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Maternal exposure to nanoparticles during gestation poses potential risks to fetal development. The placenta, serving as a vital interface for maternal-fetal interaction, plays a pivotal role in shielding the fetus from direct nanoparticle exposure. However, the impact of nanoparticles on placental function is still poorly understood, primarily due to the absence of proper human placental models. In this study, we established a placenta-on-a-chip model capable of recapitulating nanoparticle exposure to assess potential nanotoxicity. The model was assembled by coculturing human trophoblast stem cells (hTSCs) and endothelial cells within a dynamic microsystem. hTSCs exhibited progressive differentiation into syncytiotrophoblasts under continuous fluid flow, forming a bilayered trophoblastic epithelium that mimicking both structural and functional aspects of human placental villi. Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) were introduced into the trophoblastic side to simulate maternal blood exposure. Our findings revealed that CuO NPs hindered hTSCs differentiation, leading to diminished hormone secretion and impaired glucose transport. Subsequent analysis indicated that CuO NPs disrupted the autophagic flux in trophoblasts and induced apoptosis. Furthermore, the placenta-on-a-chip model exhibited inflammatory responses to CuO NP exposure, including maternal macrophage activation, inflammatory cytokine secretion, and endothelial barrier disruption. Dysfunction of the placental barrier and the ensuing inflammatory cascades may contribute to aberrant fetal development. Overall, our placenta-on-a-chip model offers a promising platform for assessing nanoparticle exposure-related risks and conducting toxicology studies.

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BACKGROUND: The tropical plant acerola of the genus Malpighia includes shrubs and trees with fruit that is high in nutrients and bioactive chemicals. Acerola stands out due to its exceptionally high ascorbic acid content, ranging from 1500 to 4500 mg/100 g. Vitamin C intake greatly influences gingival health. The addition of nanoparticles along with vitamin C-rich acerola exhibits high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, thereby positively improving gingival health. METHOD: The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of aqueous extracts of the acerola plant (Malpighia emarginata) were assessed. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) were synthesized using the aqueous extract of acerola cherry gel by the phytogenic fabrication method. The antioxidant potential of silver and copper nanoparticles was evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydrogen peroxide, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), and nitric oxide scavenging activities. RESULTS: Increasing concentrations of nanoparticles showed an increase in scavenging activity. Overall, CuONPs and AgNPs exhibited remarkable radical quenching efficacies. The anti-inflammatory effectiveness of CuONPs and AgNPs was monitored, showing suppression of protein denaturation as demonstrated by bovine serum albumin (BSA), egg albumin (EA), and membrane stabilization assays. The results revealed that increasing the doses of CuONPs and AgNPs had a positive impact on the anti-inflammatory activity of the nanoparticles. CONCLUSION: The present study revealed that both nanoparticles provided better antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. This study also elaborates on the pharmacological potential of both nanoparticles, which could be further explored for application in all healthcare sectors.

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Group A rotaviruses are the most common cause of gastroenteritis in children under five years of age worldwide. Rotavirus gastroenteritis can be related to mild to severe diarrhea in children and in some cases, can lead to death due to severe dehydration. Approximately 146,480 people die annually from rotavirus infection worldwide, and most of these deaths occur in low-income countries in Africa and Asia. Since there are no specific effective drugs to treat rotavirus infections, and infected patients can only be treated supportively, new antiviral agents need to be developed. Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) have a wide range of applications in the magnetic and electrical industries, as well as in biology. The antiviral activity of nanoparticles (CuO NPs) is well documented. This study aimed to investigate the antiviral effect of CuO NPs on rotaviruses. The cytotoxic effects of CuO NPs on MA-104 cells were examined by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium assay. In addition, the anti-rotavirus activity of CuO NPs was evaluated by TCID50 and real-time polymerase chain reaction PCR assay. Our results showed that exposure of rotavirus-infected cells to various non-toxic concentrations of CuO NPs did not cause a decrease in viral titer, compared to the control. However, the virucidal effect of CuO NPs on rotavirus was observed at concentrations of 80 and 100 µg/ml (P<0.001). Our study suggested that CuO NPs had significant antiviral activity against rotavirus replication. However, the exact mechanism of anti-rotavirus activity of CuO NPs remained unknown. According to the virucidal assay, it appears that the loss of capsid integrity and genome disruption in the presence of CuO NPs are possible mechanisms of its anti-rotavirus activity.

