Visible-Light-Driven Mentha spicata L.-Mediated Ag-Doped Bi2Zr2O7 Nanocomposite for Enhanced Degradation of Organic Pollutants, Electrochemical Sensing, and Antibacterial Applications.

Novel visible-light-driven Ag (X)-doped Bi2Zr2O7 (BZO) nanocomposites in pudina (P) extract (Mentha spicata L.), X-1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 mol %, were synthesized by the one-pot greener solution combustion method. The as-synthesized nanocomposite materials were characterized by using various spectral [X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared, UV-visible, UV- diffuse reflectance spectra, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy], electrochemical (cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy), and analytical (scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller) techniques. The average particle size of the nanocomposite material was found to be between 14.8 and 39.2 nm by XRD. The well-characterized Ag-doped BZOP nanocomposite materials exhibited enhanced photocatalytic degradation activity toward hazardous dyes such as methylene blue (MB) and rose bengal (RB) under visible light irradiation ranges between 400 and 800 nm due to their low energy band gap. As a result, 7 mol % of Ag-doped BZOP nanocomposite material exhibited excellent photodegradation activity against MB (D.E. = 98.7%) and RB (D.E. = 99.3%) as compared to other Ag-doped BZOP nanocomposite materials and pure BZOP nanocomposite, respectively, due to enhanced semiconducting and optical behaviors, high binding energy, and mechanical and thermal stabilities. The Ag-doped BZOP nanocomposite material-based electrochemical sensor showed good sensing ability toward the determination of lead nitrate and dextrose with the lowest limit of detection (LOD) of 18 µM and 12 µM, respectively. Furthermore, as a result of the initial antibacterial screening study, the Ag-doped BZOP nanocomposite material was found to be more effective against Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli) as compared to Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) bacteria. The scavenger study reveals that radicals such as O2•- and •OH are responsible for MB and RB mineralization. TOC removal percentages were found to be 96.8 and 98.5% for MB and RB dyes, and experimental data reveal that the Ag-doped BZOP enhances the radical (O2•- and •OH) formation and MB and RB degradation under visible-light irradiation.

Neuroprotective potentials of Lead phytochemicals against Alzheimer's disease with focus on oxidative stress-mediated signaling pathways: Pharmacokinetic challenges, target specificity, clinical trials and future perspectives.

BACKGROUND: Alzheimer's diseases (AD) and dementia are among the highly prevalent neurological disorders characterized by deposition of beta amyloid (Aß) plaques, dense deposits of highly phosphorylated tau proteins, insufficiency of acetylcholine (ACh) and imbalance in glutamatergic system. Patients typically experience cognitive, behavioral alterations and are unable to perform their routine activities. Evidence also suggests that inflammatory processes including excessive microglia activation, high expression of inflammatory cytokines and release of free radicals. Thus, targeting inflammatory pathways beside other targets might be the key factors to control- disease symptoms and progression. PURPOSE: This review is aimed to highlight the mechanisms and pathways involved in the neuroprotective potentials of lead phytochemicals. Further to provide updates regarding challenges associated with their use and their progress into clinical trials as potential lead compounds. METHODS: Most recent scientific literature on pre-clinical and clinical data published in quality journals especially on the lead phytochemicals including curcumin, catechins, quercetin, resveratrol, genistein and apigenin was collected using SciFinder, PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, JSTOR, EBSCO, Scopus and other related web sources. RESULTS: Literature review indicated that the drug discovery against AD is insufficient and only few drugs are clinically approved which have limited efficacy. Among the therapeutic options, natural products have got tremendous attraction owing to their molecular diversity, their safety and efficacy. Research suggest that natural products can delay the disease onset, reduce its progression and regenerate the damage via their anti-amyloid, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potentials. These agents regulate the pathways involved in the release of neurotrophins which are implicated in neuronal survival and function. Highly potential lead phytochemicals including curcumin, catechins, quercetin, resveratrol, genistein and apigenin regulate neuroprotective signaling pathways implicated in neurotrophins-mediated activation of tropomyosin receptor kinase (Trk) and p75 neurotrophins receptor (p75NTR) family receptors. CONCLUSIONS: Phytochemicals especially phenolic compounds were identified as highly potential molecules which ameliorate oxidative stress induced neurodegeneration, reduce Aß load and inhibit vital enzymes. Yet their clinical efficacy and bioavailability are the major challenges which need further interventions for more effective therapeutic outcomes.

