International Journal of Molecular Sciences

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2 pages, 612 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Editorial for the Special Issue “Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science”

by Gang Ho Lee

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(10), 5541; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25105541 - 19 May 2024

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Abstract

Nanoparticles and nanomaterials are important, because they are potentially applicable to energy, storage, bioimaging, biosensors, catalysts, nanomedicine, batteries, solar energy, bioenergy, and so on (Figure 1) [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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Research

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12 pages, 2389 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Composition and Size on Surface Properties of Anti-Cancer Nanoparticles

by Ina Mishra, Meredith Garrett, Stephen Curry, Jeffrey Jameson and Michail Kastellorizios

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24(17), 13417; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241713417 - 30 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1312

Abstract

Liposomal formulations offer significant advantages as anticancer drug carriers for targeted drug delivery; however, due to their complexity, clinical translation has been challenging. In addition, liposomal product manufacturing has been interrupted in the past, as was the case for Doxil^® (doxorubicin hydrochloride [...] Read more.

Liposomal formulations offer significant advantages as anticancer drug carriers for targeted drug delivery; however, due to their complexity, clinical translation has been challenging. In addition, liposomal product manufacturing has been interrupted in the past, as was the case for Doxil^® (doxorubicin hydrochloride liposome injection). Here, interfacial tension (IFT) measurements were investigated as a potential physicochemical characterization tool to aid in liposomal product characterization during development and manufacturing. A pendant drop method using an optical tensiometer was used to measure the interfacial tension of various analogues of Doxil^® liposomal suspensions in air and in dodecane. The effect of liposome concentration, formulation (PEG and cholesterol content), presence of encapsulated drug, as well as average particle size was analyzed. It was observed that Doxil^® analog liposomes demonstrate surfactant-like behavior with a sigmoidal-shape interfacial tension vs. concentration curve. This behavior was heavily dependent on PEG content, with a complete loss of surfactant-like behavior when PEG was removed from the formulation. In addition to interfacial tension, three data analyses were identified as able to distinguish between formulations with variations in PEG, cholesterol, and particle size: (i) polar and non-polar contribution to interfacial tension, (ii) liposomal concentration at which the polar and non-polar components were equal, and (iii) rate of interfacial tension decay after droplet formation, which is indicative of how quickly liposomes migrate from the bulk of the solution to the surface. We demonstrate for the first time that interfacial tension can be used to detect certain liposomal formulation changes, such as PEG content, encapsulated drug presence, and size variability, and may make a useful addition to physicochemical characterization during development and manufacturing of liposomal products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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9 pages, 5600 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Peroxidase-Mimicking Activity of Nanoceria for Label-Free Colorimetric Assay for Exonuclease III Activity

by Hyogu Han, Jae Hoon Jeung, Se Hee Jang, Chang Yeol Lee and Jun Ki Ahn

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24(15), 12330; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241512330 - 2 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1381

Abstract

We present a novel label-free colorimetric method for detecting exonuclease III (Exo III) activity using the peroxidase-mimicking activity of cerium oxide nanoparticles (nanoceria). Exo III, an enzyme that specifically catalyzes the stepwise removal of mononucleotides from the 3′-OH termini of double-stranded DNA, plays [...] Read more.

We present a novel label-free colorimetric method for detecting exonuclease III (Exo III) activity using the peroxidase-mimicking activity of cerium oxide nanoparticles (nanoceria). Exo III, an enzyme that specifically catalyzes the stepwise removal of mononucleotides from the 3′-OH termini of double-stranded DNA, plays a significant role in various cellular and physiological processes, including DNA proofreading and repair. Malfunctions of Exo III have been associated with increased cancer risks. To assay the activity of Exo III, we applied the previous reports in that the peroxidase-mimicking activity of nanoceria is inhibited due to the aggregation induced by the electrostatic attraction between DNA and nanoceria. In the presence of Exo III, the substrate DNA (subDNA), which inhibits nanoceria’s activity, is degraded, thereby restoring the peroxidase-mimicking activity of nanoceria. Consequently, the 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) substrate is oxidized, leading to a color change from colorless to blue, along with an increase in the absorbance intensity. This approach enabled us to reliably detect Exo III at a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.263 units/mL across a broad dynamic range from 3.1 to 400 units/mL, respectively, with an outstanding specificity. Since this approach does not require radiolabels, complex DNA design, or sophisticated experimental techniques, it provides a simpler and more feasible alternative to standard methods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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35 pages, 7917 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Superparamagnetic Spinel-Ferrite Nano-Adsorbents Adapted for Hg²⁺, Dy³⁺, Tb³⁺ Removal/Recycling: Synthesis, Characterization, and Assessment of Toxicity

by A. F. P. Allwin Mabes Raj, Maja Bauman, Nena Dimitrušev, Lamiaa M. A. Ali, Mélanie Onofre, Magali Gary-Bobo, Jean-Olivier Durand, Aleksandra Lobnik and Aljoša Košak

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24(12), 10072; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241210072 - 13 Jun 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2088

Abstract

In the present work, superparamagnetic adsorbents based on 3-aminopropyltrimethoxy silane (APTMS)-coated maghemite (γFe₂O₃@SiO₂–NH₂) and cobalt ferrite (CoFe₂O₄@SiO₂–NH₂) nanoparticles were prepared and characterized using transmission-electron microscopy (TEM/HRTEM/EDXS), Fourier-transform [...] Read more.