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This research investigated the physicochemical properties and biological activities of green-synthesized copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) via Moringa peregrina extract, graphene oxide (GO), and their composite (CuO-GO). SEM revealed the morphology and structure, indicating polygonal CuO NPs, thin wrinkled sheets of GO, and a combination of CuO NPs and GO in the nanocomposite. EDS confirmed the elemental composition and distribution. XRD analysis confirmed the crystalline monoclinic structure of CuO NPs and GO, as well as their composite, CuO-GO, with characteristic peaks. DLS analysis exhibited distinct size distributions, with CuO NPs showing the narrowest range. BET surface area analysis revealed mesoporous structures for all materials, with the nanocomposite showing enhanced surface area and pore volume. Anticancer assays on MCF-7 and normal NIH/3T3 cells demonstrated CuO-GO's superior cytotoxicity against cancer cells, with minimal effects on normal cells, suggesting selective cytotoxicity. Moreover, antibacterial assays against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus indicated CuO-GO's potent inhibitory activity. The composite's synergistic effects were evidenced by its lower minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) compared to individual components. In conclusion, this study elucidated the promising biomedical applications of CuO NPs, GO, and their nanocomposite, particularly in cancer treatment and antibacterial therapies, showcasing their potential as multifunctional nanomaterials.

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Conducting biopolymer blend nanocomposites of cashew gum (CG) and polypyrrole (PPy), with varying concentrations of copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles were synthesized through an in-situ polymerization method using water as a sustainable solvent. The formation of blend nanocomposites was characterized using UV-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). UV spectroscopy revealed a significant reduction in absorption intensity with the addition of CuO, indicating enhanced optical properties. FT-IR and XRD analysis confirmed the successful incorporation of CuO into the CG/PPy blend. FE-SEM images revealed the uniform distribution of nanoparticles throughout the biopolymer blend, particularly in the 7 wt% sample. TGA and DSC results demonstrated a significant enhancement in thermal stability, increasing from 352 °C to 412 °C and a rise in the glass transition temperature from 89 °C to 106 °C in the blend nanocomposites. The dielectric constant, dielectric loss, impedance, Nyquist plot, electrical conductivity, and electric modulus were extensively examined at different temperatures and frequencies. The dielectric constant of the CG/PPy blend increased from 2720 to 92,950 with the addition of 7 wt% CuO, measured at 100 Hz. The improved glass transition temperature, thermal stability, and superior electrical properties imply potential usage of the developed nanocomposite in nanoelectronics and energy storage applications.

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Copper (Cu) is a crucial element that plays a vital role in facilitating proper biological activities in living organisms. In this study, copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) were synthesized using a straightforward precipitation chemical method from a copper nitrate precursor at a temperature of 85 °C. Subsequently, these NPs were coated with the aqueous extract of Sargassum angustifolium algae. The size, morphology, and coating of the NPs were analyzed through various methods, revealing dimensions of approximately 50 nm, a multidimensional shaped structure, and successful algae coating. The antibacterial activity of both coated and uncoated CuO NPs against Vibrio harveyi, a significant pathogen in Litopenaeus vannamei, was investigated. Results indicated that the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for uncoated CuO NPs was 1000 µg/mL, whereas for coated CuO NPs, it was 500 µg/mL. Moreover, the antioxidant activity of the synthesized NPs was assessed. Interestingly, uncoated CuO NPs exhibited superior antioxidant activity (IC50 ≥ 16 µg/mL). The study also explored the cytotoxicity of different concentrations (10-100 µg/mL) of both coated and uncoated CuO NPs. Following 48 h of incubation, cell viability assays on shrimp hemocytes and human lymphocytes were conducted. The findings indicated that CuO NPs coated with alga extract at a concentration of 10 µg/mL increased shrimp hemocyte viability. In contrast, uncoated CuO NPs at a concentration of 25 µg/mL and higher, as well as CuO NPs at a concentration of 50 µg/mL and higher, led to a decrease in shrimp hemocyte survival. Notably, this study represents the first quantitative assessment of the toxicity of CuO NPs on shrimp cells, allowing for a comparative analysis with human cells.