Croton macrostachyus Leaf Extract-Mediated Green Synthesis of ZnO Nanoparticles and ZnO/CuO Nanocomposites for the Enhanced Photodegradation of Methylene Blue Dye with the COMSOL Simulation Model.

The photodegradation of organic pollutants using metal oxide-based catalysts has drawn great attention as an effective method for wastewater treatment. In this study, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and zinc oxide/copper oxide nanocomposites (ZnO/CuO NCs) were fabricated using the leaf extract of Croton macrostachyus as a nontoxic, natural reducing and stabilizing agent. The synthesized samples were characterized by employing X-ray diffraction, microscopic, spectroscopic, and electrochemical methods. The results confirmed the successful synthesis of ZnO NPs and ZnO/CuO NCs with well-defined crystalline structures and morphologies. The prepared samples were tested for the photodegradation of methylene blue (MB) dye under visible light irradiation. Compared to ZnO NPs, ZnO/CuO NCs showed greatly improved photocatalytic performances, particularly with the sample prepared with the 20 mol % Cu precursor (97.02%). The enhancement could be related to the formed p-n heterojunction, which can suppress the recombination of charge carriers and extend the photoresponsive range. A theoretical study of the photocatalytic activity of ZnO/CuO NCs against MB dye degradation was also conducted by using COMSOL Multiphysics software. The results of the simulation are in reasonable agreement with those of the experiment. This study contributes to the development of sustainable and effective photocatalytic materials that are suitable for application in environmental remediation, particularly in the treatment of wastewater.

Biosynthesis of Artemisia abyssinica Leaf Extract-Mediated Bimetallic ZnO-CuO Nanoparticles: Antioxidant, Anticancer, and Molecular Docking Studies.

Currently, plant extract-mediated synthesized metal oxide nanoparticles (MO NPs) have played a substantial role in biological applications. Hence, this study focused on the eco-benign one-pot synthesis of bimetallic ZnO-CuO nanoparticles (ZC NPs) using the leaf extract of Artemisia abyssinica (LEAA) and evaluations of their anticancer, antioxidant, and molecular binding efficacy. The optical absorption peak at 380 nm from UV-visible (UV-vis) analysis revealed the formation of ZC NPs. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results revealed the fabrication of mixed-phase crystals with hexagonal and monoclinic structures of ZC NPs with an average crystallite size of 14 nm. Moreover, the biosynthesis of ZC NPs with a spherical morphology and an average particle size of 13.09 nm was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA/DTA) spectroscopy confirmed the involvement of functional groups from LEAA during the synthesis of ZC NPs. ZC NPs have exhibited the ferric ion reducing power (FRAP) with an absorbance of 1.826 ± 0.00 at 200 µg/mL and DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate) radical scavenging activity of 95.71 ± 0.02% at 200 µg/mL with an IC50 value of 3.28 µg/mL. Moreover, ZC NPs had shown a promising in vitro anticancer activity of 89.20 ± 0.038 at 500 µg/mL with an IC50 value of 33.12 µg/mL against breast cancer (MCF-7) cell lines. Likewise, ZC NPs have shown strong binding affinity (-8.50 kcal/mol) against estrogen receptor α (ERα) in molecular docking simulations. These findings suggested that the biosynthesized ZC NPs could be used as promising antioxidant and anticancer drug candidates, particularly for breast cancer ailments. However, the in vivo cytotoxicity test will be recommended to ensure further use of ZC NPs.

Sustainable approach of La doped CuFe2O4 nanomaterial for electrochemical lead and paracetamol sensing action with multiple applications.

This present research aimed to investigate the novel applications of synthesized La doped CuFe2O4 nanomaterial (LCF NMs) using renewable bio-fuel (Aegle Marmelos extract) by combustion process. The sensor applications were accomplished by modified electrode using LCF NMs with graphite powder and examined its excellent sensing action towards heavy metal (Lead content) and drug chemical (Paracetamol) substances. The thermodynamics of redox potential and super-capacitor behavior of LCF NMs were investigated through Cyclic Voltametric (CV) and Electrochemical Impedance Spectral (EIS) methods under specific conditions at scan rate of 1 to 5 mV/s. The heterogeneous photo-catalytic process of prepared NMs on Fast orange Red (FOR) dye-decolouration was investigated and noted its excellent degradation (91.7%) at 90 min using 20 ppm of dye solution and 40 mg of synthesized samples under Sun-light irradiation. Further, the antibacterial activity of synthesized NMs is investigated against various strains of gram positive (Bacillus subtillis) and gram negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa), which confirms that the LCF NMs have higher activity towards gram positive bacteria with an average inhibition zone of 19 mm. This synthesized LCF NMs is a multi-functional material with stable and eco-friendly materials.

