Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Article Types

Countries / Regions

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Search Results (1,480)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = zinc oxide nanoparticle

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
26 pages, 1407 KiB  
Review
ZnO Nanoparticles: Advancing Agricultural Sustainability
by Lekkala Venkata Ravishankar, Nidhi Puranik, VijayaDurga V. V. Lekkala, Dakshayani Lomada, Madhava C. Reddy and Amit Kumar Maurya
Plants 2025, 14(15), 2430; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14152430 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Micronutrients play a prominent role in plant growth and development, and their bioavailability is a growing global concern. Zinc is one of the most important micronutrients in the plant life cycle, acting as a metallic cofactor for numerous biochemical reactions within plant cells. [...] Read more.
Micronutrients play a prominent role in plant growth and development, and their bioavailability is a growing global concern. Zinc is one of the most important micronutrients in the plant life cycle, acting as a metallic cofactor for numerous biochemical reactions within plant cells. Zinc deficiency in plants leads to various physiological abnormalities, ultimately affecting nutritional quality and posing challenges to food security. Biofortification methods have been adopted by agronomists to increase Zn concentrations in crops through optimal foliar and soil applications. Changing climatic conditions and conventional agricultural practices alter edaphic factors, reducing zinc bioavailability in soils due to abrupt weather changes. Precision agriculture emphasizes need-based and site-specific technologies to address these nutritional deficiencies. Nanoscience, a multidimensional approach, reduces particle size to the nanometer (nm) scale to enhance their efficiency in precise amounts. Nanoscale forms of Zn+2 and their broad applications across crops are gaining attention in agriculture under varied application methods. This review focuses on the significance of Zn oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (ZnONPs) and their extensive application in crop production. We also discuss optimum dosage levels, ZnONPs synthesis, application methods, toxicity, and promising future strategies in this field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanotechnology in Crop Physiology and Sustainable Agriculture)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 2276 KiB  
Article
Effect of Nanoparticles on the Development of Bacterial Speck in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) and Chili Variegation (Capsicum annuum L.)
by Edgar Alejandro Ruiz-Ramirez, Daniel Leobardo Ochoa-Martínez, Gilberto Velázquez-Juárez, Reyna Isabel Rojas-Martinez and Victor Manuel Zuñiga-Mayo
Horticulturae 2025, 11(8), 907; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11080907 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Viewed by 262
Abstract
Among the new strategies for managing diseases in agricultural crops is the application of metallic nanoparticles due to their ability to inhibit the development of phytopathogenic microorganisms and to induce plant defense responses. Therefore, this research evaluated the effects of silver (AgNPs), zinc [...] Read more.
Among the new strategies for managing diseases in agricultural crops is the application of metallic nanoparticles due to their ability to inhibit the development of phytopathogenic microorganisms and to induce plant defense responses. Therefore, this research evaluated the effects of silver (AgNPs), zinc oxide (ZnONPs), and silicon dioxide (SiO2NPs) nanoparticles on symptom progression and physiological parameters in two pathosystems: Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Psto) in tomato (pathosystem one, culturable pathogen) and Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum (CaLso) in pepper plants (pathosystem two, non-culturable pathogen). For in vitro pathosystem one assays, SiO2NPs did not inhibit Psto growth. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was 31.67 ppm for AgNPs and 194.3 ppm for ZnONPs. Furthermore, the minimum lethal concentration (MLC) for AgNPs was 100 ppm, while for ZnONPs, it was 1000 ppm. For in planta assays, ZnONPs, AgNPs, and SiO2NPs reduced the number of lesions per leaf, but only ZnONPs significantly decreased the severity. Regarding pathosystem two, AgNPs, ZnONPs, and SiO2NPs application delayed symptom progression. However, only AgNPs significantly reduced severity percentage. Moreover, treatments with AgNPs and SiO2NPs increased the plant height and dry weight compared to the results for the control. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

32 pages, 995 KiB  
Case Report
Phytotoxic Effects and Agricultural Potential of Nanofertilizers: A Case Study Using Zeolite, Zinc Oxide, and Titanium Dioxide Under Controlled Conditions
by Ezequiel Zamora-Ledezma, Glenda Leonela Loor Aragundi, Willian Stalyn Guamán Marquines, Michael Anibal Macías Pro, José Vicente García Díaz, Henry Antonio Pacheco Gil, Julián Mauricio Botero Londoño, Mónica Andrea Botero Londoño and Camilo Zamora-Ledezma
J. Xenobiot. 2025, 15(4), 123; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox15040123 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 324
Abstract
Nanofertilizers (NFs) and engineered nanoparticles (NPs) are increasingly used in agriculture, yet their environmental safety remains poorly understood. This study evaluated the comparative phytotoxicity of zinc oxide (ZnO), titanium dioxide (TiO2), and clinoptilolite nanoparticles, three commercial nanofertilizers, and potassium dichromate (K [...] Read more.