In the present work, superparamagnetic adsorbents based on 3-aminopropyltrimethoxy silane (APTMS)-coated maghemite (γFe₂O₃@SiO₂–NH₂) and cobalt ferrite (CoFe₂O₄@SiO₂–NH₂) nanoparticles were prepared and characterized using transmission-electron microscopy (TEM/HRTEM/EDXS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), specific surface-area measurements (BET), zeta potential (ζ) measurements, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and magnetometry (VSM). The adsorption of Dy³⁺, Tb³⁺, and Hg²⁺ ions onto adsorbent surfaces in model salt solutions was tested. The adsorption was evaluated in terms of adsorption efficiency (%), adsorption capacity (mg/g), and desorption efficiency (%) based on the results of inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Both adsorbents, γFe₂O₃@SiO₂–NH₂ and CoFe₂O₄@SiO₂–NH₂, showed high adsorption efficiency toward Dy³⁺, Tb³⁺, and Hg²⁺ ions, ranging from 83% to 98%, while the adsorption capacity reached the following values of Dy³⁺, Tb³⁺, and Hg²⁺, in descending order: Tb (4.7 mg/g) > Dy (4.0 mg/g) > Hg (2.1 mg/g) for γFe₂O₃@SiO₂–NH₂; and Tb (6.2 mg/g) > Dy (4.7 mg/g) > Hg (1.2 mg/g) for CoFe₂O₄@SiO₂–NH₂. The results of the desorption with 100% of the desorbed Dy³⁺, Tb³⁺, and Hg²⁺ ions in an acidic medium indicated the reusability of both adsorbents. A cytotoxicity assessment of the adsorbents on human-skeletal-muscle derived cells (SKMDCs), human fibroblasts, murine macrophage cells (RAW264.7), and human-umbilical-vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was conducted. The survival, mortality, and hatching percentages of zebrafish embryos were monitored. All the nanoparticles showed no toxicity in the zebrafish embryos until 96 hpf, even at a high concentration of 500 mg/L. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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16 pages, 4886 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rational Design of Bifunctional Microporous Organic Polymers Containing Anthracene and Triphenylamine Units for Energy Storage and Biological Applications

by Aya Osama Mousa, Zheng-Ian Lin, Cheng-Hsin Chuang, Chih-Kuang Chen, Shiao-Wei Kuo and Mohamed Gamal Mohamed

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24(10), 8966; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24108966 - 18 May 2023

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 2274

Abstract

In this study, we synthesized two conjugated microporous polymers (CMPs), An-Ph-TPA and An-Ph-Py CMPs, using the Suzuki cross-coupling reaction. These CMPs are organic polymers with p-conjugated skeletons and persistent micro-porosity and contain anthracene (An) moieties linked to triphenylamine (TPA) and pyrene (Py) units. [...] Read more.

In this study, we synthesized two conjugated microporous polymers (CMPs), An-Ph-TPA and An-Ph-Py CMPs, using the Suzuki cross-coupling reaction. These CMPs are organic polymers with p-conjugated skeletons and persistent micro-porosity and contain anthracene (An) moieties linked to triphenylamine (TPA) and pyrene (Py) units. We characterized the chemical structures, porosities, thermal stabilities, and morphologies of the newly synthesized An-CMPs using spectroscopic, microscopic, and N₂ adsorption/desorption isotherm techniques. Our results from thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed that the An-Ph-TPA CMP displayed better thermal stability with T_d10 = 467 °C and char yield of 57 wt% compared to the An-Ph-Py CMP with T_d10 = 355 °C and char yield of 54 wt%. Furthermore, we evaluated the electrochemical performance of the An-linked CMPs and found that the An-Ph-TPA CMP had a higher capacitance of 116 F g⁻¹ and better capacitance stability of 97% over 5000 cycles at 10 A g⁻¹. In addition, we assessed the biocompatibility and cytotoxicity of An-linked CMPs using the MTT assay and a live/dead cell viability assay and observed that they were non-toxic and biocompatible with high cell viability values after 24 or 48 h of incubation. These findings suggest that the An-based CMPs synthesized in this study have potential applications in electrochemical testing and the biological field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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18 pages, 4858 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dyeing with Hydrotalcite Hybrid Nanoclays and Disperse, Basic and Direct Dyes

by Daniel López-Rodríguez, Jorge Jordán-Núñez, Jaime Gisbert-Paya, Pablo Díaz-García and Eva Bou-Belda

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24(1), 808; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24010808 - 3 Jan 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2382

Abstract

Textile effluents are among the most polluting industrial effluents in the world. Textile finishing processes, especially dyeing, discharge large quantities of waste that is difficult to treat, such as dyes. By recovering this material from the water, in addition to cleaning and the [...] Read more.