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The interaction between nanoscale copper oxides (nano-CuOs) and soil matrix significantly affects their fate and transport in soils. This study investigates the retention of nano-CuOs and Cu2+ ions in ten typical agricultural soils by employing the Freundlich adsorption model. Retention of nano-CuOs and Cu2+ in soils was well fitted by the Freundlich model. The retention parameters (KD, KF, and N) followed an order of CuO NTs > CuO NPs > Cu2+, highlighting significant impact of nano-CuOs morphology. The KF and N values of CuO NPs/Cu2+ were positively correlated with soil pH and electrical conductivity (EC), but exhibited a weaker correlation for CuO NTs. Soil pH and/or EC could be used to predict KF and N values of CuO NPs or CuO NTs, with additional clay content should be included for Cu2+.The different relationship between retention parameters and soil properties may suggest that CuO NTs retention mainly caused by agglomeration, whereas adsorption and agglomeration were of equal importance to CuO NPs. The amendment of Ca2+ at low and medium concentration promoted retention of nano-CuOs in alkaline soils, but reduced at high concentration. These findings provided critical insights into the fate of nano-CuOs in soil environments, with significant implications for environmental risk assessment and soil remediation strategies.

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Synthesis of metal nanoparticles using plant extracts is environmentally friendly and of increasing interest. However, not all plant extracts can meet successfully on the synthesis. Therefore, searching for the high potential extracts that can reduce the metal salt precursor in the synthesis reaction is essential. The present study explores the synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) using Caesalpinia sappan heartwood extract. Phytochemical analysis and determination of the total phenolic content of the extract were performed before use as a reducing agent. Under the suitable synthesized condition, a color change in the color of the solutions to brown confirmed the formation of CuONPs. The obtained CuONPs were confirmed using ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, photon correlation spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive X-ray, and Fourier transform infrared analysis. The synthesized CuONPs investigated for antioxidant, antiglycation, and antibacterial activities. CuONPs possessed antioxidant activities by quenching free radicals with an IC50 value of 63.35 µg/mL and reducing activity with an EC range of 3.19-10.27 mM/mg. CuONPs also inhibited the formation of advanced glycation end products in the bovine serum albumin/ribose model with an IC50 value of 17.05 µg/mL. In addition, CuONPs showed inhibition of human pathogens, including Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative Escherichia coli, and prevention of biofilm formation and biofilm eradication, with maximum inhibition of approx. 75%. Our findings suggest that C. sappan extract can be used to obtain highly bioactive CuONPs for the development of certain medical devices and therapeutic agents.

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Nano-coating of orthodontic brackets with a combination or hybrid of metals and metal oxides may reduce the streptococcus mutans count and incidence of enamel decalcification seen around brackets in patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment. In total, 255 orthodontic brackets (3M Unitek, Monrovia, California, USA) were divided into one control group (group I) of 60 and three experimental groups of 65 each (groups II, III, and IV). The experimental group brackets were coated with a combination of silver-zinc oxide, copper oxide -zinc oxide, and silver-copper oxide nanoparticles using physical vapour deposition method. The two nanoparticles used for each group were mixed in the ratio of 1:1 by weight for providing a uniform hybrid coating. Sixty brackets from each group were used for microbiological evaluation of antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans in blood agar medium, and the remaining five brackets from each experimental group were used for SEM analysis to check the uniformity of the coating. Nano-coated brackets demonstrated better antibacterial properties than uncoated brackets. Copper oxide-zinc oxide nanoparticles coated brackets demonstrated better antibacterial properties than the silver-zinc oxide and silver- copper oxide coated brackets.

