Search Results (1,419)

The escalating power density in Active Phased Array Radar has made the thermal management of Transmitter and Receiver (T/R) modules a critical bottleneck for radar performance. To address the thermal resistance of traditional cold plates, this study investigates an innovative embedded cooling strategy utilizing micro-pyramid arrays and advanced nanofluids. Thermal performance was evaluated using maximum temperature, maximum temperature difference and surface temperature standard deviation (ST). Higher pyramid density markedly enhances temperature uniformity, an effect that scales positively with the power load. Under a 100 W condition, the 8-circle micro-pyramids configuration (the densest structure with roughness Ra = 1.3) achieved a 22.58 K reduction in maximum temperature and a 22.5% improvement in temperature uniformity compared to the 2-circle structure, and outperformed the 4-circle structure by 16.98 K and 17.9%, respectively. Furthermore, a comparative analysis of nanofluids (Al₂O₃, CuO, graphene, and h-BN) is conducted and it is found that graphene nanofluid exhibits the best overall heat transfer enhancement because of its high thermal conductivity and moderate reduction in specific heat capacity. The thermal performance of the nanofluid is evaluated by comparing the maximum temperatures of the heat source at the 8-circle structure. The synergistic coupling of graphene nanofluid with the 8-circle array yields a remarkable 35.38% enhancement in temperature uniformity at 100 W. The enhancement mechanisms are mainly attributed to intrinsic thermophysical properties of the nanoparticles and convection caused by denser pyramid array. The aforementioned findings provide important guidance for the thermal management design of antenna and other high-density integrated electronic systems with embedded cold plate design demand. Full article

Fe₂O₃-reinforced PMMA nanocomposites were prepared by melt blending using a twin-screw micro-extruder. Fixed Fe₂O₃ loading of 2.5 wt.% was employed, and mixing times of 6 and 12 min were used to obtain nanocomposites with different dispersion characteristics. The structural and morphological properties of the samples were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), while their thermal degradation behavior was evaluated by differential thermal and thermogravimetric analyses (DTA/TG). The activation energies of thermal degradation were calculated using the Kissinger, Takhor, and Augis–Bennett methods. Increasing the mixing time improved nanoparticle dispersion and reduced agglomeration. The addition of Fe₂O₃ slightly decreased the characteristic degradation temperatures of PMMA, while the activation energy increased for the better-dispersed sample. The results indicate that interfacial interactions and particle dispersion play important roles in the thermal degradation behavior of PMMA/Fe₂O₃ nanocomposites. Full article

Epoxy resin (E-51) exhibits excellent adhesion and is widely used in the preparation of functional composite coatings. However, its smooth surface lacking micro/nano composite structures limits its self-cleaning capability and optical properties. Direct incorporation of organic silicone or inorganic fillers often faces severe phase separation and filler agglomeration issues, resulting in defects in coating durability and weather resistance. To address these challenges, this study developed a synergistic modification strategy integrating surface energy modulation with the architectural design of micro/nano-structures. Amino-terminated PDMS undergoes ring-opening addition reactions with epoxy groups in the epoxy resin, while functionalized barium sulfate nanoparticles modified with dual silane coupling agents are incorporated to enhance optical properties. This synergistic approach not only resolved interfacial compatibility but also endowed the PDMS@EP-BaSO₄ coating with outstanding comprehensive properties; the water contact angle increased to 123.5°, demonstrating an easy-to-clean benefit. Visible light reflectance reached 95%, and emissivity rose to 90%. Furthermore, when applied to metal surfaces, the coating exhibited excellent stability against acid–alkali–salt corrosion, extreme temperatures, and ultrasonic agitation. This work provided a novel approach for developing protective coatings that integrated high reflectance, high emissivity, and long-term anti-soiling properties. Full article