Supercapacitor Performance of NiO, NiO-MWCNT, and NiO-Fe-MWCNT Composites.

The NiO-CNT and NiO-Fe-CNT composites that have been prepared from waste high density polyethylene plastic and their carbon nanotube (CNT) quality-dependent supercapacitance tuning have been reported here. Multiwalled CNT (MWCNT) formation has been confirmed from TEM and Raman spectra with an ID/IG ratio of 0.77, which stands for high graphitization. The specific surface area (SSA) of MWCNTs in the NiO-Fe-CNT composite was 87.8 m2/g, while in the NiO-CNT composite, it was 25 m2/g. NiO-Fe-CNT displayed higher specific capacitance and energy density (1360 Fg-1 and 1180 W h kg-1) than NiO-CNT (1250 Fg-1 and 1000 W h kg-1), which may be due to the presence of higher-quality MWCNTs in the NiO-Fe-CNT composite. NiO-Fe-CNT displayed higher contributions of electric double-layer capacitor (59%) behavior compared to NiO-CNT (38%) and represented a hybrid supercapacitor. NiO-Fe-CNT also displayed a capacitive retention of 96% after 1000 charge-discharge cycles. Furthermore, studies in acidic electrolytes revealed higher performance of NiO-Fe-CNT than NiO-CNT, displaying specific capacitances of NiO-Fe-CNT to be 1147 Fg-1 in 2 M H2SO4 and 943 Fg-1 in 2 M HCl. It has been qualitatively explored that the quality of CNTs, SSA, and quantum confinement effects in the composites may be the factors responsible for the performance difference in NiO-Fe-CNT and NiO-CNT. The present work is geared toward the low-cost fabrication of high-quality CNT composites for supercapacitors and energy storage applications. The present work also contributes quantitatively to the understanding of CNT quality as an important parameter for the performance of CNT-composite-based supercapacitors.

Synergistic effect of a Bi2Zr2O7 and hydroxyapatite composite: organic pollutant remediation, antibacterial and electrochemical sensing applications.

Global concern regarding the energy crisis and environmental pollution is increasing. The fabrication of efficient catalysts remains a long-term goal. Recently, green synthesis methods for catalyst fabrication have attracted the scientific community. Herein, a simple approach to synthesize bismuth zirconate-hydroxyapatite (BZO-HA) nanocomposites using Mentha spicata (mint) leaves as a reducing agent via a combustion method has been reported. The use of a green reducing agent provided economic attributes to this work. Among the prepared samples, the BZO-HA (20%) composite exhibited superior photocatalytic activity. The photodegradation efficiency of the composite reached 90.3% and 98.4% for methylene blue (MB) and rose Bengal (RB) dyes, respectively. The results showed the excellent optical performance of the prepared composites. The constructed sensor (BZO-HA 20%) for the very first time showed outstanding selectivity and performance towards sensing lead nitrate and dextrose compared to bare bismuth zirconate (BZO) and hydroxyapatite (HA). A three-electrode system using 0.1 M KCl was used for the study. The synthesized composite BZO-HA (20%) can sense lead nitrate and dextrose over the concentration range of 1-5 mM in the potential range from -1.0 V to +1.0 V. The BZO-HA composite was also investigated against Gram-negative (S. typhi) and Gram-positive (S. aureus) bacteria for antibacterial activity studies. Enhanced antibacterial activity was observed compared to bare BZO and HA catalysts. Thus, the prepared BZO-HA nanocomposite exhibited multifunctional applications.

Involvement of the Opioidergic Mechanism in the Analgesic Potential of a Novel Indazolone Derivative: Efficacy in the Management of Pain, Neuropathy, and Inflammation Using In Vivo and In Silico Approaches.