Nanofertilizers (NFs) and engineered nanoparticles (NPs) are increasingly used in agriculture, yet their environmental safety remains poorly understood. This study evaluated the comparative phytotoxicity of zinc oxide (ZnO), titanium dioxide (TiO2), and clinoptilolite nanoparticles, three commercial nanofertilizers, and potassium dichromate (K2Cr2O7) using Lactuca sativa seeds under adapted OECD-208 protocol conditions. Seeds were exposed to varying concentrations of each xenobiotic material (0.5–3% for NFs; 10–50% for NPs), with systematic assessment of seedling survival, root and hypocotyl length, dry biomass, germination index (GI), and median effective concentration (EC50) values. Nanofertilizers demonstrated significantly greater phytotoxicity than engineered nanoparticles despite lower application concentrations. The toxicity ranking was established as NF1 > NF3 > NF2 > NM2 > NM1 > NM3, with NF1 being most toxic (EC50 = 1.2%). Nanofertilizers caused 45–78% reductions in root length and 30–65% decreases in dry biomass compared with controls. GI values dropped to ≤70% in NF1 and NF3 treatments, indicating concentration-dependent growth inhibition. While nanofertilizers offer agricultural benefits, their elevated phytotoxicity compared with conventional nanoparticles necessitates rigorous pre-application safety assessment. These findings emphasize the critical need for standardized evaluation protocols incorporating both physiological and ecotoxicological endpoints to ensure safe xenobiotic nanomaterial deployment in agricultural systems. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

17 pages, 3389 KiB  
Article
Enhanced OH Transport Properties of Bio-Based Anion-Exchange Membranes for Different Applications
by Suer Kurklu-Kocaoglu, Daniela Ramírez-Espinosa and Clara Casado-Coterillo
Membranes 2025, 15(8), 229; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes15080229 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 407
Abstract
The demand for anion exchange membranes (AEMs) is growing due to their applications in water electrolysis, CO2 reduction conversion and fuel cells, as well as water treatment, driven by the increasing energy demand and the need for a sustainable future. However, current [...] Read more.
The demand for anion exchange membranes (AEMs) is growing due to their applications in water electrolysis, CO2 reduction conversion and fuel cells, as well as water treatment, driven by the increasing energy demand and the need for a sustainable future. However, current AEMs still face challenges, such as insufficient permeability and stability in strongly acidic or alkaline media, which limit their durability and the sustainability of membrane fabrication. In this study, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and chitosan (CS) biopolymers are selected for membrane preparation. Zinc oxide (ZnO) and porous organic polymer (POP) nanoparticles are also introduced within the PVA-CS polymer blends to make mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs) with increased OH transport sites. The membranes are characterized based on typical properties for AEM applications, such as thickness, water uptake, KOH uptake, Cl and OH permeability and ion exchange capacity (IEC). The OH transport of the PVA-CS blend is increased by at least 94.2% compared with commercial membranes. The incorporation of non-porous ZnO and porous POP nanoparticles into the polymer blend does not compromise the OH transport properties. On the contrary, ZnO nanoparticles enhance the membrane’s water retention capacity, provide basic surface sites that facilitate hydroxide ion conduction and reinforce the mechanical and thermal stability. In parallel, POPs introduce a highly porous architecture that increases the internal surface area and promotes the formation of continuous hydrated pathways, essential to efficient OH mobility. Furthermore, the presence of POPs also contributes to reinforcing the mechanical integrity of the membrane. Thus, PVA-CS bio-based membranes are a promising alternative to conventional ion exchange membranes for various applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Membrane Technologies for Water Purification)
Show Figures

Figure 1

78 pages, 2585 KiB  
Review
Engineered Metal Nanoparticles: A Possible Small Solution to Big Problems Associated with Toxigenic Fungi and Mycotoxins
by Eva María Mateo, Fernando Mateo, Andrea Tarazona and Misericordia Jiménez
Toxins 2025, 17(8), 378; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins17080378 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 545
Abstract
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 [...] Read more.