Textile effluents are among the most polluting industrial effluents in the world. Textile finishing processes, especially dyeing, discharge large quantities of waste that is difficult to treat, such as dyes. By recovering this material from the water, in addition to cleaning and the possibility of reusing the water, there is the opportunity to reuse this waste as a raw material for dyeing different textile substrates. One of the lines of reuse is the use of hybrid nanoclays obtained from the adsorption of dyes, which allow dye baths to be made for textile substrates. This study analyses how, through the use of the nanoadsorbent hydrotalcite, dyes classified by their charge as anionic, cationic and non-ionic can be adsorbed and recovered for successful reuse in new dye baths. The obtained hybrids were characterised by X-ray diffraction and infrared spectroscopy. In addition, the colour was analysed by spectrophotometer in the UV-VIS range. The dyes made on cotton, polyester and acrylic fabrics are subjected to different colour degradation tests to assess their viability as final products, using reflection spectroscopy to measure the colour attribute before and after the tests, showing results consistent with those of a conventional dye. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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11 pages, 1876 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Myxococcus xanthus Encapsulin as a Promising Platform for Intracellular Protein Delivery

by Anna N. Gabashvili, Nelly S. Chmelyuk, Viktoria A. Sarkisova, Pavel A. Melnikov, Alevtina S. Semkina, Aleksey A. Nikitin and Maxim A. Abakumov

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(24), 15591; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms232415591 - 9 Dec 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1932

Abstract

Introducing a new genetically encoded material containing a photoactivatable label as a model cargo protein, based on Myxococcus xanthus (Mx) encapsulin system stably expressed in human 293T cells. Encapsulin from Mx is known to be a protein-based container for a ferritin-like [...] Read more.

Introducing a new genetically encoded material containing a photoactivatable label as a model cargo protein, based on Myxococcus xanthus (Mx) encapsulin system stably expressed in human 293T cells. Encapsulin from Mx is known to be a protein-based container for a ferritin-like cargo in its shell which could be replaced with an exogenous cargo protein, resulting in a modified encapsulin system. We replaced Mx natural cargo with a foreign photoactivatable mCherry (PAmCherry) fluorescent protein and isolated encapsulins, containing PAmCherry, from 293T cells. Isolated Mx encapsulin shells containing photoactivatable label can be internalized by macrophages, wherein the PAmCherry fluorescent signal remains clearly visible. We believe that a genetically encoded nanocarrier system obtained in this study, can be used as a platform for controllable delivery of protein/peptide therapeutics in vitro. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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14 pages, 5422 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Precise Sn-Doping Modulation for Optimizing CdWO₄ Nanorod Photoluminescence

by K. Manjunatha, Ming-Kang Ho, Tsu-En Hsu, Hsin-Hao Chiu, Tai-Yue Li, B. Vijaya Kumar, P. Muralidhar Reddy, Ting San Chan, Yu-Hao Wu, Bi-Hsuan Lin, Artashes Karmenyan, Chia-Liang Cheng, Ashish Chhaganlal Gandhi and Sheng Yun Wu

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(23), 15123; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms232315123 - 1 Dec 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1779

Abstract

The cadmium tungstate rods have been given much attention due to their potential for usage in numerous luminescent applications. We have prepared single crystalline Sn-doped Cd_1−xSn_xWO₄ (where x = 0, 1, 3, and 5%) nanorods (NRDs) and characterized [...] Read more.

The cadmium tungstate rods have been given much attention due to their potential for usage in numerous luminescent applications. We have prepared single crystalline Sn-doped Cd_1−xSn_xWO₄ (where x = 0, 1, 3, and 5%) nanorods (NRDs) and characterized them using refined X-ray diffraction and TEM analysis, revealing a monoclinic phase and a crystallite size that decreased from 62 to 38 nm as Sn concentration increased. Precise Sn doping modulation in CdWO₄ NRDs causes surface recombination of electrons and holes, which causes the PL intensity to decrease as the Sn content rises. The chromaticity diagram shows that an increase in the Sn content caused a change in the emission color from sky blue to light green, which was attributed to the increased defect density. The photoluminescence time decay curve of all samples fit well with double-order exponential decay, and the average decay lifetime was found to be 1.11, 0.93, and 1.16 ns for Cd_1−xSn_xWO₄, x = 0, 1, and 5%, respectively. This work provides an understanding of the behavior of Sn-doped CdWO₄ NRDs during electron transitions and the physical nature of emission that could be used in bio-imaging, light sources, displays, and other applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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15 pages, 4047 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pt-Based Nanostructures for Electrochemical Oxidation of CO: Unveiling the Effect of Shapes and Electrolytes

by Ahmed Abdelgawad, Belal Salah, Kamel Eid, Aboubakr M. Abdullah, Rashid S. Al-Hajri, Mohammed Al-Abri, Mohammad K. Hassan, Leena A. Al-Sulaiti, Doniyorbek Ahmadaliev and Kenneth I. Ozoemena

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(23), 15034; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms232315034 - 30 Nov 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2233

Abstract

Direct alcohol fuel cells are deemed as green and sustainable energy resources; however, CO-poisoning of Pt-based catalysts is a critical barrier to their commercialization. Thus, investigation of the electrochemical CO oxidation activity (CO_Oxid) of Pt-based catalyst over pH ranges as a [...] Read more.