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype lacking targeted therapies and characterized by pronounced heterogeneity and widespread dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) that influence epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastasis. Tumor-derived extracellular vesicles (tEVs) further contribute to TNBC progression by transporting oncogenic cargo that can enhance pro-inflammatory signaling. The synthetic SMRwt peptide has been suggested to modulate oncogenic pathways; however, its effects on EV miRNA composition and inflammatory transcript profiles in TNBC remain unclear. Here, we investigated whether SMRwt alters tEV-associated miRNAs and cytokine transcript signatures relevant to EMT and inflammasome-linked pathways. Extracellular vesicles were isolated from SMR-treated and untreated MDA-MB-231 cells, followed by nanoparticle tracking analysis and small RNA sequencing. SMRwt treatment enriched 11 tumor-suppressive miRNAs (including Let-7a-5p, Let-7b-5p, miR-24-3p, miR-26b-5p, miR-92a-3p, miR-93-5p, and miR-496) previously associated with the regulation of proliferation, EMT, migration, and metastasis. We also observed modest, non-significant decreases (1.01–1.27-fold) in oncogenic miR-1200, miR-374a-5p, and miR-937-3p, which have been implicated in the progression of breast, lung, and bone malignancies. Complementary transcriptomic profiling using the NanoString nCounter Breast Cancer 360 Gene Expression Panel (NanoString Technologies, Inc., Seattle, CA, USA) demonstrated reduced expression of inflammasome-associated cytokines in TNBC cells relative to non-tumorigenic controls, including a log₂ fold change of −1.15 for IL 1β (MDA-MB-231 vs. MCF10A). These transcript-level changes suggest potential modulation. Additionally, SMRwt suppresses ASC-mediated caspase-1 activation and reduces IL-1β secretion, thereby inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome signaling. Therefore, we infer that SMRwt simultaneously restores tumor-suppressive miRNA networks and suppresses inflammasome-driven inflammation, supporting its potential as a dual-target therapeutic strategy for TNBC. Full article

Background/Objectives: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASLD) represents a prevalent liver disease worldwide. It is crucial to maintain the stability of the gut–liver axis in order to inhibit the advancement of MASLD. Broccoli-derived exosome-like nanoparticles (BDENs) can alleviate constipation and improve colitis. This study investigated whether BDENs possess therapeutic potential for improving induced MASLD by the gut–liver axis. Methods: BDENs were fractionated from fresh broccoli using differential centrifugation, and the microRNAs were identified and analyzed. 24 male C57BL/6J mice (6 weeks old) were randomized into the control group, HFD group, and BDENs group, with 8 mice per group. After 8 weeks of high-fat diet modeling, the BDENs group accepted BDENs daily oral gavage of 100 mg/kg (B.W.), while the control and HFD groups accepted 1 × PBS. Four weeks after BDENs intervention, analysis was conducted on liver injury markers, liver tissue pathology, intestinal barrier, cecal content metabolomics and fecal 16S rRNA, serum inflammatory factors, and hepatic inflammation. Results: BDENs identified 1659 miRNAs associated with physiological processes such as immunity, antioxidant defense, and fatty acid biosynthesis. BDENs significantly reduced weight and ALT/AST ratio (p < 0.05). Furthermore, BDENs attenuated hepatic histopathological damage and lipid accumulation. For the gut–liver axis, BDENs maintained intestinal barrier, regulated intestinal bile acid metabolism and restored the gut microbiota. Additionally, BDENs reduced serum LPS level (p < 0.01) and suppressed hepatic inflammation, including F4/80 and IL-6, IL-1β (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Oral BDENs therapy demonstrates potential for ameliorating MASLD. Full article

Background: The aim of our study was to analyze the supply of various forms of genistein (nano, micro, and classic) on the content of four macroelements—calcium, magnesium potassium, and sodium—in the kidneys, brains, hearts, livers, spleens and femurs of rats under conditions of mammary gland neoplasia (induced by 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)). Methods: Thirty-two 30-day-old Sprague-Dawley rats were included in this study. The animals were randomly assigned to four experimental groups: the control group received only a standard diet (without supplementation), while three groups were supplemented with genistein in different forms—nanoparticles (0.1 mg/mL; size 92 ± 41 nm), microparticles (0.1 mg/mL; size 587 ± 83 nm), or macromolecular genistein (0.1 mg/mL). To induce mammary gland cancer, all rats were administered DMBA. Results: In the presented studies, significant changes in the content of elements in the organs of rats supplemented with various forms of genistein were observed. Of particular importance was the occurrence of soft tissue calcifications caused by the dietary supplementation of rats with various forms of genistein, ranging from the classic form to the nanometric form, in the context of an existing mammary gland neoplastic process. Calcium accumulation occurred in various tissues—the brain (from 252% to 449%); the heart (from 159% to 661%); the liver (from 90% to 613%), regardless of the form of genistein; and the spleen (by 127%) and femurs (by 294%) only in the case of nanogenistein supplementation—compared to rats from the control group not supplemented with any form of genistein in conditions of induced mammary gland cancer. Conclusions: Genistein supplementation in cancer conditions affects mineral homeostasis in rats. Full article