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 article belongs to the Special Issue Occurrence, Toxicity, Metabolism, Analysis and Control of Mycotoxins)
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 4549 KiB  
Article
Synthesis, Structure, and Magnetic Properties of (Co/Eu) Co-Doped ZnO Nanoparticles
by Adil Guler
Coatings 2025, 15(8), 884; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15080884 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 309
Abstract
Transition-metal and rare-earth element co-doped ZnO nanoparticles have attracted significant attention due to their potential applications in spintronics and optoelectronics. In this study, Zn0.95Co0.01EuxO (x = 0.01–0.05) nanoparticles were synthesized using the sol–gel technique. The estimated stress, strain, and [...] Read more.
Transition-metal and rare-earth element co-doped ZnO nanoparticles have attracted significant attention due to their potential applications in spintronics and optoelectronics. In this study, Zn0.95Co0.01EuxO (x = 0.01–0.05) nanoparticles were synthesized using the sol–gel technique. The estimated stress, strain, and crystallite sizes of the synthesized Co/Eu co-doped ZnO nanoparticles were calculated using the Williamson–Hall method, and their electron spin resonance (ESR) properties were investigated to examine the effect on their magnetic and structural properties. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the presence of a single-phase structure. Surface morphology, elemental composition, crystal quality, defect types, density, and magnetic behavior were characterized using scanning electron microscope (SEM), electron-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and ESR techniques, respectively. The effect of Eu concentration on the linewidth (ΔBpp) and g-factor in the ESR spectra was studied. By correlating ESR results with the obtained structural properties, room-temperature ferromagnetic behavior was identified. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 2459 KiB  
Article
Green Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Particles Using Cladophora glomerata L. (Kütz) Extract: Comparative Study of Crystal Structure, Surface Chemistry, and Antimicrobial Efficacy with Different Zinc Precursors
by Göksal Sezen and Ramazan Aktan
Processes 2025, 13(8), 2350; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13082350 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 285
Abstract
This study examined the eco-friendly synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles using Cladophora glomerata extracts as reducing and stabilizing agents, comparing zinc acetate and zinc chloride precursors for biomedical and environmental applications. Zinc acetate-synthesized ZnO nanoparticles showed a significant absorption peak around 320–330 [...] Read more.
