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Understanding the thermophysical properties (e.g., thermal shrinkage and thermal conductivity) of the ceramic nanoparticle packed beds in additive manufacturing are crucial for improving the manufacturing accuracy. In this work, we firstly modeled the surface premelting process of nanoparticles, which is likely responsible for low-temperature sintering, and subsequently established thermal shrinkage model of nanoparticle packed beds. The model captures the experimental results well. The results show that with the increase of the sintering temperature, the changing tendencies of both the volume shrinkage (related with accuracy) and the thermal conductivity (related with heat diffusion) of nanoparticle beds all depend on the melting degree of nanoparticles, thus has a same trend. The smaller the nanoparticles, the lower their premelting temperature, thus the lower the sintering temperature of the nanoparticle beds and the greater shrinkage the nanoparticle beds in the additive manufacturing. The porosity of nanoparticle beds which is usually less than 85 % has a neglectable effect on the shrinkage. This work provides methods to predict both sintering temperature in thermal processing and also shrinkage of nanoparticle beds in additive manufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the internal filtration effect between upconversion nanoparticles and square acid-FeIII(SA-FeIII), this method was developed for the rapid identification of total antioxidant capacity of different fruits without complex modification on the surface of upconversion nanoparticles. The near-infrared light excitation of rare-earth upconversion can effectively avoid food fluorescence and the photobleaching effect; thus, the components to be detected in the samples can be monitored real time without a complex extraction process. Due to the instability of the antioxidants at room temperature, the short time required for this reaction (6 min) will facilitate the study of the true antioxidant power of the samples. This method is simple and responds well to the main antioxidants of fruits and vegetables with a detection limit of 0.1 μmol L−1, such as ascorbic acid, polyphenols, and anthocyanin, and it shows good linearity in the concentration range of 0–1.0 mmol L−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Plasmonic nanoparticle morphology effect on nanobubble generation is studied by LBM. • Convection is considered by using conjugated thermal boundary. • Hyper gravity promotes nanobubble generation. • Short pillars on solid nanoparticle change the nanobubble generation pattern. • Hollow nanoparticles aggregate closely during nanobubble generation. The motion and heat transfer understanding of laser-induced nanobubbles generating on nanoparticles is important for solar energy utilization, medical treatment and seawater purification. Phase change lattice boltzmann method is used to simulate heat and mass transfer between liquid and vaper and momentum exchange method is used to study the nanoparticle trajectory in the fluid. Convection between the nanoparticle surface and the surrounding fluid is considered using a novel conjugated thermal boundary approach, which involves the integration of two meshes and virtual nodes. Solid and hollow nanoparticles with and without pillars are investigated to evaluate their performance in generating nanobubbles. Both the surface to vloume ratio and the absorption coefficient affect the nanobubble generation threshold under normal gravity. The hyper gravity promotes the nanobubble nucleation when nanoparticle size is more than 20 nm. Nanobubbles nucleate easily on nanoparticle with short pillar. Although hollow nanoparticles have the lower threshold for nanobubble generation, the nanobubble generating on hollow nanoparticles is less than on solid nanoparticles. The highly aggregated nanoparticles enhance the innitial nanobubble generation. However, nanoparticles with longer spacing produce more nanobubble in long term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammation-related bone defects often lead to poor osteogenesis. Therefore, it is crucial to reduce the inflammation response and promote the osteogenic differentiation of stem/progenitor cells to revitalize bone physiology. Here, a kind of hybrid nano-hydroxyapatite was prepared using the confined phosphate ion release method with the participation of fucoidan, a marine-sourced polysaccharide with anti-inflammation property. The physicochemical analyses confirmed that the fucoidan hybrid nano-hydroxyapatite (FC/n-HA) showed fine needle-like architectures. With a higher amount of fucoidan, the crystal size and crystallinity of the FC/n-HA reduced while the liquid dispersibility was improved. Cell experiences showed that FC/n-HA had an optimal cytocompatibility at concentration of 50 μg/mL. Moreover, the lipopolysaccharide-induced cellular inflammatory model with PDLSCs was established and used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and osteogenic properties. For the 1%FC/n-HA group, the expression levels of TNF-α and IL-1β were significantly reduced at 24 h, while the expression of alkaline phosphatase of PDLSCs was significantly promoted at days 3 and 7, and calcium precipitates was enhanced at 21 days. In this study, the FC/n-HA particles showed effective anti-inflammatory properties and facilitated osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs, indicating which has potential application in treating bone defects associated with inflammation, such as periodontitis. • Preparation of fucoidan-hybrid nanohydroxyapatite by ion restrain and addition of fucoidan for co-regulation. • The preparation method was inspired by the biomineralization process and a biomimetic mineralization system was established in vitro. • The nanoparticles can promote osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs and reduce the expression levels of TNF-α and IL-1β. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chloroform is a toxic and persistent solvent that cannot be effectively removed from the environment by actual remediation methods. Chloroform removal using persulfate activated by iron nanoparticles has been tested but is limited by chloroform inertness and nanoparticle inactivation in the real environment. Here we hypothesized that tannic acid could improve the activation of persulfate with Fe/Ni nanoparticles. We studied the influence of tannic acid/Fe ratio, persulfate concentration, initial pH, temperature, inorganic anions and natural organic matters on chloroform removal. We found that tannic acid-Fe/Ni-persulfate system with 1.65 mol% of tannic acid-Fe and 3.2 mM of persulfate yielded about 87–97% chloroform removal in the 2.9–10.7 pH range. Electron paramagnetic resonance and radical quenching experiments revealed that SO4•− and •OH were primarily responsible for chloroform removal. High removal is probably due to Fe-tannic acid chelation that prevents the precipitation of iron hydroxide on Fe/Ni