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A stable scale-up production strategy is necessary to propel high-performance Pt nanoparticles (NPs) catalysts from academic research to industrial applications. Conventional batch-type reactors scale up the production of Pt NPs catalysts by expanding the volume of the reaction vessel, which induces insufficient reaction control due to the limited heat transfer capacity. It can lead to severe agglomeration of Pt NPs and prevent the original high catalytic activity. Here, the continuous flow technology with efficient heat transfer was demonstrated to possess excellent properties of efficient and stable reaction control, which can effectively avoid agglomeration and stably produce Pt NPs catalysts with Pt NPs of uniform size and homogeneous dispersion on carbon supports at various production scales. The results show that the continuous flow technology enables the reaction slurry to reach the equilibrium temperature with a tiny difference (<1 °C) from the preset temperature within 1 min, reducing the reaction time from 4 h in the batch-type reactor to 10 min. The Pt NPs catalyst synthesized by it achieved a performance of 1.32 W cm−2 at 0.6 V, 1.4 times that of the batch-type reactor. It is an ideal solution to promote the rapid industrial application of high-performance Pt NPs catalysts that conduct laboratory synthesis studies of small amounts by the efficient and convenient continuous flow reactor and then use the same continuous flow reactor to perform efficient and stable scale-up production. • Continuous flow technology allows scale-up production of Pt NPs catalysts at various scales with stable quality. • Heat transfer is substantially improved, and reaction conditions are more stably controlled. • Continuous flow technology can reduce reaction times from 4 h to 10 min. • Pt nanoparticles are less agglomerated and more homogeneously distributed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For large-scale and sustainable water electrolysis, it is of great significance to develop cheap and efficient electrocatalysts that can replace platinum. Currently, it is difficult for most catalysts to combine high activity and stability. To solve this problem, we use cobalt to regulate the electronic structure of ruthenium to achieve high activity, and use carbon matrix to protect alloy nanoparticles to achieve high stability. Herein, based on the zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs), a novel hybrid composed of RuCo alloy nano-particles and N-doped carbon was prepared via a facile pyrolysis-displacement-sintering strategy. Due to the unique porous structure and multi-component synergy, the optimal RuCo500@NC750 material in both acidic and alkaline media exhibited eminent HER catalytic activity. Notably, the 3-RuCo500@NC750 obtained a current density of 10 mA cm−2 at 22 mV and 31 mV in 0.5 M H2SO4 and 1.0 M KOH, respectively, comparable to that of the reference Pt/C catalyst. Furthermore, the Tafel slopes of the catalyst are 52 mV Dec−1 and 47 mV Dec−1, respectively, under acid and alkali conditions, and the catalyst has good stability, indicating that it has broad application prospects in practical electrolytic systems. This work contributes to understanding the role of carbon-supported polymetallic alloy in the electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution process, and provides some inspiration for the development of a high efficiency hydrogen evolution catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial infections are a significant global health concern, particularly in the context of skin infections and chronic wounds, which was further exacerbated by the emerging of antibiotic resistance. Therefore, there are urgent needs to develop alternative antibacterial strategies without inducing significant resistance. Photothermal therapy (PTT) is a promising alternative approach but usually faces limitations such as the need for stable and environmental-friendly PTT agents and ensuring biocompatibility with living tissues, necessitating ongoing research for its clinical advancement. Herein, in this study, with the aim to develop a green synthesized PTT agent for photothermal enhanced antibacterial and wound healing, we proposed a facile one-pot method to prepare epigallocatechin gallate-ferric (EGCG-Fe) complex nanoparticles. The obtained nanoparticles showed improved good size distribution and stability with high reproducibility. More importantly, EGCG-Fe complex nanoparticles have additional photothermal conversion ability which can give photothermal enhanced antibacterial effect on various pathogens, including Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Gram-negative Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains. EGCG-Fe complex nanoparticles also showed powerful biofilm prevention and destruction effects with promoted antibacterial and wound healing on mice model. In conclusion, EGCG-Fe complex nanoparticles can be a robust green material with effective and novel light controllable antibacterial properties for photothermal enhanced antibacterial and wound healing applications. [Display omitted] • A facile one-pot method for green synthesis of EGCG-Fe was proposed • EGCG-Fe is a stable and environmental-friendly PTT agent with high biocompatibility • EGCG-Fe shows photothermal enhanced antibacterial and wound healing effects [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skin infection is a major health issue that usually is caused by the continuous proliferation of bacteria in wounds. With the abuse of antibiotics worldwide, the battle against skin infection is becoming more and more difficult. Therefore, the development of new ways with different antibacterial mechanisms to current antibiotics is urgently needed. Inspired by the powerful inhibition of ferroptosis used in cancer therapy, here in our study, ferric-loaded lipid nanoparticles (Fe-LNPs) with unform size (∼130 nm) and surface charge (∼12 mV) were constructed and found to effectively inhibit the growth of both Gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus, S. aureus) and negative (Escherichia coli, E. coli) strains, possibly due to induction of ferroptosis-like cell death mechanisms. Most importantly, Fe-LNPs can also effectively inhibit the proliferation of S. aureus in a skin infection model and promote the healing of wounds. The Fe-LNPs can be applied as a powerful antibacterial formulation for future application in clinic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Abstract The fabrication of nanomaterials with tunable shape and size has attracted much attention in chemical and physical fields. It is particularly significant to study the effect of catalyst particle size on catalytic performance in the field of catalysis. At present, there are relatively few studies in this field, the main challenge lies in the difficulty of synthesizing catalysts with uniform size. If the particle size of a certain size is not uniform, it is meaningless to compare the catalytic performance with that of other catalysts for size effect. Herein, we successfully synthesized the monodisperse PdAg nanoparticles with three different sizes by changing the type of reducing agents. Among the three catalysts, the PdAg-S NPs (PdAg-Small nanoparticles) with an average size of 3.1 nm exhibited superior electrocatalytic performances of ethylene glycol and glycerol oxidation reactions, which were obviously better than others size PdAg NPs catalysts and commercial Pd/C catalyst. This work revealed the size effect of PdAg nanoparticles in the alcohols electrooxidation and provided a simple method in the design of different