This study examined the eco-friendly synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles using Cladophora glomerata extracts as reducing and stabilizing agents, comparing zinc acetate and zinc chloride precursors for biomedical and environmental applications. Zinc acetate-synthesized ZnO nanoparticles showed a significant absorption peak around 320–330 nm, indicating stable, quasi-spherical ZnO nanoparticles with a narrow size distribution, primarily around 100 nm. Zeta potential measurements revealed a value of −25 mV for these particles, suggesting moderate colloidal stability. XRD analysis confirmed a highly crystalline hexagonal wurtzite structure for zinc acetate-derived ZnO, and SEM images supported a proper microstructure with approximately 2 µm particle size. FTIR analysis indicated higher-quality ZnO from zinc acetate due to the absence of moisture and hydroxyl groups. Conversely, zinc chloride-derived ZnO particles displayed a broader absorption spectrum around 370 nm, indicative of significant aggregation. Their narrower zeta potential distribution around +10 mV suggested diminished colloidal stability and a heightened aggregation tendency. While a peak around 100 nm was observed, many particles exceeded 1000 nm, reaching up to 10,000 nm. XRD results showed that zinc chloride adversely affected crystallinity, and SEM analysis indicated smaller particles (approx. 1 µm). FTIR analysis demonstrated that zinc chloride samples retained hydroxyl groups. Both zinc acetate- and zinc chloride-derived ZnO nanoparticles produced notable inhibitory zones against Gram-positive (L. monocytogenes, S. aureus) and specific Gram-negative bacteria (E. coli, K. pneumoniae). Zinc acetate-derived ZnO showed a 21 mm inhibitory zone against P. vulgaris, while zinc chloride-derived ZnO showed a 10.1 mm inhibitory zone against C. albicans. Notably, zinc chloride-derived ZnO exhibited broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. MIC readings indicated that zinc acetate-derived ZnO had better antibacterial properties at lower concentrations, such as 3.125 µg/mL against L. monocytogenes. These findings emphasize that the precursor material selection critically influences particle characteristics, including optical properties, surface charge, and colloidal stability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advanced Materials in Chemical Engineering)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

19 pages, 5463 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Aqueous and Ethanolic Extracts for the Green Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles from Tradescantia spathacea
by Pedro Gerardo Trejo-Flores, Yazmin Sánchez-Roque, Heber Vilchis-Bravo, Yolanda del Carmen Pérez-Luna, Paulina Elizabeth Velázquez-Jiménez, Francisco Ramírez-González, Karen Magaly Soto Martínez, Pascual López de Paz, Sergio Saldaña-Trinidad and Roberto Berrones-Hernández
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(14), 1126; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15141126 - 20 Jul 2025
Viewed by 425
Abstract
In this work, we report a green synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles using aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Tradescantia spathacea (purple maguey) as bioreducing and stabilizing agents, which are plant extracts not previously employed for metal oxide nanoparticle synthesis. This method provides [...] Read more.
In this work, we report a green synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles using aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Tradescantia spathacea (purple maguey) as bioreducing and stabilizing agents, which are plant extracts not previously employed for metal oxide nanoparticle synthesis. This method provides an efficient, eco-friendly, and reproducible route to obtain ZnO nanoparticles, while minimizing environmental impact compared to conventional chemical approaches. The extracts were prepared following a standardized protocol, and their phytochemical profiles, including total phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant capacity, were quantified via UV-Vis spectroscopy to confirm their reducing potential. ZnO nanoparticles were synthesized using zinc acetate dihydrate as a precursor, with variations in pH and precursor concentration in both aqueous and ethanolic media. UV-Vis spectroscopy confirmed nanoparticle formation, while X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed a hexagonal wurtzite structure with preferential (101) orientation and lattice parameters a = b = 3.244 Å, c = 5.197 Å. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed agglomerated morphologies, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the presence of phytochemicals such as quercetin, kaempferol, saponins, and terpenes, along with Zn–O bonding, indicating surface functionalization. Zeta potential measurements showed improved dispersion under alkaline conditions, particularly with ethanolic extracts. This study presents a sustainable synthesis strategy with tunable parameters, highlighting the critical influence of precursor concentration and solvent environment on ZnO nanoparticle formation. Notably, aqueous extracts promote ZnO synthesis at low precursor concentrations, while alkaline conditions are essential when using ethanolic extracts. Compared to other green synthesis methods, this strategy offers control and reproducibility and employs a non-toxic, underexplored plant source rich in phytochemicals, potentially enhancing the crystallinity, surface functionality, and application potential of the resulting ZnO nanoparticles. These materials show promise for applications in photocatalysis, in antimicrobial coatings, in UV-blocking formulations, and as functional additives in optoelectronic and environmental remediation technologies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Nanocatalysis in Environmental Applications)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

26 pages, 4992 KiB  
Article
Composites from Recycled HDPE and ZnO Nanopowder with Improved Insulation and Weathering Features for Cable Jacketing Applications
by Alina Ruxandra Caramitu, Magdalena Valentina Lungu, Romeo Cristian Ciobanu, Ioana Ion, Eduard Marius Lungulescu, Gabriela Beatrice Sbarcea, Virgil Emanuel Marinescu, Sebastian Aradoaei, Mihaela Aradoaei and Raducu Machidon
Polymers 2025, 17(14), 1987; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17141987 - 20 Jul 2025
Viewed by 393
Abstract
In this study, polymer matrix composites based on high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and recycled HDPE (HDPEr) were reinforced with zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs). Four formulations (M1-M4) with HDPE/HDPEr/ZnO NP mass ratios of 50/50/0, 48/47/5, 45/45/10, and 43/42/15 were produced via melt injection molding. [...] Read more.