Indazolones possess interesting pharmacological activities. The search for indazole and indazolone-containing nuclei as drugs is an important research area of medicinal chemistry. The current work aims to evaluate a novel indazolone derivative against in vivo and in silico targets of pain, neuropathy, and inflammation. An indazolone derivative (ID) was synthesized and characterized using advanced spectroscopic techniques. Well-established animal models of abdominal constriction, hot plate, tail immersion, carrageenan paw edema, and Brewer's yeast-induced pyrexia were employed for evaluating the potential of the ID at different doses (20-60 mg kg-1). Nonselective GABA antagonists, opioid antagonist naloxone (NLX) and pentylenetetrazole (PTZ), were employed to assess the potential role of GABAergic and opioidergic processes. The antineuropathic potential of the drug was evaluated using a vincristine-induced neuropathic pain model. In silico studies were performed to assess any possible interactions of the ID with pain target sites like cyclooxygenases (COX-I/II), GABAA, and opioid receptors. This study revealed that the selected ID (doses of 20-60 mg kg-1) efficiently hampered chemically and thermally induced nociceptive responses, producing significant anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effects. These effects produced by the ID were dose-dependent (i.e., 20-60 mg kg-1 and p range of 0.001-0.01) and significant in comparison to standards (p < 0.001). Antagonistic studies with NLX (1.0 mg kg-1) and PTZ (15.0 mg kg-1) revealed the involvement of the opioidergic mechanism rather than the GABAergic mechanism. The ID showed promising anti-static allodynia effects as well. In silico studies revealed preferential binding interactions of the ID with cyclooxygenases (COX-I/II), GABAA, and opioid receptors. According to the results of the current investigation, the ID may serve in the future as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of pyrexia, chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain, and nociceptive inflammatory pain.

Phytochemicals: Alternative for Infertility Treatment and Associated Conditions.

Infertility and obstetric complications have become global health issues in the past few years. Infertility is defined as the inability of a couple to conceive even after twelve months or more of regular and unprotected intercourse. According to WHO data published in the year 2020, 186 million people have infertility globally. Factors leading to infertility are variable in both males and females. But some common factors include smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, and stress. Various synthetic drugs and treatment options are available that are effective in treating infertility, but their prolonged usage produces various unwanted adverse effects like hot flashes, mood swings, headaches, and weight gain. In extreme cases, these may also lead to the development of anxiety and depression. Herbal remedies have gained a lot of popularity over the years, and people's inclination toward them has increased all over the world. The prime reason is that these show significant therapeutic efficacy and have fewer side effects. The therapeutic efficacy of plants can be attributed to the presence of diverse phytochemical classes of constituents like alkaloids, flavonoids, and volatile oils. These secondary metabolites, or phytomolecules, can be used to develop herbal formulations. The review highlights the applications and mechanisms of action of various phytochemicals for treating infertility. Also, it focuses on the various future prospects associated with it.

Nanocomposites with ZrO2@S-Doped g-C3N4 as an Enhanced Binder-Free Sensor: Synthesis and Characterization.

This study describes new electrocatalyst materials that can detect and reduce environmental pollutants. The synthesis and characterization of semiconductor nanocomposites (NCs) made from active ZrO2@S-doped g-C3N4 is presented. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and Mott-Schottky (M-S) measurements were used to examine electron transfer characteristics of the synthesized samples. Using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HR-SEM) techniques, inclusion of monoclinic ZrO2 on flower-shaped S-doped-g-C3N4 was visualized. High-resolution X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) revealed successful doping of ZrO2 into the lattice of S-doped g-C3N4. The electron transport mechanism between the electrolyte and the fluorine tin-oxide electrode (FTOE) was enhanced by the synergistic interaction between ZrO2 and S-doped g-C3N4 as co-modifiers. Development of a platform with improved conductivity based on an FTOE modified with ZrO2@S-doped g-C3N4 NCs resulted in an ideal platform for the detection of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) in water. The electrocatalytic activity of the modified electrode was evaluated through determination of 4-NP by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) under optimum conditions (pH 5). ZrO2@S-doped g-C3N4 (20%)/FTOE exhibited good electrocatalytic activity with a linear range from 10 to 100 µM and a low limit of detection (LOD) of 6.65 µM. Typical p-type semiconductor ZrO2@S-doped g-C3N4 NCs significantly impact the superior detection of 4-NP due to its size, shape, optical properties, specific surface area and effective separation of electron-hole pairs. We conclude that the superior electrochemical sensor behavior of the ZrO2@S-doped g-C3N4 (20%)/FTOE surfaces results from the synergistic interaction between S-doped g-C3N4 and ZrO2 surfaces that produce an active NC interface.