Direct alcohol fuel cells are deemed as green and sustainable energy resources; however, CO-poisoning of Pt-based catalysts is a critical barrier to their commercialization. Thus, investigation of the electrochemical CO oxidation activity (CO_Oxid) of Pt-based catalyst over pH ranges as a function of Pt-shape is necessary and is not yet reported. Herein, porous Pt nanodendrites (Pt NDs) were synthesized via the ultrasonic irradiation method, and its CO oxidation performance was benchmarked in different electrolytes relative to 1-D Pt chains nanostructure (Pt NCs) and commercial Pt/C catalyst under the same condition. This is a trial to confirm the effect of the size and shape of Pt as well as the pH of electrolytes on the CO_Oxid. The CO_Oxid activity and durability of Pt NDs are substantially superior to Pt NCs and Pt/C in HClO₄, KOH, and NaHCO₃ electrolytes, respectively, owing to the porous branched structure with a high surface area, which maximizes Pt utilization. Notably, the CO_Oxid performance of Pt NPs in HClO₄ is higher than that in NaHCO₃, and KOH under the same reaction conditions. This study may open the way for understanding the CO_Oxid activities of Pt-based catalysts and avoiding CO-poisoning in fuel cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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15 pages, 5665 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ni Nanoparticles Stabilized by Hyperbranched Polymer: Does the Architecture of the Polymer Affect the Nanoparticle Characteristics and Their Performance in Catalysis?

by Svetlana A. Sorokina, Nina V. Kuchkina, Mariam G. Ezernitskaya, Alexey V. Bykov, Alexander L. Vasiliev, Nikolay N. Efimov and Zinaida B. Shifrina

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(22), 13874; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms232213874 - 10 Nov 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1664

Abstract

Heat-up and hot-injection methods were employed to synthesize Ni nanoparticles (NPs) with narrow size distribution in the presence of hyperbranched pyridylphenylene polymer (PPP) as a stabilizing agent. It was shown that depending on the synthetic method, Ni NPs were formed either in a [...] Read more.

Heat-up and hot-injection methods were employed to synthesize Ni nanoparticles (NPs) with narrow size distribution in the presence of hyperbranched pyridylphenylene polymer (PPP) as a stabilizing agent. It was shown that depending on the synthetic method, Ni NPs were formed either in a cross-linked polymer network or stabilized by a soluble hyperbranched polymer. Ni NPs were characterized by a combination of transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning TEM, thermogravimetric analysis, powder X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, and magnetic measurements. The architecture of polymer support was found to significantly effect Ni NPs characteristics and behavior. The Ni NPs demonstrated a high catalytic activity in a model Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling reaction. No significant drop in activity was observed upon repeated use after magnetic separation in five consecutive catalytic cycles. We believe that hyperbranched PPP can serve as universal platform for the controllable synthesis of Ni NPs, acting as highly active and stable catalysts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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23 pages, 11010 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Strategies towards Producing Non-Polar Dolomite Nanoparticles as Nanofiller for Copolymer Nanocomposite

by Asfa Amalia Ahmad Fauzi, Azlin Fazlina Osman, Eid M. Alosime, Ismail Ibrahim, Khairul Anwar Abdul Halim and Hanafi Ismail

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(20), 12620; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms232012620 - 20 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2605

Abstract

Poly (ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) (PEVAc) is a copolymer endowed with high elasticity and resilient properties, potentially utilized in various applications. However, the tensile strength of this copolymer is insufficient for use in certain applications that require enough strength to tolerate high external tension or [...] Read more.

Poly (ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) (PEVAc) is a copolymer endowed with high elasticity and resilient properties, potentially utilized in various applications. However, the tensile strength of this copolymer is insufficient for use in certain applications that require enough strength to tolerate high external tension or stress. In this study, dolomite was proposed as a nanofiller to reinforce the PEVAc. Raw dolomite was physically and chemically modified in order to improve its mix ability and interfacial adhesion between the PEVAc and dolomite. Initially, the size of dolomite was reduced by combining the ball-milling and tip-sonication methods. SEM, TEM, and XRD were used to characterize the morphology/structure of the raw dolomite and the size-reduced dolomite. Then, a particle size analysis was performed to confirm the average particle size. Our results show that the particle size of dolomite was reduced from 150 µm to 441.4 nm by the physical modification process (size reduction). Based on the TEM analysis, the Feret diameter (d_f) of the dolomite particles was also reduced from ~112.78 µm to ~139.58 nm only. This physically modified dolomite is referred as dolomite nanoparticles (DNPs), since one or more of its dimensions is less than 100 nm (e.g., thickness and width). To further improve the dolomite and PEVAc matrix interactions, chemical modification of the DNPs were performed by treating the DNPs with stearic acid, forming non-polar dolomite nanoparticles (NP-DNPs). The presence of stearic acid in dolomite was confirmed through FTIR and contact angle analyses. A PEVAc nanocomposite film with NP-NPDs as a nanofiller appeared more homogeneous and exhibited the highest increment in tensile strength and elongation at break. These findings indicated that the combination of ball milling and tip sonication is an efficient method for producing very fine dolomite particles up to the nano-size range, whereas chemical surface modifications improved the compatibility between the dolomite and the copolymer. The combination of these physical and chemical modifications helped to develop a homogeneous copolymer nanocomposite system with improved tensile properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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12 pages, 3697 KiB

Open AccessArticle

High Immobilization Efficiency of Basic Protein within Heparin-Immobilized Calcium Phosphate Nanoparticles

by Maki Nakamura, Wakako Bunryo, Aiko Narazaki and Ayako Oyane

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(19), 11530; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms231911530 - 29 Sep 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1595

Abstract

Previously, we achieved one-pot fabrication of heparin-immobilized calcium phosphate (CaP) nanoparticles with high dispersibility by a precipitation process in a highly supersaturated reaction solution. In this study, we revealed that the heparin-immobilized CaP nanoparticles have a greater co-immobilizing capacity for basic proteins than [...] Read more.

