoFe2O4 nanocrystals using a hydrothermal method. The structural and physicochemical properties of the nanocomposites were thoroughly investigated using a suite of analytical techniques, including XRD, FT-IR, FE-SEM, EDX, VSM, BET surface area analysis, and zeta potential measurement. The results demonstrate that the MoS2/CoFe2O4/MIL-101(Fe) nanocomposite exhibits high catalytic activity in the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP), 2-nitrophenol (2-NP), 2-nitroaniline (2-NA), and 4-nitroaniline (4-NA) to their respective amine derivatives. The conversion rates are notably high, with pseudo-first-order rate constants of 0.386, 0.086, 0.064, and 0.117 min−1, respectively. Specifically, the complete conversion of these pollutants was achieved within 18–21 minutes, demonstrating the exceptional efficiency of the nanocomposite. Furthermore, the study explored the influence of catalyst dosage and reducing agent concentration on the reduction process's effectiveness. Notably, the magnetic nature of the nanocomposite facilitates its facile separation from the reaction mixture using an external magnet, significantly simplifying its recovery and reuse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer-associated death worldwide. Beside early detection, early diagnosis, and early surgery, it is urgent to try new strategies for the treatment of HCC. Triptolide (TPL) has been employed to treat HCC. However, its clinical applications were restricted by the narrow therapeutic window, severe toxicity, and poor water-solubility. In this study, we developed cancer cell membrane-camouflaged biomimetic PLGA nanoparticles loading TPL (TPL@mPLGA) with the homologous targeting property for the treatment of HCC. The TPL@mPLGA was successfully prepared with particle size of 195.5 ± 7.5 nm and zeta potential at −21.5 ± 0.2 mV with good stability. The drug loading (DL) of TPL@mPLGA was 2.94%. After Huh-7 cell membrane coating, the natural Huh-7 cell membrane proteins were found to be retained on TPL@mPLGA, thus endowing the TPL@mPLGA with enhanced accumulation at tumor site, and better anti-tumor activity in vitro and in vivo when compared with TPL or TPL@PLGA. The TPL@mPLGA showed enhanced anti-tumor effects and reduced toxicity of TPL, which could be adopted for the treatment of HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The key objective for establishing a new drug delivery system is to transport therapeutic medications in the body's circulatory system and deliver them to selected therapeutic spots. In the current study, 2-aminopyridine (2AP), a bioactive molecule, was wrapped around a metal oxide framework known as the Zeolite imidazole framework (ZIF-8) for efficient drug delivery in HepG2 cells. To begin with, an in-silico technique molecular docking to access the binding capability of 2AP with EGFR target, and it exhibited a score of −7.4 kcal/mol. The morphology of the nanoparticles was examined through SEM and TEM analysis, DLS and Zeta potential exhibited the particle size, stability and further elements and functional groups present in ZIF-8 and 2AP@ZIF-8 was examined through EDX, TGA, XRD, and FTIR analysis. The drug loading capacity of ZIF-8 was examined and the drug release efficiency of ZIF-8 for the delivery of 2AP was evaluated in the phosphate-buffered saline under different pH conditions and witnessed the pH-responsive and sustained drug release. The dose-dependent and time-dependent anticancer efficacy of 2AP@ZIF-8 nanoparticles treated HepG2 cells has been investigated through the in-vitro MTT assay method. The IC50 values of 2AP@ZIF-8 nanoparticles for 24, 48, and 72 h were observed to be 54.8, 48.5, and 45.3 μg/mL, respectively. The ZIF-8 and 2AP@ZIF-8 showed nontoxic to HEK293 cells. Overall, our findings showed that ZIF-8 offers a pH-responsive release of 2AP loaded and 2AP@ZIF-8 caused cell death in HepG2 cells, suggesting novel therapeutic approaches against hepatocellular carcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study was to develop a nanostructured-lipid-careers (NLCs) of paliperidone (PLP) for nose-to-brain targeting. NLCs was prepared by sonication, high-shear homogenisation method, and characterised their mean diameter, PDI, zeta-potential, morphology (by SEM, TEM and AFM), entrapment efficiency, drug loading, in vitro release, interaction study (by FTIR), and stability. Further, ex vivo permeation and ciliotoxicity performed in sheep nasal mucosa, and in vivo biodistribution/pharmacokinetic was performed in rats for schizophernia. Developed NLCs showed spherical and clearly 3-dimentinal structure with 129 ± 2.7 nm mean diameter, 0.304 ± 0.003 PDI, −7.61 ± 0.56 mV zeta-potential, 58.16 ± 0.17% entrapment efficiency, 65.8 ± 2% drug loading and 74.32 ± 0.003% release in 12 h, followed by Higuchi model. Ex vivo study showed NLCs have three times higher permeation, compare to pure drug (around 71.50.32% in 6 h) and 3.98 g/cm2/h steady sate flux. The blood/brain ratio given by intranasally have higher compare to IV route, and 94.53 ± 21.45% drug targeting efficiency in brain. In conclusion, NLCs have easily crossed BBB, higher drug delivery and effective for schizophrenia in given by intranasal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The study aimed to enhance phloretin's oral absorption and systemic availability through nanoencapsulation within biodegradable polymers, improving its anti-oxidant and cardioprotective potential. Methods: Phloretin-loaded polymeric nanocomposites were prepared using ionic gelation and optimised for yield, encapsulation, loading, particle size, PdI and zeta potential. The formulation was characterised by FTIR, XRD, FESEM and MS. In-vitro drug release, stability, pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, anti-oxidant capacity, haemolysis and both in-vitro and in-vivo assessments were conducted in an ischaemia-induced rat model. Results: The average particle size, zeta potential, encapsulation and drug loading of the optimised nanoparticles were 105.8 ± 1.92 nm, −41.5 ± 1.10 mV, 92.36 ± 0.01% and 18.47 ± 0.38%, respectively. Nano-phloretin enhanced oral bioavailability, anti-oxidant capacity. In-vivo, it reduced myocardial infarct size by ∼46% versus ∼13% for free phloretin, showing significant cardiomyocyte protection and ROS suppression. Conclusion: The study demonstrates polymer-based nanoparticles as effective oral drug delivery systems capable of enhancing both systemic bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy of the encapsulated drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to evaluated the impact of poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) microspheres on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics (PopPK/PD) of 6-methylcoumarin (6MC). For this, PCL microspheres loaded with 6MC were prepared using the emulsification-evaporation method. Particle size, zeta potential, drug loading, and entrapment efficiency were characterised by dynamic light scattering and UV spectrophotometry. In vitro release and pharmacokinetics in Wistar rats were assessed for free and encapsulated 6MC. Anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using the carrageenan-induced paw edoema model, with PopPK and PopPK/PD models developed. Microspheres showed diameters between 2.9 and 7.1 µm, zeta potentials of −10 to −15 mV, and drug loading of 0.24 mg/mg. Encapsulation efficiency was 45.5% to 75.9%. PopPK models showed enhanced absorption and distribution, with increased anti-inflammatory potency of encapsulated 6MC. PCL microspheres significantly improved the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles of 6MC, enhancing its therapeutic potential for lipophilic drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a clinical need to develop lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) to deliver congenital therapies to the fetus during pregnancy. The aim of these therapies is to restore normal fetal development and prevent irreversible conditions after birth. As a first step, LNPs need to be optimized for transplacental transport, safety on the placental barrier and fetal organs and transfection efficiency. We developed and characterized a library of LNPs of varying compositions and used machine learning (ML) models to delineate the determinants of LNP size and zeta potential. Utilizing different in vitro placental models with the help of a Random Forest algorithm, we could identify the top features driving percentage LNP transport and kinetics at 24 h, out of a total of 18 input features represented by 41 LNP formulations and 48 different transport experiments. We further evaluated the LNPs for safety, placental cell uptake, transfection efficiency in placental trophoblasts and fetal lung fibroblasts. To ensure the integrity of the LNPs following transplacental transport, we screened LNPs for transport and transfection using a high-throughput integrated transport-transfection in vitro model. Finally, we assessed toxicity of the LNPs in a