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The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the critical need for effective air filtration systems in healthcare environments to mitigate the spread of viral and bacterial pathogens. This study explores the utilization of copper nanoparticle-coated materials for air filtration, offering both antiviral and antimicrobial properties. Highly uniform spherical copper oxide nanoparticles (~10 nm) were synthesized via a spinning disc reactor and subsequently functionalized with carboxylated ligands to ensure colloidal stability in aqueous solutions. The functionalized copper oxide nanoparticles were applied as antipathogenic coatings on extruded polyethylene and melt-blown polypropylene fibers to assess their efficacy in air filtration applications. Notably, Type IIR medical facemasks incorporating the copper nanoparticle-coated polyethylene fibers demonstrated a >90% reduction in influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2 within 2 h of exposure. Similarly, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) filtration pre- (polyester) and post (polypropylene)-filtration media were functionalised with the copper nanoparticles and exhibited a 99% reduction in various viral and bacterial strains, including SARS-CoV-2, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, Salmonella enterica, and Escherichia coli. In both cases, this mitigates not only the immediate threat from these pathogens but also the risk of biofouling and secondary risk factors. The assessment of leaching properties confirmed that the copper nanoparticle coatings remained intact on the polymeric fiber surfaces without releasing nanoparticles into the solution or airflow. These findings highlight the potential of nanoparticle-coated materials in developing biocompatible and environmentally friendly air filtration systems for healthcare settings, crucial in combating current and future pandemic threats.

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This study demonstrated that both copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) and copper nanoparticles (Cu-NPs) can cause swelling, inflammation, and cause damage to the mitochondria of alveolar type II epithelial cells in mice. Cellular examinations indicated that both CuO-NPs and Cu-NPs can reduce cell viability and harm the mitochondria of human bronchial epithelial cells, particularly Beas-2B cells. However, it is clear that CuO-NPs exhibit a more pronounced detrimental effect compared with Cu-NPs. Using bafilomycin A1 (Bafi A1), an inhibitor of lysosomal acidification, was found to enhance cell viability and alleviate mitochondrial damage caused by CuO-NPs. Additionally, Bafi A1 also reduces the accumulation of dihydrolipoamide S-acetyltransferase (DLAT), a marker for mitochondrial protein toxicity, induced by CuO-NPs. This observation suggests that the toxicity of CuO-NPs depends on the distribution of copper particles within cells, a process facilitated by the acidic environment of lysosomes. The release of copper ions is thought to be triggered by the acidic conditions within lysosomes, which aligns with the lysosomal Trojan horse mechanism. However, this association does not seem to be evident with Cu-NPs.

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INTRODUCTION: Two-phase hybrid mode thermal interface materials were created and characterized for mechanical properties, thermal conductivity, and wear behaviour. Therefore, the ultimate goal of this current research was to use alkali-treated glass fibre and other allotropes to produce high-performance two-phase thermal interface materials. METHOD: Three different polymer composites were prepared to contain 20 vol.% alkalies [NaOH] treated e-glass fibre [E] and epoxy as a matrix with varying proportions of multi-walled carbon nanotube [MWCNT], graphene [G], copper oxide [C]. The one-phase material contained epoxy+20%e-glass+1%MWCNT [EMGC1], the two-phase hybrid composite contained epoxy+20%e-glass+1%MWCNT+1%graphene+1%CuO [EMGC2], and two-phase material contained epoxy+20%e-glass+1%graphene+1%CuO [EMGC3]. Vacuum bagging method was used for fabricating the composites. RESULT: The higher thermal conductivity observed was 0.3466 W/mK for EMGC2, the alkali-treated glass fibre/hybrid mode nanofillers epoxy matrix composite was mechanically tougher than the other two composites [EMGC1 & EMGC3]. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed the fine filler dispersion and homogenous interaction with the glass fibre/epoxy resin composite of the upper and lower zone, which also revealed the defective zone, fibre elongation, fibre/filler breakages, and filler leached surfaces. CONCLUSION: Finally, it was concluded that the hybrid mode two-phased structure EMGC2 epoxy matrix composite replicated the maximum thermal conductivity, mechanical properties, and wear properties of the other two specimens.

