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Bimetal clad planar waveguide having polyaniline polymer as a guiding layer is proposed and studied for biosensing applications. The dispersion relation and reflectivity of the proposed sensor is obtained using transfer matrix method. The sensing performance and stability of proposed waveguide-based sensor is optimized using different volume fraction of Ag–Au bimetal. The volume fraction 1 represents pure Ag metal coating waveguide that shows maximum sensing performance in our all considered cases. In this case, maximum obtain sensitivity, detection accuracy and quality parameter is 74.140, 11.199 and 559.970°/RIU respectively, at the cover refractive index 1.410. Since, resonance angle and full width at half maxima of resonance peak decreases with increase of Ag metal percentage in Ag–Au bimetal therefore the presence of Au metal decreases the sensing performance of the sensor. Hence, a small volume fraction of Au metal is recommended for higher sensitivity with stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogels, key in biomedical research for their hydrophilicity and versatility, have evolved with hydrogel microspheres (HMs) of micron‐scale dimensions, enhancing their role in minimally invasive therapeutic delivery, tissue repair, and regeneration. The recent emergence of nanomaterials has ushered in a revolutionary transformation in the biomedical field, which demonstrates tremendous potential in targeted therapies, biological imaging, and disease diagnostics. Consequently, the integration of advanced nanotechnology promises to trigger a new revolution in the realm of hydrogels. HMs loaded with nanomaterials combine the advantages of both hydrogels and nanomaterials, which enables multifaceted functionalities such as efficient drug delivery, sustained release, targeted therapy, biological lubrication, biochemical detection, medical imaging, biosensing monitoring, and micro‐robotics. Here, this review comprehensively expounds upon commonly used nanomaterials and their classifications. Then, it provides comprehensive insights into the raw materials and preparation methods of HMs. Besides, the common strategies employed to achieve nano‐micron combinations are summarized, and the latest applications of these advanced nano‐micron combined HMs in the biomedical field are elucidated. Finally, valuable insights into the future design and development of nano‐micron combined HMs are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the strengthening effect of different nano-materials on recycled brick aggregate concrete, this paper considered the influence of different nano-materials, different mixing amounts, and different mixing methods on the compressive strength and microstructure of recycled brick aggregate concrete. The results show that the 7-day, 14-day, and 28-day compressive strengths of recycled brick aggregate concrete increase to different degrees after adding nano-materials, but the improvement in early compressive strength is more obvious. The cubic compressive strength prediction model of three nanomaterial-reinforced recycled brick aggregate concretes is established using the compressive strength as the index. The optimum contents of nano-SiO2, nano-CaCO3, and nano-Al2O3 are 3 %, 2 %, and 3 %, respectively. Double-mixed nano-materials have a lower improvement effect on the compressive strength of recycled brick aggregate concrete at different ages than single-mixed nano-materials. The nanomaterials can not only promote the hydration reaction of cement but also fill the microcracks and micropores inside the concrete, making the structure denser and thereby improving the mechanical properties of recycled brick aggregate concrete. The 28-day compressive strength of recycled aggregate modified with nano-materials (nano-SiO2 and nano-Al2O3) concrete is higher than that of recycled aggregate concrete mixed with nano-materials. The early compressive strength of recycled aggregate modified with nano-Al2O3 concrete is lower than that of recycled aggregate concrete mixed with nano-Al2O3.

The aim of this study is to investigate convective heat transfer on a flat surface in the presence of magneto-hydro-dynamic (MHD) flow. The analysis considers the Darcy-Forchheimer porosity medium in the flow. The study focuses on analyzing the heat transfer rate, incorporating joule heating and convective-conductive heat flux effects. The influence of varying fluid properties on the flow behavior is examined. The governing flow equations are initially expressed as partial differential equations (PDEs) and then transformed into ordinary differential equations (ODEs) using appropriate similarity transformations. The numerical method RKF-45 is employed to solve these ODEs. The results highlight the impact of different parameters in the model. It is observed that a higher Darcy parameter leads to a decrease in fluid velocity. Additionally, the performance of carbon nanotubes is superior compared to MoS2 nanoparticles in this study.