sizes of nanocrystals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A facile solvent diffusion method was developed to prepare phospholipid–amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC) hybrid nanoparticles via a one-pot approach. The hybrid nanoparticles can specifically realize water-responsive burst drug release in cancer cells and potentiate drug penetration into deep tumor tissues for advanced cancer therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The poor solubility, instability and low absorption rate obstruct the bioavailability of polyphenols isolated from Malus baccata (MBP) during gastrointestinal digestion. In order to solve the limitable problems, the food-grade nanoparticles were fabricated by mucin (MC) and Hohenbuehelia serotina polysaccharides (HSP) for delivery of MBP (MBP-NPs). The physicochemical properties and morphology of MBP-NPs prepared by different condition were respectively characterized. During gastrointestinal digestion in vitro , the release characteristic and variation in phenolic composition of MBP-NPs were evaluated. The results showed that MBP-NPs formed by hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interaction possessed the regularly spherical shapes and smooth surfaces and semi-crystalline properties. Moreover, MBP-NPs presented the excellent physicochemical stability. During simulated gastrointestinal digestion in vitro , MBP-NPs exhibited the sustained release characteristics of phenolic compounds, which were confirmed by SDS-PAGE measurement. Compared with that of unencapsulated MBP, the significant variation was occurred in the phenolic composition of MBP-NPs, indicating that MBP-NPs could prevent the degradation and transformation of phenolic compounds. This study provides a novel strategy to improve the bioavailability of polyphenols. [Display omitted] • The nanoparticles based on MC and HSP were constructed for delivery of MBP. • MBP-NPs had the excellent stability against heat, pH, ionic strength and UV radiation. • MBP-NPs possessed the sustain release during gastrointestinal digestion in vitro. • The polyphenols were well protected by encapsulation in MBP-NPs during digestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

L-glutamic acid (LA) is a bio-based, non-toxic, environmentally friendly material derived from biomass. The present study reports the application of Passerini three-component polymerization (P-3CP) for the straightforward preparation of LA-based light-responsive polyesters (PLTDs) under mild conditions. PLTDs with molar masses up to 8500 g/mol and high yields exceeding 90% are obtained. The chemical structures and light-responsive self-immolative behavior of PLTDs are comprehensively characterized by employing ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, size exclusion chromatography (SEC), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Meanwhile, monodisperse PLTD-based doxorubicin-loaded nanoparticles (PLTD-DOX-NP) (size=193 nm, PDI=0.018) are formulated by nanoprecipitation method. Upon light-induced depolymerization, the PLTD-DOX-NP undergoes rapid decomposition, resulting in a burst release of 80% cargo within 13 s. Furthermore, according to biological toxicity tests, the PLTD-NP possesses adequate biosafety, both before and after irradiation. Overall, the incorporation of P-3CP with biorenewable LA-based monomer adheres to the principles of green chemistry, significantly simplifying the synthetic pathway of light-responsive polymers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• C-coated β-SiC nanoparticles with size of about 8 nm were prepared by plasmas. • SiO 2 -coated SiC nanoparticles were synthesized by heat treatment in the air. • SiO 2 layers enhanced the blue-green PL emission due to the surface/defect states. • C-coated SiC exhibited strong microwave absorption with optimal RL of −38.4 dB. Plasma-generated SiC nanoparticles are easily functionalized due to their ability to be easily oxidized. In this study, SiC nanoparticles were synthesized in non-thermal arc plasmas via hexamethyldisilane decomposition, and the products were modified by heat treatment under air atmosphere. Results indicated that the plasma-generated SiC nanoparticles were C-coated SiC nanoparticles with an average size of 8 nm, while the heat treatment transformed the initial carbon coating layers into SiO 2 layers to form SiO 2 -coated SiC nanoparticles by surface oxidation. The formation of SiO 2 layers enhanced the photoluminescence performance in the blue-green emission region, and also resulted in a blue-shift in the photoluminescence peak mainly due to the surface/defect states. The C-coated SiC nanoparticles exhibited excellent microwave absorption ability, and the optimal reflection loss approached −38.4 dB at 11.7 GHz under an absorber thickness of 2.0 mm; however the formation of SiO 2 layers after modification decreased the conduction loss of SiC nanoparticles, thus weakening their microwave absorption. These results afford a new strategy for designing and synthesizing C/SiO 2 -coated SiC nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Correction for 'Facile preparation of phospholipid–amorphous calcium carbonate hybrid nanoparticles: toward controllable burst drug release and enhanced tumor penetration' by Cheng Wang et al., Chem. Commun., 2018, 54, 13080–13083, DOI: 10.1039/C8CC07694D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) have great potential application in achieving targeted delivery of anticancer drugs. Paclitaxel (PTX) loaded NPs were developed using biodegradable methoxy poly (ethylene glycol)–poly (ɛ-caprolactone) (MPEG–PCL) diblock copolymer by solid dispersion technique without toxic organic solvent. The lyophilized powder has been stored at room temperature for more than six months and still unchanged. PTX-loaded MPEG–PCL nanoparticles (PTX-NPs) displayed that the highest drug loading of PTX was about 25.6% and entrapment efficiency was over 98%, and the optimized average diameter and polydispersity index (PDI) were about 27.6±0.1nm and 0.05, respectively. Moreover, experimental results shown PTX-NPs had sustained-release effects and its curve fitting followed the Higuchi model. The maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of PTX-NPs after single dose in Balb/c mice was above 80mg PTX/kg body weight (b.w), which was 2.6-fold higher than that of Taxol® (30mg PTX/kg b.w). The levels of PTX administrated PTX-NPs had obvious distinction to Taxol® in plasma, liver, spleen, kidneys, lungs, heart and tumor. Especially, the concentration of PTX in tumor administrated PTX-NPs was higher than administration of Taxol®. All results suggested that we had contrived a simple, biodegradable, effective and controllable drug delivery system for paclitaxel. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The photocatalytic degradation of 2-chlorophenol (2-CP) irradiated with visible light over iodine doped TiO2 (IT) modified with SnO2 (SIT) nanoparticles has been investigated in this study. The structure and optical properties of the SIT catalysts have been well characterized by X-ray diffraction, the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller method, transmission electron microscopy, UV–visible absorption spectra and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The effects of preparation conditions, such as SnO2 content and calcination temperature, on the photocatalytic degradation efficiency have been surveyed in detail. The improved photocatalytic activity of SIT is derived from the synergistic effect between the SnO2 and IT, which promoted the efficiency of migration of the photogenerated carriers at the interface of the catalysts and thereby enhanced the efficiency of photon harvesting in the visible region. The action of scavengers (fluoride ion, iodide ion, tert-butyl alcohol, and persulfate ion), as well as N2 purging on the photodegradation rate reveal that the valence band hole is mainly responsible for the effective photocatalytic removal of 2-CP and the corresponding TOC reduction. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study analyzes the effects of Tween 80 and Span 20 on the electrical interaction between cationic solid lipid nanoparticles (CSLNs) and human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs). Electrophoretic mobility, zeta potential and fixed charge density of CSLNs and HBMECs with uptake of CSLNs were also investigated. The results revealed that a higher molar ratio of Tween 80 yielded smaller CSLNs, higher charge of CSLNs and larger electrical attraction energy between CSLNs and HBMECs. On the contrary, a decrease in the molar ratio of Tween 80 enhanced the absolute values of electrophoretic mobility and zeta potential of CSLNs-incorporating HBMECs. In addition, a higher concentration of CSLNs in the dispersion medium led to lower charge of CSLNs-incorporating HBMECs. An increased concentration of glutamate from 1 to 2mg/mL enhanced the absolute values of electrophoretic properties of CSLNs-incorporating HBMECs. In the case of increasing concentration of glutamate, pure Tween 80 was stronger in charge enhancement than pure Span 20. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Vanadium oxide (B) (VO 2 (B)), easily obtained by a hydrothermal method, can be transformed to VO 2 (M/R) under high-temperature annealing treatment (> 500 °C) without oxygen atmosphere. However, the coarsening of VO 2 (M/R) particles is always observed after high-temperature annealing, which may seriously degrade optical properties. In this study, the ball milling method is used, for the first time, to transform VO 2 (B) nanobelts into spherical VO 2 (M/R) nanoparticles with the average particle size of 38 nm at room temperature and under atmospheric conditions. The effects of ball-to-powder weight ratio (BPR) and milling time on crystalline phase and morphology of VO 2 were systematically investigated and found the optimum processing parameters with BPR of 10:1 and the milling time of 3 h. The thin coating based on the obtained VO 2 (M/R) nanoparticles shows good optical properties that the modulation ability can reach up to 14.03% while the visible light transmittance is 41%, which promotes the practical application in smart windows. In addition, the mechanism of the phase transformation from VO 2 (B) to VO 2 (M/R) is analyzed and confirms that the pressure caused by ball collision plays a major role in the ball milling process. [Display omitted] • VO 2 (B) was transformed into VO 2 (M) by high-energy ball milling at room temperature and atmospheric conditions. • The optical properties of the milled samples are obviously better than those of the annealed samples. • The high-energy ball milling method is a new idea for the preparation of VO 2 (M). • The pressure produced by ball impact is the driving force of phase transformation. • The high-energy ball milling method provided a new method for solid phase preparation of VO 2 (A). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An atmospheric plasma was developed for amorphous SiC nanoparticles synthesis. • Ultrafine amorphous SiC nanoparticles (~9 nm) were prepared by HMDS decomposition. • The surface of SiC nanoparticles had abundant functional groups and oxidized overlayers. • Strong blue-green light emission was found under the excitation of 340–420 nm. • High input energy promoted the transition from amorphous structure to β-SiC. An atmospheric non-thermal arc plasma source based on magnetically stabilized gliding arc discharge was developed for the continuous preparation of ultrafine amorphous silicon carbide (a-SiC) nanoparticles via hexamethyldisilane decomposition. Results showed that the as-synthesized products were a mix of a-SiC nanoparticles and free carbon excess. The average particle size of nanoparticles was about 9 nm, and there were abundant functional groups and oxidized overlayers on the surface of the nanoparticles. Photoluminescence properties revealed the a-SiC nanoparticles had strong blue-green light emission under the excitation of 340–420 nm, which was possibly related to the surface functional groups, oxidized overlayers and quantum confinement effect due to ultrafine size. Correlations between the arc current and the crystal structure of the product indicated that the low input energy favored the synthesis of a-SiC nanoparticles, while the high input energy promoted the transition from amorphous structure to β-SiC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: One-dimensional TiO2 nanoparticles within polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) fiber matrices were prepared via coupling sol–gel method and electrospinning. TEM analysis indicated that TiO2 nanoparticles chain was in the middle of PVP fiber and dispersed linearly along the fiber direction, which originated from the effect of polarization and orientation caused by high electric field. With the increase of the concentration of sol–gel precursor in the electrospinning solution, the diameter of nanoparticles in resulting fibers decreased from 60 to 13 nm. This composite nanomaterial will have potential applications in photoluminescent (PL), electroluminescent (EL) and non-linear optical devices, flat panel displays, photocathodes for solar and so on. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Nano-sized SnO2 particles were prepared by the fusion of SnCl2·2H2O with sodium nitrate. X-ray diffraction and TEM were used to study the samples. According to XRD and TEM results, the average particle size/crystal sizes of SnO2 increase from 2.9 nm/2.5 nm to 8.6 nm/8.4 nm. The experiments reveal that the effects of synthesis temperature and synthesis time on the crystalline size are significant but the influence of reaction mixture composition on the particle size is rather small. Nano-sized SnO2 with advisable crystalline size can be obtained by the control of reaction mixture composition, synthesis temperature and synthesis time. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Chelating poly(acrylates-co-2-methylacrylic acid 3-(bis-carboxymethylamino)-2-hydroxy-propyl ester) microspheres of diameter 250–310 nm were prepared by the soap-free emulsion polymerization method for varying amounts of GMA-IDA. Then CdS/copolymer composite was generated by chemical deposition on the surface of the copolymer microspheres. By XRD analysis it is found that the chelated CdS nanoparticles are a pure cubic zinc blende structure. The CdS/copolymer composite is examined by UV–vis absorbance, photoluminescence, and TEM observation. Average CdS nanoparticle size calculated from Henglein''s empirical curve is in the range of 3.0–8.0 nm and varies according to the GMA-IDA molar ratio during polymerization, pH value during chelation, and postchelation annealing temperature. Higher ratio of chelating group, pH value, and annealing temperature produce larger CdS nanoparticles. As GMA-IDA ratio increases, photoluminescence exhibits a red shift from 510 to 520 nm, photoluminescence increases, and bandwidth decreases. Photoluminescence of the CdS nanoparticle becomes negligible when diameter exceeds 5 nm. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Benorilate was determined by the differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) using a carbon paste electrode modified by silver nanoparticles in 1.25×10−3 moll−1 KH2PO4 and Na2HPO4 buffer solution (pH=6.88, 25°C) .The anodic peak potential was +0.970V (versus SCE). A good linear relationship was realized between the anodic peak currents and benorilate concentrations in the range of 1.0×10−7 to 2.5×10−4 moll−1 with the detection limit of 1.0×10−8 moll−1. The recovery was 95.2–103.6% with the relative standard deviation of 3.6% (n =9). The pharmaceutical preparations, benorilate tablets samples and its metabolite (salicylic acid) in urine were determined with the desirable results. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study proposes new method for preparing hybrid CdS nanoparticles in poly(BA-co-GMA-co-GMA-IDA) (PBGM) copolymer membranes with controllable size. PBGM membranes were prepared by soap-free emulsion copolymerization of n-butylacrylate (BA), glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) and 2-methacrylic acid 3-(bis-carboxymethylamino)-2-hydroxy-propyl ester (GMA-IDA). GMA-IDA chelating groups within the copolymer were the coordination sites for chelating Cd2+, at which nano-sized CdS nanoparticles were grown. The GMA-IDA mole fractions in PBGM1, PBGM2, and PBGM3 were 3.97%, 6.41%, and 8.79%, respectively, as determined by elemental analysis. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectra were used to elucidate the characteristics of GMA-IDA in PBGM membranes. The size distribution, morphology, and structure of CdS nanoparticles were measured by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction. TEM observations reveal that the mean diameters of CdS nanoparticles can be controlled between 3nm and 6nm inside the matrix of the PBGM membranes. The UV–vis absorption spectra provide information on the absorption edges, band-gaps and mean diameters, the results of which are consistence with the TEM observations. Photoluminescence spectra show the characteristics of excitation absorption of the hybrid membranes. Scanning electron microscopy images reveal the different sizes distributions of CdS nanoparticles on the surfaces. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this study, we report the first sonoelectrochemical methods of preparing elemental Ag(0)-coated TiO2 nanoparticles. The coverage of Ag shells in the prepared nanocomposites is 0.93. First, Ag substrates were cycled in a deoxygenated aqueous solution containing 0.1 M HCl and 1 mM TiO2 nanoparticles from −0.3 to +0.3 V vs Ag|AgCl at 5 mV/s for 30 cycles. After this process, positively charged Ag-coated TiO2 nanoparticles were formed in the solutions. Then a cathodic overpotential of 0.6 V from the open circuit potential (ocp) of ca. 0.68 V vs Ag|AgCl was applied under sonication to synthesize elemental Ag(0)-coated TiO2 nanoparticles. The extremely high coverage of 0.93 in this work is notable, as compared with other methods to prepare metal-coated TiO2 nanoparticles. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• A non-thermal plasma process is developed for carbon nanoparticles synthesis. • Effects of buffer gases on product microstructure are investigated. • Graphene nanoflakes with good thermal stability are obtained in He and H 2. • Complex nitrogen-doped nanoparticles are formed in N 2 atmosphere. • This process can compete with microwave plasma due to its higher synthesis rate. A non-thermal plasma source based on magnetically stabilized gliding arc discharge (MSGAD) was used to prepare carbon nanoparticles via methane decomposition. Spherical carbon nanoparticles (SCNs), few-layer graphene nanoflakes (GNFs), and nitrogen-doped carbon nanoparticles were obtained. The results showed that the product microstructure was influenced by the buffer gas. In pure methane and argon, the products were a mixture of SCNs and GNFs. In helium and hydrogen, all products were highly crystalline GNFs with low defects, few layers, large BET surface areas, and excellent thermal stability. Under a nitrogen atmosphere, nitrogen-doped nanoparticles were formed, and the products were a mixture of GNFs, disordered graphitic layers, and tiny spots similar to carbon dots. The formation of GNFs was possibly related to the high input power and abundant hydrogen atoms, while the complex product morphology obtained under a nitrogen atmosphere was likely caused by the incorporation of nitrogen atoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyramidal Pt-FeNi@C, P hybrid catalyst with ultralow Pt doping (only 0.4 atom%) are designed by a partially phosphating of metal-organic frameworks strategy, which exhibits dramatically enhanced HER catalytic performance both in acidic and alkaline media. It remains an immense challenge to design robust electrocatalysts for HER both in acidic and alkaline electrolytes. Herein, we report a partially phosphating of metal-organic frameworks strategy to prepare a hybrid catalyst of FeNi alloy/FeNi phosphide with ultralow doped Pt (only 0.4 atom%). With effectively modulated electronic configurations and unique tunneling effects, the optimal Pt-FeNi@C, P exhibits prominent HER activities with the overpotential of 53 and 52 mV (@10 mA cm−2) in acidic and alkaline media, respectively, as well as superior stability. Noticeably, Pt-FeNi@C, P shows significantly enhanced mass activities (@−0.05 V vs RHE) both in acid and alkaline electrolytes, which are 6.6 and 5.6 times higher than that of commercial Pt/C. Based on high electronegativity of P atoms, the negatively charged phosphorus atoms and positively charged metal atoms work in a cooperative manner as the proton-acceptor and hydride-acceptor centers, respectively, substantially supporting the outstanding catalytic activity of Pt-FeNi@C, P. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A non-thermal plasma process is developed for CNOs synthesis. • CNOs are continuously prepared by propane decomposition. • Evolution process from graphene flakes to CNOs is observed. • CNOs are formed from the curving and closure of graphene flakes. • Long residence time and proper H 2 are key conditions for CNOs formation. A novel non-thermal plasma process based on magnetically stabilized gliding arc discharge (MSGAD) is developed for continuous synthesis of carbon nano-onions (CNOs). CNOs with a diameter range of 70–200 nm are continuously prepared by propane decomposition. Results indicate that with increased residence time in the plasma region, the product morphology gradually changes from graphene nanoflakes (GNFs) to CNOs. It is proposed that CNOs synthesis mainly includes three stages: formation of GNFs, curving and closure of multiple GNFs, further graphitization. In addition, H 2 content has a key role in CNOs formation since hydrogen has a significant effect on the formation and morphology of GNFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) hold great promise as carriers for developing drug delivery systems (DDSs) aimed at managing ischemic stroke (IS). Previous research has highlighted the vital role played by the lipid composition and biophysical characteristics of LNPs, influencing their interactions with cells and tissues. This understanding presents an opportunity to engineer LNPs tailored specifically for enhanced IS treatment. We previously introduced the innovative concept of reconstituted lipid nanoparticles (rLNPs), which not only retain the advantages of conventional LNPs but also incorporate lipids from the originating cell or tissue. Brain-derived rLNPs (B-rLNPs) exhibit significantly superior accumulation within the cerebral ischemic region when compared to liver-derived rLNPs (L-rLNPs). The homing effect of B-rLNPs was then employed to construct 3-n-butylphthalide (NBP) loaded DDS (B-rLNPs/NBP) for the treatment of IS. Our results demonstrated that compared