This study addresses the challenges posed by weakly cemented strata in mine tunnels, where surrounding rock softens and deforms upon water exposure, which promotes the development of seepage pathways, and exhibits insufficient stability in bolt (cable) support systems. This study conducts laboratory grouting tests using silica sol on typical weakly cemented sandstone from Xinjiang mining areas. The mineral composition and pore structure were characterized using XRD, SEM, and mercury porosimetry. The injectable mixing ratio parameters for silica sol and the catalyst were determined through viscosity-time evolution tests. Grouting was performed using a custom-built constant-pressure grouting apparatus. After curing, unconfined compressive strength (UCS) and porosity-permeability tests were conducted to evaluate the micro-mechanism of grouting effects on the mechanical and permeability properties of weakly cemented sandstone. The results indicate: (1) The sandstone exhibits a high clay mineral content of 39.8%, dominated by illite. Its pores are primarily small-scale (10–100 nm), accounting for 79.31% of the total pore volume. This scale matches that of silica sol nanoparticles (approximately 9–20 nm), facilitating slurry penetration into micro-pores; (2) microscopic analyses reveal that silica sol effectively reconstructs pore structures through permeation filling and surface coating. Compared to KCl-induced gelation (with approximately 8% gel coverage), NaCl-induced gelation forms a more continuous gel film with more complete pore filling, achieving coverage of around 22%. Furthermore, the larger surface area of the gel aggregates indicates a more thorough filling of micro- and nano-pores, effectively enhancing rock mass compactness. (3) Permeability decreased from 6.91 mD to 3.55 mD, a reduction of 48.6%, while porosity decreased from 16.94% to 13.55%, showing a phased reduction during the grouting process; (4) following pressure grouting stabilization, the uniaxial compressive strength of sandstone increased appropriately by approximately 7–14%, while the elastic modulus rose by about 18–28%. The failure mechanism shifted from shear brittleness to a shear-tension composite state, with enhanced post-peak bearing capacity. These findings provide support for optimizing silica sol grouting parameters in weakly cemented strata tunnels and for the synergistic reinforcement of rock mass permeability and strength. Full article

Engineering surfaces operating in harsh environments frequently require simultaneous resistance to abrasive wear and the minimization of interfacial adhesion. Achieving this dual functionality through a single surface modification strategy remains challenging. This study presents a novel hybrid approach combining bionic laser surface texturing with a polytetrafluoroethylene/polydimethylsiloxane/TiO₂ nanocomposite coating to synergistically enhance both wear resistance and hydrophobicity of 65Mn steel. Crescent-shaped micro-dimples, inspired by the exoskeleton of Procambarus clarkii, were fabricated via a femtosecond laser. A composite coating containing hydrophobically modified TiO₂ nanoparticles was subsequently deposited. Single-factor experiments identified effective parameter ranges. A four-factor, five-level central composite rotatable design combined with response surface methodology was employed to systematically optimize texture depth, texture spacing, TiO₂ mass fraction, and coating thickness. The results demonstrate that textures with a depth of less than 100 μm and spacing less than 400 μm effectively homogenize surface stress distribution. RSM analysis revealed that TiO₂ content and texture depth predominantly influence hydrophobicity, while texture spacing overwhelmingly controls wear mass loss. Significant interactions between coating and texture parameters were identified. The optimal parameter combination was determined as: 6% TiO₂, 40 μm coating thickness, 50 μm texture depth, and 250 μm texture spacing. Under these conditions, the surface achieved a superhydrophobic contact angle of 152.1° and a low-wear mass loss of 8.9 mg. Validation tests yielded values of 150.8° and 9.3 mg, respectively, confirming model reliability. The synergistic mechanism involves textures acting as debris reservoirs and stress distributors, while the coating provides a low-surface-energy, hardened top layer that minimizes adhesion and facilitates a rolling–sliding contact mode. This work provides a robust, optimized framework for designing multifunctional surfaces for demanding tribological applications. Full article

