Search Results (829)

This study involved the fabrication of poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanocomposite films using the solution-casting process, which incorporated strontium-coated silver oxide (Sr-Ag₂O) nanoparticles generated by a plant-extract assisted method. Various characterization techniques, such as XRD, SEM, TEM, UV, and FTIR, showed the formation and uniform distribution of Sr-Ag₂O nanoparticles in the PVA film, which are biocompatible nanocomposite films. The presence of hydroxyl groups leads to appreciable mixing and interaction between the Sr-Ag₂O nanoparticles and the PVA polymer. Mechanical and thermal results suggest enhanced tensile strength and increased thermal stability. In addition, the sample of PVA/Sr-Ag₂O (1.94/0.06 wt. ratio) nanocomposite film showed decreased hydrophilicity, lower hemolysis, non-toxicity, and appreciable cell migration activity, with nearly 19.95% cell migration compared to the standard drug, and the presence of Sr-Ag₂O nanoparticles favored the adhesion and spreading of cells, which triggered the reduction in the gaps. These research findings suggest that PVA/Sr-Ag₂O nanocomposite films with good mechanical, antimicrobial, non-toxic, and biocompatible properties could be applied in biological wound-healing applications. Full article

Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced primarily by certain species of the genera Aspergillus, Fusarium, Penicillium, Alternaria, and Claviceps. Toxigenic fungi and mycotoxins are prevalent in staple foods, resulting in significant economic losses and detrimental impacts on public health and food safety. These fungi demonstrate remarkable adaptation to water and heat stress conditions associated with climate change, and the use of synthetic antifungals can lead to the selection of resistant strains. In this context, the development of novel strategies for their prevention and control of food is a priority objective. This review synthesizes the extant knowledge concerning the antifungal and anti-mycotoxin potential of the primary metal nanoparticles (silver, copper) and metal oxide nanoparticles (copper oxide and zinc oxide) studied in the literature. It also considers synthesis methods and the lack of consensus on technical definitions and regulations. Despite methodological gaps and the scarcity of publications analyzing the effect of these NPs on fungal growth and mycotoxin production simultaneously, it can be concluded that these NPs present high reactivity, stability, and the ability to combat these food risks. However, aspects related to their biosafety and consumer acceptance remain major challenges that must be addressed for their implementation in the food industry. Full article

This review explores the emerging role of functionalized hydrogels in modulating the microbiome for therapeutic applications in tissue regeneration and infection control. The skin and gut microbiomes play crucial roles in maintaining tissue homeostasis, regulating immune responses, and influencing the healing process. Disruptions in microbial balance—such as those observed in chronic wounds, autoimmune conditions, or post-surgical environments—can impair regeneration and increase susceptibility to infection. Hydrogels, due to their tunable physical and chemical properties, serve as versatile platforms for delivering probiotics, prebiotics, antimicrobials, and immune-modulatory agents. The encapsulation of beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus plantarum or Prevotella histicola, within hydrogels could enhance bacterial viability, targeted delivery, and immune tolerance. Additionally, hydrogels functionalized with silver nanoparticles, nitric oxide donors, and bacteriocins have demonstrated effective biofilm disruption and pathogen clearance. These systems also promote favorable immune responses, such as M2 macrophage polarization and the induction of regulatory T cells, which are essential for tissue repair. Innovative approaches, including 3D bioprinting, self-healing materials, and photothermal-responsive hydrogels, expand the clinical versatility of these systems. Full article

A simple and inexpensive thermal oxidation process is used to grow β-Ga₂O₃ oxide (β-Ga₂O₃) thin films/nanorods on a c-plane (0001) sapphire substrate using Ag/Au catalysts. The effect of these catalysts on the growth mechanism of Ga₂O₃ was studied by different characterization techniques, including X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX). The XRD results of the grown Ga₂O₃ on a sapphire substrate show three sharp diffraction peaks located at 19.31°, 38.70° and 59.38° corresponding to the $\left(\overline{2}01\right), \left(\overline{4}02\right)$ and $\left(\overline{6}03\right)$ planes of β-Ga₂O₃. Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) analysis showed the formation of longer and denser Ga₂O₃ nanowires at higher temperatures, especially in the presence of silver nanoparticles as catalysts. Full article