Xingrui Li,1,* Yue Wang,1,* Denghao Huang,1 Zhonghao Jiang,1 Zhiyu He,1 Maoxuan Luo,2 Jie Lei,1,2 Yao Xiao1– 3 1Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration of Luzhou Key Laboratory, the Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Institute of Stomatology, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Orthodontics, the Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Chengbei Outpatient, the Affiliated Stomatological Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Yao Xiao; Jie Lei, Email orthoxiaoyao@outlook.com; 1067233579@qq.comAbstract: The critical challenges in repairing oral soft and hard tissue defects are infection control and the recovery of functions. Compared to conventional tissue regeneration methods, nano-bioactive materials have become the optimal materials with excellent physicochemical properties and biocompatibility. Dental-derived mesenchymal stem cells (DMSCs) are a particular type of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) with great potential in tissue regeneration and differentiation. This paper presents a review of the application of various nano-bioactive materials for the induction of differentiation of DMSCs in oral and maxillofacial restorations in recent years, outlining the characteristics of DMSCs, detailing the biological regulatory effects of various nano-materials on stem cells and summarizing the material-induced differentiation of DMSCs into multiple types of tissue-induced regeneration strategies. Nanomaterials are different and complementary to each other. These studies are helpful for the development of new nanoscientific research technology and the clinical transformation of tissue reconstruction technology and provide a theoretical basis for the application of nanomaterial-modified dental implants. We extensively searched for papers related to tissue engineering bioactive constructs based on MSCs and nanomaterials in the databases of PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar, using keywords such as “mesenchymal stem cells”, “nanotechnology”, “biomaterials”, “dentistry” and “tissue regeneration”. From 2013 to 2023, we selected approximately 150 articles that align with our philosophy.Keywords: nano-material, stem cell, tissue reconstruction, cell differentiation

The art of utilizing and manipulating micro materials have been dated back to antient era. With the advancement in technologies, the state-of-art methods of nano technologies and nano sciences has been employed in various sectors including environment, product designing, food industry, pharmaceuticals industries to way out solve standard problem of mankind. Due to rapid industrialization and the alarming levels of pollution there has been an urgent need to address the environmental and energy issues. Environmental sustainability concerns the global climate change and pollution including air, water, soil. The field of nanotechnology has proven to be a promising field where sensing and remediation, have been dramatically advanced by the use of nanomaterials. This emergent science of surface to mass ratio is the principle theorem for manipulating structure at molecular levels. The review sums up all the advancements in the field of nanotechnology and their recent application in the environment. New opportunities and challenges have also been discussed in detail to understand the use of nanotechnology as problem-to-solution ratio. Image depicting the application of nanotechnology in environmental concerns. The combinations of technologies like bioremediations, bioaugmentations with state-of-the-art nanotechnology like carbon nanotubes and Nano capsules to answer the environmental challenges of soil quality, and plant productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Piezoelectric polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) based piezoelectric materials are good candidates for energy harvesting devices and sensing systems. Improving the piezoelectric sensitivity of the electro-spun PVDF fibers is still challenging and highly desirable. In this work, ZnO@Ag nanoparticles were synthesized and utilized as surface modifier to generate a hierarchical structure on the fiber surfaces to construct a flexible and piezoelectric three-phase coupling sensor. The effects of the atomic ratio of Ag:ZnO, surface morphology and particle concentration of ZnO@Ag nanoparticles on the β-phase content, piezoelectricity, wettability and mechanical stability of the sensor device were systematically investigated. The elastic modulus of ZnO@Ag/PVDF membrane is 0.01322 GPa, which is close to that of human skin 0.0188 GPa. Due to synergistic effect of the enhanced electrostatic field polarization and surface hierarchical structure, the ZnO@Ag/PVDF piezoelectricity sensor possessed voltage and current outputs of 15.0 Vpp and 1.775 μA respectively, which were 3.5 and 5.4 times higher than pure PVDF-based sensor. The sensitivity of the ZnO@Ag/PVDF nanofiber-based sensor was 2.422 V/kPa, which was 14.4 times higher than that of pure PVDF-based sensor. The sensor has a fast response/recovery time of 30/45 ms. The sensor can accurately detect various physiological strain signals such as cantilever oscillatory excitation, finger press, or walking behavior, and can light-up several light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and charge a capacitor (20 μF) in a short period (2.41 V in 5 Sec). This fiber-based energy harvesting and pressure sensor demonstrates promising applications in self-powered flexible wearable electronic devices in healthcare and home-care fields.

The current research focuses on nanoparticles' ground-improvement potential using clayey soil mixed with varying amounts of the nanoparticles "Silicon Carbide". With an increase in the amount of nanomaterial, a tendency of improvement has been recorded in liquid and plastic limits, as well as the plasticity index. The maximum reduction in liquid limit (15.8%), plastic limit (13.6%), and plastic index (18.7%) was recorded at 0.25 gm of Silicon Carbide as compared to control (0 gm of SiC). There was a 26.7% and 33.3% increase in the cohesion of soil at 0.25 gm and 0.3 gm of Silicon Carbide, respectively. Furthermore, when the Silicon Carbide content increased from 0.25 gm, the rate of increment of friction angle also increased. It was 87.5% and 137.5% at 0.25 gm and 0.3 gm of Silicon Carbide, respectively. Furthermore, 0.3 gm of Silicon Carbide, is found to be optimal within the scope of the experiment as at this amount of Silicon Carbide both cohesion and angle of friction attained maximum. XRD, SEM, and FTIR were used to confirm the findings. It concludes that by using even a small amount of nanomaterial, an appreciable change in the properties of clayey soil can be obtained in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-temperature stripping, medium-temperature fatigue cracking and high-temperature rutting are prominent premature failures in flexible pavements. The premature failures and the pavement durability aspects can be prevented with the use of modified binders, admixtures, inclusion of Recycled Asphalt Pavement (RAP), innovative mix design practices, which shall be achieved by aggregate packing characteristics and a few other technologies are also in place. Warm Mix Asphalt (WMA) and Cold Mix Asphalt technologies are being extensively used as an alternative for conventional Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) technology, so as to make the construction process less energy intensive, lowering the carbon emissions and thereby ensuring the sustainability. In the current investigation, the cracking resistance of bituminous mixes was examined with the laboratory prepared Sasobit- and nano-powder-modified binder. In addition, the 20 percent of coarse aggregates were replaced with RAP aggregates for achieving the sustainability aspect. First, the physical properties of conventional, and Sasobit-modified binder were evaluated. Later, mechanical properties of mixes were evaluated with varying nano-powder content for their fracture properties using Semi-Circular Bending (SCB) test. It is observed that the bituminous mix prepared with 3% Sasobit, 5% nano-powder, and 20% RAP has exhibited a considerable increase in resistance towards cracking at intermediate temperature when compared with mixes prepared with conventional and Sasobit-modified binders. Similar improvements were observed for Tensile Strength Ratio (TSR), resilient modulus and rut depth. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) images have revealed that the Sasobit and nano-modification resulted in the amorphous nature of binders. Further, the X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) studies have revealed semi-crystalline nature and the average crystallite size of Sasobit- and nano-modified binders were slightly less when compared with conventional binder after subjecting to short-term aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of China Plastics / Zhongguo Suliao is the property of Journal Office of CHINA PLASTICS and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The 2G, 3G and 4G refers to the second, third and fourth generation of communication networks. Here, the INFY GEN refers to the network where the ability is up to the level of INFINITY. That's why it is termed as INFY GEN. The antenna used in the 5G Technology (MIMO) is used in the process of INFY GEN networking. The elements used in the MIMO technology is further used as an inbuilt in the mobiles to achieve portable and accuracy of networking. In this process, the human being with a mobile phone will be acting as towers for the purpose of the infinite speed of connectivity and networking. A Nano material is placed as an inbuilt in the mobile phones. This is the wide reason and technology which helps the mobile phones to resemble as towers. Hereby, the nano material used inside the mobile phones is graphene. The Graphene is the element used inside the MIMO towers. Also, this element (graphene) is going to be widely used inside the mobile phones to implement and initiate the tower less mobiles in the ecosystem. This methodology will become a great revolution in the world within 3 years after implementation. By implementing this innovative methodology, we can able to save the five-sensed organisms (i.e., Birds and animals) from the radiation of electromagnetic radiation. The frequential rays are purely non-ionizing radiations. The non-ionizing radiations are under the frequency level of (30KHz to 750THz). Since the traversal is done between the mobile-to-mobile networks, the range of the traversal will be mostly within the lower range environment. This type of traversal is also called as human networking (mobile-to-mobile connectivity). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To study the modification effect of nano-clay and nano-SiO2 on cement-reinforced coastal soft soil, the effects of the nano-SiO2 and nano-clay on the mechanical properties of cement soil were studied through unconfined compressive and unconsolidated undrained shear tests, and the Duncan–Chang model was used to fit the test results. Results show that adding nano-clay and nano-SiO2 to cement soil improved its compressive and shear strength. The compressive strength and shear strength increased by 18–57% and 3–32%, respectively, with the increase in nano-clay content in a content range of 0–10%. Additionally, nano-clay can enhance the ductility of cement soil. Moreover, nano-clay and nano-SiO2 improve the shear strength by increasing the internal friction angle by 1°–2° and cohesion of 9–25%, and the cement-stabilized coastal soft soil enhanced by nano-SiO2 and nano-clay conforms to the Duncan–Chang model well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient one pot synthesis of various bis-coumarinyl methane derivatives was investigated by condensing a series of aldehydes with 4-hydroxy coumarin in the presence of Amberlyst 15 catalyst under refluxing conditions in ethanol–water (1:1). This one pot domino Knoevenagel condensation/Micheal addition reaction provides excellent yield of bis-coumarinyl methane derivatives with lots of advantages like shorter reaction time, eco-friendly reaction medium, simple work up, recyclability of the catalyst and chromatography-free purification. Moreover, the synthesized compound was exploited to develop bis-coumarinyl methylene-based nanostructured materials of special interests which were investigated by UV–Vis, fluorescence spectroscopy, imaging in scanning electron microscope and atomic force microscope. Our UV–Vis and fluorescence study indicated that some of the organic compounds are organized as H-aggregate in the thin film. We also investigated I–V characteristics of the thin film of some of the selective compounds which showed write-once-read-more memory switching behaviour onto the thin film under investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current research focuses on nanoparticles’ ground-improvement potential using clayey soil mixed with varying amounts of the nanoparticles “Silicon Carbide”. With an increase in the amount of nanomaterial, a tendency of improvement has been recorded in liquid and plastic limits, as well as the plasticity index. The maximum reduction in liquid limit (15.8%), plastic limit (13.6%), and plastic index (18.7%) was recorded at 0.25 gm of Silicon Carbide as compared to control (0 gm of SiC). There was a 26.7% and 33.3% increase in the cohesion of soil at 0.25 gm and 0.3 gm of Silicon Carbide, respectively. Furthermore, when the Silicon Carbide content increased from 0.25 gm, the rate of increment of friction angle also increased. It was 87.5% and 137.5% at 0.25 gm and 0.3 gm of Silicon Carbide, respectively. Furthermore, 0.3 gm of Silicon Carbide, is found to be optimal within the scope of the experiment as at this amount of Silicon Carbide both cohesion and angle of friction attained maximum. XRD, SEM, and FTIR were used to confirm the findings. It concludes that by using even a small amount of nanomaterial, an appreciable change in the properties of clayey soil can be obtained in the field. First published online 16 December 2022