Previously, we achieved one-pot fabrication of heparin-immobilized calcium phosphate (CaP) nanoparticles with high dispersibility by a precipitation process in a highly supersaturated reaction solution. In this study, we revealed that the heparin-immobilized CaP nanoparticles have a greater co-immobilizing capacity for basic proteins than for acidic proteins. In this process, heparin acted as not only a particle-dispersing agent but also as an immobilizing agent for basic proteins; it remarkably (approximately three-fold) improved the immobilization efficiency of cytochrome C (a model basic protein) within the CaP nanoparticles. The content of cytochrome C immobilized within the nanoparticles was increased with an increase in cytochrome C concentration in the reaction solution and by aging the nanoparticles. The obtained nanoparticles were dispersed well in water owing to their large negative zeta potentials derived from heparin, irrespective of the content of cytochrome C. Similar results were obtained also for another basic protein, lysozyme, but not for an acidic protein, albumin; the immobilization efficiency of albumin within the nanoparticles was decreased by heparin. These findings provide new insights into the co-immobilization strategy of proteins within heparin-immobilized CaP nanoparticles and will be useful in the design and fabrication of nanocarriers for protein delivery applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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10 pages, 2884 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Time-Dependent Sensitivity Tunable pH Sensors Based on the Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Electric-Double-Layer Transistor

by Ki-Woong Park and Won-Ju Cho

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(18), 10842; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms231810842 - 16 Sep 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1837

Abstract

In this study, we propose tunable pH sensors based on the electric-double-layer transistor (EDLT) with time-dependent sensitivity characteristics. The EDLT is able to modulate the drain current by using the mobile ions inside the electrolytic gate dielectric. This property allows the implementation of [...] Read more.

In this study, we propose tunable pH sensors based on the electric-double-layer transistor (EDLT) with time-dependent sensitivity characteristics. The EDLT is able to modulate the drain current by using the mobile ions inside the electrolytic gate dielectric. This property allows the implementation of a device with sensitivity characteristics that are simply adjusted according to the measurement time. An extended gate-type, ion-sensitive, field-effect transistor consisting of a chitosan/Ta₂O₅ hybrid dielectric EDLT transducer, and an SnO₂ sensing membrane, were fabricated to evaluate the sensing behavior at different buffer pH levels. As a result, we were able to achieve tunable sensitivity by only adjusting the measurement time by using a single EDLT and without additional gate electrodes. In addition, to demonstrate the unique sensing behavior of the time-dependent tunable pH sensors based on organic–inorganic hybrid EDLT, comparative sensors consisting of a normal FET with a SiO₂ gate dielectric were prepared. It was found that the proposed pH sensors exhibit repeatable and stable sensing operations with drain current deviations <1%. Therefore, pH sensors using a chitosan electrolytic EDLT are suitable for biosensor platforms, possessing tunable sensitivity and high-reliability characteristics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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14 pages, 2771 KiB

Open AccessArticle

AIE-Featured Redox-Sensitive Micelles for Bioimaging and Efficient Anticancer Drug Delivery

by Wei Zhao, Zixue Li, Na Liang, Jiyang Liu, Pengfei Yan and Shaoping Sun

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(18), 10801; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms231810801 - 16 Sep 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2136

Abstract

In the present study, an amphiphilic polymer was prepared by conjugating methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) (mPEG) with tetraphenylethene (TPE) via disulfide bonds (Bi(mPEG-S-S)-TPE). The polymer could self-assemble into micelles and solubilize hydrophobic anticancer drugs such as paclitaxel (PTX) in the core. Combining the effect [...] Read more.

In the present study, an amphiphilic polymer was prepared by conjugating methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) (mPEG) with tetraphenylethene (TPE) via disulfide bonds (Bi(mPEG-S-S)-TPE). The polymer could self-assemble into micelles and solubilize hydrophobic anticancer drugs such as paclitaxel (PTX) in the core. Combining the effect of TPE, mPEG, and disulfide bonds, the Bi(mPEG-S-S)-TPE micelles exhibited excellent AIE feature, reduced protein adsorption, and redox-sensitive drug release behavior. An in vitro intracellular uptake study demonstrated the great imaging ability and efficient internalization of Bi(mPEG-S-S)-TPE micelles. The excellent anticancer effect and low systemic toxicity were further evidenced by the in vivo anticancer experiment. The Bi(mPEG-S-S)-TPE micelles were promising drug carriers for chemotherapy and bioimaging. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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9 pages, 2771 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Formation of Ultimate Thin 2D Crystal of Pt in the Presence of Hexamethylenetetramine

by Siti Naqiyah Sadikin, Marjoni Imamora Ali Umar, Azrul Azlan Hamzah, Muhammad Nurdin and Akrajas Ali Umar

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(18), 10239; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms231810239 - 6 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1391

Abstract

Platinum naturally crystalizes into a three-dimensional crystal due to its highly symmetrical fcc lattice, with a metallic bond which is non-directional and highly isotropic. This inherently means ultimately that 2D crystals of a few atoms thick growth are hardly available in this material. [...] Read more.