Due to widespread use of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), the assessment of their potential harm to microalgal photosynthesis is crucial, as microalgae, together with cyanobacteria, contribute to approximately 50% of global oxygen production. This study investigated photosynthetic pigments, photosynthetic rate, chlorophyll a fluorescence, and the expression of photosynthesis-related genes and proteins in green alga Chlorella vulgaris after 72 h exposure to citrate- and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB)-stabilized AgNPs, as well as silver ions (AgNO₃), at concentrations allowing 75% cell survival (EC₂₅). All treatments impaired photosynthetic performance. The most pronounced decreases in chlorophyll fluorescence parameters and photosynthetic rate, alongside elevated energy dissipation, were observed after exposure to AgNP-CTAB and AgNO₃. AgNP-citrate had milder effects and induced compensatory responses, reflected in an increased performance index and upregulation of photosynthesis-related proteins. AgNP-CTAB induced the strongest downregulation of gene and protein expression, likely due to its higher EC₂₅ concentration and cationic surface promoting interaction with photosynthetic structures. Although AgNO₃ caused fewer molecular changes, it significantly disrupted photosynthetic function, suggesting a direct effect of Ag⁺ ions on photosynthesis-related proteins. Overall, the results highlight the role of AgNPs’ surface coatings and dosage in determining their phytotoxicity, with photosystem disruption and oxidative stress emerging as key mechanisms of action. Full article

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe₂O₄NPs), and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are widely used in various applications, such as biomedicine, environmental remediation, and agriculture. In addition, these nanomaterials can affect the production of bioactive compounds in plants that have pharmacological activities. In the current study, the in vitro plant cultures of Chinese lobelia (Lobelia chinensis Lour.) were established in MS medium and treated with 0, 12.5, 25, 37.5, and 50 mg L⁻¹ AgNPs or Fe₂O₄NPs, or MWCNTs. Initially, plants were grown for four weeks without any elicitors, and after that, the cultures were treated with nano-elicitors for one week. After five weeks, the effects of nano-elicitors were estimated on growth, total phenolic, flavonoids, polyacetylenes, and ABTS/DPPH/FRAP antioxidant activity was investigated. The results showed that lower levels of AgNPs (25 mg L⁻¹), Fe₂O₄NPs (25 mg L⁻¹), and MWCNTs (12.5 mg L⁻¹) favored the accumulation of fresh and dry biomass. Whereas, 37.5 mg L⁻¹ AgNPs, 25 mg L⁻¹ Fe₂O₄NPs, and 37.5 mg L⁻¹ MWCNTs enhanced the accumulation of total phenolics, flavonoids, specific phenolic compounds including chlorogenic acid, catechin, phloretic acid, coumaric acid, salicylic acid, naringin, myricetin, linarin, and polyacetylenes viz. lobetylonin and lobetyolin in higher concentrations. The plant extracts elicited by nanomaterials also depicted very good antioxidant activities according to ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP assays. These results suggest that specific nanomaterials, and at specific levels, could be used for the production of bioactive compounds from shoot cultures of Chinese lobelia. Full article

Windows are a major contributor to energy loss in buildings, particularly in hot climates where solar radiation heat gain significantly increases cooling demand. An ideal energy-efficient window must maintain high visible light transmittance while effectively blocking ultraviolet and near-infrared radiation, presenting a significant challenge for material design. We propose a plasma silica aerogel window utilizing the local surface plasmon resonance effect of plasmonic nanoparticles. This design incorporates indium tin oxide (ITO) nanospheres (for broad-band UV/NIR blocking) and silver (Ag) nanocylinders (targeted blocking of the 0.78–0.9 μm NIR band) co-doped into the silica aerogel. This design achieves a visible light transmittance of 0.8, a haze value below 0.12, and a photothermal ratio of 0.91. Building simulations indicate that compared to traditional glass, this window can achieve annual energy savings of 20–40% and significantly reduce the economic losses associated with traditional glass, providing a feasible solution for sustainable buildings. Full article

