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Nanomaterials, Volume 12, Issue 7 (April-1 2022) – 206 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): We report the synthesis of a hybrid nanocatalyst obtained through the immobilization of a bioinspired [{Mn(bpy)(H2O)}(µ-2-MeC6H4COO)2(µ-O){Mn(bpy)(NO3)}]NO3 compound into functionalized, monodispersed, and mesoporous silica nanoparticles. The in situ dual-functionalization sol–gel strategy adopted here leads to the synthesis of raspberry-shaped silica nanoparticles of ca. 72 nm with a large open porosity, with the preferential localization of 1,4-pyridine within the pores, and with sulfobetaine zwitterion on the nanoparticles’ peripheries. These nano-objects exhibit improved catalase-mimicking activity in water thanks to the encapsulation/immobilization of the catalytic active complex and high colloidal stability in water, as demonstrated through the dismutation reaction of hydrogen peroxide. View this paper
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12 pages, 3591 KiB  
Article
Plastic Softening Induced by High-Frequency Vibrations Accompanying Uniaxial Tension in Aluminum
by Ziyu Zhao, Jinxing Liu and Amir Siddiq
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1239; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071239 - 06 Apr 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1618
Abstract
We have investigated the influences of high-frequency vibration (HFV) superimposed onto the monotonic uniaxial tension in single-crystal aluminum (Al) specimens by molecular dynamics simulations. It was found that HFV induces softening, i.e., reduction in peak stress. Similar to previous experimental results, the softening [...] Read more.
We have investigated the influences of high-frequency vibration (HFV) superimposed onto the monotonic uniaxial tension in single-crystal aluminum (Al) specimens by molecular dynamics simulations. It was found that HFV induces softening, i.e., reduction in peak stress. Similar to previous experimental results, the softening increases with the increasing HFV amplitude. Dependences on lattice orientation, tensile strain rate, and a preset notch are considered. Lattice orientation plays an important role in peak stress and plasticity. The evolution of the atomic structure reveals that dislocations have enough time to annihilate under a lower tensile strain rate, resulting in strong ups and downs in the strain–stress curves. Under a higher strain rate, newly appearing dislocations interact with previous ones before the latter annihilate, densifying the dislocation network. As a result, further dislocation motions and annihilations are considerably impeded, leading to a relatively smooth flow stage. Furthermore, by modifying the propagation direction of shear bands, a preset notch can strengthen the peak tensile stress under low-level amplitude HFVs. Full article
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15 pages, 1954 KiB  
Article
Rashba Spin Splitting in HgCdTe Quantum Wells with Inverted and Normal Band Structures
by Svetlana V. Gudina, Vladimir N. Neverov, Mikhail R. Popov, Konstantin V. Turutkin, Sergey M. Podgornykh, Nina G. Shelushinina, Mikhail V. Yakunin, Nikolay N. Mikhailov and Sergey A. Dvoretsky
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1238; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071238 - 06 Apr 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1860
Abstract
In quantum wells (QWs) formed in HgCdTe/CdHgTe heterosystems with a variable composition of Cd(Hg), Shubnikov-de-Haas (SdH) oscillations are investigated to characterize the Rashba-type spin-orbit coupling in QWs with both a normal and inverted band structure. Several methods of extracting the Rashba spin-splitting at [...] Read more.
In quantum wells (QWs) formed in HgCdTe/CdHgTe heterosystems with a variable composition of Cd(Hg), Shubnikov-de-Haas (SdH) oscillations are investigated to characterize the Rashba-type spin-orbit coupling in QWs with both a normal and inverted band structure. Several methods of extracting the Rashba spin-splitting at zero magnetic field and their magnetic field dependences from the beatings of SdH oscillations are used for greater reliability. The large and similar Rashba splitting (25–27 meV) is found for different kinds of spectrum, explained by a significant fraction of the p-type wave functions, in both the E1 subband of the sample with a normal spectrum and the H1 subband for the sample with an inverted one. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Semiconductor Nano-Structures)
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19 pages, 5963 KiB  
Article
Rheological Modeling of Metallic Oxide Nanoparticles Containing Non-Newtonian Nanofluids and Potential Investigation of Heat and Mass Flow Characteristics
by Muhammad Rizwan, Mohsan Hassan, Oluwole Daniel Makinde, Muhammad Mubashir Bhatti and Marin Marin
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1237; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071237 - 06 Apr 2022
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 1716
Abstract
Nanofluids have great potential due to their improved properties that make them useful for addressing various industrial and engineering problems. In order to use nanofluids on an industrial scale, it is first important to discuss their rheological behavior in relation to heat transfer [...] Read more.
Nanofluids have great potential due to their improved properties that make them useful for addressing various industrial and engineering problems. In order to use nanofluids on an industrial scale, it is first important to discuss their rheological behavior in relation to heat transfer aspects. In the current study, the flow characteristics of nanofluids are discussed using a mathematical model that is developed by fundamental laws and experimental data. The data are collected in the form of viscosity versus shear rate for different homogeneous ethylene glycol- (EG) based nanofluids, which are synthesized by dispersing 5–20% nanoparticle concentrations of SiO2, MgO, and TiO2 with diameters of (20–30 nm, 60–70 nm), (20 nm, 40 nm), and (30 nm, 50 nm), respectively. The data are fitted into a rheological power-law model and further used to govern equations of a physical problem. The problem is simplified into ordinary differential equations by using a boundary layer and similarity transformations and then solved through the numerical Runge–Kutta (RK) method. The obtained results in the form of velocity and temperature profiles at different nanoparticle concentrations and diameters are displayed graphically for discussion. Furthermore, displacement and momentum thicknesses are computed numerically to explain boundary-layer growth. The results show that the velocity profile is reduced and the temperature profile is raised by increasing the nanoparticle concentration. Conversely, the velocity profile is increased and the temperature profile is decreased by increasing the nanoparticle diameter. The results of the present investigation regarding heat and mass flow behavior will help engineers design equipment and improve the efficacy and economy of the overall process in the industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Nanofluids in Renewable Energy Engineering)
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11 pages, 35286 KiB  
Article
Effect of Crack Defects on Magnetostriction and Magnetic Moment Evolution of Iron Thin Films
by Hongwei Yang, Meng Zhang and Lianchun Long
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1236; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071236 - 06 Apr 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1581
Abstract
Molecular dynamics simulations of body-centered cubic (bcc) iron thin films with crack defects were carried out by adopting methods of EAM (Embedded Atom Method) potential, spin/exchange potential and spin/neel potential. In this article, the effects of the variation of distance between two crack [...] Read more.