Platinum naturally crystalizes into a three-dimensional crystal due to its highly symmetrical fcc lattice, with a metallic bond which is non-directional and highly isotropic. This inherently means ultimately that 2D crystals of a few atoms thick growth are hardly available in this material. Here, we discovered that a combinative effect of formic acid reductant and hexamethylenetetramine surfactant during the reduction of their metal ions precursor can realize an ultimate thin 2D crystal growth in platinum. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy and filed-emission electron microscopy analysis have also discovered that the 2D crystal of Pt has 111 facets with a lateral dimension that can be up to more than 5 μm × 2 μm. The thickness of the 2D crystal of Pt is 1.55 nm. A mechanism for obtaining ultimate thin 2D crystal of Pt using the present approach is proposed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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28 pages, 6282 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chitosan-Gelatin Films Cross-Linked with Dialdehyde Cellulose Nanocrystals as Potential Materials for Wound Dressings

by Katarzyna Wegrzynowska-Drzymalska, Dariusz T. Mlynarczyk, Dorota Chelminiak-Dudkiewicz, Halina Kaczmarek, Tomasz Goslinski and Marta Ziegler-Borowska

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(17), 9700; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23179700 - 26 Aug 2022

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 3663

Abstract

In this study, thin chitosan-gelatin biofilms cross-linked with dialdehyde cellulose nanocrystals for dressing materials were received. Two types of dialdehyde cellulose nanocrystals from fiber (DNCL) and microcrystalline cellulose (DAMC) were obtained by periodate oxidation. An ATR-FTIR analysis confirmed the selective oxidation of cellulose [...] Read more.

In this study, thin chitosan-gelatin biofilms cross-linked with dialdehyde cellulose nanocrystals for dressing materials were received. Two types of dialdehyde cellulose nanocrystals from fiber (DNCL) and microcrystalline cellulose (DAMC) were obtained by periodate oxidation. An ATR-FTIR analysis confirmed the selective oxidation of cellulose nanocrystals with the creation of a carbonyl group at 1724 cm⁻¹. A higher degree of cross-linking was obtained in chitosan-gelatin biofilms with DNCL than with DAMC. An increasing amount of added cross-linkers resulted in a decrease in the apparent density value. The chitosan-gelatin biofilms cross-linked with DNCL exhibited a higher value of roughness parameters and antioxidant activity compared with materials cross-linked with DAMC. The cross-linking process improved the oxygen permeability and anti-inflammatory properties of both measurement series. Two samples cross-linked with DNCL achieved an ideal water vapor transition rate for wound dressings, CS-Gel with 10% and 15% addition of DNCL—8.60 and 9.60 mg/cm²/h, respectively. The swelling ability and interaction with human serum albumin (HSA) were improved for biofilms cross-linked with DAMC and DNCL. Significantly, the films cross-linked with DAMC were characterized by lower toxicity. These results confirmed that chitosan-gelatin biofilms cross-linked with DNCL and DAMC had improved properties for possible use in wound dressings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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24 pages, 8598 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Optimal Concentration of Nanoclay Hydrotalcite for Recovery of Reactive and Direct Textile Colorants

by Daniel López-Rodríguez, Bàrbara Micó-Vicent, Marilés Bonet-Aracil, Francisco Cases and Eva Bou-Belda

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(17), 9671; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23179671 - 26 Aug 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1936

Abstract

Concerns about the health of the planet have grown dramatically, and the dyeing sector of the textile industry is one of the most polluting of all industries. Nanoclays can clean dyeing wastewater using their adsorption capacities. In this study, as a new finding, [...] Read more.

Concerns about the health of the planet have grown dramatically, and the dyeing sector of the textile industry is one of the most polluting of all industries. Nanoclays can clean dyeing wastewater using their adsorption capacities. In this study, as a new finding, it was possible to analyze and quantify the amount of metal ions substituted by anionic dyes when adsorbed, and to determine the optimal amount of nanoclay to be used to adsorb all the dye. The tests demonstrated the specific amount of nanoclay that must be used and how to optimize the subsequent processes of separation and processing of the nanoclay. Hydrotalcite was used as the adsorbent material. Direct dyes were used in this research. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns allowed the shape recovery of the hydrotalcite to be checked and confirmed the adsorption of the dyes. An FTIR analysis was used to check the presence of characteristic groups of the dyes in the resulting hybrids. The thermogravimetric (TGA) tests corroborated the dye adsorption and the thermal fastness improvement. Total solar reflectance (TSR) showed increased radiation protection for UV-VIS-NIR. Through the work carried out, it has been possible to establish the maximum adsorption point of hydrotalcite. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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13 pages, 4393 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Role of Seed Layer Crystalline Quality in Photoresponse Performance of Hydrothermally Grown ZnO Nanorods

by Waqar Muhammad, Kiyun Nam, Songji Seo and Sam-Dong Kim

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(17), 9541; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23179541 - 23 Aug 2022

Viewed by 1435

Abstract

We investigated the effects of the crystalline state for seed layers (SLs) on the growth morphology and material characteristics for hydrothermally grown ZnO nanorods (NRs). For this, preheating (PH) at different temperatures (100–300 °C) and O₂ plasma treatment (PT) for 9 min [...] Read more.