with free NBP, B-rLNPs/NBP can significantly reduce infarct volume, neurological deficits, blood-brain barrier (BBB) leakage rate, brain water content, neutrophil infiltration, alleviate pathological structures, and improve the motor function in MCAO/R model. We also proved that B-rLNPs/NBP showed further reinforced protective effects on the same model than free NBP through the regulation of TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB (anti-inflammation) and Bax/Bcl-2 (anti-apoptosis) pathways. This study offers a promising tool towards improved IS treatment. [Display omitted] • B-rLNPs show selective homing to cerebral ischemic area. • B-rLNPs/NBP significantly improves the protective effect of NBP on MCAO/R model. • B-rLNPs/NBP functions through TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB and Bax/Bcl-2 pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CsPbX3 (X=Cl, Br, I) nanocrystals (NCs) are considered as one of the most promising photocatalytic materials. Unfortunately, their environmental instability, especially the intrinsic water vulnerability, brought their applications major obstacles in the photosynthetic fields. To improve the stability for photocatalytic water splitting, we for the first time chose conductive polymer, polyaniline (PANI), as the encapsulating material to fabricate CsPbBr3@PANI nanoparticles (NPs) by photo‐polymerization method. After optimizing, the photocatalytic hydrogen production efficiency of CsPbBr3@PANI NPs reached 4.81 mmol/(h ⋅ g) and the catalytic lifetime achieved 120 hours. Our work that achieved the stable CsPbBr3@PANI NPs shed light on potential opportunity for catalytic application of CsPbBr3 NCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A nanoporous and large surface area (∼800 m2/g) graphene-based material was produced by plasma treatment of natural flake graphite and was subsequently surface decorated with platinum (Pt) nano-sized particles via thermal reduction of a Pt precursor (chloroplatinic acid). The carbon-metal nanocomposite showed a ∼2 wt% loading of well-dispersed Pt nanoparticles (<2 nm) across its porous graphene surface, while neither a significant surface chemistry alteration nor a pore structure degradation was observed due to the Pt decoration procedure. The presence of Pt seems to slightly promote the hydrogen sorption behavior at room temperature with respect to the pure graphene, thus implying the rise of "weak" chemisorption phenomena, including a potential hydrogen "spillover" effect. The findings of this experimental study provide insights for the development of novel graphene-based nanocomposites for hydrogen storage applications at ambient conditions. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of high‐efficiency and good biocompatible photothermal therapy platforms is conducive to avoiding the risks of nano‐preparations in vivo. The poly‐L‐lactic acid (PLLA) indicated good biodegradability and biocompatibility. Inspired by natural melanin and the extraordinary nontoxic mussel biopolymer, polydopamine nanoparticles (PDA NPs) with photothermal efficacy have attracted increasing attention. Herein, we performed the study of blended PDA/PLLA and coated PDA@PLLA electrospun nanofibers (ESNFs) for photothermal therapy. In photothermal experiment, the PDA@PLLA ESNF displayed higher light‐to‐heat conversion and photothermal stability than that of PDA/PLLA and PLLA ESNF. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments tested that three kinds of ESNF exhibited low toxicity and outstanding biocompatibility. Moreover, the PDA@PLLA ESNF showed better property for the cell proliferation due to the rough surface and good hydrophilicity. The in vivo photothermal potentiality of the PLLA, PDA/PLA and PDA@PLLA ESNF was evaluated in nude mice of inoculating the tumor, in which the PDA/PLA and PDA@PLLA ESNF significantly inhibited the tumor increasing compared to control group. Especially, the PDA@PLLA ESNF showed better photothermal therapy, which made the tumor irreversible ablate at local tumor tissue. These results stand out the usage of PDA@PLLA ESNF as potential photothermal therapy material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistance by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) raises an urgent need for an effective vaccine. The outer membrane proteins of PA, especially those that are upregulated during infection, are ideal vaccine targets. However, the strong hydrophobicity of these proteins hinders their application for this purpose. In this study, we selected eight outer membrane proteins from PA with the most significantly upregulated expression. Their extracellular loops were analyzed and screened by using sera from patients who had recovered from PA infection. As a result, a novel immunogenic epitope (Ep167-193) from PilY1 (PA4554) was found. Moreover, we constructed a macrophage membrane-coated PLGA (poly lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticle vaccine carrying PilY1 Ep167-193 (PNPs@M-Ep167-193) that elicits a Th2 immune response and confers adequate protection in mice. Our data furnished the promising vaccine candidate PNPs@M-Ep167-193 while providing additional evidence for structure-based epitope identification and vaccine design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on frequency-domain optical measurement using single nanoparticle plasmon sensors (NanoSPR), a versatile multiplex molecular affinity kinetics detection method is proposed. To improve the detection precision and throughput, a single-color imaging NanoSPR method (SI-NanoSPR) is used to obtain the light scattering signals of thousands of gold nanorod sensors over time under the configuration of a total internal reflection dark-field microscope. The frequency-domain power spectral density analysis of the fluctuation signal extracts the characteristic frequency fc, by which the molecular affinity kinetics manifest the identifiable measurand. By measuring the kinetics of two different aptameric affinity systems in the same microscope field of view, the obtained equilibrium dissociation constants (KD values) are demonstrated to be in agreement with previous studies, which were measured by traditional techniques. We expect that our NanoSPR method may pave the way for a deeper understanding of the physiological essence of biological affinity systems by accurately quantifying multiple affinity constants. The high-throughput biosensing potential is of great significance in further biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a prodrug-converting enzyme, β-glucuronidase (β-GCase) is a lysosomal enzyme participating in the release of glucose from glucopyranosyl glycoside. In this work, for the first time, we have developed an analytical method exhibiting fluorometric signals for straightforward determination of β-GCase using silicon nanoparticles (Si NPs). Via hydrothermal treatment, in the water bath of 70 °C for 50 min, dopamine (DA) reacts with (3-[2-(2-aminoethylamino) ethylamino] propyltrimethoxysilane) (AEEA) to produce green fluorescent Si NPs. Enlightened by such easy reaction and β-GCase-triggered specific hydrolysis of dopamine-4-β-D-glucuronide (DA-GCU) into DA, we have designed an analytical method for β-GCase sensing through the production of Si NPs. Therefore, through the designed sensing platform, β-GCase activity was monitored, and the limit of detection (LOD) for this study was 0.02 U/L. Furthermore, the feasibility of the method was assessed by measuring β-GCase activity in human serum where recoveries and RSD were in the ranges 99–104% and 1.37–3.44, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An ultrasensitive probe-free