nanoparticles, thus preserving active sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticle was suggested to be a new and promising drug delivery agent due to the suitable particle size and controllable release. However, the low drug loading capacity has been a critical problem in the improvement of the nano-carrier systems. At present work, we have designed and developed smart nanoparticles with cholesterol-cisplatin (IV) conjugate contained to enhance the drug loading capacity. The predesigned drug delivery system showed enhanced synergistic effect through co-delivery of cisplatin and Ce6 and the drug released in a controllable way due to the polyaniline mediated photothermal conversion. The prepared polyaniline nanoparticles showed a favorable particle size of 109.6 nm and spread harmoniously in aqueous solution. Moreover, the near infrared radiation (NIR) stimulus-responsive characteristic of the polyaniline nanoparticles prompts the release of cisplatin from the nanoparticles inside the cytoplasm and the αvβ3/αvβ5 integrins targeted ligands (cRGD) enhanced the cellular uptake of the polyaniline nanoparticles in receptor-overexpressing MCF-7 cells. Furthermore, the singlet oxygen generated by Ce6 further enhances the cytotoxicity and obtained the expected synergistic effect with cisplatin. Thus, the prepared cRGD-conjugated co-delivery of cisplatin and Ce6 polyaniline nanoparticles consider to be a promising nanoplatform in nano-biomedicine. Highlights • Cisplatin coupled with cholesterol derivative and PEG-PCL, lecithin blend to produce nanoparticles were sustainable. • The prepared nanoparticles co-deliver two drugs of cisplatin and Ce6 for the purpose of synergistic therapy. • The polyaniline possess the capability to convert near infrared into heat for controlled release. • A cyclic Arg-Gly-Asp (cRGD) peptide ligand was employed for targeted delivey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Bi 0.3 Sb 1.7 Te 3 alloy particles were synthesized by casting and post-annealing techniques. HfO 2 nanoparticles were synthesized by hydrothermal method. HfO 2 nanoparticles with different volume percentage were dispersed into the Bi 0.3 Sb 1.7 Te 3 matrix by cryogenic ball milling. The distribution of HfO 2 nanoparticles in Bi 0.3 Sb 1.7 Te 3 matrix was confirmed by TEM. The crystallization was determined by XRD. The Bi 0.3 Sb 1.7 Te 3 /HfO 2 composite particles were hot pressed into pellets for thermoelectric property measurement by Physical Properties Measurement System (PPMS). The results showed that when the HfO 2 volume percentage was 0.4%, the composite showed the highest ZT value, which was 30% higher than pure Bi 0.3 Sb 1.7 Te 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• G-CNTs-FeCo grown by vertically electrochemical exfoliation and hydrothermal. • FeCo growing on graphene can enhance electrochemical performance. • FeCo acts as catalyst for growing CNTs on graphene. • Electrochemical performance of G-CNTs-FeCo is better than pure graphene. • CNTs and FeCo growing on the graphene enhance conductivity and capacity. In this work, we grow CNTs on electrochemical exfoliation graphene with few FeCo(G-CNTs-FeCo) by hydrothermal as a new supercapacitors electrode. It has excellent specific capacitance (560.26 F/g at 1 mV/s) and low charge transfer resistance (30.79 Ω). The supercapacitor electrode exhibits better electron conductivity and electrochemical performance than pure graphene which was found to combine the merit of graphene, CNTs and FeCo metals. This paper would help to provide a method to improve graphene SCs performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs)-based fluorescence probes have shown great potential in point-of-care testing (POCT) applications, due to UCNPs' features of high photostability and background-free fluorescence. Ceaseless improvements of UCNPs-probes have been carried out to increase detection sensitivity and to broaden detection range of UCNPs-based POCT. In this paper, we optimized UCNPs-probes by regulating probe density. The optimization was verified by a traditional lateral flow assay (LFA) platform for C-reactive protein (CRP) detection. Further, the optimized UCNPs-LFA integrating with a home-made benchtop fluorescence analyzer holds the capability to achieve high-performance POCT. Finally, nearly a 20 times sensitivity enhancement with a limit of detection of 0.046 ng/mL and a broad detection range of 0.2–300 ng/mL for CRP detection was obtained. Moreover, the optimized UCNPs-LFA was applied to detecting CRP in clinical serum samples and the detection results were consistent with the clinical test, validating its clinical practicability. The proposed optimization method is also expected to optimize other nanoparticles-based bio-probes for wider POCT application. [Display omitted] • A simple and versatile method for optimization of UCNPs-probes by regulating probe density was developed. • Through introduction of blank probe, the probe density on UCNPs was controllably regulated, eliminating the nonspecific binding. • Nearly a 20 times sensitivity enhancement with a limit of detection of 0.046 ng/mL and a detection range of 0.2–300 ng/mL for CRP detection was obtained. • The optimized UCNPs-LFA integrating with a home-made benchtop fluorescence analyzer was developed for high-performance POCT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manganese dioxides (MnO2) are considered one of the most attractive materials as an oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrode due to its low cost, natural abundance, easy synthesis, and environmental friendliness. Here, metal-ion (Fe, V, Co, and Ni)-doped MnO2 ultrathin nanosheets electrodeposited on carbon fiber paper (CFP) are fabricated using a facile anodic co-electrodeposition method. A high density of nanoclusters is observed on the surface of the carbon fibers consisting of doped MnO2 ultrathin nanosheets with an approximate thickness of 5 nm. It is confirmed that the metal ions (Fe, V, Co, and Ni) are doped into MnO2, improving the conductivity of MnO2. The doped MnO2 ultrathin nanosheet/CFP and the IrO2/CFP composite electrodes for OER achieve a low overpotential of 390 and 245 mV to reach 10 mA cm−2 in 1 m KOH, respectively. The potential of the doped composite electrode for long-term OER at a constant current density of 20 mA cm−2 is much lower than that of the pure MnO2 composite electrode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unique composite of Ni@NiO core/shell structure and active carbon (AC) had been synthesized through a two-step method. The Ni 2+ was first reduced to Ni on the surface of AC supporter. Then the NiO shell was obtained after the following oxidized treatment. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observed that Ni@NiO particles with thin shell were sporadically dispersed on AC surface without vast reaggregation. And the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) showed that Ni@NiO core-shell /AC composite had higher electrical conductivity. Thus, the outside thin NiO shell would expose more electroactive surface and shorten the ionic diffusion distance. While the Ni core could accelerate the electronic transport due to its low contact resistance. When employed as supercapacitor electrodes, Ni@NiO core-shell /AC composite exhibited a high specific capacitance of ca. 700 F g −1 at 0.5 A g −1 and remained above 90% of the initial capacity after 1000 cycles at 1 A g −1 . The high specific capacitance and long cycle life of the hybrid structure made it alternative for energy storage systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The monodisperse silica-coated manganese oxide nanoparticles (Mn3O4@SiO2 NPs) were synthesized via the high temperature pyrolysis approach and were aminated through silanization. The amine-functionalized Mn3O4 NPs enabled the covalent conjugation of hydrophilic methoxypoly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and the targeting ligand of folate (FA) onto their surface. The formed PEG and FA modified Mn3O4 NPs (Mn3O4@SiO2(PEG)-FA) exhibited the good colloidal stability in the simulated biological medium and the targeting ability to HeLa cells overexpressed the FA receptor. The T1-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) analysis of Mn3O4@SiO2(PEG)-FA NPs further demonstrated their targeting ability in tumor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The development of photothermal agents (PTAs) with good stability, low toxicity, highly targeting ability and photothermal conversion efficiency is an essential pre-requisite to near-infrared photothermal therapy (PTT) in vivo. Herein, we report the readily available PEGylated Fe@Fe3O4 NPs, which possess triple functional properties in one entity – targeting, PTT, and imaging. Compared to Au nanorods, they exhibit comparable photothermal conversion efficiency (∼20%), and much higher photothermal stability. They also show a high magnetization value and transverse relaxivity (∼156 mm −1 s−1), which should be applied for magnetic targeting MRI. With the Nd-Fe-B magnet (0.5 T) beside the tumour for 12 h on the xenograft HeLa tumour model, PEGylated Fe@Fe 3O4 NPs exhibit an obvious accumulation. In tumour, the intensity of MRI signal is ∼ three folds and the increased temperature is ∼ two times than those without magnetic targeting, indicating the good magnetic targeting ability. Notably, the intrinsic high photothermal conversion efficiency and selective magnetic targeting effect of the NPs in tumour play synergistically in highly efficient ablation of cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] Co3O4/MWCNT hybrids were synthesized via ultra-sonication assisted shaking process. [•] The resulting Co3O4 nanoparticles are highly dispersed onto MWCNT network backbone. [•] Co3O4/MWCNT hybrid displays highly enhanced lithium storage properties. [•] The present synthetic approach is facile, controllable, and scalable. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Magneto-phosphorescent d–f coordination polymer nanoparticles (f-CPPs) were conveniently synthesized by phosphorescent carboxyl-functionalized iridium complexes as building blocks and magnetic Gd(iii) ions as metallic nodes. They reveal uniform hollow spheres with an average diameter of around 60 nm and wall thickness of about 10 nm. Water soluble f-CPPs were obtained by polyvinylpyrolidone modification (denoted as f-CPPs@PVP), which had an intense red phosphorescence, moderate longitudinal relaxivity (r1) and low cytotoxicity. Furthermore, inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) confirmed f-CPPs@PVP could be taken up by living cells effectively. Therefore, they should be a novel nano-bioprobe for the multimodal imaging of cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cu2O/Cu nanocomposites (NCs) are synthesized using a two-step hydrothermal method, their different phase compositions are obtained by adjusting the reaction time, and then, they are used as photocatalysts to degrade dye Procion Red MX-5B (PR), methylene blue (MB) and methyl orange (MO) under visible-light. Experimental results indicate Cu2O/Cu NCs exhibit a much higher photocatalytic activity than pure Cu2O, they remain almost unchanged in their phase compositions in the long photocatalytic reaction process, except for partial oxidation of particle surface. They still exhibit a high photocatalytic activity even at the end of four photocatalytic reaction cycles. It can therefore be concluded that Cu2O/Cu nanocomposites are good candidates for processing of pollutant water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Gold nanochains ranged from several hundred nanometers to more than 5μm were synthesized by a modified citrate reduction method. The synthesized nanochains have been characterized by TEM, AFM and UV absorption spectrum. The produced nanochains can be transferred onto the mica surface, and can bear the repeating scan by AFM tip, which may have some potential applications in electronics and catalysis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract  A new kind of hybrid nanoparticles composed of copper ions and poly(p-phenylenediamine) has been synthesized in aqueous solution at room temperature. The nanoparticles have been characterized and studied by TEM, AFM, XPS, and UV spectroscopy. The synthesized nanoparticles are prone to connect with each other and form large nanoclusters. The diameters of the nanoparticles are 46 ± 26 nm. It is believed that a porous network structure exists inside the nanoparticles. The UV absorption spectra of the nanoparticles are sensed with pH and can be reversibly changed according to the pH level. This phenomenon of the nanoparticles has some potential applications. Nanosheets and branched rods composed of copper ions and poly(p-phenylenediamine) have also been obtained by using different ratios of copper ions and p-phenylenediamine as the initial reactant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this paper, we reported a series of halosilicate photoluminescence (PL) materials, which have the chemical composition Ba5SiO4(F x Cl6−x ):0.05Eu2+ (x =0, 1, 3, 4, 6). It is found that, under 365-nm UV light, Ba5SiO4Cl6:Eu2+ phosphor exhibits strong blue light with peak wavelength at 442 nm. By adding small amount of F− to the host lattice for the substitution of Cl−, the emission wavelength of the Ba5SiO4(F, Cl)6:Eu2+ phosphor changes to 503 nm, corresponding to the green light. The possible luminescence mechanism in this phosphor system was also discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Gallium oxide hydrate (GaOOH) nanorods were prepared through a facile large-scale hydrothermal process from GaCl3–H2O–NaOH solutions under suitable pH conditions. The primary nanoparticles, as crystal nuclei, grew preferentially along the c-axis to become nanorod structures. The aspect ratio of the nanorods could be modulated from 1:7 to 1:15 using the diethyleneglycol (DEG) and water mixed solvent. The pH value variation in water resulted in different nucleation rates, which further resulted in different structures from quadrilateral nanorods to nanorods arrays. Calcination of the GaOOH nanorods at 900°C in air yielded gallium oxide (β-Ga2O3) crystals with a similar morphology. The β-Ga2O3 nanorods had shown a broad blue emission peak at 455nm with an average lifetime of 64ns when excited at 254nm ultraviolet (UV) light at room temperature. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Fe 3 O 4 @C-Cu2+ nanoparticles were fabricated and employed as a magnetic supports for laccase immobilization. • Laccase was attached to the Fe 3 O 4 @C-Cu2+ carries via metal affinity adsorption. • Stabilities and reusability of the immobilized laccase were observably improved. • The immobilized laccase provided with excellent biodegradation of synthetic dyes. An effective strategy for enhancement of catalytic activity and stability of immobilized laccase via metal affinity adsorption on Fe 3 O 4 @C-Cu2+ nanoparticles was developed, which involved the fabrication of hydroxyl and carboxyl functionalized Fe 3 O 4 @C nanoparticles via a simple hydrothermal process and the subsequent chelation with Cu2+ for the immobilization of laccase under a mild condition. Our results revealed that the Fe 3 O 4 @C-Cu2+ nanoparticles possess a high loading amount of bovine serum albumin (BSA, 436 mg/g support) and laccase activity recovery of 82.3 % after immobilization. Laccase activity assays indicated that thermal and pH stabilities, and resistances to organic solvents and metal ions of the immobilized laccase were relatively higher than those of the free enzyme. The immobilized laccase maintained more than 61 % of its original activity after 10 consecutive reuses. Most importantly, the immobilized laccase possessed excellent degradation of diverse synthetic dyes. The degradation rates of malachite green (MG), brilliant green (BG), crystal violet (CV), azophloxine, Procion red MX-5B, and reactive blue 19 (RB19) was approximately 99, 93, 79, 88, 75 and 81 (%) in the first cycle. Even after 10 consecutive reuses, the removal efficiencies of the six dyes were found to be 94, 80, 71, 78, 60, and 65 (%), respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new method of nanoparticle formulation for poorly water-soluble materials was demonstrated for curcumin. The drug was dissolved in organic solvent that is miscible with water (ethanol), and drug nucleation was initiated by gradual worsening of the solution by the addition of an aqueous polyelectrolyte assisted by ultrasonication. Curcumin crystals of 60−100 nm size were obtained depending on the component concentrations, sonication power, and initial solvent. Layer-by-layer shell assembly with biocompatible polyelectrolytes was used to provide a particle coating with a high surface potential and the stabilization of drug nanocolloids. Polyelectrolyte layer-by-layer encapsulation allowed sustained drug release from nanoparticles over the range of 10−20 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have demonstrated a novel and unique route to a highly efficient luminescent switch with nondestructive readout capability by utilizing photochromic diarylethene and up-conversion LaF3:Yb,Ho nanophosphors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Oxidized nickel nanoparticles ranging from 2 to 3 nm have been grown on a DNA template. The synthesized products have been characterized by AFM and XPS. The results showed that uniformly oxidized nickel nanoparticles can be grown and assembled on a DNA template. These assembled small NiO nanostructures may have some potential application as catalysts, magnetic materials or electrochromic films. Theoretically, this synthetic method can be applied to fabricate other metals on a DNA template. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Photodegradation of gas phase benzene by SnO2 nanoparticles has been studied in humid air, dry air and N2 by using a tubular photoreactor. The SnO2 nanoparticles are synthesized by the oxidation of anhydrous stannic chloride (SnCl4) in a propane/air turbulent flame. Direct hole oxidation and the ·OH radical mechanisms have been discussed based on experimental results. The goal of this research is to explore a viable and efficient alternative photocatalyst and photocatalytic process, in particular, for humidity-tolerant photocatalyst or photocatalytic process in environmental applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition metal (FeCoNi) alloy nanoparticles are supported on a hollow porous carbon (HPC) system following a simple chemical vapor deposition, wet chemical impregnation and reduction method. Defects are generated following a hard template strategy using a hierarchical hollow ZSM-5 template. The synergistic effect exerted by carbon defects and the FeCoNi alloy nanoparticles impart the HPC-FeCoNi catalysts with excellent activity and durability during oxygen evolution reaction. [Display omitted] Low-cost non-noble metal nanoparticles are promising electrocatalysts that can catalyze oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Various factors such as poor activity and stability hinder the practical applications of these materials. The electroactivity and durability of the electrocatalysts can be improved by optimizing the morphology and composition of the materials. Herein, we report the successful synthesis of hollow porous carbon (HPC) catalysts loaded with ternary alloy (FeCoNi) nanoparticles (HPC-FeCoNi) for efficient OER. HPC is firstly synthesized by a facile carbon deposition method using the hierarchical porous zeolite ZSM-5 as the hard template. Numerous defects are generated on the carbon shell during the removal of zeolite template. Subsequently, FeCoNi alloy nanoparticles are supported on HPC by a sequence of impregnation and H 2 reduction processes. The synergistic effect between carbon defects and FeCoNi alloy nanoparticles endows the catalyst with an excellent OER performance (low overpotential of 219 mV; Tafel slope of 60.1 mV dec−1) in a solution of KOH (1 M). A stable potential is maintained during the continuous operation over 72 h. The designed HPC-FeCoNi presents a platform for the development of electrocatalysts that can be potentially applied for industrial OER. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The functionalized nanoparticles have been widely studied and reported as carriers of drug transport recently. Furthermore, many groups have focused more on developing novel and efficient treatment methods, such as photodynamic therapy and photothermal therapy, since both therapies have shown inspiring potential in the application of antitumor. The mentioned treatments exhibited the superiority of cooperative manner and showed the ability to compensate for the adverse effects caused by conventional monotherapy in proposed strategies. In view of the above descriptions, we formulated a thermosensitive drug delivery system, which achieved the enhanced delivery of cisplatin and two photosensitizers (ICG and Ce6) by dual-targeting traction. Drawing on the thin film hydration method, cisplatin and photosensitizers were encapsulated inside nanoparticles. Meanwhile, the targeting peptide cRGD and targeting molecule folate can be modified on the surface of nanoparticles to realize the active identification of tumor cells. The measurements of dynamic light scattering showed that the prepared nanoparticles had an ideal dispersibility and uniform particle size of 102.6 nm. On the basis of the results observed from confocal laser scanning microscope, the modified nanoparticles were more efficient endocytosed by MCF-7 cells as a contrast to SGC-7901 cells. Photothermal conversion-triggered drug release and photo-therapies produced a significant apoptosis rate of 85.9% on MCF-7 cells. The distinguished results made it believed that the formulated delivery system had conducted great efforts and innovations for the realization of concise collaboration and provided a promising strategy for the treatment of breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oral delivery of insoluble and enterotoxic drugs has been largely plagued by gastrointestinal irritation, side effects, and limited bioavailability. Tripterine (Tri) ranks as the hotspot of anti-inflammatory research other than inferior water-solubility and biocompatibility. This study was intended to develop selenized polymer-lipid hybrid nanoparticles loading Tri (Se@Tri-PLNs) for enteritis intervention by improving its cellular uptake and bioavailability. Se@Tri-PLNs were fabricated by a solvent diffusion-in situ reduction technique and characterized by particle size, ζ potential, morphology, and entrapment efficiency (EE). The cytotoxicity, cellular uptake, oral pharmacokinetics, and in vivo anti-inflammatory effect were evaluated. The resultant Se@Tri-PLNs were 123 nm around in particle size, with a PDI of 0.183, ζ potential of −29.70 mV, and EE of 98.95%. Se@Tri-PLNs exhibited retardant drug release and better stability in the digestive fluids compared with the unmodified counterpart (Tri-PLNs). Moreover, Se@Tri-PLNs manifested higher cellular uptake in Caco-2 cells as evidenced by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy. The oral bioavailability of Tri-PLNs and Se@Tri-PLNs was up to 280% and 397% relative to Tri suspensions, respectively. Furthermore, Se@Tri-PLNs demonstrated more potent in vivo anti-enteritis activity, which resulted in a marked resolution of ulcerative colitis. Polymer-lipid hybrid nanoparticles (PLNs) enabled drug supersaturation in the gut and the sustained release of Tri to facilitate absorption, while selenium surface engineering reinforced the formulation performance and in vivo anti-inflammatory efficacy. The present work provides a proof-of-concept for the combined therapy of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) using phytomedicine and Se in an integrated nanosystem. Selenized PLNs loading anti-inflammatory phytomedicine may be valuable for the treatment of intractable inflammatory diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adsorption of chitosan onto highly ordered pyrolytic graphite(HOPG) surfaces and its applications have been studied by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The results indicated that chitosan topography formed on the HOPG surface significantly depends on the pH conditions and its concentration for the incubation. Under strongly acidic conditions (pH < 3.5) and at a concentration of 1 mg ml [?] 1, chitosan formed into uniform network structures composed of fine chains. When the solution pH was changed from 3.5 to 6.5, chitosan tends to form a thicker film. Under neutral and basic conditions, chitosan changed into spherical nanoparticles, and their sizes were increased with increasing pH. Dendritic structures have been observed when the chitosan concentration was increased up to 5 mg ml [?] 1. In addition, the chitosan topography can also be influenced by ionic strength and the addition of different metal ions. When 0.1 M metal ions Na + , Mg2 + , Ca2 + and Cu2 + were added into the chitosan solution at pH 3.0 for the incubation, network structures, branched chains, block structures and dense networks attached with many small particles were observed, respectively. The potential applications of these chitosan structures on HOPG have been explored. Preliminary results characterized by AFM and XPS indicated that the chitosan network formed on the HOPG surface can be used for AFM lithography, selective adsorption of gold nanoparticles and DNA molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reported the tribological behaviours of Cu nanoparticles as lubricant additives. Cu nanoparticles were prepared by an innovative technology called mass‐produced nanoparticles (MPNP). A SRV‐IV friction and wear tester was used to investigate the influence of load on the tribological performance of 0.1 ~ 2 wt% Cu nanoparticles. The results indicated adding 0.1 wt% Cu nanoparticles into PAO6 base oil and 10 W/40 CH‐4 commercial lubricant, reduce the average friction coefficient by 38% and 3%, and decrease the wear rate by 96% and 66% under 300 N, respectively, compared to the lubricants without nanoparticles. The excellent antiwear and antifriction effect could be attributed to the rolling effect caused by the ideal spherical shape and good dispersibility of the prepared Cu nanoparticles and form deposition film on the surface of the friction pair. Therefore, the Cu nanoparticles prepared by MPNP show excellent tribological performance and possess broad prospects in the fields of lubricant additives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel approach via reduction and carbonization of germanium chelate synchronously to in situ formed uniform Ge–carbon hybrid nanoparticles has been developed. The Ge–carbon composites, derived from the homogenous dispersion of the elements within the chelate complex matrix at the molecular level, exhibit outstanding electrochemical lithium-storage performance with high capacity, excellent rate capability, and ultra long cycling life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water-soluble phosphorescent polymeric nanoparticles with an average diameter of approximately 100 nm were synthesized by a coordination cross-linking reaction. The pyridine blocks in poly(4-vinyl pyridine- b-ethylene oxide) (P4VP- b-PEO) were cross-linked by the iridium chloride-bridged dimer in DMF solution. Owing to the presence of an iridium complex with different ligands in the core of the polymeric nanoparticles, NP-1, NP-2, and NP-3 showed bright green, yellow, and red phosphorescence, respectively. PEG chains in the shell gave the polymeric nanoparticles solubility and biocompatibility, which was confirmed by an MTT assay using HeLa cells as a model cancer cell line. The flow cytometry and laser confocal fluorescence microscopy results revealed NP-2, as an example, could be effectively uptaken by HeLa cells. Therefore, these polymeric nanoparticles can be used as luminescent probes for living cells. In addition, 1O2 could be effectively generated in the