Fullerene-based polymer nanocomposites are promising candidates for micro- and nano-electromechanical systems (MEMSs/NEMSs) due to their tunable mechanical performance and high surface-to-volume ratios. At the nanoscale, interfacial stresses strongly influence the effective elastic response, yet quantitative interface parameters are rarely available for continuum modeling. In the current investigation, a molecular dynamics (MD)-based calibrated micromechanics framework is developed to predict the bulk modulus of fullerene-poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) nanocomposites that incorporate interface stress effects. Atomistic representative volume elements (RVEs) containing individual fullerene nanoparticles embedded in a polymer matrix are generated using controlled molecular packing and systematically equilibrated. The bulk moduli of both isolated fullerenes and fullerene-PMMA RVEs are extracted from energy-volume relationships using a Birch-Murnaghan equation of state. These MD results are used to calibrate a size-dependent micromechanics model and to extract the surface Lamé modulus of the polymer-fullerene interface directly. The extracted surface Lamé modulus remains nearly constant (approximately 19 N/m) across all investigated fullerene sizes. In contrast, the interfacial contribution to the effective bulk modulus increases significantly for smaller nanoparticles due to their higher surface to volume ratios. The calibrated model accurately reproduces MD predictions and provides a physically grounded multiscale link between atomistic interfacial behavior and continuum elastic properties. The proposed framework offers a predictive tool for the rational design of surface-dominated nanocomposites in MEMS/NEMS applications. Full article

Highly pathogenic avian influenza A/H5N1 remains a persistent threat to public health and poultry production. H5N1 antigens are typically poorly immunogenic and require effective adjuvants for antigen dose-sparing. Here, we evaluated chitosan microparticles (CSMs) and nanoparticles (CSNs) as polymeric nano-adjuvants for an H5N1 influenza vaccine, focusing on the roles of antigen dose and particle size. A purified hemagglutinin antigen was adsorbed onto chitosan particles at doses ranging from 0.15 to 5.0 µg. Both CSNs and CSMs showed consistently high loading efficiency (97–99%). BALB/c mice were immunized intramuscularly in a prime–boost schedule. Chitosan nanoparticles significantly enhanced IgG and hemagglutination inhibition (HI) titers at low antigen doses compared with aluminum hydroxide and antigen-only controls (p < 0.05). Immune responses reached saturation at a 1.5 µg dose of antigen for chitosan nanoparticles and 3.0 µg for chitosan microparticles. IgG subtype analysis suggested a balanced IgG1/IgG2a profile. Collectively, these findings support chitosan-based polymeric nanoparticles as promising adjuvants enabling dose-sparing H5N1 vaccination. Full article

Titanium carbonitride (TiCN) has emerged as a significant material, bridging the gap between traditional binary carbides and nitrides to offer a comprehensive combination of superior mechanical strength, exceptional wear resistance, and excellent chemical stability. This review comprehensively surveys the research progress in TiCN materials, tracing their evolution from coating technologies to the forefront of nanoparticle synthesis and application. We begin by examining conventional physical vapor deposition (PVD) and chemical vapor deposition (CVD) techniques for producing TiCN coatings, highlighting their roles in extending the service life of cutting tools, forming tools, and components subjected to abrasive and corrosive environments. The discussion then shifts to the synthesis of TiCN nanoparticles, covering advanced methods such as laser ablation, solvothermal processes, and precursor pyrolysis, with a critical analysis of their advantages and limitations in controlling particle size, morphology, and stoichiometry. The enhancement in the nanoscale formulation of TiCN on mechanical properties including hardness, fracture toughness, and load-bearing capacity is through grain refinement and nanocomposite strengthening mechanisms. Furthermore, the review delves into the corrosion protection mechanisms imparted by TiCN, whether as a dense coating/film or as a reinforcing nanophase in composite matrices. Finally, we identify current challenges in scalable synthesis and phase stability, and propose future directions, such as the development of multi-functional TiCN-based nanocomposites and hybrid coating architectures for next-generation applications in extreme environments. This work aims to provide a structured reference that connects fundamental material properties with applied technological advancements across the micro- to nanoscale. Full article

This study reports the first successful isolation and characterization of exosome-like nanoparticles from walnut kernels (WELNs). The isolated WELNs exhibited a typical cup-shaped morphology with an average diameter of 139.7 ± 67.5 nm, a concentration of 7.4 × 10¹¹ particles/mL, and a zeta potential of −17.47 ± 4.06 mV. Proteomic and small RNA sequencing analyses confirmed the presence of diverse proteins and microRNAs within WELNs. In vitro assays demonstrated their potent antioxidant capacity, with radical scavenging rates of 67.54% against ABTS⁺ and 48.59% against DPPH⁺ at 102 μg/mL and IC₅₀ values of 89.7 μg/mL and >102 μg/mL for scavenging of ABTS⁺ and DPPH⁺ radicals, respectively. Cytotoxicity assays indicated no adverse effects on RAW264.7 macrophage viability at concentrations up to 60 μg/mL. In LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages, WELN treatment (20–60 μg/mL) dose-dependently mitigated oxidative stress by reducing intracellular ROS levels (down to 81.22% of the control at 60 μg/mL) and malondialdehyde (MDA) content while restoring the activities of antioxidant enzymes catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Furthermore, WELNs significantly suppressed the production of nitric oxide (NO) and pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β (reduced to approximately 30.8%, 22.7%, and 23.6% of LPS-induced levels, respectively, at 60 μg/mL). Mechanistic investigation revealed that the anti-inflammatory effect was mediated through the inhibition of the MAPK signaling pathway, as evidenced by decreased phosphorylation of p38, ERK, and JNK. In conclusion, WELNs exhibit dual anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This study provides the first evidence of bioactivity for walnut-derived exosome-like nanoparticles, advancing the mechanistic understanding of walnuts’ health benefits and highlighting their potential as a natural component for functional food applications. Full article