immunosensor for GA 3 was developed. • PDANPs was used to bind with antibody, so as to improve the sensor performance. • The immunosensor has the lowest LOD and the widest detection range so far for GA 3. • It is the first electrochemical immunosensor for GA 3. Gibberellins (GA 3) is an ubiquitous plant hormone, which plays a regulatory role in different growth stages of plants, so it is of great significance to develop a sensitive quantitative analysis method for GA 3. In this study, carboxylated graphene oxide- carboxylated multi-walled carbon nanotubes-Fc (GO-MWNT-Fc) composite material and PDANPs-antibody (PDANPs-Ab) were sequentially modified to screen-printed electrodes (SPEs), and an ultrasensitive probe-free immunosensor for GA 3 was developed. Fc was applied to generate electrochemical signals. GO-COOH and MWNT-COOH can increase the catalytic ability of the sensor and bind the PDANPs-Ab nanoparticles. PDANPs nanomaterial were synthetized by a facile self-polymerization and used to bind with antibody, so as to increase the antibody loading of the sensor. The as-prepared immunosensor has the widest detection range (100 aM-1 mM) and lowest detection limit (17.4 aM) for GA 3 up to date. To our knowledge, it is the first electrochemical immunosensor for GA 3. By changing the GA 3 antibody to ABA antibody, a sensitive and selective immunosensor for ABA was also fabricated. This immunosensor platform is simple, sensitive, and low cost. It opens broad prospect in on-site applications for biosensors in detecting of various biomolecules in precision agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The envelope structures hardly have the service life up to the design life in severe cold area. Polymer/nano-materials composite coatings are used to enhance the freeze-thaw durability of wall materials. Municipal solid waste incineration fly ash and fly ash were used to fabricate solid wastes-based autoclaved wall blocks (SW-AWBs) with hydrothermal synthesis method. Nano-Al 2 O 3 and graphene nanoplatelets were modified by the coupling agent and used to prepare composite coatings with triethoxy(octyl)silane. Effect of different coatings on the durability of SW-AWBs was compared and discussed. The results showed that the specimens surface changed from hydrophilic to hydrophobic after treated by composite coatings. Meanwhile, the capillary absorption coefficient of SW-AWBs decreased by 57.3%–78.8% and 92.4%–94.1% after treated by triethoxy(octyl)silane/nano-Al 2 O 3 and triethoxy(octyl)silane/graphene nanoplatelets coatings, respectively. Under 15 freeze-thaw cycles, the mass loss of SW-AWBs dropped by 61.9% and 69.4%, the strength loss reduced by 70.5% and 79.4% after treated by triethoxy(octyl)silane/nano-Al 2 O 3 and triethoxy(octyl)silane/graphene nanoplatelets coatings, respectively. Overall, triethoxy(octyl)silane/graphene nanoplatelets had a superior effect on improving the freeze-thaw durability of SW-AWBs than triethoxy(octyl)silane/nano-Al 2 O 3. [Display omitted] • Stable TOS/NA and TOS/GNPs composite coatings were successfully prepared. • SW-AWBs possessed hydrophobic surface after treated by composite coatings. • The waterproof performance of SW-AWBs treated by composite coatings further improved. • SW-AWBs as wall materials could be used in cold regions after treated by TOS/GNPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is widely used in daily life due to its characteristics of light weight, high impact strength, and compression resistance. However, TPU products are extremely flammable and will generate toxic fumes under fire attack, threatening human life and safety. In this article, a nanohybrid flame retardant was designed for the fire safety of TPU. Herein, Co3O4 was anchored on the surface of exfoliated ultra-thin boron nitride nanosheets (BNNO@Co3O4) via coprecipitation and subsequent calcination. Then, a polyphosphazene (PPZ) layer was coated onto BNNO@Co3O4 by high temperature polymerization to generate a nanohybrid flame retardant named BNNO@Co3O4@PPZ. The cone calorimeter results exhibited that the heat release and smoke production during TPU combustion were remarkably restrained after the incorporation of the nanohybrid flame retardant. Compared with pure TPU, the peak heat release rate (PHRR) decreased by 44.1%, the peak smoke production rate (PSPR) decreased by 51.2%, and the peak CO production rate (PCOPR) decreased by 72.5%. Based on the analysis of carbon residues after combustion, the significant improvement in fire resistance of TPU by BNNO@Co3O4@PPZ was attributed to the combination of quenching effect, catalytic carbonization effect, and barrier effect. In addition, the intrinsic mechanical properties of TPU were well maintained due to the existence of the PPZ organic layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of multifunctional nanomaterials has received growing research interest, thanks to its ability to combine multiple properties for severing highly demanding purposes. In this work, holmium oxide nanoparticles are synthesized and characterized by various tools including XRD, XPS, and TEM. These nanoparticles are found to emit near-infrared fluorescence (800–1100 nm) under a 785 nm excitation source. Imaging of the animal tissues was demonstrated, and the maximum imaging depth was found to be 2.2 cm. The synthesized nanoparticles also show the capability of facilitating dye (fluorescein sodium salt and rhodamine 6G) degradation under white light irradiation. The synthesized holmium oxide nanoparticles are envisioned to be useful for near-infrared tissue imaging and dye-degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The development of efficient carbon-carbon cross-coupling catalysts with low noble metal amounts. • The Cu/C-700/Pd nanocomposite is obtained by loading trace Pd2+ onto carbon support derived from a novel mononuclear copper complex. • The Cu/C-700/Pd nanocomposite shows excellent catalytic activity and selectivity in Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reaction, which implied a good synergistic effect in the bimetallic composite catalyst. • The bimetallic composite catalyst has excellent stability and recyclability. The development of efficient carbon–carbon cross-coupling catalysts with low noble metal amounts attracts much attention recently. Herein, a Cu/C-700/Pd nanocomposite is obtained by loading trace Pd2+ onto carbon support derived from a novel mononuclear copper complex, {[Cu(POP) 2 (Phen) 2 ]BF 4 }. The as-prepared nanomaterial features the facial structure of highly dispersed copper phosphide nanoparticles as well as Pd nanoparticles via neighboring Cu-Pd sites. The Cu/C-700/Pd nanocomposite shows excellent catalytic activity (99.73%) and selectivity in Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reaction, at trace Pd loading (0.43 mol%). Compared with the reported palladium nano catalysts, its advantages are proved. The appealing gateway to this stable, innovative and recyclability, Cu/C-700/Pd nanostructure recommends its beneficial utilization in carbon–carbon coupling and other environmentally friendly processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We have prepared composite magnetic core–shell particles using the process of soap-free emulsion polymerization and the co-precipitation method. The shell of the synthesized composite sphere is cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) nanoparticles and the core consists of poly(styrene-co-methacrylic acid) polymer. The mean crystallite sizes of the coated CoFe2O4 nanoparticles were controlled in the range of 2.4–6.7nm by the concentration of [NH4 +] and heated temperature. The magnetic properties of the core–shell spherical particles can go from superparamagnetic to ferromagnetic behavior depending on the crystalline sizes of CoFe2O4. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: LiFePO4 samples with preferred facets on the ac plane were prepared by the solvothermal method with or without well-dispersed amphiphilic carbonaceous material (ACM). The effects of ACM on the particle morphology, crystal orientation and electrochemical reactivity of the prepared LiFePO4 nanoparticles were investigated in detail. ACM serves a dual purpose. One purpose is facilitating the plate-like morphologies of LiFePO4 nanoparticles parallel to the b Pnma axis by decreasing the surface energy of (010) facets of newly created LiFePO4 nuclei. The other purpose is suppressing crystal growth along the [010] direction by adhering onto the (010) surface of LiFePO4 nanoplates. Furthermore, ACM coating was performed and optimized using a carbon coating precursor. The electrochemical properties of the prepared LiFePO4 particles were characterized by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and galvanostatic charge–discharge cycling tests. After the optimized coating of ACM, the ACM-intervened LiFePO4 composite was observed to deliver discharge capacities of 151.3 mAh g−1 at 1C and 132.2 mAh g−1 at 10C. Even after 1000 cycles at a high rate of 10C, the LiFePO4 cathode could maintain 80% of its initial capacity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Selective hydrogenolysis of glycerol to 1,2-propanediol is one of the options for the chemical utilization of glycerol. In this work, we synthesized sulfate-functionalized metal–organic frameworks loading palladium nanoparticles, MOF-808-SO4-Pd, as effective glycerol hydrogenolysis catalysts. The sulfate groups are responsible for the dehydration of glycerol. Subsequently, palladium nanoparticles hydrogenate the intermediates to 1,2-propanediol. The synergistic reaction between acid sites and Pd gave 93.9% selectivity of 1,2-propanediol with a reaction rate of 22.4 mmol gPd−1 h−1. Our work highlights new opportunities in using acid-functionalized MOFs as novel supports for metal nanoparticle catalysts for dual site catalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Complete profiling would substantially facilitate the fundamental understanding of tumor angiogenesis and of possible anti-angiogenesis cancer treatments. We developed an integrated synchrotron-based methodology with excellent performances: detection of very small vessels by high spatial resolution (~1μm) and nanoparticle contrast enhancement, in vivo dynamics investigations with high temporal resolution (~1ms), and three-dimensional quantitative morphology parametrization by computer tracing. The smallest (3–10μm) microvessels were found to constitute >80% of the tumor vasculature and exhibit many structural anomalies. Practical applications are presented, including vessel microanalysis in xenografted tumors, monitoring the effects of anti-angiogenetic agents and in vivo detection of tumor vascular rheological properties. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Well-dispersed gold nanoparticles (NP) coated with tiopronin were synthesized by X-ray irradiation without reducing agents. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy shows that the average core diameters of the NPs can be systematically controlled by adjusting the tiopronin to Au mole ratio in the reaction. Three methods were used to study the NP uptake by cells: quantitative measurements by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, direct imaging with high lateral resolution transmission electron microscopy and transmission X-ray microscopy. The results confirmed that the NP internalization mostly occurred via endocytosis and concerned the cytoplasm. The particles, in spite of their small sizes, were not found to arrive inside the cell nuclei. The synthesis without reducing agents and solvents increased the biocompatibility as required for potential applications in analysis and biomedicine in general. [Figure not available: see fulltext.] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We used ionic poly((methyl methacrylate)-co-(methacrylic acid)) (PMA-MAA) copolymer spheres (500nm) as a core template, synthesized using a soap-free emulsion polymerization method, to prepare monodispersed hollow nanocomposite spheres (HNCS). Ceramic type (CoFe2O4/SiO2) HNCS and metallic type (CoSiO2) HNCS were prepared by calcining PMA-MAA/CoFe2O4/SiO2 hybrid core/shell composite spheres in air and a reducing gas, respectively. The crystalline phase involved in ceramic HNCS had a cubic spinel ferrite structure with an average crystallite size between 3.4 and 10.5nm, while the phase embedded in the metallic HNCS revealed a body-centered cubic structure with an average crystallite size of 28.7nm. Scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope photographs show that the hollow spheres were uniform and had a shell thickness of about 40nm. Based on an energy-dispersive X-ray line scan composition analysis of a cross-section of hollow spheres it was found that the SiO2 not only coated the surface of the spheres, but was also distributed over the shell of the hollow spheres. The HNCS exhibited hysteresis loops of a ferromagnetic nature, and coercivity and saturation magnetization varied with the size of the magnetic nanoparticles embedded in hollow spheres. The magnetic properties of HNCS were also evaluated as a function of temperature. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We report here the first simultaneous irradiation of UV light on samples in surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) measurements. A roughen gold substrate with TiO2 nanoparticles was prepared by using electrochemical oxidation–reduction cycles (ORC) in 0.1M HCl aqueous solution containing 1mM anatase TiO2 nanoparticles. It is encouraging to find that the SERS spectrum, obtaining with the simultaneous irradiation of 4-W UV light on the sample, of polypyrrole (PPy) electrodeposited on the TiO2 nanoparticles-containing roughened gold substrate exhibits an 8-fold higher intensity compared to that without the contribution from the simultaneous irradiation of UV light. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

PMMA-silica nanocomposites were prepared using a bulk polymerization technique. Three organic silica groups, two modified with methyl groups and the third an octane, made these inorganic silica particles more hydrophobic. These silica/PMMA nanocomposites exhibited higher storage and loss moduli than those of pristine PMMA. The Tg of these composites increased with the silica content. The thermal characteristics of these composites were also enhanced by incorporating silica into the PMMA matrix. The degradation temperature at 10% weight loss was approximately 30 °C higher than that of pristine PMMA, depending upon the silica content. The rate of weight loss at 220 °C for 2 h was also markedly reduced in the presence of these modified silicas. The results might be attributed to “trapping effect”. The activation energies for these silica/PMMA nanocomposites were enhanced according to Flynn, Ozawa–Flynn, and Kissinger methods. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