presence of NP-2 upon irradiation with visible light ( λ>400 nm, 300 mW cm−2), which was confirmed by a clear decrease in the fluorescence intensity of 9,10-dimethylanthracene (DMA). After incubation with NP-2 at a concentration of 200 μg mL−1 for 6 h, approximately 90 % of HeLa cells were effectively ablated upon irradiation with visible light for only 10 min, indicating the potential for photodynamic therapy with polymeric nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilization of cellulose-based templates to enhance the dispersion of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles represents an effective approach for enhancing their photocatalytic carbon dioxide (CO 2) reduction activity. However, the limited availability of surface active sites on linear cellulose fiber has posed a significant challenge for loading ZnO nanoparticles. The present study introduces a technique for segregating spiral vessel (SV) from waste tea-leaves and employing them as templates for in-situ self-assembled ZnO nanoparticles. Due to the inherent three-dimensional (3D) stability of the spiral structure, ZnO nanoparticles exhibit excellent dispersion and maintain a stable hierarchical spiral morphology even after template removal. With the help of a field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), it could be observed that SV-loaded ZnO nanospheres extracted from waste Pu 'er tea-leaves retained the best spiral morphology after removing the template. The photocatalytic CO 2 conversion over spheroidal ZnO with SV as templates (ZnO SS) significantly enhanced yields of CO and CH 4 , reaching 6.700 and 1.666 μmol·g−1h−1, respectively, surpassing those of other synthesized catalysts. The results obtained from the free radical scavenging experiment and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) test demonstrate the pivotal involvement of superoxide radicals (∙O 2 −) and hydroxyl radicals (∙OH) in the photocatalytic reduction of CO 2. Quantum mechanical simulation further verified that the ZnO (0 0 2) crystal face was the best reaction interface with CO 2. The design of a cellulose-based spiral template not only facilitates the valorization of waste biomass but also offers a novel perspective for the synthesis of efficient photocatalysts. [Display omitted] • The spiral vessel template was successfully extracted from waste Pu 'er tea-leaves. • In situ self-grow of ZnO nanoparticles via spiral vessel template. • The spiral vessel template highly disperses the loaded ZnO nanoparticles. • The ZnO SS catalyst has excellent photocatalytic CO 2 conversion activity. • The ZnO (0 0 2) crystal face is ideal for CO 2 photocatalytic reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Lignocellulose-based hydrogel-Pd nanoparticles reactor system was synthesized. • Porous LCG/Pd NPs reactor provided a simultaneous adsorption-catalysis strategy. • Catalytic k value of LCG/Pd NPs reactor is 38 times higher than that of Pd NPs. • LCG/Pd NPs reactor exhibited good mechanical strength in separation of catalysts. The separation and reusability of nano-catalysts are paramount for their high-efficiency and low-cost use. Herein, lignocellulose hydrogels (LCG), were fabricated and served as the host matrix for in-situ generated palladium nanoparticles (Pd NPs), creating hydrogel-based Pd NPs reactor systems. The lignocellulose hydrogel-based Pd NPs (LCG/Pd NPs) reactor system possesses the following unique features: (1) lignin present in LCG acts as a "green" reducing agent so that Pd NPs are formed in situ; (2) the in-situ generated Pd NPs are well dispersed in the LCG structure via complexation; (3) the simultaneous adsorption-catalysis process concept is very effective for pollutant remedy: the adsorption of pollutants on the porous LCG effectively increases the pollutant concentration on the reaction sites, where the Pd NPs are co-located, enhancing the catalytic reactions; as a result, a much higher catalytic reaction rate is observed; (4) the LCG/Pd NPs reactor systems are readily reused/recycled after each use. As proof of this concept, the catalytic performance of the LCG/Pd NPs reactor system was demonstrated by the catalytic reduction of toxic heavy metal ions (Cr6+) and organic dye (methyl orange). Results showed that the novel LCG/Pd NPs reactor system exhibited much increased catalytic reduction rates: the pseudo-first-order rate constant (k) is 118 times higher (from 0.018 to 2.129 min−1 at 25 °C) for MO, and 38 times higher (from 0.008 to 0.304 min−1 at 25 °C) for Cr6+, in comparison with the control, under otherwise the same conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constructing Co-based carbon nanotubes/g-C 3 N 4 structure via integrated strategy remains a challenge in cobalt-based electrocatalysis. We firstly proposed a coordination-polymerization integrated strategy for the preparation of Co@N-CNT@g-C 3 N 4 with efficient hydrogen evolution reaction at all pH values. In Co@N-CNT@g-C 3 N 4 , Co nanoparticles were encapsulated in the tip of carbon nanotubes and carbon nanotubes grew on g-C 3 N 4 to bridge Co particles and g-C 3 N 4. More importantly, Co particles, carbon nanotubes, and g-C 3 N 4 were assembled simultaneously skillfully to construct a closely integrated interface, thereby enhancing electron transfer efficiency. Electrochemical tests showed that the structure has high catalytic activity, with overpotentials of 61, 145, and 170 mV in 1 M KOH, 0.5 M H 2 SO 4 and 1.0 M phosphate buffer saline (PBS), respectively, to drive 10 mA cm−2. Additionally, the Gibbs free energy for hydrogen adsorption (∆G H *) on the Co surface of Co@N-CNT@g-C 3 N 4 was only − 0.13 eV, which was conducive to H 2 formation. [Display omitted] • A unique coordination-polymerization integrated strategy was firstly proposed. • Co@CNT@CN showed low overpotentials (61, 145, and 170 mV) in different electrolytes. • The high capability was due to Co@carbon nanotubes and closely integrated CNT/g-C 3 N 4. • Co NPs. CNTs. g-C 3 N 4 served as H* combination. e- migration, H 2 O adsorption sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A T-Nb2O5/CNT nanohybrid with short transmission paths, many active sites, and favorable mechanical flexibility can achieve the fast transportation of ions/electrons. The obtained nanohybrid with continuous conductive networks exhibited better lithium storage performance than sodium storage performance, due to lower resistance to the diffusion of Li+ ions crossing the carbon matrix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotip arrays of amorphous carbon with embedded hexagonal diamond nanoparticles were prepared at room temperature for use as excellent field emitters by a unique combination of anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) template and filtered cathodic arc plasma (FCAP) technology. In order to avoid nanopore array formation on the AAO surface, an effective multi-step treatment employing anodization and pore-widening processes alternately was adopted. The nanotips were about 100 nm in width