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Background Copper and copper oxide nanoparticles synthesized by green methods have attracted considerable attention due to their environmentally friendly properties and potential applications. Green synthesis involves non-hazardous and sustainable techniques used in the production of a wide range of substances, including nanoparticles, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. These methods often use different organisms, including bacteria, fungi, algae, and plants, each offering different advantages in terms of simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability. The environmentally friendly nature of these green synthesis methods responds to the growing need for sustainable nanotechnologies. Brown algae have gained popularity due to their distinct morphological characteristics and diverse biochemical composition. This research focuses on the process of synthesizing copper and copper oxide nanoparticles from the brown algae Turbinaria. It emphasizes the natural ability of the bioactive compounds contained in the algae extract to reduce and stabilize the nanoparticles. The green synthesis of copper and copper oxide nanoparticles from brown algae has demonstrated a wide range of applications, including antibacterial activity. Materials and methods Fresh Turbinaria algae were collected from marine environments to ensure that they were free of contaminants. The algae underwent a purification process to remove impurities and were dried. An aqueous extract was prepared by pulverizing the dried algae and mixing them with distilled water. A copper salt solution utilizing copper nitrate was prepared. The algae extract was mixed with the copper salt solution. There are bioactive compounds in the algae extract that help reduce copper ions, which makes copper and copper oxide nanoparticles come together. The reaction mixture was incubated in a controlled environment to facilitate the growth and enhance the stability of the nanoparticles. To separate the nanoparticles from the reaction mixture, centrifugation was employed, or filtration was done with Whatman filter paper (Merck, Burlington, MA). The nanoparticles were dried to yield a stable powder. Results Copper and copper oxide nanoparticles derived from brown algae extract showed antibacterial effects against Streptococcus mutans, Klebsiella sp., and Staphylococcus mutans. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis verified the irregular shape and elemental content of the synthesized copper and copper oxide nanoparticles. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis indicated that the synthesized nanoparticles exhibited a crystallinity nature and were composed of a mixture of copper and copper oxide species, namely face-centered cubic and monoclinic structures. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images showed copper and copper oxide nanoparticles that were evenly distributed and had a rectangular shape. They exhibited substantial antimicrobial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Conclusions This study enhances the field of green synthesis techniques by showcasing the adaptability of Turbinaria brown algae to synthesize copper and copper oxide nanoparticles. It underscores the potential advantages of these nanoparticles in terms of their antibacterial properties.

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Cancer remains a major global health concern, necessitating the development of novel therapeutic approaches. Hypoxia is a common characteristic of solid tumors that plays a critical role in tumor progression, making it a prime target for anticancer therapies. This study aimed to determine the effects of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) on human gastrointestinal cancer cells in hypoxic condition for the first time. Toxicity of CuONPs was evaluated on human colon and gastric adenocarcinoma cells and normal fibroblasts by alamarBlue assay. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to study the effects of CuONPs on genes involved in cell apoptosis. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of CuONPs in hypoxic condition, molecular docking was conducted on HIF-1α. Results revealed dose- and cell-type-dependent toxic effects of CuONPs, as a more significant (p < 0.0001) decrease in viability of LoVo cells (23 %) was observed compared to MKN-45 and HDF cells. In addition, CuONPs significantly (p < 0.0001) reduced LoVo cell viability down to 30.2 % in hypoxic condition. Gene expression analysis revealed significant (p < 0.0001) overexpression of P53 and BAX but downregulation of BCL-2 and CCND1 after treatment with CuONPs. Molecular docking indicated the preferable binding of CuONPs to the HIF-1α PAS-B domain through interaction with 15 residues with -4.8 kcal/mol binding energy. Our findings open up new possibilities for modulating HIF-1 activity and inhibiting hypoxia-induced tumor progression.