MOF- or ZIF-derived carbon (MDC/ZDC) has attracted significant attention especially in catalysis applications, because well-dispersed metal or oxide nanoparticles over the MDC/ZDC matrix with retained MOF/ZIF porosity can be obtained with direct pyrolysis. Although it seems to be a facile approach, pyrolysis parameters could significantly alter the MDC/ZDC properties. However, an in-depth study on the pyrolytic factors has not been discussed. Herein, we manipulated ZIF structure, pyrolytic atmosphere, temperature, incubation time, and ramping/cooling rates for ZDC structural analyses. Compared to pure ZIF-67 derived carbon with only Co metal nanoparticles, it was observed that the carbonization process in core-shell ZIF-8@ZIF-67 (Z8@Z67) initiated the interdiffusion of reduced metal ions at the core-shell interface, which triggered the unique Zn-Co alloying behavior forming Zn 3 Co when they were in close proximity. The resultant intermetallic Zn 3 Co compound is unstable and has never been experimentally observed. By employing the in situ powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) technique, we observed the fast-heating plus cooling process arrested or circumvented the phase segregation, and kept the metastable intermetallic Zn 3 Co. For the first time, we report a method to maintain it at ambient conditions, protected by the porous MOF derivative from ZIF pyrolysis. [Display omitted] • Well-dispersed Co nanoparticles is observed during Zn-Co core-shell ZIF pyrolysis. • Metastable phase Zn 3 Co is formed and preserved after core-shell ZIF pyrolysis. • The existence of Zn 3 Co can be controlled by ZIF pyrolytic ramping/quenching rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radiobiological damage can be caused by radiation, and easy preparation of long-term stable radioprotectors is helpful for timely and efficient response to radiation emergencies. This study develops an ultra-stable radioprotector for rapid nuclear emergency with a simple preparing method. First of all, polyvinylpyrrolidone-modified MnO 2 nanoparticles (PVP-MnO 2 NPs) are obtained by one-pot synthesis with ultra-stability (remaining for at least three years) and multiple free radical scavenging activities. In the synthesis process, PVP acts as a reducing agent, a surfactant (soft template), and a steric stabilizer. PVP-MnO 2 NPs can improve the survival rates of irradiated cells by effectively scavenging free radicals and protecting DNA from radiation damage. Besides, PVP-MnO 2 NPs can also prevent peripheral blood cell and organ damage induced by radiation, and improve the survival rate of irradiated mice. Finally, PVP-MnO 2 NPs are mainly metabolized by liver and kidney in mice, and basically excreted 72 h after administration. These results indicate that PVP-MnO 2 NPs exhibit good biosafety and radioprotection activity, which is significant for the development of radioprotection agents. [Display omitted] • A strategy is developed for efficient radioprotection using ultra-stable MnO 2 NPs. • The nanoparticles are facilely prepared by one-step reaction at room temperature. • PVP-MnO 2 NPs achieve effective radiation protection both in vivo and in vitro. • The property is maintained for up to 3 years upon storage under room temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lanthanum can reduce absorption of phosphate by forming lanthanum phosphate complexes after oral administration of lanthanum carbonate tablets (FOSRENOL®) in patients. Based on the pH-responsive interaction of phosphate and lanthanum ions, the chitosan coated siRNA-loaded lanthanum phosphate nanoparticles (CS/LaP/siRNA NPs) were prepared for improving cancer treatment, in which polysaccharide chitosan was used as the outer shell to control the excessive growth of lanthanum phosphate complexes, and enable intestinal mucoadhesion. The CS/LaP/siEGFR NPs exhibited significant biological activities in human colorectal cancer HT-29 cells by the synergistic effects of siEGFRs and lanthanum ions, such as downregulation of EGFR and upregulation of miR-34a. Furthermore, significant tumor growth inhibition was observed in both transgenic C57BL/6-ApcMinC/Nju cancer mouse model and AOM/DSS chemically induced orthotopic colorectal cancer mouse model after intestinal instillation administration of CS/LaP/siEGFR NPs. Therefore, the lanthanum-based siRNA delivery system would provide a potential and efficient strategy for the treatment of colorectal cancers. Unlabelled Image • The chitosan coated siRNA-loaded lanthanum phosphate nanoparticles (CS/LaP/siRNA NPs) were constructed for the codelivery of siRNA and La3+. • The CS/LaP/siEGFR NPs could downregulate EGFR level by siRNA and upregulate miR-34a level by La3+, and display the synergistic efficacy in vitro. • The CS/LaP/siEGFR NPs showed significant tumor growth inhibition in both two orthotopic colorectal cancer mouse models in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Double-shelled MnO 2 hollow spheres were prepared through a self-template route, by the double oxidation-dissolution rounds of the MnCO 3 precursors. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR), field emission scanning microscopy (FESEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) together record the composition and structure evolution during the entire process. The multilayer hollow spheres contain a central hollow interior and a clear gap between the outer and inner shells. Such hollow MnO 2 nanoparticles have great potential in energy storage and conversion, showing a high specific capacitance of 210.2 F g −1 at 0.2 A g −1 and an attractive capacity retention ratio of 86.2% when current density increases 25 times to 5 A g −1 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Microwave heating method has the advantages of high-speed, uncomplicated and high efficiency, etc. • Pt-Cu NPs/C was successfully synthesized by microwave dielectric heating. • Pt-Cu NPs/C demonstrated excellent catalytic activity and stability for EOR and MOR. The use of simple, fast, and inexpensive methods to synthesize nanocomposites is essential for large-scale production and applications. Microwave heating has been recognized as a promising method to attain higher reaction rates; this approach allows to complete new reactions in a short period of time. Therefore, carbon-supported platinum–copper nanoparticles (Pt–Cu NPs/C) were synthesized by microwave-assisted heating within few minutes. Detailed electrochemical studies showed that Pt–Cu NPs/C exhibited higher performance for ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) and methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) than Pt/C. After 1000 sweeping cycles, the highest retention mass activity of EOR and MOR of Pt 3 Cu NPs/C showed that catalysts had good stability. In this study, a new approach for boosting the efficiency of industrial production of nanomaterial catalysts by rapid microwave heating was developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel ternary Ag/rugby ball-shaped ZnO@SmFeO 3 nanocomposite was prepared by a simple hydrothermal approach. • The activity was investigated by photodegradation of naproxen under visible light. • Mechanism of enhanced photocatalytic efficiency of the Ag/rugby ball-shaped ZnO@SmFeO 3 nanocomposite was proposed. • The photocatalyst was recycled easily and showed a stable performance for 3 cycles. A novel ternary Ag/rugby ball-shaped ZnO@SmFeO 3 nanocomposite was prepared by a simple hydrothermal approach. The Ag particles were effectively incorporated in the surface of rugby ball-shaped ZnO and SmFeO 3. Herein, Ag/ZnO@SmFeO 3 nanocomposite had an obvious enhanced photocatalytic degradation of naproxen under the visible light with outstanding chemical stability. This novel three-component system will provide a valuable route to develop cost-effective as well as effective sunlight harvesting photocatalyst material. The improved catalytic performance of Ag/ZnO@SmFeO 3 nanocomposite could be ascribed to the synergetic effects of all ternary mixtures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]