tracheal occlusion fetal lung explant model. LNPs showed little to no toxicity to fetal and placental cells. Immunoglobin G (IgG) orientation on the surface of LNPs, PEGylated lipids, and ionizable lipids had significant effects on placental transport. The Random Forest algorithm identified the top features driving LNPs placental transport percentage and kinetics. Zeta potential emerged in the top driving features. Building on the ML model results, we developed new LNP formulations to further optimize the transport leading to 622 % increase in transport at 24 h versus control LNP formulation. To induce preferential siRNA transfection of fetal lung, we further optimized cationic lipid percentage and the lipid-to-siRNA ratio. Studying LNPs in an integrated placental and fetal lung fibroblasts model showed a strong correlation between zeta potential and fetal lung transfection. Finally, we assessed the toxicity of LNPs in a tracheal occlusion lung explant model. The optimized formulations appeared to be safe on ex vivo fetal lungs as indicated by insignificant changes in apoptosis (Caspase-3) and proliferation (Ki67) markers. In conclusion, we have optimized an LNP formulation that is safe, with high transplacental transport and preferential transfection in fetal lung cells. Our research findings represent an important step toward establishing the safety and effectiveness of LNPs for gene delivery to the fetal organs. [Display omitted] • Machine learning delineated LNP zeta potential as top feature for placental transport. • Syncytialization significantly increased placental uptake and transport of LNPs. • Antibody orientation governed placental transport of LNPs. • Cationic lipids and the lipid to RNA ratio derived transfection into fetal lung cells. • PEG-lipid dissociation is an important step for LNPs placental uptake and transport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular disease is a significant and ever-growing concern, causing high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Conventional therapy is often very precarious and requires long-term usage. Several phytochemicals, including Resveratrol (RSV) and Piperine (PIP), possess significant cardioprotection and may be restrained in clinical settings due to inadequate pharmacokinetic properties. Therefore, this study strives to develop an optimized RSV phytosomes (RSVP) and RSV phytosomes co-loaded with PIP (RPP) via solvent evaporation method using Box-Behnken design to enhance the pharmacokinetic properties in isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction (MI). The optimized particle size (20.976 ± 0.39 and 176.53 ± 0.88 nm), zeta potential (−33.33 ± 1.5 and −48.7 ± 1.6 mV), drug content (84.57 ± 0.9 and 87.16 ± 0.6%), and %EE (70.56 ± 0.7 and 67.60 ± 0.57%) of the prepared RSVP and RPP, respectively demonstrated enhanced solubility and control release in diffusion media. The oral administration of optimized RSVP and RPP in myocardial infarction-induced rats exhibited significant (p < 0.001) improvement in heart rate, ECG, biomarker, anti-oxidant levels, and no inflammation than pure RSV. The pharmacokinetic assessment on healthy Wistar rats exhibited prolonged circulation (>24 h) of RSVP and RPP compared to free drug/s. The enhanced ability of RSVP and RPP to penetrate bio-membranes and enter the systemic circulation renders them a more promising strategy for mitigating MI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The clinical use of selegiline hydrochloride in conventional dosage forms is to reduce the progression of Parkinson's disease (PD). However, its limited access to the brain, short half-life, and first-pass metabolism minimize brain uptake. Nano-based liposomes offer promising tools for brain-targeted delivery of therapeutics, especially intranasally administered cationic liposomes that target the brain region via the olfactory route and reduce biodistribution. In the present work, cationic liposomes encapsulated with selegiline hydrochloride were fabricated for intranasal administration against PD. The liposomes were initially optimized by Box Behnken design, and the selected run was coated with stearylamine to provide a cationic charge to the liposomes. The final coated liposomes, SH-LP3, demonstrated a minimum size of 173 ± 2.13 nm, an ideal zeta potential of +16 ± 1.98, and achieved a maximum entrapment efficiency of 40.14 ± 1.83%. Morphology analysis showed the spherical shape of liposomes in the size range of 100–200 nm. The in vitro cytotoxicity assay in SHSY5Y cell lines showed a significant decrease in toxicity, almost ten times less, compared to pure selegiline hydrochloride. Animal studies on rotenone-lesioned C57BL6 mice model for PD were performed to investigate the effect of intranasally administered liposomes. The SH-LP3 formulation exhibited remarkable effectiveness in relieving symptoms of PD. This extensive analysis emphasizes the possibility of intranasally administered SH-LP3 liposomes as a feasible treatment option for PD. The formulation not only delivers continuous drug release but also displays better safety and efficacy, providing a platform for additional studies and growth in the domain of PD treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A nano-drug delivery system that is responsive to glutathione (GSH) and combines chemotherapy (CT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) was designed precisely for treating melanoma. The carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC), a water-soluble and biocompatible nanocarrier, was used to load the chemotherapeutic small-molecule drug camptothecin (CPT) and the photosensitizer Rhodamine-B (RhB). The development of dual drug combo (CCR NPs) nanoparticles with a mean particle diameter of 170 ± 2.2 nm in aqueous solution has been achieved using ultrasonic self-assembly. Nanoparticle disintegration and camptothecin (CPT) release occur as CPT, sensitive to glutathione (GSH), breaks in cancer cells with excellent GSH levels. The RhB encapsulated in the CCR NPs was released quickly to attain successive CPT release. The CPT dramatically lowers tumor cell GSH levels, inhibiting the antioxidant effect of GSH on photosensitizers' ROS production capabilities and improving PDT synergistically. Nanoparticle diameter, zeta potential, and outstanding stability were all demonstrated by the CCR NPs. In vitro toxicity study on A375 human melanoma cells showed that CPT and RhB were highly selective (SI=4.25) and had a synergic effect (CI=0.24). Biochemical staining methods confirmed the morphological changes and nuclear damages. Apoptosis was confirmed by FITC-Annuxin V and PI staining by flow cytometer. Investigating drug delivery systems integrating RhB and CPT represents a valuable novel strategy for treating melanoma cancer. [Display omitted] • We have fabricated small-molecule and photosensitizer loaded carboxymethyl chitosan nanoparticles. • The development of dual drug combo (CCR NPs) nanoparticles with a mean particle diameter. • The RhB encapsulated in the CCR NPs was released quickly to attain successive CPT release. • In vitro toxicity on A375 cells showed that CPT and RhB were highly selective synergic effect. • Biochemical staining methods confirmed the morphological changes and nuclear damages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP), a complexing reagent for Ca and Mg ions, on iron ore reverse cationic flotation. Quartz and hematite samples contaminated with both Ca and Mg were subjected to microflotation assays at pH 10.5 with starch and etheramine, which showed that SHMP did not provide selectivity in the separation of these minerals. Zeta potential measurements, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy of quartz and hematite without and with the studied reagents (starch, amine, SHMP, CaCl2/MgCl2) and published studies in the literature indicated that although the HMP anions removed the Ca and Mg ions from both minerals, it also formed complexes with the Fe3+ ions on the hematite surface, which prevented subsequent adsorption of starch and consequently decreased the selectivity for reverse flotation of iron ore. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Talc is a naturally hydrophobic mineral. Its separation from sulfide minerals is a tough issue in froth flotation. In this study, calcium lignosulphonate (CLS) was introduced as a talc depressant during sodium isobutyl xanthate (SIBX) flotation of chalcopyrite. The micro-flotation findings showed that under pH 5.0–10.5, the combination application of CLS and SIBX achieved a selective flotation separation of chalcopyrite from talc. The results of zeta potential, contact angle, adsorption capacity and in-situ AFM deduced that both talc and chalcopyrite exhibited a favorable affinity toward CLS, and SIBX hardly changed the adsorption of CLS on talc surface, while significantly reduced that on chalcopyrite. The Ca2+ ions of CLS played a bridging role in connecting lignosulphonate (LS) anions and the negatively charged Si-O layers through electrostatic attraction, which transformed talc surface from hydrophobicity into hydrophilicity. The Cl− ions weakened the adsorption of LS anions on the Ca2+-modified talc surface, and the adsorption affinity of Na+ ion toward the Si-O layers was much weaker than that of Ca2+ ion. Thus, CLS exhibited the strongest depression against talc's floatability, followed by CaCl2 + SLS (sodium lignosulphonate), and then SLS. SIBX chemisorbed on to chalcopyrite via forming the surface Cu-IBX complexes, which removed the adsorbed LS anions and recovered the floatability of chalcopyrite. The CLS-hydrophilized talc and SIBX-hydrophobized chalcopyrite exhibited the different surface wettability, and they both loaded negative charges, which prevented the aggregation of their particles, resulting in a highly efficient flotation separation chalcopyrite from talc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a novel approach is to apply polyaspartic acid (PASP) as an eco-friendly regulator for the flotation of coking coal, which is different from the conventional use of oil collectors only. Flotation trails showed that adding PASP contributes to a two-way improvement in the yield and ash content of clean coal. SEM-EDS observations directly revealed that adding PASP significantly reduces the coating of high-ash fine slimes on the surface of low-ash coal particles. Contact angle detections and zeta potential analysis presented that the preferential adsorption of PASP hardly affects the adsorption of sodium oleate (NaOL) on the surface of low-ash coal particles but significantly weakens the adsorption of NaOL on the surface of high-ash fine slimes, leading to a remarkably hydrophobic difference. Particle interaction energy calculations verified that adding PASP enlarges the energy barrier between low-ash coal particle and high-ash fine slime. Hence, it can be arrived that the preferential adsorption of PASP affects the adsorption of NaOL on the surface of high-ash fine slime, widens the hydrophobic difference, enlarges the energy barrier between low-ash coal particle and high-ash fine slime, reduces the high-ash fine slime coating, therefore leading to a better flotation performance of lean coal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Plant‐based meat alternatives often require fat replacers to mimic the texture of traditional products. This study aimed to develop plant‐based emulsion gels using mung bean protein isolate (MBPI) as a potential fat substitute. However, creating these gels via heat setting requires a high protein concentration, which demands modification of the MBPI structure to enhance emulsifying properties. This study investigated synergistic effects of alkaline treatment (0.3 or 3.5% Na2CO3) and heat treatments (40 or 70 °C) on the functional properties of MBPI at high protein levels, for potential application as a plant‐based emulsion. The combined treatments reduced the zeta potential of protein suspensions from −9 to −19 mV and altered the protein conformation to form smaller particles (from 426 to 166 μm) with increased β‐sheet content. These treatments improved dispersibility of 8% MBPI suspension (58 to 86%), emulsifying activity index (6.34–10.89 m2 g−1), and stability coefficient (43 to 96%). Notably, MBPI samples treated with 0.3% Na2CO3 at 40 and 70 °C exhibited excellent emulsifying properties, forming stable monolayers at the oil–water interface, likely due to the increased surface activity of MBPI. Increasing protein concentration to 11% facilitated heat‐set gel formation; however, addition of 3.5%‐Na2CO3 induced premature gelation, limiting its application in emulsions. At 0.3%‐Na2CO3, increasing the protein content from 8% to 11% and the oil content from 10% to 30% further reduced emulsion droplet size, especially for MBPI treated with 0.3% Na2CO3 at 70 °C (MB‐0.3%‐70 °C) from 5.10 to 2.61 μm, likely due to decreased coalescence. This treatment yielded superior MBPI‐stabilised emulsion gels with enhanced penetration, fluid retention, and stability by possibly reducing protein aggregation. These findings demonstrate the potential of MBPI modified by combined addition of 0.3% Na2CO3 and heat treatment, particularly MB‐0.3%‐70 °C, as a promising ingredient for producing plant‐based emulsions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate bilosomes loaded with Celecoxib (CXB) for the efficient treatment of Alzheimer. The thin-film hydration approach was utilized in the formulation of CXB bilosomes (CXB-BLs). The study used a 23-factorial design to investigate the impact of several formulation variables. Three separate parameters were investigated: bile salt type (X1), medication amount (X2), and lipid–bile salt ratio (X3). The dependent responses included entrapment efficiency (Y1: EE %), particle size (Y2: PS), and zeta potential (Y3: ZP). The formulation factors were statistically optimized using the Design-Expert® program. The vesicles demonstrated remarkable CXB encapsulation efficiency, ranging from 94.16 ± 1.91 to 98.38 ± 0.85%. The vesicle sizes ranged from 241.8 ± 6.74 to 352 ± 2.34 nm. The produced formulations have high negative zeta potential values, indicating strong stability. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed that the optimized vesicles had a spherical form. CXB release from BLs was biphasic, with the release pattern following Higuchi's model. In vivo studies confirmed the efficiency of CXB-BLs in management of lipopolysaccharide-induced Alzheimer as CXB-BLs ameliorated cognitive dysfunction, decreased acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and inhibited neuro-inflammation and neuro-degeneration through reducing Toll-like receptor (TLR4), and Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) levels. The findings suggested that the created CXB-BLs could be a potential drug delivery strategy for Alzheimer's treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multifunctional nanostructured hybrid composed of metal–protein–ceramic was designed and then synthesized using three different methods: chemical reduction, physical adsorption, and coprecipitation. The processes yielded colloidal spherical silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) enveloped in a bovine serum albumin (BSA) corona, leading to the core–shell structure AgNPs–BSA. To enhance biocompatibility and mitigate potential toxicity associated with metallic nanoparticles, this core–shell structure was coated with a layer of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). In order to analyze the internal structure of the resulting hybrid nanostructure (AgNPs–BSA–CaCO3), a number of samples were produced by focused ion beam (FIB) and characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, and zeta potential (ζ) measurements. The cytotoxic effect of the samples were evaluated through in vitro tests on mouse macrophage cell line RAW 264.7 ATCC TIB‐71, this was accomplished by calculating the appropriate concentrations from the dose–response curve of AgNPs. Research showed that the AgNPs–BSA–CaCO3 mixture triggered the formation of vaterite; these findings were corroborated by FTIR and Raman techniques. The spherical nanostructures have an average diameter size of 4.3 ± 2 μm and an average roughness (Ra) of 3.11 ± 0.62 μm. Zeta potential (ζ) and isoelectric point studies reveal that this hybrid nanostructure exhibits amphoteric behavior that differs from either AgNPs or AgNPs–BSA alone. Cell viability response exceeded 75%, indicating the noncytotoxic nature of the proposed hybrid nanostructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) coated with 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ionic liquid (IL) (ZnO‐[BMIM][BF4] NPs) and ZnO NPs without IL coating were both synthesized by co‐precipitation. Various analytical methods were used to characterize the synthesized NPs. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed that ZnO NPs had a mean crystallite size of 32 nm and that of ZnO‐[BMIM][BF4] NPs was 22 nm. IL alters the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) peaks of the as‐prepared ZnO NPs. A blueshift was seen in the absorption peak of ZnO‐[BMIM][BF4] NPs as compared to bare ZnO NPs. An examination of the UV–visible (UV–Vis) spectra revealed that the optical bandgap decreases with the addition of IL to ZnO NPs. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM) investigation revealed the morphology and size of the nanostructured particles. The chemically prepared ZnO‐[BMIM][BF4] NPs displayed the irregular spherical‐shaped morphologies in the range of nanoscale. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed the conventional hexagonal wurtzite structure of ZnO‐[BMIM][BF4] NPs. Synthesized ZnO‐NPs in water have a zeta potential of −13.1 mV, showing that they are stable solutions. Thermal behaviour of ZnO NPs was studied using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential thermal analysis (DTA). The agar‐well diffusion technique was used to investigate and compare the antimicrobial activity of synthesized ZnO‐[BMIM][BF4] NPs against the following bacteria and fungi: Streptococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans. The MCF7 breast cancer cells were used to assess the anticancer capabilities of ZnO‐[BMIM][BF4] NPs at various doses (100 μg/mL, 10 μg/mL, 1 μg/mL, 100 ng/mL, 10 ng/mL and 1 ng/mL) using MTT assays. The range of cell inhibition was determined to be from 19.14% to 70.52%. The percentage of cytotoxicity increases was observed when the concentration of synthesized ZnO‐[BMIM][BF4] NPs ranges from 1 ng/mL to 100 μg/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Controlled release of curcumin by a pH-sensitive carrier provides long-term preservation, which extends the shelf lives of fish. FTIR, XRD, 1H NMR, zeta potential, swelling ratio, and TG analyses indicated that a pH-sensitive starch-based carrier with a narrow pH-sensitivity range (pH 6–7) was fabricated from the carboxymethyl starch grafted with methacrylic acid and then cross-linked with β-cyclodextrin to achieve dual functionality. FTIR, XRD, and fluorescence spectroscopy revealed that the mechanism by which curcumin was encapsulated in the starch-based carriers involved hydrophobic interactions and intermolecular hydrogen bonding. The encapsulated curcumin showed improved stability, higher antioxidant activity, antibacterial activity, and biocompatibility. The pH, TVB-N, TVC, and drip loss tests confirmed that the use of the carrier-curcumin complex at a concentration of 10 mg/mL for the preservation of yellow catfish extended the shelf life for 2–4 days during cold storage and improved the storage quality of the resulting fillets. This work provides a dual functionality strategy for constructing a pH-sensitive starch-based carrier to deliver curcumin and offers a promising choice for fish preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Xanthohumol is an isopentadienyl flavonoid in hops, which have several pharmacological effects. However, due to the poor bioavailability of xanthohumol, it cannot be widely used. RESULT: In this study, solvent extraction combined with preparative liquid chromatography was used to separate and purify xanthohumol in hop residue. And the purity, yield and recovery of xanthohumol was 983.0 ± 2.1 g kg−1, 921.61 ± 5.65 g kg−1, and 5.41 ± 0.07 g kg−1, respectively. Response surface methodology optimization revealed that 216.75 g kg−1 ethyl oleate, 574.1 g kg−1 polyoxyl‐35 castor oil (EL35) and 209.15 g kg−1 polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG200) produced the xanthohumol nanoemulsion with a loading capacity of 85.40 ± 0.33 g kg−1, mean droplet diameter of 42.35 ± 0.06 nm, and zeta potential of −21.78 ± 0.18 mV. CONCLUSION: Xanthohumol nanoemulsion has better relative stability. The relative oral bioavailability of xanthohumol nanoemulsion was increased by 1.76 times. These results provide a theoretical basis for the application of nanoemulsion containing xanthohumol in food and pharmaceutical industry. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of photocatalysts that can efficiently remove organic pollutants is crucial for environmental clean-up. In this study, we present the synthesis of stable TiO2-SnO2 nanocomposites using the sol-gel method. Various characterization techniques were employed to analyze the structural, morphological, and optical properties of the samples. The photocatalytic efficiency of the nanocomposites was assessed by examining the degradation of Congo red (CR) dye under sunlight. All samples exhibited over 90% degradation within 2 h, with the optimized sample achieving 99.0% efficiency and a rate constant of 3.3 × 10− 2 min− 1. The stability of the photocatalyst was validated through reusability tests, which showed more than 90% efficiency even after five cycles. The photocatalytic mechanism is thoroughly explained using band edge positions and effective charge transfer processes due to the formation of a heterojunction. Additionally, BET analysis and zeta potential measurements were conducted to gain a deeper understanding of the catalytic process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are increasingly recognized as vital nanomaterials in biomedical applications due to their diverse pharmacological properties, including antimicrobial and anti-neoplastic effects, particularly when derived from herbal sources. This study aims to synthesize AgNPs employing a sustainable approach aligned with the principles of the sustainable development goals. The synthesized AgNPs are incorporated with doxorubicin (DOX) and encapsulated within polylactide nanoparticles to enhance their anticancer potency. AgNPs are prepared via the reduction of silver ions using rutin as a reducing agent, with the reaction progress monitored via ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis). Subsequently, the AgNPs are encapsulated into poly(D, L-lactic acid) (PDLLA) nanoparticles alongside doxorubicin. The developed nanoparticles have shown a diameter size of 233 nm with a zeta potential of -21.47 mV. Moreover, the in vitro release profile of the DOX showed a sustained release kinetics over 30 h. Evaluation of the AgNP-DOX-loaded PDLLA nanoparticles reveals enhanced anticancer activity against HeLa and HepG2 cancer cells, highlighting the synergistic efficacy of the combined therapy. These findings underscore the potential of AgNPs-based formulations as promising candidates for advanced cancer therapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the flotation performance of a novel combination collector, LCJ, on lepidolite from Jiangxi Province, China. A comparative analysis with the on-site collector EO demonstrates an economically efficient separation scheme for lepidolite. Results show that LCJ outperforms EO in capturing lepidolite. Employing 400 g/t sodium hexametaphosphate as an inhibitor and 290 g/t LCJ as a collector, a flotation process with one rougher, two cleaner, and two scavenger stages achieves a lepidolite concentrate with a Li2O grade of 2.10% and a recovery of 78.62%. LCJ also enhances foamability within conventional air-inflation ranges. Infrared testing, Zeta potential analysis, and contact angle measurements indicate similar organic adsorption on the lepidolite surface for both collectors. However, LCJ significantly influences the Zeta potential, increasing hydrophobicity. These findings confirm LCJ as an efficient and selective collector for lepidolite flotation, with promising application prospects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to evaluate the use of commercial tannin derivatives, namely, tannin 1 (CT1), tannin 2 (CT2), tannin 3 (CT3), and extract of tannin produced from angico bark, as aggregation agent in hematite–silica systems. Hematite and quartz were used in aggregation tests at dosages of 1, 10, and 100 mg/L at pH values of 6–9. The zeta potential and Jar tests were conducted in the best conditions of aggregation tests. The condensed tannin content of the commercial reagents is approximately similar, and it exceeds the content found in the extract obtained from angico bark. CT3 demonstrated superior percentages of sedimented material for both minerals at a dosage of 10 mg/L and pH 7 (97.12% and 95.68% for hematite and quartz, respectively). The aggregation agent produced from the angico bark displayed good sedimentation results for hematite (>90%); however, the results for quartz were unsatisfactory. The isoelectric point shifts to pH 8 when each mineral was conditioned with CT3. The jar test revealed higher sedimentation of the compositions for the lowest velocity gradient (60 rpm) with low turbidity values in the supernatant; however, the lowest turbidity (24.71 NTU) is observed in the sample with a higher percentage of hematite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The modified version of quasi-SMILES is studied. Unlike the previous ones, the new version allows building codes of experimental conditions in a user-friendly (easily interpreted) form. The quasi-SMILES can be a convenient basis for discussion between experimentalists and developers of models. The optimal descriptors for regression one-parameter models were calculated with the Monte Carlo method, using the vector of ideality of correlation. The vector of the ideality of correlation has two components: (i) the index of ideality of correlation (IIC) and (ii) the correlation intensity index (CII). Both the indices are components of the stochastic Monte Carlo process. The contribution of these indices is paradoxical: they improve the statistical quality of a model on the external validation set but to the detriment of the statistical quality of the model for the training set. Taking into account IIC and CII values for the Monte Carlo optimization gives an improvement of models of zeta potential of considered nanoparticles. The described approach is convenient for modelling the zeta potential of the considered nanoparticles. No less important