The worldwide move to the utilization of sustainable/green materials has motivated the drive for the use of different supplemental materials in the field of structural application. Further, the utilization of nano-materials has also been amplified for improving concrete properties. The present study mainly emphasizes the strengthening influence of graphene oxide on high-strength concrete cast in the presence and absence of wheat straw ash. Portland cement was substituted with 15% wheat straw ash (WSA) by cement weight. Graphene oxide was included in various doses of 0.020%, 0.040%, 0.060%, and 0.080% by cement weight. Properties of nano-engineered samples were assessed in terms of mechanics (compressive, split tensile, and flexural strength), durability (acid resistance, rapid chloride ions, water absorption, and sorptivity), and x -ray diffraction (XRD) test. The test outcome showed that the mechanical and durability performance of high-strength concrete improved considerably on the inclusion of graphene oxide and was further enhanced through the fractional substitution of cement with 15% wheat straw ash. The optimal behavior in terms of durability and mechanical performance was obtained by a combination of 15% wheat straw ash and 0.060% graphene oxide, which improved compressive strength to 57.3 MPa and split tensile and flexural strength by 33% and 49%, and reduced water absorption, sorptivity, and resistance against acid to 14%, 21%, and 5.6%. Incrementing the dose of graphene oxide to more than 0.060% led to a decline in mechanical strength and durability behavior. Moreover, the XRD showed that samples comprising both wheat straw ash and graphene oxide displayed dense concrete by consuming Ca(OH)2 and forming an extra gel of calcium silicate hydrate in the matrix, which concludes the application of utilizing graphene oxide and wheat straw ash in high-strength concrete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium (Cd) is a highly toxic and carcinogenic pollutant that poses significant risks to living organisms and the environment, as it is absorbed by the plant roots and accumulates in different parts of crop during its production. A promising sustainable strategy to counteract these threats to use calcium oxide nanoparticles (CaO-NPs) as soil supplements in fodder crops. This approach has shown notable morpho-physiological and biochemical improvements under metal toxicity conditions. However, the specific mechanisms driving Cd tolerance, particularly at physio-biochemical level and antioxidant related genes expression in fodder crops including alfalfa remain unexplored. CaO-NPs supplementation can trigger various signaling pathways that lead to enhance the photosynthetic pigments formation, stomatal conductance, CO 2 assimilation rate and quantum yield of photosystem II. In this study, we evaluated various doses of CaO-NPs (0, 25, 50, and 100 mg kg -1 ) for their efficacy in reducing Cd bioavailability and toxicity in alfalfa plants. Our results demonstrated that Ca 2+ and Cd 2+ , which share the same ionic radius, compete for ion transport through channels. The small size and high availability of CaO-NPs facilitate their rapid translocation within plant tissues, reducing metal uptake by 61 % in shoots and 30 % in roots. Notably, application of CaO-NPs at 100 mg kg -1 significantly increased shoot length (44 %) and root length (35 %) as compared to Cd-treated control plants. The highest dose of CaO-NPs also improved photosynthetic efficiency and gas exchange attributes including gs, Tr, Pn and Ci by 66 %, 27 %, 33 % and Ci 21 %, respectively, compared with the Cd treated control. Moreover, CaO-NPs (at 100 mg kg -1 ) alleviated metal-induced oxidative stress by boosting antioxidant enzyme activities like superoxide dismutase (25 %) peroxidase (42 %), catalase (72 %) and ascorbate peroxidase (87 %) and diminishing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production when compared with sole Cd treatment. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy revealed that CaO-NPs positively impacted stomatal conductance and mitigated Cd toxicity in leaf ultrastructure. Additionally, the highest dose of CaO-NPs markedly upregulated the expression of antioxidant-related genes, MsCu/Zn SOD, MtPOD, MtCAT, and MtAPX in roots and shoots by 0.67 and 1.03 fold-change (FC), 0.61 and 0.53 FC, 0.54 and 0.88 FC, and 0.46 and 0.66 FC, respectively. In conclusion, CaO-NPs demonstrate significant potential for environmentally friendly mitigation of Cd stress in alfalfa by reducing its uptake, thereby supporting sustainable agriculture., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Acid functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)-COOH was reacted with La(NO3)3.6H2O in acetic acid by ultrasonication at 60oC to gain (MWCNTs)-COOH/La2O3 hybrid. This nano-material was used as an efficient catalyst for the synthesis of some heterocycles containing nitrogen Acridine and indole derivatives were obtained with the reaction of isatin or dimedone with some amino compounds such as thiosemicarbazone, amino acids, and anthranilic acid by using of (MWCNTs)-COOH/La2O3 (5 mol%) in ethanol under reflux conditions. The products were gained in mild reaction conditions and good yields and identified by CHN analysis, NMR, and FT-IR spectra. the amount of La or La2O3-loading in (MWCNTs)-COOH/La2O3 was measured using The inductively coupled plasma–atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) analysis. The leaching of catalyst has been measured by using a hot filtration method. there was no leaching to confirm the stability of the catalyst. The catalyst was simply separated at the end of the reaction, washed, dried, and re-entered to a fresh reaction mixture 5 times without considerable loss of activity.

Copyright of Journal of Agro-Environment Science is the property of Journal of Agro-Environment Science Editorial Board and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract Robust mechanical property is fundamentally significant for applications of nano‐materials, such as micro‐fluidic, sensor, superhydrophobic/ icephobic, and crush‐resistant functions. However, the nano‐materials used in the applications are always easily ruined due to the poor adhesion and weak mechanical properties. To enhance the nano‐materials’ duration in hash environment, a strategy of robust nano‐topography protection is studied in this paper. In our experiment, a series of multi‐level sub‐mm topography with nano‐materials are fabricated by integrating the methods of soft lithography, and crystal growth. The mechanical properties of nano‐materials are quantitatively studied, and the nano‐material can be protected by the designed flexible multi‐level topography, which significantly decreases the strain and stress of the nano‐structure. To investigate the mechanism of this performance, a series of simulations are performed, and a mechanical model is established to explain this phenomenon. This work uncovers the multi‐level principles for nano‐materials protection and gives a guideline to design the nano‐materials’ surfaces.

Drilling fluid invasion and pressure transmission caused by the development of micropores and fractures in shale oil and gas formations are the major factors contributing to wellbore instability during drilling using oil-based drilling fluids (OBFs). In this study, a modified polystyrene latex (MPL) material was synthesized through emulsion polymerization and was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), particle size analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations, and contact angle testing. The influence of the MPL on the stability of a water-in-oil emulsion was analyzed via sedimentation observations and electrical stability tests. The effects of the MPL on the plugging mechanism of white oil and water-in-oil emulsions were evaluated using 0.1–1.0 μm micro-porous filtration films. The experimental results revealed that the MPL has a favorable thermal stability, with an initial thermal decomposition temperature of 363°C, a median particle size (D50) of 233 nm, and a three-phase contact angle of 103.5°. The MPL can enhance the sedimentation stability of an emulsion to a considerable extent and can improve the electrical stability (ES) of the emulsion, which is conducive to the stability of OBFs. Due to the deformability of the MPL, it has a wide range of adaptations for micro-scale pores and fractures. In both the white oil and water-in-oil emulsions, the MPL can reduce the filtration loss through microporous membranes with pore sizes of 0.1–1.0 μm to within 10 ml. This paper details the methodology of the synthesis of nanomaterials that can effectively plug a formation’s nanopores and fractures; thereby, stabilizing OBFs.