Molecular dynamics simulations of body-centered cubic (bcc) iron thin films with crack defects were carried out by adopting methods of EAM (Embedded Atom Method) potential, spin/exchange potential and spin/neel potential. In this article, the effects of the variation of distance between two crack defects and their directions on the magnetostrictive properties of the thin films are studied, and the corresponding microscopic mechanism is also analyzed. The results show that the defects affect the atomic magnetic moment nearby, and the magnetostrictive properties of thin iron films vary with the direction and spacing of the crack defects. If the defect spacing is constant, the iron model with crack perpendicular to the magnetization direction has stronger magnetostriction than that of parallel to the magnetization direction. The variation of the defect spacing has a great influence on the magnetostrictive properties of the iron model with crack direction parallel to magnetization direction, but it has a small effect on another perpendicular situation. The atoms between the defects may move, but if the defect spacing increases to a certain value, then none of the atoms will move. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Theory and Simulation of Nanostructures)
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13 pages, 4582 KiB  
Article
FIB-DIC Residual Stress Evaluation in Shot Peened VT6 Alloy Validated by X-ray Diffraction and Laser Speckle Interferometry
by Pavel A. Somov, Eugene S. Statnik, Yuliya Kan, Vladimir S. Pisarev, Svyatoslav I. Eleonsky, Dmitry Yu. Ozherelkov and Alexey I. Salimon
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1235; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071235 - 06 Apr 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1600
Abstract
Ga-ion micro-ring-core FIB-DIC evaluation of residual stresses in shot peened VT6 (Ti-6Al-4V) alloy was carried out and cross-validated against other non-destructive and semi-destructive residual stresses evaluation techniques, namely, the conventional sin2ψ X-ray diffraction and mechanical hole drilling. The Korsunsky FIB-DIC method [...] Read more.
Ga-ion micro-ring-core FIB-DIC evaluation of residual stresses in shot peened VT6 (Ti-6Al-4V) alloy was carried out and cross-validated against other non-destructive and semi-destructive residual stresses evaluation techniques, namely, the conventional sin2ψ X-ray diffraction and mechanical hole drilling. The Korsunsky FIB-DIC method of Ga-ion beam micro-ring-core milling within FIB-SEM with Digital Image Correlation (DIC) deformation analysis delivered spatial resolution down to a few micrometers, while the mechanical drilling of circular holes of ~2 mm diameter with laser speckle interferometry monitoring of strains gave a rough spatial resolution of a few millimeters. Good agreement was also found with the X-ray diffraction estimates of residual stress variation profiles as a function of depth. These results demonstrate that FIB-DIC provides rich information down to the micron scale, it also allows reliable estimation of macro-scale residual stresses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Synthesis, Interfaces and Nanostructures)
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9 pages, 460 KiB  
Article
Constrained DFT for Molecular Junctions
by Linda Angela Zotti, Wynand Dednam, Enrico B. Lombardi and Juan Jose Palacios
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1234; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071234 - 06 Apr 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1576
Abstract
We have explored the use of constrained density functional theory (cDFT) for molecular junctions based on benzenediamine. By elongating the junction, we observe that the energy gap between the ionization potential and the electronic affinity increases with the stretching distance. This is consistent [...] Read more.
We have explored the use of constrained density functional theory (cDFT) for molecular junctions based on benzenediamine. By elongating the junction, we observe that the energy gap between the ionization potential and the electronic affinity increases with the stretching distance. This is consistent with the trend expected from the electrostatic screening. A more detailed analysis shows how this influences the charge distribution of both the individual metal layers and the molecular atoms. Overall, our work shows that constrained DFT is a powerful tool for studying screening effects in molecular junctions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Electronics: Challenges and Opportunities)
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21 pages, 2740 KiB  
Article
Development of a Bifunctional Ti-Based Gas Diffusion Electrode for ORR and OER by One- and Two-Step Pt-Ir Electrodeposition
by Maximilian Cieluch, Pit Yannick Podleschny, Norbert Kazamer, Florian Josef Wirkert, Ulrich Wilhelm Rost and Michael Brodmann
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1233; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071233 - 06 Apr 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3001
Abstract
The present paper presents one- and two-step approaches for electrochemical Pt and Ir deposition on a porous Ti-substrate to obtain a bifunctional oxygen electrode. Surface pre-treatment of the fiber-based Ti-substrate with oxalic acid provides an alternative to plasma treatment for partially stripping TiO [...] Read more.
The present paper presents one- and two-step approaches for electrochemical Pt and Ir deposition on a porous Ti-substrate to obtain a bifunctional oxygen electrode. Surface pre-treatment of the fiber-based Ti-substrate with oxalic acid provides an alternative to plasma treatment for partially stripping TiO2 from the electrode surface and roughening the topography. Electrochemical catalyst deposition performed directly onto the pretreated Ti-substrates bypasses unnecessary preparation and processing of catalyst support structures. A single Pt constant potential deposition (CPD), directly followed by pulsed electrodeposition (PED), created nanosized noble agglomerates. Subsequently, Ir was deposited via PED onto the Pt sub-structure to obtain a successively deposited PtIr catalyst layer. For the co-deposition of PtIr, a binary PtIr-alloy electrolyte was used applying PED. Micrographically, areal micro- and nano-scaled Pt sub-structure were observed, supplemented by homogenously distributed, nanosized Ir agglomerates for the successive PtIr deposition. In contrast, the PtIr co-deposition led to spherical, nanosized PtIr agglomerates. The electrochemical ORR and OER activity showed increased hydrogen desorption peaks for the Pt-deposited substrate, as well as broadening and flattening of the hydrogen desorption peaks for PtIr deposited substrates. The anodic kinetic parameters for the prepared electrodes were found to be higher than those of a polished Ir-disc. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Catalysis for Sustainable Chemistry and Energy)
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11 pages, 15709 KiB  
Article
Direct Epitaxial Growth of Polar Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 Films on Corundum
by Eduardo Barriuso, Panagiotis Koutsogiannis, David Serrate, Javier Herrero-Martín, Ricardo Jiménez, César Magén, Miguel Algueró, Pedro A. Algarabel and José A. Pardo
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1232; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071232 - 06 Apr 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2181
Abstract
Single-phase epitaxial Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 films with non-centrosymmetric orthorhombic structure have been grown directly on electrode-free corundum (α-Al2O3) substrates by pulsed laser deposition. A combination of high-resolution X-ray diffraction and X-ray absorption spectroscopy confirms the epitaxial [...] Read more.