is the universality of the use of quasi-SMILES as a means for studying the values of endpoints in the form of mathematical functions of not only the structures of the simulated objects (nanoparticles) but also the experimental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesised utilising a one-pot green synthesis process using phytonutrients obtained from Houttugniae herba (HH) as a reductant and stabiliser. The proposed technique was fast, simple, eco-friendly, and cost-effective, and it does not require any additional processing or toxic ingredients to reduce and stabilise the AgNPs. All parameters (concentration of HH, reaction duration, temperature, and pH) involved in the reduction/stabilisation reaction were evaluated using a one-factor-at-a-time (OFAT) technique in a set of the experimental array to establish an optimal reaction state. Intense yellow colour and a prominent peak at 411 nm in the UV–vis absorption spectra indicated the growth of AgNPs in the reaction system. The produced AgNPs deploying optimum parameters were nearly spherical, with nanometre size (16.28 ± 4.48 nm), highly crystalline (d-spacing = 0.234 and 0.258 nm), and well stabilised (zeta potential = −26.4 mV). The measurement and analysis also yielded that the AgNPs were formed by an oxidation-reduction reaction between plant-derived phytonutrients and metal precursors and subsequently stabilised by the encapsulation of phytonutrients. The biogenic AgNPs exhibited remarkable antibacterial effectiveness against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. In addition, the AgNPs demonstrated significant catalytic degradation and mineralisation of industrially essential di-azo dyes with a degradation efficiency of nearly 100% within 20 min. The present investigation shows a simple and environmentally friendly way to synthesise AgNPs, which might be feasible to meet the current need for bacterial reduction and textile wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfonamide antibiotics (SAs) widely used have potentially negative effects on human beings and ecosystems. Adsorption and advanced oxidation methods have been extensively applied in SAs wastewater treatment. In this study, compared with Al3+@BC500 and Fe3+@BC500, La3+@BC500 for activating persulfate (S 2 O 8 2−) had the best effect removal performance of sulfadiazine (SDZ) and sulfamethoxazole (SMX). Morphology, acidity, oxygen-containing functional groups, and loading of La3+@BC500 were analyzed by techniques, including EA, BET, XRD, XPS, FT-IR. XRD results show that with the increase of La3+ loading, the surface characteristics of biochar gradually changed from CaCO 3 to LaCO 3 OH. Through EPR technology, it is proved that LaCO 3 OH on the surface of La3+@BC500 can not only activate S 2 O 8 2− to generate SO 4 −•, but also to produce •OH. In the optimization experiment, the optimal dosage of La3+ is between 0.05 and 0.2 (mol/L)/g. SDZ had a good removal effect at pH (5–9), but SMX had a good removal effect only at pH=3. Zeta potential also proves that the material is more stable under acidic conditions. The removal process of SDZ is more in accord with pseudo-first-order kinetics (R 2=0.9869), while SMX is more in line with pseudo-second order kinetics (R 2=0.9926). [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to enhance control of hematite reverse flotation systems, we investigated desiliconization mechanism of surface nanobubbles (NBs) in reverse flotation of micro-fine hematite (MFH). The reverse flotation mechanism of NBs enhancing MFH was studied based on flotation dynamics tests, adsorption dynamics, adsorption dynamics calculations, and zeta potential tests. The results showed that the reverse flotation desilication of MFH can be completed 180 s earlier compared to the process without NBs, and that NBs can efficiently recover ultra-fine hematite with a particle size less than 10 μm, which is about 5% higher than that without NBs. In addition, the presence of NBs improved the adsorption rate and adsorption capacity of the collector on quartz surfaces compared to the absence of NBs; especially; the adsorption rate was significantly higher than the absence of NBs when the adsorption time was less than 1.7 min and the maximum adsorption capacity was higher than the absence of NBs by 0.10 mg/g. The zeta potential test showed that NBs reduce the potential of the quartz surface, mainly because they promote the adsorption of Ca2+ on the quartz surface to provide more active sites for the second adsorption of the collector, thus improving the desilicification rate of reverse flotation for MFH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high protein walnut flour (HPWF) was obtained by defatting walnut flour (WF), which is a by-product of the oil industry. The objective of this study was the chemical and techno-functional characterization of HPWF. Composition, amino acid content, protein secondary structure, protein solubility and thermal transitions were measured. Besides, the techno-functional properties, emulsion activity and stability, and water holding and oil absorption capacities, of HPWF were evaluated. Also, the molecular mass of proteins under denaturing conditions and the microstructure of HPWF were evaluated by electrophoresis and confocal scanning laser microscopy, respectively. HPWF had 55.4% protein content and 21.5% total dietary fibre. In terms of HPWF amino acid composition, the limiting amino acids were the sulphurated cysteine and methionine. By FTIR analysis, the main secondary structures were β-sheet (49%) followed by α-helix (24%); both structures are considered to be ordered. Likewise, HPWF soluble proteins increased at basic pH and HPWF proteins were separated in 11 bands with molecular masses ranging from 97 kDa to 18 kDa by electrophoresis. With respect to techno-functional properties, HPWF presented good emulsion activity (51%) and high thermal emulsion stability (46%). In addition, HPWF retained 571% and 242% of water and oil by weight, respectively. Finally, the micrograph showed the predominance of protein structures and fibre fragments, and the presence of few lipids mostly trapped. These results showed that HPWF is an interesting source of plant-based proteins and walnut flour can be used to obtain high protein ingredients from non-traditional sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphene oxide (GO) nanoreinforcement is shown to significantly improve the strength and durability of concrete at the expense of mix workability. While polycarboxylate superplasticizers (PCSP) addition has improved GO-cement/mortar strength and workability in existing literature, this article examines if this improvement is translated to concrete with lower cement and water contents. PCSP and GO showed colloidal instability and particulate aggregation through surface charge measurements, presumably caused by divalent Ca 2 + ion interbridging between the GO and PCSP. This chemical interference results in a 26% reduction in 28-day compressive strength and a 20% decrease in the workability of PCSP-treated GO-concrete. Microstructural examination reveals significantly larger pores in PCSP+GO cement than in GO-cement or PCSP-only cement due to the chemical interference induced by PCSP-GO interactions in cement and concrete. Hence, PCSP and GO interactions must be further researched for practical use in concrete structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multifunctional nanostructured hybrid composed of metal–protein–ceramic was designed and then synthesized using three different methods: chemical reduction, physical adsorption, and coprecipitation. The processes yielded colloidal spherical silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) enveloped in a bovine serum albumin (BSA) corona, leading to the core–shell structure AgNPs–BSA. To enhance biocompatibility and mitigate potential toxicity associated with metallic nanoparticles, this core–shell structure was coated with a layer of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). In order to analyze the internal structure of the resulting hybrid nanostructure (AgNPs–BSA–CaCO3), a number of samples were produced by focused ion beam (FIB) and characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, and zeta potential (ζ) measurements. The cytotoxic effect of the samples were evaluated through in vitro tests on mouse macrophage cell line RAW 264.7 ATCC TIB‐71, this was accomplished by calculating the appropriate concentrations from the dose–response curve of AgNPs. Research showed that the AgNPs–BSA–CaCO3 mixture triggered the formation of vaterite; these findings were corroborated by FTIR and Raman techniques. The spherical nanostructures have an average diameter size of 4.3 ± 2 μm and an average roughness (Ra) of 3.11 ± 0.62 μm. Zeta potential (ζ) and isoelectric point studies reveal that this hybrid nanostructure exhibits amphoteric behavior that differs from either AgNPs or AgNPs–BSA alone. Cell viability response exceeded 