N-acylated substituted β 3 oligoamides are known to form unique supramolecular nanorods based on a 3-point hydrogen bond self-assembly motif. This motif is an intermolecular extension of the hydrogen bonding network that stabilizes the 14-helix secondary structure unique to β 3 oligoamides. Acetylation of the N-terminus of the molecule provides the necessary third hydrogen bond pair of the motif. Here, the possibility of introducing the third hydrogen bond pair via amidation of the C terminus is investigated. While similar in purpose, this modification introduces a chemically distinct new self-assembly motif, also removing the bulky carboxyl group that does not fold into the 14 helix positioning instead as a side chain. Three substituted β 3 oligoamide variants with the base sequence LIA (where the letters denote β 3 residues with side chains analogous to α amino acids) were compared: N-acylated Ac- β 3[LIA] as a reference, C-amidated β 3[LIA]-CONH2, and β 3[LIA] with free unmodified N and C termini as a negative control. The three variants were dissolved in water to promote self-assembly. The self-assembly was characterised using mid- and far-infrared spectroscopy, small angle x-ray scattering (SAXS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). IR measurements confirmed that all three samples were in a similar conformation, consistent with pseudo 14-helical secondary structures. Far-infrared spectroscopy measurements of β 3[LIA]-CONH2 showed distinct peaks consistent with highly organised skeletal modes, i.e. regular supramolecular assembly, that was largely absent from the other two oligoamides. Modelling of SAXS data is consistent with elliptical cylinder structures resulting from nanorod bundling for both β 3[LIA]-CONH2 and Ac- β 3[LIA], but not in the unmodified sample. Consistently, AFM imaging showed large nanorod bundling structures in β 3[LIA]-CONH2, varied bundling structures in Ac- β 3[LIA], and only aggregation in β 3[LIA]. Amidation showed much more organised and robust assembly compared to acetylation, providing a new, easy to synthesize self-assembly motif for helical nanorod assembly that is similar but distinct to N-acylation [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To study the modification effect of nano-clay and nano-SiO2 on cement-reinforced coastal soft soil, the effects of the nano-SiO2 and nano-clay on the mechanical properties of cement soil were studied through unconfined compressive and unconsolidated undrained shear tests, and the Duncan–Chang model was used to fit the test results. Results show that adding nano-clay and nano-SiO2 to cement soil improved its compressive and shear strength. The compressive strength and shear strength increased by 18–57% and 3–32%, respectively, with the increase in nano-clay content in a content range of 0–10%. Additionally, nano-clay can enhance the ductility of cement soil. Moreover, nano-clay and nano-SiO2 improve the shear strength by increasing the internal friction angle by 1°–2° and cohesion of 9–25%, and the cement-stabilized coastal soft soil enhanced by nano-SiO2 and nano-clay conforms to the Duncan–Chang model well.

Copyright of Journal of Food Safety & Quality is the property of Journal of Food Safety & Quality Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Using thulium oxide, nitric acid, ammonium metavanadate and citric acid as main raw materials, TmVO4 was successfully prepared by hydrothermal method. TmVO4 samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), thermogravimetry differential scanning calorimetry (TG-DSC), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Taking methyl orange solution as simulated sewage, the effects of synthesis temperature and illumination time on the photocatalytic activity of TmVO4 were studied. The results show that pure tetragonal zircon TmVO4 samples can be obtained under hydrothermal conditions of 120 °C to 180 °C. The sample prepared at 140°Chas uniform grain size, and the average grain size is about 50 nm. Under ultraviolet light illumination for 30 min, the degradation rate of 10 mg/L methyl orange can reach more than 77% in the presence of TmVO4. The photocatalysis experiment indicated that TmVO4 has good photocatalytic degradation activity for methyl orange. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is a wide range of challenges through the use of nano-material in buildings. By developing construction industries the use of flame retardant nano-materials is a hurdle for human health. However occupational exposure measurement is not applicable for nano-particles monitoring. Risk assessment is an alternative method for industrial hygiene strategies. In this study, we use the control banding approach for risk assessment of 3 nano-fire retardant (NFR) in the building industry. Methods: We used control banding as a risk assessment approach for decision making about nano-materials in the building industry. The risk of nano-fire retardants such as monokote accelerator, monokote Z-106 G and monokote Z-106 HY in the construction industry was studied. The level of risk was evaluated by the matrix of hazard severity and probability score. Hazard severity was scored by toxicological information. The probability score was estimated by the state work operation. Results: A score of hazard severity in monokot Z-106 HY was higher than other nano-materials. The probability score of spraying tasks was lower than mixing and transportation tasks. The results show the application of all nano-materials had the higher risk level in transportation and mixing tasks. The risk level of monokote accelerator and monokote Z-106 G in spraying task is lower than monokot Z-106 HY. Conclusions: There is a high risk level for studied nano-materials in the coating tasks of the construction industry. In conclusion, powerful controlling strategies such as the substitution of nano-materials was suggested to decrease the risk of nano-fire retardants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diesel particulate filters (DPFs) have been used in heavy-duty engine applications for nearly three decades. Recently, DPFs have also been used in off-road vehicles due to needs to reduce air pollution. Ceramic DPFs are characterized by light-weight, low pressure-drop, rapid regeneration, and excellent chemical resistance at high temperature. This article focuses on the development of a new ceramic DPF composed of Nano-materials for tractor engines. Functional tests showed that the filters absorb almost 10–20% of the pollutant gases of the engine. DPFs made from these new materials do not show cracking or melting under uncontrolled regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Robust mechanical property is fundamentally significant for applications of nano‐materials, such as micro‐fluidic, sensor, superhydrophobic/ icephobic, and crush‐resistant functions. However, the nano‐materials used in the applications are always easily ruined due to the poor adhesion and weak mechanical properties. To enhance the nano‐materials' duration in hash environment, a strategy of robust