Single-phase epitaxial Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 films with non-centrosymmetric orthorhombic structure have been grown directly on electrode-free corundum (α-Al2O3) substrates by pulsed laser deposition. A combination of high-resolution X-ray diffraction and X-ray absorption spectroscopy confirms the epitaxial growth of high-quality films belonging to the Pca21 space group, with [111] out-of-plane orientation. The surface of a 7-nm-thick sample exhibits an atomic step-terrace structure with a corrugation of the order of one atomic layer, as proved by atomic force microscopy. Scanning transmission electron microscopy reveals that it consists of grains with around 10 nm lateral size. The polar nature of this film has been corroborated by pyroelectric measurements. These results shed light on the mechanisms of the epitaxial stabilization of the ferroelectric phase of hafnia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pulsed Laser Deposited Nanostructures)
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29 pages, 2855 KiB  
Review
Nanomaterial Exposure, Extracellular Vesicle Biogenesis and Adverse Cellular Outcomes: A Scoping Review
by Thais S. M. Lima, Wanderson Souza, Luths R. O. Geaquinto, Priscila L. Sanches, Ewa. L. Stepień, João Meneses, Eli Fernández-de Gortari, Nicole Meisner-Kober, Martin Himly, José M. Granjeiro and Ana R. Ribeiro
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1231; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071231 - 06 Apr 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3636
Abstract
The progressively increasing use of nanomaterials (NMs) has awakened issues related to nanosafety and its potential toxic effects on human health. Emerging studies suggest that NMs alter cell communication by reshaping and altering the secretion of extracellular vesicles (EVs), leading to dysfunction in [...] Read more.
The progressively increasing use of nanomaterials (NMs) has awakened issues related to nanosafety and its potential toxic effects on human health. Emerging studies suggest that NMs alter cell communication by reshaping and altering the secretion of extracellular vesicles (EVs), leading to dysfunction in recipient cells. However, there is limited understanding of how the physicochemical characteristics of NMs alter the EV content and their consequent physiological functions. Therefore, this review explored the relevance of EVs in the nanotoxicology field. The current state of the art on how EVs are modulated by NM exposure and the possible regulation and modulation of signaling pathways and physiological responses were assessed in detail. This review followed the manual for reviewers produced by The Joanna Brigs Institute for Scoping Reviews and the PRISMA extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR): checklist and explanation. The research question, “Do NMs modulate cellular responses mediated by EVs?” was analyzed following the PECO model (P (Population) = EVs, E (Exposure) = NMs, C (Comparator) = EVs without exposure to NMs, O (Outcome) = Cellular responses/change in EVs) to help methodologically assess the association between exposure and outcome. For each theme in the PECO acronym, keywords were defined, organized, and researched in PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases, up to 30 September 2021. In vitro, in vivo, ex vivo, and clinical studies that analyzed the effect of NMs on EV biogenesis, cargo, and cellular responses were included in the analysis. The methodological quality assessment was conducted using the ToxRTool, ARRIVE guideline, Newcastle Ottawa and the EV-TRACK platform. The search in the referred databases identified 2944 articles. After applying the eligibility criteria and two-step screening, 18 articles were included in the final review. We observed that depending on the concentration and physicochemical characteristics, specific NMs promote a significant increase in EV secretion as well as changes in their cargo, especially regarding the expression of proteins and miRNAs, which, in turn, were involved in biological processes that included cell communication, angiogenesis, and activation of the immune response, etc. Although further studies are necessary, this work suggests that molecular investigations on EVs induced by NM exposure may become a potential tool for toxicological studies since they are widely accessible biomarkers that may form a bridge between NM exposure and the cellular response and pathological outcome. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health, Environment and Nanosafety)
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13 pages, 2681 KiB  
Article
Nano-Composite Filler of Heteropolyacid-Imidazole Modified Mesoporous Silica for High Temperature PEMFC at Low Humidity
by Gicheon Lee, Jinsol Kim, Jungho Park, Yukwon Jeon, Jinwon Park and Yong-Gun Shul
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1230; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071230 - 06 Apr 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1604
Abstract
Nano-composite filler has received attention for the application to high temperature and low humidity polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) in fuel cell systems. Heteropolyacids (HPAs) are one of the most attractive materials because of their conductive and thermally stable properties, but have practical limitations [...] Read more.
Nano-composite filler has received attention for the application to high temperature and low humidity polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) in fuel cell systems. Heteropolyacids (HPAs) are one of the most attractive materials because of their conductive and thermally stable properties, but have practical limitations due to their high solubility. We investigated the stabilization of HPA on imidazole modified mesoporous silica as a nano-composite filler. The role of mesoporous silica as a support for imidazole and the distribution of chemically bonded HPA on the surface were both confirmed through physical and chemical analysis. The developed nano-composite was utilized to a PEM as a proton conducting filler, cast with commercial AquivionTM solution. Changing the HPA: imidazole ratio and HPA wt%, the composite membrane of Im10/PWA6/Si-MCM-41 (PWA 10 wt%) resulted in higher proton conductivity compared to the non-modified membrane at all operation conditions, especially at high temperature (140 °C) and low relative humidity (RH 10%), with values of 0.3530 and 0.0241 S/m, respectively. A single cell test at H2/Air also showed the effect of adding the nano-composite filler at a wide range of temperatures, which outperformed a single cell with a pristine membrane even at an extremely low humidity condition. Full article
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18 pages, 4399 KiB  
Article
Preparation and Characterization of New Electrospun Poly(lactic acid) Nanofiber Antioxidative Active Packaging Films Containing MCM-41 Mesoporous Molecular Sieve Loaded with Phloridzin and Their Application in Strawberry Packaging
by Yuan Xie, Guiguang Cheng, Zhoushan Wu, Shang Shi, Jinghao Zhao, Lin Jiang, Dengbang Jiang, Mingwei Yuan, Yudan Wang and Minglong Yuan
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1229; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071229 - 06 Apr 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2268 | Correction
Abstract
Health concerns about food safety have increased in recent years. In order to ensure the safety and increase the shelf-life of food, many methods have been used to slow down the oxidation rate of food fat. In order to solve this problem, a [...] Read more.