Fabricating transdermal film formulations of montelukast sodium with improved chemical stability and extended drug release.

Montelukast Sodium (MK) is a leukotriene receptor antagonist, an oral drug generally prescribed to control chronic asthma symptoms. This research aims to provide the transdermal delivery of this drug in a controlled release profile as a better mode of drug delivery, specifically for the pediatric and elderly population. Transdermal delivery of the drug not only improves the drug's bioavailability but also maintains the concentration of the drug in the plasma without increasing the frequency of the drug dosage. Transdermal film formulations were developed using sodium alginate (SA) and lignosulphonic acid (LS) as the matrix and PEG-400 or Glycerine (Gly) as the plasticizers. Various physiochemical characteristic evaluations of the formulated films were conducted, revealing that the formulation with Glycerine as the plasticizer had a smooth surface and was flexible. It was observed that this formulation had the highest moisture uptake capacity and the lowest moisture loss capacity when compared with the other two formulations. It was also observed that the barium chloride cross-linked formulation had a higher swelling index when compared with calcium chloride cross-linked films. The surface pH of all the formulations was monitored to be around 7.5. In the in vitro release studies, the cross-linked films showed a controlled release over 36 h compared with the non-cross-linked films. Based on the observations and results, the cross-linked film formulation showed a better-controlled release of the drug and could potentially increase its bioavailability. TGA analysis of the polymeric mixture demonstrated the thermal stability of the SA blends, which enhanced the flexibility of the SALS blend with Glycerine. XRD of samples confirmed the amorphous nature of SALS blends with Gly, which influences the flexibility of the blend. The blends are further investigated for morphology using SEM to test their compatibility with the drug.

Influence of Ag on the Structural, Electrochemical, Antibacterial, and Photocatalytic Performance of the (CuO-Cu2O)Cu Nanocomposite.

The cost-effective novel Ag-doped (1-7%) (CuO-Cu2O)Cu (C3) heterostructured nanocomposites are successfully synthesized by the facile solution combustion process using the Leucas aspera extract as a green fuel. The structural properties of fabricated nanocomposites were well-characterized by specific spectral techniques for enhanced electrochemical sensor detection, antibacterial activities, and sunlight-driven photocatalytic dye decoloration studies. The existence of Ag+ ions has been confirmed by the appearance of two peaks of Ag 3d5/2 (367.9 eV) and Ag 3d3/2 (373.9 eV), with the chemical binding nature and exchange of the Ag+ state in the nanocomposite lattice as revealed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis. The energy band gap value of the doped nanocomposite decreases from 2.2 to 1.8 eV, as measured by the UV-visible absorption spectral technique, hindering the recombination of electron-holes pairs by trapping e- and h+. This result supports that the C3Ag5 nanocomposite has a great potential as a sunlight photocatalyst toward the Alizarin Red (AR) dye, for which an excellent degradation activity of 98% at 180 min was achieved compared to that of the host nanocomposite (78% at 180 min). The variation of redox peak potentials of the prepared graphite nanocomposite working electrode is an effective tool for paracetamol sensing activity in 0.1 M KCl using electrochemical spectral studies. In addition, the antibacterial activities of the C3Ag5 nanocomposite against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were successfully studied. The C3Ag5 nanocomposite exhibited a better performance than C3. The increase in activity is attributed to the presence of Ag as a dopant.

Cu/CuO-Doped ZnO Nanocomposites via Solution Combustion Synthesis for Catalytic 4-Nitrophenol Reduction.