75%, indicating the noncytotoxic nature of the proposed hybrid nanostructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) resins are widely used in medical and dental applications. Their susceptibility to bacterial biofilm formation poses significant challenges related to material degradation and infection risk. This study investigated the effects of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) biofilms on PMMA resin surface properties over a 45‐day period at 35°C. The study examined various parameters including biofilm adhesion, morphology, surface roughness, hydrophobicity, solid fraction, and zeta potential. PMMA resin specimens were inoculated with bacteria and incubated for 45 days. Biofilm adhesion was visually assessed, while surface characterization was conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), roughness analysis, contact angle measurements, solid fraction determination, and zeta potential analysis. The P. aeruginosa and S. aureus isolates were selected based on their biofilm‐positive characteristics, which were further confirmed using Congo red and biofilm formation assays through crystal violet staining and spectrophotometric analysis. The results demonstrated robust biofilm adhesion on PMMA surfaces. SEM and AFM imaging revealed textured surfaces with elevated structures and depressions within the biofilm matrix. Biofilm‐exposed resins exhibited significantly increased roughness (Ra = 164.5 nm, Rq = 169.5 nm) and hydrophobicity (mean angle = 85.5°−90.5°) compared to control samples (Ra = 38–50 nm, angle = 55°). Solid fraction measurements indicated a denser biofilm matrix on exposed resins (0.908) compared to controls (0.65). Additionally, zeta potential values were more negative for biofilm‐exposed resins (mean = −84.2 mV) than controls (−45.0 mV). These findings underscore the substantial alterations in PMMA resin surface properties induced by bacterial biofilms, emphasizing the critical need for strategies to prevent biofilm formation and mitigate associated risks in healthcare settings. Future research should focus on developing anti‐biofilm coatings or treatments to preserve the integrity and functionality of PMMA materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Hybrid iron and cobalt metal oxide nanoparticles are well known; however, are not optimized in terms of size and stability. We engineered these hybrid nanoparticles using the co‐precipitation method and characterized them by various techniques, which are then used for the effective adsorption and removal of malachite green (MG) dye. RESULTS: The ideal conditions for synthesis are determined to be 50:50 ratio of Fe2O3 and CoO, pH of 11, temperature range of 40 °C–60 °C, and reactant addition time of 20 min. These hybrid nanoadsorbents effectively eliminated MG dye from aqueous solutions. Factors such as initial MG dye concentration, pH of the medium, contact time, temperature, and nanoadsorbent dose were optimized for the MG removal to achieve a maximum removal efficiency of 96.9%. Non‐linear fitting of data indicates that both Langmuir and Freundlich models provided the best fit, suggesting the presence of both monolayer and multilayer adsorption of MG on hybrid nanoparticles. The kinetics of MG dye removal are better controlled by the intraparticle diffusion (IPD) phenomenon. The adsorption of MG onto the hybrid nanoparticles was confirmed to be endothermic, with negative ΔG and positive ΔH values. The optimized synthetic conditions also positively impacted the hybrid nanoparticles which enhanced the adsorption and exhibited ferromagnetic behavior as compared to the superparamagnetic behavior reported in the literature, making them significantly important for dye removal applications. CONCLUSION: These findings demonstrate the potential of optimized hybrid nanoparticles as effective nanoadsorbents for dye removal applications, with implications for further applications in photocatalysis and sensing. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were obtained through precipitation synthesis, using aqueous water hyacinth leaf extract (Eichhornia crassipes) under alkaline conditions. The effect of the extract on the physicochemical and antimicrobial properties of the ZnO was evaluated starting from concentrated extract (labeled as E100) and performing two dilutions of this concentrated extract at 50% and 25% in water (E50, and E25). RESULTS: The FTIR spectra revealed strong peaks at ≈3440 cm−1, corresponding to vibrations from OH stretching, and medium‐intense peaks at 1384 and 1327 cm−1, assigned to CC, COOH and COC vibrations, which are related to the presence of the extract; a weak band at 884 cm−1 and a broad band in the region below 600 cm−1 indicate the presence of ZnO. The hydrodynamic size of the ZnOE100, ZnOE50 and ZnOE25 samples were 202, 244 and 313 nm, respectively. No significant variations on the Eg value were observed. Field emission scanning electron microscopy images showed that the ZnO NPs have triangular‐like shapes and agglomeration of the NPs synthesized for the ZnOE25 sample. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the ZnO NPs showed no significant effects related to the concentration the plant extract used. CONCLUSIONS: Variations in particle size and zeta potential can be introduced in ZnO by varying the content of the extract; the presence of organic groups from the extract, along with a positive zeta potential value, can promote the bactericide effect of ZnO nanomaterials prepared by bio‐assisted synthesis. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of titanium dioxide nanoparticles in the petroleum research area has received ample attention in recent years owing to its impact on wettability-altering agents. Further, employing a surfactant injection to improve oil production in sandstone formations on an industrial scale has become an alternative solution, particularly for mature fields. However, the existing literature on the combination of alkyl ethoxy carboxylate (AEC) surfactant with titanium dioxide nanoparticles on the application of enhanced oil recovery in sandstone formations remains underreported. This study explores the impact of combining AEC surfactant with titanium dioxide nanoparticles on recovering trapped oil in sandstone by examining the interfacial tension, contact angle, zeta potential, and core flooding with various concentrations of added titanium dioxide nanoparticles (0, 0.01, 0.025, and 0.05 wt%) on AEC surfactant. Although the addition of 0.05 wt% TiO2 to AEC surfactant can significantly reduce the interfacial tension to the lowest value of 5.85 × 10−5 mN/m, our results show that the highest oil recovery in Berea sandstone (59.52% recovery factor) is achieved at the concentration of 0.025 wt% added TiO2 to AEC surfactant. We find that the stability of TiO2 nanoparticles on AEC surfactant plays a significant role in getting maximum oil recovery. These important findings from this study contribute to improving our understanding on the application of TiO2 combined with AEC surfactant to achieve more efficient and sustainable enhanced oil recovery in sandstone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New design techniques are required to improve the stability of vitamin C (VC), which is essential for human health but is sensitive to environmental factors, in the stomach and its release in the body. The purpose of this study is to develop and characterise a fibre interlaced liposome (FIL) as a vehicle for better delivery of VC, with fruit fibres providing surface protection against degradation, which was confirmed by various studies. The optimised formulation was evaluated for its structural and surface morphological properties through zeta potential, FTIR, XRD, SEM, TEM, and DSC analyses. In vitro release studies were also conducted, and FIL-VC displayed a sustained release of VC (19.31%) compared to the control (67.54%) during the period of 8 h. FIL-VC demonstrates better release in simulated intestinal fluids (95.34%) than in gastric fluids (21.15%), indicating better stability and absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. In a randomized, double-blind, active-controlled, two-way crossover clinical study, FIL-VC showed 5.77-fold higher relative oral bioavailability in comparison with the unformulated VC. The AUC0−t for VC in FIL-VC (23.80 μg mL−1) was found to be significantly higher compared to unformulated VC (4.13 μg mL−1) after the oral administration of a single dose. These data show that FIL formulation resulted in a sustained release of VC with increased bioavailability, which could be beneficial for extended-release applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractIonic liquids have been considered as green solvent for metal ion extraction. However, the high cost, low efficiency and hard phase separation limit their application. In this work, nano SiO2 supported ionic liquid (SiO2@NH-IL) prepared via simple homogeneous sol-gel method was used for adsorptive removal of