Health concerns about food safety have increased in recent years. In order to ensure the safety and increase the shelf-life of food, many methods have been used to slow down the oxidation rate of food fat. In order to solve this problem, a new type of antioxidant-active packaging has emerged. Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) films containing phloridzin adsorbed on to an MCM-41 mesoporous molecular sieve were prepared by electrostatic spinning, using PLA as a film-forming substrate, phloridzin as an antioxidant, and MCM-41 as the adsorption and controlled release carrier. The physical properties of the new films—including microscopic structure, water vapor transmission rate, and fresh-keeping effects, as well as the mechanical, thermal, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties—were studied. When the mass ratio of MCM-41 to phloridzin is 1:2, the nanofiber membrane achieves a 53.61% free-radical scavenging rate and better antibacterial performance (85.22%) due to the high content of phloridzin (30.54%). Additionally, when the mass ratio of the molecular sieve to phloridzin is 1:2 and 3:4 (with the best antibacterial performance of 89.30%), the films significantly delay lipid oxidation in the strawberry packaging, allowing the fresh-keeping time to be extended to up to 21 days before mildew appears. In this study, an MCM-41 mesoporous molecular sieve was used to load phloridzin for the first time. The packaging film with phloridzin, MCM-41, and poly(lactic acid) were used as the raw materials and electrospinning technology was used to prepare the packaging film with antioxidant activity. The packaging film was used for the first time in the packaging of strawberries. Full article
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10 pages, 2812 KiB  
Article
Electronically Controlled Time-Domain Integral Average Depolarizer Based on a Barium Titanate (BTO) Metasurface
by Kaiqian Jie, Hui Huang, Shuai Qin, Jianping Guo, Hongzhan Liu, Hongyun Meng, Faqiang Wang, Xiangbo Yang and Zhongchao Wei
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1228; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071228 - 06 Apr 2022
Viewed by 1610
Abstract
A depolarizer, a kind of optical element that converts polarized light to unpolarized light, has been found massive applications in classical optics. However, depolarizers based on metasurface which can be applied in integrated optics have rarely been proposed. In this paper, an electronically [...] Read more.
A depolarizer, a kind of optical element that converts polarized light to unpolarized light, has been found massive applications in classical optics. However, depolarizers based on metasurface which can be applied in integrated optics have rarely been proposed. In this paper, an electronically controlled metasurface depolarizer is demonstrated based on the time-domain integral average method and nano-material barium titanate. It obtains emergent light with a degree of polarization reduced to 2.5% when hit by linearly polarized light at 633 nm, and has a transmission efficiency greater than 72%. This depolarizing metasurface can be designed on-demand, immunizing the degree of the emergent light from its size, and has the simple electronic control with high-speed response. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanophotonics Materials and Devices)
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12 pages, 4096 KiB  
Article
Chromium-Modified Ultrathin CoFe LDH as High-Efficiency Electrode for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
by Jun-Jun Zhang, Meng-Yang Li, Xiang Li, Wei-Wei Bao, Chang-Qing Jin, Xiao-Hua Feng, Ge Liu, Chun-Ming Yang and Nan-Nan Zhang
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1227; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071227 - 06 Apr 2022
Cited by 30 | Viewed by 2813
Abstract
Hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) has a dominant function in energy conversion and storage because it supplies a most effective way for converting electricity into sustainable high-purity hydrogen. Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) have shown promising performance in the process of electrochemical water oxidation (a [...] Read more.
Hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) has a dominant function in energy conversion and storage because it supplies a most effective way for converting electricity into sustainable high-purity hydrogen. Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) have shown promising performance in the process of electrochemical water oxidation (a half-reaction for water splitting). Nevertheless, HER properties have not been well released due to the structural characteristics of related materials. Herein, a simple and scalable tactics is developed to synthesize chromium-doped CoFe LDH (CoFeCr LDH). Thanks to oxygen vacancy, optimized electronic structure and interconnected array hierarchical structure, our developed ternary CoFeCr-based layered double hydroxide catalysts can provide 10 mA cm−2 current density at −0.201 V vs. RHE with superior long-term stability in alkaline electrolyte. We anticipate that the simple but feasible polymetallic electronic modulation strategy can strengthen the electrocatalytic property of the layered double hydroxides established in the present study, based on a carbon neutral and hydrogen economy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials with High Electrocatalytic Performance)
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16 pages, 4985 KiB  
Article
Rapid Determination of Vitamin D3 in Aquatic Products by Polypyrrole-Coated Magnetic Nanoparticles Extraction Coupled with High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Detection
by Xinyan Liu, Ru Song and Rongbian Wei
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1226; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071226 - 06 Apr 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1885
Abstract
A method using polypyrrole-coated Fe3O4 (Fe3O4@PPy composites) based extraction coupled with high performance liquid chromatography was developed for adsorption and detection of trace vitamin D3 (VD3) in aquatic products. The fabricated Fe3 [...] Read more.
A method using polypyrrole-coated Fe3O4 (Fe3O4@PPy composites) based extraction coupled with high performance liquid chromatography was developed for adsorption and detection of trace vitamin D3 (VD3) in aquatic products. The fabricated Fe3O4@PPy composites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. Fe3O4@PPy composites showed efficient adsorption of VD3 at pH 9.0 and 25 °C with a dose of 25 mg per 10 mL of sample solution and an adsorption time of 11 min. Methanol was selected as the desorption solvent to recover VD3 from Fe3O4@PPy composites after 3 min of static treatment. Fe3O4@PPy composites can be used for VD3 adsorption at least two times. The developed method showed a good linearity for VD3 determination in the range of 0.1–10 μg/mL with a correlation coefficient of 0.9989. The limits of detection and quantification were 10 ng/mL and 33 ng/mL, respectively. The recovery of VD3 in a spiking test was 97.72% with a relative standard deviation value of 1.78%. The content of VD3 in nine aquatic products was determined with this method. Our results show that Fe3O4@PPy composites provide a convenient method for the adsorption and determination of VD3 from the complex matrix of aquatic products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials-Based Sample Pretreatment)
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18 pages, 3427 KiB  
Article
Insight into Structural Changes and Electrochemical Properties of Spark Plasma Sintered Nanostructured Ferritic and Austenitic Stainless Steels
by Junaid Ahmed, Ihsan-ul-Haq Toor, Mohamed A. Hussein, Nasser Al-Aqeeli and Mirza M. A. Baig
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1225; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071225 - 05 Apr 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1565
Abstract
Nanostructured ferritic (Fe(82−x)-Cr18-Six, x = 0–3 wt %) and austenitic (Fe(73−x)-Cr18-Ni9-Six, x = 0–3 wt %) stainless steel (SS) alloys were developed by mechanical alloying (MA) and spark plasma sintering (SPS). [...] Read more.
Nanostructured ferritic (Fe(82−x)-Cr18-Six, x = 0–3 wt %) and austenitic (Fe(73−x)-Cr18-Ni9-Six, x = 0–3 wt %) stainless steel (SS) alloys were developed by mechanical alloying (MA) and spark plasma sintering (SPS). The unit cell parameter estimated from X-ray diffraction spectra exhibited a decreasing trend with an increase in wt % of Si content in both alloy systems. The particle size of powders estimated using bright field transmission electron microscopy images for ferritic (3 wt % Si) and austenitic (3 wt % Si) SS powders was found to be 65 ± 5 nm and 18 ± 3 nm, respectively. In case of the ferritic system, 3 wt % Si exhibited the highest densification (~98%) and micro-hardness of about 350.6 ± 11.2 HV, respectively. Similarly, for the austenitic system (3 wt % Si), maximum densification and micro-hardness values were about 99% and 476.6 ± 15.2 HV, respectively. Comparative analysis of potentiodynamic polarization, linear polarization, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy results indicates an increase in electrochemical performance of both alloy systems as the wt % Si was increased. The increase in electrochemical performance is directly related to the increase in densification owing to Si addition in these alloys. Full article
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19 pages, 6238 KiB  
Article
CO2 Adsorption on the N- and P-Modified Mesoporous Silicas
by Oyundari Tumurbaatar, Hristina Lazarova, Margarita Popova, Violeta Mitova, Pavletta Shestakova and Neli Koseva
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1224; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071224 - 05 Apr 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1719
Abstract
SBA-15 and MCM-48 mesoporous silicas were modified with functionalized (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES) by using the post-synthesis method, thus introducing N- and P-containing groups to the pore surface. The structure of the newly synthesized modifiers (aldimine and aminophosphonate derivatives of (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane and their grafting onto [...] Read more.