In this study, polymer matrix composites based on high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and recycled HDPE (HDPEr) were reinforced with zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs). Four formulations (M1-M4) with HDPE/HDPEr/ZnO NP mass ratios of 50/50/0, 48/47/5, 45/45/10, and 43/42/15 were produced via melt injection molding. Disc-shaped samples (Ø30 ± 0.1 mm × 2 ± 0.1 mm) were evaluated in unaged and aged states (840 h at 100% humidity and 100 °C) using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, ultraviolet–visible and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, water absorption, thermal resistance, and mechanical and dielectric testing. Among all composites, M2 showed the best performance, with the highest aging resistance (estimated lifetime of 3891 h in humidity and 2361 h in heat). It also exhibited superior mechanical properties, with the highest indentation hardness, Vickers hardness, and elastic modulus before (0.042 GPa, 3.846 HV, and 0.732 GPa) and after aging under humidity (0.042 GPa, 3.932 HV, 0.706 GPa) and elevated temperature (0.085 GPa, 7.818 HV, 1.871 GPa). Although ZnO NPs slightly reduced electrical resistivity, M2 showed the most stable dielectric properties. In its unaged state, M2 had 22%, 30%, and 3% lower surface resistivity, volume resistivity, and dielectric strength, respectively, than M1 polymer. M2 was identified as the optimal formulation, combining mechanical strength, dielectric stability, and resistance to moisture and heat. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Composites and Nanocomposites)
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1628 KiB  
Article
Eco-Friendly Fabrication of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using Gaultheria fragrantissima: Phytochemical Analysis, Characterization, and Antimicrobial Potential
by Bhoj Raj Poudel, Sujan Dhungana, Anita Dulal, Aayush Raj Poudel, Laxmi Tiwari, Devendra Khadka, Megh Raj Pokhrel, Milan Babu Poudel, Allison A. Kim and Janaki Baral
Inorganics 2025, 13(7), 247; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics13070247 - 19 Jul 2025
Viewed by 398
Abstract
This work explores zinc oxide nanoparticle (ZnO NP) synthesis utilizing leaf extract of the Gaultheria fragrantissima plant that are useful in medicine, environmental remediation, and cosmetics due to their antibacterial activity, photocatalytic efficiency, and UV-blocking characteristics. Traditional synthesis methods involve energy-intensive procedures and [...] Read more.
This work explores zinc oxide nanoparticle (ZnO NP) synthesis utilizing leaf extract of the Gaultheria fragrantissima plant that are useful in medicine, environmental remediation, and cosmetics due to their antibacterial activity, photocatalytic efficiency, and UV-blocking characteristics. Traditional synthesis methods involve energy-intensive procedures and hazardous chemicals, posing environmental and human health risks. To overcome these limitations, this research focuses on utilizing G. fragrantissima, rich in bioactive compounds such as phenolics and flavonoids, with the methyl salicylate previously reported in the literature for this species, which helps reduce and stabilize NPs. ZnO NPs were characterized through X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The ZnO NPs were found to have a well-defined crystalline structure, with their average crystallite size measured at around 8.26 nm. ZnO NPs exhibited moderate antimicrobial activity against selected microbial strains. These findings underscore the potential of G. fragrantissima-mediated synthesis as an environmentally sustainable and efficient method for producing ZnO NPs with multifunctional applications. This study provides a greener alternative to conventional synthesis approaches, demonstrating a method that is both eco-friendly and capable of yielding NPss with desirable properties. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

30 pages, 6093 KiB  
Article
Investigation of Antioxidative Enzymes and Transcriptomic Analysis in Response to Foliar Application of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles and Salinity Stress in Solanum lycopersicum
by Mostafa Ahmed, Zoltán Tóth, Roquia Rizk, Donia Abdul-Hamid and Kincső Decsi
Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1715; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071715 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 374
Abstract
Farmers commonly throw away tomato leaves when they harvest tomatoes, although they are a good source of vital biomolecules. ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) enhance plant growth by regulating abiotic stress and scavenging reactive oxygen species. In the current article, the activities of five [...] Read more.