Cd(II) from water sample. The material was characterized by XRD, TEM and FT-IR and zeta potential analysis. The adsorption kinetics, adsorption isotherm and reusability as well as the adsorption mechanism were investigated. The effects of solution pH and temperature were also studied. It was found that this nano-adsorbent could be used to remove trace level of Cd(II) efficiently due to the strong coordination of Cd(II) with the ionic liquid. Thermodynamic and kinetic studies showed that the adsorption rate increased with the increase of temperature, the maximum adsorption capacity was 112.13 mg g−1 at higher temperature (i.e. 80 °C), and the adsorption equilibrium could achieve in 30 min. The nano-adsorbent could be easily regenerated by 0.5 mol L−1 of HCl and reused as least ten adsorption/desorption cycles. The as-prepared nano-adsorbent are potential candidate for adsorptive removal of Cd(II) in polluted wastewater, especially with higher temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractPresent study reports analgesic and anti-inflammatory potential of Piper betel (L.) leaf oil loaded lipid nanocarrier (BLNs)-embedded bigel. BLNs were developed by solvent evaporation technique and were characterised by FESEM, Cryo-TEM, mean diameter, zeta potential, loading efficiency, etc. BLNs embedded bigel (BLNs-G) was evaluated for analgesic and anti-inflammatory efficacy in rat model. Data showed spherical BLNs with intact lamellarity, 138.2 ± 1.08 nm mean diameter, 0.182 PDI, −46.6 ± 0.61 mV zeta potential, 76.2 ± 2.1% (w/w) loading efficiency and a sustained release in vitro. BLNs-G was homogenous with satisfied viscosity (40 734 ± 1.7 cps), spreadability (8.3 ± 1.5 g.cm sec−1), extrudability (91.33 ± 1.3% w/w) along with a sustained permeation ex vivo. Significant analgesic and anti-inflammatory action were depicted by BLNs-G (1% w/w) in rat model (p ˂ 0.05) within 30 minutes post topical application. In silico docking study revealed high affinity of major phytoactive components with key analgesic/inflammatory mediators. Further pre-clinical investigations are warranted for futuristic clinical application of BLNs-G. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis work aimed to formulate surface-modified berberine hydrochloride (BER)-loaded liposomes containing in-situ nasal gel for bran targeting. The liposomes were prepared by ethanol-injection method and optimized following a 32 full-factorial design. Size, morphology, zeta potential, ex-vivo permeation, and in-vitro release were estimated. The surface of optimized liposome was modified with ascorbic acid. The size of surface-modified liposomes was bigger (191.4 nm) than the unmodified liposomes (171 nm). Surface-modified liposomes were embedded in in-situ gel using poloxamer and Carbopol 934P. Liposomal in-situ gel showed higher permeation (71.94%) in contrast to the plain gel (46.64%). In-vivo pharmacokinetic examination of payload from liposomal in-situ gel displayed higher concentration in brain (Cmax of 93.50 ng/mL). The liposomal in-situ nasal gel had a higher drug targeting efficiency (138.43%) and a higher drug targeting potential (27.77%) confirming improved brain targeting. In male Wistar rats, the pharmacodynamic parameters (path length and escape latency) were evaluated with trimethyl tin-induced neurodegeneration. Animals treated with BER-loaded in-situ gel significantly decreased escape latency and path length in comparison to the control group. Histopathological assessment showed that the formulated gel was safe for intranasal administration. The developed formulation has the potential to effectively enhance the efficacy of BER in Alzheimer’s disease management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studying specific subpopulations of cancer-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) could help reveal their role in cancer progression. In cancer, an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) happens which results in lipid peroxidation with a major product of 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE). Adduction by HNE causes alteration to the structure of proteins, leading to loss of function. Blebbing of EVs carrying these HNE-adducted proteins as a cargo or carrying HNE-adducted on EV membrane are methods for clearing these molecules by the cells. We have referred to these EVs as Redox EVs. Here, we utilize a surface tension-mediated extraction process, termed exclusion-based sample preparation (ESP), for the rapid and efficient isolation of intact Redox EVs, from a mixed population of EVs derived from human glioblastoma cell line LN18. After optimizing different parameters, two populations of EVs were analyzed, those isolated from the sample (Redox EVs) and those remaining in the original sample (Remaining EVs). Electron microscopic imaging was used to confirm the presence of HNE adducts on the outer leaflet of Redox EVs. Moreover, the population of HNE-adducted Redox EVs shows significantly different characteristics to those of Remaining EVs including smaller size EVs and a more negative zeta potential EVs. We further treated glioblastoma cells (LN18), radiation-resistant glioblastoma cells (RR-LN18), and normal human astrocytes (NHA) with both Remaining and Redox EV populations. Our results indicate that Redox EVs promote the growth of glioblastoma cells, likely through the production of H2O2, and cause injury to normal astrocytes. In contrast, Remaining EVs have minimal impact on the viability of both glioblastoma cells and NHA cells. Thus, isolating a subpopulation of EVs employing ESP-based immunoaffinity could pave the way for a deeper mechanistic understanding of how subtypes of EVs, such as those containing HNE-adducted proteins, induce biological changes in the cells that take up these EVs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe slurry shield tunneling method is commonly used to construct submarine tunnels. Salt in the submarine strata becomes mixed into the pressure chamber of the tunneling device, resulting in deterioration of the slurry and filter cake quality, which reduces the stability of the excavation face. Slurries containing various concentrations of the common submarine strata cations Na+, Mg2+, or Ca2+ were tested to clarify their effects on the quality of slurries and filter cakes. The results show that after the salt is mixed, all three cations cause obvious water separation and precipitation from the slurry. The bound-water contents of the formed filter cakes are reduced and the numbers of macropores are increased. At a given cation concentration, Mg2+ and Ca2+ degrade the basic quality of the slurry and filter cake more than Na+. The permeability coefficient of filter cakes in 0.1 mol/L Mg2+ or Ca2+ slurry gradually increases from 10−9 cm/s to 10−7 cm/s. Decrease of slurry zeta potential weakens repulsion between particles, which become more likely to aggregate. This is the fundamental cause of the changes in the quality of slurries and filter cakes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lung cancer (LC) remains a predominant global health concern, especially with escalating tobacco-smoking rates. Present study provides computational screening, molecular dynamics, DFT and simulation analysis of phytoconstituents on EGFR receptors (2ITY and W2O), followed by selection of highest docking score phytoconstituents among 45 for further analysis. The formulation was optimized by Central composite design. Nanostructured-lipid carriers were prepared by high-speed homogenization, combining a 1:1 ratio of liquid lipid (Castor oil) and melted solid lipid (glyceryl monostearate) with 4% surfactant (tween 80) in a water phase containing Glycyrrhizin. The resulting mixture underwent high-speed homogenization at 8000 rpm for 40 min, followed by sonication for 15 min to achieve formulation development of GNLC. The anticancer potential of GNLC have been proved by experimental analysis through MTT assay using A549 Cell lines. Results: Glycyrrhizin was found to possess maximum docking score − 8.863 and − 8.837 on both 2ITY and W2O respectively. The study unveils Glycyrrhizin's interactions with EGFR pivotal in cancer progression and treatment. Molecular dynamics simulations highlighted the structural and dynamic interactions within a protein–ligand complex, indicating both stability and flexibility characteristics. DFT analysis of Glycyrrhizin revealed its molecular properties, suggesting stability and potential reactivity. Glycyrrhizin loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (GNLC) have been developed and analysed by various parameters like particle size and drug release zeta potential, SEM analysis, and solubility analysis reveals critical insights into their optimization for effective drug delivery. Both GNLC and Doxorubicin (0.78–50 µg/ml) were used for the activity. The anticancer potential at 12.50, 25 and 50 µg/ml pf GNLC was found to be statistically significant and was comparable with that of standard group Doxorubicin. The