SBA-15 and MCM-48 mesoporous silicas were modified with functionalized (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES) by using the post-synthesis method, thus introducing N- and P-containing groups to the pore surface. The structure of the newly synthesized modifiers (aldimine and aminophosphonate derivatives of (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane and their grafting onto the porous matrix were proved by applying multinuclear NMR and FTIR spectroscopies. The content of the grafted functional groups was determined via thermogravimetric analysis. The physicochemical properties of the adsorbent samples were studied by nitrogen physisorption and UV–Vis spectroscopy. The adsorption capacity of CO2 was measured in a dynamic CO2 adsorption regime. The modified silicas displayed an enhanced adsorption capacity compared to the initial material. The 13C NMR spectra with high-power proton decoupling proved the presence of physically captured CO2. A value of 4.60 mmol/g was achieved for the MCM-48 material grafted with the Schiff base residues. The total CO2 desorption was achieved at 40 °C. A slight decrease of about 5% in CO2 adsorption capacities was registered for the modified silicas in three adsorption/desorption cycles, indicating their performance stability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanocomposite Materials)
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22 pages, 8774 KiB  
Review
Supramolecular Nanostructures Based on Perylene Diimide Bioconjugates: From Self-Assembly to Applications
by Nadjib Kihal, Ali Nazemi and Steve Bourgault
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1223; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071223 - 05 Apr 2022
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3894
Abstract
Self-assembling π-conjugated systems constitute efficient building blocks for the construction of supramolecular structures with tailored functional properties. In this context, perylene diimide (PDI) has attracted attention owing to its chemical robustness, thermal and photo-stability, and outstanding optical and electronic properties. Recently, the conjugation [...] Read more.
Self-assembling π-conjugated systems constitute efficient building blocks for the construction of supramolecular structures with tailored functional properties. In this context, perylene diimide (PDI) has attracted attention owing to its chemical robustness, thermal and photo-stability, and outstanding optical and electronic properties. Recently, the conjugation of PDI derivatives to biological molecules, including oligonucleotides and peptides, has opened new avenues for the design of nanoassemblies with unique structures and functionalities. In the present review, we offer a comprehensive summary of supramolecular bio-assemblies based on PDI. After briefly presenting the physicochemical, structural, and optical properties of PDI derivatives, we discuss the synthesis, self-assembly, and applications of PDI bioconjugates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Nanomaterials Based on Self-Assembly)
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13 pages, 3605 KiB  
Article
Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Transplanted Porcine Neonatal Pancreatic Cell Clusters Labeled with Exendin-4-Conjugated Manganese Magnetism-Engineered Iron Oxide Nanoparticles
by Jyuhn-Huarng Juang, Jiun-Jie Wang, Chia-Rui Shen, Sung-Han Lin, Chen-Yi Chen, Chen-Wei Kao, Chen-Ling Chen, Shu-Ting Wu, Zei-Tsan Tsai and Yun-Ming Wang
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1222; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071222 - 05 Apr 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1745
Abstract
Recently, we have shown that manganese magnetism-engineered iron oxide nanoparticles (MnMEIO NPs) conjugated with exendin-4 (Ex4) act as a contrast agent that directly trace implanted mouse islet β-cells by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Here we further advanced this technology to track implanted porcine [...] Read more.
Recently, we have shown that manganese magnetism-engineered iron oxide nanoparticles (MnMEIO NPs) conjugated with exendin-4 (Ex4) act as a contrast agent that directly trace implanted mouse islet β-cells by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Here we further advanced this technology to track implanted porcine neonatal pancreatic cell clusters (NPCCs) containing ducts, endocrine, and exocrine cells. NPCCs from one-day-old neonatal pigs were isolated, cultured for three days, and then incubated overnight with MnMEIO-Ex4 NPs. Binding of NPCCs and MnMEIO-Ex4 NPs was confirmed with Prussian blue staining in vitro prior to the transplantation of 2000 MnMEIO-Ex4 NP-labeled NPCCs beneath the left renal capsule of six nondiabetic nude mice. The 7.0 T MRI on recipients revealed persistent hypointense areas at implantation sites for up to 54 days. The MR signal intensity of the graft on left kidney reduced 62–88% compared to the mirror areas on the contralateral kidney. Histological studies showed colocalization of insulin/iron and SOX9/iron staining in NPCC grafts, indicating that MnMEIO-Ex4 NPs were taken up by mature β-cells and pancreatic progenitors. We conclude that MnMEIO-Ex4 NPs are excellent contrast agents for detecting and long-term monitoring implanted NPCCs by MRI. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanomaterials for Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
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22 pages, 3496 KiB  
Article
Intranasal Administration of Catechol-Based Pt(IV) Coordination Polymer Nanoparticles for Glioblastoma Therapy
by Xiaoman Mao, Pilar Calero-Pérez, David Montpeyó, Jordi Bruna, Victor J. Yuste, Ana Paula Candiota, Julia Lorenzo, Fernando Novio and Daniel Ruiz-Molina
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1221; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071221 - 05 Apr 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2488
Abstract
Cisplatin has been described as a potent anticancer agent for decades. However, in the case of glioblastomas, it is only considered a rescue treatment applied after the failure of second-line treatments. Herein, based on the versatility offered by coordination chemistry, we engineered nanoparticles [...] Read more.