This study reports the impact of a silver nanoparticles/reduced graphene oxide@titanium dioxide nanocomposite (Ag/rGO@TiO₂) on the mechanical and biocompatibility properties of poly(styrene-co-methylmethacrylate)/poly methyl methacrylate (PS-PMMA/PMMA)-based bone cement. The chemical, structural, mechanical, and thermal characteristics of Ag/rGO@TiO₂ nanocomposite-reinforced PS-PMMA bone cement ((Ag/rGO@TiO₂)/(PS-PMMA)/PMMA) were evaluated using Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), nano-indentation, and electron microscopy. FT-IR, XRD, and transmission electron microscopy results confirmed the successful synthesis of the nanocomposite and the nanocomposite-incorporated bone cement. The elastic modulus (E) and hardness (H) of the ((Ag/rGO@TiO₂)/(PS-PMMA)/PMMA) bone cement were measured to be 5.09 GPa and 0.202 GPa, respectively, compared to the commercial counterparts, which exhibited E and H values of 1.7 GPa to 3.7 GPa and 0.174 GPa, respectively. Incorporating Ag/rGO@TiO₂ nanocomposites significantly enhanced the thermal properties of the bone cement. Additionally, in vitro studies demonstrated that the bone cement was non-toxic to the MG63 cell line. Full article

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has become an increasingly valuable biologic approach for personalized regenerative medicine because of its potent anti-inflammatory/healing effects. It is thought to be an excellent source of growth factors that can promote tissue healing and lessen fibrosis. Although this treatment has demonstrated effectiveness in numerous disease areas, its impact on pulmonary fibrosis (PF) caused by silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) via its antiapoptotic effects remains to be explored. AgNPs were synthesized biologically by Bacillus megaterium ATCC 55000. AgNP characterization was carried out via UV–Vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging to reveal monodispersed spheres with a mean diameter of 45.17 nm. A total of 48 male Wistar rats divided into six groups, with 8 rats per group, were used in the current study on the basis of sample size and power. The groups used were the PRP donor, control, AgNP, AgNP + PRP, AgNP + dexamethasone (Dexa) rat groups, and a recovery group. Body weights, hydroxyproline (HP) levels, and CASP3 and TWIST1 gene expression levels were assessed. H&E and Sirius Red staining were performed. Immunohistochemical studies for inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cluster of differentiation 68 (CD68) with histomorphometry were conducted. A significant reduction in body weight (BWt) was noted in the AgNP group compared with the AgNP + PRP group (p < 0.001). HP, CASP3, and TWIST1 expression levels were significantly increased by AgNPs but decreased upon PRP (p < 0.001) treatment. Compared with those in the control group, the adverse effects of AgNPs included PF, lung alveolar collapse, thickening of the interalveolar septa, widespread lymphocytic infiltration, increased alveolar macrophage CD68 expression, and iNOS positivity in the cells lining the alveoli. This work revealed that PRP treatment markedly improved the histopathological and immunohistochemical findings observed in the AgNP group in a manner comparable to that of the Dexa. In conclusion, these results demonstrated the therapeutic potential of PRP in a PF rat model induced via AgNPs. This study revealed that PRP treatment significantly improved the histopathological and immunohistochemical alterations observed in the AgNP-induced group, with effects comparable to those of the Dexa. In conclusion, these findings highlight the therapeutic potential of PRP in a rat model of AgNP-induced PF. Full article