nano‐topography protection is studied in this paper. In our experiment, a series of multi‐level sub‐mm topography with nano‐materials are fabricated by integrating the methods of soft lithography, and crystal growth. The mechanical properties of nano‐materials are quantitatively studied, and the nano‐material can be protected by the designed flexible multi‐level topography, which significantly decreases the strain and stress of the nano‐structure. To investigate the mechanism of this performance, a series of simulations are performed, and a mechanical model is established to explain this phenomenon. This work uncovers the multi‐level principles for nano‐materials protection and gives a guideline to design the nano‐materials' surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NiO and NiO–TiO 2 nano-catalysts were synthetized using solution combustion synthesis (SCS) method and tested toward ammonia oxidation in synthetic and real wastewater. As-synthesized NiO nano-catalyst showed a tightly agglomerated nano-porous spherical structure with sizes ranging from 10 to 50 nm. NiO–TiO 2 nano powders have homogenous structure with an average size of 19.5 ± 0.03 nm and a lattice spacing of 0.22 ± 0.03 nm corresponding to cubic planes of NiO and 0.25 ± 0.01 nm corresponding to TiO 2. Cyclic voltammetry under alkaline condition at low potential ranging from 0.95 to 1.35 V vs. HgO/Hg improved the electro-chemical activity of the nano-catalysts by the formation of Ni(OH) 2 film on the surface of catalyst as confirmed by XPS measurements. Ammonia electro-oxidation on nano-catalysts occurred at approximately 1.28 V vs. HgO/Hg and was highly pH-dependent. Ammonia removals up to 92.9 and 96.4% were achieved by NiO and NiO–TiO 2 , respectively. Total nitrogen material balance showed that the electro-chemical oxidation of ammonia produce small amounts of NO 2 − and NO 3 and the balance N 2. Ammonia oxidation at concentration less than 150 mM followed direct electron transfer mechanism, whereas at higher concentrations, the oxidation mechanism shifted to the indirect oxidation regime. Ammonia electro-oxidation kinetics followed zero order reaction at ammonia concentration ≤100 mM and first order kinetics at higher concentrations. More than 93% of ammonia, 35% of organic matter and 40% phosphorous were removed from real wastewater samples using electro-oxidation process confirming the suitability of this technology as advanced wastewater treatment. • Electro-chemical activity of NiO improved by formation of Ni(OH) 2 film at high pH. • Ammonia elctro-chemical oxidation produced les oxygenated species and the balance N 2. • Synthesized nano-particles were activated toward ammonia oxidation in alkaline phase. • NiO and NiO–TiO 2 nano-catalysts were used as advanced wastewater treatment technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zirconia (ZrO 2) nanoparticles were successfully synthesised from zirconyl chloride and ammonium oxalate via co-precipitation (CP), followed by calcination of the resulting co-precipitated precursor. CP and calcination processing parameters showed considerable effects on the surface morphology, average crystallite size, and phase purity of the resulting ZrO 2 particles. In this work, field emission scanning and transmission electron microscopy (FESEM and TEM) confirmed the existence of spherical and uniformly shaped ZrO 2 particles, with crystallite size ranging between 6 and 35 nm. Pure ZrO 2 nanoparticles synthesised through calcination at 650 °C had a strained monoclinic phase structure. On the other hand, ZrO 2 particles prepared through calcination at 600 °C revealed presence of a transitional phase from tetragonal to monoclinic phase in its X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns. The FESEM images and XRD results also revealed that the degree of particle agglomeration and average crystallite size had increased with increasing processing temperatures and durations. Henceforth, precursor was co-precipitated at 40 °C for 1 h, then calcined at 650 °C for 4 h for optimum production of ZrO 2 nanoparticles with an average crystallite size of 12.85 nm and large Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area of 18.06 m2/g. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An endogenous antioxidant, reduced glutathione (GSH), is found at high concentrations in nearly all typical cells. GSH synthesis is a controlled process, and any disruption in the process of GSH synthesis could result in GSH depletion. Cellular oxidative damage results from GSH depletion. Various pathological conditions such as aging, cardiovascular disease (CVD), psychiatric disorders, neurological disorders, liver disorders, and diabetes mellitus are more affected by this stress. There are various reasons for GSH reduction, but replenishing it can help to improve this condition. However, there are challenges in this field. Low bioavailability and poor stability of GSH limit its delivery to tissues, mainly brain tissue. Today, new approaches are used for the optimal amount and efficiency of drugs and alternative substances such as GSH. The use of nano-materials and liposomes are effective methods for improving the treatment effects of GSH. The difficulties of GSH decrease and its connection to the most important associated disorders are reviewed for the first time in this essay. The other major concerns are the molecular mechanisms involved in them; the impact of treatment with replacement GSH; the signaling pathways impacted; and the issues with alternative therapies. The utilization of nano-materials and liposomes as potential new approaches to solving these issues is being considered., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)

Cerium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG: Ce3+) nanopowder phosphors have been elaborated by sol–gel process and annealed at 900°C for 2 h. The prepared phosphors were exposed to gamma radiation, using 60Co source, at different doses ranging from 5 to 100 kGy. The influence of γ-irradiation on the structural, morphological and luminescence properties of YAG: Ce3+ phosphors were investigated in detail by X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and photoluminescence measurements. The XRD analysis confirmed the presence of single cubic phase for all samples of YAG: Ce3+ nanophosphors independent of γ-rays dose. FESEM micrograph results revealed that the particles present flate-like shapes and high density of dislocation for sample irradiated at 100 kGy of γ-ray. The YAG: Ce3+ nanophosphors showed broad green–yellow emission band in the range of 450–700 nm with maximum intensity at 538 nm assigned to the 5d → 4f transitions of Ce3+ ion. The emission intensity of YAG: Ce3+ phosphors vary with the γ-ray irradiation and reach the maximum for sample irradiated to a dose of 25 kGy. The variation of luminescence intensity is related to the crystallite size and Ce4+ ions content in YAG host nanomaterial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Two-dimensional materials due to their unusual properties originating from quantum size