Cisplatin has been described as a potent anticancer agent for decades. However, in the case of glioblastomas, it is only considered a rescue treatment applied after the failure of second-line treatments. Herein, based on the versatility offered by coordination chemistry, we engineered nanoparticles by reaction of a platinum (IV) prodrug and iron metal ions showing in vitro dual pH- and redox-sensitivity, controlled release and comparable cytotoxicity to cisplatin against HeLa and GL261 cells. In vivo intranasal administration in orthotopic preclinical GL261 glioblastoma tumor-bearing mice demonstrated increased accumulation of platinum in tumors, leading in some cases to complete cure and prolonged survival of the tested cohort. This was corroborated by a magnetic resonance imaging follow-up, thus opening new opportunities for intranasal glioblastoma therapies while minimizing side effects. The findings derived from this research showed the potentiality of this approach as a novel therapy for glioblastoma treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanoscale Coordination Polymers for Advanced Applications)
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11 pages, 2269 KiB  
Article
Engineered Cu-PEN Composites at the Nanoscale: Preparation and Characterisation
by Jana Pryjmaková, Mariia Hryhoruk, Martin Veselý, Petr Slepička, Václav Švorčík and Jakub Siegel
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1220; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071220 - 05 Apr 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1569
Abstract
As polymeric materials are already used in many industries, the range of their applications is constantly expanding. Therefore, their preparation procedures and the resulting properties require considerable attention. In this work, we designed the surface of polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) introducing copper nanowires. The [...] Read more.
As polymeric materials are already used in many industries, the range of their applications is constantly expanding. Therefore, their preparation procedures and the resulting properties require considerable attention. In this work, we designed the surface of polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) introducing copper nanowires. The surface of PEN was transformed into coherent ripple patterns by treatment with a KrF excimer laser. Then, Cu deposition onto nanostructured surfaces by a vacuum evaporation technique was accomplished, giving rise to nanowires. The morphology of the prepared structures was investigated by atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Energy dispersive spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed the distribution of Cu in the nanowires and their gradual oxidation. The optical properties of the Cu nanowires were measured by UV-Vis spectroscopy. The sessile drop method revealed the hydrophobic character of the Cu/PEN surface, which is important for further studies of biological responses. Our study suggests that a combination of laser surface texturing and vacuum evaporation can be an effective and simple method for the preparation of a Cu/polymer nanocomposite with potential exploitation in bioapplications; however, it should be borne in mind that significant post-deposition oxidation of the Cu nanowire occurs, which may open up new strategies for further biological applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Nanostructured Polymers)
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8 pages, 2663 KiB  
Article
Single- and Twin-Photons Emitted from Fiber-Coupled Quantum Dots in a Distributed Bragg Reflector Cavity
by Xiangjun Shang, Shulun Li, Hanqing Liu, Xiangbin Su, Huiming Hao, Deyan Dai, Xiaoming Li, Yuanyuan Li, Yuanfei Gao, Xiuming Dou, Haiqiao Ni and Zhichuan Niu
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1219; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071219 - 05 Apr 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1582
Abstract
In this work, we develop single-mode fiber devices of an InAs/GaAs quantum dot (QD) by bonding a fiber array with large smooth facet, small core, and small numerical aperture to QDs in a distributed Bragg reflector planar cavity with vertical light extraction that [...] Read more.
In this work, we develop single-mode fiber devices of an InAs/GaAs quantum dot (QD) by bonding a fiber array with large smooth facet, small core, and small numerical aperture to QDs in a distributed Bragg reflector planar cavity with vertical light extraction that prove mode overlap and efficient output for plug-and-play stable use and extensive study. Modulated Si doping as electron reservoir builds electric field and level tunnel coupling to reduce fine-structure splitting (FSS) and populate dominant XX and higher excitons XX+ and XXX. Epoxy package thermal stress induces light hole (lh) with various behaviors related to the donor field: lh h1 confined with more anisotropy shows an additional XZ line (its space to the traditional X lines reflects the field intensity) and larger FSS; lh h2 delocalized to wetting layer shows a fast h2–h1 decay; lh h2 confined shows D3h symmetric higher excitons with slow h2–h1 decay and more confined h1 to raise h1–h1 Coulomb interaction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Low-Dimensional Nanomaterials and Their Applications)
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10 pages, 3283 KiB  
Article
Low-Temperature (≤500 °C) Complementary Schottky Source/Drain FinFETs for 3D Sequential Integration
by Shujuan Mao, Jianfeng Gao, Xiaobin He, Weibing Liu, Jinbiao Liu, Guilei Wang, Na Zhou, Yanna Luo, Lei Cao, Ran Zhang, Haochen Liu, Xun Li, Yongliang Li, Zhenhua Wu, Junfeng Li, Jun Luo, Chao Zhao, Wenwu Wang and Huaxiang Yin
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1218; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071218 - 05 Apr 2022
Viewed by 1784
Abstract
In this work, low-temperature Schottky source/drain (S/D) MOSFETs are investigated as the top-tier devices for 3D sequential integration. Complementary Schottky S/D FinFETs are successfully fabricated with a maximum processing temperature of 500 °C. Through source/drain extension (SDE) engineering, competitive driving capability and switching [...] Read more.
In this work, low-temperature Schottky source/drain (S/D) MOSFETs are investigated as the top-tier devices for 3D sequential integration. Complementary Schottky S/D FinFETs are successfully fabricated with a maximum processing temperature of 500 °C. Through source/drain extension (SDE) engineering, competitive driving capability and switching properties are achieved in comparison to the conventional devices fabricated with a standard high-temperature (≥1000 °C) process flow. Schottky S/D PMOS exhibits an ON-state current (ION) of 76.07 μA/μm and ON-state to OFF-state current ratio (ION/IOFF) of 7 × 105, and those for NMOS are 48.57 μA/μm and 1 × 106. The CMOS inverter shows a voltage gain of 18V/V, a noise margin for high (NMH) of 0.17 V and for low (NML) of 0.43 V, with power consumption less than 0.9 μW at VDD of 0.8 V. Full functionality of CMOS ring oscillators (RO) are further demonstrated. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Memory Nanomaterials: Growth, Characterization and Device Fabrication)
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21 pages, 3515 KiB  
Article
Effectiveness of Direct Laser Interference Patterning and Peptide Immobilization on Endothelial Cell Migration for Cardio-Vascular Applications: An In Vitro Study
by Romain Schieber, Carlos Mas-Moruno, Federico Lasserre, Joan Josep Roa, Maria-Pau Ginebra, Frank Mücklich and Marta Pegueroles
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1217; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071217 - 05 Apr 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1883
Abstract
Endothelial coverage of an exposed cardiovascular stent surface leads to the occurrence of restenosis and late-stent thrombosis several months after implantation. To overcome this difficulty, modification of stent surfaces with topographical or biochemical features may be performed to increase endothelial cells’ (ECs) adhesion [...] Read more.