The synthesis of optoelectrically enhanced nanomaterials should be continuously improved by employing time- and energy-saving techniques. The porous zinc oxide (ZnO) and copper-doped ZnO nanocomposites (NCs) were synthesized by the time- and energy-efficient solution combustion synthesis (SCS) approach. In this SCS approach, once the precursor-surfactant complex ignition point is reached, the reaction starts and ends within a short time without the need for any external energy. The TGA-DTA analysis confirmed that 500 °C was the point at which stable metal oxide was obtained. The doping and heterojunction strategy improved the optoelectric properties of the NCs more than the individual constituents, which then enhanced the materials' charge transfer and optical absorption capabilities. The porosity, nanoscale crystallite size (15-50 nm), and formation of Cu/CuO-ZnO NCs materials were confirmed from the XRD, SEM, and TEM/HRTEM analyses. The obtained d-spacing values of 0.275 and 0.234 nm confirm the formation of ZnO and CuO crystals, respectively. The decrease in photoluminescence intensity for the doped NCs corroborates a reduction in electron-hole recombination. On the Mott-Schottky analysis, the positive slope for ZnO confirms the n-type character, while the negative and positive slopes of the NCs confirm the p- and n-type characters, respectively. A diffusion-controlled type of charge transfer process on the electrode surface was confirmed from the cyclic voltammetric analysis. Thus, the overall analysis shows the applicability of the less expensive and more efficient SCS for several applications, such as catalysis and sensors. To confirm this, an organic catalytic reduction reaction of 4-nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol was tested. Within three and a half minutes, the catalytic reduction result showed the great potential of NCs over ZnO NPs. Thus, the energy- and time-saving SCS approach has a great future outlook as an industrial pollutant catalytic reduction application.

Leverage of weave pattern and composite thickness on dynamic mechanical analysis, water absorption and flammability response of bamboo fabric/epoxy composites.

Spar caps, which cover 50% of the cost of windmill blades, were made of unidirectional and biaxial glass/carbon reinforcements of 600 gsm with thicknesses ranging from 100 to 150 mm for blades 70-80 m long. The significance of this study was to utilize an economical biodegradable material i.e bamboo fabric of 125 gsm to fabricate a lightweight composite and study its behavior for spar caps applications. The aim of this research was to investigate the effect of weave pattern and composite size at coupon level under thermal, dynamic, water absorption, and flammability conditions. Composites comprising 125 gsm plain and twill weave bamboo as reinforcements/AI 1041 Phenalkamine bio-based hardener with epoxy B-11 as matrix were tested. Thermo-Gravimetric Analysis revealed that the weave pattern and composite thickness had an effect on the rate of weight loss and sustenance until 450 °C. The pattern had an effect on the glass transition temperature, as seen by Differential Scanning Calorimetry. The weave pattern and size thickness had an effect on energy storage and dissipation, displaying the damping behavior in DMA. The weave pattern and size had an effect on the rate of water absorption, which saturated after a few hours. The wettability and thickness of composites hampered the burning rate, with 5.4 mm thickness resulting in a 30% decrease.

Spinel ZnCr2O4 nanorods synthesized by facile sol-gel auto combustion method with biomedical properties.

In this study, spinel zinc chromite nanorods (ZnCr2O4 NRs) were successfully manipulated by a simple sol-gel auto combustion process employing urea as fuel. The sample was only required to sinter at 500 °C for 2 h to obtain the single crystalline phase. The phase formation, crystallinity, and surface topography of synthesized ZnCr2O4 NRs were explored by X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-Vis reflectance spectroscopy (UVDRS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM). XRD analysis confirms the formation of spinel ZnCr2O4 NRs. The FTIR spectrum displays the two vibrational peaks of Cr-O, and Zn-O at 489 and 615 cm-1, correspondingly. These vibrational bonds were correlated with ZnCr2O4 and revealed the production of cubic spinel ZnCr2O4 NRs. FESEM indicates the presence of hexagonal-rod-shaped particles. EDX spectrum demonstrates the elemental composition of the ZnCr2O4 NRs and confirms the primary peak of Zn, Cr, and O. The obtained ZnCr2O4 NRs exhibit an antiferromagnetic behavior. The bandgap energy of ZnCr2O4 NRs was ascertained and was shown to be 3.45 eV. Furthermore, the antifungal and antibacterial effect of ZnCr2O4 NRs was examined against pathogenic strains by disc diffusion technique. Besides these, the antimalarial activity of ZnCr2O4 NRs was studied against Plasmodium falciparum. Thus, the as-synthesized ZnCr2O4 NRs showed significant antibacterial, antifungal and antimalarial activity and may be helpful for research opening a novel horizon in nanomedicine. Graphical abstract.