Background: Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) is a primary global health concern, exacerbated by oxidative stress, inflammation, and gut barrier dysfunction. Conventional phytocompounds exhibit hepatoprotective potential but are hindered by low bioavailability. This study aimed to evaluate the hepatoprotective and gut-barrier-restorative effects of green-synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) derived from Enicostemma littorale, a medicinal plant known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Methods: AgNPs were synthesized using aqueous leaf extract of E. littorale and characterized using UV-Vis, XRD, FTIR, DLS, and SEM. HepG2 (liver) and Caco-2 (colon) cells were exposed to 0.2 M ethanol, AgNPs (1–100 µg/mL), or both, to simulate ethanol-induced toxicity. A range of in vitro assays was performed to assess cell viability, oxidative stress (H₂DCFDA), nuclear and morphological integrity (DAPI and AO/EtBr staining), lipid accumulation (Oil Red O), and gene expression of pro- and anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and tight-junction markers using RT-qPCR. Results: Ethanol exposure significantly increased ROS, lipid accumulation, and the expression of inflammatory genes, while decreasing antioxidant enzymes and tight-junction proteins. Green AgNPs at lower concentrations (1 and 10 µg/mL) restored cell viability, reduced ROS levels, preserved nuclear morphology, and downregulated CYP2E1 and SREBP expression. Notably, AgNPs improved the expression of Nrf2, HO-1, ZO-1, and IL-10, and reduced TNF-α and IL-6 expression in both cell lines, indicating protective effects on both liver and intestinal cells. Conclusions: Green-synthesized AgNPs from E. littorale exhibit potent hepatoprotective and gut-barrier-restoring effects through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antilipidemic mechanisms. These findings support the therapeutic potential of plant-based nanoparticles in mitigating ethanol-induced gut–liver axis dysfunction. Full article

The detection of Fe²⁺ in environmental water sources is critical due to its biological relevance and potential toxicity at elevated levels. Herein, we report a plasmon-driven catalytic sensing nanoplatform based on p-aminothiophenol (pATP)-functionalized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) for the selective and sensitive detection of Fe²⁺. The nanoplatform exploits the inhibition of the plasmon-driven catalytic conversion of pATP to 4,4-dimercaptoazobenzene (DMAB), monitored via surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy. The catalytic efficiency was quantified by the intensity ratio between the formed DMAB-specific Raman band and the common aromatic ring vibration band of pATP and DMAB. This ratio decreased proportionally with increasing Fe²⁺ concentration over a range of 100 µM to 1.5 mM, with a calculated limit of detection of 39.7 µM. High selectivity was demonstrated against common metal ions, and excellent recovery rates (96.6–99.4%) were obtained in real water samples. Mechanistic insights, supported by chronopotentiometric measurements under light irradiation, revealed a competitive oxidation pathway in which Fe²⁺ preferentially consumes plasmon-generated hot holes over pATP. This mechanism clarifies the observed catalytic inhibition and supports the design of redox-responsive SERS sensors. The platform offers a rapid, low-cost, and portable solution for Fe²⁺ monitoring and holds promise for broader applications in detecting other redox-active analytes in complex environmental matrices. Full article

The use of plasmonic nanoparticles for biosensor technology is dependent on nanoparticle size and morphology. This study determined the effect of pH and pressure on synthesizing silver nanoparticle size. In Method 1, a mixture of NaBH₄ and sodium citrate was added to a solution of AgNO₃ monodispersed by ultrasound energy. In Method 2, the reducer was added to the precursor–dispersant mixture solution. The effect of pH was evaluated by using buffer solutions at pH 4.0, pH 7.0, and pH 10.0 and water as control. To determine the effect of pressure, AgNPs were subjected to 0, 4, and 23 h to 1.75 MPa at 200 °C. AgNPs produced with Method 1 showed a more symmetric SPR and a smaller nanoparticle diameter (±6 nm). The SPR with Method 1 at pH 10.0 produced a higher UV peak with a shift around 20 nm. In the case of the pressure treatment, a shift of approximately 20 nm was observed at all time conditions studied, and a higher AgNP diameter was found in contrast to Method 1. Finally, EDX and Raman analysis confirm the presence of AgNPs and a mild oxidation of these. These results suggest that alkalinity and pressure can affect the diameter of AgNPs. Full article