Farmers commonly throw away tomato leaves when they harvest tomatoes, although they are a good source of vital biomolecules. ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) enhance plant growth by regulating abiotic stress and scavenging reactive oxygen species. In the current article, the activities of five antioxidant enzymes—glutathione reductase (GR), peroxidase (POX), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT)—were determined spectrophotometrically to study the interaction between foliar fertilization of ZnO NPs and salt stress in tomato plants. We employed the next-generation sequencing (NGS) technique to investigate the gene expression. It was also used to generate a de novo supertranscript and then determine the sequences modulated by treatments. Differential expression analysis was used to identify increased and reduced gene clusters, and gene enrichment analysis was used to identify over- and under-expressed genes under the treatment. Gene Ontology (GO) was used to identify the functions and regulatory pathways of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs). It was found that ZnO nanoparticles had the capability to overcome the reduction in antioxidant enzyme production levels in the case of the salinity-stressed treatments and enhance the secretion of those enzymes in the non-stressed but sprayed treatments. The ZnO NPs also enhanced the reduction in stress-responsive genes associated with salt stress resistance. The results revealed the impact of ZnO nanoparticles on alleviating the salinity stress reductive effects in antioxidative enzymes and regulating the mechanism by which metabolically relevant genes adaptively respond to salt stress in tomato plants. So, spraying tomato plants (stressed or not) with ZnO NPs is a promising agricultural technique in improving different metabolic pathways that are responsible for plants’ resistance. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 7174 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Wastewater Treatment Through Python ANN-Guided Optimization of Photocatalysis with Boron-Doped ZnO Synthesized via Mechanochemical Route
by Vladan Nedelkovski, Milan Radovanović, Dragana Medić, Sonja Stanković, Iosif Hulka, Dejan Tanikić and Milan Antonijević
Processes 2025, 13(7), 2240; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13072240 - 14 Jul 2025
Viewed by 391
Abstract
This study explores the enhanced photocatalytic performance of boron-doped zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles synthesized via a scalable mechanochemical route. Utilizing X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), the structural and morphological properties of these nanoparticles were assessed. Specifically, nanoparticles [...] Read more.
This study explores the enhanced photocatalytic performance of boron-doped zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles synthesized via a scalable mechanochemical route. Utilizing X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), the structural and morphological properties of these nanoparticles were assessed. Specifically, nanoparticles with 1 wt%, 2.5 wt%, and 5 wt% boron doping were analyzed after calcination at temperatures of 500 °C, 600 °C, and 700 °C. The obtained results indicate that 1 wt% B-ZnO nanoparticles calcined at 700 °C show superior photocatalytic efficiency of 99.94% methyl orange degradation under UVA light—a significant improvement over undoped ZnO. Furthermore, the study introduces a predictive model using the artificial neural network (ANN) technique, developed in Python, which effectively forecasts photocatalytic performance based on experimental conditions with R2 = 0.9810. This could further enhance wastewater treatment processes, such as heterogeneous photocatalysis, through ANN-guided optimization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metal Oxides and Their Composites for Photocatalytic Degradation)
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 1855 KiB  
Article
Enhanced Antimicrobial Activity of Green-Synthesized Artemisia-ZnO Nanoparticles: A Comparative Study with Pure ZnO Nanoparticles and Plant Extract
by Noor Akhras, Abuzer Çelekli and Hüseyin Bozkurt
Foods 2025, 14(14), 2449; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14142449 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 669
Abstract
The green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using Artemisia absinthium L. extract has gained considerable attention due to its eco-friendly approach and potential applications in food science. This study investigates the synthesis and characterization of Artemisia-mediated ZnO NPs, focusing on [...] Read more.