Synthesis and characterization of CuO@S-doped g-C3N4 based nanocomposites for binder-free sensor applications.

This study presents the simultaneous exfoliation and modification of heterostructured copper oxide incorporated sulfur doped graphitic carbon nitride (CuO@S-doped g-C3N4) nanocomposites (NCs) synthesized via chemical precipitation and pyrolysis techniques. The results revealed that the approach is feasible and highly efficient in producing 2-dimensional CuO@S-doped g-C3N4 NCs. The findings also showed a promising technique for enhancing the optical and electrical properties of bulk g-C3N4 by combining CuO nanoparticles (NPs) with S-doped g-C3N4. The crystallite and the average size of the NCs were validated using X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. Incorporation of the cubical structured CuO on flower shaped S-doped-g-C3N4 was visualized and characterized through XRD, HR-SEM/EDS/SED, FT-IR, BET, UV-Vis/DRS, PL, XPS and impedance spectroscopy. The agglomerated NCs had various pore sizes, shapes and nanosized crystals, while being photo-active in the UV-vis range. The synergistic effect of CuO and S-doped g-C3N4 as co-modifiers greatly facilitates the electron transfer process between the electrolyte and the bare glassy carbon electrode. Specific surface areas of the NCs clearly revealed modification of bulk S-doped g-C3N4 when CuO NPs are incorporated with S-doped g-C3N4, providing a suitable environment for the binder-free decorated electrode with sensing behavior for hazardous pollutants. This was tested for the preparation of a 4-nitrophenol sensor.

Phytotherapeutic Approach in the Management of Cisplatin Induced Vomiting; Neurochemical Considerations in Pigeon Vomit Model.

Cisplatin induced vomiting involves multiple mechanisms in its genesis and a single antiemetic agent do not cover both the phases (acute & delayed) of vomiting in clinics; necessitating the use of antiemetics in combination. Cannabis sativa and other selected plants have ethnopharmacological significance in relieving emesis. The aim of the present study was to investigate the intrinsic antiemetic profile of Cannabis sativa (CS), Bacopa monniera (BM, family Scrophulariaceae), and Zingiber officinale (ZO, family Zingiberaceae) in combinations against vomiting induced by highly emetogenic anticancer drug-cisplatin in pigeons. We have analysed the neurotransmitters which trigger the vomiting response centrally and peripherally. Electrochemical detector (ECD) was used for the quantification of neurotransmitters and their respective metabolites by high performance liquid chromatography in the brain stem (BS) and area postrema (AP) while peripherally in the small intestine. Cisplatin (7 mg/kg i.v.) induced reliable vomiting throughout the observation period (24 hrs). CS-HexFr (10 mg) + BM-MetFr (10 mg)-Combination 1, BM-ButFr (5 mg) + ZO-ActFr (25 mg)-Combination 2, ZO-ActFr (25 mg) + CS-HexFr (10 mg)-Combination 3, and CS-HexFr (10 mg) + BM-ButFr (5 mg)-Combination 4; provided ~30% (30 ± 1.1), 70% (12 ± 0.4; P < 0.01), 60% (19 ± 0.2; P < 0.05) and 90% (05 ± 0.1; P < 0.001) protection, respectively, against cisplatin induced vomiting as compared to cisplatin control. Standard MCP (30 mg) provided ~50% (23 ± 0.3) protection (P > 0.05). CS Hexane fraction (10 mg/kg), BM methanolic (10 mg/kg) and bacoside rich n-butanol fraction (5 mg/kg) and ZO acetone fraction (25 mg/kg) alone provided ~62%, 36%, 71%, and 44% protection, respectively, as compared to cisplatin control. The most effective and synergistic combination 4 was found to reduce 5HT and 5HIAA (P < 0.05-0.001) in all the brain areas area postrema (AP)+brain stem (BS) and intestine at the 3rd hour of cisplatin administration. In continuation, at the 18th of cisplatin administration reduction in dopamine (P < 0.001) in the AP and 5HT in the brain stem and intestine (P < 0.001) was observed. The said combination did not change the neurotransmitters basal levels and their respective metabolites any significantly. In conclusion, all the tested combinations offered protection against cisplatin induced vomiting to variable degrees, where combination 4 provided enhanced attenuation by antiserotonergic mechanism at the 3rd hour while a blended antidopaminergic and antiserotonergic mechanism at the 18th hour after cisplatin administration.