Objective: Fluoride is widely recognized for its preventive role against secondary caries. This systematic review aimed to evaluate how environmental and material factors influence fluoride ion release from metal-reinforced glass ionomer cements. Methods: A structured literature search was performed in March 2025 across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Search terms included combinations of fluoride release AND glass ionomer AND silver OR zinc OR strontium OR copper. The study selection process followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines and was organized using the PICO framework. Out of 281 initially identified records, 153 were screened based on titles and abstracts. After applying predefined eligibility criteria, 23 studies met the inclusion requirements and were included in the qualitative analysis. Results: Among the 23 included publications, 12 involved glass ionomers modified with silver, and 6 of these reported an increase in fluoride release. Seven studies focused on zinc-modified cements, and four examined materials reinforced with strontium. Conclusions: The addition of strontium, titanium oxide, silver nanoparticles, or zirconium oxide increases the release of fluoride ions, while sintered silver reduces it. There is a great discrepancy among researchers regarding the effect of the addition of zinc oxide and its appropriate amount in the glass ionomer material. Full article

The growing prevalence of bacterial infections and the alarming rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) have driven the need for innovative antimicrobial coatings for medical implants and biomaterials. However, implant surface properties, such as roughness, chemistry, and reactivity, critically influence biological interactions and must be engineered to ensure biocompatibility, corrosion resistance, and sustained antibacterial activity. This review evaluates three principal categories of antimicrobial agents utilized in surface functionalization: metal/metaloxide nanoparticles, antibiotics, and phytochemical compounds. Metal/metaloxide-based coatings, especially those incorporating silver (Ag), zinc oxide (ZnO), and copper oxide (CuO), offer broad-spectrum antimicrobial efficacy through mechanisms such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and bacterial membrane disruption, with a reduced risk of resistance development. Antibiotic-based coatings enable localized drug delivery but often face limitations related to burst release, cytotoxicity, and diminishing effectiveness against multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains. In contrast, phytochemical-derived coatings—using bioactive plant compounds such as curcumin, eugenol, and quercetin—present a promising, biocompatible, and sustainable alternative. These agents not only exhibit antimicrobial properties but also provide anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and osteogenic benefits, making them multifunctional tools for implant surface modification. The integration of these antimicrobial strategies aims to reduce bacterial adhesion, inhibit biofilm formation, and enhance tissue regeneration. By leveraging the synergistic effects of metal/metaloxide nanoparticles, antibiotics, and phytochemicals, next-generation implant coatings hold the potential to significantly improve infection control and clinical outcomes in implant-based therapies. Full article

The increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance alongside the pharmacological limitations and adverse effects associated with conventional antibiotics necessitates the development of novel and efficacious antimicrobial agents. In this study, magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (MIONPs) were synthesized via a chemical co-precipitation method. Activated carbon (AC) derived from Hibiscus esculentus (HE) fruit was coated onto the nanoparticle surfaces to fabricate MIONPs/HEAC nanocomposites. To augment their antimicrobial properties, silver ions were chemically reduced and deposited onto the MIONPs/HEAC surface, yielding MIONPs/HEAC@Ag nanocomposites. Comprehensive characterization of the synthesized nanocomposites was performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and zeta potential analysis. DLS measurements indicated average particle sizes of approximately 122 nm and 164 nm for MIONPs/HEAC and MIONPs/HEAC@Ag, respectively. Saturation magnetization values were determined to be 73.6 emu/g for MIONPs and 65.5 emu/g for MIONPs/HEAC. Antibacterial assays demonstrated that MIONPs/HEAC@Ag exhibited significant inhibitory effects against Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, with inhibition zone diameters of 11.50 mm and 13.00 mm, respectively. In contrast, uncoated MIONPs/HEAC showed negligible antibacterial activity against both bacterial strains. These findings indicate that MIONPs/HEAC@Ag nanocomposites possess considerable potential as antimicrobial agents for biomedical applications, particularly in addressing infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Full article