We investigated the effects of the crystalline state for seed layers (SLs) on the growth morphology and material characteristics for hydrothermally grown ZnO nanorods (NRs). For this, preheating (PH) at different temperatures (100–300 °C) and O₂ plasma treatment (PT) for 9 min were performed during the growth of SLs on p-Si by the aqueous solution-based method to provide the characteristic change on the NR growth platform. An improvement in material properties was achieved from the ZnO NRs grown on the SL crystals of enhanced crystalline quality in terms of the increased preferred orientation (002), the higher UV emission with suppressed deep-level emissions, the recovery of O/Zn stoichiometry, and the reduction of various intrinsic defects. Ultraviolet photodiodes of a p-Si/n-ZnO-NR structure fabricated under the SL conditions of O₂ PT and PH at 100 °C showed a significantly enhanced on-off current ratio of ~90 at +5 V and faster photoresponse characteristics presenting a reduction in the fall time from 16 to 9 s. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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12 pages, 1762 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Electrochemical Detection and Analysis of Various Current Responses of a Single Ag Nanoparticle Collision in an Alkaline Electrolyte Solution

by Ki Jun Kim and Seong Jung Kwon

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(13), 7472; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23137472 - 5 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2143

Abstract

A single silver (Ag) nanoparticle (NP) collision was observed and analyzed in an alkaline solution using the electrocatalytic amplification (EA) method. Previously, the observation of a single Ag NP collision was only possible through limited methods based on a self-oxidation of Ag NPs [...] Read more.

A single silver (Ag) nanoparticle (NP) collision was observed and analyzed in an alkaline solution using the electrocatalytic amplification (EA) method. Previously, the observation of a single Ag NP collision was only possible through limited methods based on a self-oxidation of Ag NPs or a blocking strategy. However, it is difficult to characterize the electrocatalytic activity of Ag NPs at a single NP level using a method based on the self-oxidation of Ag NPs. When using a blocking strategy, size analysis is difficult owing to the edge effect in the current signal. The fast oxidative dissolution of Ag NPs has been a problem for observing the staircase response of a single Ag NP collision signal using the EA method. In alkaline electrolyte conditions, Ag oxides are stable, and the oxidative dissolution of Ag NPs is sluggish. Therefore, in this study, the enhanced magnitude and frequency of the current response for single Ag NP collisions were obtained using the EA method in an alkaline electrolyte solution. The peak height and frequency of single Ag NP collisions were analyzed and compared with the theoretical estimation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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15 pages, 4051 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancement of Corrosion Resistance Properties of Electrodeposited Ni/nano-TiC Composite Layers

by Nicoleta Bogatu, Lidia Benea, Elena Roxana Axente and Jean Pierre Celis

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(11), 6069; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23116069 - 28 May 2022

Viewed by 1706

Abstract

This paper presents novel results on the effects of the dispersion of titanium carbide nanoparticles (50 nm mean diameter) into a nickel-plating electrolyte on the corrosion behavior of the nanocomposite layers obtained. The Ni/nano-TiC layers are compared with pure nickel layers obtained at [...] Read more.

This paper presents novel results on the effects of the dispersion of titanium carbide nanoparticles (50 nm mean diameter) into a nickel-plating electrolyte on the corrosion behavior of the nanocomposite layers obtained. The Ni/nano-TiC layers are compared with pure nickel layers obtained at the same electrodeposition parameters with 60 mA·cm⁻² current density and 10 min deposition time. The comparative corrosion performances are investigated using a three-electrode electrochemical cell in a solution (mixed boric acid with lithium hydroxide), which simulates the primary water circuit of pressurized water reactors (PWRs). Open circuit potential measurement and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were employed as the electrochemical methods, using an electrochemical workstation connected to an electrochemical cell, as well as a PC with software to drive the experimental work. The results clearly revealed enhanced corrosion properties for the Ni/nano-TiC hybrid layers as compared to the pure Ni layers. The significantly improved corrosion behavior can be attributed to the TiC nanoparticles embedded into the Ni matrix, which have the effect of insulating centers at the composite layer/corrosive solution interface. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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14 pages, 1898 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sandwich-Based Immunosensor for Dual-Mode Detection of Pathogenic F17–Positive Escherichia coli Strains

by Imed Salhi, Amal Rabti, Asma Dhehibi and Noureddine Raouafi

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(11), 6028; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23116028 - 27 May 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2902

Abstract

Bacterial diseases cause tremendous economic losses due to high morbidity and mortality in livestock animals. F17A protein, the major subunit of F17 fimbriae, is one of the most prevalent and crucial virulence factors among the pathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli) isolated [...] Read more.