Metal Oxide Heterojunction for Photocatalytic Activities.

There is a significant global demand for improvements in synthesis techniques and their optimal characteristics, especially for industrial-scale applications. Sol-gel-based solution combustion synthesis (SG-SCS) is a simple method to produce ordered porous materials. In this regard, Pearson's hard and soft acids and bases theory assists in selecting host-dopant reactivity to form a proper heterojunction. The formation of a heterojunction also changes the essential properties of the materials, improving photocatalysis via charge transfer or synergistic activities. A calcination temperature of 500 °C is ideal for this process based on the results of the stability assessment via a differential thermogravimetry ratio analysis (DTG). The nanoscale dimensions of the nanoparticles (NPs) and nanocomposites (NCs) generated were validated using X-ray diffraction and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). Furthermore, the scanning electron microscopy micrographs and BET analyses confirmed the porosity nature of the materials. HRTEM, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray investigations established the materials composition. The study found that NCs degraded the acid orange 8 (AO8) color more efficiently than bare ZnO.

Green Nano-Biotechnology: A New Sustainable Paradigm to Control Dengue Infection.

Dengue is a growing mosquito-borne viral disease prevalent in 128 countries, while 3.9 billion people are at high risk of acquiring the infection. With no specific treatment available, the only way to mitigate the risk of dengue infection is through controlling of vector, i.e., Aedes aegypti. Nanotechnology-based prevention strategies like biopesticides with nanoformulation are now getting popular for preventing dengue fever. Metal nanoparticles (NPs) synthesized by an eco-friendly process, through extracts of medicinal plants have indicated potential anti-dengue applications. Green synthesis of metal NPs is simple, cost-effective, and devoid of hazardous wastes. The recent progress in the phyto-synthesized multifunctional metal NPs for anti-dengue applications has encouraged us to review the available literature and mechanistic aspects of the dengue control using green-synthesized NPs. Furthermore, the molecular bases of the viral inhibition through NPs and the nontarget impacts or hazards with reference to the environmental integrity are discussed in depth. Till date, major focus has been on green synthesis of silver and gold NPs, which need further extension to other innovative composite nanomaterials. Further detailed mechanistic studies are required to critically evaluate the mechanistic insights during the synthesis of the biogenic NPs. Likewise, detailed analysis of the toxicological aspects of NPs and their long-term impact in the environment should be critically assessed.

Influence of the Physical Inclusion of ZrO2/TiO2 Nanoparticles on Physical, Mechanical, and Morphological Characteristics of PMMA-Based Interim Restorative Material.

Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is often used in restorative dentistry for its easy fabrication, aesthetics, and low cost for interim restorations. However, poor mechanical properties to withstand complex masticatory forces are a concern for clinicians. Therefore, this study aimed to modify a commercially available PMMA-based temporary restorative material by adding TiO2 and ZrO2 nanoparticles in different percentages as fillers and to investigate its physio-mechanical properties. Different percentages (0, 0.5, 1.5, and 3.0 wt%) of TiO2 and ZrO2 nanoparticles were mixed with the pristine PMMA resin (powder to liquid ratio: 1 : 1) and homogenized using high-speed mixer. The composites obtained were analyzed for their flexural strength (F.S.), elastic modulus (E.M.), Vickers hardness (H.V.), surface roughness Ra, morphology and water contact angle (WCA). The mean average was determined with standard deviation (SD) to analyze the results, and a basic comparison test was conducted. The results inferred that adding a small amount (0.5 wt%) of TiO2 and ZrO2 nanoparticles (NPs) could significantly enhance the physio-mechanical and morphological characteristics of PMMA interim restorations. EM and surface hardness increased with increasing filler content, with 3.0 wt.% ZrO2 exhibiting the highest EM (3851.28 MPa), followed by 3.0 wt.% TiO2 (3632.34 MPa). The WCA was significantly reduced from 91.32 ± 4.21° (control) to 66.30 ± 4.23° for 3.0 wt.% ZrO2 and 69.88 ± 3.55° for 3.0 wt.% TiO2. Therefore, TiO2 and ZrO2 NPs could potentially be used as fillers to improve the performance of PMMA and similar interim restorations.