The green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using Artemisia absinthium L. extract has gained considerable attention due to its eco-friendly approach and potential applications in food science. This study investigates the synthesis and characterization of Artemisia-mediated ZnO NPs, focusing on their physicochemical properties. The nanoparticles were characterized using ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Successful synthesis was achieved through a co-precipitation method, resulting in an average particle size of 36.6 nm. The presence of polyphenols and flavonoids in A. absinthium L. extract acted as both a reducing agent and stabilizer for the nanoparticles. The physicochemical characterization revealed strong absorption peaks indicative of ZnO, confirming successful nanoparticle formation. In addition to the structural findings, this study presents novel insights by demonstrating that Artemisia-mediated ZnO NPs possess significantly enhanced antimicrobial activity compared to both pure ZnO NPs and the plant extract alone. The biosynthesized nanoparticles exhibited notably lower minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal/fungicidal concentration (MBC/MFC) values against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans, suggesting a strong synergistic effect between ZnO and the phytochemicals of A. absinthium L. Thus, the study confirms and quantifies the superior antibacterial potential of Artemisia-derived ZnO NPs, offering promising implications for food, biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 6634 KiB  
Article
Integrated Management of Tomato Fusarium Wilt: Ultrastructure Insights into Zn Nanoparticles and Phytohormone Applications
by Yasmin M. Heikal, Amal M. Albahi, Amal A. Alyamani, Hala M. Abdelmigid, Samia A. Haroun and Hoda M. Soliman
Cells 2025, 14(14), 1055; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells14141055 - 10 Jul 2025
Viewed by 424
Abstract
Fusarium wilt (FW), induced by Fusarium oxysporum, poses a significant threat to global tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) production, leading to substantial yield reduction. This study investigated the anatomical and ultrastructural responses of tomato leaves to FW infection and assessed the efficacy [...] Read more.
Fusarium wilt (FW), induced by Fusarium oxysporum, poses a significant threat to global tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) production, leading to substantial yield reduction. This study investigated the anatomical and ultrastructural responses of tomato leaves to FW infection and assessed the efficacy of salicylic acid (SA), humic acid (HA), and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) as control and inducer agents. FW infection resulted in notable structural alterations, including decreased leaf blade and mesophyll thickness and increased Adaxial epidermal cell wall thickness, thereby disrupting the leaf structure. Also, it caused severe chloroplast damage, such as membrane detachment and a reduced count of starch granules, which could impair photosynthetic efficiency. The different treatments exhibited significant effectiveness in reversing these adverse effects, leading to increased thickness of the leaf blade, mesophyll, palisade, and spongy tissues and enhanced structural integrity. Furthermore, ultrastructural improvements included activated mitochondria, compact chloroplasts with increased numbers, and proliferation of plastoglobuli, indicating adaptive metabolic changes. Principal component analysis (PCA-biplot) highlighted the significant parameters distinguishing treatment groups, providing insights into trait-based differentiation. This study concluded the potential of SA, HA, and ZnO-NPs as sustainable solutions for managing Fusarium wilt and enhancing tomato plant resilience, thereby contributing to improved agricultural practices and food security. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant, Algae and Fungi Cell Biology)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

32 pages, 947 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Impact of Environmental and Material Factors on Fluoride Release from Metal-Modified Glass Ionomer Cements: A Systematic Review of In Vitro Studies
by Sylwia Klimas, Sylwia Kiryk, Jan Kiryk, Agnieszka Kotela, Julia Kensy, Mateusz Michalak, Zbigniew Rybak, Jacek Matys and Maciej Dobrzyński
Materials 2025, 18(13), 3187; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18133187 - 5 Jul 2025
Viewed by 488
Abstract
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 [...] Read more.
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
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Back to TopTop