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Cellulose acetate membranes exhibit a potential to be applied in hemodialysis. However, their performance is limited by membrane fouling and a lack of antibacterial properties. In this research, copper oxide (I) nanoparticles were fabricated in situ into a cellulose acetate matrix in the presence of polyvinylpyrrolidone (pore-forming agent) and sulfobetaine (stabilising agent) to reduce the leakage of copper ions from nano-enhanced membranes. The influence of nanoparticles on the membrane structure and their antibacterial and antifouling properties were investigated. The results showed that incorporating Cu2O NPs imparted significant antibacterial properties against Staphylococcus aureus and fouling resistance under physiological conditions. The Cu2O NPs-modified membrane could pave the way for potential dialysis applications.

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Developing multifunctional nanomaterials through environmentally friendly and efficient approaches is a pivotal focus in nanotechnology. This study aimed to employ a biogenic method to synthesize multifunctional copper oxide nanoparticles (LI-CuO NPs) with diverse capabilities, including antibacterial, antioxidant, and seed priming properties, as well as photocatalytic organic dye degradation and wastewater treatment potentials using Lagerstroemia indica leaf extract. The synthesized LI-CuO NPs were extensively characterized using UV-vis spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The colloid displayed surface plasmon resonance peaks at 320 nm, characteristic of LI-CuO NPs. DLS analysis revealed an average particle size of 93.5 nm and a negative zeta potential of -20.3 mV. FTIR and XPS analyses demonstrated that LI-CuO NPs possessed abundant functional groups that acted as stabilizing agents. XRD analysis indicated pure crystalline and spherical LI-CuO NPs measuring 36 nm in size. Antibacterial tests exhibited significant differential activity of LI-CuO NPs against both gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium) and gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes) bacteria. In antioxidant tests, the LI-CuO NPs demonstrated a remarkable radical scavenging activity of 97.6 % at a concentration of 400 µg mL-1. These nanoparticles were also found to enhance mustard seed germination at low concentrations. With a remarkable reusability, LI-CuO NPs exhibited excellent photocatalytic performance, with a degradation efficiency of 97.6 % at 150 µg/mL as well as a 95.6 % reduction in turbidity when applied to wastewater treatment. In conclusion, this study presents environmentally friendly method for the facile synthesis of LI-CuO NPs that could potentially offer promising applications in biomedicine, agriculture, and environmental remediation due to their multifunctional properties.

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OBJECTIVES: Fasciolosis is of significant economic and public health importance worldwide. The lack of a successful vaccine and emerging resistance in flukes to the drug of choice, triclabendazole, has initiated the search for alternative approaches. In recent years, metallic nanoparticles have been extensively investigated for their anthelmintic effects. This study investigates the in vitro anthelmintic activity of copper oxide and zinc oxide nanoparticles against Fasciola hepatica. METHODS: The in vitro study was based on egg hatchability test (EHA), adult motility inhibition tests, DNA damage, ROS levels, as well as several biomarkers of oxidative stress, including glutathione peroxidase (GSH) and glutathione S-transferase (GST), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA). For this purpose, different concentrations of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) and Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) (1, 4, 8, 12, and 16 ppm) were used to evaluate the anthelmintic effect on different life stages, including egg and adults of Fasciola hepatica, over 24 h. RESULTS: In vitro treatment of F. hepatica worms with both CuO-NPs and ZnO-NPs could significantly increase ROS production and oxidative stress induction (decreased SOD, GST and GSH and increased MDA) compared to control group. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the results, it seems that CuO-NPs and ZnO-NPs may be effective in the control and treatment of F. hepatica infection. Further research is needed to investigate their potential for in vivo use in the treatment of parasitic infections.

