Fluorescent carbon nanoparticles also termed as carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have attracted so much interest when compared to the traditional semiconductor quantum dots due to their applications in chemical sensing, biomedical imaging, nanotechnology, photovoltaics, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and electrochemistry. Along with their optical features, CQDs have desired properties such as less toxicity, environmentally friendly nature, inexpensive, and simple preparation processes. In addition, CQDs can have their physical and chemical properties controlled by surface passivation and functionalization. This article provides an account of CQDs because of their distinct characteristics and considerable capacity in diverse applications. The article is categorized into various sections that highlight various synthesis methodologies of CQDs with their advantages/disadvantages and their potential applications in sensors, bio-imaging, drug delivery, solar cells, and supercapacitors. The different applications of CQDs can be demonstrated by controlled synthesis methods. We have also discussed gas sensing applications of CQDs briefly and provided a brief overview of osmotic power generation using CQDs for energy applications.

Selenium is a trace element in the human body present in various enzymes with antioxidant activities and several functional proteins. This study is aimed at synthesizing selenium nanoparticles using Brassica oleracea (broccoli) and characterizing and assessing the antioxidant and antimicrobial effectiveness against cariogenic microorganisms. UV-visible spectrum displayed a peak at 370 nm which confirms the formation of SeNPs. TEM images of synthesized selenium nanoparticles showed polydisperse nanoparticles, spherical. The size of the particles ranged from 10 to 25 nm, and the average particle size obtained was 15.2 ± 1.9   nm . SEM images of nanoparticles were spherical and ranged in size from 10 to 28 nm. The SeNPs showed effective antimicrobial activity against cariogenic pathogens. The SeNPs synthesized with Brassica oleracea extract can be incorporated in toothpaste, gums, and mouthwashes that are cost-effective and biocompatible and used for the prevention of dental caries.

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Cancer is a lethal disease ravaging mankind claiming millions of lives. Most frequent methods of management include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of all the above-mentioned methods. However, there is no specific medication available to cure this condition completely and several compounds and drugs are constantly explored for their therapeutic effects. Recently, photothermal therapy, photodynamic therapy, radiotherapy, targeted drug delivery, and hyperthermia have shown to be of great interest in cancer treatment. In this direction, bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) nanoparticles can be a promising option in cancer treatment and diagnosis as well. Bi is a well-known radioactive isotope; this emits high-energy gamma (γ) rays to the affected cells. This technology can pair with existing chemotherapy to enhance the therapeutic efficacy.

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