at the bottom and 150 nm in height with density up to 10 cm. Transmission electron microscopy investigation indicates that many nanoparticles with diameters of about 10 nm were embedded in the amorphous carbon matrix, which was proved to be hexagonal diamond phase by Raman spectrum and selected-area electron diffraction. There is no previous literature report on the field emission properties of hexagonal diamond and its preparation at room temperature under high-vacuum condition. The nanotip arrays with hexagonal diamond phase exhibit a low turn-on field of 0.5 V/μm and a threshold field of 3.5 V/μm at 10 mA/cm. It is believed that the existence of hexagonal diamond phase has improved the field emission properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: “Comb-like” graft copolymers, consisting of a poly((N-vinylcarbazole)-co-(4-vinylbenzyl chloride)) (P(NVK-co-VBC)) copolymer backbone from free radical polymerization and poly(((2-dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate)-co-(tert-butyl acrylate)) (P(DMAEMA-co-tBA)) side chains from atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP), were hydrolyzed to produce the acrylic acid (AAc)-containing “comb-like” graft copolymers of P(NVK-co-VBC)-comb-P(DMAEMA-co-AAc). The amphiphilic copolymers possess a fluorescent hydrophobic P(NVK-co-VBC) backbone and pH-sensitive hydrophilic P(DMAEMA-co-AAc) side chains. Arising from acid–base interaction of the hydrophilic side chains, the copolymers can self-assemble into pH-responsive fluorescent and multi-walled hollow vesicles of well-defined morphology in aqueous media. The size and layered wall thickness of the vesicles are also dependent on the length of the copolymer side chains, while the number of wall layers is dependent on the concentration of the vesicles in the aqueous media. In comparison, a N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAAm)-containing comb-like amphiphilic copolymer (P(NVK-co-VBC)-comb-P(NIPAAm-co-DMAEMA)) of similar structure, albeit with non-interacting hydropholic side chains, self-assembles only into temperature and pH-responsive single-shelled hollow nanoparticles in aqueous media. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Non-invasive fluorescence imaging is an important technique in biology. However, detection of traditional biomarker emissions is accompanied by a high background signal. In this study we examined whether upconversion sodium yttrium fluoride (NaYF(4)) nanocrystals were suitable for autofluorescence-free multicolor fluorescence imaging in a living animal. Tissue autofluorescence was induced with a 405 nm light source, then rats were subjected to injection of fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), cadmium selenide/zinc sulfide (CdSe/ZnS) quantum dots (QDs), or NaYF(4):ytterbium/thulium (Yb(3+)/Tm(3+)), NaYF(4):Yb(3+)/holmium (Ho(3+)), and NaYF(4):Yb(3+)/Ho(3+)/cerium (Ce(3+)) nanocrystals. Imaging with NaYF(4) nanocrystals (974 nm laser) completely removed the high tissue autofluorescence, in marked contrast to imaging with FITC and QDs (405 nm light). Optical imaging experiments demonstrated that multiple biological targets and organs could be imaged at the same time using multicolor NaYF(4) upconversion nanocrystals under a single excitation wavelength (974 nm). These data demonstrated the proof-of-principle that autofluorescence-free multicolor imaging using near-infrared to visible upconversion of NaYF(4) nanocrystals excited by laser can be performed in a living animal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this study, polycrystalline linneite (Co3S4) nanotubes constructed with nanoparticles have been firstly fabricated using 1D Co(CO3)0.35Cl0.20(OH)1.10 nanowires as the sacrificial templates under hydrothermal conditions. The samples are characterized by means of XRD and TEM. The formation mechanism of the Co3S4 nanotubes can be explained by the nanoscale Kirkendall effect, which results from the difference in diffusion rates between cobalt source and hydrogen sulfide. This simple synthetic route is expected to prepare other nanomaterials with the tubular structures. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• The ZnO/cellulose catalyst was fabricated at different cellulose fiber sizes. • The morphology of ZnO was controlled by different cellulose fiber sizes. • The rational formation mechanism of ZnO sheet and flower was proposed. • ZnO/NFC prepared from small size fibers exhibited best photocatalytic activity. • The photodegradation products were determined by TOC and LC–MS. The cellulose fibers with different size and aspect ratio was used as the matrix for the controllable preparation of zinc oxide (ZnO) to synthesize ZnO/cellulose composite catalyst with adjustable photocatalytic properties. The ZnO with different morphology of sphere, sheet, and flower, was in-situ synthesized on cellulose fibers by chemical deposition method, the flower-like ZnO supported on cellulose fiber exhibited the best photocatalytic activity. Furthermore, with the decrease of fiber size, the morphology of ZnO changed from most sheet to fully self-assembled flower shape, and the average thickness of nanosheets was increased. Cellulose fibers with smaller size and higher aspect ratio were more likely to form a 3D network structure with rich pores and stable mechanical properties. Significantly, with the decreasing of fiber size, ZnO/NFC has excellent photocatalytic efficiency (100 %). All ZnO/cellulose composites can be recycled more than five times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• On the premise of adding a small amount of magnetic iron nanoparticles to prepare an ultra-light absorbing material, the sample can obtain a good reflection loss value in the S-band. • Using urea as a nitrogen source, EG is doped to optimize its dielectric constant, and by adjusting the mass ratio of FeNPs, the absorbing performance can be effectively adjusted. • Compared with other materials of the same type, it has better matching frequency and absorbing bandwidth. • The simple material preparation process provides valuable experience for the industrial production of excellent absorbers. Recent findings reveal that expanded graphite (EG) composite with metal nanoparticles has an excellent performance in the field of absorbing materials. The N-dope broken EG/FeNPs (NBEG/Fe) composites with sandwich structure and low graphitization degree were prepared through hydrothermal reaction. The doping N element further enhances the electrical conductivity of EG, the purpose is to be consistent with the high permeability of the core-shell Fe/Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles (FeNPs), which can effectively improve the matching impedance. The experimental results in the 2–18 GHz range prove that NBEG/Fe has better absorption performance than pure EG and BEG/Fe, and by changing the content of FeNPs, the purpose of effectively absorbing electromagnetic microwaves in different frequency bands can be achieved. With only 10% addition of