Endothelial coverage of an exposed cardiovascular stent surface leads to the occurrence of restenosis and late-stent thrombosis several months after implantation. To overcome this difficulty, modification of stent surfaces with topographical or biochemical features may be performed to increase endothelial cells’ (ECs) adhesion and/or migration. This work combines both strategies on cobalt-chromium (CoCr) alloy and studies the potential synergistic effect of linear patterned surfaces that are obtained by direct laser interference patterning (DLIP), coupled with the use of Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) and Tyr-Ile-Gly-Ser-Arg (YIGSR) peptides. An extensive characterization of the modified surfaces was performed by using AFM, XPS, surface charge, electrochemical analysis and fluorescent methods. The biological response was studied in terms of EC adhesion, migration and proliferation assays. CoCr surfaces were successfully patterned with a periodicity of 10 µm and two different depths, D (≈79 and 762 nm). RGD and YIGSR were immobilized on the surfaces by CPTES silanization. Early EC adhesion was increased on the peptide-functionalized surfaces, especially for YIGSR compared to RGD. High-depth patterns generated 80% of ECs’ alignment within the topographical lines and enhanced EC migration. It is noteworthy that the combined use of the two strategies synergistically accelerated the ECs’ migration and proliferation, proving the potential of this strategy to enhance stent endothelialization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emergent Applications of Peptide and Protein Nanotechnology)
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11 pages, 4861 KiB  
Article
Aqueous Solution-Processed Nanometer-Thin Crystalline Indium Ytterbium Oxide Thin-Film Transistors
by Wangying Xu, Chuyu Xu, Liping Hong, Fang Xu, Chun Zhao, Yu Zhang, Ming Fang, Shun Han, Peijiang Cao, Youming Lu, Wenjun Liu and Deliang Zhu
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1216; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071216 - 05 Apr 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1770
Abstract
We demonstrate the growth of ultra-thin (~5 nm) indium ytterbium oxide (In-Yb-O) thin film using a simple vacuum-free aqueous solution approach for the first time. The influences of Yb addition on the microstructural, chemical, optical, and electrical properties of In2O3 [...] Read more.
We demonstrate the growth of ultra-thin (~5 nm) indium ytterbium oxide (In-Yb-O) thin film using a simple vacuum-free aqueous solution approach for the first time. The influences of Yb addition on the microstructural, chemical, optical, and electrical properties of In2O3 are well investigated. The analyses indicate that Yb dopant could suppress oxygen vacancy defects effectively owing to the lower standard electrode potential, lower electronegativity, and stronger metal-oxide bond strength than that of In. The optimized In-Yb-O thin-film transistors (TFTs) exhibit excellent electrical performance (mobility of 8 cm2/Vs and on/off ratio of ~108) and enhanced stability. The triumph of In-Yb-O TFTs is owing to the high quality In2O3 matrix, the remarkable suppressor of Yb, and the nanometer-thin and atomically smooth nature (RMS: ~0.26 nm) of channel layer. Therefore, the eco-friendly water-induced ultra-thin In-Yb-O channel provides an excellent opportunity for future large-scale and cost-effective electronic applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Semiconductor Nano-Structures)
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24 pages, 5404 KiB  
Article
Synthesis and Characterization of Pyrazole-Enriched Cationic Nanoparticles as New Promising Antibacterial Agent by Mutual Cooperation
by Silvana Alfei, Guendalina Zuccari, Debora Caviglia and Chiara Brullo
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1215; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071215 - 05 Apr 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 1578
Abstract
A pyrazole derivative (CB1) was previously evaluated in vivo for various pharmacological activities (with the exception of antimicrobial effects), using DMSO as the administrative medium, mainly due to its water insolubility. Considering the global necessity for new antimicrobial agents, CB1 attracted our attention [...] Read more.
A pyrazole derivative (CB1) was previously evaluated in vivo for various pharmacological activities (with the exception of antimicrobial effects), using DMSO as the administrative medium, mainly due to its water insolubility. Considering the global necessity for new antimicrobial agents, CB1 attracted our attention as a candidate to meet this need, mainly because the secondary amine group in its structure would make it possible to obtain its hydrochloride salt (CB1H), thus effortlessly solving its water-solubility drawbacks. In preliminary microbiologic investigations on Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, CB1H displayed weak antibacterial effects on MDR isolates of Gram-positive species, nonetheless better than those displayed by the commonly-used available antibiotics. Therefore, aiming at improving such activity and extending the antibacterial spectrum of CB1H to Gram-negative pathogens, in this first work CB1 was strategically formulated in nanoparticles using a cationic copolymer (P7) previously developed by us, possessing potent broad-spectrum bactericidal activity. Using the nanoprecipitation method, CB1H-loaded polymer nanoparticles (CB1H-P7 NPs) were obtained, which were analyzed by attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy to confirm the successful loading. Additionally, CB1H-P7 NPs were fully characterized in terms of morphology, size, polydispersity indices, surface charge, DL%, and EE%, as well as release and potentiometric profiles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Polymeric Nanoparticles)
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21 pages, 1301 KiB  
Review
Engineered Nanoparticle-Protein Interactions Influence Protein Structural Integrity and Biological Significance
by Surabhi Jaiswal, Amit Manhas, Alok Kumar Pandey, Smriti Priya and Sandeep K. Sharma
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1214; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071214 - 05 Apr 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2792
Abstract
Engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) are artificially synthesized particles with unique physicochemical properties. ENPs are being extensively used in several consumer items, elevating the probability of ENP exposure to biological systems. ENPs interact with various biomolecules like lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, where proteins are most [...] Read more.
Engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) are artificially synthesized particles with unique physicochemical properties. ENPs are being extensively used in several consumer items, elevating the probability of ENP exposure to biological systems. ENPs interact with various biomolecules like lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, where proteins are most susceptible. The ENP-protein interactions are mostly studied for corona formation and its effect on the bio-reactivity of ENPs, however, an in-depth understanding of subsequent interactive effects on proteins, such as alterations in their structure, conformation, free energy, and folding is still required. The present review focuses on ENP-protein interactions and the subsequent effects on protein structure and function followed by the therapeutic potential of ENPs for protein misfolding diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biology and Medicines)
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12 pages, 4378 KiB  
Article
Eco-Friendly Disposable WS2 Paper Sensor for Sub-ppm NO2 Detection at Room Temperature
by Daniel Matatagui, Carlos Cruz, Felix Carrascoso, Abdullah M. Al-Enizi, Ayman Nafady, Andres Castellanos-Gomez and María del Carmen Horrillo
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1213; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071213 - 05 Apr 2022
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2638
Abstract
We developed inexpensive and disposable gas sensors with a low environmental footprint. This approach is based on a biodegradable substrate, paper, and features safe and nontoxic electronic materials. We show that abrasion-induced deposited WS2 nanoplatelets on paper can be employed as a [...] Read more.