Bacterial diseases cause tremendous economic losses due to high morbidity and mortality in livestock animals. F17A protein, the major subunit of F17 fimbriae, is one of the most prevalent and crucial virulence factors among the pathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli) isolated from diarrheic and septicemic animals of various species. Purification and detection of this protein is regarded as an interesting field of investigation due to its important role as a therapeutic target, such as vaccines, and as a diagnostic tool. In this context, polyclonal rabbit antibodies recognizing F17A protein (anti−F17A antibody) were developed and used for its detection. In fact, sandwich biosensor using anti−F17A/gold nanoparticles conjugates as capture probe and anti−F17A antibody labelled with horseradish peroxidase as signal amplification probe was developed for electrochemical and fluorescent detection of purified F17A protein and live F17–positive E. coli bacteria. Good specificity and sensitivity for detection of F17–positive E. coli strains were obtained. The dynamic range for the biosensor varies from 1 × 10² to 1 × 10⁹ CFU·mL⁻¹ (R² = 0.998) and the detection limit (LOD) and the IC₅₀ value were estimated to be 37 CFU·mL⁻¹ and 75 CFU·mL⁻¹, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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Review

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17 pages, 918 KiB

Open AccessReview

Review on Generation and Characterization of Copper Particles and Copper Composites Prepared by Mechanical Milling on a Lab-Scale

by Sebastián Salazar Sandoval and Nataly Silva

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24(9), 7933; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24097933 - 27 Apr 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2339

Abstract

This review aims to expose mechanical milling as an alternative method for generating copper-based particles (copper particles (CuP) and copper composites (CuC)); more specifically, via a top-down or bottom-up approach, on a lab-scale. This work will also highlight the different parameters that can [...] Read more.

This review aims to expose mechanical milling as an alternative method for generating copper-based particles (copper particles (CuP) and copper composites (CuC)); more specifically, via a top-down or bottom-up approach, on a lab-scale. This work will also highlight the different parameters that can affect the size distribution, the type, and the morphology of the obtained CuP or CuC, such as the type of mechanical mill, ball-to-powder ratios (BPR), the milling speed, milling time, and the milling environment, among others. This review analyzes various papers based on the Cu-based particle generation route, which begins with a pretreatment step, then mechanical milling, its approach (top-down or bottom-up), and the post-treatment. Finally, the characterization methods of the resulting CuP and CuC through mechanical milling are also discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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22 pages, 1609 KiB

Open AccessReview

Mechanistic Insights into the Biological Effects of Engineered Nanomaterials: A Focus on Gold Nanoparticles

by Nhung H. A. Nguyen and Priscila Falagan-Lotsch

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24(4), 4109; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24044109 - 18 Feb 2023

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 3396

Abstract

Nanotechnology has great potential to significantly advance the biomedical field for the benefit of human health. However, the limited understanding of nano–bio interactions leading to unknowns about the potential adverse health effects of engineered nanomaterials and to the poor efficacy of nanomedicines has [...] Read more.

Nanotechnology has great potential to significantly advance the biomedical field for the benefit of human health. However, the limited understanding of nano–bio interactions leading to unknowns about the potential adverse health effects of engineered nanomaterials and to the poor efficacy of nanomedicines has hindered their use and commercialization. This is well evidenced considering gold nanoparticles, one of the most promising nanomaterials for biomedical applications. Thus, a fundamental understanding of nano–bio interactions is of interest to nanotoxicology and nanomedicine, enabling the development of safe-by-design nanomaterials and improving the efficacy of nanomedicines. In this review, we introduce the advanced approaches currently applied in nano–bio interaction studies—omics and systems toxicology—to provide insights into the biological effects of nanomaterials at the molecular level. We highlight the use of omics and systems toxicology studies focusing on the assessment of the mechanisms underlying the in vitro biological responses to gold nanoparticles. First, the great potential of gold-based nanoplatforms to improve healthcare along with the main challenges for their clinical translation are presented. We then discuss the current limitations in the translation of omics data to support risk assessment of engineered nanomaterials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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24 pages, 6269 KiB

Open AccessReview

Development of Deep-Learning-Based Single-Molecule Localization Image Analysis

by Yoonsuk Hyun and Doory Kim

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(13), 6896; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23136896 - 21 Jun 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4789

Abstract

Recent developments in super-resolution fluorescence microscopic techniques (SRM) have allowed for nanoscale imaging that greatly facilitates our understanding of nanostructures. However, the performance of single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) is significantly restricted by the image analysis method, as the final super-resolution image is reconstructed [...] Read more.

Recent developments in super-resolution fluorescence microscopic techniques (SRM) have allowed for nanoscale imaging that greatly facilitates our understanding of nanostructures. However, the performance of single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) is significantly restricted by the image analysis method, as the final super-resolution image is reconstructed from identified localizations through computational analysis. With recent advancements in deep learning, many researchers have employed deep learning-based algorithms to analyze SMLM image data. This review discusses recent developments in deep-learning-based SMLM image analysis, including the limitations of existing fitting algorithms and how the quality of SMLM images can be improved through deep learning. Finally, we address possible future applications of deep learning methods for SMLM imaging. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Nanomaterials Science)

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