NBEG/Fe, when the matching frequency is 15.67 and 4.51 GHz, and the matching thickness is 1.42 and 5.40 mm, the reflection loss (RL) of NBEG/Fe reaches −56.75 and −43.3 dB, the RL value of NBEG/Fe has also reached an effective absorption bandwidth of 3.92 GHz (RL ≤ 20.0 dB) in the interval 4.06–10.64 GHz. In particular, the RL value of NBEG/Fe in the S-band (at 3.74 GHz) reaches −40.3 dB at a thickness of 6.5 mm. Moreover, under the matching frequency and matching thickness good absorption performance (RL<−20.0 dB) from 2.00 GHz to 18.00 GHz is obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proanthocyanidins-functionalized Au/Ag bimetallic nanoparticles were synthesized by a hydrothermal method. The obtained Au/Ag nanoparticles have been characterized by UV-Vis absorption spectra (UV), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The UV and FTIR measurement indicated that the as-synthesized colloids have the spherical shapes and the presence of the polymerized proanthocyanidins around metal nanoparticles. TEM and XRD results revealed that the nanoparticles have uniform core-shell structures and the metal core possessed a highly crystalline structure. Furthermore, it was found that the proanthocyanidins-functionalized Au/Ag bimetallic nanoparticles have high removal efficiency for some organic dyes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Separation of Xe and Kr is one of the greatest challenges in the gas industries owing to their close molecular structure and similar properties. Energy‐effective adsorption‐based separation using chemically stable carbon adsorbents is a promising technology. We propose a strategy for Xe/Kr separation using MOF‐derived metallic carbon adsorbents. M‐Gallate (M=Ni, Co) were used as precursors to fabricate CoNi alloy nanoparticles embedded carbon adsorbents by one‐step auto‐reduction pyrolysis. The optimal NiCo@C‐700 exhibits record‐high IAST selectivity (24.1) and Henry's selectivity (20.1) of Xe/Kr among reported carbon adsorbents. DFT calculations, local density of states calculation, charge density difference, and Bader charge analysis reveal the great affinity with Xe benefits from the presence of Ni or CoNi nanoparticles as a result of more charge transfer from Xe than Kr to metal, thus providing higher binding energy. Breakthrough experiments further verify NiCo@C‐700 a promising candidate for Xe/Kr separation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Separation of Xe and Kr is one of the greatest challenges in the gas industries owing to their close molecular structure and similar properties. Energy‐effective adsorption‐based separation using chemically stable carbon adsorbents is a promising technology. We propose a strategy for Xe/Kr separation using MOF‐derived metallic carbon adsorbents. M‐Gallate (M=Ni, Co) were used as precursors to fabricate CoNi alloy nanoparticles embedded carbon adsorbents by one‐step auto‐reduction pyrolysis. The optimal NiCo@C‐700 exhibits record‐high IAST selectivity (24.1) and Henry's selectivity (20.1) of Xe/Kr among reported carbon adsorbents. DFT calculations, local density of states calculation, charge density difference, and Bader charge analysis reveal the great affinity with Xe benefits from the presence of Ni or CoNi nanoparticles as a result of more charge transfer from Xe than Kr to metal, thus providing higher binding energy. Breakthrough experiments further verify NiCo@C‐700 a promising candidate for Xe/Kr separation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liquid deposit mimicking surface aerosolization in the airway is a promising strategy for targeting bronchopulmonary tumors with reduced doses of nanoparticle (NPs). In mimicking and studying such delivery approaches, the use of human in vitro 3D culture models can bridge the gap between 2D cell culture and small animal investigations. Here, we exposed airway epithelia to liquid-apical gadolinium-based AGuIX® NPs in order to determine their safety profile. We used a multiparametric methodology to investigate the NP's distribution over time in both healthy and tumor-bearing 3D models. AGuIX® NPs were able to target tumor cells in the absence of specific surface functionalization, without evidence of toxicity. Finally, we validated the therapeutic potential of this hybrid theranostic AGuIX® NPs upon radiation exposure in this model. In conclusion, 3D cell cultures can efficiently mimic the normal and tumor-bearing airway epitheliums, providing an ethical and accessible model for the investigation of nebulized NPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel TiO 2 (B) confined in porous bio-derived carbon has been prepared for dehydrogenated catalyzation of NH 3 BH 3. The microstructural characterizations of as-prepared samples show that the nanoconfinement in well-organized micro/mesopores of carbon can avoid the aggregations of TiO 2 (B) nanoparticles and NH 3 BH 3. The dehydrogenation measurement demonstrates the dehydrogenated thermodynamic and dynamic properties of NH 3 BH 3 could be improved under the con-catalyzation of TiO 2 (B) and porous carbon. The results suggest that both TiO 2 (B) and porous bio-derived C are promising catalysts. Additionally, it also provides a high-value solution for the disposal of agricultural wastes. • Bio-derived C with well-organized micro/mesopores in walls of its microchannel. • A novel TiO 2 (B) nanoconfined into pores of bio-derived C. • Enhanced dehydrogenation of NH 3 BH 3 with individual or complex of C and TiO 2 (B). • Best dehydrogenation behavior of C-TiO 2 (B)/NH 3 BH 3 than C/NH 3 BH 3 and TiO 2 (B)/NH 3 BH 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, nano-scaled chirality has attained significant attraction from various research areas depending on its fundamental significance in the matter of living and nature. In this work, we designed and fabricated d-/l-Pe-Au nanoparticles (Chiral Penicillamine-modified Gold NPs), system for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. RTCA (real-time cell analysis) assay was performed using rat PC12 (Pheochromocytoma) cells to investigate the capable cytotoxicity of d-/l-Pe-Au nanoparticles. At any point of given time, with increase in the concentration of d-Pe-Au nanoparticles, we observed a significant decrease in the cell index, which suggests that the cytotoxic effect on the PC12 cells depends on the concentration. We believe that the results obtained may be significant for other chiral nanoparticles in the treatment of the disease called Alzheimer's and also has an extensive utilization in the studies and applications based on NPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We developed a facile one-step dialysis method to prepare a series of hollow iridium complexes and their rare-earth hybrid complex nanoparticles (NPs). The resulting Ir–Dy hybrid NPs exhibited an excellent transverse relaxivity (r2) value of ∼194.5 mM−1 s−1 (7.0 T) and a strong ultrasound contrast effect with the signal stable up to 10 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]