We developed inexpensive and disposable gas sensors with a low environmental footprint. This approach is based on a biodegradable substrate, paper, and features safe and nontoxic electronic materials. We show that abrasion-induced deposited WS2 nanoplatelets on paper can be employed as a successful sensing layer to develop high-sensitivity and selective sensors, which operate even at room temperature. Its performance is investigated, at room temperature, against NO2 exposure, finding that the electrical resistance of the device drops dramatically upon NO2 adsorption, decreasing by ~42% (~31% half a year later) for 0.8 ppm concentration, and establishing a detection limit around~2 ppb (~3 ppb half a year later). The sensor is highly selective towards NO2 gas with respect to the interferents NH3 and CO, whose responses were only 1.8% (obtained for 30 ppm) and 1.5% (obtained for 8 ppm), respectively. Interestingly, an improved response of the developed sensor under humid conditions was observed (tested for 25% relative humidity at 23 °C). The high-performance, in conjunction with its small dimensions, low cost, operation at room temperature, and the possibility of using it as a portable system, makes this sensor a promising candidate for continuous monitoring of NO2 on-site. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2D Materials and Their Heterostructures and Superlattices II)
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8 pages, 265 KiB  
Perspective
The Use of H2 in Catalytic Bromate Reduction by Nanoscale Heterogeneous Catalysts
by Nurbek Nurlan, Ainash Akmanova and Woojin Lee
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1212; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071212 - 04 Apr 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1406
Abstract
The formation of bromate (BrO3)in groundwater treatment is still a severe environmental problem. Catalytic hydrogenation by nanoscale heterogeneous catalysts with gaseous H2 or solid-state H2 has emerged as a promising approach, which relies on reducing BrO3 [...] Read more.
The formation of bromate (BrO3)in groundwater treatment is still a severe environmental problem. Catalytic hydrogenation by nanoscale heterogeneous catalysts with gaseous H2 or solid-state H2 has emerged as a promising approach, which relies on reducing BrO3 to innocuous Br via the process of direct electron transfer or reduction with atomic hydrogen. Several nanocatalysts have demonstrated high efficiency with a 100% effective BrO3 reduction with greater than 95% of Br generation in the batch and continuous reactors. However, this technology has not been widely adopted in water treatment systems. Indeed, this research article summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of these technologies by highlighting the factors of nanomaterials reduction efficiency, long-term durability, and stability, as well as addressing the essential challenges limiting the implementation of the use of H2 for BrO3 reduction. In this work, we provide an economic evaluation of catalytic BrO3 removal, safe hydrogen supply, storage, and transportation. Full article
17 pages, 3796 KiB  
Article
Copper(II)-Doped Carbon Dots as Catalyst for Ozone Degradation of Textile Dyes
by Rita M. F. Cardoso, Inês M. F. Cardoso, Luís Pinto da Silva and Joaquim C. G. Esteves da Silva
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1211; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071211 - 04 Apr 2022
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2266
Abstract
A catalytic ozonation advanced oxidation process (AOP) with a copper(II)-doped carbon dot as catalyst, Cu-CD (using L-cysteine and polyethylene glycol (PEG) as precursors and passivation agents), was developed for textile wastewater treatment (T = 25 °C and pH = 7). Four dyes were [...] Read more.
A catalytic ozonation advanced oxidation process (AOP) with a copper(II)-doped carbon dot as catalyst, Cu-CD (using L-cysteine and polyethylene glycol (PEG) as precursors and passivation agents), was developed for textile wastewater treatment (T = 25 °C and pH = 7). Four dyes were analyzed—Methyl Orange (MO), Orange II sodium salt (O-II), Reactive Black 5 (RB-5) and Remazol Brilliant Blue R (RBB-R), as well as a real effluent from the dying and printing industry. The Cu-CD, with marked catalytic ozonation properties, was successfully synthesized by one-pot hydrothermal procedure with a size of 4.0 nm, a charge of −3.7 mV and a fluorescent quantum yield of 31%. The discoloration of the aqueous dye solutions followed an apparent first-order kinetics with the following rate constants (kap in min−1): MO, 0.210; O-II, 0.133; RB-5, 0.177; RBB-R, 0.086. In the presence of Cu-CD, the following apparent first-order rate constants were obtained (kapc in min−1) with the corresponding increase in the rate constant without catalyst (%Inc): MO, 1.184 (464%); O-II, 1.002 (653%); RB-5, 0.709 (301%); RBB-R, 0.230 (167%). The presence of sodium chloride (at a concentration of 50 g/L) resulted in a marked increase of the discoloration rate of the dye solution due to generation of other radicals, such as chlorine and chlorine oxide, resulting from the reaction of ozone and chloride. Taking into consideration that the real textile effluent under research has a high carbonate concentration (>356 mg/L), which inhibits ozone decomposition, the discoloration first-order rate constants without and with Cu-CD (kap = 0.0097 min−1 and kapc = 0.012 min−1 (%Inc = 24%), respectively) were relatively small. Apparently, the Cu-CD, the surface of which is covered by a soft and highly hydrated caramelized PEG coating, accelerates the ozone decomposition and dye adsorption, increasing its degradation. Full article
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10 pages, 3011 KiB  
Article
Ultra-Fine Ruthenium Oxide Quantum Dots/Reduced Graphene Oxide Composite as Electrodes for High-Performance Supercapacitors
by Jie Zhao, Jianmin Zhang, Hang Yin, Yuling Zhao, Guangxu Xu, Jinshi Yuan, Xiaoyao Mo, Jie Tang and Fengyun Wang
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(7), 1210; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12071210 - 04 Apr 2022
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 2051
Abstract
This study synthesized ultra-fine nanometer-scaled ruthenium oxide (RuO2) quantum dots (QDs) on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) surface by a facile and rapid microwave-assisted hydrothermal approach. Benefiting from the synergistic effect of RuO2 and rGO, RuO2/rGO nanocomposite electrodes showed [...] Read more.
This study synthesized ultra-fine nanometer-scaled ruthenium oxide (RuO2) quantum dots (QDs) on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) surface by a facile and rapid microwave-assisted hydrothermal approach. Benefiting from the synergistic effect of RuO2 and rGO, RuO2/rGO nanocomposite electrodes showed ultra-high capacitive performance. The impact of different RuO2 loadings in RuO2/rGO nanocomposite on their electrochemical performance was investigated by various characterizations. The composite RG-2 with 38 wt.% RuO2 loadings exhibited a specific capacitance of 1120 F g−1 at 1 A g−1. In addition, it has an excellent capacity retention rate of 84 % from 1A g−1 to 10 A g−1, and excellent cycling stability of 89% retention after 10,000 cycles, indicating fast ion-involved redox reactions on the nanocomposite surfaces. These results illustrate that RuO2/rGO composites prepared by this facile process can be an ideal candidate electrode for high-performance supercapacitors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbon-Based Nanomaterials for High-Performance Supercapacitors)
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