Bone regeneration focuses on the creation of functional tissue to repair bone defects. Creating a biodegradable scaffold hydrogel that combines a hemostatic agent with bioactive ceramics can afford the biological and mechanical benefits of both components. In the present study, we developed an injectable gelatin–alginate dual-composite hydrogel, loaded with two functional fillers: hydroxyapatite (HA) and the hemostatic agent montmorillonite (MMT). HA (microparticles and nanoparticles) was incorporated at concentrations of 10–30 mg/mL, with and without MMT at 20 mg/mL. The effects of functional fillers and their concentration on the microstructure and resulting physical and mechanical properties were studied, and a qualitative model summarising these effects was developed. All formulations exhibited clinically appropriate gelation times (5–29 s). n-HA significantly prolonged gelation time, reaching 29 ± 3 s at 30 mg/mL, while MMT reduced gelation time at all concentrations. The tensile strength of the unloaded hydrogel reached 20 kPa and increased to 57 kPa with 30 mg/mL of n-HA. The tensile strength even increased further with the addition of MMT (77 kPa). The results indicate that the combination of HA and MMT produced dual micro-composite hydrogels with moderate reinforcement, whereas the combination of n-HA and MMT generated dual nano–micro composites with combined reinforcing effects. The latter exhibited the highest strength and sealing ability while maintaining clinically relevant gelation times and controlled swelling behaviour. In conclusion, the combination of MMT with n-HA or HA enables the creation of functional hydrogels with controlled properties, tailored to specific applications in bone regeneration. Full article

High-resolution, multi-modal neural interfaces are essential for advancing systems neuroscience and brain–computer interface technologies. This study designed and fabricated a 128-channel comb-shaped flexible micro-electrode array. The device integrates a biocompatible Parylene substrate with a flexible thin-film microprobe array, enabling simultaneous recording of electrocorticography (ECoG), intracortical local field potentials (LFP), and neuronal action potentials (spikes) from the cortical surface and superficial layers. Microelectrode sites were modified with platinum black nanoparticles, significantly reducing impedance. In vivo experiments in rats demonstrated the array’s ability to capture high-fidelity signals across different recording depths. Key findings included the acquisition of opposing LFP trends and polarity reversals between adjacent channels, reflecting local microcircuit dynamics. The array also reliably recorded neural activity during audiovisual cross-modal sensory stimulation. These results validate the device as an effective tool for multi-scale electrophysiology, successfully balancing high spatial resolution and signal quality with minimal tissue invasiveness, thereby offering significant potential for fundamental research and neural engineering applications. Full article

Background/Objective: Effective topical delivery of 4-phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA) for arsenical vesicant-induced skin injury requires nanocarrier systems that maintain physicochemical and chemical stability during extended storage. This study systematically evaluated the six-month stability of five 4-PBA-loaded micro/nanoparticulate formulations—chitosan nanoparticles (N31, N35), emulsomes (E2), microsponges (MSs), and PLGA nanoparticles (P1)—to identify lead candidates suitable for field deployment and foam integration. Methods: Formulations were subjected to ICH-accelerated stability testing at 25 °C/60% RH and 40 °C/75% RH, with monthly evaluation of particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, drug content by HPLC, and chemical/thermal stability by FTIR and DSC. Results: N31 demonstrated superior colloidal stability, maintaining particle size within acceptable limits at both conditions despite progressive surface charge neutralization. E2 showed consistent drug content retention and preserved chemical integrity, though moderate vesicle fusion occurred. MS underwent complete physical degradation at 40 °C within the first month, while P1 exhibited hydrolytic degradation with substantial drug loss. N35 showed severe aggregation indicating colloidal instability. Conclusions: N31 and E2 emerged as lead candidates: N31 is recommended for field deployment where environmental control is limited, while E2 is suitable for controlled storage settings prioritizing drug loading capacity. Full article