effect have attracted much research attentions. These properties have led to many promising applications in nano-electronics, catalysis, gas separation and energy storage. In this study, the details of H 2 S adsorption on the pristine, decorated and defected single layer black phosphorous (SBP) were investigated using density function theory (DFT). Electronic structure calculations were performed using B97D exchange together with 6-31 + G* basis set. The results showed that structural modification could significantly change the total electron density of the systems. Structural modifications on SBP decrease the amount of E g in all studied systems compared to pristine one. We found that the adsorption of H 2 S molecule on SBP nano-structures highly depends on the type of decorated metals and the orientation of the H 2 S molecule. The highest adsorption energies were obtained for Co -, V- and Ti-decorated SBP systems with the values of −25.63, −23.33 and −21.95 kcal/mol, respectively. It was found that adsorption energies for systems wherein H 2 S adsorbed on SBP from the H side are not significant. The results suggested that decorating SBP with Co, V, and Ni changes the gap width of the system. The details of DOS changes before and after H 2 S adsorption for all systems were discussed. Finally it was suggested that while decorated SBP systems with transition metals (TMs) could be used in H 2 S storage applications, pristine, defected and B-SBP may be utilized in designing new gas sensor materials. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • H 2 S adsorption on the pristine and modified SBP was investigated theoretically. • The highest adsorption energies were obtained for Co -, V- and Ti- SBP system. • Co-, V- and Ti-SBP were suggested for H 2 S storage applications and Ni-SBP may be utilized in gas sensor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High consumption of fossil fuel resources has always been associated with large amounts of pollutants' production. Due to this, Tehran weather condition reaches emergency state every year and causes a health threat to residents. Residential sector consumes over 40% of the total energy in Iran and causes a high amount of emission. In this article, the amount of loss reduction is calculated when new insulations are used (instead of stone-wool) in a building located in district 3 of Tehran. Innovative insulations involve the use of expanded polystyrene (EPS) and hollow silica nanospheres (HSN). To validate the previous part and observe the wall condition in detail, walls with current and new insulations are modelled by ANSYS FLUENT. Results indicate that EPS and HSN reduce total energy demand in the studied apartment by 1.2% and 5.1%, respectively. Finally, Tehran's under-construction buildings during 2015 are assumed to utilize mentioned insulations to observe their effects. The annual amount of reduced six air pollutants (CO2, SPM, CO, SO2, CH4 and NOx) by using EPS and HSN are 16,681 and 60,712 tonnes, respectively. It is found out that by using EPS and HSN, CO2 external costs can be decreased by 4,376,846$ and 15,929,919$ per year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article deals with the issue of the amount of clay type nano-fillers used for the improvement of mechanical properties of the basic material HDPE. These fillers already showed their positive influence on various mechanical properties. This article is primarily concentrated on the percentage of filling, which has the significant influence on these properties and also on the final product price in which is the price of used fillers included. It is desirable to find a suitable concentration of filling of the basic material for the improvement of creep properties. As a percentage of filling the lower concentrations were used which are in the practice more common in connection with the nanofillers which have a high ratio of shape dimensions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • α-SnWO 4 with various morphologies were synthesized by a solvothermal method. • Morphologies changed from nanostrip to nanosheet with increasing water content. • The as-prepared samples showed excellent photocatalytic activity. • Both crystallinity and surface area had great effects on photocatalytic activity. Abstract Alpha-phase stannous tungstate (α-SnWO 4) nano-crystals with different morphologies were successfully synthesized by changing water content in ethylene glycol (EG) using a solvothermal method. The obtained samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). It was found that the morphologies of α-SnWO 4 samples transformed from nanostrip to nanosheet with increasing water content, which is ascribed to the improved mass transfer in the water medium. Photocatalytic activities of the products were evaluated by the degradation of methyl orange (MO) under visible light irradiation. The microstructure of α-SnWO 4 played an important role on its photocatalytic activity. As a result, the α-SnWO 4 with high crystallinity and large surface area exhibited the best photocatalytic activity and its degradation efficiency reached to 90.4% within 30 min. Based on active species trapping experiments, both hole (h+) and superoxide radical (·O 2 −) are dominant active species in the photodegradation of MO over α-SnWO 4 nano-materials and thus a possible mechanism was proposed. Graphical abstract Image, graphical abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is a wide range of challenges through the use of nano-material in buildings. By developing construction industries the use of flame retardant nano-materials is a hurdle for human health. However occupational exposure measurement is not applicable for nano-particles monitoring. Risk assessment is an alternative method for industrial hygiene strategies. In this study, we use the control banding approach for risk assessment of 3 nano-fire retardant (NFR) in the building industry. Methods: We used control banding as a risk assessment approach for decision making about nano-materials in the building industry. The risk of nano-fire retardants such as monokote accelerator, monokote Z-106 G and monokote Z-106 HY in the construction industry was studied. The level of risk was evaluated by the matrix of hazard severity and probability score. Hazard severity was scored by toxicological information. The probability score was estimated by the state work operation. Results: A score of hazard severity in monokot Z-106 HY was higher than other nano-materials. The probability score of spraying tasks was lower than mixing and transportation tasks. The results show the application of all nano-materials had the higher risk level in transportation and mixing tasks. The risk level of monokote accelerator and monokote Z-106 G in spraying task is lower than monokot Z-106 HY. Conclusions: There is a high risk level for studied nano-materials in the coating tasks of the construction industry. In conclusion, powerful controlling strategies such as the substitution of nano-materials was suggested to decrease the risk of nano-fire retardants.