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Hereunder, we pioneered the synthesis of Copper Oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) utilizing Tragacanth gum (TG). The NPs were characterized using advanced techniques and assessed for different pharmaceutical and environmental perspectives. The successful formation of a colloidal NPs solution was confirmed by the appearance of a distinct black color and a distinct peak at 260 nm in UV-Visible spectrophotometry. The FTIR analysis unveiled a spectrum of functional groups responsible for the reduction and stabilization of CuO NPs. Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) revealed size of NPs as 36.24 nm and 28 ± 04 nm respectively. Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) Analysis indicated weight percentages of 70.38 % for Cu and 18.88 % for O, with corresponding atomic percentages. The X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed the orthorhombic crystal structure of the prepared CuO NPs. Antimicrobial assessments through disc-diffusion assays demonstrated significant zones of inhibition (ZOI) against gram-positive bacterial strains (Bacillus Halodurans and Micrococcus leutus) and a gram-negative bacterial strain (E. coli). Against the fungal strain Aspergillus niger, a ZOI of 18.5 ± 0.31 mm was observed. The NPs exhibited remarkable antioxidant potential determined through 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and H2O2 scavenging assays. At a concentration of 3 mg/mL, the NPs demonstrated biofilm inhibition rates of 96 %, 90 %, 89.60 %, and 72.10 % against Micrococcus luteus, Bacillus halodurans, MRSA and E.coli respectively. Furthermore, the CuO NPs showed a high photocatalytic potential towards the degradation of safranin dye under sunlight irradiation. In conclusion, the findings underline the promising multifunctional properties of TG-based CuO NPs for different practical applications.

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Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) are commonly used metal oxides. Betaine possesses antioxidant and neuroprotective activities. The current study aimed to investigate the neurotoxic effect of CuO-NPs on rats and the capability of betaine to mitigate neurotoxicity. Forty rats; 4 groups: group I a control, group II intraperitoneally CuO-NPs (0.5 mg/kg/day), group III orally betaine (250 mg/kg/day) and CuO-NPs, group IV orally betaine for 28 days. Rats were subjected to neurobehavioral assessments. Brain samples were processed for biochemical, molecular, histopathological, and immunohistochemical analyses. Behavioral performance of betaine demonstrated increasing locomotion and cognitive abilities. Group II exhibited significantly elevated malondialdehyde (MDA), overexpression of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1ß), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Significant decrease in glutathione (GSH), and downregulation of acetylcholine esterase (AChE), nuclear factor erythroid 2-like protein 2 (Nrf-2), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Histopathological alterations; neuronal degeneration, pericellular spaces, and neuropillar vacuolation. Immunohistochemically, an intense immunoreactivity is observed against IL-1ß and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Betaine partially neuroprotected against CuO-NPs associated alterations. A significant decrease at MDA, downregulation of IL-1ß, and TNF-α, a significant increase at GSH, and upregulation of AChE, Nrf-2, and SOD. Histopathological alterations partially ameliorated. Immunohistochemical intensity of IL-1ß and GFAP reduced. It is concluded that betaine neuroprotected against most of CuO-NP neurotoxic effects through antioxidant and cell redox system stimulating efficacy.

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Increased impetus on the application of nano-fertilizers to improve sustainable food production warrants understanding of nanophytotoxicity and its underlying mechanisms before its application could be fully realized. In this study, we evaluated the potential particle size-dependent effects of soil-applied copper oxide nanoparticles (nCuO) on crop yield and quality attributes (photosynthetic pigments, seed yield and nutrient quality, seed protein, and seed oil), including root and seed Cu bioaccumulation and a suite of oxidative stress biomarkers, in soybean (Glycine max L.) grown in field environment. We synthesized three distinct sized (25 nm = S [small], 50 nm = M [medium], and 250 nm = L [large]) nCuO with same surface charge and compared with soluble Cu2+ ions (CuCl2) and water-only controls. Results showed particle size-dependent effects of nCuO on the photosynthetic pigments (Chla and Chlb), seed yield, potassium and phosphorus accumulation in seed, and protein and oil yields, with nCuO-S showing higher inhibitory effects. Further, increased root and seed Cu bioaccumulation led to concomitant increase in oxidative stress (H2O2, MDA), and as a response, several antioxidants (SOD, CAT, POX, and APX) increased proportionally, with nCuO treatments including Cu2+ ion treatment. These results are corroborated with TEM ultrastructure analysis showing altered seed oil bodies and protein storage vacuoles with nCuO-S treatment compared to control. Taken together, we propose particle size-dependent Cu bioaccumulation-mediated oxidative stress as a mechanism of nCuO toxicity. Future research investigating the potential fate of varied size nCuO, with a focus on speciation at the soil-root interface, within the root, and edible parts such as seed, will guide health risk assessment of nCuO.

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