observed structural transformations in Glycyrrhizin into a lipid matrix indicate potential enhancements in its drug release. Conclusions: GNLC shows promising anti-cancer potential in lung cancer, further pre-clinical and clinical studies, is crucial to validate its efficacy, safety, and integration into standard therapeutic regimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundObjectiveMethodsResultsMicroRNAs have gained attention as key immunomodulators, with miR-155 specifically shown in various studies to drive macrophage polarization toward the classical phenotype. This polarization is crucial, as classical macrophages play a well-recognized role in differentiating type-1 immune responses and resisting Leishmania infection.The present study aims to evaluate the anti-leishmanial immunoadjuvant effects of the miR-155 chitosan polyplex (miR-155 CP).The anti-leishmanial immunoadjuvant activity of miR-155 CP synthesized by the coacervation method was assessed against L. major (MRHO/IR/75/ER) by analyzing the infectivity rate on RAW 264.7 cells in vitro.MiR-155 CP as an adjuvant co-administrated with soluble Leishmania antigen (SLA) for immunization of BALB/c mice, then the challenge was performed by subcutaneous injection of 1 × 106 L. major promastigotes. Eight weeks following the challenge, lesion size, parasite load, cytokine assay, and nitric oxide production were evaluated.The nanoparticles were produced with a size of 233.87 ± 8 nm and a zeta potential of + 22.6 ± 2 mV with good transfection efficiency. The mean infection index among pretreated cells with miR-155 CP (72±1.1) decreased significantly compared to the control group (420 ± 2.8). The parasite burden and the size of the lesions were significantly reduced in the immunized infected mice. Vaccination by miR-155 CP/SLA triggered the production of IFN-γ and NO and changed the cytokine profile of antigen-specific cells.Conclusion:The effectiveness of the SLA vaccine can be enhanced by including miR-155 CP as an adjuvant. SLA and miR-155 CP co-administration improve the type-1 immune response. This enhanced immune response helps prevent severe leishmaniasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cervical cancer is a significant cause of death among women worldwide, and limited treatment approaches are available for patients with metastatic or recurrent disease. Recently, the combination of nanoparticles (NPs) and radiotherapy (RT) has been shown to be an effective treatment because it enhances the sensitivity of cancer cells to radiation. ZnO NPs stabilized with HSA have become one of the most popular types of metal oxide nanoparticles because of their cost-effectiveness and minimal toxicity. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the radiosensitization effects of HSA/ZnO-NPs on cervical (HeLa) cancer cells under megavoltage (MV) X-ray irradiation. Methods: HSA/ZnO-NPs were prepared and characterized by SEM and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) technique. The cytotoxicity of HSA/ZnO NPs was evaluated in HeLa cells via an MTT assay. The radiosensitization effects were investigated under megavoltage X-ray irradiation using a clonogenic survival assay and quantifying γH2AX foci. Moreover, apoptosis and cell cycle analyses were conducted using a Muse™ Cell Analyzer. Results: HSA/ZnO-NPs reduced the viability of HeLa cells in a dose-dependent manner, which revealed that the IC50 of HSA/ZnO-NPs was approximately 30 µg/mL. The prepared particles exhibited moderate aggregation regarding hydrodynamic size (approximately 300–400 nm) and a negative zeta potential charge. Compared to the control group, combining HSA/ZnO-NPs with irradiation reduced the colony-forming ability and survival of HeLa cells by approximately 51% and 71% for 2 and 4 Gy, respectively. Correspondingly, the results of the apoptosis analysis showed that combining HSA/ZnO-NPs with irradiation significantly increased apoptosis induction by approximately 39.15% and 77.67% for 2 and 4 Gy, respectively. In addition, we observed a significant increase in cell cycle arrest at the S phase, by about 11.3% and 19.3% for 2 and 4 Gy, respectively. Conclusions: HSA/ZnO-NPs could significantly enhance the cytotoxic effects of ionizing radiation, which suggests the promising potential of cervical cancer radiotherapy under megavoltage X-ray irradiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lung cancer remains a leading cancer type, but current chemotherapy is limited by issues including poor drug delivery, toxicity, and resistance. To address these challenges, we developed a novel PLGA-PEG-LHRH (PPL) nanoconjugate system for improved drug delivery. Curcumin, known for its anticancer and P-gp inhibition properties, was co-loaded with bcl2siRNA (bclsR) to inhibit the bcl2 protein, thus overcoming both resistance mechanisms. Results: The PPL conjugate was successfully synthesized and characterized using FTIR, 1H NMR, XRD, XPS and BCA assay. Curcumin and bclsR-loaded PLGA nanoemulsions were prepared by double emulsion solvent evaporation method and characterized. The optimized nanoconjugate had size of 179 ± 16 nm, favorable zeta potential, high drug entrapment, and was confirmed via TEM. Controlled release studies indicated 83% drug release within 24 h. In vitro studies revealed significant cytotoxicity against A549 lung cancer cells, with the nanoconjugate showing IC50 of 8.24 µg/mL compared to 21.26 µg/mL for plain curcumin. Enhanced cellular uptake and effective targeting of A549 cells were observed. Molecular analyses demonstrated significant downregulation of MDR1 and Bcl2 RNA and protein expression, highlighting the nanoconjugates' ability to suppress resistance mechanisms. Pharmacokinetic studies in Wistar rats showed superior plasma drug concentrations, half-life, and AUC for the nanoconjugate versus pure drug suspension. Biodistribution studies showed increased drug accumulation in the lungs. In vivo efficacy studies in Balb/c mice demonstrated higher tumor inhibition ratios for CUR-siRNA PPL NPs (66.89%) and CUR-PPL NPs (59.84%) which was further confirmed with TNFα and p53 levels in blood. Histopathological studies showed good healing in the CUR-siRNA PPL NP- and CUR-PPL NP-treated mice compared to suspension. Conclusion: From the study, it may be concluded that the PPL nanoconjugate system, loaded with curcumin and bcsR, can be potentially effective, multifunctional targeted approach for lung cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe aim of research is to enhance the solubility of crystalline gefitinib (GF), a poorly water-soluble drug, by developing drug delivery systems using chitosan oligosaccharide (COS) particle engineering. Fabrication utilizes ionic gelation followed by spray drying. The preliminary evaluations such as Uv-Vis, FTIR, DSC followed by advanced techniques like SEM and invitro drug release characteristics was performed along with solubility study. The spray-dried particles measured a mean diameter of 3.18 ± 0.5 microns, %EE as well as load w/w improved from 63.25 ± 2.1% and 37.98 ± 1.5% w/w (COS nanoparticles) to 78.15 ± 2.6% and 45.34 ± 1.6% w/w (engineered microparticles), respectively. The zeta potential and in vitro studies demonstrated 41 ± 3.5 mV and 92 ± 2.1% (w/w) release suggest long-term stability and prolonged release. This novel engineering approach effectively enhances GF solubility and surface characteristics, offering promising potential for improving delivery characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of sustainable development is driving shell biorefineries to develop a cost-effective and environmentally benign approach to transform chitin into high-value products. This study describes a green, simple, and flexible shell biorefinery process for producing two kinds of nanochitins (NCh), chitin solid residues (ChSRs) and chitin nanocrystals (ChNCs), by using p-toluenesulfonic acid-assisted hydrothermal treatment. The ChSR is a bundled nanocrystal with a long length ranging from 100 nm to 450 nm and a width ranging from 10 nm to 30 nm. It has an excellent interfacial behavior between the water and oil phases due to its amphiphilic nature; thus, a foodstuff-related emulsion has been successfully fabricated from soybean oil and a ChSR suspension without the addition of any synthetic surfactants. The further hydrolysed ChNC with a length and width range of 25–225 nm and 15–30 nm, respectively, and a high zeta potential of 41 mV exists as an individual nanocrystal. Owing to the abundance of positively charged groups distributed on its surface, ChNC enables self-assembly to a highly ordered hierarchical structure. Hence, ChNCs show promising results in fabricating large-area photonic films, e.g. for application in bright and vivid automobile painting. Altogether, we provide a novel approach to produce NCh materials from crustacean shell waste and bridge the gap from process engineering to high-value product development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]