New phenanthroline derivatives (1, 2, 3, 4) containing phenol groups have been synthesized and optimized. The nano-material of compound 2 was also developed. Their binding properties were evaluated for various biological anions (F–, Cl–, Br–, I–, AcO– and H2PO4–) by theoretical investigation, UV-vis, fluorescence, 1HNMR titration experiments and these compounds all showed strong binding ability for AcO– without the interference of other anions tested. The anion binding ability could be regularized by electron push-pull properties of the ortho- or para- substituent on benzene. Theoretical investigation analysis revealed the effect of intramolecular hydrogen bond existed between -OH and other atoms in the structure of these compounds.

Antimicrobial activities of nano-materials were tested against several plant pathogens. Twelve different nanomaterials were used to observe the antagonistic activity against three kinds of mold and sixteen different kinds of watermelon fruit rot pathogens (Acidovorax citrulli). According to the results, no antagonism have been found against the pathogen, Cylindrocarpon destructans. However in the case of Pythium ultimum, combination of Brass/Glucose 1,000 ppm confirmed the mycelial growth reduction by 94%. In addition, little effect was found against Rhizoctonia solani by Ag/Glucose 3,000 ppm. The remaining other nano-materials have different antimicrobial effect depending on the strains of A. citrulli. But in the case of lime (Cu/Salt 1,000 ppm) highest antimicrobial activity was observed with 97%. Moreover growth of five different strains of A. citrulli was checked by 99% with the combination of Ag/Glucose 1,000 ppm. 92% reduction of A. citrulli growth was observed with Brass/CaCO3 3,000 ppm. Tested nano-materials against different plant pathogens in this study showed the antimicrobial activity at the range of 24-70%.

In this experimental study, the effects of using nano-sized Cement Kiln Dust (CKD) as a partial replacement for Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) on the strength of cement mortars is investigated. The CKD was milled up to 4 hours in a planetary ball mill. In addition to the control cement mortar mixture with 0% CKD, a total of 28 concrete mortar mixtures were prepared with four different replacement percentages of nano-CKD (5, 10, 15, and 20 %), and seven different milling times (1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, and 4 hours). The compressive strengths of all cement mortar mixtures were evaluated after curing periods of 7, 28, and 56 days. In addition, the chemical, physical and microscopical properties of the nano-CKD were evaluated using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The experimental results showed that the partial replacement of the OPC with the nano-CKD enhanced the compressive strength of the cement mortar by about 15-30% compared with normal mortar without CKD. Moreover, the experimental results indicated that no change was observed in the chemical composition of CKD after 4 hours of milling. However, there was a decrease in the Portlandite content in parallel with an increase in the density and the surface area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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In this study, nanocrystalline nickel oxide gadolinium-doped ceria (NiO-GDC) powder was synthesized in-situ using Na-Alginate as the template via ionic sol-gel technique. The effects of calcination time and temperature on the particle size and the physiochemical properties of nanocrystalline NiO-GDC are presented in this paper. Using this method, gel beads were formed by contacting sodium alginate solution as the gelling template and metal (gadolinium/cerium/Ni) nitrates as the precursor. The obtained nanocrystallites were characterized using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy, powder X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, thermo gravimetric analysis, nitrogen adsorption/desorption analysis, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. It was observed that the increasing calcination temperature had affected both the particle size and the surface area of the NiO-GDC, whereas the increasing calcination time had only impacted the size of the particles. The smallest mesoporous nanocrystalline NiO-GDC powder (12.1225 ± 0.005 m 2 /g surface area), composed of cubic GDC (5.18 nm crystallite size) and cubic NiO (7.99 nm crystallite size) were synthesized at a calcination temperature of 500 °C for 2 h. This study hopes to inspire more researches on the ionic-gelation method for synthesizing other metal nanostructures as well as other reaction parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blood glucose monitoring is considered the gold standard for diabetes diagnostics and self-monitoring. However, the underlying process is invasive and highly uncomfortable for patients. Furthermore, the process must be completed several times a day to successfully manage the disease, which greatly contributes to the massive need for non-invasive monitoring options. Human serums, such as saliva, sweat, breath, urine and tears, contain traces of glucose and are easily accessible. Therefore, they allow minimal to non-invasive glucose monitoring, making them attractive alternatives to blood measurements. Numerous developments regarding noninvasive glucose detection techniques have taken place over the years, but recently, they have gained recognition as viable alternatives, due to the advent of nanotechnology-based sensors. Such sensors are optimal for testing the amount of glucose in serums other than blood thanks to their enhanced sensitivity and selectivity ranges, in addition to their size and compatibility with electronic circuitry. These nanotechnology approaches are rapidly evolving, and new techniques are constantly emerging. Hence, this manuscript aims to review current and future nanomaterial-based technologies utilizing saliva, sweat, breath and tears as a diagnostic medium for diabetes monitoring.